Greater Mekong Subregion East-West Economic Corridor Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project

Initial Environmental Examination

December 2020

Lao People’s Democratic Republic: Greater Mekong Subregion East-West Economic Corridor Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project

Prepared by the Department of Irrigation, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and the Asian Development Bank.

This initial environmental examination is a document of the borrower. The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of ADB's Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature.

In preparing any country program or strategy, financing any project, or by making any designation of or reference to a particular territory or geographic area in this document, the Asian Development Bank does not intend to make any judgments as to the legal or other status of any territory or area

ANNEX 6 Initial Environmental Examination Na-Tur Subproject

Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

ACRONYMS, ABBREVIATIONS AND GLOSSARY

AISP - Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project AP - Affected People ASEAN - Association of South East Asian Nations CEMP - Contractor’s Environmental Management Plan m3/sec - cubic meters per second DAFO - District Agriculture and Forestry Office DCO - District Coordination Office DMA - Department of Meteorology and Hydrology DOI - Department of Irrigation DOWR - Department of Water Resources DPRA’s - Development Project responsible Agency E&M - Electrical and Mechanical EA - Executing Agency EDL - Electricité du Laos EMP - Environmental Management Plan EIA - Environmental Impact Assessment EMMP - Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan EMMU - Environmental Management and Monitoring Unit EPL - Environmental Protection Law ESIA - Environment and Social Impact Assessment GHG - Greenhouse Gases GMS-EWEC-AISP - Greater Mekong Sub-region East West Economic Corridor Agricultural Infrastructure Sector Project GWP - Global Warming Potential IA - Implementing Agency IEE - Initial Environmental Examination IFAD - International Fund for Agricultural Development GoL - Government of Lao PDR GRC - Grievance Redress Committee IMT - Irrigation Management and Transfer IWRM - Integrated Water Resources Management JICA - Japanese International Cooperation Agency LAC - Land Acquisition and Compensation MAF - Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry MASL - meters above mean sea level MEM - Ministry of Energy and Mines MoNRE - Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment NBCA - National Biodiversity Conservation Areas NGO - Non-Government Organization NPA - National Protected Areas NPMO - National Project Management Office NSEDP - National Social and Economic Development Plan NTFPs - Non-Timber Forest Products O&M - Operation and Maintenance PAFO - Provincial Department of Agriculture and Forestry PMO - Prime Minister’s Office PoNRE - Provincial Office of Natural Resources and Environment PPMO - Provincial National Project Management Office PPTA - Project Preparation Technical Assistance PRI - Productive Rural Infrastructure RC - reinforced concrete SEDP - Socio-economic Development Plan 2010-2015 SMMP - Social Management and Monitoring Plan

Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

SNRMPEP - Sustainable Natural Resources and Productivity Enhancement Project SPGC - Project Grievance Committee STEA - Science Technology and Environment Agency USD - United States Dollars UXO - Unexploded Ordnance VMCs - Village Mediation Committees WREA - Water Resources and Environment Administration WUG - Water User Group

Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1. This document is an updated Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) based on the completed detailed engineering design (DED) forNa-Tursubproject. It updates the IEE submitted as Annex 6 to the Feasibility Study for the subproject, which was based on the concept engineering design (CED). References in this document to other Annexes refer to the original Feasibility Study Annexes, for ease of reference. 2. The engineering design consultants (EDC) submitted the DED IEE update report on 22 June 2020. The report is attached as Annex 6.9 to this IEE, and includes: a. Comparison of data between CED and DED. b. Water balance to show sufficient water was available to irrigate the increased area. c. Mapping of the changes in the distribution system layout and increased irrigation. d. Summary of Affected land area inNa-Tursub project. e. Summary of Affected Farmers and paddy field areas. 3. The DED has been prepared in close consultation with the local authorities and beneficiaries. In this regard, the changes to the CED have been thoroughly discussed and the implications accepted and endorsed by the local stakeholders. Summary of key changes in DED relevant to the IEE

Design change The irrigated command area in the DED remains unchanged (300ha: 200 rice and 100 other crops) from the area proposed at the CED stage. The primary change, however, is that the headworks and main canal design have been changed to eliminate impacts in the Xenoy-Xebai National Protection and the Nakathing-Nongkapard Production Forests and Touristic site of two provinces Khammouane and Savannakhet area, through which the main canal flows (see below). With this change, the earlier concerns about the impact on the forests has been removed and the earlier conclusions of the IEE remain valid. There are 2 access roads with total length of 14,075 m, wide 4 m, gravel shoulder 50cm. From all 2 access roads would be upgraded from initial laterite road into Double Bituminous Surface Treatment (DBST). Therefore, they’re no impact for surrounding households which is detailing as fallow:

• Access road No.1 from provincial Road No.10 through Ban Noy, Ban Na-Ae, Ban Na-Gnom, Ban Na-tur, Ban Thad to headwork with 13,775 m long. This road will cover some part of reservation forest from station km12+900 -km13+775. But it’s no impact due to upgrading of existing access road. • Access road No.2 from Road No.1 to ThadNanglao, 300m long. The IEE has been revised to bring the policy and laws section up-to-date and add a section on COVID-19. Diversion The CED had proposed a new headworks and main canal alignment structure and which would have resulted in the felling of trees in a forested areas. To avoid this the DED IEE Update reports that:

Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Main canal Referred to Headwork on Detail Engineering Design, there are no changes direct impacts to 91 species of production forest which was mentioned on previous IEE report because they were decided to improve in the existing Headwork and old canals system instead of new proposed one with construction method in this area will be mainly relied on labour-base in order to mitigate impact as least as possible. (see details in Annex 6 Details of community consultation of the changes Na-Tur).

And in the minutes of community consultations: I. Headwork system 1. In order to prevent impact on the National Protection and the Production Forests and Touristic site of two provinces Khammouane and Savannakhet due to construction of new Headwork and new main canal with the total length of 700 m long. Therefore, the meeting was agreed to rehabilitate the existing Headwork for capable to provide water according to Detail Engineering Design plan. In this regard, NPMO is recruiting an international fish passage expert to visit Na-Tur and several other subprojects with weirs on natural waterways to assess whether a fish passage would be beneficial in mitigating possible adverse environmental impacts from the weirs and, if so, prepare a design to be incorporated into the weir construction as an addendum to the civil works contract.

II. Canals system · Main Canals 1. In order to prevent environment impact at km0+000 – 0+700 must use of old canals, add Gabion rock at side of spillway and One Check structure.

4. The IEE is updated as new information that could affect the IEE conclusions becomes available. Much of the information reported in the IEE is coming from secondary sources, like information of social economic data. At the start of the feasibility stage a social economic survey has been conducted and it was included as Feasibility Study Appendix 8. That survey necessarily covers a broad area identifying villages that are potential direct or indirect beneficiaries of the subproject’s rural infrastructure (which includes both irrigation rehabilitation and rural access road rehabilitation). As the potential designs for the schemes advances, the list of direct beneficiaries is refined as the boundaries of the scheme are refined. Not surprisingly, the list of beneficiary and affected households changes accordingly. The DED is intended to provide a definitive final list, which is nevertheless then confirmed during the LACP process 5. The Greater Mekong Sub-region East West Economic Corridor Agricultural Infrastructure Sector Project (GMS-EWEC-AISP, or AISP in this document) will comprise improvements to productive rural infrastructure (PRI) and provide technical and advisory support to beneficiary communities in formation and strengthening of water user groups, technical support and capacity building for extension services and support in post-harvest

Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination handling, product storage and marketing. It will provide project management support and capacity building for provincial and district level offices which will take a lead role in project implementation, in accordance with the Government’s decentralization policy of 2000. It is a sector project, and specific subprojects for the improvement of productive rural infrastructure in the two project provinces will be prepared and implemented. 6. An Environment and Assessment Review Framework (EARF)1 was prepared for the project setting out the procedures for screening and assessment of environmental impacts, reporting and management for subprojects in line with Government of Lao PDR (EIA Decree 2010) and ADB Safeguard Policy Statement (2009) requirements. 7. Investment projects are categorized according to a schedule in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) decree. For small-scale irrigation, those with a command area of between 100 and 2,000ha are category 1 requiring an Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) in accordance with Lao PDR. and Na-Tur would have a command area of 500ha, category 1 (Lao PDR). 8. The Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) checklist from the Projects (EARF) was used to screen the subproject (both headworks and access road) based on a literature review, site visits and discussion with local beneficiaries. This subproject was classified as Environment Category B. A Preliminary Climate Risk Screening using a checklist developed for the EARF scored the subprojects as medium. This document is the Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) and Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for the Na-Tur agriculture infrastructure subproject, which involves irrigation scheme rehabilitation and service road improvement. The IEE is prepared according to the ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement of June 2009 and the Lao PDR EIA decree of April 2010. This IEE document was prepared in December 2016 and updated in August 2019 following comments from ADB and as additional data has been collected. Description of the Subproject 9. The Project is located in Vilabouli district, Savannakhet province (see Figure A6.1 in main text) and was originally constructed during 1973-1975 by local villagers aiming to irrigate of 48 ha for 4 villages: Ban Na-Tur, Ban Nagnom, Na Thad and Ban Na-Ae. The total existing irrigable area (command area) in Na-Tur is in the order of 225ha. DAFO/beneficiary improvements are to include an extension of 275ha. Improvements are to enable dry season cropping in 300 ha. The improved scheme is to serve 2,989 families2. Present Condition and Characteristics of the Subproject 10. The scheme water source is the Xenoy. A weir across the river with a crest of 96m in length and 4m high creates a header pond. There is a main intake gate about 30m from the weir to the south that controls water discharge to the irrigated areas. 11. The main access to Na-Tur subproject is through the national roads 9 and provincial road No. 10, and two (2) rural roads off provincial road No. 10; one from Thaen Hiar village to Thad village has a total length of approximately 16 km while the other is through Keovilay village to a service road on the main canal at Nagnom village with a total length of 5km.

12. The scheme layout has a long narrow configuration lying along the Xenoy river. Two major blocks of paddy fields of the command area are in the surrounds of Ban Thad, Na-Tur and Na-Ae villages. The scheme is served by a gravity system. Water discharges from the

1 https://www.adb.org/projects/documents/gms-ewec-agriculture-infrastructure-sector-project-earf 2 Field Survey, September 2016

Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination intake structure to an unlined main canal of approximately 7.0 km in length. The upstream portion of the main canal of approximately 2.60km is lying in forest land north-east of Ban Thad; while the following downstream portion is passing through the two main paddy field areas from Ban Thad to Na-Ae. A trapezoidal concrete lining section of approximately 250m was provided in the residential area of Ban Thad. The main canal feeds farmer’s field blocks either directly from the main canal (200 ha) or via secondary/tertiary canals (300 ha). Erosion, waste deposit and weed/vegetation growth were found in the whole length of the main canal. Seepage loss in the main canal is significantly high and water level has gone down below the paddy field due to the heavy erosion especially in the downstream part of the canal. 13. The scheme has physically deteriorated due to lack of funds for the construction of a proper distribution system at the beginning and subsequently operation, and deferred maintenance. The total existing dry season irrigable area (command area) has gradually decreased from 225ha to 27ha at present due to deterioration of the existing system and declining dry season flow in the source river. 14. Presently, the headworks has significantly deteriorated with age and due to heavy bank erosion. The government has supported the renovation of the weir by extending the weir crest in to the river banks; but the applied techniques do not work effectively. The weir crest has been extended year by year and the crest length has now reached 96 meters. There is an intake structure to the main canal upstream of the weir, the seals have perished and are no longer water tight allowing leakage from the river into the canal. Rehabilitation of the Existing Subproject 15. The existing system was thought inappropriate and inefficient to irrigate the present command area and the proposed expanded area. After consultations and review by local stakeholders a decision was taken on rehabilitation that would upgrade the existing water distribution system through the rehabilitation of existing head works, canal system and water control structures. The rehabilitation plan is aimed at improving the efficiency of the water distribution network and ensure irrigation water supply for dry season cropping in a total area of 300ha and supply supplementary irrigation water for wet season rice production of 500ha. 16. The existing location of the headworks has significantly deteriorated due to serious bank erosion. Improvement of the existing headworks with gabion boxes and no raise of top bank of the headworks, will be selected for the subproject to avoid impact on trees in the area. 17. Rehabilitation of the head works would comprise: re-construction of existing gabion boxes at the headworks with new gabion boxes to prevent leaking; Improvement of the existing stoplog with a new one to control intake water in the main canal; There will be water control structure with a total number of 177 structures will be built where appropriate within the canals distribution network. 18. Two existing access roads with the total length of 14,075m with 4m wide, will be upgraded from gravel to Double Bituminous Surface Treatment. Access road No.1 from provincial Road No.10 through Ban Noy, Ban Na-Ae, Ban Na-Gnom, Ban Na-tur, Ban Thad to headwork with 13,775 m long. This road will cover some part of National reservation forest from station km12+900 -km13+775. But there is no significant impact due to upgrading of the existing access road only and construction footprint will be within existing Right of Way. Access road No.2 from Road No.1 to ThadNanglao, 300m long. 19. The continuity of the natural drainage network within the command area would be maintained with the provision of culverts.

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Policy, Legal and Administrative Framework 20. The 8th National Social and Economic Development Plan (8th NSEDP) emphasizes raising agricultural productivity as a development priority since the majority of the Lao workforce is currently engaged in agriculture. One of the biggest challenges that Lao PDR faces is the proper management and protection of the environment and natural resources (land, water resources, forests, minerals, biodiversity). Without adequate and sustainable planning and management of natural resources, the development actions proposed in the 8th NSEDP will cause serious ecological and socio-economic problems, lead to irreversible damage to the environment, and exacerbate poverty. To address this issue, the Ministry of Natural Resource and Environment (MoNRE) has developed the 10-year Natural Resources and Environmental Strategy, 2016-2025 based on national directions and policies (National Social and Economic Development Plan, the National Strategies for Economic Development and Poverty Reduction, the IX Government Resolution and sectoral strategies) as well as on regional and global orientations and policies (Millennium Development Goals, climate change, and Multilateral Environmental Agreements). 21. Investment projects are categorized according to a schedule in the EIA decree into category 1 – small scale, requiring an IEE or category 2-large scale, requiring an environmental impact assessment (EIA). For irrigation projects, those with a command area of between 100 and 2000 ha are in category 1, and those with a command area greater than 2,000 ha are in category 2. The corresponding category to Lao Category 1 in the ADB’s classification system is B, which, similarly, requires an IEE and EMP. 22. According to the Regulation on Environmental Assessment in the Lao PDR, the IEE of the Project is required to be submitted to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment at the provincial level (PoNRE) for approval through the issuance of an environmental certificate prior to the project commencement (no civil work is allowed prior to the approval). Description of the Environment 23. The Na-Tur irrigation scheme is located in Vilabouli district, at a distance of about 35km from the district capital and 268km northeast of the Savannakhet provincial capital through national road 9 and provincial road No.10 (see Figure A6.1). The irrigation scheme was originally constructed during 1973-1975 by local villagers with support from government. The area lies in the edge between Nakathing-Nongkapard National Production Forest and Xenoy- Xebai National Protection Forest. The elevation of the irrigated areas is around 205m ASL. 24. Lao PDR has a tropical monsoon climate which features a dry season (November to March) and a wet season (May to October). The dry season is generally cooler, though temperatures rise significantly in March and April prior to the onset of the rains. The average annual precipitation in Savannakhet is around 1,430 mm, although this is highly variable from year to year (1.030mm – 1.739 mm 2006-2015). Lowest temperature is around 15oC occurring in January and reaching 35oC in April. Monthly maximum temperatures are above 28oC for most of the year. 25. Na-Tur subproject lies in between two forest areas Xenoy-Xebai National Protection Forest and Nakathing-Nongkapard National Production Forest. It was noted during a site visit to the area that the headworks of Na-Tur and some section of its main canal (about 2,160m) pass through the Nakathing-Nongkapard National Production Forest, while the rest of main canal (around 1,240 m) is in the Xenoy-Xebai National Protection Forest.

Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

26. Illegal logging activities were also noted in the vicinity of the head works. Many large trees that have high economical values had been cut down then transported by hand tractors out of the area. 27. There is a culturally significant site at Ban Thad, an ancient stupa which local people and people in Savannakhet often visit especially during Lao New Year. The stupa is far from the headworks about 5km to the southwest of the subproject and it would not be affected by the construction proposed. Apart from the stupa there are no known other items of historical or archaeological significance, as confirmed in community consultations in 2016. Human and Economic Development 28. Income from off-farm sources accounted for the majority of household incomes. The second largest source of income is from agriculture. Villagers’ agricultural incomes are based on rice production or lowland farming, animal raising, and cash crop cultivation. Villagers stand to benefit significantly from the irrigation and market access improvements. 29. In the project area, HHs comprise of one family, only 34 HHs (6.4%) compose of two families. The size of household varies from 4.3-6.1 persons (average 5.5 persons) per household. There are totally 77 of Female Headed Households (14.4%) residing in the subproject. 30. In a wealth ranking all of villagers in the four (4) subproject villages 534HHs (100%) are classed as medium moderated households including 77 female headed households. All are accessible to the public service facilities (electricity, health, education, marketing, phone; cultural information through television etc.). 31. Overall for the subproject villages, 89 HHs (16.7%) have surplus and 437 HHs (81.8%) have annual sufficiency of rice for domestic consumption. Among all of them, there are 8HHs (1.5%) including 1 female-headed household that experience rice shortages; 4 HHs for less than 1 month and 4 HHs for 1-2 months a year) all reside in Na-Tur village. The main reason for the rice shortage is a small area for rice production and large household size. 32. The literacy rate is low there are 1,501 people (51%) of the total population (2,918 persons) have been graduated from different education level, basically can read and write Lao Language including 904 persons (60%) completed the primary education school; 564 persons (38%) completed secondary school; and 33 persons (2%) have been graduated from technical vocational colleges and or university. 33. During the field visit in the area of the team indicates there are no records about UXO in the area but local communities recommended that the project should carry out UXO clearance before a construction work would begin as the area may still have problem of UXO. Anticipated Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures 34. In the IEE, potential impacts were assessed by means of site visits, discussions with local authorities and beneficiaries and the use of secondary sources of information from similar projects. An Environmental Impact Matrix was developed based on current environmental laws and legislation including, without limitation, the Rules and Regulations of Lao PDR relating to: air; noise; water supply; land/soil; waste water; solid waste; land use; biodiversity; cultural; health; education; safety resettlement; income; ethnic groups, unexploded ordinance (UXO); and climate. The scoring indicated in the matrix reflects an impact scale of each parameters during the three phases of subproject development pre-construction, construction and operation. Negative impact is shown in yellow, orange and red while positive impact recorded is shown from light to dark green. Scale of the impact of each type (negative or

Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination positive) is classified by a score 0, ±5 and ±10. A score of 5-minor impact and 10-significant impact. 35. Rankings for the severity of impacts and effectiveness of mitigation measures were made. A summary of Environmental Impacts before and after mitigation is shown in the tables below. Potential environmental impacts and required mitigation are incorporated into the EMP, which would be part of all construction contracts, and in agreements with the WUG. The IEE also includes a detailed Environmental Monitoring Plan. 36. Potential permanent land and asset losses were identified in a Preliminary Measurement Survey (PMS) that was used to develop a preliminary Inventory of Losses (IOL). The details of the IOL are reported in a separate LACP. This is detailed in Annex 7 (Land Acquisition and Compensation Plan). 37. The head works is a low diversion weir on Xenoy. In general, the weir embankment is considered in poor condition and has been deteriorated with age. The improvement of the headworks would include: improve gabion boxes for the weir, upgrade the existing water distribution system, rehabilitation of major canals and replacing ineffective existing tertiary canals, modern water control structures would be built to regulate discharge in the system, improvement of irrigation service road along the main, secondary and tertiary canals, and restoration of erosion protection component and replacing of the malfunction intake structure. No potential adverse impact is anticipated in the limited rehabilitation of the subproject due to the construction here will be labour based. Mitigation measures have been prepared to minimize the impact and enhance forest density and biodiversity in the area. 38. Construction of irrigation canals/irrigation service roads would result in the removal of topsoil and other material containing vegetative matter that is not suitable for re-use on the road but can be utilized locally for house construction and other common community uses within or near the village. Villagers confirm there is a substantial demand for this material. Environmental impacts related to construction would be temporary, and can in most cases be mitigated before and during the construction period. Mitigation of any risks of sediment runoff would be achieved by Contract requirements. Surplus spoil should be used as fill, for example backfilling of culvert walls, wherever possible. 39. Construction operations may involve the temporary closure of the irrigation systems. Ensuring that local farmers are aware of the construction schedule would help mitigate the effects of temporary closure. However, it is unlikely to be feasible to maintain full irrigation flows while the works are taking place.

Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Summary Matrix of Environmental Impacts

Activities and Project Impacts Table Na Tur Irrigation Project

Output/Activity

Air

UXO

Noise

Safety

Health

Ethnic

Impact

Climate

Income

Cultural

Average Average

Land Use Land

Education

Minorities

Land/soils

Biodiversity

Solid Waste Solid

Total ImpactTotal

WaterSupply Waste-Water Resettlement

Pre-Construction Headworks 0 0 0 -5 0 0 0 -10 0 0 0 0 -5 10 0 -10 -5 -25 -1.56 Main/secondary canals 0 0 0 -5 0 0 0 -10 0 0 0 0 -5 10 0 -10 -5 -25 -1.56 Access / village roads -5 0 0 -5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -5 10 0 0 -5 -10 -0.63 Canal service roads -5 0 0 -5 0 0 0 -5 0 0 0 0 -5 10 0 -10 -5 -25 -1.56 Drainage channels 0 0 0 -5 -5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -5 10 0 -10 -5 -20 -1.25 Construction Headworks -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -10 0 -5 0 -5 -5 0 0 -10 0 -70-4.38 Main/secondary canals -5 -5 0 -5 -5 -5 -5 -10 0 -5 0 -5 -5 0 0 -10 0 -65-4.06 Access / village roads -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 0 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 0 0 0 -65-4.06 Canal service roads -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 0 -5 0 -5 -5 0 0 -10 0 -65-4.06 Drainage channels 0 -5 0 -5 -5 -5 0 -5 0 -5 0 -5 -5 0 0 -10 0 -50-3.13 Operation Headworks 0 0 5 -5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -5 -5 10 0 0 -5 -5 -0.31 Main/secondary canals 0 0 5 0 0 -5 0 0 0 -5 0 -5 -5 10 0 0 -5 -10 -0.63 Access / village roads 0 0 0 0 0 -5 0 0 0 5 5 -5 -5 10 0 0 0 5 0.31 Canal service roads -5 0 0 -5 0 -5 0 0 0 -5 0 -5 -5 10 0 0 0 -20-1.25 Drainage channels 0 0 5 -5 -5 -5 0 0 0 -5 0 -5 -5 10 0 0 0 -15-0.94

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact Average total Impact 5 Pre-Construction -1.31 0 No significant impact Construction -3.94 -5 Operation -0.56 -10 Very negative impact

Summary Matrix of Environmental Impacts After Mitigation

Activities and Project Impacts Table - With Anticipated Mitigation Measures Na Tur Irrigation Project

Output/Activity

Air

UXO

Noise

Safety

Health Ethnic

Impact

Climate

Income

Cultural

Average Average

Land Use Land

Minorities

Education

Land/soils

Solid Waste Solid Biodiversity

Total ImpactTotal

WaterSupply Waste-Water Resettlement

Pre-Construction Headworks 0000000000000 10 0 0 -5 5 0.31 Main/secondary canals 0000000000000 10 0 0 -5 5 0.31 Access / village roads 0000000000000 10 0 0 -5 5 0.31 Canal service roads 0000000000000 10 0 0 -5 5 0.31 Drainage channels 0000000000000 10 0 0 -5 5 0.31 Construction Headworks 00000000000000000 00.00 Main/secondary canals 00000000000000000 00.00 Access / village roads 00000000000005000 50.31 Canal service roads 00000000000000000 00.00 Drainage channels 00000000000000000 00.00 Operation Headworks 0050000000000 10 0 0 0 15 0.94 Main/secondary canals 0050000000000 10 0 0 0 15 0.94 Access / village roads 0000000005500 10 0 0 0 20 1.25 Canal service roads 0000000000000 10 0 0 0 10 0.63 Drainage channels 0050000000000 10 0 0 0 15 0.94

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact Average total Impact 5 Pre-Construction 0.31 0 No significant impact Construction 0.06 -5 Operation 0.94 -10 Very negative impact

40. Environmental negative impacts related to location and design are anticipated in land/soils, resettlement, and climate. The negative impacts in land/soils and resettlement can be mitigated with careful design and implementation of the land acquisition and compensation plan. 41. Environmental impacts related to construction would be temporary, and can in most cases be mitigated before and during the construction period. Mitigation of any risks of sediment runoff would be achieved by contract requirements. Surplus spoil should be used as fill, for example backfilling of culvert walls, wherever possible. Construction operations may

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination involve the temporary closure of the irrigation systems. Ensuring that local farmers are aware of the construction schedule would help mitigate the effects of temporary closure. However, it is unlikely to be feasible to maintain full irrigation flows while the works are being implemented. 42. There will be no adverse impact to the production forest area (91 tree species found in the previous survey) where the improvement of the existing headworks and canal during the construction will take place as the construction method here will mainly relied on labour-base only and necessary mitigation measures in order to minimize the impact has been prepared for the subproject during the construction. 43. The construction footprint would be clearly marked especially RoW where the construction would be carried out in Nongkathing-Nongkapard National Production Forest area and Xenoy-Xebai National Protection Forest to minimize impact on forest area. Removal of trees with diameters greater than 15cm must be approved by the concerned local authorities. 44. Excavation works would result in localized concentrations of airborne particulate matter, which may pose a significant dust nuisance where it occurs in proximity to villages, schools, dwellings or farmers working in their fields. Where excavation operations carried out during dry and windy conditions are within 50m of susceptible locations as noted above excavated sites would be sprayed with water to control dust release. The operation of construction equipment is not expected to cause a significant increase in air pollution, as most construction tasks are likely to involve hand labor. Only light equipment such as cement mixers and water pumps are likely to be used. Operating equipment would cause localized air pollution through exhaust fumes, particularly exhaust gases from diesel engines, although it would not be expected to persist but rather disperse fairly quickly. Although minimum emission standards are available in the Agreement on the National Environmental Standards3 there are limited testing facilities in Lao PDR to monitor compliance. Consequently, good maintenance of equipment is essential. Truck idling for over 15-minutes would not be allowed in populated areas. Most construction would involve hand labor or small plant; noise nuisance is not expected to be significant. However, contractors would be prevented from working between the hours of 21:00 and 06:00 in populated areas, or near schools and hospitals. For temporary use of land owners would receive compensation in the form of rents payable during scheme construction period and land would be re-instated to pre-construction levels. Contractors are to protect sensitive urban, agricultural and natural areas during construction. 45. For temporary use of land owners would receive compensation in the form of rents payable during scheme construction period and land would be re-instated to pre-construction levels. Contractors are to protect sensitive urban, agricultural and natural areas during construction. Sensitive areas would be clearly demarcated to minimize risk of encroachment. 46. While the Contractor would be encouraged to engage local people for the works, some skilled workers and possibly supplementary labor would need to be brought to the site from elsewhere in Lao PDR or outside the country. Interactions with local residents can potentially lead to the spread of communicable diseases, or incidences of disharmony. Numerous mitigation measures are specified in the EMP, and the Contractor would develop and implement an appropriate Contractor’s Environmental Management Plan (CEMP), approved by the supervisory engineer, to address these and other public health issues. The contents of the CEMP and the Contractors’ responsibilities with respect to environmental and social issues are specified. Some construction activities would pose a small safety risk to workers and to

3 Agreement on the National Environmental Standards Prime Minister’s Office Water Resources and Environment Administration No2734 /PMO.WREA Vientiane Province, dated 7 Dec 2009

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination local people. The CEMP would include an effective Health and Safety Plan. A construction waste and Hazardous Materials Management Plan would be developed in the CEMP. 47. Advice to farmers, including emphatic discouragement of the use of persistent pesticides should continue through DAFO. The Government is strongly supportive of the introduction of organic and green agriculture. PPMO and DCO staff would receive training in Integrated Pest Management and Soil Fertility Management (Annex 2.3 Present Agriculture and Agricultural Development Plan) that would use the three Phase I subprojects as a pilot for the introduction of the training program with assistance from the Laon Implementation Consultant (LIC). Subsequently DCO with assistance from the PPMO would continue the training program. 48. The expansion of the command area would increase the irrigated area of paddy fields that are seasonally inhabited by fish, mollusks, crustaceans and aquatic insects. The project would improve the seasonal aquatic ecosystem in the agricultural land and have only minor impact on the Xenoy river at the headworks location. 49. Some studies indicate that paddy rice fields contribute approximately 9-13 percent of the global emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG), especially methane and nitrous oxide. The total CO2e emissions from the Project would be well below the ADB’s significance threshold. Encouraging farmers to grow other crops that produce less GHG may help reduce GHG emissions, but rice agriculture would predominate and is one of the major purposes of this subproject. Many different mechanisms for controlling methane emissions have been proposed, including varietal choice and fertilizer use, but water management and modifying quantities of organic amendment are the most important according to the available literature. The Project is proposing to introduce recommended water management practices that have been demonstrated to reduce GHG emissions in paddy production. Training on climate- friendly agricultural methods would be built into the Project's overall capacity-building program which includes appropriate study tours. 50. Climate risk screening (Annex 6.6 Rapid Environmental Assessment and Climate Change Checklist) carried out at the start of the subproject Feasibility Study scored the subproject risk as medium which requires consideration of mitigation and adaptation measures. The subproject has numerous features that are designed to mitigate the effects of climate change events, such as concrete structures built to survive periodic inundations and reduce seepage loses from irrigation system. The impact of the subproject on climate change is considered medium while mitigation introduced through design would reduce adverse impacts of climate change on the subproject. 51. Though, there is no severe flood and drought record in the subproject area from the consultation with local community in 2016. The Project area is vulnerable to drought and climate change models project an increase in the frequency and severity of flood and drought in southern Lao PDR. Mitigation to reduce the severity of impacts has been addressed in the concept design (Annex 2: Concept Engineering Design) and is discussed below in section 5.5.2 (Impact of Climate Change and Project Adaption Measures, Design Mitigation). Beneficiaries stated the subproject is only occasionally vulnerable to flooding, Annex 6.3 (Disclosure, Consultation and Participation) usually localized flooding resulting from intensive rainfall. This has been addressed in the concept engineering design (Annex 2: Concept Engineering Design) and is discussed below in section 5.5 (Climate Change). The continuity of natural drainage would be maintained and enhanced through construction of cross-drainage structures. This would reduce the period of inundation of paddy land during flood and the risk of flood damage to crops. In part, the impact of drought would be mitigated through a reduction in water demand by lining canals throughout the distribution network thus reducing seepage

Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination losses. Further, crop diversification would be introduced to reduce crop water requirements, paddy has a high crop water requirement. Transboundary Issues 52. The controlled use of irrigation water and the use of potentially harmful chemicals in pest control are, to some extent, transboundary issues. Risks of the use of harmful substances or excessive use of less harmful substances in irrigated agriculture are heightened by ready availability from neighboring countries. These risks can be reduced by improved information on agrichemicals available on the local market, and dissemination on their proper use. 53. A dry season release of 165 l/s over a 210-day period to maintain the environmental flow is required for the subproject in order to meet with recommendation of ADB for the minimum riparian environmental flow of Xenoy river. Analysis Alternatives

54. The “no subproject” alternative, while feasible, would simply mean the substitution of the Na-Tur irrigation scheme and access road with an alternative subproject, likely to be based on a different irrigation scheme within Savannakhet province.

Information Disclosure, Participation and Consultation 55. Consultations were conducted many times during visits Na-Tur on 13 May 2016, 12 October 2016 and 27-29 December 2016 which included a focus group discussion during which the Project was disclosed to community representatives and environmental and other issues discussed. The overall consensus is that the Project is needed and people want it to start as soon as possible. 56. The main environmental concerns of local community are related to water quality that tends to have high calcium carbonate levels. In addition, the existing weir and some canal section lie in Hoau Fai Na-Tur Forest Protected Area of the district which has dense trees and it is in a pristine condition. There is a problem of illegal logging in the subproject. 57. Further consultation meeting with local stakeholders was carried out on 29 October 2019 to agree about the design including main canal, structures etc. The meeting agreed to improve the existing headworks instead of construction of a new one upstream as proposed in the CED. Local people also suggested the subproject to make some revision for canal and structures. 58. Additional consultation meeting for the access road was also carried out in 11 November 2020 at the subproject to fulfill a request from ADB that any local concern for the construction of the access road should be clearly addressed in the IEE. There were 49 participants (23 female) participated in the meeting. Main issues from the meeting noted were: all local people and authority had been already informed about the project in 2018 and everyone here strongly supports the project and would like it to start as soon as possible and would like to thank you the government and the project to make this happen. 59. Other concern issues are road safety, pipe drainage to deal with stagnant water, dust pollution control, coordination with local authority prior construction commencing and giving job priority to local people to work with the subproject during the construction. Grievance Redress Mechanism

Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

60. The Grievance Redress Mechanism has been developed to provide a redress mechanism for grievances that may arise over effects on private property and the environment. Persons affected by the subproject activities, or concerned about environmental impacts are entitled to lodge complaints regarding any aspect of the subproject development. 61. The objective of the grievance redress mechanism is to resolve complaints as quickly as possible and at the local level through a process of conciliation; and, if that is not possible, to provide clear and transparent procedures for appeal. Conclusions and Recommendations 62. The IEE process has found that the Na-Tur subproject would not cause significant negative environmental impacts. Potential negative impacts relate mainly to the construction phase and can be managed and brought to acceptable levels through the implementation of the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plans. 63. The proposed subproject would provide a significant positive impact to the area, in particular enhancing agricultural production as well as contributing to drought mitigation throughout the irrigation system. The expansion of the command area would increase the irrigated area of paddy fields that are seasonally inhabited by fish, mollusks, crustaceans and aquatic insects that provide a source of varied nutrient to local beneficiaries and increase the biodiversity. The subproject would improve the seasonal aquatic ecosystem in the agricultural land. 64. Construction of the existing headworks and main canal along with a section located in the Nonkathing-Nongkapard National Production Forest would not have a major impact on trees due to the construction in this area will be labour based with RoW will be clearly mark to minimise the impact. 65. Water quality still has a good quality that matches allowable limits set by the National standard, excepting fecal coliforms level that found significantly higher than the standard both at the headworks and at the end of drainage system. 66. There is high potential of finding UXO in the area thus no civil work should be allowed prior UXO has been cleared. 67. The expansion of the command area would increase the irrigated area of paddy fields that are seasonally inhabited by fish, mollusks, crustaceans and aquatic insects that provide a source of varied nutrient to local beneficiaries and increase the biodiversity. The subproject would improve the seasonal aquatic ecosystem in the agricultural land. No further environmental assessment is therefore required, as verified as part of the 2016 update. The Project is therefore confirmed as Category B according to the ADB’s classification system. 68. No further environmental assessment is therefore required. The IEE would form part of the contract and the EMP and monitoring plan be included in agreements made with Water User Groups.

Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 2 DESCRIPTION OF THE SUB-PROJECT ...... 3

2.1 SUBPROJECT SCOPE ...... 3 2.2 PRESENT CONDITION AND CHARACTERISTICS OF THE SCHEME ...... 3 2.3 IMPROVEMENTS OF THE SUBPROJECT ...... 9 2.3.1 Climate Resilient Infrastructure Design ...... 9 2.3.2 Improvement of Agriculture Infrastructure ...... 10 3 POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK ...... 15

3.1 ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ...... 15 3.2 RELEVANT LAWS ...... 16 3.3 DECREES, REGULATIONS AND INTERNATIONAL CONVENTIONS ...... 19 3.4 GOVERNMENT’S REQUIREMENT ON IEE/EIA APPROVED IN LAO PDR ...... 21 4 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT ...... 22

4.1 PHYSICAL RESOURCES ...... 22 4.1.1 Location and Topography ...... 22 4.1.2 Geology and Soils ...... 23 4.1.3 Climate ...... 23 4.1.4 Water Resources ...... 25 4.1.5 Landscape and Ecological Resources...... 27 4.1.6 Items of Historical and Archaeological Significance ...... 33 4.1.7 Human and Economic Development ...... 34 5 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES ...... 37

5.1 METHOD OF ASSESSMENT ...... 37 5.2 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION RELATED TO LOCATION AND DESIGN ...... 38 5.2.1 Important Species ...... 38 5.2.2 Potential Impacts on Species of Importance ...... 39 5.2.3 Potential Impacts on Phou Xang He Protected Area ...... 39 5.2.4 Other Issues ...... 39 189. AN EDUCATIONAL AWARENESS PROGRAM REGARDING ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES FOR LOCAL VILLAGERS AND THE NEED TO PROTECT THE ECOSYSTEM SERVICES SHOULD BE CONDUCTED...... 40 5.3 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION RELATED TO LOCATION AND DESIGN ...... 40 5.4 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN ...... 43 5.5 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS RELATED TO PRE-CONSTRUCTION ...... 43 5.6 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION RELATED TO CONSTRUCTION ...... 44 5.7 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS RELATED TO OPERATION ...... 47 5.8 SAFETY ...... 48 5.9 CLIMATE CHANGE ...... 50 5.8.1 Project’s Emissions of Greenhouse Gases...... 50 5.8.2 Impact of Climate Change and Project Adaptation Measures ...... 51 5.10 GLOBAL, TRANSBOUNDARY AND CUMULATIVE IMPACTS...... 53 6 ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES ...... 53 7. INFORMATION DISCLOSURE, CONSULTATION AND PARTICIPATION ...... 56 8 GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM ...... 57 9 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN ...... 60

9.1 RESPONSIBILITIES FOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT ...... 60 9.2 APPROACH TO ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING ...... 69 10 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION ...... 74

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

ANNEX

ANNEX 6.1 ...... 77 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN ...... 77 ANNEX 6.2 ...... 90 DETAILS OF THE IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND SUMMARY OF MITIGATION MEASURES ...... 90 ANNEX 6.3 ...... 108 INFORMATION DISCLOSURE, PARTICIPATION AND CONSULTATION ...... 108 ANNEX 6.4 ...... 132 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL ...... 132 CLAUSES FOR CIVIL WORKS CONTRACTS ...... 132 ANNEX 6.5 ...... 142 ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MONITORING PROCESS ...... 142 ANNEX 6.6 ...... 160 RAPID ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND CLIMATE CHANGE CHECK LIST ...... 160 ANNEX 6.7 ...... 170 SPECIES FOUND IN THE HEADWORKS AND UPSTREAM OF THE HEADWORK ...... 170 ANNEX 6.8 ...... 184 MEETING NOTE OF CONSULTATION MEETING ABOUT DETAIL ENGINEERING DESIGN ...... 184 ANNEX 6.9 ...... 189 WATER QUALITY ANALYSIS RESULTS ...... 189 ANNEX 6.10...... 192 CRITICAL HABITAT SCREENING ...... 192

SCHEDULE OF TABLES

TABLE A6.1: EXISTING STRUCTURES OF THE SCHEME ...... 7 TABLE A6.2: IRRIGATION WATER CONTROL STRUCTURES ...... 11 TABLE A6.3: WATER QUALITY MONITORING DATA ...... 26 TABLE A6.4 SUMMARY MATRIX OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ...... 41 TABLE A6.5: SUMMARY MATRIX OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AFTER MITIGATION ...... 42 TABLE A6.6: FACTORS USED FOR CALCULATING EMISSION LEVELS OF GREENHOUSE GASES FROM PADDY FIELDS ...... 50 TABLE A6.7: GWP FOR NA-TUR SUB-PROJECTS...... 50 TABLE A6.8: PROJECT CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION MEASURES ...... 52 TABLE A6.9: SCHEME WATER BALANCE ...... 55 TABLE A6.10: PROJECT MAIN STEPS OF GRIEVANCE MECHANISMS ...... 59 TABLE A6.11: ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN SUMMARY ...... 62 TABLE A6.12: ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN ...... 70 TABLE A6.13: PARAMETERS AND LIMITS OF VALUES FOR WATER QUALITY TESTING ...... 73 TABLE A6.15: ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN ...... 79 TABLE 3-1 LONG LIST OF SPECIES BASED ON IBAT FRESHWATER SEARCH ...... 206 TABLE 3-2 SUMMARY OF IBAT CR AND EN SPECIES AND POTENTIAL AS CRITICAL HABITAT QUALIFYING SPECIES (CRITERIA 1 – 3) ... 208

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

SCHEDULE OF FIGURES

FIGURE A6.1: LOCATION OF THE NA-TUR SUBPROJECT IN SOUTHERN LAO PDR ...... 2 FIGURE A6.2: EXISTING IRRIGATION SCHEME LAYOUT AND ACCESS ROAD ...... 4 FIGURE A6.3: NATIONAL FOREST TYPES IN THE SUBPROJECT AREA ...... 5 FIGURE A6.4: EXISTING HEAD WORKS AND CANAL OF NA-TUR SUBPROJECT ...... 6 FIGURE A6.5: EXISTING CANALS OF NA-TUR SUBPROJECT ...... 8 FIGURE A6.8: MEAN MONTHLY RAINFALL AND EVAPORATION IN SAVANNAKHET...... 23 FIGURE A6.9: PROPORTION OF HOUSEHOLDS AT RISK FOR DROUGHT ...... 25 FIGURE A6.10: CATCHMENT AREAS OF NA-TUR SUBPROJECT ...... 26 FIGURE A6.11: NATIONAL PROTECTED AREAS NEAR THE SUBPROJECT ...... 27 FIGURE A6.12: LANDSCAPE MAP OF THE NA-TUR SUBPROJECT ...... 28 FIGURE A6.13: LANDSCAPE NA-TUR SUBPROJECT ...... 29 FIGURE A6.14: CONDITION OF FOREST AROUND THE EXISTING HEADWORKS ...... 31 FIGURE A6.15: CONDITION OF FOREST IN UPSTREAM OF THE EXISTING HEAD WORKS...... 32 FIGURE A6.16: ILLEGAL LOGS CONFISCATED AND STORED IN THE COMPOUND OF DAFO ...... 33 FIGURE A6.17: ANCIENT STUPA BAN THAD ...... 33 FIGURE A6.20: SAFETY CONCERNS FOR THE IRRIGATION SYSTEM ...... 49 FIGURE A6.21: PROPOSED WATER QUALITY TESTING SITES ...... 73 FIGURE 2.1 CONTEXTUAL LOCATION OF PROJECT ...... 197 FIGURE 3.1 DESIGNATED SITES ...... 200

Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

1 INTRODUCTION 69. This document is an updated Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) based on the completed detailed engineering design (DED) for Na-Tur subproject, including the access road to Na-Tur proposed. It updates the IEE submitted as Annex 6 to the Feasibility Study for the subproject, which was based on the concept engineering design (CED). References in this document to other Annexes refer to the original Feasibility Study Annexes, for ease of reference. 70. The engineering design consultants (EDC) submitted the DED IEE update report on 22 June 2020. The report is attached as Annex 6.9 to this IEE, and includes: f. Comparison of data between CED and DED. g. Water balance to show sufficient water was available to irrigate the increased area. h. Mapping of the changes in the distribution system layout and increased irrigation. i. Summary of Affected land area in Na-Tur sub project. j. Summary of Affected Farmers and paddy field areas. 71. The DED has been prepared in close consultation with the local authorities and beneficiaries. In this regard, the changes to the CED have been thoroughly discussed and the implications accepted and endorsed by the local stakeholders. Summary of key changes in DED relevant to the IEE

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Diversion The CED had proposed a new headworks and main canal alignment structure and which would have resulted in the felling of trees in a forested areas. To Main canal avoid this the DED IEE Update reports that: changes Referred to Headwork on Detail Engineering Design, there are no direct impacts to 91 species of production forest which was mentioned on previous IEE report because they were decided to improve in the existing Headwork and old canals system instead of new proposed one with construction method in this area will be mainly relied on labour-base in order to mitigate impact as least as possible. (see details in Annex 6 Details of community consultation of the changes Na-Tur).

II. Canals system · Main Canals 1. In order to prevent environment impact at km0+000 – 0+700 must use of old canals, add Gabion rock at side of spillway and One Check structure.

72. The Greater Mekong Sub-region East West Economic Corridor Agricultural Infrastructure Sector Project (GMS-EWEC-AISP, or AISP in this document) would comprise improvements to productive rural infrastructure (PRI) and provide technical and advisory support to beneficiary communities in formation and strengthening of water user groups, technical support and capacity building for extension services and support in post-harvest handling, product storage, and marketing. It would provide project management support and capacity building for provincial and district level offices which would take a lead role in project implementation, in accordance with the Government’s decentralization policy of 2000. It is a sector project, and specific subprojects for the improvement of PRI in the two project provinces, Savannakhet and Salavan, would be prepared and implemented.

73. This document provides an Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) of theNa-Tur subproject, a subproject under the GMS-EWEC-AISP involving irrigation scheme rehabilitation. Full subproject preparation, including feasibility study and safeguards

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination assessment and planning, are included to demonstrate subproject preparation requirements. The IEE is prepared according to the ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement of June 2009 and the EIA decree of April 2010 (This Decree was superseded by new EIA decree no. 21/gov 2019)

2 DESCRIPTION OF THE SUB-PROJECT 2.1 Subproject Scope 74. The Na-Tur irrigation scheme is located in Vilabouli district, at a distance of about 35km from the district capital and 268km northeast of the Savannakhet provincial capital through national roads 9 and provincial road No. 10 (see Figure A6.1). The irrigation scheme was originally constructed during 1973-1975 by local villagers with support from government. The Lao PDR government provided funds for the headworks and technical assistance for designing and constructing the scheme. It was purposely aimed to store and provide water for 225ha irrigated areas of 4 villages including: Ban Na-Tur, Ban Nagnom, Ban Thad and Ban Na-Ae. 75. From provincial road No 10 two (2) rural roads lead into the subproject. The road from Na Thaen Hiar village to That village has a total length of approximately 16km while the road through Keovilay village connects to the irrigation service road on the main canal at Nagnom village with a total length of 5km. The Road 9 is a newly constructed asphalt concrete road which is functional; while the road 10 and the rural roads are unpaved road which are in poor condition. The nearest important market is in the capital of Vilabouli district. 76. The scheme water source is the Xenoy. There is a weir with a crest length of 96m and depth of around 4m built across the Xenoy that acts as a head regulator. The main intake gate about 30m from the weir to the south controls discharge into the main canal. The total existing irrigable area (command area) is approximately 27ha in the dry season and 225ha in the rainy season. Improvements are to enable dry season cropping in 500ha. The improved scheme is to serve 2,989 families.4

4 Field Survey, September 2016

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Figure A6.1: Location of the Na-Tur Subproject in Southern Lao PDR

Na-Tur Subproject Area

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

2.2 Present Condition and Characteristics of the Scheme 77. The scheme has physically deteriorated due to lack of funds for the construction of a proper distribution system at the beginning and subsequently poor operation, and deferred maintenance. The total existing dry season irrigable area (command area) has gradually decreased from 225 ha to 27ha at present due to deterioration of the existing system and declining dry season stream flow in the source river. 78. The water user group was established in 1975 when the scheme was handed over to the villages. It has been reformed on a number of occasions most recently in October 2014. However, the group has not yet received any training. There was a five (5) person executive committee including a chair person with two (2) deputies and two (2) members responsible for finance and accounting. There were three representatives, one from each village of Na-Tur, Thad and Nagnom responsible for water distribution and production planning. There were no representatives from Na-Ae village. The WUG requires substantial strengthening. A management system has yet to be established, there has been no operation and maintenance since year 2010 and the rules and regulations are not practiced at the scheme. The system was operated by the three (3) represented villages using water as available in the system. No women have joint the WUG activities because this involves heavy work including carrying sand bags, desilting canals and working at night checking that rice paddies have enough water. 79. No irrigation service fees have been collected and the irrigation development fund has not been established. 80. The existing irrigation scheme, see Figure A6.2 below, is a gravity system supplied from a diversion weir across the Xenoy. The head works is gabion diversion weir located in the Nongkapard National Production Forest as is most of the main canals while part of the main canal and secondary canal are located in Xenoy-Xebai National Protection Forest see Figure A6.3 below. Water discharge in the Xenoy was measured as 400l/s river in May 2016.

81. The scheme is a ‘herringbone’ formation with a central main canal running along the spine serving a series of secondary canals. Water released from a main gate at the weir, flows into a stilling basin from where it discharges by gravity into the lined main canal. Flow is then distributed by gravity through a set of secondary canals.

82. The upstream part of the scheme is in Xenoy–Xebai National Protection and Production Forests which are located in a borderland between the Vilabouli district and Boualapha district of the Khammouane province. The subproject is accessible all year around by all types of vehicles.

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Figure A6.2: Existing Irrigation Scheme Layout and Access Road

83. The existing headworks of Na-Tur Subproject which was built since 1975. The existing distribution system comprises a main canal of 11.3km in length, two (2) secondary canals with a total length of 2.9km and two (2) tertiary canals with a combined length of 2.1 km. The headworks is located in Nongkapard National Production Forest area. There are some big trees and dense forest upstream of the scheme where the forest is considerable still in good condition based on field survey data conducted during 27-29 December 2016. An inventory of tree within the Right of Way (RoW) on both sides of the proposed main canal’s alignment in CED reveals that there are totally 91 tree species comprising of one species (Elaeocarpus stipularis Blume) that is classified in prohibition I list and four species (two species of Dipterocarpus, Dipterocarpus alatus ROXB and Terminalia belerica) that are classified as Endangered species by Lao PDR government and IUCN respectively. Other species are listed as Management I (9), management II (2), Management III (14), Vulnerable (7) and Least Concern (12) while the rest of the species either have not been classified or listed by the Lao PDR government or IUCN, they are general/common species and can be found elsewhere in the area. Detail of the trees inventory shows in ANNEX 6.7.

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Figure A6.3: National Forest Types in the Subproject area

Xenoy-Xebai National Protection Forest Map

Access road Xaybouathong and canals Headworks Boualapha

Nakathing-Nongkapard National Production Forest

Xenoy-Xebai National Production Forest

Vilabouly Atsaphone

Provincial National Protection Forest

District National Reservation Forest

River National Production Forest

Road

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Figure A6.4: Existing Head Works and Canal of Na-Tur Subproject

Main canal outlet

Plate No. A6.2: Header Pond behind Existing Weir with Existing Main Canal Outlet to the Right

Plate No. A6.1: Existing Main Canal Outlet Plate No. A6.3: Existing Weir Center of Plate

84. Condition surveys undertaken by the PPTA team confirmed that the overall condition of the existing scheme has significantly deteriorated with age. The headworks is not functioning well due to the erosion damages on the river banks. Most of the canals are now in poor condition; while control structures are not in order. Irrigation service road that was built on the embankment of the main canal is considerable in good condition because local government supported the improvement of the road in the recent year to provide access to the Meuangvang Special Zone and to the district tourist sites in That village and at the headworks.

85. The scheme layout has a long narrow configuration lying along Xenoy. Two major paddy fields of the command area are in the surrounds of Ban Thad, Na-Tur and Na Ae villages. The scheme is served by a gravity system. Headworks is a 3 - meter high gabion diversion weir. Water then is released from a gated intake structure on the right bank of the weir. The flow is then distributed by gravity through a 7km long main canal to farmer’s field blocks either directly from the main canals or via secondary and tertiary canals. 86. Presently, the headworks has significantly deteriorated with age and due to heavy bank erosion. The government has supported the renovation of the weir by extending the weir crest in to the river banks; but the applied techniques do not work effectively. The weir crest has been extended year by year and the crest length has now reached 96 meters. There is an

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination intake structure to the main canal upstream of the weir, the seals have perished and are no longer water tight allowing leakage from the river into the canal. 87. Water is discharges from the intake structure to an unlined main canal of approximately 7km in length. The upstream portion of the main canal of approximately 2.60km is lying in forest land north-east of Ban Thad; while the following downstream portion is passing through the two main paddy fields lying from Ban Thad to Na Ae. A trapezoidal concrete lined section of approximately 250m was provided in the residential area of Ban Thad. The main canal feeds farmer’s field blocks either directly from the main canal (200ha) or via secondary/tertiary canals (300ha). Erosion, waste deposit and weed/vegetation growth were found along the whole length of the main canal. Seepage loss in the main canal is significantly high. Erosion of the canal invert has resulted in the water level in the canal being below the paddy fields especially in the downstream part of the canal. In the recent years the government has also provided support for the construction of brick lining in both the upstream and downstream portions of the main canal with a combined length of approximately 200m which is inadequate to control erosion damage or reduce seepage loss from the canal. 88. Three secondary canals were built to serve two major isolated paddy fields in the command area. SC-1, of 1.6km in length, extracts water from the left side of main canal at Ban Thad village near the temple to supply the irrigated area of the Na-Tur village of approximately 60ha; while the other two secondary canals, “SC-2 and SC-3”, with a combined length of 7.1km are at the downstream end of the main canal supplying water to the downstream part of the command area in the surrounds of Na-Ae village of approximately 215 ha. Most of secondary canals are unlined except for lower reach of SC-1 and upper reaches of SC-2 and SC-3 with a combined length of approximately 800m which are trapezoidal concrete lining. In recent years SC-2 and SC-3 have not been in operation because of a decline in dry season flow in the source river. Sedimentation and weed/vegetation growth were also found in the canals. 89. A tertiary canal, TC-1, of approximately 560m is supplied with water from SC-3 and then crosses over Xenoy through an aqueduct to feed an irrigated area of Nagnom village on the left bank of Xenoy of approximately 25ha. It is a lined canal with trapezoidal section which has deteriorated with age. Embankment washout, cracks and waste deposit were found in the canal. 90. A number of control structures were built in the distribution system. Most of the control structure have significantly deteriorated with age which has result in inefficiencies of water distribution. Details of existing structures are given in Table A6.1. Table A6.1: Existing Structures of the Scheme

Item Structure Number Condition 1. Division Box 6 Malfunctional 2. Drop 7 Functional with minor erosion damage and leakage 3. Aqueduct 2 Functional with leakage in expansion joints 4. Farm Turnout 7 Malfunctional 5. Drain Inlet 5 Malfunctional

91. Irrigation service roads are provided only on the main canal. There are also a number of access tracks and farmer-built farm bridges across the canals; but not sufficient to make full access to the agricultural area.

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

92. The natural drainage system was considered to be adequate for drainage of the cropped area. There a number of drain culverts at the locations where the canals pass through natural streams; but some of them are badly damaged and need to be replaced. 93. It was reported by farmers that the canal preservation or right of ways had been agreed during the construction phase. It has been recognized by farmers and district authorities that the right of ways of the major and tertiary canals are 7m and 5m respectively. Figure A6.5: Existing Canals of Na-Tur Subproject

Plate No. A6.4: An Ungated Farm Turnout on Plate No. A6.5: Brick Lining in the of Main Canal the Main Canal

Plate No. A6.6: A Lined Tertiary Canal Crossing Plate No. A6.7: A Corrosive Concrete Lining in over the Xenoy at Nagnom Village Middle Reach of Man Canal

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Plate No. A6.8: A Functional Drop Structure in Plate No. A6.9: An Existing Timber Bridge the Main Canal Crossing the Main Canal

94. Access to headworks of the subproject is only through provincial road no. 10 from Na Thaen Hiar to That village. The existing condition of the road is a dirt road with 4 meter wide and there is no side drainage on both sided. The road is in poor condition due to there is no regular maintenance therefore it is reported that the road at some sections were difficult to travel in rainy season as the road had deep holes and was very muddy.

2.3 Improvements of the Subproject 2.3.1 Climate Resilient Infrastructure Design 95. The projected impact of climate change is discussed in detail below in Section 5.5.2. Lao PDR is among one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change. Increases in temperature and precipitation are forecast for the next 20-30 years by most of the climate models. The projected 13.5 per cent increase in precipitation would result in an increase in annual runoff causing increased flood events, while reduced dry season rainfall in southern provinces would increase the occurrence and severity of drought. 96. Mitigation against increased flood and drought events and their severity are incorporated into the agriculture infrastructure design for resilience and sustainability including:

• concrete lining of canals to increase their resilience and sustainability during periodic inundations of flood, and reduce dry season seepage loses conserving limited water resources;

• a Bituminous paved access road, and paved irrigation service roads where periodic flood damage, or dust, make this necessary;

• the provision of bioengineering initiatives at all areas where there is potential for erosion in particular the river embankment at the head works, along the embankment slopes of canals and the access road, and in the surround of water control structures and along the shoulder and drains of the access road and irrigation service roads; and

• provision of participatory water resources management planning.

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97. The concrete lining of canals would afford greater water control particularly of seepage loses into the local water table and facilitate crop diversity into higher value crops that cannot withstand waterlogging. It would also reduce the costs of routine maintenance.

2.3.2 Improvement of Agriculture Infrastructure (i) Irrigation System 98. Scheme rehabilitation would upgrade the existing water distribution system through the improvement of the existing headworks with gabion boxes, canal system and water control structures. The rehabilitation plan is aimed at improving the efficiency of the water distribution network and ensure irrigation water supply for dry season cropping in a total area of 300ha and supply supplementary irrigation water for wet season rice production of 500ha in total. 99. The rehabilitation of water distribution system would include upgrading ineffective existing major and tertiary canals. Existing malfunctional canal structures would be replaced and additional modern water control structures would be built to regulate discharge in the system. Irrigation service roads along the main, secondary and tertiary canals would be improved to provide machinery access to cropped areas and O&M of the irrigation infrastructure. The study found that the need for additional drainage is very limited. The natural drainage network is adequate for drainage of the cropped area. Hence, the construction of drainage is limited to constructing the cross-drainage works where canals cross natural streams. 100. As discussed above and consultation with concern local authorities, the existing location of the headworks has significantly deteriorated due to serious bank erosion. Improvement of the existing headworks with gabion boxes and no raise of top bank of the headworks, will be selected for the subproject to avoid impact on trees in the area. 101. Rehabilitation of the head works would comprise: re-construction of existing gabion boxes at the headworks with new gabion boxes to prevent leaking; Improvement of the existing stoplog with a new one to control intake water in the main canal; There will be water control structure with a total number of 177 structures will be built where appropriate within the canals distribution network.

102. Due to the limitation of dry season flow and based on the scheme water balance calculation, renovation of the main canal would mainly focus on upgrading the upstream reach of approximately 4,85km to ensure effective water supply for dry season cropping in the upstream part of the command area of 300ha in the surrounds of Ban Na-Tur and Ban Thad. Also, to improve the supply of supplementary irrigation water for wet season rice production in the downstream part of command area of approximately 200ha. The renovation of the main canal would involve: reshaping the existing canal to form a trapezoidal canal section; installation of concrete lining; and upgrading the service road along the main canal from an earth road to armored gravel surfaced road. 103. There will have an upgrade in total 4,400m of main canal. Upgrading the secondary canals would comprise reconstructing a 7.45km secondary canal. Trapezoidal lined canals are considered to be the most feasible in terms of hydraulic properties, technology, economics and operation and maintenance.

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104. Six (4) new tertiary canals with a combined length of 1.923km would be constructed to ensure the effective irrigation water supply. Rectangular concrete lined canals are recommended. 105. Canal water control structures would be upgraded through: repairs to functional existing canal structures including 7 diversion boxes, 93 farm turnout\turnout structures, 20 drainage culverts, 29 walkway bridges, 17 drops, 10 end structures, and 1 bench; and construction of new water control structures where appropriate within the canal distribution network. The reinforced concrete structures with steel gates would be installed on off-takes and canal regulators to enable water to be managed effectively. In addition, measuring weirs would be introduced at key locations to enable the WUG to apportion flows, quantify losses, and monitor usage. 106. Two existing access roads with the total length of 14,075m with 4m wide, will be upgraded from gravel to Double Bituminous Surface Treatment. Access road No.1 from provincial Road No.10 through Ban Noy, Ban Na-Ae, Ban Na-Gnom, Ban Na-tur, Ban Thad to headwork with 13,775 m long. This road will cover some part of reservation forest from station km12+900 -km13+775. There are four schools: Muang Vang, Nayom, Natur, and Ban That, three temples (Nayom, Ong Saen and That Nang Lao), one market (Jouth Shoum) and one reservation forest the proposed roads will pass through. But there is no impact on infrastructures and trees due to upgrading of the existing access road only. Access road No.2 from Road No.1 to ThadNanglao, 300m long.

107. The natural drainage network was found to be adequate for draining surplus water from the proposed cropped area. Hence, the construction of drainage would be limited to construction of cross-drainage structures such as under passes, drain inlets. 108. A total of 86 water control structures would be built, see Table A6.2.

Table A6.2: Irrigation Water Control Structures

Flow Concept Detail Items Description Unit capacities design Design (l/s/ha) I. Irrigation Area (Dry season) ha 300 300 1.1 Rice ha 200 200 1.2 Crop ha 100 100 II. Head work 2.1 Height of weir m - - 2.2 Width of weir m - 1 2.3 Length of weir Ls - 50 III. Irrigation Canal 3.1 Main Canal m/line 4,600/1 4,400/1 1.00 3.2 Secondary Canal m/line 6,460/4 7,450/5 2.01 3.3 Tertiary m/line 6,300/6 1,923/4 2.01 3.4 Farm canal m/line 1,000 0 IV. Structures 86 177 4.1 Division Box Point 1 9 4.2 Turnout-Structure Point 1 - 4.3 Farm Turnout Point 54 63 4.4 Drainage Culvert Point 3 - 4.5 Walkway bridge Point 16 8

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Flow Concept Detail Items Description Unit capacities design Design (l/s/ha) 4.6 Drop Point 0 1 4.7 Road crossing Point 1 10 4.8 End Structure Point 7 - 4.9 Off-take structure Point 3 - 4.10 Flume Point 0 15 V. Design Discharge Point 0.402 1.180 5.1 Reservoir volume-capacity Point - 0.69 5.2 Effective Supply Capacity Point - 23.98 5.3 Catchment Areas Point 195.56 195.56

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Figure A6.6: Detailed Engineering Design Layout of the Rehabilitated Irrigation Scheme

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Figure A6.7: Typical Cross-section ofNa-TurAccess Road

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3 POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK5 3.1 Environmental Policy 109. The 8th National Social and Economic Development Plan (8th NSEDP) emphasizes raising agricultural productivity as a development priority since the majority of the workforce is currently engaged in agriculture. One of the biggest challenges that Lao PDR faces is the proper management and protection of the environment and natural resources (land, water resources, forests, minerals, biodiversity). Without adequate and sustainable planning and management of natural resource, the development actions proposed in the 8th NSEDP would cause serious ecological and socio-economic problems and lead to irreversible damage to the environment and exacerbate poverty.

110. The Ministry of Natural Resource and Environment (MoNRE) has developed the “10- year Natural Resources and Environmental Strategy, 2016-2025” based on national directions and policies (National Social and Economic Development Plan, the National Strategies for Economic Development and Poverty Reduction, the IX Government Resolution and sectoral strategies) as well as on regional and global orientations and policies (Millennium Development Goals, climate change and Multilateral Environmental Agreements)6. 111. The formation of MoNRE in June 2011 is to replace the Water Resources and Environment Administration (WREA), the National Land Management Authority, the Geology Department and some divisions of the Department of Forestry was a move to strengthen environmental protection and management within government. Specific policy for environmental management of investment projects is stated in the objectives for the Decree on Environmental Impact Assessment, April 2010 and later this Decree has been superseded by Regulation on ESIA and IEE, No. 8030/MONRE and No. 8029/MONRE dated 17 December 2013 respectively which states that those investment projects and activities shall conduct the efficient initial environmental examination (IEE) or environmental and social impact assessment (ESIA) process, contribute to the sustainable socio-economic development of the country and shall mitigate and enhance the global warming adaptation. A new decree on environmental impact assessment no 21/gov 2019 was approved by the government to replace regulation on ESIA no. 8030/MONRE and no. 8029/MONRE. The objective of this decrees is to streamlines regulations, rules and measures about management and monitoring work of ESIA to be correctly implemented, transparent in order to prevent, minimize environmental impacts, ensure fairly and effectively compensation, resettlement and livelihood restoration of affected people for better living condition as well as management and effectiveness of natural resources use which will significantly contribute to social-economic development of the nation. In addition, compensation costs from such development will be followed Decree on Compensation and Resettlement People from Development Projects, no 84/gov dated 5 April 2016. 112. The law governing the protection of the environment, including the assessment and management of projects, is the Environmental Protection Law (EPL), (1999, revised in 2012). Responsibilities and procedures for Environmental Assessment, together with requirements for environmental monitoring of projects, have been revised and are set out in the Ministerial Instruction on ESIA and IEE dated 17 December 2013. In addition, compensation costs from such development would be followed Decree on Compensation and Resettlement People from Development Projects, no 84/gov dated 5 April 2016.

5 The Project prepared “Environmental Assessment and Review Framework” received by ADB in May 2013 as a Draft. 6 MoNRE, Natural Resources and Environmental Strategy, 2016-2025

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113. The decree sets out the principal institutional arrangements, assigning primary responsibility for undertaking environmental assessment of projects to the project developer, which may be an individual or private sector entity as well as a Government Department. In the case of development projects, the relevant line Ministry is responsible to review and assess draft environmental assessments and issue its own approval before submission to MoNRE and local administrations, as appropriate. The MoNRE is responsible for review and approval of environmental assessment reports, co-ordination of monitoring and evaluation, and issuance of compliance certificates, acting through the head office in Vientiane or through its provincial departments in the case of IEEs. The public is consulted in most environmental issues as required under the EPL and decrees. The ESIA Decree and subsequent Ministerial Instruction introduced an inclusive mechanism for public consultation and broader civil society participation in project design and implementation; while the instruction further elaborates the roles and responsibilities of key agencies and the timing of consultations 114. Key organizations and agencies involved in the EIA process include: the Government of Lao PDR (GoL); the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO); MoNRE [previously the Water Resources and Environment Administration (WREA), and before that the Science Technology and Environment Agency (STEA)]; the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF); the Water Resources Committee; the Ministry of Energy and Mines (MEM); the Ministry of Finance; the Department of National Land-use and Planning; the Ministry of Education and Culture; and the Provincial and District Governor(s) of the project locations. 115. Investment projects are categorized according to types of investment projects identify in tables of Ministerial Agreement on the Endorsement and Promulgation of List of Investment Projects and Activities Requiring for Constructing Environmental and Social Impact Assessment, No. 8056/MONRE December 2013, Group 1 – requiring an initial environmental examination (IEE) or Group 2- requiring an environmental impact assessment (EIA). Where a project is of a type that is not listed, an investment application is submitted to MONRE for screening. For irrigation projects, those with a command area of between 100 and 2000ha are in category 1 (such as this subproject), and those with a command area greater than 2,000ha are in category 2. The corresponding category in the ADB’s classification system is B, which, similarly, requires an IEE and EMP. 116. The Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) checklist presented in the Environmental Assessment and Review Framework 7 (EARF) was used to screen the subproject and establish it was Category B in the ADB classification requiring an IEE and EMP. The REA is presented in Annex 6.5 (Rapid Environmental Assessment and Climate Change Checklist). The Climate Change Checklist scored the subproject “medium”. 3.2 Relevant Laws 117. The following Lao laws are pertinent to the AISP: 1. The Lao PDR Constitution (2015) promotes the protection of resources, rehabilitation of the environment that has been damaged and is deteriorated and develops then to be beautiful and sustainable. Every agency and citizen must protect, and conserve biodiversity and utilize natural resources in a sustainable manner. 2. The Environmental Protection Law No.29/NA, (2012). The law defines the environmental conservation responsibilities of other Lao PDR agencies such as the

7 Environmental Assessment and Review Framework, Project Number 44138, May 2013

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Department of Electricity, Department of Forestry, etc. It directs that environmental management and monitoring units (EMMUs) be established at all levels of government, with responsibilities to include such things as: establishing and enforcing sector environmental plans; taking action to mitigate environmental damage; issuing orders to adjust, suspend, remove or close down activities that cause negative impacts. The overriding principles promulgated by the law are that:

• Environmental conservation comes before mitigation and restoration

• Those who generate an environmental impact are responsible for the resulting damage caused. 3. The Water and Water Resources Law (1997) was replaced by the Water and Water Resources (amended) no. 23/NA 2017. The revised Law 2017 aims to determine principle, regulations, management measures, protection, development, use of water and water resources, preventing impact on water, water rehabilitation in order to maintain water quality, quantity and water resources for sustainability and support the need for living, and contribution to other uses according to green development policy and security of the nation and regional and socio-economic development.

Article 34 Wetland Areas states: “A National Social-economic Development Plan and local including a land use plan must pay attention to the wetland areas in order to preserve ecological system, natural wastewater treatment and flood prevention. Article 39 Small Scale of Water Use states: water usage for an irrigation one thousand five hundred cubic meters per hectare per day is considered to be the small scale for water use. The small scale of water usage does not need to apply for water use permission, not to pay water usage fee and service. 4. The Amended Forestry Law, No 06/NA (Dec. 2007): determines basic principles, regulations and measures on sustainable management, preservation, development, utilization and inspection of forest resources and Forestland, promotion of regeneration and tree planting, and increase of forest resources in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic aiming for maintaining the balance of Nature, making forest and Forestland a stable source of living and use by the people, ensuring sustainable preservation of water sources, prevention of soil erosion and maintenance of soil quality, conserving plant and tree species, wildlife species as well as environment and contributing to the national socio-economic development. Article 18 Logging Survey of the law states:

“For the construction of infrastructure, surveying all tree species with circumference over 15cm is required.” 5. The Wildlife and Aquatics Law, No 07/NA (Dec. 2007) determines principles, regulations and measures on wildlife and aquatic life, promotes husbandry and breeding; specifies utilization of wildlife and aquatic life in sustainable manner, without harmful impact to natural resources and habitats; restricts the decrease and extinction of wildlife and aquatic life; encourages people to understand and recognize the value and significance of wildlife. The law requires the management, monitoring, conservation, protection, and utilization of wildlife and aquatics in sustainable manner to ensure a rich and vibrant ecosystem while improving livelihoods of the ethnic population and developing the national economy. In particular: Section II Categories of Wildlife and Aquatic

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Article 10. Categories of Wildlife and Aquatic

Wildlife and aquatic life in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic comprise of Mammals, Birds, Reptiles, Amphibians, and Insects. The Wildlife and Aquatic life regulations are divided into three categories: 1. Prohibition category wildlife and aquatic 2. Management category wildlife and aquatic 3. Common or general category wildlife and aquatic Article 11. Wildlife and Aquatic Prohibition Category Wildlife and aquatic Prohibition category are defined in the first (I) category list as rare, near extinct, high value and are of special importance in the development of social- economic, environmental, educational, scientific research. The animals in this category as stated above shall be managed, inspected, preserved. The utilization of these animals shall be permitted by the government. Article 12. Wildlife and Aquatic Management Category The wildlife and aquatic management category are defined in the second (II) category list and are considered as beneficial in terms of national economic, social, environmental interests, and in addition are important for livelihoods of multi ethnic people and educational scientific research. The animals in this category as stated above shall be managed, inspected, preserved, protected and use will be controlled. Article 13. Wildlife and Aquatic General category The wildlife and aquatic general category are defined in the third (III) category list as wildlife and aquatic that are able to reproduce widely Nature, and are very important for social - economic development, and educational scientific research. The animals in this category can be used in accordance with the law and shall guarantee the use not threaten specie numbers or adversely impact the ecological environment system. Wildlife and Aquatic Law National Assembly No 07/NA Vientiane Capital, dated 24 December 2007. 6. Land Law (1997) had been replaced by Land Law (2003). The new law determines regulation, preservation and protection, and utilization of lands, compile with goals and laws, contribution to national social-economic development including environmental protection and sovereignty of Lao PDR. Article 3 Land Ownership states: Land of the Lao PDR is under the ownership of the national community as prescribed in Article 17 of the Constitution in which the State is charged with the centralized and uniform management throughout the country and with the allocation to individuals, families and economic organisations for use, lease or concession, to army units, State organisations, political organisations, the Lao Front for National Construction, mass organisations for use, and the allocation to aliens, apatrids, foreign individuals and organisations of such persons for lease or concession

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7. Road Law (1999) Environmental protection is required during road activities. National and provincial authorities of the Ministry of Communications, Transport, Post and Construction are responsible for environmental protection on road projects. Reasonable compensation must be paid to individuals whose land is expropriated for road rights-of-way, relocation of replacement structures, and loss of trees and crops. 8. Law on National Heritage (2005) The Law on National Heritage determines the principles, regulations and measures for the administration, use, protection, conservation, restoration, [and] rehabilitation of the national heritage, and also determines the rights and duties of the State, social organizations and individuals to preserve the value of the national cultural, historical and natural heritage, with the aims of educating citizens with a conscious love for their nation and fine national traditions that is deeply embedded in their hearts and of assuring the elements for prosper sustainability of the nation. 3.3 Decrees, Regulations and International Conventions 118. The following are relevant to the Project:

1. Prime Minister’s Decree No. 164/1993 established eighteen protected areas and required that the government develop management plans for each area. Two additional protected areas, referred to as National Biodiversity Conservation Areas (NBCAs), have since been added and now one more additional NBCA as Nam Kane NBCA has been established making the total 21 NBCAs nationwide. The current area totals 3.4 million hectares or 14.3% of the country’s area. In addition, provinces and districts have also designated their own conservation areas and protection forests bringing the overall national total to 5.3 million hectares or 22.6% of the total land area. NBCAs are now known as National Protected Areas (NPAs). 2. Decree on the Preservation of Cultural, Historical and Natural Heritage requires that in order to prevent exploitation of relics and antiquities, any person who discovers archaeological relics or a cultural site must inform the provincial and district offices within three days. 3. PM Decree No. 84/PM on the Compensation and Resettlement (2016) The Decree defines principles, regulations, management measures, compensation and resettlement monitoring in order to guide development projects being carried out rightfully and effectively. This aims to ensure affected persons fairly received compensation, resettlement, support sustainable occupation, livelihood restoration to be better than previous or equally the same one and also the development projects made contribution into sustainable national social-economic development. The decree comprises eight sections and thirty two articles.

• Section I General Provisions sets out the objective and fundamental principle, regulations, management measures, compensation and resettlement monitoring in order to guide development projects being carried out rightfully and effectively. This aims to ensure affected persons fairly received compensation, resettlement, support sustainable occupation, livelihood restoration to be better than previous or equally the same one and also the development projects made contribution into sustainable national social- economic development.

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• Section II Compensation states and defines the right of project affected person in receiving compensation.

• Section III Resettlement states and defines the compensation requirement and procedures, as well as assistance to be provided during the relocation, settlement and livelihood development.

• Section IV Livelihood Restoration defines needs for development projects to assist the affected people after relocation in transition period with regularly reassessment of resettlement plan.

• Section V Right and Obligation of Project Developer and Affected Persons states the developer has to prepare environmental and monitoring reports and compensation plan with sufficient budgets for the compensation work to be undertaken.

• Section VI Compensation and Resettlement Committee states about structure and representative of the committee members and their main responsibility

• Section VII Grievance Redress about Compensation and Resettlement sets out the implementation procedure as well as the institutional frame work and responsibility of all parties.

• Final Provision states about implementation and effectiveness. 4. Decree on Environmental Impact Assessment (2019) New decree on environmental impact assessment no 21/gov 2019 was approved by the government to replace regulation on ESIA no. 8030/MONRE and no. 8029/MONRE. The objective of this decrees is to streamlines regulations, rules and measures about management and monitoring work of ESIA to be correctly implemented, transparent in order to prevent, minimize environmental impacts, ensure fairly and effectively compensation, resettlement and livelihood restoration of affected people for better living condition as well as management and effectiveness of natural resources use which will significantly contribute to social-economic development of the nation. In addition, compensation costs from such development will be followed Decree on Compensation and Resettlement People from Development Projects, no 84/gov dated 5 April 2016. 5. MAF Regulation Nº 0360/MAF.2003, on Management of National Biodiversity Conservation Areas, Aquatic Animals and Wildlife provides guidelines on NBCA establishment and zoning and also on restricted activities and development fund establishment and the rights and duties of state agencies in NBCA management. 6. Regulation on Environmental Impact Assessment of Road Projects in Lao PDR (2004) Guidance for environmental assessment requirements and procedures, regulation for assessing a project, in road sector. 119. Lao PDR is signatory to the following international environmental agreements:

• ASEAN Agreement on the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources • Convention for the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage • United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification • United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change • Convention on Biological Diversity • Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer

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• Vienna Convention for the protection of the Protocol of the Ozone Layer • Ozone Layer and the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer • Millennium Declaration • Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora • Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants • Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar Convention) • Agreement on the Cooperation for Sustainable Development of Mekong River Basin

3.4 Government’s Requirement on IEE/EIA approved in Lao PDR 120. According to the Regulation on Environmental Assessment in the Lao PDR, the IEE of the Project is required to be submitted to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment at the provincial level (PoNRE) for approval through the issuance of an environmental certificate prior to the project commencement (no civil work is allowed prior to the approval). Therefore, the Project Developer, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) is required to consider the conditions and timing on the approval. 121. The procedure for IEE preparation and approval is described in Article 10 of the EIA Decree8 and is summarized as follows:

“(i) The project developer prepares the IEE report, in cooperation with other stakeholder agencies and including consultation at village, district and provincial levels; (ii) On completion of consultations at district level and subsequent updating of the IEE report based on comments received, the project developer should send the IEE report to the relevant line ministry; (iii) The line ministry should review the IEE report within 10 days and either accept or instruct the project developer to provide further information or make revisions; (iv) Once accepted by the line ministry, the project developer should submit 15 hard copies and a soft copy of the IEE to the line ministry; (v) The line ministry should send the IEE report to the local administration and concerned agencies within five days of receipt; (vi) Recipients of the IEE report must send any comments on the IEE reports within 20 working days of receipt; (vii) The line ministry should convene a technical workshop to review the IEE and, if necessary, undertake a field visit, following which comments are sent to MONRE with a recommendation as to the acceptability of the IEE; and (viii) MONRE decides whether to issue a certificate of compliance, instruct the project developer to amend the IEE report, instruct the project developer to undertake further investigations, or to reject the IEE report”9. 122. The first consultation with local beneficiaries collected of data concerning the local environment and opinions on environmental challenges and concerns in the subproject area

8 Decree on Environmental Impact Assessment Prime Minister’s Office No. 112/PM. Vientiane Capital, 16 February 2010 9 Lao People’s Democratic Republic: Greater Mekong Subregion East West Economic Corridor Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Environmental Assessment and Review Framework (Draft) Project Number: 44138, May 2013 quotes the same text

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10 The EARF refers to Commune Councils but these are not part of the local government infrastructure in Lao PDR

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4.1.2 Geology and Soils 129. The geology of eastern Savannakhet Province, extending further north to Thakhek and central Lao PDR is considered similar to that of Northeast Thailand, as these areas all lie within the Khorat Plateau, a large saucer-shaped basin tilted to the east. The Plateau consists of Mesozoic and Tertiary aged sedimentary rocks known as the Khorat Group. 130. As is common to the lowland areas adjoining the Mekong River in Southern Laos, underlying rock is mostly recently deposited mudstone, underlain by older sandstone bedrock. 131. Soils on the command area consist of neutral to slightly acidic sands, and sandy clays derived from alluvial deposits and are classified as alisols, the main features of which are that they are strongly weathered, have a high clay content in their lower horizons (reducing permeability and enabling them to retain water in paddy fields), a coarser texture in their upper horizon, and strong acidity with a pH of around 5.5 or lower. These soils generally lack nitrogen (N) and potassium (K), as well as phosphorus (P) to a lesser degree. They are suitable to intensive irrigated and rain fed agriculture and yields can be significantly improved through the application of mineral fertilizer. 4.1.3 Climate 132. Lao PDR has a tropical monsoon climate which features a dry season (November to March) and a wet season (May to October). The dry season is generally cooler, though temperatures rise significantly in March and April prior to the onset of the rains, see Annex 2.1 Meteorological Data.

133. A series of meteorological data of Savannakhet Station for the past 10 years (2006 – 2015) has been collected from the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology (DMH) which is used for estimating the scheme water balance. The average annual precipitation in Savannakhet is around 1,430mm, although this is highly variable from year to year (1.030,0mm – 1,739 mm 2006 - 2015). The peak period of rain occurs between May to September. However, the dry season is particularly pronounced, with rainfall in December and January almost insignificant, while evaporation rates are at their highest (Figure A6.8). 134. Lowest mean monthly temperature is around 15oC occurring in January and reaching about 35oC in April. Monthly maximum temperatures are above 28oC for most of the year. Figure A6.8: Mean Monthly Rainfall and Evaporation in Savannakhet

Mean Rainfall and Evaporation 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec

Mean Evaporation Mean Rainfall

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135. Likely due to the effects of climate change, Lao PDR has been increasingly affected by natural hazards such as floods, droughts, and severe storms, leading to landslides, fires, outbreaks of animal diseases and mortality, damage to infrastructure, and increased food insecurity. Savannakhet is one of three provinces in Lao PDR identified in 200611 to have over 40 per cent of households at risk of drought, as seen Figure A6.9: Proportion of Households at risk for Drought below. These potential adverse impacts of climate change on the subproject area, as far as possible, addressed through design in the pre-construction phase. The subproject impact on climate change was assessed through Climate Risk screening of the Na- Tur subproject and scored 4; it is considered a medium risk subproject, Annex 6.6 (Rapid Environmental Assessment and Climate Change Check List).

11 Source: WFP Lao PDR, CFSVA Community Survey, 2006

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Figure A6.9: Proportion of Households at risk for Drought

4.1.4 Water Resources

136. Na-Tur subproject is supplied with irrigation water from the Xenoy, a river with 27.8km in length from its source to the head works. It has its origin from Nalouang Mountain at a distance of approximately 25.5km northeast of Na-Tur village, at 813m ASL. The catchment area is 164.5 km2, see Figure A6.10, with an estimated annual discharge of 153.8 million-m3, calculated using a standard hydrological method from an FAO publication12, see Annex A2 (Concept Engineering Design). The peak water requirements are 1,67 l/s/ha and 0,60 l/s/ha for rice and sweet maize respectively.

12 FAO Irrigation and Drainage Paper No. 64 Manual on Small Earth Dams (2010)

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Figure A6.10: Catchment Areas of Na-Tur Subproject

137. It was reported that dry season stream flow in the source river has gradually declined in the recent years due to climate change and reduction in vegetation coverage in the catchment area. Discussion with farmers during the field visit indicated that the source river may have a limited capacity to supply the planned crop area effectively and additional water sources are required to supply water for the commanded area proposed. 138. A baseline for water quality was established in wet season 2017, 7th June, when water samples were collected from two locations – at the existing head works (Xenoy) and the end of the drainage system downstream in the subproject and analyzed at the Department of Irrigation, Water Quality Analysis Laboratory, Vientiane Capital. The results along with current Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources maximum values are shown in Table A6.3. Table A6.3: Water Quality Monitoring Data

Parameters pH COD mg/l BOD mg/l Fecal Coliforms/100ml Maximum Value 5.5 - 9 <35 <25 <1,000 Collection Point of Sample At the headworks 8.51 2.753 0.84 10,200 End drainage system 7.32 7.811 6.25 13,600

139. All the pH, chemical oxygen demand and biological oxygen demand at the headworks and end of drainage system were within the maximum allowable values, except fecal coliforms saw a significantly higher value than the standard limit at both locations headworks and end of drainage system. The record of such high fecal coliforms levels at the headworks and the end of drainage system may suggest that water is highly polluted. The source of pollution is

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination unknown but is probably from open defecations by humans or animals in upstream area of the headworks and the drainage system. In addition, there was no record of land use and weather condition when collecting the sample that could be used to explain water quality. 4.1.5 Landscape and Ecological Resources 140. Phou Xang Hae National Biodiversity Conservation Area is about 17km from the Na- Tur subproject to southwest, and was established by PM Decree on 29 October 1993, it has area of 1.229km2, see Figure A6.11. The NPA has headwaters supplying water to Houay-Sa- Khouang subproject, and supports numerous irrigation system. It also nurtures several species and huge amount of fish, migrating between the NPA and the subproject in particular during flood. Main forest types are evergreen forest, dry Dipterocarp and mixed deciduous. Significant species are, Lesser Slow Loris, Pygmy Loris, Gibbon, Tiger, Large-spotted Civet, Red-collared Woodpecker, Red-vented Barbet, Bar-bellied Pitta, Ratchet-tailed Treepie, Grey- faced Tit-babbler, Rufous-throated Fulvetta and Mountain Fulvetta. Figure A6.11: National Protected Areas Near the Subproject

Subproject Area

Source: ICEM http://www.mekong-protected-areas.org/lao_pdr/pa-map.htm

141. At the request of ADB additional data on the landscape, fauna and flora, of the subproject area were collected on a site visit, 15th May 2018. The landscape in the immediate subproject area is shown in Figure A6.12 and Figure A6.13 below.

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Figure A6.12: Landscape Map of the Na-Tur Subproject

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Figure A6.13: Landscape Na-Tur Subproject

Plate A6.12: Forest Condition along Main Access Road from Plate A6.13: Land has been Cleared for Agricultural Practice Plate A6.14: Irrigation Service Road Along Main Canal the Village to the Head Works near the Head Works

Plate No. 15: The irrigation Service Road on the Lower Plate A6.16: Residential Area along Existing Main Canal Plate A6.17: Lowland Paddy Rice Reach of Main Canal

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

142. The landscape of the subproject area in general terms is dominated by four distinct areas: unstocked forest, rice paddy, mixed deciduous and scrub area. The unstocked forest shares a large part of the landscape and it scatters to most parts, in particular to the northeast of the headworks. Rice paddy is dominant on the south and the east of the village and it is enclosed by the unstocked forest and mixed deciduous. Mixed deciduous and scrub areas are mostly found on the west and south of the subproject. Rehabilitation of the main canals and their associated irrigation service roads would be within the footprint of the existing canals and roads. New head works and a new canal connecting the new headworks to existing headworks downstream would be built on the unstocked forest, therefore there would be an encroachment on forest land that is unavoidable. The main area of irrigation would be to the south of the headworks. The irrigated area is in the proposed original command area and would not involve the development of any land not already used for rain fed cultivation of paddy or other agriculture production. 143. Na-Tur subproject is in the edge between two types of forest, namely Nakathing- Nongkapard National Production Forest and Xenoy-Xebai National Protection Forest. According to definition of both types of the forest: protection forests are those areas selected to protect Laotian natural resources, such as water, river ecosystems, soil quality, protection from natural disasters, and environmental conservation, etc.; and production forests are both natural forests and planted forests that are classified for use and production. These areas are designated as such to support the production of wood and forest products, and to satisfy the needs of national socio-economic development where necessary. It is noted all of these forest areas may include land cover that is dense forest, degraded forest, bare forestland or land for village use. They are not strictly forest spaces. 144. The village head and village elders discussed the flora and fauna species found in the general area of the subproject and it was recorded in Lao. A review of the literature identified common and scientific names from the Lao names recorded. The species were checked against the IUCN Red List to establish the level of threat: Least Concern (LC); Near Threat (NT) Vulnerable (VU); Endangered (EN); and Critically Threatened (CR). A number of species were not evaluated (NE) in the Red List. Some species were only identified by their Lao name and these could not be identified further from the literature. The list of fauna and flora are presented in Annex A6.7. 145. An interview with staff of DAFO and PPMO, and people stated that they have not seen any rare or endangered species of fauna in the area though the Production Forest has relatively dense forest and is in good condition. They mentioned that some species such as Lophura diardi (Siamese Fireback) and Malayemys subtrijuga (Malayan Snail Eating Turtle) that have been classified in prohibition and vulnerable category by Lao PDR government and IUCN, may be seen in upstream area of the Nakathing-Nongkapard National Production Forest where there is no disturbance from human. 146. Results from the team during a site survey on 27-29 December 2018 shows that landscape of the subproject area that lies in the Xenoy-Xebai National Protection Forest area has no forestry lands or forest as the area has been cleared for agricultural practices. However, part of the subproject area is in the Nakathing-Nongkapard National Production Forest that still has forest in good condition and big trees in the area. 147. Improvement work of the existing headworks and main canal will not affect trees and flora species within RoW of the canals as the construction in the headworks will be labour intensive method, see Figure A6.14 and Figure A6.15 below.

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Figure A6.14: Condition of Forest around the Existing Headworks

Plate No. A6.19: Condition of Forest at the Existing Head Works

Plate No. A6.18: Access Road to the Existing Weir Plate No. A6.20: Common Large Trees, mostly Lagerstroemia cochinchinensis, at Parking Area Next to Existing Head Works, the Trees would not be Impacted by Rehabilitation of the Scheme

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Figure A6.15: Condition of Forest in upstream of the existing Head Works

Plate No. A6.21: Natural Pond and Forest Condition Plate No. A6.22: Forest Condition in Vicinity of Head Works

Plate A6.23: Natiural stream Plate A6.24:Trees along Existing Canal

148. Data from the survey’s results of tree species along edges of main canal that connected from the headworks to intake water control gate, there are total 91 tree species. Among these, one species (Elaeocarpus stipularis Blume) is classified in prohibition I list and four species (two Dipterocarpus spp., Dipterocarpus alatus ROXB and Terminalia belerica) are classifies as Management I and Endangered species by Lao PDR government and IUCN respectively. Other species are listed as Management I (9), Management II (2), Management III (14), Vulnerable (7) and Least Concern (12) while the rest of the species either have not been classified or listed by the Lao PDR government or IUCN, they are general/common species and can be found elsewhere in the area. Detail of the tree inventory is presented in Annex 6.7.

149. During the field data collection, the team noticed illegal logging activities along the access road to the head works and in the area upstream of the headworks by some local people. Many large trees with a high economical values such as Dipterocarpus alatus, lagerstroemia cochinchinensis, Zanthoxylum rhetsa, Xylia xylocarpa, had been cut down then hand tractors were used to transport logs out of the area. During discussions with concerned authorities about how to control this issues they explained that though the area has been assigned as the national protection forest enforcement is weak. Most logging is usually carried out at night or when there are no patrol guards around the area. In addition, offenders are usually local people that makes law enforcement more difficult because the authority and

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination offenders know each other very well. However, some illegally logged timber has been confiscated by the local authorities when found, see Figure A6.16.

Figure A6.16: Illegal Logs Confiscated and Stored in the Compound of DAFO

4.1.6 Items of Historical and Archaeological Significance 150. Within the subproject, there is a culturally significant site at Ban Thad, an ancient stupa which local people and people in Savannakhet often visit especially during Lao New Year. The stupa is far from the headworks about 5Km to the southwest of the subproject and it would not be affected by the construction proposed. Apart from the stupa there are no known other items of historical or archaeological significance, as confirmed in community consultations in 2016. Figure A6.17: Ancient Stupa Ban Thad

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

4.1.7 Human and Economic Development 151. The Baseline Data and Social Impact Assessment [SIA] (Annex 8) used two main surveys to collect and compile data on the human and economic development of the subproject beneficiary villages. An inventory of socio-economic data from all households in each village benefiting directly from the rehabilitation of the irrigation system, called a “Village Master List” in Annex 8 was compiled by the village government, and a sample socio-economic survey of members of the WUG was conducted by the SIA consultants. Unless otherwise stated the summary of human and economic development is based on the “Village Master Lists”. 152. During the field data survey with PAFO and DCO in 2016 suggested that there are no vulnerable sensitive receptors such as temple, school and hospital/dispensary would be affected by the subproject’s activities due to these receptors locate in village area which are far from construction areas proposed. (i) Local Economy

153. A socio-economic survey13 (Annex 8 Social Impact Assessment) found that villagers’ incomes are based on rice plantation or lowland farming, animal raising, and cash crop cultivation. Villagers stand to benefit significantly from the irrigation and market access improvements. Income from off-farm sources accounted for over the majority of household incomes. The second largest source of income is from agriculture source.

154. Over the 3-year period 2013 – 2015, total income from non-agricultural activities has remained relatively stable increasing slightly from LAK 945 million to 994 million while income from agricultural activities has increased from LAK 1,510 to 1,645 million. The average annual household (HH) income from all sources has increased from LAK 25.17 million to 27.43 million over the same period.

155. Over the period 2013 – 2015 annual HH expenditure increased significantly from LAK 7.82 – 8.30 million. The largest portion of HH expenditure was food stuff and drinking water ranging from 23.6 per cent (2013) to 24.7 per cent (2015); transportation the second largest expenditure ranging from 15.9 – 16.7 per cent; followed by education 15.0 – 16.5 per cent, the expenditure on housing repair was 12.8 - 18.2 per cent, clothes 12.3 - 12.9 percent, social event and entertainment and electricity both ranged from 5.3 - 5.7 per cent and medicals 3.6 - 6.1 per cent. (ii) Agricultural and Land Use 156. The agricultural land use in the four (4) subproject beneficiary villages is predominantly the cultivation of irrigated and rainfed lowland paddy with small areas for home gardens, and vegetables. 157. Land use along both sides of the proposed access road No.1 to be improved by the subproject is dominated by rice paddy. There are also other infrastructures being built along this section including local schools, market, temple and Na-Tur reservation forest. However, these facilities and structures will not directly be affected by the construction as they are outside of Right of Way requires for the construction. In total, there are four schools (Muang Vang, Nayom, Na-Tur, and Ban That), three temples (Nayom, Ong Saen and That Nang Lao), one market (Jouth Shoum) and one reservation forest located along the proposed road (see Figure A6.18 and A16.19 below).

13 60 households from the existing irrigation schemes command area

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Figure A6.18: Land use map and facilities located along the access road No.1

Figure A6.19: Existing land use condition along the access road No.1

Plate No. A6.25: Nayom temple area Plate No. A6.26: to That Nang Lao temple area

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Plate A6.27: near village area Plate A6.28: nearNa-Turreservation forest area

158. In all subproject villages, 475-HHs (89%) have 615ha of lowland. The irrigation scheme is within the lowland landholding. In the dry season 2015/2016, 12,7ha were used for irrigated cropping, paddy rice 10ha and cash crops 2.7ha (2015-16)14. Cassava was cultivated on 7,1 by 6HH, 36-HHs had fish ponds covering 3,63ha, 25-HHs have 45,1ha of para rubber and 4,0ha of sugar cane were cultivated by four (4) HHs. Three of the villages have 78-HHs with land outside their village planted to perennial industrial trees. (iii) Quality of Life 159. The demographic characteristics of all four (4) subproject villages show that HHs generally comprise of one family, only 34 HHs (6.4%) compose of two families. The size of household varies from 4.3-6.1 persons (average 5.5 persons) per household. There are in totally 77 female headed households (14.4%) residing in the subproject villages; four (4) (3%) in Thad; 21 (19.6%) in Na-Tur; 39 (16.8%) in Nagnom; and 13 (21.3%) in Na-Ae. 160. Most of the residents in Na-Tur subproject villages live in houses of mixed construction mainly permanent materials mixed brick masonry or wood (a little bamboo) wall with iron or tile roofing. Only seven (7) houses (1%) are classed as type1 (wood, bamboo and other local materials); 1,515 houses (96%) are classed as type 2 and twelve (12) houses (2%) are classed as modern houses with brick/masonry superstructure and tile/iron roofing 161. For household assets, only one household in Na-Ae village (0.5%) has one 4-wheeled tractor providing service for land clearing and development and as income making activity; 432HHs (81%) have 2-wheeled hand tractors (432 units) for their own farm use, 14 HHs (3%) own 1 pickup each and 44HHs (8%) have one truck each (44 units) for their use travelling to the towns and transportation of the production and goods. Twenty-two (22) threshing machines are owned by 22 households provide service within the subproject and adjacent villages; 11 rice mills (11HHs) serve rice milling inside the project villages and buying rice for sale and export from the area and working as rice supporters for Sepon mining. 540 motorbikes owned by over 495 HHs (93%); 488HHs (91%) have 505 colored televisions; all HHs (100%) have 1,032 mobile phones (average of 1.92 device/HH) and 676 fans (1.24 devices/HH); 356 HHs

14 There are differences between the irrigated dry season areas report by the SIA report and the LIC agronomist and engineering staff, 12,7 against 27ha. The agronomist report no dry season paddy rice production.

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

(67%) have 356 refrigerators; 453HHs (85%) have home use small electric water pumps (453 no.); 505 HHs (95%) have pour flush toilets (505 units). 162. In a wealth ranking15 all of villagers in 4 subproject villages 534HHs (100%) are classed as medium moderated households including 77 female headed households. All are accessible to the public service facilities (electricity, health, education, marketing, phone; cultural information through television etc.). 163. Overall, for the subproject villages, 89 HHs (16.7%) have surplus and 437 HHs (81.8%) have annual sufficiency of rice for domestic consumption. Among all of them, there are 8HHs (1.5%) including 1 female-headed household that experience rice shortages; 4 HHs for less than 1 month and 4 HHs for 1-2 months a year) all reside in Na-Tur village. The main reason for the rice shortage is a small areas for rice production and large household size. 164. The literacy rate is low there are 1,501 people (51%) of the total population (2,918 persons) have been graduated from different education level, basically can read and write Lao Language including 904 persons (60%) completed the primary education school; 564 persons (38%) completed secondary school; and 33 persons (2%) have been graduated from technical vocational colleges and or university.

165. There are 59 households (11%) with no agriculture land for cultivation. Among these landless households, there are 6 female headed households.

166. Rehabilitation of the irrigation system and improved road access would improve agriculture-based incomes through increased production, greater crop diversity, improved quality of produce linked with improved understanding of and information about market conditions. 4.1.8 Unexploded Ordnance 167. Savannakhet was intensively bombed, especially in the east of the province, maps do not indicate bombing activity close to the Mekong River. During the field visit in the area of the team indicates there are no records about UXO in the area but local communities recommended that the project should carry out UXO clearance before a construction work would begin as the area may still have problem of UXO. 5 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES 5.1 Method of Assessment 168. Potential impacts have been assessed by means of site visits, discussions with local authorities and beneficiaries and the use of secondary sources of information from similar projects. This section summarizes the potential environmental impacts and required mitigation, which are incorporated into the Environmental Management Plan (EMP). A summary of the EMP is presented in in Table A6.11: Environmental Management Plan Summary, below, and detailed in Annex 6.1 (Environmental Management Plan). An Environmental Impact Matrix for the Project was developed based on current environmental laws and legislation including, without limitation, the Rules and Regulations of Lao PDR relating to: air; noise; water supply; land/soil; waste water; solid waste; land use; biodiversity; cultural; health; education; safety resettlement; income; ethnic groups, unexploded ordinance (UXO); and climate. The summary

15 Poverty Status: "1" - Poor; "2" – Medium ; and "3" - Rich. Based on village authority categorization of: "1" - Poor, Household income is below 2001 poverty line income of 85,000 kips/month/person; "2" - Medium, Household income is within 2005-2009 poverty line income of 85,000 to 180,000 kips per month per person; "3" - Rich, income is above 180,000 kips per month per person.

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination matrices, before and after mitigation, for Na-Tur subproject are shown in Table A6.4: Summary Matrix of Environmental Impacts and Table A6.5: Summary Matrix of Environmental Impacts After Mitigation below. The scoring indicated in the matrix reflects an impact scale of each activity during the three phases of subproject development pre-construction, construction and operation. Negative impact is shown in yellow, orange and red while positive impact is shown from light to dark green. The scale of the impact negative or positive are classified by a score 0, ±5 and ±10; score of 5 is a minor impact and 10 a significant impact. 169. The severity of impacts and effectiveness of mitigation measures ranking developed is detailed in Annex 6.2 (Details of Impact Assessment and Summary of Mitigation Measures). Detail on mitigation, responsibilities of the contractor(s) and guidance on environmental monitoring are included in Annex 6.4 (Environmental and Social Clauses for Civil Works Contract) and Annex 6.5 (Environmental and Social Monitoring Process) respectively 5.2 Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Related to Location and Design 170. In line with ADB requirements as set out in the SPS of 2009, an assessment for the potential presence of Natural and/or Critical Habitat has been conducted16. 171. A screening for freshwater species which may qualify the Xenoy River as Critical Habitat was conducted. A search using the freshwater species database on the Integrated Biodiversity Assessment Tool (IBAT) was first conducted. This produces a long list of species which may be present within the area of the project based on the IUCN’s Red List of species at risk of extinction. 172. Based on the results of this search, the Critical Habitat screening was carried out based on the criterion set out in the International Finance Corporations (IFC) Guidance Notes for IFC Performance Standard No 6 (IFC, 2019). 173. The initial long list of species was reduced to those which are considered by the IUCN to be Critically Endangered (CR) and Endangered (EN). For each of these an initial assessment, based on likely distribution, habitat type and general information, was conducted to see if a species met the thresholds set out in the IFC Guidance Criteria 1 – 3. If species meet any of these criteria thresholds then they are considered to qualify the area of analysis as Critical Habitat. 174. The screening indicates that none of the species meet the criteria thresholds and therefore it is considered unlikely that the project area includes Critical Habitat. 175. This view is supported by a review of a United Nations Environmental Program and ADB information presented as a screening layer in an online geographical information system (GIS). A review of this information suggests that the project area lies outside any probable or possible Critical Habitat. 5.2.1 Important Species 176. The IBAT search and screening did indicate that of the 18 CR or EN species screened, three may be present within the project area. These being Laubuka caeruleostigmata (EN), Hemitrygon laosensis (EN), and Catlocarpio siamensis (CR). All three are migratory fish species and may utilise smaller rivers which are tributaries of the main Mekong River for spawning or during juvenile stages. It should be noted that none of these species were listed by local people as being present within the project site (see Annex 6.10 of the IEE), although

16 The Critical Habitat Assessment was carried out by Dr Stephen Crute, SC Environment Ltd, UK with financial assistance from ADB

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination the fact that these species are rare means that they may go unnoticed by local fishermen. 5.2.2 Potential Impacts on Species of Importance 177. The proposed works will improve the effectiveness of the existing weir at the headworks. The project will also enable a return to irrigation of a wider area than the system is currently supporting. This implies additional abstraction from the water course for the irrigation process. Significant reduction in flows can affect downstream biodiversity receptors. 178. The IEE sets out a water balance and the design has committed to maintaining a minimum water flow in the river of 165 l/s throughout the year. This is stated to be based on an ADB study for the Greater Mekong Basin which set the minimum flow for protection of aquatic systems at 0.1m3/sec/100km2 of catchment area. The Na-Tur subproject is stated to have a catchment of 164.5 km2. This results in the minimum flow of 165 l/s. However, in the wet season, it is anticipated that near normal flows will operate within the river as demand for extraction for irrigation is reduced. 179. On the above basis the project is considered to not significantly affect the downstream aquatic environment and therefore not affect the identified important fish species.

180. The current weir is said to be ‘leaky’, especially around the edges. This may have allowed some species to move up river and avoid the barrier effect of the weir. The reinforcement of the weir will reduce opportunities for migration past the weir. 181. As an enhancement measures it is recommended that the sub-project consider the inclusion of a fish pass within the weir structure. In this regard, NPMO is recruiting an international fish passage expert to visit Na-Tur and several other subprojects with weirs on natural waterways to assess whether a fish passage would be beneficial in mitigating possible adverse environmental impacts from the weirs and, if so, prepare a design to be incorporated into the weir construction as an addendum to the civil works contract. 5.2.3 Potential Impacts on Phou Xang He Protected Area 182. The draft IEE highlighted concerns regarding the potential connectivity between the sub-project area and the protected area of Phou Xang He which lies some 17 km downstream to the south west. 183. Being part of the same wider catchment, there will be connectivity through the Xenoy River and it is highly likely that fish species within the Phou Xang He migrate from the site for spawning and different habitat type during the wet and dry seasons. 184. As it is considered that the Na-Tur sub-project is not significantly increasing existing impacts, then it is considered that the project is unlikely to affect any of the features for which Phou Xang He was designated. 5.2.4 Other Issues 185. The field work for the IEE study observed illegal logging along one of the existing access roads to the sub-project. Two access roads will be improved and will be surfaced, improving accessibility to the forest areas around the headwaters. 186. There is the potential for induced impacts occurring due to this improved access. With possible increases in frequency and degree of illegal logging resulting in severe impacts on the forest, individual tree species and the ecosystem services provided by the forest. 187. Improved access may also result in local changes in land use along the route, such as

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination secondary development of housing and farming. 188. The project should consider mitigation for these potential induced impacts. The access roads could have width restrictions to prevent large vehicles accessing the site, be actively monitored by authorities or gated to prevent ingress by unauthorised people. 189. An educational awareness program regarding environmental issues for local villagers and the need to protect the ecosystem services should be conducted.

5.3 Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Related to Location and Design 190. Negative environmental impacts related to location and design are anticipated in land/soils, land acquisition and resettlement, and climate. The negative impacts in land/soils and resettlement can be mitigated with careful design and proper implementation of the land acquisition and compensation plan.

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Table A6.4 Summary Matrix of Environmental Impacts

Activities and Project Impacts Table Na Tur Irrigation Project

Output/Activity

Air

UXO

Noise

Safety

Health

Ethnic

Impact

Climate

Income

Cultural

Average Average

Land Use Land

Education

Minorities

Land/soils

Biodiversity

Solid Waste Solid

Total ImpactTotal

WaterSupply Waste-Water Resettlement

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact Average total Impact 5 Pre-Construction -1.31 0 No significant impact Construction -3.94 -5 Operation -0.56 -10 Very negative impact

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Table A6.5: Summary Matrix of Environmental Impacts After Mitigation

Activities and Project Impacts Table - With Anticipated Mitigation Measures Na Tur Irrigation Project

Output/Activity

Air

UXO

Noise

Safety

Health Ethnic

Impact

Climate

Income

Cultural

Average Average

Land Use Land

Minorities

Education

Land/soils

Solid Waste Solid Biodiversity

Total ImpactTotal

WaterSupply Waste-Water Resettlement

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact Average total Impact 5 Pre-Construction 0.31 0 No significant impact Construction 0.06 -5 Operation 0.94 -10 Very negative impact

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

191. Climate change models project an increase in the frequency and severity of flood and drought. Beneficiaries stated the subproject is only occasionally vulnerable to flooding, Annex 6.3 (Disclosure, Consultation and Participation) usually localized flooding resulting from intensive rainfall. This has been addressed in the concept engineering design (Annex 2: Concept Engineering Design) and is discussed below in section 5.5 (Climate Change). The continuity of natural drainage would be maintained and enhanced through construction of cross-drainage structures. This would reduce the period of inundation of paddy land during flood and the risk of flood damage to crops. In part, the impact of drought would be mitigated through a reduction in water demand by lining canals throughout the distribution network thus reducing seepage losses. Further, crop diversification would be introduced to reduce crop water requirements, paddy has a high crop water requirement. 192. Construction of irrigation canals/irrigation service roads would result in the removal of topsoil and other material containing vegetative matter that is not suitable for re-use on the road but can be utilized locally for house construction and other common community uses within or near the village. Villagers confirm there is a substantial demand for this material. 193. A minor local increase in greenhouse gas emissions (methane and nitrous oxide) can be expected from increased paddy rice cultivation in the area. The literature suggests this can in part be mitigated by changes in agricultural practices. 5.4 Environmental Management Plan 194. A summary of the subproject Environmental Management Plan is shown in Table A6.11: Environmental Management Plan Summary, above, and the plan is detailed in Annex 6.1. The Plan is sub-divided into the three main stages of subproject implementation: pre- construction; construction; and operation. The table shows the potential environmental impacts, mitigation measures, and cost allocation and responsibility for implementation. 5.5 Environmental Impacts Related to Pre-Construction 195. Contractors mobilization would include appointment of health and safety staff, the Environmental Safeguards Officer and liaison officer to consult and work with the impacted communities. 196. The contractors Environmental Safeguards Officer would be mobilized within 14-days of the contractor receiving the Notice to Proceed from the NPC after the officer’s CV had been presented and accepted by the LIC. 197. The contractor would prepare a contractors site-specific Environmental Management Plan, within 30-days of the Notice to Proceed, that would include six sub-plans: a health and safety plan; a hydrocarbon and hazardous waste management plan; camp management plan; erosion and sediment plan; a quarry and borrow pit plan; and a waste management plan these along with other requirements detailed in Annex 6.4 (Environmental and Social Clauses for Civil Works Contracts). The contractors’ staff would be trained in Health and Safety requirements and procedures including the risks of communicable diseases. The siting of labor camps and storage areas would be agreed with landowners, either farmers or the local authorities, and rental agreements for the land use drawn up and signed. Copies of the rental agreements must be provided to the NPMO through the PPMO. On completion of the construction works the land used for camps and/or storage must be returned to their original condition. 198. Completion and acceptance, after ADB review, of the pre-construction requirements is a pre-requisite to the start of construction.

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199. The contractors Environmental Safeguards Officer, a full-time appointment, would be appointed within 14-days of the issuance of the Notice to Proceed. The officer’s CV would be included in the Bid documents for LIC review and acceptance. 200. Potential permanent land and asset losses would be identified in a Preliminary Measurement Survey (PMS) that would be used to develop a preliminary Inventory of Losses (IOL). The details of the IOL would be presented in a Land Acquisition and Compensation Plan (Annex 7). The subproject would comply with the approved LACP. Following ADB approval of the subproject detailed engineering design a Detailed Measurement Survey (DMS) would be conducted to establish the extent of asset losses to be mitigated through compensation agreed with affected-households. The Land Acquisition and Compensation Plan would be updated based on the DMS and submitted to ADB for approval before the disbursement of compensation is carried out. Disbursement of compensation (mitigation) must be completed, report and approved by ADB before civil works construction can be started. Reporting is through the Land Acquisition and Compensation Report (LACR). The LACP is presently under preparation.

201. Access to construction sites might require the contractor’s machinery travelling across agricultural land. Repeated passes of machinery across the same land would result in soil compaction and damage to the soil structure. The alignment of access tracks to construction sites would be agreed with landowners before the start of construction and land would be restored after completion of construction. 202. Construction footprint has to be clearly marked especially RoW where the construction would be carried out in Nonkathing-Nongkapard National Production Forest area and Xenoy- Xebai National Protection Forest to minimize impact on the forest area. 5.6 Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Related to Construction 203. Environmental negative impacts related to construction would be temporary, and can in most cases be mitigated before and during the construction period. The impacts, mitigation, responsibility and budget source are presented in Table A6.11: Environmental Management Plan Summary. Mitigation measures are listed in Environmental Management Plan Annex A6.1 Details of the Impact Assessment and Summary of Mitigation Measures). Detailed responsibilities and contract clauses for the contractors are found in Annex A6.4 (Environmental and Social Clauses for Civil Works Contract). 204. The head works is a low diversion weir on Xenoy. In general, the weir embankment is considered in poor condition and has been deteriorated with age. The improvement of the headworks would include: improve gabion boxes for the weir, upgrade the existing water distribution system, rehabilitation of major canals and replacing ineffective existing tertiary canals, modern water control structures would be built to regulate discharge in the system, improvement of irrigation service road along the main, secondary and tertiary canals, and restoration of erosion protection component and replacing of the malfunction intake structure. No potential adverse impact is anticipated in the limited rehabilitation of the due to the construction here will be labour based. Mitigation measures have been prepared to minimize the impact and enhance forest density and biodiversity in the area. 205. Excavation work associated with irrigation service roads upgrading, the preparation of canals for the installation of lining, and borrows areas would result in the movement and deposition of silt away from the source, except when works are carried out during dry conditions. However, if the works are well supervised and timing of works is controlled, quantities would be small, and would either be carried away by the irrigation water when the scheme is completed, or would settle on roads, paths and fields where it would not cause a

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination problem. The use of silt fences may be required at spoil disposal and borrow sites if there is a risk of moderate erosion as a result of surface water flows into water bodies. Each borrow or disposal site must be addressed individually to determine whether silt fences or other mitigation works are required. Silt fences would generally not be necessary for canal lining operations but careful placement of excavated material would be essential in order to reduce the likelihood of sediment movement into adjoining agricultural land. It is essential that borrow pits are left safe and sanitary. Steep sided borrow pits are prone to collapse causing erosion into the surrounding area while ponded water in burrow pits presents an ideal breeding ground for mosquito’s a dangerous disease vector. 206. Mitigation of any risks of sediment runoff would be achieved by (i) the contractors site supervisor staff being on site for all excavation work, (ii) confining excavation operations to the dry season, (iii) use of silt traps where warranted, according to instructions from the construction supervisors and supervising agency and (iv) disposal of spoil from excavation works at sites approved by the construction supervising agency. Surplus spoil should be used as fill, for example backfilling of culvert walls, wherever possible. 207. Construction operations occurring during the irrigation season may involve the temporary closure of the existing irrigation systems. This may have significant impact on the crop and livestock production and on local livelihoods for those currently having access to irrigation so it is critical that user communities be involved in scheme planning and construction scheduling. Ensuring that local farmers are aware of the construction schedule would further mitigate the effects of temporary closure. These impacts are addressed in the Land Acquisition and Compensation Plan (Annex 7).

208. Excavation works would result in localized concentrations of airborne particulate matter, which may pose a significant dust nuisance where it occurs in proximity to villages, schools, dwellings or farmers working in their fields. Where excavation operations carried out during dry and windy conditions are within 50m of susceptible locations as noted above excavated sites would be sprayed with water to control dust release. The operation of construction equipment is not expected to cause a significant increase in air pollution, as most construction tasks are likely to involve hand labor. Only light equipment such as cement mixers and water pumps are likely to be used. Operating equipment would cause localized air pollution through exhaust fumes, particularly exhaust gases from diesel engines, although it would not be expected to persist but rather disperse fairly quickly. Although minimum emission standards are available in the Agreement on the National Environmental Standards17 there are limited testing facilities in Lao PDR to monitor compliance. Consequently, good maintenance of equipment is essential. Truck idling for over 15-minutes would not be allowed in populated areas.

209. Similarly, as most construction would involve hand labor or small equipment, noise nuisance is not expected to be significant. However, contractors would not be permitted to work between the hours of 21:00 and 06:00 within 500m of populated areas, or near clinics or hospitals.

210. For temporary use of land, owners would receive compensation in the form of rents payable during the scheme construction period, and land would be re-instated in accordance with the Resettlement Framework and the Project’s Resettlement Plan. The contractor is to protect sensitive urban, agricultural and natural areas during construction.

211. While the Contractor would be encouraged to engage local people for the works, some skilled workers and possibly supplementary labor would need to be brought to the site from elsewhere in Lao PDR or from outside the country. These workers are likely to be

17 Agreement on the National Environmental Standards Prime Minister’s Office Water Resources and Environment Administration No2734 /PMO.WREA Vientiane Province, dated 7 Dec 2009

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination accommodated in buildings rented by the Contractor, though temporary accommodation may also be built. Interactions with local residents can potentially lead to the spread of communicable diseases, or conflict. Temporary toilet facilities can release raw sewage. These potential effects can be avoided or mitigated by: (i) consultation with local people on acceptable areas for the siting of facilities; (ii) installation of suitable toilets such as pit latrines and grey water drainage facilities such as soakage pits; (iii) arrangements for collection of solid waste; (iv) briefing of workers and awareness raising of the local population on dangers of communicable diseases; and (v) assignment of responsibility for worker and local peoples’ health and safety to a senior member of the Contractor’s staff. The Contractor would have, and implement, an appropriate Contractor’s Environmental Management Plan (CEMP), a Health and Safety Plan, a Hydrocarbon and Hazardous Waste Management Plan and a Camp Management Plan, approved by the EDC-2 construction supervision engineer and the LIC Environmental specialist. The contractors’ resident Environmental Safeguards Officer would be responsible for the contractors’ compliance. The contents of the CEMP and the Contractors’ responsibilities with respect to environmental and social issues are specified in Annex A6.4 (Environmental and Social Clauses for Civil Works Contracts).

212. Some construction activities, including excavations and use of plant and the use and handling of fuels or other hazardous materials, would pose a small safety risk to workers and to local people. These would be mitigated by the allocation of responsibility for site safety to the Contractor’s site supervisory staff who would ensure that all reasonable safety measures are taken, such as use of safety clothing and personal protective equipment and placing of hazard warnings and fencing, where appropriate. The Contractor would have an appropriate Health and Safety Plan (part of the CEMP) to address these issues, approved by the EDC construction supervision engineer.

213. The incidence of waterborne diseases in local communities is significant. Risks would come both from waterborne pathogens, and from any increase in ponding that may result from inappropriate disposal of waste water in camps and on the construction site. Standing water provides a habitat for insect vectors of disease. These risks can be mitigated by (i) promoting improved sanitation in contractors’ camps with appropriate drainage of waste water (ii) raising awareness, during training of staff on health and safety; and (iii) contractors ensuring that borrow pits, not used for fish culture, are left in a stable condition with drainage to ensure water does not pond in the pits during the wet season.

214. Hydrocarbons from oil spillage and other hazardous materials may also cause soil contamination or pollution of waterways. These risks can be mitigated by having a clearly defined and lined storage site at least 20m from any watercourse that is surrounded by a compacted earth bund of a suitable size such that it is able to contain the total volume of fluids stored within. The use of commercial fuel providers operating in the area is another option for the management and storage of these materials on the construction site. All waste hydrocarbons, including fuel and oil filters, would be deposited in sealed containers and removed from the site for recycling or safe disposal as appropriate.

215. The improve of access road to the existing headworks may further encourage illegal logging activities in the area that is already occurring. Law enforcement and encouraging local people to participate in protecting the forest are necessary with awareness campaigns regularly carry out in order to maintain water source and ecology of the subproject. The new construction would not fragment the habitat or obstruct migratory routes.

216. During the construction school children in the area from the four schools still need to rely on the access road to their schools. This likely to increase accident from the influx of construction machines as most of them usually go to schools by bicycle and there is no other alternative bypass route to be used for them during the construction18. Therefore, road safety

18 A phone interview with That deputy village head, Mr. Seokham on 24 November 2020.

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination and accident risk will need to be adequately addressing, especially near the schools that located adjacent to the access road to be improved. The road safety mostly will be related to a present of heavy machines during the peak hours. Necessary precaution measures at the mentioned school sites to prevent the accident risk include: recommend the students to go to school early in the morning and in the afternoon, assign a new traveling route for students where possible, road safety awareness program, adequate warning signs in the vicinity of school entrance gates, and speed bumps across the road, in the close vicinity of the school exits. It is crucial that the contractor has to inform local authority and school management teams about their construction plan in order for them put extra effort and measures to minimize the accident risk.

217. Other mitigation measures to minimize noise and dust impact to schools and temples in the area including watering the roads at least two time per day or as needed; noise impacts especially in sensitive receptor like schools (the contractor is not allowed to use construction equipment or machinery generating loud noise near schools during school hour or exam; vibration impact especially near sensitive receptor like stupas in the temples or sacred structures in the temple (always be cautious in the application of the vibration level)

5.7 Environmental Impacts Related to Operation 218. Agriculture practiced by beneficiary farmers would intensify in areas beyond the current effective command area. This would bring significant long-term benefit to users. Users who are not currently using irrigation water would begin to practice irrigated agriculture, or to resume irrigated agriculture if they were in areas where irrigation water was formerly available. The potential for increased use of pesticides and inorganic fertilizers would be addressed by the subproject agricultural development plan, Annex 2.3 (Present Agriculture and Agricultural Development Plan) that includes training in Integrated Pest Management, crop nutrition (fertilizers and soil fertility) and the production of organic fertilizer. Training of Trainers for PPMO/DCO staff from both provinces and all twelve districts involved in the Project was carried out in January 2019 by the LIC Agronomist. Subsequently at subproject level a pilot training program for farmers was carried out at the three (3) Phase I subprojects by PPMO/DCO agriculture staff mentored by the LIC Agronomist. The agricultural staff from PPMO/DCO would conduct the training at subproject level in Phase II and Phase III subprojects. Advice to farmers, including emphatic discouragement of the use of persistent pesticides would continue through DAFO. 219. While the intensification of agriculture often leads to greater use of inorganic fertilizers, extension activity in the area, by DAFO has raised awareness of the risks of excessive use of inorganic fertilizers and provided training on appropriate application rates. The LIC training included the risks associated with the use of inorganic fertilizers such as raising the nutrient status of the water released at the outflow of the system, increasing the chemical oxygen demand of the water, are therefore not considered significant. A water sampling program to test water quality at the subproject was started on 7th June 2017, see Section 10.2 (Approach to Environmental Monitoring) and would continue throughout the Project lifecycle. 220. Water quality monitoring would be continued on a quarterly basis with the PPMO sending water samples to the NPMO for analysis at the DOI, Vientiane Capital. 221. The expansion of the command area would increase the irrigated area of paddy fields that are seasonally inhabited by fish, mollusks, crustaceans and aquatic insects. The subproject would improve the seasonal aquatic ecosystem in the agricultural land. 222. The incidence of waterborne diseases in local communities is significant. Irrigation water is used as a supplementary source for domestic purposes like clothes washing, bathing

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination and recreational use especially by children this practice would increase after construction when more water may be flowing through the system. Risks would come both from waterborne pathogens, and from any increase in ponding that may result from wastages, as ponds provide a habitat for insect vectors of disease. These risks can be mitigated by (i) promoting improved operation and maintenance of the schemes as part of the training and support provided to water user groups so that canal blockages or failures of the canal walls that can result in ponding of water are rapidly repaired, and (ii) raising awareness, during training and support to water user groups, on the hazards posed by poor sanitation, water logging and use of untreated irrigation water for drinking or bathing. 223. Competition with other water uses, population growth and increasing incomes would place increasing demands for domestic water supply, as well as for irrigation. At present, the water for domestic use is obtained from a variety of sources including deep wells while some households use bottled water for drinking. With increasing population and irrigated agriculture, the demand for irrigation water would grow and potentially lead to conflict among users both within the scheme and between different schemes with the same source of water. There are no water allocation plans at the district or provincial level. At the subproject level, the WUGs are responsible for water allocation plans. There is a water scarcity in the irrigation scheme and historically this has resulted in conflict particularly between users at the head and tail end of the distribution system. However, local beneficiaries said these issues were resolved through discussion within the WUG. The Grievance Redress Mechanism would remain in effect throughout the life of the Project and used to resolve any conflict arising over water use, or other issues. Rehabilitation of the irrigation scheme would improve the efficiency of the distribution system and increase the area under crop production in the dry season from 77 to 300ha. The command area is 500ha so the potential for conflict between water users remains. The WUG would develop a plan for water allocation in the dry season in consultation with all members. 224. Provision has been made in the infrastructure, and water balance calculations for the release of environmental flows to maintain the aquatic and riparian ecosystem of the Xenoy. The WUG would monitor the releases to ensure their adequacy calculated at 165 l/s. 225. In common with all irrigation schemes, an increase in soil salinity may occur as a result of the accumulation of salts that are dissolved in the irrigation water, and upward transport of salt deposits in lower soil horizons in the case of over-irrigation. These risks are low for the scheme, as any salt not taken up by growing plants would be subject to natural flushing by rainwater in the wet season. Over-irrigation is prevented both by the relative shortage of irrigation water towards the edges of the command area, and by water regulation for areas closer to the primary canal. While salt build-up may occur in these areas, risks of widespread soil salinity over irrigated fields are low. 226. Risks of increasing erosion and scour are minimal. Land either side of the canal alignment is gently sloping and not readily prone to erosion. There may be some risk to water flows by the deposition of material excavated for house building or other construction purposes, or from dumping of solid waste into the system. The road alignment follows flat terrain. Some minor erosion may occur on embankments, which is mitigated by inclusion of planting as a bioengineering measure, in the road improvement design. 5.8 Safety 227. The existing and proposed irrigation improvements can pose safety concerns both to the workers during construction and to the nearby communities during construction and operation (see Figure A6.20). These impacts include:

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

206. During construction of the access road, road safety relating the present of heavy machines in the area in particular the school children from the four schools who normally bicycle to their school during their peak times. These impacts include:

• Potential impacts from work-place accidents to workers, local community; • Possible increase in vehicular accidents on service, access and village roads due to increased speeds; • Possible increase in vehicular accidents to school children during peak times; and • Possible increase in accidental drownings of children. Figure A6.20: Safety Concerns for the Irrigation System

Plate No. A6.29: Header Pond at Existing Weir Easily Accessible to Children

228. Mitigation measures for this during construction to be taken by the Contractors as part of their required CEMP Health and Safety Plan would include:

• Training and awareness-raising for workers on occupational health & safety; • Provision of adequate personal protective equipment to workers; • Adequate signage, lighting, and control of construction sites; • Traffic control measures to ensure public safety; and • Establishment of efficient emergency/contingency plans, adequate facilities and equipment & trained staff for handling emergencies. 229. During the scheme operation, PAFO would be responsible for:

• Carrying out training and awareness-raising for community on dangers of the river and canals; and • Adequate signage and fencing to keep people and animals away from stilling basins and other potentially dangerous structures. • Adequate warning signs in the vicinity of school entrance gates, also indicating the peak times of children passing on the road

• Road safety awareness program for the respective school children

• Speed bumps across the road, in the close vicinity of the school exits • Encourage the students to go to school early • Ask the contractor to start daily construction work 15-30 minutes after the class both in the morning and afternoon.

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

5.9 Climate Change 230. There are two considerations in the climate change impact analysis: first, how much greenhouse gases are emitted by the project and, second, what is the likely impact of climate change on the project, and what adaptation mechanisms and resiliency are built into the project design.

5.8.1 Project’s Emissions of Greenhouse Gases 231. Paddy rice fields are thought to contribute approximately 9-13 percent of the global emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG)19. Methane and nitrous oxide are the dominant GHG emissions largely from flooded paddy fields and the energy needed to pump water. Rice emits, for example, between 3 and 8 times the emissions of wheat.20 232. Numerous studies have provided mechanisms for calculating yearly emission levels of the principal GHG related to paddy rice cultivation, methane (CH4), carbon dioxide (CO2), and 21 nitrous oxide (N2O). For this project the following factors are used see Table A6.6: Table A6.6: Factors Used for Calculating Emission Levels of Greenhouse Gases from Paddy Fields

CH4 66 kg/ha

CO2 690 kg/ha

N2O 1.93 kg/ha

233. Global Warming Potential (GWP) is expressed in terms of equivalent levels of CO2 using the following formula:

Global warming potential (GWP) = CO2 emissions + CH4 emissions*21 + N2O emissions*310 234. Table A6.7 shows the GWP for subproject. The rehabilitation would increase the area of dry season paddy rice cultivation by 200ha, from 0 to 200ha. The total GWP for the increase in paddy area of subprojects is approximately 534,9 tons CO2e/year, which is very much less than ADB’s significance threshold value of 100.000tons CO2e/year22 and therefore no further monitoring is required. Table A6.7: GWP for Na-Tur Sub-Projects

Increase in Rice CH4 emissions CO2 emissions N2O emissions GWP Paddy area (ha) (kg/year) (kg/year) (kg/year) (tons/year CO2e) 200 277.200 138.000 119.660 534.9

19 “Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Options from Rice Field” Sirintornthep Towprayoon, The Joint Graduate School of Energy and Environment, King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi Bangmod, Bangkok, Thailand 10140 20 “Greenhouse gas emissions from rice”, RGTW Working Paper Number 3 , 2013, Alfred Gathorne- Hardy 21 “Initial Environmental Examination, Cambodia: Uplands Irrigation and Water Resources Management Sector Project” prepared for ADB, July 2015 22 Projects emitting more than the threshold are required to carry out an annual quantification of GHG emissions in accordance with internationally recognized methodologies, and evaluate technically and financially feasible and cost-effective options to reduce or offset project-related greenhouse gas emissions during project design and operation, and pursue appropriate options (SPS, 2009).

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235. Encouraging farmers to grow other crops that produce less GHG may help reduce GHG emissions, but rice agriculture would predominate and is one of the major purposes of this subproject. Many different mechanisms for controlling methane emissions have been proposed, including varietal choice and fertilizer use, but water management and modifying quantities of organic amendment are the most important according to the available literature.23 The Project is proposing to introduce recommended water management practices that have been demonstrated to reduce GHG emissions in paddy production. Training on climate-friendly agricultural methods would be built into the Project's overall capacity-building program which includes appropriate study tours. 5.8.2 Impact of Climate Change and Project Adaptation Measures 236. Lao PDR is among the most vulnerable locations with respect to climate change. Increases in temperature and precipitation are forecast for the next 20-30 years by most of the climate models. The Mekong River Commission estimates that the most likely effects of climate change in the region would include24:

• “Basin-wide temperature increase of 0.79°C, with greater increases in colder catchment areas in the north • Annual precipitation increase of 200 mm (a 13.5% rise) • Increase in dry-season precipitation in northern catchments and decrease in southern catchments • Total annual runoff increase of 21% • Increase in flooding in all parts of the Basin with the greatest impact on downstream catchments of the Mekong River • Climate change is expected to affect natural ecosystems and agriculture throughout the Mekong River Basin, thereby exacerbating the challenges of meeting the increasing demand for resources from growing populations.” 237. Based on these and other potential impacts, Table A6.8 shows adaptation measures that have been built into the Project and would be finalized in the detailed design.

23 “Greenhouse gas emissions from rice”, RGTW Working Paper Number 3, 2013, Alfred Gathorne- Hardy 24 http://www.mrcmekong.org/mekong-basin/climate/

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Table A6.8: Project Climate Change Adaptation Measures

Climate Change Effect Project Measure

Likely temperature increase of up Project capacity building and linkage with research institutes to 1°C (Lao-IRRI) to include adaptation measures to enable the rice plant to perform optimally under adverse climatic conditions through suitable cultural and genetic strategies.25 26 Improved varieties tolerant to higher and low temperatures would be introduced as they are released by the research institutes. Training of farmers would also include mitigation measures to reduce GHG emissions, such as cultivating crops other than rice that may emit less GHG, and employing better water management for rice.

Likely increases in annual Project implementation to include careful monitoring of water precipitation sources to strive for optimal use of the resource. Engineering design to maintain and enhance drainage continuity and cross-draining in the subproject irrigation scheme and access roads to reduce the impact of flooding on crops and infrastructure.

Increases in flooding Flooding was not reported as a problem in the subproject area. However, increased intensity of storms could result in localized flooding and increased erosive run-off. The subproject design includes mitigate for potential impact of flooding:

• Lining of main and secondary canals with concrete to reduce damage during periodic inundations; • Paving the subproject access roads with concrete and paving parts of the service roads where potential flood damage (or dust) makes this necessary; • Maintaining and improving drainage continuity and cross drainage; and • Providing bioengineering and rip-rap protection on the embankments, and providing sodded dirt backfill for concrete canals to reduce flood damage.

Increases in occurrences and The Project is designed to help farmers in the area during severity of droughts droughts by providing irrigation water during the dry season and supplementary water if necessary, during the wet season. Water allocation among users at the subproject level would be the responsibility of the WUG.

Improved varieties tolerant to crop submergence during flood would be introduced as they are released by the research institutes.

25 http://www.esciencecentral.org/journals/strategies-for-boosting-rice-yield-in-the-face-of-climate- change-in-india-jrr.1000105.php?aid=18969 26 Rice in Southeast Asia: Facing risks and Vulnerabilities to Respond to Climate Change, Suzanne K. Redfern, Nadine Azzu and Jesie S. Binamira FAO www.fao.org/fileadmin/templates/agphome/.../climate/Rice_Southeast_Asia.pdf

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5.10 Global, Transboundary and Cumulative Impacts 238. The controlled use of irrigation water and the use of potentially harmful chemicals in pest control are, to some extent, transboundary issues. Risks of the use of harmful substances or excessive use of less harmful substances in irrigated agriculture are heightened by ready availability from neighboring countries. These risks can be reduced by improved information collection on agrichemicals available on the local market, and dissemination on their proper use. 239. A cumulative impact associated with irrigation development is the conversion of partial the production forest land through improvement of the existing headworks and main canal. Although this activity is known it is unlikely to be an impact at Na-Tur subproject as the construction would be within the existing footprint and mainly labour based. Though Unstocked Forest area still account for a large part of the subproject but these areas are mainly out-of- command from the irrigation distribution canal network. 240. Irrigation schemes always cause some reduction of water resource in other areas as a result of water being extracted out of water source. For a small scheme such as this one at Na-Tur scheme, the transboundary impact is minimal but any successful promotion of efficient use of irrigation water would both minimize wastage in the scheme itself and also provide a source of knowledge for adoption by practitioners of irrigated agriculture in the neighboring area. 241. A guideline of 0.1m3/sec/100km2 of catchment area for maintenance of the aquatic and riparian ecosystems, recommended in a previous ADB study 27 is used to estimate the minimum riparian environmental flow. The Xenoy river catchment was calculated at 164.5km2 requiring a dry season release of 165 l/s over a 210-day period to maintain the environmental flow. 242. The Project would maintain the dry season environmental flows into the Na-Tur subproject and this water demand has been accounted for in the water balance calculations, see Table A6.10: Scheme Water Balance below. 243. Similarly, any improvements in managing irrigation systems, use of agrichemicals and in group capacities for co-operative action would have a potentially cumulative impact in the area, by contributing to a build-up of knowledge and skills among communities who interact with neighboring communities. 6 ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES 244. The Na-Tur scheme is one of a number of candidate subprojects selected for the GMS- EWEC-AISP. Alternative subprojects that meet the agreed selection criteria are mainly irrigation schemes. Other rural infrastructure improvement subprojects could comprise any of a combination of irrigation and rural market improvement. The Na-Tur irrigation scheme has been identified by the Savannakhet PAFO and selected through a screening process that included site visits and consultations with principal stakeholders to other candidate subproject sites. 245. The existing irrigation system, including main water gate, control structures, main canals and secondary and tertiary canal network requires rehabilitation requires rehabilitation to improve efficiency and overcome difficulties with distribution of water due to seepage losses and failed structures. The Xenoy is the only viable water source for the scheme. While

27 ADB (2009): TA 6456-REG: Preparing the Greater Mekong Subregion Flood and Drought Risk Management and Mitigation Project.

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination groundwater is used in some towns in Savannakhet Province, for water supplies, it is generally unreliable in the dry season and there are no indications from geological information that any substantial groundwater reserves exist in the area. The proposed scheme makes use of existing infrastructure, is relatively simple to construct and inexpensive to operate.

246. The “no project” alternative would, in this case, simply mean the substitution of the Na- Tur irrigation scheme with an alternative subproject, likely to be based on a different irrigation scheme within Savannakhet or Salavan provinces.

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Table A6.9: Scheme Water Balance

Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Crop Dry Season Rice & Maize Wet Season Rice Dry Season Rice

80% rel. monthly flow (l/s) 641.49 524.57 376.05 622.53 1,782.28 3,542.44 13,999.10 19,450.21 15,648.65 3,618.28 2,057.20 1,039.66

Measured flow (l/s) - - - - 400.00 ------

Intake IWR for rice (l/s) 1.61 1.56 0.69 - 0.58 0.51 - - 0.11 0.37 1.67 1.44

Total designed rice area (ha) 200.00 200.00 200.00 - - 500.00 500.00 500.00 500.00 200.00 200.00

Intake IWR for maize (l/s) 0.34 0.60 0.44 ------

Designed maize area (ha) 100.00 100.00 100.00 ------

Total design discharge (l/s) 355.92 371.64 182.06 - - 252.52 - - 57.16 - 333.22 288.60

Environmental flow (l/s) * 165.00 165.00 165.00 165.00 165.00 165.00 165.00 165.00 165.00 165.00 165.00 165.00

Scheme Water Balance (l/s) 120.58 -12.06 28.98 457.53 1,617.28 3,124.91 13,834.10 19,285.21 15,426.49 3,453.28 1,558.99 586.06

(*) Stipulated Environmental Flow is 1l/s per km2 of catchment area (164.5 km2).

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7. INFORMATION DISCLOSURE, CONSULTATION AND PARTICIPATION 247. Consultations were conducted on a number of occasions during visits Na-Tur on 13 May 2016, 12 October 2016 and 27-29 December 2018 which included a focus group discussion. At these consultations, which took place to undertake subproject screening, the subproject was disclosed to communities involved in the scheme and environmental and other issues discussed. (see Annex 6.3 Information Disclosure, Participation and Consultation). 248. Meetings on potential environmental issues were held with local community representatives including office holders of the water user group and village leaders to discuss potential environmental and other issues arising from irrigation scheme rehabilitation and road improvements. Respondents were keen for the subproject to go ahead, anticipating a range of benefits including improved access to the fields, better distribution of irrigation water among the users and sufficiently supply water for irrigated area 500ha. 249. Asked about potential negative effects during construction, respondents saw no significant issues as most construction would follow existing footprint and it is general construction that would not use harmful chemical/substance in proposed construction activities which would cause negative impact on environment in the area. 250. The main environmental concerns of local community were associated with high concentration level of calcium carbonate in ground and surface water quality and sometime water color is muddy. Local people also stressed that existing location of the weir and some canal section lie in Hoau Fai Na-Tur Forest Protected Area of the district which has dense trees and it is in a pristine condition. Illegal logging had been taken place in the area with big trees already cut down. 251. The high concentration of calcium carbonate in ground and surface water is a natural occurrence that cannot be mitigated by the Project. The Project is aware of illegal logging in the Hoau Fai Na-Tur Forest Protected Area and has recommended an awareness campaign presented by the DAFO/PAFO on the importance of respect of the Lao PDR law and the significance of preserving the environment and biodiversity for the benefit of the local community. The area around the existing weir is an important local tourist attraction for recreation, logging would reflect badly on the community. 252. Local people also suggested that all affected people should receive a fair compensation from impacts cause by the project. Compensation would comply with the regulations of the Lao PDR and the ADB and would be covered in the Land Acquisition and Compensation Plan, under preparation. The preparation of the plan would involve extensive participation, consultation and disclosure with the local community. A grievance redress mechanism, see chapter 8 below, would be in place to address grievances of the local communities in relation to compensation and any other issues of concern. 253. The project should build a road along each main canal and a crossing structure where necessary in order to provide a good accessibility for people. The concept engineering design, see Annex 2 and section 2.3.2 above, includes irrigation service roads along the main canals and strategic located bridges across the canals to facilitate access the whole command area. 254. Road safety during the construction and dust control should be strictly carried out in order to provide a safeguard for local community. The EMP sets out the contractors’ obligations for dust suppression from work sites and the control of traffic in the subproject area with road signage and staff e.g., flag persons to direct traffic.

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255. In addition, local people should be given a priority by contractor to work with the project for unskilled job before recruiting it from outside. The Project Design and Monitoring Framework (Annex 1) provides for recruitment of local people, male and female, with US $ 8- million of the civil works allocation generated in local wages (approximately 21 per cent of the contract price) with 30 per cent paid to women equal pay conditions. 256. During construction and operation, communities in and around the Project area would be kept informed of construction activities that are likely to cause noise and dust nuisance, or disruption to irrigation flows or roads and pathways. 257. Further consultation meeting with local stakeholders was carried out on 29 October 2019 to agree about the design including main canal, structures etc. The meeting agreed to improve the existing headworks instead of construction of a new one upstream as proposed in the CED. Local people also suggested the subproject to make some revision for canal and structures (see Annex 6.8 for detail of the meeting note). 258. Additional consultation meeting for the access road was also carried out in 11 November 2020 at the subproject to fulfill a request from ADB that any local concern for the construction of the access road should be clearly addressed in the IEE. There were 49 participants (23 female) participated in the meeting. Main issues from the meeting noted were: all local people and authority had been already informed about the project in 2018 and everyone here strongly supports the project and would like it to start as soon as possible and would like to thank you the government and the project to make this happen (see Annex 6.3-1 for detail of the meeting note). 259. Their only concern is: does the project have a sufficient budget for the construction and who will be the contractor. They also recommend design of the road should consider placing pipes where there is a stagnant water. During the construction the project should closely coordinate with local authority to prevent any problems. 260. Some good recommendation from deputy village head of Ban That, Mr. Seokham suggested that encouraging the students to go to school early around 30-60 minutes before their classes start both in the morning and in the afternoon would greatly help to minimize risk on road accident. If possible, the contractor may start construction work 15-30 minutes after the class both in the morning and afternoon will also significantly help to increase the safety of the students. Their authority will discuss this issues with the villagers prior the construction. 261. The overall consensus is that the local community are very happy with the proposed project and they are willing to actively participate the Project is needed and people want it to start as soon as possible. 8 GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM 262. A well-defined Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) 28 has been established to resolve grievances and complaints in a timely and satisfactory manner see Table A6.10 below. All affected persons would be made fully aware of their rights, and the detailed GRM procedures would be publicized through an effective public information campaign. This would include a wide distribution of a revised Public Information Booklet and the display of the GRM on noticeboards at contractor’s camps and work sites and in villages at prominent locations e.g., temples.

28 Follow discussions with ADB 9th February 2017 it was agreed the GRM would be revised to include more entry points a process presently underway.

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263. The Grievance Redress Mechanism has been developed to provide a redress mechanism for grievances that may arise over effects on private property and the environment. Persons affected by the subproject activities, or concerned about environmental impacts are entitled to lodge complaints regarding any aspect of the subproject development. 264. The objective of the grievance redress mechanism is to resolve complaints as quickly as possible and at the local level through a process of conciliation; and, if that is not possible, to provide clear and transparent procedures for appeal. 265. The grievance redress process includes five steps, as illustrated in Table A6.10. Complaints would ideally pass through only four stages before they are elevated to a court of law as a last resort. However, complainants are entitled to lodge complaints regarding any aspect of the preparation and implementation of the resettlement plan or of other project activities without prejudice to their right to file complaints with the court of law at any point in the process. 266. It is recognized that, in many cases, complainants do not have the writing skills or being able to express their grievances verbally, however, complainants are encouraged to seek assistance from the independent monitor, the nominated local NGOs or other family members, village heads or community chiefs to have their grievances recorded in writing and to have access to the project documentation, to ensure that where disputes do occur all the details have been recorded accurately enabling all parties to be treated fairly.

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Table A6.10: Project Main Steps of Grievance Mechanisms

Steps, Actions and Levels of Intervention Time ▼ V I L L A G E 1.1 Complainant explains problem/issue verbally. 1.2 In communities existing village mediation committees (VMCs) would be the first contact

for affected persons (APs), or complainants on environmental matters, to address their concerns. 5 1 1.3 VMC would be responsible for land acquisition and compensation (LAC) issues or the days village would establish a Project related village LAC committee. 1.4 The committee aims at clarifications and solution within its village and with the complainant. 1.5 This mediation aims at a Project internal immediate solution. ▼ S U B – P R O J E C If not solved before: T 2.1 Complainant presents complaint/s or grievance/s verbally or in writing.

2.2 A Project grievance committee (SPGC) would be the second contact for Further complainants to address their concerns. 2 10 2.3 Registration of the complaint by SPGC. days 2.4 In collaboration with VMC and complainant this SPGC would elaborate on the complaint. 2.5 This mediation aims at a Project internal amicable solution. If the complaint cannot be solved at this stage, the next step is to apply. ▼ D I S T R I C If not solved before: T 3.1 APs would address their complaints to the Grievance Redress Committee (GRC). Further 3.2 Involvement of authorities and departments 3 10 3.3 Collaboration with complainants, SPGC and village committee. days 3.4 This mediation aims at a mutual arrangement to solve the complaint. If the complaint cannot be solved at this stage, the next ▼ P R O V I N C If not solved before: E 4.1 Complainants with or without support from CSO/NGO, but with assistance

from the Project would address their complaints to the provincial departments and possibly governor’s office. Further 4.2 Shall involve GRC. 4 10 4.3 Can involve independent, external advice on the issues of the complaint. days 4.4 At this level, a formal agreement would be the objective to agree upon. 4.5 Before applying step 5, provincial and district staff should make final efforts to find an agreement with the AP. If the complaint cannot be solved at this stage, the next step is to apply. ▼ C O U N T R If not solved before: Y Open, 5.1 Final step to solve land acquisition, boundary and/or compensation but issue. 5 further 5.2 Court will take note and register the case. 20 5.3 Court to provide final juristic decision. days 5.4 In case of required actions the complainant and/or Project proponent

Notes N-1: Concerning step 1 the village should decide about its internal approach and time required N-2: The shown approach is in line with the Technical Guidelines on Compensation and Resettlement of Affected People by Development Project, March 2010. N-3: The shown days per step should be understood as a maximum duration. N-4: The grievance procedures are also applied for environment related complaints.

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267. The NPMO would shoulder all administrative costs incurred in the resolution of grievances and complaints within the project-level grievance redress mechanism. If the complainant seeks grievance redress through country-level judicial and administrative mechanisms, the requirements and procedures applicable to the relevant jurisdiction shall apply. All complaints and resolutions would be properly documented by the concerned resettlement committee and be available for the public and review for monitoring purposes. 268. Safeguard monitoring reports would include the following aspects pertaining to progress on grievances: (a) number of cases registered with the Grievance Redress Committee (GRC), level of jurisdiction (first, second, and third tiers), number of hearings held, decisions made, and the status of pending cases; and (b) lists of cases in process and already decided upon may be prepared with details such as name, ID with unique serial number, date of notice, date of application, date of hearing, decisions, remarks, actions taken to resolve issues, and status of grievance (i.e. open, closed, pending). ADB’s Accountability Mechanism would also be explained to people from households that would be affected by the project. The AISP website has a link to the mechanism http://www.adb.org/Accountability- Mechanism/default.asp. 269. Local stakeholders were asked whether they were aware of the Grievance Redress Procedures and if there had been any grievances to date. Generally, people are aware of the procedure and there have not been any grievances to date. 270. There have been grievances, often considered by village authorities as minor, that have not been recorded. The need to maintain a record has been stressed but to no avail. It is thought the use of the word’s grievance or complaint in Lao PDR are seen as negative and there is reluctance of the authorities to record what are thought negative comments about the subproject. The use of the Lao language used in the GRM is being review to enable comments of concern about the subproject to be made and recorded without the inferred negative attitude. 9 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 9.1 Responsibilities for Environmental Management 271. The environmental management plan summary Table A6.11 above summarizes the mitigation measures required for design, construction and operation of the scheme, as well as the cost and responsibility allocation arrangements. Overall responsibility for implementing the Environmental Management Plan rests with PAFO, which during design and construction would be supported by the provincial project management office (PPMO) in Savannakhet province, and during operation would involve co-operation with the DAFO of Savannakhet district and through DAFO the scheme users. Responsibility for incorporating mitigation into scheme design rests with PAFO, supported by the loan implementation consultants who would have appropriate specialists based at the national project management office (NPMO) in Vientiane. 272. In the pre-construction stage fulfilment of the contract conditions relating to the EMP are the responsibility of the NPMO supported by the LIC. 273. To ensure that potential environmental problems are detected and addressed appropriately during construction of the subproject the responsibility for compliance with environmental mitigation measures is with the contractors’ resident Environmental Safeguards officer and the EDC-2 construction supervision team. 274. During scheme operation, responsibility for mitigation rests primarily with the scheme users (WUG), supported by DCO/DAFO while the overall responsibility would be with the

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PAFO through the PPMO.

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Table A6.11: Environmental Management Plan Summary

Potential Environmental Responsibility for Mitigation measure(s) Cost Allocation Impact Implementation Pre-Construction Stage

Safety Hazards to workers and Preparation of plans by the Contractor, including the Contractors Environmental Construction Contractor local people, and effects of Management Plan, Health and Safety Plan, Hydrocarbons and Hazardous Waste Cost temporary worker populations Management Plan, a Camp Management Plan and Work Plan. Allocating in the area responsibilities for safety, health and welfare to senior staff; preparation of plans for first aid and emergency procedures; preparation of plans for satisfactory accommodation of workers, and of information and instruction to be disseminated to workers regarding risks of communicable diseases. The appointment of a full- time Environmental Safeguards officer.

Effects on homes and property Completion of land acquisition and compensation tasks as detailed in the resettlement RF budget NPMO / including crops and rice fields Framework for the sector project Consultants

Effect of the extraction of Hydrological simulation of the amount of extracted water from the river during peak Consultants NPMO / water during the dry season time and whole irrigation period. budget Consultants

Effects of the construction of a Selection of the alignment of the access track to minimize extent of Design task PAFO / PPMO / temporary vehicle access earthworks necessary; securing of agreements with affected landowners (negligible DCO track cost) Head works embankment Emphasis on bioengineering approach and only where necessary appropriate civil Design task NPMO/LIC/EDC-2 stabilization works in the concept engineering design and detailed design (negligible cost)

Canal distribution network lined throughout – main canal to field canals – reducing seepage loses. Gated control structures and water measurement weirs in the Design task Drought distribution system to enhance control over irrigation water distribution. Crop NPMO/LIC/EDC-2 (negligible cost) diversification away from paddy to reduce crop water demand.

Effects of the construction of Selection of the alignment of the access track to minimize extent of earthworks Design task PAFO / PPMO / temporary vehicle access necessary; securing of agreements with affected landowners (negligible cost) DCO tracks

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Potential Environmental Responsibility for Mitigation measure(s) Cost Allocation Impact Implementation

Felling of trees along the alignment agriculture Obtain necessary permits to fell trees Contractor Contractor infrastructure

Temporary closure of the The irrigation scheme would close temporarily during construction. Completion of NPMO NPMO irrigation scheme Land Acquisition and Compensation before the start of construction.

Effects on flora and fauna Clearly mark construction’s boundary (RoW) on both sides of construction Construction PAFO / PPMO / species corridor. Any cutting or clearing of trees with diameter >15 cm must first get Cost DCO/Contractor an approval from responsible authorities.

Design canal/access road alignments and headworks location that would minimize impact on trees as much as possible.

Impacts from Construction Note: Most Construction Issues would be covered in the CEMP and Contract clauses (see Annex 6.3) Construction Contractor Effects associated with the (i) Re-use of excavated material to the extent practicable, (ii) obtaining materials Cost extraction of materials from licensed quarries and (iii) forming appropriate agreements with landowners for borrow sites, and landscaping works to use borrow sites, in accordance with the agreements made with landowners.

Release of silt (i) Adequate supervision of the works, (confining excavation works to the dry months, Construction Contractor (iii) discretionary use of silt traps where warranted and (iv) careful placing of Cost excavated material

Temporary closure of the (i) Use of temporary diversions using pipes and pumps where necessary; Construction Contractor irrigation system involvement of scheme users in planning of the works. Cost (ii) Provide local beneficiary communities with construction work plan.

Dust generation Wetting of excavation sites and stockpiled material during dry and windy weather, Construction Contractor when within 50m of an occupied dwelling Cost

Construction noise Contractors would not be permitted to work between the hours of 21:00 and 06:00 Construction Contractor within 500m of populated areas, or near hospitals. Vehicles are to be well Cost maintained with adequate mufflers.

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Potential Environmental Responsibility for Mitigation measure(s) Cost Allocation Impact Implementation

Use of land for storage and as Compensation to landowners according to the LARP and restoration of land to Construction Contractor works depots former condition or better, according to agreements formed with landowners Cost

Effects of construction of (i) Careful supervision of earthworks to ensure minimal damage to farmland and Construction Contractor temporary vehicle access vegetation, (ii) reuse of surplus spoil, distribution to users in or near the Project area, Cost track or disposal at a site approved by the PAFO / PPMO.

Effects of temporary worker (i) Consultation with local people on acceptable areas for siting of facilities, (ii) populations installation of suitable toilets such as pit latrines and grey water drainage facilities Construction Contractor such as soakage pits (iii) arrangements for collection of solid waste, (iv) briefing of Cost workers and awareness raising of the local population on dangers of communicable diseases and (v) assignment of responsibility for worker and local peoples’ welfare to a senior member of the Contractor’s staff.

Release of hazardous (i) Collection, storage, transport, and disposal of hazardous waste such as asphalt, waste used oils, gasoline, paint, and other toxics. Construction Contractor (ii) All spills must be cleaned up completely with all contaminated soil removed and Cost handled with by contaminated spoil (iii) All spillages outside road beds or others construction site must be immediately cleaned. (iv) All construction fluids such as oils, and fuels should be stored and handled well away from surface waters. (v) Install proper storage area to prevent oil spillage. (vi) Install suitable sign boards to make people aware about potential construction hazard at construction site. (vii) Remove all surplus material, and left in a clean and tidy condition after completion of the works.

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Potential Environmental Responsibility for Mitigation measure(s) Cost Allocation Impact Implementation

Forest impact from (i) Trees with a diameter of more than 15cm should not be cut, unless prior construction of existing approval is obtained from the relevant authority. Construction Contractor Cost headworks/main canal and (ii) No contractor’s facilities such as worker camp, material stocking yard or any access road other both permanent\temporary land use is allowed to be built in Protection Forest/Forest area, unless otherwise approved by the Engineer. (iii) Construction of gabion boxes and main canal at the headworks should mainly apply labour intensive method. (iv) Clearly mark RoW for construction of the main canal that will be labour based. (v) Prohibition of any activities including hunting, cutting trees or collection of fire wood from the area relating to the construction work with severe punishment for offenders. (vi) Immediately reporting to concerned authorities when found endangered\prohibition species in the area.

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Potential Environmental Responsibility for Mitigation measure(s) Cost Allocation Impact Implementation

Safety hazards to workers and Allocation of responsibility for site safety to the Contractor’s site supervisors’ staff, local people who would ensure that all reasonable safety measures, such as use of safety Construction Contractor clothing and equipment and placing of hazard warnings are taken. The contractor Cost will appoint a full-time Environmental Safety Officer (ESO) responsible for compliance with site safety and mitigation of environmental impacts.

For safety of the school children the following precaution measure will need to be applied including: • Adequate warning signs in the vicinity of school entrance gates, also indicating the peak times of children passing on the road • Road safety awareness program for the respective school children • Speed bumps across the road, in the close vicinity of the school exits, and • Planting of adequate hedges to reduce traffic impacts on school children (noise, dust, visual barrier). • Encourage the students to go to school 30-60 minutes early both in the morning and afternoon • Ask the contractor to start daily construction work 15-30 minutes after the class both in the morning and afternoon

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Potential Environmental Responsibility for Mitigation measure(s) Cost Allocation Impact Implementation It is a duty of the Contractor to provide a prevention measures for their works in order Construction Covid-19 prevention measures Contractor to prevent any pandemic of the Covid-19 in the construction site. Followings Cost measures have to be strictly complied throughout the construction period: (1) Keep premises clean and provide garbage bins with cover (2) Minimize number of meeting gathering not more than 10 people and practice social distancing of at least 1 meter. (3) Make a wearing mask is compulsory for all staffs and workers (4) Regularly monitor workers’ temperature before starting daily work. Any workers found to have flu-like symptoms/high temperature than 37.3ºC, have to be taken to a hospital for observation or order to do self-quarantine for 14days to monitor the symptom. (5) Provide soap/hand sanitizing points where necessary in the construction camp/sub-camp. (6) Carry out awareness campaign on Covid-19 prevention to all staffs and workers prior commencement of the construction work after being awarded the Contract.

Impacts from Operation

Erosion and scour Grass planting on embankment slopes as a bioengineering measure. O&M costs WUG Included in WUG Obstruction of water flows in Support to water user groups so that users discourage or prevent any placing of project design the canals from sediment or material or solid waste in the canals. other deposits

Included in WUG / DCO Extraction of water during the Monitoring of the discharge ensuring that an adequate flow condition is maintained. project design dry season

Included in WUG/DCO/PAFO Competition for use of Reliable collection of information on water levels in the canal system, to enable project design irrigation water and with other sound planning of future water use development plans water uses

Collapse of canals Routine and periodic maintenance, according to a well-designed and Included in WUG / PAFO / adequately resourced maintenance program subproject DAFO MOU

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Potential Environmental Responsibility for Mitigation measure(s) Cost Allocation Impact Implementation

Excessive use of pesticides PAFO and DAFO would continue agricultural extension training on correct use of Included in PAFO/DAFO/LIC and use of inappropriate appropriate agrichemicals and Integrated Pest Management project design pesticides and other agrichemicals

Included in DAFO /PAFO Leaching of nutrients Promotion of sustainable irrigated agriculture and soil management methods project design Included in DAFO /PAFO Occurrence of water related (i) Promoting improved operation and maintenance of the irrigation scheme and project design diseases road through water user groups (ii) raising awareness on hazards posed by poor sanitation, water logging and use of untreated irrigation water for drinking.

Included in NPMO Risks of increasing road Awareness-raising among roadside and road user populations on road traffic project design accidents resulting from hazards and their avoidance. increased traffic

Conflicts arising from Current assessment suggests there is adequate water discharge in the river to Included in LIC / WUG competition or complaints irrigate the rehabilitated command area. Over use in the head reaches of the project design / from downstream water distribution system could result in conflict with tail end users. Water management WUG users due excessive water planning and control by the WUG. management use by users at the head of the scheme

Biodiversity loss de- WUG watered downstream of the Environmental releases from division box at headworks WUG/DAFO management subproject

Illegal poaching and Prohibition of illegal poaching and logging with law enforcement for offenders Included in NPMO and PAFO logging wildlife from/in project design NPAs

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275. WUG support during the operation phase would continue beyond the project lifecycle. The PAFO and the WUGs would develop a memorandum of understanding whereby the PAFO would be responsible for repairs for catastrophic events and specify the responsibilities of the WUG. The implementation consultant would estimate O&M costs for the schemes and recommend irrigation service fees, as well as the percentages of budgets to be allocated to Government and to the users. The PAFO would be responsible for monitoring the O&M activities of the WUGs. A similar draft Memorandum of Understanding between the MAF and PAFO has already been produced by the LIC and is under consideration with the Executing Agency (EA). 276. The Updated EMP would form part of the civil works contract documents so that the contractor would incorporate the cost of mitigation into the bid price, including provision of staff and equipment necessary to carry out all mitigation tasks in full. These plans must be approved and adhered to throughout construction and would be monitored with the assistance of the staff of the District Coordination Office (DCO) under the supervision of the environmental safeguards officer appointed at the Provincial Project Management Office (PPMO). Being closer to the construction site, the staff of the DCO would be the main point of contact for the PPMO who would delegate responsibility for: (i) assisting with community development initiatives through the associated investments; (ii) coordination of resettlement activities; (iii) coordination of environment management activities; (iv) coordination of all other safeguard and gender activities; (v) monitoring of implementation of the subproject; and (vi) reporting on progress of implementation. 277. The contractor would appoint a resident Environmental Safeguards Officer (ESO) responsible for monitoring civil works implementation and compliance with the site-specific CEMP. The ESO would maintain a daily log covering civil works activities and compliance with the CEMP. The EDC-2 construction supervision engineer would be responsible for checking and reporting on daily maintenance of the log. Copies would be sent to the NPMO, monthly, for review by the Environment officer and LIC. The LIC environmental monitoring specialist would verify the log on a quarterly monitoring site visit. 278. The LIC would monitor CEMP implementation and compliance quarterly and submit a report under separate cover. Non-compliance notices would be issued to the contractor with remedial work to be carried out within an agreed time frame. Follow-up visits would be made to monitor compliance. 279. A more detailed list of mitigation measures that would be taken as part of the EMP is shown at the end of Annex 6.2 (Details of the Impact Assessment and Summary of Mitigation Measures). In the construction phase, Annex 6.4 (Environmental and Social Clauses for Civil Works Contracts) presents all necessary measures on protection of the environment that shall be carried out by the Contractor through the site-specific “Contractor’s Environmental Management Plan” (CEMP), these environmental clauses would also be part of the civil works contract. 9.2 Approach to Environmental Monitoring 280. Environmental monitoring would cover (i) compliance monitoring, to ensure that mitigation specified in the EMP is carried out to an adequate standard, (ii) community feedback to obtain views and information on relevant environmental parameters and (iii) water quality testing. The Environmental Monitoring Plan is presented in Table A6.12: Environmental Monitoring Plan. Guidance on monitoring procedures and sample checklists are found in Annex 6.5 (Environmental and Social Monitoring Process).

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Table A6.12: Environmental Monitoring Plan

Impact to be Monitored Parameters Location Measurements Frequency Responsibilities

Design and Preconstruction Phase

Selected sample sites pH; Fecal Coliform; in the command area Level of pathogens (level Biological Oxygen (near the start of the Collection of Quarterly, of contaminants) in water scheme, such as the sample and approximately 12 Demand (20oC) and PAFO for irrigation / domestic Chemical Oxygen beginning point of laboratory months prior to use Demand canal, and at the end analysis construction of the scheme drain. See Figure A6.21)

Health and safety and All work sites / welfare of workers and the Compliance with EMP worker Compliance Once PAFO / PPMO public accommodation

At new head works and DCO / PPMO / Validation of tree inventory along the main canal Count Once within the forest NPMO /LIC

Construction Phase

Changes as perceived To be decided by by irrigation scheme Participating villages Consultations PAFO / PPMO at the PAFO / PPMO users start of the works

Prevention of accumulation Selected sample sites of excessive pathogens in pH; Fecal Coliform; in the command area water for irrigation / (near the start of the Collection of Biological Oxygen domestic use o scheme, such as the sample and Demand (20 C) and Twice yearly PAFO / DAFO Chemical Oxygen stilling basin, and at laboratory Demand the end of the scheme analysis drain. See Figure A6.21)

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Impact to be Monitored Parameters Location Measurements Frequency Responsibilities

Adequacy of and effectiveness To be decided by of the scheme: quantity of Opinions of users Participating villages Consultations PAFO / PPMO at the PAFO / DAFO water; increases in crop yields; start of the works occurrence of disputes

Implementation of To be decided by Compliance with the EMP construction mitigation All work sites Consultations PAFO / PPMO at the PAFO / DAFO and CEMP measures detailed above start of the works

Operation Phase

To be decided by PAFO / Changes as perceived by Participating villages Consultations PPMO at the start of the PAFO irrigation scheme users works

Prevention of accumulation of Selected sample sites in excessive pathogens in water for pH; Fecal Coliform; the command area (near

irrigation / domestic use the start of the scheme, Collection of sample Semi-annually (before and Biological Oxygen Demand PAFO / WUG / o such as the stilling basin, and laboratory at the end of irrigation (20 C) and Chemical WUA Oxygen Demand and at the end of the analysis season) scheme drain. See Figure A6.21)

To be decided by PAFO / Adequacy of and effectiveness of Opinions of users Participating villages Consultations PPMO at the start of the WUG / WUA the scheme: quantity of water; works increases in crop yields;

occurrence of disputes PAFO / DAFO / Water flow monitoring Intake gate outflow Measurements Monthly WUG

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Impact to be Monitored Parameters Location Measurements Frequency Responsibilities

Presence of water ponding from leaks or canal PAFO / DAFO / collapses Including Throughout the scheme Observations Monthly WUG monitoring of silt deposits and vegetation on the canal

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281. Water quality testing is necessary to detect any deterioration of water quality as it is inevitable that some scheme users would use the water in the irrigation system as a supplementary source of domestic water supply; testing would indicate that it is not dangerous for domestic use other than drinking. Testing against drinking water quality standards is therefore not warranted. In order to determine the safety of the water, it should be tested for levels of coliform bacteria, chemical and biological oxygen demand, see Table A6.13 for maximum allowable values. Table A6.13: Parameters and Limits of Values for Water Quality Testing

Parameters Maximum Value

pH 5.5 - 9

Fecal Coliforms <1,000 per 100 ml

Biological Oxygen Demand (20oC) <25 mg/l

Chemical Oxygen Demand <35 mg/l

282. It is important that during water sampling site observation through biological indicators are recorded in order to help indicate sources of increasing level of parameters at the end of the drainage system. 283. Samples would be taken twice, at six-monthly intervals during the twelve months prior to construction, twice a year during construction and at quarterly intervals during operation, and taken to an appropriate laboratory for analysis. For the Na-Tur subproject it is recommended that sampling take place at the new headwork and at the end (at or near the end of the drainage channel).

Figure A6.21: Proposed Water Quality Testing Sites

Plate No. A6.30: Water Quality Sampling Site Head Works Plate No. A6.31: Water Quality Sampling Site near the end on the Xenoy of the Drainage Channel

284. Water quality monitoring for the subproject had been carried out twice in May and November 2019 (see Annex 6.9). Samples were taken at the proposed sites then delivered to the laboratory in Vientiane for analysis. Results of the water quality analysis shown in table 6.14 below:

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Table A6.14: Water Quality Analysis Results

SP No. SP Name Date of Date Parameters Sample Sample Sample Collection Registered Recommended Range Point to Lab pH COD mg/l BOD mg/l Fecal Col/1000ml

5.5-9 <35mg/l <25mg/l 1000/100ml

SP 17 Na-Tur

Headworks 30-Apr- 01-May- 8.13 1.998 0.25 860 2019 2019

20-Nov- 21-Nov- 8.47 0.837 0.35 70 2019 2019

Drainage cannel 30-Apr- 01-May- 8.15 1.242 0.02 8900 2019 2019

20-Nov- 21-Nov- 8.39 0.896 0.41 1880 2019 2019

Notes: pH potential hydrogen COD chemical oxygen demand BOD (20oC) biological oxygen demand Col coliform bacteria

1 see Annex A6.9

285. With the exception of the fecal coliform bacteria at the drainage cannel all sample values were within the range recommended. There is no immediate explanation. The highest number was recorded in April-May, almost 9 folds above the limit allowed.

10 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION 286. The IEE process has found that the subproject would not cause significant negative environmental impacts given proper mitigation. Potential negative impacts relate mainly to the construction phase and would be managed and brought to acceptable levels through the implementation of the Environmental Management Plan. 287. The proposed subproject would provide a significant positive impact to the area, in particular enhancing agricultural production as well as contributing to drought mitigation throughout the lining of canals in the irrigation system. The expansion of the command area would increase the irrigated area of paddy fields that are seasonally inhabited by fish, mollusks, crustaceans and aquatic insects that provide a source of varied nutrient to local beneficiaries and increase the biodiversity. The subproject would improve the seasonal aquatic ecosystem in the agricultural land. 288. The recommended environmental releases that are not presently in place would sustain the aquatic and riparian ecosystem of the Xenoy. 289. Potential negative impacts relate mainly to the construction phase and would be managed and brought to acceptable levels through the implementation of the site-specific contractor’s environmental management plan. The plans implementation would be monitored

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination and reported on by the contractor’s Environmental Safeguards officer, the DCO and the NPMO supported by the LIC Environmental Monitoring specialist. 290. In general, water quality is within allowable limits set by the national standard, except fecal coliforms levels that were found significantly higher than the standard both at the headworks and at the end of drainage system. This issue would be regularly monitored by the Project (DCO/PPMO/NPMO) through the water quality monitoring program. The LIC Water Quality Monitoring specialist would provide revision training on the reporting of observations at the water sampling site using the standard forms already issued. 291. The main concerns of local people that have been addressed by the project were associated with engineering design and employment opportunities and no environmental issues were raised. 292. The potential negative impact on water quality from the use of persistent pesticides and chemical fertilizer in drainage run-off water from the subproject discharged to Xenoy would be mitigated through training in integrated pest management and crop nutrition. 293. The subproject was reported vulnerable to flooding mainly resulting from prolonged intensive rainfall. This has been addressed in the concept engineering design. The continuity of natural drainage would be maintained and enhanced through construction of culverts. New irrigation control structures would be built to maintain the drainage through the command area. This would reduce the period of inundation of paddy land during flood and the risk of flood damage to crops. 294. The water distribution canal network would be lined throughout. In part, mitigating the impact of drought by reducing seepage losses and hence conserving the limited water supply. Further, crop diversification would be introduced to reduce crop water requirements, paddy has a high crop water requirement. 295. It is very important that farmers are well informed of the construction schedule in order to minimize impact from a temporary closure of the water supply system. 296. Construction of the existing headworks and main canal along with a section located in the Nonkathing-Nongkapard National Production Forest would not have a major impact on trees due to the construction in this area will be labour based with RoW will be clearly mark to minimise the impact. 297. The increased area of dry season paddy cultivation would increase greenhouse gas emission. Although relatively small emissions can be reduced by changes in cultural practices. The Project is reviewing the most appropriate method of introducing these practices to the farming community. 298. There is high potential of finding UXO in the area thus no civil work should be allowed prior to UXO clearance. 299. Local community strongly support the subproject to begin as soon as possible with fair compensation has to be made for the affected persons. 300. Based on the findings of the IEE at the feasibility study stage the subproject confirmed as Category B according to the ADB’s classification system. This refers to subprojects that are judged to have some adverse environmental impacts, but of lesser degree or significance than those for Category A projects. 301. The updated IEE along with a Lao translation of the executive summary would be presented to stakeholders for review and comment, and through PAFO to the Provincial

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Department of Natural Resources and the Environment (PoNRE). The approval of PoNRE through the issuance of an Environmental Compliance Certificate would be a pre-requisite to the start of construction. The updated IEE would be included in contract documentation for civil works contracts, and the agreements formed with water user groups.

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ANNEX 6.1 Environmental Management Plan

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ANNEX 6.1: ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

Table A6.15: Environmental Management Plan

Item Environmental Impacts and Issues Mitigation Measures and/ or Safeguards Responsibility for Supervision of Budget Implementation Implementation 1.1 Design Stage / Pre- construction

Final Detailed Design EDC-2 NPMO/LIC Design Final Detailed design of irrigation system layout including costs canal alignment and control structure location would be completed taking into account the EMP Irrigation Operation and Maintenance Operation and maintenance planning and practices for NPMO/LIC NPMO/ADB Planning (move) irrigation water allocation and drainage would be documented and approved by the EA and ADB before completion of construction and handing over to the system to the WUG. This would include an MOU between the province, the subproject WUG and MAF.

Baseline water quality Establish baseline water quality for surface water (see PPMO NPMO/LIC Project Environmental Monitoring Plan) budget Air Quality Air Quality: Minor increase in air Ensure vehicles well maintained PPMO / NPMO / LIC / PPMO / NPMO / LIC Project / pollution from survey and consultation EDC-2 / EDC-2 consultants teams visiting the subproject budget Increase in dust from unpaved roads Design appropriate road pavement in relation to location: NPMO / LIC / EDC-2 NPMO / LIC NPMO / LIC irrigation service roads in agricultural areas with natural / EDC-2 gravel and in urban areas or where areas prone to budget flooding with a concrete pavement.

Noise None None required Water Supply None None required Land/soils Poor design of downstream Appropriate design of headworks bioengineering NPMO / LIC / EDC-2 NPMO / LIC Project / bioengineering protection leading to protection and crest road to avoid erosion consultants erosion. Poor design of access road budget leading to erosion on the embankments. Waste Water Minor - none None required Solid Waste None None required

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Item Environmental Impacts and Issues Mitigation Measures and/ or Safeguards Responsibility for Supervision of Budget Implementation Implementation Land Use Impacts on productive land resulting Minimize impacts in detailed design phase. NPMO / LIC / EDC-2 NPMO / LIC Project / from land acquisition for canals and Compensation paid to affected-households as detailed in consultants irrigation service roads. the Land Acquisition and Compensation Plan budget Biodiversity Potential minor impact to aquatic Design the main canals locate in production forest area NPMO / LIC / EDC-2 NPMO / LIC Project / ecology and trees in the protection and avoid large trees as much as possible to protect consultants areas aquatic life and tree species and minimize the impact. budget

No construction camp/sub-camp is allowed to locate in the protected and production forest areas.

Prohibition of any activities including hunting, cutting trees or collection of fire wood from the area relating to the construction work. Culture Minor - none None required Health Minor - none None required Education Minor - none None required Safety Minor - none None required Resettlement Minor acquisition of land, commercial Land Acquisition and Compensation Plan including NPMO / EDC-2 / NPMO / EDC-2 / Project / trees and field structures, and loss of compensation budget prepared for identified preliminary DAFO DAFO consultants dry season crop. loses, following ADB Safeguards Policy and the Lao budget Resettlement Decree regarding resettlement. Compensation to be completed prior to construction. Income None required Subproject is designed to provide significant income improvements from supplementary irrigation to an increased area of rainfed paddy crop and an increased area of dry season irrigation. Ethnicity Project is designed to provide significant None required income improvements from irrigated agriculture to beneficiaries, including to ethnic minorities. UXO Potential UXO in new canal alignments PAFO PPMO to formally request UXO Lao to clear the NPMO / PPMO / NPMO / PPMO / NPMO should be cleared by UXO Lao irrigation areas, especially where canals are to be DAFO DAFO /PPMO / improved UXO Lao

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Item Environmental Impacts and Issues Mitigation Measures and/ or Safeguards Responsibility for Supervision of Budget Implementation Implementation Climate Minor local increase in greenhouse gas None likely to be practical or feasible at subproject NPMO / LIC NPMO / LIC NPMO emissions (methane) from increased design level. However, farmer training on methods rice cultivation developed in Thailand to reduce GHG from paddy rice should be investigated and applied Potential increase in frequency and Irrigation supply canals from main to field canals lined to NPMO / LIC / EDC-2 intensity of drought in dry season reduce water losses from seepage in design. Increased and intensive rain fall in wet All access roads vulnerable to flooding designed with a NPMO / LIC / EDC-2 NPMO / LIC /EDC-2 NPMO / season could result in flooding of concrete pavement and enhanced cross drainage Consultants access roads and productive land and Budget crop damage

Design of scheme to ensure continuity of existing NPMO / LIC / EDC-2 NPMO / LIC NPMO / LIC drainage and where appropriate construction of additional drainage channels

1.2 Construction Air Quality Exhaust gases Construction vehicles to meet Euro 2 emission standards Contractor NPMO / PPMO / Project / or better than Euro 2. Ensure all construction vehicles DCO / EDC-2 / LIC Consultants and equipment are well-maintained; Budget Dust Contractors to control dust during construction through Contractor NPMO / PPMO / Project / regular watering of exposed areas; Cover all trucks DCO / EDC-2 Consultants carrying dispersible materials to or from the site; Budget Noise Noise impact on sensitive areas from No construction between 21:00 and 06:00 near Contractor DAFO / EDC-2 Project / equipment and vehicles accessing and residential or other sensitive areas. Trucks to be Consultants working on site maintained and have effective silencers on exhausts. Budget Water Supply Minor amounts needed for construction Contractors to acquire water from available nearby Contractor DAFO / EDC-2 Project / acquired from village sources could surface water sources as approved by local authorities Consultants cause local shortages in dry season Budget Land/soils Impacts to soils from erosion increases Contractors to provide adequate erosion control during Contractor DAFO / EDC-2 Project / due to inappropriate construction construction. For construction materials such as sand, Consultants procedures and improper management stone, and fill soil contractor should choose legal service Budget of borrow pits. Impact on land adjacent providers who have exploitation licenses and to the construction footprint resulting in environmental protection commitment issued by local compaction and damage to vegetation authorities. Contractor to operate within a narrow working including standing crops. footprint outside the infrastructure area.

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Item Environmental Impacts and Issues Mitigation Measures and/ or Safeguards Responsibility for Supervision of Budget Implementation Implementation If legal service providers are not available, the Contractor should get an official approval from concern local authorities before extracting such materials for the construction. Waste Water Minor increase in wastewater from Contractors to manage wastewater discharges at Contractor DAFO / EDC-2 Project / construction camps that could contain construction camps. Site camps so as to avoid impacts to Consultants petroleum/chemical pollution or other surface and groundwater. Monitor surface and Budget contaminants resulting in contamination groundwater quality at or near camps. Use temporary of surface water. diversion drains & bunds, temporary silt traps and ponds to prevent contamination of surface water. Stockpile spoil in flat areas away from drainage routes

Solid Waste Minor local impacts from improper Contractors to use best practice with respect to waste Contractor DAFO / EDC-2 Project / disposal of solid waste from management at the camps and construction sites, Consultants construction activities or workers including proper disposal of solid waste at locations Budget approved by local authorities

Release of hazardous waste (i) Collection, storage, transport, and disposal of hazardous waste such as asphalt, used oils, gasoline, paint, and other toxics. (ii) All spills must be cleaned up completely with all contaminated soil removed and handled with by contaminated spoil (iii) All spillages outside road beds or others construction site must be immediately cleaned. (iv) All construction fluids such as oils, and fuels should be stored and handled well away from surface waters. (v) Install proper storage area to prevent oil spillage. (vi) Install suitable sign boards to make people aware about potential construction hazard at construction site. (vii) Remove all surplus material, and left in a clean and tidy condition after completion of the works. Land Use Minor impacts to local land use during Contractor to protect sensitive urban, agricultural and Contractor DAFO / EDC-2 Project / construction natural areas during construction, pay for any temporary Consultants use of land, and restore to original condition any land Budget used temporarily

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Item Environmental Impacts and Issues Mitigation Measures and/ or Safeguards Responsibility for Supervision of Budget Implementation Implementation Biodiversity Contractors to protect sensitive natural areas include Contractor DAFO / EDC-2 Project / Minor / temporary negative impacts restrictions on wildlife hunting and harvesting of forest Consultants during construction at the headworks, products by workers. Cutting down any trees with dia. Budget construction camps and nearby water greater than 15cm has to obtain permission from PAFO courses before the Project construction Culture No impacts are anticipated Health Possible increase in STDs or other Contractors to screen and educate workers for HIV and Contractor DAFO / EDC-2 Project / diseases from construction workers other STDs, implement malaria control at work sites and Consultants interacting with local population. camps, and provide adequate toilet facilities and clean Budget Potential increased breeding grounds water for workers. for vectors of water borne diseases if Contractors to stabilize and provide permanent borrow pits not stabilized and drained. sustainable drainage of borrow pits unless alternative productive use agreed e.g., to use as fish pond.

Education Minor negative impacts from possible Contractor required to maintain safe access to education Contractor DAFO / EDC-2 Project / impaired access to schools during facilities at all times. Consultants construction Budget

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Item Environmental Impacts and Issues Mitigation Measures and/ or Safeguards Responsibility for Supervision of Budget Implementation Implementation Safety Potential impacts from work-place Training and awareness raising for workers on Contractor DAFO / EDC-2 Project / accidents to workers, local community, occupational health & safety. Contractor to provide Consultants or vehicles. adequate personal protective equipment to workers. Budget Adequate signage, lighting, and control of construction sites. Traffic control measures to ensure public safety. Contractor to establish efficient emergency/ contingency plans, adequate facilities & equipment & trained staff for handling emergencies.

For safety of the school children the following precaution measure will need to be applied including: • Assign a new school route via new concrete road already completed and pass through the temple in order to avoid traffic accidents with children running out to the road after school breaks • Adequate warning signs in the vicinity of school entrance gates, also indicating the peak times of children passing on the road • Road safety awareness program for the respective school children • Speed bumps across the road, in the close vicinity of the school exits, • Planting of adequate hedges to reduce traffic impacts on school children (noise, dust, visual barrier). • Encourage the students to go to school 30-60 minutes early both in the morning and afternoon, and • Ask the contractor to start daily construction work 15-30 minutes after the class both in the morning and afternoon

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Item Environmental Impacts and Issues Mitigation Measures and/ or Safeguards Responsibility for Supervision of Budget Implementation Implementation Possible increase in Covid-19 It is a duty of the Contractor to provide a prevention widespread measures for their works in order to prevent any pandemic of the Covid-19 in the construction site. Followings measures have to be strictly complied throughout the construction period: (1) Keep premises clean and provide garbage bins with cover (2) Minimize number of meeting gathering not more than 10 people and practice social distancing of at least 1 meter. (3) Make a wearing mask is compulsory for all staffs and workers (4) Regularly monitor workers’ temperature before starting daily work. Any workers found to have flu-like symptoms/high temperature than 37.3ºC, have to be taken to a hospital for observation or order to do self-quarantine for 14days to monitor the symptom. (5) Provide soap/hand sanitizing points where necessary in the construction camp/sub-camp (6) Carry out awareness campaign on Covid-19 prevention to all staffs and workers prior commencement of the construction work after being awarded the Contract Resettlement Potential for temporary impacts due to Contractor to pay rent for temporary use of land. Only Contractor DAFO / EDC-2 Project / contractors' use of land. Temporary vacant land to be used. Use of land would not disturb Consultants closure of irrigation system during dry businesses. Land temporarily used would be restored to Budget season impact on crops and livestock pre-project condition or improved. Contractor would work with WUG to minimize impact of temporary irrigation system closure. Income Potential temporary loose of access to Contractor to employ local workers with about 21 per Contractor DAFO / EDC-2 Project / irrigation water in dry season. cent of contract price paid in wages. Contractors to Consultants Temporary increase in income for provide access to shops / businesses / homes at all Budget beneficiaries employed by the times. contractor. Multiplier effect in local economy from increased disposable income.

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Item Environmental Impacts and Issues Mitigation Measures and/ or Safeguards Responsibility for Supervision of Budget Implementation Implementation Ethnicity None anticipated since no members of none required ethnic minority community impacted UXO EDC-2 / DAFO/ EDC-2 / DAFO/ Project / Potential UXO impact at the headworks Contractor Contractor Consultants and canals construction No construction allow until UXO is cleared Budget Climate Minor or none, assuming proper waste See Air Quality and Waste Management (Construction) Contractor DAFO / EDC-2 Project / management and lower emission above Consultants vehicles Budget

1.3 Operation Air Quality Damage to gravel road pavement of DAFO and WUG to Control use of the service roads to WUG DAFO Irrigation irrigation service roads by unauthorized authorized vehicles only to reduce damage to road. Service or overloaded vehicles resulting in dust Fees especially in the dry season Noise Minor or none none required Water Supply Minor positive impact from additional none required (non-potable) water, including ground water, available near canals and drains during dry season. Land/soils Inadequate maintenance leading to Adequate maintenance and care of landscaping of: the WUG DAFO Irrigation erosion of: headworks embankment embankments; vegetative cover on canal embankments Service erosion; canal side slopes especially and raised sections of the access roads; pavement of Fees where canals are in deep cut; gravel irrigation service; cross-drainage structures; and pavement on irrigation service roads; channels of the irrigation drainage network the drainage network Waste Water Drainage from irrigated fields in which Develop an on-going capacity-building program to WUG / DCO DAFO DAFO large amounts of fertilizers and instruct people not to use drainage water without testing pesticides have been used could for contaminants. Train farmers in methods for Integrated contaminate water which might be used Pest Management and crop nutrition. Coordinate with downstream by other farmers or even Agriculture Extension Centre to ensure that farmers are for domestic use. trained in correct use and storage of fertilizer, pesticides, and other potentially hazardous substances

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Item Environmental Impacts and Issues Mitigation Measures and/ or Safeguards Responsibility for Supervision of Budget Implementation Implementation Solid Waste Impacts from improper disposal/ Develop an on-going capacity-building program to raise WUG / DAFO / LIC DAFO DAFO dumping of solid wastes in canals, along awareness of local communities of the impacts of the access and irrigation service roads and disposal/dumping of waste in the canals, drains and in drainage channels. This could lead to along roads. reduced efficiency of flow in canals and drains Land Use Encroachment on non-agricultural land, The WUG/WUA responsible for monitoring illegal WUG DAFO Irrigation and the illegal off-take of irrigation water irrigation water supply off-takes and associated land Service supply clearance Fees Biodiversity Improved biodiversity of paddy fields None required under irrigation Culture minor to none none required Health Potential negative impact from the Farmers to be instructed in the control of mosquito and WUG / DCO DAFO DAFO / provision of additional open surface water borne diseases, especially breeding sites. Water Irrigation water that can lead to increased flow in canals should not be impeded, and stagnant Service Fee incidence of mosquitos and water-borne ponding from overflows should be avoided and drained. diseases. Improvement in health from paving and None required reducing dust from village roads, and from improved access to health facilities Potential for increase in waterborne WUG / DCO DAFO DAFO / diseases if drainage channels are Training program to instruct farmers and other residents Irrigation allowed to stagnate or are purposefully in the control of mosquitos and water borne diseases. Service Fee ponded. Possible negative health Water flow in drainage channels should not be impeded impacts from the use of contaminated and stagnant water ponding should be avoided. drainage water for domestic purposes. Residents should be instructed to avoid using drainage water for domestic purposes due to the possibility of contamination from fertilizer and other agro-chemicals. Education Positive impacts from improved access None required to education facilities, especially secondary schools. Safety Possible increase in accidental DCO to carry out training and awareness raising for WUG / DCO DAFO DAFO / drownings of people or animals in the community on dangers of open water. Adequate signage Irrigation header pond at the existing weir due to and fencing to keep people and animals away from the Service Fee poor control of access to the area. water discharge mechanism at control gates.

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Item Environmental Impacts and Issues Mitigation Measures and/ or Safeguards Responsibility for Supervision of Budget Implementation Implementation Possible increase in accidental DCO to carry out training and awareness raising for WUG / DCO DAFO DAFO / drownings of children or animals in community on dangers of the canals. Adequate signage Irrigation canals and large structures and fencing to keep people and animals away from Service Fee stilling basins and other potentially dangerous structures. Possible increase in vehicular accidents Road safety training. Local authorities to control traffic WUG / DCO / NPMO DAFO DAFO / due to increased speeds on paved use on irrigation service roads, speeds in villages, Irrigation access roads possibly with speed-reduction methods such as speed Service Fee humps. Resettlement Possible on-going disputes or Establish and fully implement the Grievance Redress Village Mediation DAFO / NPMO Village grievances Mechanism be in force for the life of the project Committee, if Government necessary, continue / DAFO / through Project implementation of Budget Grievance Redress Mechanism Income Significant income improvements from Can also promote aquaculture development and crop WUG / DCO DAFO DAFO / allowing two or more rice crops per year diversification into higher value crops with sustainable Irrigation to the beneficiaries. Multiplier effect in water supply. Service Fee local economy from increased disposable income. Ethnicity Project is designed to provide significant None required income improvements from irrigated agriculture to beneficiaries, including to ethnic minorities.

UXO None None required Climate Minor local increase in greenhouse gas DCO to provide awareness-raising for local population of WUG / DCO / NPMO / DAFO / NPMO / LIC Project emissions from increased rice the increased emissions of methane from rice cultivation LIC Budget / cultivation and encouragement to change methods or raise other Consultants crops. Possibly invite researchers from Thailand who Budget have developed paddy rice methods that reduce GHG

Increased and intensive rain fall in wet Village Maintenance Committee to maintain cross Village Maintenance DAFO Village season could result in flooding of drainage structure and road side drains Committee Government access roads resulting in damage to the / DAFO road pavement and reducing road use

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Item Environmental Impacts and Issues Mitigation Measures and/ or Safeguards Responsibility for Supervision of Budget Implementation Implementation Increased and intensive rain fall in wet WUG/WUA to maintain all cross-drainage structures and WUG DAFO Irrigation season could result in flooding of drainage channels to maintain continuity of drainage Service Fee productive land and crop damage system / DAFO

Note: Characteristic of potential migratory fish species (1) Laubuka caeruleostigmata (EN) :

(2) Hemitrygon laosensis (EN) :

(3) Catlocarpio siamensis (CR) :

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ANNEX 6.2 Details of the Impact Assessment and Summary of Mitigation Measures

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Annex 6.2: Details of the Impact Assessment and Summary of Mitigation Measures

Air Quality (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Natur Irrigation Project

# Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Anticipated Mitigation Measures

Rating

mitigation Ratingwith

Pre-Construction Headworks None 0 None required 0 Main/secondary canals None 0 None required 0 Access / village roads Increased air pollution in villages Design traffic measures to reduce emissions. -5 0 Pave roads to reduce dust in dry seaason Canal service roads Increased dust from unpaved roads -5 Design gravel roads to minimize dust 0 Drainage channels None 0 None required 0 Construction Headworks Minor air quality impacts from construction Construction vehicles to meet Euro 2 emission vehicles (emissions). standards. Contractors to control dust during construction through regular watering of exposed areas; -5 0 Cover all trucks carrying dispersible materials to or from the site; Ensure all construction vehicles and equipment are well-maintained; Main/secondary canals Minor air quality impacts from construction Construction vehicles to meet Euro 2 emission vehicles (emissions) and dust in dry season standards. Contractors to control dust during construction through regular watering of exposed areas; -5 0 Cover all trucks carrying dispersible materials to or from the site; Ensure all construction vehicles and equipment are well-maintained; Access / village roads Minor air quality impacts from construction Construction vehicles to meet Euro 2 emission vehicles (emissions) and dust in dry season standards. Contractors to control dust during construction through regular watering of exposed areas; -5 0 Cover all trucks carrying dispersible materials to or from the site; Ensure all construction vehicles and equipment are well-maintained; Canal service roads Minor air quality impacts from construction Construction vehicles to meet Euro 2 emission vehicles (emissions) and dust in dry season standards. Contractors to control dust during construction through regular watering of exposed areas; -5 0 Cover all trucks carrying dispersible materials to or from the site; Ensure all construction vehicles and equipment are well-maintained; Drainage channels None 0 None required 0 Operation Headworks None 0 None required 0 Main/secondary canals None 0 None required 0 Access / village roads None 0 None required 0 Canal service roads Increased dust from unpaved roads PAFO and WUG to Control use of the service -5 roads to authorized vehicles only to reduce 0 damage to road and dust in dry season. Drainage channels None 0 None required 0

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

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Noise (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Natur Irrigation Project

# Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Anticipated Mitigation Measures

with with

Rating Rating Rating

Pre-Construction Headworks None 0 None required 0 Main/secondary canals None 0 None required 0 Access / village roads None 0 None required 0 Canal service roads None 0 None required 0 Drainage channels None 0 None required 0 Construction Nuisance noise from equipment and vehicles No construction between 21:00 and 06:00 near accessing the site. residential or other sensitive areas. Headworks -5 0 Trucks to be maintained and have aappropriate mufflers. Nuisance noise from equipment and vehicles No construction between 21:00 and 06:00 near accessing the site. residential or other sensitive areas. Main/secondary canals -5 0 Trucks to be maintained and have aappropriate mufflers. Nuisance noise from equipment and vehicles No construction between 21:00 and 06:00 near accessing the site. residential or other sensitive areas. Access / village roads -5 0 Trucks to be maintained and have aappropriate mufflers. Nuisance noise from equipment and vehicles No construction between 21:00 and 06:00 near accessing the site. residential or other sensitive areas. Canal service roads -5 0 Trucks to be maintained and have aappropriate mufflers. Nuisance noise from equipment and vehicles No construction between 21:00 and 06:00 near accessing the site. residential or other sensitive areas. Drainage channels -5 0 Trucks to be maintained and have aappropriate mufflers. Operation Headworks None 0 None required 0 Main/secondary canals None 0 None required 0 Access / village roads None 0 None required 0 Canal service roads None 0 None required 0 Drainage channels None 0 None required 0

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

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Water Supply (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Natur Irrigation Project

# Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures

with

Rating Rating

Pre-Construction Headworks None 0 None required 0 Main/secondary canals None 0 None required 0 Access / village roads None 0 None required 0 Canal service roads None 0 None required 0 Drainage channels None 0 None required 0 Construction Minor amounts needed for construction and dust Contractors to acquire water from available Headworks control acquired from village sources could cause local -5 nearby surface water sources as approved by 0 shortages in dry season local authorities Main/secondary canals None 0 None required 0 Minor amounts needed for construction and dust Contractors to acquire water from available Access / village roads control acquired from village sources could cause local -5 nearby surface water sources as approved by 0 shortages in dry season local authorities Minor amounts needed for construction and dust Contractors to acquire water from available Canal service roads control acquired from village sources could cause local -5 nearby surface water sources as approved by 0 shortages in dry season local authorities Drainage channels None 0 None required 0 Operation Minor positive impact from additional (non-potable) None required Headworks 5 5 water available near canals during dry season. Minor positive impact from additional (non-potable) None required Main/secondary canals 5 5 water available near canals during dry season. Access / village roads None 0 None required 0 Canal service roads None 0 None required 0 Minor positive impact from additional (non-potable) None required Drainage channels water available near drainage channels during dry 5 5 season.

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

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Land/soils (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Natur Irrigation Project

Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures

with

Rating Rating

Pre-Construction Poor design of bank protection leading to dam's Careful design of headworks to avoid bank Headworks -5 0 banks erosion erosion Improper siting of canals and access roads to Careful design of canals to avoid erosion Main/secondary canals -5 0 them leading to erosion Improper siting/design of roads leading to erosion Careful siting and design of access roads to Access / village roads -5 0 avoid erosion Improper siting/design of unpaved service roads Careful design of canals and their service Canal service roads -5 0 leading to erosion roads to avoid erosion Improper siting/design of drainage channels Careful design of drainage to avoid erosion Drainage channels -5 0 leading to erosion Construction Impacts to soils from erosion increases due to Contractors to provide adequate erosion inadequate construction procedures and improper control during construction. For construction management of borrow pits. materials such as sand, stone, and fill dirt, Headworks -5 contractor should choose legal service 0 providers who have exploitation licenses and environmental protection commitment issued by local authorities. Same as above Contractors to provide adequate erosion control during construction. For construction materials such as sand, stone, and fill dirt, Main/secondary canals -5 contractor should choose legal service 0 providers who have exploitation licenses and environmental protection commitment issued by local authorities. Same as above Contractors to provide adequate erosion control during construction. For construction materials such as sand, stone, and fill dirt, Access / village roads -5 contractor should choose legal service 0 providers who have exploitation licenses and environmental protection commitment issued by local authorities. Same as above Contractors to provide adequate erosion control during construction. For construction materials such as sand, stone, and fill dirt, Canal service roads -5 contractor should choose legal service 0 providers who have exploitation licenses and environmental protection commitment issued by local authorities. Impacts to soils from erosion increases due to Contractors to provide adequate erosion inadequate construction procedures control during construction. For construction materials such as sand, stone, and fill dirt, Drainage channels -5 contractor should choose legal service 0 providers who have exploitation licenses and environmental protection commitment issued by local authorities. Operation Inadequate maintenance of headworks leading to Adequate maintenance and care of Headworks -5 0 bank erosion landscaping of the dam's banks Main/secondary canals none 0 none required 0 Access / village roads none 0 none required 0 Inadequate maintenance of gravel roads leading Adequate maintenance and care of service Canal service roads -5 0 to erosion roads Inadequate maintenance of drainage leading to Adequate maintenance and care of drainage Drainage channels -5 0 erosion

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

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Waste Water (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Natur Irrigation Project

# Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures

with

Rating Rating

Pre-Construction Headworks Minor to None 0 None required 0 Main/secondary canals same as above 0 None required 0 Access / village roads same as above 0 None required 0 Canal service roads same as above 0 None required 0 Drainage from irrigated fields in which large Design should require PAFO to instruct people amounts of fertilizers and pesticides have been not to use drainage water without testing for Drainage channels used could include contaminated water which -5 contaminants 0 might be used downstream by other farmers or even for domestic use. Construction Minor increase in wastewater from construction Contractors to manage wastewater camps, including petroleum/chemical pollution. discharges at construction camps. Contamination of surface water. Site camps so as to avoid impacts to surface and groundwater. Monitor surface and groundwater quality at or Headworks -5 near camps. 0 Use temporary diversion drains & bunds, temporary silt traps and ponds to prevent contamination of surface water. Stockpile spoils in flat areas away from drainage routes Main/secondary canals same as above -5 same as above 0 Access / village roads same as above -5 same as above 0 Canal service roads same as above -5 same as above 0 Drainage channels same as above -5 same as above 0 Operation Headworks None 0 None required 0 Main/secondary canals same as above 0 None required 0 Access / village roads same as above 0 None required 0 Canal service roads same as above 0 None required 0 Drainage from irrigated fields in which large PAFO to develop an on-going capacity-building amounts of fertilizers and pesticides have been program to instruct people not to use drainage used could include contaminated water which water without testing for contaminants. might be used downstream by other farmers or PAFO to train farmers in methods for reducing even for domestic use. the use of chemicals. Drainage channels -5 0 Coordinate with Agriculture Extension Centre to ensure that farmers are trained in correct use and storage of fertilizer, pesticides, and other potentially hazardous substances

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

A6-96 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Solid Waste (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Natur Irrigation Project

# Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures

with

Rating Rating

Pre-Construction Headworks none 0 none required 0 Main/secondary canals none 0 none required 0 Access / village roads none 0 none required 0 Canal service roads none 0 none required 0 Drainage channels none 0 none required 0 Construction Minor local impacts from improper disposal of Contractors to use best practice with respect solid waste from construction activities or workers to waste management at the camps and Headworks -5 construction sites, including proper disposal of 0 solid waste at locations approved by local authorities Main/secondary canals same as above -5 same as above 0 Access / village roads same as above -5 same as above 0 Canal service roads same as above -5 same as above 0 Drainage channels same as above -5 same as above 0 Operation Headworks none 0 none required 0 impacts to canals from improper PAFO to develop an on-going capacity-building disposal/dumping of solid wastes in canals program to instruct people not to dump waste in the canals. Main/secondary canals -5 Coordinate with Agriculture Extension Centre 0 to ensure that farmers are trained in correct methds for storage of fertilizer, pesticides, and other potentially hazardous substances impacts to roads from improper disposal/dumping PAFO to develop an on-going awareness- Access / village roads of solid wastes on and along roads -5 raising program against littering 0

impacts to roads from improper disposal/dumping PAFO to develop an on-going awareness- Canal service roads of solid wastes on and along roads -5 raising program against littering 0

impacts to drainage channels from improper PAFO to develop an on-going capacity-building Drainage channels disposal/dumping of solid wastes which could lead -5 program to instruct people not to dump waste 0 to reduced efficiency of the drains in the drainage channels.

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

A6-97 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Land Use (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Na Tur Irrigation Project

Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures

with

Rating Rating

Pre-Construction No effect on land use since headworks will not none required Headworks 0 0 require land acquisition. No effect on land use since irrigated areas are none required Main/secondary canals 0 0 already being farmed. Access / village roads same as above 0 none required 0 Canal service roads same as above 0 none required 0 Drainage channels same as above 0 none required 0 Construction Minor impacts to local land uses during Contractor to protect sensitive urban, construction agricultural and natural areas during Headworks -5 construction, pay for any temporary use of 0 land, and restore to original condition any land used temporarily same as above Contractor to protect sensitive urban, agricultural and natural areas during Main/secondary canals -5 construction, pay for any temporary use of 0 land, and restore to original condition any land used temporarily same as above Contractor to protect sensitive urban, agricultural and natural areas during Access / village roads -5 construction, pay for any temporary use of 0 land, and restore to original condition any land used temporarily same as above Contractor to protect sensitive urban, agricultural and natural areas during Canal service roads -5 construction, pay for any temporary use of 0 land, and restore to original condition any land used temporarily Drainage channels none 0 none required 0 Operation Headworks none 0 none required 0 Main/secondary canals none 0 none required 0 Access / village roads none 0 none required 0 Canal service roads none 0 none required 0 Drainage channels none 0 none required 0

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

A6-98 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Biodiversity (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Na Tur Irrigation Project

Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures

with

Rating Rating

Pre-Construction Potential minor impact to aquatic ecology at the Design the the headworks to protect aquatic Headworks -10 0 headworks life. Potential impact to some trees along new main Design the main canals locate in production Main/secondary canals canals alignment that will cut through forest to -10 forest area and avoid large trees as much as 0 the workheads possible to protect tree species. Access / village roads Minor to none 0 none required 0 Potential minor impact to some trees along the Design the canals service road locate in Canal service roads canals service road next to the workheads -5 production forest area to protect tree species. 0

Drainage channels Minor to none 0 none required 0 Construction Potential negative impacts during construction at Contractors to protect sensitive natural areas the River, construction camps and nearby water and obtain permission from PAFO for cut down Headworks -10 0 courses the trees before the Project construction

Potential impact to trees along new main canals Contractors to protect sensitive natural areas alignment that will cut through forest to the new and ontain permission from PAFO for cut down Main/secondary canals -10 0 workheads proposed the trees before the Project construction

Access / village roads Same as above -5 Same as above 0 Canal service roads Same as above -5 Same as above 0 Drainage channels Same as above -5 Same as above 0 Operation Headworks Minor to none 0 none required 0 Main/secondary canals Minor to none 0 none required 0 Access / village roads Minor to none 0 none required 0 Canal service roads Minor to none 0 none required 0 Drainage channels Minor to none 0 none required 0

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

A6-99 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Cultural Resources (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Natur Irrigation Project

# Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures

with

Rating Rating

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

Education (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Natur Irrigation Project

# Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures

with

Rating Rating

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

A6-100 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Human Health (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Natur Irrigation Project

# Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures

with

Rating Rating

Pre-Construction Headworks Minor to None 0 None required 0 Main/secondary canals Minor to None 0 None required 0 Access / village roads Minor to None 0 None required 0 Canal service roads Minor to None 0 None required 0 Drainage channels Minor to None 0 None required 0 Construction Possible increase in STDs or other diseases from Contractors to screen and educate workers for HIV construction workers interacting with local population and other STDs, implement malaria control at Headworks -5 0 work sites and camps, and provide adequate toilet facilities and clean water for workers. same as above Contractors to screen and educate workers for HIV and other STDs, implement malaria control at Main/secondary canals -5 0 work sites and camps, and provide adequate toilet facilities and clean water for workers. Potential minor and temporary negative health impacts Contractors to provide adequate access to health from reduced access to health facilities in villages. facilties at all times. Contractors to screen and Possible increase in STDs from construction workers educate workers for HIV and other STDs, Access / village roads -5 0 interacting with local population implement malaria control at work sites and camps. Provide adequate toilet facilities and clean water for workers. same as above Contractors to provide adequate access to health facilties at all times. Contractors to screen and educate workers for HIV and other STDs, Canal service roads -5 0 implement malaria control at work sites and camps. Provide adequate toilet facilities and clean water for workers. same as above Contractors to screen and educate workers for HIV and other STDs, implement malaria control at Drainage channels -5 0 work sites and camps, and provide adequate toilet facilities and clean water for workers. Operation Headworks Minor to None 0 None required 0 Potential minor negative impact from the provision of Farmers to be instructed in the control of additional open surface water that can lead to mosquito and water borne disease control by increased incidence of mosquitos and water-borne PAFO. Main/secondary canals -5 0 diseases. Water flow in canals should not be impeded, and stagnant ponding from overflows should be avoided. Improvement in health from paving and reducing dust None required Access / village roads from village roads, and from improved access to health 5 5 facilities Minor negative impact from increased dust from Service roads to be maintained and surfaced with Canal service roads unpaved roads during dry season. -5 non-dust-producing materials in villages, or 0 watered during dry season Potential for increase in waterborne diseases if PAFO should have an ongoing program to instruct drainage channels are allowed to stagnate or are farmers and other residents in the control of purposefully ponded. mosquito and water borne diseases. Possible negative health impacts from the use of Water flow in drainage channels should not be contaminated drainage water for domestic purposes. impeded, and stagnant ponding should be avoided. Drainage channels -5 0 Residents should be instructed to avoid using drainage water for domestic purposes due to possibility of contamination from fertiizers and pesticides.

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

A6-101 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Safety (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Natur Irrigation Project

# Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures

with

Rating Rating

Pre-Construction Headworks Minor to none 0 Not required 0 Main/secondary canals Minor to none 0 Not required 0 Access / village roads Minor to none 0 Not required 0 Canal service roads Minor to none 0 Not required 0 Drainage channels Minor to none 0 Not required 0 Construction Potential impacts from work-place accidents to Training and awareness raising for workers on workers, local community, or vehicles. occupational health & safety. Contractor to provide adequate personal protective equipment to workers. Adequate signage, lighting, and control of construction sites. Headworks Traffic control measures to ensure public safety. Contractor to establish efficient emergency/ contingency plans, adequate facilities & equipment & trained staff for handling -5 emergencies. 0 Main/secondary canals same as above -5 same as above 0 Potential impacts from work-place accidents to same as above workers, local community. Access / village roads Possible increase in vehicular accidents on access and village roads. -5 0 Canal service roads same as above -5 same as above 0 Drainage channels same as for canals and pump stations, above -5 same as above 0 Operation Potential minor impacts from accidents in the PAFO to carry out training and awareness vicinity of pump stations due to poor control of raising for community on dangers of the pump Headworks access to the sites. operations. Adequate signage and fencing to keep people -5 and animals away from the pump stations. 0 Possible increase in accidental drownings of PAFO to carry out training and awareness children or animals raising for community on dangers of the canals. Main/secondary canals -5 0 Adequate signage and fencing to keep people and animals away from stilling basins and other potentially dangerous structures. Possible increase in vehicular accidents due to Local authorities to control traffic speeds in Access / village roads increased speeds on paved roads -5 villages, possibly with speed-reduction 0 methods such as speed humps. Possible increase in accidents from improper use PAFO and local authorities to control traffic Canal service roads -5 0 or damage to the unpaved roads use on service roads. Possible increase in accidental drownings of PAFO to carry out training and awareness children or animals raising for community on dangers of the Drainage channels -5 drainage channels. 0 Adequate signage and fencing to keep people and animals away.

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

A6-102 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Resettlement (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Natur Irrigation Project

# Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures

with

Rating Rating

Pre-Construction Minor land acquisition may be required for the Resettlement Plan has been prepared to define headworks. compensation, following ADB Safeguards Policy and the Lao Resettlement Decree regarding resettlement. Compensation to be completed Headworks -5 0 prior to construction. In some cases, local authorities have carried out a land exchange program to provide affected people with suitable alternative land nearby. Minor acquisition of land, trees, or fences may be same as above Main/secondary canals -5 0 required. Access / village roads same as above -5 same as above 0 Canal service roads same as above -5 same as above 0 Drainage channels same as above -5 same as above 0 Construction Potential for temporary impacts due to - Contractor to pay rent for temporary use of land. Headworks contractors' use of land -5 - Only vacant land to be used 0 same as above - Contractor to pay rent for temporary use of land. - Only vacant land to be used - use of land will not disturb businesses Main/secondary canals - land temporarily used will be restored or improved to pre-project condition -5 0 same as above - Contractor to pay rent for temporary use of land. - Only vacant land to be used - use of land will not disturb businesses Access / village roads - land temporarily used will be restored or improved to pre-project condition -5 0 same as above - Contractor to pay rent for temporary use of land. - Only vacant land to be used - use of land will not disturb businesses Canal service roads - land temporarily used will be restored or improved to pre-project condition -5 0 same as above - Contractor to pay rent for temporary use of land. - Only vacant land to be used - use of land will not disturb businesses Drainage channels - land temporarily used will be restored or improved to pre-project condition -5 0 Operation Possible on-going disputes or grievances Establish and fully implement the Grievance Headworks -5 Resolution Process to be in force for the life of the 0 project same as above Establish and fully implement the Grievance Main/secondary canals Resolution Process to be in force for the life of the 0 -5 project same as above Establish and fully implement the Grievance Access / village roads Resolution Process to be in force for the life of the 0 -5 project same as above Establish and fully implement the Grievance Canal service roads Resolution Process to be in force for the life of the 0 -5 project same as above Establish and fully implement the Grievance Drainage channels Resolution Process to be in force for the life of the 0 -5 project

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

A6-103 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Income (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Natur Irrigation Project

# Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures

with

Rating Rating

Pre-Construction Project is designed to provide significant income none required Headworks improvements from allowing two rice crops per year to the beneficiaries. 10 10 Main/secondary canals same as above 10 none required 10 Access / village roads same as above 10 none required 10 Canal service roads same as above 10 none required 10 Drainage channels same as above 10 none required 10 Construction Headworks Minor to none 0 none required 0 Main/secondary canals same as above 0 none required 0 Posible minor negative impact to income for shops Contractors to provide access to shops / due to lack of access during construction businesses / homes at all times. Access / village roads Contractors to hire local people to the extent -5 possible. 5 Canal service roads Minor to none 0 none required 0 Drainage channels same as above 0 none required 0 Operation Significant income improvements from allowing Can also promote aquaculture development Headworks two or more rice crops per year to the due to sustainable water supply. beneficiaries. 10 10 Main/secondary canals same as above 10 none required 10 Access / village roads same as above 10 none required 10 Canal service roads same as above 10 none required 10 Drainage channels same as above 10 none required 10

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

Ethnic Minorities (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Natur Irrigation Project

# Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures

with

Rating Rating

Pre-Construction Project is designed to provide significant income none required improvements from irrigated agriculture, including Headworks to ethnic monrities. However, there are no identified ethnic minority villages in the project area. 0 0 Main/secondary canals same as above 0 none required 0 Access / village roads same as above 0 none required 0 Canal service roads same as above 0 none required 0 1 Drainage channels same as above 0 none required 0 Construction None anticipated since there are no ethnic none required Headworks minority villages 0 0 Main/secondary canals same as above 0 same as above 0 Access / village roads same as above 0 same as above 0 Canal service roads same as above 0 same as above 0 1 Drainage channels same as above 0 none required 0 Operation Project is designed to provide significant income none required improvements from irrigated agriculture, including Headworks to ethnic monrities. However, there are no identified ethnic minority villages in the project area. 0 0 Main/secondary canals same as above 0 none required 0 Access / village roads same as above 0 none required 0 Canal service roads same as above 0 none required 0 1 Drainage channels same as above 0 none required 0

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

A6-104 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

UXO (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Na Tur Irrigation Project

Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures

with

Rating Rating

Pre-Construction Potential UXO in new headworks location should PAFO PPMO to formally request UXO Lao to Headworks be cleared by UXO Lao clear the irrigation areas, especially where -10 new headworks is to be built. 0 Potential UXO in new canal alignments should be PAFO PPMO to formally request UXO Lao to Main/secondary canals cleared by UXO Lao clear the irrigation areas, especially where -10 new canals are to be installed. 0 Access / village roads None, since these are existing roads 0 None required 0 Potential UXO in new canal alignments should be PAFO PPMO to formally request UXO Lao to Canal service roads cleared by UXO Lao clear the irrigation areas, especially where -10 new canals are to be installed. 0 Potential UXO in new drainage channels should be PAFO PPMO to formally request UXO Lao to cleared by UXO Lao clear the irrigation areas, especially where Drainage channels new canals and drainage channels are to be -10 installed. 0 Construction Potential UXO in new headworks is potential No construction on the headworks until bomb Headworks impact for construction -10 is cleared 0 Potential UXO in new canal alignments is potential No construction on the canals until UXO Lao Main/secondary canals impact for construction -10 has cleared the site 0 None, since these are existing roads None required on the roads, but any use of Access / village roads land outside the existing roads should be 0 cleared by UXO Lao prior to use. 0 Potential UXO in new canal and service road No construction on the canals until UXO Lao Canal service roads alignments is potential impact for construction -10 has cleared the site 0 Potential UXO in new drainage channel alignments No construction on the canals until UXO Lao Drainage channels is potential impact for construction -10 has cleared the site 0 Operation Headworks None 0 None required 0 Main/secondary canals None 0 None required 0 Access / village roads None 0 None required 0 Canal service roads None 0 None required 0 Drainage channels None 0 None required 0

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

A6-105 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Climate (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Natur Irrigation Project

# Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures

with

Rating Rating

Pre-Construction Minor local increase in greenhouse gas emissions none likely practical or feasible at project (methane) from increased rice cultivation design level. However, farmer training on Headworks methods developed in Thailand to reduce GHG from paddy rice should be investigated and -5 applied -5 same as above none likely practical or feasible at project design level. However, farmer training on Main/secondary canals methods developed in Thailand to reduce GHG from paddy rice should be investigated and -5 applied -5 same as above none likely practical or feasible at project design level. However, farmer training on Access / village roads methods developed in Thailand to reduce GHG from paddy rice should be investigated and -5 applied -5 same as above none likely practical or feasible at project design level. However, farmer training on Canal service roads methods developed in Thailand to reduce GHG from paddy rice should be investigated and -5 applied -5 same as above none likely practical or feasible at project design level. However, farmer training on Drainage channels methods developed in Thailand to reduce GHG from paddy rice should be investigated and -5 applied -5 Construction Minor or None, assuming proper waste See "Air" section for lower emission vehicles Headworks management and lower emission vehicles 0 recommendation 0 same as above See "Air" section for lower emission vehicles Main/secondary canals 0 recommendation 0 same as above See "Air" section for lower emission vehicles Access / village roads 0 recommendation 0 same as above See "Air" section for lower emission vehicles Canal service roads 0 recommendation 0 same as above See "Air" section for lower emission vehicles Drainage channels 1 0 recommendation 0 Operation Minor local increase in greenhouse gas emissions PAFO to provide awareness-raising for local from increased rice cultivation population of the increased emissions of methane from rice cultivation and Headworks encouragement to change methods or raise other crops. Possibly invite researchers from Thailand who have developed paddy rice -5 methods that reduce GHG 0 same as above PAFO to provide awareness-raising for local population of the increased emissions of methane from rice cultivation and Main/secondary canals encouragement to change methods or raise other crops. Possibly invite researchers from Thailand who have developed paddy rice -5 methods that reduce GHG 0 Access / village roads Minor to none 0 none required 0 Canal service roads Minor to none 0 none required 0 1 Drainage channels Minor to none 0 none required 0

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

A6-106 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

A6-107 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

ANNEX 6.3 Information Disclosure, Participation and Consultation

A6-108 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

A6-109 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Annex 6.3: Information gathered During the October 2016 field visit Na-Tur Environment Questions and Stakeholder Answers 302. Please describe the current irrigation scheme operations. Is there a legal Water Users Association (WUA) or a Water Users Group (WUG)

Current irrigation system being used for the area is a gravity fed water system from Houay Xenoy. It was a labor base weir and canal and built since 1973-75 by local villagers to irrigate areas for 4 villages: Ban Na-Tur, Ban Nagnom, Ban Thad, and Ban Na-Ae with the total irrigated areas 48 ha. However, there is not enough water to irrigate the area due to drought. In addition, the canal system itself has earth canals and in a poor condition that cannot properly keep and irrigate the area. Though, there is a Water Users Group who manage the use of water in the canal, conflicts sometime still occur within the user group and villagers especially downstream users when there is not enough water in the canal to supply to every family.

303. Is the Grievance Redress mechanism used during the land acquisition process operational now? What are the roles (coordination, reporting, etc.)? Are there any unresolved grievances about the land acquisition? Any other issues such as traffic, environment, noise, etc.

There is no the Grievance Redress mechanism at the moment, but all villages have been clearly informed by the project about this mechanism process. The project is going to establish the Grievance Redress mechanism starting from the village level which chairs by head of the village or Head of Kum Ban. Any complaints would be settled at the village level first, if not solved then the complaints would be sent to the higher levels such as to the District and Province respectively. All villagers are very happy and fully willing to participate in the project. They are eager to get the project start as soon as possible.

304. What are main environmental issues or concerns here?

Both surface and ground water in the area tend to have high concentration level of Heen Poun (Calcium carbonate) and water color is muddy.

Existing weir and some canal section’s location lie in Hoau Fai Na-Tur Forest Protected Area of the district which has big dense trees and it is in a pristine condition. Any new construction work here may affect trees and need permission from concerned authority. Illegal logging activities is taking place in the protected area as obvious evidence can be seen that many big trees had been chopped down during the site visit. 305. Are there any important cultural features in Vilabouli district that might be affected by the project? There is only one important cultural features an ancient stupa locates in Thad Village. 306. Is there a hospital in Na-Tur? Is it on a road that might be improved by the Project? There is not a dispensary in Na-Tur. Most people here normally use the service of Phaphilang dispensary. Only the access road along main canals would be improved from earth road to a gravel/concrete road. 307. Has water quality been tested locally (in canals, river, ponds, and/or drains)? When and how often? How about groundwater testing (by MoH or others)? Where do people

A6-110 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

get their water for drinking, cooking, bathing, clothes washing, animals, gardens? Do people spray water on local dirt roads to reduce dust in the dry season? The water quality neither surface nor ground water has never been tested locally. Local people only use the water from the canal for gardening and in fish ponds. The water quality seems to look dusty but no smell. The drinking water source and household consumption is from well water. 308. Source of water to be used for the proposed subproject will be from Houay Xenoy. Is there a Basin Management Plan (BMP)? If so, how is it being used? No activities relating to a Basin Management Plan have been carried out. 309. What other projects are on the Houay Xenoy? Irrigation schemes (how much do they withdraw)? Hydropower? There is an irrigation scheme funded by Sepon Mining to promote agricultural production in Ban Nagnom which relies on water from the Na-Tur existing irrigation project. 310. Is Na-Tur subject to periodic flooding? When was the last major flood (lasting more than a few days and causing damage to buildings, roads, etc.)? Flooding is not an annual event but does occur when there is continuous heavy rain over a few days. The scale of the impact is not severe and flood water recedes within 5-6 hours. Usually, the flooding is in lowland and along the rivers. The most recent severe flood was in 2018 after many days of continuous that damaged the rice crop and left some families facing rice shortages. No damage to infrastructure was reported.

311. Besides rice, what are the main forms of income? Are these agriculture based (other crops, livestock and poultry)?

Apart from rice cultivation as the main income source for the people in the area, seasonal crops such as sweet potato and sweet corn are the second crops being produced here.

312. Are there any national or provincial protected areas near the Project? How much do people use these? (farming, hunting, NTFP, recreation, other?) Is there good access into the protected areas from the Project area? Are there other NPAs nearby, including provincial? How are these used?

There are no provincial protected areas near the subproject.

313. What rare animals and plants can be found there? Is it possible to do a brief visit the protected area to see its condition? No rare animals and plants found in the area. Only seasonal birds and fish record in the project area. 314. What ethnic groups/minorities live in Vilabouli District? What about nearby villages that may benefit from the project? The area and nearby villages are 100 per cent Lao. 315. The project will extend the irrigated area by 210 ha (total irrigated area is 397 ha). Is this expanded area already being farmed or is there some other land use there?

A6-111 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

The extended area does not have enough water hence it has not been farmed yet. Most of the area is bush and grass land. 316. How much chemical fertilizers and pesticides are being used for rice? Is this likely to remain the same after project is implemented? Local people in the area do not apply herbicide or pesticide for their paddy fields as they are well aware of consequences impacts leading to health problems. They mainly use chemical fertilizers to increase rice production where needed. 317. Where is the rice grown in the Na-Tur subproject area marketed? Do the buyers come to the farm gate? On average, how long does it take farmers to get from their farms to the place where rice is marketed? There will be buyers coming to the farm gate. 318. What capacity building programs are going on now? Are there extension services from PAFO or DAFO on use of pesticides, herbicides, fertilizer? Any other training, particularly related to environment? Every year there will be staffs from Agriculture and Forestry office from the district visited the site many times to train farmers on how to use them and self-protection when applying the chemicals. 319. Is there any fish farming in the area? Does it use water from the canals? There no fish or livestock farming in the area because there is a risk of flooding29. 320. Is there livestock production in the Project area (pigs, cattle)? If so, where is the water for this obtained? Where does drainage go? Where do solid wastes go? How and where are animals taken to market? There is no livestock production in the area. All livestock production here is only for household consumption. 321. Have there been any recent UXO incidents in Vilabouli District or the general project area? Is there any UXO program going on now in or near the site? Yes, there is a high probably for UXO in the area. Any construction work should be carried out after UXO clearance has been issued/certificated. 322. Any other issues or concerns? Any affected people should be fairly compensated by the project To build a road along each main canal and crossing structure where necessary in order to provide a good accessibility for people. Road safety and dust pollution in the village area should be taken into consideration during the construction The project should consider encouraging contractor to recruit local people here to work with them for non-skilled position. All villagers are very happy with the proposed project and they are strongly willing to participate

29 The answer appears to be related to commercial ventures as 36HH have fish ponds and 422HH have cattle or buffalo

A6-112 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination and support it to happen as soon as possible. People met in Na-Tur Subproject

PAFO, Savannakhet province DAFO, Vilabouli district PoNRE, Savannakhet DoNRE Water User Groups UXO Lao

Ban Na-Ae, Vilabouli district Savannakhet province Tel. 030 9391817 Vilabouli district Mr. Sithong Keosongka, Village Head of Ban Na-Ae (Thad) Tel. 020 22311828 Tel: 030 921451 Mr. Sysouphanh, Mr. Kavone, Head of Koum Ban Na Ae Socio safeguard, PPMO

Ban Nagnom Tel: 020 95136896 Mr. Ponma, Village Head Tel: 030 9535714 Mr. Chantha, Deputy of Village Head

Ban Na-Tur Tel: 020 91453950 Mr. Sisouk, Deputy of Village Head

Pictures from the May 2016 IEE Mission

Upstream of the existing weir Meetings with WUG members

Condition of existing main canal

Existing weir and header pond of Na-Tur

A6-113 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Beneficiary villages from Na-Tur Subproject

No Name of Village Household Family Population Female 1 Na-Ae 70 61 369 181 2 Nagnom 233 283 1,268 693 3 Na-Tur 134 170 701 369 4 Thad 106 124 651 265 Total 543 638 2,989 1,508

A6-114 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

List of Participants Na-Tur Subproject, 13 May 2016

A6-115 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

A6-116 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

List of participants during tree inventory survey- Na-Tur Sub-project, 27 - 29 December 2018

No_ Name and Surname Organization Position Contact number 1 Ms. Khaekham AISP Central Environment 020 28044602 2 Ms. Khamlar AISP provincial Technician Bounyanith 020 55641195

Mr. Kamsai 3 AFO, Vilabouli district Dep, AFO, 030 9264056 Inthapanya 4 Mr. Khambai Head. AFO Xayyasin AFO, Vilabouli district 020 98715020 5 Mr. Khonesamai AFO, Vilabouli district Technician 020 99552610 6 Ms. Viengsamone PoNRE, Savannakhet Technician 020 98677666 Inthapanya Ban Thad Mr. Kavone Thad Village WUG 020 96132797 Mr. Souy Thad Village WUG - Mr. Sysavanh Thad Village WUG - Mr. Bounvanh Thad Village WUG 020 23555265

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Annex 6.3: Additional consultation meeting during the 11 November 2016

(Translation) Lao People’s Democratic Republic Peace Independence Democracy Unit Prosperity **************** Savannakhet Province Vilabouly District Na-Tur Subproject Minutes of Meeting Public consultation to disclose information on the potential environmental impacts Of the proposed access road under Na-Tur Subproject

- According to: Loan Contract between Lao PDR and ADB, No. 3024-Lao (SF), dated on 11/10/2013. - According to the announcement letter of AISP, NPMO, No. 0856/AISP, dated on 06/11/200

At 13:30 p.m. dated on 11/11/2020. The public consultation was hold at WUG office. The objective is to disclose information on the potential environmental impacts of the proposed access road under Na-Tur Subproject, Vilabouly District. The chairman was Mr. Khamsai Inthapunya (Deputy of Agriculture and Forestry Office, Vilabouly District). There were some the representative participants in this meeting such as: villages authority, WUG and stakeholders (Total: 49 people, female: 23) as detail below: - AISP, NPMO: 2 people, female: 0 - AISP, PPMO: 1 person, female: 1 - PONRE: 1 person, female: 0 - AISP, DCO: 3 people, female: 1 - DONRE: 1, female: 0 - Villages authority, WUG and villagers: 41 people, female: 21 people.

1. The objective of the meeting: To disclose information on the potential environmental impacts of the proposed access road under Na-Tur Subproject, Vilabouly District to relevant stakeholders including villages’ authority and villagers within project’s area to understand on environment works, data collection, and exchange the opinions. 2. The result of the meeting: 2.1 Ms. Sysomphone (AISP, PPMO Officer) introduced on the objective of this meeting and participants. 2.2 Mr. Suntisouk Kittisak (AISP, NPMO Officer) explained to villages’ authority and villagers how to exchange the opinions for the activities of proposed access road. In addition, he also asked villagers how they feel about this proposed access road because these comments will be reported to AISP. 2.3 Mr. Phasouk Manivanh (AISP, Environmental Specialist of LIC) presented on the detail of project’s location especially the proposed access road, environmental impact mitigations will be applied, GRM procedure and the potential environmental impacts.

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3. Opinions and recommendations: 3.1 Mr. Bounyok (Vice-Head of That Village) said that “in 2018, Project presented about this proposed works. Overall, villagers agreed with this plan”. 3.2 Mr. Chantha (Vice-Head of Nayom Village) said that “agreed with government’s plan to maintain this road because we are waiting this project for long time. This road is a strategy road of communities, so we hope the project will be implemented soon. When there are the construction works, we would like the project consider putting pipe in some sections of road to avoid the flooding. 3.3 Mr. JanIn (Nayom villagers) asked that “this project has the sufficient budget or not? When will the activity be implemented? Who is the contractor? 3.4 Mr. Sysouk (Vice-Head of Na-Tur Village) asked that “Will the irrigation work still be able to carry out? Villagers can plant rice and crop or not? Because we will be able to prepare to harvest our yield in the construction phase on time. 3.5 Mr. Chanthavong (Head of Keovilai Village) would like the project coordinate with village closely because there are some villagers who live along the proposed access road (Some section is straight, curve and narrow road) to avoid impacts in the construction phase. 4. Conclusion: 4.1 Mr. Khamsai Inthapunya (Deputy of Agriculture and Forestry Office, Vilabouly District) emphasized in this meeting that: “villages authority and villagers agree and see the necessary of this proposed project. We expect to have good road and traveling. Furthermore, he also explained and clarified more about the potential environmental impacts in the construction phase such as: traffic, using machine, sanitation, and local workers. He also encouraged the villagers to give cooperation for project’s works. Above comments will be considers into implementation plan to complete the works on time. This meeting was close at 16: 00 p.m. of this date.

Therefore, this minute of meeting was recorded to be the reference for future implementation.

Certified by Head of That Village Head of WUG Recorded by

Mr. Sythong Keosingka Mr. Thavone Mr. Bounthan

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Photos Description

The public consultation meeting was hold on 11 November 2020.

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Current road No.1 condition

Nayom Temple along road No.1

Current road No.2 condition to That Nang Lao Temple

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Cannel along the road No.1

Xenoy River along the road No.1

This proposed access road will cover some parts of Na-Tur Reservation Forest from station km 12+900 -km13+775

Common Large Trees, mostly Lagerstroemia cochinchinensis in the existing Head Works

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This proposed access road will cover some parts of Na-Tur Reservation Forest from station km 12+900 -km13+775

Na-Tur Weir

The boundary of Na-Tur Reservation Forest

Area of Na-Tur Reservation Forest

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Rules in Na-Tur Reservation Forest

That Nang Lao Temple

Muengvang School

Nayom School

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Ban That School

Na-Tur School

Jouth Shoum Market

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ANNEX 6.4 Environmental and Social Clauses for Civil Works Contracts

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ANNEX 6.4: ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL CLAUSES FOR CIVIL WORKS CONTRACTS 323. The Mitigation Measures of the IEE and EMP provide general and specific guidance on protection and mitigation of potential environmental damage. The EMP is attached to the Technical Specifications and shall be considered as binding on the Contractor. All necessary measures on protection of the environment shall be carried out by the Contractor in accordance with the order of competent authorities, the EMP, and instructions of the Engineer (Supervision Engineer as appointed by the NPMO). 1. Obligations of the Contractor 324. The general environmental and social obligations of the Contractor within this Contract, without prejudice to other official provisions in force, include the following: ▪ Respecting and abiding by the environmental, health, safety and labor regulatory provisions in force in Lao PDR (including those announced during the execution of the works if imposed by the Engineer), the contractual provisions of this Contract as well as the conditions fixed by the various authorizations or approvals required; ▪ Respecting and abiding by national and international labor codes, including the ILO Conventions ratified by Lao PDR and ensure that it and its sub-contractors make available employment opportunities for both men and women and ensuring a gender- sensitive work environment, and employment opportunities for local villagers; ▪ Assuming full responsibility for the consequences of its choices and actions; in particular, and without prejudice to the regulatory provisions in force, it guarantees, if necessary, the repair at its cost and according to the most appropriate technologies and deadlines, notably with regard to the level of sensitivity of the site concerned, of damage caused to the environment and residents by failure to respect regulatory and/or administrative provisions and/or the applicable technical specifications, as well as the payment of fines, damages or other penalties which may be incumbent upon it; ▪ Agreeing with the Engineer and implementing technical approaches and solutions to the design of the Na-Tur Irrigation Scheme (the Project) where the Project would encroach on private or communal lands. Preference shall be given to the technical solutions that do not require taking or demolition of temporary and permanent properties. In case the taking or demolition of property cannot be avoided the Contractor shall notify the Engineer and cease the works in that particular section of the Project. Construction activities may only proceed with approval of the Engineer. ▪ Taking all measures to ensure the environmental quality of operations which are the subject of this contract and not disrupt the quality of life of the adjacent villages, in particular by applying the applicable specifications and provisions. The Contractor shall consider the execution of works or the implementation of environmental and social provisions as an integral part of the operations relating to the general construction program of the works; ▪ Providing appropriate information and training for Contractor personnel, including management staff, with regard to the environmental and social quality of operations; ▪ Informing the local authorities (village heads, district governor) and the affected population on planned construction activities, sites and schedule at least 2 weeks in advance of any planned construction activities (including signage);

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▪ Holding information meetings at least 2 weeks before entering any village area for planned construction activities, to inform and consult with the villagers regarding the Nature of the forthcoming works, their duration and all effects such as dust, smoke, interruption of irrigation water, or noise that would be felt in the village, the mitigation measures that would be applied, and provide villagers with opportunities to ask questions and express concerns; ▪ Providing a medium for ongoing communication with villagers, including a point of contact/ liaison to address any potential issues during construction with the physical works or with subcontractors, and provide a plan for mediation of any problems that arise in relation to the works under this Contract and documenting concerns and resolution of these. ▪ Refraining from destroying, removing or clearing trees, timber, scrub, crops and other flora to any extent greater than is approved by the Engineer as being necessary for the execution of this Contract and shall take such measures as may be necessary to prevent its employees from hunting, fishing, disturbing, capturing or destroying stock, crops and such flora as may be protected by relevant statutes; ▪ Siting borrow pits or other similar excavations as well as waste accumulation and disposal sites only in locations approved by the Engineer; ▪ Controlling pollution, noise and nuisances generated by the works. No construction to be carried out between 21:00 and 06:00 near (minimum 500m) residential, hospital, or other sensitive areas; ▪ Re-using materials available on the existing site each time the technical and financial conditions allow for this in a satisfactory manner from the point of view of the Engineer. Recycling and reuse of wastes (e.g. lubricants, plastic bottles, paper) is encouraged where appropriate. Strictly banning the use of fire for clearing and grubbing and cleaning sites, except for the treatment of organic waste as approved by the Engineer; ▪ Preserving to the maximum extent possible natural resources and the minimizing the use of space, soil and vegetation, in particular by minimizing cleared and stripped surfaces, by the passage of blades at a high level (5 cm above the natural ground level) each time that a simple clearing or a provisional storage of material is required, by controlling logging, including any tree removals, by the appropriate management of the topsoil, by driving and working the machines perpendicular to the slope, by the maintenance on the sites of naturally grassed areas, and by the control of site erosion; ▪ As appropriate, systematically stripping topsoil of all work sites unless (with prior consent of the Engineer) the soil structure of the surface, predominantly organic matter ("topsoil" or mud), does not exist or has a thickness less than the working height adjustment of the blade of the excavator or machine used, taking into account the state of the terrain (eroded soil, gravel, soil with rocks that prevent the passage of the machine, etc.); ▪ Respecting, for the whole of its site (including borrow sites and disposal areas, quarries and installations) the zones, areas, elements and periods which are environmentally sensitive, including, but not limited to locations and areas identified in the EMP. In the project areas adjacent to specially protected areas, machinery shall not go beyond the work zone as approved by the Engineer; there shall be no waste accumulations and waste disposal sites in the same areas; and there shall be no use and storage of explosives and toxic and chemical substances.

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▪ Discharging or disposal of used water, mud, grout, bituminous products, pollutants of any kind, etc. into wells, boreholes, surface water or groundwater, water courses, natural streams, drains, ditches, etc. is strictly forbidden; ▪ Not creating a dam or altering a permanent or temporary watercourse for the requirements of the site (unless otherwise specified in the Design), without authorization of the Engineer; ▪ Ensuring that all construction vehicles shall travel at low speed (as specified in Lao PDR regulations) within 100m on either side of any areas around villages where children are present; ▪ Ensuring that all construction vehicles are well-maintained, and meet basic emission standards such as Euro 2, and that idling of trucks shall not exceed 15 minutes when in populated areas within 100m on either side of any areas around villages; ▪ Controlling health risks relating to the works and personnel of the Contractor, in particular the adoption of minimum hygiene rules at the work sites and camps and for the benefit of residents in the affected communities, the control of dust emissions in populated areas and the control of stagnant waters as specified in the EMP; ▪ Exercising every reasonable precaution to protect persons or property from injury. The Contractor shall erect and maintain all necessary temporary fencing, barricades, barriers, signs and lights and provide fire alarm, fire extinguishing and firefighting services at strategic points on the Site. The Contractor shall also be responsible for erecting and maintaining structures for storage and containment of hazardous materials or liquids. The Contractor shall adopt and enforce such rules and regulations as may be necessary, desirable or proper to safeguard the public, all persons engaged in the work and its supervision. The Contractor shall be responsible for the flagging and control of traffic and he shall comply with the requirements of the Engineer and competent authority in these matters. The Contractor shall keep clear and in good working order all temporary access road structures, bridges, culverts, drains and other waterways necessary for the execution of the works during the term of the Contract; ▪ Ensuring, in as far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare at work of its personnel including those of its subcontractors and of all other persons on the Site or crossing the site. The Contractor shall provide protective clothing and equipment to workers that are appropriate to the workers’ tasks. The Contractor shall be fully responsible for ensuring necessary first aid services to its staff and workers, including transport for injured personnel to hospital or other appropriate accommodation as and when required. The organization of the construction sites and work places, and the Contractor’s approach to the aspects listed below, shall be included in the Contractor’s Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) to be prepared by the Contractor and approved by the Engineer. ▪ Cleaning, restoring and then, if necessary, providing for the appropriate rehabilitation or redevelopment of work sites, camps, quarries and borrow pits released by the Contractor as the work progresses. This obligation, which includes possible drainage of stagnant water and the completion of compensatory tree plantations (if envisaged by the Design), is a condition of the acceptance of the works; ▪ Taking appropriate sanctions against personnel violating the applicable specifications and provisions on environmental and social matters;

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▪ Checking, by regular inspection, that all stipulated environmental and social provisions are being adhered to; ▪ Systematically and in a timely manner informing the Engineer of each incident or accident, damage or degradation caused to the environment, workers or residents or their assets, in the course of the works. Contractor shall also take appropriate measures, as approved by the Engineer, to address the incident or accident in timely fashion; and ▪ Providing environmental and social monitoring of the works and the writing of corresponding monthly reports.

2. Contractor’s Environmental Management Plan 325. The Contractor shall establish a Contractor’s Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) in order to meet his obligations concerning this matter; the CEMP shall include in particular the following: 1. Management Acknowledgements 2. Organization & Staffing 3. Communications and Reporting 4. Environmental, Health and Safety Management Provisions

326. The Contractor shall prepare and submit for the Engineer’s approval a CEMP, including six (6) subplans – camp management, health and safety, hydrocarbon and hazardous waste, quarry and borrow pit management, disposal management and erosion and sedimentation - within 30 days of the commencement date. The Engineer may require periodic reviews, including updating of the CEMP during the works. 2.1 Management Acknowledgement 2.1.1 Certification and Commitment 327. The CEMP submitted by the Contractor shall provide a signed statement from the Contractor’s Managing Director(s) attesting to a commitment that all environmental protection, safety, and occupational health aspects of the Contract would be given highest priority in the discharge of contractual obligations and certifying a commitment to the provisions in the EMP and CEMP as approved by the Engineer. 2.1.2 Statutory Understanding and Compliance

328. The Plan shall provide a statement attesting the firm’s understanding of, and means of ensuring due compliance with, the statutory regulations relating to construction work in Lao PDR, specifically in regard to compliance with: (i) All safety and occupational health legislation including, without limitation, the Rules and Regulations of Lao PDR and the authorities having jurisdiction. (ii) All current environmental laws and regulations, including both national and local regulations, related to the following, but not limited to: ▪ Noise; ▪ Vibration; ▪ Air pollution;

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▪ Water contamination; ▪ Solid and hazardous waste disposal; ▪ Liquid waste disposal; ▪ Sanitary conditions (water supply, sewerage, etc.); ▪ Use of explosives; ▪ Protection of public traffic; ▪ Protection of the environment, and of historical, cultural and archaeological monuments/sites, ▪ Resettlement, land acquisition, servitude, temporary use of land and compensation, etc. 2.1.3 Availability of Documents 329. The Plan shall state where copies of safety and occupational health regulations and documents would be available on the construction site and verify that all regulations and documents have been or would be available. 2.1.4 Management of Subcontractors 330. The requirements of this and related sections and obligations therein shall be required for execution of parts of the Works by the approved subcontractors while the Contractor shall: (i) Provide subcontractors with copies of the CEMP, incorporate such provisions into all sub-contracts, and ensure compliance with such plan under the Contract. (ii) Require all subcontractors to appoint a safety representative who shall be available on the site throughout the operational period of the respective sub-contract and ensure as far as is practically possible that staff and employees of subcontractors are conversant with appropriate parts of the CEMP and the statutory regulations. 2.2 Organization and Staffing 2.2.1 Organization Chart 331. The Plan shall include an organization chart identifying (by job title and by the name and contact information of the individual) the personnel to be engaged solely for environmental protection, health, safety and traffic control. The chart and the supporting text shall identify participants and their areas of responsibility and contact details. 2.2.2 Appointment of Environmental Safety Officer (ESO) 332. The Contractor shall submit for approval the name and details (full CV) of its proposal for an ESO to the Engineer within 14 days of the commencement date. The ESO shall be responsible for day-to-day issues of environmental management for the duration of the Contract. The Contractor shall obtain approval of such person being appointed, who shall be in position to carry out his duties prior to Works activities commencing on site except as may be agreed in exceptional circumstances in writing with the Engineer. The ESO would not be removed from the site without the express written permission of the Engineer. Within fourteen (14) days of any such removal or notice of intent of removal, a replacement ESO would be nominated for approval by the Engineer.

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333. The ESO shall be empowered to instruct employees of the Contractor and Subcontractors to cease operations and shall take the appropriate action as is necessary and within his limits of delegation by informing others as may be appropriate to prevent unsafe working practices or other infringements of the Plan or the statutory regulations. The ESO shall maintain a daily site diary comprehensively recording all relevant matters concerning site environmental management, safety and traffic control, inspections and audits, related incidents and the like. The site diary shall be available at all times for inspection by the Engineer and his staff. 2.3 Communication and Reporting 334. The Contractor shall prepare and submit to the Engineer for his approval monthly progress reports on compliance with implementation of EMP and CEMP. It is expected that these reports would include information on: ▪ Environmental, social, health, and safety management actions/measures taken, including approvals sought from local or national authorities; ▪ Problems encountered in relation to environmental, social, health, and safety aspects (incidents, including delays, cost consequences, etc. as a result thereof); ▪ Lack of compliance with contract requirements on the part of the Contractor; ▪ Changes of assumptions, conditions, measures, designs and actual works in relation to environmental, social, health, and safety aspects; ▪ Observations, concerns raised and/or decisions taken with regard to environmental, social, health, and safety management during site meetings; ▪ Chance historical, cultural and archaeological finds; ▪ Follow-up on the status and efficacy of remedial measures and/or corrective actions identified in Incident Reporting Forms included in EMPs or otherwise; and ▪ Follow-up, including remedial measures, status of measures and their efficacy, related to lack of compliance with contract requirements. 2.4 Environmental, Health and Safety Management Provisions 335. The CEMP should include, as a minimum, the methodology and resources to meet the requirements of these Technical Specifications including but not limited to the following: ▪ Stakeholder communication (including nearby affected residents) and mechanism for documenting public concerns in relation to the works under this Contract and resolution of these. ▪ Relevant staff training;

▪ To the extent possible, maintaining farmers’ access to irrigation water if the works are implemented during the irrigation season; ▪ Maintaining vehicle access to the communities; ▪ Pollution control (including spill prevention, dust abatement, noise, etc.); ▪ Hazardous Materials and Waste Management Plan; ▪ Provision of potable water and washing/toilet facilities to workers;

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▪ Provision of lodging and insecticide-treated mosquito nets to workers as appropriate; ▪ Provision of health care to workers and treatment for injuries and infections; and providing workers with access to condoms; ▪ Assessing importance of, and reporting and investigating, chance historical, cultural and archaeological finds; ▪ Immediately ceasing work and notifying the Engineer in any part of the Project Site where UXO is discovered or suspected to be present, marking the location and controlling access to it; ▪ Inspection and monitoring. 2.5 HIV-AIDS Provisions 336. The Contractor shall: ▪ Require its personnel to attend the HIV Awareness Program provided by the UNAIDS and/or the National Committee for the Control of AIDS (NCCA) which is developing the new National Strategic and Action Plan on HIV/AIDS/STI 2016-2020. Attendance shall be in the course of their employment and during their normal working hours or any period of overtime provided for in the relevant employment contracts and uses all reasonable endeavors to ensure this instruction is followed; ▪ Deliver to all employees an HIV/AIDS leaflets available through UNAIDS and/or the NCCA. ▪ Give all reasonable cooperation to the UNAIDS and/or the NCCA office on providing the HIV Awareness Program. if any planned, by providing suitable space for delivery of the Program and do nothing to dissuade the personnel from attending the Program; ▪ Encourage voluntary HIV/STD testing. 337. The Contractor shall not be required to undertake or pay for treatment or medication for personnel found to be suffering from HIV/AIDS. Such personnel shall not be discriminated against however (including discrimination in employment opportunities, employment retention, treatment, etc.). 2.6 Income 338. The Borrower shall cause the Project Provinces to ensure that their relevant records of labor employment (disaggregated by gender and ethnic groups) are properly maintained and tracked in the Project performance monitoring system, and compliance is strictly monitored30.

339. Contractors would pay $8 million in local wages generated from the project construction activities, with 30% of the wages for women under equal pay conditions. This is approximately 21 per cent of the contract price31. 340. To fulfill the conditions set out in this paragraph above the contractor must provide full details of staff employed on a monthly basis to the Provincial Project Management Office (PPMO). The details must include:

• Name and unique identity;

30 Project Loan Covenant 31 Monitoring and Design Framework

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• Gender and ethnicity;

• Permanent residency;

• Age;

• Period of employment

• Position of employment;

• Salary paid and any deductions;

• Date of salary payment; and

• Any other employee details requested by the PPMO.

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ANNEX 6.5 Environmental and Social Monitoring Process

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Annex 6.5: Environmental and Social Monitoring Process

341. Environmental monitoring would take place on a quarterly basis during construction and semi-annually during operation of the Project. The Environmental Monitoring Process for the Na-Tur Irrigation Subproject is as follows:

• Establish the Monitoring Team (suggestions: the PAFO-PPMO and/or DAFO representative, M&E officer, supervision engineer, specialized consultants as needed, and an officer from DONRE who would act as a technical reference but may not participate in the field work unless there are significant environmental problems);

• Select the Team Leader (TL). This person would be responsible for convening the team and scheduling monitoring sessions at least once per quarter. The TL would also ensure that appropriate resources are needed for the monitoring process, such as transport;

• Carry out the field monitoring every three months:

1 Visit the site. Visually inspect those aspects that can cause impacts, as specified in the EMP. Use the attached site visit visual inspection checklists to record EMP and CEMP compliance with the stated mitigations measures;

2 Water Testing (for irrigation schemes): Water is to be tested: (i) for monitoring of quality in schemes where canals pass through or near to built-up areas, (ii) to identify changes of the presence of surplus fertilizer compounds in tertiary canals, as a means of monitoring improvements in proper use of fertilizers, and (iii) to detect traces of hazardous pesticide, herbicide or fungicide substances, as a means of monitoring improvements in proper use of these chemicals. The following parameters and limits are recommended for this purpose.

Parameters Range/Maximum Value pH 5.5 - 9 Fecal Coliforms <1,000 per 100 ml Biological Oxygen Demand (20oC) <25 mg/l Chemical Oxygen Demand <35 mg/l

Samples should be taken twice, at six-monthly intervals during the twelve months prior to construction, quarterly during construction and at appropriate intervals during operation, and taken to a certified laboratory for analysis. Samples shall be taken from a point midstream in one of the canals at each site. A single sample is sufficient. The cost of one set of tests, including packaging, courier costs and laboratory fees is approximately $250;

3 Interview the farmers or other beneficiaries to ensure that they are following the requirements of the EMP. Use the attached interview checklist on the next page;

4 Interview neighbors (2 or 3, or more if there have been complaints) to determine if there are any complaints or grievances that have not been resolved; and

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5 Ensure that mitigation measures are being implemented by the Contractor. Suggest and document additional mitigation measures to address unforeseen problems.

b) On the basis of the visual inspection, water testing, and interviews determine if there are significant environmental problems that need to be addressed. If so, contact the PONRE or DONRE representative for advice and action;

c) Within 30 days week of the end of the field mission, the TL (or his designee) writes the Monitoring Report as outlined in this template document; and

d) TL submits Monitoring Report to the NPCO headquarters, local authorities, and ADB, and addresses any comments or questions.

342. Checklists to be used for the monitoring during the construction and operational stages are on the following pages. One checklist is to be completed for each Project component.

Sample Questions to be Posed to Beneficiaries and Persons Involved in Monitoring

1. What is your name, contact details (phone or email) and responsibility? (such as contractor, IA, beneficiary, affected person, etc.)

2. What are your primary concerns regarding the project and the monitoring process?

3. From your observations, is project IEE and EMP monitoring for environmental and safeguards compliance being carried out by responsible parties (contractor, sub-contractor, IA, other government agency, local community members, NGOs, etc.)?

4. Were any suggestions or directives given to the project implementers regarding environmental or social issues?

5. How often was monitoring done? When was the last monitoring?

6. What equipment was used for monitoring?

7. Were there sufficient resources, such as transport, to do the monitoring?

8. What are your primary concerns regarding the project and the monitoring process?

9. Where were the monitoring locations?

10. What parameters or indicators were addressed, such as water quality, air, noise, biodiversity, etc.? Was a checklist used?

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Sample Questions to be Posed to Beneficiaries and Persons Involved in Monitoring 11. Were there any concerns, complaints, or grievances expressed by you or anyone affected by the project? If so, how were these addressed?

12. Have you seen the IEEs, EMMPs, all the monitoring reports/notes? Can copies be made available?

13. Discussion of other topics or questions raised by the interviewed persons.

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Lao People’s Democratic Republic: Greater Mekong Subregion East-West Economic Corridor Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project – Na-Tur Subproject EMP COMPLIANCE MONITORING CHECKLIST (Construction) Sub-Project: Na-Tur Subproject Date: Location: Name of Contact person: Contractor:

Name, designation Contact information: Monitoring TL: Monitoring team members

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Greater Mekong Subregion East-West Economic Corridor - Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project ADB Loan No. 3024

(Title of the Workshop/Conference/Meeting/Training Course): …………………………….. Date………………………….. Venue………………………….

Tick () in Ethno-Linguistic Group Specific Ethnic Name and Family Sex Contact number (If No. Organization Position Mon- Hmong- Chinese- Group Name Signature name (M/F) Lao- Tai any) Khmer Iumien Tibetan (Somphao) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

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Observed Compliance with Potential EMP Mitigation Measures EMP, CEMP or other Mitigation Impacts Measures Air Quality • Construction vehicles to be well Minor air quality maintain to minimize emissions impacts from • Contractors to control dust during construction vehicles construction through regular watering along canals. of exposed areas • Dust from • Cover all trucks carrying dispersible construction materials to or from the site; operations • Ensure all construction vehicles and • Vehicle emissions equipment are well-maintained • Disallow diesel engine idling for prolonged periods (>15 minutes) in residential areas. Noise • Ensure all construction vehicles and • Nuisance noise equipment are well-maintained from equipment • Avoid use of air brakes and loud and vehicles horns in populated areas accessing the site. • No construction between 21:00 and 6:00 near (minimum 0.5km) residential, hospital, or other sensitive areas. Water resources • Contractors to acquire water from and quality available nearby surface water • Minor amounts sources as approved by local needed for authorities construction and • Contractors to manage wastewater dust control discharges at construction camps. acquired from Siting camps so as to avoid impacts village sources to surface and groundwater. could cause local • Monitor surface and groundwater shortages in dry quality at or near camps, and in season canals as discussed in the EMP • Minor increase in • Use temporary diversion drains & wastewater from bunds, temporary silt traps and construction ponds to prevent contamination of camps, including surface water. petroleum/chemic • Stockpile spoils in flat areas away al pollution. from drainage routes • Contamination of • Contractor should coordinate with surface and PPMO and cultivation households groundwater reach agreement on water supply in • Changed case of the construction is not drainage/irrigation completed in due time affecting farmers • Contractors to notify farmers of (due to blocking possible temporary disruptions to flows for irrigation and strive to minimize these construction of disruptions. headworks) Solid wastes • Identify suitable waste dumping sites • Minor local and obtain approval from local impacts from authorities. improper disposal • Collect solid wastes and temporarily of solid waste store at a safe place before from construction transporting to approved disposal activities or sites workers • Establish regulations on ensuring sanitation, stipulated dumping yard and waste treatment methods and disseminate those regulations to workers

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Observed Compliance with Potential EMP Mitigation Measures EMP, CEMP or other Mitigation Impacts Measures Siltation/erosion • Install diversion drains & bunds, • Impacts to soils temporary silt traps/pond as required from erosion • Stockpiling of spoil in flat areas & far increases due to from drainage routes inadequate • Contractors to provide adequate construction erosion control during construction. procedures and For construction materials such as improper sand, stone, and fill dirt, contractor management of should choose legal service borrow pits. providers who have exploitation licenses and environmental protection commitment issued by local authorities. Land Use • Contractor to protect sensitive urban, • Minor impacts to agricultural and natural areas during local land use construction, and pay for any during temporary use of land construction

Human Health • Contractors to provide adequate • Potential minor access to health facilities at all times. and temporary • Contractors to screen and educate negative health workers for HIV and other STDs. impacts from • Establish malaria control at work reduced access to sites and camps. health facilities. • Provide adequate toilet facilities and • Increase in STDs clean water for workers. from construction workers interacting with local population • Increases in water-borne diseases from improper sanitation at work camps and vicinity Safety • Training and awareness-raising for • Potential impacts workers on occupational health & from work-place safety. accidents to • Contractor to provide appropriate workers, local personal protective equipment (PPE) community, or to workers, including eye and ear vehicles protection, gloves, reflective vests, • Increase in traffic and steel-toed boots. accidents due to • Adequate signage, lighting, and construction traffic control of construction sites. • Traffic control measures to ensure public safety, including appropriate use of flag-persons and signage. • Contractor to establish efficient emergency/ contingency plans, adequate facilities & equipment & trained staff for handling emergencies. Resettlement • Contractor to pay rent for temporary • Potential for use of land as agreed with owner. temporary • Only vacant land to be used impacts due to • Use of land would not disturb contractors' use of businesses land

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Observed Compliance with Potential EMP Mitigation Measures EMP, CEMP or other Mitigation Impacts Measures • Land temporarily used would be restored or improved to pre-project condition

Community Income • Contractors to notify farmers of possible temporary disruptions to • Possible irrigation and strive to minimize these disruption on disruptions. existing irrigation • Contractors to provide access to • Possible minor shops / businesses / homes at all negative impact to times. income for shops due to lack of • Contractors to hire local people to access during the extent possible. construction • Contractor workers not allowed to fish in project area, unless they are local people.

UXO • Contractor immediately ceases work and notifies the Engineer in any part • Danger from UXO of the site where UXO is discovered in the site (if it is or suspected to be present. newly discovered) • Contractor ask UXO-Lao to remove unexploded bomb. No construction would be allowed until UXO-Lao has officially cleared the site.

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Notes/Photos:

Recommendations to Water User Group:

Follow-up requirement (e.g., with PONRE or other officials) and any need to re-monitor:

Approximate date of next monitoring:

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Lao People’s Democratic Republic: Greater Mekong Subregion East-West Economic Corridor Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project – Na-Tur Subproject EMP COMPLIANCE MONITORING CHECKLIST (Operation) Sub-Project: Na-Tur Subproject Date: Location: Name of Water Contact: User Group:

Name, designation Contact information: Monitoring TL: Monitoring team members

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Greater Mekong Subregion East-West Economic Corridor - Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project ADB Loan No. 3024

(Title of the Workshop/Conference/Meeting/Training Course): …………………………….. Date………………………….. Venue………………………….

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Persons Met during the Monitoring

Name, designation Contact Information

Potential Impacts EMP Mitigation Measures Observed Compliance with EMP or other Mitigation Measures Increased dust from • PAFO and WUG to unpaved irrigation service control use of the roads irrigation service roads to authorized vehicles only to reduce damage to road and dust in dry season. Inadequate maintenance • Adequate maintenance of headworks, canals, and care of landscaping spillway, or drainage of the headworks, canals leading to bank erosion and drainage channels Drainage from irrigated • PAFO to develop an on- fields in which large going capacity-building amounts of fertilizers and program to instruct pesticides have been people not to use used could include drainage water without contaminated water testing for contaminants. which might be used • PAFO to train farmers in downstream by other methods for reducing the farmers or even for use of chemicals. domestic use. • Coordinate with Agriculture Extension Centre to ensure that farmers are trained in correct use and storage of fertilizer, pesticides, and other potentially hazardous substances • Monitor water quality in the canals by sampling as discussed in the EMP. Obstruction of water • Discouragement and/or flows in the canals from prevention on disposal of sediment or other materials and any solid deposits from improper waste in the canals, disposal of solid waste drainage channel, or roads would be disseminated by DAFO/PAFO to WUGs • Enforcement by WUGs’ management committee

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Potential Impacts EMP Mitigation Measures Observed Compliance with EMP or other Mitigation Measures Potential minor negative • Farmers to be instructed impact from additional in the control of mosquito open surface water that and water borne disease can lead to increased control by DAFO/PAFO. incidence of mosquitoes • Water flow in canals and water-borne should not be impeded, diseases. and stagnant ponding from overflows should be avoided. Potential minor impacts • PAFO and WUG to carry from accidents in the out training and vicinity of head works or awareness raising for canal structures due to community on dangers at poor control of access to the head works, canals, the sites. and drainage channels. • Adequate signage and fencing to keep people and animals away. Possible on-going • PAFO and WUG to disputes or grievances establish and fully implement the Grievance Resolution Mechanism to be in force for the life of the project

Minor local increase in • PAFO to provide greenhouse gas awareness-raising for emissions from increased local population of the rice cultivation increased emissions of GHG from rice cultivation and introduce water management and crop production practices that have been demonstrated to reduce GHG emissions

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Notes/Photos:

Recommendations to Water User Group:

Follow-up requirement (e.g., with PONRE or other officials) and any need to re-monitor:

Approximate date of next monitoring:

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ANNEX 6.6 Rapid Environmental Assessment and Climate Change Check List

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ANNEX 6.6: REA AND CLIMATE CHANGE CHECKLISTS

Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) Checklist Instructions:

(i) The project team completes this checklist to support the environmental classification of a project. It is to be attached to the environmental categorization form and submitted to the Environment and Safeguards Division (RSES) for endorsement by the Director, RSES and for approval by the Chief Compliance Officer.

(ii) This checklist focuses on environmental issues and concerns. To ensure that social dimensions are adequately considered, refer also to ADB's (a) checklists on involuntary resettlement and Indigenous Peoples; (b) poverty reduction handbook; (c) staff guide to consultation and participation; and (d) gender checklists.

(iii) Answer the questions assuming the “without mitigation” case. The purpose is to identify potential impacts. Use the “remarks” section to discuss any anticipated mitigation measures.

Country/Project Title: LAO - Greater Mekong Subregion East-West Economic Corridor Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project – Na-Tur Subproject

Sector Division: SEER

Screening Questions Yes No Remarks A. Project Siting Is the Project area adjacent to or within any of the following environmentally sensitive areas?

There is Xenoi-Xebai National Protection Forest but the area ▪ Protected Area X is dominated by paddy field, no forest in the area. ▪ Wetland There are no wetland in the X subproject area. ▪ Mangrove X ▪ Estuarine X There is no buffer zone for ▪ Buffer zone of protected area Xenoi-Xebai National X Protection Forest ▪ Special area for protecting biodiversity X B. Potential Environmental Impacts Will the subproject cause

▪ loss of precious ecological values (e.g. result of Trees lie in the RoW on both encroachment into forests/swamplands or sides of main canal may need historical/cultural buildings/areas, disruption of hydrology to be removed from the area of natural waterways, regional flooding, and drainage X prior starting construction hazards)? work.

▪ conflicts in water supply rights and related social conflicts? X

▪ impediments to movements of people and animals? X

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Screening Questions Yes No Remarks ▪ potential ecological problems due to increased soil erosion and siltation, leading to decreased stream capacity? X

▪ Insufficient drainage leading to salinity intrusion? X ▪ over pumping of groundwater, leading to salinization and ground subsidence? X

▪ impairment of downstream water quality and therefore, impairment of downstream beneficial uses of water? X

▪ dislocation or involuntary resettlement of people? X ▪ disproportionate impacts on the poor, women and children, Indigenous Peoples or other vulnerable groups? X

▪ potential social conflicts arising from land tenure and land use issues? X

▪ soil erosion before compaction and lining of canals? soil erosion in earth canals X ▪ noise from construction equipment? Mostly from trucks in residential areas. Work X would be suspended between 21:00 and 06:00 ▪ dust during construction? Dry season road dust is X common ▪ waterlogging and soil salinization due to inadequate drainage and farm management? X

▪ leaching of soil nutrients and changes in soil characteristics due to excessive application of irrigation water? X

▪ reduction of downstream water supply during peak Abstraction of water for seasons? X irrigation would reduce the downstream flow ▪ soil pollution, polluted farm runoff and groundwater, and public health risks due to excessive application of fertilizers and pesticides? X

▪ soil erosion (furrow, surface)? X ▪ scouring of canals? X ▪ clogging of canals by sediments? X ▪ clogging of canals by weeds? X ▪ seawater intrusion into downstream freshwater systems? X ▪ introduction of increase in incidence of waterborne or Ponding around leaks could water related diseases? X encourage disease vectors

▪ dangers to a safe and healthy working environment due to Minor impacts from physical, chemical and biological hazards during project hazardous materials and construction and operation? X wastes (mostly petroleum products) would need to be mitigated

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Screening Questions Yes No Remarks ▪ large population influx during project construction and operation that causes increased burden on social infrastructure and services (such as water supply and X sanitation systems)?

▪ social conflicts if workers from other regions or countries Contractor encouraged to are hired? hire locals, but workers X from elsewhere would probably be involved ▪ risks to community health and safety due to the transport, Contractor would be storage, and use and/or disposal of materials such as required to properly use explosives, fuel and other chemicals during construction X and store fuels and other and operation? hazardous materials. ▪ community safety risks due to both accidental and natural The header pond at existing hazards, especially where the structural elements or weir is accessible components of the project (e.g., irrigation headworks) are accessible to members of the affected community or X where their failure could result in injury to the community throughout project construction, operation and decommissioning?

Sector Division: Access Road

Yes No Remarks Screening Questions/ຄໍາຖາມກ웈 ນ ກອງ C. Project Siting/ການກາໍ ນດົ ໂຄງການ No impacts anticipated Is the Project area adjacent to or within any of the following environmentally sensitive areas? ບລໍ ເວນໂຄງການຕິ ດກິ ບ ຫ  ຢ웈 ພາຍໃນເຂດທ웈 ມີ ຄວາມອີ 웈 ອນໄຫວຕ웈 ສໍ 웈 ງແວດລິ ອມດ້ 웈 ງຕ 웈 ໍໄປນບີ້ 웈 ?ໍ ▪ Densely populated area ເຂດທ웈 ມີ ຄີ ນອາໃສຢົ 웈 ຢ웈 າງໜາແໜນ້ X ▪ Heavy with development activities ມກີ ດຈະກິ າການພໍ ດທະນາຫ າຍ X X - This proposed access road will cover some parts of Na- ▪ Protected Area Tur Reservation Forest from station km 12+900 - ▪ ເຂດສະຫງວນ km13+775. But there is no impact due to upgrade of the existing access road only. ▪ Wetland ▪ ເຂດດນທາມິ X ▪ Buffer zone of protected area ▪ ເຂດປອງກ້ ນຂອງເຂດສະຫງວນ X

▪ Special area for protecting biodiversity ▪ ເຂດພເສດສິ າລໍ ບອະນຸລ ກຊ ວະນາໆພີ ນ X

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Yes No Remarks Screening Questions/ຄໍາຖາມກ웈 ນ ກອງ D. Potential Environmental All impacts will be mitigated Impacts/ຜນົ ກະທບົ ສ웈 ງິ ແວດລອ້ ມທ웈 ອີ າດເກດີ ຂນ ້ to less-than-significant levels Will the Project cause…ທ웈 ຈະເກີ ດຈາກໂຄງການີ

▪ loss of precious ecological values (e.g. result of encroachment into forests/swamplands or historical/cultural buildings/areas, disruption of hydrology of natural waterways, regional flooding, and drainage hazards)? ການສ ນເສຍຄຸນຄ웈 າທາງນເວດວິ ທະຍາອິ ນລ າຄໍ້ 웈 າ (ເຊ웈 ນ: ຜນຂອງການບຸກລຸກເຂົ າໄປໃນປົ້ 웈 າສະຫງວນ/ພນທ້ 웈 ດີ ນທາມິ ຫລ  X ອາຄານ/ເຂດພນທ້ 웈 ວີ ດທະນະທ າໍ , ການລບກວນຂອງລະບົ ບເສົ ນທາງການໄຫລນ ້ າທໍ້ າມະຊາດໍ , ນາຖໍ້ ວມໃນພາກພ້ ນ້ , ແລະ ມຜີ ນຮົ າຍຕ້ 웈 ໍການລະບາຍ)?

▪ impacts on the sustainability of associated sanitation and solid waste disposal systems and their interactions with other urban services? 웈 웈 ຜນກະທົ ບຕົ ຄວາມຍໍ ນຍ ງຂອງລະບົ ບສຸຂາພົ ບານທິ ກີ 웈 ຽວຂອງ້ ແລະ X ລະບບກົ າຈໍ ດສ 웈 ງເສດເຫິ ອແຂງ ແລະ ການຕດຕິ 웈 ພໍ ວພົ ນກ ບການບ ລໍ ການຕິ ວເມົ ອງອ 웈 ນໆ ?

▪ deterioration of surrounding environmental conditions due to rapid urban population growth, commercial and industrial activity, and increased waste generation to the point that both manmade and natural systems are overloaded and the capacities to manage these systems are overwhelmed? ການເສ웈 ອມໂຊມຂອງສະພາບແວດລ ອມອ້ ອມຂ້ າງ້ 웈  ົ ົ  웈 , ເນອງຈາກການຂະຫຍາຍຕວຂອງປະຊາກອນໃນຕວເມອງຢາງໄວວາ X ກດຈະກິ າການຄໍ າ້ ແລະ ອຸດສາຫະກໍາ, ແລະ ການຜະລດສິ 웈 ງເສດເຫິ ອທ  웈 ເພີ 웈 ມຂີ ນ້ ຈນເຖົ ງລະດິ ບທ 웈 ທີ ງລ ບົ ບທົ 웈 ມະນຸດສີ າງຂ້ ນ ້ ແລະ ລະບບທົ າມະຊາດໍ ຖກນ າໃຊໍ ເກ້ ນກີ າລໍ ງ ແລະ ຄວາມສາມາດໃນການຄຸມຄອງລະບ້ ບເຫລົ 웈 ານົ ແມີ້ 웈 ນໜກໜ 웈 ວງ?

▪ degradation of land and ecosystems (e.g. loss of wetlands and wild lands, coastal zones, watersheds and forests)? 웈 웈 ການເຊອມໂຊມຂອງດ ນິ ແລະ ລະບບນົ ເວດິ (ເຊນ: X ການສ ນເສຍດນທາມິ ແລະ ດນປິ 웈 າ, ເຂດຊາຍຝ웈 ງ , ເຂດນາໍ້ ແລະ ປ웈 າໄມ)້ ?

▪ dislocation or involuntary resettlement of people? - The proposed access road is ▪ ການຍາຍຖ້ 웈 ນຖານິ ຫ  ການຍກຍົ າຍປະຊະຊ້ ນໂດຍບົ 웈 ຕໍ ງໃຈ ້ ? in the existing road/right of way. The wide is 4 m. There X is no dislocation or involuntary resettlement of people. ▪ over pumping of groundwater, leading to salinization and ground subsidence? ▪ ການດ ດນາໃຕໍ ດ້ ນຫິ າຍເກນໄປ,ີ ນາໄປສໍ 웈 ການເຮດໃຫ ດ້ ນເຄິ ມ ແລະ X ການຍຸບຕວຂອງດົ ນິ ?

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Yes No Remarks Screening Questions/ຄໍາຖາມກ웈 ນ ກອງ ▪ degradation of cultural property, and loss of cultural heritage and tourism revenues? ການເຊ웈 ອມໂຊມຂອງຊ ບສ ນວິ ດທະນະທ າໍ , ແລະ ການສ ນເສຍມລະດໍ ກທາງວົ ດທະນະທ າໍ ແລະ X ລາຍໄດຈາກການທ້ 웈 ອງທ웈 ຽວ?

▪ occupation of low-lying lands, floodplains and steep hillsides by squatters and low-income groups, and their exposure to increased health hazards and risks due to pollutive industries? ການຄອບຄອງທ웈 ດີ ນເຂດລຸິ 웈 ມຕ웈 າໍ , ພນທ້ 웈 ນີ າຖໍ້ ວມ້ ແລະ ເຂດເນນພີ ທ웈 ສີ ງຊນ ໂດຍບ웈 ຖໍ ກຕ ອງຕາມກ້ ດໝາຍົ ແລະ X ກຸ웈 ມທ웈 ມີ ລາຍໄດີ ຕ້ 웈 າໍ , ແລະ ການປະເຊນຂອງພວກເຂີ າຕົ 웈 ກໍ ບຄວາມສ 웈 ຽງ ແລະ ອນຕະລາຍດ ານສຸຂະພາບທ້ 웈 ເພີ 웈 ມຂີ ນ້ ຍອນອຸດສາຫະກ້ າທໍ 웈 ມີ ມີ ນລະພົ ດິ ?

▪ water resource problems (e.g. depletion/degradation of available water supply, deterioration for surface and ground water quality , and pollution of receiving waters? ▪ ບນຫາຊ ບພະຍາກອນນ າໍ້ (ເຊ웈 ນ: ການລຸດໜອຍ້ / X ການເຊ웈 ອມໂຊມຂອງການສະໜອງນ ໍາທ້ 웈 ມີ ,ີ ການເສ웈 ອມສະພາບຂອງຄຸນນະພາບຂອງ ນາໜໍ້ າດ້ ນິ ແລະ ນາໃຕໍ້ ດ້ ນ)ິ , ແລະ ມນລະພົ ດຂອງແຫິ 웈 ງນ າທໍ້ 웈 ຮີ ບມ ນລະພົ ດິ ? ▪ air pollution due to urban emissions? ▪ ມນລະພົ ດອາກາດິ ເນ웈 ອງຈາກການປ 웈 ອຍມນລະພົ ດຈາກຕິ ວເມົ ອງ ? X

▪ social conflicts between construction workers from other - The contractor is encouraged areas and local workers? to hire locals, but workers ຂຂໍ້ ດແຍ 웈 ງທາງສງຄ ມລະຫວົ 웈 າງ ກາມະກອນກໍ 웈 ສໍ າງຈາກເຂດອ້ 웈 ນ ແລະ from elsewhere would probably be recruited and this ກາມະກອນທໍ ອງຖ້ 웈 ນິ ? might lead to local conflicts. - Regularly inform in advance the local officials and affected residents of the location and X schedule of construction activities which may cause impacts on the environment and life of people (e.g., road sections to be constructed; roads used for transport, locations of worker camps etc.) ▪ road blocking and temporary flooding due to land X excavation during rainy season? ການກດຂວາງເສີ ນທາງ ້ ແລະ ນາຖໍ້ ວມຊ້ 웈 ວຄາວົ ຍອນການຈ້ ກດົ ນໃນລະດິ ຝນົ ▪ noise and dust from construction activities? - The contractor shall limit the ຂຝຸີ້ 웈 ນ ແລະ ສຽງດງຈາກກ ດຈະກິ າການກໍ 웈 ສໍ າງ້ ? working time (8:00 a.m. to X 17:00 p.m.) and spray water on the road regularly.

A6-166 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Yes No Remarks Screening Questions/ຄໍາຖາມກ웈 ນ ກອງ ▪ traffic disturbances due to construction material transport - The contractor shall install and wastes? X construction signs, provide ຄວາມຫຍຸງຍາກໃນການສ້ ນຈອນຍ ອນການຂ້ ນສົ 웈 ງວົ ດສະດຸກ 웈 ສໍ າງ້ flag man and have a good practice on the waste ແລະ ສ웈 ງເສດເຫິ ອ management. - Schedule construction activities to take into account local events such as festivities, processions, parades, etc. To minimize disruption. ▪ temporary silt runoff due to construction? ການໄຫ ຂອງຕະກອນຊ웈 ວຄາວຍົ ອນການກ້ 웈 ສໍ າງ້ ? X

▪ hazards to public health due to ambient, household and X occupational pollution, thermal inversion, and smog formation? ໄພອນຕະລາຍຕ 웈 ສຸຂະພາບສາທາລະນະໍ ຍອນມ້ ນລະພົ ດທາງອາກາດິ , ຄວເຮົ ອນ ແລະ ການປະກອບອາຊບີ , ການໝນວຽນຄວາມຮ ອນ້ ແລະ ບນຫາຄວ ນໝອກ ? ▪ water depletion and/or degradation? ການບກແຫົ ງ້ ແລະ/ຫ  ການເຊ웈 ອມຄຸນນະພາບຂອງນ າໍ້ ? X

▪ overpaying of ground water, leading to land subsidence, lowered ground water table, and salinization? ການນາໃຊໍ ນ້ າໃຕໍ້ ດ້ ນທິ 웈 ຫີ າຍເກນໄປີ , ນາໄປສໍ 웈 ການຍຸບຕວຂອງດົ ນິ , X ການຫຸດລ ງຂອງລະດົ ບນ າໃຕໍ້ ດ້ ນິ , ແລະ ບນຫານ າເຄໍ້ ມ ? ▪ contamination of surface and ground waters due to improper waste disposal? ການປນເປົ ອນຂອງນ້ າໜໍ້ າດ້ ນິ ແລະ ນາໃຕໍ້ ດ້ ນິ X ເນ웈 ອງຈາກການກ າຈໍ ດສ 웈 ງເສດເຫິ ອທ 웈 ບີ 웈 ຖໍ ກຕ ອງ້ ? ▪ pollution of receiving waters resulting in amenity losses, fisheries and marine resource depletion, and health problems? ມນລະພົ ດຂອງກິ 웈 ຽວກບແຫ 웈 ງຮ ບນ າໍ້ X ສ웈 ງຜົ ນໃຫົ ມ້ ການສີ ນເສຍການນາໃຊໍ ,້ ການປະມງົ ແລະ ການທາລາຍຊໍ ບພະຍາກອນທາງທະເລ , ແລະ ບນຫາສຸຂະພາບ

A6-167 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

A6-168 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

A Checklist for Preliminary Climate Risk Screening Country/Project Title: LAO: GMS EWEC - Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Sector: Subsector: Division/Department:

Screening Questions Score Remarks32

Location and Is siting and/or routing of the subproject (or its No, the location of the sub- Design of components) likely to be affected by climate project and its components are Subproject conditions including extreme weather-related 0 determined by existing events such as floods, droughts, storms, irrigation scheme and landslides? topography Would the subproject design (e.g. the clearance Yes, the design for culverts, for bridges) need to consider any hydro- canals and access roads would meteorological parameters (e.g., sea-level, peak 1 take into consideration flood river flow, reliable water level, peak wind speed and drought events etc.)? Materials and Would weather, current and likely future climate Yes, concrete for all irrigation Maintenance conditions (e.g. prevailing humidity level, scheme structures, canals and temperature contrast between hot summer days water control structures, and cold winter days, exposure to wind and 1 natural armored gravel humidity hydro-meteorological parameters likely pavement on irrigation service affect the selection of project inputs over the life roads and hard pavement of project outputs (e.g. construction material)? (concrete) for access road Would weather, current and likely future climate Yes, extreme flood events conditions, and related extreme events likely would cause some damage to affect the maintenance (scheduling and cost) of infrastructure although more 1 project output(s)? resilient construction materials (see above) would reduce the damage. Performance Would weather/climate conditions, and related Yes, extreme weather events, of project extreme events likely affect the performance (e.g. flood and drought, would outputs annual power production) of project output(s) (e.g. 1 impact on crop production. hydro-power generation facilities) throughout their design life time? Options for answers and corresponding score are provided below: Response Score Not Likely 0 Likely 1 Very Likely 2 Responses when added that provide a score of 0 would be considered low risk project. If adding all responses would result to a score of 1-4 and that no score of 2 was given to any single response, the project would be assigned a medium risk category. A total score of 5 or more (which include providing a score of 1 in all responses) or a 2 in any single response, would be categorized as high-risk project. Result of Initial Screening (Low, Medium, High): __ Medium

Other Comments: ______

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

A6-169 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

ANNEX 6.7 Species Found in the headworks and upstream of the headwork

A6-170 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

A6-171 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

ANNEX 6.7: TREE SPECIES WITH DIAMETER FROM 10CM-200CM FOUND IN THE HEADWORK AND UPSTREAM (NOT IMPACTED) *** In particular Mai Pouei has dia. ranging from 40cm-300cm

No. Local Scientific name Qty Diameter (cm) Lao PDR IUCN Red List

name 10-100 100-200 >200 Status Status 1 ກະເດົ າຊ້ າງ Ka Daoxang Melia azedarach 8 8 Management II Markhamia stipulata (Wallich) Seem. ex. K. 2 Kok Dorkkhae 1 1 Management III DD ກົ ກດອກແຄ Schum. 3 ຕົ້ ນຕີ ນເປັ ດ Ton Teenpet Alstonia rostrata Fischer 13 13 Management III LC 4 ກົ ກທອງ Kok Thong Erythrina stricta Roxburgh 2 2 1 DD 5 ກົ ກໝາກແຟນ Kok Makfan Protium serratum (Wallich & Colebr.) Engler 3 3 Management III LC Alphonsea gaudichaudiana (Baill.) Finet & 6 Kouayhen 8 8 DD ກວຍເຫັ ນ Gagnep. 7 ໄມ້ ສົ້ ມພອງ Mai Somphor Streblus asper (Retzius) Loureiro (LPN) 6 6 Management III LC 8 ໄມ້ ຍາງໂດນ Mai Nhangdon Dipterocarpus spp. 7 7 Management I EN 9 ໄມ້ ໝາກປອບ Trewia nudiflora Trewia nudiflora 1 1 10 ຕົ້ ນໝາກລີ ນໄມ້ Ton Makleenmai Oroxylum indicum 3 3 LC 11 ເດ � ອປ� ອງ Douapong Ficus hispida L. F 6 6 12 ໄມ້ ລ້ ານເສົ້ າ Mai Lansao Lagerstroemia spireana Gagnepain 28 16 4 8 DD 13 ໄມ້ ກະພຸ ງ Mai Kaphoung 2 2 14 ໄມ້ ກົ້ ນຖ້ ວຍ Mai Konthouay Ardisia crenata (Sims) Little var. Crenata 4 4 VU 15 ໄມ້ ຂ� ອຍ Mai Khoi Streblus taxoides (Roth) Kurz 5 5 16 ໄມ້ ຂ້ າມ້ າ Mai Khamah 36 35 1 17 ໄມ້ ຂ້ ມົ ດ Mai Khimot Glochidion fagifolium Bedd 2 1 1 DD 18 ໄມ້ ີຂ້ ຮາວ Mai Khihao 1 1 19 ໄມ້ ຄະເນ ນ Mai Khaneung 2 2

A6-172 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

No. Local Scientific name Qty Diameter (cm) Lao PDR IUCN Red List

name 10-100 100-200 >200 Status Status 20 ໄມ້ ູງເຫ ອມ Mai Ngouluerm 2 2 21 ໄມ້ ສະແລ Mai Salae Broussonetia papyrifera 2 2 LC 22 ໄມ້ ີສຂາ Mai Sikhah 2 2 23 ໄມ້ ສົ້ ມຜາດ Mai Somphard Bischofia javanica Blume 12 12 DD 24 ໄມ້ ສົ້ ມພໍ Mai Somphor Streblus asper (Retzius) Loureiro (LPN) 1 1 Management III DD 25 ໄມ້ ີຊ ດນ Mai Sidin Walsura robusta Roxburgh 1 1 Management I 26 ໄມ້ ຍາງ Mai Nhang Dipterocarpus alatus ROXB 3 2 1 EN 27 ກົ ກຍົ ມປ� າ Kok Nhompa Ailanthus triphysa 11 10 1 Management I LC 28 ໄມ້ ດອກທອງປ� າ Mai Dokthongpa Erythrina stricta Roxburgh 1 1 DD 29 ໄມ້ ຕາເສ ອ Mai Tasoua Aphanamyxis polystachya 25 21 3 1 Management III LC 30 ໄມ້ ໍນ້ າກ້ ຽງ Mai Namkieng Gluta usitata 2 2 Management I DD 31 ໄມ້ ໍນ້ ານອງ Mai Namnong 4 4 32 ໄມ້ ປອບນໍ້ າ Mai Pobnam Trewia nudiflora 28 26 2 LC 33 ໄມ້ ປາດົ ງເລ ອດ Mai Padongleurt Dalbergia spp. 7 6 1 VU 34 ໄມ້ ໍປ Mai Por Hibiscus macrophyllus Roxburgh ex Hornem. 1 1 Management III VU 35 ໄມ້ ມາງ Mai Mang 5 5 36 ໄມ້ ລະໂມງ Mai Lamong 2 2 37 ໄມ້ ຫວ້ າ Mai Vah Eugenia compongensis 6 5 1 38 ໄມ້ ໜັ ງດໍ າ Mai Nungdum Diospyros mum H.LEC 52 45 5 2 39 ໄມ້ ໝາກກໍ� Mai Makkor Livistona speciosa 2 2 Management III DD 40 ໄມ້ ໝາກເມ�ົ າ Mai Makmao Antidesma bunius Sprengel (LPN) 2 2

A6-173 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

No. Local Scientific name Qty Diameter (cm) Lao PDR IUCN Red List

name 10-100 100-200 >200 Status Status 41 ໄມ້ ໝູ ນ Mai Moon Elaeocarpus stipularis Blume 5 4 1 Prohibition I VU 42 ໄມ້ ອ້ ອຍຊ້ າງ Mai Oyexang Pterocymbium tinctorium 20 3 1 1 43 ໄມ້ ເກັ ດງໍ Mai Ketngor Toxicodendron succedanea 2 2 44 ໄມ້ ເຂົ້ າສານ Mai Kaosan Memecylon harmandii Guill. 11 11 45 ໄມ້ ເປ ອຍ Mai Pouei Lagerstroemia cochinchinensis 118 34 46 38 Management I DD 46 ໄມ້ ເໝ ອດ Mai Mouert Aporosa villosa 3 3 DD 47 ໄມ້ ແຄນ Mai Khane Zanthoxylum rhetsa DC 2 1 1 Management I ໄມແວງ(ຈມຄອງ 48 ້ ູ Mai Vaeng Elaeocarpus stapfianus Gagnepain (LPN) 1 ) 49 ໄມ້ ໍລາໄຍປ� າ Xerospermum lacticum 1 Management III LC 50 ໄມ້ ເຂັ ມຂາວ Pavetta indica 1 51 ໄມ້ ີຕນຕ�ັ ງ Ehretia spp 1 VU 52 ໄມ້ ກະແສນ 1 53 ໄມ້ ຂາມນາ Mai Khamna 1 1 54 ຕົ້ ນໄຮ Tonhai Ficus spp. - especially strangling figs 1 1 55 ໄມ້ ຮາກຢອງ Mai Hakyong 1 1 56 ໄມ້ ຮັ ນນ້ ອຍ Mai Hannoi 1 1 57 ໄມ້ ຂ້ ໜູ Mai Khimou 1 1 58 ໄມ້ ງ້ ວປ� າ Mai Ngewpa Bombax albidum GAGN 1 1 Management III DD 59 ໄມ້ ຈວງຈັ ນ Mai Chuangchan Cinnamomum litsaefolium Nees. 3 3 60 ໄມ້ ີ�ຈໍ�ລ Mai Chilor Heliciopsis terminalis 1 1 61 ໄມ້ ທອງ Mai Thong Erythrina stricta Roxburgh 1 DD

A6-174 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

No. Local Scientific name Qty Diameter (cm) Lao PDR IUCN Red List

name 10-100 100-200 >200 Status Status 62 ໄມ້ ໝາກກອກ Mai Makkok Spondies pinata 7 4 3 63 ໄມ້ ໝາກຫວດ Mai Makhouat Lepisanthes rubiginosa 1 1 64 ໄມ້ ແຫນ Mai Haen Terminalia belerica 2 2 Management I EN 65 ໄມ້ ກະສີ ນ Mai Kasinh 1 1 66 ໄມ້ ກະບູ ນ Mai Kaboun 1 1 67 ໄມ້ ກະພົ ງ Mai Kaphong 1 1 68 ໄມ້ ກະອາມ Mai Kaarm 1 1 69 ໄມ້ ກະເດົ າຊ້ າງ Mai Kadaoxang Melia azedarach 2 2 Management II Alphonsea gaudichaudiana (Baill.) Finet & 70 Mai Kouayhen 2 2 ໄມ້ ກວຍເຫັ ນ Gagnep. 71 ໄມ້ ສະຄຶ ນ Mai Sakeune 1 1 72 ໄມ້ ສະຖານ Mai Sathan 1 1 73 ໄມ້ ສະແລງແຄງ Mai Salaengkhaeng Bridelia stipularis 1 1 VU 74 ໄມ້ ຍາງໂດນ Mai Nhangdon Dipterocarpus spp. 2 1 Management I EN 75 ໄມ້ ີຕນເປັ ດ Mai Teenpet Alstonia rostrata Fischer 2 1 Management III LC 76 ໄມ້ ີຕນຕ�ັ ງ Mai Teentang Ehretia spp 1 1 Management III LC 77 ໄມ້ ທົ ມ Mai Thom Adina cordifolia 1 1 VU 78 ໄມ້ ພ ມານ Mai Phiman Detaportea amata THORELGAGN. 1 1 Management III DD 79 ໄມ້ ມ� ວງປ� າ Mai Mouagpa Mangifera oblongifolia Hook. f. see M. odorata 1 1 Management I LC 80 ໄມ້ ຢອງ Mai Nhong 1 1 81 ໄມ້ ລະໂມງ Mai Lamong 2 2 82 ໄມ້ ຫ້ ວຍຫາງ Mai Houayhang 2 2

A6-175 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

No. Local Scientific name Qty Diameter (cm) Lao PDR IUCN Red List

name 10-100 100-200 >200 Status Status 83 ໄມ້ ຫາງຕະລຸ ງ Mai Hangtaloung 1 1 84 ໄມ້ ໝາກຮໍ ຂົ ມ Mai Hokhom 2 1 1 85 ໄມ້ ໝາກແງວ Mai Makngeow Litchi chinensis 6 6 Management III DD 86 ໄມ້ ເດ � ອປ� ອງ Mai Deuapong Ficus hispida L. F 5 3 2 87 ໄມ້ ເປັ ນແຊ Mai Penxae 2 2 Xylia xylocarpa (Roxburgh) Taubert var. kerrii 88 Mai Deng 2 1 1 ໄມ້ ແດງ (Craib & Hutch.) 89 ໄມ້ ແຫນ Mai Haen Terminalia belerica 4 4 90 ໄມ້ ໄຂ� ທອນ Mai Khaithone 3 3 91 ໄມ້ ກະລາ Mai Kala 1 1 Total 546 391 78 55 0 0

A6-176 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Study Na-Tur Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Summary of tree species classified in list of Lao Government and IUCN

No. Local name Scientific name Lao PDR IUCN Status Redlist Status

1 ກະເດົ າຊ້ າງ Ka Daoxang Melia azedarach Management II 2 ກົ ກດອກແຄ Kok Dorkkhae Markhamia stipulata (Wallich) Seem. ex. K. Schum. Management III DD 3 ຕົ້ ນຕີ ນເປັ ດ Ton Teenpet Alstonia rostrata Fischer Management III LC 4 ກົ ກໝາກແຟນ Kok Makfan Protium serratum (Wallich & Colebr.) Engler Management III LC 5 ໄມ້ ສົ້ ມພອງ Mai Somphor Streblus asper (Retzius) Loureiro (LPN) Management III LC 6 ໄມ້ ຍາງໂດນ Mai Nhangdon Dipterocarpus spp. Management I EN ຕ້ ນໝາກລນໄ 7 ົ ີ Ton Makleenmai Oroxylum indicum LC ມ້ 8 ໄມ້ ກົ້ ນຖ້ ວຍ Mai Konthouay Ardisia crenata (Sims) Little var. Crenata VU 9 ໄມ້ ສະແລ Mai Salae Broussonetia papyrifera LC 10 ໄມ້ ສົ້ ມພໍ Mai Somphor Streblus asper (Retzius) Loureiro (LPN) Management III DD 11 ໄມ້ ີຊ ດນ Mai Sidin Walsura robusta Roxburgh Management I 12 ໄມ້ ຍາງ Mai Nhang Dipterocarpus alatus ROXB EN 13 ກົ ກຍົ ມປ� າ Kok Nhompa Ailanthus triphysa Management I LC 14 ໄມ້ ຕາເສ ອ Mai Tasoua Aphanamyxis polystachya Management III LC 15 ໄມ້ ໍນ້ າກ້ ຽງ Mai Namkieng Gluta usitata Management I DD 16 ໄມ້ ປອບນໍ້ າ Mai Pobnam Trewia nudiflora LC 17 ໄມ້ ປາດົ ງເລ ອດ Mai Padongleurt Dalbergia spp. VU 18 ໄມ້ ໍປ Mai Por Hibiscus macrophyllus Roxburgh ex Hornem. Management III VU 19 ໄມ້ ໝາກກໍ� Mai Makkor Livistona speciosa Management III DD 20 ໄມ້ ໝູ ນ Mai Moon Elaeocarpus stipularis Blume Prohibition I VU

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No. Local name Scientific name Lao PDR IUCN Status Redlist Status

21 ໄມ້ ເປ ອຍ Mai Pouei Lagerstroemia cochinchinensis Management I DD 22 ໄມ້ ແຄນ Mai Khane Zanthoxylum rhetsa DC Management I 23 ໄມ້ ໍລາໄຍປ� າ Xerospermum lacticum Management III LC 24 ໄມ້ ີຕນຕ�ັ ງ Ehretia spp VU 25 ໄມ້ ງ້ ວປ� າ Mai Ngewpa Bombax albidum GAGN Management III DD 26 ໄມ້ ແຫນ Mai Haen Terminalia belerica Management I EN 27 ໄມ້ ກະເດົ າຊ້ າງ Mai Kadaoxang Melia azedarach Management II 28 ໄມ້ ສະແລງແຄງ Mai Salaengkhaeng Bridelia stipularis VU 29 ໄມ້ ຍາງໂດນ Mai Nhangdon Dipterocarpus spp. Management I EN 30 ໄມ້ ີຕນເປັ ດ Mai Teenpet Alstonia rostrata Fischer Management III LC 31 ໄມ້ ີຕນຕ�ັ ງ Mai Teentang Ehretia spp Management III LC 32 ໄມ້ ທົ ມ Mai Thom Adina cordifolia VU 33 ໄມ້ ພ ມານ Mai Phiman Detaportea amata THORELGAGN. Management III DD 34 ໄມ້ ມ� ວງປ� າ Mai Mouagpa Mangifera oblongifolia Hook. f. see M. odorata Management I LC 35 ໄມ້ ໝາກແງວ Mai Makngeow Litchi chinensis Management III DD Total Species summary: Lao Government: Prohibition I (1); Management I (9), Management II (2), Management III (14) IUCN: Least Concern (12), Vulnerable (7), Endangered (4). ❖ Classification of Tree, Lao Government Prohibition Category: They are defined as rare, near extinct, high value and are of special importance in the development of social- economic, environmental, educational, scientific research

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Management Category: They are considered as beneficial in terms of national economic, social, environmental interests, and in addition are important for livelihoods of multi-ethnic people and educational scientific research Common or General Category: They are defined as wildlife and aquatic that are able to reproduce widely Nature, and are very important for social-economic development, and educational scientific research. ❖ IUCN Redlist Status LC – Least Concern; VU – Vulnerable; EN – Endangered; DD – Insufficient Information

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Fauna Observed Within and in the General Area of the Subproject

�ຊພາສາລາວ �ຊ ວທະຍາສາດ ເຂດໂຄງການ ເຂດອ້ ອມຂ້ າງໂຄງການ ບັ ນຊີ ປະເພດສັ ດປ� າທີ� ຫວງຫ້ າມ IUCN

Lao Name Scientific Name Within Project Area Nearby Project Area Classification and Status Red List Status

ໜູ ຫວາຍ Leopodalmys sabanus R1/R2 R1 [found many] - -

ໜູ ທ້ ອງຂາວ Rattus rattus R2 R1 - LC

ກະຮອກ Collosciurus inornatus R2 R1 [found many] - -

ກະແຕ Dremomys gularis R2 R1 - -

ໝູ� ປ� າ Sus scrofa [Occationally seen] R1 List III LC

ຟານ Muntiacus muntjac [Occationally seen] R1 List II -

ເຫງັ ນ Paguma larvata R2 R1 List II LC

ີລງ Macaca spp. R2 R1 List II -

ອົ ້ ນ Rhizomys sumatrensis R2 R1 List II LC

ໄກ� ປ� າ Gallus gallus R2 R1 List III LC

ນົ ກຂວາ Lophura diardi R2 R1 List I LC

ກະທ້ າງ Pysignathus cocincinus R1 R1 List II -

ແລນ Varanus bengalensis R2 R1 List II LC

ູງີສງ Zamenis spp. R2 R1 List III -

ເຕ�ົ ານໍ້ າ Malayemys subtrijuga R2 R1 List II VU

ກົ ບ-ຂຽດ Rana rugulosa R1 [found many] R1 List III LC

*** R = Reports: from interviewing local people R1: Frequently seen, R2: Occasionally seen [ ] = Observation

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❖ Categories of Wildlife and Aquatic of Lao PDR, Agreement no 81/PM- dated 13/8/2008

List I - Prohibition Category: They are defined as rare, near extinct, high value and are of special importance in the development of social- economic, environmental, educational, scientific research List II - Management Category: They are considered as beneficial in terms of national economic, social, environmental interests, and in addition are important for livelihoods of multi ethnic people and educational scientific research List III - Common or General Category: They are defined as wildlife and aquatic that are able to reproduce widely Nature, and are very important for social-economic development, and educational scientific research. ❖ IUCN Red List Status LC – Least Concern; VU – Vulnerable; EN – Endangered; DD – Insufficient Information

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Fish Species Observed Within and in the General Area of the Subproject

IUCN Red List Lao Name Scientific Name Within Project Area Nearby Project Area Classification and Status Status R1 R1 ປາຄໍ� Channa striata - LC R1 R1 ປາກັ້ ງ Channa orientalis - - R1 R1 ປາດຸ ກ Clarias batrachus - LC R1 R1 ປາຂາວ Systomus aurotaeniatus - - R2 R2 ປາປົ ກ Puntius binotatus - LC R2 R2 ປາຈາດ Poropuntius sp. Mgmt III - R1 R1 ປາຫລົ ດ Macrognathus aculeatus - - R1 R1 ປາຫລາດ Mastacembelus armatus - LC R2 R2 ປາໂດ Channa micropeltes Mgmt III LC

R = Reports: from interviewing local people R1: Frequently seen, R2: Occasionally seen [ ] = Observation

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Annex 6.8 Meeting note of consultation meeting about Detail Engineering Design

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Annex 6.8: Meeting note of consultation meeting about Detail Engineering Design

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Annex 6.9 Water Quality Analysis Results

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Annex 6.10 Critical Habitat Screening

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1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Preamble

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has provided financing to the Government of Laos Peoples Democratic Republic (PDR) for irrigation infrastructure improvements. The financing coves a number of sub-projects including one within the south of the country which relates to rehabilitation, upgrading and potential expansion of an irrigation system.

The sub-project considered in this report is referred to as the Na-Tur Improvement Scheme.

An Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) process for the Na-Tur sub-project has been undertaken and a draft IEE Report produced. The draft IEE highlighted a number of protected or designated areas within the general area of the project. Whilst covering biodiversity in a general manner, the draft IEE did not conduct an assessment for Critical Habitat.

The South East Asia Division of the ADB has requested an initial screening study for Critical Habitat within the Area of Influence of the sub-project area. This report sets out the outcomes of the conducted screening and assessment for the proposed subproject. The determination of the presence of Critical Habitat is a fundamental part of ADB Safeguard Policy Statement (Asian Development Bank, 2009).

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2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

2.1 Preamble

The following text provides an overview of the proposed Na-Tur sub-project. This description is provided only for contextual information as the determination of the presence of or potential presence of Critical Habitat is independent of the proposed project, construction SC activities and operational/maintenance features (IFC, 2019).

2.2 Sub- Project Location

The Sub-project is located in towards the south of Laos PDR. The context of the location is presented in Figure 2.1.

Figure 2.1 Contextual Location of Project

Source: Base Map – Google Earth

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2.3 Project Description

The sub-project relates to the rehabilitation of an existing irrigation system and development of an access road. A brief overview of the sub-project scopes is set out below and is referenced from the draft IEE.

The Na-Tur sub-project was originally constructed in 1973-1975. The existing scheme is gravity fed, with a feed pond being created by a constructed weir on the River Xenoy. The irrigation scheme currently previously provided water for 275 Ha but due to deterioration can only provide water for 25 Ha during the dry season. The rehabilitation will enable 500 Ha to be irrigated.

The works involve:

• Re-construction of existing gabion boxes at the headworks; • Improvement of the existing stoplog with a new one to control intake water in the main canal; • Water control structures (177) will be built where appropriate within the canals distribution network; and • Two existing access roads with the total length of 14,075m with 4m wide, will be upgraded from gravel to Double Bituminous Surface Treatment.

2.4 Process

Two related aspects have been screened. The first is the presence of protected or designated areas which may affect the sub-project development and financing and the second the potential presence of Critical Habitat33 based on an initial risk assessment of the presence of Threatened Species (Critically Endangered (CR) and Endangered (EN) species as defined by the IUCN, and to a lesser extent Vulnerable (VU) species).

The process has utilised the International Finance Corporation’s (IFC) recommended approach to identification of Critical Habitat but at a more preliminary screening level. The method is presented as part of the IFC’s Performance Standard No 6 of 2012, within the Guidance Note for the Performance Standard which was last updated in June 2019 (IFC, 2019).

33 Note the use of the term Critical Habitat refers to the definition utilised by ADB in the Safeguard Policy Statement of 2009 and the International Finance Corporation Performance Standard No 6 – Biodiversity.

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2.5 Data Sources

The screening process has involved review of publicly available sources of data relating to protected sites and species conservation status.

The following primary sources of data were utilised:

• Integrated Biodiversity Assessment Tool (IBAT); • The World Database of Key Biodiversity Areas website (WPDA); • Important Bird Areas (Birdlife International); • Ramsar website; • IUCN Red list; • World Conservation Society Report (2020); and • UNEP-WCMC (2017) Global Critical Habitat screening layer.

These were supported by general searches for information and data on the project area. Such sources are quoted within the Bibliography section of the report.

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3 RESULTS

3.1 Protected Areas

3.1.1 International and National Sites

A review of international and national designated sites based on IBAT and WPDA data indicated that there are three designated areas within 30 km of the sub-project area, these are shown in Figure 3.1. Two are national designations, one of which is also an Important Bird Area (IBA) and the other is a Key Biodiversity Area (KBA) designated as an Alliance for Zero Extinction site.

Figure 3.1 Designated Sites

Source: Base Map – Google Earth, Shape files from WDPA

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Hin Nam No This site is nationally designated and was established in 1993. It occupies 862 km2 in area. The northern border of the site is formed by the international border between Laos PDR and Vietnam.

Phou Xang He

Designated in 1993 Phou Xang He is a nationally site covering some 1,150 km2 in area.

3.1.2 Key Biodiversity Areas

There are two key biodiversity areas within 30 m of the sub-project area. Hin Nam No Protected Area is also designated as an IBA, with the boundaries being more or less the same as the national designation.

Xe Banfai River Cave System is an Alliance for Zero Extinction site which is said to support two Critically Endangered species, Glyptostrobus pensilis (Chinese Water Fir) and Schistura tenura, a fish species. According to the IUCN Red List, the latter species may already be extinct.

3.2 Critical Habitat Screening

The base layer from UNEP’s and ADB’s Critical Habitat Screening tool does not show potential Critical Habitat within the immediate project area.

3.3 Potential Critical Habitat Qualifying Species

3.3.1 IFC Process for Critical Habitat Assessment

The screening for Critical Habitat has been conducted based on species which may qualify the habitat as Critical. This has been based on the approach as set out in the 2019 IFC updates to Performance Standard No 6 Guidance note (IFC, 2019). This utilises five criterion to determine if the area under consideration would qualify as Critical Habitat. Three of the criterion (1-3) relate to species and have thresholds which are based on the risk of extinction of species as designated by the IUCN Red List status for each species. Criteria 4 and 5 relate to ecosystems and evolutionary processes and do not utilise thresholds. A summary of the criteria are set out below.

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Criterion 1: Critically Endangered and Endangered Species Species threatened with global extinction and listed as CR and EN on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species shall be considered as part of Criterion 1. Critically Endangered species face an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild. Endangered species face a very high risk of extinction in the wild.

As described in footnote 11 of Performance Standard 6, the inclusion in Criterion 1 of species that are listed nationally/regionally as CR or EN in countries that adhere to IUCN guidance shall be determined on a project-by-project basis in consultation with competent professionals.

Thresholds for Criterion 1 are the following:

(a) Areas that support globally important concentrations of an IUCN Red-listed EN or CR species (≥ 0.5% of the global population AND ≥ 5 reproductive units of a CR or EN species).

(b) Areas that support globally important concentrations of an IUCN Red-listed Vulnerable (VU) species, the loss of which would result in the change of the IUCN Red List status to EN or CR and meet the thresholds.

Criterion 2: Endemic and Restricted Range Species For purposes of this Guidance Note, the term endemic is defined as restricted range. Restricted range refers to a limited extent of occurrence (EOO).

• For terrestrial vertebrates and plants, restricted range species are defined as those species that have an EOO less than 50,000 km2. • For marine systems, restricted range species are provisionally being considered those with an EOO of less than 100,000 km2. • For coastal, riverine, and other aquatic species in habitats that do not exceed 200 km width at any point (for example, rivers), restricted range is defined as having a global range of less than or equal to 500 km linear geographic span (i.e., the distance between occupied locations furthest apart).

The threshold for Criterion 2 is the following:

a) Areas that regularly hold ≥10% of the global population size AND ≥10 reproductive units of a species.

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Criterion 3: Migratory and Congregatory Species Migratory species are defined as any species of which a significant proportion of its members cyclically and predictably move from one geographical area to another (including within the same ecosystem).

Congregatory species are defined as species whose individuals gather in large groups on a cyclical or otherwise regular and/or predictable basis. Examples include the following:

• Species that form colonies. • Species that form colonies for breeding purposes and/or where large numbers of individuals of a species gather at the same time for non-breeding purposes (for example, foraging and roosting). • Species that utilise a bottleneck site where significant numbers of individuals of a species occur in a concentrated period of time (for example, for migration). • Species with large but clumped distributions where a large number of individuals may be concentrated in a single or a few sites while the rest of the species is largely dispersed (for example, wildebeest distributions). • Source populations where certain sites hold populations of species that make an inordinate contribution to recruitment of the species elsewhere (especially important for marine species).

Thresholds for Criterion 3 are the following:

(a) Areas known to sustain, on a cyclical or otherwise regular basis, ≥ 1 percent of the global population of a migratory or congregatory species at any point of the species’ lifecycle.

(b) Areas that predictably support ≥10 percent of the global population of a species during periods of environmental stress.

Criterion 4: Highly Threatened or Unique Ecosystems The IUCN is developing a Red List of Ecosystems, following an approach similar to the Red List for Threatened Species. The client should use the Red List of Ecosystems where formal IUCN assessments have been performed. Where formal IUCN assessments have not been performed, the client may use assessments using systematic methods at the national/regional level, carried out by governmental bodies, recognised academic institutions and/or other relevant qualified organizations (including internationally recognised Non-Government Organizations (NGOs)).

The thresholds for Criterion 4 are the following:

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a) Areas representing ≥5% of the global extent of an ecosystem type meeting the criteria for IUCN status of CR or EN.

b) Other areas not yet assessed by IUCN but determined to be of high priority for conservation by regional or national systematic conservation planning.

Criterion 5: Key Evolutionary Processes The structural attributes of a region, such as its topography, geology, soil, temperature, and vegetation, and combinations of these variables, can influence the evolutionary processes that give rise to regional configurations of species and ecological properties. In some cases, spatial features that are unique or idiosyncratic of the landscape have been associated with genetically unique populations or subpopulations of plant and animal species. Physical or spatial features have been described as surrogates or spatial catalysts for evolutionary and ecological processes, and such features are often associated with species diversification. Maintaining these key evolutionary processes inherent in a landscape as well as the resulting species (or subpopulations of species) has become a major focus of biodiversity conservation in recent decades, particularly the conservation of genetic diversity. By conserving species diversity within a landscape, the processes that drive speciation, as well as the genetic diversity within species, ensures the evolutionary flexibility in a system, which is especially important in a rapidly changing climate.

For illustrative purposes, some potential examples of spatial features associated with evolutionary processes are as follows:

• Landscapes with high spatial heterogeneity are a driving force in speciation, as species are naturally selected based on their ability to adapt and diversify. • Environmental gradients, also known as ecotones, produce transitional habitat, which has been associated with the process of speciation and high species and genetic diversity. • Edaphic interfaces are specific juxtapositions of soil types (for example, serpentine outcrops, limestone, and gypsum deposits), which have led to the formation of unique plant communities characterized by both rarity and endemism. • Connectivity between habitats (for example, biological corridors) ensures species migration and gene flow, which is especially important in fragmented habitats and for the conservation of metapopulations. This also includes biological corridors across altitudinal and climatic gradients and from “crest to coast.” • Sites of demonstrated importance to climate change adaptation for either species or ecosystems are also included within this criterion.

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3.3.2 Area of Analysis

The IFC Approach to Critical Habitat Assessment requires the establishment of an Area of Analysis (AoA) to be determined for the assessment.

As set out in the IFC Guidance on Critical Habitat Assessment, the AoA will be based on the general location of the project but the selected AoA should not reflect the projects potential impacts or risks. The AoA is not synonymous with the projects Area of Influence. The guidance suggests selecting boundaries which represent ecological units and/or are physical features within the landscape such as roads or rivers.

For the current project, the main issue identified is the effect on the waters of the Xenoy River and also a possible connection between the Sub-Project location and the designated area, Phou Xang He which lies some 17 km to the south west of the subproject area. The draft IEE reported potential movement of fish from the protected area towards the subproject site. On this basis the Area of Analysis has been chosen to reflect the habitats of the Xenoy River upstream and downstream of the head waters abstraction location.

For fresh water ecosystems, establishing firm boundaries for an AoA is difficult, as there is connectivity across the river basins and flood plain areas. For the purposes of this study an IBAT Freshwater Search was conducted using the following parameters for IBAT.

• Upstream: 5 km | 10 km | 15 km’; • Downstream: -1 km | -5 km | -25 km.

It is considered that this AoA encompasses the main habitats and ecosystem services which may be affected by the project development.

3.3.3 Results Criteria 1 - 3 – IBAT Species Output

Based on an IBAT search for species, a long list of Threatened Species; Critically Endangered (CR), Endangered (EN) and Vulnerable (VU) have been identified as potentially present in the AoA. The screening has used an initial buffer of 50 km from the project area.

The long list of CR, EN and VU species which may be present is shown in Table 3-1. This shows a total of 51 Threatened Species as set out in the IUCN Global Red List of which there are 7 CR species, 11 EN species and the remaining 33 species are classed as Vulnerable to extinction.

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Table 3-1 Long List of Species Based on IBAT Freshwater Search

Scientific Name Common Name IUCN Status 1 Aaptosyax grypus Mekong Giant Salmon Carp CR 2 Pangasianodon gigas Mekong Giant Catfish CR 3 Pangasius sanitwongsei Giant Pangasius CR 4 Probarbus jullieni Jullien's Golden Carp CR 5 Catlocarpio siamensis Giant Carp CR 6 Datnioides pulcher Siamese Tiger Perch CR 7 Pristis pristis Largetooth Sawfish CR 8 Laubuka caeruleostigmata Flying Minnow EN 9 Cuora amboinensis Southeast Asian Box Turtle EN 10 Heosemys annandalii Yellow-headed Temple Turtle EN 11 Pelochelys cantorii Asian Giant Softshell Turtle EN 12 Platysternon megacephalum Big-headed Turtle EN 13 Probarbus labeamajor Thicklipped Barb EN 14 Hemitrygon laosensis Mekong Freshwater Stingray EN 15 Fluvitrygon oxyrhyncha Longnose Marbled Whipray EN 16 Pangasianodon Striped Catfish EN hypophthalmus 17 Schistura bairdi EN 18 Urogymnus polylepis EN 19 Amyda cartilaginea Asiatic Softshell Turtle VU 20 Heosemys grandis Giant Asian Pond Turtle VU 21 Tenualosa thibaudeaui Mekong herring VU 22 Malayemys subtrijuga Mekong Snail-eating Turtle VU 23 Siebenrockiella crassicollis Black Marsh Turtle VU 24 Mekhongthelphusa tetragona VU 25 Bayadera hyalina VU 26 Wallago attu VU 27 Euthygomphus parvus VU 28 Osphronemus exodon Elephant Ear Gourami VU 29 Oxygaster pointoni VU 30 Epalzeorhynchos munense Red Fin Shark VU 31 Datnioides undecimradiatus VU 32 Scaphognathops VU bandanensis 33 Bangana behri VU 34 Cirrhinus microlepis Small Scaled Mud Carp VU 35 Labeo pierrei VU 36 Hypsibarbus lagleri VU 37 Pangasius krempfi VU 38 Pachydrobia levayi VU 39 Hubendickia pellucida VU 40 Yasuhikotakia nigrolineata Black-Lined Loach VU 41 Pachydrobia bertini VU 42 Lacunopsis minutarpiettei VU

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Scientific Name Common Name IUCN Status 43 Stenothyra decollata VU 44 Jullienia minima VU 45 Lacunopsis deiecta VU 46 Stenothyra laotiensis VU 47 Tricula conica VU 48 Jullienia albaobscura VU 49 Paraprososthenia lynnei VU 50 Jullienia costata VU 51 Lacunopsis globosa VU

IFC PS No 6 approach focuses initially on CR and EN for Criterion No 1 and these have been reviewed using IUCN distribution maps, other literature and likely habitat requirements.

A summary of the screening of the CR and EN species is presented in Table 3-2. This provides a note on each species and then an initial assessment of that species likelihood of qualifying the AoA as Critical Habitat based on Criteria 1-3.

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Table 3-2 Summary of IBAT CR and EN Species and Potential as Critical Habitat Qualifying Species (Criteria 1 – 3)

Common IUCN Scientific Name Notes 1 2 3 Qualifying Species? name Status Aaptosyax Mekong Giant CR A Mekong River species. grypus Salmon Carp IUCN mapping suggests that it is not present within AoA.. Poulsen et al (2004)suggest that this is a migratory species, X X X No restricted to the middle reaches of the Mekong Delta which lies to the west of the AoA (Poulsen, et al., 2004). Pangasianodon Mekong Giant CR IUCN mapping suggests gigas Catfish that this species is not found within the AoA. A species said to be restricted to the Mekong River and main tributaries but much reduced in distribution. A WWF report (2012) suggests that it is X X X No present in Laos but in limited areas. This species migrates considerable distances for spawning although relatively little is known about these movements and spawning locations. Pangasius Giant CR A Mekong River species. sanitwongsei Pangasius IUCN mapping shows that this species may be present within the Xenoy Rive but Poulsen et al X X X No (Ibid) indicate that this species is found only in the main channel of the Mekong River. Probarbus Jullien's CR IUCN mapping and jullieni Golden Carp Poulsen et al (ibid) show that the distribution of this X X X No species does not include the AoA. Catlocarpio Giant Carp CR While this species may siamensis be present within the Xenoy River of the AoA around the sub-project headwaters, it is unlikely to fulfil the IUCN mapping shows this requirements of Criteria species having a 1, particularly having ? X X distribution including the greater than 0.5% of AoA. Poulsen et al (Ibid) the worlds population also report this species present. The species is distribution may include unlikely to breed within the AoA. Spawning the AoA. Therefore this grounds are unknown but species is not thought to include areas considered to qualify around deeper pools. the AoA as CH. Datnioides Siamese Tiger CR A species of floodplains X X X No pulcher Perch and river systems. IUCN

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Common IUCN Scientific Name Notes 1 2 3 Qualifying Species? name Status mapping does not show that this species is present within the AoA.. Pristis pristis Largetooth CR A marine/freshwater Sawfish species which IUCN mapping shows distribution does not X X X No include the AoA. Found to the east along the Vietnamese coast. Laubuka Flying Minnow EN As this species is caeruleostigmata widespread across Thailand, Cambodia and Laos PDR, the AoA is unlikely to fulfil ? X X Criterion 1 for greater than 0.5% of the worlds Mekong River basin population. Species species, potentially may however be present within AoA. present within AoA. Cuora Southeast EN IUCN mapping indicates amboinensis Asian Box that the distribution of this Turtle species is along the X X X No Mekong River and surrounding land but not extending to the AoA. Heosemys Yellow- EN IUCN do not list Laos annandalii headed within the geographical Temple Turtle distribution of this species, although it is recorded from surrounding countries, including X X X No Vietnam, Thailand and Cambodia. Other information does list this species as present in Laos. A species ith fragmented distribution. Pelochelys Asian Giant EN IUCN Red List does not cantorii Softshell provide mapping for this Turtle species. Das indicates that the distribution may X X X No include areas to the east of the AoA, within Vietnam (Das, 2008). Platysternon Big-headed EN Distribution unknown, megacephalum Turtle IUCN Red List provides no X X X No mapping. Probarbus Thicklipped EN A Mekong endemic labeamajor Barb species, IUCN Red List mapping shows the species present to the X X X No west of the AoA, associated with the Mekong River. Hemitrygon Mekong EN No – the species has a laosensis Freshwater wide distribution across Stingray Laos PDR and into Potentially present in the ? X X Cambodia along the AoA according to Rd List Mekong River. It is mapping. This species is unlikely that Criterion 1 a full migrant. is met.

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Common IUCN Scientific Name Notes 1 2 3 Qualifying Species? name Status Fluvitrygon Longnose EN IUCN Red List mapping oxyrhyncha Marbled suggests that this species X X X No Whipray is not present in the AoA. Pangasianodon Striped EN IUCN mapping shows this hypophthalmus Catfish species as potentially present in the AoA. However, Poulsen et al X X X No (Ibid) suggest that it is not present within the AoA. this species is known to be a long distance migrant. Schistura bairdi EN IUCN Red List mapping suggests that this species X X X No is not present in the AoA., or in Laos. Urogymnus EN IUCN Red List mapping polylepis indicates that in Laos PDR, this species is found within the main Mekong X X X No River channel which lies distant to the west of the AoA.

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3.4 Vulnerable Species

For the Vulnerable species identified through the IBAT search, a review of these indicates that none would reach the threshold for Criterion 1, namely loss of a population which would push the IUCN status from VU to either CR or EN.

3.5 Protected Areas

ADB SPS states that designated or proposed designation at an international level should be considered as Critical Habitat. There are no such sites within the AoA.

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4 ADB SPS NATURAL AND CRITICAL HABITAT REQUIREMENTS

4.1 Preamble

ADB’s SPS requires that a number of tests are met by projects intending to develop in an area which is Critical Habitat. Additionally, SPS requires measures to be taken if projects take place in Natural Habitat.

These requirements and how the current sub-projects can meet them are set out in the following sections. The text does not represent a full impact assessment process and is based on first principles and existing knowledge of the project activities and receiving environment. Any update of the project IEE’s, should conduct a full assessment of the risks to species and habitats.

4.2 Natural Habitats

ADB SPS states:

In an area of natural habitats, there must be no significant conversion or degradation, unless (i) alternatives are not available, (ii) the overall benefits from the project substantially outweigh the environmental costs, and (iii) any conversion or degradation is appropriately mitigated. For the current project the rehabilitation is required of existing facilities. There is therefore no viable alternative in terms of location of the project. Much of the area will already be irrigated and so there is limited risk to natural habitats within the direct project footprint. A do-nothing scenario would affect livelihoods of local farmers and villagers who will benefit from the two sub-projects.

Providing identified risks and environmental effects are appropriately mitigated, managed and monitored, it is considered that the benefits of the project in terms of livelihoods outweigh the environmental costs.

The project IEE has set out the requirements for mitigating possible degradation or conversion of the natural habitat. Future monitoring and offsetting measures should be developed to ensure that these mitigation measures are implemented and effective.

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4.3 Critical Habitat

SPS states that projects should not be implemented in areas of Critical Habitat unless

(i) there are no measurable adverse impacts on the critical habitat that could impair its ability to function, (ii) there is no reduction in the population of any recognized endangered or critically endangered species, and (iii) any lesser impacts are mitigated. The sub-projects represent a risk to a number of species associated within the fresh water ecosystem of the area but not Critical Habitat.

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5 CONCLUSIONS

5.1 Presence of Critical Habitat

Based on this initial screening work, there are no species or protected areas which would qualify the area as Critical Habitat in relation to the freshwater habitats of the site.

5.2 Presence of Important Species

Three species were identified as potentially present within the AoA. These being Laubuka caeruleostigmata (EN), Hemitrygon laosensis (EN), and Catlocarpio siamensis (CR).

Additional work as set out below is recommended to determine if these species are present within the AoA. Consultations with local fishermen should be included within this work.

5.3 Further Work

This report presents the findings of a rapid screening for Critical Habitat. Additional review and consultation with international and local specialists for the species highlighted in this report is recommended to further refine this reports findings.

Ideally, additional field work would be conducted on target species. The current Coronavirus pandemic and restrictions on travel and access may make this impossible.

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6 REFERENCES

Asian Development Bank, 2009. Safeguard Policy Statement, s.l.: s.n. Das, I., 2008. Pelochelys cantorii Gray 1864 - Asian Giant Siftshell turtle. In: Chelolian Resaerch Monographs No 5. s.l.:Chelolian Research Foundation. IFC, 2019. Guidance Notes: Performance Standard No.6: Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Management of Living Natural Resources, s.l.: International Finance Corporation. Poulsen, A. F. et al., 2004. Distribution and Ecology of Some Important Riverine Fish Species of the Mekong River Basin, s.l.: Mekong River Commission.

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