Facility Administration Manual
Project Number: 42145 MFF Number: 0035 Updated as of 2 November 2011
Loan Numbers: Loan 2561-ARM (Project 1) Loan 2729-ARM (Project 2)
Republic of Armenia: Multitranche Financing Facility for the North–South Road Corridor Development Program
Important No te: This Facility administration manual is an active document. It will be updated and revised progressively as and when necessary during each review mission and following any changes in project investment costs, scope, or implementation arrangements. The contents herein are intended to assist and facilitate project management and implementation. If there is any conflict with any other legal agreement(s) related to this Investment program, the provision(s) in the legal agreement(s) will prevail. TABLE OF CONTENTS I. INTRODUCTION ...... 4
II. PURPOSE ...... 4
III. KEY PERSONS INVOLVED IN THE PROGRAM ...... 4
IV. PROCESSING HISTORY ...... 6
V. SPONSORS, STAKEHOLDERS, & EXTERNAL AGENCIES ...... 6 A. Sponsors B. Stakeholders C. External Agencies/International Financial Institutions (IFI)
VI. IMPACT, OUTCOMES, AND OUTPUTS ...... 6 A. Impact B. Outcomes C. Outputs
VII. IMPLEMENTATION ARRANGEMENTS ...... 7 A. Executing and Implementing Agencies B. Responsibility Allocation by Activity
VIII. IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE ...... 10 A. Implementation Schedule for Project 1 B. Implementation Schedule for Project 2
IX. COST ESTIMATES AND FINANCING PLAN DURING IMPLEMENTATION ..... 10 A. Cost Estimates Project 1 B. Cost Estimates Project 2 C. Allocation and Withdrawal of Loan Proceeds for Project 1 D. Allocation and Withdrawal of Loan Proceeds for Project 2
X. DISBURSEMENT PROCEDURES ...... 12
XI. CONSULTANT RECRUITMENT ...... 12
XII. PROCUREMENT ...... 12
XIII. PROJECT MONITORING AND EVALUATION ...... 13 A. Performance Indicators for Project 1 (as per Loan appraisal) B. Performance Indicators for Project 2 (as per Loan appraisal)
XIV. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS ...... 13
XV. AUDITING REQUIREMENTS ...... 14
XVI. MAJOR LOAN COVENANTS ...... 14
XVII. ANTICORRUPTION ...... 18
Abbreviations
ADB – Asian Development Bank DMF – design and monitoring framework EA – executing agency EARF – environmental Assessment and Review Framework EIA – environmental impact assessment EMP – environmental management plan FAM – facility administration manual FFA – framework financing agreement HIV/AIDS – human immunodeficiency virus/ acquired immunodeficiency syndrome IA – implementing agency IEE – initial environmental examination IFI – International Financial Institutions km – kilometer LARF – land acquisition and resettlement framework LARP – land acquisition and resettlement plan LIBOR – London interbank offered rate MFF – multitranche financing facility MOE – Ministry of Economy MOF – Ministry of Finance MOTC – Ministry of Transport and Communications MPW – Ministry of Public Works PFR – periodic financing report PMC – Project Management Consultant (PMC) PCMS – project communication management system PMO – Project Management Office PMU – project management unit PPMS – project performance monitoring system QCBS – quality- and cost based selection RRP – report and recommendation of the President to the Board RSA – Post-construction Road Safety Audit
I. INTRODUCTION
1. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) approved the $500 million Multitranche Financing Facility (MFF) for the North–South Road Corridor Development Program on 8 September 2009 to finance the improvement of the 550-kilometer (km) road corridor, modernize border, and customs infrastructure and facilities, and implement the road subsector strategy in Armenia. Per original plan, Tranche 1 Project will reconstruct an 18.4 km four-lane section of the Yerevan– Ashtarak road and improve road safety at Yerevan–Ararat road. The tranche 2 project will reconstruct and widen the 41.3 km, Ashtarak–Talin Section from two-lane to four-lane standard. The subsequent tranches are expected to include the upgrade and and/or rehabilitation of the remaining parts of the north–south road corridor. All other projects/subprojects to be included in the MFF will follow the agreed selection criteria.
2. ADB approved the Tranche 1 Project on 6 October 2009 for $60 million with project completion by 31 December 2013. As of November 2011, project 1 progress stands at 25% against the elapsed loan period of 44%.
3. ADB received the second Periodic Financing Request (PFR) for the Tranche 2 Project on 6 December 2010 in the amount of $170 million, and was approved by ADB on 21 December 2010, and became effective on 18 July 2011. Tranche 2 project will be implemented over 4 years, to be completed by 31 December 2014. All other projects/subprojects to be included in the MFF will follow the agreed selection criteria. As of November 2011, project 2 progress stands at 15% against the elapsed loan period of 20%.
II. PURPOSE
4. This Facility Administration Manual (FAM) focuses on the essentials for implementing the MFF and the second tranche project and will be updated as needed to reflect the implementation arrangements under the succeeding tranches. This FAM contains data and information that allows the Borrower, the executing agency, the implementing agency, and ADB to monitor project implementation and evaluate project impact.
III. KEY PERSONS INVOLVED IN THE PROGRAM
5. The department responsible for the implementation of the Project is the Central and West Asia Department (CWRD), represented by the Transport and Communications Division (CWTC). CWTC has the overall responsibility for implementing the project in ADB.
ADB Staff Transport & Communications Division Mr. Hong Wang (CWTC) Director, CWTC Central and West Asia Tel No. (632) 632 6765 / Email: [email protected] Department (CWRD) Mr. Arto Ahonen Transport Specialist / Project Officer Tel No. (632) 632 6716 / Email: [email protected]
Ms. Celia Africa Project Analyst, CWTC Tel No. (632) 632 6399 / Email: [email protected]
Ms. Anna Liza Silverio Operations Assistant Tel (632) 632-6716 / Email: [email protected]
Mr. L. Blanchetti-Revelli Sr. Social Development Specialist (Resettlement), CWOC Tel No. (632) 632 6231/ Email: [email protected]
Ms. Zehra Abbas Environment Specialist, CWOD-PSS Tel No. (632) 632 1761 / Email: [email protected]
Mr. Areg Barseghyan, AARM Sr. Country Coordination Officer, Armenia Resident Mission Tel No. (374 10) 546371(2,3,4) / Email: [email protected]
Ms. Gohar Mousaelyan Sr. Project Officer, Armenia Resident Mission Tel No. (374 10) 546371(2,3,4) / Email: [email protected]
Office of the General Counsel Mr. Baurzhan Konysbayev, Senior Counsel Tel No. (632) 632 4907 / Email: [email protected]
Controller's Department Mr. Viliami Sefesi, Financial Control Specialist, CTLA2 Loan Administration Division Tel No. (632) 632 6934 / Email: [email protected] (CTLA-2) Central Operations Services Office Mr. Amr Qari Consulting Operations Services Division 1 Procurement Specialist (COS1) Tel No. (632) 632 6462 / Email: [email protected]
Address: Asian Development Bank No. 6 ADB Avenue, Mandaluyong City 1550 Metro Manila P.O. Box 789 0980 Manila, Philippines
Facsimile (CWTC): (632) 636 2428 Website Address: http://www.adb.org
Executing/Implementing Agency Ministry of Transport and Communications Mr. Manouk Vardanyan Yerevan, Republic of Armenia Minister
Fax No: +374 10 524282 Mr. Hrant Beglaryan First Deputy Minister
Mr. Gagik Grigoryan Head, Foreign Relation Department
Project Management Unit Mr. Karen Badalyan, Acting PMU Head Ministry of Transport & Communications Phone/Fax/Email: +374 10 590147/526577 IV. PROCESSI NG HISTORY
MFF 0035 Project 1 (L2561) Project 2 (L2729) Approval of PPTA 12 December 2008 - - TA Completion 5 April 2010 - - Fact-Finding Mission/ 3–30 July 2009 3–30 July 2009 13-20 Sep 2010; Consultation Missions 25 Oct–4 Nov 2010 Management Review Meeting 19 August 2009 19 August 2009 Loan Negotiations - 31 Aug–1 Sep 2009 13–16 Dec 2010 Board/Management Approval 29 September 2009 6 October 2009 21 Dec 2010 Loan Agreement Signing 12 October 2009 12 October 2009 30 May 2011 Loan Effectiveness - 24 February 2010 18 July 2011
V. SPONSORS, STAKEHOLDERS, AND EXTERNAL AGENCIES
A. Sponsors (i) Ministry of Economy (MOE) (ii) Ministry of Finance (MOF) (iii) Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) (iv) Asian Development Bank (ADB)
B. Stakeholders (i) Project Governing Council (ii) local self-government bodies (iii) transport and trade unions, freight forwarders, road users, affected people.
C. External Agencies/International Financial Institutions (IFI): (i) Japan International Cooperation Agency (ii) European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (iii) European Investment Bank (iv) World Bank (v) USAID
VI. IMPACT, OUTCOMES, AND OUTPUTS
A. Impact Project 1 and 2 of the investment program will contribute to socioeconomic development in Armenia and expanded regional trade.
B. Outcomes Efficient, safe, and sustainable north–south road corridor, linking Armenia domestically and internationally.
C. Outputs a. Project 1 output will be reconstructed 18.4 km four-lane section of the Yerevan– Ashtarak road and improved road safety for the Yerevan–Ararat road,
b. Project 2 output will be reconstructed and widened approximately 41.3km two- lane road between towns of Ashtarak and Talin into four-lane road
VII. IMPLEMENTATION ARRANGEMENTS
A. Executing and Implementing Agencies
6. MOTC will be the EA and will implement Projects 1 and 2 in accordance with the principles set forth in Schedule 1 to the FFA and the respective Loan Agreements for Project 1 and Project 2. For day-to-day activities like coordination, implementation of the Project 1 and Project 2 the North–South Road Corridor Investment Program Project Management Unit (PMU) State Non-Commercial Organization, established under MOTC serves as the implementing agency (IA) until the Project Management Consultant (PMC) financed under Tranche 2 Loan has been recruited. The Tranche 1 loan of the Investment Program will finance the PMU operations until the completion of Project 1. After completion of Project 1, the PMU operations will be financed by the government. Once the PMC has been recruited it will manage implementation of Project 1 and Project 2 on behalf of MOTC. The PMC will carry out the services in liaison with the MOTC and ADB. The MOTC will appoint a Project Director who will coordinate the implementation of the Project on behalf of MOTC.
7. The Project Director will be a qualified staff of MOTC with experience in project management. The PMC will introduce a suitable management information system to manage the Project. The PMC will prepare quarterly progress reports and will submit them to MOTC and ADB within 2 weeks from the end of the related quarter. The PMC will also submit other required performance and monitoring reports twice a year. Overall progress and compliance with conditions of the loan agreement will be monitored regularly with periodic reports to MOTC and ADB, consistent with existing project implementation requirements. Reports will include evaluation of issues and will recommend remedial actions. MOTC will recruit external individual consultants to audit a random sampling of documents issued or approved by the PMC.8. The PMC will maintain records and carry out the day-to-day coordination, monitoring and supervision of the Project, including the preparation of regular progress reports. The PMC will assist MOTC in the procurement of contracts in respect to the civil works for Project 1 and Project 2 of the MFF ensuring that procurement is carried out in compliance with ADB's Procurement Guidelines . The PMC will set up and operate an internet based multi-language tender platform on base of a project communication management system (PCMS). As applicable to the timing of the consultancy services contract, the PMC will update the bidding documents as necessary, acceptable for MOTC and ADB. The PMC will handle all contractual arrangements, including any revisions requested by contractors, ADB, and/or MOTC, to ensure quality and adherence to ADB’s rules and procedures. In case of any loan covenants and MFF undertakings the PMC will prepare assurance certifications and submit them to MOTC and ADB for approval. The PMC will ensure compliance with the contract conditions, payment terms, variations, dispute resolution, and monitoring, etc. The PMC will maintain all records relating to procurement, maintain a separate record relating to complaints and their redressing, and periodically update the procurement plan in agreement with MOTC and ADB to reflect the actual project implementation needs and improvements in institutional capacity. The PMC will also assist the MOTC and the ADB Mission during ADB project review missions. The PMC will organize trainings for the MOTC and other concerned authorities’ staff, according to the schedule to be agreed with MOTC and ADB.
8. The PMC will ensure financial management procedures are in place and are strictly followed, specifically relating to payments, financial accounting, financial reporting and record keeping. The PMC will carry out all financial management and administration under the Project, including review justifications provided for any variation orders proposed and submitted by the contractors, review withdrawal applications, maintain project accounts, prepare financial statements and submit them to MOTC and ADB for approval. 9. The PMC will monitor and report to MOTC and ADB the performance of the Project and ensure compliance with all social and environmental requirements and the requirements of design solutions. The PMC will develop a project performance monitoring system (PPMS), including a web-based PPMS, based on the design and monitoring framework (DMF) of Projects 1 (L2561-ARM) and 2 (L2729-ARM) of the MFF (refer to project and loan documents) according to ADB's Project Performance Management System (PPMS) Handbook, and operate and maintain the system providing full access to the system to MOTC. The PPMS will include key poverty and socioeconomic indicators and compliance with project assurances. The PPMS will monitor (i) performance targets set in the DMF through implementation; (ii) compliance with social and environmental safeguards as recommended in the Environment Assessment Review Framework (EARF), Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) for Project 1 of the MFF, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for Project 2 of the MFF, Environmental Management Plan, Land Acquisition and Review Framework (LARF), and Land Acquisition and Resettlement Plan (LARP) for Project 2 of the MFF (refer to project and loan documents for Projects 1 and 2 of the MFF); other socioeconomic impact assessments including poverty impact. The PMC will ensure that all ADB policies and procedures on safeguards are followed throughout the implementation period. The PPMS will need to be approved by MOTC and ADB, and coordinated with ADB PPMS system. The PMC's responsibilities will be:
(i) Develop and implement an overall monitoring plan of the Project; (ii) Develop a consolidated construction program, showing the critical path of the overall implementation program. Any actions required Government actions that have potential implication in implementation should be attended timely and properly. Update overall Project planning accordingly; (iii) Review DMF performance targets, update and complement them with poverty and socioeconomic indicators, in agreement with MOTC and ADB; (iv) Compile baseline data for all performance targets and indicators as early as possible, but no later than first quarter of the construction mobilization; (v) Measure and report to MOTC and ADB progress of achieving the DMF performance targets at the MFF Project 1 and Project 2 midterm and completion stages; (vi) Monitor and report to MOTC and ADB socioeconomic impacts on beneficiaries through selective household surveys and participatory research methods; (vii) Monitor and report to MOTC and ADB compliance of the MFF Project 1 and Project 2 with the provisions preventing discrimination in employment, enforcing gender equality, and reducing risks of spread of communicable deceases; preventing human trafficking, and ensure that such requirements are included in the bid and contract documents; (viii) Monitor and report to MOTC and ADB compliance with MFF Project 1 and Project 2 assurances (refer to project and loan documents), including compliance with all environmental and social safeguards; (ix) Conduct training to build MOTC's capacity on performing impact assessments; (x) Ensure that the construction methods proposed by the contractor for carrying out the works are satisfactory, with particular reference to the technical requirements of sound environmental standards on the basis of ADB's Environmental Guidelines for Selected Infrastructure Development Proje ct (Highways &Roads) and the IEE, EIA and EMP prepared for the MFF Project 1 and Project 2; (xi) Assess the current procurement and financial management capacity of MOTC and prepare, in consultation with MOTC and ADB, an appropriate training program based on the results of the assessment. Conduct training. (xii) Document results in quarterly progress reports.
10. The PMC will report implementation progress of the Project to MOTC and ADB through quarterly and monthly progress reports. The quarterly progress reports should include project implementation status, major issues, and proposed corrective actions. The PMC will familiarize itself with all design and due diligence documents prepared for the MFF Project 1 and Project 2, covering all standard areas linked to project technical, financial, legal, economic, environmental, social, governance, fiduciary oversight, management, and institutional matters, ensure that all project related due diligence information is accurate and up-to-date, and present any updates to MOTC and ADB for approval as necessary.
11. The PMC will carry out all construction supervision activities for civil works for the Project, comprising upgrading and widening of the existing M1 Ashtarak to Talin road from two-lane single carriageway to four-lane dual carriageway road from Km 29+600 to Km 71+500. (Section 1), improvements of road safety measures of the existing M2 Yerevan to Ararat four-lane road from Km 9+312 to Km 47+ 400 (Section2) and rehabilitation of the existing M1 Yerevan to Ashtarak road from Km 18+370 to Km 29+773 (Section 3) in compliance with the requirements of international standards and best practices for highway construction.
B. Responsibility Allocation by Activity
Activities Responsible Parties EA PD CON CNT ADB 1. Establish Project Management Unit (PMU) or the Project Directorate (PD) Set up PMU/PD office 9 9* Recruit PMU/PD office staff 9 9* Procure office equipment and materials 9 9* 2. Prepare & Review Detailed Design & Bid Documents Engage Detailed Design Consultants 9* 9 Complete detailed design 9 9 9* 9 3. PMC Recruit PMC 9* 9 Day to day coordination, management, monitoring 9 9 9* 9 and technical supervision of Project1and Project 2 4. Civil Works Procurement Prepare Bid Documents 9 9 9* 9 Civil Works Procurement 9* 9 9 9 Civil Works Implementation 9 9 9 9* 9 5. Project Management and Administration Project Administration 9* 9 9 9 Construction Supervision 9 9 9* 9 Project Performance Monitoring 9 9 9* 9 Withdrawal and Disbursement 9 9 9* 9 Accounting and Auditing 9* 9* 9 9 Review of Covenant Compliance 9 9 9* 9* Midterm Review 9 9 9 9* Project Completion 9* 9 9 9 Loan Account Closing 9 9* ADB=Asian Development Bank, CNT=Contractors, CON=Consultants, CSRN=consulting services recruitment notice, EA=Executing Agency, EOI=expression of interest, RFP=request for proposals. * with primary responsibility VIII. IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE
A. Implementation Schedule for Project 1 Activity Target Date Field Supervision Consultants - Post CSRN 21 April 2010 - Evaluate EOIs and Shortlist* 25 Jun 2010 - Issue RFP 6 July 2010 - Evaluate technical & financial proposals 8 September 2010 - Negotiate/award contract 25 September 2010 - Mobilize consultants 5 October 2010 Mobilize Civil Works - Issue bidding documents 19 August 2011 - Evaluate bids November 2011 - Negotiate/award contract December 2011 Completion of construction By end-2013 *The EA delegated the selection of construction supervision consultants to ADB, with contract negotiations undertaken by the EA.
B. Implementation Schedule for Project 2 Activity Target Date Field Project Management Consultant (PMC) - Post CSRN 26 May 2011 - Evaluate EOIs and Shortlist* 28 September 2011 - Issue RFP 11 October 2011 - Evaluate technical & financial proposals By 15 December 2011 - Negotiate/award contract January 2011 - Mobilize consultants February 2011 Mobilize Civil Works - Issue bidding documents 19 August 2011 - Evaluate bids November 2011 - Negotiate/award contract December 2011 Completion of construction By end-2014
IX. COST ESTIMATES AND FINANCING PLAN DURING IMPLEMENTATION
A. Cost Estimates Project 1
Item Cos t Finance By ($ million) ADB Government A. Base Cost 1. Civil Works 38.0 38.0 0.0 2. Project Management and Institutional Support 7.0 7.0 0.0 3. Taxes and Duties 10.0 0.0 10.0 Subtotal (A) 55.0 45.0 10.0
B. Con tingencies 13.0 13.0 0.0 C. Interest During Construction 2.0 2.0 0.0 Total 70.0 60.0 10.0
B. Cost Estimates Project 2
Item Cost Financed By ($ million) ADB Government A. Bas e Cost 1. Land Acquisition and Resettlement 5.0 0.0 5.0 2. Civil Works 124.0 124.0 0.0 3. Consulting Services 7.0 7.0 0.0 4. Taxes and Duties 27.0 0.0 27.0 Subtotal 163.0 131.0 32.0 B. Con tingencies 37.0 29.0 8.0 C. Financing Charges during Construction 10.0 10.0 0.0 Total 210.0 170.0 40.0 Notes: 1. The government has requested a loan of $170 million from ADB’s ordinary capital resources to help finance Project 2. The loan will have a 24-year term, including a grace period of 4 years, an annual interest rate determined in accordance with ADB’s London interbank offered rate (LIBOR)-based lending facility, a commitment charge of 0.15% per year, and such other terms and conditions set forth in the loan agreement and the understandings in the FFA. 2. Retroactive financing is requested for the eligible expenditures, not exceeding 20% of ADB tranche financing, incurred before loan effectiveness, but not earlier than 12 months before the signing of the legal agreement.
C. Allocation and Withdrawal of Loan Proceeds for Project 1
CATEGORY ADB FINANCING Amount Allocated Percentage and Basis for SDR [$] '000 Withdrawal from the Loan Number Item Category Account* (%) 1 Works [38,000] 100 % of total expenditure 2 Consulting Services [5,000] 100 % of total expenditure 3 Goods [1,000] 100 % of total expenditure 4 Project Management Support [1,000] 100 % of total expenditure 5 Interest during construction [2,000] 100 % of amount due 6 Unallocated [13,000] TOTAL [60,000] * Exclusive of taxes and duties imposed within the territory of the Borrower.
D. Allocation and Withdrawal of Loan Proceeds for Project 2
CATEGORY ADB FINANCING Amount Allocated Percentage and [$] '000 Basis for Withdrawal No. Item Category from the Loan Account* (%) 1 Works 124.0 100 % of total expenditure 2 Consulting Services 7.0 100 %of total expenditure 3 Financing Charges during 10.0 100 %of amount due construction 4 Unallocated 29.0 100 %of amount due TOTAL 170.0 * Exclusive of taxes and duties imposed within the territory of the Borrower. X. DISBURSE MENT PROCEDURES
12. ADB’s Loan Disburse ment Handbook (2007) will guide the disbursement of loans proceeds from the project, following the provisions of Schedule 3 of the Loan Agreements.
(i) Direct payment procedures will be used for civil works expenditures, progress payments to consultants, and procurement of goods.
(ii) The initial withdrawal application to be submitted to ADB must include (i) an authorization letter from the Ministry of Finance, (ii) specimen signatures of authorized signatories, and (iii) duly accomplished estimate of expenditures sheet.
XI. CON SULTANT RECRUITMENT
13. For Project 1 a total of 72 person-months of international consulting services and 174 person-months of national consulting services are required for Construction Supervision and and preparation of tranches 2 and 3 Projects. The consultants will be recruited according to ADB's Guidelines on the Use of Consultants (2007, as amended from time to time) using quality- and cost-based selection (QCBS) method (80% for quality and 20% for cost).
14. A total of 180 person-months of international consulting services and 439 person-months of national consulting services are required for Project Management Consultant for Projects 1 and 2. The consultants will be recruited according to ADB's Guidelines on t he Use o f Consultants (April 2010, as amended from time to time) using quality- and cost-based selection (QCBS) method (90% for quality and 10% for cost).
XII. PROCUREMENT
15. ADB-financed works, goods, and services will be procured according to ADB’s Procurement Guidelines and Guidelines on the Use of Consultants b y ADB and it ’s Borrowers, respectively (2007 and 2010 for Project 1 and Project 2 respectively, as amended from time to time). The MOTC and ADB have agreed that civil works under Project 1 and Project 2 will be combined in one contract with three sections, comprising reconstruction and improvement of the M1 Ashtarak to Talin road from km 29+600 to km 71+500 (Section 1), M2 Yerevan to Ararat road from km 9+312 to km 47+400 (Section2) and M1 Yerevan to Ashtarak road from km 18+370 to km 29+773 (Section 3) .The Government will use international competitive bidding with post qualification and one-stage-one-envelope bidding procedure. Contract award is expected in December 2011, with completion of Project 1 civil works (sections 2 and 3) by end 2013, and Project 2 civil works (section 1) by end 2014, respectively.
16. Before granting an extension of the time for completion of any contract for Goods, works and/or consulting services, including issuing any change order or orders under such contract, the Government will need to seek ADB’s no objection to the proposed extension, modification, or change order. A copy of all amendments to the contract will need to be furnished to ADB for its record.
XIII. PROJECT MONITORING AND EVALUATION
A. Performance Indicators for Project 1 (as per Loan appraisal)
(i) Reduced travel time from Yerevan to Gyumri to 1.0 hour by 2015 (from 1.5 hours in 2008) (ii) Increased daily traffic from Yerevan to Gyumri to 14,500 vehicles in 2015 (from 9,300 vehicles in 2009) (iii) About 1.6 million people to benefit from improvement of Yerevan to Gyumri road
B. Performance Indicators for Project 2 (as per Loan appraisal)
(i) Reduced travel time from Yerevan to Talin to 0.6 hour by 2015 (from 1.33 hours in 2009) (ii) Increased daily traffic from Ashtarak to Talin (from 5,800 vehicles in 2009 to 9400 vehicles in 2015) (iii) About 1.6 million people to benefit from improvement of Yerevan to Gyumri road
Safeguards Monitoring Reporting Schedule 2011 2012 2013 2014 June Dec June Dec June Dec June Dec
Environment Monitoring Report P1 P1 P1 P1 P1 P1 - - P2 P2 P2 P2 P2 P2 P2 P2 2011 2012 2013 2014
June Dec June Dec Jan Dec June Dec
Involuntary Resettlement Report - P2 P2 - P2 - - - P1-Project 1; P2 –Project 2
XIV. REP ORTING REQUIREMENTS 17. The PMC will report implementation progress of Project 1 and Project 2 to MOTC and ADB through quarterly and monthly progress reports. The quarterly progress reports should include project implementation status, major issues, and proposed corrective actions. The consultants will familiarize themselves with all design and due diligence documents prepared for the MFF Project 1 and Project 2, covering all standard areas linked to project technical, financial, legal, economic, environmental, social, governance, fiduciary oversight, management, and institutional matters, ensure that all project related due diligence information is accurate and up-to-date, and present any updates to MOTC and ADB for approval as necessary. The PMC for Project 1 and Project 2 shall submit (i) Pre-construction; (ii) During Construction; and (iii) Post-construction Road Safety Audit (RSA) reports. In addition the PMC shall submit a relevant report for Accident Analysis and Mitigation based on their findings on the study conducted by the PMC during construction. The PMC will indicate the delivery dates of these reports in the Inception Report. The PMC will draft a PCR prior to physical completion of construction works in a manner satisfactory to MOTC and ADB, including the major project events, performance of the contractors, operation of the Project, actual and price inflated (to completion year) project cost (foreign and local costs separately) by implementation year, and labor employed by skilled/unskilled and foreign/local categories in man-years; (i) the major project events, the relative successes (problems) in the implementation of each of the sections, this section of the PCR shall also contain an assessment of the impact of road improvement on the economy and social aspects for the whole project area; (ii) "as-built" drawings (to be submitted to MOTC). These "as-built" drawings will be furnished by the Contractor as per Clause 4.1 (d) of the construction contract; (iii) detailed description of all the works by items of technical and non-technical matters, economic analysis, financial and disbursement data, analyses, difficulties and delays encountered or anticipated, and remedial actions taken or suggested, the overall progress of the Project as monitored against the design and monitoring framework and PPMS indicators, including recommendations to MOTC and ADB.
XV. AUDITIN G REQUIREMENTS
18. The MOTC will maintain separate project records and accounts adequate to identify the (i) goods and services financed from the loan proceeds, (ii) financing resources received, (iii) expenses incurred on the components, and (iv) use of counterpart funds. MOTC will engage independent external auditors acceptable to ADB to audit Projects accounts and financial statements annually, and will arrange a periodic or annual audit of statement of expenditure transactions Project 1 and financial statements and accounts of Project 2. MOTC will submit to ADB certified copies of audited annual projects accounts and related financial statements as well as the auditor’s report in English within 6 months of the end of each fiscal year during implementation.
XVI. MAJOR LOAN COVENANTS
A. Major Loan Covenants for Project 1
1. Road sector master plan
• The Borrower shall prepare a long-term Road Subsector Plan (2010–2020) and adopt it for implementation by 30 June 2010. Such plan shall detail policy actions and measures to: (i) establish a system for efficient planning and prioritization of road maintenance works; (ii) provide funding modalities to finance the maintenance of relevant roads acceptable to ADB; (iii) develop or adopt adequate road maintenance standards and prepare relevant road maintenance planning and operational manuals; and (iv) provide training to strengthen the capacity of local maintenance units.
2. Polic y Dialogue
• The Borrower shall ensure that ADB is kept informed of Borrower's policies and programs related to the road subsector that will materially affect the economic viability of the Project or any other project, subproject, or component financed under the Facility.
• Further, the Borrower shall ensure that: (i) policies under the PCA with the PMU governing the road subsector development and operations are harmonized in a way that road subsector roadmap and investment plan under the Investment Program are implemented coherently; (ii) best efforts are used to facilitate cross-border transit of road transport consistent with the European Agreement on Main International Traffic Arteries of 15 November 1975, and (iii) developing the human resources, technical, managerial and
administrative capacity in the 16 Schedule 5 road subsector to achieve greater efficiency in planning, developing and operating the infrastructure financed under the Investment Program is of high priority. Change in Ownership and Operation
• If any of the following is anticipated: (i) any change in ownership of the road, road facility, or structure financed under the Project; (ii) any sale, transfer, or assignment of interest or control in the road, road facility, or structure financed under the Project; or (iii) any lease or other contract or modification of the functions and authority of the ARD over operation and maintenance of any road, road facility, or structure financed under the Project; then the Borrower shall ensure that ADB’s consent is obtained at least six (6) months prior to the implementation of such a plan. The Borrower shall ensure that any such changes will be carried out in a legal and transparent manner. Counterpart Funding
• The Borrower shall ensure that (i) financial, technical and human resources are provided on a timely basis; (ii) adequate funds to sustainably maintain the road corridor throughout its service life are allocated; (iii) financial, human and technical resources to implement the road transport subsector plan are made available; and (iv) best efforts are used to obtain additional external financing as may be necessary for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the north–south road corridor agreed with ADB.
3. Road maintenance funding
• The Borrower shall ensure that actual annual expenditures for road maintenance (including emergency maintenance, but excluding rehabilitation and new construction) for roads within ARD's jurisdiction are increased at least by 5% from the actual amount of road maintenance budget for 2008, adjusted for inflation at the same rate as increases in the overall national budget during 2010–2015.
4. Construction Quality
• The Borrower shall ensure that (i) the Project road is rehabilitated or constructed in accordance with the technical specifications of the design, construction specifications and other documents stipulated in the bidding documents; and (ii) construction supervision, quality control and contract management are performed in accordance with internationally acceptable standards. The Borrower shall cause MOTC and ARD to build, equip, operate, maintain and manage the Project facilities in compliance with all international agreements and conventions to which Armenia is a party.
5. Road safety
• The Borrower shall ensure that MOTC installs appropriate road safety signs and facilities during the Project implementation and after completion, such as warning signs, pavement markings, road signs and signals, communications facilities, hazard barriers, and traffic monitoring facilities, all in compliance with industry's best practices and relevant international conventions to which the Borrower is a party. The Borrower shall ensure that, at least six (6) months prior to the opening for operation of the Project Road, (i) MOTC will have developed and implemented a plan, acceptable to ADB, for ensuring safe operation of road infrastructure facilities; and (ii) relevant Borrower's authorities will have prepared to police the Project Road and enforce the national laws and regulations. The Borrower shall ensure that MOTC monitors the accident rate and traffic volume after commencement of the operation of the Project Road and institutes appropriate safety enforcement measures.
6. Environment
• The Borrower shall ensure that the Project is designed, carried out, maintained, and monitored in compliance with (a) all applicable environmental laws and regulations; (b) ADB’s Environment Policy (2002); and (c) the EMP, including the mitigation measures and monitoring requirements arising from the implementation of the IEE. The Borrower shall also cause MOTC to ensure that: (a) Works contractors’ specifications include requirements to comply with the environmental mitigation measures contained in the IEE and EMP, and (b) Works contractors are supervised to ensure compliance with the requirements of the IEE and EMP.
7. Land acquisition and resettlement
• While the Project does not anticipate land acquisition and resettlement activities, if and to the extent such become necessary, the Borrower shall ensure that land acquisition and resettlement are carried out promptly and efficiently following the land acquisition and resettlement plan prepared in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, ADB’s Involuntary Resettle ment Policy (1995), and the land acquisition and resettlement framework agreed with ADB pursuant to FFA. The Borrower shall ensure that implementation of the land acquisition and resettlement plan is monitored, evaluated, and reported to ADB as required in the resettlement plan. The Borrower shall also ensure that all land and right-of-way required for project implementation are made available to the Project in a timely manner.
• The Borrower shall ensure that contractors commence the Works only after the land acquisition and resettlement plan has been implemented with respect to the relevant road section in accordance with its terms.
8. Local consultation and gender
• The Borrower shall ensure that all local consultations with respect to safety, social, and cultural issues during Project implementation are carried out as recommended in the summary poverty reduction and social analysis prepared for the Project. The mechanisms for maximizing local employment benefits shall be included in the bidding documents.
9. Labor
• The Borrower shall ensure that all Works contractors (i) comply with all applicable labor laws; (ii) use their best efforts to employ women and local people, including disadvantaged people, living in the vicinity of the Project; (iii) disseminate information on the risks of sexually transmitted infections to those at worksites employed during construction; (iv) provide equal pay to men and women for work of equal type; (v) provide safe working conditions for male and female workers; and (vi) abstain from child labor. Relevant Works contracts financed under the Project must include specific clauses on these undertakings, and compliance will be strictly monitored during implementation.
10. Health risks and prevention
• The Borrower shall ensure that the Works contracts include a requirement to conduct an information and education campaign on sexually transmitted diseases and HIV/AIDS for construction workers as part of the health and safety program at campsites during the construction period.
11. Illegal trafficking
• The Borrower shall undertake concrete and adequate measures to detect and prevent trafficking of humans, wildlife, endangered species, and illegal substances on the Project Road.
B. MAJOR LOAN COVENANTS FOR PROJECT 2
• Construction Quality. The MOTC will ensure that the construction of the Project road complies with technical specifications of the design. The MOTC, through the PMU and the construction supervision consultant, will ensure that construction supervision, quality control, and Project management are undertaken according to internationally accepted standards and practices.
• Road Main tenance. The MOTC will ensure that (i) financial, technical and human resources are provided on a timely basis; (ii) adequate funds to sustainably maintain the road corridor throughout its service life are allocated; (iii) financial, human and technical resources to implement the road transport subsector plan are made available; and (iv) best efforts are used to obtain additional external financing as may be necessary for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the north–south road corridor agreed with ADB.
• Road Safety. The MOTC will ensure that appropriate road safety signs and facilities are installed during the Project implementation and after completion, such as warning signs, pavement markings, road signs and signals, communications facilities, hazard barriers, and traffic monitoring facilities, all in compliance with industry's best practices and relevant international conventions to which the Borrower is a party. Furthermore, the MOTC will ensure that, at least 6 months prior to the opening for operation of the Project Road, (i) the PMU and construction supervision consultant will have developed and implemented a plan, acceptable to ADB, for ensuring safe operation of road infrastructure facilities; and (ii) relevant Government authorities will have prepared to police the Project Road and enforce the national laws and regulations. The MOTC will monitor the accident rate and traffic volume after commencement of the operation of the Project Road and institutes appropriate safety enforcement measures.
• Axle Loads. The MOTC will ensure that vehicle weighing stations along the Project road to control the axle overloading and formulate appropriate procedures and regulations to enforce the axle load controls will be established.
• Vehicle Emissions. MOTC will, through the relevant agencies, enforce that the vehicle emission standards are followed.
• Environment. The MOTC will ensure that (i) all roads, and road facilities and structures, under this Project are designed, constructed, and operated in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations of Armenia, ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009), and environmental impact assessment (EIA); (ii) any adverse environmental impacts are minimized by the mitigating measures and the monitoring program set out in the environmental management plan (EMP) in the EIA; (iii) implementation of the EMP and any violation of the environmental standards are reported to ADB semiannually in accordance with the EIA; and (iv) the EMP is incorporated in the bidding documents and bill of quantities of the civil works contracts. The EA will ensure that the detailed design sufficiently addresses any Government and/or ADB concerns regarding archaeological findings and provide appropriate solutions as well as chance-find procedures during implementation for avoiding and mitigating all impacts.
• Land Acquisition and Resettlem ent. The MOTC will ensure that land acquisition or involuntary resettlement shall be promptly and efficiently carried out in a legal and transparent manner in accordance with the resettlement framework attached to the FFA, and in compliance with the LARP, applicable laws and regulations of Armenia, and ADB’s Safeguards Policy Statement (SPS) (2009); and (iii) all land needed temporarily during construction is leased from the willing lessors. The MOTC shall ensure that contractors commence the Works only after the land acquisition and resettlement plan has been implemented with respect to the relevant road section in accordance with its terms.
• Labour, Social, Gender and Development, Health. The MOTC will ensure that all local consultations with respect to safety, social, and cultural issues during Project implementation are carried out as recommended in the summary poverty reduction and social analysis prepared for the Project. The mechanisms for maximizing local employment benefits shall be included in the bidding documents. MOTC will ensure that all Works contractors (i) comply with all applicable labor laws; (ii) use their best efforts to employ women and local people, including disadvantaged people, living in the vicinity of the Project; (iii) disseminate information on the risks of sexually transmitted infections to those at worksites employed during construction; (iv) provide equal pay to men and women for work of equal type; (v) provide safe working conditions for male and female workers; and (vi) abstain from child labor. Relevant Works contracts financed under the Project must include specific clauses on these undertakings, and compliance will be strictly monitored during implementation. The MOTC will ensure that the Works contracts include a requirement to conduct an information and education campaign on sexually transmitted diseases and HIV/AIDS for construction workers as part of the health and safety program at campsites during the construction period. The MOTC shall undertake concrete and adequate measures to detect and prevent trafficking of humans, wildlife, endangered species, and illegal substances on the Project Road.
XVII. ANTICORRUPTION
20Consistent with ADB’s Anticorruption Policy and its commitment to good governance, accountability, and transparency, ADB reserves the right to investigate, directly or through its agents, any alleged corrupt, fraudulent, collusive, or coercive practices relating to Projects 1 and 2. To support these efforts, relevant provisions of ADB’s Anticorruption Policy are included in the loan regulations and bidding documents for the project road. In particular, all contracts financed by ADB in connection with Projects1 and 2 will include provisions specifying the right of ADB to audit and examine the records and accounts of the PMU and all contractors, suppliers, consultants, and other service providers as they relate to Projects 1 and 2.
21The Government agreed to take additional measures to improve governance, accountability, and transparency under Projects1 and 2. These measures include (i) independent external auditing of contracts, project accounts, and financial statements; (ii) decisions of all procurement-related matters by the Tendering Committee, which comprises representatives of the Ministry of Economic Development, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Transport, and the State Procurement Agency (as observer) in accordance with ADB’s Procurement Guidelines; (iii) verification of contractors’ payment claims by the supervision consultant in accordance with contract specifications; and (iv) timely disclosure of information on selection of consultants and contractors through local newspapers.
APPENDIXES
Appendix 1 Periodic Financing Requests for Tranche 1 and 2 Projects Appendix 2 Project Organizational Chart Appendix 3 Procurement Plans Appendix 4 TORs for Consulting Services Appendix 5 Detailed Implementation Schedules Appendix 6 Contract Awards and Disbursements Projections Appendix 7 EA’s Progress Report Format Appendix 8 Environmental Assessment and Review Framework for the MFF Program Appendix 9 Initial Environmental Examination for Project 1 Appendix 10 Environmental Impact Assessment for Project 2 Appendix 11 Land Acquisition and Resettlement Framework Appendix 12 Land Acquisition and Resettlement Plan for Project 2
The views expressed herein are those of the consultant and do not necessarily represent those of ADB’s members, Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature.
Attachment
TRANCHE 1 PROJECT SUMMARY
Project Description The Tranche 1 Project (Project 1) will (i) reconstruct 18.4 km four-lane section of the Yerevan–Ashtarak road, (ii) improve road safety for the Yerevan–Ararat road, (iii) prepare design and bidding documents for tranche 2 and 3 projects, and (iv) help implement the road subsector plan under the Transport Sector Strategy..
Cost Estimates and The total cost of Project 1—including taxes, duties, physical and price Financing Plan contingencies, interest, and other charges—is estimated at $70 million equivalent.
Cost Estimates Item Cost ($ million) A. Base Cost 1. Civil Works 38.0 2. Project Management Support 1.0 3. Consulting Services for Project Implementation 4.0 4. Support for Road Subsector Plan 2.0 5. Taxes and Duties 10.0 Subtotal (A) 55.0 B. Con tingencies 13.0 C. Interest During Construction 2.0 Total 70.0 Source: Asian Development Bank estimates.
Financing Plan Source Amoun t % ($ million) Asian Development Bank Special Funds Resources 60.0 86 Government 10.0 14 Total 70.0 100 Source: Asian Development Bank estimates.
Loan Amount and The request is for a loan of $60 million from the Special Funds resources Terms of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) provided with a 32 years, including a grace period of 8 years, and interest of 1.0% per annum during the grace period and 1.5% per annum thereafter, and such other terms and conditions as agreed in the FFA, and further supplemented under the Loan Agreement.
Period of The components are expected to be completed by 31 December 2013. Loan Utilization No disbursements from the loan account will be requested or made later than 30 June 2014. The views expressed herein are those of the consultant and do not necessarily represent those of ADB’s members, Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in Advance contracting is requested for detailed design consultancy and civil Advancenature. Contracting works.
Retroactive Retroactive financing is requested for the eligible expenditures, not Financing exceeding 20% of ADB tranche financing, incurred before loan effectiveness, but not earlier than 12 months before the signing of the legal agreement.
Implementation The Ministry of Transport and Communication (MOTC) will be the Arrangements executing agency (EA) responsible for overall planning and implementation of the Investment Program and coordination with Project Governing Council (PGC). MOTC will sign and act as an Employer for contracts with consultants and contractors. Implementation and monitoring of the Investment Program will be delegated to the Armenian Road Directorate (ARD), which will serve as the implementing agency (IA). ARD will set up a Program Management Unit (PMU) to manage day- to-day coordination, implementation, and administration activities of individual projects, including (i) selecting individual tranche projects, (ii) maintaining project accounts, (iii) handling the procurement, (iv) monitoring and reporting on individual project implementation, (v) facilitating environmental and social safeguards measures, (vi) selecting consultants, and (vii) overseeing detailed designs and construction supervision. ARD will appoint a program implementation team comprising expertise in highway engineering, tunneling, procurement, project management, financial accounting, and social and environmental safeguards.
Procurement and The procurement plan is attached as Annex 1. Consulting Services
Readiness of The Government will start detailed design of Tranche 1 Project in October the Project for 2009 with its own resources. The designs and bidding documents will be Implementation completed by December 2009.
The Government will start pre-qualification of contractors in September. Bidding for civil works will start by mid-December 2009 for targeted commencement of construction by April 2010.
Safeguards Environment: Category B. An initial environmental examination (IEE) is in Annex 2. Involuntary resettlement: Category C – limited or no impact Indigenous people: Category C – limited or no impact The summary poverty reduction and social strategy is in Annex 3.
The views expressed herein are those of the consultant and do not necessarily represent those of ADB’s members, Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature.
PROCUREMENT PLAN (TRANCHE 1 PROJECT)
Project Name: North–South Road Corridor Multitranche Financing Facility Number: to be Investment Program assigned Periodic Financing Request 1 Number: to be assigned Multitranche Financing Facilit y A mount: $500 Executing Agen cy: Ministry of Transport and million Communication Tranche 1 Periodic Financing Requ est Amou nt: $60.0 million Date of First Procurement Plan: 29 July 2009 Date of this Procurement Plan: 1 September 2009
A. Section 1: Process Thresholds, Review, and 18-Month Procurement Plan
1. Project Procurement Thresholds
1. Except as the Asian Development Bank (ADB) may otherwise agree, the following process thresholds shall apply to procurement of goods and works.
Procurement of Goods and Works Method Thresh old International Competitive Bidding for Works More than $1,000,000 International Competitive Bidding for Goods More than $500,000 National Competitive Bidding for Works Less than $1,000,000 Shopping for Works Less than $100,000 Shopping for Goods Less than $100,000
2. ADB Prior or Post Review
2. Except as ADB may otherwise agree, the following prior- or post-review requirements apply to the various procurement and consultant recruitment methods used for the Project.
Procurement of Goods and Works Procurement Method Prior or Post Comments International Competitive Bidding for Works Prior International Competitive Bidding for Goods Prior National Competitive Bidding for Goods Prior National Competitive Bidding for Works Prior Shopping for Works Prior Shopping for Goods Prior
Recruitment of Consulting Firms Quality- and Cost-Based Selection Prior Other selection methods: QBS, CQS, LCS, or SSS Prior To be determined during implementation. Recruitment of Individual Consultants Individual Consultants Prior CQS = consultant's qualification selection, LCS = least cost selection, QBS = quality-based selection, SSS = singeThe views source expressed selection. herein are those of the consultant and do not necessarily represent those of ADB’s members, Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature.
3. Goods and Works Contracts Estimated to Cost More than $1 Million
3. The following table lists goods and works contracts for which procurement activity is either ongoing or expected to commence within the next 18 months.
Contract Prequalification General Value Procurement of Bidders Advertisement Description ($ million) Method (Yes/No) Date (quarter/year) Comments Civil Works 38.0 ICB Yes Q4 2009 ICB = international competitive bidding, Q = quarter.
4. Consulting Services Contracts Estimated to Cost More than $100,000
4. The following table lists consulting services contracts for which procurement activity is either ongoing or expected to commence within the next 18 months.
Contract Advertise- International Value Recruitment ment Date or National General Description ($ million) Method (quarter/year) Assignment Comments Detailed Design for 0.2 CQS and Q3 2009 International With international Tranche 1 Project international or National individual individual consultants consultant Construction 3.8 QCBS Q4 2009 International Quality–cost ratio Supervision and Design 80/20 of Tranche 2 and 3 Projects Consulting Services for 1.0 QCBS Q4 2009 International Quality–cost ratio Implementation of 80/20 Road Subsector Plan CQS = consultant's qualification selection, QCBS = quality- and cost-based selection, Q = quarter.
5. Goods and Works Contracts Estimated to Cost Less than $1 Million and Consulting Services Contracts Less than $100,000
5. The following table groups smaller-value goods, works, and consulting services contracts for which procurement activity is either ongoing or expected to commence within the next 18 months.
Value of Contracts Procurement/ General (cumulative) Number of Recruitment Description Contracts Method Comments Traffic Management $1.0 million Up to 10 Shopping and Monitoring Equipment
B. Section 2: Project Procurement Plan
The views1. expressedIndicative herein List are of thosePackages of the Required consultant Under and do the not Project necessarily represent those of ADB’s members, Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in 6.nature. The following table provides an indicative list of all procurement (goods, works, and consulting services) over the life of the project.
Estimated Value Estimated Domestic ($ million, Number of Procurement Preference General Description cumulative) Contracts Method Applicable Comments Works Civil works contract 38.00 1 ICB No package for improvement One-envelope of Yerevan–Ashtarak single stage with road (Km 11.8 to Km prequalification 30.2) and road safety improvement of Yerevan– Ararat road Goods Traffic management and 1.00 several Shopping No monitoring equipment Consulting Services Design of Civil Woks 0.15 several CQS Tranche 1 Project 0.05 and individual consultant
Construction Supervision 3.80 1 QCBS with FTP quality–cost for Tranche 1 Project and ratio 80/20 Design of Tranche 2 and 3 Projects
Project Management Unit 0.90 several Individual To be consultants determined External Financial Audit 0.10 1 LCS Yes
CQS = consultant's qualification selection, FTP = full technical proposal, ICB = international competitive bidding, LCS = least-cost selection, QCBS = quality- and cost-based selection.
C. National Competitive Bidding
1. General
7. The procedures to be followed for national competitive bidding shall be the open tender method (including the two-stage where appropriate) set forth in the Law on Procurements of 1 January 2005 with the clarifications and modifications described in the following paragraphs required for compliance with the provisions of ADB’s Procurement Guidelines (2007, as amended from time to time).
2. Eligibility
8. The eligibility of bidders shall be as defined under section I of ADB’s Procurement Guidelines; accordingly, no bidder or potential bidder should be declared ineligible for reasons other than those provided in section I of ADB’s Procurement Guidelines. Bidders must be nationals of member countries of ADB, and offered goods, services, and works must be produced in and supplied from member countries of ADB. The views expressed herein are those of the consultant and do not necessarily represent those of ADB’s members, Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature.
3. Prequalification
9. Postqualification shall be used, unless prequalification is explicitly provided for in the loan agreement and/or procurement plan. Domestic and foreign contractors shall be allowed to participate in bid exercises using postqualification procedure. In case prequalification of contractors is stipulated in the loan agreement/procurement plan, domestic and foreign contractors shall be allowed to participate in the prequalification exercise.
4. Registration and Licensing
(i) Bidding shall not be restricted to pre-registered/licensed firms.
(ii) Where registration or licensing is required, bidders (a) shall be allowed a reasonable time to complete the registration or licensing process; and (b) shall not be denied registration and/or licensing for reasons unrelated to their capability and resources to successfully perform the contract, which shall be verified through postqualification.
(iii) Foreign bidders shall not be precluded from bidding. If a registration or licensing process is required, a foreign bidder declared the lowest evaluated bidder shall be given a reasonable opportunity to register or to obtain a license.
5. Biddi ng Period 10. The minimum bidding period is 28 days prior to the deadline for the submission of bids.
6. Bidding Documents 11. Procuring entities should use standard bidding documents for the procurement of goods, works, and services acceptable to ADB.
7. Prefere nces 12. No domestic preference shall be given for domestic bidders and for domestically manufactured goods.
8. Advert ising
13. Invitations to bid shall be advertised in at least one widely circulated national daily newspaper or freely accessible, nationally known website allowing a minimum of 28 days for the preparation and submission of bids. Bidding of national competitive bidding contracts estimated at $500,000 equivalent or more for goods and related services or $1,000,000 equivalent or more for civil works shall be advertised on ADB’s website via the posting of the procurement plan.
9. Secur ities The views(i) expressed Bid security herein (tender are those security). of the Whereconsultant required, and do bid not security necessarily shall representbe in the formthose of a of ADB’s members,bank guarantee Board of fromDirectors, a reputable Management, bank. or staff, and may be preliminary in nature. (ii) Performance security (contract execution security). Performance security shall be provided within 28 days of the notification of contract award.
10. Bid Opening and Bid Evaluation
(i) Bids shall be opened in public.
(ii) No bid shall be declared invalid/rejected at the time of bid opening.
(iii) Minutes and/or record of bid opening shall be provided to all bidders.
(iv) Evaluation of bids shall be made in strict adherence with the criteria declared in the bidding documents and contracts shall be awarded to the lowest evaluated bidder.
(v) Bidders shall not be eliminated from detailed evaluation on the basis of minor, nonsubstantial deviations.
(vi) No bidder shall be rejected on the basis of a comparison with the employer's estimate and budget ceiling without ADB’s prior concurrence.
(vii) A contract shall be awarded to the technically responsive bidder that offers the lowest evaluated price and meets the qualifying requirements. Negotiations shall not be permitted.
(viii) Price verification shall not be applied.
11. Rejection of All Bids and Rebidding
14. Bids shall not be rejected and new bids solicited without ADB’s prior concurrence. Bids shall not be declared invalid because of procedural delays on the part of executing agencies without ADB’s prior approval.
12. Participation by Government-Owned Enterprises
15. Government-owned enterprises in Armenia shall be eligible to participate as bidders only if they can establish that they are legally and financially autonomous, operate under commercial law, and are not a dependent agency of the contracting authority/executing agency/implementing agency. Furthermore, they will be subject to the same bid and performance security requirements as other bidders.
13. Right to Inspect/Audit
16. A provision shall be included in all national competitive bidding works and goods contracts financed by ADB requiring suppliers and contractors to permit ADB to inspect their accounts and records and other documents relating to the bid submission and the performance of the contract, and to have them audited by auditors appointed by ADB.
14. Fraud and Corruption The views expressed herein are those of the consultant and do not necessarily represent those of ADB’s(i) members, The Borrower Board ofshall Directors, reject aManagement, proposal for oraward staff, if andit determines may be preliminary that the bidderin nature. recommended for award has, directly or through an agent, engaged in corrupt, fraudulent, collusive, or coercive practices in competing for the contract in question.
(ii) ADB will declare a firm or individual ineligible, either indefinitely or for a stated period, to be awarded a contract financed by ADB, if it at any time determines that the firm or individual has, directly or through an agent, engaged in corrupt, fraudulent, collusive, or coercive practices in competing for, or in executing, an ADB-financed contract.
15. Joint Venture and Estimated Contract Prices
(i) Joint venture partners shall be jointly and severally liable for their obligations.
(ii) Estimated contract prices shall not be advertised.
16. Disclosure of Decision on Contract Awards
17. At the same time that notification on award of contract is given to the successful bidder, the results of bid evaluation shall be published in a local newspaper, or a well-known freely accessible website identifying the bid and lot numbers and providing information on (i) the name of each bidder who submitted a bid; (ii) bid prices as read out at bid opening; (iii) the names of bidders whose bids were rejected and the reasons for their rejection; and (iv) the name of the winning bidder, and the price it offered, as well as duration and summary scope of the contract awarded. The executing showing separately net cost, contingencies, and taxes agency/implementing agency/contracting authority shall respond in writing to unsuccessful bidders who seek explanations on the grounds on which their bids are not selected.
The views expressed herein are those of the consultant and do not necessarily represent those of ADB’s members, Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature.
Annex 2
Initial Environmental Examination Report Project Number: TA 7208 August 2009
Armenia: Preparing the North-South Road Corridor Development Program (Tranche 1 Roads Improvement Project—Two Road Sections: Yerevan to Ashtarak and Yerevan to Ararat)
The 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.
The views expressed herein are those of the consultant and do not necessarily represent those of ADB’s members, Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature.
LIST of ABBREVIATIONS
ADB Asian Development Bank ARD Armenia Roads Directorate EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EM Environmental Manager (in ARD) EMP Environmental Management Plan IEE Initial Environmental Examination IES International Environmental Specialist Km Kilometre (s) MFF Multi-tranche Financing Facility MNP Ministry of nature Protection MOTC Ministry of Transport and Communications NE North East NPE Nature Protection Expertise PPP Purchasing Power Parity RA Republic of Armenia ROW Right-of-Way SEI State Environmental Inspectorate SNCO State Non-Commercial Organization SW South West
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.
TABLE OF CONTENTS Page
I. INTRODUCTION and SUMMARY 1 A. Project Background 1 B. IEE Report Outline and Methodology 3 C. Armenian and ADB Environmental Assessment Requirements 3 D. Alternatives to the Proposed Project 6
II. PROJECT DESCRIPTION 7 A. Project Location 7 B. Tranche 1 Project 8
III. ENVIRONMENTAL BASELINE – EXISTING CONDITIONS 9 A. Physical Resources 9 B. Ecological Resources 11 C. Human Use of Resources 11 D. Human Quality-of-Life Values (Social and Cultural Resources) 11
IV. SCREENING FOR POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS 12 A. Environmental Parameters that may be Impacted 12 B. Activities that may Create Environmental Impacts 12 C. Environmental Screening: Potential Impacts 13 D. Significance of Potential Impacts 15
V. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT PREVENTION and MITIGATION MEASURES 16 A. Environmental Impact Prevention and Mitigation 16 B. Environmental Management Plan (EMP) 16 C. Responsibilities for Impact Prevention and Mitigation 25 D. Environmental Enhancement Measures 26 E. Environmental Monitoring Program 26 F. Cost of Impact Prevention, Mitigation, Monitoring and Enhancement 26 G. Environmental Management Seminars 28
VI. PUBLIC CONSULTATION and INFORMATION DISCLOSURE 29 A. Consultation Process 29 B. Community Involvement to Date 29 ANNEX 1 to Chapter 6: Questionnaire for Face-to-Face Survey 32
VII. SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS, RECOMMENDATIONS 33 A. Summary 33 B. Environmental Screening – Potential Impacts and their Significance 34 C. Recommendations 34
REFERENCES 35
LIST of FIGURES
Page
Figure 1: North-South Roads Corridor Alignment 2
Figure 2: Ministry of Nature Protection (MNP) Organization Chart 4
Figure 3: Armenian Laws and Codes Pertinent to Roads and Environment 4
Figure 4: RA Environmental Clearance Procedure – Schedule 5
Figure 5: RA Environmental Clearance Procedure – Flow Diagram 5
Figure 6: Location of the Two Project Road Sections 7
Figure 7: Geology of Armenia 10
Figure 8: Construction Activities that may Create Environmental Impacts 13
Figure 9: Works Activities and Potential Impacts 14
Figure 10: Environmental Impact Mitigation – Summary Environmental Management Plan (EMP) 18
Figure 11: EMP and Operating Plans – Clauses for Inclusion in Contract Docs. 24
Figure 12: Monitoring Requirements - Site Preparation and Construction 27
Figure 13: Environmental Stakeholder Groups Met to Date 30
Figure 14: Results of Survey of Villagers (94 respondents) 31
I. INTRODUCTION
A. Project Background
1. Armenia is a land-locked, mountainous country in the Lesser Caucasus region, bordered by Azerbaijan, Georgia, Iran, and Turkey. Being land-locked, Armenia has been restricted in its ability to develop and to maintain reliable land transport linkages with the outside world particularly to Europe, Iran and Russia and, via Georgia, to the Black Sea.
2. The Government of Armenia (GoA) has made efforts to strengthen its economic linkages with other economies via land bridges to Central Asia, the Black Sea and Europe and, thus, create increased trade and investment opportunities. GoA formulated the Armenia Transport Strategy 2020 and the North-South Road Corridor Program under it, with a priority to rehabilitate, reconstruct and expand international transport corridors—in line with the ADB, Armenia…Country Strategy to support regional cooperation and rehabilitate regional road and railway infrastructure.
3. The RA has selected the Bavra-Yerevan-Agarak route as the north-south road corridor to be rehabilitated, reconstructed and expanded and has appointed the Armenian Roads Directorate (ARD) of the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) to coordinate the work. The Program is to be funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) under a multitranche financing facility (MFF).
4. The MFF is designed to rehabilitate and upgrade national north-south roads to form a new, upgraded and expanded N-S highway. The main objective is to widen the existing 2-lane roads (often in poor condition) to become 4-lane divided roads along existing alignments wherever possible or to construct new alternate 2-lane roads where a single 4-lane road would not be feasible.
5. The Project, to be financed from Tranche 1 under the MFF, is to improve two road sections of the N-S Corridor, namely, the M-1 section of road north from Yerevan to Ashtarak and the M-2 section of road south from Yerevan to Ararat. At Ashtarak and Ararat, the road sections to be improved under the Project join the existing 2-lane roads from Ashtarak north to Gyumri and Bavra and from Ararat south to Goris and Agarak respectively.
6. The location of the existing N-S national roads M-1 and M-2 and the provincial (marz) boundaries is shown on Figure 1.
1
Figure 1: North-South Road Corridor Alignment
2
B. IEE Report Outline and Methodology
7. This Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) report assesses the environmental settings of the corridors through which the Project road sections pass, identifies the likely impacts that may be created, determines the significance of those impacts, and presents a summary Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and a Monitoring Program.
8. The methodology is based on the ADB, Environmental Policie s (2002) and the ADB, Environmental Assessment Guidelines (2003), GoA IEA requirements, and the joint experience of the International and National environmental consultants involved in the IEE.
9. Background data and information was obtained from published and unpublished sources, e.g., on: climate, topography, geology and soils, natural resources, flora and fauna, agriculture, and socio-economic data.
10. Several site inspections were conducted jointly by the International Environmental Specialist and National Counterpart during June and July 2009. The existing roads were driven and areas of potential environmental significance assessed carefully.
11. Discussions were held with a number of stakeholders and a face-to-face survey was conducted of villagers along one of the roads in the N-S roads corridor in order to determine their perceptions of the level of impact from road works. Data and information obtained have been included where appropriate in the IEE Report.
C. Armenian and ADB Environmental Assessment Requirements
12. This IEE Report is to satisfy both the ADB and RA requirements with regard to environmental protection and management.
1. Armenian Laws Governing Environmental Management and Assessment
13. The RA Ministry of Nature Protection (MNP) is the principal national environmental administrative authority. Within it are several agencies or directorates administering various aspects of the Laws on Environmental Protection, EIA and Protected Natural Areas. See the MNP organization chart in Figure 2.
14. Of importance to EIA and IEE are the two state non-commercial organizations (SNCOs): a) Nature Protection Expertise (NPE) responsible for administering the EIA process, and b) the State Environmental Inspectorate (SEI) responsible for overseeing compliance with environmental laws and regulations
15. The EIA process and the SEI power to inspect are the principal tools used by the MNP to achieve compliance with environmental management principles. As well as the MNP, other ministries and agencies have responsibilities to administer natural resources and environmental matters (e.g., Ministries of Agriculture and Health, the State Committee for Water Systems, and the National Reserves Agency). The laws and regulations that may relate to this project are summarized in Figure 3.
3
Figure 2: Ministry of Nature Protection Organization Chart
Minister
Deputy Ministers
Agencies: Departments/Divisions: ¾ SNCOs & Others:
¾ Water Resources ¾ E Protection ¾ Info & Analysis ¾ Bio-resources ¾ Hazardous Substances and Waste Mgt ¾ National Park SNCOs ¾ State E Inspectorate ¾ Economics ¾ State Reserve SNCOs ¾ Nuclear Power Insp. ¾ Mineral Resources, Soil protection and ¾ Nature Protection Expertise Geological Monitoring ¾ E effects Monitoring Centre ¾ Public Relations ¾ Waste Research Centre ¾ Others ¾ Hydrometeorology’ ¾ Hydro-geological Monitoring Others ¾
Figure 3: Armenian Laws and Codes Pertinent to Roads and Environment Authority and Law or Regulation Pertinent Section
MNP: Law on Principles of The umbrella legislation Environmental Protection (1991) MNP: Law on Environmental Impact Requirements to assess environmental impacts of Assessment (1995) development projects, notification requirements, and the importance of the assessment conclusions. MNP: Law on Specially Protected Regulates state reserves, national parks, and Natural Areas (2006) natural monuments and classifies them according to their international, national or local importance. Ministry of Territorial Administration Delineates local government responsibilities (MTA): Law on Local-Government including use of natural resources and (2002) infrastructure, e.g., location of works camps and MTA supervises marz administrations earth borrow pits. MTA: Law on Waste (2004) Regulates responsibilities of state and local authorities with regard to disposal of solid waste MTA: Land Code (1991, updated 2001) Addresses land use and its protection – including environmental aspects MTA: Water Code (1992 updated 2002) Protects use of water resources. The MTA includes the State Committee on Water Economy. MTA can become involved with road impacts on water use and availability. M Culture: Law on Preservation and Preservation and Use of Historical and Cultural Use of Historical and Cultural Monuments Monuments (1998) M Agriculture: Forest Code (2005 & Sustainable forest management, forestation, use subsequent decrees) of forests and control of forest lands M Justice: Civil Code (1998) and The codes include clauses to regulate Criminal Code (1961) environment-related offenses
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16. The RA environmental clearance procedures are set out in Figures 4 and 5. The ADB and MOTC will review the IEE Report and pass it to the MNP. The Report will then be made public by the NPE which invites public and government comment on the IEE and the Project before clearing it for implementation by the MOTC.
Figure 4: RA Environmental Clearance Procedure - Schedule Step A ction Time Lapse (days) 1 The project initiator (MOTC) sends the completed EIA/IEE Report to NPE. 5 Within 5-days the NPE (an SNCO within MNP) sends copies of the Report to MNP agencies and divisions (particularly the SEI), other ministries, and to the leaders of the affected marzes and communities. The public are notified via mass media as to where the Report may be viewed. 2 NPE, MOTC and affected communities organize public hearings. 30 Comments are submitted within 30-days to community leaders or to the NPE. 3 Within 10-days after time closure for receipt of public comments, community leaders 10 may add their own comments and send all comments to NPE. 4 MNP and other ministries and agencies have an additional period of 30-days in which 30 to provide their comments. During this same period, NPE reviews the public and community comments. When no negative comments are received by NPE within this 30-day period, it is concluded that there are no negative opinions with regard to the project. 5 The NPE takes the comments into account and has up to 70-days to conclude on the 70 (to 180) project. This period may be extended to 180-days when warranted. 6 Within 30-days of concluding on the IEE Report, the NPE releases its conclusion to 30 the public and may organize a second public hearing. 7 Within 20-days of the second public hearing, the NPE provides the Initiator (MOTC) 20 with a decision to proceed with the project or to cancel the project. -- Total Time Lapse (with no extensions by NPE) – up to ……………………….. 195-days
Figure 5: RA Environmental Clearance Procedure – Flow Diagram MOTC Roads Corridor Projects
ADB MOTC Proposes Projects
EIA/IEE report
EIA/IEE Report No Review:
Communities NPE Other Ministries
SEI
Yes or Yes with Conditions
MOTC Implements
Project Reporting by MOTC Project Monitored by:
MOTC and by SEI and Communities
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2. ADB Environmental Assessment Requirements
17. The ADB requires that environmental impacts likely to be caused by the Project be identified during the project planning and pre-feasibility stages and prevented or mitigated as much as possible during the construction and operational phases.
18. For environmental management purposes the roads improvement Project assessed here is classified by the ADB as a Category B project. This means that impacts are not expected to be highly significant but nevertheless need to be identified and reported in an Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) report.
19. Public disclosure and opportunities for the public (and affected ministries, agencies and local authorities) to express their concerns about the project form an important part of the environmental assessment process. Therefore, the ADB will post the Summary IEE Report (attached as Appendix 1) on its website.
D. Alternatives to the Proposed Project
20. The ADB, Environmental Assessment Guide lines, 2003 state that alternatives to the project are to be considered and compared with the project in terms of their potential environmental impacts, capital and recurrent costs, suitability under local conditions and the institutional, training and monitoring requirements and that the economic values for alternatives should be estimated where possible.
21. The Project is to improve 18.4 km of the existing M-1 4-lane road section north from Yerevan to Ashtarak and 38.0 km of the existing M-2 4-lane road section south from Yerevan to Ararat. Both sections of road are existing 4-lane divided roads.
22. There is no other alternative. The economic factors and the benefits from safety improvements support the Project but short of not implementing it, there is no alternative.
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II. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
A. Project Location
23. The Project road locations are shown on Figure 6.
Figure 6: Location of the Two Project Road Sections: 4-Lanes on M-1 North of Yerevan, and 4-Lanes on M-2 South of Yerevan
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B. Tranche 1 Project
24. The overall MFF objective is to improve existing 4-lane divided roads, widen existing 2- lane roads (often in poor condition) to 4-lane divided roads along the existing alignment wherever possible, or construct alternative 2-lane roads where a single 4-lane road would not be feasible.
25. The two road sections to be improved under the Project are two sections of the North- South Road Corridor to be rehabilitated and expanded under the MFF. The location of the road sections to be improved under the 1st Tranche of the MFF, and covered in this IEE report, stretch short distances north and south of Yerevan.
26. The 18.4km M-1 4-lane road section north of Yerevan was originally built over the period 1975 to 2004. Its condition is deteriorated and its standard varies so that the road-bed needs improvement to meet the design and construction standards normally associated with international transit routes. The 38.0km M-2, 4-lane road section south of Yerevan was built more recently and is in relatively good condition. Neither road section is adequately drained, the shoulders in many parts are very narrow and not properly paved, there are many randomly located U-turns, signage, road markings and lighting are absent or inadequate, there are insufficient crash barriers and median separation barriers and road structures need to be investigated to determine their structural integrity.
27. A key objective of the Project is to ensure compliance with the road safety and signage requirements under the European Agreement on Main International Traffic Arteries to which GoA is a signatory. A second objective is to ensure the structural integrity of road structures and that drainage is adequate to enhance road-bed longevity. Shoulders, guard rails, road marking, turning lanes and proper drainage will be added as necessary.
28. Road works are planned to be fully confined to the existing ROW and be constructed in sections, one side of the 4-lane carriageway at a time, in order to enable continued use of the existing road during construction. Transport of materials will be confined to the existing 4-lane road, to the one-side being worked on, when possible. The road works on both road sections will include the following: (i) Constructing proper drainage side-ditches and cross-drainage as required. (ii) Improving the road-shoulders. (iii) Improving traffic safety measures: signage, guardrails, traffic markings and turning lanes. (iv) Repairing road structures: over-passes, under-passes, and cut and embankment slopes.
29. The road works on the M-1 north section (Yerevan to Ashtarak) will also include: (i) Removing the existing asphalt layer (and grinding and re-using it as much as possible). (ii) Removing below-standard top and sub-grades and sub-base as required and replacing it with material meeting accepted quality standards. (iii) Completing the travel lanes and shoulders with a new concrete asphalt layer. (iv) Providing landscaping where appropriate.
30. Construction is planned to begin late 2010 and be finished by mid-2012.
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III. ENVIRONMENTAL BASELINE – EXISTING CONDITIONS A.
B. A. Ph ysical Resources
31. Both road sections are located in arid areas (annual precipitation less than 400mm) with most precipitation falling as rain in spring and autumn. Humidity is low, varying from a high of 78% in April/May, to a low of 56% in August. The temperature regime is that of the dry continental climate zone with average January temperatures (the coldest month) in the minus 4- 6 degrees C range. In July (the warmest month), the range is 25–38 degrees C.
32. The geology is very mixed but essentially a combination of volcanic basalt, faulted uplift and sedimentary infill overlying lava. The geological origins lie in the Pliocene, Paleocene and Cretaceous periods. To the north of Yerevan the basic geology is of uplifted Late-Quaternary- Pliocene volcanic deposits, mostly basalt and andesites broken down by earthquake and climatic elements into fractured rock and gravelly soil over most of the road corridor with small areas overlain by recent sedimentary material of volcanic origin. To the south the Ararat valley is sedimentary infilling of a basalt basin (see Figure 7).
33. Earthquakes occur from time to time, the last in December 1988, with an epicenter NE of Gyumri near the village of Spitak. The earthquake had little effect on the land and no apparent effect on structures located within or near the Project road sections. There are many small earthquakes and several large earthquakes have occurred in Central Armenia from time to time, including early in the 19th and 20th centuries. The seismic factor ranges 8-9 with an earthquake wave acceleration rate: g = 0.4 m/sec.
34. The landscape north of Yerevan along the M-1 Project road corridor is gently rolling uplands 1,060m to 1,270m in elevation. The Kasakh River dissects the landscape in a deep gorge north of Yerevan. There are no other surface streams along the north road section. The landscape south of Yerevan along the M-2 Project road corridor is flat and about 1,100m in elevation. There are no surface streams but the Ararat Valley is a noted artesian basin fed by snow melt and a sub-surface network of aquifers through the fractured lava. The land is irrigated wherever possible by water from aquifers and that carried in large pipes and canals from the mountains to the east.
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Figure 7: Geology of Armenia
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B. Ecological Resources:
35. The original fauna in the road corridors included steppe and semi-desert species has been largely supplanted. The native flora of arid and semi-desert varieties survive better in the corridor through which the M-1 4-lane north road section passes than the 4-lane M-2 south road section passes. The desiccated natural landscape along the north road corridor remains in patches amongst the mixed urban use land but along the south road corridor the native plants have been largely replaced by domestic plants except on the gravelly and saline bare patches where sage and similar species predominate.
36. There are no original trees along either road section, and few trees of any substance. Within the existing rights-of-way, to which the planned improvement and construction activities will be confined on both road sections, there are only the road itself, medians, limited shoulders, ditches and protective strips. There are no unique areas, no protected areas and no forests or ecological reserves within 500m either side of the right-of-way (ROW).
37. Within the Ararat Marz are the Khosrov Forest Reserve and a RAMSAR site 3-5km to the east of the ROW and a large area of aquaculture ponds in a former natural wetland some 2- 4km to the SW of the ROW.
C. Human Use of Resources
38. The existing 4-lane roads form important features of the existing environmental baselines along both road corridors and present a significant barrier to people trying to cross the road (particularly over north section because of the variable horizontal and vertical alignment). There are no industrial buildings, facilities, commercial operations or residences located within either ROW. No land purchase or resettlement will be necessary, and neither ROW passes close to any villages.
39. The areas near the Yerevan ends of both alignments are semi-urban transition zones where vacant land, industrial activities, run-down and disused industries and small residential areas are intermixed with remnant agricultural uses.
40. Agriculture along the north road section is limited to small orchards and a few hay fields towards Ashtarak. In complete contrast, agriculture predominates along both sides of the alignment in the south. The flat, irrigated land is intensely cropped with vineyards, wheat, orchards and market-gardens wherever irrigation is possible.
41. Energy Sources and Mining Activities. Within the road corridors of both road sections there are no nuclear, hydro or other electrical generating plants and no active mining.
42. Tourism Attractions and Facilitie s. There are no tourist attractions within or close to the road corridors.
D. Human Quality-of-Life Values (Socioeconomics and Sociocultural Resources)
43. Close to the ROW on the north road section there are two important known archeological sites protected by GoA Department of Historical Monuments (Ministry of Culture). One site stretches 500m along the edge of the ROW between it the Kasakh River near the bridge over the River and down the valley side to the River itself. The second site is located astride the interchange at Agarak and 200m either side of it. There may also be undiscovered
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archaeological remains or artifacts below ground (see EMP). There are no known sites within 100m of the ROW to the south.
Social conditions are as to be expected where the annual average per capita monetary income is about US $2,000 (lower in rural areas and already 20% lower in 2009 than it was in 2007) but people manage to live above that level in terms of PPP, standard of living, lifestyles and social- support services.
Many people in the Project corridors work in Yerevan. But for the marzes (Aragatsotn and Ararat) as a whole, particularly in the south corridor more than 75% of the population are employed in agriculture as owner/operators of as employees.
There are many schools in the two provinces concerned. As well as general education schools, there are pre-schools, state and non-state secondary schools and specialist schools in music and sports. Communities are generally well served with health clinics.
IV. SCREENING FOR POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
A. Environmental Parameters that may be Impacted
44. The different elements of the environment that maybe impacted or affected by the road rehabilitation and expansion project are clustered under the four aspects of the environment, namely, the impact on the: (i) Physical Environment: Water, land and air quality (ii) Ecological or Biotic Resources: Migrating mammals (iii) Human Use of Resources: Agriculture, rural roads and transport (iv) Human Quality-of-Life: Health and safety, incomes and employment, archaeological and historical sites.
B. Activities that may Create Environmental Impacts
45. Project Summary. The two road sections to be improved under the Project are parts of the North-South Road Corridor to be rehabilitated and expanded under the MFF. The location of the two road sections to be improved under the 1st Tranche Project are: a) the 18.4km, 4- lane road section of the M-1 north from Yerevan to Ashtarak and b) the 38.0km, 4-lane road section of the M-2 south of Yerevan to Ararat.
46. Neither road section is adequately drained, the shoulders in many parts are very narrow and not properly paved, there are many randomly located U-turns, signage, road markings and lighting are absent or inadequate, and there are insufficient crash barriers.
47. A key objective of the Project is to ensure compliance with the road safety and signage requirements under the European Agreement on Main International Traffic Arteries to which GoA is a signatory. A second objective is to ensure the structural integrity of road structures and that drainage is adequate to enhance road-bed longevity. Shoulders, guard rails, road marking, turning lanes and proper drainage will be added as necessary.
48. Road works are planned to be fully confined to the existing ROW and be constructed in sections, one side of the 4-lane carriageway at a time, in order to enable continued use of the existing road during construction. Transport of materials will be confined to the existing 4-lane road, to the one-side being worked on, when possible.
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49. Traffic growth for the next 20 years has been estimated based on the projected growth of GDP and an estimate of demand elasticity; little or no change in population is expected over the period. The results of the traffic forecast are shown in Figure 8.
Figure 8 – Traffic Forecast in number of vehicles per day
2012 2015 2020 2025 2032 With Project 13060 17110 24490 36660 65605 Without Project 13060 15550 22270 33330 59641
49. Eight construction activities with potential to impact on the four different aspects of the environment, including human safety are summarized in Figure 8. Note: The eight construction activities relate only to the north road section (4-lanes of M-1).
50. All eight works-related activities have the potential to create significant impacts on the environment or human safety. However, all impacts and safety issues can be prevented or mitigated by following sound engineering practices and implementing the impact prevention and mitigation measures set out in the Environmental Management Plan (EMP).
51. The operation or use of the improved roads may have some minor impacts on the local environment, air quality and noise levels may change but the level of change will not be significant.
Figure 8: Construction Activities that may Create Environmental Impacts (on M-1 section) Undertake earthworks: Prepare work sites, Dispose of surplus material Operate quarries borrow pits Transport materials Operate asphalt plants Construct and extend culverts Store/handle diesel and waste oil Manage traffic in and near work sites Operate work camps, including storage/disposal of sewage, domestic and solid waste
C. Environmental Screening—Potential Impacts
52. Works Acti vities—M-1, North Roa d Section. The works activities listed in Figure 8, above, are linked to the main causes of impacts and the elements of the environment that may be impacted in the Environmental Impact Screening Table (Figure 9).
53. The improvement works will impact the baseline environment only via minor impacts. Earthworks, construction activities and quarry and borrow-pit operations may create a number of short-term impacts on air and land quality, health and safety, may cause local flooding (by diverting runoff) and unearth archaeological sites or artifacts. Other activities that may cause negative impacts are asphalt plant operations, transport of materials, storage and handling of diesel, traffic in and near work sites, and work camp site preparation and operations.
54. Under the Project, there will be no changes to vertical or horizontal alignments. There will be no removal of top-soil, no new cut or fill sections and no bridge construction. Most 13
construction works will be confined to the 18.4km 4-lane north road section from Yerevan to Ashtarak, where the road-bed itself will be improved by removing the old asphalt, digging out and removing sub-standard road-bed materials and replacing both with new materials.
55. Digging may unearth archaeological sites or artifacts. Therefore, care needs to be taken, particularly around the two known archaeological sites near the north road section. Over the south section (Yerevan to Ararat) works will be limited to shoulder, drainage and culvert improvements; little material will be removed or new material placed, and there are no known archaeological sites within 100m of the ROW.
56. The disposal and replacement of up to 300,000m3 of sub-standard material from the existing north road section will require up to 100 truck movements per day over the construction period. With the current average daily traffic (ADT) of 11,680 vehicles including 13% trucks and other large vehicles, the works-truck traffic will add less than 5% to the existing ADT for large vehicles.
57. Works Acti vities—M-2, South Ro ad Section. Works will be confined to remedial improvements of safety, road markings, drainage and lighting.
58. Operation of the Improved Road. Minor positive impacts will be created. Air quality will improve, due to the smoother travel and better fuel combustion, road accidents will reduce due to the improved: safety barriers, road markings, lighting and the control of U-turns. Air quality and noise levels may be affected but it is unlikely that the level of change will be significant.
59. Noise. For a change in noise levels to be perceptible to the human ear the change must be greater than 3dB(A). A change of 3 dB(A) resulting from road traffic requires a doubling of the traffic flows. The traffic forecasts provided in table 8 show that this will not occur until after 2025 and so changes in noise levels will not be significant.
60. Air Quality. No quantitative air quality monitoring data was available for this assessment. In the last 15 years air quality in the city has improved, largely as a result of the closure of soviet era industries which were significant polluters. The gradual increase in vehicle numbers will lead to some increases in pollutants but this is likely to be offset by the implementation of more stringent emission standards and improvements in engine efficiency.
Figure 9: Works Activities and Potential Impacts (M-1 section) Construction Activity and Causes Environmental Elements Impacted of Impacts 1 Undertake earthworks: Prepare work sites, Air quality and noise levels Dispose of surplus material. Water quality Land quality Unstable and eroded material affects: water Vegetation bodies, water quality and aquatic biota; other land, vegetation, etc. Work site safety Dust reduces air quality. Unearth archaeological sites or artifacts Activities may unearth archaeological sites or artifacts. Equipment causes noise, vibration and safety issues, may impact road use, other land uses and communities. 2 Operate quarries borrow pits Same as above 3 Transport materials Air quality and noise levels Damage rural roads Truck traffic increases road hazards, noise and Health and Safety via road accidents vibration, dust, air pollution, and nuisance. 14
Construction Activity and Causes Environmental Elements Impacted of Impacts Heavy trucks can damage rural roads, affect communities and road users. Mud from truck wheels can cake onto existing roads. 4 Operate asphalt plants Air quality and noise levels Vegetation Air pollution, mostly particulate matter, and noise Water and Land quality via spills of diesel can affect people. Dust affects plants. Spills of diesel are toxic to all living organisms. 5 Construct and extend culverts Air quality Land quality May create local flooding. Health and Safety via road accidents Creates traffic safety hazards. 6 Store/handle diesel and waste oil Water and Land quality via spills of diesel and/or waste oil
Diesel and waste oil handling and vehicle and equipment servicing may cause spills. Diesel and waste oil are toxic to all living organisms. 7 Manage traffic in and near work sites Air quality and noise levels Water quality Work sites create accident conditions. Signage, Land quality barriers and clear directions are important. Vegetation Work site Safety and road user Safety 8 Operate work camps, including Air quality and noise levels storage/disposal of sewage, domestic and Water quality solid waste Land quality Health and Safety The work force generates large amounts of domestic and other solid waste and sewage with potential to damage water quality and create nuisance. Social impacts from the largely male work force may affect local communities.
D. Significance of Potential Impacts
59. Estimating significance involves careful consideration of the nature of each potential impact. Significance is defined by three factors: the magnitude including duration of the impact, the scope or area that may be affected, and the probability or frequency of occurrence. Each potential impact is considered against each of the three factors and assessed in-depth with reference to the environmental baseline and its sensitivity.
60. Short-term negative impacts will be created on water, land and air quality (and noise) and health and safety. These environmental elements are most likely to be impacted along the north road section, and rural roads may be damaged by the heavily laden trucks carrying earth, gravel and other works materials—depending on the truck routes taken. The contractor will therefore be required to re-instate pavements along transport routes at the end of the construction period if damage has occurred.
61. The area is arid, hence, there is very little water that may become affected and no improvements are foreseen for the high bridge over the Kasakh River. Therefore, impacts on water quality are expected to be insignificant. In order to prevent any pollution of the river
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occurring in the event of an accident on the bridge catch drains will be included in the design to ensure that surface flows are directed away from the river.
62. The increase in traffic along existing sections of the carriageway when they are used to divert traffic around the resurfacing works may lead to increased damage to the pavement. The tender and contract documents will require the contractor to maintain the pavement of the carriageways for those sections that are being used for diversions at a standard suitable for the volume of traffic.
62. There are no ecologically important or sensitive environmental elements and few human use factors that may be seriously affected. The most important possible impact issue is the potential to unearth archaeological sites or artifacts (addressed in the EMP).
63. Air quality impacts will be confined to localized dust nuisance. This may be significant but manageable. Similarly noise may be significant, localized and manageable. Impacts on land quality are expected to be very minor because works will be minor on the south road section and confined to the existing ROW of the north road section. Hence, the likely impact on land is considered to be insignificant and manageable.
64. Health and safety impacts may be significant but preventable at all locations.
65. Actual impacts will be short-term and insignificant. Nevertheless, all impacts have been addressed in the EMP, the implementation of which will prevent or mitigate them.
66. Short-term positive impacts will be created via local employment and spin-off effects and the associated increase in short-term expenditure. Construction will create a number of local jobs to prepare and re-construct earthworks, operate and restore borrow pits and quarries and to transport and apply construction materials. In-turn, households and small businesses will benefit significantly over the short-term.
V. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT PREVENTION and MITIGATION MEASURES
A. Environmental Impact Prevention and Mitigation
67. The environmental impacts that may be created by the project were identified above. They are well known to competent civil engineers and competent construction companies – as are the standard impact prevention and mitigation measures to address them. Nevertheless, in order to ensure understanding of required prevention and mitigation measures, an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and appropriate clauses for inclusion in works contracts are summarized below.
68. To further encourage understanding of and compliance with good environmental practices, Environmental Management seminars are proposed.
B. Environmental Management Plan (EMP)
69. The EMP summarized in Figure 1 0 and discussed below, is designed to address the impacts identified in Section 4.0 by guiding engineers and contractors in the prevention and mitigation of environmental impacts related to construction activities, to guide monitoring by ARD, SEI and the International Environmental Specialist (IES), and to guide ARD in the subsequent operation of the road. The Summary EMP:
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(i) Links road works activities, their potential impacts and their prevention or mitigation. (ii) Provides the basis for the EMP, to be added to by Contractor statements of intent to comply and the detailed planning documents to be prepared by the contractor prior to commencement of specific, identified activities. (iii) Forms the basis for preparing a Monitoring Program for checking on compliance with impact prevention and mitigation measures.
1. Contractor to Prepare EMP and Operating Plans for Approval by Senior Engineer
70. Prior to commencing site preparation and construction activities, the Contractor will prepare a Draft EMP and Monitoring Program guided by Chapters 4 and 5 of this report, particularly the Summary EMP (Figure 10). The Contractor is advised to simply copy the Summary EMP below and prepare the required Operating Plans (referred to in the Summary EMP) and add a Performance Commitment Section including places for the signatures of the Contractor, Senior Engineer and Works Foremen.
71. The Draft EMP will be approved by the Senior Engineer (SE) and serve to support consultations in affected communities (village leaders and villagers) and with responsible authorities at the central and provincial (marz) levels. The EMP will be revised as required on receipt of comments from communities and the responsible authorities and then finalized. When finalized as the Approved EMP, the SE, Contractor and Works Foremen will sign it testifying to their agreement to comply with it.
72. Consultations with affected communities will help to gain local input/understanding, to guide revisions when warranted, and to support monitoring.
73. The Contractor will prepare suitable Operating Plans as required to guide satisfactory implementation of key activities that may create significant environmental impacts. The overall requirements of each Operating Plan are highlighted in Figure 10 as performance clauses to be included in the Main Contract Documents.
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Figure 10: Environmental Impact Mitigation – Summary Environmental Management Plan (EMP) Page 1 of 5 Activities Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures -- for Implementation by Engineers and Contactors 1. Construction: (i) Dust and emissions Construction and Related Activities (ii) Traffic hazards and safety The Contractor will prepare an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for approval by the Senior Engineer (i) Earth works (iii) Work site safety (SE) -- prior to commencing site preparation and construction. The EMP will be guided by the IEE Report, the principles set out in the Summary EMP and the following: (ii) Cul verts (iv) Social nuisance (i) Prior to commencing any works, the Contractor will meet with the ARD, MNP and Marz authorities. (iii) Dispose of (v) Erosion of material piles and surplus runoff may affect nearby land (ii) Areas of disturbed land will be restored or rehabilitated as soon as possible.
material and plants (iii) Works stockpiles will be located away from drainage areas and water-courses. (vi) Works can cause local flooding (iv) Construction and related activities, such as stockpiling, servicing and drainage works will be restricted to (vii) Material beyond ROW affects identified sites. nearby land quality and use (v) Spoil and materials piles will be graded, stabilized and drained. (viii) Noise and vibration (vi) Construction material/waste will be kept within the ROW and away from water bodies. (ix) Works may unearth (vii) Adequate temporary drainage will be provided to prevent local flooding. archaeological artifacts (viii) Runoff from sites will be prevented from entering natural water-courses, for example by using sediment traps, silt aprons and/or straw bales. Also see: Drainage, Slope Stability Erosion and Sediment Control – below. (ix) Water sprinklers will be used to minimize dust in and around work areas. (x) Work along the north road section will be undertaken only during daylight hours. (xi) Workers will use safety equipment (helmets, eye-glasses, ear-plugs - as required) and follow safety procedures (xii) Nearby residents, commercial and industrial land users and communities will be informed of major activities ahead of their implementation and be informed of a clear mechanism for comments and complaints to be communicated to the SE. Waste Management The Co ntractor will prepare a W aste Man agement Plan fo r app roval b y th e Senior Eng ineer p rior to commencing work. The Plan will be guided by the following: (i) Solid waste will be separated (it is understood that clean paper, glass and poly-propylene plastics are recyclable in Armenia) and stored for regular collection for correct off-site disposal in a nearby municipal waste facility. (ii) Solid waste disposal sites will be identified in concert with local officials and the MNP prior to any dumping. (iii) Solid waste, waste spoil, waste aggregate/materials and waste material removed from the existing road (e.g., used asphalt-concrete that cannot be crushed and re-used) will be disposed of only in designated sites/locations. (iv) Waste oil will be collected and stored in used fuel drums for later safe disposal in a manner and/or at sites approved by the MNP. (v) Waste asphalt removed from the existing road (north) will be recycled and re-used in the new road construction as much as possible. All old asphalt that cannot be re-used will be handled as toxic waste and disposed of only at a site approved by MNP and local authorities.
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Figure 10: Environmental Impact Mitigation – Summary Environmental Management Plan (EMP) Page 2 of 5 Activities Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures -- for Implementation by Engineers and Contactors
1. Construction: Drainage, Slope Stability Erosion and Sediment Control (i) Control devices/actions will be designed to provide adequate protection for each area, according to slope, drainage (i) Earth works pattern, likely rainfall, and the construction site. (ii) Cul verts (ii) Measures to control runoff, erosion and sedimentation will include: (iii) Dispose of a. Diversion of natural runoff around construction areas surplus b. Use of temporary bunds to divert runoff to temporary or permanent drainage facilities material (iii) Drains, runoff, erosion and sedimentation protective measures will be maintained regularly to ensure adequate capacity. (iv) Temporary diversion drains will be extended beyond the toe line of an embankment to avoid embankment erosion (v) Drainage structures and erosion controls will be monitored and repaired/modified as soon as possible after rain. Noise and Vibration (i) Vehicles and equipment will be fitted with emission controls and silencers to meet national noise control and emission standards and be checked every six-months to ensure compliance. (ii) The asphalt plant and equipment will be operated only in daylight. (iii) Noise control barriers (e.g., solid walls, earth barriers, noise-reflective panels) will be used when necessary to shield houses, schools and hospitals Archaeological Finds When an archaeological site is found, work will be stopped immediately. The Senior Engineer will be notified. Then, the following steps will be taken: Isolate the site. (i) Call the Archaeology and Ethnography Inst., Armenian National Academy of Sciences and the Agency for Protection of Historical and Cultural Monuments to assess the site and determine whether and how it should be preserved (ii) Document and photograph the find and area immediately around it (iii) When advised and as directed by the Archaeologist, excavate and remove the find (iv) After documentation and after being advised that the site is not important, resume construction.
2. Sto re an d (i) Diesel and waste oil is toxic to (i) Diesel will be stored in drums or tanks under cover on an impervious pad of concrete or clay (for later removal and handle diesel an d all living organisms - in the soil safe disposal), and the pad will be surrounded by an impervious bund enclosing a catch volume at least 50% more waste o il or in surface or ground-water. than the volume of diesel stored. Should clay be used to form the bund and a spill occur, the bund will be removed (including v ehicle Diesel and waste oil kills all after construction has ceased and disposed of safely (as for impervious pads of clay). and e quipment living organisms (ii) Vehicles and equipment will be maintained in designated areas underlain by an impervious pad of concrete or clay servicing) (for later removal and safe disposal)
(iii) Waste oil will be collected and stored (in the same way that diesel is stored – see above) in used fuel drums for later safe disposal in approved sites. (iv) Also see Waste Management – above.
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Figure 10: Environmental Impact Mitigation – Summary Environmental Management Plan (EMP) Page 3 of 5 Activities Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures -- for Implementation by Engineers and Contactors 3. Op erate an d (i) The expected impacts are very The Contractor will prepare a Quarry and Borrow-pit Operations and Site Restoration Plan for approval by the restore q uarries similar to those shown for SE - prior to commencement of materials extraction. The Plan will be guided by the following: and borrow pits Construction, above. (i) Potential quarries and borrow pits will be identified in concert with marzpeteran (provincial) and Yerevan officials. (ii) Quarries and borrow pits will be made safe, have their slopes stabilized, be adequately drained and be restored or rehabilitated as soon as possible after extraction has ceased. 4. Tra nsport (i) Dust and emissions The Contra ctor will prepare a Dra ft Tra ffic Ma nagement Plan for co nsideration by th e SE an d affected materials and (ii) Noise and vibration communities, traffic au thorities a nd t he pol ice be fore fina lization a nd a pproval b y the SE -- prior t o equipment commencing construction,. The Traffic Management Plan will include: (iii) Traffic and other safety hazards 1. Carefully selected truck routes (iv) Social impact in affected 2. Clear route directions communities 3. Appropriate warning signs (v) Damage to rural roads and 4. Established speed limits and operating times (daylight as much as possible) other roads 5. Provision and maintenance of temporary access for public and nearby communities 6. Controls over the movement of vehicles particularly near communities and schools 7. Use of dust blankets or other means to cover load 8. Provisions to use and using water spray of road surfaces to control dust in and near affected settlements 9. Construction traffic giving way to regular traffic (i) Construction traffic routes will be defined in cooperation with local communities and the police (ii) Vehicles and equipment will be maintained to prevent fuel and oil leaks and to minimize air and noise pollution (iii) Trucks and equipment will be washed in specified areas with suitable runoff protection (as above). (iv) Roads used by construction vehicles will be swept regularly. (v) Vehicle and equipment movements will be restricted to the approved construction zone and the final ROW. (vi) Rural and other roads damaged by construction vehicles and other activities will be repaired or restored (i) Dust and emissions The Contractor will prepare an Asphalt Plant Site Development and Operating Plan for a pproval b y the SE - (ii) Noise prior to construction of an asphalt plant. The Plan will take the following into account: (i) The asphalt plant will be located at least 200m away from and downwind from any settlement and 200m away from (iii) Diesel (used in asphalt) is toxic any water body or stream and adjacent to other contractor facilities such as, works camps, storage areas and to all living organisms – in soil, vehicle and equipment maintenance areas. surface or ground-water. (ii) Electrostatic precipitators will be installed or exhaust gases will be released via a set of water baths (iii) Diesel will be stored under cover on a concrete pad surrounded by an impervious bund enclosing a catch volume at least 50% more than the volume of the diesel stored (see above). (iv) Conveyers and hoppers will be covered (v) Waste asphalt and bitumen will be disposed of at a site approved by marz, city and MNP authorities. (vi) The plant will be operated only in daylight hours when located less than 500m from a settlement.
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Figure 10: Environmental Impact Mitigation – Summary Environmental Management Plan (EMP) Page 4 of 5 5. Operate/ (i) Work force generates significant The Contractor will prepare a Facilities Plan (such as, work camps, concrete mixing plants, storage areas an d manage w ork amounts of domestic and other vehicle and equipment mai ntenance areas), for appro val b y the SE - prior to establishing facilities. The camps a nd other solid waste and sewage with Facilities Plan will take the following into account: facilities (incl. potential to damage water quality (i) Camp locations will be more than 200m from any water body and sited to prevent damage to landscape. and create nuisance store/dispose o f (ii) Domestic solid waste and hazardous waste disposal. (ii) Improper waste disposal sewage an d solid (iii) The need for adequate temporary drainage waste) creates health problems and habitat for disease vectors (iv) Sewage will be disposed of in on-site septic tanks, held in sealed tanks for proper disposal or disposed into latrines (iii) Communities may perceive constructed for the purpose and capped when no longer needed. potential or suffer from actual (v) Wastewater will be disposed of in on-site septic tanks, or be treated to meet the standards for domestic wastewater social impacts from large male discharge and discharged to a pond or natural drainage channel. workforce. (vi) Covered rubbish bins for solid waste will be placed at suitable locations where solid waste is generated. (iv) Site runoff affects the physical (vii) Solid waste will be separated (clean paper, glass and poly-propylene plastics are understood to be recyclable in water quality and aquatic life in Armenia) and stored for regular collection for recycling or off-site disposal in a municipal waste facility (also see rivers and water bodies, flora, Waste Management – above) nearby land, and other natural (viii) Work camp sites will be restored to the satisfaction of local officials after use and before abandonment. resources. 6. Work Site (i) Injuries and death of workers, (i) Safety and safety promotion will be of the highest priority. Safety road users, people in and near work-sites, quarries and borrow- (ii) Temporary traffic direction signs, markings, traffic signals and lighting will be installed and maintained, clearly visible pits, and possible sickness of solid barriers will be used to channel traffic, and flagmen will be employed as needed. workers and other people (iii) Water sprinklers will be used when needed to control dust because of sewage and waste (iv) Work areas will be kept clean and clear of waste and unused material disposal. (v) Waste will be disposed of properly (also see Waste Management) 7. P ublic (i)Lack of information and The Contra ctor will prepare a Community Cons ultation a nd Com munications Plan for a pproval b y the SE - Consultation understanding by communities prior to commencing site preparation and construction activities. The Plan will be guided by the following: and affected parties about the planned works activities and the (i) Procedures for communicating with local residents will be developed in advance of activities, particularly when noise, schedule for their implementation vibration or nuisances may be created and/or where local flooding may be an existing or potential problem. can lead to frustration and delays (ii) Community members will be provided with direct access to the SE or representative at a nominated location and in the schedule and sometimes time (particularly important where some residents may not have telephones). can contribute to accidents. (iii) A process will be developed whereby community members and other stakeholders may make complaints and be assured of receiving responses within a reasonable period. A record or Log will be maintained of the type and number of complaints received (name, subject, date, response and date of response). (iv) Regular meetings will be held with community representatives to discuss the project, its impacts, etc. The group should include community leaders and people who are well known in the community and who represent different interests, e.g., business people, teachers, priests, older people and those with special interests. (v) Community leaders and local newspapers will be provided with notices on project progress and anticipated issues. (vi) Clear signs will be posted on and around construction sites to provide information about the project. (vii) Employment opportunities will be maximized for local people by employing them as part of the project labour force, and prefabricating or manufacturing construction items locally when possible, e.g., drainage pipes, culverts and for sand, gravel and stone supply. 21
Figure 10: Environmental Impact Mitigation – Summary Environmental Management Plan (EMP) Page 5 of 5 Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures -- for Implementation by Engineers and Contactors (ii) Chemicals and Hazardous materials The Con tractor will p repare a Pl an for Han dling Ch emicals an d an Emerg ency Co ntingency have the potential to poison people, soil, Response Plan for approval by the SE - prior to commencing construction. The Plan will be guided surface and ground water and may by the following: cause death or severe damage to the health of people and all living animals (i) Procedures will be developed and implemented to ensure safe handling and storage of hazardous and plants. substances, e.g., diesel, waste oil, paints. Material safety data sheets, emergency response procedures and clean-up materials will be readily available on site. Copies of material data sheets will also be held by the Resident and Senior Engineers. (ii) An Emergency Contingency Response Plan (ECRP) will be in place to handle spills and ensure that clean-up materials are readily available on-site to clean-up spills that may occur. The ECRP will, at a minimum: 1. Identify the positions and persons responsible for emergency response action (e.g., the SE, RE, Works Foremen) 2. Specify the leader of the Emergency Response Team (ERT) and Alternate 3. Include an organizational diagram specifying the positions and responsible persons within the ERT, their work and home phone numbers, and the reporting lines among them. 4. Ensure that clean-up chemicals and materials to absorb and remove spilt substances are available and stored undercover in locked facilities located at works facility sites. 5. Ensure that the responsible persons receive training in emergency response. (iii) Hazard and risk management training will be provided to each Environmental Management Officer (appointed by the Contractor) and all personnel handling chemicals and hazardous substances. (iv) Spilled material will be collected and disposed of in a site approved by MNP. The spilled area will be cleaned in a timely manner to prevent potential contamination of surface and ground water and soil. (v) Only minimal chemicals, hazardous substances and fuel will be stored on-site, within an enclosed and covered secure area that has an impervious floor and impervious bund around it (with capacity at least 150% of the capacity of the largest tank). The storage area will be located away from water-courses and danger areas, e.g., facilities site.
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74. The requirements for operating plans to be prepared by the Contractor are set out in the EMP Summary (Figure 10, above) and listed in Figure 11 as clauses to be included in the Main Contract Document. Operating Plans will be approved by the SE prior to undertaking any associated action, and be included as Annexes to the EMP.
Figure 11: EMP and Operating Plans - Clauses for Inclusion in Contract Documents EMP and EMP and Operating Plans Responsibility Annexes (Clauses to be included in the Contract Document - to it highlighted)
EMP The Contractor w ill, prior to commencing site Contractor + SE preparation and construction activities, prepare: An Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for approval by the Senior Engineer (SE). The EMP will be guided by Chapters 4 and 5 of this IEE Report, particularly the Summary EMP (Figure 17) and include, as Annexes, the Operating Plans listed below (all to be approved by the SE). ANNEX A A Waste Man agement Plan to guide the handling of materials for Contractor + SE recycling (glass, plastic and clean paper), domestic waste, sewage, and hazardous waste. ANNEX B A Quarry and Borrow-pit Operations and Site Restoration Plan. Contractor + SE ANNEX C A Traffic Management Plan Contractor + SE ANNEX.D An Asphalt Plant Site Development and Operating Plan Contractor + SE ANNEX.E A Facilities Plan (c overing: work c amps, c oncrete mixing pla nts, Contractor + SE storage areas and vehicle and equipment maintenance areas) ANNEX.F A Plan for H andling C hemicals a nd H azardous Ma terials and an Contractor + SE Emergency Contingency Response Plan ANNEX.G A Community Consultation and Communications Plan Contractor + SE
75. The Final EMP and the Operating Plans attached as Annexes “A” through “G” to the EMP will, after approval by the SE, become the Environmental Management Package and form part of the Contract Package with all of the requirements for commitment and performance as applied to engineering and financial performance.
76. The full contents of the EMP will be as follows: (i) Statement of Commitment and Signature Block; (ii) Summary of Potential Impacts; (iii) Planned Mitigation Measures; (iv) Planned Environmental Monitoring and Schedule for Monitoring; (v) Planned Public Consultation Process; (vi) Responsibilities for Implementing Mitigation Measures and Monitoring; (vii) Responsibilities for Reporting and Review; (viii) Environmental staff and activities/inputs of various government agencies; (ix) Environmentally Responsible Procurement Plan; (x) Operating Plans – Summary; and (xi) Annexes: Operating Plans: A through G.
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C. Responsibilities for Impact Prevention and Mitigation
77. The Contractor will: (i) Prepare the Draft EMP (ii) Present the Draft EMP to the IES and EM for their review and comment before submitting it to the SE for approval and before discussing it with central and provincial government authorities, village leaders and villagers in affected communities. (iii) After the above discussions, revise the EMP as appropriate. (iv) Prepare the Operating Plans specified in the Summary EMP and include these as Annexes to the EMP. (v) During works ensure that environmental management issues are checked regularly in order to ensure compliance with the Contract Specifications and the EMP. (vi) Report as specified to the SE.
78. The ARD will, before accepting any Contractor bid to undertake the construction of any part of the Project road, check to ensure that the Contract Price explicitly identifies cost commitment to undertake the environmental protection measures specified in the EMP and the Environmental Enhancement Measures specified above.
79. Before completion of construction and releasing sections of road from Contractor to Government control, the ARD will: (i) Ensure that the design and construction standards meet the required standards including road markings, signage and safety devices and the posted travel speeds accord with international standards. (ii) Formulate and apply an Emergency Contingency Plan (ECP) to cope with accident events including potential spills of hazardous and other substances within the ROW and on adjacent land or streams nearby. (iii) To Report to the MOTC and ADB as required.
80. The ARD Environmental Manager (EM) will: (i) Participate with the IES to review the Draft EMP and recommend improvements as appropriate. (ii) Ensure that ARD becomes informed of any important environmental issues. (iii) Check on environmental performance weekly and submit Monthly Environmental Reports to the Senior Engineer (SE) for incorporation into Works Monthly Reports.
81. The Independent Environmental Specialist (IES) will: (i) Review the Draft EMP prepared by the Contractor and, with the EM, suggest revisions before the Contractor submits it to the SE and discussions with villagers (ii) Assist the Contractor to prepare the Final EMP (part of the Contract Package). (iii) Review the Monthly Environmental Reports and prepare a consolidated Environmental Management Report every 3-months. (iv) Visit works and associated sites as required and advise the EM and SE on environmental management issues as these may arise. (v) Prepare and deliver an Environmental Awareness Raising and Training Program.
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D. Environmental Enhancement Measures
82. The only environmental enhancement measures will be: (i) The construction of pedestrian overpasses at locations to be determined during the Project Design Phase (beginning late 2009) (ii) General landscaping after completion of the road improvements on the 4-lane, M- 1, north road section.
E. Environmental Monitoring Program
83. From the ADB, Environmental Assessment Guidelines, (2003) and experience with other roads projects, key features of a useful monitoring program include: realistic sampling program (temporal and spatial), sampling methods relevant to source, ability to collect quality data, comparability of data over time, cost-effectiveness, ease of interpretation reporting simplicity (for internal management and external checking), allowance for, and response to, third parties, and suitability for public presentation and understanding.
84. The ARD wishes to monitor performance of its contractors during construction of the proposed road works in order to ensure an adequate level of compliance with environmental impact mitigation measures and employs its own staff to undertake the necessary tasks. An outside, Independent Environmental Specialist (IES) will be appointed to work alongside the ARD Environmental Manager (EM) and appointed community members from affected communities.
85. Monitoring requirements and responsibilities are summarized in Figure 12.
F. Cost of Impact Prevention, Mitigation, Monitoring and Enhancement
86. The cost of environmental impact prevention, mitigation and monitoring for the two, 4- lane road sections: the M-1 north section – Yerevan to Ashtarak and the M-2 south section – Yerevan to Ararat, will be minimal. The costs relate only to the actions required of the engineers and contractors in the normal execution of the Project and the incremental cost of environmental monitoring by the EM and the IES.
87. The impact prevention and mitigation measures recommended here are normal, standard, internationally recognized impact prevention and mitigation measures and form part of the Works Contract Price – the engineering and construction cost package.
88. Environmental monitoring to ensure compliance will be conducted by the EM within the ARD, the State Environmental Inspectorate (SEI) and be checked on periodically by an International Environmental Specialist (IES). Thus the cost will included the normal salary of the EM and a total of 6-person months for the IES. At normal international rates this will amount to approximately US $110,000 plus travel and accommodation.
89. The cost of constructing pedestrian overpasses at locations to be determined during the Project Design Phase (beginning late 2009), and of general landscaping after completion of the road improvements on the 4-lane, M-1, north road section, are covered in the Works Contract Price.
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Figure 12: Monitoring Requirements - Site Preparation and Construction Parameters to be Monitored Locations for Frequency Responsibility Refer to EMP Monitoring and Data of for Monitoring Sources Monitoring Work Sites: Work sites: Weekly EM Visual inspection Quarterly IES Dust and use of water spray - Slope protection and drainage - Runoff control - Drainage maintenance - Substances/materials in water courses - Work site safety: Work sites: Weekly EM Visual inspection Quarterly IES Signage - Barriers - Site cleanliness - Use of safety equipment - Traffic and Road safety: Work sites: Weekly EM Visual inspection Quarterly IES Signage, Barriers, Routes - - Material on the road Traffic routes - Condition of rural roads - - Vehicle & equipment emissions control - - Incidents and complaints Vehicle Maintenance logs Quarterly Complaints Log Monthly Work camps: Works camps: Weekly EM Visual inspection Quarterly IES Solid waste management - - Sewage management - - Social issues Complaints Log Monthly Site restoration - Monthly Facilities areas: Facilities areas: Weekly EM Visual inspection Quarterly IES Storage of diesel and waste oil - - Material/substance sheets - Monthly Site restoration - Monthly Quarries and borrow pits: Quarries and borrow pits: Weekly EM Visual inspection Quarterly IES Slope management - - Runoff management - - Use of safety equipment - - Site restoration - Monthly Asphalt plants: Asphalt plants: Weekly EM Visual inspection Quarterly IES Diesel storage and use management - - Dust emission control - - Waste management and disposal: Work sites, Works Weekly EM camps, disposal sites: Quarterly IES Visual inspection Solid waste storage and transport - Solid waste disposal sites - - Asphalt recycling, re-use and disposal - - Sewage management and disposal - - Waste oil disposal - - Coordination with MNP and Local SE Log Monthly EM authorities Checking with MNP Complaints Complaints Log Monthly EM Consultation and Information sharing SE Log Quarterly EM with communities Minutes of meetings
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5.7 Environmental Management Seminars
90. It is important to ensure that ARD officers, Area Engineers, Resident Engineers, Contractors, Contract Supervisors and Foremen, understand the basics of sound environmental management and the measures required to prevent and/or reduce environmental impacts. To facilitate such understanding, a set of five seminars will be designed for delivery to concerned parties.
91. The purpose of the seminars is to ensure that all managers and supervisors involved in the final design and construction of the road have basic and similar understanding of environmental issues and their management, and how to prevent or reduce the impacts likely to be created by the project particularly during the construction phase.
92. The seminars will be based on the contents of this report, particularly the EMP and Monitoring Program and follow closely the requirements set out in the ADB, Environmental Assessment Guidelines, 2003.
93. Delivery of five Environmental Management seminars, their locations and participants will be decided by the IES and EM, however, the timing of seminar delivery will be as set out below. Five Environmental Management seminars will be delivered as follows, during the: (i) 1 -- Detailed Project Design Phase (ii) 2 -- Preparation for construction (iii) 3 -- First month of Project activities (iv) 4 – Months 3-4 of construction activities (v) 5 – Month 6-7 of construction activities.
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VI. PUBLIC CONSULTATION and INFORMATION DISCLOSURE
A. Consultation Process
94. The IEE Report will be made available publically in Armenia by GoA, MOTC and MNP and provided to affected communities. The NPE (of the MNP) will hold public meetings on the IEE Report and Project. Then the NPE will consider all comments, the IEE Report and the Project before granting, not granting, or granting with conditions, permission to proceed with the Project.
95. The Summary IEE report (SIEE) will be placed on the ADB Website in August 2009. It forms Appendix 1 to this IEE Report.
96. Meetings were held with representatives of a number of stakeholder groups and will be ongoing with the same and different stakeholder groups during the preparation of other (future) projects planned to be funded under the MFF.
97. Comments obtained to date relate to the MFF Program as a whole rather than to this specific 1st Tranche Project. Most concern was expressed with regard to possible future tranches in the south of Armenia rich in biodiversity. Little concern was expressed with regard to any intended road works in the central part of the country, particularly along existing road alignments. The most frequently expressed concern was that the EMP should be followed and enforced.
98. Meetings, guided by a discussion guide were held during June and July 2009.with representatives of the stakeholder groups listed in Figure 13.
B. Community Involvement to date:
99. Village leaders completed the Environmental Questionnaire that was included with the social and demographic questionnaire when provided to communities by the Resettlement Survey Team in July 2009. Results from this survey were not available at the time of preparing this IEE report (prepared late July 2009 so that the Summary IEE could be placed on the ADB Website in August).
100. Face-to-face interviews were held by the Environmental Impact Assessment Team with 94 villagers from 3 different communities: Agarak, Udjan and Kosh (located in Aragatsotn Marz but not along the M-1, 4-lane north road section of this IEE report). As stated above, discussions to date have related to the MFF Program as a whole, nevertheless, the three selected villages are located within 15km of the 4-lane section of the M-1 chosen for improvement and there are no villages located along the Project road sections.
101. The Environmental Questionnaire used in the survey is attached as ANNEX 1 to this Chapter. Interviews were conducted in the Armenian language. The essential features of the proposed road improvement program were described to respondents, the expected benefits and negative impacts outlined and questions asked via closed questions related to the existing road and respondent perceptions of likely environmental impacts.
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Figure 13: Environmental Stakeholder Groups Met to Date Stakeholders Stakeholder Groups
Government ¾ Ministry of Transport and Communication ¾ Ministry of Nature Protection ‐ Bioresources Management Agency ‐ Nature Protection Expertise (NPE) ‐ State Environmental Inspectorate (SEI) ¾ Ministry of Culture ‐ Agency for Protection of Historical and Cultural Monuments Regional ¾ Aragatsotn administrations ¾ Shirak (marzpetaran) International ¾ ADB organizations ¾ WWF ¾ World Bank ¾ USAID ¾ UNDP and GEF ¾ US Millennium Challenge Account – Armenia Village leaders ¾ Community leaders: Leaders in 14 selected communities completed the and villagers Environmental Questionnaire ¾ Villagers: 94 villagers in 3 different communities were interviewed and the Environmental Questionnaire filled out by the interviewer ¾ NGO ¾ NGO Interest & Reason Selected ¾ Inst. Ethnography and ¾ Archaeological Research and National NGOs Archaeology Documentation ¾ Armenian Ecological Assoc. ¾ Ecological issues, assessment of projects, E education and research ¾ Biodiversity, particularly of fish ¾ Environmental Survival species ¾ Facilitation of public participation in ¾ Aarhuus Centre of Gyumri environmental issues
102. Results from the face-to-face survey are shown by number and percentage of responses in Figure 14.
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Figure 14: Results of Survey of Villagers (94 respondents) Number and Percentage of Responses Responses: > No. % No. % 1 Do you use the existing road? Yes 89 95 No 5 5 2 Please comment on problems It is too narrow Yes 66 81 No 15 19 with the existing road: It is dangerous Yes 76 86 No 12 14 It is very poor quality Yes 31 48 No 33 52 No Problems Yes 77 95 No 4 5 3 Do you think that the road needs to be repaired & improved? Yes 83 99 No 1 1 4 Do you think that a 4-lane road is needed? Yes 75 87 No 11 13 Consider the environment near the existing road and the works Yes 35 40 No 53 60 5 to expand it. Do you think that impacts may be serious? 6 What you think about each of the following impacts from road construction? Please circle one number of the scale below. 1 indicates little concern, 5 most concern. 1 2 3 4 5 Results: > No. % N o. % N o. % N o. % N o. % 6.1 Noise 49 56 13 15 18 21 5 6 3 2 6.2 Water Pollution 70 79 10 11 5 6 3 3 1 1 6.3 Air Pollution 35 38 18 19 23 25 9 10 8 9 6.4 Construction Traffic 21 23 12 13 24 27 20 22 13 14 6.5 Workers or Work-Force 14 15 7 8 24 26 24 26 24 26 6.6 Disturbance of Land 40 43 6 6 17 18 17 18 21 22 6.7 Other Impact – Please describe: This question was poorly and hardly answered. Respondents provided comments under question 7. Please make any comments to 7 guide the works activities: Note: The 94 respondents did not answer all questions. The average response factor for the 8 yes/no questions was approximately 94%; for the 7 perception questions it was approximately 97%. The percentages shown in the table above refer to the percentages of the actual responses rather than the total number of respondents in the survey. All numbers are rounded to the nearest whole number.
103. Figure 15 shows that 95% of respondents used the existing 2-lane road, 81% considered it to be narrow, and 86% considered it to be dangerous but, on the other hand, 52% of respondents considered that the road was adequate.
104. When asked to rate the level of concern about some of the standard impacts from road construction, the respondents indicated that the greatest concerns were with potential issues related to the work force (52% - i.e., 4 or 5 on the semantic differential scale), and disturbance of land (40%). Another serious concern related to potential impacts from construction traffic (36%).
105. At the other end of the scale, of very little concern were the potential impacts from water pollution (90% expressed little concern) and noise (71%), followed by potential air pollution, 57% of respondents expressing little concern.
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ANNEX 1 to Chapter 6 Environmental Questionnaire: Perceptions of Likely Impacts and Related Issues
Introduction: The Armenia Roads Directorate of the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) proposes to improve roads in the north-south corridor. One road project under consideration is to repair and expand the road from Ashtarak to Gyumri.
The work will expand the road from 2-lanes to 4-lanes and provide road shoulders and drainage to international standards. The final road will look very similar to the present 4-lane section from Yerevan to Ashtarak. Work is planned to begin next year.
We are assessing the likely environmental and social impacts arising from the road works and the expanded road and appreciate your help in assessing concerns about likely environmental impacts.
Please consider the following. Your responses will be included in our assessment report and provided to the MOTC, the engineers and the contractors involved in the construction.
Please Consider and Address the Following: 1 Do you use the existing road? Yes No 2 Please comment on problems It is too narrow Yes No with the existing road: It is dangerous Yes No It is very poor quality Yes No No Problems Yes No 3 Do you think that the road needs to be repaired & Yes No improved? 4 Do you think that a 4-lane road is needed? Yes No 5 Consider the environment near the existing road and the Yes No works to expand it. Do you think that impacts may be serious? 6 What impacts are you most concerned about? For each impact, please circle one number on the scale below. 1 indicates little concern, 5 most concern. What you think about each of the following impacts from road construction? Noise 1 2 3 4 5 Water Pollution 1 2 3 4 5 Air Pollution 1 2 3 4 5 Construction Traffic 1 2 3 4 5 Workers or Work-Force 1 2 3 4 5 Disturbance of Land 1 2 3 4 5 Other Impact – Please 1 2 3 4 5 describe: 7 Please make any comments to guide the works activities:
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VII. SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS
A. Summar y
106. A priority of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) funded multi-tranche funding facility (MFF) Program is to rehabilitate, reconstruct and expand international transport corridors including the Project road sections which form part of the Armenia north-south road corridor. The two road sections to be improved under the 1st Tranche Project of the MFF are the 4-lane divided roads of the M-1, north from Yerevan to Ashtarak, and of the M-2, south from Yerevan to Ararat. The Government of Armenia (RA) has appointed the Armenian Roads Directorate (ARD) of the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) to coordinate the work.
107. The RA Ministry of Nature Protection (MNP) administers Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), via the Nature Protection Expertise (NPE) organization, and compliance with environmental laws and regulations, via the State Environmental Inspectorate (SEI).
108. Both the ADB and GoA require the likely environmental impacts that may be caused by a project be identified during the project planning and pre-feasibility stages and prevented or mitigated as much as possible during construction and operations. The Project is classified by the ADB (for environmental management purposes) as a Category B project. This means that impacts are not expected to be significant but nevertheless need to be identified and reported in an IEE report. The RA does not differentiate between IEE and EIA.
109. The ADB and MOTC will review the IEE Report before passing it to the MNP. The Report will then be made public by the MNP and MOTC before the NPE clears the Project for implementation by the MOTC. The ADB will post the Summary IEE Report on its website.
110. The two road sections to be improved under the Project are existing 4-lane divided roads.
111. Road works are to be fully confined to the existing rights-of way (ROW) and be constructed in sections, one side of the 4-lane carriageway at a time, in order to enable continued use of the existing road during construction.
112. There will be no changes to vertical or horizontal alignments. There will be no removal of top-soil, no new cut or fill sections and no bridge construction.
113. Both road sections are located in arid areas. The landscape over the M-1 north road section is gently rolling uplands; the landscape over the M-2 south road section is flat.
114. The native flora and fauna of semi-desert varieties has been largely replaced along the road corridor by domestic plants and animals. There are no original trees along either road section, and few trees of any substance. There are no unique areas, no protected areas and no forests or ecological reserves but, along the M-1 north road section there are two known archeological sites and there may be undiscovered archaeological remains or artifacts below ground. There are no known similar sites within 100m of the ROW on the south road section.
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B. Environmental Screening - Potential Impacts and their Significance
115. Improvement of the road sections will impact the baseline environment only via minor, short-term impacts. Operation of the Completed Road will create minor positive impacts via air quality improvements (due to the smoother travel and better fuel combustion) and reduced road accidents (due to the improved safety barriers, road markings, lighting and the control of U- turns).
116. The area is arid, hence, there is very little water that may become affected and no improvements are foreseen for the high bridge over the Yeraskh River. Therefore, impacts on water quality are expected to be insignificant. There are no ecologically important or sensitive environmental elements and few human use factors that may be significantly affected. The most important possible impact issue is the potential to unearth archaeological sites or artifacts.
117. All negative impacts will be localized, short-term, insignificant and preventable or mitigable including: air quality impacts from dust nuisance, noise nuisance and impacts on land, which will be confined to the existing ROW, quarry and borrow-pit sites.
118. Health and safety impacts may be significant but preventable at all locations.
119. Potential negative impacts have been addressed in the EMP, the implementation of which will prevent or mitigate them.
120. Positive impacts will be created via short-term jobs, local employment and the associated increase in short-term expenditure. Households and businesses will benefit significantly over the short-term.
C. Recommendations
121. With reference to the IEE Report Chapters 5 and 6, it is recommended that: (i) The clauses set out in the Summary EMP and the IEE Report be included in the Contract Documents (ii) The Contractor prepare an EMP and the operating plans specified in the IEE Report (iii) The ARD and SEI ensure that the impact prevention and mitigation measures specified in the IEE, EMP and operating plans be implemented. (iv) Environmental Management Seminars be developed and delivered by the International Environmental Specialist (v) Environmental monitoring be carried out as specified in the EMP and Monitoring Program (vi) ARD ensure that the completed road meets the requirements under the European Agreement on Main International Traffic Arteries to which GoA is a signatory.
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REFERENCES
Asian Development Bank (ADB), Environmental Policies, 2002. ADB, Environmental Assessment Guidelines, 2003. ADB, Republic of Armenia, Rural Roads Sector Project (Loan 2351-ARM), 2008. Armenia National Atlas, Yerevan, 2007 [email protected]. Also www.masstours.com. Nev, Rick, Aragatsotn Marz, Tour Armenia @ 2007. Also www.TACentral.com. Republic of Armenia (RA), Ministry of Nature Protection, Fourth National Report to the Convention on Biological Diversity, Yerevan, 2009 RA, Ministry of Transport and Communications, Armenia Roads Directorate (ARD), Armenia: Rural Road Sector Project - Environmental Assessment Report, June 2007. RA, National Statistics Service, Report of the Results of the 2001 Armenian Census World Bank, Roads and the Environment: A Handbook (technical paper 376), c. 1997.
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APPENDIX 1: SUMMARY INITIAL ENVIRONMENTAL EXAMINATION (SIEE)
1. Multitranche Financin g Facility (MFF). Under the Armenia Transport Strategy 2020, the Government of Armenia (RA) formulated the North-South Road Corridor Program in line with the ADB, Armenia…Country Strategy, to support regional cooperation and revitalize road and railway infrastructure. A priority is to rehabilitate, reconstruct and expand the Bavra-Yerevan-Agarak north- south road corridor. A multi-tranche funding facility (MFF) funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has been set up to assist Armenia. The RA has appointed the Armenian Roads Directorate (ARD) of the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) to co-ordinate the work.
2. The MFF objective is to improve existing 4-lane divided roads, widen existing 2-lane roads (often in poor condition) to 4-lane divided roads along existing alignments wherever possible, or to construct alternate 2-lane roads where a single 4-lane road would not be feasible.
st 3. Project Summary. The Project is to improve two sections of road under the 1 Tranche of the MFF, namely the 4-lane road section of the M-1 Highway from Yerevan north to Ashtarak and of the M-2 highway from Yerevan south to Ararat.
4. Environmental Assessment Requirement. Among other environmental laws, GoA Ministry of Nature Protection (MNP) administers: a) the environmental impact assessment (EIA) process via the Nature Protection Expertise (NPE) organization, and b) compliance with environmental laws and regulations via the State Environmental Inspectorate (SEI).
5. Both the ADB and GoA require the environmental impacts that may be caused by a project to be identified during the project planning and pre-feasibility stages and prevented or mitigated as much as possible during construction and operations. The Project is classified by the Bank (for environmental management purposes) as a Category B project. This means that impacts are not expected to be significant but nevertheless need to be identified and reported in an IEE report. The RA does not differentiate between IEE and EIA. 6. 7. The ADB and MOTC will review the IEE Report before passing it to the MNP. The Report will then be made public by the MNP and MOTC before the NPE clears the Project for implementation by the MOTC. The ADB will post the Summary IEE Report on its website.
st 8. Project Description. The road sections to be improved under this 1 Tranche Project are two sections of the North-South Road Corridor included for rehabilitation or expansion under the MFF. The two road sections to be improved stretch short distances north and south of Yerevan.
9. The 18.4km M-1, 4-lane road section north of Yerevan was originally built over the period 1975 to 2004. Its condition is deteriorated and its standard varies so that the road-bed needs improvement to meet the design and construction standards normally associated with international transit routes. The 38.0km M-2, 4-lane road section south of Yerevan was built more recently and is in relatively good condition. Neither road section is adequately drained, the shoulders in many parts are very narrow and not properly paved, there are many randomly located U-turns, signage, road markings and lighting are absent or inadequate, there are insufficient crash barriers and median separation barriers and road structures need to be investigated to determine their structural integrity.
10. A key objective of the Project is to ensure compliance with the road safety and signage requirements under the European Agreement on Main International Traffic Arteries (AGR) to which GoA is a signatory.
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11. Road works are planned to be fully confined to the existing ROW and be constructed in sections, one side of the 4-lane carriageway at a time, in order to enable continued use of the existing road during construction. Transport of materials will be confined to the existing 4-lane road, to the one-side being worked on. The road works on both road sections will include the following: (i) Constructing proper drainage side-ditches and cross-drainage as required. (ii) Improving the road-shoulders. (iii) Improving traffic safety measures: signage, guardrails, traffic markings and turning lanes. (iv) Repairing road structures: over-passes, under-passes, and cut and embankment slopes.
12. The road works on the M-1 north section (Yerevan to Ashtarak) will also include: (i) Removing the existing asphalt layer (and grinding and re-using it as much as possible). (ii) Removing below-standard top and sub-grades and sub-base as required and replacing it with material meeting accepted quality standards. (iii) Completing the travel lanes and shoulders with a new concrete asphalt layer. (iv) Providing landscaping where appropriate.
13. Construction is planned to begin late 2010 and be finished by mid-2012.
14. Physical Resources. Both road sections are located in arid areas (annual precipitation less than 400mm) but the environmental settings are different. The landscape north of Yerevan along the M-1 Project road corridor is gently rolling uplands 1,060m to 1,270m in elevation. The Kasakh River dissects the landscape in a deep gorge north of Yerevan. There are no other surface streams along the north road section. The landscape south of Yerevan along the M-2 Project road corridor is flat and about 1,100m in elevation. There are no surface streams but the Ararat Valley is a noted artesian basin fed by snow melt and a sub-surface network of aquifers through the fractured lava. The land is irrigated wherever possible.
15. Ecological Resources. The native flora and fauna of semi-desert and steppe varieties has been largely replaced along the road corridor by domestic plants and animals. There are no unique areas, no protected areas and no forests or ecological reserves within several kilometers of the ROW.
16. Human Use of Resou rces. The existing 4-lane roads form an important feature of the existing environmental baselines along both road corridors and present a significant barrier to people trying to cross the road. There are no industrial buildings, facilities, commercial operations or residences located within either ROW. No land purchase or resettlement will be necessary.
17. Agriculture along the north road section is limited to small orchards and a few hay fields towards Ashtarak. In complete contrast, agriculture predominates along both sides of the alignment in the south. The flat, irrigated land is intensely cropped with vineyards, wheat, orchards and market-gardens wherever irrigation is possible.
18. Human Qu ality-of-Life Values (Social and Cultural Re sources). Close to the ROW on the north road section there are two known archeological sites protected by GoA Department of Historical Monuments (Ministry of Culture). One site stretches 500m along the edge of the ROW between it the Kasakh River near the bridge over the River and down the valley side to the River itself.
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19. The second site is located astride the interchange at Agarak. There may also be undiscovered archaeological remains or artifacts below ground. There are no known sites within 100m of the ROW to the south.
20. Social conditions are as to be expected where the annual average per capita monetary income is about US $2,000 (lower in rural areas) but people manage to live above that level in terms of PPP, standard of living, lifestyles and social-support services. Many people in the Project corridors work in Yerevan and/or agriculture, particularly in the south corridor.
21. Environmental Screening - Pot ential Impa cts. Improvement of both road sections will impact the baseline environment only via minor, short-term incremental impacts. Earthworks, construction activities and quarry and borrow-pit operations may create a number of short-term impacts on air and land quality, health and safety, may cause local flooding (by diverting runoff) and unearth archaeological sites or artifacts. Other activities most likely to cause negative impacts are asphalt plant operations, transport of materials, storage and handling of diesel, traffic in and near work sites, and work camp site preparation and operations.
22. Under the Project, there will be no changes to vertical or horizontal alignments. There will be no removal of top-soil, no new cut or fill sections and no bridge construction. Most construction works will be confined to the north section, the 18.4km 4-lane road section from Yerevan to Ashtarak, where the road-bed itself will be improved by removing the old asphalt, digging out and removing sub-standard road-bed materials and replacing both with new material. Digging may unearth archaeological sites or artifacts. Over the south section (Yerevan to Ararat) works will be limited to shoulder, drainage and culvert improvements.
23. The disposal and replacement of up to 300,000m3 of sub-standard material from the existing north road section will require up to 100 truck movements per day over the construction period. With the current ADT of 11,680 vehicles including 13% trucks and other large vehicles, the works-truck traffic will add less than 5% to the existing ADT for large vehicles.
24. Operation/Use of the Completed Road will create minor positive impacts. Air quality will improve, due to the smoother travel and better fuel combustion, road accidents will reduce due to the improved: safety barriers, road markings, lighting and the control of U-turns
25. Significance of Potential Impacts: Water, land and air quality (and noise) and health and safety are most likely to be impacted along the north road section, and rural roads may be damaged depending on the selected truck routes. Each potential impact has been assessed in- depth with reference to the environmental baseline and its sensitivity.
26. The area is arid, hence, there is very little water that may become affected and no improvements are foreseen for the high bridge over the Yeraskh River. Therefore, impacts on water quality are expected to be insignificant. There are no ecologically important or sensitive environmental elements and few human use factors that may be affected. The most important possible impact issue is the potential to unearth archaeological sites or artifacts—addressed in the EMP.
27. Air quality impacts will be confined to localized dust nuisance. This may be significant but manageable. Similarly noise may be significant, localized and manageable. Impacts on land quality are expected to be very minor because works will be minor on the south road section and confined to the existing ROW of the north road section. Hence, the likely impact on land is considered to be insignificant and manageable.
28. Health and safety impacts may be significant but preventable at all locations.
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29. While actual impacts will be short-term and expected to be insignificant, all have been addressed in the EMP, the implementation of which will prevent or mitigate them.
30. Short-term positive impacts will be created via short-term jobs, local employment and spin- off effects associated with the increase in short-term expenditure. In-turn, households and small businesses will benefit significantly over the short-term.
31. Environmental Impact Prevention and Mitigation. The identified environmental impacts are well known to competent civil engineers and competent construction companies – as are the impact prevention and mitigation measures to address them. Nevertheless, in order to ensure understanding of required prevention and mitigation measures, an EMP and appropriate clauses for inclusion in works contracts have been prepared and seminars on environmental management will be held for engineers, the Contractor, works supervisors and works foremen.
32. The EMP is designed to guide engineers and contractors to prevent or mitigate environmental impacts, to guide monitoring by ARD, the SEI, and the International Environmental Specialist (IES). Prior to commencing site preparation and construction activities, the Contractor will prepare a Draft EMP and Monitoring Program guided by the IEE Report, particularly the Summary EMP set out below. The Draft EMP will be approved by the Senior Engineer (SE) and support consultations with responsible authorities at central, regional and local levels. The EMP will be revised as required on receipt of comments from stakeholders and the responsible authorities and then finalized. The Contractor will also prepare operating plans to be attached to the EMP. When finalized as the Approved EMP, the SE, Contractor and Works Foremen will sign it testifying to their agreement to comply with it. The EMP and operating plans will become part of the Main Contract Package.
33. Environmental Monitoring Program. Monitoring requirements and the responsibilities for monitoring are summarized below. The cost of environmental impact prevention, mitigation and monitoring for the two road sections will be minimal as they relate only to the actions required by the engineers and contractors in the normal execution of the Project and the incremental cost of environmental monitoring by the EM and the IES.
34. The impact prevention and mitigation measures in the EMP are normal, standard, and widely recognized and will form part of the engineering and construction cost package. Environmental monitoring to ensure compliance will be conducted by the EM within the ARD, the State Environmental Inspectorate (SEI) and be checked on periodically by the IES. Thus the cost will be included the normal salary of the EM, the normal budget of the SEI, and a total of 6-person months for the IES (at normal international rates this will amount to approximately US $110,000 plus travel and accommodation). The costs of providing pedestrian over-passes and limited landscaping of the north road section are covered in the Works Contract Price.
35. Public Consultation and Information Disclosure. This Summary IEE report placed on the ADB Website will be made available publically in Armenia by GoA MOTC and MNP, and provided to affected communities.
36. Meetings with representatives of stakeholder groups obtained comments on the MFF program as a whole rather than this specific 1st Tranche project. Most concern was expressed with regard to possible future tranches in the south of Armenia rich in biodiversity. Little concern was expressed with regard to any intended road works in the central part of the country, particularly along existing road alignments. The most frequently expressed concern was that the EMP should be followed and enforced.
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37. Environmental Screening - Poten tial Impact s and their Significan ce. Improvement of the road sections will impact the baseline environment only via minor, short-term negative impacts. Road operations will create minor positive impacts via air quality improvements and reduced road accidents.
38. The area is arid, hence, there is very little water that may become affected, thus impacts on water quality are expected to be minimal and not significant. There are no ecologically important or sensitive environmental elements and few human use factors that may be significantly affected. The most important possible impact issue is the potential to unearth archaeological sites or artifacts.
39. All negative impacts will be localized, short-term, insignificant and preventable or mitigable including: air quality impacts from dust nuisance, noise nuisance and impacts on land -- confined to the existing ROW, quarry and borrow-pit sites. All potential negative impacts have been addressed in the EMP.
40. Positive impacts will be created via short-term jobs and the associated increase in short- term expenditure and benefits to households and businesses.
41. Recommendations. With reference to the IEE Report Chapters 5 and 6, it is recommended that: (i) The clauses set out in the Summary EMP and the IEE Report be included in the Contract Documents (ii) The Contractor prepare an EMP and the operating plans specified in the IEE Report (iii) The ARD and SEI ensure that the impact prevention and mitigation measures specified in the IEE, EMP and operating plans be implemented. (iv) Environmental Management Seminars be developed and delivered by the International Environmental Specialist (v) Environmental monitoring be carried out as specified in the EMP and Monitoring Program (vi) ARD ensure that the completed road meets the requirements under the European Agreement on Main International Traffic Arteries to which GoA is a signatory.
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Figure 11: Environmental Impact Mitigation – Summary Environmental Management Plan (EMP) Page 1 of 5 Activities Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures -- for Implementation by Engineers and Contactors 1. Construction: (i) Dust and emissions Construction and Related Activities (ii) Traffic hazards and safety The Co ntractor will p repare an En vironmental Manag ement Pl an (EMP) fo r ap proval b y t he Sen ior (i) Earth works (iii) Work site safety Engineer (SE) -- prior to c ommencing site preparation and construction. The EMP will be guided by the IEE Report, the principles set out in the Summary EMP and the following: (ii) Cul verts (iv) Social nuisance (i) Prior to commencing any works, the Contractor will meet with the ARD, MNP and Marz authorities. (iii) Dispose of (v) Erosion of material piles and runoff (ii) Areas of disturbed land will be restored or rehabilitated as soon as possible. surplus may affect nearby land and plants (iii) Works stockpiles will be located away from drainage areas and water-courses. material (vi) Works can cause local flooding (iv) Construction and related activities, such as stockpiling, servicing and drainage works will be restricted to (vii) Material beyond ROW affects identified sites. nearby land quality and use (v) Spoil and materials piles will be graded, stabilized and drained. (vi) Construction material/waste will be kept within the ROW and away from water bodies. (viii) Noise and vibration (vii) Adequate temporary drainage will be provided to prevent local flooding. (ix) Works may unearth (viii) Runoff from sites will be prevented from entering natural water-courses, for example by using sediment archaeological artifacts traps, silt aprons and/or straw bales. Also see: Drainage, Slope Stability Erosion and Sediment Control – below. (ix) Water sprinklers will be used to minimize dust in and around work areas. (x) Work along the north road section will be undertaken only during daylight hours. (xi) Workers will use safety equipment (helmets, eye-glasses, ear-plugs - as required) and follow safety procedures (xii) Nearby residents, commercial and industrial land users and communities will be informed of major activities ahead of their implementation and be informed of a clear mechanism for comments and complaints to be communicated to the SE. Waste Management The Co ntractor will p repare a W aste Man agement Pl an fo r app roval b y th e Sen ior En gineer p rior to commencing work. The Plan will be guided by the following: (i) Solid waste will be separated (it is understood that clean paper, glass and poly-propylene plastics are recyclable in Armenia) and stored for regular collection for correct off-site disposal in a nearby municipal waste facility. (ii) Solid waste disposal sites will be identified in concert with local officials and the MNP prior to any dumping. (iii) Solid waste, waste spoil, waste aggregate/materials and waste material removed from the existing road (e.g., used asphalt-concrete that cannot be crushed and re-used) will be disposed of only in designated sites/locations. (iv) Waste oil will be collected and stored in used fuel drums for later safe disposal in a manner and/or at sites approved by the MNP. (v) Waste asphalt removed from the existing road (north) will be recycled and re-used in the new road construction as much as possible. All old asphalt that cannot be re-used will be handled as toxic waste and disposed of only at a site approved by MNP and local authorities.
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Figure 11: Environmental Impact Mitigation – Summary Environmental Management Plan (EMP) Page 2 of 5 Activities Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures -- for Implementation by Engineers and Contactors
1. Construction: Drainage, Slope Stability Erosion and Sediment Control (i) Control devices/actions will be designed to provide adequate protection for each area, according to slope, (i) Earth works drainage pattern, likely rainfall, and the construction site. (ii) Cul verts (ii) Measures to control runoff, erosion and sedimentation will include: (iii) Dispose of (a) Diversion of natural runoff around construction areas surplus (b) Use of temporary bunds to divert runoff to temporary or permanent drainage facilities material (iii) Drains, runoff, erosion and sedimentation protective measures will be maintained regularly to ensure adequate capacity. (iv) Temporary diversion drains will be extended beyond the toe line of an embankment to avoid embankment erosion (v) Drainage structures and erosion controls will be monitored and repaired/modified as soon as possible after rain. Noise and Vibration (i) Vehicles and equipment will be fitted with emission controls and silencers to meet national noise control and emission standards and be checked every six-months to ensure compliance. (ii) The asphalt plant and equipment will be operated only in daylight. (iii) Noise control barriers (e.g., solid walls, earth barriers, noise-reflective panels) will be used when necessary to shield houses, schools and hospitals Archaeological Finds When an archaeological site is found, work will be stopped immediately. The Senior Engineer will be notified. Then, the following steps will be taken: Isolate the site. (i) Call the Archaeology and Ethnography Inst., Armenian National Academy of Sciences and the Agency for Protection of Historical and Cultural Monuments to assess the site and determine whether and how it should be preserved (ii) Document and photograph the find and area immediately around it (iii) When advised and as directed by the Archaeologist, excavate and remove the find (iv) After documentation and after being advised that the site is not important, resume construction.
2. Sto rage an d (i)Diesel and waste oil is toxic to all (i) Diesel will be stored in drums or tanks under cover on an impervious pad of concrete or clay (for later removal and handle d iesel and living organisms - in the soil or in safe disposal), and the pad will be surrounded by an impervious bund enclosing a catch volume at least 50% more waste oil (including surface or ground-water. Diesel than the volume of diesel stored. Should clay be used to form the bund and a spill occur, the bund will be vehicle an d and waste oil kills all living removed after construction has ceased and disposed of safely (as for impervious pads of clay). equipment organisms (ii) Vehicles and equipment will be maintained in designated areas underlain by an impervious pad of concrete or clay servicing) (for later removal and safe disposal)
(iii) Waste oil will be collected and stored (in the same way that diesel is stored – see above) in used fuel drums for later safe disposal in approved sites. (iv) Also see Waste Management – above 43
Environmental Impact Mitigation – Summary Environmental Management Plan (EMP) Page 3 of 5 Activities Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures -- for Implementation by Engineers and Contactors 3. Op erate an d (i) The expected impacts are very The Contractor will prepare a Q uarry and Borrow-pit Operations and Site Resto ration Plan for approval by restore q uarries similar to those shown for the SE - prior to commencement of materials extraction. The Plan will be guided by the following: and borrow pits Construction, above. (i) Potential quarries and borrow pits will be identified in concert with marzpeteran (provincial) and Yerevan officials. (ii) Quarries and borrow pits will be made safe, have their slopes stabilized, be adequately drained and be restored or rehabilitated as soon as possible after extraction has ceased. 4. T ransport (i) Dust and emissions The Co ntractor will prepare a Draft T raffic Man agement Plan fo r consideration b y th e SE a nd affected communities, traffic au thorities an d the p olice b efore fina lization a nd a pproval by the SE -- prior t o materials and (ii) Noise and vibration equipment commencing construction,. The Traffic Management Plan will include: (iii) Traffic and other safety hazards 1. Carefully selected truck routes (iv) Social impact in affected 2. Clear route directions communities 3. Appropriate warning signs 4. Established speed limits and operating times (daylight as much as possible) (v) Damage to rural roads and other 5. Provision and maintenance of temporary access for public and nearby communities roads 6. Controls over the movement of vehicles particularly near communities and schools 7. Use of dust blankets or other means to cover load 8. Provisions to use and using water spray of road surfaces to control dust in and near affected settlements 9. Construction traffic giving way to regular traffic (i) Construction traffic routes will be defined in cooperation with local communities and the police (ii) Vehicles and equipment will be maintained to prevent fuel and oil leaks and to minimize air and noise pollution (iii) Trucks and equipment will be washed in specified areas with suitable runoff protection (as above). (iv) Roads used by construction vehicles will be swept regularly. (v) Vehicle and equipment movements will be restricted to the approved construction zone and the final ROW. (vi) Rural and other roads damaged by construction vehicles and other activities will be repaired or restored. 5. Establish (i) Dust and emissions The Contractor will prepare an Asphalt Plant Site Development and Operating Plan for approval by the SE - operate as phalt (ii) Noise prior to construction of an asphalt plant. The Plan will take the following into account: plants (i) The asphalt plant will be located at least 200m away from and downwind from any settlement and 200m away from (iii) Diesel (used in asphalt) is toxic to any water body or stream and adjacent to other contractor facilities such as, works camps, storage areas and all living organisms – in soil, vehicle and equipment maintenance areas. surface or ground-water. (ii) Electrostatic precipitators will be installed or exhaust gases will be released via a set of water baths (iii) Diesel will be stored under cover on a concrete pad surrounded by an impervious bund enclosing a catch volume at least 50% more than the volume of the diesel stored (see above). (iv) Conveyers and hoppers will be covered (v) Waste asphalt and bitumen will be disposed of at a site approved by marz, city and MNP authorities. (vi) The plant will be operated only in daylight hours when located less than 500m from a settlement.
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Environmental Impact Mitigation – Summary Environmental Management Plan (EMP) Page 4 of 5 Activities Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures -- for Implementation by Engineers and Contactors
6. Operat e/ (i) Work force generates significant The Contractor will prepare a Fac ilities Plan (such as, work camps, c oncrete mixing plants, s torage areas manage w ork amounts of domestic and other and vehicle and equipment maintenance areas), for appro val by the SE - prior to establishing facilities. The camps a nd othe r solid waste and sewage with Facilities Plan will take the following into account: facilities (incl. potential to damage water quality (i) Camp locations will be more than 200m from any water body and sited to prevent damage to landscape. store/dispose o f and create nuisance (ii) Domestic solid waste and hazardous waste disposal. (iii) The need for adequate temporary drainage sewage an d so lid (ii) Improper waste disposal creates waste) (iv) Sewage will be disposed of in on-site septic tanks, held in sealed tanks for proper disposal or disposed into health problems and habitat for latrines constructed for the purpose and capped when no longer needed. disease vectors (v) Wastewater will be disposed of in on-site septic tanks, or be treated to meet the standards for domestic (iii) Communities may perceive wastewater discharge and discharged to a pond or natural drainage channel. potential or suffer from actual (vi) Covered rubbish bins for solid waste will be placed at suitable locations where solid waste is generated. social impacts from large male (vii) Solid waste will be separated (clean paper, glass and poly-propylene plastics are understood to be recyclable in workforce. Armenia) and stored for regular collection for recycling or off-site disposal in a municipal waste facility (also see (iv) Site runoff affects the physical Waste Management – above) water quality and aquatic life in (viii) Work camp sites will be restored to the satisfaction of local officials after use and before abandonment. rivers and water bodies, flora, nearby land, and other natural resources 7. Work Site (i) Injuries and death of workers, road (i) Safety and safety promotion will be of the highest priority. Safety users, people in and near work- (ii) Temporary traffic direction signs, markings, traffic signals and lighting will be installed and maintained, clearly sites, quarries and borrow-pits, visible solid barriers will be used to channel traffic, and flagmen will be employed as needed. and possible sickness of workers (iii) Water sprinklers will be used when needed to control dust and other people because of (iv) Work areas will be kept clean and clear of waste and unused material sewage and waste disposal. (v) Waste will be disposed of properly (also see Waste Management) 8. Public (i) Lack of information and The Contractor will prepare a Community Consultation and Communications Plan for a pproval by the SE - Consultation understanding by communities and prior to commencing site preparation and construction activities. The Plan will be guided by the following: affected parties about the planned (i) Procedures for communicating with local residents will be developed in advance of activities, particularly when works activities and the schedule noise, vibration or nuisances may be created and/or where local flooding may be an existing or potential problem. for their implementation can lead (ii) Community members will be provided with direct access to the SE or representative at a nominated location and to frustration and delays in the time (particularly important where some residents may not have telephones). schedule and sometimes can (iii) A process will be developed whereby community members and other stakeholders may make complaints and be contribute to accidents. assured of receiving responses within a reasonable period. A record or Log will be maintained of the type and number of complaints received (name, subject, date, response and date of response). (iv) Regular meetings will be held with community representatives to discuss the project, its impacts, etc. The group should include community leaders and people who are well known in the community and who represent different interests, e.g., business people, teachers, priests, older people and those with special interests. (v) Community leaders and local newspapers will be provided with notices on project progress and anticipated issues. (vi) Clear signs will be posted on and around construction sites to provide information about the project. (vii) Employment opportunities will be maximized for local people by employing them as part of the project labour force, and prefabricating or manufacturing construction items locally when possible, e.g., drainage pipes, culverts and for sand, gravel and stone supply. 45
Environmental Impact Mitigation – Summary Environmental Management Plan (EMP) Page 5 of 5 Activities Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures -- for Implementation by Engineers and Contactors 9. Ha ndling of (i) Chemicals and Hazardous The Contractor will prepare a Plan f or Handling Chemicals and an Emergency Contingency Response Plan chemical an d materials have the potential to for approval by the SE - prior to commencing construction. The Plan will be guided by the following: hazardous poison people, soil, surface and (i) Procedures will be developed and implemented to ensure safe handling and storage of hazardous substances, materials ground water and may cause e.g., diesel, waste oil, paints. Material safety data sheets, emergency response procedures and clean-up materials death or severe damage to the will be readily available on site. Copies of material data sheets will also be held by the Resident and Senior health of people and all living Engineers. animals and plants. (ii) An Emergency Contingency Response Plan (ECRP) will be in place to handle spills and ensure that clean-up materials are readily available on-site to clean-up spills that may occur. The ECRP will, at a minimum: (a) Identify the positions and persons responsible for emergency response action (e.g., the SE, RE, Works Foremen) (b) Specify the leader of the Emergency Response Team (ERT) and Alternate (c) Include an organizational diagram specifying the positions and responsible persons within the ERT, their work and home phone numbers, and the reporting lines among them. (d) Ensure that clean-up chemicals and materials to absorb and remove spilt substances are available and stored undercover in locked facilities located at works facility sites. (e) Ensure that the responsible persons receive training in emergency response. (iii) Hazard and risk management training will be provided to each Environmental Management Officer (appointed by the Contractor) and all personnel handling chemicals and hazardous substances. (iv) Spilled material will be collected and disposed of in a site approved by MNP. The spilled area will be cleaned in a timely manner to prevent potential contamination of surface and ground water and soil. (v) Only minimal chemicals, hazardous substances and fuel will be stored on-site, within an enclosed and covered secure area that has an impervious floor and impervious bund around it (with capacity at least 150% of the capacity of the largest tank). The storage area will be located away from water-courses and danger areas, e.g., facilities site.
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Required EMP and Operating Plans (as Clauses for Inclusion in Contract) EMP and EMP and Operating Plans Responsibility Annexes to (Clauses to be included in the Contract Document - highlighted) it EMP The Contractor will, prior to co mmencing site preparation and Contractor + SE construction activities, prepare: An En vironmental Ma nagement Pla n (EMP) for approval by the Senior Engineer (SE). The EMP will be guided by Chapters 4 and 5 of this IEE Report, particularly the Summary EMP (Figure 17) and include, as Annexes, the Operating Plans listed below (all to be approved by the SE).
ANNEX A A Waste Man agement Plan to guide the handling of materials for Contractor + SE recycling (glass, plastic and clean paper), domestic waste, sewage, and hazardous waste.
ANNEX B A Quarry and Borrow-pit Operations and Site Restoration Plan Contractor + SE
ANNEX C A Traffic Management Plan Contractor + SE
ANNEX.D An Asphalt Plant Site Development and Operating Plan Contractor + SE
ANNEX.E A Facilities Plan (co vering: work camps, concrete mixing Contractor + SE plants, storage areas and vehicle and equipment maintenance areas)
ANNEX.F A Plan for Handli ng Che micals and Ha zardous Ma terials a nd Contractor + SE an Emergency Contingency Response Plan
ANNEX.G A Community Consultation and Communications Plan Contractor + SE
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Monitoring Program and Responsibilities Parameters to be Monitored Locations for Frequency Responsibility Refer to EMP Monitoring and of for Monitoring Data Sources Monitoring Work Sites: Work sites: Weekly EM Visual inspection Quarterly IES Dust and use of water spray - Runoff control - Drainage maintenance - Work site safety: Work sites: Weekly EM Visual inspection Quarterly IES Signage - Barriers - Site cleanliness - Use of safety equipment - Traffic and Road safety: Work sites: Weekly EM Visual inspection Quarterly IES Signage - - Barriers - - Routes Traffic routes - Material on the road - - Condition of rural roads - - Vehicle and equipment Vehicle Maintenance Quarterly emissions control logs Monthly Incidents and complaints Complaints Log Work camps: Works camps: Weekly EM Visual inspection Quarterly IES Solid waste management - - Sewage management - - Social issues Complaints Log Monthly Site restoration - Monthly Facilities areas: Facilities areas: Weekly EM Visual inspection Quarterly IES Storage of diesel and waste oil - - Material/substance sheets - Monthly Site restoration - Monthly Quarries and borrow pits: Quarries and borrow Weekly EM pits: Quarterly IES Slope management Visual inspection - Runoff management - - Use of safety equipment - - Site restoration - Monthly - Asphalt plants: Asphalt plants: Weekly EM Visual inspection Quarterly IES Diesel storage and use - - management - - Dust emission control
Waste management and Work sites, Works Weekly EM
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Parameters to be Monitored Locations for Frequency Responsibility Refer to EMP Monitoring and of for Monitoring Data Sources Monitoring disposal: camps, waste Quarterly IES disposal sites: Visual inspection Solid waste storage and - - transportation - - Solid waste disposal sites - - Asphalt recycling, re-use and - - disposal - Sewage management and disposal Waste oil disposal Coordination with MNP, marz SE Log Monthly EM and local authorities Checking with MNP Complaints Complaints Log Monthly EM Consultation and Information SE Log. Complaints Quarterly EM sharing with stakeholders and Log. affected land users Consultation meetings Log.
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Annex 3 SUMMARY POVERTY REDUCTION AND SOCIAL STRATEGY
Country/Project Title: Armenia/North–South Road Corridor Investment Program
Lending/Financing Multitranche Financing Department/ Central and West Asia Department/ Modality: Facility Division: Transport and Communications Division
I. POVERTY ANALYSIS AND STRATEGY A. Link to the National Poverty Reduction Strategy and Country Partnership Strategy
The Sustainable Development Program of the Government, which was approved in October 2008, is a long term development strategy. The program is Armenia’s second Poverty Reduction Strategy Paper (PRSP II), which builds on the considerable achievements of PRSP I, and has three key goals covering the period 2009–2021 (with specific medium-term targets for 2009–2015): (i) reducing poverty and eliminating extreme poverty, (ii) ensuring human development, and (iii) deepening economic growth and accelerating the development of lagging regions. According to the Sustainable Development Program, the development and increased efficiency of the transport system is viewed as an important prerequisite for ensuring high growth, increased access to and efficiency of social services, increased labor force mobility, and elimination of regional disparities. That is why the Government made improving the existing regional road network a priority task, and it has developed an investment plan to improve the main road network. Its physical component will upgrade and rehabilitate Armenia's major highways, lifeline road network, and the cross- border infrastructure; the nonphysical component will facilitate implementation of the road sector development plan. The total cost of the Investment Program is estimated at $1.45 billion over the medium term (2010–2020). International financing institutions including the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the World Bank, the Japan International Cooperation Agency, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and other bilateral aid agencies will share these investment costs.
The Agarak–Kapan–Yerevan–Bavra route (M1 and M2 roads) crossing Armenia from south to north is connected to the east–west highway of Georgia that leads to Poti and Batumi on the Black Sea. This route provides Armenia with the shortest access to the seaports linked to the Russian Federation, Europe, and Turkey. Meanwhile in Georgia, the east–west highway is being improved as the Government’s top priority, and Georgia plans to improve the Bavra– Zhdanov–Akhaltskha–Batumi road as an alternative link to Black Sea ports from Tbilisi. This will enable cargoes from Armenia to be transported to Black Sea ports more easily via a shorter route. On this basis, the Government has selected the north–south road corridor to be improved under the Investment Program as a priority, and ADB will support this program through a multitranche financing facility (MFF) of up to $500 million. The Government requested ADB to extend technical assistance for preparing the North–South Road Corridor Investment Program to be financed by a blending of ADB's Asian Development Fund and ordinary capital resources and implemented in phases in line with the priorities that will be identified by the transport sector strategy currently under preparation.
Tranche 1 Project of the Investment Program will (i) reconstruct an 18.4-kilometer (km), four-lane section of the Yerevan–Ashtarak road to international standards, and (ii) facilitate implementation of the road subsector plan under the Transport Sector Strategy.
B. Po verty Analysis Targeting Classification: General intervention 1. Key Issues
The human development Index (computed by the United Nations Development Programme, 2006) for Armenia is 0.777, which gives the country a rank of 83rd out of 179 countries. It is better placed than Georgia (93rd) and Azerbaijan (97rd). The Human Poverty Index-1 value was 4.5 % for Armenia (2006) and, according to it, Armenia ranks 14th among 135 developing countries. The situation with human poverty is better than in the neighboring countries (the value for Georgia was 5.5% and for Azerbaijan 11.8%).
Armenia’s rates for poverty (25.0% of the population) and extreme poverty (3.8%) in 2007 declined from the 2004 rates of 34.6% for poverty and 6.4% for extreme poverty. Poverty has become shallower and less severe as the poverty gap and the severity of poverty have also declined significantly. In 2007, the poverty gap was estimated at 4.9% (down from 7.4% in 2004), while the severity of poverty was estimated at 1.5% (down from 2.4% in 2004). The deficit between the consumption of the poor and the poverty line (expressed as a percentage of the poverty line) fell from 21% in 2004 to 19%. During 2004–2007, income inequality slightly decreased. Inequality measured by the Gini coefficient indicates that the population polarization in Armenia is deeper in income distribution than in consumption.
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In 2007 the consumption inequality measured by the Gini coefficient increased by 0.028 compared with 2004 (0.288 in 2007 compared with 0.260 in 2004), while income inequality decreased by 0.024 (0.371 in 2007 compared with 0.395 in 2004).
Prudent fiscal and monetary policies were instrumental in maintaining macroeconomic stability and contributing to poverty reduction. Real gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 13.1% per year on average during 2003–2007, and inflation averaged 3.9% during the same period. Social expenditures increased to 4.7% of GDP, well above the projected PRSP I goal of 3.0%. Increased resources to the social sectors improved the access to and quality of general secondary education, and led to improvements in the use of and geographic access to basic health services, most notably through the free provision of primary health care to the population.
However, despite the fast poverty reduction (including very poor) in Armenia, the poverty level still significantly varies among marzes (provinces), and between rural and urban areas. This situation is mostly a result of the existing differences of economic development, and the peculiarities of physical, geographical, and infrastructure development of different regions. According to 2005 and 2006 National Statistical Service Household Survey data, the poverty incidence is higher in marzes affected by the earthquake of 1988; in bordering regions; in the regions with unfavorable conditions for agriculture, especially with small share of irrigated agriculture land; and in marzes with a predominantly urban population. The analysis of poverty incidence by gender during 1999–2007 shows that there are no significant gender disparities regarding poverty in the country.
After growing at an average rate of 13.5% in 2006–2007, the Armenian economy moderated with real GDP growth of 6.8% in 2008. It declined by 9.7% in the first 4 months of 2009 and is expected to decelerate by around 9.5% in 2009. Remittances, which at $1.5 billion accounted for 13% of GDP in 2008, are projected to be around 30% less in 2009. The Armenian dram has depreciated by 25% against the US dollar, which is significant as 70% of the economy is dollarized. The Government faces a revenue shortfall of 22% and a financing gap of $460 million. The fiscal deficit is estimated to increase from AMD40 billion (1.0% of GDP), forecast in the original 2009 budget, to 6.5% of GDP. Unemployment has increased and is likely to further rise. According to the National Statistical Service of Armenia, in 2009 unemployment is 6.6% (compared with 8% in 2007 and 6.2% in 2008), though unofficial estimates suggest figures closer to 20%–25%. The poverty and social analysis conducted for Tranche 1 Project will also be conducted for future tranche(s) as required.
2. Design Features
Design features may be incorporated to preserve and enhance local access along the four-lane highway for local produce vendors, such as creation of roadside markets, through local consultation, with full sanitary facilities on wide pull-out lanes. Other possible design features with poverty reduction potential will be explored during the planning and implementation of Tranche 1 Project and following tranches following recommendations in ADB’s Technical Note on Soci al A nalysis for Transport Pr ojects (http://www.adb.org/Documents/Books/Transport-Projects-Social- Analysis/Transport-Social-Analysis.pdf)
II. SOCI AL ANALYSIS AND STRATEGY A. Findings of Social Analysis
The social and poverty impact analysis of tranche 1 and 2 projects indicate that the poverty incidence in two marzes out of five (Ararat 25.5% and Shirak 32.1%) exceeded the national average of 25%. The unemployment rate is high in Shirak (11.8%) and Syunik (11.8%) marzes compared with the national republic average of 6.2%. While the Investment Program aims to facilitate regional trade and benefit major businesses and those involved in trade, it will also significantly benefit rural communities, especially rural poor. This is important taking into consideration that in three marzes (Aragatsotn, Ararat, and Vayots Dzor) the population is predominantly rural. While the incidence of rural poverty declined by 19.7% between 2004 and 2007, the trend is still 1.6 times lower than that in the urban area. In 2007, 25.5% of the rural population was poor compared to 25% of the population of Armenia and 24.7% in the urban area. The Investment Program will increase the mobility of about 1 million people living in six marzes, where the north–south corridor lies. In terms of human poverty modified index of 2005, an unfavorable situation has been recorded in three marzes—Aragatsotn (49.6%), Ararat (8.7%), and Shirak 34.8%, compared with the national average of 32.4%). From the viewpoint of human poverty (as against income poverty), the rural population is most vulnerable. The marz-level analysis of human modified index components shows that the most influential factor of human poverty in Armenia is the lack of access to health care services. According to survey data, about 62% of surveyed households visited health care facilities in case of need. Those who did not visit health care facilities (about 38%) cited high official and nonofficial payments for treatment as reasons for nonattendance.
Almost all marzes, except Ararat, are also in unfavorable situations in terms of social vulnerability index of 2005. In
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Syunik marz the social vulnerability index (37.5%) exceeds the national average (36.6%) and in Shirak it is equal to the national average. This is because some social groups are heavily represented in the composition of marz population (lonely elderly, unemployed, elderly, and poverty family benefits receivers).
The majority of households in the program areas are engaged in agriculture activities or small and medium-size agro- industries (including cottage agro-industries). According to the same socioeconomic survey, 71.4% of household heads are employed, and about 30% of them are mainly occupied in agriculture activity. About 48% of households refer land as the main source of their food production, about 24% of households of which mentioned land as the main source of their income; 50% of surveyed households use the road corridor every day and about 40% use it several times a month. The majority of respondents think that improvement of the road will have a positive social impact. About 57% of the respondents believe that, as a result of the improvements, the road will be safer. More than 30% or respondents think that it will also have a positive economic impact. Hence, 17.9% of respondents think that it will promote trade and 14.3% think that the Investment Program will create short-term job opportunities for the community members during the construction period.
Reduced travel time and more available transport services will help improve the lives of people, especially women, the elderly, and children, as improved road transport under the Investment Program will increase their access to the nearest markets and social service delivery institutions such as schools, hospitals, and clinics, and create job opportunities. The Investment Program will generate estimated 2,500–3,000 jobs during implementation, of which an estimated 45%–50% will be sourced locally in the form of unskilled labor or related services to the construction sites.
Local community members have some concerns about construction waste, disturbance of land, and safety of their family members.
B. Cons ultation and Participation Consultation was carried out with all the stakeholders during the program preparation. Consultations were held at various levels such as the Armenian Roads Directorate (ARD), the Ministry of Transport and Communication (MOTC), the State Committee of Real Estate Cadastre, Municipality of Yerevan, Real World Real People (a nongovernment organization providing HIV/AIDS prevention and education services), and local communities to be directly affected by the Investment Program. The summary poverty reduction and social strategy recommends that (i) consultation on safety, social, and cultural concerns will be continued throughout the implementation of the Investment Program; (ii) men and women are given equal employment opportunities directly, or indirectly, arising from the Investment Program and without any differentiation of wages for equal work; and (iii) mechanisms for maximizing local employment benefits will be included in the bidding documents. These activities will be carried out by the program management unit to be established within ARD, with social and resettlement specialists supported by the supervision consultants. The specialists will organize public information meetings and workshops for stakeholders and affected persons, addressing the safety, social, and cultural issues and, in particular for involuntary resettlement. The land acquisition and resettlement framework (LARF) has been formulated and has been translated into Armenian, which will be distributed to the program regions for review and endorsement. During the different stages of the Investment Program (planning, implementation, and monitoring) following actions will be undertaken: (i) distribution of public information brochures or booklets in Armenian, (ii) placement of copies of land acquisition and resettlement plans (LARP) in Armenian in the marzes and local government offices, and (iii) uploading of the LARPs onto ADB's website. Community authorities and relevant stakeholders will be informed about all aspects of the Investment Program, and their assistance will be solicited. The processes and mechanisms ensuring active involvement of all stakeholders and affected persons will be detailed in the LARPs prepared for all future tranche projects, including the date, list of participants, and minutes of consultation meetings and workshops.
2. What level of consultation and participation (C&P) is envisaged during the project implementation and monitoring? Information sharing Consultation Collaborative decision making Empowerment
3. Was a C&P plan prepared? Yes No
Views and concerns of all stakeholders will be taken into account through consultation meetings and workshops and addressed whenever feasible.
C. Gender and Development 1. Ke y Issues. The Investment Program will have a positive impact on gender equality. The majority of women in the program areas are engaged in agriculture activities or small and medium-sized agro-industries (including cottage agro-industries). Reduced travel time and more available transport services will help improve the lives of women and
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2. Key Actions. Measures included in the design to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment—access to and use of relevant services, resources, assets, or opportunities and participation in decision-making process: Gender plan Other actions/measures No action/measure
Tranche 2 and 3 Projects will prepare a component to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment—access to and use of relevant services, resources, assets, or opportunities and participation in decision-making process III. SOCIAL SAFEGUARD ISSUES AND OTHER SOCIAL RISKS
Issue Significant/Limited/ Strategy to Address Issue Plan or Other Measures No Impact Included in Design
Involuntary No impact on Tranche LARF has been prepared for the Full Plan Resettlement 1 Project MFF Short Plan Resettlement LARP is under preparation for Framework Tranche 2 Project No Action
Indigenous Peoples No impact Plan Other Action Indigenous Peoples Framework No Action The Investment Program will Labor generate estimated 2,500–3,000 Employment No impact jobs during implementation, of Plan opportunities which an estimated 45%–50% will Other Action Labor be sourced locally in the form of No Action retrenchment unskilled labor or related services Core labor to the construction sites. standards All civil works will comply with applicable national and international labor, health, and safety laws and standards including (i) employ women, handicapped, and minorities, if any, without discrimination; (ii) prohibit use of child labor and illegal immigrants, and differentiation in wages among male, female, and other social groups for work of equal value; (iii) disseminate information and raise awareness of health risks at project sites, such as proper construction safety standards, prevention of communicable diseases, and sexual harassment; (iv) provide healthy, safe, and secure working conditions as well as adequate medical care; and (v) observe local protocols on acceptable social and professional behavior towards the local population and employees.
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Issue Significant/Limited/ Strategy to Address Issue Plan or Other Measures No Impact Included in Design
Affordability No impact Action No Action Other Ris ks a nd/or Limited It is expected that the project is Vulnerabilities likely to bring in some risks related Plan HIV/AIDS to HIV/AIDS transmission as a Other Action Human trafficking result of improved mobility of the No Action Others(conflict, people and influx of labor at the political instability, time of construction. This aspect etc), please specify will be studied further during the detailed design stage, and mitigation measures will be developed to counter the spread of sexually transmitted diseases in the project area. Information and periodic seminars on HIV/AIDS prevention will be made available through the construction company to people directly and indirectly associated with the project and also to residents in the project area. These outreach activities will be designed by the construction company and submitted to MOTC for approval as part of the health and safety management part of the quality assurance/quality control plan. ADB will review and make specific recommendations if necessary. The responsibility for preparing and implementing such a plan will be an integral part of the construction contract.
IV. MONITORING AND EVALUATION
Are social indicators included in the design and monitoring framework to facilitate monitoring of social development activities and/or social impacts during project implementation? Yes □ No
The Design Monitoring Framework for the MFF and Tranche 1 Project include indicators to measure the number of beneficiaries served by the improved road at the outcome level.
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Attachment 1
Project Project 2 of the investment program will contribute to socioeconomic Description development in Armenia and expanded regional trade. The outcome will be an efficient, safe, and sustainable north-south road corridor, linking Armenia domestically and internationally. The project output will be an upgraded 41 km section between Ashtarak and Talin. The project's design and monitoring framework is attached in Attachment 2.
Tranche 2 will comprise (a) civil works; and (b) consulting services. Details include: (i) The tranche 2 project will reconstruct and widen the 41.3 km, Ashtarak-Talin Section from 2-lane to 4-lane standard. (ii) A total of 260 person-months of international consulting services and 380 person-months of national consulting services are required for construction supervision and project management for Project 2, and preparation of subsequent tranche projects.
Cost Estimates The total cost including taxes, duties, contingency is approximately the and Financing equivalent of $210 million. Table A1.1 and A1.2 summarize the cost Plan estimates and financing plans, respectively. Attachment 3 outlines the detailed cost estimates and financing plan.
Table A1.1: Cost Estimates ($ million) Item Amount A. Base Cost 1. Land Acquisition and Resettlement 5 2. Civil works 124 3. Consulting Services 7 4. Taxes and Durties 27 Subtotal (A) 163
B. Contingency 37 C. Financing Charges During Construction 10 Total 210
Table A1.2: Financing Plan ($ million)
Source Total Percent Asian Development Bank 170 81 Government 40 19 Total 210 100
Loan Amount To finance part of Tranche 2, the Government has requested a loan of $170 and Terms million from ADB’s ordinary capital resources. The loan will have a 24-year term, including a grace period of 4 years, an annual interest rate determined in accordance with ADB’s London interbank offered rate (LIBOR)-based lending facility, a commitment charge of 0.15% per year, and such other terms and conditions set forth in the loan agreement and the understandings in the FFA. The rest of the cost will be financed by the Government. Attachment 1
Period of Tranche 2 is expected to be physically completed by December 31, 2014. Loan/ No disbursements from the loan account will be requested or made later Utilization than June 30, 2015.
Implementation The Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) will be the Arrangements executing agency and will implement Project 2 in accordance with the principles set forth in Schedule 1 to the FFA and the loan agreement for Project 2. To ensure that ADB-financed projects are implemented on time, within budget, and with high quality, ADB requires that its financed projects be implemented through an outsourced professional firm. Considering that a transition period may be needed for implementing this, the following arrangements as an interim measure will be undertaken under Tranche 2 of the North-South Road Corridor Investment Program.
The North-South Road Corridor Investment Program Project Management Unit State Non-Commercial Organization (PMU) will continue, on behalf of MOTC, project implementation functions including (i) review and approve project progress reports; (ii) review and approve design and bid documents, and present them to MOTC/Governing Council (GC) and ADB; (iii) organize, conduct and evaluate bids and present the evaluation report to MOTC/GC and ADB; (iv) review and approve financial statements and withdrawal applications, and present them to MOTC/GC and ADB; (v) review and approve environmental and resettlement plans (and updates) and monitoring reports and present them to MOTC/GC and ADB; (vi) review and approve quarterly progress reports and present them to MOTC/GC and ADB; (vii) review and approve construction work completion certificates and present them to MOTC/GC and ADB; and (viii) maintain project accounts. ADB loan under Tranche 1 of the Investment Program (“Tranche 1”) will finance the PMU operations until the completion of the Tranche 1. Meanwhile, the construction supervision consultant will undertake the following activities: (i) Design review; (ii) prepare bidding documents and support in bid evaluation; (iii) prepare withdrawal applications for submitting to MOTC and ADB for approval, and support in preparing the financial statements; (iv) monitor environmental and social safeguards implementation; and (v) prepare quarterly progress reports. The supervision consultant will submit all documents to MOTC/GC through PMU for review and approval. The construction supervision consultant will be hired by MOTC (Employer) following ADB Procurement Guidelines. It will report to MOTC and ADB. Thus ADB's no objection for different stages of the recruitment process (longlisting, shortlisting, RFP, evaluation of proposals, contract awards) is required. The PMU, financed under Tranche 1, will continue managing daily project implementation activities as described above. After completion of Tranche 1 project, the PMU operations will be financed by the government.
Procurement The procurement plan (including civil works, goods and services) is attached and Consulting as Attachment 4. Services
Confirmation of The Government of the Republic of Armenia confirms that the Attachment 1
Continuing understandings in the FFA have been adhered, and remain true to date. Validity of and Adherence to A safeguards compliance report is provided below. current Undertakings
Readiness of The detailed design is underway, and the design and bidding documents will the Project for be completed by the end of December 2010. Bidding for civil works will start Implementation by February 2011 for targeted commencement of construction in May 2011.
The project director has been appointed. MOTC staffs involved in the project processing already teamed up with the project director. PMU, funded under Tranche 1, will assist the project director in managing Tranche 2.
Counterpart funding for 2011 has already been included in the government's budget.
Tranche 2 is a priority of the Government. The Government is keen to sign the Loan Agreement by end January 2011 and make the loan effective early 2011.
Safeguards Environment: Project 2 is classified as environmental category A. An environmental impact assessment (EIA) was prepared and posted on the ADB website on 7 August 2010. The EIA concludes that the impact on archaeological, historical, and cultural sites and monuments is widespread and requires special consideration. The EIA identifies 14 previously unknown archaeological/historical sites. To safeguard the most important sites, the EMP in the EIA contains mitigation measures. The EIA also determined that except for one important wetland that requires special protection measures, the impact on the environment – sparse flora and fauna - is relatively benign and can be mitigated through routine design changes and construction measures in the EMP. All recommendations in the EMP will be incorporated in the detailed design and bidding documents for the civil works contract to ensure that proper mitigation and protection measures are taken during project implementation.
Resettlement: Project 2 is classified as involuntary resettlement category A. MOTC prepared a draft land acquisition and resettlement plan (LARP). under Armenian laws and regulations, the Land Acquisition and Resettlement Framework, and ADB's policies, based on the preliminary design. The draft LARP will be finalized once the update of the detailed design is completed. After the finalization of the road alignment, the PMU and supervision consultant will revise the detailed measurement survey, expand the legalization process, and finalize the land acquisition and resettlement cost. The government will amend the decree and conduct the final round of information and consultation. The finalization of the implementation-ready LARP will be a condition to award civil works contracts under Project 2.
Indigenous Peoples: The project is classified as category C, as it has no impact on indigenous peoples. Attachment 1
Status of Safeguard Compliance Involuntary Resettlement and Indigenous People
. No impact on indigenous people. Classified as Category C. . Civil works throughout the whole Project 2 section Ashtarak-Talin (41.3 km) will involve land acquisition and resettlement, affecting 405 land parcels with a total area of 342,997 m2, 314 agricultural land plots with a total area of 214,017 m2, 73 non-agricultural plots (63 residential plots and 10 industrial plots) with a total area of 59,690 m2, and 69,290 m2 of used communal. Project 2 will also affect 269 households with 1,447 persons and 21 buildings/structures. . EA has prepared a draft Land Acquisition and Resettlement Plan (LARP). ADB approved the draft LARP in December 2010. . As described in the Loan Agreement no withdrawals shall be made from the Loan Account for the Works until ADB has received the Government’s certification, in form and substance satisfactory to ADB, that land and rights-of-way required for implementation of Project 2 shall have been obtained free and clear of any liens, rights, claims or any other encumbrance whatsoever. . The Government will not award a contract for Works until after the LARP has been fully implemented in accordance with its terms. The Government will provide sufficient funds to finance all LARP-related compensation and costs. . The PMU and construction supervision consultants will assist EA in implementing the LARP. Environment . Project 2 is classified as environmental category A. . An environmental impact assessment (EIA) was prepared and posted on the ADB website on 7 August 2010. . The EIA concludes that the impact on archaeological, historical, and cultural sites and monuments is widespread and requires special consideration. The EIA identifies 14 previously unknown archaeological/historical sites. To safeguard the most important sites, the EMP in the EIA contains mitigation measures. The EIA also determined that except for one important wetland that requires special protection measures, the impact on the environment – sparse flora and fauna - is relatively benign and can be mitigated through routine design changes and construction measures in the EMP. . The EA will ensure that (i) all roads, and road facilities and structures, under this Project are designed, constructed, and operated in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations of Armenia, ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009), and environmental impact assessment (EIA); (ii) any adverse environmental impacts are minimized by the mitigating measures and the monitoring program set out in the environmental management plan (EMP) in the EIA; (iii) implementation of the EMP and any violation of the environmental standards are reported to ADB semiannually in accordance with the EIA; and (iv) the EMP is incorporated in the bidding documents and bill of quantities of the civil works contracts. The EA will ensure that the detailed design sufficiently addresses any Government and/or ADB concerns regarding archaeological findings and provide appropriate solutions as well as chance-find procedures during implementation for avoiding and mitigating all impacts. . The Government will not award a contract for Works until the finalized EIA and EMP has been approved by ADB. . EA will monitor implementing EMP by the contractors.
Attachment 2
DESIGN AND MONITORING FRAMEWORK PROJECT 2
Design Summary Performance Data Assumptions and Risks Targets/Indicators Sources/Reporting Mechanisms Impact By 2015 Assumptions Contribution to Increased Armenia exports National economic The government’s socioeconomic to Georgia to $100 million and trade statistics continued commitment to development in from $52.8 million in 2009 economic growth and Armenia and expanded regional cooperation regional trade Increased Armenia imports from Georgia to $80 million Risk from $40.9 million in 2009 Macroeconomic instability in Armenia and the Caucasus sub-region due to the current global fragile economic recovery Outcome By 2015 Assumptions An efficient, safe, and Reduced travel time from Investment Program The government effective sustainable north-south Yerevan to Talin to 1 hour and tranche implementation of the road corridor, linking from 1.33 hours in 2009 completion reports strategy, policy Armenia domestically framework, and road map and internationally Increased daily traffic from National traffic and in the transport sector Ashtarak to Talin to 9,400 road accident statistics vehicles from 5,800 from the government Sufficient external vehicles in 2009 financing for the investment program Increased daily traffic by 10% per annum for 5 years Risk after project completion The government’s limited capacity for effective About 1.6 million people to implementation of the benefit from Project 2 investment program Outputs By December 2014 Assumptions An upgraded road 41.3 km of the 2-lane road Investment Program Timely provision of section between section upgraded to a 4- and tranche progress counterpart funds Ashtarak and Talin lane section with100 km and completion per hour operational reports Effective implementation standard of sustainable routine and Investment Program periodic maintenance by and tranche audit the Ministry Transport reports and Communication
Risk Cost overrun due to sharp escalation of prices of construction materials and labor
Activities with Milestones Inputs 1.1 Advance procurement action undertaken by February 2011 ADB (OCR): $170 1.2 Project supervision consultants recruited by May 2011 million 1.3 Civil works contracts for road improvement awarded by May 2011 Government: $40 1.4 Road improvement works started by June 2011 and completed by million December 2014 1.5 Project 2 completed by June 2015 Total: $2 10 million ADB = Asian development Bank, OCR = ordinary capital resource.
Attachment 3
Detailed Cost Estimates Item Cost Financed By ($ million) ADB Government A. Base Cost 1 Land Acquisition and Resettlement 5.0 0.0 5.0 2Civil orksW 124.0 124.0 0.0 3 Consulting Services for construction Supervision 7.0 7.0 0.0 and Design of Subsequent Tranches 4 Taxes and Duties 27.0 0.0 27.0 Subtotal 163.0 131.0 32.0 B. Contingencies 37.0 29.0 8.0 C. Financing Charges During Construction 10.0 10.0 0.0 Total 210.0 170.0 40.0 Attachment 4
PROCUREMENT PLAN (TRANCHE 2 PROJECT)
Project Name: North–South Road Corridor Multitranche Financing Facility Number: 0035- Investment Program ARM Periodic Financing Request 2 Number: to be assigned Multitranche Financing Facility Amount: $500 Executing Agen cy: Ministry of Transport an d million Communication Tranche 2 Periodic Fina ncing Request Amount: $170.0 million Date of First Procurement Plan: 16 December Date of this Procurement Plan: 16 December 2010 2010
A. Section 1: Process Thresholds, Review, and 18-Month Procurement Plan
1. Project Procurement Thresholds
1. Except as t he Asian Development Bank (ADB) may otherwise agree, the following process thresholds shall apply to procurement of goods and works.
Procurement of Goods and Works Method Thresh old International Competitive Bidding for Works More than $1,000,000 International Competitive Bidding for Goods More than $500,000 National Competitive Bidding for Works Less than $1,000,000 Shopping for Works Less than $100,000 Shopping for Goods Less than $100,000
2. ADB Prior or Post Review
2. Except as ADB may o therwise agree, the following prior- or post-revi ew requirements apply to the various procurement and consultant recruitment methods used for the Project.
Procurement of Goods and Works Procurement Method Prior or Post Comments International Competitive Bidding for Works Prior International Competitive Bidding for Goods Prior National Competitive Bidding for Goods Prior National Competitive Bidding for Works Prior Shopping for Works Prior Shopping for Goods Prior
Recruitment of Consulting Firms Quality- and Cost-Based Selection Prior Other selection methods: QBS, CQS, LCS Prior To be determined during implementation. Recruitment of Individual Consultants Individual Consultants Prior CQS = consultant's qualification selection, LCS = least cost selection, QBS = quality-based selection,
Attachment 4
3. Goods and Works Contracts Estimated to Cost More than $1 Million
3. The following table lists goods and works contracts for which procure ment activit y is either ongoing or expected to commence within the next 18 months.
Contract Prequalification General Value Procurement of Bidders Advertisement Description ($ million) Method (Yes/No) Date (quarter/year) Comments Civil Works 124.0 ICB No Q1 2011 ICB = international competitive bidding, Q = quarter.
4. Consulting Services Contracts Estimated to Cost More than $100,000
4. The following table lists consult ing services contracts for which procurement activity is either ongoing or expected to commence within the next 18 months.
Contract Advertise- International Value Recruitment ment Date or National General Description ($ million) Method (quarter/year) Assignment Comments Construction 6.8 QCBS Q1 2011 International Quality–cost Supervision, Project ratio 80/20 Management and Design of subsequent Tranches CQS = consultant's qualification selection, QCBS = quality- and cost-based selection, Q = quarter.
B. Section 2: Project Procurement Plan
1. Indicative List of Packages Required Under the Project
5. The followin g table pro vides an in dicative list of all procurement (goods, works, and consulting services) over the life of the project.
Estimated Value Estimated Domestic ($ million, Number of Procurement Preference General Description cumulative) Contracts Method Applicable Comments Works Civil works contract 124.0 1 ICB No package for Two-envelope improvement of 41.3 km single stage with Ashtarak-Talin road post qualification section Consulting Services Construction 6.8 1 QCBS with FTP quality– Supervision, Project cost ratio Management and Design 80/20 of subsequent Tranches External Financial Audit 0.2 1 LCS Yes
CQS = consultant's qualification selection, FTP = full technical proposal, ICB = international competitive bidding, LCS = least-cost selection, QCBS = quality- and cost-based selection.
Attachment 4
C. National Competitive Bidding
1. General
7. The procedures to be followed for national competitive bidding shall be the open tender method (including the two-stage where appropriate) set forth in the Law on Procurements of 1 January 2005 with the clarifications and modifi cations described in the following paragraphs required for compliance with the provisions of ADB’s Procurement Guidelines (2007, as amended from time to time).
2. Eligibility
8. The eligibilit y of bidders shall be as defined under section I of ADB’s Procurement Guidelines; accordingly, no bidd er or potential b idder should be declare d ineligible for reasons other than t hose provided in sect ion I of ADB’s Procurement Guidelin es. Bidders must b e nationals of me mber countries of ADB, and offered goods, services, and works must be produced in and supplied from member countries of ADB.
3. Prequalification
9. Post qualification shall be used, un less prequa lification is e xplicitly pro vided for in the loan agreement and/or procureme nt plan. Domestic and foreign contractors shall be allowed to participate in bid exerc ises using post qualification procedure. In case prequalification of contractors is st ipulated in the loan agree ment/procurement plan, domestic and foreig n contractors shall be allowed to participate in the prequalification exercise.
4. Registration and Licensing
(i) Bidding shall not be restricted to pre-registered/licensed firms.
(ii) Where registration or licensing is required, bidders (a) shall be allowed a reasonable time to complete the re gistration or licensing process; and (b) shall not be denied registr ation and/o r licensing for reasons unrelate d to their capability and resources to successfully perform the contract, which shall be verified through post qualification.
(iii) Foreign bidders shall not be precluded from bidding. If a registration or licensing process is r equired, a f oreign bidder declared the lowest evaluated bidder shall be given a reasonable opportunity to register or to obtain a license.
5. Biddi ng Period
10. The minimum bidding period is 28 days prior to the deadline for the submission of bids.
6. Bidding Documents
11. Procuring e ntities should use standard biddin g documents for the p rocurement of goods, works, and services acceptable to ADB.
7. Prefere nces Attachment 4
12. No dome stic p reference sha ll be given f or do mestic bi dders an d for do mestically manufactured goods.
8. Advert ising
13. Invitations to bid shall be advertised in at least one widely circulated national daily newspaper or freely accessible, nationally known website allowing a minimum of 28 days for the pr eparation and su bmission of bids. B idding of na tional competitive bidd ing contracts estimated a t $50 0,000 equivalent or more fo r good s an d rela ted services or $ 1,000,000 equivalent or more for civil works shall be advertised on ADB’s website via the posting of the procurement plan.
9. Secur ities (i) Bid security (tender security). W here required, bid security shall be in the form of a bank guarantee from a reputable bank. (ii) Performance security (c ontract execution security). Performance security sh all be provided within 28 days of the notification of contract award.
10. Bid Opening and Bid Evaluation
(i) Bids shall be opened in public.
(ii) No bid shall be declared invalid/rejected at the time of bid opening.
(iii) Minutes and/or record of bid opening shall be provided to all bidders.
(iv) Evaluation of bids shall be made in strict adher ence with the criteria d eclared in the biddi ng documents and cont racts shall be awarded to t he lowest e valuated bidder.
(v) Bidders sha ll not be eliminated from detailed evaluation on the basis of minor, non-substantial deviations.
(vi) No bidder s hall be rejected on the basis of a comparison with the e mployer's estimate and budget ceiling without ADB’s prior concurrence.
(vii) A contract shall be awa rded to the technically responsive b idder that of fers the lowest evaluated price and meets the qualifying requirements. Negotiations shall not be permitted.
(viii) Price verification shall not be applied.
11. Rejection of All Bids and Rebidding
14. Bids shall n ot be reject ed and new bids solicited without ADB’s prior concurrence. Bids shall not be declared in valid because of proce dural delays on the part of executing agencies without ADB’s prior approval.
12. Participation by Government-Owned Enterprises
Attachment 4
15. Government-owned enterprises in Armenia shall be eligible to participate as bidders only if they can establish that they are legally and financially autonomous, operate under commercial law, and are not a depe ndent agency of t he contracting authority/executing agency/implementing agency. Furthermore, they will be subject t o the same bid and performance security requirements as other bidders.
13. Right to Inspect/Audit
16. A provision shall be included in all national competitive bidding works and goods contracts fin anced by ADB requiring suppliers and contractors to permit ADB to inspect their accounts and records and other documents relating to the bid submission and the performance of the contract, and to have them audited by auditors appointed by ADB.
14. Fraud and Corruption
(i) The Borrower shall reje ct a propo sal for award if it determines that th e bidder recommended for award has, dire ctly or through an agent, engaged in corrupt, fraudulent, collusive, or coercive practices in competing for the co ntract in question.
(ii) ADB will declare a firm or individual ineligib le, either indefinitely or for a stated period, to be awarded a contract financed by ADB, if it at any time determines that the firm or individu al has, directly or throu gh an agent, engaged in corrupt, fraudulent, collusive, or coercive pr actices in competing for, or in executing, an ADB-financed contract.
15. Joint Venture and Estimated Contract Prices
(i) Joint venture partners shall be jointly and severally liable for their obligations.
(ii) Estimated contract prices shall not be advertised.
16. Disclosure of Decision on Contract Awards
17. At the same time that n otification on award of contract is given to the s uccessful bidder, the results of bid evaluation shall be publishe d in a local newspaper, or a well-known freely accessible website identifying the bid and lot numbers and providing information on (i) the name of each bidder who submitted a bid; (ii) bid pr ices as read out at bid o pening; (iii) the names of bidders whose bids were rejected a nd the reasons for their rejection; a nd (iv) the n ame of the winning bidder, and the price it offered, as well as duration and summary scope of the contract awarded. The executing showing separately net cost, contingencies, and taxes agency/implementing agency/contracting aut hority shall respond in writing t o unsucce ssful bidder s who seek explanations on the grounds on which their bids are not selected. Appendix 2
PROCUREMENT PLAN TRANCHE 2 PROJECT
Project Name: North–South Road Corridor Multitranche Financing Facility Number: 0035- Investment Program ARM Periodic Financing Request 2 Number: L2729- ARM Multitranche Financing Facility Amount: $500 Executing Agency: Ministry of Transport and million Communication Tranche 2 Periodic Financing Request Amount: $170.0 million Date of First Procurement Plan: 1 December Date of this Procurement Plan: 29 September 2010 2011
A. Section 1: Process Thresholds, Review, and 18-Month Procurement Plan
1. Project Procurement Thresholds
1. Except as the Asian Development Bank (ADB) may otherwise agree, the following process thresholds shall apply to procurement of goods and works.
Procurement of Goods and Works Method Threshold International Competitive Bidding for Works More than $1,000,000 International Competitive Bidding for Goods More than $500,000 National Competitive Bidding for Works Less than $1,000,000 Shopping for Works Less than $100,000 Shopping for Goods Less than $100,000
2. ADB Prior or Post Review
2. Except as ADB may otherwise agree, the following prior- or post-review requirements apply to the various procurement and consultant recruitment methods used for the Project.
Procurement of Goods and Works Procurement Method Prior or Post Comments International Competitive Bidding for Works Prior International Competitive Bidding for Goods Prior National Competitive Bidding for Goods Prior National Competitive Bidding for Works Prior Shopping for Works Prior Shopping for Goods Prior
Recruitment of Consulting Firms Quality- and Cost-Based Selection Prior Other selection methods: QBS, CQS, LCS Prior To be determined during implementation. Recruitment of Individual Consultants Individual Consultants Prior CQS = consultant's qualification selection, LCS = least cost selection, QBS = quality-based selection,
3. Goods and Works Contracts Estimated to Cost More than $1 Million
3. The following table lists goods and works contracts for which procurement activity is either ongoing or expected to commence within the next 18 months.
Contract Prequalification General Value Procurement of Bidders Advertisement Description ($ million) Method (Yes/No) Date (quarter/year) Comments Civil Works 124.0 ICB No Q3 2011 ICB = international competitive bidding, Q = quarter.
4. Consulting Services Contracts Estimated to Cost More than $100,000
4. The following table lists consulting services contracts for which procurement activity is either ongoing or expected to commence within the next 18 months.
Contract Advertise- International Value Recruitment ment Date or National General Description ($ million) Method (quarter/year) Assignment Comments Construction 6.1 QCBS Q2 2011 International Quality–cost Supervision ratio 90/10 andProject Management QCBS = quality- and cost-based selection, Q = quarter.
B. Section 2: Project Procurement Plan
1. Indicative List of Packages Required Under the Project
5. The following table provides an indicative list of all procurement (goods, works, and consulting services) over the life of the project.
Estimated Value Estimated Domestic ($ million, Number of Procurement Preference General Description cumulative) Contracts Method Applicable Comments Works Civil works contract 124.0 1 ICB No package for Single-stage- improvement of 41.3 km one-envelope Ashtarak-Talin road without pre section qualification Consulting Services Construction Supervision 6.1 1 QCBS with FTP quality– and Project Management cost ratio 90/10 External Financial Audit 0.2 1 LCS Yes
FTP = full technical proposal, ICB = international competitive bidding, LCS = least-cost selection, QCBS = quality- and cost-based selection.
C. National Competitive Bidding 1. General
6. The procedures to be followed for national competitive bidding shall be the open tender method (including the two-stage where appropriate) set forth in the Law on Procurements of 1 January 2005 with the clarifications and modifications described in the following paragraphs required for compliance with the provisions of ADB’s Procurement Guidelines (2010, as amended from time to time).
2. Eligibility
7. The eligibility of bidders shall be as defined under section I of ADB’s Procurement Guidelines; accordingly, no bidder or potential bidder should be declared ineligible for reasons other than those provided in section I of ADB’s Procurement Guidelines. Bidders must be nationals of member countries of ADB, and offered goods, services, and works must be produced in and supplied from member countries of ADB.
3. Prequalification
8. Post qualification shall be used, unless prequalification is explicitly provided for in the loan agreement and/or procurement plan. Domestic and foreign contractors shall be allowed to participate in bid exercises using post qualification procedure. In case prequalification of contractors is stipulated in the loan agreement/procurement plan, domestic and foreign contractors shall be allowed to participate in the prequalification exercise.
4. Registration and Licensing
(i) Bidding shall not be restricted to pre-registered/licensed firms.
(ii) Where registration or licensing is required, bidders (a) shall be allowed a reasonable time to complete the registration or licensing process; and (b) shall not be denied registration and/or licensing for reasons unrelated to their capability and resources to successfully perform the contract, which shall be verified through post qualification.
(iii) Foreign bidders shall not be precluded from bidding. If a registration or licensing process is required, a foreign bidder declared the lowest evaluated bidder shall be given a reasonable opportunity to register or to obtain a license.
5. Bidding Period 9. The minimum bidding period is 28 days prior to the deadline for the submission of bids.
6. Bidding Documents 10. Procuring entities should use standard bidding documents for the procurement of goods, works, and services acceptable to ADB.
7. Preferences 11. No domestic preference shall be given for domestic bidders and for domestically manufactured goods.
8. Advertising
12. Invitations to bid shall be advertised in at least one widely circulated national daily newspaper or freely accessible, nationally known website allowing a minimum of 28 days for the preparation and submission of bids. Bidding of national competitive bidding contracts estimated at $500,000 equivalent or more for goods and related services or $1,000,000 equivalent or more for civil works shall be advertised on ADB’s website via the posting of the procurement plan.
9. Securities (i) Bid security (tender security). Where required, bid security shall be in the form of a bank guarantee from a reputable bank. (ii) Performance security (contract execution security). Performance security shall be provided within 28 days of the notification of contract award.
10. Bid Opening and Bid Evaluation
(i) Bids shall be opened in public.
(ii) No bid shall be declared invalid/rejected at the time of bid opening.
(iii) Minutes and/or record of bid opening shall be provided to all bidders.
(iv) Evaluation of bids shall be made in strict adherence with the criteria declared in the bidding documents and contracts shall be awarded to the lowest evaluated bidder.
(v) Bidders shall not be eliminated from detailed evaluation on the basis of minor, non-substantial deviations.
(vi) No bidder shall be rejected on the basis of a comparison with the employer's estimate and budget ceiling without ADB’s prior concurrence.
(vii) A contract shall be awarded to the technically responsive bidder that offers the lowest evaluated price and meets the qualifying requirements. Negotiations shall not be permitted.
(viii) Price verification shall not be applied.
11. Rejection of All Bids and Rebidding
13. Bids shall not be rejected and new bids solicited without ADB’s prior concurrence. Bids shall not be declared invalid because of procedural delays on the part of executing agencies without ADB’s prior approval.
12. Participation by Government-Owned Enterprises
14. Government-owned enterprises in Armenia shall be eligible to participate as bidders only if they can establish that they are legally and financially autonomous, operate under commercial law, and are not a dependent agency of the contracting authority/executing agency/implementing agency. Furthermore, they will be subject to the same bid and performance security requirements as other bidders.
13. Right to Inspect/Audit
15. A provision shall be included in all national competitive bidding works and goods contracts financed by ADB requiring suppliers and contractors to permit ADB to inspect their accounts and records and other documents relating to the bid submission and the performance of the contract, and to have them audited by auditors appointed by ADB.
14. Fraud and Corruption
(i) The Borrower shall reject a proposal for award if it determines that the bidder recommended for award has, directly or through an agent, engaged in corrupt, fraudulent, collusive, or coercive practices in competing for the contract in question.
(ii) ADB will declare a firm or individual ineligible, either indefinitely or for a stated period, to be awarded a contract financed by ADB, if it at any time determines that the firm or individual has, directly or through an agent, engaged in corrupt, fraudulent, collusive, or coercive practices in competing for, or in executing, an ADB-financed contract.
15. Joint Venture and Estimated Contract Prices
(i) Joint venture partners shall be jointly and severally liable for their obligations.
(ii) Estimated contract prices shall not be advertised.
16. Disclosure of Decision on Contract Awards
16. At the same time that notification on award of contract is given to the successful bidder, the results of bid evaluation shall be published in a local newspaper, or a well-known freely accessible website identifying the bid and lot numbers and providing information on (i) the name of each bidder who submitted a bid; (ii) bid prices as read out at bid opening; (iii) the names of bidders whose bids were rejected and the reasons for their rejection; and (iv) the name of the winning bidder, and the price it offered, as well as duration and summary scope of the contract awarded. The executing showing separately net cost, contingencies, and taxes agency/implementing agency/contracting authority shall respond in writing to unsuccessful bidders who seek explanations on the grounds on which their bids are not selected.
D. Review of Contract Modifications
17. ADB will review contract modifications in accordance with the procedures set forth in the loan agreement between the Borrower and ADB.
Appendix 4
TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR CONSULTING SERVICES FOR DETAILED DESIGN OF TRANCHE 1 PROJECT
Project No. 42145
MFF NORTH-SOUTH ROAD CORRIDOR DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
A. Background and Objective
1. The Government of Armenia (the Government) requested Asian Development Bank (ADB) to finance the consulting services for detailed engineering design of Tranche 1 Project under the Multitranche Financing Facility (MFF) for the North–South Road Corridor Development Program (the Program). The objective of the consulting services is to prepare a detailed engineering design for the Tranche 1 Project (the Project) under the Program.
B. Scope of Consulting Services
2. The Tranche 1 Project consists of two road sections, including: (i) reconstruction of pavement, drainage, and shoulders; road safety improvements; and repairs to existing structures on Yerevan–Ashtarak Road (km 11.8–30.2) (ii) road safety improvement on Yerevan–Ararat Road (km 9.6–47.2)
3. The detailed engineering design will produce (i) detailed working drawings for the construction, (ii) detailed engineering design report, (iii) detailed bill of quantities (BOQ), (iv) construction specifications and (v) schedules showing location, types and quantities of specific works to be undertaken.
4. To prepare detailed engineering design, the services of national design consulting firm (the Designer) will be required as detailed in Section C below. The Designer should have extensive experience in highway design and construction specifications. The selection procedure will follow consultants' qualification selection criteria (CQS) as per ADB's Guidelines on the Use of Consultants (2007 as amended from time to time). It is anticipated that the detailed design will be prepared within 3 months and the Designer's team will have expertise as set out below, or alternative arrangements may be proposed by the Designer, which, in the opinion of the Project Management Unit (PMU) established for Program implementation and ADB, will provide services of an equivalent quality.
Team Members: about 20 person-months technical staff (i) Highway Engineer – Team Leader – (3 months) (ii) Highway Engineer – Design – (2x2 months) (iii) Pavement/Materials Engineer – (3 months) (iv) Soil/Geotechnical Engineer – (2 months) (v) Bridge/Structural Engineer – (2x3 months) (vi) Hydraulics and Drainage Engineer – (1 months) (vii) Road Safety Specialist – (1 months) (viii) Electrical/Street lighting Specialist – (2 months)
5. To support the Designer, the services of an individual international pavement specialist will be procured under a separate contract. For reference purpose the suggested ToR is included in para 20 below.
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C. The Terms of Reference for the Designer
1. General Guidance
6. The Designer shall make maximum use of available data, topographic, geological and seismic maps, road condition surveys, technical studies and documents available from the PMU and other Armenian government agencies, as well as data from any other studies conducted recently. Notwithstanding any reliance on existing information or analyses or studies, the Designer shall be solely responsible for the results of the design.
7. The geometric design shall follow close to the existing road alignment without necessitating land acquisition. Key design criteria shall satisfy minimum requirements of European Union Agreement on Traffic Arteries1, as well as below standards in use in Armenia.
Table 1. Geometric Design Standard for Project Road
No. Main Parameter Unit Flat Rolling Mountainous 1 Design speed Km/h 120 100 80 2 Number of lanes 4/2 4/2 4/2 3 Land Width m 3.75 3.75 3.75 4 Shoulder width m 3.0 3.0 3.0 5 Maximum longitudinal gradient % 4 5 6 6 Median to be applied over 4-lane m 2 2 2 7 Minimum horizontal curvature m 670 425 250 8 Super elevation at minimum horizontal % 6 6 6 curvature 9 Minimum radius of vertical curves: crest M 12,500 8,000 5,000 10 Minimum radius of vertical curves: sag m 6,000 4,500 1,500 11 Cross fall of carriageway % 2 2 2 12 Cross fall of shoulder % 4 4 4
8. The design shall be prepared with the consideration that the two lanes of one direction of the dual carriageway will be closed entirely for ease of construction.
2. Specific Tasks
9. The Designer will conduct field surveys, investigations and relevant laboratory tests for the detailed engineering design that will include, but not be limited to the following: (i) The Consultant shall carry out full topographic survey of the road over a width of 40m to either side from the median centerline. The topographic surveys shall provide information on utilities, trees, boundary fences and entrances to roadside properties, watercourses and any other feature that would affect the design of road rehabilitation or new construction. (ii) The Consultant shall prepare a digital terrain model of the completed ground survey suitable for preparing Computer Aided Design and Drawing (CADD) plan and profile drawings at a scale of 1:1,000 to a sufficient width to include the edges of the right-of-way (ROW) and the intercept between any cut or
1 United Nations. 1975. European Agreement on Main International Traffic Arteries (AGR). Washington, DC.
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embankment slope and the adjacent ground. In unstable and potentially unstable areas, the cross-sections will cover as much of the slope area as is practical;
10. Under the guidance of the International Pavement Specialist, the Designer will carry out geotechnical, pavement and materials surveys and tests including: (i) representative sampling and testing of existing asphalt concrete pavement; (ii) soil sampling and testing at appropriate intervals, as necessary for road rehabilitation design; - in-situ density test within the layers underlaying the existing asphalt and 10cm below the level of the established existing sub-grade - DCP-test to a nominal depth of 1.5m at an interval of 200m for establishing the layer configuration - CBR test on subgrade material - testing procedures established in Armenia for determining the bearing capacity of the subgrade - identifying and sampling and testing of materials from quarries and borrow sites - any other geo-technical and soils investigations and testing necessary for final design
11. The Designer shall undertake a detailed inspection and dimensioning of existing bridges, culverts, retaining walls, river training and other structures, including non-destructive concrete testing of bridges and other major structures.
12. The Designer shall investigate the hydraulic and drainage efficiency of existing bridges, culverts and road side drainage facilities; shall examine scour, erosion, drainage and flood characteristics along the road;
13. The detailed design activities shall include, but not be limited to, the following: (i) geometric design based on the detailed survey results, approved geometric design standards (para 7 above), and re-establishing the layout and design of existing intersections/interchanges; (ii) preparation of plan, profile and cross-section drawings to scales shown in para 17; (iii) optimization of vertical/road profile of the road based on the pavement design that will reflect the new pavement structure, raising of embankment for drainage purposes in low lying areas, and minor geometric improvements for safety reasons; (iv) where appropriate, material used for embankment construction on top of the existing subgrade shall be locally extracted suitable material excavated from road cuts, with characteristics and strength modulus equal to/or better than the existing sub-grade materials; (v) detailed drainage design of culverts, side and cross-drainage; (vi) based on the analysis and pavement design provided by the individual international consultant, design the finished vertical/road profile; (vii) design of remedial works to existing bridges and other structures including all repairs necessary to render them safe and capable of supporting projected heavy loads; (viii) arrangements and/or design for relocation of affected public utilities along the road corridor;
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(ix) other ancillary items such as road safety measures (road signs, pavement markings, safety barriers and delineators, lighting), access design, entrances to roadside properties, bus bays and bus shelters, pedestrian crossings, lay-bys and/or emergency stop areas, measures to reduce the effects of wind-blown snow on the road during the long winter periods (such as snow fences, if practical and economically justifiable) and other items; (x) incorporate all requirements from the Initial Environmental Examination and the Environmental Management Plan prepared for the Project;
14. The Designer is required to design a road safety component for the Yerevan–Ararat road that will include but not be limited to: (i) replacement and/or improvement of road signs to conform with the requirements of the international agreements (footnote 1) and standards in terms of type, layout and quality of materials used; (ii) inclusion in the design of lay-bys for seasonal vendors and emergency stops; (iii) design of road lighting in built-up areas and, if warranted, at interchanges (iv) investigate, and if feasible, make provision for replacing the central grassed reserve with a “New-Jersey” type barrier.
15. All works shall be designed in such a way that they will be located and executed within the existing ROW or unutilized government land.
16. The Designer shall prepare drawings, detailed technical specifications based on the Specifications prepared under the project performance monitoring system (PPMS), quantity and cost estimates and design reports as required for the proper execution of the Project. The technical specifications shall be based on standards applicable in Armenia for similar civil construction works, if required, amended by up-to-date standards having international applicability (such as American Associations Highway Transportation Officials [AASHTO}, British Standards [BS} or other comparable standards), all in considerations of the climatic conditions in Armenia, including specifications for materials to be used, workmanship, method of construction, quality of finished works, equipment and plant requirements, and include provisions for environment, social and road safety mitigation measures to be implemented by the civil works contractors.
17. The Designer shall obtain endorsement of the PMU for the standards to be used. The technical specifications shall include lists and descriptions of work (pay) items to be executed. (i) Quantity and cost estimates - The Designer shall prepare bills of quantities based on the various items of work to be executed in accordance with the drawings and the technical specifications. The items in the BOQ quantities shall correspond to the work (pay) items specified in the technical specifications; (ii) The Designer shall develop a Confidential Unit Price Analysis for each work item and a Confidential Cost Estimate, for each work item, work category and contract package as a whole. Unit prices shall be classified into direct costs (labor, materials and equipment), indirect costs (mobilization, on-site and general overheads, contractor’s contingencies and profit) and taxes. The Designer’s Confidential Cost Estimate shall break out separately all taxes and contingencies for ease of identification. (iii) Design Report and other documents - The Designer shall submit a Design Report providing a description of the Project, including selection of design standards, field surveys and investigations, geometric design, pavement design, geo-
5
technical design, drainage design, structure rehabilitation design, specifications, bid documents, quantity estimates, and various calculations. (iv) The Designer shall also submit a soils and materials report, including proposed location and characteristics of sources of borrow materials.
18. The Designer will prepare full set of bidding documents following ADB's Procurement Guideline and Standard B idding D ocuments f or Works – Large C ontracts and include in the Final Design and Bid Documents Report submission. The final design drawings shall include the following: location plan and vicinity map; road plan and profile drawings at scales of 1:1,000 horizontal and 1:100 vertical; roadside drainage plans and profiles, and drawings for subsurface drainage and pollution control measures; road cross-sections at 20 m intervals (or more frequently when necessary) at scale 1:50, arranged on A3-size sheets with frame and title block in digital format only (pdf- format for bidding purpose and dxf-format for construction purpose); typical road sections and details; bridge rehabilitation drawings (these drawings shall also show the extent of the works to be done at the bridge; detailed drawings of the works at appropriate scales shall also be provided); drainage drawings and details; standard drawings for junctions and property entrances; standard drawings for bus bays and bus shelters; local plan drawings and standard drawings for pavement markings, signs, safety barriers and other road features; quantity schedules; right-of-way delineation, if any; utility relocation drawings and/or arrangements, if any; other miscellaneous drawings; and tables showing the works quantities and the places where these works be implemented
19. The Designer is responsible for the quality of the surveys and designs in conformance with accepted standards and norms
20. For information purpose the ToR for the international Pavement Specialist are reproduced below: The international pavement specialist will (i) undertake a comparative analysis of asphalt concrete and cement concrete pavements to arrive at the best alternative; (ii) provide the Designer with detailed pavement calculations and design for the preferred pavement alternative; (iii) prepare detailed construction specifications for the preferred pavement alternative; and (iv) help the Designer to prepare bidding documents. In particular, the international pavement specialist will perform the following tasks:
(i) based on the traffic analysis and forecasts carried out under the TA 7208-ARM Preparing North–South Road Corridor Development Program, prepare forecast of Equivalent Standard Axle Loads (ESAL) over the pavement design life; (ii) prepare alternative analysis of asphalt and cement concrete pavements based on state-of-the-art construction standards and equipment application, the
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availability of domestic materials, durability of the pavement, ease of maintenance, environmental concerns (comparing emissions produced for production of materials and construction); risks associated with construction such as expertise and quality control, construction cost and projected total cost of the pavement throughout its design life; (iii) recommend preferred alternative and seek the approval of the PMU and ADB; (iv) calculate pavement thicknesses for the preferred pavement alternative considering the composition and strength of existing pavement and sub-grade, forecast ESAL loads, and the use of natural or processed construction materials that are readily available, and provide it to the Designer for incorporating in the final road profile; (v) prepare construction specifications for each pavement layer including requirements for the materials, quality controls, construction technology and equipment; measurement and payment etc.; (vi) prepare detailed BOQ and Confidential Cost Estimates for the pavement materials; (vii) recommend maintenance strategies and prepare detailed maintenance manual specifying diagnostics and maintenance strategies, planning methodology, frequency, preventive measures, and recommended budget level;
D. Implementation Arrangements
21. PMU will act as an Employer for the contract with the consultants as well as will supervise and provide day-to-day guidance to the consultants and coordinate for securing necessary approvals from the Government, the Project Governing Council and ADB. The consultants will meet with PMU, its personnel (including project officers and environmental and social specialists), and other stakeholders to incorporate the concerns and recommendations in the final design. In the initial stage the Contract will be signed with the Foreign Financing Projects Management Center of the Ministry of Finance which will pass the obligations of the Employer under the contract to the PMU as soon as the PMU is properly set up and is legally operated.
22. From the date of the signature of the contract, the consultants shall have two weeks to mobilize the services. The tentative schedule is shown below, to be adjusted to the actual mobilization date at the time of contract signing:
- Consultant's contract signing 1 December 2009 - Draft final design completion 15 February 2010 - Final design completion 1 March 2010 - Bidding documents submission 1 March 2010
E. Reporting Requirements
23. The Designer, in coordination with the International Pavement Specialist, will prepare the following reports: (i) Inception Report within 3 weeks of mobilization of the Designer's contract; (ii) draft final design and bidding documents within 9 weeks; (iii) final design and bidding documents within two weeks after receiving comments from the PMU and ADB.
24. The Inception Report shall describe the planning the consultants has established for the assignment, the staffing and remarks as deemed appropriate. This report shall update the methodology and program of work that was included in the Consultant’s proposal and used as a
7 basis for agreed pricing, noting the changes and detailing any difficulties encountered, together with a proposal on how they may be overcome. The Inception Report shall include at least the following: (i) methodology statement defining the proposed limits of the design, including (a) an accurate estimation of the time they will take to complete; (b) methods and parameters; (c) any changes to the composition of the Consultant’s team and specialists needed; (d) agencies and government departments which would need to be involved; and (e) methods of consultation with the local authorities and population; (ii) detailed program of work, including field surveys and final design, showing time, duration and personnel as well as the inter-relationship between activities;
25. The Draft Final Report shall contain draft design and bid documents including (i) draft Design Report; (ii) plan and profile drawings; (iii) typical pavement and road cross-sections; (iv) typical drawings for road structures; (v) typical drawings for other ancillary works; (vi) BOQ and technical specifications; (vii) confidential cost estimates; and (viii) draft pavement design and maintenance report.
26. Final Design and Bidding Documents shall contain all detailed drawings and all supporting information and documents, including reports on selection of design standards, field survey, investigation and test reports and other aspects of the design.
27. The consultants will also produce short monthly progress reports on the ongoing and planned activities of the study team, as requested by PMU and ADB.
28. The Designer will be required to obtain all local approval for the designs from the “Independent Technical Review”, traffic police and other agencies as required under the Armenian regulations and bear the cost of such approvals.
29. Format of Reporting (i) Data shall be submitted to the PMU separately in electronic form, whose precise form shall be agreed between PMU and the consultants; (ii) The reconnaissance survey Report, should be submitted by the consultants to PMU in electronic file (MS Word) and three hard copies in Armenian and three hard copies in English; (iii) All milestone reports shall be submitted in six hard copies to PMU in both English and Armenian languages and one full set in soft copy on Data CD in English and Armenian languages.
F. Facilities and Offices
The Government will provide all necessary documentation, including the reports of the TA 7208- ARM, and other relevant documents to the consultants free of charge.
30. The Designer will use its own office space, equipment, materials, transport, senior and junior, skilled and unskilled personnel for completing the services within the required time. The Designer will also provide office accommodation to the international pavement specialist and related survey materials free of charge.
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G. Qualification requirements
For the fulfillment of this assignment the Consultant will be required to have:
- extensive experience in highway design and construction specifications and all required licenses; - key staff of Consultant shall have at least 3 years of experience in highway design and construction specifications.
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TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR CONSULTING SERVICES
FOR CONSTRUCTION SUPERVISION (TRANCHE 1) AND PREPARATION OF TRANCHE 2 AND 3 PROJECTS
LOAN 2561-ARM NORTH-SOUTH ROAD CORRIDOR INVESTMENT PROGRAM
A. Background and Objective
1. The Government of Armenia (the Government) requested Asian Development Bank (ADB) to finance the consulting services for construction supervision of Tranche 1 Project (Project 1) and preparation of Tranche 2 (Project 2) and Tranche 3 (Project 3) under the Multitranche Financing Facility (MFF) for the North–South Road Corridor Investment Program (the Program). The objective of the consulting services is to (i) supervise construction activities for Project 1; (ii) monitor project performance of Project 1; and (iii) prepare Detailed Design, Bidding Documents, final Land Acquisition and Resettlement Plan (LARP), final EIA and EMP, and all other due diligence documents, as required, for Projects 2 and 3 of the MFF Program. The consultant will also assist the North-South Road Corridor Investment Program Management Unit (PMU) on procurement activities for Projects 2 and 3.
B. Scope of Consulting Services
2. The consultants are required to carry out all works detailed and listed in, but not limited to section E. Terms of Reference. A summary of the tasks is as follows:
Task 1. Supervision of the Project 1, consisting of two road sections, including: reconstruction of pavement, drainage, and shoulders, road safety improvements, and repairs to existing structures on Yerevan–Ashtarak road (km 11.8–30.2) road safety improvements on Yerevan–Ararat road (km 9.6–47.2).
Task 2. The consultants are required to: (i) monitor the project performance, benefits and ensure compliance with all social and environmental requirements under the Project 1; and (ii) liaise with government authorities, consultants, NGO’s and other stakeholders concerned with the project implementation.
Task 3. The consultants will prepare due diligence documents (including updated feasibility studies), Detailed Design and Bidding Documents (including prequalification documents), final Land Acquisition and Resettlement Plan (LARP), final EIA and EMP, and other documents as required, for Tranche 2 (Ashtarak-Talin) and Tranche 3 (Talin-Guymri) Projects. The Consultant will assist the Government of Armenia in the preparation of Periodic Financing Request (PFR) 2 and PFR 3 acceptable for ADB's approval of Tranche 2 Project in 2010 and Tranche 3 Project in 2011. The Consultant will also assist the PMU on prequalification and bidding processes as necessary. The consultants are required to: (i) update feasibility studies prepared under TA7208-ARM for Ashtarak-Talin- Guymri road, and assist the Government of Armenia on preparation of Periodic Financing Request (PFR) 2 for ADB financing of Tranche 2 Project in 2010 and Tranche 3 Project in 2011
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(ii) prepare detailed engineering design and bidding documents for Projects 2 and 3 based on preliminary design prepared under the Project Preparatory Technical Assistance (PPTA) for upgrading the existing road to Category 1 standard (four-lane dual carriageway), and take all necessary actions for getting required approvals and certifications for the prepared detailed engineering designs as prescribed by the Armenian legislation; (iii) update the draft land acquisition and resettlement plan (LARP) prepared under the PPTA and prepare final implementation-ready LARP for Projects 2 and 3, and help the PMU implement the LARP; (iv) update the draft EIA/EMP and prepare final EIA and EMP reports for Projects 2 and 3; and assist the EA in getting required approvals for the EIA and EMP as prescribed by the Armenian legislation (including conclusion from Environmental Expertise SNCO under the RA Ministry of Nature Protection, agreement on route with the RA Ministry of Culture, etc.); (v) prepare all other due diligence documentation for Projects 2 and 3 as required; (vi) assist the PMU on prequalification and bidding processes for the civil works of Projects 2 and 3.
C. Experience and Qualifications Required of the Firm and Specialists
3. The services of an international engineering firm in association with a national engineering firm (collectively called "the Consultant") will be required as detailed in Section E below. The Consultant should have extensive experience in highway design, construction supervision, construction specifications, quality control, contract management and dispute resolution of similar size international contracts. The Consultant's team must comprise specialists that have obtained, at least, a bachelor's degree from an accredited university, and have experience in Armenia and/or in Caucasus and Central Asian countries. The team leader and at least one other international specialist must have a valid (active) license or membership in a professional organization and recent professional development training related to his or her field. The curriculum vitae of the specialists should contain information of the assignment they have successfully completed in the last 5 years, with complete names and addresses of the clients and the name and contact information of the immediate supervisors, and the number(s) of the license(s) and membership(s) and the name(s) of the issuing organization(s). The team leader and the team member with the second highest person-months of input should provide letters from at least two clients in the past five years, confirming successful completion of the assignments. The Employer may contact randomly selected clients of the first ranked firm, for verification of the information provided by the firm, prior to signing the contract.
D. Selection Method and Criteria
4. The lead proposing firm is expected to form associations or joint ventures with one or more national firms with an established record of technical and project area experience. All firms are required to submit a full technical proposal, which will be evaluated according to the quality- and cost-based selection (QCBS) method described in ADB's Guidelines on the Use of Consultants (2010 as amended from time to time). A weighting system of 80% for quality and 20% for cost will be applied. The Consultant's team will have 72 person-months of international and 174 person-months of national expertise as set out in Section F below. The Consultant may propose alternative arrangements, which, subject to assessment and approval by the PMU and ADB, will provide services of an equivalent or better quality. The consulting services are
11 expected to be started on 1 October 2010. The Detailed Design for Projects 2 and 3 are expected to be completed by end February 2011.
E. Terms of Reference
1. Construction Supervision for Project 1
5. The civil works will be executed under the International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC) Conditions of Contract for Construction, for Building and Engineering Works designed by the Employer (Multilateral Development Bank Harmonized Edition, March 2006) to be procured under the ADB's International Competitive Bidding procedures. The construction period for the Contract will be 33 months plus 12 month defects liability period.
6. The PMU established by the Government under the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) for the implementation of the Program will act as the Employer on behalf of the Government and as the Implementing Agency who will perform day-to-day administration of the Project 1. The Employer will recruit the Consultant in accordance with ADB’s Guidelines on the Use of Consultants.
a. Design Review
7. The Consultant will review the detailed engineering designs prior to mobilization of civil works, with emphasis on the geotechnical investigations and pavement design. The Consultant shall prepare a report where his concurrence with the designs is stated and/or modifications are proposed. If modifications are proposed by the Consultant, it shall endeavor to adhere as close as possible to the scope of the civil works contract as defined in the specifications and bills of quantities. In addition, and in the framework of the above the Consultant will carefully review the design prepared for km11.8 to km18.37 of Yerevan-Ashtarak and km9.6 to km47.2 of Yerevan- Ararat sections, which are scheduled as civil works package 2 (CW2) under Project 1 of the MFF. The design for CW2 does not currently comply with the required standards. Based on the design review the Consultant will suggest technical solutions in the framework of required standards for European highways, taking into consideration environmental and nature protection issues, measures for improving safety, land acquisition and resettlement requirements (if necessary) as well as the financial implications of suggested technical solutions. The Consultant will carry out the examination works in November and December 2010 and submit a corresponding report by the end of December 2010.
b. Construction Supervision
8. As the Employer’s Representative, the Consultant,referred to as the Engineer under the construction contract. will administer the construction contract and ensure that the works are constructed in accordance with the provisions of the construction contract. The Consultant will make all engineering decisions required for the successful and timely implementation of the civil works contract1 and have all of those powers which are defined as being the Engineer, with the exception of the following which will be retained and exercised by the Employer, generally on the advice of the Engineer. The Engineer will be required to nominate a Sr. Resident Engineer who will be resident full-time on the Project.
1 As per the FIDIC conditions of contract for construction, for building and engineering works designed by the Employer, Multilateral Development Bank Harmonized Edition, March 2006.
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(i) Determination of values, cost or time ...... (Cl. 3.5)2 (ii) Certifying additional cost to the Contract Price (Cl. 13 – Variations) (iii) Subcontracting ...... (Cl. 4.5) (iv) Order to Commence Works(Cl. 8.1) (v) Extension of Time ...... (Cl. 8.4) (vi) Suspension of Work ...... (Cl. 8.8) (vii) Performance Certificate .. (Cl. 11.9) (viii) Variation involving cost ...... (Cl. 13) (ix) Default of Contractor ...... (Cl. 15) (x) Contractor’s Claims...... (Cl. 20.1)
In addition, the Consultant, as the Engineer, should obtain the specific approval of the Employer when delegating duties and authorities to the Sr. Resident Engineer under Clause 3.2 or revoking such delegation.
9. In addition to, or as an expansion of the activities and responsibilities required of the Engineer under the civil works contract, the responsibilities of the Consultant will include the following: (i) as relevant assist the project management unit (PMU) on bidding processes for the civil works of Project 1; (ii) assist the PMU negotiate the mutually beneficial terms and conditions as well as construction schedule; (iii) Ensure the contractor adheres to the agreed schedule at the time of signing the contract for submitting all documents (performance bonds, insurance policies, etc.) completing the Engineers facilities, and all other requirements; (iv) Prepare an IPC submission and review schedule in consultation with the contractor, and hold joint monthly meetings with the Employer to review the approved payments and agree on the submissions to ADB; (v) review the geometry, pavement, bridge, and other structural designs, specifications, construction method etc, prepared by the employer and revise or update if possible to achieve greater economy, safety, reliability, and/or durability; (vi) prepare working drawings, and provide written confirmation to the Employer indicating the acceptance of ownership of the drawings; (vii) permanent presence on site such as but not limited to inspectors of works, surveyors, material technicians and senior Engineers’ staff, (viii) planning and execution of construction supervision and contract administration, including effective and regular supervision of the works, maintenance of project records, correspondence and diaries, as well as quality control testing to ensure that the Works are executed in accordance with the Contract; (ix) approve and monitor the contractor’s construction program and method statements, verifying that they are consistent with the implementation schedule for the Project; (x) provision of survey data to the contractor and checking the contractor’s setting- out of the works; (xi) inspect and test all materials and works to ensure compliance with specifications and giving immediate notice to the contractor in the event that such materials and
2 Clause Nos correspond to FIDIC Conditions of Contract for CONSTRUCTION, for Building and Engineering Works Designed by the Employer, Multilateral Development Bank Harmonized Edition, March 2006.
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works fail to comply with the specifications; (xii) inspect regularly the contractor’s construction equipment, installations, housing, medical facilities, etc., and ensure that they are adequate and in accordance with the terms and conditions specified in the contract for the Works; (xiii) ensure that road safety design requirements are implemented in accordance with the contract; (xiv) issue notices to the contractor advising of any non-compliance with environmental mitigation measures, as set out in the contract documents. Copies of all notices should be provided to the Employer at the time of issue. Before issuing such notices the Engineer should, as appropriate, have advised the contractor of the non-compliance and given an opportunity to the contractor to make good any adverse impact prior to the notice being issued; (xv) establish efficient procedures for verifying contractor performance and reporting progress and problems in a timely manner, including quality control reports, quantity survey records, requests for variation or change orders, requests for time extension, and contractor’s claims and invoices; (xvi) ensure that the contractor does not involve child labor in the execution of the civil works contracts in accordance with the provisions of the contract agreement; (xvii) undertake supervision works; and prepare and issue the following reports, whose format and content should be acceptable to the employer: an inception report, a brief monthly progress report, a detailed quarterly report, and a detailed project completion report; (xviii) certify payments for the Works against the relevant bill of quantities and issue the Interim Payment Certificates, the Final Payment Certificate and other certificates, including Taking Over Certificate, as required under the civil works contract; (xix) keep the Employer and the ADB appraised of implementation problems which could jeopardize the Project goals and objectives and make recommendation on how those goals and objectives can be safeguarded; (xx) evaluate claims, disputes, extensions of time, and the like, including issuing variation orders as appropriate and in line with the limits placed on the Engineer’s authority, as well as advising the Employer on all matters relating to the execution of the Works; (xxi) issue of the Engineer’s decisions/instructions as appropriate under the civil works contract;; (xxii) provide timely assistance to the contractor in all matters related to interpretation of the contract documents, ground survey controls, planning, quality control testing and other matters relating to the Project; (xxiii) provide the Employer with complete records, reports and ―as-built‖ drawings for the works; (xxiv) assist the Employer prepare progress reports to ADB by incorporating the required information and submitting at the required frequency according the project administration memorandum; (xxv) conduct a complete joint review of the works with all stakeholders and ADB, as well as a safety audit, prior to handover of the site to the Employer; (xxvi) following the issue of the Taking Over Certificate, during the balance of the Contract Period inspect and approve the execution of the outstanding works (if any), as well as the rectification of any defects or damage – advise on any extension to the Contract Period that may be required for such works; (xxvii) the Consultant will, if so required by the Employer, provide any of the following additional services within the contract amount and/or contingencies: (i) prepare reports, including technical appraisals, additional contract documentation, and/or
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reviewing and commenting on the contractor’s proposals, as may be required for any additional work required for the successful completion of the Project; and (ii) provision of any other specialist services as may be required from time to time.
2. Project 1 Performance Monitoring, Benefits, Evaluation, Safeguards, and Liaison with Stakeholders
10. The Consultant will design a web-based project performance monitoring system (PPMS) to monitor project performance against the targets set in the Design and Monitoring Framework (DMF) of the Project 1 (refer to project and loan documents) according to ADB’s Project Performance Management System (PPMS) Handbook. The PPMS will also include key poverty and socioeconomic indicators and compliance with project assurances. The PPMS will then be approved by the PMU and coordinated with ADB PPMS system for consistency. The PPMS will monitor (i) performance targets set in the DMF as the project progresses through implementation; (ii) compliance with social and environmental safeguards as recommended in the Environment Assessment Review Framework (EARF), Initial Environmental Examination (IEE), EMP, Land Acquisition and Review Framework (LARF) documents prepared for Project 1 (refer to project and loan documents); (iii) other socioeconomic impact assessments including poverty impact.
11. The Consultant's responsibilities will be: (i) review DMF performance targets, update and complement them with other poverty and socioeconomic indicators, in agreement with the PMU; (ii) compile baseline data for all performance targets and indicators as early as possible, but no later than first quarter of the construction mobilization; (iii) measure progress at the project mid-term and completion stages; (iv) monitor socioeconomic impacts on beneficiaries through selective household surveys and participatory research methods; (v) monitor compliance of the project with the provisions preventing discrimination in employment, enforcing gender equality, and reducing risks of spread of communicable deceases; preventing human trafficking, and ensure that such requirements are included in the bid and contract documents; (vi) monitor compliance with major project assurances (refer to project and loan documents); (vii) conduct training in social research methods and build the PMU capacity on performing impact assessments; (viii) ensure that the construction methods proposed by the contractor for carrying out the works are satisfactory, with particular reference to the technical requirements of sound environmental standards on the basis of ADB’s Environmental Guidelines for Selected Infrastructure Development Project (Highways & Roads) and the IEE and EMP prepared for the Project 1; and (ix) Document results in quarterly progress reports.
12. The Consultant will liaise with government authorities, consultants, NGO’s and other stakeholders concerned with the project implementation.
3. Preparation of Projects 2 and 3
13. Update of Feasibility Studies for Tranche 2 and 3 Projects. The Consultant will update the Feasibility Studies prepared under TA7208-ARM for the Ashtarak-Guymri road section, which will form the Tranche 1 (Ashtarak-Talin) and Tranche 2 (Talin-Guymri) Projects.
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The task will include (i) update of the TA's findings and preparation of Technical, economical, financial, environmental, social and other due diligence documents; and (ii) the update of the EA’s Procurement Capacity Assessment. The Consultant will assist the Government of Armenia in the preparation of Periodic Financing Request (PFR) 2 and PFR 3 acceptable for ADB's approval of Tranche 2 Project in 2010 and Tranche 3 Project in 2011. The PFRs will reflect the Consultant's findings from the due diligence studies.
14. Detailed Design. The Consultant will prepare detailed engineering design and bidding documents for Project 2: Ashtarak–Talin, and Project 3: Talin-Guymri road following recommendations of the preliminary design prepared under the PPTA, and the agreed design parameters between the Government and ADB. All necessary actions shall be taken by the Consultant for getting required approvals and certifications for the prepared detailed engineering designs. The Consultant will also assist the project management unit (PMU) on prequalification and bidding processes for the civil works of Projects 2 and 3.The Consultant shall make maximum use of available data, topographic, geological and seismic maps, road condition surveys, technical studies and documents available from the PMU and other government agencies. Detailed terms of reference for the design will be agreed with the PMU and ADB prior to mobilization of design works. Key design criteria will be upgrading the existing two-lane Astharak–Talin-Gyumri road to four-lane Category 1 road including improvements to horizontal and vertical alignments, pavement reconstruction, improvements/reconstruction of road structures, and related road safety provisions.
The detailed design would include, but not be limited to the following: Achieving the optimum combination of rehabilitation costs and road serviceability, using modern design methods and requirements. The end product should have a life of 20 years or more and be maintainable at reasonable costs and with locally available technology.
a. Field Surveys, Investigations and Tests
Field surveys investigations and tests for detailed design would include, but not be limited to, the ones described below.
Topographic Surveys - Based on the most recent existing surveys (aerial surveys if available), updated by any further necessary surveys, the Consultant shall develop a digital terrain model at a scale of 1:1,000 covering each of the proposed segments. The width of the corridor is expected to vary between 100 and 500 m, as necessary for the overall study of slope stability, drainage, and other design requirements. The Consultant shall carry out a topographic survey along the road segments with cross- sections taken at 20 m intervals or more frequently where characteristics change. The cross-sections shall extend to a sufficient width to include the edges of the Right of Way (ROW) and the intercept between any cut or embankment slope and the adjacent ground. In unstable and potentially unstable areas, the cross-sections will cover as much of the slope area as is practical. The topographic surveys shall cover all necessary points of embankment and excavation slopes, road pavement and shoulders, junctions, roadside drainage, drainage structures, bridges, railway crossings, retaining walls, river training structures, safety features, road signs, utilities, trees, boundary fences and entrances to roadside properties, watercourses and any other feature that would affect the design of road rehabilitation or new construction. The Consultant shall prepare Computer Aided Design and Drawing (CADD) drawings and a digital terrain model of the completed ground survey. The
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topographical surveys are to be procured using the provisional sums under the contract Geo-technical, Soils and Pavement Surveys - Pavement and materials surveys and tests,shall include the following: (i) core sampling and testing of existing asphalt concrete pavement (where this exists) at 500 m intervals; (ii) subsurface investigations and testing at the sites of proposed new bridges and other structures, as necessary for foundation design; (iii) soil sampling and testing at appropriate intervals, as necessary for road rehabilitation design; (iv) sampling and testing of materials from quarries and borrow sites; and (v) any other geo-technical and soils investigations and testing necessary for detailed design.
All standard geotechnical, soils and pavement surveys are to be procured using the provisional sums under the contract. The surveys and tests shall be conducted in the presence and supervision of the Consultant’s Pavement, Materials or Geotechnical Engineer with appropriate qualifications and experience for supervising and providing instructions on the surveys and tests.
In areas with unstable slopes, the Consultant shall carry out all necessary subsurface investigations and borings to determine the characteristics of soils and rock materials, and shall determine structural features such as folds, faults and fractures and their characteristics
Inspection of Bridges, Culverts and Other Structures - The Consultant shall undertake a detailed inspection and dimensioning of existing bridges, culverts, retaining walls, river training and other structures, including non-destructive concrete testing of bridges and other major structures. Hydrological, Hydraulic and Drainage Investigations - The Consultant shall investigate the hydraulic and drainage efficiency of existing bridges, culverts and road side drainage facilities; shall examine scour, erosion, drainage and flood characteristics along the road; and shall review the locations of climatic zone changes as they affect pavement design.
b. Detailed Design
The detailed design shall be based on the preliminary design developed during the FS stage, shall conform to the design standards approved and adopted for the Project, and shall incorporate the requirements and modifications or alternatives resulting from the Land Acquisition and Resettlement Plan (LARP), Environmental Assessment or any IEE/ EIA and the EMP. Detailed design activities shall include, but not be limited to, the following: Geometric Design - The detailed design alignment shall be based on the alignment developed during the preliminary design, with minor adjustments made to improve geometric characteristics, wherever practical. The detailed road profile would reflect the new pavement structure, embankment raising for drainage purposes in low lying areas, and minor geometric improvements for safety reasons. The road cross- section shall conform to the approved design standards, with the exception of areas where narrower roadway or shoulder widths would be justified on a cost basis or to
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avoid hill-side excavation for widening that could exacerbate slope stability problems. Geometric design shall also include the design of junctions. Pavement Design - Pavement design shall consider the composition and strength of existing pavement and sub-grade, forecast ESAL loads, and the use of natural or processed construction materials that are readily available. Wherever possible, material used for embankment construction on top of existing pavement shall be locally extracted sand/gravel or material excavated from road cuts, with characteristics and strength modulus equal to/or better than the existing pavement/sub-grade materials. Drainage Design - The Consultant shall determine the drainage areas and basins of water crossings (based on topographic maps, aerial photos and field inspections), study rainfall, water flow and flood characteristics, and determine the requirements for cross-drainage, based on appropriate return flood periods for each drainage area and type of structure. When existing culverts are in poor condition or are deemed to be inadequate, replacements shall be provided. Otherwise, the existing structures will be repaired. Drainage design shall also cover requirements for longitudinal drains, including lining of same, sub-surface drainage, energy-dissipation works to preserve the stability of slopes and pollution control measures. Geo-technical Design – Geo-technical design shall include the design of foundations for new bridges and structures, if any, river training design, and the design of measures for stabilization and protection of unsafe slopes, including retaining walls, wherever practical and economically justified. Bridge and Structures Design - The design of remedial works to existing bridges shall include all repairs necessary to render them safe and capable of supporting projected heavy loads. New bridges, if any, shall be designed for a 50-year flood and shall conform to the seismic design requirements for the project area. Other Design Requirements - Other items to be covered in the detailed design include safety measures (pavement markings, signs, safety barriers, speed bumps), access design, entrances to roadside properties, urban section features (such as side walks, gutters, storm sewers), utility relocation, bus bays and bus shelters, pedestrian crossings, measures to reduce the effects of wind-blown snow on the road during the long winter periods (such as snow fences, if practical and economically justifiable) and other items. In sections, if any, where the existing ROW would not be sufficient to accommodate the Project road, the Consultant shall prepare detailed ROW plans showing the road located on property maps, including a description of the parcel of land which is required to be acquired.
c. Preparation of D rawings, S pecifications, C ost E stimates, Bidding Documents and Design Reports.
The Consultant shall prepare drawings, technical specifications, quantity and cost estimates, design reports, and bidding and contract documents (including prequalification documents) in compliance with ADB's and the Government's requirements as required for the proper execution of the Project. Detailed design drawings shall include the following: Location plan and vicinity map; Road plan and profile drawings at scales of 1:2,000 horizontal and 1:200 vertical; Roadside drainage plans and profiles, and drawings for subsurface drainage and pollution control measures; Road cross-sections at 20 m intervals (or more frequently when necessary);
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Typical road sections and details; Drawings for major culverts, including plans, elevations and typical cross-sections, including indication of upstream and downstream invert levels and other details, at appropriate scales; Bridge drawings, including general arrangement drawing (plan), elevation and typical cross-section through the bridge deck, all dimensioned accordingly. These drawings shall also show the extent of the works to be done at the bridge. Detailed drawings of the works at appropriate scales shall also be provided; Drawings for retaining walls, river training, and slope stabilization measures; Standard culvert and other drainage drawings and details; Standard drawings for junctions and property entrances; Standard drawings for bus bays and bus shelters; Standard drawings for pavement markings, signs, safety barriers and other road features; Schedules; ROW delineation; Utility relocation plans; and Other miscellaneous drawings. Technical Specifications - The Technical Specifications shall be based on modern European standards having international applicability, amended by Special Provisions to suit conditions in Armenia and the Project’s requirements. The Consultant shall propose the standards to be used for Client’s approval. The Technical Specifications shall include lists and descriptions of work (pay) items to be executed. Quantity and Cost Estimates - The Consultant shall prepare Bills of Quantities based on the various items of work to be executed in accordance with the Drawings and the Technical Specifications. The items in the Bill of Quantities shall correspond to the work (pay) items specified in the Technical Specifications. The Consultant shall develop a confidential Unit Price Analysis for each work item and a Confidential Cost Estimate, for each work item, work category and contract package as a whole. Unit prices shall be classified into direct costs (labor, materials and equipment), indirect costs (mobilization, on-site and general overheads, contractor’s contingencies and profit) and taxes. The Consultant’s Confidential Cost Estimate shall break out separately all taxes for ease of identification. Design Report and Other Documents - The Consultant shall submit a Design Report providing a description of the Project and summarizing the environmental, and land acquisition and resettlement analysis (and EIAs and/or RAPs where required), EMPs, and the detailed design analysis, including selection of design standards, field surveys and investigations, geometric design, pavement design, geo-technical design, drainage design, bridge and structures design, specifications, bidding and contract documents (including prequalification documents), rehabilitation work program, ROW acquisition requirements, quantity estimates, and various calculations. The Consultant shall also submit a Soils and Materials Report, including location and characteristics of sources of borrow materials.
15. Land Acquisition and Resettlement. The Consultant will review, update and finalize the LARP prepared for Projects 2 and 3 (Ashtarak-Guymri) under the PPTA so as to bring it to the level of an implementation-ready LARP for the Government approval (Final LARP), and help the PMU implement the final LARP (including full delivery of the LARP, compensation and rehabilitation program) as agreed between the Government and ADB. In addition, the Engineer
19 will train, guide and assist the Social & Environment Division of the PMU to adhere to the LARP/LARF and implement as agreed. The key responsibilities will be: (i) Review, update and finalize the LARP based on the detailed engineering design (for the whole length of the Ashtarak-Guymri section) and associated impacts in accordance with the new ADB's Safeguards Policy Statement (SPS, 2009) in particular the safeguards requirements 2, Appendix 2, verify/update number of affected people (APs) and households (including the finalization of legalizable APs, signing of DMS final forms /Description protocols with all the APs), verify/update the maps showing the location of land plots/structures/other assets to be taken, verify/update the Impacts surveys so as to ensure that they have DMS standards, carry out the detailed valuation survey through the services of an independent assessor and update accordingly compensation rates and costs, etc, and finally make necessary changes to the LARP; (ii) submit the updated LARP for the PMU review and approval; (iii) guide and assist in the establishment and implementation of a centralized resettlement/social management system for dealing with resettlement and other related topics such as gender aspects; (iv) assist as needed in the implementation of the LARP (including AP legalization, information campaigns, stakeholder participation, disclosure tasks) and in delivering the compensation and rehabilitation program to the APs; (v) review and help the PMU address any claims or grievances; (vi) help the PMU draft implementation report for submission to ADB; (vii) train the Social and Environment Division of the PMU, resettlement committees, program management unit and other members of the project team involved in resettlement activities to sustain and coordinate all resettlement, social impact assessment, gender, and social development-related activities, and benefit monitoring and evaluation; familiarize, orient, and prepare program management unit, the PMU, and resettlement committees to perform tasks and responsibilities related to resettlement, social preparation, social impact assessment, gender, ethnic minorities and social development; (viii) organize training sessions on, but not limited to the following (a) policies, procedures, and best practices related to resettlement, social preparation/mobilization, social impact assessment, gender, ethnic minorities and social development, and benefit monitoring and evaluation; (b) social assessment methodologies; (c) stakeholder analysis; (d) participatory rapid appraisal; (e) participatory monitoring and evaluation; and (f) basic social research methodologies. (ix) Any other related tasks as necessary.
16. Environment Impact Assessment and Environment Management Plan. The Consultant will review and update the EIA report in accordance with ADB Safeguard Policy Statement (June 2009). Prepare the final EIA report in accordance with ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (June 2009), Safeguard Requirements 1: Environment (Appendix 1), Safeguard Requirements 4: Special Requirements for Different Finance Modalities (Appendix 4) and other relevant ADB manuals/guidelines, as well as relevant guidelines of the Republic of Armenia. The consultant's environmental study shall include, but not limited to: (i) Assessment of all potential direct and indirect environmental impacts of each road; present impacts in the order of project cycle: pre-construction, construction, and operation; and preparation of detailed EMPs for the Projects 2 and 3 that should also be included in the bidding document (ii) Estimation of the costs of the proposed environmental mitigation measures and of the implementation of the EMPs for the Projects 2 and 3. Appraisal of the cost
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against expected environmental benefits, where possible, in a quantifiable manner. Help the road engineers incorporate appropriate mitigating measures into the project design. Preparation of terms of reference and a budget for independent environment monitoring and evaluation. (iii) Updating the archeological studies carried out for preparation of the Projects 2 and 3, including confirmation of existing sites and search of new ones, updating the plan of archeological supervision, and proposing mitigation measures, in accordance with the national legislation and ADB guidelines, for archaeological findings that would impact the Project. (iv) As this is an environmental category ―A‖ project, assist the PMU to carry out at least two meaningful, formal public consultations with affected people. The first consultation during the early stages of EIA fieldwork aims to gather environmental concerns from affected people and the final consultation when the draft EIA report is available and before loan appraisal by ADB aims to share the result of the assessment and the proposed mitigation measures. In an appendix to the EIA the time and location of each consultation, the names of attendees, the subjects discussed, and opinions expressed shall be recorded. (v) Soliciting and incorporating comments on the EIA reports for Projects 2 and 3 from the Nature Protection Ministry's environmental expertise agencies, NGOs, civil society, and other stakeholders. (vi) Assist the EA in all necessary actions for getting required approvals for the EIAs and EMPs (both for Projects 2 and 3) as prescribed by the Armenian legislation (including conclusion from Environmental Expertise SNCO under the RA Ministry of Nature Protection, agreement on route with the RA Ministry of Culture, etc).
The training and capacity building tasks mentioned in the para 14 shall cover also the environmental safeguard policy objectives and principles, as well as implementation requirements.
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F. Staff Composition
International Team Members (total of 72 p-m input) Title Area of Specialization Special Skills and Knowledge, but not limited to
(Years) (Years) experience Total Inputs Min. General Project Specific (person-months) Experience (Years) Experience (Years)
Team 32 p-m 20 10 Civil Engineering-- Coordination and liaison with Government/Employer Leader/Resident Highway Design and In-depth overall knowledge in detailed design and construction supervision for Engineer/Highway Construction large, medium sized and small highway projects in flat and mountainous terrain Design Engineer Management and Latest AASHTO pavement material and mix design methods Professional Design review and safety auditing Engineering License Project management software State of the art QC/QA implementation Multi-disciplinary team leadership Report writing and oral presentation Highways Design 4 p-m 15 10 Civil Engineering-- In-depth overall knowledge in Highways Design and all concerned engineering Engineer Highway Design aspects. Contracts 4 p-m 15 7 Civil Engineering— Coordination and liaison with Government/Employer Specialist Procurement, contract FIDIC law, and FIDIC contract Civil works procurement and contract negotiation administration Evaluation and settlement of variations and claims Pavement Design 8 p-m 15 7 Civil Engineering— Coordination and liaison with Government/Employer Engineer Asphalt Pavement Asphalt and cement concreted pavement design and maintenance in cold and Design and hot climates Management, and Latest AASHTO pavement material and mix design methods Professional Review, update and design optimization Engineering License or Asphalt and cement concrete plant construction and operation Membership in Hotmix paving and pavement maintenance Professional Association Bridge and 4 p-m 15 7 Civil Engineering— Coordination and liaison with Government/Employer Structural Structural Engineering Bridge and hydraulic structure design Engineer with experience in Retaining wall design design and supervision Seismic retrofitting of construction of Design review bridges, culverts and Bridge condition assessment and maintenance other structures. 22
Title Area of Specialization Special Skills and Knowledge, but not limited to
(Years) (Years) experience Total Inputs Min. General Project Specific (person-months) Experience (Years) Experience (Years)
Soil and 3 p-m 15 7 Civil Engineering— Coordination and liaison with Government/Employer Geotechnical Geotechnical Slope and embankment construction Engineer Engineering and Soil Seismic retrofitting Mechanics Ground and soil investigations Design review Design of earthworks, retaining walls and land slide protection Transport 4 p-m 15 7 Transport Economics Coordination and liaison with Government/Employer Economist Due diligence review Project performance management system Road Safety 4 p-m 10 5 Civil Engineering – Coordination and liaison with Government/Employer Specialist Road Safety Auditing, Accident and Road Data Collection and analysis design of road safety Preparation of Road Safety Audits measures Highway Design Monitoring of Implementation of Road Safety Audits Training Environmental 3 p-m 10 5 Environmental Science Coordination and liaison with Government/Employer Specialist — environmental impact Environmental plan review assessment Environmental impact investigations Water and air quality analysis Construction and operational noise abatement Report preparation Electrical Street 2 p-m 10 5 Highway/Electrical Coordination and liaison with Government/Employer Lighting Specialist Engineer - relevant Road lighting design experience in road and Supervision of installation of road lighting street lighting design Supervision of installation of electrical wiring and appliances and installation Social 4 p-m 10 5 Social Science – Coordination and liaison with Government/Employer Development household and user Preparation of LARP in accordance with ADB requirements Specialist surveys Worker compensation and benefits assessment Community participation programming HIV and human trafficking awareness campaigning
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National Team Members (total of 174 p-m input) Title Total inputs Min. Area of Specialization Special Skills and Knowledge (person- Experience months) (Years) Deputy Team 32 p-m 15 Civil Engineering-- Highway Coordination and liaison with Government/Employer Leader/Deputy Design and Construction Geometric design of roads Resident Management Design review and safety auditing Engineer/Highway Project management software Design Engineer QC/QA review Report writing and oral presentation Highway Engineer 22 p-m 10 Civil Engineering-- Highway Geometric design of roads Design and Construction Checking of maps and topographical surveys Supervision Design review and safety auditing Project management software QC/QA review Preparation of CAD drawings Pavement Design 4 p-m 15 Civil Engineering—Asphalt Asphalt and cement concrete mix design Engineer Pavement Design and Asphalt and cement concrete plant construction and operation Management Hotmix paving and pavement maintenance work supervision Laboratory and in-situ testing Structural Engineer 11 p-m 15 Civil Engineering—Structural Bridge and hydraulic structure design Engineering Bridge condition assessment Sampling and testing Geotechnical 8 p-m 15 Civil Engineering— Slope and embankment construction Engineer Geotechnical Engineering Geosynthetic and other advanced materials and Soil Mechanics Seismic retrofitting Laboratory and in-situ testing Hydrology and 6 p-m 15 Civil Engineering – Hydrological calculations Drainage Engineer Hydrological calculations, Design of culverts and other drainage facilities Civil Engineering, Structural Highway design Design, Drainage Design Road Safety 3 p-m 10 Civil Engineering – Road Accident and Road Data Collection and analysis Specialist Safety Auditing, design of Preparation of Road Safety Audits road safety measures Highway Design Monitoring of Implementation of Road Safety Audits Training 22 p-m 15 Highway/Electrical Engineer Road lighting design Electrical Street - relevant experience in road Supervision of installation of road lighting Lighting Specialist and street lighting design Supervision of installation of electrical wiring and appliances and installation
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Title Total inputs Min. Area of Specialization Special Skills and Knowledge (person- Experience months) (Years) Inspectors 22 p-m 10 Minimum of a Diploma in Supervision of works Civil Engineering — quality Sampling control of road works Laboratory and in-situ testing Quality Control Reporting Environmental 5 p-m 10 Environmental Science — Environmental plan review Specialist environmental impact Environmental impact investigations assessment Water and air quality analysis Report preparation Social Development 7 p-m 15 Social Science – household Project performance management systems design and Resettlement and user surveys Worker compensation and benefits assessment Community participation programming HIV and human trafficking awareness campaigning Surveyors and 22 p-m 5 Technical School or College Route location and field surveying Laboratory Diploma GPS and total station use Technicians Laboratory design and management Asphalt and soil testing Archaeologist 5 p-m 15 Archeological Archeological impact investigations surveys/assessments Dealing with cultural heritage Relevant post-graduate Knowledge of Armenian history, archaeological sites and legislation degree Report writing 25
G. Implementation Schedule
17. The implementation schedule is as follows:
1. Construction Supervision: Project 1
Signing of Consultant’s contract September2010 Expected award of civil works contract for package 1 (CW1) November 2010 Design Review for civil works package 2: December 2010 Expected contract award for civil works package 2: August 2011 Substantial completion of all civil works under Tranche 1 Project December 2012
2. Preparation of Projects 2 and 3
Mobilization of design team September 2010 Commencing prequalification of bidders for civil works November 2010 for Project 2 and 3 of the MFF Preparation of PFR 2 By 15 November 2010 Completion of Draft Final Detailed Design for Tranche 2 December 2010 Completion of Draft Final Detailed Design for Tranche 3 March 2011 Preparation of PFR 3 By April 15 2011 Award of civil works contract (Project 2) August 2011
18. The balance of the contract period following the issue of the Taking-Over Certificate for whole of the main civil works under Project 1 is 365 days for the Defects Liability Period. The Consultant’s services are expected to start in October 2010 and conclude taking into account the contract period and the loan closing date, following recommendations to issue the Performance Certificate/issue any other final certification required under the contracts.
H. Reporting Requirements
1. Construction Supervision – Project 1
19. The Consultant will prepare the following reports in English and Armenian language and distribute them in the number of copies indicated below, to MOTC and ADB. The format and content of each report is to be agreed with the PMU and ADB. For each report submitted an electronic copy will be provided. Electronic copies will be in the format used in their preparation with all links, formulas, and fields active. When non-standard software has been used, the consultant will provide, at their own cost, two fully licensed copies of this software. For all reports an executive summary will be included.
PMU ADB Inception (including design review) 5 2 Monthly Progress (subsequent to Inception Report) 5 2 Project Performance Monitoring and Evaluation Report 5 2 Project Completion 5 2
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a. Inception Report
20. The Consultant shall, within two months of Commencement of Services, submit an Inception Report setting out the parameters of the consulting services including the main civil works contract, the program of works, the Consultant's site organization chart, the manning schedule, and an updated methodology for the services including the education programs and the environmental and social monitoring plan. The Report shall also give the status at the start of the services of those items of the ToR which were already in progress (resettlement, environmental benchmarks etc.) together with the progress of the work to-date and a schedule of certified payments, if any.
b. Progress Reports
21. The Consultant shall, subsequent to the Inception Report, submit monthly progress reports by the 15th of the month following the reporting month, reflecting the progress of the work during the reporting month - the Executive Summary of these reports consisting of (i) one or two pages outlining the position for the complete Project together with (ii) a PPMS report update (quarterly), (iii) the single page contract status report for the ADB-funded sections of road. These reports should normally include, but no limited to: (i) a work program for the road with a bar chart showing scheduled against actual financial/physical progress by major work item, illustrated by bars and percentage of accomplishment (total and by major work item); the work program and the bar chart (showing the critical path) shall be suitably updated in each progress report; (ii) financial data, updated as appropriate, giving time, cost and financial forecast, a schedule of certified payments, update of quantities and cost estimates for construction and supervision; (iii) summary of implementation progress, the work performed, variations issued, payments certified, the equipment and manpower (skilled/unskilled by foreign/local categories in person-months) utilized by the contractor during the reporting month, together with an outline of the work to be performed during the next reporting period; the Engineer's personnel arrivals and departures; (iv) statement of causes of possible delays and remedial measures taken or recommended.
c. Project Performance Monitoring and Evaluation Report (PPMER)
22. The Consultant shall, subsequent to the Inception Report, submit baseline PPMER, mid- term PPMER by project mid-term progress, and final PPMER by project completion.
d. Project Completion Report (PCR)
23. The Consultant will draft a PCR immediately prior to physical completion of construction works in a manner satisfactory to the PMU and ADB, including the major Project events, performance of the contractors, operation of the Project, actual and price inflated (to completion year) Project cost (foreign and local costs separately) by implementation year, and labour employed by skilled/unskilled and foreign/local categories in man-years;
(i) the major Project events, the relative successes (problems) in the implementation of each of the sections, this section of the PCR shall also contain
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an assessment of the impact of road improvement on the economy and social aspects for the whole Project area; (ii) ―as-built‖ drawings (to be submitted to the PMU Project Manager). These ―as- built‖ drawings will be furnished by the Contractor as per Clause 4.1 (d) of the construction contract;
2. Detailed Design and due diligence for Projects 2 and 3
24. The Consultant will prepare the following reports in English and Armenian language and distribute them in the number of copies indicated below, to PMU and ADB. The format and content of each report is to be agreed with the PMU and ADB. For each report submitted an electronic copy will be provided. Electronic copies will be in the format used in their preparation with all links, formulas, and fields active. When non-standard software has been used, the consultant will provide, at their own cost, two fully licensed copies of this software. For all reports an executive summary [ES] will be included.
25. All reports must contain an Executive Summary detailing the major events, and findings.
PMU ADB Inception 5 2 Monthly Progress (subsequent to Inception Report) 5 2 Final Due Diligence reports for Tranche 2 and 3 Projects, Draft Design, draft 5 2 final LARP, draft final EIA report and EMP, Bidding Documents Final Design, Final Implementation-Ready LARP, final EIA report and EMP, 5 2 Bidding Documents
(i) Inception Report - within 5 weeks from signing of the Contract. The Inception Report shall describe the planning the Consultant has established for the assignment, the staffing and remarks as deemed appropriate. This report shall update the methodology and program of work that was included in the Consultant’s proposal and used as a basis for agreed pricing, noting the changes and detailing any difficulties encountered, together with a proposal on how they may be overcome. The Inception Report shall include at least the following: a) Methodology statement defining the proposed limits of the study, including: a clear definition of the area to be subjected to the designs; an accurate estimation of the time they will take to complete; methods and parameters; any changes to the composition of the Consultant’s team and specialists needed; agencies and government departments which would need to be involved; and methods of consultation with the local authorities and population. b) Detailed Program of Work, including field surveys, LARP review and update, EIA and EMP review and update and final design, showing time, duration and personnel as well as the inter-relationship between activities: (ii) Due Diligence report for Project 2 with inputs to PFR 2 – within 6 weeks from signing of the contract. (iii) Draft Final Design for Tranche 2 Project - within 2.5 months from signing of the Contract, Prequalification and Bidding Documents (including Instructions to Bidders, Bid Data Sheet, Evaluation and Qualification Criteria, Bidding Forms, Bill of Quantities, Technical Specifications, cost estimates etc.), draft final LARP (including
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compensation and rehabilitation program and DMS final forms/ Description protocols signed with all the APs), and draft Final EIA and EMP for Project 2. Comments on the Draft Final Design, Bid Documents the draft final LARP, draft final EIA and EMP from the PMU - within 2 weeks of receiving the Draft Final Documents (iv) Final Design, and prequalification and Bidding Documents for Tranche 2 Project within 3 weeks after receiving comments on the Draft Final documents. Special Reports – In addition to the regular submissions outlined above, the Consultant shall also submit various special reports, addressing specific Project requirements. Such reports may include the selection of design standards, field survey, investigation and test reports, prequalification document for construction contractors, and other aspects of the study. Final Implementation-Ready LARP, EIA and EMP for Project 2 within 2 weeks after receiving comments on the Draft Final LARP (v) Draft Final Design for Tranche 3 Project - within 5 months from signing of the Contract, Prequalification and Bidding Documents (including Instructions to Bidders, Bid Data Sheet, Evaluation and Qualification Criteria, Bidding Forms, Bill of Quantities, Technical Specifications, cost estimates etc.), draft final LARP (including compensation and rehabilitation program and DMS final forms/ Description protocols signed with all the APs) and draft Final EIA and EMP for Project 3. Comments on the Draft Final Design, Prequalification and Bid Documents, and the draft final LARP, draft final EIA and EMP for Project 3 from the PMU - within 2 weeks of receiving the Draft Final Documents (vi) Final Design, prequalification and Bidding Documents for Tranche 3 Project within 3 weeks after receiving comments on the Draft Final documents. Special Reports – In addition to the regular submissions outlined above, the Consultant shall also submit various special reports, addressing specific Project requirements. Such reports may include the selection of design standards, field survey, investigation and test reports, prequalification document for construction contractors, and other aspects of the study. Final Implementation-Ready LARP, EIA and EMP for Project 3 within 2 weeks after receiving comments on the Draft Final LARP (vii) Progress Reports – The Consultant shall provide monthly progress reports, reporting on the ongoing and planned activities of the study team. (viii) The social assessment surveys, should be submitted by the Consultant to the PMU for approval with the Bidding Documents for each construction package. (ix) All required approvals for the EIAs and EMPs for Projects 2 and 3 as prescribed by the Armenian legislation (including conclusion from Environmental Expertise SNCO under the RA Ministry of Nature Protection, agreement on route with the RA Ministry of Culture, etc) should be submitted by the Consultant to the PMU with the Bidding Documents for each construction package.
26. Format of Reporting; (i) Data shall be submitted to the PMU separately in electronic form, whose precise form shall be agreed between the PMU and the Consultant. (ii) The reconnaissance survey Report, any required RAP should be submitted by Consultant to the PMU in electronic file (MS Word) and five hard copies.
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I. Facilities and Equipment
1. Provided by the Employer
a. Construction Supervision – Project 1
27. The Employer will provide the Engineer all material data relating to the services of the Engineer, including topographic, geotechnical, resettlement, environmental and design documents.
28. The contractor awarded the contract will provide the following facilities to the consultant at the project site: (i) suitable office space including maintenance and supply of office consumables and communication; (ii) office equipment and monthly operating allowances, including a telephone computer and printer, and photocopier; (iii) accommodation as specified in the bidding documents for use by the supervision consultants including the site inspectors; (iv) vehicles as specified in the bidding documents for use by the supervision consultants including the site inspectors. The cost of vehicle operation, maintenance, and drivers will be borne by the contractor; and (v) support personnel to include office assistants and drivers.
b. Due Diligence and Detailed Design – Projects 2 and 3
29. The Employer will provide the Engineer with all readily available material, and data, reports and designs that were prepared under TA7208-ARM relating to the services of the Engineer, including topographic, geotechnical, resettlement, environmental and design documents for Projects 2 and 3 as. The Consultant will be responsible for ensuring the adequacy, correctness and updating of all data and materials provided.
2. Provided by the Consultant
a. Construction Supervision – Project 1
30. The consultant is required to detail what additional facilities he requires in the performance of his work on this Project, and specify their cost in his financial proposal. All vehicles and equipment procured by the consultant for the performance of his services will remain the property of the Government. Any equipment temporarily imported for the proposed services during the duration of the project and then re-exported will be exempted from import duties or taxes. This will also apply to the personal effects of the consultant’s personnel.
b. Detailed Design - Projects 2 and 3
31. The Consultant will use its own accommodation, office space, equipment, materials, transport, senior and junior, skilled and unskilled personnel for completing the services within the required time, and specify their cost in the Consultant's financial proposal.
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OUTLINE TERMS FOR CONSULTING SEVICES FOR IMPLEMENTING ROAD SUBSECTOR DEVELOPMENT PLAN
LOAN 2561-ARM MFF NORTH-SOUTH ROAD CORRIDOR DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
A. Background and Objective
1. The Government of Armenia (the Government) requested Asian Development Bank (ADB) to finance the consulting services to help implement the road subsector development plan prepared with ADB assistance and included under the Multitranche Financing Facility (MFF) for the North–South Road Corridor Development Program (the Program). The objective of the consulting services is to (i) complete the road subsector development plan prepared under the earlier ADB assistance; (ii) facilitate all governmental statutory requirements for adopting the plan for implementation; and (iii) help implement key immediate components.
B. Scope of Consulting Services
2. In collaboration with the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) – the Executing Agency, and the Armenian Roads Directorate (ARD) – the Implementing Agency, the team of advisory consultants (the Advisor) will (i) review the road subsector development plan contained in the Final Report of the Transport Sector Strategy 2008-2020; (ii) formulate a stand alone road subsector development plan 2010-2020 through analysis, consultations and discussions with concerned government agencies, stakeholders and road users; (iii) facilitate the process to pass all necessary statutory government requirements including review, consolidation and incorporation of comments from concerned government agencies, stakeholders and road user groups through participatory approach and stakeholders consultation; (iv) build consensus among the stakeholders and prepare and agree final action plan for implementation; (v) help MOTC/ARD start implementation of the key priority components, which may include building operations capacity of the road agencies; and (vi) help MOTC/ARD select and procure road and traffic monitoring equipment.
3. Consulting services will be conducted over 12 months, requiring approximately 32 person-months of international and 45 person-months of national input. The Adviser will be selected and engaged through a consulting firm following the ADB’s Guidelines on the Use of Consultants. The quality- and cost-based selection method will be used, and a simplified technical proposal will be requested from the consulting firms. A weighting system of 80% for quality and 20% for cost will be applied.
C. Implementation Arrangements
4. МОТC will be the Executing Agency responsible for implementing the component. ARD will serve as the liaison between Project Governing Council (PGC), МОТC, the consultants, and other stakeholders and road users. ARD will be responsible for overall management of the component.
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D. Terms of Reference
1. International Consultants (32 person-months)
5. The input of international consulting firm in the field of road asset management, finance, engineering, maintenance and other related areas as per the requirements of this TOR will be required. The team of international consultants will consist of:
(i) Road Asset Planner/Team Leader (9 person-months) (ii) Traffic Information System Expert (5 person-months) (iii) Road Financing Expert (3 person-months) (iv) Road Maintenance Engineer (6 person-months) (v) Road Safety Expert (2 person-months) (vi) Institutional/Legal Expert (3 person-months) (vii) Training Specialist (4 person-months)
6. The international consultants will:
(i) review in detail the road subsector plan under the Transport Sector Strategy; (ii) prepare a review report and circulate initial recommendation to improve and finalize the road subsector development plan 2010-2020; (iii) conduct consultations and discussions with concerned government agencies, stakeholders and road users; (iv) hold workshops and seminar to disseminate the recommendations and collect feedback from wider public; (v) formulate the final road subsector development plan 2010-2020 with a goal to integrate it with the multimodal transport sector development in Armenia, particularly a complementarity between road and railway subsectors; (vi) assist MOTC/ARD to circulate the draft document among the stakeholders by preparing necessary notes, summaries and elaborating proposed plan through discussions and consultations; (vii) facilitate the approval process including review, consolidation and incorporation of comments from concerned government agencies, stakeholders and road user groups through participatory approach and stakeholders consultation; (viii) build consensus among the stakeholders and prepare and agree final action plan for implementation; (ix) help MOTC/ARD identify key priority components of the plan for implementation; (x) help MOTC/ARD start implementation of the key priority components, which may include building operations capacity of the road agencies; (xi) prepare technical specifications for the state-of-the-art road condition and traffic monitoring equipment, which will include integrated traffic counters video surveillance equipment, axle weight control equipment, and mobile road condition diagnostics equipment; (xii) help MOTC/ARD procure and oversee installation and commissioning by the supplier.
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2. National Consultants (45 person-months)
7. National consultants will have expertise in similar fields as international consultants. In addition, national consultants should have knowledge in road sector and its performance, specifically in road engineering, maintenance, finance, operation, and regulatory basis.
E. Counterpart Facilities
8. MOTC will provide the Adviser the counterpart support and facilities necessary for implementing the component which includes office accommodations, logistical services, information, and materials necessary for the services.
F. Reporting
9. The Adviser will provide ADB and MOTC with all papers and reports prepared under the contract, as well as workshops and training programs. The consultants will also provide brief monthly reports to MOTC and АDВ.
10. An inception report with a detailed work program will be prepared and submitted within 1 month of commencement of services, a midterm report within 5 months, and a draft final report covering all subjects and requirements under the study within 11 months. А final report will be prepared 30 days after the final tripartite review meeting with the Government, ADB, and the consultants. Inception, midterm, and final reports will be submitted in both English and Armenian languages in sufficient copies to the Government and in English language in 3 copies.
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ARMENIA: North-South Road Corridor Program Tranche 2: Ashtarak-Talin Road Review of Land Acquisition and Resettlement Plan TOR for the Local Resettlement Specialist
I. Background and Tasks
1. To expedite the initiation of the work for the final LARP for the captioned Project so as to meet the ADB readiness requirements for PFR approval by the end of 2010, LARP activities will have to start before the Supervision Consultants team comes on board in October 2010. To start these activities as soon as possible MOTC intends to hire for the month of June the local Resettlement Specialist that prepared the draft LARP. Objective of the assignment is to establish continuity between the work done before and the work to be carried out in the next months by the PMU Land Acquisition and Resettlement (LAR) team. The Local Resettlement Specialist will also carry out the following tasks:
(i) Revise the draft LARP to reflect the reduction in scope of the project from the original Ashtarak-Gumri road leg to the Ashtarak-Talin road leg. (ii) Assist as needed the PMU in the LARF approval process and in the preparation of related documents (iii) Assist MOTC in carrying out all public consultation with affected communities within the Ashtarak-Talin road leg. (iv) Work with MOTC to provide the needed project background and capacity to the PMU LAR team; (v) Work with MOTC and other relevant Government institutions to establish a clear plan and relative procedures for the legalization of legalizable Affected Parties, including relevant initial governmental decree as well as forms to be applied during the verification process. The plan will be detailed in the revised LARP. (vi) Assess the work needed to carry out the detailed measurement survey (DMS) needed to finalize the LARP for the Ashtarak-Talin road leg. (vii) In collaboration with the PMU prepare the TOR for the final valuation of affected assets, identify the consultants that will do the work and assist the PMU in the selection process as needed. (viii) Organize and conduct two-day training for PMU staff on land acquisition and resettlement issues.
II. Outputs
2. The Local Resettlement Specialist will provide the following outputs: (i) a revised draft LARP for the Ashtarak-Talin section by June 15, 2010; (ii) a background paper and action plan for the legalization of legalizable affected parties, including relevant initial governmental decree as well as forms to be applied during the verification process, by June 25, 2010; (iii.) and a note detailing the results of the consultation in each village under the LARP by June 30, 2010.
3. At the end of the assignment the specialist will also prepare a brief final report detailing the tasks carried during the assignment and relative outcomes.
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North-South Road Corridor Investment Program Tranche 2: Ashtarak – Talin and Tranche 3:Talin – Gyumri
Terms of Reference Independent Monitoring Agency (IMA)
I. Introduction
1. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has agreed to provide Government of Armenia with a $ 500 million Multitranche Financial Facility to finance the North-South Road Corridor Investment Program (the Program). The North–South Road Corridor runs 556 km from the border with Georgia at Bavra via Gyumri, Ashtarak, Yerevan, Goris, and Kapan, to the border with Iran at Meghri. It is 2-lane throughout, with the exception of an 18km length on the M-1 (Yerevan–Ashtarak) and the M-2 (Yerevan–Ararat) sections, which are dual 2-lane. The overall objective of the Program is to provide a high-quality NSRC from the Georgian border to the Iranian border. The Program is divided into three tranches. Tranche 1, which will improve the existing 18.4 km four-lane dual carriageway highway between km 11.8-km 30.2 of the Yerevan- Ashtarak Road, has been approved. Tranche 2: Ashtarak – Talin and Tranche 3: Talin – Gyumri cover improvement of the existing highway from a 2-lane road to a 2-lane dual carriageway highway fitting international standards.
2. No relocation of households or acquisition of productive land is expected from Tranche 1. However, civil works for Tranches 2 and 3 may entail land acquisition and resettlement. A Land Acquisition and Resettlement Framework (LARF)1 has been prepared by the Project Preparation Technical Assistance Consultant, PADECO Ltd. (Tokyo), and endorsed by the Government of Armenia and ADB. Based on the LARF, draft Land Acquisition and Resettlement Plan (LARP) has been developed for both Tranches 2 and 3. These draft LARPs will be finalized during the final design stage.
3. The LARF specifies that land acquisition and resettlement be monitored externally by an Independent Monitoring Agency (IMA) with the objective to monitor implementation process, identify problems and suggest respective solutions.
II. Objectives
4. ADB policy and LARF require that external monitoring be carried out in parallel with the implementation of each LARP. The IMA is expected to submit quarterly reports of the resettlement progress and a final compliance reports which indicates whether the compensation program has been carried out based on the provisions of the LARF and ADB policy and with the satisfaction of the affected persons (APs). A year after the completion of the LARP implementation, the IMA is expected to carry out a post-implementation evaluation of the LARP to find out if the LARP objectives of restoring livelihood and improving standards of living of affected persons (APs). The final compliance report is a precondition to the commencement of construction under each Tranche
1 The LARF is currently being updated as part of Tranche 2 loan processing. The revised LARF will supersede the earlier LARF version approved in September 2009 once it is approved by the Government and ADB and made part of the Loan Agreement.
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5. To ensure compliance with this requirement North-South Road Corridor Project Management Unit (PMU) intends to recruit a Local Company or Non-Governmental Organization as the Independent Monitoring Agency (IMA) for Tranches 2 and 3 of the Program to provide an independent review of resettlement implementation to determine whether intended goals are being achieved, and if not, what corrective actions are needed. The objectives of the independent monitoring agency will be two-fold:
(i) verify that resettlement has been implemented in accordance with the approved LARF and LARP; (ii) ensure that APs have been able to at least restore their livelihoods and living standards.
III. Scope of Work
6. For each of the Tranches 2 and 3 the work of the IMA can be subdivided into three phases:
(i) Baseline su rvey – This involves establishing the pre-LARP implementation conditions of the APs to allow for the measurement of the initial impacts of the compensation and assistance provided in the course of LARP implementation. In this phase, the IMA will:
Review the socio-economic baseline/land acquisition and resettlement (census) / DMS information of APs available with PIO/Final Designer for Tranches 2 and 3, and confirm its accuracy and validity. In order to obtain insight on the number and types of APs and impacts and determine the sampling plan for the conduct of surveys, the IMA shall review the socioeconomic data of APs/DMS information for each of the Tranches 2 and 3.
Having confirmed the validity of available socioeconomic and census data available with the PMU/ Final Designer for Tranches 2 and 3, IMA will undertake a baseline survey of each of the Tranches 2 and 3. To ensure that adequate pre-project data is collected and available for monitoring, the baseline survey shall be conducted prior to the implementation of the LARP. The survey will cover a representative sample of APs based on the census list, stratified according to types and severity of impact. The survey shall follow the general rule of taking 10% of all APs and at least 20% of severely affected APs. However, adjustment in the sample size can be made to ensure that the error margin is +/- 5% at a CI of 95%. The sampling procedures for the baseline survey and the subsequent formal survey for each of the Tranches 2 and 3 should be consistent to ensure comparability of samples.
(ii) LARP i mplementation review an d preparation of LARP Final C ompliance Report – This involves the review of LARP implementation process to ensure that activities are implemented according to the approved LARF and LARP. In this phase the IMA shall:
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Review internal monitoring reports prepared by the PMU. The IMA shall review and verify in the field the results of the internal monitoring reports prepared by the PMU as a part of the Quarterly Program Progress Reports. The review shall involve a random check of payment/compensation records. Field verification will be done through interview with key informants involved in the consultations, and random interview with men and women APs.
Review of procedures/methodologies/systems. The IMA shall check if the valuation, consultations, disclosure, payments, and related processes are done in accordance with the approved LARF and LARP.
Prepare the LARP Final Compliance Report that shall demonstrate as to what extent the LARPs for each of the Tranches 2 and 3 were able to accomplish their objectives. The Compliance Report for each Tranche shall be used as basis for allowing the construction to proceed (under the respective Tranche). As part of the final compliance report, the IMA will also assess the status of project affected vulnerable groups such as female-headed households, disabled/elderly and families below the poverty line. The following will be considered as the basis for indicators in monitoring and evaluation of the project:
(a) Socio-economic conditions of the APs in the post-resettlement period (b) Communications and reaction from APs on entitlements, compensation, options, alternative developments and relocation timetables, etc. (c) Changes in housing and income levels (d) Rehabilitation of informal settlers (e) Valuation of property (f) Grievance procedures (g) Disbursement of compensation; and (h) Level of satisfaction of APs in the post-resettlement period
(iii) Post LA RP ev aluation – In about a year after completion of LARP implementation, a post-implementation evaluation shall be carried out to find out if the objectives of the LARPs for each of the Tranches 2 and 3 have been attained or not. The post-LARP Report will be developed at this stage for each of the Tranches 2 and 3.
Assess the impact of the LARP through formal and informal surveys with the APs. Upon completion of compensation payments/assistance, the IMA shall conduct a formal survey of a representative sample of men and women APs to determine changes that have occurred on the APs. Focus group discussions and other unstructured data gathering methods will also be used for men and women AP groups to supplement the findings from the formal survey. The assessment will also look into potential differential impact or benefit that men and women APs experienced from the resettlement activities. The result of the surveys will serve as the end term review report of the IMA for the specific Tranche.
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Assess APs satisfaction on the valuation of assets and entitlements, timing of payments, fund availability and disbursements. In the same post-LARP survey, the IMA shall ascertain the satisfaction of APs on the valuation of assets, as well as, the scope and timing of assistance provided under the LARP.
Assess the resettlement efficiency, effectiveness and sustainability, drawing lessons for future resettlement policy formulation and planning. The post- LARP report shall also assess the efficiency, and effectiveness of the LARP to draw lessons for future LARP planning and implementation. Should the outcome of the study shows that the objectives of the LARP have not been attained, the IMA will recommend appropriate supplemental assistance for the APs.
Consult APs, officials, community leaders for preparing the end term review report. Prior to submission of the post-LARP report, the IMA shall ensure that informal and formal meetings are held with the men and women representatives from the APs, community leaders and other key officials and seek feedback on the contents/analysis in the review report. Highlights of these consultations will also be attached as annex to the report.
IV. Implementation Arrangements
7. The IMA shall report directly to the PMU Head of Unit on Safeguards, Resettlement and Environment. Close coordination with PMU and Final Designer for Tranches 2 and 3 will also be needed. The assignment is on an intermittent basis following the pace of the progress of LARP preparation and implementation in each of the Tranches 2 and 3.
V. Reporting Requirements
8. The IMA is expected to submit to PMU the following deliverables:
An Inception Report and detailed Work Plan including draft formats (as appropriate for various outputs) and draft outlines for various reports (including Baseline Survey Report, LARP Implementation Review Quarterly Report, LARP Final Compliance Report, Post-LARP Report, Final Report), 1 month upon signing of the contract;
for Tranche 2: o Baseline Survey Report; o LARP Implementation Review Quarterly Report; o LARP Final Compliance Report; o Post-LARP Report;
for Tranche 3: o Baseline Survey Report; o LARP Implementation Review Quarterly Report; o LARP Final Compliance Report; o Post-LARP Report;
A Final Report upon completion of the assignment.
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9. The tentative schedule for deliverables submission is presented in the table below (the timing of deliverables submission may vary based on the progress of LARP preparation and implementation for each of the Tranches 2 and 3).
Name of deliverable 2010 2011 2012 2013 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Inception Report and Work Plan X Tranche 2 Baseline Survey Report X LARP Implementation Review X X Quarterly Report(s) LARP Final Compliance Report X Post-LARP Report X Tranche 3 Baseline Survey Report X LARP Implementation Review X X Quarterly Report(s) LARP Final Compliance Report X Post-LARP Report X Final Report X
10. The IMA shall submit the deliverables in Armenian and English languages in electronic and 3 hard copies along with the cover letter.
VI. Consultant Qualifications and Team Composition
11. North-South Road Corridor PMU SNCO intends to engage a Local Company or Non- Government Organization as the Independent Monitoring Agency (IMA) for the Program Tranches 2 and 3. The Consultant shall have prior experience in conducting external resettlement monitoring for development projects. Familiarity with ADB Safeguards Policy Statement (2009) is an advantage.
12. The Consultant shall mobilize the professional team consisting of competent experts to implement the current assignment. The team shall include at least the following experts: Team Leader (intermittent, as and when required); Sociologist (intermittent, as and when required); Lawyer (intermittent, as and when required).
13. The Consultant will appoint a Team Leader responsible for coordinating the works, ensuring involvement of relevant experts in the works and timely delivery of high-quality outputs, as well as liaising with the PMU.
14. Overall, the consultancy budget is estimated as 12 man/month. During implementation of this assignment the Consultant shall use its office, vehicles and equipment.
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VII. Payment
(i) 20% of the Contract Cost will be paid to Consultant after approval of Inception Report and detailed Work Plan;
(ii) 30% of the Contract Cost will be paid to Consultant after approval of the Baseline Survey Report, LARP Implementation Review Quarterly Report and LARP Final Compliance Report for Tranche 2;
(iii) 30% of the Contract Cost will be paid to Consultant after approval of the Baseline Survey Report, LARP Implementation Review Quarterly Report and LARP Final Compliance Report for Tranche 3;
(iv) 20% of the Contract Cost will be paid to Consultant after approval of the Post- LARP report for Tranche 2, Post-LARP Report for Tranche 3 and Final Report;
15. Financial Proposal of the Consultant shall include all the taxes envisaged by RA legislation.
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North South Road Corridor Investment Program Tranche 2: Ashtarak - Talin
Terms of Reference for Verification and Valuation of Land and Assets to be Taken
I. Introduction
1. This ToR is designed to support finalization of Land Acquisition and Resettlement Plan (LARP) for Tranche 2 Ashtarak-Talin section of the North-South Road Corridor Investment Program.
2. Land Acquisition and Resettlement Framework (LARF) that has been approved by the Government of Armenia (GoA) and the ADB will provide the legal basis and entitlement matrix for LARP. Preliminary Detailed Measurement Survey (DMS), Socio-Economic Survey (SES) and zonal Valuation Survey (VS) for the LARP for Tranche 2 have been completed in April 2010.
3. Surveys conducted by Project Preparation Technical Assistance Consultant, PADECO Ltd. (Tokyo) included overlay of the maps provided by the State Committee on Real Estate Cadastre under RA Government with the preliminary route of the road and the areas of the land plots were measured by means of AutoCAD computer software, afterwards the preliminary list of owners and cadastral prices have been compiled. It should be noted that the above surveys have been conducted only for the parts of the land plots to be taken (those located in the right- of-way of the road according to the preliminary design).
4. The objective of this document is to provide guidance in the preparation and implementation of the verification and valuation of land and assets to be taken from Affected People (APs), based on which a LARP will be updated and finalized for the Tranche 2. The LARP will include detailed compensation and administration budgets and implementation schedules. The LARP for Tranche 2 will serve as a model for preparing LARPs for the future tranches.
II. Purpose of the Assignment
5. Project Implementation Organization (PIO) will engage the services of a professional and competent company responsible for verification of results of previously conducted surveys and inventory, measurement, valuation of affected land and assets, determining compensation costs for land and assets to be taken, collection of necessary documents, as well as consultations with all the APs.
6. As a part of the assignment all the APs should be duly consulted and informed on project activities as well as their rights and responsibilities.
7. The final verification and valuation of land and assets to be taken will be implemented during the detailed engineering design. The data collected and verified during the current assignment will constitute the formal basis for determining AP entitlements and levels of compensation during the detailed design. It should be noted that lack of title, license or permit is not a bar to compensation.
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III. Scope of Services
1. Verification
8. The baseline data and initial DMS for the current project were provided by Project Preparation Technical Assistance Consultant, PADECO Ltd. (Tokyo).
9. Verification is aimed at checking the data collected as a result of previous surveys, identification of the extent of land and asset taking, finalization of list of APs, identification of non-titled owners (including those to be legalized), as well as development of complete inventory of all APs and their land and assets.
10. As a result of the verification process the separate package will be developed for each AP (irrespective of entitlement or ownership) that includes filled in forms presented in Annex A to this TOR.
11. As a part of verification process the Consultant Company will be responsible for the following activities: Verification of total and affected areas of land, by type of land assets (including data on whether affected land or source of income is primary source of income) and land use (Agricultural, Commercial, Residential, Communal Forest, etc); Verification of total and affected areas of structures, by type of structure (main or secondary), size, material; Quantity and types of affected crops and trees; Quantity and area of affected common property, community or public assets, by type; Quantity and type of other losses, e.g., business or other income, jobs or other productive assets; estimated monthly net income from the business based on official tax declaration, etc.; Verification of legal status of affected land and assets, and duration of tenure and ownership; Verification of mapping data and update of maps developed under Project Preparation Technical Assistance (overlay of cadastral maps with right-of-way), measure each land plot and structure, update the cadastral list and maps confirming with regional cadastre officer and property owners; Identify vulnerable APs (below poverty line or headed by a woman); collect and summarize data on AP and AH, by ethnicity, age, gender of head of household, household size, primary and secondary source of household income vis-à-vis poverty line, income level, whether household is headed by women, elderly, disabled, poor or indigenous peoples; Completion of forms presented in the Annex A for each AP (including community, individual and business APs); Identify number of AHs (including AP) by category of loses (lands, structures, crops, trees, businesses etc.), including those loosing more than 10% of their agricultural land or to be relocated; Identify relocation needs (number of buildings, businesses to be relocated, etc.) Develop a file package for each AP including map and corresponding list showing property location, area/size, owner’s name, land category, number and location of crops, trees or buildings that needs to be acquired as well as relevant social data.
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2. Valuation
12. After the verification of DMS the full Valuation Survey (VS) will be carried out to finalize an interim land and asset acquisition and compensation budget, following to the entitlement matrix categories found in the GoA approved LARF, for inclusion in the Tranche 2 LARP.
13. As a part of valuation process the Consultant Company will be responsible for the following activities:
Assessment of replacement cost both either at market rates or cadastral values (whichever the highest) for each identified land and asset to be taken (about 405 plots and 17 structures); o Market value or cadastral values (whichever the highest) of total affected lands (both in case the whole land plot or in case the affected part of it is taken) by land use type (Agricultural, Commercial, Residential, Communal Forest, etc); o Replacement cost /market value/ of affected structures by structure type, materials, size etc. Compensation will be free of deductions for depreciation, transaction costs and salvageable materials; Determine a detailed compensation budget according to estimated market cost of identified trees, crops to be compensated (both in case the trees/crops on the whole land plot or on the affected part of it are taken); Determine a detailed compensation budget for utilities for public services such as water, gas and electric supply infrastructure, etc.; Determine a detailed compensation budget for business and employment losses (about 31 businesses – temporary impacts); Determine a detailed compensation budget for relocation needs (market value of buildings, businesses to be relocated, etc., transportation cost, acquisition of land plot with similar quality and area); Determine a detailed administrative budget for LARP implementation.
IV. Procedure and Methodology
1. Verification
14. The procedure of the verification is based on ADB policy and the relevant laws of the Republic of Armenia.
15. The following procedures and methodology will be applied by the Consultant Company: Review of data and maps developed under Project Preparation Technical Assistance Consultancy; Measurement of land/assets to be taken and update of available maps to include measurement data; Review of APs’ census, social-demographic and socio-economic data; Review of the documents on legal status of affected land and assets (including duration of tenure and ownership); Development of profile for each AP including data on; o total and affected areas of land, by type of land assets and land use o total and affected areas of structures, by type of structure, size, material; o quantity and types of affected crops and trees;
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o quantity and area of affected common property, community or public assets, by type; o quantity and type of other losses, e.g., business or other income, jobs or other productive assets; estimated monthly net income from the business based on official tax declaration, etc.; Data processing and analyses. Update of maps and preparation of reports.
2. Valuation
16. The procedure of the valuation survey is based on ADB policy and the relevant laws of the Republic of Armenia. The calculation of unit prices for each type of loss will is based on LARF Entitlement Matrix.
17. The following procedures and methodology will be applied by the Consultant Company: Reviewing the DMS information regarding the appraised objects, including public utilities; Technical examination of the documents concerning the businesses and structures/buildings; Visual examination of the appraised objects; Market examination; Application of the methodology and methods for the appraisal of market value of the impacted land and assets defined in the LARF; Data processing and analyses; Preparation of reports.
V. Expected Outputs
18. The Consultant Company will be responsible for providing:
Work plan and schedule; Revised and updated interim LARP; Profile for each AP (titled and non-titled) consisting of map and corresponding list showing property location, area or size, owner’s name, land category, number and location of crops, trees and/or buildings that need to be acquired (on a whole land plot and on the affected part of it), as well as completed forms presented in the Annex A with relevant attachments (copies cadastral certificate, lease agreement, passport of owners/lessees, birth certificates for those under 16, documents stating social categories, etc). This section shall also present the verified list and profiles of non-titled APs, including those subject to legalization; Valuation report for each AP based on type of assets and principals of Entitlement Matrix found in the attached LARF, including o Detailed compensation costs based on estimated market value or cadastre price (whichever the highest) of total and affected land, by type of land assets and land use. o Detailed compensation costs based on estimated replacement cost/market value of total and affected areas of structures, by type of structure (main or secondary). o Compensation costs of affected crops and trees, by quantity and type.
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o Cost of other losses, e.g., business or other income, jobs or other productive assets; estimated monthly net income from the business, etc. o Estimated compensation costs of affected common property, community or public assets, by type, quantity and area. o Estimated relocation cost. o Estimated administrative cost for realization of compensation activities (including transportation cost, certificates and attorney fees etc.) o Estimated total cost to be paid to each AP for taking whole land plot/trees/crops and for taking those on the affected part of it. o Any other financial relevant information regarding the implementation of LARP; DMS and valuation databases in Excel format and relevant maps; Conclusions and recommendations, highlighting key issues and actions that need to be taken to address problems related to verification and legalization process, as well as estimation of LAR budget and lessons for future MFF valuation planning and implementation.
19. The Consultant Company will submit the outputs in Armenian and English languages to PIO in hard and electronic copies with a covering letter. Data will be presented on CAD maps and recorded in a database.
VI. Team Composition and Operational Arrangements
20. The Consultant Company shall mobilize multi-profile professional team consisting of competent expects to implement the current assignment within the timeframe mentioned in Section 8 of this ToR. The Consultant Company shall possess valid license of independent land and asset valuator issues by relevant state entities of RA. The team experts shall be experienced in: Cadastral mapping and measurements; Sociology (including interviewing, questionnaire filling in, etc.); Agronomy (including calculation of cost for crop and tree losses); Legal issues (including verification of legal status of affected land and structure assets); Land and asset valuation.
21. The Consultant Company will report to the PIO Social and Resettlement Officer. The Consultant Company will appoint a Team Leader responsible for coordinating the fieldwork activities, organizing data processing and report writing. The Team Leader will also be responsible for delivering the proposed outputs and liaising with the PIO.
22. PIO will provide Consultant Company with available documents and maps.
VII. Work Plan
23. The duration of the assignment is estimated at 5 weeks and is expected to start immediately after contract signing. All activities should be completed by the end of September 2010.
24. The Work plan and schedule shall e submitted for PIO approval within three days after the contract signing.
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25. The Draft Final Report shall be submitted to PIO by the end of the forth week of the assignment for review and comment. The Final Report incorporating comments made by PIO and ADB shall be presented within one week following submission of comments by PIO.
VIII. Use of Equipment
26. During implementation of this assignment the Consultant Company shall use its office, vehicles and equipment, including portable equipment required for implementation of field works (such as laptops, portable scanner, printer and copier, etc.).
IX. Payment
27. 20% of Contract cost will be paid to Consultant Company as advance payment, after submission of bank guarantee in a format acceptable to ADB.
28. 80% of Contract cost will be paid to Consultant Company after approval of the Revised interim LARP, Final Report, databases and maps.
29. Financial Proposal of the Consultant Company shall include all the taxes envisaged by RA legislation.
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TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR CONSULTING SERVICES FOR PROJECT MANAGEMENT OF PROJECTS 1 AND 2 (L2561-ARM AND L2729- ARM) OF THE MFF, NORTH-SOUTH ROAD CORRIDOR INVESTMENT PROGRAM IN ARMENIA
A. Background and Objective
1. The government of Armenia (the government) has requested the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to finance consulting services for project management and construction supervision of Projects 1 and 2 (the Project) under the Multitranche Financing Facility (MFF) for the North- South Road Corridor Investment Program (the investment program). The main tasks of the project management consultant (PMC) are (i) project management and procurement support; (ii) financial management; (iii) monitoring; (iv) construction supervision, and (v) evaluation and reporting of the Project. The government will recruit the PMC in accordance with ADB's Guidelines on the Use of Consultants. The Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) of Armenia is the executing agency and acts as the Employer for the investment program.
B. Scope of Consulting Services
2. The PMC is required to carry out, but not limited to, the following tasks:
Project management and procurement support. The PMC will manage implementation of the Project on behalf of MOTC. The PMC will carry out the services in liaison with the MOTC and ADB. The PMC will maintain records and carry out the day- to-day coordination, monitoring and supervision of the Project, including the preparation of regular progress reports. The PMC will assist MOTC in the procurement of contracts in respect to the civil works for Project 1 and Project 2 of the MFF ensuring that procurement is carried out in compliance with ADB's Procurement Guidelines. The PMC will set up and operate an internet based multi-language tender platform on base of a project communication management system (PCMS). As applicable to the timing of the consultancy services contract, the PMC will update the bidding documents as necessary, acceptable for MOTC and ADB. The PMC will assist the MOTC in bid evaluation, and in preparation of the Bid Evaluation Report. The PMC will handle all contractual arrangements, including any revisions requested by contractors, ADB, and/or MOTC, to ensure quality and adherence to ADB’s rules and procedures. In case of any loan covenants and MFF undertakings the PMC will prepare assurance certifications and submit them to MOTC and ADB for approval. The PMC will ensure compliance with the contract conditions, payment terms, variations, dispute resolution, and monitoring, etc. The PMC will maintain all records relating to procurement, maintain a separate record relating to complaints and their redressing, and periodically update the procurement plan in agreement with MOTC and ADB to reflect the actual project implementation needs and improvements in institutional capacity. The PMC will also assist the MOTC and the ADB Mission during ADB project review missions. The PMC will organize trainings for the MOTC and other concerned authorities’ staff, according to the schedule to be agreed with MOTC and ADB. Financial management. The PMC will ensure financial management procedures are in place and are strictly followed, specifically relating to payments, financial accounting, financial reporting and record keeping. The PMC will carry out all financial management and administration under the Project, including review justifications provided for any variation orders proposed and submitted by the contractors, review withdrawal applications, maintain project accounts, prepare financial statements and submit them to MOTC and ADB for approval.
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Monitoring. The PMC will monitor and report to MOTC and ADB the performance of the Project and ensure compliance with all social and environmental requirements and the requirements of design solutions. The PMC will develop a project performance monitoring system (PPMS), including a web-based PPMS, based on the design and monitoring framework (DMF) of Projects 1 (L2561-ARM) and 2 (L2729-ARM) of the MFF (refer to project and loan documents) according to ADB's Project Performance Management System (PPMS) Handbook), and operate and maintain the system. The PPMS will include key poverty and socioeconomic indicators and compliance with project assurances. The PPMS will monitor (i) performance targets set in the DMF through implementation; (ii) compliance with social and environmental safeguards as recommended in the Environment Assessment Review Framework (EARF), Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) for Project 1 of the MFF, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for Project 2 of the MFF, Environmental Management Plan, Land Acquisition and Review Framework (LARF), and Land Acquisition and Resettlement Plan (LARP) for Project 2 of the MFF (refer to project and loan documents for Projects 1 and 2 of the MFF); other socioeconomic impact assessments including poverty impact. The PMC will ensure that all ADB policies and procedures on safeguards are followed throughout the implementation period. The PPMS will need to be approved by MOTC and ADB, and coordinated with ADB PPMS system. The PMC's responsibilities will be:
(i) Develop and implement an overall monitoring plan of the Project; (ii) Develop a consolidated construction program, showing the critical path of the overall implementation program. Any actions required Government actions that have potential implication in implementation should be attended timely and properly. Update overall Project planning accordingly; (iii) Review DMF performance targets, update and complement them with poverty and socioeconomic indicators, in agreement with MOTC and ADB; (iv) Compile baseline data for all performance targets and indicators as early as possible, but no later than first quarter of the construction mobilization; (v) Measure and report to MOTC and ADB progress of achieving the DMF performance targets at the MFF Project 1 and Project 2 midterm and completion stages; (vi) Monitor and report to MOTC and ADB socioeconomic impacts on beneficiaries through selective household surveys and participatory research methods; (vii) Monitor and report to MOTC and ADB compliance of the MFF Project 1 and Project 2 with the provisions preventing discrimination in employment, enforcing gender equality, and reducing risks of spread of communicable deceases; preventing human trafficking, and ensure that such requirements are included in the bid and contract documents; (viii) Monitor and report to MOTC and ADB compliance with MFF Project 1 and Project 2 assurances (refer to project and loan documents), including compliance with all environmental and social safeguards; (ix) Conduct training to build MOTC's capacity on performing impact assessments; (x) Ensure that the construction methods proposed by the contractor for carrying out the works are satisfactory, with particular reference to the technical requirements of sound environmental standards on the basis of ADB's Environmental Guidelines for Selected Infrastructure Development Project (Highways &Roads) and the IEE, EIA and EMP prepared for the MFF Project 1 and Project 2; (xi) Assess the current procurement and financial management capacity of MOTC and prepare, in consultation with MOTC and ADB, an appropriate training program based on the results of the assessment. Conduct training. (xii) Document results in quarterly progress reports.
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Evaluation and reporting. The PMC will report implementation progress of the Project to MOTC and ADB through quarterly and monthly progress reports. The quarterly progress reports should include project implementation status, major issues, and proposed corrective actions. The PMC will familiarize itself with all design and due diligence documents prepared for the MFF Project 1 and Project 2, covering all standard areas linked to project technical, financial, legal, economic, environmental, social, governance, fiduciary oversight, management, and institutional matters, ensure that all project related due diligence information is accurate and up-to-date, and present any updates to MOTC and ADB for approval as necessary.
Construction supervision. The PMC will carry out all construction supervision activities for civil works for the Project, comprising upgrading and widening of the existing M1 Ashtarak to Talin road from 2-lane single carriageway to 4-lane dual carriageway road from Km 29+600 to Km 71+500. (Section 1), improvements of road safety measures of the existing M2 Yerevan to Ararat 4-lane road from Km 9+312 to Km 47+ 400 (Section2) and rehabilitation of the existing M1 Yerevan to Ashtarak road from Km 18+370 to Km 29+773 (Section 3) in compliance with the requirements of international standards and best practices for highway construction.
(i) The civil works will be procured under ADB's International Competitive Bidding procedures and executed using FlDIC Conditions of Contract for Construction (Multilateral Development Bank Harmonized Edition, 2010). The PMC shall assume all the powers, duties and responsibilities assigned to the "Engineer" under such civil works contract. The construction period for the contract will be 36 months plus 12 month defects liability period for Section 1 and 18 months plus 12 month defects liability period for Sections 2 and 3. (ii) The PMC will review the detailed engineering designs prior to the start of civil works. The PMC will prepare a report where his concurrence with the designs is stated and/or modifications are proposed. If modifications are proposed, the PMC should endeavor to adhere as close as possible to the scope of the civil works contract as defined in the specifications and bills of quantities. All proposed modifications should be discussed and agreed with MOTC and ADB prior to commencing with the modifications.
3. To the extent not already included in the scope of its responsibilities as the "Engineer" under the civil works contract, the PMC shall be responsible for: (i) Assist MOTC to negotiate the mutually beneficial terms and conditions as well as construction schedule; (ii) Ensure the contractor adheres to the agreed schedule at the time of signing the contract for submitting all documents (performance bonds, insurance policies, license, etc.) completing the Engineers facilities, and any other requirements as stipulated in the specifications and the civil works contract; (iii) Prepare an IPC submission and review schedule in consultation with the contractor, and hold joint monthly meetings with MOTC to review the contractor's claims, the consultant's verification of the accuracy of the claims and withdrawal applications, and agree on their submissions to ADB; (iv) Review the geometry, pavement, bridge, and other structural designs, specifications, construction method etc, ordered by the employer and revise or update if possible to achieve greater economy, safety, reliability, and/or durability; (v) Prepare working drawings, and provide written confirmation to the Employer indicating the acceptance of ownership of the drawings; (vi) Daily presence on site such as but not limited to inspectors of works, surveyors, material technicians and senior Engineers' staff. Day-to-day quality control and quantity measurements of the works carried out;
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(vii) Planning and execution of construction supervision and contract administration, including effective and regular supervision of the works, maintenance of project records, correspondence and diaries, as well as quality control testing to ensure that the Works are executed in accordance with the Contract; (viii) Approve and monitor the contractor's construction program and method statements, verifying that they are consistent with the project implementation schedule and with the design solutions, the requirements of existing normative documents, technological sequence and safety of construction, informing about it in a written form to MOTC, with a copy to ADB; (ix) Develop quality and quantity assurance control manual and conduct daily monitoring in accordance with the manual, which will be oriented to the day by day quantity and quality control and approval of the contractor’s works. (x) Provide survey data to the contractor and checking the contractor's setting-out of the works and inform of its accuracy in a written form to MOTC, with a copy to ADB; (xi) Inspect, prepare inspection acts, and test all materials and works to ensure compliance with specifications and giving immediate notice to the contractor in the event that such materials and works fail to comply with the specifications. Copies of notices will be included in the quarterly progress reports to MOTC and ADB; (xii) Inspect regularly the contractor's construction equipment, installations, housing, medical facilities, etc. and prepare inspection acts, and ensure that they are adequate and in accordance with the terms and conditions specified in the contract for the works; (xiii) Maintain, check, record and approve the daily progress records produced by the contractors on work progress, labor, equipment, major construction materials, at site, work accomplished, weather, river conditions, accidents as well as any other events affecting projects cost or implementation conditions of the Project. (xiv) Ensure that road safety design requirements are implemented in accordance with the contract and prepare road safety audits as shown below; (xv) Issue notices to the contractor advising of any noncompliance with environmental mitigation measures, as set out in the contract documents. Copies of all notices should be provided to MOTC and ADB at the time of issue. Before issuing such notices, the PMC should, as appropriate, have advised the contractor of the noncompliance and given an opportunity to the contractor to make good any adverse impact prior to the notice being issued; (xvi) Establish efficient procedures for verifying contractor performance and reporting progress and problems in a timely manner, including quality control reports, quantity survey records, requests for variation or change orders, requests for time extension, and contractor's claims and invoices. The PMC will prepare the necessary procedures and present them to MOTC and ADB for approval; (xvii) Ensure that the contractor does not involve child labor in the execution of civil works contracts in accordance with the provisions of the contract agreement; (xviii) Prepare and issue to MOTC and ADB the following reports, whose format and content should be acceptable to MOTC and ADB: an inception report, monthly progress reports, a detailed quarterly report, and a project completion report; (xix) Certify payments for the works against the relevant bill of quantities and issue the Interim Payment Certificates, the Final Payment Certificate and other certificates, including Taking Over Certificate, as required under the civil works contract; (xx) Keep MOTC and ADB timely informed of implementation problems that could jeopardize the project objectives and recommend on how those objectives can be safeguarded; (xxi) Evaluate claims, disputes, extensions of time, and the like, including issuing variation orders list and quantity of additional works for MOTC's and ADB's
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approval as appropriate and in line with the limits placed on MOTC's authority, as well as advising MOTC on all matters relating to the execution of the works; (xxii) Issue of the Engineer’s decisions/instructions as appropriate under the civil works contract; (xxiii) Provide timely assistance to the contractor in all matters related to interpretation of the contract documents, ground survey controls, planning, quality control testing and other matters relating to Project ; (xxiv) Provide MOTC with complete records, reports and ―as-built‖ drawings for the works; (xxv) Conduct a complete joint review of the works with all stakeholders and ADB, as well as a safety audit, prior to handover of the site to MOTC; (xxvi) Following the issue of the Taking Over Certificate, during the balance of the contract period inspect and approve the execution of the outstanding works (if any), as well as the rectification of any defects or damage - advise on any extension to the contract period that may be required for such works; (xxvii) To a reasonable amount, if so required by MOTC, provide any of the following additional services within the contract amount (i) prepare reports, including technical appraisals, additional contract documentation, and/or reviewing and commenting on the contractor's proposals, as may be required for any additional work required for the successful completion of the Project; and (ii) provision of any other specialist services as may be required from time to time; (xxviii) For sake of clarity, to the extent that duties of the PMC described in paragraph 3 hereof directly conflict with such PMC's obligations under the civil works contract, then the PMC shall be required to comply with the requirements specified in the civil works contract; (xxix) The PMC will be on its behalf responsible for the contractor’s low-quality works and/or low-quality materials used by the contractor if such works or materials have already been accepted and approved by the PMC.
Road Safety Audits (RSA)
Road Safety Audits of Detailed Designs. The PMC will conduct a design RSA prior to the start of civil works. The PMC will: a) conduct pre-audit meetings with the MOTC and detailed design consultant to review project information and drawings; b) carry out combined with field visits to the project road both during daytime and nighttime, together with representatives of MOTC, and other representatives (e.g., police) as appropriate; c) conduct office road safety audit analysis and preparing a concise Road Safety Audit Report with the list of road safety issues identified (if any), risk for each issue assessed, and specific countermeasures proposed to be incorporated into detailed designs; d) present RSA findings and recommendations to MOTC and ADB with cost estimates; e) revise the designs as agreed with MOTC and ADB incorporating the necessary road safety improvements f) monitor the implementation of the RSA on the ground.
Ensuring Road Safety During Construction. The PMC will review and approve, in coordination with MOTC, traffic control plans prepared by the contractor and ensure compliance with all applicable road safety standards, guidelines and regulations, before commencement of road works. The PMC will ensure adequacy of measures in contractor’s traffic control plans for the safety of all road users, including vulnerable road users, under different traffic, weather, and daytime/nighttime conditions. The PMC will, among others, verify design of temporary
51 diversions and traffic management arrangements; adequacy of signing, marking and delineation at work zones; adequacy of road safety devices (e.g., temporary and movable barriers, crash cushions, truck mounted attenuators, etc) and proper maintenance of the devices; and adequacy of personal protective equipment for the workers. The PMC will regularly inspect road safety audit work zones under traffic, and coordinate and control the timely addressing of all road safety issues. The PMC will be responsible for reporting to MOTC and ADB, and following up on road safety issues/lapses as appropriate.
Post-Construction Road Safety Audits. The PMC will conduct a post-construction road safety audit once the construction works have been completed and the road section is fully open to traffic. The PMC will observe the traffic and identify road safety issues, including those that might have not been obvious during previous road safety audits. The PMC will identify the list of road safety issues and provide recommendations to address them, submit them to MOTC, with a copy to ADB, for review and action, and subsequently check/monitor the implementation of recommendations as endorsed by the MOTC.
Accident Analysis and Mitigation. The PMC will also conduct analysis of road collisions occurred on project roads during project implementation, if any, identify road/traffic management related causes, and recommend specific road safety countermeasures for review and endorsement by MOTC and ADB.
C. Implementation Arrangements
4. MOTC will be the executing agency (EA) for the Investment Program. The PMC will be recruited by MOTC (Employer). The MOTC will appoint a Project Director who will coordinate the implementation of the Project on behalf of MOTC. The Project Director will be a qualified staff of MOTC with experience in project management and working knowledge of English language. The PMC will introduce a suitable management information system to manage the Project. The PMC will prepare quarterly progress reports and will submit them to MOTC and ADB within 2 weeks from the end of the related quarter. The PMC will also submit other required performance and monitoring reports twice a year. Overall progress and compliance with conditions of the loan agreement will be monitored regularly with periodic reports to MOTC and ADB, consistent with existing project implementation requirements. Reports will include evaluation of issues and will recommend remedial actions. MOTC will recruit external individual consultants to audit a random sampling of documents issued or approved by the PMC.
D. Experience and Qualifications Required of the PMC and Specialists
5. The services of the PMC will be provided through an international, professional project management consulting firm. If the firm is in association or JV with another firm all the parties of the given association or the JV shall be jointly or severally liable under the contract.
6. The PMC should have extensive and proven experience in project administration, financial management, procurement, design control, and project performance management, highway design, construction supervision, preparation of technical specifications, quality control, contract management and dispute resolution of similar type and size international contracts. The PMC should also have knowledge and experience in reviewing environmental assessments and resettlement action plans for road construction projects in accordance with guidelines of international donor organizations (ADB, WB, etc.). The PMC team shall comprise of specialists that have obtained, at least, a bachelor's degree from an accredited university, and have experience in similar international projects. The (i) Team Leader/ PMC Coordinator, (ii) the
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Senior Resident Engineer/Highway Design Engineer, and (iii) the International Financial Specialist and Accountant should be Regular Staff of the lead firm or its international associates9. The Team Leader and preferably at least five other international specialists should have a valid (active) membership in a professional organization and undergone recent professional development training related to his or her field. The curriculum vitae of the specialists should contain information of the assignment they have successfully completed in the last 5 years, with complete names and addresses of the clients and the name and contact information of the immediate supervisors, and the number(s) of the membership(s) and the name(s) of the issuing organization(s). The Team Leader/ PMC Coordinator and the Senior Resident Engineer/Highway Design Engineers should provide letters from at least two clients in the past five years, confirming successful completion of the assignments. MOTC may contact randomly selected clients of the first ranked firm, for verification of the information provided by the firm, prior to signing the contract.
E. Selection Method and Criteria
7. The lead proposing firm may appear on its own or form associations or joint ventures with one or more international and national firms with an established record of technical and project area experience. The firm/ association/ JV is required to submit a full technical proposal, which will be evaluated according to the quality- and cost-based selection (QCBS) method described in ADB's Guidelines on the Use of Consultants (2010 as amended from time to time). A weighting system of 90% for quality and 10% for cost will be applied. The MOTC will engage the PMC on a mix of time-based (80 % of the contract price) and lump-sum based (20% of the contract price) contract. Payments for activities such as procurement assistance, financial management, monitoring and construction supervision will be made purely on time-basis. The lump-sum based portion of the contract will be tied in payments for the following tasks:(i) Submission of the Inception Report (10% of the lump-sum portion) acceptable to MOTC and ADB with the content described in paragraph 10 of the ToR. The inception report shall also include the critical path of the overall project implementation. The Inception report shall be submitted within one month of commencement of the services; (ii) PMC’s hand over of the operational Project Performance Monitoring and Evaluation System and report (30% of the lump-sum portion), acceptable to MOTC and ADB, populated with the updated DMF targets and indicators, baseline data for these targets and indicators, financial and procurement capacity assessment of MoTC, capacity building plan for MoTC inclusive of all aspects of project implementation, as well as capacity building for operation and maintenance of the project roads after construction, The Project Performance Monitoring System report shall be submitted within the first three months after commencement of the services;; (iii) Operation and maintenance of the Project Performance Monitoring and Evaluation system (5% of the lump-sum portion). Payment shall divided to and be made on a quarterly basis; (iv) Each Road Safety Audit Report submitted (15% of the lump- sum portion). Payment shall be divided into a. pre-construction RSA (50%), b. construction time RSA including Accident Analysis and Mitigation report (25%), and c. post construction RSA (25%). Payments shall be made upon submission of the reports acceptable to MOTC and ADB; (v) Conducted training for capacity building (20% of the lump-sum portion). The lump sum portion of the Contract Price will be paid after submission of Capacity Building Report on completion of a series of training programs for the MOTC staff on procurement, financial management, performance monitoring and evaluation, and ADB safeguard policies and procedures. The Capacity Building Report, acceptable to ADB and MOTC, shall be submitted within one year of commencement of the PMC services; (vi) Submission of mid-term PPMER (5% of the lump- sum portion). The mid-term PPMER shall be submitted within two years of commencement of the services; (vii) Submission of final PPMER upon project completion (5% of the lump-sum portion). The final PPMER shall be submitted at the end of the PMC services; (viii) Submission
9 Staff having Regular Employment Status with the lead firm or its international associates for a minimum of 3 years is considered Regular Staff
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of the Project Completion Report (PCR) acceptable to MOTC and ADB (10% of the lump-sum portion). The PCR shall be submitted at the end of the PMC services. Additionally, all out of pocket expenses such as per diem, hotel expenses, travel etc. will be made on a lump-sum basis. The PMC shall indicate a breakdown of these items in their proposal. The PMC team will have 180 person-months of international and 439 person-months of national expertise as set out in Section F below. The PMC may propose alternative arrangements, which, subject to assessment and approval by MOTC and ADB, will provide services of an equivalent or better quality.
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F. PMC Team Composition
(a) International Specialists (180 person-month inputs)
Minimum Preferable Project Inputs General Specific Area of Special Skills and Knowledge, Title (person- Experience experienc Indicative List of Tasks Assigned Specialization but not limited to months) (Years) e (Years) All administration and managerial work related to all aspects of the Project, including construction supervision, procurement, financial management, Overall Project Management and project performance monitoring, loan administration, procurement, covenants, safeguards, as well as project performance management management of the whole PMC staff and capacity building Project Coordination and liaison with Reporting to the MoTC and ADB Management and MOTC, ADB and other Permanent liaison and advice to the Administration, stakeholders MoTC and ADB Team Procurement and FIDIC Leader/ Quality Control, Early identification of issues and 20 12 Familiarity with ADB procurement, PMC 40 p-m Contract Law, and proposing mitigation and preventing safeguards and financial Coordinator FIDIC Contract measures management guidelines Administration, Evaluation and settlement of Resolution of disagreements of MoTC Engineering and variations and claims and Contractors Capacity Building Project Monitoring and Other tasks needed for timely and performance evaluation successful implementation of the Capacity Building Project Reporting At all stages raise the MoTC's capacity and awareness of international standards of managing contracts with similar scope and size Coordination and liaison with Overall responsibility for construction MOTC and other stakeholders contract in the role of the Engineer's In-depth overall knowledge in representative Civil Engineering-- detailed design and construction Highway Design Review of designs, specifications, Senior supervision for large, medium and Construction construction methods, etc Resident sized and small highway projects 36 p-m Management and Engineer/Hig 20 10 in flat and mountainous terrain Check and ensure that approved time Certified hway Design Latest AASHTO pavement schedules &quality assurance plans of Professional Engineer material and mix design methods the Contractors are implemented Engineering properly License In depth knowledge on structures and bridge design, construction, Approve payment certificates rehabilitation and repair Issue variation orders Due diligence and design review
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and safety auditing Inspect completed works and prepare Project management software certificates State of the art QC/QA Maintain records, prepare reports implementation Multi-disciplinary team leadership At all stages raise the MoTC's capacity and awareness of international Reporting standards of road engineering Review of designs, specifications, construction method, etc. Review traffic control plans prepared by In-depth overall knowledge in the contractor detailed design and construction Verify design of temporary diversions Civil Engineering-- supervision for large, medium and traffic management arrangements Highway Design sized and small highway projects Road Safety and Construction in flat and mountainous terrain Regularly inspect road safety audit work and Management, Road Due diligence and design review zones under traffic Construction 9 p-m 20 10 Safety Audits and and road safety auditing and Conduct a post-construction road safety Safety Certified coordination with MOTC and other audit, identify road safety issues and Specialist Professional stakeholders provide recommendations to address Engineering Project management software them License State of the art QC/QA Check/monitor the implementation of implementation recommendations Reporting Raise the MoTC's capacity and awareness of the international standards of road safety Carry out all procurement activities under the Project set up and operate a web-based multi language tender platform on base of a project communication management Coordination and liaison with system Civil Engineering— MOTC Procurement, FIDIC Post announcements, receive and Contract Law, and Civil works procurement and evaluate bids/proposals, manage bid Procurement FIDIC Contract contract negotiation securities and 15 7 Administration, Familiarity with ADB procurement Prepare evaluation reports and obtain Contracts 2 p-m Certified License or guidelines MoTC and ADB approvals as per ADB’s Specialist Membership in Evaluation and settlement of Guidelines Professional variations and claims Negotiate, administer contracts Association Procurement capacity assessment including management of performance and reporting securities, FIDIC terms, variation orders, dispute resolution, etc. Assess the MoTC staff procurement capacity and develop and implement capacity development plan
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Review of designs, specifications, materials requirements, construction Coordination and liaison with method,etc. MOTC Civil Engineering— Control and advice on asphalt/concrete Asphalt and Asphalt and cement concrete plant construction and operations Concrete pavement design, construction Quality, Pavement Design supervision and maintenance in Advice site inspectors on the Pavement, and Construction cold and hot climates requirements of materials testing, Geotechnica Supervision, and Latest AASHTO pavement Manage Contractors’ material surveys 30 p-m 15 7 l and Professional material and mix design methods in the project Materials Engineering Review, update and design Provide recommendations to MoTC on Engineer License or optimization pavement maintenance Membership in Asphalt and cement concrete plant Professional construction and operation Raise the MoTC’s capacity and Association Hotmix paving and pavement awareness on international standards maintenance for pavement design, construction and maintenance
Review designs, specifications, Civil Engineering— construction methods, etc. for bridges Structural and structures Engineering with experience in Coordination and liaison with Manage inspections of bridges and design and MOTC structures constructions with due Bridge, supervision of Bridge and hydraulic structure attention to seismic resistance Structural construction of Inspections and design requirements and 25 p-m 15 7 bridges, culverts Retaining wall design Provide recommendations to MoTC on Hydrological and other Seismic retrofitting bridge and structures conditions Engineer structures. Design review assessment and maintenance Engineering Bridge condition assessment and Raise the MoTC’scapacity and License or maintenance awareness on international standards Membership in for bridge and structures design, Professional construction and maintenance Association Review and update due diligence documents of the Project 2 in the Coordination and liaison with course of project implementation MOTC, ADB and other Review DMF performance targets to stakeholders update and complement with poverty Transport Transport Due diligence review and socioeconomic indicators Economist 15 7 4 p-m Economics Project performance management design a web-based project system performance monitoring system Training Reporting Compile baseline data for all performance targets and indicators Carry out necessary surveys and
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regularly collect required information and update the data bases Quarterly update Performance Indicator Framework Measure and report to MOTC and ADB progress of achieving the DMF performance targets at the project midterm and completion stages; Raise the MoTC’s capacity and awareness of common international practices for economic assessment, as well as monitoring projects performance in all stages of implementation Carry out financial management and Financial management and administration of the administration Maintain Projects accounts Maintenance of project accounts Prepare financial statements and Preparation of financial statements withdrawal applications and submit for Financial and withdrawal applications MoTC approval Specialist Financial Specialist 15 7 Review of financial audit reports Assist MOTC in review of financial audit and 10 p-m Accounting reports Accountant Financial management capacity assessment and reporting Assess the MoTC staff financial Coordination and liaison with management capacity and develop and MOTC and ADB implement capacity building plan Reporting Provide quarterly financial reports to MoTC and ADB Assess the institutional structure and regulatory framework of the MoTC Institutional assessment Identify all institutional, governance, Capacity building and training staffing gaps Capacity Institutional Coordination and liaison with Develop institutional strengthening and Building 2 p-m 15 7 Development and MOTC, ADB and other capacity building plan Specialist Capacity Building stakeholders Increase the MoTC’s awareness of the Reporting international best practices of institutional management of the transport sector Coordination and liaison with Review environmental due diligence and MOTC, ADB and other EARF/EIA/EMP stakeholders Monitor EMP implementation by Environmental due diligence and contractor, including implementation of Environmental Environmental 15 7 EIA/EMP review mitigation measures Specialist 12 p-m Science Environmental impact Conduct environmental impact investigations investigations Environmental Monitoring Report violations to MoTC Construction and operational noise Prepare and submit quarterly
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abatement environmental monitoring reports to Reporting MoTC and ADB Familiarity with ADB and Increase the MoTC’s capacity and Government environmental awareness of the international best safeguard requirements and practices and ADB policies of legislation environmental monitoring of projects at all stages of implementation
Conduct selective household surveys and Coordination and liaison with participatory research to monitor MOTC, ADB and other socioeconomic impacts on beneficiaries stakeholders Monitor compliance with major project Review of LARP and social due assurances (refer to project and loan diligence documents_ Social LARP implementation monitoring As necessary review the implementation Developmen Worker compensation and benefits ready LARP prepared by the Project 1 Social Science – t, assessment Technical Supervision Consultant gender analysis, Resettlemen 15 7 Community participation Monitor and support LARP 8 p-m household and user t and programming implementation by the MoTC and Project surveys Gender Gender assessment 1 Technical Supervision Consultant Specialist HIV and human trafficking Provide quarterly progress reports awareness campaigning Increase the MoTC’s capacity and Reporting awareness of the international best Familiarity with ADB and practices and ADB policies of social Government social safeguard monitoring at all stages of project requirements and legislation implementation
Highway/Electrical Coordination and liaison with Electrical Engineer - relevant Electrical works Government/Employer Street experience in road Road lighting design Lighting 2 p-m 10 5 and street lighting Supervision of installation of road lighting Specialist design and Supervision of installation of electrical installation wiring and appliances
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(b) National Specialist (439 person-month input).
Minimum inputs Experience Special Skills and Indicative List of Tasks Title (person-months) Knowledge Assigned Coordination and liaison Coordinate and liaise with with MOTC and other MOTC and other stakeholders stakeholders Project Management and Provide all the construction supervision professional and logistic Design review and safety support to the team Deputy Team 15 years in auditing leader/project manager Leader/Highways 40 p-m Road Construction and/or Road Design and/or QC/QA review Manage the activities Engineer Road Construction Management Procurement national specialists Report writing and oral Review highway design presentation drawings, and prepare as Familiarity with ADB built drawings procurement, safeguards Any other tasks requested and financial management by the team leader/project guidelines manager Provide all the professional and logistic support to the team leader/project manager, Senior Resident Checking of maps and Engineer/Highway Design
topographical surveys Engineer and Road Highways Design 10 years in Design review and road Safety/construction Safety and Road Safety/ Road Construction and/or Road Design and/or safety auditing Specialist Construction 20 p-m Road Construction Supervision Project management Conduct regular visits to the Safety Specialist software project sites and report on
QC/QA review the progress/violations to the relevant international specialists Manage the activities of site inspectors Asphalt and cement Provide all the professional concrete mix design and logistic support to the Quality, Asphalt and cement team leader/project Pavement, 15 years in concrete plant construction manager, international geotechnical and Road Pavement (asphalt and concrete) and operation Quality/Pavement/ 30 p-m Materials Construction and/or Asphalt and concrete Hot mix paving and Geotechnical/Materials Engineer Pavement Design pavement maintenance Engineer, Senior Resident and work supervision Engineer/Highway Design Laboratory and in-situ Engineer and Road Safety / testing Construction Safety
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Specialist Conduct regular visits to the project sites and report on the progress to the relevant international specialists Manage the activities of site inspectors Provide all the professional and logistic support to the team leader/project manager, international Bridge and Structural Bridge and hydraulic Engineer, Senior Resident structure design Engineer/Highway Design Bridge, Structural 15 years in Bridge condition Engineer, Road Safety / and Hydrological Road Artificial Structures Construction and/or 25 p-m assessment and Construction Safety Engineer Artificial Structures Design construction supervision Specialist Sampling and testing Conduct regular visits to the project sites and report on the progress to the relevant international specialists Manage the activities of site inspectors Permanent be present at Supervision of works project sites 8 Site Inspectors Sampling Conduct sampling and and Quality 10 years in Laboratory and in-situ testing of construction Control 216 p-m Road Construction Quality and Quantity Control testing materials Specialists Quality Control Report testing results to the Reporting relevant international and national specialists Environmental due Provide all the professional diligence and EIA/EMP and logistic support to the review team leader/and the Environmental impact international environmental investigations specialist Environmental Monitoring Conduct regular visits to 10 years in Environmental Construction and project sites 12 p-m Environmental Science — environmental impact Specialist operational noise Prepare reports to the assessment abatement international environmental Report preparation specialist Familiarity with ADB and Government environmental safeguard requirements and legislation Social 15 years in Review of LARP and social Provide all the professional Development, 10 p-m Social Science – household and user surveys due diligence and logistic support to the
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Resettlement and LARP implementation team leader/and the Gender Specialist monitoring international social Worker compensation and development, resettlement benefits assessment and gender specialist Community participation Conduct regular visits to programming project sites Gender assessment Prepare reports to the HIV and human trafficking international social awareness campaigning development, resettlement Familiarity with ADB and and gender specialist Government social safeguard requirements and legislation Supervision of works Report measurement Sampling results to the relevant Quantity survey and international and national measurements specialists Quantity Surveyor 10 years in Quality Control Attend measurements 30 p-m Road Construction Quality and Quantity Control Checking of contractors Advise on methods of claims measurement Preparation of progress reports Reporting Review environmental due diligence and EARF/EIA/EMP from archaeological perspective Archeological impact Monitor archaeological part investigations of EMP implementation by Dealing with cultural contractor, 15 years in heritage Conduct archaeological Archeological surveys and/or assessments Knowledge of Armenian Archaeologist investigations at the project 20 p-m history, archaeological sites during construction sites and legislation Record and report Monitoring of archaeological finding to the archaeological excavations Team Leader, MoTC and Report writing Ministry of Culture Prepare and recommend archaeological plan for the findings Financial management and Provide all the professional administration and logistic support to the Financial and 15 years in Maintenance of project team leader and Accounting 36 p-m Financing and/or Accounting accounts international financial Specialist Preparation of financial specialist and accountant statements and withdrawal
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applications Review of financial audit reports Financial management capacity assessment and reporting
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G. Tasks and Responsibilities of Each Team Member
1. International Staff:
Team Leader/ PMC Coordinator
The Team Leader/ PMC Coordinator should be regular staff of the lead firm or its international associates as described in Section D, paragraph 6 above. He/She will be responsible for overall project management in performing scope of work indicated in section B. of the Terms of Reference for the Consulting Services. The specific focus of the Team Leader/ PMC Coordinator will be early identification of issues and proposing mitigation or preventive measures in all aspects of the scope of work related to various project activities. The Team Leader/ PMC Coordinator will be responsible for early identification of issues potentially leading to claims and increase of costs (especially in civil works contracts) by means of proper management of the construction supervision component and personal review of contracts’ progress. Special attention will be given to claim/ dispute resolution activities related to price escalation, as well as prevention of delays, possibly caused by right of way issues (if any), deficiencies in designs (if any), construction specifications and others. The Team Leader/ PMC Coordinator will be responsible for preparation of variation orders and their submission for the approval to MOTC and ADB. The Team Leader/ PMC Coordinator will also have advisory role on potentially expected or actual claims. The Team Leader/ PMC Coordinator will assist the Project Director and MOTC in contract negotiations for the civil works, ensuring that contract documents are in a manageable order, and as per ADB and MOTC requirements.
Qualifications. The Team Leader/ PMC Coordinator will have a minimum of master’s degree in civil engineering or other relevant field from a recognized university, with at least 20 years of experience, In line with the qualification requirements specified in section F above the Team Leader/ PMC Coordinator will have strong experience in Project Management and Administration, Procurement and Quality Control, Contract Law, and FIDIC Contract Administration, Engineering and Capacity Building. A minimum of 12 years project specific experience in similar large highways and infrastructure projects both in developed (6 years) and developing (6 years) countries, preferably in Central Asia and Caucasus is required. The candidate should hold a relevant Certified Professional License and a membership in a relevant professional association. Good communication, report writing and relationship building skills required. Knowledge and experience in Central Asia and Caucasus and of locally spoken languages will add an advantage.
Senior Resident Engineer/ Highway Design Engineer
The Senior Resident Engineer/ Highway Design Engineer should be regular staff of the lead firm or its international associates as described in Section D, paragraph 6 above. He/she will assist the Team Leader/ PMC Coordinator on the overall project management. The Senior Resident Engineer/ Highway Design Engineer will be responsible to the Team Leader/ PMC Coordinator for coordinating and supervising the construction supervision team and ensuring effective and timely implementation of the tasks indicated in section B. of the Terms of Reference for the Consulting Services. The Senior Resident Engineer/ Highway Design Engineer will coordinate and review updated designs and cost estimates prepared by the contractor(s), coordinate and supervise the work of field teams in the delivery of their tasks in accordance with contract conditions, and be responsible for early identification of any events leading to cost increase in implementation of the project, such as timely provision of possession of site to contractor(s), managing efforts of the construction supervision, design reviews and undertaking timely actions to mitigate any inconsistencies in design and tender/ contract documents. Relevant experience in both developed and developing countries is required.
Qualifications. The Senior Resident Engineer/ Highway Design Engineer will have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from a recognized university, with at least 20 years of experience, 10 years of project specific experience in similar large highways and infrastructure projects in both developed (4 years) and developing (6 years) countries, preferably in Central Asia and Caucasus required. In line with the qualification requirements specified in section F above the Senior Resident Engineer/ Highway Design Engineer will have strong experience in Civil Engineering and Highway Design and Construction Management, and hold a Certified Professional Engineering License and membership in a relevant professional
64 association. Good communication, report writing and relationship building skills required. Knowledge and experience in Central Asia, Caucasus and of locally spoken languages will add an advantage.
Road Safety and Construction Safety Specialist
The Road Safety Specialist will be mobilized as early as possible before the mobilization of contractors and will be responsible to the Team Leader/PMC Coordinator specifically for performing scope of work indicated in section B, Road Safety Audits of the Terms of Reference for the Consulting Services, The specialist will also provide relevant inputs for monitoring, evaluating and reporting project progress and performance, His/her services will include, but are not limited to, (i) conducting road safety audits of detailed designs; (ii) ensuring road safety during construction; (ii) conducting post-construction road safety audits; (iii) identifying causes of accidents occurred over the project implementation period and develop road safety countermeasures reducing risk of reoccurring. The Road Safety Specialist will also be responsible for conducting on-the-job training of the national road safety/construction safety specialist and concerned staff of the MOTC. The input of the expert will be on the intermittent basis, including around [2-3] months in the first year of service to conduct road safety audits of detailed designs and, subsequently, of temporary traffic control for the work zones, along with training of the concerned staff of the MOTC and national road safety/construction safety expert. Subsequently, the Road Safety Expert will provide about [1] month of input per each year during the period of construction and post construction/defect liability period to continue his/her tasks and to ensure that road safety audits and accident analysis and mitigation work by the national road safety expert is done properly. During the final year of construction and defect liability period the Road Safety Specialist will conduct post construction road safety audits of the completed road sections under traffic.
Qualifications. A senior level engineer with graduation in civil engineering, preferably with master’s degree in traffic management and road safety from a recognized university, and/or extensive road safety and road safety audit training. Preferably 20 years of experience, of which 10 years as a Road Safety Expert or similar capacity for construction supervision consultancy contracts of major highway projects and/or road safety engineering, auditing and analysis for major highways, including experience in developing and implementation of road safety engineering countermeasures, conducting road safety audits, collision analysis, road safety monitoring and evaluation. Relevant experience in both developed (5 years) and developing (5 years) countries, preferably in Central Asia and Caucasus is required. The candidate should hold a Certified Professional Engineering License and a membership in a relevant professional association. Knowledge of locally spoken languages will add an advantage. Regular employment with the lead firm or its international associates is a plus.
Procurement and Contracts Specialist
The Procurement and Contracts Specialist will be responsible to the Team Leader/PMC Coordinator for performing scope of work indicated in section B, para.2 Procurement and Project Management, and construction supervision as applicable, of the of the Terms of Reference for the Consulting Services. The Procurement and Contracts Specialist will assist the MOTC in evaluating and processing all claims for additional payments or extensions of time submitted by the contractor(s)., He/she will assist the MOTC in Dispute Adjudication proceedings and give firm opinion on any claim which the Contractor(s) may put forward, by drawing up report including all the elements on which the judgment is based. He/she shall update procurement plan as and when required, record and archive complaints on procurement, and advise the MOTC for debriefing, keep all procurement records in proper order, acceptable to the MOTC and the ADB, and provide extensive training to national consultants staff on all types of procurement of goods, works, and services in accordance with ADB Procurement Guidelines. The specialist will help the Team Leader/PMC Coordinator in establishing efficient procedures for verifying Contractor performance and reporting progress and problems in a timely manner, including quality control reports, quantity survey records, requests for variation or change orders, requests for time extension, and Contractor’s claims and invoices. Regular
65 employment with the lead firm or its international associates is a plus.
Qualifications. A senior level engineer with preferably a masters degree in engineering or quantity surveying from a recognized university. Preferably 15 years experience including Project and Contract Administration, Evaluation of Extension of Time & Cost Claims of which 7 years of project specific experience, using the Federation International Des Ingenieurs Conseils (FIDIC) based contract documents, preferably in at least three projects of a similar nature and magnitude. . Relevant experience in both developed (3 years) and developing (4 years) countries, preferably in Central Asia and Caucasus required. He/she should be familiar with ADB procurement guidelines, national standards and terms of contract administration The candidate should hold a Certified License or Membership in a relevant Professional Association. Knowledge of locally spoken languages will add an advantage.
Quality, Pavement, Geotechnical and Materials Engineer
The Quality, Pavement, Geotechnical and Materials Engineer will be responsible to the Team Leader/PMC Coordinator for performing scope of work indicated in section B, Construction Supervision of the of the Terms of Reference for the Consulting Services. This position requires a senior Civil Engineer, with preferably 15 years of professional engineering experience, including preferably no less than seven years establishing quality assurance programs in highway construction projects using modern highway construction technology in both developed and developing countries. The candidate should have demonstrated capability of supervising the setting up, organization and layout of the various Contractors’ field laboratories; monitoring the mobilization of the testing equipment to ensure that the laboratories are adequately equipped and capable of performing all the specified testing requirements of the Contracts; and supervising the setting-up of the various Contractors’ rock crushers and bituminous and/or cement mixing plants to ensure that the specified requirements for such equipment are fully met. The Expert will supervise the testing and evaluation of highway construction materials used in modern highway construction techniques. The Quality, Pavement, Geotechnical and Materials Engineer’s experience should include preferably 7 years on projects of a comparable nature in Asphalt and concrete Pavement Design, construction supervision and maintenance in developed (2 years) countries and on projects in developing (5 years) countries, preferably in Central Asia and Caucasus. The candidate must be thoroughly familiar with all the standard laboratory testing procedures specified in the Contract Documents and must have had past experience in pavement design and bituminous/cement mix design works as well as earth works. The Expert shall also be familiar and have experience in geotechnical design, including collection of data, analyzing and reporting to understand and mitigate operational geotechnical risk in a pre-construction environment and during construction. The expert shall conduct training to the national experts and to MOTC staff as necessary. Regular employment with the lead firm or its international associates is a plus.
Qualifications. A senior level engineer with preferably no less than a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from a recognized university. Minimum of 15 years experience as described above in Civil Engineering—Asphalt and concrete Pavement Design, construction supervision and maintenance. Certified License or Membership in a relevant Professional Association required.
Bridge,Structural and Hydrological Engineer
The Bridge,Structural and Hydrological Engineer will be responsible to the Team Leader/PMC Coordinator for performing scope of work indicated in section B, Construction Supervision of the of the Terms of Reference for the Consulting Services. This position requires a qualified bridge and structural engineer with preferably no less than 15 years experience in bridge and structural engineering and hydraulics, including preferably no less than 2 years of project specific assignments in developed countries, and 5 years in developing countries including Asia. The candidate should have a thorough understanding and experience with international ―best practices‖, and of modern bridge and other structural construction technology and hydrological
66 calculations. The candidate should be capable of monitoring the contractors’ bridge construction, rehabilitation and repair works to assess and determine the need for adjustment of the works specified in the Contracts, and, as required, provide working drawings, specification details and instructions to the Contractors for any bridge within the construction site for works which are found during the construction period to require rehabilitation but are not already specifically scheduled for rehabilitation under the contract. The expert shall conduct training to the national experts and to MOTC staff as necessary. Regular employment with the lead firm or its international associates is a plus.
Qualifications. A senior level engineer with preferably bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from a recognized university. Preferably 15 years experience as described above in Civil Engineering, bridge and structures design, including hydrological design and culvert dimensioning, construction supervision and maintenance. Certified License or Membership in a relevant Professional Association required.
Transport Economist
The Transport Economist will be responsible to the Team Leader/PMC Coordinator for performing scope of work indicated in section B, para.2 Monitoring, and Evaluation and Reporting of the of the Terms of Reference for the Consulting Services. The Transport Economist may be required to do any additional works as per the Team Leader/ PMC Coordinator instruction. The expert shall conduct training to the national experts and to MOTC staff as necessary.
Qualifications. The Transport Economist will be a qualified professional transport economist with preferably master’s degree in economics from a recognized university, holding a Certified License or Membership in relevant Professional Association. The candidate should preferably have no less than 15 years experience in transport economics of which 7 years in similar projects in formulation and preparation (including economic evaluation in accordance with ADB guidelines) and monitoring and evaluation of transport projects, including roads in developed (2 years) and developing (5 years) countries, preferably in Central Asia. The candidate should be fully familiar with project performance monitoring systems (PPMS), have proven experience on establishing a web-based PPMS, based on the design and monitoring framework (DMF) as per ADB’s requirements. The expert shall conduct training to the national experts and to MOTC staff as necessary. Knowledge of locally spoken languages will add an advantage. Regular employment with the lead firm or its international associates is a plus.
Financial Specialist and Accountant
The Financial Specialist and Accountant should be regular staff of the lead firm or its international associates as described in Section D, paragraph 6 above.. He/she will be responsible to the Team Leader/PMC coordinator for the financial management of the project as specified in Section B. of the Terms of Reference for the Consulting Services. The Financial Specialist and Accountant will ensure financial management procedures are in place and are strictly followed, specifically relating to payments, financial accounting, financial reporting and record keeping. The specialist will assist MOTC in all financial management and administration, including review justifications provided for any variation orders proposed and submitted by the contractors, assist the MOTC on review of withdrawal applications, maintain project accounts, prepare financial statements for submitting them for MOTC’s and ADB’s approval. The Financial Specialist and Accountant will develop an appropriate system for processing of Engineer’s Certificates of civil work contracts and monthly invoices of the construction supervision and keep up to date records of commitments and disbursements. The expert will train national officers and MOTC staff in sound financial control including budgeting, accounting, auditing, preparing withdrawal applications in accordance with ADB's Loan Disbursement Handbook (2007, as amended from time to time) and detailed arrangements agreed upon between the Government and ADB, book keeping, management information system, asset management, and auditing. The specialist will also provide relevant inputs for monitoring, evaluating and reporting project progress and performance,
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Qualifications. The Financial Specialist and Accountant will have a qualified CIMA or equivalent accountancy qualifications, and preferably have a minimum of master’s degree in business administration or financial management from a recognized university. The specialist shall preferably have no less than 15 years of experience in Financial management and administration, maintenance of project accounts, preparation of financial statements and withdrawal applications, review of financial audit reports, financial management capacity assessment and reporting, of which preferably 7 years in similar projects and geographical areas both in the developed (2 years) and developing (5 years) countries. Knowledge of locally spoken languages and experience in Central Asia and Caucasus will add an advantage.
Capacity Building Specialist
The Capacity Building specialist will be responsible to the Team Leader/PMC Coordinator for (i) assessing the capacity-strengthening needs of the MOTC, line ministries and other agencies to assume new responsibilities and requirements for project administration and management; (ii) develop training programs and material for this purpose and conduct relevant training; (iii) analyze the bottlenecks, clarify the steps needed within the Government, and develop procedures to involve the same qualified staff in project preparation and administration of loan implementation to ensure continuity; (vi) provide a comprehensive project management training program together with the other PMC team members for MOTC staff on ADB’s requirements for procurement, financial management, monitoring and evaluation, and safeguard policies at the beginning of project implementation.(vii) undertake other tasks as requested by the Team Leader/PMC Coordinator. In coordination with other consultants, the Capacity Building Specialist will help achieve the impact/outcome and expected outputs of the project.
Qualifications. The Capacity Building Specialist will preferably have bachelor’s degree in public administration or project management or equivalent; and preferably no less than 15 years of practical experience in Institutional assessment, capacity building and training and portfolio/project management, of which preferably 7 years in similar projects and geographical areas both in the developed (2 years) and developing (5 years) countries. Knowledge of locally spoken languages and experience in Central Asia and Caucasus will add an advantage. Regular employment with the lead firm or its international associates is a plus.
Environmental Specialist.
The Environmental Specialist will be responsible to the Team Leader/PMC Coordinator for performing scope of work related to all environmental issues indicated in section B, of the Terms of Reference for the Consulting Services. The Specialist will prepare a detailed action plan to ensure that the Environmental Management System is established, implemented, maintained and will monitor its performance. He/she will also conduct environmental training and briefings to provide environmental awareness on ADB and the government environmental safeguard policies, requirements and standard operating procedures in conformity with the government’s regulations and international practice for project and MOTC staff; ensure baseline monitoring and reporting of contractor’s compliance with contractual environmental mitigation measures. He/she will monitor the implementation of the IEE, EIA and EMPs and also other environmental issues related to construction and commissioning of the Project. The Environmental Specialist will prepare Environmental Monitoring Reports as requested by the MOTC and ADB.
Qualifications. The Environmental specialist shall preferably hold a Master’s Degree in Environmental Sciences or equivalent with field experience of no less than 15 years in the area of eco systems and environmental protection, conducting environmental audits and environmental monitoring studies related to infrastructure development projects of which
68 preferably 7 years in similar projects and geographical areas both in the developed (2 years) and developing (5 years) countries. Familiarity with ADB and Government environmental safeguard requirements and legislation required. Knowledge of locally spoken languages and experience in Central Asia and Caucasus will add an advantage. Regular employment with the lead firm or its international associates is a plus.
Social Development, Resettlement and Gender Specialist
The Social Development, Resettlement and Gender Specialist will be responsible to the Team Leader/PMC Coordinator for performing scope of work related to all Social Development, Resettlement and Gender issues indicated in section B, of the Terms of Reference for the Consulting Services. He/she will also conduct training and briefings to provide awareness on ADB and the government safeguard policies, requirements and standard operating procedures in conformity with the government’s regulations and international practice for project and MOTC staff on Land Acquisition and Resettlement Plan (LARP) and social due diligence, preparation and implementation monitoring of (LARP) as per ADB requirements, worker compensation and benefits assessment, community participation programming, gender assessment, HIV and other communicable deceases, and human trafficking awareness campaigning etc. He/she will monitor the implementation of the LARF and LARP and also other Social Development, Resettlement and Gender issues, HIV and other communicable deceases, and human trafficking awareness campaigning etc. related to construction and commissioning of the Project. The Specialist will prepare Social Development, Resettlement and Gender Monitoring Reports as requested by the MOTC and ADB.
Qualifications. The Social Development, Resettlement and Gender Specialist shall preferably hold a Master’s Degree in social sciences or equivalent with experience of 15 years in social Science – household and user surveys, review of Land Acquisition and Resettlement Plan (LARP) and social due diligence, preparation and implementation monitoring of (LARP) as per ADB requirements, worker compensation and benefits assessment, community participation programming, gender assessment, HIV and other communicable deceases, and human trafficking awareness campaigning etc. of which preferably 7 years in similar projects and geographical areas both in the developed (2 years) and developing (5 years) countries. Familiarity with ADB and Government social safeguard requirements and legislation Knowledge of locally spoken languages and experience in Central Asia will add an advantage. Regular employment with the lead firm or its international associates is a plus.
Electrical Street Lighting Specialist
The Electrical Street Lighting Specialist will be responsible to the Team Leader/PMC Coordinator for performing scope of work indicated in section B, Construction Supervision of the of the Terms of Reference for the Consulting Services. This position requires a qualified electrical engineer with preferably 10 years’ experience in electrical engineering and street lighting design and supervision of installation in transport projects, of which preferably 2 years of project specific assignments in developed countries, and 3 years in developing countries including Asia. The candidate should have a thorough understanding and experience with international ―best practices‖, and of construction technology. The candidate should be capable of monitoring the contractors’ electrical cabling and lighting installation works to assess and determine the need for adjustment of the works specified in the Contracts, and, as required, provide working drawings, specification details and instructions to the Contractors.
69
Qualifications. An Electrical Street Lighting Specialist with preferably bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from a recognized university. Preferably no less than 10 years’ experience as described above in electrical engineering and street lighting design and supervision of installation in transport projects. Regular employment with the lead firm or its international associates is a plus.
2. National Staff
The National Specialists as listed in Section F. PMC Team Composition of the Terms of Reference for Consulting Services above will be assisting relevant International Specialists and sharing scope of works assigned to them by the Team Leader/PMC Coordinator and the International Specialists. The National Specialists will observe specific focus of their respective assignments as per the Indicative List of Tasks described in Section F of the Terms of Reference for the Consulting Services.
Qualifications. The National Specialist should be senior level experts in their relevant field and have preferably the minimum number of years of experience as indicated in Section F. PMC Team Composition, National Specialists of the Terms of Reference for Consulting Services. The National Specialists should preferably hold a minimum of bachelor’s degree in their relevant field of expertise, with the exception of the Site Inspectors and Quantity Surveyor who should preferably hold a minimum of a diploma in civil engineering. The National specialists should be familiar and have work experience with ADB or other multilateral financing institution assisted projects of similar size and complexity, for construction supervision consultancy contracts of major highway projects using FIDIC Conditions of contract. The Highways Design and Road Safety/ Construction Safety Specialist should have previous experience in conducting road safety audits of temporary traffic control, and accident and analysis and mitigation will be an advantage. The Archaeologist should have extensive experience in planning, conducting and supervising archaeological excavations, and have knowledge and experience of mitigation measures of culturally and nationally sensitive archaeological findings in Armenia and internationally. The specialist should be member of a recognized archaeological association. Regular employment with the associating firm will add an advantage.
H. Implementation Schedule
8. For the purpose of preparing proposals, the PMC will adopt the following tentative Implementation schedule:
Signing of Consultant's contract February 2012 Award of civil works contract November 2011 Substantial completion of civil works contract December 2014
9. The balance of the contract period following the issue of the Taking-Over Certificate for civil works is 365 days for the Defects Notification Period. The PMC's services are expected to start in February 2012 and conclude in December 2014, taking into account the contract period and the loan closing date, following recommendations to issue the Performance Certificate and any other final certification required under the contracts. The PMC's contract may be extended as agreed with MOTC and ADB.
I. Reporting Requirements
10. The PMC will prepare the following reports in English and Armenian languages and submit them in the number of copies indicated below to MOTC and ADB. The format and content of each report should be agreed with MOTC and ADB. All reports submitted must have signatures of the author, checker and approver, with seals of the PMC firm. For each report submitted an electronic copy will be provided. Electronic copies will be in the format used in
70 their preparation with all links, formulas, and fields active. When software that is internationally ―non-standard‖ has been used, the PMC will provide, at its own cost, two fully licensed copies of this software. For all reports an executive summary will be included.
MOTC ADB Inception Report 5 2 Quarterly Progress Reports 5 2 Monthly Progress (subsequent to Inception Report) 5 1 Project Performance Monitoring and Evaluation 5 2 ReportsRoad Safety Audit Reports 5 2 Project Completion Report 5 2
(a) Inception Report
11. The PMC shall, within one month of commencement of services, submit an inception report setting out the parameters of the consulting services including the main civil works contracts, the program of works, the PMC's site organization chart, quality and quantity assurance control manual, the staffing schedule, firmed delivery schedule of reports, and an updated methodology for the services including the training programs, preparation of the PPME system and the environmental and social monitoring plan. The Report shall give the status at the start of the services of those items of the terms of reference which were already in progress (resettlement, environmental benchmarks etc.) together with the progress of the work to date and a schedule of certified payments, if any. The PMC will indicate the delivery dates of all reports in the Inception Report.
(b) Quarterly Progress Reports
12. The PMC shall prepare quarterly reports presenting a summary status of the Project (schedule, budget, actual and/or potential problems and delays), including illustration as necessary by means of photograph, graphs and tables to provide an up-to-date picture of construction progress during the reporting period. The reports shall be submitted within 30 days of the end of the report period and should include, but not limited to the following: (i) Principal work accomplished during the period covered by the report; (ii) Comparison of actual progress with the original estimated schedule of construction and procurement and with the schedule agreed upon with the contractors and suppliers; (iii) Actual or contemplated major deviations and reasons thereof from original plans or schedules other than changes of a character which would require prior consultation with MOTC and/ or ADB; (iv) Explanations on stoppages or delays, measures necessary to avoid any future delays; an indication of measures required to recover any lost time in the implementation of the Project; and contractual variations; (v) The development of cost estimates and expenditures and the availability of funds to meet the cost of the project; (vi) Conditions which would significantly affect construction schedules or the cost of the project; (vii) Progress made on training; (viii) Progress made and problems associated with environmental matters, any adverse environmental impacts that occur during construction, the corrective measures taken to remedy these impacts, and the steps taken to avoid their recurrence; (ix) Progress made and problems associated with resettlement; and
71
(x) Highlights of all matters requiring action.
(c) Monthly Progress Reports
13. The PMC shall submit monthly progress reports by the 15th of the month following the reporting month, reflecting the progress of the work during the reporting month - the Executive Summary of these reports consisting of (i) one or two pages outlining the position for the complete Project together with (ii) a PPMS report update (quarterly), and (iii) a single page contract status report. These reports should normally include, but not limited to: (i) a work program for the road with a bar chart showing scheduled against actual financial/physical progress by major work item, illustrated by bars and percentage of accomplishment (total and by major work item); the work program and the bar chart (showing the critical path) shall be suitably updated in each progress report; (ii) financial data, updated as appropriate, giving time, cost and financial forecast, a schedule of certified payments, update of quantities and cost estimates for construction and supervision; (iii) summary of implementation progress, the work performed, variations issued, payments certified, the equipment and manpower (skilled/unskilled by foreign/local categories in person-months) utilized by the contractor during the reporting month, together with an outline of the work to be performed during the next reporting period; the Engineer's personnel arrivals and departures; (Iv) statement of causes of possible delays and remedial measures taken or recommended;
(d) Project Performance Monitoring and Evaluation Report (PPMER) and Safeguards Monitoring Reports
14. The PMC shall submit baseline PPMER, mid-term PPMER by project mid-term progress, and final PPMER by project completion. The PMC shall submit Environmental and Social Safeguards Monitoring Reports as requested by MOTC and ADB.
(e) Road Safety Audit Reports
15. The PMC shall submit(i) Pre-construction; (ii) During Construction; and (iii) Post- construction Road Safety Audit (RSA) reports. In addition the PMC shall submit a relevant report for Accident Analysis and Mitigation based on their findings on the study conducted by the PMC during construction. The PMC will indicate the delivery dates of these reports in the Inception Report.
(e) Project Completion Report (PCR)
16. The PMC will draft a PCR prior to physical completion of construction works in a manner satisfactory to MOTC and ADB, including the major project events, performance of the contractors, operation of the Project, actual and price inflated (to completion year) project cost (foreign and local costs separately) by implementation year, and labor employed by skilled/unskilled and foreign/local categories in man-years; (I) the major project events, the relative successes (problems) in the implementation of each of the sections, this section of the PCR shall also contain an assessment of the impact of road improvement on the economy and social aspects for the whole project area; (ii) "as-built" drawings (to be submitted to MOTC). These "as-built" drawings will be furnished by the Contractor as per Clause 4.1 (d) of the construction contract;
(iii) detailed description of all the works by items of technical and non-technical matters, economic analysis, financial and disbursement data, analyses, difficulties and delays encountered or anticipated, and remedial actions taken or suggested, the overall
72 progress of the Project as monitored against the design and monitoring framework and PPMS indicators, including recommendations to MOTC and ADB.
IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE
2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Q4Q3 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q2Q1 Q4Q3 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Activity J A SOND J FMAMJ J A SONDJFMAMJJASONDJFMAMJJASONDJFMAMJJASONDJFMAMJJASONDJFMAMJJASONDJFMAMJJASOND Tranche 1 Project Preparation TA
Construction Supervision - Tranche 1 Posting of CSRN Preparation of Shortlist/Draft RFP Approval of Shortlist/Draft RFP Issuing the RFP/Submission of Technical Proposals (TPs) Evaluating TPs Approving the Evaluation of TP Evaluating Financial Proposals Approving the Final Ranking Negotiating the contract Award of Supervision Contract
Detailed Design - Tranche 1, including Road Safety Selection of Design Consultant - Local Highway/Pavement Specialist - Foreign
Civil Works Procurement - Tranche 1 Bidding Documen t Prepara tion Approval Period (MOTC, ADB) Invitation and Bidding Period (6 weeks) Bid Evaluation Approval Period (MOTC, ADB) Contract Negotiations Award of Civil Works Contract
a Civil Works Contract Period - Tranche 1 (30 months, plus 12 months Defects Liability Period)
Detailed Design - Tranche 2 Prequalification of Bidders - Tranche 2
Implementation - Tranche 2 Bidding and Award Period a Civil Works Contract Period (33 months, plus 12 months Defects Liability Period)
Detailed Design - Tranche 3 Prequalification of Bidders - Tranche 2
Implementation - Tranche 3 Bidding and Award Period b Civil Works Contract Period (48 months, plus 12 months Defects Liability Period)
ADB = Asian Development Bank; AMJ = April, May, June; ARD = Armenian Roads Directorate; EOI = expression of interest; JAS = July, August, September; JFM = January, February, March; MOTC = Ministry of Transport and Communication; OND = October, November, December; TA = technical assistance. a The construction period has been determined in consideration of prevailing climatic conditions and allows for a complete construction season at the end of the construction period. b 48months, in consideration of complexity of works. Source: Asian Development Bank estimates. Appendix 6
CONTRACT AWARDS AND DISBURSEMENTS PROJECTIONS
Loan 2561-ARM: North–South Road Corridor Investment Program – Project 1
Contract Awards Disbursements Year (in USD million) (in USD million) Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Total Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Total 2010 0.0 0.0 0.0 3.6 3.6 0.0 0.0 0.0 1.5 1.5 2011 0.0 0.0 30.0 0.1 30.1 0.5 0.5 0.5 3.0 4.5 2012 2.0 8.0 0.0 0.0 10 0.5 3.5 8.0 10.0 22.0 2013 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0 0.2 4.0 5.0 3.0 12.2 2014 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0 1.0 0.5 0.0 0.0 1.5 2015 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Total ADB Amount is USD60.0 million
Loan 2729-ARM: North–South Road Corridor Investment Program – Project 2
Contract Awards Disbursements Year (in USD million) (in USD million) Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Total Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Total 2010 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 2011 0.0 0.0 5.0 100.0 105.0 0.0 0.0 0.5 10.0 10.5 2012 2.0 24.0 0.0 0.0 26.0 1.0 13.0 10.5 10.5 35.0 2013 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 20.5 20.5 10.5 51.5 2014 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 12.0 7.0 6.0 25.0 2015 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 3.0 3.0 0.0 0.0 6.0
Total ADB Amount is USD170.0 million
Appendix 7
Quarterly/ Monthly Project Progress Report
(Template)
Loan Number: xxx Reporting Period: xxx
Project Name
Prepared by the xxxxx
This report is a quarterly update to the project implementation progress. It is designed for ready use by the project executing agencies to provide direct input into ADB’s internal Project Progress and Project Completion Reports.
CURRENCY EQUIVALENTS
Currency Unit – Armenian Dram (AMD)
At Appraisal As of This Reporting (April 2008) (date) AMD1.00 = $xxxx $xxx $1.00 = AMD xxx Sum xxx
ABBREVIATIONS AND UNITS
ADB – Asian Development Bank EA – executing agency PIU – project implementation unit xxxx – xxx xxxx – xxx xxxx – xxx xxxx – xxx
NOTES
(i) The fiscal year (FY) of the xxxx ends on 31 December.
(ii) In this report, "$" refers to US dollars.
THIS REPORT IS REVIEWED AND ENDORSED FOR SUBMISSION TO ADB BY
Name Position
RESPONSIBLE ADB OFFICERS
Name Position Hong Wang Director, Transport and Communications Division (CWTC) Arto Ahonen Transport Specialist, CWTC Leonor Alejandro Assistant Project Analyst, CWTC
CONTENTS Page BASIC DATA i
MAP
I. PROJECT DESCRIPTION 1 II. IMPLEMENTATION PROGRESS 2 [insert subheading to describe the project progress]
ANNEXES
[list annexes]
BASIC DATA
A. Loan Identification
1. Country 2. Loan Number 3. Project Title 4. Recipient 5. Executing Agency 6. Amount of Loan
B. Loan Data for 2561 1. Appraisal – Date Started – Date Completed 2. Loan Negotiations – Date Started – Date Completed 3. Date of Board Approval 4. Date of Loan Agreement 5. Date of Loan Effectiveness – In Loan Agreement – Actual – Number of Extensions 6. Closing Date – In Loan Agreement – Current – Number of Extensions
7. Disbursements ($ million) Allocation at Current Amount Percent Loan Appraisal + Allocation Disbursed Disbursed Balance Category Supplementary
Total
C. Project Data
1. Project Cost ($ million)
Cost Appraisal Estimate + Current Supplementary
ii
Total
2. Financing Plan ($ million)
Cost Appraisal Estimate + Current Supplementary Project Cost ADB Government Total ADB = Asian Development Bank
3. Contract Award and Disbursement Projections ($ million) Cumulative Contract Awards 2009 Contract Awards ADB Others 1Q 2Q 3Q 4Q Total 30 June 2010 Proj 2010
Cumulative Disbursements 2009 Disbursements 30 June 2010 Proj 2010
4. Project Schedule Item Appraisal Estimate Actual Date of Supervision Contract with Consultants (Insert dates) (Insert dates) Civil Works Contracts (Package 1) Date of Award Completion of Work Consultancy Services contract for xxxx Date of Award Completion of Work Consultancy Services contract for xxxx Date of Award Completion of Work Consultancy Services contract for xxxx Date of Award Completion of Work
5. Project Performance Report Ratings Ratings
Development Implementation Implementation Period Objectives Progress
D. Data on Asian Development Bank Missions
Name of Mission Date
iii
E. Contracts, Dates and Amounts (provide contract data) Amount Contract Date No. Contractor ($million)
(insert project map here)
I. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
1. Provide Detailed Description of Project
2
II. IMPLEMENTATION PROGRESS
FOLLOW BELOW INSTRUCTION
A. Project Progress
Provide the following information
Summary statement on % physical progress and other achievements in implementation since the last progress report; Summary statement on the progress in implementing the overall project to date in comparison with the original implementation schedule—quantifiable and monitorable target. an assessment of the validity of key assumptions and risks in achieving the quantifiable implementation targets. an assessment of the likelihood that the immediate development objectives (project purpose) will be met in part or in full, and whether remedial measures are required based on the current project scope and implementation arrangements; an assessment of changes to the key assumptions and risks that affect attainment of the development objectives; and
Provide detailed assessment of achieving the project impact and outcome in Annex 1.
Summarize other project developments, (i) benefit monitoring and (ii) reporting on environmental and social requirements that might adversely affect the project's viability or accomplishment of immediate objectives. Supplement with detailed information in attachments.
Keep record of major milestone events in Annex 2.
B. Procurement and Disbursements
Provide the following:
status of procurement, including cumulative contract awards (commitment of funds to date), and comparison with time-bound projections (targets); cumulative disbursements from the ADB loan, cofinancing, and counterpart funds (expenditure to date), and comparison with time-bound projections (targets); and re-estimated costs to completion, need for reallocation within ADB loan categories, and whether an overall project cost overrun is likely.
Provide details of contract packages in Annex 3 and 4. Update project cost, financing plan and annual disbursements in Annex 5.
C. Project Scope and Implementation Arrangements
Provide the following:
3
assessment/update of project implementation arrangements such as establishment, staffing, and funding of the PMO or PIU;
information relating to other aspects of the EA’s internal operations that may impact on the implementation arrangements or project progress;
status of project scope/implementation arrangements (related to procurement and disbursements) compared with those in the report and recommendation of the President (RRP), and whether major changes have occurred or will need to be made;
D. Compliance with Covenants
Provide summary of the Borrower’s compliance with agreement covenants, indicating the total number of covenants (i) complied with; (ii) not complied with; (iii) ongoing; (iv) late complied with; and (v) not complied with. Provide explanation on reasons for not complying with particular covenants. Provide the detailed status of compliance in Attachment 6.
E. Major Project Issues and Problems
Summarize the major problems and issues affecting or likely to affect implementation progress, compliance with covenants, and achievement of immediate development objectives.
Recommend time bound actions to overcome these problems and issues (e.g., changes in scope, changes in implementation arrangements, and reallocation of loan proceeds).
Annex
3 3
4 Annex 1
Impact
(Provide information based on DMF)
Assessment: [provide assessment of achieving project impact]
Performance Targets/Indicators Progress/Status By xxx (Provide information based on DMF and PPMS) (Provide information based on PPMS) (Provide information based on DMF and PPMS) (Provide information based on PPMS) (Provide information based on DMF and PPMS) (Provide information based on PPMS)
Key Assumptions/Risks Assessment of Current Status Assumptions: (Provide information based on DMF and PPMS) (Provide information based on PPMS)
Outcome
(Provide information based on DMF)
Assessment: [provide assessment of achieving project outcome]
Performance Targets/Indicators Progress/Status By xxx (Provide information based on DMF and PPMS) (Provide information based on PPMS (Provide information based on DMF and PPMS) (Provide information based on PPMS (Provide information based on DMF and PPMS) (Provide information based on PPMS (Provide information based on DMF and PPMS) (Provide information based on PPMS (Provide information based on DMF and PPMS) (Provide information based on PPMS (Provide information based on DMF and PPMS) (Provide information based on PPMS Key Assumptions/Risks Assessment of Current Status Assumptions: (Provide information based on DMF and PPMS) (Provide information based on PPMS (Provide information based on DMF and PPMS) (Provide information based on PPMS (Provide information based on DMF and PPMS) (Provide information based on PPMS (Provide information based on DMF and PPMS) (Provide information based on PPMS
Risks: Mitigaged (Y/N) (Provide information based on DMF and PPMS) xxx (Provide information of actions taken to mitigate risks
Recent Development (Date: xxx) xxxxx
Problems with Impact and Outcome Description Action Taken/Proposed xxxxxx xxxxxx
Annex 1 5
IMPLEMENTATION PROGRESS
Project Outputs By 2011 Description Indicators/Targets Status (Provide information based on (Describe progress of contract DMF and PPMS) awards etc.) Example: To be measured after completion of individual road sections. (Provide information based on (Describe progress) DMF and PPMS) (Describe progress) (Describe progress) (Describe progress) (Describe progress) (Describe progress) (Describe progress) (Provide information based on (Describe progress) DMF and PPMS) (Describe progress) (Describe progress) (Describe progress)
Key Project Inputs 1. Indicate the detailed progress of each project component, such as, - recruitment of consultants and their performance; - procurement of go ods and works (from preparation of de tailed de signs and bidding documents to contract awards); and - the performance of suppliers, manufacturers, and contractors for goods and works contracts;
2. Update the Table below.
Remarks (give de scriptions of the s tatus of each package)
Targets: Package 1: (Provide information based on DMF) Sample for reference:
Procurement started in 200x and the invitation for bid for xx Lots (xx km, against xx km at appraisal)was issued on xx 200x under International Competitive Bidding
Procedure (ICB) Single-Stage: One-Envelope. On xxx Annex 200x the bids were received by the EA/IA and were evaluated. The bid evaluation report was submitted to
ADB for approval on xxx 200x. The total bid amount for 3 the said xx lots is $xxxx, around x% higher/lower than 5 the cost estimated at appraisal of the project in xx 200x. ADB endorsed the bid evaluation report for Lots x-x on xxx 200x. All contracts for the xx lots have been finalized/signed and submitted to ADB in xxx 200x.
6 Annex 1
Contractors were mobilized in xxx 200x with planned completion of xxx 200x. No physical works completed during xxx 200x to xxx 200x due to xxxxx; works resumed in xxx 200x Slippage/No slippage in completion time is foreseen.
Key Assumptions (Input-Output) (Provide information based on DMF) (Provide description of actions taken) (Provide information based on DMF) (Provide description of actions taken) (Provide information based on DMF) (Provide description of actions taken)
Risks (Input-Output) Mitigaged (Y/N) (Provide information based on DMF) xxx (Provide information of actions taken to mitigate risks (Provide information based on DMF) xxx (Provide information of actions taken to mitigate risks (Provide information based on DMF) xxx (Provide information of actions taken to mitigate risks (Provide information based on DMF) xxx (Provide information of actions taken to mitigate risks
Implementation Progress
Rating Criteria Remarks 1. Project Implementation Delays (Describe progress) 2. Change in Project Scope (Describe progress)
3. Change in Implementation Arrangements (Describe progress)
4. Project Costs (Describe progress)
5. Counterpart Funding/Cofinancing (Describe progress)
6. Major Covenants (exclude #7 below) (Describe progress)
7. Audited Project Accounts and Corporate (Describe progress) Financial Statements
Design Changes (Describe progress)
Recent Development (Date: 30 April 2009) (Provide information) Missions, revisions, changes etc.
Problems with IP Description Action Taken/Proposed (Provide descriptions)
3. Complement the above information by simple charts such as bar or milestone to illustrate progress, a chart showing actual versus planned expenditure, S-curve graph showing
Annex 1 7 the relationship between physical and financial performance, and actual progress in comparison with the original schedules and budgets, the reference framework or guidelines in calculating the project progress. Use PAI 5.01, para 7 and Appendix 2 for computation of actual project progress. Annex
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2 8 CHRONOLOGY OF MAJOR MILESTONE EVENTS
Loan No. 2561-ARM Annex Date Event (Provide information of major events)
CONTRACT PACKAGES
Estimated Number Actual Contract of Contract Value Contracts Procurement Value Contract Works Contract Description ($ million) Awarded Method ($ million) Approved Completed Contractor
1. Civil Works
2. Goods
3. Etc. 4. 5. 6.
Source: Annex
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10 Annex 4
PROJECT COSTS AND FINANCING PLAN ($ million)
Provide table as in Loan Agreement
Annex 5 11
ANNUAL DISBURSEMENTS (please fill out) ($ million) ADB Government % of % of Year Disbursement Total Cumulative % Disbursement Total Cumulative %
Source: Loan and Grant Financial Information System, executing agency and project consultants estimates.
Annex
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12 Annex 6
STATUS OF COMPLIANCE WITH MAJOR LOAN COVENANTS LOAN COVENANTS
Covenant Due Date Status (As in Loan Agreement and FAM) (please provide info) (please describe status)
Environmental Assessment Report
Environmental Assessment and Review Framework Project Number: 42145 August 2009
Armenia: North–South Road Corridor Investment Program
Prepared by Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) of Armenia for the Asian Development Bank.
The views expressed herein are those of the consultant and do not necessarily represent those of ADB’s members,The environmental Board of Director assessments, Management, and review or staff,framew andork may is bea preliminarydocument inof nature.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.
ABBREVIATIONS
ARD Armenia Roads Department ADB Asian Development Bank EARF environmental assessment and review framework EIA environmental impact assessment1 EMP environmental management plan EA executing agency IEE initial environmental assessment MNP Ministry of Environmental Protection and Natural Resources MOTC Ministry of Transport and Communication MFF multitranche financing facility NPE Nature Protection Expertise NGO nongovernment organization PMU Program Management Unit RAMSAR Ramsar Convention on Wetlands REA Rapid Environmental Assessment Checklist RA Republic of Armenia SEI State Environmental Inspectorate SNCO State Non-commercial Organizations SEIA summary environmental impact assessment SIEE summary initial environmental assessment TOR terms of reference
NOTE
In this report, “$” refers to US dollars.
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.
1 In this document, environmental impact means negative, or adverse, environmental impact
CONTENTS
A. Introduction 1
B. Overview of the Subprojects to be Assessed 1
C. Country’s Environmental Assessment and Review Procedures 2
D. Specific Procedures to be Used for Subprojects under MFF 2
E. Compliance with ADB’s Environmental Policy—Due Diligence 7
F. Public Disclosure 7
G. Staffing Requirements and Budget 8
Annexes
Annex 1 Rapid Environmental Assessment Checklist Annex 2 Sample Scoping Document Annex 3 Outline of an Environmental Impact Assessment Report Annex 4 Outline of Summary Environmental Impact Assessment Report Annex 5 Outline of an Initial Environmental Examination Report Annex 6 Outline of Summary Initial Environmental Examination Report Annex 7 Outline Terms of Reference for Consulting Services for Environmental Assessment
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Environmental Assessment and Review Framework
A. Introduction
1. The mandatory requirements applicable to the multitranche financing facility (MFF) necessitate that the proposed subprojects of the first tranche and the subprojects of subsequent tranches follow adequate environmental assessment processes. To ensure that future components are evaluated in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Ministry of Nature Protection (MNP), the national environmental agency of the Republic of Armenia (RA), and the ADB, this Environmental Assessment and Review Framework (EARF) has been prepared. The EARF will guide the Armenia Roads Directorate (ARD) of the Ministry of Transport and Communication (MOTC) of the RA in carrying out the environmental assessment of the subprojects to be financed under the MFF: “North-South Road Corridor Investment Program”. This EARF sets forth the following:
(i) general principles, selection criteria, procedure of organization of and conducting environmental expert assessment of the subproject documents under this MFF; (ii) requirements on the type of subproject documents and the procedure of submitting thereof for environmental expert assessment; and (iii) a list of environmentally hazardous types of activities subject to mandatory environmental impact assessment (EIA) on the subproject approval stage.
2. The implementation arrangements are as follows:
(i) The Executing Agency (EA) will be the MOTC. (ii) The MOTC will be monitored by the Subproject Governing Council of Armenia, whose other key functions include guiding the overall policy and strategic direction of the MFF Program, reviewing and evaluating its performance, and coordinating with other external aid agencies. (iii) The ARD will set up a Program Management Unit (PMU) to manage day-to-day coordination, implementation, monitoring, and administration activities of individual subprojects. (iv) The PMU will include a Safeguards Team comprising expertise in, inter alia, social and environmental safeguards.
B. Overview of the Subprojects to be Assessed
3. Identification of subprojects through the MFF is in progress. So far, two tranches have been identified: (i) repavement of 18.4 km 4-lane section of the Ashtarak to Yerevan road and improved safety for the Yerevan to Ararat road, and (ii) widening the 88-km 2-lane road from Ashtarak to Gyumri to four lanes and a feasibility study and subproject preparation for subsequent tranch subprojects that improve border infrastructure and procedures, upgrading the remaining north-south road corridor, and may include the construction of a new road between Goris and Kapan.
4. The sections of road proposed to be improved under Tranche 1 of the North-South Roads Corridor Program are the Yerevan to Ashtarak and Yerevan to Ararat sections of the Corridor. These sections are both existing 4-lane divided roads within a semi-arid zone devoid of any unique or sensitive areas, forests, and protected areas within one km of the alignment for which environmental impacts can be expected to be minor, standard, and easily prevented or mitigated. Consequently, the ADB assessed this road section as a Category B subproject,
2 requiring only an initial environmental examination (IEE). The IEE report was prepared in accordance with ADB’s Environment Policy (2002) and Environmental Assessment Guidelines (2003) and was subsequently uploaded on ADB’s website on 9 September 2009.
5. Tranches 2 and 3 have been defined conceptually, and further tranches may be considered also, but they have not progressed to the environmental assessment stage, which will be guided by this EARF.
C. Country’s Environmental Assessment and Review Foundation
6. The relevant national laws on environmental protection and assessment are:
(i) Law on the Principles of Environmental Protection of 1991 (ii) Law on Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of 1995
These two laws are the main laws administered by the MNP. Other pieces of pertinent environmental legislation to be considered are:
(iii) Land Code of 1991, updated in 2001 (iv) Water Code of 1992, updated in 2002 (v) Law on Specially Protected Natural Areas of 2006
7. The key departments within the MNP that have administrative authority over EIA and the subproject approval process are two State Non-commercial Organizations (SNCOs):
(i) The SNCO “Nature Protection Expertise (NPE)” responsible for reviewing and approving EIA reports and subprojects for implementation and adding conditions when necessary to protect the environment, and (ii) The SNCO “State Environmental Inspectorate (SEI)” responsible for inspecting subprojects to ensure compliance with conditions imposed by the NPE and with the subproject Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and Monitoring Program.
8. The EIA process and the SEI’s power to inspect are the principal tools used by the MNP to achieve compliance with environmental management principles.
D. Specific Procedures to be Used for Subprojects under MFF
1. Responsibilities and Authorities
9. Responsibilities of the implementing and executing agencies (ARD and MOTC respectively) include:
(i) Prepare environmental screening checklist and classify subprojects in consultation with MNP and other departments. (ii) Based on the environmental classification of subprojects, prepare terms of reference to conduct IEE or EIA studies. (iii) Hire an environmental consultant to prepare IEE or EIA reports including EMP and summary EIA/IEE for public disclosure. (iv) Ensure that an IEE or EIA is prepared in compliance with the requirements of the Government and ADB, and that adequate consultation with affected people is undertaken in accordance with ADB requirements.
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(v) Undertake review of the IEE or EIA, summary EIA/IEE, and EMP reports to ensure their compliance with the requirements of the Government and ADB. (vi) Obtain necessary permits and/or clearance, as required, from MNP and other relevant government agencies, ensuring that all necessary regulatory clearances are obtained before commencing any civil work on the relevant sections. (vii) Submit to ADB the IEE or EIA, summary EIA/IEE, and EMP reports and other documents, as necessary. (viii) Ensure that any EMP, including relevant mitigation measures that need to be incorporated during the construction stage by the contractor, are included in the bidding and contract documents. (ix) Ensure that contractors have access to the EIA or IEE and EMP reports of the subprojects. (x) Ensure that contractors understand their responsibilities to mitigate environmental problems associated with their construction activities. (xi) Ensure and monitor that an EMP, including an environmental monitoring plan, will be properly implemented. (xii) In case unpredicted environmental impacts occur during the subproject implementation stage, prepare and implement as necessary an environmental emergency program in consultation with MNP, other relevant government agencies, and ADB. (xiii) In case a subproject needs to be realigned during implementation, review the environmental classification, revise it accordingly, and identify whether a supplementary IEE or EIA study is required. If yes, prepare the terms of reference for undertaking a supplementary IEE or EIA and hire an environmental consultant to carry out the study. (xiv) Submit semi-annual reports on implementing EMPs, including implementation of an environmental emergency program, if any, to MNP and ADB. (xv) Submit subproject completion environmental monitoring report to ADB after three years of completion of construction summarizing the overall environmental impacts from the subprojects.
10. ADB is responsible for the following:
(i) Review EIA and SEIA reports prepared under supervision of EA; (ii) Review of IEE and SIEE reports if it requires ADB’s no objection approval; (iii) Undertake annual environmental review missions for category A and B subprojects; and (iv) Public disclosure of SEIA and SIEE (for category B subprojects) through ADB website.
2. Environmental Criteria for Subproject Selection
11. Considering the potential environmental impacts of the future subprojects and the relevant environmental requirements of ADB and the Government of Armenia, the following criteria was agreed upon (by the Government and ADB) for selection of the future subprojects to be included in the Subregional Road Corridor Investment Program:
(i) The subprojects shall only involve activities that follow all the applicable Government regulations;
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(ii) The subprojects should not pass through any wildlife sanctuaries, national parks, nature reserves, and protected areas designated by national and international regulations; (iii) The subprojects should not pass through any ecologically sensitive and significant as recognized by the Government or any area that is internationally significant (such as protected wetlands and mangroves); and (iv) The subproject should as much as possible not include any stretch that passes through any cultural heritage and archaeological sites designated by UNESCO and the Ministry responsible for culture.
3. Procedures for Environmental Assessment of Subprojects
12. ADB categorizes road subprojects into two environmental categories, A and B. Subprojects with potential for significant adverse environmental impacts are category A, for which an EIA is required to address significant impacts. Subprojects judged to have some adverse impacts, but of lesser degree and/or significance than category A are category B, for which an IEE is required to determine whether or not significant environmental impacts warranting an EIA are likely. If an EIA is not needed, the IEE is regarded as the final environmental assessment report. The guidelines to prepare environmental assessment reports for a category A subproject (EIA and SEIA) and for a category B subproject (IEE and SIEE) in compliance with the ADB’s Environment Policy (2002) and Environmental Assessm ent Guidelines (2003) are given in the following sections.
a. Screening
13. Every future subprojects to be included in this MFF Program will be screened to determine its environmental category based on the ADB’s Rapid Environmental Assessment Checklist (REA). A template of the REA is given in Annex 1. Classification is to be based on the most environmentally sensitive component, which means that if one part of a subproject has the potential for significant adverse environmental impacts, then the subproject is to be classified as category A regardless of the potential environmental impacts of other aspects of the subproject. In general, a subproject will be classified as ‘category A’ if it:
(i) is a new road alignment; (ii) a complex mitigation measure needs to be prepared through an in-depth assessment of the impacts and detailed study for preparing mitigation measures; (iii) will adversely impact an ecologically sensitive area, particularly if the subproject is located less than 500 meters from a designated wildlife or other sanctuary, a national park, a botanical garden, an area of international significance (e.g., an IUCN or RAMSAR site), or from cultural heritage and archaeological sites designated by UNESCO; and (iv) passes through any ecologically sensitive areas (hilly or mountainous, forested, nearby estuarine, or other area with important ecological function).
14. Road upgrading and rehabilitation subprojects that do not fall into the above category are classified as B.
b. Scoping
15. Before conducting any environmental studies, a scoping document consisting of the scope of the environmental surveys, methods of data collection and outputs anticipated from the
5 study is to be prepared. In case of category A subprojects, the scoping document is to be approved by the EA before detailed environmental studies are undertaken. Scoping should focus on identifying those components of the environment that are likely to be significantly affected by the subproject based on subproject location, past documented experience, the likely geographic and time-related extent of the effects, and the measurements or thresholds to be used to assess significance. A topographic map of the study area showing the subproject road(s), water courses, settlement areas, and preferably landuse should be part of the scoping document. A sample scoping document is in Annex 2.
c. Identifying Baseline Conditions and Impacts
1. With the screening and scoping results in hand, planning of the field program becomes relatively easy; however, it does require the involvement of an experienced environmental assessment practitioner.
2. The first step is to establish the baseline conditions against which any change is measured for the components of the environment likely affected by the subproject. This will usually be carried out through site visits and review of spatial databases for all available environmental parameters such as terrain, soils, rivers, forest, protected areas, and landuse. This will also include collection and analysis of background noise, and air and water quality. These data must be collected in such a manner that their source can be traced by anyone who picks up the document.
3. The second step is to predict likely changes as a result of construction activities and operation of the road, by relating cause and effect such as changes in traffic volume, fleet makeup, and traffic patterns to air quality and noise levels. The locations where based data were collected and where ongoing monitoring takes place should be well documented to facilitate analysis and provide credibility. While following strict scientific method in EIA is far too costly and time consuming, every effort should be made to make the entire study transparent and traceable.
d. Public Consultations/Hearing
4. The third step is to present the findings on impacts and benefits during a consultation and information session to inform key stakeholders and affected communities of the issues identified and to invite comments. For a category A subproject, consultation is required at least twice during the EIA:
(i) First, as part of the scoping stage to define the subproject and to get feedback in options, and (ii) Secondly, after the draft EMP has been prepared and prior to loan appraisal by ADB.
5. Public consultations include newspaper advertisements in the regional and national news papers 50 to 60 days before the intended consultations giving brief subproject description, location, and specific contact data (including telephone numbers). Often a subproject website is created and link information is provided. Further, the proponent, working with the consultant, should prepare a list of important participants and send emails or letters of invitation providing details including dates for both consultations.
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6. Consultations must have meeting notes and attendance sheets prepared, which are included as part of the EIA documentation.
7. For Category B subprojects, nearly all conditions as defined above are the same except there is only one consultation session required, which generally takes place as the EMP is being prepared.
e. Preparation of the Environmental Management Plan
8. The Fourth Step is the preparation of the EMP, the most important output of an environmental assessment. The EMP must be practical, specific, and systematic such that it can easily facilitate mitigating and monitoring actions by contractors and proponents and that can form the basis of environmental clauses in bidding and contract documents. Each mitigation measure should be matched with a monitoring activity.
9. Good EMPs not only identify the source of the impact, the effect in the biophysical environment, and the monitoring action to be taken, but also where, when, how often, and by whom each mitigation and monitoring action should be performed. This applies to EIAs and IEEs.
10. The PMU of ARD is required to review and update the EMP as soon as the contractor has been appointed and the mobilization date is established and periodically thereafter as appropriate.
f. Assessing Institutional Capacity for EMP Implementation
11. The Fifth Step involves the identification of the agencies and units at the national and sub-national level that will likely be involved in the implementation and supervision of the mitigation and monitoring actions as well as the general management of the EMP from preconstruction through the operating period. The EMP is also useful in that it identifies the lead implementing and supervising agencies (ARD, MOTC, and MNP and their provincial/regional departments) involved in all mitigation and monitoring actions. The assessment, using mostly the interview approach, should be short and focused, identifying needs based on obvious gaps, such as lack of experience in international-level assessments or lack of experience with preparation and implementation of EMPs. Careful interviews will almost always result in those needing assistance identifying what they need. Finally, the needs are assessed in terms of longer-term capacity building and short-term training and workshops in relation to realistic budgetary limits and a capacity building and training program is proposed. Since the contractors play such an important role in EMP implementation, their safeguards skills must also be assessed with a view to strengthening them.
g. Estimating Mitigation, Monitoring, and Training Costs
12. The Sixth Step involves costing of each of the mitigation and monitoring actions as well as the institutional capacity building. Costing details must be systematic and include rates and unit costs and an indication of actions that, while referred to as environmental, are normally found in other budget items, for example slope stabilization, revegetation, fuel handling and storage protocols, and work camp waste management.
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h. Reporting
13. The Seventh Step is preparation of the assessment document according to a prescribed format and level of details. The templates of the reports for preparation of EIA/IEE and SEIA/SIEE reports are in Annexes 3 to 6 and can also be found in ADB’s website at www.adb.org/documents/guidelines/environmental_assessment/default.asp.
E. Compliance with ADB’s Environmental Policy—Due Diligence
14. ARD, MOTC, and MNP have the responsibility to undertake environmental due diligence and monitor implementation of environmental mitigation measures for all subprojects under each respective mandate. The due diligence report as well as monitoring of EMP implementation (described in the annual report) need to be documented systematically. ADB must be given access as needed to undertake environmental due diligence for all subprojects.
15. An EMP will be part of the overall subproject monitoring and supervision, and will be implemented by the contractor with oversight from the supervision consultant and PMU. Progress on the preparation and implementation of an EMP will be included in the periodic subproject progress reports. Specific monitoring activities defined in the IEEs or EIAs and EMPs will be carried out by the contractors and monitored by the PMU. ARD will submit reports on EMP implementation to ADB every six months for category A and selected2 categoryB subprojects and annually for other category B subprojects.
16. The PMU, with assistance from the environmental consultants, will review the IEE or EIA and corresponding EMP for each subproject to ensure that mitigation measures and monitoring plans proposed in those documents are in compliance with ADB’s and Government’s requirements. According to the reports and reviews during its missions, ADB, in consultation with the Government, will confirm compliance. For this purpose, the PMU will provide ADB with access to information on any subprojects. The information on implementation of an EMP, as well as that on environmental and social safeguard compliance, will be systematically documented and reported to ADB as part of the regular progress reports.
F. Public Disclosure
17. ARD is responsible for ensuring that all environmental assessment documents, including the environmental due diligence and monitoring reports, are properly and systematically kept as part of the subproject record of each subproject under its responsibility. All environmental documents are subject to public disclosure. These documents should be made available to the public, if requested. In case there are category A and selected category B subprojects, the summary EIA/IEE will be disclosed to the public through ADB’s website at least 120 days before the subproject is approved. The SEIA/SIEE shall be reviewed by ADB before it is disclosed to the public. ARD will also ensure that public consultations, particularly with subproject affected persons, are undertaken adequately during the IEE or EIA preparation in consistent with ADB requirements.
2 Selected environmentally sensitive category B subprojects include those that are near environmentally sensitive areas, or that involve deforestation; loss of biodiversity; involuntary resettlement; the processing, handling, or disposal of toxic and hazardous substances; or activities that may be of concern to a wide group of external stakeholders.
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G. Staffing Requirements and Budget
18. ARD and MOTC will recruit environmental consultants as a part of engineering design consultants to prepare environmental assessment reports for each subproject consistent with this EARF. Terms of reference for consultants along with the budget are given in Annex 7. The estimated cost for preparation of each IEE and EIA are about $100,000 and US$160,000 respectively. Adequate funding resources must be provided under each subproject for environmental monitoring and mitigation measures for each subproject.
Annex 1 9
Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) Checklist Roads and Highways
Instructions: This checklist is to be prepared to support the environmental classification of a subproject. It is to be attached to the environmental categorization form that is to be prepared and submitted to the Chief Compliance Officer of the Regional and Sustainable Development Department. This checklist is to be completed with the assistance of an Environment Specialist in a Regional Department. This checklist focuses on environmental issues and concerns. To ensure that social dimensions are adequately considered, refer also to ADB checklists and handbooks on (i) involuntary resettlement, (ii) indigenous peoples planning, (iii) poverty reduction, (iv) participation, and (v) gender and development. 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/Subproject Title: Armenia / [Name of subproject] Sector Division: Roads & Highways Conducted by / date: [Name(s) of Environmental Specialist(s)], [Date]
SCREENING QUESTIONS Yes No REMARKS A. SUBPROJE CT SITING
IS THE SUBPROJECT AREA ADJACENT TO OR WITHIN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE AREAS? CULTURAL HERITAGE SITE PROTECTED AREA WETLAND MANGROVE ESTUARINE BUFFER ZONE OF PROTECTED AREA SPECIAL AREA FOR PROTECTING BIODIVERSITY B. POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
WILL THE SUBPROJECT CAUSE… encroachment on historical/cultural areas; disfiguration of landscape by road embankments, cuts, fills, and quarries? encroachment on precious ecology (e.g. sensitive or protected areas)? alteration of surface water hydrology of waterways crossed by roads, resulting in increased sediment in streams affected by increased soil erosion at construction site? deterioration of surface water quality due to silt runoff and sanitary wastes from worker-based camps and chemicals used in construction? increased local air pollution due to rock crushing, cutting and filling works, and chemicals from asphalt processing? noise and vibration due to blasting and other civil works? dislocation or involuntary resettlement of people other social concerns relating to inconveniences in living conditions in the subproject areas that may
Annex 1 10
SCREENING QUESTIONS Yes No REMARKS trigger cases of upper respiratory problems and stress? hazardous driving conditions where construction interferes with pre-existing roads? poor sanitation and solid waste disposal in construction camps and work sites, and possible transmission of communicable diseases from workers to local populations? creation of temporary breeding habitats for mosquito vectors of disease? dislocation and compulsory resettlement of people living in right-of-way? accident risks associated with increased vehicular traffic, leading to accidental spills of toxic materials and loss of life? increased noise and air pollution resulting from traffic volume? increased risk of water pollution from oil, grease and fuel spills, and other materials from vehicles using the road?
Annex 2 11
SAMPLE SCOPING DOCUMENT
Scoping Framew ork for the Environmental Impact Assessment of ‘Ajara By pass Roads Development Subproject’
A. Introduction
1. This scoping framework has been prepared to carryout detailed environmental impact assessment (EIA) for the ‘Ajara Bypass Roads Development Subproject’ in accordance with ADB’s Environment Policy (2002) and Environmental Assessment Guidelines (2003) and relevant laws and regulations in Armenia. The subproject involves new construction and widening of roads, bridges, overpasses, tunnels, and protection structures. The study will identify potential environmental impacts on physical, ecological, social, cultural, and economic resources of subproject areas during design (for different alignments), construction and operation. An EIA report will be prepared along with environmental management and monitoring plan to address all identified environmental impacts as per the work plan provided in Error! Reference source not found. . The study will be carried out by Consultant and the draft EIA report will be submitted along with the Final Report of the Subproject.
B. Scope of Work
1. Baseline Studies
a. Output 1: Memo on Armenian Legal and Administrative Procedures
2. Activity 1.1 : Collection and review of relevant information regarding environmental legislation, statutory orders, by-laws, etc. connected to preparation and approval of the EIA report by Armenian Authority, and draft the memo. The memo will also consider the requirements of ADB Guidelines for ‘Category A’ Subproject.
3. Activity 1. 2: Conducting a series of meetings with the senior staff of ministries responsible for environment protection, natural resources, culture, archeology to discuss appropriate legal and administrative procedures. Discussions also include issues such as basis for further approval / disapproval of EIAs by Armenian authorities and on the issuance. Review of other relevant environmental laws, regulations, Norms, and Standards on Air, Noise, Water, Waste, and Wildlife.
4. Activity 1.3: Discussions with the ARD of the MOTC on the issuance of construction permits and environmrntal clearance certificates in accordance with RA’s applicable laws and regulations.
b. Output 2: Preparation of Baseline Assessment
5. Activity 2.1 : Review of reports and field data collected from the subproject’s pre- feasibility study; and other road subprojects carried out under the World Bank, JBIC, EBRD, and MCC’s funding.
6. Activity 2.2: Collection of baseline information on existing environmental condition along the subproject road alignments and identification of the environmental components that need detailed further study. Baseline assessment will be done based on the available secondary
Annex 2 12 information, field visits, sampling and environmental monitoring including but not limited to the following:
(i) Physical resources: topography, climate, soils, geology, landuse, coastal resources, and surface and groundwater resources; (ii) Natural hazards: seismicity, floods, landslides, and volcanic activity; (iii) Ecological Resources: landscape and natural ecosystem, flora and fauna, wildlife and wetland habitats, nature reserve and protected areas; (iv) Environmental quality: Air quality (PM, CO, NOx, Sox, etc.), noise quality and water quality (DO, TPH, pH, total nitrogen, BOD, total phosphorus, and suspended solid, etc.); and (v) Cultural resources and archaeological sites: structures or sites that are of historical, archaeological, paleontological, or architectural significance.
2. Detailed Field Investigation to Screen Environmental Impacts
c. Output 3: Field Investigation and Analysis of Results
7. Activity 3.1: Preparation of layout plan of the subproject road including, but not limited to, the flowing information:
(i) Road alignments (ii) Sampling location for environmental parameters (air, noise, water) (iii) Construction camp including storage of petroleum products and explosives (iv) Asphalt and batch mixing plants, construction sites and camps, quarry sites and borrow pits (v) Water sources, waste disposal sites, environmentally sensitive areas
8. Activity 3.2: Collection of a cadastral land use map showing the subproject locations and descriptions of the surrounding activities. This is to ensure that the subproject road is compatible with the national regulation specified for construction sites.
9. Activity 3.3: Initiation of necessary investigations and fieldwork for gathering of following additional information about ecological and environmental parameters in the subproject area.
(i) Landscape, Geohazards and Slope Stability . Identification of natural landscape along the subproject road. Assessment of geological and geomorphologic features of the subproject area, as well as any violent interference in the natural processes. Investigation and evaluation of results to predict rock falls, landslide, mudflow and debris flow, erosion, ground subsidence, floods, and banks washing-off (lateral erosion) and seashore erosion. (ii) Soil Erosio n and Slo pe Stability . Analysis of soil characteristics, moisture contents, vegetation cover etc., in conjunction with the above activity, to predict possible soil erosion and landslides due to subproject activities. (iii) Terrestrial Flora and Fauna. Investigation of the composition of plant species and migratory birds in the Subproject area. Attention should be paid to the distribution of protected plant and animal/birds species in order to ensure favorable conservation status for these species. (iv) Wetland habitats and Aquatic Flora and Fauna. Investigations of occurrence of species (flora and fauna) in the identified wetlands along the subproject area
Annex 2 13
and assess the potential influence of the proposed road alignment. Attention should be paid to the distribution of protected species in order to ensure favorable conservation status for these species. (v) Protected Areas and Sensitive Environmental Receptors. Collection of protected and sensitive area maps and exact coordinates showing the boundaries and buffer zones of protected areas and subproject alignments and descriptions of the habitats. This is to ensure that the locations of sensitive areas and subproject alignment are sufficiently distant enough to maintain harmonization and avoid any potential disturbances on the habitats. Investigation will also be done for other sensitive sites along the subproject alignment, viz. wetlands, seashore, tourism, etc. (vi) Traffic Flow. Traffic counts and historical traffic flow to predict the future traffic growth and the load on the subproject road. (vii) Air Quality and Noise Level. Collection and analysis of air (PM, CO, NOx, SO2) and noise quality along the subproject road. (viii) Water Quality. Collection and analysis of water quality (DO, turbidity, pH, TOC, and dissolved solid) of the major rivers along the subproject road. Investigation of water quality impacts during construction and operations stages in selected river sites. (ix) Monuments and Archaeological Site. Investigation of the impact of the subproject on monuments and archaeological sites along the subproject corridor. (x) Quarry and Borrow Sites. Estimation of effects on the ecological resources in the area connected to quarry and barrow pit operations needed for construction.
3. Analysis of Alternatives and Economic Assessment
d. Output 4: Analysis of Alternative Options
10. Activity 4.1: Comparative environmental analysis of all available subproject alignments, including “No Subproject” scenario.
e. Output 5: Economic Assessment
11. Activity 5.1: Economic analysis of all alternatives in accordance with ADB’s Handbook on Economic Evaluation of Environmental Impacts for: (i) costs and benefits of environmental impacts; (ii) costs, benefits, and cost-effectiveness of mitigation measures; and (iii) discussion of impacts that have not been expressed in monetary values, in quantitative terms where possible.
4. Forecast Future Impacts and Mitigation Measures
f. Output 6: Forecast of Impacts
12. Activity 6.1 : Forecasting of air and noise quality based on predicted traffic estimates using computer modeling software and recommendation of mitigation measures.
13. Activity 6. 2: Evaluation of the subproject impact on all physical and ecological resources described in Activity 3.3 and recommendation of mitigation measures.
14. Activity 6.3: Evaluation of socio-economical and cultural impacts, such as:
Annex 2 14
(i) Assessment of the status of livelihoods (agriculture, business, etc.) in the context of socio-economical impact. (ii) Assessment of the impact on objects or areas with known archeological values in the subproject area. (iii) Assessment of impacts on culturally and religiously sensitive locations (church, cemetery, etc.) (iv) Assessment of impacts in tourism sector (v) Assessment of traffic safety.
15. Activity 6.4: Assessment of impact on human health and estimation of possible health impacts on construction workers and roadside residents (such as safety, HIV/AIDS, STDs, human trafficking) due to construction camps and other subproject activities.
g. Output 7: Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan
16. Activity 7.1: Preparation of Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan (EMP) for all phases of the subproject for effective implementation of environmental protection and mitigation measures and monitoring of significant environmental impacts. Preparation of environmental protection measures to (i) mitigate environmental impacts, (ii) provide in-kind compensation for lost environmental resources, or (iii) enhance environmental resources. Prepare cost estimates for each mitigation measure proposed in the EMP and include all the mitigation measures in the engineering design of the Subproject.
17. Activity 7.2: Setting up of environmental criteria for several variables such as:
(i) Air quality, noise level, water quality, accidental spills of hazardous substances; and (ii) Naturally protected areas.
5. Institutional Assessment and Monitoring Mechanism
h. Output 8: Institutional Assessment
18. Activity 8.1 : Assessment of institutional capacity of the implementing agencies for effective implementation of environmental management and monitoring plan. Identification of responsible institutes for implementation and supervision of the EMP. Assess training needs of these agencies and propose capacity building measures and institutional arrangements to strengthen these agencies along with the cost estimates.
i. Output 9: Monitoring Mechanism
19. Activity 9.1: Elaboration and specifying of “feed back monitoring” program, a tool to be used by implementing authorities in order to be able to interfere and respond quickly to activities, which during the construction and operation turn out to have a negative effect to the environment. The tool will specify the parameters, location, frequency and means of monitoring.
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6. Public Consultations and Disclosure Plan
j. Output 10: Conduct Public Consultations and Document Them
20. Activity 10 .1: Assisting ARD to conduct two public consultations (one during the inception stage and the second one after finalization of EIA report) according to ADB’s Public Communications Policy (2005) for Category A subprojects and the pertinent clause in RA’s Law on Environmental Impact Assessment (1995). This will ensure that the consultation process will involve affected people, key agencies, NGOs, and other stakeholders and they are provided with opportunities to participate in the decision-making process and to influence decisions that will affect them. Address all the comments in the engineering designs.
21. Activity 10.2: Agreement by the appropriate authorities of specific zones where minor temporary and/or permanent impacts to the environment can be accepted during the construction and operation phase of the bypass road. The ranges of the zones will be determined on the basis of results of investigations and local conditions.
k. Output 11: Disclosure Plan
22. Activity 11 .1: In consultation with the stakeholders, preparation of information disclosure plan for dissemination of safeguard documents to the affected community and general public.
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Outline of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report
A. Introduction
1. This section usually includes the following:
(i) purpose of the report, including (a) identification of the subproject and its proponent, (b) brief description of the nature, size, and location of the subproject and its importance to the country, and (c) any other pertinent background information; (ii) stage of subproject preparation (i.e., pre-feasibility study, feasibility study, detailed engineering design preparation); (iii) extent of the EIA study, including the scope of the study, magnitude of effort, and persons/expertise or agency performing the study and corresponding person months; and (iv) brief outline of the contents of the report, including any special techniques or methods used for identifying issues, assessing impacts, and designing environmental protection measures.
B. Description of the Subproject
2. The subproject should be described in terms of its basic activities, location, layout, and schedule (in terms of the subproject cycle). This section of the EIA report should provide sufficient details on the following:
(i) Type of subproject; (ii) Need for subproject; (iii) Location (use maps showing general location, specific location, subproject boundary and subproject site layout); (iv) Size or magnitude of operation including any associated activities required by or for the subproject; (v) Proposed schedule for approval and implementation; and (vi) Description of the subproject including drawings showing subproject layout, components of subproject, etc. This information should be of the same type and extent as is included in feasibility reports for proposed subprojects, in order to give a clear picture of the subproject and its operations.
C. Description of the Environment
3. This section contains a description of the study area to provide a clear picture of the existing environmental resources and values within which the impacts must be considered. Detailed methodology to gather information, including data sources, should also be briefly described. As much as possible, the baseline information should be presented in maps, figures, and tables. The baseline environmental information area should include:
(i) Physical Resources: e.g. (a) atmosphere (e.g. air quality and climate) (b) topography and soils, (c) surface water (d) groundwater (e) geology/seismology.
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(ii) Ecological Resources: (e.g.) (a) fisheries (b) aquatic biology (c) wildlife (d) forests (e) rare or endangered species (f) protected areas (g) coastal resources
(iii) Economic Development: (e.g.) (a) industries (b) infrastructure facilities (e.g. water supply, sewerage, flood control) (c) transportation (roads, harbors, airports, and navigation) (d) land use (e.g. dedicated area uses) (e) power sources and transmission (f) agricultural development, mineral development, and tourism facilities
(iv) Social and Cultural Resources: (e.g.) (a) population and communities (e.g. numbers, locations, composition, employment); (b) health facilities; (c) education facilities; (d) socio-economic conditions (e.g. community structure, family structure, social well being); (e) physical or cultural heritage; (f) current use of lands and resources for traditional purposes by Indigenous Peoples; and (g) structures or sites that are of historical, archaeological, paleontological, or architectural significance.
D. Alternative s
4. The consideration of alternatives is one of the more proactive sides of environmental assessment - enhancing the subproject design through examining options instead of only focussing on the more defensive task of reducing adverse impacts of a single design. This calls for the systematic comparison of feasible alternatives for the proposed subproject site, technology, and operational alternatives. Alternatives should be compared in terms of their potential environmental impacts, capital and recurrent costs, suitability under local conditions, and institutional, training and monitoring requirements. For each alternative, the environmental costs and benefits should be quantified to the extent possible, economic values should be attached where feasible, and the basis for the selected alternative should be stated.
5. Examining alternative means of carrying out a subproject involves answering the following three questions: (i) what are the alternatives? , (ii) what are the environmental impacts associated with each alternative? , and (iii) what is the rationale for selecting the preferred alternative? For example, a road connecting two points can follow a number of different routes. In this case, the EIA report must describe the process taken to select the most appropriate route based on a set of pre-determined criteria. The consideration of alternatives and the selection criteria used to identify the preferred alternatives must include environmental factors. The
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information going into the decision and the decision-making process must be documented in the EIA report. For example, if "alternative means" refers to site selection for a large hydroelectric dam, the location of each alternative would have to be described, the environmental impacts of each alternative defined and the criteria and analysis of site selection presented.
6. Since the selection of alternatives can involve detailed technical analysis that includes more than just environmental factors, it may be preferable to present the details of this analysis as an appendix and include only the results and summary of this selection process in the body of the report. For example, a table listing the alternatives on one axis, and the criteria, such as reliability, cost, performance, inherent environmental effects and necessary mitigation measures, on the other axis may provide an effective summary.
7. Alternatives to the S ubproject. In some instances it will be necessary to consider “alternatives to” the subproject. This situation should not arise if the subproject is consistent with DMC’s development strategy, ADB’s Country and Strategy Program, and has been developed based on a sector strategy and roadmap. The EIA report should describe how the subproject fits into this larger strategic planning context. This context helps justify the subproject and demonstrates the requirements that may constrain the alternatives that are feasible or permitted.
8. However, in the case of potentially controversial subprojects, there may public concern that the subproject does not represent the best way to achieve stated development objectives. In addition, segments of the public may react negatively if they perceive that the EIA report has not considered alternatives to the subproject, or the preferred alternative is proceeding based on flawed assumptions. Therefore, if controversy is expected surrounding the fundamental reasons for the subproject, the EIA report should include a discussion of alternatives to the subproject.
9. One alternative that should receive special attention is the "no go" alternative. In some cases, this may be the only alternative to the subproject that can be realistically considered.
E. Anticipated Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures
10. Review Characteristics of each E nvironmental Impact. This section will evaluate the subproject’s expected impacts (in as quantified terms as possible) on each resource or value, and applicable sectoral environmental guidelines wherever any significant impact is expected (including environmental risk assessment, where appropriate. Environmental impacts to be investigated will include those due to (i) subproject location; (ii) caused by possible accidents; (iii) related to design; and (iv) during construction, regular operations, and final decommissioning or rehabilitation of a completed subproject. Where adverse effects are indicated, discuss measures for minimizing and/or offsetting these, and opportunities for enhancing natural environmental values will be explored. Both direct and indirect effects will be considered, and the region of influence indicated. This analysis is the key presentation in the report and if not sufficiently completed it may be necessary to delay the subproject until the analysis can be completed. It is necessary to present a reasonably complete picture of both the human use and quality of life gains to result from the subproject due to the utilization, alteration, and impairment of the natural resources affected by the subproject, so that fair evaluation of the net worth of the subproject could be made.
11. Mitigating Adverse Effects. For each significant adverse environmental impact, the
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report will carefully explain how the subproject plan/design minimizes the adverse effects and in addition how the subproject plan/design, to the extent feasible, includes provision for offsetting or compensating of adverse effects and for positive enhancement of benefits or environmental quality. Where substantial cost of mitigation measures is involved, alternative measures and costs will be explored. 12. Irreversible and Irretri evable Impacts. The EIA report will identify the extent to which the proposed subproject would irreversibly curtail the potential uses of the environment. For example, highways that cut through stream corridors, wetlands, or a natural estuary can result in irretrievable damage to those sensitive ecosystems. Other impacts that may be irreversible include alteration of historic sites, and expenditure of construction materials and fuels. Also, subprojects through estuaries, marshes, etc., may permanently impair the area’s natural ecology; or elimination of recreation areas and parklands can precipitate drastic changes in the subproject area’s social and economic character.
13. Temporary Effects du ring Subproject Cons truction. In the event the construction phase of the subproject involves special environmental impacts (to be terminated on completion of construction), these will be separately discussed including proposed remedial measures.
F. Economic Assessment
14. This section may be drawn from the economic analysis conducted as part of the subproject feasibility study. It should include the following elements which should be integrated into the overall economic analysis of the subproject: (i) costs and benefits of environmental impacts; (ii) costs, benefits, and cost-effectiveness of mitigation measures; and (iii) discussion of impacts that have not been expressed in monetary values, in quantitative terms where possible (e.g. weight of volume estimates of pollutants).
G. Environmental Management Plan
15. The EMP describes how the mitigation and other measures to enhance the benefits of environmental protection will be implemented. It explains how the measures will be managed, who will implement them, and when and where they will be implemented. The following elements should be described in the EMP: (i) implementation of mitigation measures during subproject design; (ii) implementation of mitigation measures by contractors, and how impacts prevention will be incorporated in the materials procurement; (iii) social development program (e.g., resettlement plan, community training); (iv) contingency response plan for natural or other disasters, and subproject contingencies; and (v) environmental management and monitoring costs including mitigation costs.
16. The environmental monitoring plan describes the monitoring activities to ensure that adverse environmental impacts will be minimized, and the EMP implemented. The environmental monitoring plan will cover selected parameters to indicate the level of environmental impacts. It also describes how, when, and where the monitoring activities will be undertaken; who will carry them out; and who should receive the monitoring report. More importantly, it includes a proposal to carry out environmental compliance monitoring activities.
17. The present capacity of the executing agency to implement EMP should be described and implementation costs clearly identified.
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H. Public Consultation and Information Disclosure
18. This section will (i) describe the process undertaken to involve the public in subproject design and recommended measures for continuing public participation; (ii) summarize major comments received from beneficiaries, local officials, community leaders, NGOs, and others, and describe how these comments were addressed; (iii) list milestones in public involvement (e.g., dates, attendance, topics of public meetings), and recipients of the report and other subproject-related documents; (iv) describe compliance with relevant regulatory requirements for public participation; (v) if possible summarize public acceptance or opinion on the proposed subproject; and (vi) describe other related materials or activities (e.g., press releases, notifications) as part of the effort to gain public participation. This section will provide of summary of information disclosed to date and procedures for future disclosure.
I. Conclusions
19. The EIA report will present the conclusions of the study including: (i) gains which justify subproject implementation; (ii) explanation of how adverse effects could be minimized or offset, and compensated to make these impacts acceptable; (iii) explanation of use of any irreplaceable resources; and (iv) provisions for follow-up surveillance and monitoring. Simple visual presentations of the type and magnitude of the impacts may aid the decision-maker.
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Outline of Summary Environmental Impact Assessment (SEIA) Report
A. Introduction (1/2 page)
1. This section will include the purpose of the report, extent of the EIA study and brief description of any special techniques or methods used.
B. Description of the Subproject (1/2 page)
2. This section will include the type of and need for subproject, location, size or magnitude of operation and proposed schedule for implementation.
C. Description of the Environment (2-3 pages)
3. This section will include the physical and ecological resources, human and economic development and quality of life values in the area affected by the subproject. Where available, environmental standards will be used as the baseline for comparative purposes.
D. Alternatives (1-2 pages)
4. For each alternative, a summary of the probable adverse impacts and its relation to the subproject, and other alternatives will be discussed determine whether the subproject minimizes the environmental impact over all other alternatives and is within acceptable environmental impact limits. In most cases, environmental impacts "with" and "without" subproject alternatives should be examined.
E. Anticipated Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures (4-6 pages)
5. Environmental impacts, both direct and indirect, on different environmental resources or values due to subproject location, as related to design, during construction and regular operation will be discussed and mitigation, offsetting or enhancement measures will be recommended.
F. Economic Assessment (1-2 pages)
6. This section will include: (a) costs and benefits of environmental impacts; (b) costs, benefits and cost effectiveness of mitigation measures; and (c) for environmental impacts that have not been expressed in monetary values, a discussion of such impacts, if possible, in quantitative terms (e.g. weight or volume estimates of pollutants). This information should be integrated into the overall economic analysis of the subproject.
G. Environmental Management Plan (1-2 pages)
7. The EMP will describe the impacts to be mitigated, and activities to implement the mitigation measures, including how, when, and where they will be implemented. The environmental monitoring plan will describe the impacts to be monitored, and when and where monitoring activities will be carried out, and who will carry them out.
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H. Public Consultation and Disclosure (1-3 pages)
8. This section will describe the process undertaken to involve the public in subproject design and recommended measures for continuing public participation; summarize major comments received from beneficiaries, local officials, community leaders, NGOs, and others, and describe how these comments were addressed; list milestones in public involvement such as dates, attendance, and topics of public meetings; list recipients of this document and other subproject related documents; describe compliance with relevant regulatory requirements for public participation; and summarize other related materials or activities, such as press releases and notifications. This section will provide of summary of information disclosed to date and procedures for future disclosure.
I. Conclusions (1 page)
9. This section will describe the gains which justify implementation of the subproject; explain how significant adverse environmental impacts will be mitigated or offset and compensated for; explain/justify use of any irreplaceable resources and; describe follow-up surveillance and monitoring.
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Outline of an Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) Report
A. Introduction
1. This section usually includes the following:
(i) purpose of the report, including (a) identification of the subproject and subproject proponent; (b) brief description of the nature, size, and location of the subproject and of its importance to the country; and (c) any other pertinent background information; and (ii) Extent of the IEE study: scope of study, magnitude of effort, person or agency performing the study, and acknowledgement.
B. Description of the Subproject
2. Furnish sufficient details to give a brief but clear picture of the following (include only applicable items):
(i) type of subproject; (ii) category of Subproject; (iii) need for subproject; (iv) location (use maps showing general location, specific location, and subproject site); (v) size or magnitude of operation; (vi) proposed schedule for implementation; and (vii) description of the subproject, including drawings showing subproject layout, and subproject components.
3. This information should be of the same type and extent as is included in feasibility reports for proposed subprojects to give a clear picture of the subproject and its operations.
C. Description of the Environment
4. Furnish sufficient information to give a brief but clear picture of the existing environmental resources in the area affected by the subproject, including the following (to the extent applicable):
(i) Physical Resources: (e.g.)
(a) atmosphere (e.g. air quality and climate) (b) topography and soils, (c) surface water (d) groundwater (e) geology/seismology.
(ii) Ecological Resources: (e.g.)
(a) fisheries (b) aquatic biology (c) wildlife (d) forests
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(e) rare or endangered species (f) protected areas (g) coastal resources
(iii) Economic Development: (e.g.)
(a) industries (b) infrastructure facilities (e.g. water supply, sewerage, flood control) (c) transportation (roads, harbors, airports, and navigation) (d) land use (e.g. dedicated area uses) (e) power sources and transmission (f) agricultural development, mineral development, and tourism facilities
(iv) Social and Cultural Resources: (e.g.)
(a) population and communities (e.g. numbers, locations, composition, employment) (b) health facilities (c) education facilities (d) socio-economic conditions (e.g. community structure, family structure, social well being) (e) physical or cultural heritage (f) current use of lands and resources for traditional purposes by Indigenous Peoples (g) structures or sites that are of historical, archaeological, paleontological, or architectural significance.
D. Screening of Potential Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures
5. Using the checklist of environmental parameters for different sector subprojects, this section will screen out “no significant impacts” from those with significant adverse impact by reviewing each relevant parameter according to the following factors or operational stages. Mitigation measures, where appropriate, will also be recommended environmental problems due to subproject location, and related to subproject design, construction, and operations. Potential environmental enhancement measures and additional considerations will also be covered.
E. Institutional Requirements and Environmental Monitoring Plan
6. This section should state the impacts to be mitigated, and activities to implement the mitigation measures, including how, when, and where they will be implemented. Institutional arrangements for implementation should be described. The environmental monitoring plan will describe the impacts to be monitored, and when and where monitoring activities will be carried out, and who will carry them out. The environmental management and monitoring costs should also be described.
F. Public Consultation and Information Disclosure
7. This section will describe the process undertaken to involve the public in subproject design and recommended measures for continuing public participation; summarize major comments received from beneficiaries, local officials, community leaders, NGOs, and others,
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and describe how these comments were addressed; list milestones in public involvement such as dates, attendance, and topics of public meetings; list recipients of this document and other subproject related documents; describe compliance with relevant regulatory requirements for public participation; and summarize other related materials or activities, such as press releases and notifications. This section will provide of summary of information disclosed to date and procedures for future disclosure.
G. Findings and Recommendations
8. This section will include an evaluation of the screening process and recommendation will be provided whether significant environmental impacts exist needing further detailed study or EIA. If there is no need for further study, the IEE itself, which at times may need to be supplemented by a special study in view of limited but significant impacts, becomes the completed environmental assessment for the subproject and no follow-up EIA will be needed. If an EIA is needed, then this section will include a brief terms of reference (TOR) for the needed follow-up EIA, including approximate descriptions of work tasks, professional skills required, time required, and estimated costs. The Bank's Environment Guidelines provides a guide for preparing the TOR for different subprojects.
H. Conclusions
9. This section will discuss the result of the IEE and justification, if any, of the need for additional study or EIA. If an IEE, or an IEE supplemented by a special study, is sufficient for the subproject, then the IEE with the recommended institutional and monitoring program becomes the completed EIA.
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Outline of Summary Initial Environmental Examination (SIEE) Report
A. Introduction (1/2 page)
1. This section will include the purpose of the report, extent of the IEE study and brief description of any special techniques or methods used.
B. Description of the Subproject (1/2 page)
2. This section will include the type of and need for the subproject; and subproject location, size or magnitude, operation, and proposed schedule for implementation.
C. Description of the Environment (2 pages)
3. This section will include the physical and ecological resources, human and economic development, and quality of life values.
D. Forecasting Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures (2-4 pages)
1. This section will identify "no significant impacts" from those with significant adverse impacts and will discuss the appropriate mitigation measures, where necessary.
E. Institutional Requirements and Environmental Monitoring Plan (1 page)
5. This section will describe the impacts to be mitigated, and activities to implement the mitigation measures, including how, when, and where they will be implemented. The environmental monitoring plan will describe the impacts to be monitored, and when and where monitoring activities will be carried out, and who will carry them out.
F. Public Consultation and Disclosure
6. This section will describe the process undertaken to involve the public in subproject design and recommended measures for continuing public participation; summarize major comments received from beneficiaries, local officials, community leaders, NGOs, and others, and describe how these comments were addressed; list milestones in public involvement such as dates, attendance, and topics of public meetings; list recipients of this document and other subproject related documents; describe compliance with relevant regulatory requirements for public participation; and summarize other related materials or activities, such as press releases and notifications. This section will provide of summary of information disclosed to date and procedures for future disclosure.
G. Findings and Recommendations (1-2 pages)
7. This section will include an evaluation of the screening process, and recommendation will be provided whether significant environmental impacts exist needing further detailed study or EIA. If there is no need for further study, the IEE itself, which at times may need to be supplemented by a special study in view of some small significant impacts, becomes the completed EIA for the subproject and no follow-up EIA will be needed. If further additional study is needed, then this section will include a brief terms of reference (TOR) for the needed follow- up EIA, including approximate descriptions of work tasks, professional skills required, time
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required, and estimated costs. The Bank's Environment Guidelines provides a guide for preparing the TOR for different subprojects.
H. Conclusions (1/2 page)
8. This section will discuss the result of the IEE and justification if any of the need for additional study or EIA. If an IEE or an IEE supplemented by a special study is sufficient for the subproject, then the IEE with the recommended institutional requirements and monitoring program become the completed EIA.
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Outline Terms of Reference for Consulting Services for Environmental Assessment
A. Objectives
1. The objective of the services are (a) to conduct environmental impact assessment (EIA)/ initial environmental examination (IEE) of the proposed subproject to identify potential environmental impacts on physical, environmental, ecological, social, cultural and economic resources, and (b) to prepare EIA/IEE report along with environmental management plan. The duration of an EIA study is 5 months and an IEE study is 3 months.
B. Scope of Work
2. The consultant’s scope of work will include the following tasks:
(i) reviewing prevailing government regulations and donor guidelines governing the assessment and management of environmental impacts of road subprojects; (ii) prepare a scoping document for the environmental studies to be carried out under the subproject; (iii) undertake the EIA/IEE study to assess the direct and in-direct environmental impacts of the Subproject such as: (a) ecological impacts (plants and wildlife); (b) soil erosion and desertification; (c) protection of wetland habitat; (d) impact of quarry sites; (e) impact of construction camps on local environment (natural and social); (f) operational traffic safety measures; (g) areas with known archeological value; and (h) potential spills of hazardous or toxic chemicals and an appropriate response plan for the Subproject; (iv) prepare the EIA/IEE report and its summary in accordance with ADB’s Environmental Policy (2002) and related Environmental Assessment Guidelines (2003) as well as ADB's Public Communications Policy (2005); (v) the EIA/IEE study should address all potential direct and indirect environmental impacts of the subproject. The assessment of environmental impact should be presented in the order of subproject cycle: pre-construction, construction and operation. This EIA/IEE report should include the detailed environmental management plan that should be included in the bidding document; Analyze the likely impacts during construction and operation and suggest appropriate mitigation measures; (vi) conduct formal public consultations with affected people (two consultations for EIA and one consultation for IEE). The first consultation aims to gather environmental concerns from affected people and the final consultation aim to share the result of the assessment and the proposed mitigation measures. The list of people attended the consultation, time and locations; subject discussed during consultation should be recorded in systematic manner and should be attached in the EIA/IEE report as an appendix; (vii) solicit and incorporate comments on the draft EIA and summary EIA reports from ADB, MPW, NGOs, civil society, and other stakeholders. Finalize the report to accommodate inputs from all the stakeholders; and (viii) submit the reports to MNP and make presentation as required by MNP to obtain an environmental impact clearance certificate or equivalent.
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C. Organization and Staffing
3. The services are expected to be provided a team comprising one international and one national consultant.
4. The International Environmental Specialist shall have at least 15 years experience and familiarity with all aspects of environmental management and with significant experience in environmental management and monitoring of subprojects, environmental assessment and / or implementation of environmental mitigation measures on construction subprojects. The specialist shall also have experience working in teams of multi-discipline experts and leading a national team of consultants. Candidates with higher degrees in environmental engineering or environmental science or environment management are preferred.
5. The National Specialists shall at least be graduates in environmental science, environmental engineering, geological science, engineering hydrology, biology or related discipline with significant experience in environmental management and monitoring of subprojects, environmental assessment and/or design and implementation of environmental mitigation measures.
D. Budget
6. The estimated cost for preparation of each IEE and EIA are provided in Table 1 and Table 2, respectively. A team of International and national specialists are recommended for these studies. Generally for government funded subprojects, the environmental assessment team would include an environmental specialist, a geologist, and a biologist.
Table 1: Estimated Cost of IEE Preparation for each Subproject Item Unit Quantity Unit Cost ($) Total International Environmental Specialist Person-month 3 25,000 75,000 National Environmental Specialist Person-month 3 3,500 10,500 Land Transportation Months 3 1,250 3,750 Data collection, sample analysis Lump sum 1 4,000 4,000 Communication Months 3 500 1,500 Report production and distribution Lump sum 1 2,000 2,000 Public Consultation Lump sum 1 2,000 2,000 Total 98,750
Table 2: Estimated Cost of EIA Preparation for each Subproject Item Unit Quantity Unit Cost ($) Total International Environmental Specialist Person-month 4 25,000 100,000 National Environmental Specialist Person-month 4 3,500 14,000 National Hydrologist Person-month 2 3,500 7,000 National Geologist Person-month 2 3,500 7,000 National Biologist Person-month 2 3,500 7,000 Land Transportation Months 5 1,250 6,250 Communication Months 5 500 2,500 Data collection and sample analysis Lump sum 1 7,000 7,000 Report production and distribution Lump sum 1 2,000 2,000 Public Consultation Lump sum 2 2,000 4,000 Total 156,750
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E. Supervision
7. The team will work in association with the PMU/ARD, reporting to the subproject director of the PMU/ARD on a day-to-day basis.
F. Outputs
8. The team’s outputs will include: (i) an inception report reviewing the available environmental reports and prepare preliminary assessment of impacts associated with the proposed subproject, (ii) an interim report; (iii) a draft final report, containing a description of subproject environment, anticipated environmental impacts for various alternatives and proposed environmental management, monitoring and mitigation plan, and (iv) final report incorporating comments from ADB and other stakeholders.
Environmental Assessment Report
Initial Environmental Examination Report Project Number. 42145 November 2011
Armenia: Preparing the North-South Road Corridor Development Program (Tranche 1 Roads Improvement Project—Two Road Sections: Yerevan to Ashtarak and Yerevan to Ararat)
Prepared by PADECO Co. Ltd., Japan (Peter Marriott, International Environmental Specialist, and Inessa Gabayan, National Environmental Specialist) for the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Updated by “NSRP” PMU SNCO.
The 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.
CURRENCY EQUIVALENTS (as of 17 November 2011) Currency Unit – Armenian Dram (AMD) AMD1.00 = $ .0026 $1.00 = AMD384.608
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS ADB – Asian Development Bank EIA – Environmental Impact Assessment EM – Environmental Manager (in “NSRP” PMU SNCO) EMP – Environmental Management Plan IEE – Initial Environmental Examination PMC ES – Project Management Consultant Environmental Specialist MFF – Multi-tranche Financing Facility MNP – Ministry of nature Protection MOTC – Ministry of Transport and Communications NE – North East NPE – Nature Protection Expertise “NSRP” PMU SNCO – “North-South road Corridor Investment Program PMU” SNCO PPP – Purchasing Power Parity RA – Republic of Armenia ROW – Right-of-Way SEI – State Environmental Inspectorate SNCO – State Non-Commercial Organization SW – South West
UNITS km – kilometers
NOTE In this report, "$" refers to US dollars.
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.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. INTRODUCTION and SUMMARY
A. Project Background B. IEE Report Outline and Methodology C. Armenian and ADB Environmental Assessment Requirements D. Alternatives to the Proposed Project
II. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
A. Project Location B. Tranche 1 Project
III. ENVIRONMENTAL BASELINE – EXISTING CONDITIONS
A. Physical Resources B. Ecological Resources C. Human Use of Resources D. Archeological resources and Human Quality-of-Life Values (Social and Cultural Resources)
IV. SCREENING FOR POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
A. Environmental Parameters that may be Impacted B. Activities that may Create Environmental Impacts C. Environmental Screening: Potential Impacts D. Significance of Potential Impacts
V. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT PREVENTION and MITIGATION MEASURES
A. Environmental Impact Prevention and Mitigation B. Environmental Management Plan (EMP) C. Responsibilities for Impact Prevention and Mitigation D. Environmental Enhancement Measures E. Environmental Monitoring Program F. Cost of Impact Prevention, Mitigation, Monitoring and Enhancement G. Environmental Management Seminars
VI. PUBLIC CONSULTATION and INFORMATION DISCLOSURE
A. Consultation Process B. Community Involvement to Date. ANNEX 1 to Chapter 6: Questionnaire for Face-to-Face Survey.
VII. SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS, RECOMMENDATIONS
A. Summary B. Environmental Screening – Potential Impacts and their Significance C. Recommendations
REFERENCES
LIST of FIGURES
Figure 1: North-South Roads Corridor Alignment
Figure 2: Ministry of Nature Protection (MNP) Organization Chart
Figure 3: Armenian Laws and Codes Pertinent to Roads and Environment
Figure 4: RA Environmental Clearance Procedure – Flow Diagram
Figure 5: Location of the Two Project Road Sections
Figure 6: Geology of Armenia
Figure 7: Traffic Forecast in number of vehicles per day
Figure 8: Construction Activities that may Create Environmental Impacts
Figure 9: Works Activities and Potential Impacts
Figure 10: Environmental Impact Mitigation – Summary Environmental Management Plan
(EMP)
Figure 11: EMP and Operating Plans – Clauses for Inclusion in Contract Docs.
Figure 12: Monitoring Requirements - Site Preparation and Construction
Figure 13: Environmental Stakeholder Groups Met to Date
Figure 14: Results of Survey of Villagers (94 respondents)
I. IN TRODUCTION
A. Project Background
1. Armenia is a land-locked, mountainous country in the Lesser Caucasus region, bordered by Azerbaijan, Georgia, Iran and Turkey. Being land-locked, and experiencing many border issues, Armenia has been restricted in its ability to develop and to maintain reliable land transport linkages with the outside world particularly to Europe, Iran and Russia and, via Georgia, to the Black Sea.
2. The Armenian Government (RA) has made efforts to strengthen its economic linkages with other economies via land bridges to Central Asia, the Black Sea and Europe and, thus, create increased trade and investment opportunities. The RA formulated the Armenia Transport Strategy 2020 and the North-South Road Corridor Program under it, with a priority to rehabilitate, reconstruct and expand international transport corridors -- in line with the ADB, Armenia…Country Strategy to support regional cooperation and rehabilitate regional road and railway infrastructure.
3. The RA has selected the Bavra-Yerevan-Agarak route as the north-south road corridor to be rehabilitated, reconstructed and expanded and has appointed the “North-South road Corridor Investment Program PMU” SNCO (“NSRP” PMU SNCO) of the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) to co-ordinate the work. The Program is to be funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) under a multi-tranche funding facility (MFF).
4. The MFF is designed to rehabilitate and upgrade national north-south roads to form a new, upgraded and expanded N-S highway. The main objective is to widen the existing 2-lane roads (often in poor condition) to become 4-lane divided roads along existing alignments wherever possible or to construct new alternate 2-lane roads where a single 4-lane road would not be feasible.
5. The Project, to be financed from Tranche 1 under the MFF, is to improve two road sections of the N-S Corridor, namely, the M-1 section of road north from Yerevan to Ashtarak and the M-2 section of road south from Yerevan to Ararat. At Ashtarak and Ararat, the road sections to be improved under the Project join the existing 2-lane roads from Ashtarak north to Gyumri and Bavra and from Ararat south to Goris and Agarak respectively.
6. The location of the existing N-S national roads M-1 and M-2 and the provincial (marz) boundaries is shown on Figure 1.
Figure 1: North-South Roads Corridor Alignment
B. Initial Environmental Examination Report Outline and Methodology
7. This Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) report assesses the environmental settings of the corridors through which the Project road sections pass, identifies the likely impacts that may be created, determines the significance of those impacts, and presents a summary Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and a Monitoring Program.
8. The methodology is based on the ADB, Environmental Policie s (2002) and the ADB, Environmental Assessment Guid elines (2003), the RA IEA requirements, and the joint experience of the International and National environmental consultants involved in the IEE.
9. Background data and information was obtained from published and unpublished sources, e.g., on: climate, topography, geology and soils, natural resources, flora and fauna, agriculture, and socio-economic data.
10. Several site inspections were conducted jointly by the International Environmental Specialist and National Counterpart during June and July 2009. The existing roads were driven and areas of potential environmental significance assessed carefully.
11. Discussions were held with a number of stakeholders and a face-to-face survey was conducted of villagers along one of the roads in the N-S roads corridor in order to determine their perceptions of the level of impact from road works. Data and information obtained have been included where appropriate in the IEE Report.
C. Armenian and ADB Environmental Assessment Requirements
12. This IEE Report is to satisfy both the ADB and RA requirements with regard to environmental protection and management.
1. Armenian Laws Governing Environmental Management and Assessment
13. The RA Ministry of Nature Protection (MNP) is the principal national environmental administrative authority. Within it are several agencies or directorates administering various aspects of the Laws on Environmental Protection, EIA and Protected Natural Areas. See the MNP organization chart in Figure 2.
14. Of importance to EIA and IEE are the two state non-commercial organizations (SNCOs): a) Nature Protection Expertise (NPE) responsible for administering the EIA process, and b) the State Environmental Inspectorate (SEI) responsible for overseeing compliance with environmental laws and regulations
15. The EIA process and the SEI power to inspect are the principal tools used by the MNP to achieve compliance with environmental management principles. As well as the MNP, other ministries and agencies have responsibilities to administer natural resources and environmental matters (e.g., Ministries of Agriculture and Health, the State Committee for Water Systems, etc.). The laws and regulations that may relate to this project are summarized in Figure 3.
16. The RA environmental clearance procedures are set out in Figures 4. The ADB and MOTC will review the IEE Report and pass it to the MNP. The Report will then be made public by the NPE which invites public and government comment on the IEE and the Project before clearing it for implementation by the MOTC.
Figure 4: RA Environmental Clearance Procedure – Flow Diagram
2. ADB Environmental Assessment Requirements
17. The ADB requires that environmental impacts likely to be caused by the Project be identified during the project planning and pre-feasibility stages and prevented or mitigated as much as possible during the construction and operational phases.
18. For environmental management purposes the roads improvement Project assessed here is classified by the ADB as a Category B project. This means that impacts are not expected to be highly significant but nevertheless need to be identified and reported in an Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) report.
19. Public disclosure and opportunities for the public (and affected ministries, agencies and local authorities) to express their concerns about the project form an important part of the environmental assessment process. Therefore, the ADB will post the Summary IEE Report (attached as Appendix 1) on its website.
D. Alternatives to the Proposed Project
20. The ADB, Environmental Assessment Guide lines, 2003 state that alternatives to the project are to be considered and compared with the project in terms of their potential environmental impacts, capital and recurrent costs, suitability under local conditions and the institutional, training and monitoring requirements and that the economic values for alternatives
should be estimated where possible.
21. The Tranche 1 consists from two sections. a. Section 2. Rehabilitation and improvements of road safety measures of the existing M2 Yerevan to Ararat 4-lane road from Km 9+312 to Km 47+ 400.
Works on the existing M2, Yerevan to Ararat (approx. 38 km) 4-lane section consist of:
(i) Yerevan-Artashat section (19 km): reconstruction of median to provide continuous safety barriers and widened carriageway; leveling of existing asphalt and overlay with new cement concrete pavement; construction of additional ramps at three interchanges and rehabilitation of other ramps; installation of road lighting at interchanges; (ii) Artashat-Ararat section (19 km): upgrading of road signs and markings to international standards. b. Section 3. Rehabilitation of the existing M1 Yerevan to Ashtarak road from Km 18+370 to Km 29+773 (Section 3).
Works on the M1, Yerevan to Ashtarak (approx. 12 km) section will reconstruct the existing pavement, improve drainage and shoulders and carry out repairs to existing concrete structures. The new road pavement will be a 26 cm thick concrete slab on crushed stone base course. One existing over-bridge requires demolition and replacement by a new bridge. Repair works are required to eight other existing bridges.
22. There is no other alternative. The economic factors and the benefits from safety improvements support the Project but short of not implementing it, there is no alternative.
II. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
A. Project Location
23. The Project road locations are shown on Figure 6.
Figure 5: Location of the Two Project Road Sections: 4-Lanes on M-1 North of Yerevan, and 4-Lanes on M-2 South of Yerevan
B. Tranche 1 Project
24. The overall MFF objective is to improve existing 4-lane divided roads, widen existing 2- lane roads (often in poor condition) to 4-lane divided roads along the existing alignment wherever possible, or construct alternative 2-lane roads where a single 4-lane road would not be feasible.
25. The two road sections to be improved under the Project are two sections of the North- South Road Corridor to be rehabilitated and expanded under the MFF. The location of the road st sections to be improved under the 1 Tranche of the MFF, and covered in this IEE report, stretch short distances north and south of Yerevan.
26. The 18.4km M-1 4-lane road section north of Yerevan was originally built over the period 1975 to 2004. Its condition is deteriorated and its standard varies so that the road-bed needs improvement to meet the design and construction standards normally associated with international transit routes. The 38.0km M-2, 4-lane road section south of Yerevan was built more recently and is in relatively good condition. Neither road section is adequately drained, the shoulders in many parts are very narrow and not properly paved, there are many randomly located U-turns, signage, road markings and lighting are absent or inadequate, there are insufficient crash barriers and median separation barriers and road structures need to be investigated to determine their structural integrity.
27. A key objective of the Project is to ensure compliance with the road safety and signage requirements under the European Agreement on Main International Traffic Arteries to which the RA is a signatory. A second objective is to ensure the structural integrity of road structures and that drainage is adequate to enhance road-bed longevity. Shoulders, guard rails, road marking, turning lanes and proper drainage will be added as necessary.
28. Road works are planned to be fully confined to the existing ROW and be constructed in sections, one side of the 4-lane carriageway at a time, in order to enable continued use of the existing road during construction. Transport of materials will be confined to the existing 4-lane road, to the one-side being worked on, when possible. The road works on both road sections will include the following:
(i) Constructing proper drainage side-ditches and cross-drainage as required. (ii) Improving the road-shoulders (iii) Improving traffic safety measures: signage, guardrails, traffic markings and turning lanes. (iv) Repairing road structures: over-passes, under-passes, and cut and embankment slopes.
29. Construction is planned to begin at the end of 2011 and be finished by 2013.
III. ENVIRO NMENTAL BASELINE – EXISTING CONDITIONS
A. Ph ysical Resources
30. Both road sections are located in arid areas (annual precipitation less than 400mm) with most precipitation falling as rain in spring and autumn. Humidity is low, varying from a high of 78% in April/May, to a low of 56% in August. The temperature regime is that of the dry continental climate zone with average January temperatures (the coldest month) in the minus 4- 6 degrees C range. In July (the warmest month), the range is 25-38 degrees C.
31. The geology is very mixed but essentially a combination of volcanic basalt, faulted uplift and sedimentary infill overlying lava. The geological origins lie in the Pliocene, Paleocene and Cretaceous periods. To the north of Yerevan the basic geology is of uplifted Late-Quaternary- Pliocene volcanic deposits, mostly basalt and andesites broken down by earthquake and climatic elements into fractured rock and gravelly soil over most of the road corridor with small areas overlain by recent sedimentary material of volcanic origin. To the south the Ararat valley is sedimentary infilling of a basalt basin (see Figure 7).
32. Earthquakes occur from time to time, the last in December 1988, with an epicenter NE of Gyumri near the village of Spitak. The earthquake had little effect on the land and no apparent effect on structures located within or near the Project road sections. There are many small earthquakes and several large earthquakes have occurred in Central Armenia from time to time, th th including early in the 19 and 20 centuries. The seismic factor ranges 8-9 with an earthquake wave acceleration rate: g = 0.4 m/sec.
33. The landscape north of Yerevan along the M-1 Project road corridor is gently rolling uplands 1,060m to 1,270m in elevation. The Kasakh River dissects the landscape in a deep gorge north of Yerevan. There are no other surface streams along the north road section. The landscape south of Yerevan along the M-2 Project road corridor is flat and about 1,100m in elevation. There are no surface streams but the Ararat Valley is a noted artesian basin fed by snow melt and a sub-surface network of aquifers through the fractured lava. The land is irrigated wherever possible by water from aquifers and that carried in large pipes and canals from the mountains to the east.
Figure 6: Geology of Armenia
B. Ecological Resources:
34. The original fauna in the road corridors included steppe and semi-desert species has been largely supplanted. The native flora of arid and semi-desert varieties survive better in the corridor through which the M-1 4-lane north road section passes than the 4-lane M-2 south road section passes. The desiccated natural landscape along the north road corridor remains in patches amongst the mixed urban use land but along the south road corridor the native plants have been largely replaced by domestic plants except on the gravelly and saline bare patches where sage and similar species predominate.
35. There are no original trees along either road section, and few trees of any substance. Within the existing rights-of-way, to which the planned improvement and construction activities will be confined on both road sections, there are only the road itself, medians, limited shoulders, ditches and protective strips. There are no unique areas, no protected areas and no forests or ecological reserves within 500m either side of the right-of-way (ROW).
36. Within the Ararat Marz are the Khosrov Forest Reserve and a RAMSAR site 3-5km to the east of the ROW and a large area of aquaculture ponds in a former natural wetland some 2- 4km to the SW of the ROW.
C. Human Use of Resources
37. The existing 4-lane roads form important features of the existing environmental baselines along both road corridors and present a significant barrier to people trying to cross the road (particularly over north section because of the variable horizontal and vertical alignment). There are no industrial buildings, facilities, commercial operations or residences located within either ROW. No land purchase or resettlement will be necessary, and neither ROW passes close to any villages.
38. The areas near the Yerevan ends of both alignments are semi-urban transition zones where vacant land, industrial activities, run-down and disused industries and small residential areas are intermixed with remnant agricultural uses.
39. Agriculture along the north road section is limited to small orchards and a few hay fields towards Ashtarak. In complete contrast, agriculture predominates along both sides of the alignment in the south. The flat, irrigated land is intensely cropped with vineyards, wheat, orchards and market-gardens wherever irrigation is possible.
40. Energy Sources and Mining Activities. Within the road corridors of both road sections there are no nuclear, hydro or other electrical generating plants and no active mining.
41. Tourism Attractions and Facilities. There are no tourist attractions within or close to the road corridors.
D. Archeological resources and Hu man Quality-of-Life Values (Socioeconomics and Sociocultural Resources)
42. Close to the ROW on the north road section there are two important known archeological sites protected by the RA Department of Historical Monuments (Ministry of
Culture). One site stretches 500m along the edge of the ROW between it the Kasakh River near the bridge over the River and down the valley side to the River itself. The second site is located astride the interchange at Agarak and 200m either side of it. There may also be undiscovered archaeological remains or artifacts below ground (see EMP). There are no known sites within 100m of the ROW to the south. Social conditions are as to be expected where the annual average per capita monetary income is about US $2,000 (lower in rural areas and already 20% lower in 2009 than it was in 2007) but people manage to live above that level in terms of PPP, standard of living, lifestyles and social-support services. Many people in the Project corridors work in Yerevan. But for the marzes (Aragatsotn and Ararat) as a whole, particularly in the south corridor more than 75% of the population is employed in agriculture as owner/operators of as employees. There are many schools in the two provinces concerned. As well as general education schools, there are pre-schools, state and non-state secondary schools and specialist schools in music and sports. Communities are generally well served with health clinics.
IV SCREENING FOR POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
A. Environmental Parameters that may be Impacted
43. The different elements of the environment that maybe impacted or affected by the road rehabilitation and expansion project are clustered under the four aspects of the environment, namely, the impact on the:
(i) Physical Environment: Water, land and air quality (ii) Ecological or Biotic Resources: Migrating mammals (iii) Human Use of Resources: Agriculture, rural roads and transport (iv) Human Quality-of-Life: Health and safety, incomes and employment, archaeological and historical sites.
B. Activities that may Create Environmental Impacts
44. Project Summary. The two road sections to be improved under the Project are parts of the North-South Road Corridor to be rehabilitated and expanded under the MFF. The location of the two road sections to be improved under the 1st Tranche Project are: a) Rehabilitation and improvements of road safety measures of the existing M2 Yerevan to Ararat 4-lane road from Km 9+312 to Km 47+ 400 and b) Rehabilitation of the existing M1 Yerevan to Ashtarak road from Km 18+370 to Km 29+773.
45. Neither road section is adequately drained, the shoulders in many parts are very narrow and not properly paved, there are many randomly located U-turns, signage, road markings and lighting are absent or inadequate, and there are insufficient crash barriers.
46. A key objective of the Project is to ensure compliance with the road safety and signage requirements under the European Agreement on Main International Traffic Arteries to which the RA is a signatory. A second objective is to ensure the structural integrity of road structures and that drainage is adequate to enhance road-bed longevity. Shoulders, guard rails, road marking, turning lanes and proper drainage will be added as necessary.
47. Road works are planned to be fully confined to the existing ROW and be constructed in sections, one side of the 4-lane carriageway at a time, in order to enable continued use of the
existing road during construction. Transport of materials will be confined to the existing 4-lane road, to the one-side being worked on, when possible.
48. Traffic growth for the next 20 years has been estimated based on the projected growth of GDP and an estimate of demand elasticity; little or no change in population is expected over the period. The results of the traffic forecast are shown in Figure 8.
Figure 7 – Traffic Forecast in number of vehicles per day
2012 2015 2020 2025 2032 With Project 13060 17110 24490 36660 65605 Without 13060 15550 22270 33330 59641 Project
49. Eight construction activities with potential to impact on the four different aspects of the environment, including human safety are summarized in Figure 8. Note: The eight construction activities relate only to the north road section (4-lanes of M-1).
50. All eight works-related activities have the potential to create significant impacts on the environment or human safety. However, all impacts and safety issues can be prevented or mitigated by following sound engineering practices and implementing the impact prevention and mitigation measures set out in the Environmental Management Plan (EMP).
51. The operation or use of the improved roads may have some minor impacts on the local environment, air quality and noise levels may change but the level of change will not be significant.
Figure 8: Construction Activities that may Create Environmental Impacts
C. Environmental Screening—Potential Impacts
52. Works Activities. The works activities listed in Figure 8, above, are linked to the main causes of impacts and the elements of the environment that may be impacted in the Environmental Impact Screening Table (Figure 9).
53. The improvement works will impact the baseline environment only via minor impacts. Earthworks, construction activities and quarry and borrow-pit operations may create a number of short-term impacts on air and land quality, health and safety, may cause local flooding (by
diverting runoff) and unearth archaeological sites or artifacts. Other activities that may cause negative impacts are asphalt plant operations, transport of materials, storage and handling of diesel, traffic in and near work sites, and work camp site preparation and operations.
54. Under the Project, there will be no changes to vertical or horizontal alignments. There will be no removal of top-soil, no new cut or fill sections and no bridge construction. Most construction works will be on existing M2 Yerevan to Ararat 4-lane road from Km 9+312 to Km 47+ 400 and on existing M1 Yerevan to Ashtarak road from Km 18+370 to Km 29+773. Works on the existing M2, Yerevan to Ararat (approx. 38 km) 4‐lane section consist of:
(i) Yerevan-Artashat section (19 km): reconstruction of median to provide continuous safety barriers and widened carriageway; leveling of existing asphalt and overlay with new cement concrete pavement; construction of additional ramps at three interchanges and rehabilitation of other ramps; installation of road lighting at interchanges; (ii) Artashat-Ararat section (19 km): upgrading of road signs and markings to international standards.
Rehabilitation of the existing M1 Yerevan to Ashtarak road consist of
(i) Works on the M1, Yerevan to Ashtarak (approx. 12 km) section will reconstruct the existing pavement, improve drainage and shoulders and carry out repairs to existing concrete structures. The new road pavement will be a 26 cm thick concrete slab on crushed stone base course. One existing over-bridge requires demolition and replacement by a new bridge. Repair works are required to eight other existing bridges.
55. Digging may unearth archaeological sites or artifacts. Therefore, care needs to be taken, particularly around the two known archaeological sites near the north road section. Over the south section (Yerevan to Ararat) works will be limited to shoulder, drainage and culvert improvements; little material will be removed or new material placed, and there are no known archaeological sites within 100m of the ROW.
56. The disposal and replacement of up to 300,000m3 of sub-standard material from the existing north road section will require up to 100 truck movements per day over the construction period. With the current average daily traffic (ADT) of 11,680 vehicles including 13% trucks and other large vehicles, the works-truck traffic will add less than 5% to the existing ADT for large vehicles.
57. Operation of the Improved Road. Minor positive impacts will be created. Air quality will improve, due to the smoother travel and better fuel combustion, road accidents will reduce due to the improved: safety barriers, road markings, lighting and the control of U-turns. Air quality and noise levels may be affected but it is unlikely that the level of change will be significant.
58. Noise. A number of elements of the construction activities have the potential to cause noise impacts. Construction noise levels at nearby receptors will vary throughout the construction period depending on the activities carried out, the distance to sensitive receptors, as well as atmospheric conditions. These mitigation measures, that should be included in EMP, will minimize noise impacts:
(i) siting of construction camps away from residential areas; (ii) distancing noisier activities away from receptors where practicable; (iii) scheduling of noisy activities towards the middle of the day and avoiding night time activities; (iv) minimizing the need for heavy vehicles to pass through residential areas by specifying routes along public roads, site access points, and haul routes; (v) installing and maintaining effective exhaust silencing systems on vehicles and equipment; etc.
59. Air Quality. No quantitative air quality monitoring data was available for this assessment. In the last 15 years air quality in the city has improved, largely as a result of the closure of soviet era industries which were significant polluters. The gradual increase in vehicle numbers will lead to some increases in pollutants but this is likely to be offset by the implementation of more stringent emission standards and improvements in engine efficiency.
D. Significance of Potential Impacts
60. Estimating significance involves careful consideration of the nature of each potential impact. Significance is defined by three factors: the magnitude including duration of the impact, the scope or area that may be affected, and the probability or frequency of occurrence. Each potential impact is considered against each of the three factors and assessed in-depth with reference to the environmental baseline and its sensitivity
61. Short-term negative impacts will be created on water, land and air quality (and noise) and health and safety. These environmental elements are most likely to be impacted along the north road section, and rural roads may be damaged by the heavily laden trucks carrying earth, gravel and other works materials—depending on the truck routes taken. The contractor will therefore be required to re-instate pavements along transport routes at the end of the construction period if damage has occurred.
62. The area is arid, hence, there is very little water that may become affected and no improvements are foreseen for the high bridge over the Kasakh River. Therefore, impacts on water quality are expected to be insignificant. In order to prevent any pollution of the river occurring in the event of an accident on the bridge catch drains will be included in the design to ensure that surface flows are directed away from the river.
63. The increase in traffic along existing sections of the carriageway when they are used to divert traffic around the resurfacing works may lead to increased damage to the pavement. The tender and contract documents will require the contractor to maintain the pavement of the carriageways for those sections that are being used for diversions at a standard suitable for the volume of traffic.
64. There are no ecologically important or sensitive environmental elements and few human use factors that may be seriously affected. The most important possible impact issue is the potential to unearth archaeological sites or artifacts (addressed in the EMP).
65. Air quality impacts will be confined to localized dust nuisance. This may be significant
but manageable. Similarly noise may be significant, localized and manageable. Impacts on land quality are expected to be very minor because works will be minor on the south road section and confined to the existing ROW of the north road section. Hence, the likely impact on land is considered to be insignificant and manageable.
66. Health and safety impacts may be significant but preventable at all locations.
67. Actual impacts will be short-term and insignificant. Nevertheless, all impacts have been addressed in the EMP, the implementation of which will prevent or mitigate them.
68. Short-term positive impacts will be created via local employment and spin-off effects and the associated increase in short-term expenditure. Construction will create a number of local jobs to prepare and re-construct earthworks, operate and restore borrow pits and quarries and to transport and apply construction materials. In-turn, households and small businesses will benefit significantly over the short-term.
V. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT PREVENTION and MITIGATION MEASURES
A. Environmental Impact Prevention and Mitigation
69. The environmental impacts that may be created by the project were identified above. They are well known to competent civil engineers and competent construction companies – as are the standard impact prevention and mitigation measures to address them. Nevertheless, in order to ensure understanding of required prevention and mitigation measures, an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and appropriate clauses for inclusion in works contracts are summarized below
70. To further encourage understanding of and compliance with good environmental practices, Environmental Management seminars are proposed
B. Environmental Management Plan (EMP)
71. The EMP summarized in Figure 1 0 and discussed below, is designed to address the impacts identified in Section 4.0 by guiding engineers and contractors in the prevention and mitigation of environmental impacts related to construction activities, to guide monitoring by NSRP SNCO, SEI and the International Environmental Specialist (PMC ES), and to guide NSRP SNCO in the subsequent operation of the road. The Summary EMP:
(i) Links road works activities, their potential impacts and their prevention or mitigation. (ii) Provides the basis for the EMP, to be added to by Contractor statements of intent to comply and the detailed planning documents to be prepared by the contractor prior to commencement of specific, identified activities (iii) Forms the basis for preparing a Monitoring Program for checking on compliance with impact prevention and mitigation measures
1. Contractor to Prepare EMP and Operating Plans for Approval by Engineer
72. Prior to commencing site preparation and construction activities, the Contractor will prepare a Draft EMP and Monitoring Program guided by Chapters 4 and 5 of this report,
particularly the Summary EMP (Figure 10). The Contractor is advised to simply copy the Summary EMP below and prepare the required Operating Plans (referred to in the Summary EMP) and add a Performance Commitment Section including places for the signatures of the Contractor, Engineer and Works Foremen.
73. The Draft EMP will be approved by the Engineer and serve to support consultations in affected communities (village leaders and villagers) and with responsible authorities at the central and provincial (marz) levels. The EMP will be revised as required on receipt of comments from communities and the responsible authorities and then finalized. When finalized as the Approved EMP, the Engineer, Contractor and Works Foremen will sign it testifying to their agreement to comply with it.
74. Consultations with affected communities will help to gain local input/understanding, to guide revisions when warranted, and to support monitoring.
75. The Contractor will prepare suitable Operating Plans as required to guide satisfactory implementation of key activities that may create significant environmental impacts. The overall requirements of each Operating Plan are highlighted in Figure 10 as performance clauses to be incuded in the Main Contract Documents.
Figure 10: Environmental Impact Mitigation – Summary Environmental Management Plan (EMP)
Activities Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures -- for Implementation by Engineers and Contactors 1. Construction: (i) Dust and emissions (ii) Traffic Construction and Related Activities The Contractor will prepare an Environmental Management hazards and safety Plan (EMP) for approval by the Engineer The EMP will be guided by the IEE - prior to commencing site preparation and construction. (i) Earthworks (iii) Work site safety Report, the (ii) Culverts (iv) Social nuisance principles set out in the Summary EMP and the following: (iii) Dispose of (v) Erosion of material piles and (i) Prior to commencing any works, the Contractor will meet with the NSRP SNCO, MNP and Marz surplus material runoff may affect nearby land and authorities. (ii) Areas of disturbed land will be restored or rehabilitated as soon as possible. (iii) Works plants stockpiles will be located away from drainage areas and water-courses. (vi) Works can cause local flooding (iv) Construction and related activities, such as stockpiling, servicing and drainage works will be (vii) Material beyond ROW affects restricted to identified sites. (v) Spoil and materials piles will be graded, stabilized and drained. (vi) nearby land quality and use (viii) Construction material/waste will be kept within the ROW and away from water bodies. (vii) Adequate Noise and vibration (ix) Works may temporary drainage will be provided to prevent local flooding. (viii) Runoff from sites will be prevented unearth archaeological artifacts from entering natural water-courses, for example by using sediment traps, silt aprons and/or straw bales. Also see: Drainage, Slope Stability Erosion and Sediment Control – below. (ix) Water sprinklers will be used to minimize dust in and around work areas. (x) Work along the north road section will be undertaken only during daylight hours. (xi) Workers will use safety equipment (helmets, eye-glasses, ear-plugs - as required) and follow safety procedures (xii) Nearby residents, commercial and industrial land users and communities will be informed of major activities ahead of their implementation and be informed of a clear mechanism for comments and complaints to be communicated to the Engineer. Waste Management The Contractor will prepare a Waste Management Plan for approval by the Engineer prior to commencing work. The Plan will be guided by the following: (i) Solid waste will be separated (it is understood that clean paper, glass and poly-propylene plastics are recyclable in Armenia) and stored for regular collection for correct off-site disposal in a nearby municipal waste facility. (ii) Solid waste disposal sites will be identified in concert with local officials and the MNP prior to any dumping. (iii) Solid waste, waste spoil, waste aggregate/materials and waste material removed from the existing road (e.g., used asphalt-concrete that cannot be crushed and re-used) will be disposed of only in designated sites/locations. (iv) waste oil will be collected and stored in used fuel drums for later safe disposal in a manner and/or at sites approved by the MNP and local authorities. (v) Waste asphalt removed from the existing road (north) will be recycled and re-used in the new road construction as much as possible. All old asphalt that cannot be re-used will be handled as toxic waste and disposed of only at a site approved by MNP and local authorities.
Activities Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures -- for Implementation by Engineers and Contactors 1. Construction: Drainage, Slope Stability Erosion and Sediment Control (i) Control devices/actions will be designed to provide adequate protection for each area, according to slope, drainage (i) Earthworks pattern, likely rainfall, and the construction site. (ii) Culverts (ii) Measures to control runoff, erosion and sedimentation will include: (iii) Dispose of a. Diversion of natural runoff around construction areas surplus b. Use of temporary bunds to divert runoff to temporary or permanent drainage facilities material (iii)Drains, runoff, erosion and sedimentation protective measures will be maintained regularly to ensure adequate capacity. (iv) Temporary diversion drains will be extended beyond the toe line of an embankment to avoid embankment erosion (v) Drainage structures and erosion controls will be monitored and repaired/modified as soon as possible after rain. Noise and Vibration (i) Vehicles and equipment will be fitted with emission controls and silencers to meet national noise control and emission standards and be checked every six-months to ensure compliance. (ii) The asphalt plant and equipment will be operated only in daylight. (iii)Noise control barriers (e.g., solid walls, earth barriers, noise-reflective panels) will be used when necessary to shield houses, schools and hospitals Archaeological Finds When an archaeological site is found, work will be stopped immediately. The Engineer will be notified. Then, the following steps will be taken: Isolate the site. (i) Call the Archaeology and Ethnography Inst., Armenian National Academy of Sciences and the Agency for Protection of Historical and Cultural Monuments to assess the site and determine whether and how it should be preserved (ii) Document and photograph the find and area immediately around it (iii) When advised and as directed by the Archaeologist, excavate and remove the find (iv) After documentation and after being advised that the site is not important, resume construction.
(i) Diesel will be stored in drums or tanks under cover on an impervious pad of concrete or clay (for 2. Store and (i) Diesel and waste oil is toxic to later removal and safe disposal), and the pad will be surrounded by an impervious bund enclosing a catch volume at all living organisms - in the soil handle diesel and least 50% more than the volume of diesel stored. Should clay be used to form the bund and a spill occur, the bund or in surface or ground-water. waste oil will be removed (including vehicle Diesel and waste oil kills all after construction has ceased and disposed of safely (as for impervious pads of clay). (ii) Vehicles and equipment will be maintained in designated areas underlain by an impervious pad and equipment living organisms of concrete or clay servicing) (for later removal and safe disposal) (iii)Waste oil will be collected and stored (in the same way that diesel is stored – see above) in used fuel drums for later safe disposal in approved sites. (iv) Also see Waste Management – above.
Activities Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures -- for Implementation by Engineers and Contactors The Contractor will prepare a Quarry and Borrow-pit Operations and Site Restoration Plan for 3. Operate and (i) The expected impacts are very approval by the The Plan will be guided by the similar to those shown for Engineer - prior to commencement of materials extraction. restore quarries following: and borrow pits Construction, above. (i) Potential quarries and borrow pits will be identified in concert with marzpeteran (provincial) and Yerevan officials. (ii) Quarries and borrow pits will be made safe, have their slopes stabilized, be adequately drained and be restored or rehabilitated as soon as possible after extraction has ceased. The Contractor will prepare a Draft Traffic Management Plan for consideration by the 4. Transport (i) Dust and emissions Engineer and affected materials and communities, traffic authorities and the police before finalization and approval by the (ii) Noise and vibration Engineer -- prior to equipment (iii) Traffic and other safety hazards commencing construction,. The Traffic Management Plan will include: 1. Carefully selected truck (iv) Social impact in affected routes 2. Clear route directions 3. Appropriate warning signs 4. Established speed limits and communities (v) Damage to rural operating times (daylight as much as possible) 5. Provision and maintenance of temporary access roads and other roads for public and nearby communities 6. Controls over the movement of vehicles particularly near communities and schools 7. Use of dust blankets or other means to cover load 8. Provisions to use and using water spray of road surfaces to control dust in and near affected settlements 9. Construction traffic giving way to regular traffic (i) Construction traffic routes will be defined in cooperation with local communities and the police (ii) Vehicles and equipment will be maintained to prevent fuel and oil leaks and to minimize air and noise pollution (iii)Trucks and equipment will be washed in specified areas with suitable runoff protection (as above). (iv) Roads used by construction vehicles will be swept regularly. (v) Vehicle and equipment movements will be restricted to the approved construction zone and the final ROW. (vi) Rural and other roads damaged by construction vehicles and other activities will be repaired or restored The Contractor will prepare an Asphalt Plant Site Development and Operating Plan for (i) Dust and emissions approval by the Engineer - (ii) Noise prior to construction of an asphalt plant. The Plan will take the following into account: (i) The asphalt plant will be located at least 200m away from and downwind from any settlement and (iii) Diesel (used in asphalt) is toxic 200m away from any water body or stream and adjacent to other contractor facilities such as, works to all living organisms – in soil, camps, storage areas and vehicle and equipment maintenance areas. (ii) Electrostatic precipitators surface or ground-water. will be installed or exhaust gases will be released via a set of water baths (iii)Diesel will be stored under cover on a concrete pad surrounded by an impervious bund enclosing a catch volume at least 50% more than the volume of the diesel stored (see above). (iv) Conveyers and hoppers will be covered (v) Waste asphalt and bitumen will be disposed of at a site approved by marz, city and MNP authorities. (vi) The plant will be operated only in daylight hours when located less than 500m from a settlement.
(i) Work force generates significant The Contractor will prepare a Facilities Plan (such as, work camps, concrete mixing plants, 5. Operate/ storage areas and amounts of domestic and other vehicle and equipment maintenance areas), for approval by the Engineer - prior to manage work establishing facilities. The camps and other solid waste and sewage with Facilities Plan will take the following into account: facilities (incl. potential to damage water quality (i) Camp locations will be more than 200m from any water body and sited to prevent damage to store/dispose of and create nuisance (ii) Improper landscape. (ii) Domestic solid waste and hazardous waste disposal. (iii)The need for adequate sewage and solid waste disposal creates health temporary drainage (iv) Sewage will be disposed of in on-site septic tanks, held in sealed tanks for waste) problems and habitat for disease proper disposal or disposed into latrines constructed for the purpose and capped when no longer vectors (iii) Communities may needed. perceive potential or suffer from actual social (v) Wastewater will be disposed of in on-site septic tanks, or be treated to meet the standards for impacts from large male workforce. domestic wastewater discharge and discharged to a pond or natural drainage channel. (vi) Covered (iv) Site runoff affects the physical rubbish bins for solid waste will be placed at suitable locations where solid waste is generated. (vii) water quality and aquatic life in Solid waste will be separated (clean paper, glass and poly-propylene plastics are understood to be rivers and water bodies, flora, recyclable in Armenia) and stored for regular collection for recycling or off-site disposal in a municipal nearby land, and other natural waste facility (also see Waste Management – above) (viii) Work camp sites will be restored to the resources. satisfaction of local officials after use and before abandonment. 6. Work Site (i) Injuries and death of workers, (i) Safety and safety promotion will be of the highest priority. Safety road users, people in and near work-sites, quarries and borrow- (ii) Temporary traffic direction signs, markings, traffic signals and lighting will be installed and pits, and possible sickness of maintained, clearly visible solid barriers will be used to channel traffic, and flagmen will be employed workers and other people because as needed. (iii)Water sprinklers will be used when needed to control dust (iv) Work areas will be kept of sewage and waste disposal. clean and clear of waste and unused material (v) Waste will be disposed of properly (also see Waste Management) (i)Lack of information and The Contractor will prepare a Community Consultation and Communications Plan for approval 7. Public by the Engineer - Consultation understanding by communities and prior to commencing site preparation and construction activities. The Plan will be guided by the affected parties about the planned following: (i) Procedures for communicating with local residents will be developed in advance of works activities and the schedule activities, particularly when noise, vibration or nuisances may be created and/or where local flooding for their implementation may be an existing or potential problem. can lead to frustration and delays in (ii) Community members will be provided with direct access to the SE or representative at a nominated the schedule and sometimes can location and time (particularly important where some residents may not have telephones). (iii) A contribute to accidents. process will be developed whereby community members and other stakeholders may make complaints and be assured of receiving responses within a reasonable period. A record or Log will be maintained of the type and number of complaints received (name, subject, date, response and date of response). (iv) Regular meetings will be held with community representatives to discuss the project, its impacts, etc. The group should include community leaders and people who are well known in the community and who represent different interests, e.g., business people, teachers, priests, older people and those with special interests. (v) Community leaders and local newspapers will be provided with notices on project progress and anticipated issues. (vi) Clear signs will be posted on and around construction sites to provide information about the project. (vii)Employment opportunities will be maximized for local people by employing them as part of the project labour force, and prefabricating or manufacturing construction items locally when possible, e.g., drainage pipes, culverts and for sand, gravel and stone supply.
Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures -- for Implementation by Engineers and Contactors (ii) Chemicals and Hazardous materials The Contractor will prepare a Plan for Handling Chemicals and an Emergency Contingency have the potential to poison people, soil, Response Plan for approval by the Engineer - prior to commencing construction. The Plan will be guided surface and ground water and may by the following: cause death or severe damage to the (i) Procedures will be developed and implemented to ensure safe handling and storage of health of people and all living animals and hazardous substances, e.g., diesel, waste oil, paints. Material safety data sheets, plants. emergency response procedures and clean-up materials will be readily available on site. Copies of material data sheets will also be held by the Resident and Engineers. (ii) An Emergency Contingency Response Plan (ECRP) will be in place to handle spills and ensure that clean-up materials are readily available on-site to clean-up spills that may occur. The ECRP will, at a minimum: 1. Identify the positions and persons responsible for emergency response action (e.g., the Engineer, RE, Works Foremen) 2. Specify the leader of the Emergency Response Team (ERT) and Alternate 3. Include an organizational diagram specifying the positions and responsible persons within the ERT, their work and home phone numbers, and the reporting lines among them. 4. Ensure that clean-up chemicals and materials to absorb and remove spilt substances are available and stored undercover in locked facilities located at works facility sites. 5. Ensure that the responsible persons receive training in emergency response. (iii) Hazard and risk management training will be provided to each Environmental Management Officer (appointed by the Contractor) and all personnel handling chemicals and hazardous substances. (iv) Spilled material will be collected and disposed of in a site approved by MNP and local authorities. The spilled area will be cleaned in a timely manner to prevent potential contamination of surface and ground water and soil. (v) Only minimal chemicals, hazardous substances and fuel will be stored on-site, within an enclosed and covered secure area that has an impervious floor and impervious bund around it (with capacity at least 150% of the capacity of the largest tank). The storage area will be located away from water-courses and danger areas, e.g., facilities site.
76. The requirements for operating plans to be prepared by the Contractor are set out in the EMP Summary (Figure 10, above) and listed in Figure 11 as clauses to be included in the Main Contract Document. Operating Plans will be approved by the Engineer prior to undertaking any associated action, and be included as Annexes to the EMP.
Figure 11: EMP and Operating Plans - Clauses for Inclusion in Contract Documents
EMP and EMP and Operating Plans (Clauses to be included in Responsibility Annexes the Contract Document - highlighted) to it EMP The Contractor will, prior to commencing site preparation Contractor + and construction activities, prepare: An Environmental Engineer Management Plan (EMP) for approval by the Engineer. The EMP will be guided by Chapters 4 and 5 of this IEE Report, particularly the Summary EMP (Figure 17) and include, as Annexes, the Operating Plans listed below (all to be approved by the Engineer).
ANNEX A A Waste Management Plan to guide the handling of materials for Contractor + recycling (glass, plastic and clean paper), domestic waste, sewage, and Engineer hazardous waste. Contractor + . ANNEX B A Quarry and Borrow-pit Operations and Site Restoration Plan Engineer Contractor +
ANNEX C A Traffic Management Plan Engineer Contractor +
ANNEX.D An Asphalt Plant Site Development and Operating Plan Engineer ANNEX.E A Facilities Plan (covering: work camps, concrete mixing plants, Contractor + storage areas and vehicle and equipment maintenance areas) Engineer ANNEX.F A Plan for Handling Chemicals and Hazardous Materials and an Contractor + Emergency Contingency Response Plan Engineer Contractor +
ANNEX.G A Community Consultation and Communications Plan Engineer
77. The Final EMP and the Operating Plans attached as Annexes “A” through “G” to the EMP will, after approval by the Engineer, become the Environmental Management Package and form part of the Contract Package with all of the requirements for commitment and performance as applied to engineering and financial performance.
78. The full contents of the EMP will be as follows: (i) Statement of Commitment and Signature Block; (ii) Summary of Potential Impacts; (iii) Planned Mitigation Measures; (iv) Planned Environmental Monitoring and Schedule for Monitoring; (v) Planned Public Consultation Process; (vi) Responsibilities for Implementing Mitigation Measures and Monitoring; (vii) Responsibilities for Reporting and Review; (viii) Environmental staff and activities/inputs of various government agencies; (ix) Environmentally Responsible Procurement Plan; (x) Operating Plans – Summary; and (xi) Annexes: Operating Plans: A through G.
C. Responsibilities for Impact Prevention and Mitigation
79. The Contractor will:
(i) Prepare the Draft EMP (ii) Present the Draft EMP to the PMC ES and EM for their review and comment before submitting it to the Engineer for approval and before discussing it with central and provincial government authorities, village leaders and villagers in affected communities. (iii) After the above discussions, revise the EMP as appropriate (iv) Prepare the Operating Plans specified in the Summary EMP and include these as Annexes to the EMP (v) During works ensure that environmental management issues are checked regularly in order to ensure compliance with the Contract Specifications and the EMP (vi) Report as specified to the Engineer.
80. The NSRP SNCO will, before accepting any Contractor bid to undertake the construction of any part of the Project road, check to ensure that the Contract Price explicitly identifies cost commitment to undertake the environmental protection measures specified in the EMP and the Environmental Enhancement Measures specified above
81. Before completion of construction and releasing sections of road from Contractor to Government control, the NSRP SNCO will:
(i) Ensure that the design and construction standards meet the required standards including road markings, signage and safety devices and the posted travel speeds accord with international standards (ii) Formulate and apply an Emergency Contingency Plan (ECP) to cope with accident events including potential spills of hazardous and other substances within the ROW and on adjacent land or streams nearby (iii) To Report to the MOTC and ADB as required
82. The NSRP SNCO Environmental Manager (EM) will:
(i) Participate with the PMC ES to review the Draft EMP and recommend improvements as appropriate (ii) Ensure that NSRP SNCO becomes informed of any important environmental issues (iii) Check on environmental performance weekly and submit Monthly Environmental Reports to the Engineer for incorporation into Works Monthly Reports
83. The Project Management Consultant (PMC) environmental specialist (PMC ES) will:
(i) Review the Draft EMP prepared by the Contractor and, with the EM, suggest revisions before the Contractor submits it to the Engineer and discussions with villagers (ii) Assist the Contractor to prepare the Final EMP (part of the Contract Package) (iii) Review the Monthly Environmental Reports and prepare a consolidated Environmental Management Report every 3-months (iv) Visit works and associated sites as required and advise the EM and Engineer on environmental management issues as these may arise (v) Prepare and deliver an Environmental Awareness Raising and Training Program.
D. Environmental Enhancement Measures
84. The only environmental enhancement measures will be:
(i) General landscaping after completion of the road improvements on the 4-lane, M1, north road section
E. Environmental Monitoring Program
85. From the ADB, Environmental Assessment Guidelines, (2003) and experience with other roads projects, key features of a useful monitoring program include: realistic sampling program (temporal and spatial), sampling methods relevant to source, ability to collect quality data, comparability of data over time, cost-effectiveness, ease of interpretation reporting simplicity (for internal management and external checking), allowance for, and response to, third parties, and suitability for public presentation and understanding
86. The NSRP SNCO wishes to monitor performance of its contractors during construction of the proposed road works in order to ensure an adequate level of compliance with environmental impact mitigation measures and employs its own staff to undertake the necessary tasks. An outside, Project Management Consultant (PMC) environmental specialist (PMC ES) will be appointed to work alongside the NSRP SNCO Environmental Manager (EM) and appointed community members from affected communities. 87. Monitoring requirements and responsibilities are summarized in Figure 12.
F. Cost of Impact Prevention, Mitigation, Monitoring and Enhancement
88. The cost of environmental impact prevention, mitigation and monitoring for the two, 4- lane road sections: the M-1 north section – Yerevan to Ashtarak and the M-2 south section – Yerevan to Ararat, will be minimal. The costs relate only to the actions required of the engineers and contractors in the normal execution of the Project and the incremental cost of environmental monitoring by the EM and the PMC ES
89. The impact prevention and mitigation measures recommended here are normal, standard, internationally recognized impact prevention and mitigation measures and form part of the Works Contract Price – the engineering and construction cost package
90. Environmental monitoring to ensure compliance will be conducted by the EM within the NSRP SNCO, the State Environmental Inspectorate (SEI) and be checked on periodically by an International Environmental Specialist (PMC ES). Thus the cost will included the normal salary of the EM and PMC ES. PMC environmental specialist salary will be included in the PMC budget.
Figure 12: Monitoring Requirements - Site Preparation and Construction
Locations for Monitoring Frequency of Responsibility for Parameters to be Monitored Refer to EMP and Data Sources Monitoring Monitoring
Work Sites: Dust and use of water spray Slope protection and drainage Runoff control Work sites: Visual inspection Weekly Quarterly EM, PMC ES Drainage maintenance Substances/materials ----- in water courses
Work site safety: Signage Barriers Site Work sites: Visual inspection Weekly Quarterly EM, PMC ES cleanliness Use of safety equipment ----
Traffic and Road safety: Signage, Barriers, Work sites: Visual inspection Routes Material on the road Condition of -Traffic routes --Vehicle Weekly Quarterly ---- EM, PMC ES rural roads Vehicle & equipment emissions Maintenance logs Quarterly Monthly control Incidents and complaints Complaints Log
Work camps: Solid waste management Works camps: Visual Weekly Quarterly -- Sewage management Social issues Site inspection --Complaints Log EM, PMC ES Monthly Monthly restoration -
Facilities areas: Storage of diesel and waste Facilities areas: Visual Weekly Quarterly - EM, PMC ES oil Material/substance sheets Site restoration inspection --- Monthly Monthly
Quarries and borrow pits: Slope Quarries and borrow pits: Weekly Quarterly --- management Runoff management Use of EM, PMC ES Visual inspection ---- Monthly safety equipment Site restoration
Asphalt plants: Diesel storage and use Asphalt plants: Visual Weekly Quarterly -- EM, PMC ES management Dust emission control inspection --
Waste management and disposal: Solid waste storage and transport Solid waste Work sites, Works camps, disposal sites Asphalt recycling, re-use and disposal sites: Visual Weekly Quarterly ---- EM, PMC ES disposal Sewage management and disposal inspection ----- Waste oil disposal
Engineer Log Checking with Coordination with MNP and Local authorities Monthly EM MNP Complaints Complaints Log Monthly EM Consultation and Information sharing with Engineer Log Minutes of Quarterly EM communities meetings
5.7 Environmental Management Seminars
91. It is important to ensure that NSRP SNCO officers, Area Engineers, Resident Engineers, Contractors, Contract Supervisors and Foremen, understand the basics of sound environmental management and the measures required to prevent and/or reduce environmental impacts. To facilitate such understanding, a set of five seminars will be designed for delivery to concerned parties
92. The purpose of the seminars is to ensure that all managers and supervisors involved in the final design and construction of the road have basic and similar understanding of environmental issues and their management, and how to prevent or reduce the impacts likely to be created by the project particularly during the construction phase
93. The seminars will be based on the contents of this report, particularly the EMP and Monitoring Program and follow closely the requirements set out in the ADB, Environmental Assessment Guidelines, 2003
94. Delivery of five Environmental Management seminars, their locations and participants will be decided by the PMC ES and EM, however, the timing of seminar delivery will be as set out below. Five Environmental Management seminars will be delivered as follows, during the:
(i) 1 -- Detailed Project Design Phase (ii) 2 -- Preparation for construction (iii) 3 -- First month of Project activities (iv) 4 – Months 3-4 of construction activities (v) 5 – Month 6-7 of construction activities.
VI. PUBLIC CONSULTATION and INFORMATION DISCLOSURE
A. Consultation Process
95. The IEE Report will be made available publically in Armenia by the RA MOTC and MNP and provided to affected communities.
96. The Summary IEE report (SIEE) will be placed on the ADB Website in August 2009. It forms Appendix 1 to this IEE Report.
97. Meetings were held with representatives of a number of stakeholder groups and will be ongoing with the same and different stakeholder groups during the preparation of other (future) projects planned to be funded under the MFF
98. Comments obtained to date relate to the MFF Program as a whole rather than to this st specific 1 Tranche Project. Most concern was expressed with regard to possible future tranches in the south of Armenia rich in biodiversity. Little concern was expressed with regard to any intended road works in the central part of the country, particularly along existing road alignments. The most frequently expressed concern was that the EMP should be followed and enforced
99. Meetings, guided by a discussion guide were held during June and July 2009.with representatives of the stakeholder groups listed in Figure 13.
B. Community Involvement to date:
100. Village leaders completed the Environmental Questionnaire that was included with the social and demographic questionnaire when provided to communities by the Resettlement Survey Team in July 2009. Results from this survey were not available at the time of preparing this IEE report (prepared late July 2009 so that the Summary IEE could be placed on the ADB Website in August).
101. Face-to-face interviews were held by the Environmental Impact Assessment Team with 94 villagers from 3 different communities: Agarak, Udjan and Kosh (located in Aragatsotn Marz but not along the M-1, 4-lane north road section of this IEE report). As stated above, discussions to date have related to the MFF Program as a whole, nevertheless, the three selected villages are located within 15km of the 4-lane section of the M-1 chosen for improvement and there are no villages located along the Project road sections.
102. The Environmental Questionnaire used in the survey is attached as ANNEX 1 to this Chapter. Interviews were conducted in the Armenian language. The essential features of the proposed road improvement program were described to respondents, the expected benefits and negative impacts outlined and questions asked via closed questions related to the existing road and respondent perceptions of likely environmental impacts.
Figure 13: Environmental Stakeholder Groups Met to Date
Stakeholders Stakeholder Groups
Government Ministry of Transport and Communication Ministry of Nature Protection ‐ Bioresources Management Agency ‐Nature Protection Expertise (NPE) ‐State Environmental Inspectorate (SEI) Ministry of Culture ‐Agency for Protection of Historical and Cultural Monuments
Regional Aragatsotn Shirak administrations (marzpetaran) International ADB WWF World Bank USAID UNDP and GEF US Millennium organizations Challenge Account – Armenia
Village leaders and Community leaders: Leaders in 14 selected communities completed the villagers Environmental Questionnaire Villagers: 94 villagers in 3 different communities were interviewed and the Environmental Questionnaire filled out by the interviewer NGO NGO Interest & Reason Selected
National NGOs Inst. Ethnography and Archaeological Research and Archaeology Armenian Documentation Ecological issues, Ecological Assoc. assessment of projects, E education Environmental Survival and research Biodiversity, Aarhuus Centre of Gyumri particularly of fish species Facilitation of public participation in environmental issues
103. Results from the face-to-face survey are shown by number and percentage of responses in Figure 14.
Figure 14: Results of Survey of Villagers (94 respondents) Number and Percentage of Responses
Responses: > No. % No. % 1 Do you use the existing road? Yes 89 95 No 5 5 2 Please comment on problems It is too narrow Yes 66 81 No 15 19 with the existing road: It is dangerous Yes 76 86 No 12 14 It is very poor quality Yes 31 48 No 33 52 No Problems Yes 77 95 No 4 5 3 Do you think that the road needs to be repaired & improved? Yes 83 99 No 1 1 4 Do you think that a 4-lane road is needed? Yes 75 87 No 11 13 5 Consider the environment near the existing road and the works Yes 35 40 No 53 60 to expand it. Do you think that impacts may be serious?
6 What you think about each of the following impacts from road construction? Please circle one number of the scale below. 1 indicates little concern, 5 most concern. 1 2 3 4 5 Results: > No. % No. % No. % No. % No. % 6.1 Noise 49 56 13 15 18 21 5 6 3 2 6.2 Water Pollution 70 79 10 11 5 6 3 3 1 1 6.3 Air Pollution 35 38 18 19 23 25 9 10 8 9 6.4 Construction Traffic 21 23 12 13 24 27 20 22 13 14 6.5 Workers or Work-Force 14 15 7 8 24 26 24 26 24 26 6.6 Disturbance of Land 40 43 6 6 17 18 17 18 21 22 6.7 Other Impact – Please describe: This question was poorly and hardly answered. Respondents provided comments under question 7. 7 Please make any comments to guide the works activities:
Note: The 94 respondents did not answer all questions. The average response factor for the 8 yes/no questions was approximately 94%; for the 7 perception questions it was approximately 97%. The percentages shown in the table above refer to the percentages of the actual responses rather than the total number of respondents in the survey. All numbers are rounded to the nearest whole number
104. Figure 15 shows that 95% of respondents used the existing 2-lane road, 81% considered it to be narrow, and 86% considered it to be dangerous but, on the other hand, 52% of respondents considered that the road was adequate
105. When asked to rate the level of concern about some of the standard impacts from road construction, the respondents indicated that the greatest concerns were with potential issues related to the work force (52% - i.e., 4 or 5 on the semantic differential scale), and disturbance of land (40%). Another serious concern related to potential impacts from construction traffic (36%).
106. At the other end of the scale, of very little concern were the potential impacts from water pollution (90% expressed little concern) and noise (71%), followed by potential air pollution, 57% of respondents expressing little concern
ANNEX 1 to Chapter 6 Environmental Questionnaire: Perceptions of Likely Impacts and Related Issues
VII. SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS
A. Summary
107. A priority of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) funded multi-tranche funding facility (MFF) Program is to rehabilitate, reconstruct and expand international transport corridors including the Project road sections which form part of the Armenia north-south road corridor. st The two road sections to be improved under the 1 Tranche Project of the MFF are the 4-lane divided roads of the M-1, north from Yerevan to Ashtarak, and of the M-2, south from Yerevan to Ararat. The Government of Armenia (RA) has appointed the “North-South road Corridor Investment Program PMU” SNCO (NSRP SNCO) of the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) to co-ordinate the work.
108. The RA Ministry of Nature Protection (MNP) administers Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), via the Nature Protection Expertise (NPE) organization, and compliance with environmental laws and regulations, via the State Environmental Inspectorate (SEI).
109. Both the ADB and the RA require the likely environmental impacts that may be caused by a project be identified during the project planning and pre-feasibility stages and prevented or mitigated as much as possible during construction and operations. The Project is classified by the ADB (for environmental management purposes) as a Category B project. This means that impacts are not expected to be significant but nevertheless need to be identified and reported in an IEE report. The RA does not differentiate between IEE and EIA
110. The ADB and MOTC will review the IEE Report before passing it to the MNP. The Report will then be made public by the MNP and MOTC before the NPE clears the Project for implementation by the MOTC. The ADB will post the Summary IEE Report on its website
111. The two road sections to be improved under the Project are existing 4-lane divided roads 112. Road works are to be fully confined to the existing rights-of way (ROW) and be constructed in sections, one side of the 4-lane carriageway at a time, in order to enable continued use of the existing road during construction
113. There will be no changes to vertical or horizontal alignments. There will be no removal of top-soil, no new cut or fill sections and no bridge construction
114. Both road sections are located in arid areas. The landscape over the M-1 north road section is gently rolling uplands; the landscape over the M-2 south road section is flat 115. The native flora and fauna of semi-desert varieties has been largely replaced along the road corridor by domestic plants and animals. There are no original trees along either road section, and few trees of any substance. There are no unique areas, no protected areas and no forests or ecological reserves but, along the M-1 north road section there are two known archeological sites and there may be undiscovered archaeological remains or artifacts below ground. There are no known similar sites within 100m of the ROW on the south road section
B. Environmental Screening - Potential Impacts and their Significance
116. Improvement of the road sections will impact the baseline environment only via minor, short-term impacts. Operation of the Completed Road will create minor positive impacts via air quality improvements (due to the smoother travel and better fuel combustion) and reduced road accidents (due to the improved safety barriers, road markings, lighting and the control of U- turns). 117. The area is arid, hence, there is very little water that may become affected and no improvements are foreseen for the high bridge over the Yeraskh River. Therefore, impacts on water quality are expected to be insignificant. There are no ecologically important or sensitive environmental elements and few human use factors that may be significantly affected. The most important possible impact issue is the potential to unearth archaeological sites or artifacts 118. All negative impacts will be localized, short-term, insignificant and preventable or mitigable including: air quality impacts from dust nuisance, noise nuisance and impacts on land, which will be confined to the existing ROW, quarry and borrow-pit sites 119. Health and safety impacts may be significant but preventable at all locations. 120. Potential negative impacts have been addressed in the EMP, the implementation of which will prevent or mitigate them 121. Positive impacts will be created via short-term jobs, local employment and the associated increase in short-term expenditure. Households and businesses will benefit significantly over the short-term.
C. Recommendations
122. With reference to the IEE Report Chapters 5 and 6, it is recommended that:
(i) The clauses set out in the Summary EMP and the IEE Report be included in the Contract Documents (ii) The Contractor prepare an EMP and the operating plans specified in the IEE Report (iii) The NSRP SNCO and SEI ensure that the impact prevention and mitigation measures specified in the IEE, EMP and operating plans be implemented (iv) Environmental Management Seminars be developed and delivered by the International Environmental Specialist (v) Environmental monitoring be carried out as specified in the EMP and Monitoring Program (vi) NSRP SNCO ensure that the completed road meets the requirements under the European Agreement on Main International Traffic Arteries to which the RA is a signatory
REFERENCES
APPENDIX 1: SUMMARY INITIAL ENVIRONMENTAL EXAMINATION (SIEE)
1. Multi-Tranche Funding Facility (MFF). Under the Armenia Transport Strategy 2020, the Government of Armenia (RA) formulated the North-South Road Corridor Program in line with the ADB, Armenia…Country Strategy, to support regional cooperation and revitalize road and railway infrastructure. A priority is to rehabilitate, reconstruct and expand the Bavra- Yerevan-Agarak north-south road corridor. A multi-tranche funding facility (MFF) funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has been set up to assist Armenia. The RA has appointed the “North-South road Corridor Investment Program PMU” SNCO (NSRP SNCO) of the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) to co-ordinate the work
2. The MFF objective is to improve existing 4-lane divided roads, widen existing 2-lane roads (often in poor condition) to 4-lane divided roads along existing alignments wherever possible, or to construct alternate 2-lane roads where a single 4-lane road would not be feasible.
st 3. Project Summary. The Project is to improve two sections of road under the 1 Tranche of the MFF, namely the 4-lane road section of the M-1 Highway from Yerevan north to Ashtarak and of the M-2 highway from Yerevan south to Ararat
4. Environmental Assessment Requirement. Among other environmental laws, the RA Ministry of Nature Protection (MNP) administers: a) the environmental impact assessment (EIA) process via the Nature Protection Expertise (NPE) organization, and b) compliance with environmental laws and regulations via the State Environmental Inspectorate (SEI)
5. Both the ADB and the RA require the environmental impacts that may be caused by a project to be identified during the project planning and pre-feasibility stages and prevented or mitigated as much as possible during construction and operations. The Project is classified by the Bank (for environmental management purposes) as a Category B project. This means that impacts are not expected to be significant but nevertheless need to be identified and reported in an IEE report.
7. The ADB and MOTC will review the IEE Report before passing it to the MNP. The Report will then be made public by the MNP and MOTC before the NPE clears the Project for implementation by the MOTC. The ADB will post the Summary IEE Report on its website
st 8. Project Description. The road sections to be improved under this 1 Tranche Project are two sections of the North-South Road Corridor included for rehabilitation or expansion under the MFF. The two road sections to be improved stretch short distances north and south of Yerevan
9. The 18.4km M-1, 4-lane road section north of Yerevan was originally built over the period 1975 to 2004. Its condition is deteriorated and its standard varies so that the road-bed needs improvement to meet the design and construction standards normally associated with international transit routes. The 38.0km M-2, 4-lane road section south of Yerevan was built more recently and is in relatively good condition. Neither road section is adequately drained, the shoulders in many parts are very narrow and not properly paved, there are many randomly located U-turns, signage, road markings and lighting are absent or inadequate, there are
insufficient crash barriers and median separation barriers and road structures need to be investigated to determine their structural integrity
10. A key objective of the Project is to ensure compliance with the road safety and signage requirements under the European Agreement on Main International Traffic Arteries (AGR) to which the RA is a signatory.
11. Road works are planned to be fully confined to the existing ROW and be constructed in sections, one side of the 4-lane carriageway at a time, in order to enable continued use of the existing road during construction. Transport of materials will be confined to the existing 4-lane road, to the one-side being worked on. The road works on both road sections will include the following:
• reconstruction of median to provide continuous safety barriers and widened carriageway;
• leveling of existing asphalt and overlay with new cement concrete pavement;
• construction of additional ramps at three interchanges and rehabilitation of other ramps;
• installation of road lighting at interchanges;
• upgrading of road signs and markings to international standards.
• reconstruction the existing pavement,
• improvement drainage and shoulders, and
• carrying out repairs to existing concrete structures.
12. Construction is planned to begin at the end of 2011 and be finished by 2013.
13. Physical Resources. Both road sections are located in arid areas (annual precipitation less than 400mm) but the environmental settings are different. The landscape north of Yerevan along the M-1 Project road corridor is gently rolling uplands 1,060m to 1,270m in elevation. The Kasakh River dissects the landscape in a deep gorge north of Yerevan. There are no other surface streams along the north road section. The landscape south of Yerevan along the M-2 Project road corridor is flat and about 1,100m in elevation. There are no surface streams but the Ararat Valley is a noted artesian basin fed by snow melt and a sub-surface network of aquifers through the fractured lava. The land is irrigated wherever possible
14. Ecological Resources. The native flora and fauna of semi-desert and steppe varieties has been largely replaced along the road corridor by domestic plants and animals. There are no unique areas, no protected areas and no forests or ecological reserves within several kilometers of the ROW
15. Human Use of Resou rces. The existing 4-lane roads form an important feature of the existing environmental baselines along both road corridors and present a significant barrier to people trying to cross the road. There are no industrial buildings, facilities, commercial
operations or residences located within either ROW. No land purchase or resettlement will be necessary
16. Agriculture along the north road section is limited to small orchards and a few hay fields towards Ashtarak. In complete contrast, agriculture predominates along both sides of the alignment in the south. The flat, irrigated land is intensely cropped with vineyards, wheat, orchards and market-gardens wherever irrigation is possible
17. Archeological resources. Close to the ROW on the north road section there are two known archeological sites protected by the RA Department of Historical Monuments (Ministry of Culture). One site stretches 500m along the edge of the ROW between it the Kasakh River near the bridge over the River and down the valley side to the River itself
18. The second site is located astride the interchange at Agarak. There may also be undiscovered archaeological remains or artifacts below ground. There are no known sites within 100m of the ROW to the south
19. Social conditions are as to be expected where the annual average per capita monetary income is about US $2,000 (lower in rural areas) but people manage to live above that level in terms of PPP, standard of living, lifestyles and social-support services. Many people in the Project corridors work in Yerevan and/or agriculture, particularly in the south corridor
20. Environmental Screening - Potential Impacts . Improvement of both road sections will impact the baseline environment only via minor, short-term incremental impacts. Earthworks, construction activities and quarry and borrow-pit operations may create a number of short-term impacts on air and land quality, health and safety, may cause local flooding (by diverting runoff) and unearth archaeological sites or artifacts. Other activities most likely to cause negative impacts are asphalt plant operations, transport of materials, storage and handling of diesel, traffic in and near work sites, and work camp site preparation and operations.
21. Under the Project, there will be no changes to vertical or horizontal alignments. There will be no removal of top-soil, no new cut or fill sections and no bridge construction. Most construction works will be confined to the north section, the 18.4km 4-lane road section from Yerevan to Ashtarak, where the road-bed itself will be improved by removing the old asphalt, digging out and removing sub-standard road-bed materials and replacing both with new material. Digging may unearth archaeological sites or artifacts. Over the south section (Yerevan to Ararat) works will be limited to shoulder, drainage and culvert improvements.
3 22. The disposal and replacement of up to 300,000m of sub-standard material from the existing north road section will require up to 100 truck movements per day over the construction period. With the current ADT of 11,680 vehicles including 13% trucks and other large vehicles, the works-truck traffic will add less than 5% to the existing ADT for large vehicles.
23. Operation/Use of the Completed Road will create minor positive impacts. Air quality will improve, due to the smoother travel and better fuel combustion, road accidents will reduce due to the improved: safety barriers, road markings, lighting and the control of U-turns
24. Significance of Potential Impacts: Water, land and air quality (and noise) and health and safety are most likely to be impacted along the north road section, and rural roads may be
damaged depending on the selected truck routes. Each potential impact has been assessed in- depth with reference to the environmental baseline and its sensitivity
25. The area is arid, hence, there is very little water that may become affected and no improvements are foreseen for the high bridge over the Yeraskh River. Therefore, impacts on water quality are expected to be insignificant. There are no ecologically important or sensitive environmental elements and few human use factors that may be affected. The most important possible impact issue is the potential to unearth archaeological sites or artifacts -- addressed in the EMP
26. Air quality impacts will be confined to localized dust nuisance. This may be significant but manageable. Similarly noise may be significant, localized and manageable. Impacts on land quality are expected to be very minor because works will be minor on the south road section and confined to the existing ROW of the north road section. Hence, the likely impact on land is considered to be insignificant and manageable.
27. Health and safety impacts may be significant but preventable at all locations.
28. While actual impacts will be short-term and expected to be insignificant, all have been addressed in the EMP, the implementation of which will prevent or mitigate them
29. Short-term positive impacts will be created via short-term jobs, local employment and spin-off effects associated with the increase in short-term expenditure. In-turn, households and small businesses will benefit significantly over the short-term
30. Environmental Impact Prevention and Mitigation. The identified environmental impacts are well known to competent civil engineers and competent construction companies – as are the impact prevention and mitigation measures to address them. Nevertheless, in order to ensure understanding of required prevention and mitigation measures, an EMP and appropriate clauses for inclusion in works contracts have been prepared and seminars on environmental management will be held for engineers, the Contractor, works supervisors and works foremen.
31. The EMP is designed to guide engineers and contractors to prevent or mitigate environmental impacts, to guide monitoring by NSRP SNCO, the SEI, and the International Environmental Specialist (PMC ES). Prior to commencing site preparation and construction activities, the Contractor will prepare a Draft EMP and Monitoring Program guided by the IEE Report, particularly the Summary EMP set out below. The Draft EMP will be approved by the Engineer and support consultations with responsible authorities at central, regional and local levels. The EMP will be revised as required on receipt of comments from stakeholders and the responsible authorities and then finalized. The Contractor will also prepare operating plans to be attached to the EMP. When finalized as the Approved EMP, the Engineer, Contractor and Works Foremen will sign it testifying to their agreement to comply with it. The EMP and operating plans will become part of the Main Contract Package
32. Environmental Monitoring Program. Monitoring requirements and the responsibilities for monitoring are summarized below. The cost of environmental impact prevention, mitigation and monitoring for the two road sections will be minimal as they relate only to the actions required by the engineers and contractors in the normal execution of the Project and the incremental cost of environmental monitoring by the EM and the PMC ES.
33. The impact prevention and mitigation measures in the EMP are normal, standard, and widely recognized and will form part of the engineering and construction cost package. Environmental monitoring to ensure compliance will be conducted by the EM within the NSRP SNCO, the State Environmental Inspectorate (SEI) and be checked on periodically by the PMC ES. Thus the cost will be included the normal salary of the EM, the normal budget of the SEI, and PMC ES (PMC environmental specialist salary will be included in the PMC budget). The costs of providing pedestrian over-passes and limited landscaping of the north road section are covered in the Works Contract Price
34. Public Consultation and Information Disclosure. This Summary IEE report placed on the ADB Website will be made available publically in Armenia by the RA MOTC and MNP, and provided to affected communities
35. Meetings with representatives of stakeholder groups obtained comments on the MFF program as a whole rather than this specific 1st Tranche project. Most concern was expressed with regard to possible future tranches in the south of Armenia rich in biodiversity. Little concern was expressed with regard to any intended road works in the central part of the country, particularly along existing road alignments. The most frequently expressed concern was that the EMP should be followed and enforced
36. Environmental Screening - Poten tial Impacts and their Significance. Improvement of the road sections will impact the baseline environment only via minor, short-term negative impacts. Road operations will create minor positive impacts via air quality improvements and reduced road accidents
37. The area is arid, hence, there is very little water that may become affected, thus impacts on water quality are expected to be minimal and not significant. There are no ecologically important or sensitive environmental elements and few human use factors that may be significantly affected. The most important possible impact issue is the potential to unearth archaeological sites or artifacts
38. All negative impacts will be localized, short-term, insignificant and preventable or mitigable including: air quality impacts from dust nuisance, noise nuisance and impacts on land -- confined to the existing ROW, quarry and borrow-pit sites. All potential negative impacts have been addressed in the EMP
39. Positive impacts will be created via short-term jobs and the associated increase in short- term expenditure and benefits to households and businesses
40. Recommendations. With reference to the IEE Report Chapters 5 and 6, it is recommended that:
(i) The clauses set out in the Summary EMP and the IEE Report will be included in the Contract Documents
(ii) The Contractor prepare an EMP and the operating plans specified in the IEE Report
(iii) The NSRP SNCO and SEI ensure that the impact prevention and mitigation measures specified in the IEE, EMP and operating plans be implemented
(iv) Environmental Management Seminars be developed and delivered by the Project Management Consultant (PMC) environmental specialist (PMC ES).
(v) Environmental monitoring be carried out as specified in the EMP and Monitoring Program
(vi) NSRP SNCO ensure that the completed road meets the requirements under the European Agreement on Main International Traffic Arteries to which the RA is a signatory.
Environmental Impact Mitigation – Summary Environmental Management Plan
Activities Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures -- for Implementation by Engineers and Contactors 1. Construction: (i) Dust and emissions (ii) Traffic Construction and Related Activities The Contractor will prepare an Environmental hazards and safety Management Plan (EMP) for approval by the Senior The EMP will be Engineer -- prior to commencing site preparation and construction. (i) Earthworks (iii)Work site safety guided by the (ii) Culverts (iii) IEE Report, the principles set out in the Summary EMP and the following: (i) Prior to Dispose of surplus (iv) Social nuisance (v) Erosion of commencing any works, the Contractor will meet with the ARD, MNP and Marz authorities. (ii) material material piles and runoff may affect Areas of disturbed land will be restored or rehabilitated as soon as possible. (iii) Works nearby land and plants (vi) Works stockpiles will be located away from drainage areas and water-courses. (iv) Construction and can cause local flooding related activities, such as stockpiling, servicing and drainage works will be restricted to identified sites. (v) Spoil and materials piles will be graded, stabilized and drained. (vi) (vii) Material beyond ROW affects Construction material/waste will be kept within the ROW and away from water bodies. nearby land quality and use (viii) (vii)Adequate temporary drainage will be provided to prevent local flooding. Noise and vibration (ix) Works may unearth (viii) Runoff from sites will be prevented from entering natural water-courses, for example by archaeological artifacts using sediment traps, silt aprons and/or straw bales. Also see: Drainage, Slope Stability Erosion and Sediment Control – below. (ix) Water sprinklers will be used to minimize dust in and around work areas. (x) Work along the north road section will be undertaken only during daylight hours. (xi) Workers will use safety equipment (helmets, eye-glasses, ear-plugs - as required) and follow safety procedures (xii)Nearby residents, commercial and industrial land users and communities will be informed of major activities ahead of their implementation and be informed of a clear mechanism for comments and complaints to be communicated to the Engineer. Waste Management The Contractor will prepare a Waste Management Plan for approval by the Engineer prior to commencing work. The Plan will be guided by the following: (i) Solid waste will be separated (it is understood that clean paper, glass and poly- propylene plastics are recyclable in Armenia) and stored for regular collection for correct off- site disposal in a nearby municipal waste facility. (ii) Solid waste disposal sites will be identified in concert with local officials and the MNP prior to any dumping. (iii) Solid waste, waste spoil, waste aggregate/materials and waste material removed from the existing road (e.g., used asphalt-concrete that cannot be crushed and re-used) will be disposed of only in designated sites/locations. (iv) waste oil will be collected and stored in used fuel drums for later safe disposal in a manner and/or at sites approved by the MNP and local authorities. (v) Waste asphalt removed from the existing road (north) will be recycled and re-used in the new road construction as much as possible. All old asphalt that cannot be re-used will be handled as toxic waste and disposed of only at a site approved by MNP and local authorities.
Activities Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures -- for Implementation by Engineers and Contactors 1. Construction: Drainage, Slope Stability Erosion and Sediment Control (i) Control devices/actions will be designed to provide adequate protection for each area, according to slope, (i) Earthworks drainage pattern, likely rainfall, and the construction site. (ii) Culverts (ii) Measures to control runoff, erosion and sedimentation will include: (iii) Dispose of (a) Diversion of natural runoff around construction areas surplus (b) Use of temporary bunds to divert runoff to temporary or permanent drainage facilities material (iii) Drains, runoff, erosion and sedimentation protective measures will be maintained regularly to ensure adequate capacity. (iv) Temporary diversion drains will be extended beyond the toe line of an embankment to avoid embankment erosion (v) Drainage structures and erosion controls will be monitored and repaired/modified as soon as possible after rain. Noise and Vibration (i) Vehicles and equipment will be fitted with emission controls and silencers to meet national noise control and emission standards and be checked every six-months to ensure compliance. (ii) The asphalt plant and equipment will be operated only in daylight. (iii)Noise control barriers (e.g., solid walls, earth barriers, noise-reflective panels) will be used when necessary to shield houses, schools and hospitals Archaeological Finds When an archaeological site is found, work will be stopped immediately. The Engineer will be notified. Then, the following steps will be taken: Isolate the site. (i) Call the Archaeology and Ethnography Inst., Armenian National Academy of Sciences and the Agency for Protection of Historical and Cultural Monuments to assess the site and determine whether and how it should be preserved (ii)Document and photograph the find and area immediately around it (iii) When advised and as directed by the Archaeologist, excavate and remove the find (iv) After documentation and after being advised that the site is not important, resume construction.
(i) Diesel will be stored in drums or tanks under cover on an impervious pad of concrete 2. Storage and (i)Diesel and waste oil is toxic to all or clay (for later removal and safe disposal), and the pad will be surrounded by an impervious bund enclosing a catch living organisms - in the soil or in handle diesel and volume at least 50% more than the volume of diesel stored. Should clay be used to form the bund and a spill occur, surface or ground-water. Diesel waste oil (including the bund will be removed after construction has ceased and disposed of safely (as for impervious pads of and waste oil kills all living vehicle and clay). (ii) Vehicles and equipment will be maintained in designated areas underlain by an equipment organisms impervious pad of concrete or clay servicing) (for later removal and safe disposal) (iii)Waste oil will be collected and stored (in the same way that diesel is stored – see above) in used fuel drums for later safe disposal in approved sites. (iv) Also see Waste Management – above
Activities Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures -- for Implementation by Engineers and Contactors The Contractor will prepare a Quarry and Borrow-pit Operations and Site 3. Operate and (i) The expected impacts are very Restoration Plan for approval by the Engineer - prior to commencement of restore quarries similar to those shown for materials extraction. The Plan will be guided by the following: and borrow pits Construction, above. (i) Potential quarries and borrow pits will be identified in concert with marzpeteran (provincial) and Yerevan officials. (ii) Quarries and borrow pits will be made safe, have their slopes stabilized, be adequately drained and be restored or rehabilitated as soon as possible after extraction has ceased. The Contractor will prepare a Draft Traffic Management Plan for consideration by 4. Transport (i) Dust and emissions the Engineer and affected materials and communities, traffic authorities and the police before finalization and approval by equipment (ii) Noise and vibration (iii) Traffic and the Engineer -- prior to commencing construction,. The Traffic Management Plan will other safety hazards include: 1. Carefully selected truck routes (iv) Social impact in affected 2. Clear route directions 3. Appropriate warning signs 4. Established speed limits and communities (v) Damage to rural operating times (daylight as much as possible) 5. Provision and maintenance of roads and other roads temporary access for public and nearby communities 6. Controls over the movement of vehicles particularly near communities and schools
7. Use of dust blankets or other means to cover load 8. Provisions to use and using water spray of road surfaces to control dust in and near affected settlements 9. Construction traffic giving way to regular traffic (i) Construction traffic routes will be defined in cooperation with local communities and the police (ii) Vehicles and equipment will be maintained to prevent fuel and oil leaks and to minimize air and noise pollution (iii)Trucks and equipment will be washed in specified areas with suitable runoff protection (as above). (iv) Roads used by construction vehicles will be swept regularly. (v) Vehicle and equipment movements will be restricted to the approved construction zone and the final ROW. (vi) Rural and other roads damaged by construction vehicles and other activities will be repaired or restored. The Contractor will prepare an Asphalt Plant Site Development and Operating Plan 5. Establish (i) Dust and emissions for approval by the Engineer - operate asphalt (ii) Noise (iii) Diesel (used in asphalt) prior to construction of an asphalt plant. The Plan will take the following into account: plants is toxic to all living organisms – in (i) The asphalt plant will be located at least 200m away from and downwind from any soil, surface or ground-water. settlement and 200m away from any water body or stream and adjacent to other contractor facilities such as, works camps, storage areas and vehicle and equipment maintenance areas. (ii) Electrostatic precipitators will be installed or exhaust gases will be released via a set of water baths (iii)Diesel will be stored under cover on a concrete pad surrounded by an impervious bund enclosing a catch volume at least 50% more than the volume of the diesel stored (see above). (iv) Conveyers and hoppers will be covered (v) Waste asphalt and bitumen will be disposed of at a site approved by marz, city and MNP authorities. (vi) The plant will be operated only in daylight hours when located less than 500m from a settlement.
Activities Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures -- for Implementation by Engineers and Contactors The Contractor will prepare a Facilities Plan (such as, work camps, concrete mixing plants, 6. Operate/ manage (i) Work force generates significant storage areas and vehicle and equipment maintenance areas), for approval by the Engineer - amounts of domestic and other The work prior to establishing facilities. camps and other solid waste and sewage with Facilities Plan will take the following into account: (i) Camp locations will be more than 200m from any water body and sited to prevent damage to facilities (incl. potential to damage water quality landscape. store/dispose of and create nuisance (ii) Domestic solid waste and hazardous waste disposal. sewage and solid (iii) The need for adequate temporary drainage (iv) Sewage will be disposed of in on-site septic tanks, (ii) Improper waste disposal creates waste) held in sealed tanks for proper disposal or disposed into latrines constructed for the purpose and health problems and habitat for disease capped when no longer needed. (v) Wastewater will be disposed of in on-site septic tanks, or be vectors treated to meet the standards for domestic (iii)Communities may perceive potential or wastewater discharge and discharged to a pond or natural drainage channel. (vi) Covered rubbish suffer from actual social impacts from bins for solid waste will be placed at suitable locations where solid waste is generated. (vii) Solid large male workforce. (iv) Site runoff waste will be separated (clean paper, glass and poly-propylene plastics are understood to be affects the physical water quality and recyclable in Armenia) and stored for regular collection for recycling or off-site disposal in a municipal aquatic life in rivers and water bodies, waste facility (also see Waste Management – above) (viii) Work camp sites will be restored to the flora, nearby land, and other natural satisfaction of local officials after use and before abandonment. resources
7. Work Site (i) Injuries and death of workers, road (i) Safety and safety promotion will be of the highest priority. (ii) Temporary traffic direction signs, markings, traffic signals and lighting will be installed Safety users, people in and near work and maintained, clearly
visible solid barriers will be used to channel traffic, and flagmen will be employed as sites, quarries and borrow-pits, needed. and possible sickness of workers (iii) Water sprinklers will be used when needed to control dust and other people because of (iv) Work areas will be kept clean and clear of waste and unused material sewage and waste disposal. (v) Waste will be disposed of properly (also see Waste Management) The Contractor will prepare a Community Consultation and Communications Plan for approval 8. Public (i) Lack of information and by the Engineer - Consultation understanding by communities and prior to commencing site preparation and construction activities. The Plan will be guided by the affected parties about the planned works following: (i) Procedures for communicating with local residents will be developed in advance of activities and the schedule for their activities, particularly when noise, vibration or nuisances may be created and/or where local flooding implementation can lead to frustration and may be an existing or potential problem. (ii) Community members will be provided with direct access delays in the schedule and sometimes to the Engineer or representative at a nominated location and time (particularly important where some can contribute to accidents. residents may not have telephones). (iii)A process will be developed whereby community members and other stakeholders may make complaints and be assured of receiving responses within a reasonable period. A record or Log will be maintained of the type and number of complaints received (name, subject, date, response and date of response). (iv) Regular meetings will be held with community representatives to discuss the project, its impacts, etc. The group should include community leaders and people who are well known in the community and who represent different interests, e.g., business people, teachers, priests, older people and those with special interests. (v) Community leaders and local newspapers will be provided with notices on project progress and anticipated issues. (vi) Clear signs will be posted on and around construction sites to provide information about the project. (vii) Employment opportunities will be maximized for local people by employing them as part of the project labour force, and prefabricating or manufacturing construction items locally when possible, e.g., drainage pipes, culverts and for sand, gravel and stone supply.
Activities Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures -- for Implementation by Engineers and Contactors
9. Handling of (i) Chemicals and Hazardous he Contractor will prepare a Plan for Handling Chemicals and an Emergency chemical and materials have the potential to poison Contingency Response Plan for approval by the Engineer - prior to commencing hazardous people, soil, surface and ground construction. The Plan will be guided by the following: (i) Procedures will be developed and materials water and may cause death or implemented to ensure safe handling and storage of hazardous substances, e.g., diesel, severe damage to the health of waste oil, paints. Material safety data sheets, emergency response procedures and clean-up people and all living animals and materials will be readily available on site. Copies of material data sheets will also be held by plants. the Resident and Engineers. (ii) An Emergency Contingency Response Plan (ECRP) will be in place to handle spills and ensure that clean-up materials are readily available on-site to clean- up spills that may occur. The ECRP will, at a minimum: (a) Identify the positions and persons responsible for emergency response action (e.g., the Engineer, RE, Works Foremen) (b) Specify the leader of the Emergency Response Team (ERT) and Alternate (c) Include an organizational diagram specifying the positions and responsible persons within the ERT, their work and home phone numbers, and the reporting lines among them. (d) Ensure that clean-up chemicals and materials to absorb and remove spilt substances are available and stored undercover in locked facilities located at works facility sites. (e) Ensure that the responsible persons receive training in emergency response. (iii)Hazard and risk management training will be provided to each Environmental Management Officer (appointed by the Contractor) and all personnel handling chemicals and hazardous substances. (iv) Spilled material will be collected and disposed of in a site approved by MNP and local authorities. The spilled area will be cleaned in a timely manner to prevent potential contamination of surface and ground water and soil. (v) Only minimal chemicals, hazardous substances and fuel will be stored on-site, within an enclosed and covered secure area that has an impervious floor and impervious bund around it (with capacity at least 150% of the capacity of the largest tank). The storage area will be located away from water-courses and danger areas, e.g., facilities site.
Required EMP and Operating Plans (as Clauses for Inclusion in Contract)
EMP and EMP and Operating Plans (Clauses to be included in the Contract Responsibility Annexes Document - highlighted) to it EMP The Contractor will, prior to commencing site preparation and Contractor + construction activities, prepare: An Environmental Management Engineer Plan (EMP) for approval by the Engineer. The EMP will be guided by Chapters 4 and 5 of this IEE Report, particularly the Summary EMP (Figure 17) and include, as Annexes, the Operating Plans listed below (all to be approved by the Engineer).
ANNEX A A Waste Management Plan to guide the handling of materials for Contractor + recycling (glass, plastic and clean paper), domestic waste, sewage, and Engineer hazardous waste.
ANNEX B A Quarry and Borrow-pit Operations and Site Restoration Plan Contractor + Engineer ANNEX C A Traffic Management Plan Contractor + Engineer ANNEX.D An Asphalt Plant Site Development and Operating Plan Contractor + Engineer ANNEX.E A Facilities Plan (covering: work camps, concrete mixing plants, Contractor + storage areas and vehicle and equipment maintenance areas) Engineer
ANNEX.F A Plan for Handling Chemicals and Hazardous Materials and an Contractor + Emergency Contingency Response Plan Engineer
ANNEX.G A Community Consultation and Communications Plan Contractor + Engineer
Monitoring Program and Responsibilities
Locations for Monitoring Frequency of Responsibility for Parameters to be Monitored Refer to EMP and Data Sources Monitoring Monitoring
Work Sites: Dust and use of water spray Work sites: Visual inspection Weekly EM, PMC ES Runoff control Drainage maintenance --- Quarterly
Work site safety: Signage Barriers Site Work sites: Visual inspection Weekly EM, PMC ES cleanliness Use of safety equipment ---- Quarterly
Traffic and Road safety: Signage Barriers Work sites: Visual inspection Weekly Routes Material on the road Condition of --Traffic routes --Vehicle Quarterly ----- EM, PMC ES rural roads Vehicle and equipment emissions Maintenance logs Quarterly control Incidents and complaints Complaints Log Monthly
Weekly Work camps: Solid waste management Works camps: Visual Quarterly -- Sewage management Social issues Site inspection --Complaints Log EM, PMC ES Monthly restoration - Monthly
Weekly Facilities areas: Storage of diesel and waste Facilities areas: Visual Quarterly - EM, PMC ES oil Material/substance sheets Site restoration inspection --- Monthly Monthly
Quarries and borrow pits: Slope Weekly Quarries and borrow pits: management Runoff management Use of Quarterly --- EM, PMC ES Visual inspection ---- safety equipment Site restoration Monthly
Asphalt plants: Diesel storage and use Asphalt plants: Visual Weekly EM, PMC ES management Dust emission control inspection -- Quarterly --
Work sites, Works camps, Weekly Waste management and disposal: waste disposal sites: Visual EM, PMC ES Quarterly inspection
Locations for Monitoring Frequency of Responsibility for Parameters to be Monitored Refer to EMP and Data Sources Monitoring Monitoring
Solid waste storage and transportation Solid waste disposal sites Asphalt recycling, re------use and disposal Sewage management and disposal Waste oil disposal
Coordination with MNP, marz and local Engineer Log Checking with Monthly EM authorities MNP Complaints Complaints Log Monthly EM
Engineer Log. Complaints Consultation and Information sharing with Log. Consultation meetings Quarterly EM stakeholders and affected land users Log.
SUMMARY INITIAL ENVIRONMENTAL EXAMINATION (SIEE)
1. Multi-Tranche Funding Facility (MFF): Under the Armenia Transport Strategy 2020, the Government of Armenia (RA) formulated the North-South Road Corridor Program in line with the ADB, Armenia…Country Strategy, to support regional cooperation and revitalize road and railway infrastructure. A priority is to rehabilitate, reconstruct and expand the BavraYerevan-Agarak north- south road corridor. A multi-tranche funding facility (MFF) funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has been set up to assist Armenia. The RA has appointed the “North-South road Corridor Investment Program PMU” SNCO (NSRP SNCO) of the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) to co-ordinate the work.
2. The MFF objective is to improve existing 4-lane divided roads, widen existing 2-lane roads (often in poor condition) to 4-lane divided roads along existing alignments wherever possible, or to construct alternate 2-lane roads where a single 4-lane road would not be feasible.
st 3. Project Summary: The Project is to improve two sections of road under the 1 Tranche of the MFF, namely the 4-lane road section of the M-1 Highway from Yerevan north to Ashtarak and of the M-2 highway from Yerevan south to Ararat
4. Environmental Assessment Requirement: Among other environmental laws, the RA Ministry of Nature Protection (MNP) administers: a) the environmental impact assessment (EIA) process via the Nature Protection Expertise (NPE) organization, and b) compliance with environmental laws and regulations via the State Environmental Inspectorate (SEI)
5. Both the ADB and the RA require the environmental impacts that may be caused by a project to be identified during the project planning and pre-feasibility stages and prevented or mitigated as much as possible during construction and operations. The Project is classified by the Bank (for environmental management purposes) as a Category B project. This means that impacts are not expected to be significant but nevertheless need to be identified and reported in an IEE report. The RA does not differentiate between IEE and EIA
6. The ADB and MOTC will review the IEE Report before passing it to the MNP. The Report will then be made public by the MNP and MOTC before the NPE clears the Project for implementation by the MOTC. The ADB will post the Summary IEE Report on its website
st 7. Project Description: The road sections to be improved under this 1 Tranche Project are two sections of the North-South Road Corridor included for rehabilitation or expansion under the MFF. The two road sections to be improved stretch short distances north and south of Yerevan
8. The 18.4km M-1, 4-lane road section north of Yerevan was originally built over the period 1975 to 2004. Its condition is deteriorated and its standard varies so that the road-bed needs improvement to meet the design and construction standards normally associated with international transit routes. The 38.0km M-2, 4-lane road section south of Yerevan was built more recently and is in relatively good condition. Neither road section is adequately drained, the shoulders in many parts are very narrow and not properly paved, there are many randomly located U-turns, signage, road markings and lighting are absent or inadequate, there are insufficient crash barriers and median separation barriers and road structures need to be investigated to determine their structural integrity
9. A key objective of the Project is to ensure compliance with the road safety and signage requirements under the European Agreement on Main International Traffic Arteries (AGR) to which the RA is a signatory
10. Road works are planned to be fully confined to the existing ROW and be constructed in sections, one side of the 4-lane carriageway at a time, in order to enable continued use of the existing road during construction. Transport of materials will be confined to the existing 4-lane road, to the one-side being worked on. The road works on both road sections will include the following:
Reconstruction of median to provide continuous safety barriers and widened carriageway;
• leveling of existing asphalt and overlay with new cement concrete pavement;
• construction of additional ramps at three interchanges and rehabilitation of other ramps;
• installation of road lighting at interchanges;
• upgrading of road signs and markings to international standards.
• reconstruction the existing pavement,
• improvement drainage and shoulders, and
• carrying out repairs to existing concrete structures.
11. Construction is planned to begin at the end of 2011 and be finished by 2013.
12. Physical Resources: Both road sections are located in arid areas (annual precipitation less than 400mm) but the environmental settings are different. The landscape north of Yerevan along the M-1 Project road corridor is gently rolling uplands 1,060m to 1,270m in elevation. The Kasakh River dissects the landscape in a deep gorge north of Yerevan. There are no other surface streams along the north road section. The landscape south of Yerevan along the M-2 Project road corridor is flat and about 1,100m in elevation. There are no surface streams but the Ararat Valley is a noted artesian basin fed by snow melt and a sub-surface network of aquifers through the fractured lava. The land is irrigated wherever possible
13. Ecological Resources: The native flora and fauna of semi-desert and steppe varieties has been largely replaced along the road corridor by domestic plants and animals. There are no unique areas, no protected areas and no forests or ecological reserves within several kilometers of the ROW
14. Human Use of Resources: The existing 4-lane roads form an important feature of the existing environmental baselines along both road corridors and present a significant barrier to people trying to cross the road. There are no industrial buildings, facilities, commercial operations or residences located within either ROW. No land purchase or resettlement will be necessary
15. Agriculture along the north road section is limited to small orchards and a few hay fields towards Ashtarak. In complete contrast, agriculture predominates along both sides of the alignment in the south. The flat, irrigated land is intensely cropped with vineyards, wheat, orchards and market-gardens wherever irrigation is possible
16. Human Quality-of-Life Values (Social and Cultural Resources): Close to the ROW on the north road section there are two known archeological sites protected by the RA Department of Historical Monuments (Ministry of Culture). One site stretches 500m along the edge of the ROW between it the Kasakh River near the bridge over the River and down the valley side to the River itself. The second site is located astride the interchange at Agarak. There may also be undiscovered archaeological remains or artifacts below ground. There are no known sites within 100m of the ROW to the south
17. Social conditions are as to be expected where the annual average per capita monetary income is about US $2,000 (lower in rural areas) but people manage to live above that level in terms of PPP, standard of living, lifestyles and social-support services. Many people in the Project corridors work in Yerevan and/or agriculture, particularly in the south corridor
18. Environmental Screen ing - Poten tial Impacts: Improvement of both road sections will impact the baseline environment only via minor, short-term incremental impacts. Earthworks, construction activities and quarry and borrow-pit operations may create a number of short-term impacts on air and land quality, health and safety, may cause local flooding (by diverting runoff) and unearth archaeological sites or artifacts. Other activities most likely to cause negative impacts are asphalt plant operations, transport of materials, storage and handling of diesel, traffic in and near work sites, and work camp site preparation and operations
19. Under the Project, there will be no changes to vertical or horizontal alignments. There will be no removal of top-soil, no new cut or fill sections and no bridge construction. Most construction works will be confined to the north section, the 18.4km 4-lane road section from Yerevan to Ashtarak, where the road-bed itself will be improved by removing the old asphalt, digging out and removing sub-standard road-bed materials and replacing both with new material. Digging may unearth archaeological sites or artifacts. Over the south section (Yerevan to Ararat) works will be limited to shoulder, drainage and culvert improvements
3 20. The disposal and replacement of up to 300,000m of sub-standard material from the existing north road section will require up to 100 truck movements per day over the construction period. With the current ADT of 11,680 vehicles including 13% trucks and other large vehicles, the works-truck traffic will add less than 5% to the existing ADT for large vehicles
21. Operation/Use of the Completed Road will create minor positive impacts. Air quality will improve, due to the smoother travel and better fuel combustion, road accidents will reduce due to the improved: safety barriers, road markings, lighting and the control of U-turns
22. Significance of Potential Impacts: Water, land and air quality (and noise) and health and safety are most likely to be impacted along the north road section, and rural roads may be damaged depending on the selected truck routes. Each potential impact has been assessed in- depth with reference to the environmental baseline and its sensitivity
23. The area is arid, hence, there is very little water that may become affected and no
improvements are foreseen for the high bridge over the Yeraskh River. Therefore, impacts on water quality are expected to be insignificant. There are no ecologically important or sensitive environmental elements and few human use factors that may be affected. The most important possible impact issue is the potential to unearth archaeological sites or artifacts -- addressed in the EMP
24. Air quality impacts will be confined to localized dust nuisance. This may be significant but manageable. Similarly noise may be significant, localized and manageable. Impacts on land quality are expected to be very minor because works will be minor on the south road section and confined to the existing ROW of the north road section. Hence, the likely impact on land is considered to be insignificant and manageable
25. Health and safety impacts may be significant but preventable at all locations
26. While actual impacts will be short-term and expected to be insignificant, all have been addressed in the EMP, the implementation of which will prevent or mitigate them
27. Short-term positive impacts will be created via short-term jobs, local employment and spin- off effects associated with the increase in short-term expenditure. In-turn, households and small businesses will benefit significantly over the short-term
28. Environmental Impact Prevention and Mitigation: The identified environmental impacts are well known to competent civil engineers and competent construction companies – as are the impact prevention and mitigation measures to address them. Nevertheless, in order to ensure understanding of required prevention and mitigation measures, an EMP and appropriate clauses for inclusion in works contracts have been prepared and seminars on environmental management will be held for engineers, the Contractor, works supervisors and works foremen
29. The EMP is designed to guide engineers and contractors to prevent or mitigate environmental impacts, to guide monitoring by NSRP SNCO, the SEI, and the International Environmental Specialist (PMC ES). Prior to commencing site preparation and construction activities, the Contractor will prepare a Draft EMP and Monitoring Program guided by the IEE Report, particularly the Summary EMP set out below. The Draft EMP will be approved by the Engineer and support consultations with responsible authorities at central, regional and local levels. The EMP will be revised as required on receipt of comments from stakeholders and the responsible authorities and then finalized. The Contractor will also prepare operating plans to be attached to the EMP. When finalized as the Approved EMP, the Engineer, Contractor and Works Foremen will sign it testifying to their agreement to comply with it. The EMP and operating plans will become part of the Main Contract Package
30. Environmental Monitoring Program: Monitoring requirements and the responsibilities for monitoring are summarized below. The cost of environmental impact prevention, mitigation and monitoring for the two road sections will be minimal as they relate only to the actions required by the engineers and contractors in the normal execution of the Project and the incremental cost of environmental monitoring by the EM and the PMC ES
31. The impact prevention and mitigation measures in the EMP are normal, standard, and widely recognized and will form part of the engineering and construction cost package.
Environmental monitoring to ensure compliance will be conducted by the EM within the NSRP SNCO, the State Environmental Inspectorate (SEI) and be checked on periodically by the PMC ES. Thus the cost will be included the normal salary of the EM, the normal budget of the SEI, and a total of 6-person months for the PMC ES (at normal international rates this will amount to approximately US $110,000 plus travel and accommodation). The costs of providing pedestrian over-passes and limited landscaping of the north road section are covered in the Works Contract Price
32. Public Con sultation and Information Disclosure: This Summary IEE report placed on the ADB Website will be made available publically in Armenia by the RA MOTC and MNP, and provided to affected communities
33. Meetings with representatives of stakeholder groups obtained comments on the MFF program as a whole rather than this specific 1st Tranche project. Most concern was expressed with regard to possible future tranches in the south of Armenia rich in biodiversity. Little concern was expressed with regard to any intended road works in the central part of the country, particularly along existing road alignments. The most frequently expressed concern was that the EMP should be followed and enforced
34. Environmental Screen ing - Poten tial Impacts and their Significance: Improvement of the road sections will impact the baseline environment only via minor, short-term negative impacts. Road operations will create minor positive impacts via air quality improvements and reduced road accidents
35. The area is arid, hence, there is very little water that may become affected, thus impacts on water quality are expected to be minimal and not significant. There are no ecologically important or sensitive environmental elements and few human use factors that may be significantly affected. The most important possible impact issue is the potential to unearth archaeological sites or artifacts
36. All negative impacts will be localized, short-term, insignificant and preventable or mitigable including: air quality impacts from dust nuisance, noise nuisance and impacts on land -- confined to the existing ROW, quarry and borrow-pit sites. All potential negative impacts have been addressed in the EMP
37. Positive impacts will be created via short-term jobs and the associated increase in short- term expenditure and benefits to households and businesses
38. Recommendations: With reference to the IEE Report Chapters 5 and 6, it is recommended that:
• The clauses set out in the Summary EMP and the IEE Report be included in the Contract Documents.
• The Contractor prepare an EMP and the operating plans specified in the IEE Report.
• The NSRP SNCO and SEI ensure that the impact prevention and mitigation measures specified in the IEE, EMP and operating plans be implemented.
• Environmental Management Seminars be developed and delivered by the International
Environmental Specialist.
• Environmental monitoring be carried out as specified in the EMP and Monitoring Program.
• NSRP SNCO ensure that the completed road meets the requirements under the European Agreement on Main International Traffic Arteries to which the RA is a signatory.
Environmental Impact Mitigation – Summary Environmental Management Plan
Mitigation Measures -- for Implementation by Engineers and Activities Potential Impacts Contactors Construction: Dust and emissions Traffic hazards and Construction and Related Activities The Contractor will prepare an Environmental safety Management Plan (EMP) for approval by the Engineer Work site safety Social nuisance -- prior to commencing site preparation and construction. The EMP will be guided by the IEE Earthworks Erosion of material piles and runoff may Report, the principles set out in the Summary EMP and the following: Prior to commencing any Culverts affect nearby land and plants works, the Contractor will meet with the ARD, MNP and Marz authorities. Areas of disturbed land Dispose of surplus will be restored or rehabilitated as soon as possible. material Works can cause local flooding Material Works stockpiles will be located away from drainage areas and water-courses. Construction beyond ROW affects nearby land quality and and related activities, such as stockpiling, servicing and drainage works will be restricted to identified use Noise and vibration Works may sites. Spoil and materials piles will be graded, stabilized and drained. Construction unearth archaeological artifacts material/waste will be kept within the ROW and away from water bodies. Adequate temporary drainage will be provided to prevent local flooding. Runoff from sites will be prevented from entering natural water-courses, for example by using sediment traps, silt aprons and/or straw bales. Also see: Drainage, Slope Stability Erosion and Sediment Control – below. Water sprinklers will be used to minimize dust in and around work areas. Work along the north road section will be undertaken only during daylight hours. Workers will use safety equipment (helmets, eye-glasses, ear-plugs - as required) and follow safety procedures Nearby residents, commercial and industrial land users and communities will be informed of major activities ahead of their implementation and be informed of a clear mechanism for comments and complaints to be communicated to the Engineer. Waste Management The Contractor will prepare a Waste Management Plan for approval by the Engineer prior tocommencing work. The Plan will be guided by the following: Solid waste will be separated (it is understood that clean paper, glass and poly-propylene plastics are recyclable in Armenia) and stored for regular collection for correct off-site disposal in a nearby municipal waste facility. Solid waste disposal sites will be identified in concert with local officials and the MNP prior to any dumping. Solid waste, waste spoil, waste aggregate/materials and waste material removed from the existing road (e.g., used asphalt-concrete that cannot be crushed and re-used) will be disposed of only in designated sites/locations. waste oil will be collected and stored in used fuel drums for later safe disposal in a manner and/or at sites approved by the MNP and local authorities. Waste asphalt removed from the existing road (north) will be recycled and re-used in the new road construction as much as possible. All old asphalt that cannot be re-used will be handled as toxic waste and disposed of only at a site approved by MNP and local authorities.
Mitigation Measures -- for Implementation by Engineers and Activities Potential Impacts Contactors Construction: Drainage, Slope Stability Erosion and Sediment Control Control devices/actions will Earthworks be designed to provide adequate protection for each area, according to slope, drainage Culverts pattern, likely rainfall, and the construction site. Measures to control runoff, erosion and sedimentation will include: -Diversion of natural runoff around construction areas -Use of Dispose of surplus temporary bunds to divert runoff to temporary or permanent drainage facilities Drains,
material runoff, erosion and sedimentation protective measures will be maintained regularly to ensure adequate capacity. Temporary diversion drains will be extended beyond the toe line of an embankment to avoid embankment erosion Drainage structures and erosion controls will be monitored and repaired/modified as soon as possible after rain. Noise and Vibration Vehicles and equipment will be fitted with emission controls and silencers to meet national noise control and emission standards and be checked every six-months to ensure compliance. The asphalt plant and equipment will be operated only in daylight. Noise control barriers (e.g., solid walls, earth barriers, noise-reflective panels) will be used when necessary to shield houses, schools and hospitals Archaeological Finds When an archaeological site is found, work will be stopped immediately. The Engineer will be notified. Then, the following steps will be taken: Isolate the site. -Call the Archaeology and Ethnography Inst., Armenian National Academy of Sciences and the Agency for Protection of Historical and Cultural Monuments to assess the site and determine whether and how it should be preserved -Document and photograph the find and area immediately around it - When advised and as directed by the Archaeologist, excavate and remove the find -After documentation and after being advised that the site is not important, resume construction.
Store and handle Diesel and waste oil is toxic to all living Diesel will be stored in drums or tanks under cover on an impervious pad of concrete or diesel & waste oil organisms - in the soil or in surface or ground- clay (for later removal and safe disposal), and the pad will be surrounded by an impervious (including vehicleand water. Diesel and waste oil kills all living bund enclosing a catch volume at least 50% more than the volume of diesel stored. Should organisms clay be used to form the bund and a spill occur, the bund will be removed after construction equipment servicing) has ceased and disposed of safely (as for impervious pads of clay). Vehicles and equipment will be maintained in designated areas underlain by an impervious pad of concrete or clay (for later removal and safe disposal) Waste oil will be collected and stored (in the same way that diesel is stored – see above) in used fuel drums for later safe disposal in approved sites. Also see Waste Management – above
Mitigation Measures -- for Implementation by Engineers and Activities Potential Impacts Contactors The Contractor will prepare a Quarry and Borrow-pit Operations and Site Restoration Operate and The expected impacts are very similar to Plan for approval by the those shown for Construction, above. Engineer - prior to commencement of materials extraction. The Plan will be guided by restore quarries the following: and borrow pits Potential quarries and borrow pits will be identified in concert with marzpeteran (provincial) and Yerevan officials. Quarries and borrow pits will be made safe, have their slopes stabilized, be adequately drained and be restored or rehabilitated as soon as possible after extraction has ceased. The Contractor will prepare a Draft Traffic Management Plan for consideration Transport Dust and emissions by the Engineer and affected communities, traffic authorities and the police before finalization and approval materials and Noise and vibration by the Engineer --prior to equipment commencing construction,. The Traffic Management Plan will include: -Carefully selected Traffic and other safety hazards Social truck routes -Clear route directions -Appropriate warning signs impact in affected communities Damage to rural roads and other roads -Established speed limits and operating times (daylight as much as possible) -Provision and maintenance of temporary access for public and nearby communities -Controls over the movement of vehicles particularly near communities and schools -Use of dust blankets or other means to cover load -Provisions to use and using water spray of road surfaces to control dust in and near affected settlements -Construction traffic giving way to regular traffic Construction traffic routes will be defined in cooperation with local communities and the police Vehicles and equipment will be maintained to prevent fuel and oil leaks and to minimize air and noise pollution Trucks and equipment will be washed in specified areas with suitable runoff protection (as above). Roads used by construction vehicles will be swept regularly. Vehicle and equipment movements will be restricted to the approved construction zone and the final ROW. Rural and other roads damaged by construction vehicles and other activities will be repaired or restored
The Contractor will prepare an Asphalt Plant Site Development and Operating Plan for Establish operate Dust and emissions approval by the SE - prior asphalt plants Noise -Diesel (used in asphalt) is toxic to all to construction of an asphalt plant. The Plan will take the following into account: -The living organisms – in soil, surface or ground- asphalt plant will be located at least 200m away from and downwind from any settlement and water. Diesel kills all living organisms. 200m away from any water body or stream and adjacent to other contractor facilities such as, works camps, storage areas and vehicle and equipment maintenance areas. -Electrostatic precipitators will be installed or exhaust gases will be released via a set of water baths -Diesel will be stored under cover on a concrete pad surrounded by an impervious bund enclosing a catch volume at least 50% more than the volume of the diesel stored (see above). -Conveyers and hoppers will be covered -Waste asphalt and bitumen will be disposed of at a site approved by marz, city and MNP authorities. -The plant will be operated only in daylight hours when located less than 500m from a settlement.
Mitigation Measures -- for Implementation by Engineers and Activities Potential Impacts Contactors The Contractor will prepare a Facilities Plan (such as, work camps, concrete mixing Operate/manage Work force generates significant amounts of plants, storage areas and domestic and other solid waste and sewage vehicle and equipment maintenance areas), for approval by the Engineer - prior to work camps and establishing facilities. The Facilities other facilities (incl. with potential to damage water quality and Plan will take the following into account: -Camp locations will be more than 200m from any water store/dispose create nuisance body and sited to prevent damage to landscape. of sewage and solid Improper waste disposal creates health -Domestic solid waste and hazardous waste disposal. -The need for adequate temporary waste) problems and habitat for disease vectors drainage -Sewage will be disposed of in on-site septic tanks, held in sealed tanks for proper Communities may perceive potential or disposal or disposed into latrines constructed for the purpose and capped when no longer suffer from actual social impacts from large male needed. -Wastewater will be disposed of in on-site septic tanks, or be treated to meet the workforce. Site runoff affects the physical standards for domestic wastewater discharge and discharged to a pond or natural drainage water quality and aquatic life in rivers and water channel. -Covered rubbish bins for solid waste will be placed at suitable locations where solid bodies, flora, nearby land, and other natural waste is generated. -Solid waste will be separated (clean paper, glass and poly-propylene resources plastics are understood to be recyclable in Armenia) and stored for regular collection for recycling or off-site disposal in a municipal waste facility (also see Waste Management – above) -Work camp sites will be restored to the satisfaction of local officials after use and before abandonment.
Work Site Safety Injuries and death of workers, road users, people in and near work-sites, quarries and borrow-pits, and possible sickness of workers Safety and safety promotion will be of the highest priority. Temporary traffic direction signs, markings, traffic signals and lighting will be installed and maintained, clearly visible solid and other people because of sewage and waste disposal. barriers will be used to channel traffic, and flagmen will be employed as needed. Water sprinklers will be used when needed to control dust Work areas will be kept clean and clear of waste and unused material Waste will be disposed of properly (also see Waste Management) The Contractor will prepare a Community Consultation and Communications Plan for Public Lack of information and understanding by approval by the Engineer -prior Consultation communities and affected parties about the to commencing site preparation and construction activities. The Plan will be guided by the planned works activities and the schedule for following: Procedures for communicating with local residents will be developed in advance of their implementation can lead to frustration and activities, particularly when noise, vibration or nuisances may be created and/or where local delays in the schedule and sometimes can flooding may be an existing or potential problem. Community members will be provided with contribute to accidents. direct access to the Engineer or representative at a nominated location and time (particularly important where some residents may not have telephones). A process will be developed whereby community members and other stakeholders may make complaints and be assured of receiving responses within a reasonable period. A record or Log will be maintained of the type and number of complaints received (name, subject, date, response and date of response). Regular meetings will be held with community representatives to discuss the project, its impacts, etc. The group should include community leaders and people who are well known in the community and who represent different interests, e.g., business people, teachers, priests, older people and those with special interests. Community leaders and local newspapers will be provided with notices on project progress and anticipated issues. Clear signs will be posted on and around construction sites to provide information about the project. Employment opportunities will be maximized for local people by employing them as part of the project labor force, and prefabricating or manufacturing construction items locally when possible, e.g., drainage pipes, culverts and for sand, gravel and stone supply.
Mitigation Measures -- for Implementation by Engineers and Activities Potential Impacts Contactors The Contractor will prepare a Plan for Handling Chemicals and an Emergency Contingency Handling of Chemicals and Hazardous materials have Response Plan for the potential to poison people, soil, surface approval by the Engineer - prior to commencing construction. The Plan will be guided by the Chemicals and following: Hazardous Materials and ground water and may cause death or Procedures will be developed and implemented to ensure safe handling and storage of severe damage to the health of people and all hazardous substances, e.g., diesel, waste oil, paints. Material safety data sheets, emergency living animals and plants. response procedures and clean-up materials will be readily available on site. Copies of material data sheets will also be held by the Resident and Engineers. An Emergency Contingency Response Plan (ECRP) will be in place to handle spills and ensure that clean-up materials are readily available on-site to clean-up spills that may occur. The ECRP will, at a minimum: -Identify the positions and persons responsible for emergency response action (e.g., the Engineer, RE, Works Foremen) -Specify the leader of the Emergency Response Team (ERT) and Alternate -Include an organizational diagram specifying the positions and responsible persons within the ERT, their work and home phone numbers, and the reporting lines among them. - Ensure that clean-up chemicals and materials to absorb and remove spilt substances are available and stored undercover in locked facilities located at works facility sites. -Ensure that the responsible persons receive training in emergency response. Hazard and risk management training will be provided to each Environmental Management Officer (appointed by the Contractor) and all personnel handling chemicals and hazardous substances. Spilled material will be collected and disposed of in a site approved by MNP and local authorities. The spilled area will be cleaned in a timely manner to prevent potential contamination of surface and ground water and soil. Only minimal chemicals, hazardous substances and fuel will be stored on-site, within an enclosed and covered secure area that has an impervious floor and impervious bund around it (with capacity at least 150% of the capacity of the largest tank). The storage area will be located away from water-courses and danger areas, e.g., facilities site.
Required EMP and Operating Plans (as Clauses for Inclusion in Contract)
EMP and EMP and Operating Plans (Clauses to be included in Responsibility Annexes the Contract Document - highlighted) to it EMP The Contractor will, prior to commencing site preparation Contractor + and construction activities, prepare: An Environmental Engineer Management Plan (EMP) for approval by the Engineer. The EMP will be guided by Chapters 4 and 5 of this IEE Report, particularly the Summary EMP (Figure 17) and include, as Annexes, the Operating Plans listed below (all to be approved by the Engineer).
ANNEX A A Waste Management Plan to guide the handling of Contractor + materials for recycling (glass, plastic and clean paper), domestic Engineer waste, sewage, and hazardous waste. ANNEX B A Quarry and Borrow-pit Operations and Site Contractor + Restoration Plan. Engineer Contractor + ANNEX C A Traffic Management Plan Engineer ANNEX.D Contractor + An Asphalt Plant Site Development and Operating Plan Engineer ANNEX.E A Facilities Plan (covering: work camps, concrete Contractor + mixing plants, storage areas and vehicle and equipment Engineer maintenance areas) ANNEX.F A Plan for Handling Chemicals and Hazardous Materials Contractor + and an Emergency Contingency ResponsePlan Engineer
ANNEX.G Contractor + A Community Consultation and Communications Plan Engineer
Monitoring Program and Responsibilities
Parameters to be Monitored Refer to Locations for Frequency Responsibility EMP Monitoring and Data of for Monitoring Sources Monitoring Work Sites: Dust and use of water Work sites: Visual Weekly EM, PMC ES spray Runoff control Drainage inspection --- Quarterly maintenance
Work site safety: Signage Barriers Site Work sites: Visual Weekly EM, PMC ES cleanliness Use of safety equipment inspection ---- Quarterly
Traffic and Road safety: Signage Work sites: Visual Weekly EM, PMC ES Barriers Routes Material on the road inspection --Traffic routes Quarterly ---- Condition of rural roads Vehicle and --Vehicle Maintenance -Quarterly equipment emissions control Incidents logs Complaints Log Monthly and complaints
Work camps: Solid waste management Works camps: Visual Weekly EM, PMC ES Sewage management Social issues inspection --Complaints Quarterly -- Site restoration Log - Monthly Monthly
Facilities areas: Storage of diesel and Facilities areas: Visual Weekly EM, PMC ES waste oil Material/substance sheets inspection --- Quarterly - Site restoration Monthly Monthly
Quarries and borrow pits: Slope Quarries and borrow pits: Weekly EM, PMC ES management Runoff management Use Visual inspection ---- Quarterly --- of safety equipment Site restoration Monthly
Asphalt plants: Diesel storage and use Asphalt plants: Visual Weekly EM, PMC ES management Dust emission control inspection -- Quarterly --
Waste management and disposal: Solid Work sites, Works Weekly EM, PMC ES waste storage and transportation Solid camps, waste disposal Quarterly ---- waste disposal sites Asphalt recycling, sites: Visual inspection --- re-use and disposal Sewage -- management and disposal Waste oil disposal
Coordination with MNP, marz and local Engineer Log Checking Monthly EM authorities with MNP Complaints Complaints Log Monthly EM Consultation and Information sharing Engineer Log. Quarterly EM with stakeholders and affected land Complaints Log. users Consultation meetings Log.
Environmental Impact Assessment
April 2011
ARM: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program (Ashtarak-Talin Road)
Prepared by Ministry of Transport and Communications of the Republic of Armenia for the Asian Development Bank.
The environmental impact assessment document is that 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.
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program Tranches 2: Ashtarak-Talin road
March 2011
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
ABBREVIATIONS
ADB Asian Development Bank AARM ADB Armenian Resident Mission CO2 carbon dioxide EA executing agency EARF environmental assessment and review framework EE environmental expertise EIA environmental impact assessment EMP environmental management and monitoring plan IUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature LARP Land Acquisition and Resettlement Plan MFF multi-tranche financing facility MNP Ministry of Nature Protection MOC Ministry of Culture MOH Ministry of Health MOTC Ministry of Transport and Communication MPC maximum permissible concentration NGO nongovernment organization NO2 nitrogen dioxide NO nitrogen oxide NSS National Statistical Service PAHs polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons PMU Project Management Unit PPTA Project Preparatory Technical Assistance RA Republic of Armenia RAMSAR Ramsar Convention on Wetlands REA Rapid Environmental Assessment (checklist) SEI State Environmental Inspectorate SNCO State Non-commercial Organization SO2 sulfur dioxide SPS Safeguard Policy Statement (2009) TOR terms of reference UNECE United Nations Economic Commission for Europe UNESCO United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
WEIGHTS AND MEASURES
dBA decibel (A-weighted) km kilometer(s) km2 square kilometer(s) m meter(s) mg/m3 milligram(s) per cubic meter µg/m3 microgram(s) per cubic meter
GLOSSARY
berd castle (e.g., Zakari) marz province marzpet provincial governor tuff volcanic rock
NOTE
In this report, “$” refers to US dollars
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
CONTENTS
PREAMBLE
A. INTRODUCTION B. POLICY, LEGAL, INSTITUTIONAL AND ADMININISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK C. ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT OF TRANCHE 2 PROJECT D. ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS E. CONSULTATION, INFORMATION DISCLOSURE, GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM F. MONITORING AND REPORTING
ANNEXES
1 Rapid Environmental Assessment Checklist
2 Environmental Report in Support of EIA 3 Archaeological Impact Assessment Preliminary Report Part 1 3-A Archaeological Impact Assessment Preliminary Report Part 2 3-B Archaeological Impact Assessment Preliminary Report Part 3
4 1st Public Consultation (advertisements, attendance lists and sheets, handout)
5 2nd Public Consultation (advertisements, attendance lists and sheets, handout)
6 Environmental and Monitoring Report Forms
7 EMP (Management Plan and Monitoring Plan)
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
PREAMBLE
The updates to Tranche 2 Project Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Document and to the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) of the North-South Road Corridor Investment Program (NSRCP) to be financed under the Multi-Tranche Financing Facility (MFF) of Asian Development Bank (ADB) are written here in conforme with the prescribed Environmental Assessment and Review Framework (EARF). Aside from the new description of Tranche 2 Project, all the chapters and sections of the document were lifted from and are reiterations of the NSRCIP, EIA Document of August 2010.
It should be understood that the previously approved EIA Document for Tranches 2 and 3 remains valid and serves as the basis for updating the separate EIA and EMP Documents for each of the Tranches 2 and 3. The updates to the EIA and EMP incorporates the new assessment based on the new road alignment from 29+600 km to end at 71+500 km and the recommendations generated during the public consultations undertaken for Tranches 2 and 3 (NSRCIP, Tranches 2 and 3 EIA Document, August 2010).
The Tranche 2 Project starts at km 29+600 in Ashtarak and end at km 71+500. The Project will upgrade the 2-lane road to a 4-lane divided highway with a total distance of about 41+900 km. Two bypasses will be constructed in Agarak starting at km 29+934 to km 32+600, and in Ujan from km 36+600 to km 40+300. The Project will also have a new road alignment (8.95 kilometres) at Khatnagbyur starting from km 59+950 to km 68+900 that will be located on the left side of the existing highway to join the existing alignment in Talin. The highway crosses 10 gorges, only four of which contain permanent water courses; the others are seasonal.
The report on Environmental Impact Assessment, and proposed mitigating and enhancement measures on the bio-physical environment and on archaeology, historical, natural, and cultural monuments recommends additional mitigation measures brought about by the new detail design of the alignment. The new road alignment was deemed necessary to avoid and minimize the potential impacts to the physical environment, flora and fauna, the archeological/historical and cultural resources occurring along the immediate vicinities of the pre-existing road.
It has been assessed that most of the potential impacts will be during the Construction Stage; these will be temporary in nature and can be managed effectively with the updated mitigation measures. The EMP and monitoring program will be implemented by the contractor during the construction period. Moreover, appropriate environmental clauses will be included in the General Specifications of the civil works contracts to ensure the implementation of the EMP. The EMP, including Environmental Monitoring Plan will be incorporated into the bid documents and contract for civil works.
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
A. INT RODUCTION
In compliance to the Requirements of the SPS of 2009, the Ministry of Transport and Communication (MOTC) has agreed with the ADB on an Environmental Assessment Review Framework (EARF). In particular, Safeguard Requirements 1 and 4 apply to Tranche 2 Project of the North-South Road Corridor Investment Program. Tranche 2 of the NSRCP will span some 41+420 km conversion of a 2-lane road to a 4-lane divided highway from Ashtarak to Talin as shown in Map-1, including the rehabilitation of the existing carriageway and construction of a second carriageway.
Tranche 2 Project of the North-South Road Corridor Investment Program will be financed by the ADB through the Multi-Tranche Financing Facility (MFF). The ADB has recently replaced its Environment Policy (2003) with its Safeguard Policy Statement or SPS (2009). The SPS of 2009 sets out the requirements for environment protection and environmental impact assessments and for specific lending modalities. The Appendix 1 and 4, i.e., requirements for environmental protection and the Special Requirements for Different Finance Modalities respectively are requirements to be complied with by Tranche 2.
The updates to this Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report is consistent with the EARF and based on the proposed changes in road alignment and technical design viz-a-viz to the archaeological sites, historical and cultural monuments located along and adjacent to the vicinities of the Tranche 2 road alignment.
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
Description of the Tranche 2 Project
The existing road and the new road alignment will be designed and constructed to standards that result in improved road markings, signage, safety, drainage, culverts, shoulders and 9 grade separated interchanges. Some of the existing road-beds that were built over a 30-year period are structurally sub-standard and will therefore be reconstructed as part of the upgrading exercise to form the new 4-lane divided highway.and have deteriorated and will therefore be reconstructed by improving the sub-grade and asphalt surface and a second 2-lane road will be newly constructed, together forming a 4-lane divided highway. Typical cross-sections through the existing and new road beds are shown in Figure 1 below.
The roads will be designed in accordance with Construction Norm of Republic of Armenia IV11.05.02-99 and Bridge Design Building Code SNIP 2.05.03.84. The structural elements of the project will be designed with consideration to the high risk of seismic activity and flooding in the region. This will enhance the sustainability of the project.
The design includes landscaping on the median and along the shoulders. Benefits of landscaping include enhancing ecological value, facilitating infiltration of run-off, enhancing visual aesthetics of the locality. Where trees must be cut, replanting will be undertaken and in agreement of local village heads.
The road design will include the communities’ access to the existing road and will also have access to the new highway in both directions. Underpasses for pedestrians, cattle, agricultural and personal vehicles, and wild animals will be provided as necessary. Special cases that were brought to the attention of the EIA team during public consultations were passed on to the PMU.
B. POLICY, LEGAL, INSTITUTIONAL AND ADMININISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK
1. Armenian Laws Governing Environmental Management and Assessment
The 10th Article of the Constitution of the Republic of Armenia (passed in 1995) outlines the State responsibility for environmental protection, reproduction and use of natural resources. Some 33 relevant national laws have been promulgated to protect the environment. There are two main laws administered by the Ministry of Nature Protection: Law on the Principles of Environmental Protection (1991) and Law on Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) (1995).
(ii) The Law on the Principles of Environmental Protection outlines the environmental protection policy of the Republic of Armenia. Its purpose is to ensure state regulation of environmental protection and use within the
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
territory of the Republic. It provides a legal basis for the development of environmental legislation regulating the protection and use of forest, water, flora and fauna, and the atmosphere. This law also grants every citizen the right to obtain reliable information on environmental conditions.
(ii) The Law on Environmental Impact Assessment contains the standard steps of the EIA process for various projects and activities in Armenia. In Articles 2- 5 it establishes the general legal, economic, and organizational principles for conducting the mandatory state EIA of various types of projects and “concepts” of sectoral development, which includes construction and infrastructure. The Law forbids any economic unit to operate or any concept, program, plan or master plan to be implemented without a positive conclusion of an EIA. In addition, an EIA may also be initiated for projects that exceed “threshold” value requirements set by Governmental Decree N: 193 issued on March 30, 1999. The “special status” of a particular territory may also trigger a review of environmental impact. The Ministry of Nature Protection can initiate a review of environmental impact when it considers it necessary to do so. The EIA Law specifies notification, documentation, public consultations, and appeal procedures and requirements (Articles 6-11).
Other pieces of pertinent environmental legislation have also been considered during the assessment, which include specially protected natural areas, air protection, cultural and historical monuments, flora, fauna, water use, seismic defense, waste, hygiene, and workers’ protection.
(i) Law on Specially Protected Areas (1991) outlines the procedures for establishing protected areas and their management. The Law defines four categories of protected areas in RA: (i) State Reserves; (ii) State Reservations; (iii) National Parks; and (iv) Nature Monuments.
(iii) Law on the Protection and Use of Fixed Cultural and Historic Monuments and Historic Environment (1998) provides the legal and policy basis for the protection and use of such monuments in Armenia and regulates the relations among protection and use activities. Chapter 1 - Any building, construction or site, cultural value that is fixed by the State (State Registration), is a monument and is under protection and preservation of the Government of the Republic of Armenia.
Chapter 13 - The recorded list of the monuments has a power of law and is a basis for giving an official status to the monument.
Chapter 19 - Any type of the construction activity in the areas containing historical monuments or archaeological sites must be realized in agreement with the authorized body (Ministry of Culture).
Chapter 20 - Newly discovered sites are immediately getting a status of protection and are protected by law till they will be included in the State Lists.
Article 15 of the Law describes procedures for - amongst other things – the discovery and state registration of monuments, the assessment of protection zones around them and the creation of historic-cultural reserves. Article 22 requires the approval of the authorized body (Department of Historic and Cultural Monuments Preservation) before land can be allocated for construction, agricultural and other types of activities in areas containing monuments.
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
(iii) Law on Flora (1999) and Law on Fauna (2000) outline Armenia’s policies for the conservation, protection, use, regeneration, and management of natural populations of plants and animals, and for regulating the impact of human activities on biodiversity. These laws aim for the sustainable protection and use of flora/fauna and the conservation of biodiversity. The laws provide for assessing and monitoring species, especially rare and threatened species.
(iv) Law on Atmospheric Air Protection (1994 and last amended in 2007) regulates the emission licenses and provides maximum allowed loads/concentrations for atmospheric air pollution, etc. There is secondary legislation that establishes sanitary norms for noise in workplaces, residential and public buildings, residential development areas, and construction sites.
(v) Land Code (2001) defines the main directives for use of the lands allocated for energy production, water economy (water supply, water discharge, pumping stations, reservoirs, etc.), and other purposes. The Code defines the lands under the specially protected areas as well as forested, watered, and reserved lands. It also establishes the measures aimed at protection of the lands as well as the rights of state bodies, local authorities, and citizens towards the land.
(vi) Code on Underground Resources (2002) contains the main directives for use and protection of mineral resources and underground water, including the sanitary protection zones for the underground water resources.
(vii) Water Code (2002) provides the legal basis for the protection of the country’s water resources, the satisfaction of water needs of citizens and economic sectors through effective management of water resources and safeguarding the protection of water resources for future generations. The Water Code addresses the following key issues: (a)responsibilities of state/local authorities and public, (b) development of the national water policy and national water program, (c) water cadastre and monitoring system, (d) public access to the relevant information, (e) water use and water system use permitting systems, (f) trans-boundary water resources use, (g) water quality standards, (h) hydraulic structures operation safety issues, (i) protection of water resources, and (j) state supervision. Adoption of the Water Code in 2002 generated the need for development of a number of Governmental regulations and procedures, including: (a) permitting procedures, (b) environmental flows, (c) drainage water use, (d) water alternative accounting, (e) access to information on trans-boundary water, (f) water use for fishery purposes, (g) reservation of underground water sources, (h) registration of documents in state water cadastre, and (i) public awareness and publicity of the documents developed by WRMA and other normative documents which provide guidelines directly linked with water and environmental issues.
(viii) Law on Water Users’ Associations (WUA) and Federations of the WUAs (2002) The WUAs and federations of WUAs are established to effectively operate and maintain the irrigation infrastructure and provide for reliable irrigation water supply to members of the WUA, collect water payments and present and protect the rights of member water users. Within the objectives of the Association and Federation (Article 4) the following important issues from an environmental perspective could be mentioned: (a) operation and maintenance of irrigation systems; (b) implementation of construction works and restoration of watercourses and irrigation systems; (c) water supply management and pollution prevention; (d) implementation of activities necessary to improve the quality of land; and (f) providing ecological safety
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through preventing land erosion, salinization, over-watering, and promoting the protection of irrigation system.
(ix) Law on Wastes (2004) provides the legal and economic basis for collection, transportation, disposal, treatment, and re-use as well as prevention of negative impacts of waste on natural resources, human life, and health. The law defines the roles and responsibilities of the state authorized bodies in the waste sector.
(x) Law on Environmental Oversight (2005) regulates the issues of organization and enforcement of oversight over the implementation of environmental legislation of Armenia and defines the legal and economic bases underlying the specifics of oversight over the implementation of environmental legislation, the relevant procedures, conditions and relations as well as environmental oversight in Armenia. The existing legal framework governing the use of natural resources and environmental protection includes a large variety of legal documents. Government resolutions are the main legal implementing instruments for environmental laws. The environmental field is also regulated by presidential orders, Prime-Minister’s resolutions, and ministerial decrees.
(xi) Forest Code (2005) regulates the conservation, protection, and management of forests.
2. Armenia’s Participation in International Environmental Conventions and Protocols
The Republic of Armenia has signed and ratified International Conventions, starting in1993 with the Ramsar Convention on wetland protection. Of particular significance to this project is that recently, Armenia has decided to adopt the IUCN Red Book in its entirety in favor of its Red Book that was based on the former Soviet Union definitions. This EIA report is based on the IUCN Red Book, which is expected to be formally adopted later in 2010. Table 1 lists the global and regional multilateral international environmental agreements signed and/or ratified by Armenia.
Table 1: Environmental Conventions and Protocols signed and/or ratified by Armenia Title, place and date adopted Signed Ratified by National Assembly Convention on Wetlands of International Importance 1993 especially as Waterfowl Habitat (Ramsar, 1971) - aka Ramsar Convention UN Convention on Biological Diversity (Rio de 1992 31 Mar 93 Janeiro, 1992) - Cartagena Protocol on Bio-safety 15 Mar 04 UN Framework Convention on Climate Change 1992 29 Mar 93 (New York, 1992) - Kyoto Protocol (Kyoto, 1997) 27 Dec 02 Convention Concerning the Protection of the World 1993 Cultural and Natural Heritage (Paris, 1972) UNECE Convention on Long-range Trans- 14 May 96 boundary Air Pollution (Geneva, 1979) - Protocol on Heavy Metals 14 Dec 98 - Protocol on Persistent Organic Pollutants 14 Dec 98 - Protocol on Abate Acidification, 01 Dec 99
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Title, place and date adopted Signed Ratified by National Assembly Eutrophication and Ground-level Ozone Formation UNECE Convention on Environmental Impact 14 May 96 Assessment in a Trans-boundary Context - Protocol on Strategic Environmental 21 May 03 Assessment (Kiev, 03) UNECE Convention on Trans-boundary Effects 14 May 96 of Industrial Accidents (Helsinki, 1992) - Protocol on Civil Liability and Compensation 21 May 03 for Damage caused by Trans-boundary UN Convention to Combat Desertification 1994 (Paris, 1994) UN Convention on the Control of Trans-boundary 26 Mar 99 Movements of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal (Basel, 1989) Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer 28 Apr 99 (Vienna, 1985) - Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the 28 Apr 99 Ozone Layer (Montreal, 1987 - London Amendments to the Montreal Protocol 22 Oct 03 - Copenhagen Amendments to the Montreal Protocol 22 Oct 03 UNECE Convention on Access to Information, Public 1998 14 May 01 Participation in Decision Making, and Access to Justice in Environmental Matters (Aarhus,1998) - aka Aarhus Convention Convention on the Prohibition of Military or Any 04 Dec 01 Hostile Use of Environmental Modification Techniques (Geneva, 1976) - The Protocol on Pollutant Release and 21 May 03 Transfer Registers (Kiev, 2003) Convention on the Prior Informed Consent Procedure 1998 22 Oct 03 for Certain Hazardous Chemicals and Pesticides in International Trade (Rotterdam, 1998) UNECE Convention for the Protection and Use of 1998 22 Oct 03 Trans-boundary Watercourses and International Lakes (Helsinki, 1992) - Protocol on Water and Health (London, 1999) 17 Jun 99 Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic 23 May 01 22 Oct 03 Pollutants (Stockholm, 2001) European Landscape Convention (Florence) 14 May 03 23 Mar 04 Convention on the Means of Prohibiting and 22 Jun 93 Preventing the Illicit Import, Export and Transfer of Ownership of Cultural Property Convention Concerning the Protection of 22 Jun 93 World Culture and Natural Heritage European cultural convention 22 Jun 93 European Convention for the Protection of the 18 Jun 05 Archaeological Heritage Convention for the Protection of the 19 May 06 Architectural Heritage of Europe Convention for Protection of Non-material 20 Mar 06 Cultural Heritage Bern Convention - Council of Europe Convention on 2006
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
Title, place and date adopted Signed Ratified by National Assembly the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern, 1979)
3. National Institutional Framework
The roles of government agencies that could be involved in the Tranche 2 project from an environment perspective are described below.
Ministry of Transport and Communication
(i) The Executing Agency (EA) is the Ministry of Transport and Communication (MOTC). Ministry of Transport and Communication is a republican body of executive authority, which elaborates and implements the policies of the Republic of Armenia Government in the transport, communication, and information technologies sectors.
(ii) The MOTC will be monitored by the Project Governing Council, whose key functions include guiding the overall policy and strategic direction of the MFF program, reviewing and evaluating its performance, and coordinating with other external aid agencies.
North-South Road Corridor Investment Project Implementation Unit SNCO
(i) The MOTC set up a North-South Road Corridor Investment Project Implementation Unit SNCO to manage day-to-day coordination, implementation, monitoring and administration activities of the project.
(ii) Project Implementation Unit includes Department on Safeguards, Resettlement and Environment consisting of 3 persons.
Ministry of Nature Protection
The Ministry of Nature Protection (MNP) is responsible for the protection, sustainable use, and regeneration of natural resources as well as the improvement of the environment in the Republic of Armenia. In those areas, the MNP’s authority includes overseeing national policy development, developing environmental standards and guidelines, and enforcement. The MNP implements those functions through its structural departments.
The key subordinate structures within the MNP that have administrative authority over the EIA and the project approval process are:
(i) The Environmental Expertise SNCO Nature Protection Expertise (EE) is responsible for reviewing and approving EIA reports and projects for implementation and adding conditions when necessary to protect the environment; and
(ii) The State Environmental Inspectorate (SEI) is responsible for inspecting projects to ensure compliance with conditions imposed by the NPE and with the project EMP.
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
The EIA process and the SEI’s power to inspect are the principal tools used by the MNP to achieve compliance with environmental protection principles.
The Ministry of Culture
The Ministry of Culture has jurisdiction over archaeological, historical, and cultural sites. It is not, however, involved with the fate of modern monuments erected along the highway by private citizens in commemoration of accident victims. The relocation of those monuments will be coordinated by the respective provincial authority (marzpets).
Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources
The Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources (MoE) is a state body of executive authority, which elaborates and implements the policies of the Republic of Armenia Government in the energy and natural resources management sector. The MoE implements the functions related to natural resources management through the following structural departments:
Geological Agency Mineral Resources Agency
Ministry of Health
State Hygienic and Anti-epidemiological S urvey of the Ministry of Health of RA is responsible for the following actions implementation:
Coordination of all issues related to health (including those on noise and vibration); Supervise implementation of sanitary norms, hygienic and anti-epidemiological measures implementation by organizations and citizens.
Ministry of Territorial Administration
Marzpetarans (regional administration bodies) are responsible for administration of roads under the regional jurisdiction.
State committee on water system as a structural body in the Ministry of Territorial Administration is authorized body of management of water structures.
State Committee of the Real Estate Cadastre The State Committee of the Real Estate Cadastre adjunct to the RoA Government is a republican body of executive authority, which elaborates and implements the policies of the Republic of Armenia Government in the area of maintaining the unified national cadastre of immovable property.
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
D. ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT OF TRANCHE 2 PROJECT
It may be reiterated here that the Environmental Assessment of Tranche 2 Road Project was prepared by the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) of Armenia for Asian Development Bank (NSRCIP, Tranches 2 and 3 EIA Document, dated August 2010). The governing council has given its non-objection for posting the EIA on ADB's website by letter of 2 August 2010. The EIA Document remains to be valid and serves as the “mother document” of the EIA and EMP updates of this document.
In compliance to the requirements of the ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (June 2009), prepare the final EIA report in accordance with ADB’s manuals/guidelines and legislation of the Republic of Armenia, assist the PMU in actions for getting approvals for the EIA and EMP (conclusion from Environmental Expertise SNCO under the RA Ministry of Nature Protection, agreement on route with the RA Ministry of Culture, etc.).
The updates to the EIA Document has been undertaken to satisfy both the ADB and RA requirements with regard to environmental protection and management. The report is structured consistent with ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009).
1. Highlights of the NSRCIP, Tranches 2 and EIA Update Document
The updates to the Environmental Impact Assessment and Environmental Management Plan (EIA and EMP) were prepared by the environmental team of EGIS-BCEOM composed of 2 national specialists (Environmental Specialist and Archeologist) with 1 international Environment Specialist. The team conducted the revalidation and reassessment of the different impacts of Tranche 2 may have on the environment and on the archeological, historical and cultural resources located along and/or immediately adjacent along the Project’s road alignment. These activities were undertaken during the months of October, November and December 2010 and in February 2011 to consider the changes and new decisions made for Tranche 2 Project.
Updates to the EIA document went through the process of field evaluation and reassessment of the impacts of Tranche 2 Project and within the context of EIA procedures for the Project the following desk and field activities were performed:
(i) Review of the EIA Document (Aug. 2010), detail design, progress reports and relevant project documents (ii) Identification of environmental values along the Tranche 2 road alignment (iii) Assessment of the potential impacts, issues and constraints of road construction works on the environment and on the Physical Cultural Resources (PCR) (iv) Update of the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and Monitoring Plan
Field surveys and site inspections included driving the route of the existing road and walk through the sites/areas of environmental, archaeological, historical, and cultural interest, including those likely to be impacted.
Baseline data and other information from published and unpublished sources including climate, topography, geology and soils, natural resources, flora and fauna, and socio- economic data have been reviewed and verified during the field investigations. Supplemental data on historical-archaeological monuments, and monuments of religious, aesthetic, cultural significance (cultural monuments) including flora and fauna were also gathered.
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
2. Screening
Every sub-project of this MFF program was screened to determine its environmental category based on the ADB’s Rapid Environmental Assessment Checklist (REA). A completed REA is in Annex 1. Classification is based on the most environmentally sensitive component, which means that if one part of a sub-project has the potential for significant adverse environmental impacts, then the sub-project is to be classified as environmental category “A” regardless of the potential environmental impacts of other aspects of the sub- project. The sub-project has been classified as category “A” because (i) most of the additional lanes will be located in a new right-of-way and (ii), several significant archaeological sites as well as one specific environmentally sensitive area and several others will be adversely affected and will require special mitigation measures to minimize the impacts.
3. Description of the Environment (Baseline)
Ecology
This EIA has determined that except for one important wetland, which requires special protection measures, the impact on the environment – sparse flora and fauna – is relatively benign and can be mitigated through routine design changes and construction measures that are summarized in the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan (EMP).
There are, however, areas in which endangered and critically endangered Red Book species have been found. Species in those areas will receive special attention to satisfy Armenia’s Law on Flora (1999) and the requirements of the Red Book.
Incremental CO2 emissions are estimated at 140 t/year; i.e., significantly less than the SPS (2009) threshold of 100,000 t/year.
Archaeology
Armenia being where and what it is - a veritable treasure house of antiquity – the EIA also determined that the impact on archaeological, historical, and cultural sites and monuments is widespread and requires special consideration. A desk study indicated 21 areas of interest. The field survey verified those areas and added many additional points of interest. The EIA team found 14 previously unknown archaeological/historical sites, one of which yielded a fragment of a terra cotta clay figurine that was identified to belong to the middle Bronze-age (ca. 500 BC). To safeguard the most important eight of the sites, this report and the EMP contains several types of responses ranging from realignment to chance-find procedures.
a. Geographical Location and Relief
The Ashtarak – Talin highway is located in Aragatsotn and pass along the dry steppe and steppe landscape zones. It runs through flat and rolling terrain. Within 20 km from Ashtarak the elevation increases from 900 m to 1400 m above sea level (asl) as the alignment enters the Aragatsotn Plateau.
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
The highway passes Shahverd, Amberd, Karkachun, Karmraqar and other seasonal small rivers and brooks as well. Over time, watercourses have produced several gorges and lowlands in Aragatsotn marz, which the highway crosses.
The area between the floodplains of the Shahverd and Amberd rivers and a part of Shirak plateau are covered by layered sediments from lakes, rivers, floods, and other sediments of the Upper Pliocene and Pleistocene eras.
Geology and Seismology
Much of the highway is located adjacent to the edges of the volcanic Aragats mountain range that is composed of upper Paleogenic andesite-basalt, andesite-dacite, and tuff8. The terrain is characterized by many slag cone hills and polygene volcanoes. The lower layers of volcanic flows in some isolated areas typically contain liparite-perlite-obsidian and sometimes pumice. The lava flows occurred mainly in southerly and south-western directions. They are generally covered by a thick layer of erosion products including rock fragments and clayey soils.
The highway is located in a seismic area (8-9 on the Richter scale and maximum horizontal acceleration of 0.4 g, presenting a high degree of seismic risk along existing fault lines. There was a serious earthquake in 1988 in the north of the country, measuring 6.9 on the Richter scale, which led to a large loss of life and property value. Detail design of bridges, culverts, underpasses, and embankments will include seismic considerations.
b. Climate, Air Quality, and Noise
Baseline conditions, against which any change is measured for the components of the environment likely affected by the sub-project, were established through available data and data obtained by on-site measurements. This includes the collection and analysis of background noise, and air and water quality. These data were collected by bona fi de technical and scientific institutes and are therefore readily traceable.
Climate
A dry continental climate is typical for the highway section in Aragatsotn marz. In July, the average air temperature varies between 20 and 240C. The maximum summer temperature 0 0 reaches up to 40 C. The number of days with temperatures of over 10 C is 180-200. The 0 average air temperature in January varies between -4 and -6 C. The minimum temperature 0 is as low as -34 C. The duration of stable snow cover is 1-3 months on average. The number of non-frosty days varies between 200 and 240. The annual precipitation is 300- 400mm, in some sites 400-500 mm. The annual evaporation is 900-1100 mm and the average relative humidity varies from 40% in summer to 75% in winter, both indicative of the semi-arid to arid conditions. Wind directions are mainly northerly and south-easterly.
0 The maximum summer temperature reaches 34 C. The number of days with temperatures 0 of over 10 C is 150-180. The average air temperature in January varies between -8 and - 0 0 12 C. The minimum temperature is as low as –40 C. The duration of stable snow cover is 2-3 months on average. The number of non-frosty days varies between 140 and 160 and in a few places, 220 days. The annual precipitation is 400-500 mm. The annual evaporation is 800 to 900 mm, and the average relative humidity varies from 44% in summer to 80% in winter. Wind directions are mainly northerly and north-easterly but are said to be persistently in one direction, which can cause inordinate snow build-up in winter. To reduce such build- up, it has been suggested to install movable wind deflectors that were reportedly successful.
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
Air Quality
The air quality in Armenia is monitored by "Environmental Effect Monitoring Center" SNCO (a.k.a. Armecomonitoring) under the MNP. It operates the air quality measurement automatic station in Amberd, on Mount Aragats, as part of the European Moni toring and Evaluation Programme. Armecomonitoring air quality monitoring specialists were engaged to provide the air quality baseline data for this EIA study.
Yerevan is the closest cities to the project where air quality is routinely monitored. The closest station in Yerevan from the beginning of project site is approximately 19.5 km and Amberd station from the highway is approximately 11 km.
Specialists from Armecomonitoring were engaged to obtain and analyze air quality samples at all communities with potential receptors located no more than 250 m from the highway. Sampling was done under the supervision of Armecomonitoring’s Deputy Director S. Minasyan.
Sulphur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) concentrations were measured in receptors representative of the 6 communities close to the highway (Agarak, Ujan, Kosh, Davtashen, Katnaxbyur, and Talin). Measurements were taken from 9 June 2010 to 16 June 2010. Armecomonitoring were unable to provide dust and aromatics data as they have no suitable equipment. Also, there is no such equipment in Armenia.
Table 2 summarizes the measurements. The table compares the maximum permissible concentration (MPC) of air pollutants based on the Armenian standard Maximum Permissible Concentration (MPC) for Ambient Air in Human Settlements. The table indicates that the daily average concentrations are consistently and significantly below the MPC. Because these measurements indicate very good air quality, compared to the Armenian standard, it is suggested that no further baseline data are necessary. It is also presumed that the one location for which no measurements were obtained because of equipment failure be waived as it can be assumed that the air quality there is comparable to the air quality in the other 5 locations. Map IV-1 shows the locations of the monitoring positions.
Table 2: Measured Air Quality Parameters Community Measured Parameters at road (mg/m3) SO2 NO2 Agarak 0.0104 0.0122 Ujan 0.0080 0.0098 Kosh 0.0096 0.0073 Davtashen 0.0072 0.0048 Katnaghbyur 0.0040 0.0056 Talin 0.0048 0.0035
MPC (mg/m3)b Parameters measured at receptor (mg/m3) SO2 NO2 Single event 0.50 0.085 Daily average 0.05 0.040 a The NO2 measurement at Lusakert was unavailable because the meter malfunctioned. b Source: Maximum Permissible Concentration (MPC) for Ambient Air in Human Settlements, Republic of Armenia government decision N160-N, 02.02.2006.
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
Map 2: Monitoring Locations & Environmental Areas of Interest
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
The project (Tranches 2) will add significantly less CO2 per year than the SPS (2009) threshold of 100,000t/year. Based on actual and projected traffic counts and the assumptions in Table 3, the estimated increase in CO2 emissions due to increased traffic is less than 140t/year.
Table 3: Data and Factors for CO2 Emission Calculation Ashtarak ~ Talin Average annual traffic counta PCU 6,402 Projected 2032 traffic count a PCU 18,820 Percent gas powered % 40% Distance km 40 Gas efficiency L/100km 10 Diesel efficiency L/100km 7 CO2 emission gas kg/L 2.32 kg/L 2.67 a TA7208-ARM Preparing the North-South Road Corridor Development Project, Final Report, Vol. III, PADECO Co., Ltd.
Noise
Representative receptors of the 6 communities that are within 250 m of the existing or planned highway are affected by noise from traffic and potentially, from construction activities. Noise measurements were taken at all 6 locations between 4 and 10 June 2010. Two sets of measurements were taken. The first sets were at the existing highway during traffic and the second, 20 m towards the nearest receptor. Map 2 shows the locations of the survey positions – same as for air quality monitoring. Measurements are in Annex 7 and a summary of the measurements is given in Table 4 below.
Table 4: Summary of Measured Noise Levels & Maximum Permissible Noise Levels Community Average Daytime Noise Level at Average Daytime Noise Level 20 road m from source dB LAeq15min dB LAmax15min dB LAeq15min dB LAmax15min Agarak 68 83 65 79 Ujan 70 81 67 79 Kosh 70 85 66 81
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Davtashen 67 80 65 78 Katnaghbyur 68 81 66 78 Talin 71 94 67 84
Receptor Time (hours) Maximum Permissible Noise Levelsa dB LAeq15min dB LAmax15min Near residential dwellings 06.00 ~ 22.00 55 70 Institutional buildings 22.00 ~ 06.00 45 60 Source: Ministry of Health, Republic of Armenia, Order N138, 6 March, 2002, Order on adoption of N2-III- 11.3 sanitary norms "Noise in workplaces, apartment and public buildings, territories of urban construction"
Comparing the results with the maximum permissible noise levels established by the Ministry of Health, it is obvious that average ambient noise levels taken 20 m from the highway are significantly above the limits at all 6 locations.
Time and resources were not available to model the expected noise levels at all receptor locations; however, the experts from the Sanitation and Hygiene Department who were engaged to conduct this noise monitoring advised that in their opinion, noise levels at the receptors would be above the limits for all of the 6 . In their opinion, the expected increase in traffic may not increase the noise levels; however, the expected increase in the speed limit will undoubtedly raise the average speed and with it, the noise levels. All receptors would be affected; however, it is unclear by how much.
c. Hydrology and Water Quality
Hydrology
a. Rivers
The watercourses in the project area are Shahverd and Amberd, and are the main rivers crossed by the highway. There are also some brooks which are mostly dry during summer months including Agarakadzor brook and brooks near Davtashen and “Zakari berd” archeological site. Table 5 shows some physical characteristics of the three rivers.
Table 5: Some Indicators of Water Courses Crossing the Ashtarak-Gyumri Highway Name of Flows into Source Outlet elev. Length Grade % Area km2 river m m km (avg.) Shahverd Qasakh R. 3300 990 28 8.2 162 Amberd Qasakh R. 3700 955 36 7.6 141 Source: L. A. Chilingaryan, B. P. Mnatsakanyan, K. A. Aghababyan, H. V. Tockmajyan “Hydrology of Rivers and Lakes in Armenia”, Yerevan, 2002
There is no available information on the hydrology of Shahverd and Amberd rivers and the various brooks in the project area.
c. Lakes and Reservoirs
There are no lakes near the highway; the closest, L. Ashnak, is 5.5 km from the highway. The alignment is in areas with dry continental climate where cultivation without irrigation is practically impossible. Consequently, there are several water reservoirs in nearby communities: N. Sasnashen, Davtashen, and V. Bazmaberd, which are 1.3 to 5.6 km from the highway and thus, will not be impacted by the project. The reservoir North of Talin is about 140 m from the highway and thus, could be impacted by the project.
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d. Wetlands
Shahverd wetland - According to the report, the wetland in the floodplain of Shahverd River is a system of small marshes and is classified as follows:
Ramsar wetland classification Tp (Permanent freshwater marsh/pool) Type M (Permanent stream)
This wetland performs various functions, it: (i) mitigates microclimate, including that of adjacent areas (private orchards); (ii) has a beneficial effect on the river flow by attenuating floods, thereby providing greater water security and flow regulation; and (iii), consists of floodplain marshes that provide a wide range of habitats for many wetland-dependent species.
This wetland is of local ecological, social, and economic importance since it is located in a dry steppe region, which makes it rare and thus, valuable. The wetland also has special aesthetic value, especially during the summer, providing a green spot of life on the background of dried steppe vegetation. The wetland is not, however, a Ramsar site nor a protected area.
e. Groundwater
In Aragatson marz, groundwater along the alignment is at depths of 120 to 150 m (Source: EMP for Rehabilitation of Talin Main Canal, MCA-Armenia Program to facilitate Poverty Reduction Through Economic Growth).
Water Quality
Water quality in Armenia is also monitored by Armecomonitoring, with monitoring stations on the Shahverd River (Station N 50, 0.5 km upstream from Parpi community, approximately 4.3 km from the highway).
Armecomonitoring provided monitoring data from February 2007 to November 2009 for the two nearest rivers. The data in Annex 9 show that several maximum permitted concentrations (MPCs) were exceeded during that period. The Shahverd River station registered exceedences for BOD5, COD, DDD, heptachlor, Cu, Fe, Zn, TSS. Table 6 shows the maximum exceedences. A dash indicates that there was no exceedence of the parameter during the period.
Table 6: MPC Exceedences in Shahverd & Karkachun Rivers Shahverd River 0. 5 km Parameter MPC11 Unit upstream f rom P arpi community BOD5 3 mg/L 15/10/08 5.7 COD 30 mg/L 14/08/09 34 DO >6 mg/L - -
DDD 0.01 μg/l 15/05/09 0.025 DDE 0.01 μg/l - - DDT 0.01 μg/l - - Heptachlor 0.01 μg/l 13/03/08 0.024
Ca 180 mg/L - - Cu 0.001 mg/L 13/03/08 0.003 Fe 0.5 mg/L 11/04/07 0.505 Mg 40 mg/L - -
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Na 120 mg/L - - -2 SO4 100 mg/L - - Zn 0.01 mg/L 11/04/07 0.018
+1 NH4 0.5 mg/L - - NH4+1 (N) 0.39 mg/L - - -1 NO3 40 mg/L - - NO3-1 (N) 9 mg/L - - -1 NO2 0.080 mg/L 08/05/08 0.126 NO2-1(N) 0.024 mg/L 11/04/07 0.036
TSS 30 mg/L 15/10/08 80.1 + pH 6.5-8.5 -log10[H ] 15/02/07 8.59 MPC11: Armecomonitoring uses former Soviet MPCs (Ministry of Fish Industry of USSR, M. VNIERKH, (1990), “Integrated list of MPCs and nearly safe levels of influence of pollutants on water in fishing reservoirs”, p.44). Some of these standards are significantly different from, for example, USEPA standards (the most striking is copper, for which USEPA and other standards cite 1.0 mg/L in drinking water while the MPC here is 0.001 mg/L; i.e., a factor of 1000. By contrast, distilled water can contain 10 mg/L Cu.). Reportedly, Armenia has also banned the use of listed insecticides and pesticides although concentrations appear to persist due to run-off from areas where such chemicals have been used previously. The EIA team learned from a representative of the Water Resources Management Agency, a group that is responsible for water quality standards in the Ministry of Nature Protection, that new standards have been drafted following the EU Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC) and that these new standards are expected to be promulgated by government decree later this year. The EIA team was unable to obtain a copy of the draft standards.
Specialists from Armecomonitoring were engaged to obtain and analyze physical chemical and biological water quality samples of all 7 streams that are crossed by the existing and new highway and the samples were analyzed in Armecomonitoring’s laboratory under the supervision of Deputy Director S. Minasyan and Head of Water Monitoring Program G. Shahnazaryan from 6 to 23 June 2010. Those streams are the Shahverd, Amberd rivers, Agarakadzor brook, and brooks near Davtashen, “Zaqari berd” archeological site.
Sampling showed that vanadium concentrations in all watercourses exceeded MPCs. Aluminum exceeded in all places except Agarakadzor and copper concentrations less than permissible limits only in Amberd and brook near Davtashen. Concentrations of total suspended solids are high in the brooks near “Zaqari berd” archaeological site. Boron concentration exceeded MPC in Shahverd, Agarakadzor. Table 7 shows all occurrences of MPC exceedence.
Table 7: MPC Exeedences in Sampled Watercourses Name Date TS D NO2 NO2- NH4+ NH4+ BOD B Al V Cr +6 Mn Ni Cu -1 1 1 1 Of Of S O 5 watercourse sample (N) (N) MPC (mg/L) >>> 30 >6 0.08 0.02 0.5 0.39 3 0.018 0.04 0.001 0.001 0.01 0.01 0.001 4 Shahverd 06/09/10 0.080 0.084 0.006 Amberd 06/09/10 0.097 Agarakadzor 06/09/10 0.033 0.010 0.002 Davtashen 06/09/10 0.076 0.007 Zakari berd 06/09/10 38.4 0.083 0.009
These are representative measurements taken during the EIA period. It may be necessary to analyze additional samples over a longer period to understand the actual level of water pollution in the project area’s rivers.
Most surface water in the region is considered aggressive and the choice of concrete mix during detail design of bridges and underpasses, as well as concrete roadways if that is the final choice of pavement surface, should take that into consideration.
d. Soils, Erosion, and Land Contamination
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The highway passes through arid steppe and steppe soil zones. These zones are highly cultivated, with only small patches of natural landscape. Cultivation is achieved in brown and black soils.
Brown soils - These soils are generally found between the start, near Ashtarak. They have the following, typical properties: (i) average humus content of about 3%; (ii) contain rock debris; (iii) show a clearly developed, partially cemented eluvial-carbonate layer; (iv) slightly alkaline (pH 7.4 - 8.5); absorption properties (30 – 35 mg-eq/100 g soil); saturated with alkalies; and (v), unfavorable hydro-geologic properties.
There are no available data on land contamination in the project area. There is, however, a visible source of contamination caused by tuff mining near the Zaqari berd archaeological site. All mining waste has been dumped directly into the near-by gorges. The contractor will be restrained from imitating that practice in the EMP.
e. Biodiversity
1. Flora
While most of the landscape in the project area has been transformed for agricultural use, the EIA team investigated 20 locations where typical indigenous plant species abound. The following types of plants are found in the project area. Some of them were identified by scientists in the Botanical Institute of the National Academy of Science.
a. Iranian-turanian phryganas
Iranian-turanian phryganas consists of formations of Artemisia fragrans mostly. There are many steppe flora types here, but the essential part are phryganoid vegetation (Kochia prostrata, Teucrium polium, T.orientale, Xsranthemum squarrosum, Achillea, Adonis, Taracsacun, Thymus, Campanula, Vicia, Verbascum). There are also bushes (Paliurus) and tragacanth astragaluses (Astragalus kotschyanus, A.rariflorus).
b. Mountain steppes
Mountain steppes are presented in three formations: Stipa, Festuca, and Bromus steppes.
(i) The dominant grass is Stipa tirsa. Only a few natural areas survived on typical rich, humus black earths. In some places, Stipa lessingiana and S.pulcherrima accompany the dominant grass.
(ii) The dominant species of Festuca formations are Festuca (Festuca valesiaca ssp. Sulcata and F.ovina). These formations cover areas with low percent humus black earths. In some places, Stipa lessingiana, Bothriochloa ischaemum, Koeleria cristata, Agropyron cristatum, Poa, Bromus, Trifolium, Medicago, Plantago, Taracsacum, Achillea, Betonica, and Thimus accompany dominant species. Verbascum, Prangos, Euphorbia, Sanguisorba, and Efedra are often found in small areas.
(iii) The dominant Bromus formations are Bromus variegates that have survived in small areas. The coexisting types are F.ovina, Koeleria cristata, Poa bulbosa, and sometimes Stipa lessingiana, S. pulcherrima, Artemisia fragrans, Achllea, and Plantago. Also registered are Tragopogon, Taracsacum, Betonica, Vicia, Trifolium, Cirsium, Verbascum, Euphorbia, Papaver, from bushes- Rosa, Paliurus, rarely- Tamarix and Acantholimon.
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c. Tragacanths
Tragacanths are widespread in many places. The most typical tragacanths are Astragalus microcephalus, A.aureus, A.lagurus, and A.erinaceus, which are accompanied by Acantholimon.
d. Steppe bushes
These formations are comparatively few. The dominants are Spiraea and Spiraea hypericifolia.The coexisting types are Asphodeline traurica, Asyneuma virgatum, Allium decipiens, A.rupestre, Asperula affinis, and also Rosa, Lonicera, Rahmnus, Paliurus, and Crataegus.
e. Steppe meadow
Steppe meadow is presented by four formations: Festuca ovina, Koeleria critstata, Phleum phleoides, and forb steppe meadows.
(i) Festuca ovina formation develops on thick steppe meadow black earths. Depending on the elevation, coexisting species are steppe and meadow plants.
(ii) Koeleria cristata formation occupies small areas, mainly on steep and dry slopes. Accompanying species are typically steppe meadow zone plants.
(iii) Phleum phleoides formation is very typical in Aragatsotn marz. It develops on typical brown steppe meadow soils.
(iv) Forb steppe meadow formations occupy slopes with different grades and locations. Dominant plants are usually Cephalaria gigantean, Scabiosa caucasica, S. bipinnata, Achillea setasea, Artemisia absinthium, Anteriscus nemorosa, and Galium verum. Medicago L. and Trifolium L. can also be found.
f. Hydrophilous vegetation
This vegetation is widely spread throughout Armenia, but it does not cover large areas. It is growing in floodplains of rivers, gorges, and lowlands. The dominant species are Phragmites australis, Typha latifolia, and Juncus inflexus.
g. Forest vegetation
In Aragatsotn marz, there are islands of arid low forests in the Ashtarak region. All of these areas were covered by forests; however, agriculture has displaced most forested areas.
In some sections, trees and bushes are growing along the highway. Among these trees have been registered Populus, Robinia, Acer, Salicx, Morus, Armeniaca, Crataegus, Pyrus salicifolia, Berberis, Fraxsinus excelsior, F.oxycarpa, Spiraea crenata, Berberis orientalis, Cotoneaster integerrima, Lonicera iberica, Ephedra procera, Jasminum fruticans, Ulmus, Prunus, Elaeagnus, Paliurus, and Rosa.
h. Red Book species
The following three species that are registered in the Armenian Red Book can be found in the project area:
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(i) Hohenackeria exsc apa (Stev.) K.- Pol. is also registered as EN and is, therefore, also facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild in the near future. Its habitats are near Kosh and Ujan. (ii) Merendera greuteri Gabrielian is registered as CR; i.e., critically endangered. That means that this species is facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild in the immediate future. It is said to be endemic in Armenia but reportedly found only in Shirak floristic region. The territory of its living and spreading is less than 10 km2. Its habitats are near Talin and Katnakhbyur. (iii) Iris elegantissima Sosn. Is also registered as EN and is, therefore, also facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild in the near future. It is said to be endemic in the Caucasus. The only known habitat is West of Ashtarak, near Davtashen, where a new population of the species was found by the EIA team archaeologist, Boris Gasparyan, during the archeological field investigations.
Map 3: Locations of Red Book Flora Species Along the Alignment
Special mitigation measures are in the EMP to minimize the negative impact on flora and to avoid any detrimental effect to Red Book plants, which are specifically protected by law.
2. Fauna
An investigation was undertaken by a zoologist to identify animal species living in the project area and particularly to identify protected species and the potential impact from the project on them. Animals, due to their mobility, have vast habitats; however, there are some species associated with more defined places and zones.
Amphibians and reptiles are represented by different species of toads, frogs, lizards, and snakes.
Among mammals, widely spread species are hare (Lepus europaeus), fox (Vulpes vulpes), wolf (Canis lupus) and a number of representatives of rodents; meadow mouse (Msubterraneus), and marten (Martes foina).
According to the zoologist’s report, 7 insect, 2 fish, 6 reptile, 15 bird, and 7 mammal protected species are present in the project area and are thus potentially affected by the project. Special measures are included in the EMP to avoid negative impact on fauna representatives and especially on protected species.
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f. Environmental Protected Areas and Natural Monuments
There is no preserve, national park, or other protected area near the highway. The EIA team has proposed solutions to the disturbance that may be caused by the pre-design highway alignment.
Environmental “Hot Spots” of the Project Area
Summarizing the investigations, the following five environmental “Hot Spots” are emphasized:
(i) The wetland in the floodplain of the Shahver d River is situated some 500 m north of the start point of the project. It is a system of interconnected small marshes which are creating an environmental “paradise” for a wide range of habitats and provide important habitat for many wetland-dependent species. It is significant also because it is situated in dry steppe zone. According to pre design, the new highway will pass through it, which is detrimental to the whole system.
(ii) The gorge near “Zaqari berd” archeological site. The highway is passing areas where there are many small and deep gorges created by rivers and floods. The gorge near Zaqari castel (berd) archeological site is the most distinctive among all gorges which the highway crosses. The gorge is in close proximity to the casle and as such, would enhance the touristic attraction once Zakari berd is developed for that purpose.
(iii) Protected Red Book flora and fauna species. There are several sites in the immediate vicinity of the alignment of the road where flora species listed in the Red Book exist. Armenia’s Law on Flora (1999) outlines policies for the conservation, protection, use, regeneration, and management of natural populations of plants, aiming for (a) the sustainable protection and use of flora, (b) the conservation of biodiversity, and (c) assessing and monitoring rare and threatened species. A regimen is proposed such that the project will not lead to a reduction in the population of any recognized endangered or critically endangered species (per Red Book/Red List) or a loss in areas of the habitats concerned. In all areas likely to contain endangered or critically endangered species, a competent botanist will survey the territory to be impacted by construction activities, report on the location and number of species (EN and CR), and propose methods to achieve at least no net loss of biodiversity, including the replanting of those species in suitable locations, being mindful of appropriate soil conditions.
(iv) Trees a long the high way. There are several sections where trees and bushes are growing along the highway. Taking into account that the highway is passing through dry steppe and steppe zones and that it is relatively difficult to grow trees in this environment, it is necessary to avoid as much as possible cutting trees and bushes. The actual number will be determined by an arborist’s dendro design. It is proposed that where trees need to be cut, new trees are planted at a ratio of 10:1. The following sections have been identified:
(a) about 300 m in the beginning of the highway (b) about 1 km between Agarak and Ujan communities (c) Near Ujan village – 3.1 km long section of tree rows and single trees (d) Near the Aruch village intersection - 500m length
(v) Quarries and gravel pits. Contractors obtain their aggregates from existing quarries that they either own themselves or by other contractors own. All quarries are permitted and monitored by MNP. In the even that new quarries need to be developed, they should be sited down-wind of settlements and at a distance of at least 1 km. In such cases, the
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contractor must prepare a quarry management plan consistent with MNP requirements and those listed in the EMP.
g. Archaeology & Historical, Natural, and Cultural Monuments
The alignment does not pass through or near any cultural heritage or archaeological sites designated by UNESCO or the MOC except the Agarak archaeological preserve.
The archaeological field investigations were based on a desk study that indicated 21 sites of archaeological significance. After a careful survey, a total of 38 sites were identified comprised of archaeological/historical, natural, and cultural monuments. Three of these sites were previously unknown; they are identified in Table 9.
Of the 38 sites, 18 will be directly affected by the design alignment. Of these, 11 are archaeological sites and 7 Cultural (Memorial) objects. Their identifying names and representative period are in Table 8 and 9.The cultural monuments were erected by private parties to commemorate motor vehicle accident victims and do not fall under the jurisdiction of the MOC. This is a sensitive cultural issue accordingly, to avoid public criticism they should be carefully relocated under the direction of the relevant marzped and in coordination with the families or friends of the victims.
Twenty of the 38 sites /historical or natural sites will be indirectly affected by the Project. These include 10 archaeological sites, 1 architectural/historical monument and 9 Cultural (Memorial) objects.
Table 8: Directly Affected Archaeological/Historical Sites No. Si te Period th th 1 Nerkin Naver archaeological complex (tomb field III – I Millennia BC, 13 -14 centuries Ad and settlement) 2 Agarak historical-cultural preserve IV Millennium BC – High medieval th th 3 Medieval village remains near Kosh 11 -17 centuries AD 4 Medieval village remains near Shamiram 11th-17th centuries AD 5 Aruch Neolithic settlement VIII Millennium BC 6 Aruch medieval Caravanserai 13th century 7 Nerkin Bazmaberd Necropolis Cemetery III - mid-I Millennia BC. 8 Verin Sasnashen complex Early Bronze Age (IV-III Millennia B.C.) and Early Medieval period (4th - 6th centuries A.D.) 9 Davtashen archaeological complex III - I Millennia B.C. rd th 10 Zakari Berd archaeological complex Early Medieval period (3 -5 centuries A.D.) 11 Talin tomb field IV-I Millennia BC
1. Nerkin Naver archaeological complex (# 1 in GM and Map 1). Aragatsotn marz, Parpi community, Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 0 – 0.60 km, GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 40, 8’’; E 44°, 18’, 32, 0” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # 2. 110. 2.
This site consists of Middle Bronze Age kurgan (burial mound) tomb field, several inhabited caves and remains of the Medieval settlement. The site is located on the left side of the Ashtarak-Gyumri Highway on the peninsula, formed by gorge of the Shahverd River. The systematic excavations that started here since 2001 opened rich Middle Bronze Age tombs with specific painted pottery and exclusive jewelry belonging to “Trialeti culture” of the Middle Bronze Age (22-18 centuries B.C.). Some of larger “royal” tombs were used as secondary burials later in I Millennium B.C. In 1970-ies the part of site area was used under agricultural
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activities, and external signs of many burials – particularly their mounds and “stone shields,” were lost. Fully preserved burial mounds and wall structures of the medieval settlement are visible is the southern part of the site area. The northern part of the cemetery, where the burial signs had been ameliorated, is endangered by the suggested road design.
2. Agarak historical-cultural preserve ( # 2 in GM and Map 2) Aragatsotn marz, Agarak community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 2.600 – 3.200 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 47,0’’ ; E 44°, 16’, 28,7” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # 2. 4. 1.
The site is located on the western (left) bank of the Amberd river, covering an area of about 200 hectares, a larger part of which (118 hectares) in 2001 has been declared a historical and cultural preserve by the government of Armenia (Map 2). The site is established on the horizontal flows of solidified tuf, bordered on the East with the river, while in the West turn into a hilly ridge. There are niches carved into the cliffs, as well as polygonal platforms leading to them, in addition to structures of other types. All of these structures, including unbroken series of round, horseshoe-shaped structures and channels linking them, as well as trapezoidal "altars," transform the natural landscape into a gigantic sacral monument. This ensemble of cultic structures is complemented by artificial constructions located around the plateaus and in the spaces between them. According the stratigraphic observations this cultic ensemble was created in the Early Bronze Age (29-27 centuries BC). Within the limits of the Armenian Highlands and the neighboring regions no other site of this type is known. It is unique in terms of its unusual composition and design, as well as its volume and area. In general, the site of Agarak is one of the outstanding historical monuments of Armenia, represented by open-air temples (“Ritual landscape”), as well as representing nearly all the phases of the material culture starting from the Early Bronze Age, through the Urartian and Classical periods, up to Late Medieval Ages.
The suggested design of the new highway is passing through the excavated part of the site and will destroy it completely.
3. Settlement of Kosh ( # 14 in GM and Map 3) Aragatsotn marz, Kosh community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 14.280 – 14.650 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 31,0’’ ; E 44°, 08’, 55,0”
The site was discovered recently, during the survey activities. It has the same location characteristics as the site of Agarak (Map 3). The existing Ashtarak-Gyumri road cut it through. The Northern (right) side of the site was left under the houses of nowadays village of Kosh and lost its scientific potential. The southern (left) side of the site was partly destroyed and covered with a large mound of constructional waste of the road construction in Soviet period. The survived constructions are clearly visible on the distance of nearly 30- 35 meters from the left side of the highway. The chronology of the settlement is still unclear, but the character of the surface material and construction technique of the dwellings are mainly correlated to the sites of the I Millennium B.C.
4. Medieval village of Shamiram ( # 15 in GM and Map 4) Aragatsotn marz, Shamiram community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 18.000 – 18.500 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 18’, 02,5’’ ; E 44°, 06’, 09,8”
The newly-discovered archaeological site occupies large area on both sides of the existing road (Map 4) in the limits of Shamiram community. The better preserved part of the
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settlement is located now on the right (northern) side of the Ashtarak-Gyumri road, which divides the site into two part almost equal in size.
At the northern part of the site, bases of dwelling constructions, church foundations are clearly visible. Based on the pottery collected from the both sides of the site, it must be dated in the chronological limits of 11-15th centuries. The left side of the site which will be affected by the suggested design is preserved mainly in its western part. House fundaments and traces of constructions are clearly visible. The rest of this portion of the site is completely destroyed by amelioration and agricultural activities.
5. Aruch Neolithic settlement and Medieval village ( # 20 in GM and Map 5) Aragatsotn marz, Aruch community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 20.500 – 20.700 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 18’, 13,1’’ ; E 44°, 04’, 42,1”
The newly-discovered medieval settlement of 10-13-th centuries spreading around the Aruch caravanserai, is one of the rare monuments of this type, seems to be an important trade point on the Silk Road. The excavations here had opened a Neolithic site of “Pre-pottery phase” (VIII Millennium B.C.), under the remains of medieval constructions. Sites of both periods are very important from the scientific point of view. First one can be a source for understanding the character of functioning of a medieval town involved in intensive inter- regional trade and the second - to throw light on the problems of spread of Neolithic civilizations in the areas of the m-t Aragats foothills and the Ararat valley.
Suggested design of the road will affect the site, covering most of its area with a cloverleaf, which is linking the main highway to the village of Agarak (in the Talin district).
6. Aruch Medieval Caravanserai ( # 21 in GM and Map 5) Aragatsotn marz, Aruch community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 20.630 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 18’, 14,6’’ ; E 44°, 04’, 37,9” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # 2. 22. 16.
This construction is one of the outstanding monuments of civil architecture of the Medieval Armenia, was built in 13th century, on one of the active crossroads of the Great Silk Road. The three-nef building of the caravanserai is enforced by round towers, which are transforming it into a multifunctional fortified dwelling. Only a quarter of the building had been preserved to nowadays. In 2007 caravanserai was partly restored and prepared to become one of the important tourist objects of Armenia. This kind of buildings are rare enough not only in Armenia, but in the Near East as well. But the fortified caravanserai of Aruch is absolutely unique even among the known constructions of this type. In addition to that, the presence of synchronous settlement near the caravanserai makes it more significant both for the specialists and visitors.
Suggested design of the road is affecting the site, covering most of its protection area with a cloverleaf, and coming closer to the building from the North. Meanwhile, any construction activity is unacceptable in this area, particularly on southern (left) side of the road.
7. Nerkin Bazmaberd necropolis (tomb field) ( # 23 in GM and Map 6) Aragatsotn marz, Nerkin Bazmaberd community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 25.280 – 25.700 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 19’, 09,3’’ ; E 44°, 01’, 17,8” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # 2. 73. 1. 1. 1.
The site occupies a large area on the South from the village of Nerkin Bazmaberd, attached to the right side of the existing Ashtarak-Gyumri road. It is represented by groups of kurgan
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(burial mounds) and cromlech constructions (round stone “belts” around burials), preserved in and in between agricultural fields, mainly in rocky areas. It is very little known about the tomb field: small scale excavations that were carried out here reveal the tombs and the materials of III - mid-I Millennia BC.
New design of the highway is suggested on the left side of the existing road, which means the lesser impact on the site. The only part which will be influenced by construction activities is the western end of the tomb field, the area around cloverleaf to the Nerkin Bazmaberd community.
8. Verin Sasnashen archaeological complex ( # 30 in GM and Map 7) Aragatsotn marz, Verin Sasnashen community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 29.000 – 31.400km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 19’, 51,8’’ ; E 43°, 58’, 35,3” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # # 2.74. 4; 2.74. 2; 2.104. 1. 1; 2.104. 1. 2.
The archaeological complex of Verin Sasnashen in fact - is continuation to the North of the Nerkin Bazmaberd necropolis. The site consists of number of tomb-fields and settlements spread on the both sides of the existing Ashtarak-Gyumri road. The small-scale excavations had been carried out here and several burials of III-I Millennia B.C. were discovered. In some areas of the site traces of walls and other dwelling constructions of the Early Bronze Age (IV-III Millennia B.C.) and Early Medieval period (4th - 6th centuries A.D.) are visible.
9. Zakari Berd archaeological complex ( # 35 in GM and Map 9, 10) Aragatsotn marz, Katnaghbiur community, Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 35.150 – 35.300 km, GPS coordinates: N 40°, 22’, 04, 0’’ ; E 43°, 56’, 37, 8” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # 2.57.2.
The first site of the complex is represented by a fortified settlement built on a peninsula formed by two small, but deep gorges on the distance of 1,5 km South-East from the village of Katnaghbyur. The excavations were conducted here from 1979, after the construction of the existing Ashtarak-Gyumri road, which cut the site into two parts. The initial investigation reveal a well designed settlement with different private and public constructions, workshops etc., surrounded by defense walls.
According the archaeological data, the site was functioning in Early Medieval period (3rd-5th centuries A.D.). It was the “Komopolis” type of settlements, surrounding the royal residence of Arshakuni kings in the capital of Vagharshapat.
10. Talin tomb field ( # 38 in GM and Map 10) Aragatsotn marz, Talin community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 40.800 – 44.900 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 24’, 03, 0’’ ; E 43°, 53’, 30, 7” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # 2.3.3.
The site is represented by a large tomb field (necropolis), occupying a large area from the N- NE and southern suburbs of Talin and then continuing East towards the acting Ashtarak- Gyumri road. The burials are concentrated by separate groups survived between the agricultural fields, cleaned by melioration activities. During the excavations, conducted here since 1985 because of urban needs of Talin, were able to open around 90 separate tombs that belong to the Early Bronze Age and Late Bronze - Early Iron Ages (IV – I Millennia BC), with outstanding remains of the specific material culture. But, the numbers of tombs are still unexcavated. They are mostly visible on the both sides of the existing Ashtarak-Gyumri road.
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The 15 other sites will be protected by observing routine construction practices that are noted in the EMP, such as care to be taken not to deposit construction waste or utilizing the soil for sub-grade. 11 of the 20 sites that will be directly affected can be protected by relatively simple measures included in the construction contract. They are noted in the EMP.
Table 9: List of Archeological, Historical and Cultural Monuments Map Extent GPS Number No Type Na me Community (km) Coordinates Map 1 1 Archaeological Nerkin Naver Parpi 0 - 0.60 N 40°17’40.8’’ monument archaeological E 44°18’32.0” 0+000 - complex 2 Archaeological Agarak historical- Agarak 2.65 -3.20 N 40°17’47.0’’ 11+500 monument cultural E 44°16’28.7” preserve Aragatzotn 3 Archaeological Tomb field Aghtsk 6.10 -6.55 N 40°17’31.2’’ marz monument E 44°14’21.1” 4 Cultural To the victims of Ujan 9.15 N 40°17’04.1’’ monument Maralik- E 44°12’19.5” Yerevan direction 5 Cultural Nikolyan Khachik Ujan 10.15 N 40°16’57.1’’ monument E 44°11’38.4” 6 Archaeological Karhanki Baird Kosh-Ujan 10.65 - N 40°16’57.1’’ monument archaeological 11.00 E 44°11’09.5” complex 7 Archaeological Tomb Kosh 11.35 N 40°16’50.3’’ monument E 44°10’ 46.4” 8 Archaeological The great khachkar Kosh 11.75 N 40°17’03.1’’ monument of Kosh E 44°10’35.5” Map 2 9 Cultural Ujantsi Rudik Kosh 11.90 N 40°17’03.3’’ monument E 44°10’29.2” 11+500 - 10 Cultural Armenian Alphabet Kosh 12.50 N 40°17’07.9’’ monument E 44°10’07.8” 23+800 11 Archaeological Archaeological Kosh 12.40 - N 40°17’12.1’’ monument complex 12.90 E 44°09’57.5” Aragatzotn tomb field & Medieval Marz village 12 Cultural To the memory of Kosh 13.83 N 40°17’31.0’’ monument Hayk E 44°09’18.4” 13 Archaeological Archaeological Kosh 14.00 - N 40°17’35.4’’ monument complex 14.09 E 44°09’13.2” (tomb field and settlement) 14 Archaeological Medieval village Kosh 14.280 - N 40°17’31.0’’ monument remains 14.65 E 44°08’55.0” 15 Archaeological Medieval village Shamiram 18.00 - N 40°18’02.5’’ monument remains 18.50 E 44°06’09.8” 16 Cultural Khachik Ashotovich Shamiram 18.32 N 40°17’52.9’’ monument E 44°06’11.0” 17 Cultural Armen, Arman, Shamiram 18.61 N 40°17’55.9’’ Monument Yervand E 44°06’00.3” 18 Archaeological Aruch-2 tomb field Shamiram - 18.60 - N 40°17’47.3’’ monument Dprevank 18.80 E 44°05’56.8” 19 Archaeological Aruch-3 tomb field Aruch 18.90 - N 40°18’03.3’’ monument 19.05 E 44°05’44.1” 20 Archaeological Aruch Neolithic Aruch 20.50 - N 40°18’13.1’’ monument settlement 20.70 E 44°04’42.1” and Medieval village 21 Archaeological Medieval Aruch 20.63 N 40°18’14.6’’ monument Caravanserai E 44°04’37.9” 22 Cultural Serob Nerkin 24.25 N 40°18’53.2’’ monument Bazmabaird E 44°02’14.2” Map 3 23 Archaeological Nerkin Bazmabaird Nerkin 25.28 - N 40°19’09.3’’ monument tomb field Bazmabaird 25.70 E 44°01’17.8”
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Map Extent GPS Number No Type Na me Community (km) Coordinates 24 Archaeological Fortified settlement Nerkin 25.30 - N 40°19’01.0’’ 23+800 - monument and Bazmabaird 25.85 E 44°01’16.2” 33+900 tomb field Cultural Hamlet Nerkin 26.30 N 40°19’14.1’’ 25 monument Bazmabaird E 44°00’51.0” Aragatzotn 26 Cultural Tiko Nerkin 26.40 N 40°19’14.5’’ Marz monument Bazmabaird E 44°00’47.6” 27 Cultural Russian text Nerkin 27.20 N 40°19’22.2’’ monument Bazmabaird E 44°00’14.3” 28 Cultural Leo Gmyur Nerkin 27.70 N 40°19’27.4’’ monument Bazmabaird E 43°59’54.4” 29 Archaeological Sev Baird fortress Nerkin 28.60 - N 40°19’30.2’’ monument settlement Sasunashen 29.10 E 43°59’04.0” 30 Archaeological Archeological complex Verin 29.00 - N 40°19’51.8’’ monument (Settlements & tomb Sasunashen 31.40 E 43°58’35.3 field) 31 Cultural Russian cross Verin 30.43 N 40°20’11.5’’ monument (methalic) Sasunashen E 43°58’26.2” 32 Archaeological Archeological complex Davtashen 31.60 - N 40°21’04.1’’ monument (Settlements & tomb 33.20 E 43°57’32.8” field) 33 Cultural To Suren from friends Davtashen 32.99 N 40°21’06.2’’ monument E 43°57’18.9” 34 Archaeological Katnaghbyur tomb Katnaghbyur 33.90 - N 40°21’39.8’’ site field 34.70 E 43°56’44.7” Map 4 35 Archaeological Zakari baird Katnaghbyur 35.15 - N 40°22’04.0’’ site 35.30 E 43°56’37.8” 33+900 - 36 Cultural Dedicated to All Katnaghbyur 37.15 N 40°22’44.4’’ 46+800 monument Armenian E 43°55’45.7” Dance around Mt. Aragats in 2005 Aragatzotn 37 Cultural Sargis-Armen and Talin 37.86 N 40°22’51.8’’ Marz monument Manuk-Azat E 43°55’16.7” 38 Archaeological Talin tomb field Talin 40.80 - N 40°24’03.0’’ site 44.90 E 43°53’30.7”
If any item of cultural heritage or archaeological interest is uncovered during excavation activities, works must stop and the MOC notified. Construction activities cannot commence until the chance-find has been investigated by an archaeologist and written permission given by the MOC. Contractors will be obliged to familiarize themselves with the chance-find procedure of the MOC and will be contractually required to implement them strictly.
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
Map 4: Archaeological/historical Sites and Cultural Monuments
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
C. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS, IMPACTS TO THE PCR & MITIGATION MEASURES
The environmental impacts and the impacts to the archeological/historical sites and cultural monuments was written based on the proposed changes of the road alignment and with the revised design of Tranche 2 Project and in consideration of the recommendations proposed in the original EIA document.
The Ashtarak to Talin portion of the North-South Road Corridor Investment Program begins from the outskirts of Ashtarak at 29+600 km to the outskirts of Talin at 71+500 km. The Project consists of upgrading a total of 41+900 kilometers of road to a 4-lane divided highway from Ashtarak to Talin, (shown in Map-1).
The construction and upgrading of the 41.900 kilometers of highway will span 2 bypasses, i.e., Agarak and Ujan and the new alignment at Katnaghbyur. The Agarak bypass starts from km 29+935 to km 32+600 with a total distance of 2.666 kilometers and the Ujan bypass from km 36+600 to km 40+300 having 3.70 kilometer in length. The Katnaghbyur alignment extends to 8.95 kilometers starting from km 59+950 to km 68+990.
The existing road and the new road alignment will be designed and constructed to standards that will result in improved road markings, signage, safety, drainage, culverts, overpasses, underpasses, and shoulders. Some of the existing road-bed that was built over a 30-year period is structurally sub-standard and in decline and will therefore be reconstructed.
Other activities associated with construction include:
(i) identification and protection or relocation of existing utilities including irrigation systems and communication lines; (ii) selection of suitable locations for construction camps; facilities and offices; and storage of materials and machinery; (iii) installation of gated security fences around the camps; (iv) removal of existing waste material dumped along the route; (v) storage and distribution of surplus topsoil; (vi) utilization of existing borrow pits; and (vii) reinstatement and landscaping of the shoulders and adjacent areas and medians following construction.
Preliminary design has been completed for this project and the detail design was completed in February 2011. The construction will be undertaken over a period of approximately 2-1/2 years.
The EIA Document for Tranche 2 (August 2010) was reviewed followed by a revalidation and reassessment of impacts based on the changes in road alignment and revised design have both direct and indirect impacts on the physical and biological resources of the environment and to the archeological/historical sites and cultural monuments. This is largely attributable to the location of Tranche 2 road alignment. These are described and discussed in detail in the succeeding sections.
The feature of this project, aside from resulting in an upgraded section of the North-South Road Corridor Investment Program, will also put emphasis on protecting important archaeological/historical sites.
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
During construction and operation, the communities adjacent to the alignment should not experience any adverse effects except, perhaps, a temporary increase in noise and vibration and exhaust beyond current levels that already exceed national standards.
Positive global impacts may be derived from further excavations of existing archaeological sites that will be preserved and especially, from the new sites discovered during this EIA that can provide new insights for archeologists and historians. The major transboundary impact is that the upgraded highway will benefit transportation of goods and people.
The Project is envisaged to bolster the economic growth of Armenia with its neighboring countries such as Georgia in the north and Iran in the southern border. Temporary employment will provide additional income. Some may improve their situation temporarily while working on the project. The tiny minority population in the region is unlikely to be affected differently from the whole population, if at all.
It is expected that the upgraded highway will play a positive role in enhancing economic growth of the region and the country.
The anticipated potential impacts of the Project on the physical and biological environment and to the archaeological, historical sites and cultural monuments were identified to be temporary and will occur during the construction period such impacts are manageable and shall be minimized if not eliminated through timely and proper implementation of the Environmental Management Plan (EMP).
The summary of potential impacts, issues and constraints and their corresponding mitigation and enhancement measures during the detail design, construction, operation and maintenance phases are presented in Table 10 below. The detailed mitigation measures are provided in the EMP. The recommendations provided in the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) are aimed to minimize the impact of the project for all affected sites and to the bio-physical environment along the road-band. The EMP represents the key mitigation and enhancement measures for the Project’s impacts which are translated into concrete action plans.
Table 10: POTENTIAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION/ENHANCEMENT MEASURES
PROJECT ACTIVITIES MAJOR POTENTIAL IMPACTS FEASIBLE ISSUES & CONSTRAINTS MITIGATION MEASURES
Detail Design: Relocation of the proposed road alignment, in some specific cases when the relocation is impossible Completion of alignment and Encroachment of archaeological undertake archeological bridge detail design historical & Cultural sites excavations prior to road construction
Construction: Physical: Ensure dust suppression by Identification of appropriate water sprinklers, construction camps, field office, Shahverd River: Blockage of warehouse/equipment storeroom spring and stream flow, changed Good traffic management & water regimes promotion of public awareness
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PROJECT ACTIVITIES MAJOR POTENTIAL IMPACTS FEASIBLE ISSUES & CONSTRAINTS MITIGATION MEASURES Moving-in of equipment & materials Nuisance from noise, dust/air Ensure proper regular pollution and traffic movement collection, disposal of solid Site clearing and installation of waste and garbage sediment and silt control Inadequate siting and disposal of garbage, surplus materials and The stabilization of denuded slopes Earthworks construction debris (e.g., by planting);
Surface clearing of service roads Waste, garbage and Careful planning to minimize soil and excavation construction debris disposal exposure
Destabilization of Surface run-offs from borrow pits Provisions of silt fence to hold embankments and slopes during high rainfall events and surface run-off and rainwater storm flows diversion Quarrying Exceedence of allowable noise Construction of adequate temporary and permanent Inadequate siting of borrow pits (decibel) limits and Disposal of borrow and drainage surplus materials Nuisance from excessive dust and gaseous emissions along Enhance protective cover with Inadequate supervision of road works and transport and naturally growing species of construction works hauling of construction materials grass/shrubs, ornamentals and fruiting trees Hauling and transport of Run-off from exposed soil, stock construction and quarry piles and excavated materials Identify appropriate dumpsite
materials during rainfall events and storm flows Adequate monitoring and supervision and management of the construction and work sites
Biological: Vegetation, flora and fauna protection plan Disturbance to wetland Restrict construction works and Disturbance and displacement of workers’ activities along the Red Book migratory species of road alignment by fencing to birds control encroachment,
degradation and disturbance of Unnecessary cutting/removal of trees and ground vegetation Red Book species
Tree planting of appropriate species contractors to maintain trees until they are viable
Archaeological/historical & Physical Cultural Resources Cultural: Plan
Impairment of Agarak historical Relocation of historical or and cultural site cultural monuments,
Infringement of archaeological Undertake archeological historical and cultural sites along excavations prior to road the alignment construction
Obtain necessary approvals for archaeological finds follow the chance-find procedures of MOC.
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
PROJECT ACTIVITIES MAJOR POTENTIAL IMPACTS FEASIBLE ISSUES & CONSTRAINTS MITIGATION MEASURES
Strengthening and reinforcement of the foundation of historical-cultural sites and monuments alongside the road to protect these objects from the negative impact during the construction works and related activities
Social: Public Consultation and Poor and lack of public Communications Plan information to local communities and other stakeholders Conduct orientation of all construction workers and Social conflicts and inequities personnel in relation to from non-local workers and environmental and archeological restriction towards female issues and the implementation workers of the EMP
Lack of information about the Sufficient number of latrines EMP and applicable need to be constructed to serve environmental laws and work sites/ work camps regulations of the Project. Mitigation measures to prevent Workers lack of understanding negative impacts associated and care to protect the with public health include environment and archaeological/ historical sites and cultural increasing site sanitation, monuments provision of protective clothing and ensure proper garbage and No safety measures for the waste disposal. prevention of injury, or death of workers, road users and other people from construction Contractor to conduct hazards/accident orientation of workers on environmental management Spread of communicable explaining impact disease and sickness prevention/mitigation, the EMP included in their contracts, and the environmental management monitoring to be implemented Operation & Maintenance: Inadequate supervision and Nuisance from dust/air pollution Ensure good clean up management of structures and and traffic movement supervision facilities Inadequate management of structures and facilities Conduct public information on traffic management Inadequate supervision of operation and maintenance Ensure soil covering is works effectively and efficiently implemented
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To ensure the proper implementation of the Environmental Management Plan all contractors’ contract will contain clauses that define the environmental requirements to be met prior to the construction, during construction works and after construction. Compliance will be monitored through the supervision arrangements.
Careful planning and adequate engineering design as well as observance of proper construction practices are expected to address the impacts predicted to occur during the construction, operation and maintenance phases of the project.
To ensure that the responsibilities of the contractors in relation to the environment aspects are properly carried out, the Terms of Reference for such contracts should contain specific provisions pertaining to considerations and observance of pertinent environmental protection laws and regulations, for civil works, public safety and health of workers. Environmental provisions and conditionalities must be adequately stipulated in the contractors’ tender documents and construction activities. Compliance to these conditions will be closely monitored by PMU in coordination with the MNP. Under the Environmental Monitoring Program, the PMU will monitor the monitoring plan of activities of the Contractors as specified under their contract.
The environmental impact mitigation measures stated in the EMP will be specified in the Technical Specifications to ensure that Contractors are made aware of the environmental issues and concerns in the Project area.
1. Impacts Due to Location
The project will be located partially within the right-of-way that was established during the1980’s for the construction of the existing highway M-1. The existing highway is owned by the State and partially in a new right-of-way that will be established based on the final design, which will require land and asset acquisition. There may also be several private business and other buildings within new rights-of-way that would be removed and occupants resettled and/or compensated. Resettlement and compensation are detailed in the Land Acquisition and Resettlement Plan (LARP) for the Tranche 2 of the Project.
No part of the project passes through or near any designated ecologically sensitive areas, designated wildlife or other sanctuary, national park, botanical garden, nor area of international significance (e.g., IUCN, RAMSAR site). This updated EIA contain measures to minimize the impact on the archeological/historical sites, as well as the impact on other similar sites which were previously unknown. Where the project is likely to displace endangered or critically endangered Red Book species, a flora and fauna protection plan have been proposed. Based on this, the project will not adversely impact any ecologically sensitive areas.
Flora and Fauna
The Tranche 2 Project from Ashtarak to Talin pass through steppe and dry steppe landscape zones. Almost both sides of the highway are cultivated lands interspersed with big and small communities and only small areas of natural environment are along the road.
During investigations it was verified that there are endangered Flora and Fauna Red Book species recorded along the vicinities of the road alignment. Species in those areas should receive special attention to comply with Armenia’s Law on Flora (1999), Law on Fauna (2000) and the requirements of the Red Book for Flora (Governmental decree 29.01.2010, N
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
72-N), Red Book for Fauna (Governmental decree 29.01.2010, N 71-N). A flora and fauna protection plan is given in the EMP.
Flora
Since the Supervision consultant’s environmental team commenced its activities in October, when blossom of flowers was ended and vegetation cover was dried, the team members took the special literature, draft EIA’s team conclusions and data available from field visits as a basis in order to make respective recommendations and conclusions. There are three Red Book species near the highway these are:
Hohenackeria exscapa (Stev.) K.-Pol. - EN – A taxon is endangered when it is not Critically Endangered but is facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild in the near future. Habitat: Ujan, Kosh.
Iris elegantissima Sosn. - EN – A taxon is endangered when it is not Critically Endangered but is facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild in the near future. It is endemic for Caucasus. Habitat: West from Ashtarak, near Davtashen community.
Merendera greuteri Gabrielian - CR - A taxon is Critically Endangered when it is facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild in the immediate future. It is Armenian endemic. It is found only in Shirak floristic region. The territory of its living and spreading is less than 10 sq. km. Habitat: Between Katnaghbyur and Talin communities. The Special mitigation measures included in the EMP to minimize the negative impact on flora and to avoid any detrimental effect to Red Book plants.
Trees along the Highway
There are several sections where trees and bushes are growing along the highway (about 300 m in the beginning of the highway from km 30+600 till km 30+900, about 1 km between Agarak and Ujan communities from km 34+280 till km 35+200, about 3.1 km in Ujan community from km 36+700 till km 39+800 and about 500 m near the Aruch intersection from km 49+400 till km 49+900). Among these trees registered Populus, Robinia, Acer, Salicx, Morus, Armeniaca, Crataegus, Pyrus salicifolia, Berberis, Fraxsinus excelsior, F.oxycarpa, Spiraea crenata, Berberis orientalis, Cotoneaster integerrima, Lonicera iberica, Ephedra procera, Jasminum fruticans, Ulmus, Prunus, Elaeagnus, Paliurus, Rosa. The EMP contains the replanting scheme and the recommendation to delimit and refrain from unnecessary cutting or removal of trees along the Project alignment.
Fauna
In this region among widely spread species we can find: mammals - hare (Lepus europaeus), fox (Vulpes vulpes), wolf (Canis lupus) and a number of representatives of rodents - meadow mouse (Msubterraneus), marten (Martes foina) and others. Amphibians and reptiles are represented by different species of toads, frogs, lizards and snakes. The project can negatively affect fauna during construction by:
Disturbing/destroying nesting places, burrows and holes of animals; Killing animals during construction; Making difficulties for their hunting, migrating and reproduction; Creating shocking circumstances by noise, vibration, and air and water pollution.
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
The EMP details the flora and fauna plan to minimize/restrict the impacts of the Project on the plants and animals.
Shahverd Wetland
The small marshes formed by small streams of the Shahverd River stretched along both sides of the highway bridge (near the starting point of the Ashtarak – Talin road) fed by spring groundwater. It is a seasonal wetland where the occurrence of local and migratory species of birds has been documented in the area.
Field investigations have determined that the following nesting bird species in the wetland area may be directly impacted by the disturbance cause by the construction activities. It is recommended that the road and bridge works should be scheduled during the non-breeding and nesting period of the species listed below (from April to May):
2. Carduelis cannabina –Twite 3. Luscinia svecica - European Robin (included in the Bern Convention lists1) 4. Acrocephalus arundinaceus – Cetti’s Warbler 5. Emberiza schoeniclus - Reed bunting 6. Carpodacus erythrinus - Common rose finch 7. Hirundo rustica- Barn swallow 8. Ixobrychus minutus - Little bittern (included in the Bern Convention lists) 9. Gallinula chloropus - Common moorhen 10. Falco tinnunculus - Common kestrel 11. Circus aeruginosus - Western marsh harrier (included in the Bern Convention lists)
During annual migration, the following bird species cross these areas (October to November and January to February): 1. Motacilla alba - White wagtail 2. Motacilla citreola - Citrine wagtail (included in RA Red Book and IUCN Red List2) 3. Miliaria calandra - Corn bunting 4. Passer hispaniolensis - Spanish sparrow (included in RA Red Book and IUCN Red List) 5. Phalacrocorax pygmaeus - Pygmy cormorant (included in RA Red Book and IUCN Red List) 6. Tringa ochropus - Green sandpiper 7. Tringa stagnatilis - Marsh sandpiper 8. Egretta garzetta - Little egret (included in the Bern Convention lists) 9. Ardeola ralloides - Squacco heron (included in the Bern Convention lists) 10. Anas platyrhynchos – Mallard 11. Fulica atra- Common coot 12. Larus armenicus - Armenian gull (Included in Armenian Red Book) 13. Chlidonias niger - Black tern 14. Sterna alb ifrons - Little tern (Included in Armenian Red Book and IUCN Red List, and Bern Convention lists) 15. Turdus merula - Eurasian blackbird 16. Lanius collurio - Red-backed shrike (included in the Bern Convention lists)
1 Bern Convention ‐ Council of Europe Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats, originally drafted in] 1979, in Bern. Armenia joined this convention on 2006. This convention sets out to conserve wild flora and fauna and their natural habitats, promote co‐operation between states, monitor and control endangered and vulnerable species and assist with the provision of assistance concerning legal and scientific issues. Four appendices set out particular species for protection. Appendix II sets strictly protected fauna species and Appendix III ‐ protected fauna species. 2 The new edition of Red Book of RA was created based on IUCN categories and parameters.
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Protection measures are included in the EMP to avoid negative impact of fauna existing in the area.
Archaeological & Historical Sites and Cultural Monuments
Aragatsotn marz where Tranche 2 Project is situated is well known for their rich historical- cultural monuments, as well as tourism attractions such as the Church of Talin and Aruch caravanseri. The Project’s road alignment is passing across or closely alongside archeological/historical sites and cultural monuments of different periods. Some of the sites are adjacent to the existing road while others are located in the general vicinity. The archeological and historical monuments situated along the highway such as “Zaqari berd” can become touristic attraction in the future like the Agarak archeological site.
During the field activities a total of 38 sites were counted and tallied. Of the 38 sites, 18 will be directly affected by the design alignment. Of these, 11 are archaeological sites and 7 Cultural (Memorial) objects. Their identifying names and representative period are presented in Table 3 and 4.
Three of archaeological and historical sites were previously unknown or not listed in the State List of the Historical and Cultural Immovable Monuments of the Republic of Armenia (adopted on the 11 of November 1989) that provide for the protection and preservation of archaeological sites, historical and cultural monuments of RA.
The cultural monuments were erected by private parties to commemorate motor vehicle accident victims and do not fall under the jurisdiction of the MOC. This is a sensitive cultural issue accordingly, to avoid public criticism they should be carefully relocated under the direction of the relevant marzpet and in coordination with the families or friends of the victims.
Twenty of the 38 sites /historical or natural sites will be indirectly affected by the Project. These include 10 archaeological sites, 1 architectural/historical monument and 9 Cultural (Memorial) objects.
The recommendations provided in the Environmental Management Plan are aimed to minimize the impact of the project for all affected sites along the road-band. These recommendations can include:
relocation of the cultural and historical monuments along the road alignment, in some specific cases - excavations of the sites (settlements, tomb fields), or the part of their areas, for the preservation of their cultural-historical value, strengthening (reinforcement) of the ground foundations of historical-cultural sites and monuments alongside the road to protect these objects from vibrations during construction works.
Table 11: Archaeological, Historical- Cultural Sites/Monuments along Tranche 2 Map Community/ Type of Number No Type N ame Location Impacts Direct Indirect Map 1 1 Archaeological Nerkin Naver Parpi monument archaeological 0+000 - complex Archaeological Agarak historical- 11+500 2 Agarak monument cultural preserve Aragatzotn 3 Archaeological Tomb field Aghtsk marz monument
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Map Community/ Type of Number No Type N ame Location Impacts Direct Indirect 4 Cultural To the victims of Ujan monument Maralik- Yerevan direction 5 Cultural Nikolyan Khachik Ujan monument 6 Archaeological Karhanki Baird Kosh-Ujan monument archaeological complex 7 Archaeological Tomb Kosh monument 8 Archaeological The great khachkar Kosh monument of Kosh Map 2 9 Cultural Ujantsi Rudik Kosh monument 11+500 - 10 Cultural Armenian Alphabet Kosh 23+800 monument Archaeological Archaeological 11 Kosh Aragatzotn monument complex tomb field & Medieval Marz village 12 Cultural To the memory of Kosh monument Hayk 13 Archaeological Archaeological Kosh monument complex (tomb field and settlement) 14 Archaeological Medieval village Kosh monument remains 15 Archaeological Medieval village Shamiram monument remains 16 Cultural Khachik Ashotovich Shamiram Monument 17 Cultural Armen, Arman, Shamiram Monument Yervand 18 Archaeological Aruch-2 tomb field Shamiram - monument Dprevank 19 Archaeological Aruch-3 tomb field Aruch monument 20 Archaeological Aruch Neolithic Aruch monument settlement and Medieval village 21 Archaeological Medieval Aruch monument Caravanserai 22 Cultural Serob Nerkin monument Bazmabaird Map 3 23 Archaeological Nerkin Bazmabaird Nerkin monument Bazmabaird tomb field 23+800 - 24 Archaeological Fortified settlement Nerkin 33+900 monument and Bazmabaird tomb field
Cultural Hamlet Nerkin Aragatzotn 25 monument Bazmabaird Marz 26 Cultural Tiko Nerkin monument Bazmabaird 27 Cultural Russian text Nerkin monument Bazmabaird 28 Cultural Leo Gmyur Nerkin monument Bazmabaird 29 Archaeological Sev Baird fortress Nerkin monument settlement Sasunashen 30 Archaeological Archeological complex Verin monument (Settlements & tomb Sasnashen
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
Map Community/ Type of Number No Type N ame Location Impacts Direct Indirect field) 31 Cultural Russian cross Verin monument (methalic) Sasunashen 32 Archaeological Archeological complex Davtashen monument (Settlements & tomb field) 33 Cultural To Suren from friends Davtashen monument 34 Archaeological Katnaghbyur tomb Katnaghbyur site field Map 4 35 Archaeological Zakari baird Katnaghbyur site 33+900 - 36 Cultural Dedicated to All Katnaghbyur 46+800 monument Armenian Dance around Mt.
Aragats in 2005 Aragatzotn 37 Cultural Sargis-Armen and Talin Marz monument Manuk-Azat
38 Archaeological Talin tomb field Talin site TOTAL 18 20
The following cultural monuments devoted to the victims of car accidents. Most of these objects are under the supervision of the communities and in case of the necessity to relocate such objects liaison and coordination with the community authorities will be required:
1. Memorial to Hayk (# 12 of GM) Aragatsotn marz, Kosh community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 13.830 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 31, 0’’; E 44°, 09’, 18, 4”
2. Memorial to Khachik Ashotovich (# 16 of GM) Aragatsotn marz, Shamiram community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 18.320 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 52, 9’’; E 44°, 06’, 11, 0”
3. Memorial to Armen, Arman, Yervand (# 17 of GM) Aragatsotn marz, Shamiram community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 18.610 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 55, 9’’; E 44°, 06’, 00, 3”
4. Memorial Monument with Russian text (# 27 of GM) Aragatsotn marz, Nerkin Bazmaberd community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 27.200 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 19’, 22, 2’’; E 44°, 00’, 14, 3”
5. Memorial to Leo Gmyur (# 28 of GM) Aragatsotn marz, Nerkin Bazmaberd community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 27.700 km
There are 7 archeological/historical sites that will be directly impacted by the project and correspondingly mitigation measures are proposed these are as follows:
1. Nerkin Naver Archaeological Complex (# 1 in GM and Map 1).
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
Aragatsotn marz, Parpi community, Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 0 – 0.60 km, GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 40, 8’’; E 44°, 18’, 32, 0” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # 2. 110. 2.
This site consists of Middle Bronze Age kurgan (burial mound) tomb field, several inhabited caves and remains of the medieval settlement. The site is located on the left side of the Ashtarak-Gyumri Highway on the peninsula, formed by gorge of the Shahverd River. The systematic excavations that started here since 2001 opened rich Middle Bronze Age tombs with specific painted pottery and exclusive jewelry belonging to “Trialeti culture” of the Middle Bronze Age (22-18 centuries B.C.). Some of larger “royal” tombs were used as secondary burials later in I Millennium B.C. In 1970-ies the part of site area was used under agricultural activities, and external signs of many burials – particularly their mounds and “stone shields,” were lost.
Issues/Concerns - The road design will directly affect the northern part of the cemetery and cave site within the Nerkin Naver archaeological complex.
Mitigation Measures: Comply with the procedures of MOC on Chance-finds such as discoveries of tombs and archaeological finds;
Contractor to engage the services of archaeologist(s) to lead and ensure the proper chance- find procedures and archaeological research are followed;
Construction works near the cave must be done carefully. As construction works takes place inside of the protection area of the site, the following are forbidden: to use the area of the site for parking of the heavy construction equipments; storing construction materials; use of local soil for construction purposes.
2. Agarak Historical-Cultural Preserve ( # 2 in GM and Map 2)
Aragatsotn marz, Agarak community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 2.600 – 3.200 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 47, 0’’; E 44°, 16’, 28, 7” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # 2. 4. 1.
The site is located on the western (left) bank of the Amberd river, covering an area of about 200 hectares, a larger part of which (118 hectares) in 2001 has been declared a historical and cultural preserve by the government of Armenia (Map 2). The site is established on the horizontal flows of solidified tuff, bordered on the East with the river while in the West turn into a hilly ridge. Taking into account the special characteristics of the local relief, the ancient inhabitants of this area transformed the landscape turning natural masses of tuff into a spacious system of stone structures. For many of kilometers along the Amberd river flow, on the tuff cliffs, rocky hills, and natural plateaus, as well as freestanding blocks of stone the traces of intensive stone working are visible. There are niches carved into the cliffs, as well as polygonal platforms leading to them, in addition to structures of other types. All of these structures, including unbroken series of round, horseshoe-shaped structures and channels linking them, as well as trapezoidal "altars," transform the natural landscape into a gigantic sacral monument. This ensemble of cultic structures is complemented by artificial constructions located around the plateaus and in the spaces between them. According the stratigraphic observations this cultic ensemble was created in the Early Bronze Age (29-27 centuries BC). Within the limits of the Armenian Highlands and the neighboring regions no other site of this type is known. It is unique in terms of its unusual composition and design, as well as its volume and area. In general, the site of Agarak is one of the outstanding historical monuments of Armenia, represented by open-air temples (“Ritual landscape”), as
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well as representing nearly all the phases of the material culture starting from the Early Bronze Age, through the Urartian and Classical periods, up to Late Medieval Ages.
Issues/Concerns - The revision of the road alignment and design of the bypass road to Agarak community starting from the of Shahverd bridge and up to the Agarak bridge area will encroach the eastern border of the “Agarak” State archaeological reserve that extend along the Amberd riverbed.
The alignment the Agarak Bridge will directly encroach on the Agarak Historical-Cultural Preserve on western bank of the Amberd River. The road widening and construction of the Agarak bridge will result to the destruction of the riverside zone of archaeological site (up to 6000 m2) which will include the “buffer line” between the edge/slope of the road and the site itself).
Mitigation Measures:
It is recommended to change the design of the road from the north as much as possible. The widening of the road must be planned to the North (right side of the existing road) and Eastward; and Exclude any construction activity in southern (from the existing road) part of the site.
Undertake excavations of the northern part of the site (which is not examined yet) before the beginning of the construction. Disposal of construction wastes in the area of the site will not be allowed.
3. Settlement of Kosh ( # 14 in GM and Map 3)
Aragatsotn marz, Kosh community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 14.280 – 14.650 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 31, 0’’; E 44°, 08’, 55, 0”
The site was discovered recently, during the survey activities. It has the same location characteristics as the site of Agarak (Map 3). The existing Ashtarak-Gyumri road cut it through. The Northern (right) side of the site was left under the houses of nowadays village of Kosh and lost its scientific potential. The southern (left) side of the site was partly destroyed and covered with a large mound of constructional waste of the road construction in Soviet period. The survived constructions are clearly visible on the distance of nearly 30- 35 meters from the left side of the highway. The chronology of the settlement is still unclear, but the character of the surface material and construction technique of the dwellings are mainly correlated to the sites of the I Millennium B.C.
Issues/Concerns - Widening of the road and construction activities will directly affect the settlement.
Mitigation Measures:
Widen the new road mainly in northern direction if deficient of space in the North from the existing road conduct the salvage excavations of the widened band.
The following are forbidden inside the protection area: to use the area of the site for parking of the heavy construction equipments; storing construction materials; use of local soil for construction purposes.
Manage construction works carefully;
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
4. Medieval Village of Shamiram ( # 15 in GM and Map 4)
Aragatsotn marz, Shamiram community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 18.000 – 18.500 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 18’, 02, 5’’; E 44°, 06’, 09, 8”
The newly-discovered archaeological site occupies large area on both sides of the existing road (Map 4) in the limits of Shamiram community. The better preserved part of the settlement is located now on the right (northern) side of the acting Ashtarak-Gyumri road, which divides the site into two part almost equal in size.
At the northern part of the site, which is not affected by the suggested design of the new highway, bases of dwelling constructions, church foundations are clearly visible. Based on the pottery collected from the both sides of the site, it must be dated in the chronological limits of 11-15th centuries. The left side of the site which will be affected by the suggested design is preserved mainly in its western part. House fundaments and traces of constructions are clearly visible. The rest of this portion of the site is completely destroyed by amelioration and agricultural activities.
Issues/Concerns - The left side of the site which will be directly affected by the road design.
Mitigation Measures:
Undertake excavations at the existing portions of the left side of the settlement;
During excavation of the site the following are forbidden: to use the area of the site for parking of the heavy construction equipments; storing construction materials; disposal of construction wastes in the area and the use of local soil for construction purposes.
5. Nerkin Bazmaberd Necropolis (tomb field) ( # 23 in GM and Map 6)
Aragatsotn marz, Nerkin Bazmaberd community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 25.280 – 25.700 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 19’, 09, 3’’; E 44°, 01’, 17, 8” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # 2. 73. 1. 1. 1.
The site occupies a large area on the South from the village of Nerkin Bazmaberd, attached to the right side of the existing Ashtarak-Gyumri road. It is represented by groups of kurgan (burial mounds) and cromlech constructions (round stone “belts” around burials), preserved in and in between agricultural fields, mainly in rocky areas. It is very little known about the tomb field: small scale excavations that were carried out here reveal the tombs and the materials of III - mid-I Millennia BC.
Issues/Concerns - New design of the highway is suggested on the left side of the existing road, which means the lesser impact on the site. The only part which will be influenced by construction activities is the western end of the tomb field, the area around cloverleaf to the Nerkin Bazmaberd community.
Mitigation Measures:
It is recommended to excavate this portion of the site. After fixation of the results, the area of the site can be used under the road construction. This is the only way to protect the scientific and cultural values of the affected portion;
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
During excavation of the site the following are forbidden: to use the area of the site for parking of the heavy construction equipments; storing construction materials; disposal of construction wastes in the area and the use of local soil for construction purposes.
6. Verin Sasnashen Archaeological Complex ( # 30 in GM and Map 7)
Aragatsotn marz, Verin Sasnashen community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 29.000 – 31.400km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 19’, 51, 8’’; E 43°, 58’, 35, 3” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # # 2.74. 4; 2.74. 2; 2.104. 1. 1; 2.104. 1. 2.
The archaeological complex of Verin Sasnashen in fact - is continuation to the North of the Nerkin Bazmaberd necropolis. The site consists of number of tomb-fields and settlements spread on the both sides of the existing Ashtarak-Gyumri road. The small-scale excavations had been carried out here and several burials of III-I Millennia B.C. were discovered. In some areas of the site traces of walls and other dwelling constructions of the Early Bronze Age (IV-III Millennia B.C.) and Early Medieval period (4th - 6th centuries A.D.) are visible. Issues/Concerns - The design of the new highway will directly impact the left portion of the complex
Mitigation Measures:
Undertake excavations to include some groups of tombs and wall constructions which are spreading directly on the left side of the existing road prior to construction works; The following are forbidden: to use the area of the site for parking of the heavy construction equipments; storing construction materials; use of local soil for construction purposes.
7. Talin Tomb Field ( # 38 in GM and Map 10)
Aragatsotn marz, Talin community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 40.800 – 44.900 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 24’, 03, 0’’; E 43°, 53’, 30, 7” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # 2.3.3.
The site is represented by a large tomb field (necropolis), occupying a large area from the N- NE and southern suburbs of Talin and then continuing East towards the acting Ashtarak- Gyumri road. The burials are concentrated by separate groups survived between the agricultural fields, cleaned by melioration activities. During the excavations, conducted here since 1985 because of urban needs of Talin, were able to open around 90 separate tombs that belong to the Early Bronze Age and Late Bronze - Early Iron Ages (IV – I Millennia BC), with outstanding remains of the specific material culture. But, the numbers of tombs are still unexcavated. They are mostly visible on the both sides of the existing Ashtarak-Gyumri road.
Issues/Concerns - The suggested design of the highway is directly affecting the burials spread on the left and right sides of the highway, especially directly after the city of Talin (after the eastern cloverleaf entrance to the community).
Mitigation Measures:
The only way to save the cultural and historical significance of the site is to organize excavations of these tombs prior to construction works;
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
During excavation of the site the following are forbidden: to use the area of the site for parking of the heavy construction equipments; storing construction materials; disposal of construction wastes in the area and the use of local soil for construction purposes.
8. Zakari Berd archaeological complex ( # 35 in GM and Map 9, 10)
Aragatsotn marz, Katnaghbiur community, Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 35.150 – 35.300 km, GPS coordinates: N 40°, 22’, 04, 0’’ ; E 43°, 56’, 37, 8” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # 2.57.2.
The first site of the complex is represented by a fortified settlement built on a peninsula formed by two small, but deep gorges on the distance of 1,5 km South-East from the village of Katnaghbyur. The excavations were conducted here from 1979, after the construction of the existing Ashtarak-Gyumri road, which cut the site into two parts. The initial investigation reveal a well designed settlement with different private and public constructions, workshops etc., surrounded by defense walls.
According the archaeological data, the site was functioning in Early Medieval period (3rd-5th centuries A.D.). It was the “Komopolis” type of settlements, surrounding the royal residence of Arshakuni kings in the capital of Vagharshapat.
Issues/Concerns – The construction of the road will destroy completely the left part of the site complex.
Mitigation Measures:
The recommended way to protect the site from destruction is to change design of the highway and to put it further to the South-West with a bridge passing over southern end of the gorge.
9. Aruch Neolithic settlement and Medieval village ( # 20 in GM and Map 5)
Aragatsotn marz, Aruch community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 20.500 – 20.700 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 18’, 13,1’’ ; E 44°, 04’, 42,1”
The newly-discovered medieval settlement of 10-13-th centuries spreading around the Aruch caravanserai, is one of the rare monuments of this type, seems to be an important trade point on the Silk Road. The excavations here had opened a Neolithic site of “Pre-pottery phase” (VIII Millennium B.C.), under the remains of medieval constructions. Sites of both periods are very important from the scientific point of view. First one can be a source for understanding the character of functioning of a medieval town involved in intensive inter- regional trade and the second - to throw light on the problems of spread of Neolithic civilizations in the areas of the m-t Aragats foothills and the Ararat valley.
Issues/Concerns – Suggested design of the road will affect the site, covering most of its area with a cloverleaf, which is linking the main highway to the village of Agarak (in the Talin district).
Mitigation Measures: Change the access to the Agarak community. The cloverleaf must be redesigned and moved to the East or West from the site.
10. Aruch Medieval Caravanserai ( # 21 in GM and Map 5)
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
Aragatsotn marz, Aruch community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 20.630 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 18’, 14,6’’ ; E 44°, 04’, 37,9” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # 2. 22. 16.
This construction is one of the outstanding monuments of civil architecture of the Medieval Armenia, was built in 13th century, on one of the active crossroads of the Great Silk Road. The three-nef building of the caravanserai is enforced by round towers, which are transforming it into a multifunctional fortified dwelling. Only a quarter of the building had been preserved to nowadays. In 2007 caravanserai was partly restored and prepared to become one of the important tourist objects of Armenia. This kind of buildings are rare enough not only in Armenia, but in the Near East as well. But the fortified caravanserai of Aruch is absolutely unique even among the known constructions of this type. In addition to that, the presence of synchronous settlement near the caravanserai makes it more significant both for the specialists and visitors.
Issues/Concerns – Suggested design of the road will directly encroach on the site covering most of its protection area with a cloverleaf.
Mitigation Measures:
The cloverleaf must be redesigned and moved to the East or West from the site. The highway must not overpass the gorge which is the boundary of protection area of the caravanserai.
11. Davtashen archaeological complex ( # 32 in GM and Map 8)
Aragatsotn marz, Davtashen community, Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 31.600 – 33.200 km, GPS coordinates: N 40°, 21’, 04, 1’’ ; E 43°, 57’, 32, 8” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # 2.36.1.
Davtashen archaeological complex is the continuation to the North of the Sasnashen complex. Series of tomb fields and remnants of settlements spread on both sides of the existing Ashtarak-Gyumri road. Small scale excavations conducted here were able to date the burials between the III - I Millennia B.C. On the left side of the existing Ashtarak-Gyumri highway traces of different wall constructions are clearly visible, showing the existence of a settlement continuing South-East along the left side of the road.
Issues/Concerns – Due to the suggested design of the new highway the left side of the complex will be directly affected by the construction activities.
Mitigation Measures: It is strongly recommended to conduct excavations prior to construction activities. The excavation must include some groups of tombs on the left side of the existing Ashtarak- Gyumri road.
Cultural (Memorial) Objects of Direct Impact The objects of this group are presented mainly by memorial monuments devoted to the victims of car accidents. Most of these objects are under the supervision of the communities and in case of necessity can be relocated in frames of co-ordination with the community authorities.
1. Memorial to Hayk (# 12 of GM) Aragatsotn marz, Kosh community
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 13.830 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 31, 0’’; E 44°, 09’, 18, 4”
2. Memorial to Khachik Ashotovich (# 16 of GM) Aragatsotn marz, Shamiram community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 18.320 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 52, 9’’; E 44°, 06’, 11, 0”
3. Memorial to Armen, Arman, Yervand (# 17 of GM) Aragatsotn marz, Shamiram community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 18.610 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 55, 9’’; E 44°, 06’, 00, 3”
4. Memorial Monument with Russian text (# 27 of GM) Aragatsotn marz, Nerkin Bazmaberd community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 27.200 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 19’, 22, 2’’; E 44°, 00’, 14, 3”
5. Memorial to Leo Gmyur (# 28 of GM) Aragatsotn marz, Nerkin Bazmaberd community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 27.700 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 19’, 27, 4’’; E 43°, 59’, 54, 4”
2. Impacts Related to Design
The alignment starts at the outskirts of Ashtarak and ends at Talin. To overcome any social impacts associated with severance of communities, every community is provided with at least one bi-directional access to the highway. Where required, underpasses will be provided to allow safe passage of persons, cattle, wild life, and agricultural and private vehicles.
3. Indirect Impact Receptors
There will be archeological sites and historical monuments including cultural (memorial) objects that will be indirectly impacted by the Project these include the following:
Aghtsk Necropolis, Karhanki Berd fortified settlement, Kurgan burial, The Great Khachkar of Kosh (Khachkar of Zakaryan princes), Necropolis of I Millennium B.C. and Medieval village, Necropolis and Settlement of I Millennium B.C., Aruch-2 Necropolis, Aruch-3 Necropolis, Fortified settlement and Necropolis, Sev Berd Archaeological Complex and Katnaghbyur Tomb Field.
The Cultural Memorial objects to be indirectly affected will include the following: Memorial to the Victims of Maralik – Yerevan Direction, Memorial to Nikolyan Khachik, Memorial to Ujantsi Rudik, Monument “Armenian Alphabet”, Memorial to Serob, Memorial to Hamlet, Memorial to Tiko, Stele to the All-Armenian Dance circling Mt. Aragats, and Two Memorials: Sargis and Armen, Manouk and Azat.
4. Impacts During Construction
Activities during the pre-construction, site preparation, and construction phases are outlined below and the potential impacts assessed and mitigation measures recommended. Detailed mitigation measures including the requirement to prepare detailed operating plans for specific aspects are included in the EMP. Regulations on environmental protection, safety of
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
the public, and safety and hygiene of workers should be fully complied with in all phases of constructing the project.
During construction, the following should be closely observed:
Location and set-up of construction quarters near the project site (for migrant workers only). These shall be provided with power and water supply and sanitary toilet and washing facilities. Provision of stockyard for construction materials such as aggregates, cement, reinforcing bars, among others. Identification of appropriate areas where excavated materials will be temporarily stockpiled. Coordination with authorities in the identification of the disposal site for solid waste materials. Programming of land clearing and excavations during the dry season where practicable. Inevitable removal and cutting of trees must be undertaken with permit duly authorized. Construction of temporary erosion ponds and silt traps as necessary around the work areas. Strict observance of proper cut - and - fills procedures to avoid or minimize any wastage or removal of excavated materials from the work areas. Placing of material stockpiles and spoil dumps as far away as possible from the waterways and provision of proper and adequate containment. Reduction of storage time of construction spoils and materials in the work areas. Observance of proper operational procedures in the use of heavy equipment for transporting, hauling and moving earth spoils from one area to another so as to avoid spills on roads and into the rivers or nearby waterways. PMU must require its contractors to implement a waste management program, which will include regular collection and disposal of wastes at a designated sites approved by the MNP. This program should include the following waste management practices:
Provision of waste bins in various strategic points within the construction area for the workers to dispose their wastes. Wastes from these containers will be collected (dump truck of the contractor) regularly to be disposed at a designated dumpsite by the Local Authorities. Placing of recyclable materials at local material recovery facilities (MRF). Conduct of a thorough orientation of workers on proper waste disposal practices. Re-use of excess excavated materials as aggregate or fill. Regular hauling of construction debris to the designated dumping area to prevent their accumulation on-site. Conduct of equipment/vehicle cleanup and maintenance as far away as possible from work areas and waterways. Collection of spent and placement of used oil placed in sealed containers and their proper disposal or sale to other users. Post construction clean-up and disposal of construction debris shall be a contractor’s responsibility.
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
The following measures shall be observed by the Contractor to reduce the incidence of project related accidents:
Designation of a safety engineer or its equivalent at the construction site at all times. Provision of rubber boots, safety gloves, dust masks, colored raincoat and other equipment for all workers as deemed necessary. Non admittance of technical staff, construction workers to work areas without the use of appropriate safety apparel.
Construction Camps - Locations for any construction camps will be selected by the contractor in consultation with the PMU’s Environment and Archaeology Specialists to ensure minimal impact. For each camp, the contractor should develop a site-specific EMP that includes a site plan, a solid and liquid waste management plan, plan to exclude camp followers, and a plan for site restoration.
Utilities - There is potential for disruption to both above and below-ground utilities during construction. This might include above-ground gas mains, water mains, sewers, and electricity and communications lines as well as irrigation facilities. Surveys will be undertaken by the contractor prior to construction to identify operational and redundant utilities. Plans will be prepared to set out temporary or permanent relocation and/or protection measures prior to construction. Any disruption to services will be short-term and localized and will take into account the time of year and time of day. Affected persons should be notified prior to the works.
Safety - Construction site safety for workers and residents of the nearby communities is of concern to the ADB. The construction site layout will be planned and areas and machinery secured as required prior to and during construction to ensure safety. First aid facilities will be provided and safety and environmental emergency response plans prepared prior to the start of construction. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) released during asphalting is potentially dangerous to the health of workers who will be affected over prolonged periods. All persons subjected to PAHs should wear appropriate personal safety equipment, receive instructions on its proper use, and be tested periodically.
Employment - There is potential for the project to generate employment opportunities for locals. It is recommended that recruitment be offered in the local community as it is likely to workers will also minimize social problems otherwise caused by non-local workers attracting camp followers.
Environmental Orientation - On-site workers should be made aware of, and trained in, standard environmental protection requirements and the EIA requirements. Contractors will be contractually required to include environmental orientation and monitoring as part of their management of the project. The orientation should include posters in work camps that illustrate the Red Book species likely to be found in various areas of the project.
Public Awareness - Potentially sensitive receptors will be notified by the Contractors of upcoming construction activities in their area that may result in increased dust, noise, temporary road closures and traffic diversions. This may include media announcements to the general public. Notifications should provide contact details on who to contact to obtain further information or make a complaint. To be really effective, public awareness campaigns should be enhanced by involving NGOs.
Vegetation Clearing - Prior to construction, decorative and orchard trees and other vegetation within the alignment will be cleared. Based on the botany report in Annex 4, none of the trees are protected species. Clearing of vegetation, earthmoving activities and other
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
construction activities have the potential to impact on other flora and fauna. To the extent practicable, trees that must be removed should be transplanted. Vegetation removal and site clearing should be undertaken during late autumn and/or winter which are seasons most favorable to minimize impact on flora and protected fauna species.
Top Soil - should be stored for site restoration and in medians. Surplus top soil should be distributed in the area based on recommendations by the local government.
Dust and Exhaust Gases - As ground cover is removed, exposed soils of the site will provide a dust source potentially causing nuisance to nearby receptors and a reduction in local air quality. The generation of dust should be mitigated primarily through maintaining vegetation cover as long as practicable and spraying the haul roads with water. Particulate matter and NO2 will be generated by construction vehicle exhaust although the exposure to potential receptors is expected to be insignificant because of the limited level and duration. Nevertheless, exhaust attenuation such as scrubbers or diesel particulate filters will still be applied to vehicles.
Cultural Heritage - The alignment does not pass through or near any cultural heritage or archaeological sites designated by UNESCO or the MOC except as noted above, the Agarak archaeological preserve. However the archaeological investigation identified the remains of several settlements near the alignment. If any item of cultural heritage or archaeological interest is uncovered during excavation activities, works must stop and the MOC notified. Construction activities cannot commence until the chance-find has been investigated by an archaeologist and written permission given by the MOC. Contractors will be obliged to familiarize themselves with the chance-find procedure of the MOC and will be contractually required to implement them strictly.
Noise - During construction, noise will be generated from the operation of vehicles and machinery (including excavators, compactors, jackhammers, vehicle reversing alarms, etc) and other construction-related activities. The most sensitive receptors are occupants of residential properties and other buildings that are adjacent to the site boundary.
Construction noise levels at nearby receptors will vary throughout the construction period depending on the activities carried out, the distance to sensitive receptors, as well as atmospheric conditions. The Contractor will develop a Noise and Vibration Management Plan, when actual locations of construction camps are known. Without mitigation, increased noise levels would likely result in significant temporary noise impacts. Mitigation measures that will be applied to minimize noise include:
(i) siting of construction camps away from residential areas; (ii) distancing noisier activities away from receptors where practicable; (iii) scheduling of noisy activities towards the middle of the day and avoiding night time activities; (iv) minimizing the need for heavy vehicles to pass through residential areas by specifying routes along public roads, site access points, and haul routes; (v) installing and maintaining effective exhaust silencing systems on vehicles and equipment; and (vi) installing temporary hoarding around noise sources where considered necessary where other mitigation measures are not sufficient or practicable.
Vibration - Construction equipment may generate vibration at the properties immediately adjacent to the alignment. Any vibration would result in nuisance effects, and will be localized and temporary and will unlikely result in structural damage to buildings or walls of the adjacent private properties. A property dilapidation survey will be undertaken prior to construction and again following construction to inspect any damage. Any damage as a result of construction of the project will either be repaired or the owners compensated.
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Particular care must be exercised to prevent damage from vibration to archaeological/historical/cultural monuments such as the Aruch caravanseri, the Kosh cross- stone, and those modern monuments that will not need to be relocated.
Excess Spoil - If excess spoil is generated from the excavation and grading activities, the spoil will be classified and transported and disposed in accordance with MNP requirements.
Oil and Fuel Spills - There is potential for spill or leakage of fuels and oils from inappropriately stored material or when refueling. This would contaminate the soil and could infiltrate into the groundwater or eventually enter surface water if carried off site through run- off. Mitigation in the EMP sets out measures for avoiding on-site maintenance and re-fuelling where practicable, providing bounded areas for fuel storage and maintenance where on-site maintenance activities cannot be avoided, clean-up of any spill/leak, and reporting to the MNP in case of spills and leaks.
Vehicle Movements on Local Roads and Altered Access - The project will increase heavy vehicle movements on local roads throughout construction from transport of waste, spoil, and construction materials and machinery. There is potential for disruption to public road access, including diversions where the new highway crosses the existing road, and increased road traffic conflict. A Traffic and Transport Management Plan will be prepared by the contractor to set out safe entry and exit points, enforce strict safety on public roads in conjunction with local police forces, specify timing for deliveries, and, in conjunction with local governments, determine routes on local roads to manage traffic and minimize potential conflict.
Solid and Liquid Waste Generation - Solid waste that may be generated during construction includes redundant road surface, oil filters, material packaging, and solid waste discarded by construction workers. Liquid wastes that will be generated by the project include construction worker sewage and waste oils. The EMP specifies that waste must be collected, stored, transported, and disposed in accordance with MNP requirements.
Site Reinstatement - Following construction, and prior to handover of the site by the Contractor to the MOTC, the Contractor will reinstate the site which will include clearing the site of all construction-related material and waste and transporting same to sites approved by the PMU, the MNP, and respective marzpeds. Landscaping activities should include grass-seeding and planting native trees within the median and along the shoulder. All trees removed from rights-of-way will be replaced with native trees at a ratio of 10:1, most of which will be in the vicinity of the alignment consistent with sight distances. The contractor will engage competent companies to maintain the trees for at least three years to assure their survival.
5. Impacts Related to Operations
Air Quality - Ambient measurements indicate that the air quality at the closest communities is excellent. The slight deterioration in air quality that may be caused by increased traffic on the upgraded highway is expected to be insignificant.
Noise - Operational noise levels are predicted to increase beyond ambient levels that already exceed day and night standards in the 6 communities with receptors close to the new highway.
Socio-economics - Often with upgrading roads to highways, there is concern about negative socio-economic impacts from lost business of incidental through-traffic. Such is the case on this project where fruit vendors may not be permitted to erect stands at the side of the highway. Vendors who will lose their income will be compensated under the LARP.
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The project will also bring socio-economic benefits to the local community by providing short-term local employment opportunities. The improved highway link will induce regional economic growth by enhancing accessibility between the North and the South.
6. Cumulative Environmental Effects
During construction, receptors adjacent to the route will be exposed to short-term construction-related nuisance effects, including noise, dust, and altered access resulting in cumulative effects. These impacts will largely be mitigated to insignificant levels. Construction of these sections will likely not occur simultaneously and consequently, there will be no adverse combined impacts during construction.
7. Alternatives to the Project
The ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009) requires consideration of feasible alternatives to the project in terms of project location and design allowing measures to be proposed to avoid or prevent potential environmental impacts.
The Ashtarak-Talin portion of the highway is an integral part of the North-South road corridor that routes around Mt. Aragats. Furthermore, the project follows the route of the existing M1 road and will be constructed as a category 1 highway. Consequently, there are no practicable alternatives in terms of general alignment, design, and construction methodology and the no-go option is not considered viable as it would run counter to Government planning of comprehensive highway network, of which this project is a vital link.
The potential impacts of the project on the environment and primarily on historical and cultural sites will be reduced by proposed modest changes in the alignment. These changes will also result in relatively slight social impacts in addition to those resulting from the pre- design alignment, which will be addressed by the LARP.
Shahverd Wetland - The wetland situated on both sides of the existing highway some 500 m north from the starting point of the project. It is the only wetland in this semi-arid region. It supports several flora and fauna species. Protecting this wetland is consistent with Armenia’s formal endorsement in 1993 of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.
The Agarak bypass is seen as an alternative to minimize the impact on the wetland flora and fauna occurring in the area and to the Agarak Historical-Cultural Site. The Agarak bypass is seen to avoid any direct impacts on the existing habitat and animals the area. Also, it will prevent the disruption of the water regimes from spring under the present bridge.
Agarak Historical-Cultural Site - The reason for the proposed change in the pre-design alignment is to minimize the possible destruction within the protection area of the site. The road widening and rehabilitation of the Agarak Bridge must be planned to the North (right side of the existing road) and to the East away from the banks of Amberd River.
E. CONSULTATION, INFORMATION DISCLOSURE AND GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM
Under Armenia’s EIA legislation, the EIA will be subject to public hearings conducted by the MNP to gauge “…the public opinion, the opinions of affected community leaders, the opinions of affected communities, and relevant state bodies.”
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Specifically, prior to the implementation or start of construction and after the updates to the EIA and EMP documents have been duly accomplished and have been submitted to the Ministry of Nature Protection the project shall abide with the applicable provisions of Article 6, the procedure of notification about the implementation of the intended activity of the law of the Republic of Armenia on environmental impact assessment.
Public Consultations
The 1st Public Consultation consisted of four meetings over two days. On 26 May 2010, a meeting was held in one of MOTC’s meeting rooms in Yerevan. That meeting was chaired jointly by the PMU Director and ADB staff consultant and was attended by 18 persons. On 27 May 2010 meeting was held in Kosh, the meeting was held in the new public school auditorium, attended by 20 persons, and chaired jointly by a representative of the PMU and ADB staff consultant. Each attendee received a project fact sheet in English and Armenian (Annex 10) and a notebook and ball pen printed with project title, ADB logo, and the Armenia coat of arms.
Copies of the actual attendance sheets and their translations in English are in Annex 10. Questions and comments are summarized in Table VII-2.
The 2 nd Public Con sultation took place on 1 and 2 July 2010 and again and provided a platform to discuss the findings of the EIA team and the project with key stakeholders. The project was assessed during these meetings by participating stakeholders with concerns and issues captured and where appropriate further actions taken to alleviate concerns raised at the event.
On 1 July 2010 meeting was held in Kosh, the meeting was held in the new public school auditorium, attended by 15 persons, and chaired jointly by the ADB staff consultant; and on 2 July 2010, a meeting was held in one of MOTC’s meeting rooms in Yerevan. That meeting was chaired jointly by the PMU Public Relations Officer and ADB staff consultant and was attended by 5 persons in addition to the EIA team and several PMU staff.
Each attendee again received a project fact sheet in English and Armenian (Annex 11) and a notebook and ball pen printed with project title, ADB logo, and the Armenia coat of arms.
In total, the two public consultations were attended by 58 persons, including 3 from Government other than PMU, 2 from media organizations, and 9 from the 7 different NGOs listed below. Several of the persons attended both consultations.
(i) NGO Forum on ADB (ii) Consumers’ Association of Armenia (iii) Eco Alliance (iv) Ecological Academy (v) Environmental Survival (vi) Geo Botanic (vii) Shogher Union
Information Disclosure
Information about the project was disclosed primarily during the two public consultation meeting but also during introductory and follow-up meetings with relevant government ministries. The participation of the affected public was achieved by soliciting questions and
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concerns about the project from affected and interested parties during the public consultations.
The advertisements in the Republic of Armenia newspaper for the first and second public consultations were posted in the website of the MOTC. Copies of the advertisements as they appeared in the Republic of A rmenia and the Aragats World newspapers are in Annex 10 and Annex 11 respectively. In addition, multiple television and radio announcements for both events were made in Gyumri by the SHANT and TSAYG broadcasting companies. Written (Email) and verbal invitations rounded out the publicizing of the event.
A draft final EIA in the Armenian language has been transmitted to the PMU for non objection by the council of Ministers and posted the non-objection on the MOTC website. The draft final EIA was then made publicly available on the ADB website (in English22) on or about 1 August 2010. This ensured the disclosure of environmental concerns and proposed mitigation measures to the relevant authorities and other interested parties.
Stakeholder Meetings
The stakeholders were involved during the information disclosure, and consultation with affected people. During these activities comments and concerns received from affected people and other stakeholders and will be addressed by the updated EMP.
The meetings were held with representatives of a number of stakeholder groups and will be ongoing with the same and other stakeholder groups during the preparation of future projects funded under the MFF. Stakeholder meetings held during the EIA report preparation in May and June 2010 are listed in Table 12.
Table 12: Stakeholder meetings Date Entity/Venue Attendees 05 May 10 Artsakhroad Robert Soghoyan, Executive Director Institute CJSC Artur Avetisyan, Project Coordinator ADB: Klaus Schonfeld, Arman Vermishyan, Dmitri Arakelyan (GIS expert - EIA team) 06 May 10 MOTC Hrant Beglaryan, First Deputy Minister Feliks Pirumyan, Director, PMU Gagik Grigoryan, Head, Foreign Relations Karen Badalyan, Deputy Director, Autoroad GNCO ADB: Klaus Schonfeld, Arman Vermishyan 06 May 10 Shirak Regional Hamazasp Khachatryan, Director Museum (Gyumri) ADB: Klaus Schonfeld, Boris Gasparyan, Arman Vermishyan 18 May 10 Artsakhroad Eduard Bezoyan, President Institute CJSC Robert Soghoyan, Executive Director Artur Avetisyan, Project Coordinator ADB: Klaus Schonfeld, Arman Vermishyan 07 May 10 MNP Dr. Simon Papyan, First Deputy Minister Margarita Korkhmazyan, Head, International Relations Andranik Gevorkyan, Head, Environmental State Expertise ADB: Klaus Schonfeld, Arman Vermishyan 07 May 10 MNP Margarita Korkhmazyan, Head, International Relations ADB: Klaus Schonfeld, Arman Vermishyan 10 May 10 MOC Ms. Arev Samuelyan, Deputy Minister Armenak Sargsyan, Head, Department of Cultural Heritage Artyom Grigoryan, Head, Dept. of Historic and Cultural
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Date Entity/Venue Attendees Monuments Conservation ADB: Klaus Schonfeld, Arman Vermishyan, Boris Gasparyan 17 May 10 MOTC PMU Feliks Pirumyan, Director, PMU Ms Arevik Sindoyan, Assistant to Director, PMU ADB: Klaus Schonfeld, Arman Vermishyan, Boris Gasparyan, Dmitri Arakelyan (GIS expert - EIA team) 18 May 10 Artsakhroad Eduard Bezoyan, President Institute CJSC Robert Soghoyan, Executive Director Artur Avetisyan, Project Coordinator ADB: Klaus Schonfeld, Arman Vermishyan 26 May 10 MOTC Feliks Pirumyan, Director, PMU Ms Arevik Sindoyan, Assistant to Director, PMU Klaus Schonfeld, ADB 03 Jun 10 ADB AARM Feliks Pirumyan, Director, PMU Armine Simonyan, Head, PMU Safeguards Unit ADB: Areg Barseghyan (AARM), Arto Ahonen, Klaus Schonfeld 10 Jun 10 MOTC Feliks Pirumyan, Director, PMU Ashot Karakhanyan, Head, PMU Technical Unit Armine Simonyan, Head, PMU Safeguards Unit ADB: Areg Barseghyan (AARM), Gohar Mousaelyan (AARM), Klaus Schonfeld Briefly, after the meeting: Hrant Beglaryan, First Deputy Minister ADB: Areg Barseghyan (AARM), Klaus Schonfeld 28 Jun 10 ADB AARM Silva Adamyan, NGO Forum on ADB Dr. Knarik Hovhannisyan, NGO “Eco Alliance” ADB: Klaus Schonfeld, Arman Vermishyan 02 Jul 10 MOC Ms. Arevik Samonyan, Deputy Minister Armenak Sargsyan, Head, Department of Cultural Heritage ADB: Klaus Schonfeld, Boris Gasparyan 06 Jul 10 MNP Edgar Pirumyan, Department Head, Water Resources Management Agency Klaus Schonfeld, ADB 06 Jul 10 National Lusine Kalantaryan, Labor Statistics Division Statistical Service Klaus Schonfeld, ADB 06 Jul 10 Ministry of Health Ruzanna Yuzbashyan Klaus Schonfeld, ADB 06 Jul 10 Ministry of Suzanna Mashuryan Education Klaus Schonfeld, ADB
Grievance Procedure and Redress Mechanism
At times and for different reasons, contractors do not adhere to sound construction procedures that include environment protection. When that occurs, affected people are encouraged to lodge their complaints. The following is intended to assist aggrieved persons in lodging their complaints and to describe the mechanism designed to redress their grievances in a timely and effective manner. This process is provided in addition to the existing channels of petitions in the form of letters and personal pleas long established by local governments. The entities potentially involved are: complainant, contractor, EA, PMU, NGOs, ADB, and the courts.
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Contractor
The contractor is obliged to carry out the work in accordance with contractual requirements that include:
(i) a provisional sum for grievance redress; (ii) a person on staff responsible for grievance procedure who a. is first contact, b. keeps a log, c. drafts mitigation measure to be implemented by contractor, and d. prepares periodic reports; (iii) a designated telephone line; (iv) posting the telephone number, email address, and contact name on Project Boards.
Executing Agency
The EA, the Ministry of Transport and Communication (MOTC) has agreed with ADB to:
(i) arbitrate disagreements between PMU, contractor, and aggrieved person; and (ii) report periodically to ADB.
PMU
PMU staff to include an appropriate specialist who will:
(i) monitor grievance process; (ii) coordinate and arbitrate grievances with contractor; (iii) coordinate with NGO; and (iv) report periodically to EA (MOTC).
NGOs
NGOs have participated in the public consultation events described in Section IV. They are committed to:
(i) provide public monitoring dimension; (ii) assist with grievance redress negotiations; (iii) assist with grievance arbitration; and (iv) assist PMU to raise public awareness of the project.
Complainant
A potential complainant is urged to proceed in the following order; s/he should:
(i) contact contractor’s designated grievance staff in person or via designated telephone number; (ii) lodge complaint and provides information for complaint log; (iii) agree with contractor on mitigation measure; (iv) agree with contractor on time limit to implement mitigation measure; (v) agree with contractor on verification method that mitigation measure has been implemented as agreed; (vi) sign off that mitigation measure has been implemented as agreed; (vii) seek redress from PMU if not satisfied with (iii), (iv), and (v); (viii) seek redress from EA if not satisfied with (vii);
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(ix) seek redress from ADB (AARM) if not satisfied with (ix); (x) involve appropriate NGOs; and (xi) seek redress from the courts if all else fails.
The steps described above are shown graphically in Figure II.
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ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
F. Monitoring and Reporting
The key departments within the MNP that have administrative authority over the EIA and the project approval process are two Organizations:
(i) The Environmental Expertise SNCO (EE) is responsible for reviewing and approving EIA reports and projects for implementation and adding conditions when necessary to protect the environment; and (ii) The State Environmental Inspectorate (SEI) is responsible for inspecting projects to ensure compliance with conditions imposed by the NPE and with the project EMP.
The EIA process and the SEI’s power to inspect are the principal tools used by the MNP to achieve compliance with environmental protection principles.
To satisfy relevant regulations and to gain project approval of the MNP, an EIA, in accordance with the Law on Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) (1995), has been prepared in Armenian. The MNP EIA will have similar, if not identical, requirements as the ADB EIA.
The Ministry of Nature Protection can initiate a review of environmental impact when it considers it necessary to do so. The EIA Law specifies notification, documentation, public consultations, and appeal procedures and requirements (Articles 6-11).
The Ministry of Culture has jurisdiction over archaeological, historical, and cultural sites. It is not, however, involved with the fate of modern monuments erected along the highway by private citizens in commemoration of accident victims. The relocation of those monuments will be coordinated by the respective provincial authority (marzpet).
The steps described above are shown graphically in Figure III.
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Reporting
The Contractor shall submit regular environmental reports to the Project Manager as a requirement of the EMP. A summary report shall be submitted as part of the Monthly Progress Report. Prior to submission, the Contractor’s Project Manager shall endorse the Report. Reports shall comprehensively address all relevant aspects of environmental
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regulations and requirements and, in particular, report on all environmental audits undertaken during the period covered by the report.
The following environmental reports shall be submitted:
Initial Environmental Baseline Report. Required environmental baseline data is specified in Section 101.16.9 Environmental Monitorin g under the G eneral Requirement of the Biddin g Document. The Initial Environmental Baseline Report and shall be submitted as specified under the said Section. Weekly Environmental Reports. Environmental reports shall be undertaken on weekly basis. Environmental Report summarizing the results shall be submitted on a monthly basis. Incorporation of Summaries in the Project Monthly Report. Summaries of the Weekly Environmental Reports will be included in the Project’s Monthly Progress Report. Monthly reports shall be analytical and provide explanations for anomalies and problems encountered. (See Annex 6 - Report Forms)
Notification of environmental break-down and accidents:
The Resident Engineer will be notified immediately of any environmental break-down (fire, explosion, oil, emulsion and bitumen overflow) and accidents which occur whether on-Site or off-site in which the Contractor, his personnel or construction plant, or those of any subcontractors are directly or indirectly involved and which result in any injuries to any persons.
Such initial notification may be verbal and shall be followed by a written comprehensive report within 24 hours of the environmental break-down and accident.
Conclusions
It is concluded that:
(i) the key benefit of this project is a safer, more efficient highway that is expected to contribute to the economic growth of Armenia; (ii) the proposed changes and alternatives to the detail design of the project would reduce the significant and eliminate irreversible adverse impacts on the environment and important archaeological sites when implemented; (iii) nuisance impacts, including noise, dust, traffic and access changes, which are likely to be experienced by nearby receptors during construction will be minimized through mostly routine measures set out in the EMP; (iv) Summarizing the study of the archaeological, historical and cultural resources along the new design of the Ashtarak-Talin alignment (Bazmaberd - Talin segment) at least 3 archaeological monuments are affected by the preliminary design these are:
(a) Nerkin Naver archaeological complex (# 1 in GM). (b) Agarak historical-cultural preserve ( # 2 in GM) (c) Settlement of Kosh ( # 14 in GM) (d) Aruch Neolithic settlement and Medieval village ( # 20 in GM) (e) Medieval village of Shamiram ( # 15 in GM) (f) Davtashen Archaeological complex ( # 30 (# 32 in GM) (g) Zakari Berd Archaeological complex ( # 31 (35) (h) Talin tomb field ( # 32 (38)
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(v) The revision of the road alignment from the of Shahverd bridge and up to the Agarak bridge area, in its last point reaches the eastern border of the “Agarak” State archaeological reserve, that goes along the Amberd riverbed. The widening and enlargement of the existing bridge to the South (the left side of the existing road) and West will drive the destruction of the riverside zone of archaeological site (up to 6000 sq. m., including the necessary “buffer line” between the edge/slope of the road and the site itself), which is absolutely unacceptable taking into account scientific importance of the latter and the status of its protection as well. To avoid the destruction of the settlement, the widening and enlargement of the Agarak bridge must be planned to the North (right side of the existing road) and East. (vi) by considering environmental and archaeological impacts, and including detail design changes as well as strict adherence to mitigation measures set out in the EMP, several environmental and archaeological sites that would otherwise be destroyed will be preserved.
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ANNEXES
1 Rapid Environmental Assessment Checklist
2 Environmental Report in Support of EIA 3 Archaeological Impact Assessment Preliminary Report Part 1 3-A Archaeological Impact Assessment Preliminary Report Part 2 3-B Archaeological Impact Assessment Preliminary Report Part 3
4 1st Public Consultation (advertisements, attendance lists and sheets, handout)
5 2nd Public Consultation (advertisements, attendance lists and sheets, handout)
6 Environmental Report Forms
7 EMP (Management Plan and Monitoring Plan)
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ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
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ANNEX 2
Environmental Report in Support of EIA
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ANNEX 2 Environmental Report in Support of EIA For ADB-funded North-South Road Corridor Investment Program, Tranche 2 (Ashtarak – Talin)
[18.11.2010] Armine Yedigaryan Egis International Local Environmental Expert E-mail: [email protected] Tel: +374 91 727245
RA Government, with funding from ADB, is implementing the North-South Road Corridor Investment Program aimed at improvement of the transportation links with its neighbor countries Iran and Georgia to international standards.
The Tranche 2 project consists of upgrading about 41.2 km 2-lane road from Ashtarak to Talin to a 4-lane divided highway.
According to ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009), constructing a highway on new alignment usually classifies the project as environment category “A”, which requires that an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report is developed and posted on the ADB website for at least 120 days prior to Board Consideration. This project is considered as environment category “A”. According to RA law on EIA this project should also be reviewed by State Environmental Expertise SNCO under the RA Ministry of Nature Protection and respective conclusion should be issued prior to commencement of civil works.
Egis-Bceom International consulting organization should develop final design for Tranche 2 and respectively update the EIA. EgisBceom International consulting organization’s environmental team consisted of one international environmental consultant and two national experts (environmentalist and archaeologist), should review and update the EIA report in accordance with ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (June 2009), prepare the final EIA report in accordance with ADB’s manuals/guidelines and legislation of the Republic of Armenia, assist the PMU in actions for getting approvals for the EIA and EMP (conclusion from Environmental Expertise SNCO under the RA Ministry of Nature Protection, agreement on route with the RA Ministry of Culture, etc.).
Within the context of EIA procedure for the project, the main goals of investigations are:
(i) identification of environmental values of areas along the highway,
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(ii) assessment of potential impacts of road construction on environment, (iii) update Environmental Management Plan (EMP) to reflect final detail design.
This report is based on field investigations carried out in October and November, 2010 and desk review of available literature.
During the site visits all environmental, archaeological, historical and cultural sites located along the proposed alignment (including those likely to be impacted during the Project) were investigated. Summarizing the findings of site visits and literature review, the following environmental “Hot Spots” are emphasized (during development of the final detail design special attention is given to them and appropriate mitigation measures are included in EMP):
The wetland in the floodplain of the Shahverd River: The small marshes formed in the floodplain of the Shahverd River stretch along both sides of the highway bridge near the Agarak community (Aragatsotn marz), about 500 m north of the start point of the Ashtarak – Talin road: some of them are formed by small streams flowing into the Shahverd, others fed by groundwater. All of them are relatively small - from several tens to several hundred square meters, forming together a marsh system.
Literature review and field investigations show that the following nesting bird species inhabit the wetland area:
1. Carduelis cannabina –Twite 2. Luscinia svecica-Robin - European (included in the Bern Convention lists3) 3. Acrocephalus arundinaceus - Warbler,Cetti’s 4. Emberiza schoeniclus - Reed bunting 5. Carpodacus erythrinus - Common rosefinch 6. Hirundo rustica-Barn – swallow 7. Ixobrychus minutus - Little bittern (included in the Bern Convention lists) 8. Gallinula chloropus - Common moorhen 9. Falco tinnunculus - Common kestrel 10. Circus aeruginosus - Western marsh harrier (included in the Bern Convention lists)
During annual migration, the following bird species cross these areas:
1. Motacilla alaba - White wagtail 2. Motacilla citreola - Citrine wagtail (included in RA Red Book and IUCN Red List4)
3 Bern Convention ‐ Council of Europe Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats, originally drafted in 1979, in Bern. Armenia joined this convention on 2006. This convention sets out to conserve wild flora and fauna and their natural habitats, promote co‐operation between states, monitor and control endangered and vulnerable species and assist with the provision of assistance concerning legal and scientific issues. Four appendices set out particular species for protection. Appendix II sets strictly protected fauna species and Appendix III ‐ protected fauna species .
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3. Miliaria calandra - Corn bunting 4. Passer hispaniolensis - Spanish sparrow (included in RA Red Book and IUCN Red List) 5. Phalacrocorax pygmaeus - Pygmy cormorant (included in RA Red Book and IUCN Red List) 6. Tringa ochropus - Green sandpiper 7. Tringa stagnatilis - Marsh sandpiper 8. Egretta garzetta - Little egret (included in the Bern Convention lists) 9. Ardeola ralloides - Squacco heron (included in the Bern Convention lists) 10. Anas platyrhynchos – Mallard 11. Fulica atra-Common – coot 12. Larus armenicus - Armenian gull (Included in Armenian Red Book) 13. Chlidonias niger - Black tern 14. Sterna albifrons - Little tern (Included in Armenian Red Book and IUCN Red List, and Bern Convention lists) 15. Turdus merula - Eurasian blackbird 16. Lanius collurio - Red-backed shrike (included in the Bern Convention lists)
Тhe dominant emergent plants are Club-rush (Scirpus sp.) , Branched Bur-reed (Sparganium erectum ), Common reed (Phragmites australis), Spike rush (Heleocharis quinqueflora). Other common species are Sedges (Carex spp.) and Bulrush (Typha spp.).
Among invertebrates the diversity of dragonfly and damselfly is distinguished (Calopteryx sp lendens, Coe nagrion, Libellula, Sym petrum etc). In the bottom of marshes, among the stones and aquatic vegetation mayfly larvaes (Baetidae) and mollusks (Radix peregra) are common.
In the river and ducts Cobitis aurata fish fries were found. According to locals in the marsh system coots (Fulica atra) are nesting.
The general conclusions following the investigations carried out are summarized below:
The marsh system of River Shahverd mitigates microclimate, including that of adjacent areas (private orchards), affects positively on the formation of river flow, smooth floods, and has a great water security and water-regulating value; represents a wide range of habitats and provides important habitat for many wetland dependent species;
4 The new edition of Red Book of RA was created based on IUCN categories and parameters.
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plays an important role for local birds in terms of nesting and feeding; is a stop-over point for migratory birds; has special aesthetic value, especially during the summer, as it is a unique green area of dried steppe vegetation.
The pre-design alignment will adversely affect this natural ecosystem for the following reasons:
The area of the wetland is small enough, and during construction it will be reduced because of land filling during construction of embankments; the new road will separate the wetland into two parts, resulting in the disruption of regular water flow between marshes; birds, insects, water animals and plants will be affected seriously; trees will be cut; the wetland can be destroyed by construction equipment and polluted by construction wastes and spoil materials, etc.
In order to minimise possible adverse impact on wetland it will be appropriate a) to build a long-span bridge or b) to construct new highway with minimal deviation from the general alignment that would result in the usual 4-lane cross-section as opposed to the approximately 50-m separation in the pre-design drawings. The second alternative was choosen by supervision consultant.
Investigation of Flora and Fauna along the Ashtarak - Talin highway The Ashtarak – Talin highway pass through steppe and dry steppe landscape zones. Almost all around highway are cultivated lands and big and small communities and only small areas of natural environment are along the road.
During investigations it was clarified that there are endangered Flora and Fauna Red Book species observed in this region. Species in those areas should receive special attention to comply with Armenia’s Law on Flora (1999), Law on Fauna (2000) and the requirements of the Red Book for Flora (Governmental decree 29.01.2010, N 72- N), Red Book for Fauna (Governmental decree 29.01.2010, N 71-N).
Flora Since the Supervision consultant’s environmental team commenced its activities in October, when blossom of flowers was ended and vegetation cover was dried, the team members took the special literature, draft EIA’s team conclusions and data available from field visits as a basis in order to make respective recommendations and conclusions.
There are three Red Book species near the highway.
Hohenackeria exscapa (Stev.) K.-Pol. - EN – A taxon is endangered when it is not Critically Endangered but is facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild in the near future.
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Habitat: Ujan, Kosh. Limiting factors: Lost of habitat and degradation as a result of urban development, roads construction, and land cultivation.
Iris el egantissima S osn. - EN – A taxon is endangered when it is not Critically Endangered but is facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild in the near future. It is endemic for Caucasus. Habitat: West from Ashtarak, near Davtashen community. Limiting factors: Loss of habitat and degradation as a result of urban development, land cultivation and intensive collection for sale.
Merendera greuteri Gabrielian - CR - A taxon is Critically Endangered when it is facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild in the immediate future. It is Armenian endemic. It is found only in Shirak floristic region. The territory of its living and spreading is less than 10 sq. km. Habitat: Between Katnakhbyur and Talin communities. Limiting f actors: Limited territory for living and spreading; loss of habitat and degradation as a result of land cultivation.
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The Special mitigation measures should be included in the EMP to minimize the negative impact on flora and to avoid any detrimental effect to Red Book plants.
Contractor should engage botanist to survey the territory to be impacted by construction activities, report on the location and number of Red Book flora species, and propose methods to prevent or achieve minimal loss of biodiversity, including the replanting of those species in suitable locations, being mindful of appropriate soil conditions. The Red book flora species posters likely to be found in various areas of the project should be installed in work camps, etc.
Trees along the highw ay. There are several sections where trees and bushes are growing along the highway (about 300 m in the beginning of the highway from km 30+600 till km 30+900, about 1 km between Agarak and Ujan communities from km 34+280 till km 35+200, about 3.1 km in Ujan community from km 36+700 till km 39+800 and about 500 m near the Aruch intersection from km 49+400 till km 49+900). Among these trees registered Populus, Robinia, Acer, Salicx, Morus, Armeniaca, Crataegus, Pyrus salicifolia, Berberis, Fraxsinus excelsior, F.oxycarpa, Spiraea crenata, Berberis orientalis, Cotoneaster integerrima, Lonicera iberica, Ephedra procera, Jasminum fruticans, Ulmus, Prunus, Elaeagnus, Paliurus, Rosa.
Taking into account that trees and bushes planted along the highway have some important advantages, such as providing environmental and aesthetic value, protecting from wind and snow accumulation, serving also as a noise barriers, making visible the direction of road, and taking also into consideration that the highway is passing through dry steppe and steppe zones and that it is relatively difficult to grow trees in this environment, it is necessary to avoid as much as possible cutting of trees and bushes.
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Mitigation measures are involved in EMP. During the construction works new trees should be planted with a ratio of 10 new trees per 1 tree cut. The new trees should be maintained for 3 years until they become viable (Note: 80% survival is considered excellent). It is very important to use dry and dust persistent local species.
Fauna In this region among widely spread species we can find: mammals - hare (Lepus europaeus), fox (Vulpes vulpes), wolf (Canis lupus) and a number of representatives of rodents - meadow mouse (Msubterraneus), marten (Martes foina) and others. Amphibians and reptiles are represented by different species of toads, frogs, lizards and snakes.
5 No. English Name Latin Name IUCN categories Note
INVERTEBRATES Insects 1 Siberian Winter Damsel Sympecma paedisca (Brauer, 1877) VU B 1b+B 2b 2 Kalashyan Philomessor Philomessor kalashiani Khnzorian, 1988 CR B1a+ B2a AE 3 Armenohelops armeniacus Nabozhenko, EN B1a AE 2002 4 Cylindronotus erivanus (Reitter, 1901) EN B1a AE 5 Hawk-moth Hyles hippophaes caucasica (Denso, 1913) VU B 1a+B2а BC 6 Hornfaced bee Osmia cerinthides F. Morawitz, 1876 VU B 1a+B 2a 7 Archianthidium pubescens Morawitz, 1872 EN B2a OSTEICHTIES 1 Kura Riviergrondel Gobio persus, Gnter, 1899 DD: 2 Golden Spined Loach Sabanejewia aurata, Filippi, 1863 DD: REPTILES 1 Golden Grass Mabuya Trachylepis septemtaeniata Reuss, 1834 VU B1ab(iii)+2ab(iii) 2 Schneider's Skink Eumeces schneideri (Daudin, 1802) VU B1ab(iii)+2ab(iii) 3 Unisexual Lizard Darevskia unisexualis (Darevsky, 1966) VU B1a 4 Caucasian Rat Snake Zamenis hohenackeri (Strauch, 1873), VU B1ab (iii) 5 Armenian Steppe Viper Vipera (Pelias) eriwanensis (Reuss, 1933) VU B1ab(iii, v) CE 6 Armenian Radde's Vipera (Montivipera) raddei Boettger, 1890, VU B1a+2b (ii, iii) CE (Rock) Viper BIRDS 1 White - tailed eagle Haliaeetus albicilla Linnaeus, 1758 EN B1a; D 2 Bartgeier Gypaetus barbatus Linnaeus, 1758 VU D1 3 Egyptian vulture Neophron percnopterus Linnaeus, 1758 EN A2 bcde+3bcde+4bcde 4 Eurasian Griffon Vulture Gyps fulvus (Hablizl, 1783) VU D1 5 Short-toed Eagle Circaetus gallicus (J. F. Gmelin, 1788) VU D1 6 Greater spotted eagle Aquila clanga Pallas, 1811 VU C2a(ii) 7 Steppe eagle Aquila nipalensis orientalis Hodgson, 1833 VU C2a(i); D1 8 Golden eagle Aquila chrysaetos (Linnaeus, 1758) VU D0 9 Lesser Kestrel Falco naumanni Fleischer, 1818 VU A2bce+3bce+4bce 10 Saker falcon Falco cherrug J. E. Gray, 1834 EN A2bcd+3cd+4bcd 11 Peregrine falcon Falco peregrinus Tunstall, 1771 VU D1 12 Demoiselle crane Arthropoides virgo Linneus, 1758 VU B1ab(iii)+2ab(iii) 13 Eurasian roller Coracias garrulus (Linnaeus, 1758) VU B1ab(iii)
5 CR – Critically endangered, VU – Vulnerable, EN – Endangered, DD – Data deficient. For more details of IUCN categories look at http://www.iucnredlist.org/apps/redlist/static/categories_criteria_3_1#categories.
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5 No. English Name Latin Name IUCN categories Note
14 White-throated Robin Irania gutturalis (Guérin, 1843) DD 15 Grey - necked bunting Emberiza buchanani Blyth, 1844 VU B1ab(iii)+2ab(iii) MAMMALS 1 Long-eared Hedgehog Erinaceus (Hemiechinus) auritus Gmelin, EN B1ab(iii)+2ab(iii) 1770 2 Transcaucasian Water Neomys schelkovnikovi Sat., 1913 EN B1a+2a Shrew 3 Mehely’s Horseshoe Bat Rhinolophus mehelyi Matschie, 1901 EN B1a+2ab(iii) 4 Asia Minor Ground Spermophilus xanthoprymnus Bennet 1835 EN B2ab (ii, iii, iv) Squirrel 6 5 Schidlovsky Pine Vole Microtus (Sumeriomys) schidlovskii EN B1ab (ii, iii, v) Argyropulo, 1933 6 Small Five-toed Jerboa Allactaga elater Lichtenstein, 1825 EN B1ab (ii, iii,iv) 7 European Marbled Vormela peregusna (Guldenstaedt, 1770) VU A2c+B1 b(iii) Polecat
The project can negatively affect fauna by:
Destroying nesting places, burrows and holes of animals; Killing animals during construction; Making difficulties for their hunting, migrating and reproduction; Creating shocking circumstances by noise, vibration, and air and water pollution.
During field visits the locations of possible migration routes were investigated. About 16 possible areas for animal migration passages installation for crossing the road were revealed (km 41+506, 48+587, 49+231, 50+800, 53+094, , 54+703, 56+312, , 59+209, 69+187).
The chainage of some elements of dranage system (culverts, box culverts) coincides with possible locations of migration passages (km 41+506, 48+587, 54+381, 59+209), so the drainage system to be installed in that areas will also serve as passage to ensure safe migration, hunting, nesting, etc. of animalas.
To prevent and mitigate possible negative impacts on fauna it is important to include the following mitigation measures in EMP:
if Red Book plant and/or nesting places, burrows, and holes of animals are discovered, respective information should be provided to PMU environmental specialist and MNP for future actions; during construction temporary protective walls should be erected on the sections where animals often appear; in the case of an injured animal is found the MNP should be contacted; avoid construction and blasting works on evening and night time, during animal’s reproduction period, etc.
6 Endemic subtype
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ANNEX 3
Archaeological Impact Assessment Preliminary Report Part 1
The North-South Road Corridor Investment Programme Tranche 2 (Ashtarak – Bazmaberd)
Dr. Mkrtich. H. Zardaryan Senior Researcher Institute of Archaeology and Ethnography National Academy of Sciences, RA Archaeological Consultant of the Programme
Introductory note
A.
The Law on preservation and utilization of Immovable Monuments of History and Culture and of the Historic Environment (adopted November 11, 1989).
(http://www.parliament.am/legislation.php?sel=show&ID=1641&lang=arm)
- Chapter 1. Any building, construction or site, cultural value that is fixed by the State (State Registration), is a monument and is under protection and preservation of the Government of the Republic of Armenia.
- Chapter 13. The recorded list of the monuments has a power of law and is a basis for giving an official status to the monument.
- Chapter 19. Any type of the construction activity in the areas containing historical monuments or archaeological sites must be realized in agreement with the authorized body (Ministry of Culture).
- Chapter 20. Newly discovered sites are immediately getting a status of protection and are protected by law till they will be included in the State Lists.
- Chapters 21-22. Destruction of historical monuments and its environment is forbidden. Before the realization of any kind of activity at the area of the site the authorized body must study it and give corresponding permits or solutions.
B.
The Ashtarak-Gyumri highway (Aragatsotn and Shirak marzes (provinces) of the RA) in the line of Ashtarak-Bazmaberd is passing across or closely alongside at least 19 Archeological sites of different periods, and Historical monuments. The reasons for such high density of archaeological remnants are also different:
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- One of the factors is the topographic-morphological and climatological characteristics of this area on the foothill of m-t Aragats. Presence of various natural resources, fertile mountainous black-earth, abundant water resources and pasture zones, together with the great number of naturally protected areas of habitation, had created favourable conditions of occupation from the earliest periods of Human Civillisations in the Near East.
- The present-day road closely follows the direction of the one of ancient trade routes running from the Ararat valley to the Shirak plateau. Its functioning is archaeologically confirmed at least from the IV-III millennia B.C. From the II-I centuries B.C. and through the Middle Ages this route was involved into the Great Silk Road network.
- From the mid-I century A.D., up to the Early Middle Ages, this region was included in the list of domains of the Armenian Arshakuni Royal dynasty. Later the several areas of the region (ancient provinces of Aragatsotn and Shirak) were under the control of the most powerful Principal clans of Medieval Armenia (Kamsarakans, Proshyans etc.), and the kings of the next Bagratuni dynasty.
All the above mentioned had a positive impact on the level of occupation of these regions. And the number of fortified settlements, tomb fields, caravanserais, fortresses and other archaeological, historical and cultic monuments, recorded here are going to highlight this fact. The same circumstances make the examining regions extremely sensitive to any construction activity.
Regarding potential impact from activities relating to the North-South Highway construction, it is noted that some of the sites are directly adjacent to the existing road while others are located in the general vicinity. The assessment and management of the cultural heritage within the project area is therefore a priority and it is considered prudent to include the services of an archaeologist. The objective of the services is to:
1). to identify potential impacts of the proposed projects on Physical Cultural Resources (PCR) - movable or immovable objects, sites, structures, and natural features and landscapes that have archaeological, historical, architectural, religious, ethnographic, cultural or natural significance;
2). to provide archaeological input to an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report including an Environmental Management and Monitoring plan (EMP);
3). to undertake desk and field studies of the archaeological sites of the Project, identify the known and newly discovered sites, develop recommendations on mitigation measures and provide archaeological input to the Project EIA report and EMP. In this EIA, the sites will likely be divided into those two groups; i.e., sites with direct impact from construction activities and sites that are unlikely to be affected. Recommendations will be provided to address the impact of the projects for all affected sites.
For the realization of the undertaken tasks the following type of studies were conducted:
b) Preliminary desk study – Collection of information about the archaeological sites and historical monuments from archival and literary sources, their identification with the State List of the Historical and Cultural Immovable Monuments of the Republic of
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Armenia (Aragatsotn and Shirak marzes). Mapping of the collected topographic information together with the alignment of the future construction area. c) Fieldwork activities including intensive field survey along the projecting highway. Recording of the archaeological sites and structures, surface study of their boundaries in relationship with the area of future construction activities. d) Complex analyses of the collected information in the context of the fieldwork results. e) Recommendations aimed to minimize the impact of the project for all affected sites along the road-band. These recommendations can include: (i) relocation of the proposed road alignment, (ii) in some specific cases when the relocation is impossible - excavations of the sites (settlements, tomb fields), or the part of their areas, for the preservation of their cultural-historical value, (iii) relocation of some of historical or cultural monuments, (iv) strengthening (reinforcement) of the constructions of historical-cultural sites and monuments alongside the road to protect these objects from the negative impact in process of construction (blasting, technical activity etc.) and permanent vibration during further exploitation of the road,
All suggested solutions are based on the legislation and correlated regulation documents of the RA, acts to protect the archaeological sites or historical-cultural monuments and minimize potential destructions during any construction activity (see the “Introductory note:A”).
In the case of the North-South Road Corridor Investment Program, Tranche 2 Project (starting from the border of Ashtarak-Agarak communities up to Bazmaberd community of the Aragatsotn marz), was included in this study. The study (desk investigations and field survey) of the presenting part of the road area counted 29 objects or units, represented by historical-archaeological monuments, and monuments of religious, aesthetic, or cultural significance (cultural monuments). These objects are in danger to be affected by the road construction activities (General Map (GM) and Maps 1-7).
Most part of the Archaeological sites and Historical-Architectural monuments listed below are already included in the State List of Historical and Archaeological Monuments of the RA and are under protection of the State (supervision of the Ministry of Culture of the RA). The sites recently discovered during the intensive survey of the road zone are under the same protection (see: Introductory Note, A, Chapter 20).
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Main list of the historical-archaeological and cultural monuments recorded along the Ahstarak-Gyumri Main Highway (Ashtarak – Bazmaberd segment) A. Archaeological sites of direct impact
11. Nerkin Naver archaeological complex (# 1 in GM and Map 1). Aragatsotn marz, Parpi community, Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 0 – 0.60 km, GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 40, 8’’; E 44°, 18’, 32, 0” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # 2. 110. 2.
This site consists of Middle Bronze Age kurgan (burial mound) tomb field, several inhabited caves and remains of the Medieval settlement. The site is located on the left side of the Ashtarak-Gyumri Highway on the peninsula, formed by gorge of the Shahverd River. The systematic excavations that started here since 2001 opened rich Middle Bronze Age tombs with specific painted pottery and exclusive jewelry belonging to “Trialeti culture” of the Middle Bronze Age (22-18 centuries B.C.). Some of larger “royal” tombs were used as secondary burials later in I Millennium B.C. In 1970-ies the part of site area was used under agricultural activities, and external signs of many burials – particularly their mounds and “stone shields,” were lost.
Fully preserved burial mounds and wall structures of the medieval settlement are visible is the southern part of the site area. The northern part of the cemetery, where the burial signs had been ameliorated, is endangered by the suggested road design.
The outline of the new road is passing closely upon the cave site within the Nerkin Naver archaeological complex. That’s why it is necessary to suggest the following mitigation measures for the site:
- In process of the road construction openings or discoveries of tombs and archaeological finds during the soil removal are possible. All the chance-finds of this kind are under protection of the legislation of the RA (see the “Introductory note A”);
- The construction contract should include provision of an archaeological stuff, for ensuring the proper chance-find procedures and archaeological research of the newly-discovered objects; - The construction process has to be done carefully near the cave, in order not to destroy it by construction activity (blasting etc.); - As the construction activities should run inside of the protection area of the site, it is forbidden to use the area of the site for parking the heavy construction mechanisms, for storing constructional materials or using local soil for constructional purposes.
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Map 1. The Nerkin Naver archaeological complex and its Protection area in relationship to the new design of the Ashtarak-Gyumri Highway.
Selected publications related to the site:
- Simonyan H., 2003, Excavations of Nerkin Naver Tomb Field in 2002” in “Ancient Culture of Armenia 3”, Proceedings of a Scientific Conference, Yerevan, pp. 38-45 (in Armenian);
- Simonyan H., 2004, “Royal” Tomb of the Middle Bronze Age Period from Nerkin Naver, in “Archaeology, Ethnology and Folklore of the Caucasus”, Proceedings of an International Scientific Conference, Tbilisi, pp. 126-127.
12. Agarak historical-cultural preserve ( # 2 in GM and Map 2) Aragatsotn marz, Agarak community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 2.600 – 3.200 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 47,0’’ ; E 44°, 16’, 28,7” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # 2. 4. 1.
The site is located on the western (left) bank of the Amberd river, covering an area of about 200 hectares, a larger part of which (118 hectares) in 2001 has been declared a historical and cultural preserve by the government of Armenia (Map 2). The site is established on the horizontal flows of solidified tuf, bordered on the East with the river, while in the West turn into a hilly ridge. Taking into account the special characteristics of the local relief, the ancient inhabitants of this area transformed the landscape, turning natural masses of tuf into a spacious system of stone structures. For
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many of kilometers along the Amberd river flow, on the tuf cliffs, rocky hills, and natural plateaus, as well as freestanding blocks of stone the traces of intensive stone working are seen. There are niches carved into the cliffs, as well as polygonal platforms leading to them, in addition to structures of other types. All of these structures, including unbroken series of round, horseshoe-shaped structures and channels linking them, as well as trapezoidal "altars," transform the natural landscape into a gigantic sacral monument. This ensemble of cultic structures is complemented by artificial constructions located around the plateaus and in the spaces between them. According the stratigraphic observations this cultic ensemble was created in the Early Bronze Age (29-27 centuries BC). Within the limits of the Armenian Highlands and the neighboring regions no other site of this type is known. It is unique in terms of its unusual composition and design, as well as its volume and area. In general, the site of Agarak is one of the outstanding historical monuments of Armenia, represented by open-air temples (“Ritual landscape”), as well as representing nearly all the phases of the material culture starting from the Early Bronze Age, through the Urartian and Classical periods, up to Late Medieval Ages.
The Ashtarak-Gyumri Highway built in Soviet period, went through the Northern complex of the site, which was unknown at that time yet, and separated the site into two parts. The suggested design of the new highway is passing through the excavated part of the site and will destroy it completely.
In case of Agarak, for minimizing the impact of new road construction on this important site, it is strongly recommended:
- To exclude any construction activity in southern (from the existing road) part of the site;
- To change the design of the road, trying to bypass the site and the present-days road from the north as much as it possible. Even in that case the construction activities will run inside of the protection area of the site and damage it;
- Taking into account the abovementioned fact, the construction contract has to include provision of an archaeological stuff, for the excavations of the nor thern part of the site (which is not examined yet) before the beginning of the construction;
- To provide the reinforcement of the architectural constructions, excavated in the southern part of the site (under supervision of archaeologists), to protect these objects from the negative impact in process of construction (blasting, technical activity etc.) and permanent vibration during further exploitation of the road. The mitigation measures for the site must include the next restrictions:
- Not to use the area of the site for parking heavy construction mechanisms, for storing constructional materials or using local soil for constructional purposes or covering the area of the site with constructional waste;
- The construction process in the northern part of the site has to be done carefully, in order not to destroy the rock-cut chambers and other architectural constructions of the site by construction activity (blasts etc.);
- After the rescue excavations, all the constructional activities must also run under the control of an archaeologist.
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Map 2. Protection area of Agarak historical-cultural preserve in relationship with the new design of the Ashtarak-Gyumri Highway.
Northern part of the Agarak historical-cultural preserve on the left side of the Ashtarak- Gyumri road.
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Selected publications related to the site: - Stone R., 2002 “Armenia Uncovers a Bronze Age Treasure Trove”, Science, vol. 298, 20 December, pp. 2319-2320 (www.science.org);
- Badalyan R.S., Avetisyan P.S., 2007, “Bronze and Early Iron Age Archaeological Sites in Armenia”, I, Mt. Aragats and its Surrounding Region, Oxford, Bar International Series 1697, pp. 24-33.
13. Settlement of Kosh ( # 14 in GM and Map 3) Aragatsotn marz, Kosh community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 14.280 – 14.650 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 31,0’’ ; E 44°, 08’, 55,0”
The site was discovered recently, during the survey activities. It has the same location characteristics as the site of Agarak (Map 3). The existing Ashtarak-Gyumri road cut it through. The Northern (right) side of the site was left under the houses of nowadays village of Kosh and lost its scientific potential. The southern (left) side of the site was partly destroyed and covered with a large mound of constructional waste of the road construction in Soviet period. The survived constructions are clearly visible on the distance of nearly 30- 35 meters from the left side of the highway. The chronology of the settlement is still unclear, but the character of the surface material and construction technique of the dwellings are mainly correlated to the sites of the I Millennium B.C.
In case of widening of the new highway and construction activities, the survived part of the settlement will be directly affected, and it is important to recommend:
- To widen the new road mainly in northern direction;
- In case of impossibility of that, or deficiency of space in the North from the existing road, to provide the salvage excavations of the widened band.
The mitigation measures for the site must include the next restrictions and actions:
- Not to push the constructive waste directly to the site, as it was done in Soviet times;
- To remove the existing waste from the site area;
- To run the construction process carefully, under the control of an archeologist. It is clear that proper chance-find procedures are implemented.
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Map 3. Physical boundaries of Kosh settlement in relationship with the new design of the Ashtarak-Gyumri Highway.
Constructions of Kosh settlement visible on the distance of nearly 30-35 meters from the left side of the existing Ashtarak-Gyumri road
14. Medieval village of Shamiram ( # 15 in GM and Map 4) Aragatsotn marz, Shamiram community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 18.000 – 18.500 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 18’, 02,5’’ ; E 44°, 06’, 09,8”
The newly-discovered archaeological site occupies large area on both sides of the existing road (Map 4) in the limits of Shamiram community. The better preserved part of the settlement is located now on the right (northern) side of the acting Ashtarak-Gyumri road, which divides the site into two part almost equal in size.
At the northern part of the site, which is not affected by the suggested design of the new highway, bases of dwelling constructions, church foundations are clearly visible. Based on the pottery collected from the both sides of the site, it must be dated in the chronological limits of 11-15th centuries. The left side of the site which will be affected by the suggested
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design is preserved mainly in its western part. House fundaments and traces of constructions are clearly visible. The rest of this portion of the site is completely destroyed by amelioration and agricultural activities.
It seems necessary to recommend the excavations at the existing portions of the left side of the settlement. After fixation of the results, this area of the site can be used under the road construction. This is the only way to protect the scientific and cultural values of the site. For the rest of the site, continuing further to the South, during and after construction activities the mitigation measures recommended above are required.
Map 4. The physical boundaries of Shamiram Medieval village in relationship with the new design of the Ashtarak-Gyumri Highway.
Constructions of Shamiram Medieval village on the right side of the existing Ashtarak- Gyumri road
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Constructions of Shamiram Medieval village on the left side of the existing Ashtarak-Gyumri road
15. Aruch Neolithic settlement and Medieval village ( # 20 in GM and Map 5) Aragatsotn marz, Aruch community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 20.500 – 20.700 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 18’, 13,1’’ ; E 44°, 04’, 42,1”
The newly-discovered medieval settlement of 10-13-th centuries spreading around the Aruch caravanserai, is one of the rare monuments of this type, seems to be an important trade point on the Silk Road.
The excavations here had opened a Neolithic site of “Pre-pottery phase” (VIII Millennium B.C.), under the remains of medieval constructions. Sites of both periods are very important from the scientific point of view. First one can be a source for understanding the character of functioning of a medieval town involved in intensive inter-regional trade and the second - to throw light on the problems of spread of Neolithic civilizations in the areas of the m-t Aragats foothills and the Ararat valley.
Suggested design of the road is affecting the site, covering most of its area with a cloverleaf, which is linking the main highway to the village of Agarak (in the Talin district). Such solution is not acceptable from the point of preservation of the archeological site and this significant site can loose its scientific potential.
Therefore it is preferable to think about relocation of the cloverleaf to the East, or West, outside the site area, or to change the full access system to the Agarak community. The cloverleaf is affecting the area of the famous Aruch caravanserai as well (see below).
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View of Aruch Neolithic settlement and medieval village remains on the left side of the existing Ashtarak-Gyumri road
Map 5. Protection area of Aruch Neolithic settlement, medieval village remains and Caravanserai in relationship with the new design of the Ashtarak-Gyumri Highway.
16. Aruch Medieval Caravanserai ( # 21 in GM and Map 5) Aragatsotn marz, Aruch community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 20.630 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 18’, 14,6’’ ; E 44°, 04’, 37,9” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # 2. 22. 16.
This construction is one of the outstanding monuments of civil architecture of the Medieval Armenia, was built in 13th century, on one of the active crossroads of the Great Silk Road. The three-nef building of the caravanserai is enforced by round towers, which are transforming it into a multifunctional fortified dwelling. Only a quarter of the building had been preserved to nowadays. In 2007 caravanserai was partly restored and prepared to become one of the important tourist objects of Armenia. This kind of buildings are rare enough not only in Armenia, but in the Near East as well. But the fortified caravanserai of Aruch is absolutely unique even among the known constructions of this type. In addition to that, the presence of synchronous settlement near the caravanserai makes it more significant both for the specialists and visitors.
Suggested design of the road is affecting the site, covering most of its protection area with a cloverleaf, and coming closer to the building from the North. Meanwhile, any construction activity is unacceptable in this area, particularly on southern (left) side of the road. So, the
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
cloverleaf must be redesigned and moved to the East or West, from the site, as it was suggested above (see # 5);
The mitigation measures for this important construction must include the following procedures:
- To provide the reinforcement of the architectural constructions of the site (under supervision of archaeologist and architect), to protect this outstanding object from the negative impact in process of construction (blasting, technical activity etc.) and permanent vibration during further exploitation of the road.
- Construction activities of the new highway must be carried out very carefully near the building, in order not to cause any damage to it (blasts, vibration, resonance);
- The highway has not to overpass the gorge, after which the boundary of protection area of the caravanserai begins, and where some constructional elements of the building could be covered by soil;
- To run all the construction process carefully, under the control of an archeologist. It is clear that proper chance-find procedures are implemented.
Selected publications related to the site:
- Harutyunyan V., 1960, Medieval caravanserais and bridges of Armenia, Yerevan (in Armenian);
- Harutyunyan V., 1992, History of the Armenian Architecture, Yerevan, pp. 266, 271, 344, 346 (in Armenian).
View of Aruch Medieval Caravanserai on the left side of existing Ashtarak-Gyumri road
17. Nerkin Bazmaberd necropolis (tomb field) ( # 23 in GM and Map 6) Aragatsotn marz, Nerkin Bazmaberd community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 25.280 – 25.700 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 19’, 09,3’’ ; E 44°, 01’, 17,8” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # 2. 73. 1. 1. 1.
The site occupies a large area on the South from the village of Nerkin Bazmaberd, attached to the right side of the existing Ashtarak-Gyumri road. It is represented by groups of kurgan (burial mounds) and cromlech constructions (round stone “belts” around burials), preserved in and in between agricultural fields, mainly in rocky areas. It is very little known about the
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
tomb field: small scale excavations that were carried out here reveal the tombs and the materials of III - mid-I Millennia BC.
New design of the highway is suggested on the left side of the existing road, which means the lesser impact on the site. The only part which will be influenced by construction activities is the western end of the tomb field, the area around cloverleaf to the Nerkin Bazmaberd community.
It is recommended to excavate this portion of the site. After fixation of the results, the area of the site can be used under the road construction. This is the only way to protect the scientific and cultural values of the affected portion. For the rest of the site, the recommending mitigation measures aimed to neutralize the impact of construction activities are mentioned above (see also the “Conclusion” chapter).
Map 6. Protection area of Nerkin Bazmaberd tomb field in relationship with the new design of the Ashtarak-Gyumri Highway
Bronze - Iron Age kurgans of the Nerkin Bazmaberd tomb field on the right side of the existing Ashtarak-Gyumri road in the area of the cloverleaf joining the road with the N-B community.
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
18. Verin Sasnashen archaeological complex ( # 30 in GM and Map 7) Aragatsotn marz, Verin Sasnashen community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 29.000 – 31.400km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 19’, 51,8’’ ; E 43°, 58’, 35,3” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # # 2.74. 4; 2.74. 2; 2.104. 1. 1; 2.104.1. 2.
The archaeological complex of Verin Sasnashen in fact - is continuation to the North of the Nerkin Bazmaberd necropolis. The site consists of number of tomb-fields and settlements spread on the both sides of the existing Ashtarak-Gyumri road. The small-scale excavations had been carried out here and several burials of III-I Millennia B.C. were discovered. In some areas of the site traces of walls and other dwelling constructions of the Early Bronze th th Age (IV-III Millennia B.C.) and Early Medieval period (4 - 6 centuries A.D.) are visible. Due to the suggested design of the new highway the left portion of the complex will be directly affected by the construction activities. It is strongly recommended to produce excavations here before the construction activities will start. They must include some groups of tombs and wall constructions which are spreading directly on the left side of the existing Ashtarak-Gyumri road. This is the only way to save the cultural value and the scientific potential of the site. The unexcavated portions of the site must be protected by the whole complex of mitigation measures (see the abovementioned recommendations).
Map 7. Protection area of Verin Sasnashen archaeological complex in relationship with the new design of the Ashtarak-Gyumri Highway
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
Series of Bronze - Iron Age burial mounds in Verin Sasnashen archaeological complex on the left side of the existing Ashtarak-Gyumri Highway
Selected publications related to the site:
- Badalyan R.S., Avetisyan P.S., 2007, “Bronze and Early Iron Age Archaeological Sites in Armenia”, I, Mt. Aragats and its Surrounding Region, Oxford, Bar International Series 1697, pp. 224-225.
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
B. Cultural (Memorial) objects of direct impact
The objects of this group are presented mainly by memorial monuments devoted to the victims of car accidents. Most of these objects are under the supervision of the communities and in case of necessity can be relocated in frames of co-ordination with the community authorities.
9. Memorial to Hayk ( # 12 of GM) Aragatsotn marz, Kosh community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 13.830 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 31,0’’ ; E 44°, 09’, 18,4”
10. Memorial to Khachik Ashotovich ( # 16 of GM) Aragatsotn marz, Shamiram community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 18.320 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 52,9’’ ; E 44°, 06’, 11,0”
11. Memorial to Armen, Arman, Yervand ( # 17 of GM) Aragatsotn marz, Shamiram community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 18.610 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 55,9’’ ; E 44°, 06’, 00,3”
Monument to Armen, Arman, Yervand ( # 17)
12. Memorial Monument with Russian text ( # 27 of GM) Aragatsotn marz, Nerkin Bazmaberd community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 27.200 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 19’, 22,2’’; E 44°, 00’, 14,3”
13. Memorial to Leo Gmyur ( # 28 of GM) Aragatsotn marz, Nerkin Bazmaberd community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 27.700 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 19’, 27,4’’ ; E 43°, 59’, 54,4”
C. Archaeological Sites and Historical Monuments of Indirect Impact
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
The sites and other objects of the next two groups (C and D) are located in different distance from the existing road line and the newly constructing Highway as well. They are not under direct impact of the planning measures, but still may be damaged in case of carelessness during construction activities. Irrespective of the distance from the zone of road construction, the area of these sites must not be used for parking of the construction mechanisms, for storing constructional materials or using local soil for constructional purposes.
The Great Khachkar of Zakaryans – the outstanding Architectural and Historical monument of 1196 ( # 17) listed here, needs a special care during blasting and use of heavy construction mechanisms. It can be also strongly recommended to reinforce its fundament to protect the monument from the vibration.
14. Aghtsk necropolis (tomb field). Aragatsotn marz, Aghtsk community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 6.100 – 6.550 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 31,2’’ ; E 44°, 14’, 21,1”
15. Karhanki Berd fortified settlement Aragatsotn marz, border of Ujan-Kosh communities Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 10.650 – 11.000 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 16’, 57,1’’ ; E 44°, 11’, 09,5”
16. Kurgan burial Aragatsotn marz, Kosh community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 11.350 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 16’, 50,3’’ ; E 44°, 10’, 46,4”
17. The Great Khachkar of Kosh (Khachkar of Zakaryan princes) Aragatsotn marz, Kosh community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 11.750 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 03,1’’ ; E 44°, 10’, 35,5”
18. Necropolis of I Millennium B.C. and Medieval village Aragatsotn marz, Kosh community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 12.400 – 12.900 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 12,1’’ ; E 44°, 09’, 57,5”
19. Necropolis and Settlement of I Millennium B.C. Aragatsotn marz, Kosh community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 14.000 – 14.090 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 35,4’’ ; E 44°, 09’, 13,2”
20. Aruch-2 Necropolis Aragatsotn marz, border of Shamiram-Dprevank communities Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 18.600 – 18.800 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 47,3’’ ; E 44°, 05’, 56,8”
21. Aruch-3 Necropolis Aragatsotn marz, Aruch community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 18.900 – 19.050 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 18’, 03,3’’ ; E 44°, 05’, 44,1”
22. Fortified settlement and Necropolis Aragatsotn marz, Nerkin Bazmaberd community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 25.300 – 25.850 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 19’, 01,1’’ ; E 44°, 01’, 16,2”
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
D. Cultural (Memorial) objects of indirect impact 23. Memorial to the victims of Maralik – Yerevan direction Aragatsotn marz, Ujan community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 9.150 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 04,1’’ ; E 44°, 12’, 19,5”
24. Memorial to Nikolyan Khachik Aragatsotn marz, Ujan community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 10.150 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 16’, 57,1’’ ; E 44°, 11’, 38,4”
25. Memorial to Ujantsi Rudik Aragatsotn marz, Kosh community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 11.900 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 03,3’’ ; E 44°, 10’, 29,2”
26. Monument “Armenian Alphabet” Aragatsotn marz, Kosh community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 12.500 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 07,9’’ ; E 44°, 10’, 07,8”
27. Memorial to Serob Aragatsotn marz, Nerkin Bazmaberd community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 24.250 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 18’, 53,2’’ ; E 44°, 02’, 14,2”
28. Memorial to Hamlet Aragatsotn marz, Nerkin Bazmaberd community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 26.300 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 19’, 14,1’’ ; E 44°, 00’, 51,0”
29. Memorial to Tiko Aragatsotn marz, Nerkin Bazmaberd community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 26.400 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 19’, 14,5’’ ; E 44°, 00’, 47,6”
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General Map
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
Conclusions
Summarizing the study of the archaeological, historical and cultural (physical) resources along the new design of the Ashtarak-Gyumri Mian Highway (Ashtarak - Bazmabers segment), it has to be emphasized that at least 8 archaeological monuments are affected by the suggested preliminary design. Those are:
(v) Nerkin Naver Archaeological complex ( #1), (vi) Agarak historical-cultural preserve ( # 2), (vii) Settlement of Kosh ( # 3 (14)), (viii) Medieval settlement of Shamiram ( # 4 (15)), (ix) Aruch Neolithic settlement and medieval village remains ( # 5 (20)), (x) Aruch medieval Caravanserai ( # 6 (21)), (xi) Nerkin Bazmaberd Cemetery ( # 7 (23)), (xii) Verin Sasnashen complex ( # 8 (30)).
According the Nerkin Naver site (# 1) it may be recommended to conduct the construction with care, maintaining all the mitigation measures mentioned above. The chance-find regulations issued by the Ministry of Culture are strictly observed, because the discoveries of archaeological finds during any soil removal process are possible.
The territories of Agarak historical-cultural-pr eserve ( # 2), Settle ments of Kosh ( #3 (14)) and Shamiram ( # 4 (15)), also Settlements and Cemeteries of Nerkin Bazmaberd ( # 7 (23)), and Verin Sasnashen ( # 8 (30)) are already divided by the existing road and during the new stage of construction will be strongly affected. Taking into account the sizes of the mentioned sites and character of landscape, that doesn’t allow bypass the Cultural area, we stress the necessity of archaeological excavations of the new road line and adjacent bands going through these sites, for partial preservation their Historical – Cultural value.
The location of Aruch Neolitic si te ( # 5 (2 0)) and Me dieval Cara vanseray ( # 6 (21)) makes unacceptable any construction activity in this area – especially on southern (left) side of the road. So, the project of cloverleaf must be redesigned and moved to the East or West, from the sites, as it was suggested above. Otherwise it will be impossible to save them from full destruction.
Taking into consideration the character of the mentioned activities and time limitations, it may be recommended to PMU to open a position for an archaeologist(s) who has to deal with this large amount of protection procedures and control over the activities of the contracting organizations and regulate the relations between the teams of archaeologists, providing the salvage excavations and construction bodies. The task of the mentioned expert(s) must also include the chance-find regulations all along the construction areas of the new Ashtarak-Gyumri Highway.
At the end it is important to underline that for the rest of the historical-archaeological and cultural monuments recorded along the Ahstarak-Gyumri Main Highway, which are not directly affected by the constructional activities of the new highway, mitigation measurements are required as well: the construction process has to be done carefully near the monuments in order not to destroy them, or to cover the structures by construction
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waste. As the activities should run near the protection areas of the sites, it is forbidden to use those areas for parking the heavy mechanisms, for storing constructional materials or using local sediment for constructional purposes. The construction activities may not close the access to the sites.
Special attention must be paid to two historical-architectural monuments existing along the highway – Kosh Great Kahchkar (1196 A.D.) and Aruch Caravanserai (13th century). The construction activities have to be carried out very carefully in areas closer to the mentioned monuments. The dust and vibration during the construction process will cause some damage to them, especially to the completeness of Kosh Great Khachar.
The Kosh Great Khachkar (1196) from the South. The incline of the whole construction is clearly visible.
Kosh Great Khachkar (1196) on the right side of the existing Ashtarak-Gyumri road.
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
The last group of recorded monuments that are being affected by the suggested highway design, are represented by 5 modern, mainly memorial monuments dedicated to the victims of car accidents on the road (# 9, 10, 11, 12, 13) and have specific meaning. These monuments are not under state regulation, but are deeply respected by the public and remain under s.c. “public protection”: the communities or family members are taking care of them. For protection from the construction activities these memorials can be removed under the control and support of local communities in co-operation with the family members and re- erected approximately in the same places along the road boundary after the new road construction will be completed.
M. H. Zardaryan 28. 10. 2010
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
ANNEX 3-A
Archaeological Impact Assessment Preliminary Report Part 2 The North-South Road Corridor Investment Programme Tranche 2
Dr. Mkrtich. H. Zardaryan Senior Researcher Institute of Archaeology and Ethnography National Academy of Sciences, RA Archaeological Consultant of the Programme
Main list of the historical-archaeological and cultural monuments recorded along the Ahstarak-Gyumri Main Highway (Bazmaberd - Talin segment)
A. Archaeological sites of direct impact
30. Davtashen archaeological complex ( # 32 in GM and Map 8) Aragatsotn marz, Davtashen community, Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 31.600 – 33.200 km, GPS coordinates: N 40°, 21’, 04, 1’’ ; E 43°, 57’, 32, 8” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # 2.36.1.
Davtashen archaeological complex is the continuation to the North of the Sasnashen complex. Series of tomb fields and remnants of settlements spread on both sides of the existing Ashtarak-Gyumri road. Small scale excavations conducted here were able to date the burials between the III - I Millennia B.C. On the left side of the existing Ashtarak-Gyumri highway traces of different wall constructions are clearly visible, showing the existence of a settlement continuing South-East along the left side of the road.
Map 8. Protection area of Davtashen archaeological complex in relationship with the new design of the Ashtarak-Gyumri Highway
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
Bronze - Iron Age burial mounds in Davtashen archaeological complex on the left side of the existing Ashtarak-Gyumri road
Bronze Age tomb in Davtashen archaeological complex
Due to the suggested design of the new highway the left side of the complex will be directly affected by the construction activities. It is strongly recommended to conduct excavations here before the construction activities will start. They must include some groups of tombs as well as wall constructions which are spread directly on the left side of the existing Ashtarak- Gyumri road. This is the only way to save the cultural value and the scientific potential of the site. The unexcavated portions of the site must be protected by the whole complex of mitigation measures (see the Part I of our Report).
Selected publications related to the site:
- Badalyan R.S., Avetisyan P.S., 2007, “Bronze and Early Iron Age Archaeological Sites in Armenia”, I, Mt. Aragats and its Surrounding Region, Oxford, Bar International Series 1697, pp. 224-225.
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
31. Zakari Berd archaeological complex ( # 35 in GM and Map 9, 10) Aragatsotn marz, Katnaghbiur community, Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 35.150 – 35.300 km, GPS coordinates: N 40°, 22’, 04, 0’’ ; E 43°, 56’, 37, 8” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # 2.57.2.
The first site of the complex is represented by a fortified settlement built on a peninsula formed by two small, but deep gorges on the distance of 1,5 km South-East from the village of Katnaghbyur. The excavations were conducted here from 1979, after the construction of the existing Ashtarak-Gyumri road, which cut the site into two parts. The initial investigation reveal a well designed settlement with different private and public constructions, workshops etc., surrounded by defense walls.
Map 9. Protection area of Zakari Berd medieval settlement in relationship with the new design of the Ashtarak-Gyumri Highway
Zakari Berd medieval settlement from the East, divided by the existing Ashtarak-Gyumri road.
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
rd th According the archaeological data, the site was functioning in Early Medieval period (3 -5 centuries A.D.). It was the “Komopolis” type of settlements, surrounding the royal residence of Arshakuni kings in the capital of Vagharshapat. It seems that the Arshakunis, who owned the territory of historical Aragatsotn province and Ararat plain (as the domains), had created series of such fortified settlements in order to control the area (military base-camps) and regulation of the trade routes, as well as for collecting the state taxes. Possibly, this settlement was serving as an administrative center for one of the local governors. Those kinds of monuments were never excavated in Armenia before, and Zakari Berd is the only studied monument of this type.
During the intensive survey of the site area which had been undertaken recently, at least two new archaeological objects were revealed here.
The remnants of large rectangular construction, built of worked blocks of local tuf and surrounded by separate line of defense wall was registered in the distance of about 400 m to the South-West from the settlement. Together with the dwelling sections, the ruins of a small chapel were mentioned in this construction. The building technique and the character of planning design of the rectangular block, together with the high level of its protection, allows to assume that it was the administrative center of Zakari Berd settlement, possibly - the “Governor’s palace.”
Map 10. Satellite image of the Zakari Berd site territory and the new limits of its Protection area (red)
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
Ruins of the “Governor’s palace” located to the South-West from the Zakari Berd settlement
Remnants of the chapel in the “Governor’s palace”
The defense wall of the settlement of I Millennium B.C. (to the South from Zakari Berd medieval settlement)
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
From the point of chronology this construction closely correlates to the settlement: according the surface finds and the building technique it has to be applied to the 3rd-5th centuries A.D.
The next archaeological object – remnants of settlement of the beginning of I Millennium B.C. was registered on the same territory. In comparison with the medieval settlement (together with the “Governor’s palace”) it occupies much larger area – up to the very end of plateau and the hill on the southern side of the gorge (see the Map 10, red line, red dots).
In the light of these new data, initially suggested design of the new highway seems unacceptable, as it will destroy completely the left part of the site complex. The recommended way to protect the site from destruction is to change design of the highway and to put it further to the South-West with a bridge passing over southern end of the gorge (Map 10, yellow dots).
The mentioned revision will save one of the unique Early Medieval sites of Armenia, as well as it’s earliest “cultural predecessor”- the settlement of I Millennium B.C.
Selected publications related to the site: - Asatryan E.A., 2005. “Zakari Berd (main results of excavations)”. Archaeological excavations in Armenia. # 9. Yerevan (in Russian).
32. Talin tomb field ( # 38 in GM and Map 10) Aragatsotn marz, Talin community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 40.800 – 44.900 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 24’, 03, 0’’ ; E 43°, 53’, 30, 7” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # 2.3.3.
The site is represented by a large tomb field (necropolis), occupying a large area from the N- NE and southern suburbs of Talin and then continuing East towards the acting Ashtarak- Gyumri road. The burials are concentrated by separate groups survived between the agricultural fields, cleaned by melioration activities. During the excavations, conducted here since 1985 because of urban needs of Talin, were able to open around 90 separate tombs that belong to the Early Bronze Age and Late Bronze - Early Iron Ages (IV – I Millennia BC), with outstanding remains of the specific material culture. But, the numbers of tombs are still unexcavated. They are mostly visible on the both sides of the existing Ashtarak-Gyumri road. The suggested design of the highway is directly affecting the burials spread on the left and right sides of the highway, especially directly after the city of Talin (after the eastern cloverleaf entrance to the community). The only way to save the cultural and historical significance of the site is to organize excavations of these tombs and then after start the construction activities.
The unexcavated portions of the site must be protected by the whole complex of mitigation measures mentioned in the Part I of our Report.
Selected publications related to the site: - Badalyan R.S., Avetisyan P.S., 2007. “Bronze and Early Iron Age Archaeological Sites in Armenia”. I. Mt. Aragats and its Surrounding Region. Oxford, Bar International Series 1697. pp. 242-263.
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
Map 11. Protection area of Talin tomb field in relationship with the new design of the Ashtarak-Gyumri Highway
Bronze through Iron Age burial in Talin tomb field on the left side of the existing Ashtarak-Gyumri road
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
B. Cultural (Memorial) objects of direct impact
33. Metallic Cross ( # 31 in GM). Aragatsotn marz, Verin Sasnashen community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 30.430 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 20’, 11, 5’’ ; E 43°, 58’, 26, 2”
34. Memorial to Suren ( # 33 in GM). Aragatsotn marz, Davtashen community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 32.990 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 21’, 06, 2’’ ; E 43°, 57’, 18, 9”
C. Archaeological sites and Historical Monuments of indirect impact
35. Sev Berd Archaeological Complex ( # 29 in GM). Aragatsotn marz, Nerkin Sasnashen community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 28.600 – 29.100 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 19’, 30, 2’’ ; E 43°, 59’, 04, 0”
36. Katnaghbyur Tomb Field ( # 34 in GM). Aragatsotn marz, Katnaghbyur community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 33.900 – 34.700 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 21’, 39, 8’’ ; E 43°, 56’, 44, 7”
D. Cultural (Memorial) objects of indirect impact
37. Stele to the All-Armenian Dance circling Mt. Aragats ( # 36 in GM). Aragatsotn marz, Katnaghbyur community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 37.150 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 22’, 44, 4’’ ; E 43°, 55’, 45, 7”
38. Two Memorials: Sargis and Armen, Manouk and Azat ( # 37 in GM). Aragatsotn marz, Talin community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 37.860 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 22’, 51, 8’’ ; E 43°, 55’, 16, 7”
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
Conclusions
Summarizing the study of the archaeological, historical and cultural resources along the new design of the Ashtarak-Gyumri Mian Highway (Bazmaberd - Talin segment), it has to be emphasized that at least 3 archa eological monuments are affected by the suggested preliminary design. Those are:
(i) Davtashen Archaeological complex ( # 30 (# 32 in GM)), (ii) Zakari Berd Archaeological complex ( # 31 (35)), (iii) Talin tomb field ( # 32 (38)).
The territories of these sites are already divided by the existing road and during the new stage of construction will be strongly affected. In case of Zakari Berd the initial design of the new Highway is unacceptable and it will be preferable to move the latter at least 700 m to the South-East. The next two sites (Davtashen, Talin) are of different specific: taking into account their large sizes and the character of landscape, that does not allow bypass the Cultural area, we stress the necessity of archaeological excavations of the new Highway line and adjacent bands going through these sites, for partial preservation of their Historical and Cultural value. Otherwise it will be impossible to save them from full destruction.
These activities can be implemented by the archaeological structures collaborating with the PMU, as it was mentioned in the Conclusion of the Preliminary Report, Part 1.
The next group of recorded monuments that are being affected by suggested design of the Highway is represented by 2 memorial monuments dedicated to the victims of car accidents on the road (# 33, 34). As it was suggested for the previous group of the similar objects, these memorials can be removed before the construction activities and re-erected later approximately in the same places along the road boundary after the new road will be completed.
It is necessary to underline that for the rest of the historical-archaeological and cultural monuments recorded along the Ahstarak-Gyumri Main Highway, which are not directly affected by the constructional activities of the new Highway (## 35-38), the full complex of mitigation measurements is required as well (see the first Report).
M. H. Zardaryan 25. 11. 2010
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
ANNEX 3-B
Archaeological Impact Assessment Preliminary Report Part 3 The North-South Road Corridor Investment Programme Tranche 2
Dr. Mkrtich. H. Zardaryan Senior Researcher Institute of Archaeology and Ethnography National Academy of Sciences, RA Archaeological Consultant of the Programme
List of the archaeological monuments of direct impact (settlements and tomb-fields) recorded along the Ahstarak-Gyumri Highway (Ashtarak - Talin segment)
The zones of the archaeological sites and the costs and timing of their investigations
1. Nerkin Naver archaeological complex (# 1 in our GM and Map 1). Aragatsotn marz, Parpi community, Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 0 – 0.60 km 7 GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 40, 8’’ ; E 44°, 18’, 32, 0” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # 2. 110. 2.
Length: 30+080 – 30+725 = 295 m Width: 50 m to the left (S) from the existing road Area: 14750 m2 (1, 5 hectares) Costs of investigation: $12.000 USD Time of investigation: 2 months.
2. Agarak historical-cultural preserve ( # 2 in GM and Map 2) Aragatsotn marz, Agarak community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 2.600 – 3.200 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 47,0’’ ; E 44°, 16’, 28,7” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # 2. 4. 1.
Length: 32+780 – 33+200 = 420 m Width: 50 m to the right (N) from the existing road Area: 21000 m2 (2, 1 hectares) Costs of investigation: $120.000 USD Time of investigation: 6 months.
7 The “Zero” point mentioned in our Reports #1 and 2 (Tranche 2) = 30+080 of the General Map of the
Constructors.
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
3. Settlement of Kosh ( # 14 in GM and Map 3) Aragatsotn marz, Kosh community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 14.280 – 14.650 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 17’, 31,0’’ ; E 44°, 08’, 55,0”
Length: 44+380 – 44+680 = 300 m Width: 50 m to the left (S) from the existing road Area: 15000 m2 (1, 5 hectares) Costs of investigation: $ 10.000 USD Time of investigation: 2 months.
4. Medieval village of Shamiram ( # 15 in GM and Map 4) Aragatsotn marz, Shamiram community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 18.000 – 18.500 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 18’, 02,5’’ ; E 44°, 06’, 09,8”
A. Length: 44+350 – 44+500 = 150 m Width: 50 m to the right (N) from the existing road Area: 7500 m2 (0, 75 hectares) Costs of investigation: $ 5.000 USD Time of investigation: 1 month.
B. Length: 44+350 – 44+650 = 300 m Width: 50 m to the left (S) from the existing road Area: 15000 m2 (1, 5 hectares) Costs of investigation: $ 4.000 USD Time of investigation: 1 month.
5. Nerkin Bazmaberd necropolis (tomb field) ( # 23 in GM and Map 6) Aragatsotn marz, Nerkin Bazmaberd community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 25.280 – 25.700 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 19’, 09,3’’ ; E 44°, 01’, 17,8” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # 2. 73. 1. 1. 1.
Length: 55+450 – 57+750 = 300 m Width: 50 m to the right (N) and left (S) from the existing road Area: 30000 m2 (3 hectares) Costs of investigation: $ 8.000 USD Time of investigation: 2 months.
8 6. Verin Sasnashen archaeological complex ( # 30 in GM and Map 7) Aragatsotn marz, Verin Sasnashen community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 29.000 – 31.400 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 19’, 51,8’’ ; E 43°, 58’, 35,3” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # # 2.74. 4; 2.74. 2; 2.104. 1. 1; 2.104. 1. 2.
8 The new Highway lines in the areas of Verin Sasnashen, Davtashen and Talin tomb‐fields (## 6, 7, 8, highlighted in the list) were planned recently (Dec.22, 2010), without any coordination with the archaeologists and through the areas which were not framed by our field survey. Such methods of “collaborative” work are fraught with unexpected complications during the process of road construction.
Because of these innovations, the abovementioned GPS points of the sites ## 6, 7, 8 are not completely compatible with the new design of the road line.
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
Length: 60+000 – 63+000 = 3600 m Width: 50 m to the right (N) and left (S) from the existing road Area: 360000 m2 (36 hectares) Costs of investigation: $ 15.000 USD Time of investigation: 2 months.
7. Davtashen archaeological complex ( # 32 in GM and Map 8) Aragatsotn marz, Davtashen community, Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 31.600 – 33.200 km, GPS coordinates: N 40°, 21’, 04, 1’’ ; E 43°, 57’, 32, 8” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # 2.36.1.
Length: 64+100 – 69+900 = 5800 m Width: 50 m to the right (N) and left (S) from the existing road Area: 580000 m2 (58 hectares) Costs of investigation: $ 25.000 USD Time of investigation: 3 months.
8. Talin tomb field ( # 38 in GM and Map 10) Aragatsotn marz, Talin community Distance in correspondence to the “0 point” of the road: 40.800 – 44.900 km GPS coordinates: N 40°, 24’, 03, 0’’ ; E 43°, 53’, 30, 7” State List of Historical-Archaeological Monuments: # 2.3.3.
The “Clover leaf” on the Talin crossing: 71+100 Adjacent area under construction: about 10 hectares Costs of investigation: $ 10.000 USD Time of investigation: 2 months.
It has to be stressed that the mentioned costs of investigations and their time limits are of preliminary character, since it is not realistic to concretize such details basing only on the field survey data. The cost of archaeological investigation depends on the size and number of cultural units on the given territory, the dept and density of the cultural deposits etc., which may be revealed only in process of excavations. Moreover, each site has its own characteristics and, depending of the certain historical period - methodology of investigation, that also may change the cost and timing.
Preliminary determination of the mentioned details is problematic also because of the level of preservation of some sites and objects: territories of the large tomb-fields, like Verin Sasnashen, Davtashen and Talin are, were partly ameliorised and many of burial mounds were lost. The examination of this kind of units needs a special approach.
The stuff and labour expenses as well as the cost of partial preservation of the finds are included in the main cost of investigation of each site.
The investigations of the archaeological sites registered along the Tranche 2 line will take about 6-8 months. Since the work will start simultaneously on the number of sites, it will not withhold the process of road construction.
M. H. Zardaryan 17. 01. 2011
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
The North-South Road Corridor Investment Programme Tranche 2
Archaeological Impact Assessment
Supplement 1
The revision of the road alignment from the of Shahverd bridge and up to the Agarak bridge area, in its last point reaches the eastern border of the “Agarak” State archaeological reserve, that goes along the Amberd riverbed.
The widening and enlargement of the existing bridge to the South (the left side of the existing road) and West will drive to destruction of the riverside zone of archaeological site (up to 6000 sq. m., including the necessary “buffer line” between the edge/slope of the road and the site itself), which is absolutely un acceptable taking into account scientific importance of the latter and the status of its protection as well.
To avoid the destruction of the settlement and to provide of needs of the constructors, the widening and enlargement of the Agarak bridge must be planned to the North (right side of the existing road) and East.
M. H. Zardaryan
18.02.2011.
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
ANNEX 4 1st Public Consultation (advertisements, attendance lists and sheets, handout)
1st Public Consultation – 26 & 27 May 2010 (Yerevan, Kosh, Maralik, Gyumri) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program Tranches 2 & 3 – Environmental Impact Assessment Report
Newspaper Advertisement: Aragats World (24 May 2010)
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
List of Attendees – Yerevan, 26 May 2010 No Name Organization 1 Levon Kurkchyan “Artoun” OJSC 2 Hazkaz Chugunyan “Artoun” OJSC 3 Arevik Yedigaryan did not provide 4 R. Tangaranyan did not provide 5 Gohar Tedevosyan ADB consultant (LARP) 6 Yulia Kulesheva “Delovoy Express” newspaper 7 Arusyak Stepanyan resident of Yerevan 8 Hasmik Aslanyan “Shogher Union” NGO 9 Silva Adamyan NGO Forum on ADB 10 Armen Khachatryan “ArmenPress” newspaper 11 Ani Gabrielyan Ministry of Economy 12 Harutyun Avagyan “Yerevan Design” CJSC 13 Nikita Zhamharyan “Yerevan Design” CJSC 14 Knarik Hovhannisyan “Eco Alliance” 15 Karen Afrikyan “Geo Botanic” 16 Greta Gabrielyan NGO Forum on ADB 17 Armen Poghosyan Consumers’ Association of Armenia 18 Armen Simonyan not readable
List of Attendees – Kosh, 27 May 2010 N0. Name Organization 1 Armen Shahbazyan Kosh Mayor’s office 2 Fahrad Nersisyan Kosh Secondary School 3 Khachatur Assatryan owner of gasoline station 4 Tigran Khachatryan Kosh Secondary School 5 Artak Simonyan resident of Ashtarak 6 Ruzanna Tonoyan Kosh Secondary School 7 Tsaghik Khudatyan Kosh Secondary School 8 Ashot Yengibaryan Kosh village Mayor’s office 9 Hovik Karapetyan Kosh Secondary School 10 Vardik Melkonyan resident of Kosh village 11 Taguhi Kirakosyan resident of Kosh village 12 Ashot Arakelyan resident of Yeghnik village 13 Hakob Asatryan resident of Kosh village 14 Serjik Meliksetyan resident of Kosh village 15 Razmik Grigoryan resident of Kosh village 16 Gevorg Mkrtchyan resident of Kosh village 17 Ishkhan Arakelyan resident of Parpi village 18 Artashem Mkrtchyan resident of Parpi village 19 Hakob Khachatryan resident of Kosh village 20 did not provide Mayor of Ujan village
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
Actual Attendance Sheets
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
Actual Attendance Sheets
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
1st Public Consultation – 26 & 27 May 2010 (Yerevan, Kosh, Maralik, Gyumri) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program Tranches 2 & 3 – Environmental Impact Assessment Report Handout (Armenian EIA contains this handout in Armenian language)
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
ANNEX 5 2nd Public Consultation (advertisements, attendance lists and sheets, handout)
2nd Public Consultation – 1 & 2 July 2010 (Kosh, Maralik, Gyumri, &Yerevan) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program Tranches 2 & 3 – Environmental Impact Assessment Report
Newspaper Advertisement: Republic Armenia (25, 26, 29 June 2010)
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
Newspaper Advertisement: Aragats World (28 June 2010)
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
2nd Public Consultation – 1 & 2 July 2010 (Kosh, Maralik, Gyumri, &Yerevan) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program Tranches 2 & 3 – Environmental Impact Assessment Report
List of Attendees – Kosh, 1 July 2010 No. Name Organization 1 Yengibaryan Ashot Advisor to Kosh Mayor 2 Gabrielyan Babken Kosh resident 3 Harutyunyan Makarianos Kosh resident 4 Grigoryan Razmik Kosh resident 5 Khachatryna Romik Kosh resident 6 Knyazyan Arthur Kosh resident 7 Petrosyan Robert Kosh resident 8 Khachatryan Rubik Kosh resident 9 Asatryan Khachatur Ashtarak Petrol Station (Ujan) 10 Petrosyan Aram “Ashocq” Ltd 11 Malkhasyan Vruyr Kosh village 12 Khachatryan Hakob Kosh resident 13 Khachatryan Anania Kosh resident 14 Margaryan Shavarsh Kosh resident 15 Hakobyan Kolya Kosh resident
List of Attendees – Yerevan, 2 July 2010 No. Name Organization 1 Armine Yedigarian MOTC (Environmentalist) 2 Susanne Hakobyan Environmental Survival NGO 3 Ashot Mirzoyan Consumers’ Association of Armenia NGO 4 Greta Gabrielyan Ecological Academy NGO 5 Karen Afrikyan Independent
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
2nd Public Consultation – 1 & 2 July 2010 (Kosh, Maralik, Gyumri, &Yerevan) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program Tranches 2 & 3 – Environmental Impact Assessment Report Actual Attendance Sheets
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
Handout (Armenian EIA contains this handout in Armenian language)
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
ANNEX 6
Environmental Report Forms
ENVIRONMENTAL AND MONITORING REPORTS
Environmental and Monitoring (Monthly Report)
1. Project Implementation Progress Overview Reporting period (Date): Work program/Project Activities Project status: a. On-going activities/site works: provide details of specific activities such as earthworks, vegetation clearing, borrow pit operation, establishment of construction camp, etc. including locations, schedule, etc.
b. Construction activities during the previous month
b. Construction activities for the next month
Previous report date: Persons met and dates: Report prepared by:
2. Environmental Monitoring a. Summary of Compliance with Environmental Mitigation Measures Comment on Specific Mitigation Compliance Attained Issues for Further Reasons for Non- Measures) (Yes, No, Partial) Action Compliance 1. 2. 3.
b. Issues for Further Action Required Issue C ause Responsibility Timing Reso lution Action Old Issues from Previous Reports
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
1. 2. New Issues from this Report 1. 2. 3. Report prepared by:
3. Environmental Effects Monitoring a. E nvironmental Inspection and Monitoring Results Comparison to Comment on Issues for Further Monitoring Parameter Relevant Standard / Incidences of Action Criteria Exceedance 1. 2. 3.
b. Problems/Issues for Further Action Required Issue C ause Responsibility Timing Reso lution Action Old Problems/Issues from Previous Reports (if any) 1. 2. New Problems/Issues from this Report 1. 2. Report prepared by:
4. Compliance with EMP a. Determine if the required mitigation measures are sufficient or still appropriate considering current site conditions and on-going site works. b. Describe any difficulties related to the implementation of the proposed mitigation measures. Indicate any changes proposed by the contractor to improve environmental protection.
5. Permits: a. Indicate any environmental permit/license/consent obtained during the previous period or to be obtained for the coming month in order to continue the project construction activities. b. Provide details of any environmental permit that the contractor failed to secure prior to conducting any specific activities.
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
6. Complaint(s) a. Provide details of any complaints that have been raised by the local population and other stakeholders (who, what, where, when). b. Document how the complaints were addressed or will be addressed, who are the responsible project staff, specific actions and dates.
7. Environmental Training/Orientation Provide details of environmental training or orientation carried out during the previous month and the coming month (if any).
8. Summary of Problems/issues Encountered and Recommendations
9. Appendices a. Correspondence b. Monitoring Results, laboratory analysis c. etc.
ARMENIA: NSRC INVESTMENT PROGRAM TRANCHE 2: ASHTARAK-TALIN ROAD EIA
ANNEX 7 EMP (Management Plan and Monitoring Plan)
The Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan (EMP) provides for the set of mitigation and management measures to be taken during project implementation to avoid, reduce, mitigate, or compensate for adverse environmental impacts. It identifies the potential impacts and their locations or occurrences, proposed mitigation measures, the entities responsible for mitigation and their monitoring activities.
The EMP describes how the mitigation and other measures to enhance the benefits of environmental protection will be implemented. It explains how the measures will be managed, who will implement them, and when and where they will be implemented. The following elements are described in the EMP:
(i) implementation of mitigation measures during subproject design; (ii) implementation of mitigation measures by contractors, and (iii) an environmental monitoring plan that covers selected parameters to indicate the level of environmental impacts
It also describes how, when and where the monitoring activities will be undertaken, who will carry them out and who should receive the monitoring report. The EMP stress that all monitoring must be verified by independent expert or by an NGO.
MOTC and MNP have the responsibility to undertake environmental due diligence and monitor implementation of environmental mitigation measures for all sub-projects under each respective mandate.
The total estimated cost for archaeological site excavation/preservation activities is estimated at $368,000.00 and cost for environment protection is included in total construction cost, estimated to be maximum 2%. ANNEX 7 Updated Environmental Management Plan & Monitoring Plan (EMP) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program: Tranche 2 Project
Table 1: Environmental Management Plan
Potential Issues/ Indicative cost Project Constraints and Proposed Mitigation Measures Responsible Entities of mitigation Activities Environmental ($US) Impacts Detail Design Phase Completion of Blockage spring (i) Revise and finalize Agarak bypass road alignment and bridge design Supervision Consultant Supervision alignment and and stream flow; over Shahverd river to reduce if not eliminate the adverse impact to the Review revised road Consultant bridge detail changed water wetland and protected flora and fauna species occurring in the area. and bridge design included in design regimes; (ii) alignments at supervision Revise and finalize the road alignment and design at the Agarak bridge. environmentally, degradation of The alignment must be planned to the North (right side of the existing road) contract wetland and archaeologically, away from the banks of Amberd River to avoid archeological excavations of the encroachment of historically, and site prior to road construction. The realignment of the road reduce adverse archaeological will culturally sensitive impact of project on Agarak State archaeological reserve to the minimum. site areas described in EIA (iii) Undertake archeological excavations prior to road construction so as to reduce adverse impact of project on Agarak archaeological site to feasible PMU PMU minimum. Coordinate with included in PMU supervision costs (iv) Relocate alignment either to the east or west side of Aruch caravanseri, the road alignment must not pass the gorge where associated settlement consultant details of relocations remain and revise the highway interchange. ADB ADB included in Reviews relocation corporate effectiveness and environmental provides non-objection due diligence budget
130 ANNEX 7 Updated Environmental Management Plan & Monitoring Plan (EMP) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program: Tranche 2 Project
Table 1: Environmental Management Plan
Potential Issues/ Indicative cost Project Constraints and Proposed Mitigation Measures Responsible Entities of mitigation Activities Environmental ($US) Impacts Detail Design Phase Construction Impact to (i) Obtain necessary approvals for construction in areas where archaeological Supervision Supervision planning for archaeological finds have been identified, and follow the chance-find procedures of MOC. Consultant Consultant archaeological sites and (ii) Fix borders of archeological sites to be excavated for preservation and/or Engage an included in excavations/ chance-finds investigated. archaeologist supervision preservation (iii) Incorporate archaeological excavations in construction schedule. contract of historical (iv) To avoid potential adverse impacts to historic and cultural resources, the PMU and cultural Contractor shall: Ensure that PMU sites (a) Protect sites of known archeological, historic and cultural resources by appropriate approvals included in PMU the placement of suitable fencing and barriers. are in place costs (b) Construction camps shall be located 500 meters away from cultural
resources. ADB and provide ADB (c) Adhere to accepted Ministry of Culture (MOC) practice and all applicable Review included in corporate non-objection historic and cultural preservation requirements of the MOC. environmental due (d) In the event of unanticipated discoveries of cultural or historic artifacts diligence budget (movable or immovable) in the course of the work, the Contractor shall take all necessary measures to protect the findings and shall notify the Engineer and the MOC. If continuation of the work would endanger the finding, work shall be suspended until a solution for preservation of the artifacts is agreed upon.
131 ANNEX 7 Updated Environmental Management Plan & Monitoring Plan (EMP) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program: Tranche 2 Project
Table 1: Environmental Management Plan
Potential Issues/ Indicative cost Project Constraints and Proposed Mitigation Measures Responsible Entities of mitigation Activities Environmental ($US) Impacts Detail Design Phase EMP updates Cutting/removal (i) Restrict construction works and workers’ activities along the road alignment by Supervision Supervision of trees, fencing to control encroachment, degradation and disturbance of Red Book Consultant Consultant Environmental degradation and species Update EMP Engage included in Protection displacement of (ii) protection measures and/or a relocation program in consultation appropriate specialists supervision Red Book flora Develop with the MNP if protected species are identified on the site that would be contract and fauna affected. PMU species Review updated EMP (iii) Tree plant ing of appropriate species to provide the needed protection PMU and enhancement of the environment along the highway, including included in PMU
replacement planting ratio of 1:10 (10 trees to replace 1 cut tree). ADB costs Review and provide
(iv) Obtain agreements from heads of communities for replanting trees. non-objection (v) Engage contractors to maintain trees until they are viable (usually 3 years). ADB included in corporate (vi) Provide animal crossings/tunnels in locations indicated by the design, environmental due diligence budget
132 ANNEX 7 Updated Environmental Management Plan & Monitoring Plan (EMP) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program: Tranche 2 Project
Table 1: Environmental Management Plan
Potential Issues/ Indicative cost Project Constraints and Proposed Mitigation Measures Responsible Entities of mitigation Activities Environmental ($US) Impacts Detail Design Phase Preparation of Environmental (i) Provide for environmental clauses based on mitigation measures defined in Supervision Consultant Supervision Consultant bid and protection and the EMP to be incorporated in the General Specifications of the bid and Update bid and included in contract preservation contract documents: contract documents to supervision contract documents requirements do include appropriate (a) Health and safety orientation, environmental clauses not reflect detail (b) Construction work camps, design in bid and contract (c) Public consultation and communications, documents (d) Quarry operations,
(e) Control of erosion and sediment, PMU PMU included in PMU (f) Water quality, dust and emissions control, bid and contract Review costs (g) Hazardous materials, waste and spoil disposal, emergency plan, documents
(h) Utility protection and/or relocation,
(i) Flora and fauna protection, site reinstatement, revegetation and ADB ADB included in corporate landscaping updated EMP and Review environmental due (j) Historical- Cultural resources protection, bid and contract diligence budget (k) Traffic and access, documents and provide (j) Baseline data and information on air, water and noise monitoring. non-objections (ii) Include the following specific requirement in bid and contract documents: (a) withholding of payment or penalty clauses, to ensure contractor’s implementation of environmental and archeological mitigation measures; (b) employment of a designated Environmental Specialist and a designated Archeologist to oversee environmental and archeological issues and mitigation; and (c) provision of environmental and archaeological orientation/workshop.
133 ANNEX 7 Updated Environmental Management Plan & Monitoring Plan (EMP) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program: Tranche 2 Project
Table 1: Environmental Management Plan Potential/Issues Project Indicative cost Constraints and Proposed Mitigation Responsible Activities of mitigation Environmental Measures Entities ($US) Impacts Construction Phase Hiring of Social conflicts (i) Maximize employment opportunities for local people by employing them as Supervision Consultant Supervision Contractor’s from non-local part of the project labor force. Stress this requirement in Consultant Labor force workers and (ii) Ensure that employment opportunities are made available to qualified female bid and contract included in supervision restriction workers. documents contract towards female workers PMU PMU Include this requirement in included in PMU cost bid evaluations ADB ADB included in corporate Review and issue non- environmental due diligence objection prior to budget construction Construction Impairment of the (i) Prepare and submit, within 30 days of contract effectiveness, the following Contractor Contractor works environment environmental management sub-plans: Prepare and implement included in and work 1. Environmental Protection, Health & Safety Orientation Plan construction contract
camps Destruction of 2. Public Consultation and Communications Plan PMU activities Review and PMU archaeological, 3. Flora and Fauna Plan monitor included in PMU cost
historical, and 4. Physical Cultural Resources Plan implementation
cultural sites 5. Utility Protection and/or Relocation Plan ADB and 6. Construction Work Camps Plan ADB included in monuments 7. Quarry Management Plan Review and issue corporate 8. Erosion and Sediment Control Management Plan non- objection prior to environmental due Deleterious 9. Waste Management and Disposal Plan construction diligence budget effects on 10. Traffic and Access Plan nearby residents 11. Spoil Disposal Planning and Management Plan from air 12. Emergency Plan For Hazardous Materials and noise 13. Water Quality Monitoring Plan pollution 14. Vegetation Clearing Plan 15. Dust and Emissions Control Plan Health hazards 16. Noise Control Plan to workers and 17. Site Reinstatement, Landscaping, and Revegetation Plan nearby (ii) The sub-plans should be based on the EIA report, bid and contract residents documents, best international environmental management practices, and as briefly outlined below.
134 ANNEX 7 Updated Environmental Management Plan & Monitoring Plan (EMP) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program: Tranche 2 Project
Table 1: Environmental Management Plan Potential/Issues Project Indicative cost Constraints and Proposed Mitigation Responsible Activities of mitigation Environmental Measures Entities ($US) Impacts Construction Phase Construction Workers lack of 1. Environment Protection, Health & Safety Orientation Plan Contractor Contractor works and understanding and (i) The purpose of this sub-plan is to document the approach of the general contractor Engage training specialist included in total related care to protect the (GC), subcontractors (SCs), and their workers in the implementation of a training program for to devise plan and construction cost, activities environment and construction workers in relation to environmental, archaeological, and occupational health implement orientation estimated to be archaeological/ and Safety issues. program maximum 2% historical sites and (ii) Orientation rationale. The implementation of the EMP will require the involvement of all Record and report cultural monuments construction personnel. The nature of the EMP is such that personnel at all levels have a environment and degree of responsibility in relation to environmental, archaeological, and occupational health safety incidents to PMU Lack of and safety issues and the implementation of measures contained in the EMP. As such, relevant authorities. included in PMU cost orientation for all personnel in relation to environmental and archeological issues and the information about implementation of the EMP will be critical to ensuring the effectiveness of the EMP. the EMP and applicable (iii) The objective is to raise and enhance the awareness of the PMU Orientation objective. plan and environmental construction workforce in relation relevant legislation and policy issues: Review ADB laws and a. General environmental awareness, including rules and regulations to be followed on monitor included in corporate regulations for the archeological, historical, cultural sites, construction site and in the construction implementation environmental due Project. camps; diligence budget b. general health and safety awareness, including an AIDS/HIV and STD awareness ADB Spread of program; Review and issue communicable c. job-specific orientation for workers with responsibility for activities that could have non- objection prior to disease and adverse impacts on the environment or humans (e.g., PAH); and construction sickness, d. requirements for worker personal protective equipment including hard hats, safety boots,high-visibility vests, gloves, eye-glasses and ear defenders, and PAH masks or No safety equivalent, as required. measures for the (iv) To include posters in work camps that illustrates the Red Book species likely to be found prevention of in various areas of the project. injury, or death of (v) Contractor should post a progressive penalty plan to discourage the hunting and workers, road consuming of wildlife. users and other (vi) Training should include a module on the safety aspects of blasting (if blasting people, Blasting. is contemplated). Topics should include: Lack of preventive a. public meetings to introduce the concept of blasting, measures against b. signs posted that contain times of blasting, exposure to c. alarms prior to blasting, hazardous d. the use of blasting mattresses, and e. proper handling and storage of explosives. substances; slips, (vii) . To include information and education for falls and falling Safety and Health ri sks prevention construction workers as part of the health and safety program at campsites during the objects. construction period.
135 ANNEX 7 Updated Environmental Management Plan & Monitoring Plan (EMP) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program: Tranche 2 Project
Table 1: Environmental Management Plan Potential/Issues Project Indicative cost Constraints and Proposed Mitigation Responsible Activities of mitigation Environmental Measures Entities ($US) Impacts Construction Phase Public Lack of 2. Public Consultation and Communications Plan Contractor Contractor consultation information (i) The purpose of this sub-plan is to document the approach of the GC, SCs, and Engage public liaison and included in total and and their workers in the implementation of a plan to relate to the general public and awareness specialist to construction cost, awareness understanding by nearby residents prior to commencing site preparation and construction devise plan and estimated to be building communities and activities and during construction. implement awareness maximum 2% affected parties (ii) This plan should be consistent with the LARP and social assessment, and and grievance redress about the should include the following: program. planned works a. Procedures for communicating with local residents and other nearby activities and receptors developedin advance of activities, particularly when noise, PMU PMU schedule of vibration, utility service disturbance, or other nuisances may be generated. Review plan and monitor included in PMU cost implementation b. Details on the dedicated project phone line. the implementation can lead to c. Complaints and grievance process developed whereby the public and other ADB frustration and stakeholders may make complaints and be assured of receiving responses ADB included in corporate complaints which within a reasonable period (refer to Section V of the EIA report). Review consultation environmental due reports and issue non- (iii) Clear signs and notices posted around construction sites to provide project diligence budget could result in objection prior to delays. information. construction
136 ANNEX 7 Updated Environmental Management Plan & Monitoring Plan (EMP) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program: Tranche 2 Project
Table 1: Environmental Management Plan Potential/Issues Project Indicative cost Constraints and Proposed Mitigation Responsible Activities of mitigation Environmental Measures Entities ($US) Impacts Construction Phase Road Uncontrolled 3. Flora and Fauna Plan Contractor Contractor construction clearing and (i) The purpose of this sub-plan is to document the approach of the GC, SCs, and Engage included in total works undue their workers to minimize the impact on flora and fauna and to protect areas that Environmental construction cost, disturbance and contain known Red Book species and Red Book species that are encountered Specialist to report on estimated to be displacement of during construction. extent of Red Book maximum 2% Red Book flora (ii) The plan should comply with MNP policy and the RA laws on flora and fauna flora and Red Book and fauna and include the following provisions: fauna respectively species a. Vegetation removal and site clearing should be undertaken during late and provide autumn and/or winter which are seasons most favorable to avoid impact to recommendations to protected flora and fauna species. minimize impact on b. No clearance of vegetation other than that outlined within the plan. each. c. If Red Book plant and/or nesting places, burrows, and holes of animals discovered, inform PMU environmental specialist and MNP for appropriate PMU PMU included in PMU cost actions. Review plans and monitor the d. Provide animal pass according to design. implementation ADB e. Temporary protective fence during construction in the sections where included in corporate animals appear often. ADB environmental due f. Reporting and contacting the MNP in the case of an injured animal being Review implementation diligence budget found. reports and issue non- (iii) See also Sub-plan 13. Vegetation Clearing Plan objection
137 ANNEX 7 Updated Environmental Management Plan & Monitoring Plan (EMP) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program: Tranche 2 Project
Table 1: Environmental Management Plan Potential/Issues Project Indicative cost Constraints and Proposed Mitigation Responsible Activities of mitigation Environmental Measures Entities ($US) Impacts Construction Phase Construction Uncontrolled 4. Physical Cultural Resources Plan Contractor Contractor works encroachment Engage archaeologist $144,000 Archeological and damage to (i) The purpose of this sub-plan is to document the approach of the GC and SCs to lead excavations and (archaeologist) Chance-find archaeological, and their workersto protect identified archaeological, historical, and cultural sites chance-finds, report on $12,000 (site a) and historical, and and monuments and to manage any physical cultural resources that are extent of archaeological $120,000 (site b) excavations: impacts provide cultural sites encountered during the construction works. $10,000 (site c) a. Nerkin and recommendations (ii) The plan should comply with procedures set by MOC. $9,000 (site d) Naver monuments to minimize impact on (iii) For archeological chance find the procedures set by MOC shall be followed. $8,000 (site e) archaeologica each. $15,000 (site f) (iv) Specifically, the following archeological/historical sites will be subjected to l complex = 2 $10,000 (site g) months archeological excavations prior to road construction: b. Agarak PMU historical- a. Nerkin Naver Archaeological Complex- Length: 30+080 – 30+725 = 295 m., PMU Review plan and included in PMU cost cultural Width: 50 m to the left (S) from the existing road; monitor preserve = 6 implementation. months b. Agarak historical-cultural preserve -Length: 32+780 – 33+200 = 420 m., liaison with Provide ADB c. Settlement Width: 50 m to the right (N) from the existing road; MOC of Kosh = 2 included in corporate environmental due months c. Settlement of Kosh -Length: 44+380 – 44+680 = 300 m., Width: 50 m to the d. Medieval ADB diligence budget left (S) from the existing road; implementation village of Review reports Shamiram = 2 d. Medieval village of Shamiram - A. Length: 44+350 – 44+500 = 150 m., months Width: 50 m to the right (N) from the existing road, B. Length: 44+350 – e. Nerkin 44+650 = 300 m., Width: 50 m to the left (S) from the existing road; Bazmaberd necropolis = 2 e. Nerkin Bazmaberd necropolis (tomb field) - Length: 55+450 – 57+750 = 300 months m., Width: 50 m to the right (N) and left (S) from the existing road; f. Verin Sasnashen f. Verin Sasnashen archaeological complex - Length: 60+000 – 63+000 = 3600 archaeologica m., Width: 50 m to the right (N) and left (S) from the existing road; l complex = 2 months g. Talin Tomb Field - “Clover leaf” on the Talin crossing. g.Talin tomb field = 2 months
138 ANNEX 7 Updated Environmental Management Plan & Monitoring Plan (EMP) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program: Tranche 2 Project
Table 1: Environmental Management Plan Potential/Issues Project Indicative cost Constraints and Proposed Mitigation Responsible Activities of mitigation Environmental Measures Entities ($US) Impacts Construction Phase Utilities Disruption to 5. U tility Protection and Relocation Plan Contractor Contractor protection services (i) The purpose of this sub-plan is to document the approach of the GC to protect Survey utilities and included in total and relocation impacting on end or relocate identified utilities and to manage the protection or relocation of any prepare plan construction cost, users utilities that are encountered during the construction works. Liaise with local estimated to be (ii) Undertake a utilities survey and prepare a Utility Protection and Relocation Plan representatives, maximum 2% in consultation with relevant government agencies, user groups, and service especially providers. for irrigation facilities, (iii) If there is potential for disturbance to services (i.e. cut off for periods), schedule and service providers PMU the disturbances to take account of the time of year, week, and day to minimize included in PMU cost
the disturbance. PMU plan and (iv) Notify the potentially affected receptors well in advance of the works. Review monitor ADB implementation. included in corporate Assist with liaison environmental due with local diligence budget representatives and service providers
ADB Review implementation reports
139 ANNEX 7 Updated Environmental Management Plan & Monitoring Plan (EMP) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program: Tranche 2 Project
Table 1: Environmental Management Plan Potential/Issues Project Indicative cost Constraints and Proposed Mitigation Responsible Activities of mitigation Environmental Measures Entities ($US) Impacts Construction Phase Accommoda- Environment 6. Cons truction Work Camps Plan Contractor Contractor tion of degradation, (i) The purpose of this sub-plan is to document the approach of the GC, SCs, and Prepare plan included in total workers and workers health, their workers in the implementation of measures to manage construction work construction cost, equipment sanitation and camps that will be part of the project. estimated to be and materials safety; (ii) Issues associated with the design, construction, and use of the camps relate maximum 2% storage Water pollution both to the potential environmental impacts of the camps, and the need to suitably plan camps to protect the environment and maximize worker health, PMU PMU safety, and amenity. The following aspects of camp development should be Review plan and included in PMU cost addressed in this sub-plan: monitor a. definition of elements to be included in construction work camps. implementation. b. criteria/principles for the location of components of the work camps to ADB minimize soil and water pollution, diseases and possible outbreaks, and ADB included in corporate conflict situation with villagers, local/central authorities and/or the Review implementation environmental due contractor. reports diligence budget c. specific management requirements for construction of components of the work camps, and d. management of camp operation. (iii) See also Sub-plan 8. Chemical Products & Spillage Management Plan.
140 ANNEX 7 Updated Environmental Management Plan & Monitoring Plan (EMP) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program: Tranche 2 Project
Table 1: Environmental Management Plan Potential/Issues Project Indicative cost Constraints and Proposed Mitigation Responsible Activities of mitigation Environmental Measures Entities ($US) Impacts Construction Phase Quarrying Dust and noise 7. Q uarry Management Plan Contractor Contractor impact on nearby (i) The purpose of this sub-plan is to document the approach of the GC, SCs, and Prepare plan included in total residents their workers in the implementation of measures to manage the effects of the construction cost, quarrying activities to be carried during construction. PMU estimated to be (ii) It is assumed that most, if not all, quarries exist. It is assumed that permits are Review plan and maximum 2% in place and that the quarry operations are monitored by MNP. monitor EIA cost for new (iii) In the event, however, that a new quarry is required, the appropriate implementation. quarries not included agreement/license shall be obtained from the Ministry of Nature Protection – will be in and Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources prior to commencement of ADB construction budget quarrying. In this case the all relevant documents required by Armenian Review implementation legislation shall be developed and approved, including a separate EIA (if reports PMU deemed necessary) addressing the following direct and indirect impacts: included in PMU cost a. losses to biodiversity, b. losses to Physical Cultural Resources (PCR) include impacts by the ADB project on the environment and on archaeological, historical, and cultural included in corporate sites and monuments, environmental due c. losses to functional ecology, diligence budget d. losses to aesthetics, e. disruption of local livelihood and communications patterns, f. presence of and interaction with the construction work force, g. pressure on surrounding natural resources and human services, as well as h. other direct impacts such as erosion and sedimentation, road damage, spoil and other waste disposal, noise and dust generation.
(iv) If EIA is needed, then The environmental impact assessment should set out mitigation strategies for each identified potential impact, including: a. minimization of the extent of quarrying, b. avoidance of caves and underground water channels, c. minimization of visual impacts, d. timing of quarrying activities, and e. training
141 ANNEX 7 Updated Environmental Management Plan & Monitoring Plan (EMP) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program: Tranche 2 Project
Table 1: Environmental Management Plan Potential/Issues Project Indicative cost Constraints and Proposed Mitigation Responsible Activities of mitigation Environmental Measures Entities ($US) Impacts Construction Phase Earthworks Erosion of soil, 8. Erosion and Sediment Control Management Plan Contractor Contractor material piles, (i) The purpose of this sub-plan is to document the approach of the GC, SCs, and Prepare plan included in total and discharge of their workers in the implementation of measures to manage erosion and construction cost, sediment and sedimentation caused as a result of the construction activities. PMU estimated to be pollutants into (ii) One of the main risks to water quality during construction arises from the erosion Review plan and maximum 2% water courses of soils and the resulting effects of sediment-laden pollutants entering monitor implementation. watercourses. Several elements of the construction activities have the potential PMU to cause erosion and generate sediment that can have adverse effects on the ADB included in PMU cost implementation surrounding environment in terms of water quality. However, the Review reports implementation of the following erosion and sediment control measures should ADB reduce the risk of any impacts to an acceptable level: included in corporate environmental due a. preserve existing ground cover where practicable; diligence budget b. where ground cover is removed and if ground is to be exposed for long periods, provide temporary cover such as fast-growing grass species; c. avoid erosion and therefore, generation of sediment-laden runoff, through appropriate siting of works and minimization of exposed areas; d. ensure clean runoff is diverted around the construction site where possible; e. treat sediment-laden runoff generated by construction activities prior to it entering watercourses; f. regularly monitor operation and effectiveness of mitigation measures, record the results, and submit to PMU on a monthly basis; g. regularly maintain drains, runoff, erosion and sedimentation protective measures to ensure effectiveness; h. Inspect and repair or modify drainage structures and erosion controls as soon as practicable after rain events.
142 ANNEX 7 Updated Environmental Management Plan & Monitoring Plan (EMP) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program: Tranche 2 Project
Table 1: Environmental Management Plan Potential/Issues Project Indicative cost Constraints and Proposed Mitigation Responsible Activities of mitigation Environmental Measures Entities ($US) Impacts Construction Phase Handling Leakage or 9. Waste Management and Disposal Plan Contractor Contractor hazardous spillage (i) The purpose of this sub-plan is to document the approach of the GC, SCs, and Prepare plan included in total and non- of diesel or oil their workers in the implementation of measures for the management of wastes Engage sub- construction cost, hazardous may result in produced during construction. contractors to load estimated to be substances these toxic (ii) Several elements of the construction activities have the potential to generate and haul wastes to maximum 2% substances to waste that can have adverse effects on the surrounding environment in terms of sites approved by enter the soil, water quality, soil quality, air quality (odor and pollutants) and human health: MNP surface water (iii) Non-hazardous solid waste includes construction waste and domestic refuse. PMU including Improper storage, handling, and disposal may cause adverse effects via spills PMU included in PMU cost reservoirs, and or being carried away by wind or vectors, may affect health and be unsightly. Review plan and groundwater. Non-hazardous solid waste can be further divided into putrescible and non- monitor putrescible waste streams. implementation. ADB (iv) Hazardous s olid wastes can have the most severe impacts. A material is Provide liaison with included in corporate hazardous if it is ignitable; corrosive; reactive; or toxic (causing bodily damage, MNP environmental due sickness, or death). The following categories of hazardous wastes will diligence budget potentially be generated by the project: ADB a. Chemical wastes b. Medical wastes Review implementation c. Batteries, paint, and solvents d. Used oil and grease reports (v) Wastewater includes wastewater from construction activities (e.g. sediment pond outlets,crushing plant operation), domestic wastewater from activities such as from kitchens or showers (grey water) and may contain pollutants such as grease, soap and mild detergents, and liquid sanitary waste (black water) that contains nutrients, organic substances, and pathogens. (vi) The key waste management philosophy that is applied in this sub-plan is based on the following hierarchy of waste management approaches (highest to lowest priority): 1. Avoid waste generation 2. Minimize waste generation 3. Reuse as much waste as practical 4. Recycle as much waste as practical 5. Dispose of any remaining waste in an environmentally suitable manner in locations approved by the MNP. (vii) Implementation of this hierarchy, together with the use of appropriate collection, segregation, storage, disposal and education/training methods will ensure that the level of risk associated with waste management is low.
143 ANNEX 7 Updated Environmental Management Plan & Monitoring Plan (EMP) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program: Tranche 2 Project
Table 1: Environmental Management Plan Potential/Issues Project Indicative cost Constraints and Proposed Mitigation Responsible Activities of mitigation Environmental Measures Entities ($US) Impacts Construction Phase Vehicle Traffic hazards 10. Traffic and Access Plan Contractor Contractor movements and safety (i) The purpose of this sub-plan is to document the approach of the GC, SCs, and Prepare plan included in total on and off- their workers inthe implementation of measures to manage traffic and access on construction cost, site the construction site during the construction works. The sub-plan will cover estimated to be vehicle management on and off-site and will include: maximum 2%
a. Driver requirements (license, training) and safety requirements. PMU PMU b. Carefully selected construction vehicle routes including safe entry and exit Review plan and included in PMU cost points. monitor c. Clear route directions. implementation. d. Designated parking areas. ADB e. Appropriate signage. ADB included in corporate f. Established speed limits. Review implementation environmental due g. Scheduling of vehicle movements to avoid peak periods where practicable. reports diligence budget h. Traffic diversions on public roads including direction signs, markings, traffic signals, lighting, clearly visible solid barriers to channel traffic, flagmen employed as needed, and maintenance of diversions. i. Vehicles requirements including covering loads (when carrying sand, soil, spoil and waste material), exhaust attenuators, silencers, regular maintenance of vehicles to prevent fuel and oil leaks to meet national standards requirements and to ensure compliance.
144 ANNEX 7 Updated Environmental Management Plan & Monitoring Plan (EMP) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program: Tranche 2 Project
Table 1: Environmental Management Plan Potential/Issues Project Indicative cost Constraints and Proposed Mitigation Responsible Activities of mitigation Environmental Measures Entities ($US) Impacts Construction Phase Construction Improper disposal 11. Spoil Disposal Planning and Management Plan Contractor Contractor works of construction (i) The purpose of this sub-plan is to document the approach of the GC, SCs, and Prepare plan included in total spoils and debris their workers in the implementation of measures to manage spoil generated by Coordinate disposal construction cost, at the construction the construction of the project. of surplus soil and estimated to be site and immediate (ii) Spoil should be disposed of in locations approved by MNP and local excess topsoil with maximum 2% vicinities government. heads of local (iii) Top soil should be stored for site restoration and in medians. Surplus top soil communities should be distributed in the area based on recommendations by the local government. PMU PMU (iv) The Contractor shall be responsible for ensuring that no soil, rock or debris is Review plan and included in PMU cost deposited on public or private rights of way as a result of its operations, monitor including any deposits arising from the movement of Construction Plant or implementation. vehicles. Provide liaison with ADB (v) The Contractor ensures that vehicles exiting from the Site do not have local communities included in corporate excessive material on their tires. environmental due (vi) The Contractor shall at all times ensure that all existing stream courses and ADB diligence budget drains within and adjacent to the Site are kept safe and free from any debris Review implementation and excavated materials arising from the Works. reports
145 ANNEX 7 Updated Environmental Management Plan & Monitoring Plan (EMP) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program: Tranche 2 Project
Table 1: Environmental Management Plan Potential/Issues Project Indicative cost Constraints and Proposed Mitigation Responsible Activities of mitigation Environmental Measures Entities ($US) Impacts Construction Phase Handling Leakage or 12. Emergency Plan For Hazardous Materials Contractor Contractor hazardous spillage (i) The purpose of this sub-plan is to document the approach of the GC, SCs, and Prepare plan included in total substances of diesel or oil their workers for the handling, storage, use, and disposal of chemicals and in Dispose of hazardous construction cost, may result in the implementation of measures in the event of spills or accidental releases of materials per MNP estimated to be these toxic hazardous materials during the construction works. directive maximum 2% substances to The implementation of the following measures should reduce the risk of any enter the soil, impacts to an acceptable level: PMU PMU surface water, a. Develop and implement procedures to ensure safe handling and storage of Review plan and included in PMU cost and groundwater. hazardous substances, e.g., diesel, waste oil. Material safety data sheets, monitor emergency response procedures, and clean-up materials should be implementation. readily available on site and their proper use should be part of the Provide liaison with ADB workers’ training. MNP included in b. Spill clean-up materials should be appropriately located and stored to corporate ensure availability. ADB environmental due c. An Emergency Response Team (ERT) that is part of the Environment Review implementation diligence budget Protection team should be identified, include an organizational diagram, reports work and out of hours phone numbers, and reporting lines. d. Ensure that the ERT receives emergency response training. e. Ensure that the ERT and all personnel handling chemicals and hazardous substances receive hazard and risk management training. f. The area of spill should be cleaned in a timely manner to prevent potential contamination of surface and groundwater and soil and the spilled material, together with contaminated soil and absorbent materials should be disposed of in a site approved by MNP. (ii) Only necessary chemicals, hazardous substances, and fuel should be stored on site, within a covered, secure and naturally ventilated area that has an impervious floor and impervious bund around it. The bund should have a capacity of at least 150% of the capacity of the largest tank. (iii) The storage area should be located away from drainage lines and danger areas.
146 ANNEX 7 Updated Environmental Management Plan & Monitoring Plan (EMP) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program: Tranche 2 Project
Table 1: Environmental Management Plan Potential/Issues Project Indicative cost Constraints and Proposed Mitigation Responsible Activities of mitigation Environmental Measures Entities ($US) Impacts Construction Phase Construction Water pollution 13. Water Quality Monitoring Plan Contractor Contractor works from liquid waste Prepare plan included in total and effluents (i) The purpose of this sub-plan is to document the approach of the GC, SCs, and Engage water construction cost, from their workers in the implementation of measures to monitor the effects of their quality monitoring estimated to be construction activities on water quality in the project area during the construction works. The specialists Report maximum 2% sites, work sub-plan should address monitoring requirements for the following: results monthly camps and from quarries, a. Storm water discharge from all construction sites (in-stream and point PMU PMU crushing plant, of discharge monitoring), Review plan and included in PMU cost and concrete b. run off from construction work camps, monitor batch plant c. run off from waste disposal areas and construction work areas, implementation. d. effluent from quarries, crushing plant, and concrete batch plant (if any), and Provide liaison with ADB e. workers’ potable water. MNP included in corporate environmental due (ii) In-stream monitoring should be carried out approximately 50 m upstream and 50 ADB diligence budget m downstream of the site discharge (2 monitoring points) Review implementation reports Earthworks Removal and/or 14. Vegetation Clearing Plan Contractor Contractor and destruction of Prepare plan included in total construction protected species (i) The purpose of this sub-plan is to document the approach of the GC, SCs, and Engage arborist to construction cost, sites of plants their workers to vegetation clearing activities during construction. The plan devise dendro design estimated to be should comply with MNP policy and the RA Law on Flora and include the for tree replanting or maximum 2% following provisions: replacement Report results monthly a. Guidance on mulching removed vegetation, storage, and use. b. Storing and managing removed topsoil (graded, stabilized and drained) for PMU PMU re-use for landscaping activities. Review plan and included in PMU cost c. Vegetation removal and site clearing should be undertaken during late monitor autumn and/or winter which are seasons most favorable to avoid implementation. impact to protected flora and fauna species. Provide liaison with ADB d. No clearance of vegetation other than that outlined within the plan. MNP included in corporate environmental due (ii) See also Sub-plan 3. Flora and Fauna Plan ADB diligence budget Review implementation reports 147 ANNEX 7 Updated Environmental Management Plan & Monitoring Plan (EMP) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program: Tranche 2 Project
Table 1: Environmental Management Plan Potential/Issues Project Indicative cost Constraints and Proposed Mitigation Responsible Activities of mitigation Environmental Measures Entities ($US) Impacts Construction Phase Hauling and Nuisance from 15. Dust and Emissions Control Plan Contractor Contractor transport of excessive dust (i) The purpose of this sub-plan is to document the approach of the GC, SCs, and Prepare plan included in total construction along their workers in the implementation of measures to control gaseous emissions Engage local water construction cost, and quarry construction sites; and dust resulting from the construction activities, including quarry sites, trucks for dust control estimated to be materials; crushing plants, road construction, haulage of materials, and establishment of Report results monthly maximum 2% Air quality construction work camps. The management measures in this sub-plan have Road works been developed to minimize potential health and nuisance impacts by PMU PMU incorporating the following principles: Review plan and included in PMU cost a. Preserve existing ground cover where practicable. monitor b. Provisions to use and using water spray of road surfaces to control dust. implementation. c. Minimize the amount of excavated material held on site and cover all ADB materials wherever possible to prevent generation of dust. ADB included in corporate d. Avoid double handling of material. Review implementation environmental due e. Ensure that vehicles used should be at their maximum load capacity to reports diligence budget minimize the number of vehicles and journeys to and from the site. f. Do not leave construction equipment idling when not in use. g. Use mains electricity or battery power where possible (or practical for hand tools) rather than diesel. h. Avoid the use of diesel or petrol powered generators where practicable. i. Spray aggregate loading point at quarries and crusher plants
148 ANNEX 7 Updated Environmental Management Plan & Monitoring Plan (EMP) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program: Tranche 2 Project
Table 1: Environmental Management Plan Potential/Issues Project Indicative cost Constraints and Proposed Mitigation Responsible Activities of mitigation Environmental Measures Entities ($US) Impacts Construction Phase Road works Exceedence of 16. Noise Control Plan Contractor Contractor allowable noise (i) The purpose of this sub-plan is to document the approach of the GC, SCs, and Prepare plan included in total (decibel) limits their workers in the implementation of measures to minimize and manage the Report results monthly construction cost, impacts of noise generated during construction. estimated to be (ii) A number of elements of the construction activities have the potential to cause maximum 2% noise impacts. The health effects of noise range from annoyance to hearing impairment and can impact both construction workers and nearby villages or settlements. The management measures in this sub-plan have been developed PMU PMU to minimize potential health and nuisance impacts by incorporating the following Review plan and included in PMU cost principles: monitor implementation. a. minimization of noise generation at source; b. reduction of the transmission of noise from the source to sensitive ADB ADB receivers including nearby villages and settlements and construction Review implementation included in corporate workers on the construction site; reports environmental due c. schedule noisier activities towards the middle of the day where practicable; diligence budget d. locate noisier activities away from sensitive receptors where practicable; e. fit vehicles and equipment with silencers to meet national noise standards and regularly check to ensure compliance; f. install noise control barriers (e.g. solid walls, earth barriers, noise-reflective panels, double- glazed windows) when necessary and practicable to shield houses and other sensitive receptors;and g. provide response mechanism for noise-related complaints (see also Table 1A for monitoring and Sub-plan 2. Public Consultation and Information).
149 ANNEX 7 Updated Environmental Management Plan & Monitoring Plan (EMP) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program: Tranche 2 Project
Table 1: Environmental Management Plan Potential/Issues Project Indicative cost Constraints and Proposed Mitigation Responsible Activities of mitigation Environmental Measures Entities ($US) Impacts Construction Phase Site re- Construction 17. Site Reinstatement, Landscaping, and Revegetation Plan Contractor Contractor instatement materials that (i) The purpose of this sub-plan is to document the approach of the GC, SCs, and Prepare plan included in total of all areas are not cleared their workers in the implementation of site clearance and restoration, Engage arborist to construction cost, from the site landscaping, and revegetation measures as part of the construction works. The prepare dendro design estimated to be Re- are potential sub-plan should include the following: Engage landscape maximum 2% vegetation, safety hazards (ii) All construction-related materials and equipment cleared from the site including contractor to landscaping waste, unused materials, fencing etc. implement plan Localized (iii) Natural drainage lines reinstated. flooding from (iv) Plan of areas to be landscaped. PMU PMU impermeable (v) Check-list to be prepared for final sign-off by the PMU Environment Specialist Review plan and included in PMU cost surfaces if (vi) Procedures for planting, maintenance and monitoring to ensure stable monitor inadequate growth of trees and groundcover. implementation. drainage (vii) Species must be Monitor tree survival ADB a. endemic to entire site or specific area, included in corporate Sediment and b. readily available (commercially or from seed collection), and ADB environmental due implementation diligence budget erosion of c. relatively easy to propagate. Review uncovered areas reports (viii) Species should ideally be a. easily seeded (manual or mechanical methods), and b. relatively easy to maintain. (ix) Replant trees and bushes according to dendro design and agreements with heads of affected communities. (x) Plant new trees at a ratio of 10 new trees per 1 tree cut. (xi) Maintain new trees until viable or 3 years, whichever comes first as certified by qualified arborist (Note: 80% survival is considered excellent). (xii) See also Sub-plan 9. Waste Management and Disposal Plan
150 ANNEX 7 Updated Environmental Management Plan & Monitoring Plan (EMP) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program: Tranche 2 Project
Table 1: Environmental Management Plan Potential Issues Indicative cost Project Constraints Proposed Mitigation Measures Responsible Entities Of mitigation Activities and ($US) Environmental Impacts Operation and Maintenance Period Traffic Noise impacts (i) The PMU should engage an acoustic specialist to monitor noise on a PMU PMU movements periodic basis and in response to any complaints. Engage noise and air included in PMU Air pollutants (ii) The need for further investigation or mitigation should be identified. quality specialists cost from vehicle (iii) The PMU should engage a specialist to monitor air quality associated with Report results emissions vehicle emissions on a periodic basis and in response to any complaints. ADB (iv) The need for further investigation or mitigation will be identified. ADB included in corporate Review reports environmental due diligence budget Revegetation Does not (i) Monitoring the health of the trees and replacement as required. PMU PMU establish Engage included in PMU arborist and cost botanist Report results ADB included in ADB environmental due Review reports diligence budget 34 The general contractor is the entity who enters into a contract for the works with the EA and who is responsible, by contract, for the works and conduct of its subcontractors.
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ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN The Contractor shall carry out environmental monitoring as specified in this Sub-Section 101.16. In the event that the Contractor fails to comply with such requirements, the Engineer shall arrange for the work to be conducted by others who are appropriately qualified and experienced in the performance of the various tests and monitoring. The selection of those people shall be at the absolute discretion of the Engineer. All costs in such actions shall be a debt due by the Contractor to the Employer.
Monitoring is important to ensure that environmental impacts are prevented and mitigated by following the EMP to ensure that sound engineering practices are followed for the protection of the people and environment. The Contractor has the responsibility to ensure the following:
Implementation of impact prevention and mitigation measures Compliance with the Contract Specifications and the EMP Oversee construction at each road section Report on findings with respect to impact prevention and mitigation and the actions recommended to problems encountered.
The critical component covered by the monitoring program refers to construction management since the key impacts are those generated during this phase of work. The monitoring plan is based on the mitigation/enhancement measures identified for the environmental impacts and those that are moderately significant, but can have critical effects if not mitigated. The environmental monitoring plan including the key parameters to be monitored is presented in Table 1A below. This covers both the construction and operation stages.
Baseline Data and Routine Periodic Air Quality Monitoring
Pre-construction monitoring to establish baseline conditions shall be undertaken by the Contractor at locations as determined advisable by the Engineer. The instrumented monitoring shall be carried out over a period of not less than 21 days prior to the initiation of construction to establish baselines against which impacts can be measured. Baseline monitoring of total suspended particulates (TSP) shall be carried out at not less than two points in rehabilitation sites. Baseline air quality monitoring shall be carried out at Asphalt Plant and Crusher. The monitoring locations will be determined on the basis of actual construction plans, including the specific locations of pollution sources as required by the Engineer.
Routine instrumented monitoring of total suspended particulates (TSP) at the same locations at the earlier baseline monitoring points shall be carried out monthly along each separate construction section. Air quality monitoring shall occur not less than once
152 ANNEX 7 Updated Environmental Management Plan & Monitoring Plan (EMP) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program: Tranche 2 Project per month at each location and more frequently if determined necessary by the Engineer. Results will be submitted in a monthly report.
Other Air Quality Provisions
In addition to the provisions for the siting of asphalt plants, regulations regarding open burning must be adhered to.
Solvents and volatile materials shall be used properly to the satisfaction of the Engineer. Blasting (if any) shall be carried out using small charges. Dust-generating items will be conveyed under cover. Road surfaces, excavation and construction sites will be water sprayed to keep them moist for dust control at all times. Trucks carrying earth, sand or stone shall be covered with tarps to avoid spilling.
Baseline Data and Routine Periodic Water Quality Monitoring
Pre-construction monitoring to establish baseline conditions shall be undertaken at locations as determined advisable for the different construction sections, as required by the Engineer. Baseline monitoring of water quality shall be undertaken at a site approved by the Engineer and the receiving streams of effluent from labor camps, asphalt plants and other potentially polluting activities related to the Works. Measurements of suspended solids (SS), biological oxygen demand (BOD), dissolved oxygen (DO), conductivity and fecal coli form, and oil and grease levels are required. Additional baseline monitoring shall be undertaken at the location of major sources of potential water pollution (construction camps and other sources of significant run-off and liquid waste generation).
Routine instrumented monitoring of water quality and run-off from construction camps, staging areas and labour camps, not less than once every month, shall be undertaken for the different construction sections. This shall include measurements of suspended solids (SS), biological oxygen demand (BOD), dissolved oxygen (DO), conductivity and fecal coli form, and oil and grease levels.
Waste disposal shall be undertaken in an environmentally responsible manner, including providing for the disposal of waste oil, human waste, in accordance with regulations in force by the relevant authorities.
Baseline Data and Routine Periodic Noise Monitoring
Instrumented baseline noise monitoring shall be carried out over a period of at least 21 days prior to the initiation of construction to establish baselines against which impacts can be measured
Routine instrumented monitoring of noise levels shall be undertaken at not less than two Road Rehabilitation Sites at the same locations as the earlier baseline monitoring. Instrumented monitoring shall be undertaken for periods of 24 hours not less than once per month.
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All Contractor project locations (including but not limited, construction areas, sites areas, plant and equipment areas and Contractor staff office and accommodations) that are directly or indirectly associated with the Contract shall be regularly inspected for compliance with requirements of the EMP and statutory regulations. Specific issues include but are not necessary limited to:
dust control; waste handling and disposal; bitumen, oil and diesel handling and storage; the asphalt batching plant, and its immediate surroundings the quarry and crushing plant, and its immediate surroundings prevention of materials encroaching outside the right of way; temporary drainage; water quality and slope stability.
154 ANNEX 7 Updated Environmental Management Plan & Monitoring Plan (EMP) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program: Tranche 2 Project
Table 1A: Environmental Monitoring Plan All monitoring must be verified by independent expert or NGO Location Parameters Monitoring Instruments & Responsible Frequency & Activity To be Locations Method Environmental Performance Indicator Entities Time Phase Monitored Construction Phase (To be updated by the Contractor together with the Environment Specialist prior to beginning construction and thereafter, as required)
Public Contractor’s field Review of Procedures for communicating, complaints and grievance Contractor Prior to Public notices, signs office and documents, process with local residents and stakeholders developed, Keep log and commencing consultation and notices construction sites Visual Signs and notices posted around construction sites, report site preparation and around the Complaints logged and resolved. and construction education site; PMU activities, complaints Review reports If complaint is register received Construction Boundary of Maximum at sensitive receptor: Contractor Noise and within 250 m property of - 6am to 10pm (day) – 55dBA LAeq, 70dBA LAmax Engage Vibration of a sensitive Noise sensitive receptors Noise meter - 10pm to 6am (night) – 45dBA LAeq, 60dBA LAmax specialists Management Plan receptor to be identified in Or as agreed with the MNP and receptors the Noise and PMU Vibration Monitor results Management Plan Boundary of If complaint is property of received complainant
Representative Dust deposition Dust deposited below 0.15 mg/m3 daily average Contractor All sites boundary gauge Engage Samples analyzed Dust-air between road specialists weekly pollution and adjacent residences PMU Monitor results
Selected Contractor Ongoing and Dust construction Visual/ocular No visible dust, vehicles covered if transporting wastes, Check, weekly vehicle routes inspection soil, spoils, sand, and other materials, Established speed Monitor Inspection, including safe limits. and report Daily during entry and exit PMU earthmoving points Works sites, Review activities Traffic diversions reports on public roads 155 ANNEX 7 Updated Environmental Management Plan & Monitoring Plan (EMP) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program: Tranche 2 Project
Table 1A: Environmental Monitoring Plan All monitoring must be verified by independent expert or NGO Location Parameters Monitoring Instruments & Responsible Frequency & Activity To be Locations Method Environmental Performance Indicator Entities Time Phase Monitored Contractor Condition of Shahverd wetland Field survey, Presence of Red Book flora and fauna in the wetland Engage Quarterly flora and census and Environment fauna inventory Specialists, keep and log report
PMU Review reports
Run-off Site boundary and Visual/ocular Water is clear or contains minimal sediment, Contractor Weekly inspection, control, slope downhill inspection No evidence of significant erosion, Keep log and After a rainfall protection Drainage control measures in place report event and drainage PMU Review reports
7 water Water Approximately 50 Water quality Pre-construction baseline data and information established, Contractor Prior to the start of courses quality: m upstream and meter and Results are not above measured baseline levels prior to Engage construction that are laboratory construction specialists - Turbidity 50 m downstream Monthly thereafter crossed by of the site (2 analysis of - Total and the monitoring points samples PMU suspended if complaint is alignment each site) Monitor results solids (TSS) received - Total dissolved solids (TDS) - Acidity (pH) - Temperature - Dissolved oxygen
Material Stockpiled Stockpile locations Visual Stockpiles within designated area, Contractor Weekly stockpiles material Stockpiled correctly (height, slope, drainage lines around) Spot-check Topsoil stockpiled correctly and not within drainage line PMU Monitor results 156 ANNEX 7 Updated Environmental Management Plan & Monitoring Plan (EMP) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program: Tranche 2 Project
Table 1A: Environmental Monitoring Plan All monitoring must be verified by independent expert or NGO Location Parameters Monitoring Instruments & Responsible Frequency & Activity To be Locations Method Environmental Performance Indicator Entities Time Phase Monitored Work sites Workers’ All workers Visual, Personal protective equipment worn by workers on site, Contractor Ongoing and safety protective Question a Workers are informed and demonstrated knowledge of Conduct weekly, equipment, sample of construction safety rules and regulations, Safety signage awareness Monthly report Knowledge workers appropriately displayed at all work sites testing and of report results construction rules and PMU procedures, Review results points of contact Waste Solid waste Designated waste Visual No construction litter, Contractor Ongoing management from work disposal sites inspection No waste outside designated areas Spot-check and disposal camps and Formally weekly construction PMU spoils and Monitor results debris, effluents from quarries, crushing plant
Handling Diesel, Designated Visual Appropriately stored and in designated areas Contractor Monthly hazardous asphalt hazardous inspection Hazardous materials inventory up-to-date and tallies Keep inventory materials mixed, material storage Record current bitumen, area PMU used oil and Check inventory grease MNP
Secured Security Boundary of Visual Security fence properly set and intact Contractor Weekly construction fence construction inspection Check entire sites/camps sites/camps length Traffic and Traffic Tranche 2 road Visual and Measures in place in accordance with the Traffic and Contractor When measures road safety diversion works records Transport Management Plan, Check facilities and signage are measures Number of accidents installed and signage PMU Monthly Spot check 157 ANNEX 7 Updated Environmental Management Plan & Monitoring Plan (EMP) Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program: Tranche 2 Project
Table 1A: Environmental Monitoring Plan All monitoring must be verified by independent expert or NGO Location Parameters Monitoring Instruments & Responsible Frequency & Activity To be Locations Method Environmental Performance Indicator Entities Time Phase Monitored Revegetation Vegetation All sites as Visual Revegetation as per Landscaping and Site Reinstatement Contractor As required at the and Site cover, construction inspection Sub-plan check-list end of works until rehabilitation Exposed soils is completed Drainage lines reinstated PMU signed off as on slope Waste materials and construction equipment removed from Check acceptable areas, Natural the site compliance with drainage Sub-plan lines,Const- ruction waste Tree planting Planted Along highway, Visual Planted trees and bushes according to dendro design and Contractor Monthly design trees and inspection, 10:1 ratio. Obtain arborist bushes counts of Tree replanting agreements with heads of affected reports number of communities. established and Maintenance and monitoring of new trees for 3 years or PMU dead trees until viable. Check compliance with Sub-plan Records and Inspection Recorded Visual review Annex 6: Environmental and Monitoring Report Format is Contractor Monthly reporting check-list, information provided to record and document project’s compliance to Complaints log the requirements of the EMP. All records are available PMU Consultation and recorded correctly. Ensure contract record, and check-list Training compliance records, Licenses, Approvals and permits Operation and Maintenance Phase (To be updated by the PMU Environment Specialist prior to operation of the road if required) Landscaped Type and List of area Visual Maintenance and monitoring the health of trees until Contractor Monthly during the st areas number of identified for inspection, viable within 3 years and replacement as required, 1 year, endemic and landscaping, counts of No dead trees, soils covered by vegetation Quarterly on the nd non-endemic graded, stabilized number of PMU 2 year, and species and drained established and Monitor Bi-annually for the rd planted, or areas dead trees developments 3 year specific to the area
158
EMP – Updated Environmental Management Plan& Environmental Monitoring Plan Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program Tranche 2 – Ashtarak to Talin Road
Resettlement Planning Document
Land Acquisition and Resettlement Framework: Updated Project Number: 42145 December 2010
Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program
Prepared by Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) of Armenia for Asian Development Bank.
The views expressed herein are those of the consultant and do not necessarily represent those of ADB’s members, BoardThe ofdraft Directors, land Management,acquisition orand staff, resettlement and may be preliminary framework in nature. 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.
ABBREVIATIONS
ADB Asian Development Bank AP affected person AH affected household IMA Independent Monitoring Agency IPSA Initial Poverty and Social Assessment PSA Poverty and Social Assessment MFF Multitranche Financial Facility IA implementing agency PMU project management unit PGC project governing council PPTA project preparatory technical assistance NGO nongovernment organization LAR land acquisition and resettlement LARF land acquisition and resettlement framework LARP land acquisition and resettlement plan MTD Marzpetaran Transport Department PFR periodical financing request SRS Social and Resettlement Specialists SES socioeconomic survey DMS detailed measurement survey RP resettlement plan MOTC Ministry of Transport and Communications
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ABBREVIATIONS i DEFINITIONS OF LAR TERMS ii
Land Acquisition and Resettlement Framework (LARF) A. INTRODUCTION 1 B. LAR-RELATED PROGRAM PROCESSING REQUIREMENTS 1 C. INDIGENOUS PEOPLE AND VULNERABLE GROUPS 2 D. LARP PREPARATION AND IMPLEMENTATION 2 E. LEGAL AND POLICY BACKGROUND 3 E.1 Armenian Law and Regulation on Land Acquisition and Resettlement 3 E.2 ADB’s Provisions on Involuntary Resettlement Policy under the SPS 4 E.3 Comparison of Armenia’s Law and regulation on LAR and ADB’s SPS 4 E.4 LARF Principles and Entitlements adopted for this MFF 5 F. COMPENSATION ELIGIBILITY AND ENTITLEMENT FOR THE PROJECT 6 F.1 Eligibility for election 7 F.2 Compensation Entitlements 7 F.3 Assessment of Compensation Unit Values 9 F.4 Conditions for Expropriation 9 F.5 Conditions for Legalization 9 G. GENDER IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES 10 H. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AND DOCUMENTS DISCLOSURE 10 I. INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS 10 I.1 MOTC/IA 11 I.2 Consultants 11 I.3 Local Self-Government 12 I.4 Other Agencies and Institutions 12 I.5 ADB 12 J. COMPLAINTS AND GRIEVANCES 14 K. MONITORING AND EVALUATION 14 K.1 Internal Monitoring 14 K.2 External Monitoring 15 L. CAPACITY BUILDING AND TRAINING IN LAR IMPLEMENTATION 15 M. RESETTLEMENT BUDGET AND FINANCING 16 N. LARP IMPLEMENTATION PROCESS 16 Tables: Table 1: Comparison of Armenia’s Laws on LAR and ADB’s SPS 4 Table 2: Entitlement Matrix 6 Table 3: Grievance Resolution Process 14
Figures: Figure 1: LAR Organogram and Action 13
Boxes Box 1 : LAR Task Process 16
Annexes: Annex A: Outline of a Standard LARP 18
DEFINITIONS OF LAR TERMS
Compensation - Payment for restoration or the replacement cost of the acquired assets.
Entitlement - Range of measures comprising compensation, income restoration, transfer assistance, income substitution, and relocation which are due to affected people, depending on the nature of their losses, to restore their economic and social base.
Indigenous Peoples (IP) - “Indigenous Peoples” as used in the ADB’s Policy on Indigenous Peoples encompasses a generic concept not easily reflected in a single term. Ethnic Minority is one of the other terms relating to the concept of indigenous people as addressed in the ADB policy. Others are “cultural minorities,” “indigenous cultural communities,” “tribals,” “scheduled tribes,” “natives,” and “aboriginals.” Accepted or preferred terms and definitions vary country by country. “Indigenous Peoples” is the term used in the United Nations documents, and is used by ADB solely for convenience. In Armenia, the term Ethnic Minority is considered more applicable.. In this respect, to qualify for consideration as being covered under the ADB’s IP Policy, an ethnic minority ‘should be regarded as those with a social or cultural identity distinct from the dominant or mainstream society, which makes them vulnerable to being disadvantaged in the processes of development.’
Host popu lation - Community residing near the area where the Project beneficiaries propose to voluntarily resettle as part of the Project.
Improvements - Structures constructed (dwelling unit, fence, waiting sheds, animal pens, utilities, community facilities, stores, warehouses, etc.) and crops/plants planted by the person, household, institution, or organization.
Land Acquisition - The process whereby a person is compelled by a government agency to alienate all or part of the land a person owns or possesses to the ownership and possession of the government agency for public purpose in return for a consideration.
Affected Person/People (AP)- Any person (individual) affected by Project-related changes in use of land, water, natural resources, or income losses.
Affected Household (A H) – The affected household as a whole. This unit operates as a single economic and domestic unit and may consist of an individual, a single nuclear family or an extended family. This is the significant unit receiving compensation/rehabilitation.
Rehabilitation - Compensatory measures provided under the Policy Framework on involuntary resettlement other than payment of the replacement cost of acquired assets.
Relocation - the physical relocation of a AP/AH from her/his pre-Project place of residence.
Replacement Cost - The value determined to be fair compensation for land based on its productive potential, the replacement cost of houses and structures (current market price of building materials and labor without depreciation or deductions for salvaged building material), and the market value of residential land, crops, trees, and other commodities.
Resettlement - All measures taken to mitigate any and all adverse impacts of the Project on AP’s property and/or livelihood, including compensation, relocation (where relevant), and rehabilitation of the damaged/removed infrastructure and installations.
Marz-Community - Armenia is divided into 10 provinces (marz). Yerevan, as the capital of the counrty, has a special administrative status.The province chief executive is the governor (marz) appointed by the Government. Each province is divided in communities (hamaynk) which are self-governing units and consists of one or more settlements (bnakavayr). Settlements are classified as towns (kaghak) or villages (gyugh). As of 2007, Armenia includes 915 communities (49 urban and 866 rural). Previously having Marz status, Yerevan, now has the status of a community and it has an elected mayor.
LAND ACQUISITION AND RESETTLEMENT FRAMEWORK
A. INTRO DUCTION
1. This Land Acquisition and Resettlement Framework (LARF) for the North-South Corridor Road Investment Program (the Program) has been prepared by the Ministry of Transport and Communications of Armenia (MOTC) (the Project Preparation Technical Assistance (PPTA) Consultants, PADECO Ltd. has provided technical assistance in preparing this LARF). This document details mechanisms, procedures and compensation entitlements to be applied in the planning and implementation of Land Acquisition and Resettlement (LAR) tasks for relevant projects under the Program. The Program, to be financed by Asian Development Bank (ADB) under a Multi Tranche Financial Facility (MFF) and to be implemented over a period of 5 years with MOTC as the executing agency (EA) and PMU as the Implementing Agency (IA) will cover three tranches each including various projects involving the rehabilitation or the construction of roads and highways.
2. Before Program appraisal this LARF will be translated into Armenian and disclosed on the MOTC website. The LARF in English will be posted on the ADB website.
B. LAR-RELATED PROGRAM PROCESSING REQUIREMENTS
3. Based on MFF procedures Program appraisal is carried out together with the appraisal of the first tranche. The following tranches will be appraised once the EA sends to ADB a Periodical Financial Request (PFR) accompanied by the final documents and technical studies for each subproject under the tranche.
4. For what specifically concerns Land Acquisition and Resettlement (LAR) tasks the approval of the MFF/tranche 1, of the PFRs for the following tranches and of the implementation of each tranche subproject involving LAR will require the preparation of the following documents:
(i) A LARF for the whole financial facility and applicable to all subprojects. The LARF will be reviewed, if necessary updated, and submitted for ADB approval at least annually and always at the start of the preparation of each tranche. (ii) An Initial Poverty and Social Assessment (IPSA) indicating, for each tranche, whether LAR impacts are likely to occur -- if yes, then the type of impacts and their likely magnitude -- whether there may be Indigenous People (OP) affected, and; (iii) If LAR occurs, a LAR Plan (LARP) for each project under a tranche based on detailed design and commensurate to the severity of impacts. As per the ADB Operation Manual (OM) F1/OP (2009) a project is classified as Category “A” if > 200 people suffer significant impacts (relocation or loss of >10% of productive assets). A project will instead be classified as Category “B” when less than 200 people suffer significant impacts. Category “C” projects have no LAR impacts. The LARP will include detailed compensation and administration budgets and implementation schedules linking LAR tasks to the initiation of civil works.
5. Based on ADB Safeguards Policy Statement (SPS)1, the appraisal of the MFF and each tranche and approval of project implementation will be based on the following LAR- related conditions: (i) MFF/first tranche appraisal: Conditional to: a.) preparation and disclosure of a LARF for the whole MFF acceptable to ADB and Government; b.) preparation of an IPSA and c.) preparation and disclosure of LARPs acceptable to ADB and Government for each tranche subproject requiring LAR. (ii) Approval of PFR for follo wing tranches: Conditional to: a.) review/update/disclosure of the LARF, and b.) preparation/disclosure of a LARPs consistent with the revised LARF and acceptable to ADB and Government. (iii) Contract awards signing (for subprojects involving LAR): Conditional to: a) the finalization of the LARP as an implementation-ready document and its disclosure, and b) the hiring of an Independent Monitoring Agency (IMA) ready to mobilization.
6. Provision of notice to proceed to contractors: Conditional to the full implementation of the relevant LARP (full delivery of compensation and rehabilitation) for the relevant project and documented through IMA respective report.
C. INDIGENOUS PEOPLES AND VULNERABLE GROUPS
7. No impact on Indigenous Peoples is expected for the Program. Special attention will be given to identifying and addressing the needs of disadvantaged groups such as the landless, the poor, female-headed households, the elderly or the disabled, through measures included in the LARP to try and improve (over and above cash compensations and restoration of) their livelihoods.
D. LARP PREPARATION AND IMPLEMENTATION
8. LARP preparation activities for subprojects with LAR will be an integral part of the preparation of tranche subprojects starting with LAR screening tasks and ending with a readily implementable LARP based on detailed design. The sequence of activities for LARP preparation is the following: (i) Once an initial road alignment and cross-sections design is available the MOTC/IA will carry out a preliminary cadastral survey identifying the affected properties and their owners/users. Following this survey the Governments enacts a decree recognizing the project as a public interest project. (ii) Upon enactment of the Government decree the MOTC/IA and the project preparation consultants will conduct detailed surveys in the field. These include a Detailed Measurement Survey (DMS) of all land/non-land impacts, a census of all Affected Households (AH) and Affected People (AP) and, through the services of an independent assessor, a valuation survey of all affected assets with the purpose of compiling an aggregate budjet for compensation/rehabilitation. (iii) To fit ADB requirements the project preparation consultants will carry out a a socio-economic survey (SES) based on a 25% statistical sample of the
1 Please refer to the ADB Social Safeguards Policy Statement (2009).
AHs. The SES will provide a description of the major socio-economic features of the affected population (ethnicity, education level, modes of livelihood, and sources of income, poverty/income levels, and house type/value and land tenure types). A second purpose of the SES will be to identify any vulnerable and risk groups that need additional support, as a basis for preparing the LARP budget (iv) Based on these surveys a LARP will be compiled. In the course of the surveys all AHs will be thoroughly informed of the stipulations of this LARF and of the .provisions of the LARF including impacts, compensation rates and schedules. DMS, AP census and compensation costs will be reviewed and if necessary updated after the finalization of detailed design. 9. LARP pr eparation/implementation process . LARP preparation for the first tranche of the Program will be carried out by the Project Preparatory Technical Assistance (PPTA) consultants. The same tasks for the following tranches will be carried out by the MOTC/IA and detailed design consultants. LARP implementation will be overseen by the supervision consultants. LARP preparation/implementation will be carried out according to the following process:
a. LARP p reparation. This phase will be carried out in parallel with the preparation of the projects feasibility study (See Annex A for a standard outline of a LARP). b. LARP revi ew/finalization. This phase will be carried out during the preparation of detailed design and will include eventual updates of impacts/AP data, possible compensation rates revisions and administrative work to legalize legalizable APs. After the final LARP is approved by ADB, civil works contracts will be signed. c. LARP impl ementation. This phase will start after the final LARP is approved and will be concluded with the provision of due compensation to all AHs. d. Civil w orks Implementation. In general civil works will start only after all AHs are compensated and a compliance report is prepared by the Independent Monitoring Agency (IMA). However, if a road has sections without impacts and sufficiently long to economically justify the economic expediency of construction, civil works for these sections may initiate immediately after contracts signing. In these cases the absence of impacts will have to be demonstrated by an ad hoc due-diligence report.
E. LEGAL AND POLICY BACKGROUND
E.1 Armenia’s Laws and Regulations on Land Acquisition and Resettlement 10. The Armenia’s Constitution (1995) guarantees protection of private ownership rights. It also provides that private ownership may be terminated “in exclusive cases of prevailing public interests” based on established procedure and with prior adequate compensation. Land acquisition and compensation issues are discussed in the Land Code Article 102, 104, the Civil Code (1998), Article 218 and in the Law of RA On the Alienation of the Private Property for Public and State Needs adopted on 27 November 2006.
11. Under the existing law of RA On the Alienation of the Private Property for Public and State Needs the RA Government will issue a Decree determining the case of exclusive public and state priority needs based on the request from relevant state
agencies. The government decree on recognition of the item as prevailing and exclusive public interest shall set out:
(i) The exclusive and prevailing public interest, for which alienation of property shall be executed; (ii) The party acquiring the alienated property; (iii) The units constituting the alienated property (addresses, location and/or other information, which makes the property different from other assets); (iv) Final deadline to launch the alienation process.
12. Law of RA On the Ali enation of the Private Property for Public and St ate Needs discusses procedural aspects of land acquisition and compensation rights of titled landowners and owners of immovable property in cases of alienation of their property for public purposes. Upon enactment of the government decree on recognition of property as prevailing exclusive public interest, the authorized body shall compile minutes describing the alienated property according to the procedure and deadlines defined by the government; acquiring party, owners and those holding property rights towards the alienated property may participate in compilation of such minutes if the latter had not been compiled during the preliminary survey of the property. One copy of the minutes describing the alienated property shall be, within no later than three days after its compilation, duly communicated to the owner and persons holding property rights towards such property, who are entitled to protest it with the authorized body and/or court within ten days after the due receipt thereof.
13. The compensation for the land/property being acquired is established by agreement between MOTC and APs taking into account the market value and damages, including consequential damages, and may include exchange of land/property. Adequate compensation shall be paid to the owner against alienation of his/her property. Adequate shall be the amount 15 percent over and above the market price for the alienated property. Assessment of the real estate or the real estate rights shall be made in accordance with the procedure defined in the Law of the Republic of Armenia on Assessment of Real Estate in Armenia adopted in October 4, 2005.
E.2. ADB’s Provisions on Involuntary Resettlement under the SPS 14. The ADB Policy on Involuntary Resettlement is based on the following principles: (i) Involuntary resettlement is to be avoided or at least minimized. (ii) Compensation/Rehabilitation provisions will ensure the maintenance of the APs’ pre-project standards of living. (iii) APs should be fully informed and consulted on LAR compensation options. (iv) APs’ socio-cultural institutions (such as libraries, community centers, cultural centers) should be supported/used as much as possible. They shall be involved at a maximum level. (v) Compensation will be carried out with equal consideration of women and men. (vi) Lack of legal title should not hinder compensation and/or rehabilitation. (vii) Particular attention should be paid to households headed by women and other vulnerable groups, such as Indigenous Peoples, and appropriate assistance should be provided to help them improve their status. (viii) LAR should be conceived and executed as a part of the project, and the full costs of compensation should be included in project costs and benefits. (ix) Compensation and resettlement subsidies will be fully provided prior to clearance of right of way/ground leveling and demolition.
E.3 Comparison of Armenia’s Law/Regulation on LAR and ADB SPS 15. Differences between Armenian laws/regulations and ADB policy are outlined in Table 1 below. Table 1: Comparison of Resettlement Laws and Regulations of RA on LAR and ADB SPS
Armenian Laws and Regulations ADB SPS Land compensation only for titled landowners Lack of title is not a bar to compensation and/or rehabilitation. Non-titled landowners also shall receive rehabilitation All affected houses/buildings are compensated for ADB Policy includes compensation for unregistered buildings damages/demolition caused by a project, with the commercial structures as well exception of unregistered commercial structures Crop losses compensation provided only to registered Crop losses compensation provided to all APs landowners Land valuation based on current market value plus 15% of Land valuation based on current market the assessed value. rate/replacement value Information on impacts quantification/costing, entitlements, The Same and amounts of compensation and financial assistance are to be disclosed to the AH/APs prior to implementation of assessment No provision for income/livelihood rehabilitation measure, The ADB policy requires rehabilitation for allowances for severely affected APs and vulnerable income/livelihood, for severe losses, and for expenses groups, or resettlement expenses incurred by the APs during the relocation process
16. In general, there are no basic differences between the Armenian legislation and ADB policies regarding the land acquisition and resettlement. However, the Armenian laws and regulations are not very clear on how the rehabilitation of APs is to be achieved. Another issue is that ADB recognizes as eligible to compensation or at least rehabilitation titled and non-titled owners or registered and unregistered tenants.To reconcile these gaps between the Armenian legislation and ADB’s Policy, MOTC has drafted this LARF for the Program, ensuring compensation at full replacement cost of all items and at least rehabilitation of informal/non-titled settlers, unregistered businesses. The LARF also provides for rehabilitation packages for APs that will be relocated are vulnerable or severely affected.
17. Attempts should first be made to acquire private land on the basis of negotiation with individual affected entities. Should the negotiation fail, the power of eminent domain will be sought and the expropriation process will start. In case of negotiated sale ADB requires that appropriate due-diligence will be put in place to ensure that the AP are offered fair price, are informed, are allowed sufficient bargaining space and their case is monitored by an independent external party. These conditions are fully guaranteed by the use of an independent Monitoring agency (see chapter K below) and by the Armenian Government practice of engaging independent land assessors to determine asset compensation rates.
E.4 LARF Principles and Entitlements adopted for this MFF 18. Based on Armenian laws and ADB’s SPS, 2009, core involuntary resettlement principles are developed for this MFF which are as follows: (i) Land acquisition, and other involuntary resettlement impacts will be avoided or minimized exploring all viable alternative project designs; (ii) where unavoidable, a time-bound LARP will be prepared and APs will be assisted in improving or at least regaining their pre-program standard of living;
(iii) consultation with APs on compensation, disclosure of resettlement information to APs, and participation of APs in planning/implementing sub-projects, will be ensured; (iv) vulnerable and severely affected APs will be provided special assistance; (v) Non-titled APs (e.g., informal dwellers or squatters, APs without registration details) will receive a livelihood allowance in lieu of land compensation and will be fully compensated for losses other than land. (vi) Legaliable APs will be legalized and fully compensated for land losses. (vii) Provision of income restoration and rehabilitation; (viii) The LARP will be disclosed to the APs in Armenian (ix) Payment of compensation, resettlement assistance and rehabilitation measures will be fully provided prior to the contractor taking physical possession of the land and to the commencement of any construction activities on a particular package and . (x) Appropriate redresses mechanisms to solve APs grievances are established.
F. COMPENSATION ELIGIBILITY AND ENTITLEMENTS FOR THE PROJECT
19. LAR tasks under the Project will be implemented according to a compensation eligibility and entitlements framework in line with both Armenian laws and regulations and ADB Policy. The basis to determine the ammount of compensation is the market value of the property, and in case the cadastreal value exeeds the market value of the property then the basis is considered to be the cadastral value. A summary entitlements matrix is included in Table 2 below.
Table 2: Entitlement Matrix Type of Loss Application Definition of Compensation Entitlements APs 1. Agricultural AH losing agricultural Owners Compensation at replacement value +15% either in cash at land Loss land regardless of market rates or cadastral values (whichever the highest) or impact severity through replacement land acceptable to the AP. When there are no active land markets cash compensation will be based on the value of the yearly product of the land for a sufficient number of years to ensure the affected parties rehabilitation for the loss of their land. Legalizable Owner Legalizable APs will be legalized and paid the same compensation as above Leaseholder Leaseholder will be compensated as full owners at maket rates or (community,state) cadastral values (whichever the highest) or will be given a new lease. If this is not possible , they will receive compensation equal to “the market or cadastral value of affected land (whichever the highest) + 15%” in the following proportions according to the length of the lease: i) < 1 year 5%; 2) < 15 years 14% ; 3) < 25 years 20%;4)>25 years -25%. Non-legalizable These APs will receive a rehabilitation allowance based on the AHs affected land market or cadastral value (whichever the highest) In proportions to the number of years of land occupation as follows:: i) < 1 year 5%; 2) < 15 years 14% ; 3) < 25 years 20%;4)>25 years - 25%. 2. Non-Agricultural AH losing their Owners Compensation at market value or cadastral value (whichever Land loss commercial/ the highest) +15% or through replacement land acceptable to residential land the AP. Legalizable Owner Same compensation as above. Renter/Leaseholder These AH will be compensated as full owners at maket rates or (community, state) cadastral values (whichever the highest) or will be given a new lease. If this is not possible they will receive compensation equal to “the market or cadastral value of affected land (whichever the highest) + 15%” in the following proportions according to the length of the lease: i) <
Type of Loss Application Definition of Compensation Entitlements APs 1 year 5%; 2) < 15 years 14% ; 3) < 25 years 20%;4)>25 years -25%. Non legalizable These APs will receive a rehabilitation allowance based on the AHs affected land market or cadastral value whichever the highest. In proportions to the number of years of land occupation as follows:: i) < 1 year 5%; 2) < 15 years 14% ; 3) < 25 years 20%;4)>25 years - 25%. 3. Residential All AH regardless of Cash compensation + 15% for loss of building at full replacement cost buildings legal status. free of depreciation/transaction costs and salvaged materials. Partial impacts will entail the compensation of the affected portion of the building plus repairs. Relocated Renters Relocation and severe impact allowance as entitlement 9 and 10 below 4. Non- AHs with valid Cash compensation + 15% for loss of building at full replacement cost residential registration free of depreciation/transaction costs and salvaged materials. Partial buildings/assets impacts will entail the compensation of the affected portion of the building plus repairs. AHs without valid As above but after building is legalized/registered, in cases of registration legalisation/regostration of the building. Relocated Renters Relocation and severe impact allowance as entitlement 9 and 10 below 5. Common Community/Public Community/State Reconstruction of lost structure and restoration of their functions property Loss Assets in consultation with community/state authority. 6. Crop Losses Standing crops All AH regardless of Crop compensation in cash at market rate by default at gross affected legal status (including crop value of expected harvest. owners subject to obtining legal status and residents having no rasidency status) 7. Tree Losses Trees affected All AH regardless of Cash compensation at market rate based on type, age legal status.. (including and productive value of the trees. owners subject to obtining legal status and residents having no rasidency status) 8. Business or Business All AH regardless of Entrepreneurs (i). (permanent impact) cash indemnity of 1 year net Employment employment loss legal status. (including income; (ii) (temporary impact) cash indemnity of net income for Losses owners subject to months of business stoppage up to 1 year. Assessment to based on obtining legal status tax declaration. In absence of tax declaration the AH will receive a and residents having rehabilitation allowance based on the maximum non-taxable salary no rasidency status) for the number of months of business stoppage up to 1 year. The maximum non taxable salary is equal to minimum salary.. Permanent Worker/Employees: Indemnity equal to: (i) Permanent job loss 6 months of minimum salary; (ii) Temporary loss minimum monthly salary for the number of months of job loss up to 6 months.. 9. Allowances AH with >10% agricultural All severely affected i) 1 additional crop compensation covering 1 year yield for APs affected for Severe income loss or more to AHs including by severe agricultural income losses Impacts be relocated informal settlers ii) a rehabilitation allowance of 6 months at minimum salary for relocated AHs.. 10. Relocation Transport/transition All relocated AH Provision of funds to cover transport costs and livelihood allowances costs including relocated expenses for 1 month. renters 11 Vulnerable AHs below poverty Allowance equivalent to 6 months of minimum salary and People Allowances line or headed by employment priority in project-related jobs Women or elderly people 12. Temporary All Ahs Due rent and rehabilitation for temporarily affected assets impacts will be provided. 13. Unforeseen MOTC will consider the unforeseen resettlement impact during LAR impacts, if any project and will compensate them based on the above provisions.
F.1 E ligibility
20. APs entitled for compensation or at least rehabilitation provisions under the Project are:
(i) All APs losing land either covered by legal title/traditional land rights, Legalizable, or without legal status; (ii) Tenants and sharecroppers whether registered or not; (iii) Owners of buildings, crops, plants, or other objects attached to the land; and (iv) APs losing business, income, and salaries.
21. Compensation eligibility will be limited by a cut-off date to be set for each subproject on the day of the beginning of the AP Census and DMS. APs who settle in the affected areas or or make any improvements there after the cut-off date will not be eligible for compensation. They, however will be given sufficient advance notice, requested to vacate premises and dismantle affected structures prior to project implementation. Their dismantled structures materials will not be confiscated and they will not pay any fine or suffer any sanction.
F.2 Compensation Entitlements
22. Entitlement provisions for APs losing land, houses, and income and rehabilitation subsidies will include provisions for permanent or temporary land losses, buildings losses, crops and trees losses, a relocation subsidy, and a business losses allowance based on tax declarations and/or lump sums. These entitlements are detailed below:
Agricultural land impacts will be compensated at either (i) in cash at market or cadastral value (whichever the highest) plus a 15% allowance. When there are no active land markets cash compensation will be based on the value of the yearly product of the land for a sufficient number of years to ensure the affected parties rehabilitation for the land loss of their land or (ii) through replacement land equal in value/productivity to the plot lost acceptable to the AP. Non-directly affected sections of a plot which become inaccessible or unviable for cultivation or any use after the impact will be included in the affected land. When >10% of an AP agricultural land is affected, AP (owners, leaseholders and sharecroppers) will get an additional allowance for severe imp acts equal to the market value of a year’s gross yield of the land lost. Transaction taxes and fees will be paid by the EA or waived.
Legalizable APs will be legalized and paid as titled owners. Non-legalizable APs will be compensated with one time self-relocation allowances in cash equal to the market or cadastral value of the affected land (whichever the highest) in proportion to the past years of land use: : i.) < 1 year - 5% of land value; 2) < 15 years - 14% of land value; 3) < 25 years - 20% of land value; 4) 25 years - 25% of land value.
Leaseholders will be legalized and compensated as full owners or will be given a new lease. If this is not possible they will receive compensation in cash at market or cadastral value (whichever the higher) of the affected land + a 15% allowance in proportion to the remaining years of lease as follows: i.) < 1 year - 5% of land value; 2) < 15 years - 14% of land value; 3) < 25 years - 20% of land value; 4) 25 years and more- 25% of land value.
Non agricultural land (Residential/commercial land). Lega l o wners will be compensated at either (i) in cash at market value plus a 15% allowance. If there is no market rate, compensation will be based n the annual productivity of land calculated for the number of years which will provide the AH’s recovery for land loss. or (ii) in form of a replacement plot acceptable to the AP. Non-directly affected sections of a plot which become inaccessible or unviable for cultivation or any use after the impact will be included in the affected land.
Legalizable APs will be legalized and paid as titled owners. Non-legalizable APs will be compensated with one time self-relocation allowances in cash at market or cadastral value (whichever the highest) in proportion to the past years of land use as follows: :i.) < 1 year - 5% of land value; 2) < 15 years - 14% of land value; 3) < 25 years - 20% of land value; 4) 25 years and more- 25% of land value.
Leaseholders will be compensated as full owners or be given a new lease as mentioned above. If this is not possible they will receive compensation in cash at market or cadastral value (whichever the higher) of the affected land + a 15% allowance in proportion to the remaining years of lease as follows: i.) < 1 year - 5% of land value; 2) < 15 years - 14% of land value; 3) < 25 years - 20% of land value; 4) 25 years and more - 25% of land value.
Residential Buildings will be compensated to all APs irrespective of the house registration status in cash at replacement cost plus a 15% allowance. However house owners without registration will have to be legalized in order to obtain this provision. Compensation will be free of deductions for depreciation, transaction costs and salvageable materials. In case of partial impacts and unwillingness of the owner to relocate, building impacts will cover only the affected portion of a building and its full rehabilitation to previous use. Relocated renters will be given all relocation and severe impacts allowances (see below).
Non-Residential Buil dings will be compensated in the same fashion as residential buildings only to those Aps who have resistered legally their property (see above). However APs without registration will be compensated, only after legalization and compensaton. To legalize thier buildings the APs without registration shall pay necessary sums for registration. Relocated renters will be given all relocation and severe impacts allowances (see below).
Crops: Cash compensation at current market rates for the gross value of 1 year’s harvest by default. Crop compensation will be paid both to landowners and tenants based on their specific sharecropping agreements.
Trees: Cash compensation at market rate based on type, age and productivity of trees.
Businesses: Permanent losses for business activity will be compensated in cash equal to a 1-year net income based on tax declaration; temporary losses will be compensated in cash equal to the monthly income based on tax declaration with the number of months of business stoppage. In absence of tax declaration these APs will be compensated as above but based on the maximum non-taxable salary (minimum salary).
Permanent business workers and employees: Indemnity for lost wages for the period of business interruption up to a maximum of 6 months.
Relocation subsidy: APs forced to relocate (including renters) will receive a relocation subsidy sufficient to cover transport costs and living expenses for 1 month.
Community Structures and Public Utilities: Will be fully replaced or rehabilitated so as to satisfy their pre-project functions.
Severe impa cts allo wances. These will be given to AH losing 10% or more of agricultural income (see above) or to relocated AH (including renters).
Vulnerable people Li velihood: Vulnerable people (APs below poverty line and widow or elder headed households) will be given a rehabilitation allowance equal to 6 months at minimum salary and priority in employment in project-related jobs.
F.3 Assessment of Compensation Unit Values
23. Assessment of the real estate values will be based on the procedure defined in the Law of the Republic of Armenia on Assessment of Real Estate and ADB practice as follows: (i) Agricultural Land will be valued at market rates based on a survey of land sales in the year before the impact survey. (ii) Houses/Buildings will be valued at replacement rate based on construction type, materials cost, labor, transport/other construction costs. No deduction for depreciation/transaction costs or salvaged materials will be applied. If an AP does not wish to relocate, partial impacts may be paid only for the affected portion of the building or repairs. (iii) Annual Cro ps will be valued at net market rates at the farm gate for the first year crop. In the eventuality that more than one-year compensation is due to the APs the crops after the first will be compensated at gross market value. (iv) Trees will be valued according to different methodologies depending whether the tree lost is a wood tree or a productive tree.
a. Wood trees will be valued based on age category (a. seedling; b. medium growth and c. full growth) and wood value and volume. b. Fruit/productive trees will be valued based on age (a. seedling; b. adult-not fruit bearing; and c. fruit bearing). Stage (a) and (b) trees will be compensated based on the value of the investment made; stage (c) trees will be compensated at net market value of 1 year income x number of years needed to grow a new fully productive tree.
24. The unit compensation rates will be assessed by a certified independent evaluator based on clear and transparent methodologies acceptable to ADB. The assessed compensation rates will then be verified and certified by the MOTC /IA.
F.4 Conditions for Expropriation 25. Acquisition of land through expropriation proceedings entails lengthy procedures often may be resisted. Such an approach will thus be pursued under the Program only in extreme cases when negotiations between APs and MOTC fail and no alternative land is available to implement a subproject. In these cases, however, MOTC will not occupy the needed plots until: (i) the proper judicial process as defined by the law is initiated; (ii) a court injunction has been obtained and properly communicated to the APs; and (iii) the compensation/rehabilitation amounts are deposited in an escrow account.
F.5 Conditions for Legalization
26. In principle all occupants of untitled-plots can be legalized as long as they do not occupy areas classified as "Red Zones" (areas that are officially reserved for specific public use such military areas, hospital areas, school areas or areas that are not fit for settlement (river beds, radioactive terrains or other dangerous or ecological unfit lands) See Land Code of the Republic of Armenia, article 60. To be legalized the APs will have to
initiate a legalization process in accordance to pertinent administrative regulations. The EA will assist APs seeking legalization and will facilitate their cases.
G. GENDER IMPACT AND MITIGATION MEASURES
27. Women have important economic roles in project areas and engage in a very wide range of income making activities in the agricultural and marketing sector. The Project will pay particular attention to ensure that women are the recipients of the compensation pertaining to their activities and to ensure that women who are de-facto household heads are clearly listed as beneficiaries of compensation and rehabilitation proceedings under the loan. In order to ensure the above the following actions will be considered: (i) Include women in the impact enumerators. (ii) Impact assessment of AHs/APs indicating the total number of families and people must be gender-disaggregated to pinpoint how many women are likely to be affected by the Project and establish their pre-Project conditions. (iii) Women will be major participants in the consultation processes to determine and negotiate for compensation entitlements and implement the LARP. (iv) Special attention will be given to the impact of resettlement on women and other vulnerable groups during monitoring and evaluation of the LARP.
H. PUBLIC CONSULTATION, PARTICIPATION AND DOCUMENTS DISCLOSURE
28. According to ADB policy, the APs must be fully consulted and provided with opportunities to participate in the planning and implementation of land acquisition and resettlement. They also must be informed in an appropriate and timely manner of the outcomes of the planning process, as well as the schedules and procedures for implementation of the LARP. Public information and consultation campaign must be carried out by the Project Management Unit (PMU) during all stages of the land acquisition and resettlement process. In addition, the PMU must also organize public information meetings, participation of the APs in the DMS, full disclosure of the Resettlement Plan (RP) and informing the APs about the procedures for payments of compensation and relocation.
29. The LARF has been translated into Armenian and distributed to the project regions for review and endorsement. The LARF will be uploaded on the ADB resettlement website immediately upon Board approval. For the further tranches the updated LARF (if necessary) will be disclosed before Management consideration of each PFR.
30. During the different stages of the Project (planning, implementation, and monitoring) the following actions are in place: (i) distribution of public information brochure or booklets in Armenian, (ii) placement of copies of the LARP in Armenian in regional and community offices, and (iii) uploading of the LARPs on the ADB resettlement website.
31. Community authorities will be informed about the Project, and their assistance will be solicited in the conduct of the inventory of affected assets, the Census of APs and the detailed measurement surveys (DMS). Also, prior to the finalization of the LARP and its submission to the MOTC, the APs will be thoroughly informed on the results of the Census and DMS, and their preferences on compensation or other resettlement assistance will be given due consideration. The processes and mechanisms ensuring the active involvement of APs and other stakeholders will be detailed in the LARPs including the date, list of participants, and minutes of consultation meetings.
I. INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS
32. ADB will be the funding agency of the Program. The compensation/rehabilitation tasks described in this LARF involve distinct processes and dynamics and different actors. PMU will be the IA, MOTC will be the EA. The PMU will be established in MOTC and PMU with the assistance of the consultants will develop and implement the LARP for each subproject based on the policy and procedures set out in this LARF. Several other governmental and non-governmental agencies will play instrumental roles in LAR processes. Pursuant to current legislation, the State Committee of Real Estate Cadastre of the Government of the Republic of Armenia is responsible for providing information about the status of real estate ownership, and is in charge of the state registration of ownership. Local governments will also be involved. The role of each of these actors is detailed below. An organogram of the organizational setting for the program is included in Figure 1.
I.1. MO TC/IA
33. MOTC has overall responsibility for the Program. This includes preparation, implementation and financing of all LAR tasks and cross-agency coordination. MOTC will exercise its functions through IA and in particular through its PMU. The PMU will have Social and Resettlement Specialists (SRS) who will be responsible directly to the PMU head for the general management of the planning and implementation of all LAR tasks. A Project Governing Council (PGC) made up of representatives from concerned ministries and chaired by RA Prime Minister will be established to oversee the Project and make high level decisions, including resolving high profile AP grievances or serving as a final decision making body for AP grievances, short of their being referred to the Courts.
34. The SRS will be responsible for: (i) coordinate LAR with cadastral office and local governments; (ii) assisting the consultants in mapping, surveying and title verification activities; (ii) send the LARP to ADB for review, (iii) Disclose the LARP; (iv) plan and manage LARP implementation and the distribution of compensation; (iv) assist in case of complaints; (v) ensure proper internal monitoring; and (vi) hire, following ADB recommendation, the external monitoring agency. The SRS will also provide all needed documentation to ensure the prompt allocation of LAR budgets to the APs and will maintain the coordination of all LAR related activities.
35. The Marzpetaran Transport Departments (MTDs) will assist the activities of the PMU and in particular SRS and will facilitate the communication with local authorities, assist in case of complaints and in the course of compensation delivery to the APs. At the level of the community local authorities will support surveys, complaints resolution and compensation delivery as needed.
I.2 Consultants 36. Different types of consultants will be involved in LAR tasks: (i) PPTA Consultants: These will include international and local LAR capacity and needed survey teams and will carry out all field-surveys and prepare the needed LARPs for the first tranche. (ii) Design Co nsultants: These will include international and local LAR capacity and needed survey teams and will carry out the same activities for updating/finalizing the First tranche LARPs and will prepare LARPs for the following tranches. (iii) Supervision Consu ltants: These will include international and local LAR
capacity and needed survey teams and will assist in the overall supervision of the projects. The supervision consultants will also oversee LARP Implementation and carry out external monitoring and evaluation of the implementation of LARP for following tranches of the Program. (iv) Independent Monitoring Agency (IMA). This consultant will be hired to conduct the external monitoring and evaluation of the implementation of tranche 1 LARP implementation. In the absence of a supervision consultant, the IMA will continue to carry out the external monitoring and evaluation for all the tranches. (v) Independent Asset Valuators. These will be accredited private firms hired by PPTA or Design consultants to evaluate the affected assets.
I.3 Local Self-Government
37. Local authorities have direct jurisdiction for land administration and title verification. State Committee of Real Estate Cadastre Regional Offices will provide the data available in the local land registry and will facilitate the communication with community authorities. Community authorities will support surveys tasks, complaints resolution, AP consultation and compensation delivery as needed.
I.4 Other Agencies and Institutions
38. Several other institutions will participate to the preparation and implementation of LAR tasks. These are:
(i) Ministry of Finance. The budgets for the implementation of the LARPs will be provided to MOTC by the Ministry of Finance following the official approval of the final LARPs. (ii) State Committee of Real Estate Ca dastre of the Government of the Republic of Armenia. The State Committee of Real Estate Cadastre of the Government of the Republic of Armenia is responsible for providing information about the status of real estate ownership, and is in charge of the state registration of ownership. (iii) Courts. In solving problematic cases related to property acquisition for public and state needs, the basis will be the court decision entered into force.
I.3 ADB 39. Besides supervising periodically the Project ADB will review all LARPs and provide clearance to contract awards signing and initiation of civil works to all subprojects with LAR.
Figure 1: LAR Organogram and Action
PGC Ministry of Finance MOTC
IA State Committee PMU of Real Estate SRS Cadastre Court
Consultants Assessor PMU/MTD Surveys Asset valuation Assist consultants Consultation Provide compensation
State Committee of Real Estate Cadastre Regional Office Plot Verification Coordination with Communities
COMMUNITY AUTHORITIES
Functional role
Approval
Finances APs Complaints & grievances
J. COMPLAINTS AND GRIEVANCES
40. A grievance mechanism will be available to allow an AP appealing any disagreeable decision, practice or activity arising from land or other assets compensation. During consultation, survey and compensation the AP shall be dully notified orally or in a written form about their rights and the procedure of complaints introduction. Complaints and not elimination of consequences should be ensured. This can be achieved by due preparation of LAR: providing full participation of AP and consultation, as well as providing contact and coordination between affected communities, IA and local self-government bodies. The Grievance resolution process will follow the steps defined below in table 3.
Table 3: Grievance Resolution Process Land/ Crops Compensation Issues 1. First, complaints resolution will be attempted at community level with the involvement of the community authorities and informal mediators. 2. If still unsettled, a grievance can then be lodged to the MOTC, which will forward it to the IA. Within 15 days the MOTC will dismiss the case or recommend its settlements to the IA... 3. If after the intervention and assistance with the MOTC and IA no solution has been reached, MOTC must consult the PGC for their decision on whether to settle or go to Court.The PGC will provide a response within 15 days of registering the complaint. The PGC decision must be in compliance with this LARF provisions. 4. Should the grievance redress system fail to satisfy the AP, they can pursue further action by submitting their case to the appropriate court of law.
41. Nevertheless, above mentioned grievance mechanism does not limit the citizen’s right to submit the case to the court of law just in the first stage of grievance process.
K. MONITORING AND EVALUATION
42. LAR under the Project will be subjected to both internal and external monitoring. Internal monitoring will be conducted by IA/PMU. External monitoring will be assigned to an Independent Monitoring Agency to be hired by MOTC and approved by ADB. The IMA will be selected among Non-Governmental Organization (NGOs), academic Institutions, or consulting firms. ADB will advise MOTC on the IMA’s terms of reference once Project implementation has begun.
K.1 Intern al Monitoring
43. Internal monitoring will be carried out routinely by IA either directly or through the services of a consultant. The results will be communicated to ADB through the quarterly project implementation reports. Indicators for the internal monitoring will be those related to process and immediate outputs and results. This information will be collected directly from MTD and reported monthly to IA/MOTC to assess the progress and results of LARP implementation, and to adjust the work program, if necessary. The monthly reports will be quarterly consolidated in the standard supervision reports to ADB. Specific monitoring benchmarks will be: (i) Information campaign and consultation with APs; (ii) Status of land acquisition and payments on land compensation; (iii) Compensation for affected structures and other assets; (iv) Relocation of APs; (v) Payments for loss of income; (vi) Selection and distribution of replacement land areas; and (vii) Income restoration activities
44. The above information will be collected by IA/PMU which is responsible for monitoring the day-to-day resettlement activities of the project through the following instruments: (i) Review of census information for all APs; (ii) Consultation and informal interviews with APs; (iii) In-depth case studies; (iv) Sample survey of APs; (v) Key informant interviews; and (vi) Community public meetings.
K.2 External Monitoring
45. External monitoring will be carried out in parallel with the implementation of each LARP and will result in a quarterly report and in a final compliance report indicating whether the compensation program has been carried out based on the provisions of this LARF and ADB policy and with the satisfaction of the APs. The compliance report will be communicated to IA/MOTC and ADB and will be a condition to start civil works. External monitoring for the first tranche will be carried out by an IMA to be selected and hired among NGOs, Academic Institutions or independent consultants by IA. For tranches after the first external monitoring will be carried out by the supervision consultant. Indicators for External Monitoring tasks will include: (i) Review and verify internal monitoring reports prepared by IA/MOTC; (ii) Review of the socio-economic baseline census information of pre-displaced persons; (iii) Identification and selection of impact indicators; (iv) Impact assessment through formal and informal surveys with the affected persons; (v) Consultation with APs, officials, community leaders for preparing review report; and (vi) Assess the resettlement efficiency, effectiveness, impact and sustainability, drawing lessons for future resettlement policy formulation and planning.
46. As part of the final compliance report the IMA will also assess the status of project affected vulnerable groups such as female-headed households, disabled/elderly and families below the poverty line. The following will be considered as the basis for indicators in monitoring and evaluation of the project: (i) Socio-economic conditions of the APs in the post-resettlement period; (ii) Communications and reactions from APs on entitlements, compensation, options, alternative developments and relocation timetables etc.; (iii) Changes in housing and income levels; (iv) Rehabilitation of informal settlers; (v) Valuation of property; (vi) Grievance procedures; (vii) Disbursement of compensation; and (viii) Level of satisfaction of APs in the post resettlement period.
47. The IMA will carry out a post-implementation evaluation of the LARP about a year after completion of its implementation. The compelling reason for this study is to find out if the objectives of the RP have been attained or not. The benchmark data of SES of severely affected APs conducted during the preparation of the LARP and Poverty Social Assessment (PSA) will be used to compare the pre and post project conditions. The IMA
will recommend appropriate supplemental assistance for the APs should the outcome of the study show that the objectives of the LARP have not been attained.
L. CAPACITY BUILDING AND TRAINING IN LARP IMPLEMENTATION
48. All concerned staff involved in LAR tasks at IA/PMU will undergo a two days-long orientation and training in ADB resettlement policy, management and Armenian legislation related to LAR. The training will be provided by the international and local Resettlement specialists of the project preparation consultants. Training will cover the following topics: (i) Principles and procedures of land acquisition; (ii) Public consultation and participation; (iii) Entitlements and compensation & assistance disbursement mechanisms; (iv) Grievance redress; and (v) Monitoring of resettlement operations.
M. RESETTLEMENT BUDGET AND FINANCING
49. All RP preparation and implementation costs, including cost of compensation and LAR administration, will be considered an integral part of Project cost and will be contributed as a counterpart fund by the Armenian Government, in particular MOTC. Each LARP will include a budget section indicating (i) unit compensation rates for all affected items and allowances, (ii) methodology followed for the computation of unit compensation rates, and (iii) a cost table for all compensation expenses including administrative costs and contingencies. Costs for external monitoring tasks and for the preparation of surveys and LARPs can be allocated under the loan.
50. Being the project owner, MOTC is responsible for the timely allocation of the funds needed to implement the RPs. Allocations will be reviewed twice a year based on the budget requirements indicated by the LARPs. As per the LAR finances flow the budget for compensation and rehabilitation will be directly disbursed by MOTC to the AP.
N. LARP IMPLEMENTATION PROCESS
51. Based on experience in Armenia the Preparation and implementation of a LARP may take up to a few months. The basic LAR-related steps for the preparation and implementation of a LARP are summarized on Box 1 below.
BOX1: LAR TASKS PROCESS
Step Action Responsibility
A) LARP PREPARATION 1 Assessment of Project’s Poverty and Social Impacts Consultant Finalization of Detailed design 2 Design consultants Prepare surveys forms for Census and DMS, train local Census and DMS 3 teams, and establish coordination with relevant local government s Consultant 4 Collection of cadastral and land parcel maps of the project area Consultants/IA/PMU Verify land records in affected areas, update cadastral maps and carry out 5 impacts and valuation surveys – Detailed Measurement Survey (DMS) Consultant/IA/PMU –SRS 6 Conduct public consultations Consultant/IA/ PMU-SRS 7 Negotiations with APs Consultant/IA/MTD 8 Integrate data from Census into the RP Consultant 9 Submission of LARP to Government of Armenia and ADB for approval Consultant/MOTC/IA/ADB 10 Disclosure Consultant/IA
B) LARP Finalization (Detailed Design) 1 Detailed Design Design Consultant 2 Review of impacts and AP lists based on detailed design Consultant/ IA/ MTD Consultant/ IA/ MTD/ MTD 3 Review of prices based on the updated rate 4 Legalization of land status where possible Consultant/ IA/PMU/ MTD 5 Preparation of the final LARP Consultant/IA/PMU 6 ADB Approval ADB Final RP disclosure: Distribution of RP and information pamphlets in Armenia in 7 the affected communities; posting of RP in English on the ADB website IA/PMU/Consultant/MTD/ADB 8 Signing of civil contract award ADB/ MOTC
C) RP IMPLEMENTATION 1 Approval of Contract awards Signing ADB 2 Detailed Schedule for compensation action plan IA/ MOTC 3 Distribution of Relocation Notices to APs MOTC / IA/ PMU/MTD 4 Award of Cheques for Land Compensation MOTC / IA/ PMU/MTD 5 Award of Cheques for other Compensation & Assistance/ Rehabilitation MOTC / IA/PMU/ MTD 6 Demolishing/ Relocation of Affected Structures/Assets MOTC 7 Review of RP Implementation through a compliance report MOTC /IA/IMA/ADB If RP Implementation found satisfactory, Notice to proceed for Civil works is 8 issued ADB/ MOTC
D) POST-IMPLEMENTATION TASKS 1 Independent evaluation of LARP IMA
E) CYCLICAL/CONTINUOUS TASKS 1 Internal monitoring. Quarterly reporting to ADB IA/PMU 2 External Monitoring. Semi-annual reporting to ADB IMA/Supervision Consultant 3 Grievances Redress/Law Suites MOTC/IA/PGC /Court 4 Inter-agency coordination and Communication with AP MOTC /IA/ MTD
ANNEX A: OUTLINE OF A STANDARD LARP
1. LAR issues for the scheme This chapter describes the scheme activities and items requiring LAR; alternative options, if any, considered to minimize land acquisition and its effects; and why remaining effects are unavoidable.
2. Scope of land acquisition and resettlement This chapter describes the preparation of the impacts (who carried it out and when it was initiated) and provides a full assessment of each type of impact and a census of affected peoples as described in the LARF. The chapter also includes a description of the methodology followed to determine unit-compensation rates for each affected item and subsidy/allowance.
3. Objectives, policy framework, and entitlements Based on the LARF, this chapter outlines the eligibility and compensation framework for the scheme.
4. Consultation and grievance redress participation This chapter summarizes procedures for redress of grievances by people affected described in LARF and describes the consultation/participation process and grievance redress that occurred in the subproject at hand.
5. Compensation, relocation, and income restoration This chapter outlines the income restoration measures to be implemented.
6. Institutional framework This chapter outlines the institutional arrangements for the scheme based on this LARF. It includes the following issues: responsibilities for main tasks and for planning, negotiating, consulting, approving, coordinating, implementing, financing, monitoring, and evaluating land acquisition and resettlement.
7. Resettlement budget and financing This chapter provides the unit compensation rate for each affected item and assesses the LAR budget for the scheme. The LAR budget will include land acquisition and eventual land acquisition costs, amounts due for crop compensation and for the subsidies and allowances, monitoring and evaluation costs, and administrative costs and will be adjusted for inflation and applicable taxes.
8. Implementation schedule This chapter provides a time schedule showing the LAR process and linking LAR tasks with civil works implementation.
9. Monitoring and evaluation This chapter specifies arrangements for routine and independent monitoring and evaluation activities.
Addendum
Principles of Compensation Under Land Acquisition and Resettlement Framework
Principles of compensation, envisaged under Paragraph 8 “Entrepreneurship / business” and Paragraph 11 “Support to Vulnerable People” of the Scheme of Rights, presented under Land Acquisition and Resettlement Framework (LARF) have been presented within the format of this Document.
Acronyms, used in this Document have been formed under the LARF.
As detailed in the LARF the eligibility to receive provisions listed below is limited by a cut- off date set for subproject on the day of the begining of the affected persons census and DMS (signing decsription protocols with each affected person). Affected persons who settle in the affected areas or make any improvements after the cut-off date will not be eligible for compensation.
1. Compensation of Legal Entity and Private Entrepreneur
The basis for compensation will be the information provided by the State Revenue Committee under the Government of RA, which will be based on the financial and tax statements submitted by legal entity and private entrepreneur for previous fiscal year. Calculation of compensation will be made based on the following principles:
(i) In case of permanent termination of activities of the legal entity or private entrepreneur and as a result of Project implementation—one-off compensation, equal to net annual revenue stated in the previous fiscal year financial reports or declaration, but not less than AMD 30000 (30-fold of the minimum salary) per each month.
(ii) In case of temporary termination of activities of legal entity or private entrepreneur as a result of Project implementation – one-off compensation for the whole period of termination of activities (up to one year) following the date, indicated in the application, submitted to the State Revenue Committee under the Government of RA and before the completion of construction activities in the given section of the road (according to the set forth Schedule of Construction Activities).
For these months, yet not more than for one year, compensation for each whole month of temporary termination of activities shall be made in the amount of monthly average of the net annual revenue for the previous fiscal year, but not less than AMD 30000 (30-fold of the minimum salary) per each month. In case construction lasts longer than determined in the LARP and lengthens the temporary termination of activities, additional compensation shall be provided during project implementation for those additional whole months, but not more than for one year in total. The PIU will assist the affected parties in submission of the application on termination of activities to the State Revenue Committee under the Government of RA.
2. Compensation of Legal Entit y and Pr ivate Entrepren eur without financial reports or declaration
Addendum Calculation of compensation the for legal entity or private entrepreneur without tax declaration will be made based on the following principles:
1) Legal entity or private entrepreneur with state registration
(i) In case of permanent termination of activities, legal entity or private entrepreneur with state registration will receive absolute compensation against the expenses for state registration and acquisition of license plus one-off compensation for one year to be calculated in the monthly amount of AMD 30000 (30-fold of the minimum salary)
(ii) In case of temporary termination of activities, legal entity or private entrepreneur with state registration will receive one-off compensation to be calculated in an amount of AMD 30000 (30-fold of the minimum salary) per each month of termination of activities (up to one year).
The period of termination is determined based on the duration of construction in the road section occupied by the affected property as specified in the LARP. The provision of the compensation is conditional to submission of application on temporary termination of activities by the AP to the State Revenue Committee under the Government of RA for the duration specified in the LARP. In case construction lasts longer than determined in the LARP and lengthens the temporary termination of activities, additional compensation shall be provided during project implementation for those additional months, but not more than for one year in total. The PIU will assist the affected parties in submission of the application on termination of activities to the State Revenue Committee under the Government of RA.
2) Entrepreneurs without state registration will be considered as permanently affected and will receive only one-off compensation for one year to be calculated in the monthly amount of AMD 30000 (30-fold of the minimum salary).
3. Compensation of Workers
Permanent workers are considered those people, who work in the organization, located in the affected territory (at the entrepreneur) who pay social charges for those workers, according to the established order before the date, when the GoA Decree on approving this Documents, enters into force. The calculation of compensation shall be made by the following principles:
1) In case of permanent termination of operation of the organization or private entrepreneur the worker shall receive a one-off compensation for 6 months in the monthly amount of AMD 30000 (30-fold of minimum salary).
2) In case of temporary termination of activities of the organization or private entrepreneur the worker/employee shall receive a one-off compensation for those months of termination of activities, which will follow the month of
Addendum submission by the Employer of the Application of termination of activities to the State Revenue Committee and before the completion of road construction activities in the given section, yet total compensation shall be provided for not more than for 6 months in the monthly amount of AMD 30000 (30-fold of the minimum salary).
4. Compensation to Socially Vulnerable People
Socially vulnerable people shall receive a one-off allowance for 6 months in the monthly amount of AMD 30000 (30-fold of the minimum salary).
Socially vulnerable people are considered:
(i) Poverty -stricken households, which are registered in the Family Benefit System of the MLSI of RA and receive corresponding allowance according to the order, set forth under RA legislation. (ii) Households, headed by lonely, widowed or with lost breadwinner women, where there is no other working age person, except the one of pension age, the one passing his mandatory service in the armed forces of RA, holding 1st or 2nd degree of disability or a full-time student of up to 23 years. (iii) Households, headed by people of the pension age (elderly), where there is no other working age person, except the one of pension age, the one passing his mandatory service in the armed forces of RA, holding 1st or 2nd degree of disability or a full-time student of up to 23 years.
5. Compensation of AH-s, below the Poverty Line
If during drafting of descriptions, consulting companies of the PIU reveal that the AH is poor, yet has not been involved in the Family Benefit System, then the PIU shall inform the MLSI of RA and body providing social services for the given region to involve given households in the Family Benefit System, according to the order, established under the Law. These households shall receive rehabilitation allowance only after the involvement in the Family Benefit System.
Those households (families) will receive rehabilitation assistance only in case when those families are registered in the insecurity assessment system and if they obtain the right for family allowance.
Appendix 12
Resettlement Planning Document
Land Acquisition and Resettlement Plan: Draft Project Number: 42145 December 2010
Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program, Project 2 (Ashtarak-Talin)
Prepared by Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) of Armenia for Asian Development Bank.
The views draft expressed land acquisition herein are andthose resettlement of the consultant plan and isdo a not document necessarily of represen the borrower.t those of ADB’sThe views members,
Boardexpressed of Directors, herein Managt, do not r staff,necessarily and may representbe preliminary those in nature. of ADB's Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A. INTRODUCTION ...... 1 I. GENERAL ...... 1 II. PROJECT BACKGROUND ...... 1 III. SCOPE AND STATUS OF THE LARP ...... 3 IV. OVERALL OBJECTIVES OF THE LARP ...... 3 V. LAR-RELATED CONDITIONALITIES ...... 3 VI. DOCUMENT DISCLOSURE ...... 4 VII. CENSUS SURVEY AND CUT-OFF DATE ...... 4
B. IMPACTS ASSESSMENT AND THE AH/AP CENSUS ...... 5 I. GENERAL ...... 5 II. SURVEY ACTIVITIES AND METHODOLOGIES ...... 5 III. IMPACTS ASSESSMENT ...... 6 1. IMPACTS ON LAND ...... 6 2. IMPACTS ON BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES ...... 7 3. IMPACTS ON CROPS AND TREES ...... 8 4. IMPACTS ON BUSINESS ...... 9 5. IMPACTS ON PUBLIC UTILITIES ...... 11 6. AH CENSUS ...... 12
C. SOCIOECONOMIC PROFILE ...... 15 I. GENERAL ...... 15 II. DETAILED MEASUREMENT SURVEY (100%) DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE OF AFFECTED HOUSEHOLDS ...... 15 1. FAMILY SIZE ...... 15 2. GENDER ...... 15 3. AGE ...... 16 4 EDUCATION LEVEL ...... 17 5 EMPLOYMENT STATUS ...... 18 III. SOCIOECONOMIC SURVEY (SES) ...... 19 1. HOUSING CONDITIONS ...... 19 2. SOURCE OF LIVLIHOOD ...... 20 3. AH INCOME RELIANCE ON AGRICULTURE ...... 21 4. ACCESSIBILITY TO EDUCATIONAL AND HEALTH SERVICES ...... 23 IV. IMPACTS ON WOMEN ...... 24
D. LEGAL AND POLICY BACKGROUND ...... 25 I. ARMENIA’S LAWS AND REGULATIONS ON LAND ACQUISITION AND RESETTLEMENT 25 II. ADB’S PROVISIONS ON INVOLUNTARY RESETTLEMENT UNDER THE ...... 25 III. COMPARISON OF ARMENIA’S LAW AND REGULATIONS ON LAR AND ADB SPS..... 26 IV. LARF PRINCIPLES AND ENTITLEMENTS ADOPTED FOR THE MFF ...... 27
E. COMPENSATION ELIGIBILITY AND ENTITLEMENTS ...... 29 I. ELIGIBILITY ...... 31 II. COMPENSATION ENTITLEMENTS ...... 31 i
III. ASSESSMENT OF COMPENSATION UNIT VALUES ...... 33 1. Replacement Cost ...... 33 2. Rehabilitation Cost ...... 34 IV. CONDITIONS FOR EXPROPRIATIONS ...... 34 V. CONDITIONS FOR LEGALIZATION ...... 34
F. PUBLIC CONSULTATION, PARTICIPATION, AND DISCLOSURE ...... 36 I. PUBLIC CONSULTATION ...... 36 II. DISCLOSURE OF LAR-RELATED INFORMATION MATERIAL ...... 38
G. INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS ...... 39 I. MOTC/PIO ...... 39 II. CONSULTANTS ...... 40 III. LOCAL SELF GOVERNMENT ...... 40 IV. OTHER AGENCIES AND INSTITUTIONS ...... 40 V. ADB ...... 41
H. COMPLAINTS AND GRIEVANCES ...... 42
I. LARP IMPLEMENTATION PROCESS ...... 44 I. GENERAL ...... 44 II. PROJECT PREPARATORY STAGE ...... 44 III. LARP IMPLEMENTATION PHASE ...... 44 IV. POST IMPLEMENTATION EVALUATION ...... 44 V. LARP IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE ...... 45
J. RESETTLEMENT BUDGET AND FINANCING ...... 48 I. GENERAL ...... 48 II. COMPENSATION ...... 48 1. Compensation for Land ...... 48 2. Compensation for Structures ...... 51 3. Compensation for Crops and Trees ...... 52 4. Compensation for Vineyards ...... 54 4. Compensation for Business Loss ...... 55 5. Rehabilitation Allowances ...... 56 6. Community Structures and Public Utilities ...... 56 III. SUMMARY LARP COSTS AND SOURCE OF FINANCING ...... 57
K. MONITORING AND EVALUATION ...... 58 I. INTERNAL MONITORING ...... 58 II. EXTERNAL MONITORING ...... 58
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LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: Land Losses by Category and Legal Status ...... 6 Table 2: Private and Public Buildings and Structures for Acquisition ...... 7 Table 3: Crop Impacts ...... 8 Table 4: Affected Fruit Trees ...... 8 Table 5: Affected Wood Trees ...... 9 Table 6: Affected Vineyards, by Linear Meter and Area (m2) Acquired ...... 9 Table 7: Types of Temporary Business Impact ...... 9 Table 8: Businesses With and Without Tax Declaration ...... 10 Table 9: Temporary Employment Loss ...... 11 Table 10: Affected Public Facilities ...... 11 Table 11: Detailed of AH by Type of Impacts ...... 12 Table 12: Number of HHs per Degree of Affect ...... 13 Table 13: Ethnic groups AH General Description ...... 13 Table 14: Vulnerable Poor AHs ...... 14 Table 15: Head of AH by Gender, No of AHs and Percent ...... 14 Table 16: Vulnerable AHs ...... 14 Table 17: No AHs and APs, by Gender ...... 16 Table 18: Age of AH Head, by Gender and Percent ...... 16 Table 19: Age of APs, by Gender and Percent ...... 16 Table 20: Education of AH Heads, by Gender and Percent ...... 17 Table 21: Education of APs by Gender and Percent ...... 17 Table 22: Employment Status of AH Head by Gender and Percent ...... 18 Table 23: Employment Status of APs by Gender and Percent ...... 18 Table 24: AH Housing Conditions, by Type of Ownership, by Numbers and Percent ...... 19 Table 25: AH Utilities Availability, by Percent ...... 19 Table 26: Subjective Assessment of Housing Conditions, by Percent ...... 20 Table 27: Primary Use of AH Agricultural Lands, by Percent ...... 20 Table 28: Proportion of Agricultural and Non Agricultural Annual Incomes per Household, Data as of 2009 (%)...... 21 Table 29: Agricultural Income Structure in 2009, per Household ...... 22 Table 30: Reasons for Not Visiting a Doctor In Case Of Need During Last 12 months, by Percent ...... 24 Table 31: Comparison of Resettlement Laws and Regulations ...... 26 Table 32: Entitlement Matrix ...... 29 Table 33: Participants in the Aragatsotn Marz Consultation Meeting, March 18, 2010 ...... 36 Table 34: List of Consultation Meetings and number of participants ...... 37 Table 35 Main issues discussed during the meetings ...... 37 Table 36: Timeline for LARP Preparation & Implementation ...... 45 Table 38: Land Losses by Category, Legal Status, and AMD Cost ...... 50 iii
Table 39: Buildings/Structures Prices ...... 51 Table 40: Crop Compensation ...... 52 Table 41: Fruit Tree Compensation, Sapling and Non-Productive ...... 53 Table 42: Fruit Tree Compensation, Productive Summary ...... 53 Table 43: Overall Summary Compensation for Fruit Trees ...... 54 Table 44: Affected Saplings and Non-Productive Wood Trees...... 54 Table 45: Vineyard Compensation, by Productivity of Acquired m2 and by Linear Meter ...... 55 Table 46: Compensation for Business Losses ...... 55 Table 47: Table Compensation for Employment Loss ...... 55 Table 48: Allowances Budget ...... 56 Table 49: Summary Budget Costs ...... 57
LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1: Tranche-2 and 3 Project Location ...... 2 Figure 2: LAR Organogram and Action ...... 41 Figure 3: Organogram of the Complaints Process ...... 43
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ABBREVIATIONS
ADB Asian Development Bank AH Affected Household AMD Armenian Dram AP Affected Person AR Artsakhroad Institute CJSC COI Corridor of Impact DD Detailed Design DMS Detailed Measurement Survey DVS Detailed Valuation Survey EA Executing Agency EM Ethnic Minority GoA Government of Armenia GRC Grievance Redress Committee HH Household IA Implementing Agency IMA Independent Monitoring Agency IP Indigenous People IPSA Initial Poverty and Social Assessment KARE Knowledge, Attitude, Response and Experience (Survey) LAR Land Acquisition and Resettlement LARF Land Acquisition and Resettlement Framework LARP Land Acquisition and Resettlement Plan LART Land Acquisition and Resettlement Team MFF Multi Tranche Financial Facility MOTC Ministry of Transport and Communications MTD Marzpetaran Transport Department NGO Non-Governmental Organization NSS RA National Statistical Service of the Republic of Armenia PFR Periodical Financial Request PGC Project Governing Council PIO Project Implementation Organization PPTA Project Preparatory Technical Assistance PSA Poverty and Social Assessment RA Republic of Armenia ROW Right-of-Way SCREC State Committee of Real Estate Cadastre SDA Strategic Development Agency NGO SES Socio-Economic Survey SPS Safeguards Policy Statement SPSS-16 Statistical Package for Social Sciences 16 SPU Safeguards Policy Statement SRS Social and Resettlement Specialists TOR Terms-of-Reference v
DEFINITION OF LAR TERMS
Compensation - Payment in cash or in kind of the replacement cost of the acquired assets. Entitlement - Range of measures comprising compensation, income restoration, transfer assistance, income substitution, and relocation which are due to affected people, depending on the nature of their losses, to restore their economic and social base. Indigenous Peoples (I P) - “Indigenous Peoples” as used in the ADB’s Policy on Indigenous Peoples encompasses a generic concept not easily reflected in a single term. Ethnic Minority is one of the other terms relating to the concept of indigenous peoples as addressed in the ADB policy. Others are “cultural minorities,” “indigenous cultural communities,” “tribals,” “scheduled tribes,” “natives,” and “aboriginals.” Accepted or preferred terms and definitions vary country by country. “Indigenous Peoples” is the term used in the United Nations documents, and is used by ADB solely for convenience. In Armenia, the term Ethnic Minority is considered more applicable.. In this respect, to qualify for consideration as being covered under the ADB’s IP Policy, an ethnic minority ‘should be regarded as those with a social or cultural identity distinct from the dominant or mainstream society, which makes them vulnerable to being disadvantaged in the processes of development.’ Host Population - Community residing near the area where the Project beneficiaries propose to voluntarily resettle as part of the Project. Land Acquisition - The process whereby a person is compelled by a government agency to alienate all or part of the land a person owns or possesses to the ownership and possession of the government agency for public purpose in return for a consideration. Affected Person/People (AP) - Any person (individual) affected by Project-related changes in use of land, water, natural resources, or income losses. Affected Household (AH) – The affected household as a whole. This unit operates as a single economic and domestic unit and may consist of an individual, a single nuclear family or an extended family. This is the significant unit receiving compensation/rehabilitation. Rehabilitation - Compensatory measures provided under the Policy Framework on involuntary resettlement other than payment of the replacement cost of acquired assets. Relocation - the physical relocation of a AP/AH from her/his pre-Project place of residence. Replacement Cost - The cost to reproduce an affected item or its income at the moment of impact. For land this will be market value or, in absence of active land markets, the value of the land based on its productive potential. The replacement cost of houses and structures will instead be based on the (current market price of building materials, labor and transport of materials without depreciation or deductions for salvaged materials). For crops, trees, and businesses the Replacement cost will be based on the value of the future lost income. Resettlement - All measures taken to mitigate any and all adverse impacts of the Project on AP’s property and/or livelihood, including compensation, relocation (where relevant), and rehabilitation of the damaged/removed infrastructure and installations. Marz-Community - Armenia is divided into 10 provinces (marz). The province chief executive is the governor (marz) appointed by the Government. Each province is divided in communities (hamaynk) which are self-governing units and consists of one or more settlements (bnakavayr). Settlements are classified as towns (kaghak) or villages (gyugh). As of 2007, Armenia includes 915 communities (49 urban and 866 rural). Previously having Marz status, Yerevan, now has the status of a community and it has an elected mayor. vi
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1. This Draft Land Acquisition and Resettlement Plan (LARP) was prepared by the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) of Armenia, the Multi Tranche Financial Facility (MFF) Executing Agency (EA,) as part of the studies supporting Periodical Financial Request (PFR) approval of Tranche-2 Project of the Program (the Project. The Project entails the improvement of the existing 41.2 km-long Ashtarak–Talin highway from a 2-lane road to a 2-lane dual carriageway highway conforming to internationally acceptable standards. The widening of the existing 11-15m right-of-way (ROW) to approximately 30 meters will therefore have land acquisition and resettlement (LAR) effects. To assess these impacts and plan needed compensation/ rehabilitation measures MORC has prepared a LAR Plan (LARP) whose objective is to assess Tranche-2 impacts and plan needed compensation/ rehabilitation measures. The LARP documents fits relevant Armenian laws and regulations, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) Social Safeguards Policy Framework (2009) and Involuntary Resettlement Policy (1995) and the Program's Land Acquisition and Resettlement Framework (LARF). The final version of the LARP will be developed following availability of final alignment during detailed design stage and will include final compensation budget. 2. Its preparation involved: (i) Detailed Measurement Survey (DMS), (ii) asset valuation/ desk analysis on affected plots, (iii) consultation with affected marz authorities, heads of affected communities and civil society representatives; (iv) a 100% Affected Household (AH) census; and (v) a Socio-Economic Survey (SES) of the AHs. 3. The Interim LARP preparation involved intensive consultations with all the stakeholders including the Affected Persons (APs) through the DMS and SES. 4. This Interim LARP has been prepared for the Tranche-2 Project (the Project) which comprises Ashtarak-Talin Highway. The total length of the Project road under Tranche-2 is 41,3 km. Sufficient consideration has been given during the inception and feasibility phases of the Project preparation to minimize the adverse impacts on land acquisition. However, the Project will entail substantial land acquisition and resettlement, and it is classified as Category A.1 5. Based on the ADB Safeguards Policy Statement (SPS)2 and established practice, the appraisal of the MFF and each tranche and approval of Project implementation will be based on the following Land Acquisition and Resettlement (LAR)-related conditions: 1) MFF/first tranche appraisal: Conditional to: a.) Preparation and disclosure of a LARF for the whole MFF acceptable to ADB and Government; b.) Preparation of an Initial Poverty and Social Assessment (IPSA) and c.) Preparation and disclosure of the LARPs acceptable to ADB and Government for each tranche Project requiring land acquisition and resettlement (LAR). 2) Approval of the Periodical Financial Request (PFR) for following tranches: Conditional to: a) Review/update/disclosure of the LARF, and b) Preparation/Disclosure of LARPs consistent with the revised LARF acceptable to ADB and the Government of Armenia (GoA) for each tranche Project with LAR. 3) Contract awards signing (for Projects involving LAR): Conditional to: a) The finalization of the LARP as an implementation-ready document and its disclosure; and b) The hiring of an External Monitoring Agency (EMA) ready for mobilization.
1 As per the ADB Operation Manual (OM) F1/OP (2009) a project is classified as Category “A” if > 200 people suffer significant impacts (relocation or loss of >10% of productive assets). A project will instead be classified as Category “B” when less than 200 people suffer significant impacts. Category “C” projects have no LAR impacts. 2 Please refer to the ADB Social Safeguards Policy Statement (2009). vii
4) Provision of notice to proceed to contractors: Conditional to the full implementation of the relevant LARP (full delivery of compensation and rehabilitation) to be documented by a Compliance Report from the EMA. Such a condition will be clearly spelled out in the text of the civil works contract. 6. A total of 405 land parcels will be affected. The total land required for acquisition is 342,997 m2. Three hundred and fourteen (314) agricultural land plots will be affected with a total area, of 214,017 m2; the number of affected arable plots is 233 (145,960 m2) of which 190 plots are irrigable and 43 not. The remaining agricultural land affected consists of 16,734 m 2 of Orchards; 19,013 m2 of vineyards and 32,310 m2 of pasture land. The number of non-agricultural plots is 73 (63 residential plots and 10 industrial plots) with a total area, of 59,690 m2. Finally 69,290 m2 of used communal will be affected. Despite the acquisition of residential/commercial land, there will be no resettlement as no residential building or permanent commercial building will be affected. The Number of Affected Households (AH) is 269 while the number of Affected Persons/individuals (AP) is 1,447. 7. Seventeen (17) buildings/structures will be affected, 10 of which are for public use. The later includes bus stops (1), water pumping station (1) and roadside memorials (8). Private buildings/structures include non-residential buildings (2) and special buildings (5). All the buildings/structures are stone made and one story. The total acquired area of these buildings/structures is 1,452 m2. 8. The major crops cultivated in the Project are cereal. This includes wheat and barley. The total area affected is 138,753 m2. 9. In general, on the affected areas there are about 13 varieties of 39,912 fruit trees and 332 non- fruit (ornamental) trees. The majority of fruit trees are apricot (26%), peach (24%), apple (23%) trees. Vineyards are 20 percent. In total, about 2,300 fruit and 200 wood trees will be affected as will 950 linear meters of vines. 10. Overall the Project will affect ninety-two (92) entities/AHs business activities. Sixty-one (61) AHs are running «road-side» trade though do not have any property or buildings for their business activity. Thirty-one (31) businesses occupy property and buildings; and this group has been classified as non-movable or fixed businesses. The Project will have a temporary impact on all these businesses, as they will only be affected throughout duration of the Ashtarak-Talin Highway reconstruction. Businesses to be so affected employ one hundred and fifty (150) workers. 11. The poverty level of surveyed AHs is rather high: One hundred and thirty-eight (138), about 51% of the total AHs. Ninety (60) AHs, of 269 AHs owning agricultural lands, are severely affected (losing more than 10% of their farming lands).3 Forty-five (45) AHs are female-headed, about 16.7% of total AHs. The members of 9 AHs are Yezidis, a well integrated ethnic minority, in total 53 people. The number of vulnerable AHs overall is 165. 12. No impacts on Indigenous Peoples (IP) are expected in the Project. An assessment of impact on indigenous peoples was undertaken in accordance with ADB’s Policy on Indigenous Peoples (1998). The Project will primarily affect a population that is ethnically Armenian. Only 1.2 percent of AHs for this Project are ethnic minorities (Yezidis), which are well integrated into Armenian society. 13. Women have important economic roles in the Project areas and engage in a wide range of income making activities in the agricultural and marketing sector. The MFF Program pays particular attention to ensuring that women are the recipients of compensation pertaining to their affected activities and to ensure that women who are de-facto AH heads are clearly listed as beneficiaries of compensation and rehabilitation proceedings under the loan.
3 One AH is losing 100 percent of their land and others as much as 65-75 percent. viii
14. An ‘implementation-ready’ LARP will be based on the finalization and update of this Interim LARP and will be developed during the preparation of the Detailed Design (DD). It will include updates of the impacts and corresponding AP data, possible compensation rate revisions and administrative work to legalize any ‘legalizable APs.’ 15. The MFF Program’s legal and policy framework is based on the requirements of the ADB Safeguards Policy Statement of 2009 and on Armenia’s Constitution (1995), which guarantees protection of private ownership rights. It also provides that private ownership may be terminated “in exclusive cases of prevailing public interests,” based on established procedure and with prior adequate compensation. Land acquisition and compensation issues are regulated also by the Land Code Article 102, 104, the Civil Code (1998), Articles 218 to 221 and the Law of the Republic of Armenia (RA) on the ”Alienation of the Private Property for Public and State Needs,” adopted on 27 November 2006. Assessment of the real estate or the real estate rights is made in accordance with the procedure defined in the Law of the Republic of Armenia on “Assessment of Real Estate in Armenia.” 16. APs entitled for compensation, or at least rehabilitation provisions, under the MFF Program are: (i) All APs losing land either covered by legal title/traditional land rights, legalizable, or without legal status; (ii) Tenants and sharecroppers, whether registered or not; (iii) Owners of buildings, crops, plants, or other objects attached to the land; and (iv) APs losing business, income, and salaries. Compensation eligibility is limited by a cut-off date as set for this Project on the day of the beginning of the AP Census, which is February 12th 2010. LAR tasks under the Project will be implemented according to a compensation eligibility and entitlements framework in line with both Armenia laws and regulations and with ADB’s relevant policies. A summary Entitlements Matrix is below.
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ENTITLEMENT MATRIX
Type of Loss Application Definition of APs Compensation Entitlements 1. Agricultural AH losing Owners Compensation at replacement value +15% either in land Loss agricultural land cash at market rates or cadastral values (whichever the regardless of highest) or through replacement land acceptable to the impact severity AP. When there are no active land markets cash compensation will be based on the value of the yearly product of the land for a sufficient number of years to ensure the affected parties rehabilitation for the loss of their land. Legalizable Owner Legalizable APs will be legalized and paid the same compensation as above Leaseholder of Leaseholder will be compensated as full owners at (community,state market rates or cadastral values (whichever the highest) Land) or will be given a new lease. If this is not possible , they will receive compensation equal to “the market or cadastral value of affected land (whichever the highest) + 15%” in the following proportions according to the length of the lease: i) < 1 year 5%; 2) < 15 years 14% ; 3) < 25 years 20%;4)>25 years -25%. Non-legalizable AHs These APs will receive a rehabilitation allowance based on the affected land market or cadastral value (whichever the highest) In proportions to the number of years of land occupation as follows:: i) < 1 year 5%; 2) < 15 years 14% ; 3) < 25 years 20%;4)>25 years - 25%. 2. Non- AH losing their Owners Compensation at market value or cadastral value Agricultural commercial/ (whichever the highest) +15% or through replacement Land loss residential land land acceptable to the AP. Legalizable Owner Same compensation as above. Renter/Leaseholder These AH will be compensated as full owners at market (community, state) rates or cadastral values (whichever the highest) or will be given a new lease. If this is not possible they will receive compensation equal to “the market or cadastral value of affected land (whichever the highest) + 15%” in the following proportions according to the length of the lease: i) < 1 year 5%; 2) < 15 years 14% ; 3) < 25 years 20%;4)>25 years -25%. Non legalizable AHs These APs will receive a rehabilitation allowance based on the affected land market or cadastral value whichever the highest. In proportions to the number of years of land occupation as follows:: i) < 1 year 5%; 2) < 15 years 14% ; 3) < 25 years 20%;4)>25 years - 25%. 3. Residential All AH regardless of Cash compensation + 15% for loss of building at full buildings legal status. replacement cost free of depreciation/transaction costs and salvaged materials. Partial impacts will entail the compensation of the affected portion of the building plus repairs. Relocated Renters Relocation and severe impact allowance as entitlement 9 and 10 below 4. Non- AHs with valid Cash compensation + 15% for loss of building at full residential registration replacement cost free of depreciation/transaction costs buildings/assets and salvaged materials. Partial impacts will entail the compensation of the affected portion of the building plus repairs. AHs without valid As above but after building is legalized/registered, in registration cases of legalisation/regostration of the building. x
Relocated Renters Relocation and severe impact allowance as entitlement 9 and 10 below 5. Common Community/Public Community/State Reconstruction of lost structure and restoration of their property Loss Assets functions in consultation with community/state authority. 6. Crop Losses Standing crops All AH regardless of Crop compensation in cash at market rate by default at affected legal status (including gross crop value of expected harvest. owners subject to obtining legal status and residents having no rasidency status) 7. Tree Losses Trees affected All AH regardless of Cash compensation at market rate based on type, age legal status.. (including and productive value of the trees. owners subject to obtining legal status and residents having no rasidency status) 8. Business or Business All AH regardless of Entrepreneurs (i). (permanent impact) cash indemnity Employment employment loss legal status. (including of 1 year net income; (ii) (temporary impact) cash Losses owners subject to indemnity of net income for months of business obtining legal status stoppage up to 1 year. Assessment to based on tax and residents having declaration. In absence of tax declaration the AH will no rasidency status) receive a rehabilitation allowance based on the maximum non-taxable salary for the number of months of business stoppage up to 1 year. The maximum non taxable salary is equal to minimum salary.. Permanent Worker/Employees: Indemnity equal to: (i) Permanent job loss 6 months of minimum salary; (ii) Temporary loss minimum monthly salary for the number of months of job loss up to 6 months.. 9. Allowances AH with >10% All severely affected i) 1 additional crop compensation covering 1 year yield for Severe agricultural AHs including informal for APs affected by severe agricultural income losses Impacts income loss or settlers ii) a rehabilitation allowance of 6 months at minimum more to be salary for relocated AHs.. relocated 10. Relocation Transport/transition All relocated AH Provision of funds to cover transport costs and livelihood allowances costs including relocated expenses for 1 month. renters 11 Vulnerable AHs below poverty Allowance equivalent to 6 months of minimum salary People line or headed by and employment priority in project-related jobs Allowances Women or elderly people 12. Temporary All Ahs Due rent and rehabilitation for temporarily affected impacts assets will be provided1. 13. Unforeseen MOTC will consider the unforeseen resettlement impact LAR impacts, if during project and will compensate them based on the any above provisions. 1 Due rent and rehabilitation will correspond to the income of the affected item for the entire period of the impact.
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17. ADB will be the funding agency of the MFF Program. The compensation/rehabilitation tasks described in this MFF Program’s LARF involve distinct processes and dynamics and different actors. MOTC has overall responsibility for the MFF Program. This includes preparation, implementation and financing of all LAR tasks and cross-agency coordination. MOTC will exercise its functions through a Project Implementation Organization (PIO). The PIO will be the Implementing Agency (IA), and MOTC will be the EA. The PIO, with the assistance of Supervisory Consultants, will develop and implement the LARP for each MFF Project based on the policy and procedures set out in the LARF. The PIO will have national and international Social and Resettlement Specialists (SRS) who will be responsible directly to the PIO Head for the general management of the planning and implementation of all LAR tasks. A Project Governing Council (PGC), made up of representatives from concerned ministries and chaired by the MOTC, will be established to oversee the Project and make high level decisions, including resolving high profile AP grievances or serving as a final decision making body for AP grievances, short of their being referred to the Courts. 18. Several other Government agencies will play instrumental roles in the LAR processes. Pursuant to current legislation, the State Committee of Real Estate Cadastre (SCREC) of the GoA is responsible for providing information about the status of real estate ownership, and is in charge of the state registration of ownership. 19. The Marzpetaran Transport Departments (MTDs) will assist the activities of the PIO and in particular the SRS, and will facilitate the communication with local authorities, assist in case of complaints and in the course of compensation delivery to the APs. At the level of the community, local authorities will support surveys, complaints resolution and compensation delivery, as needed. 20. Local authorities have direct jurisdiction for land administration and title verification. The SCREC regional offices will provide the data available in the local land registry and will facilitate the communication with community authorities. Community authorities will support surveys tasks, complaints resolution, AP consultations, and compensation delivery, as needed. 21. A grievance mechanism will be available to allow an AP appealing any disagreeable decision, practice or activity arising from land or other assets compensation. APs will be fully informed of their rights and of the procedures for addressing complaints whether verbally or in writing during consultation, survey, and time of compensation. Care will always be taken to prevent grievances rather than going through a redress process. This can be obtained through careful LAR design and implementation, by ensuring full participation and consultation with the APs, and by establishing extensive communication and coordination between the affected communities, the IA, and local governments in general. 22. To ensure peoples’ participation as a continuous two way process, a number of extensive consultation events were arranged at various stages of social and resettlement Project preparation, i.e., an Alternative Alignment Feasibility Study,4 a cadastral survey of affected lands, a land census survey, a SES, and targeted consultation meetings with the heads of affected communities and marz authorities and civil society organizations. The entitlement and compensation matrix has been disclosed to marz authorities and community heads for discussion during the initial level of consultations at marz level. 23. The summary LARP in Armenian language will be disclosed to APs at the local level. The copy of the full LARP will be available with MOTC. The same will be available for APs, as and when
4 In line with ADB’s IR Policy requirements, this study done by the PIO and the Supervisory Consultants will determine if the new road section through the first five villages’ highly valuable orchards and vineyards can be redesigned to follow the existing highway. Note that in consultations so far, this has been highly vocal issue raised by community heads from these affected villages. xii
asked for. A copy of the LARP will also be disclosed on the ADB’s website. 24. The time for implementation of the LARP will be scheduled as per the overall Tranche-2 Project implementation. All activities related to the LAR must be planned to ensure that compensation is paid prior to displacement and commencement of civil works. Public consultation, internal monitoring and grievance redress will be undertaken intermittently throughout the Project‘s duration. The duration for implementation of the LARP is expected to last for one year. The resettlement cost estimate for this Tranche-2 Project includes eligible compensation, resettlement assistance and support cost for the LARP implementation. Given that valuation of land and structures for this LARP has been based on zonal cadastral price, the 50% adjustment to shift from zonal cadastral price to market price has been added to the budgets for land and syructures/buildings. The total LARP cost, calculated for the implementation of the LARP for the Tranche-2 Project, is Project is 1,506,670,092 AMD which is equivalent to 4,159,000 US Dollar. 25. Several institutions, each with different roles and responsibilities, will be responsible for LARP realization. LAR tasks under the Project will be subjected to monitoring. Monitoring will be the responsibility of MOTC/PIO. Internal monitoring will be carried out routinely by the PIO. The results will be communicated to the ADB through the quarterly project implementation reports. External monitoring will be carried by an Independent Monitoring Agency (IMA), and its results communicated to MOTC/PIO and the ADB through respective reports. The IMA hired by PIO will carry out a post-implementation evaluation of the LARP about a year after completion of its implementation.
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A. INTRODUCTION
I. GENERAL 1. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has agreed to provide the Government of Armenia (GoA) with a US$ 500 million Multi-trance Financial Facility (MFF) to finance the North-South Corridor Roads Development Program (the Program). The Program, to be implemented in a number of tranches, targets the construction and improvement of several roads across the national Armenian territory. Tranche-2 of the Program (the Project) covers the improvement of the existing 41.2 km-long Ashtarak–Talin highway from a 2-lane road to a 2-lane dual carriageway highway conforming to internationally acceptable standards. The widening of the existing 11-15m right-of-way (ROW) to approximately 30 meters will therefore have land acquisition and resettlement (LAR) effects. Sufficient consideration has been given during the inception, feasibility and design phases of the Project to minimize the adverse impacts on land acquisition. 2. This Draft LARP was prepared by the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) of Armenia, the MFF Executing Agency (EA), as part of the studies supporting Periodical Financial Request (PFR) approval of the Tranche-2 Project, with assistance of PADECO Co Ltd Consultants. This LARP provides an assessment of the Tranche-2 Project’s LAR impacts and costs; and it provides a detailed action plan for the delivery of LAR compensation and rehabilitation measures to the Project Affected People (APs) and households (AHs). The LARP fits relevant Armenian laws; the ADB’s Safeguards Policy Statement and Involuntary Resettlement Policy; and the Program's Land Acquisition and Resettlement Framework (LARF). Its preparation involved: (i) a preliminary Detailed Measurement Survey (DMS); (ii) an initial asset valuation/documentary research on affected plots; (iii) consultation with the heads of communities and AHs; (iv) a 100 percent AH Census; and (v) a random sample Socio- Economic Survey (SES) of the AHs. Following the finalization of the road alignment this LARP will be updated and finalized in an implementation-ready action plan (see section III of this chapter for details).
II. PROJECT BACKGROUND 3. The total length of the Project road under Tranche-2 is forty-one point three (41.3) km. This section is a continuation northwards from the end of Tranche-1 and is currently a single 2-lane carriageway. It runs through a varied terrain, flat, rolling and mountainous. After Ashtarak, the road’s elevation increases from 900 to 1,100m within a twenty km stretch, then more steeply to 1,400m in the following ten (10) km. A map of the Tranche-2 and 3 Projects is Figure 1, below.
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Figure 1: Tranche-2 and 3 Project Location
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III. SCOPE AND STATUS OF THE LARP 4. This LARP is based on the Tranche-2 Project’s Preliminary Design, and it will be updated during the Detailed Design stage as the impacts corridor is expected to be slightly modified. Following the establishment of the final road alignment the following LARP tasks will be undertaken: i. The DMS will be revised ii. the legalization process will be expanded accordingly iii. the final detailed costs will be assessed iv. The Government Decree will be amended, and v. a final round of information and consultation will also be carried out.
5. The final implementation-ready LARP will be finalized about two months after the preparation of this LARP based on the above. While this preliminary LARP is prepared as a condition to sign the loan for the project, the finalization of the implementation-ready LARP will be prepared as a condition to sign the civil works contract award.vities were carried out before the amendment to the Republic of Armenia (RA) Government Notification The DMS will be revised,
IV. OVERALL OBJECTIVES OF THE LARP 6. The purpose of the LARP is to identify who will be affected by construction of the Tranche-2 Project highway, to what degree they will be affected (i.e., what type of loss they will suffer), and how they will be compensated to ensure that they are not adversely affected by the Project or left in a worse situation than in a “without project” case. In all cases, the overall aim is to at least restore, if not enhance, the livelihoods of the APs. The primary objective of the LARP is to provide necessary details for compensation, resettlement and rehabilitation by identifying: i) the extent of losses; ii) the policy and framework for compensation payments and relocation; (iii) the institutional framework for participation and implementation; and (iv) responsibilities for monitoring the implementation measures.
V. LARRELATED CONDITIONALITIES 7. Based on the ADB Safeguards Policy Statement (SPS)5 and established practice, the appraisal of the MFF and each tranche and approval of project implementation is based on the following LAR-related conditions: (i) MFF/First Tranche Appraisal: Conditional to: a) preparation and disclosure of a LARF for the whole MFF acceptable to ADB and the Government; b) preparation of an Initial Poverty and Social Assessment (IPSA); and c) preparation and disclosure of LARPs acceptable to ADB and the Government for each tranche Project requiring LAR. (ii) Approval of PFR for Follo wing Tranches: Conditional to: a.) review/update/disclosure of the LARF, and b.) preparation/disclosure of a LARPs consistent with the revised LARF
5 Please refer to the ADB Social Safeguards Policy Statement (2009) 3 | Page
and acceptable to ADB and GoA for each tranche Project with LAR. (iii) Contract Aw ards Sig ning (for Projects involving LAR): Conditional to: a) the finalization of the LARP as an implementation-ready document and its disclosure, and b) the hiring of an Independent Monitoring Agency (IMA) ready to mobilization. (iv) Provision of Notice to Proceed to Contractors: Conditional to the full implementation of the relevant LARP (full delivery of compensation and rehabilitation) to be documented by a compliance report from the IMA. Such a condition will be clearly spelled out in the text of the civil works contract.
VI. DOCUMENT DISCLOSURE 8. The summary LARP in Armenian language will be disclosed to affected persons at local level. The copy of the full LARP will be available with MOTC. The same will be available for the APs as and when asked for. A copy of the LARP will be disclosed in ADB’s website.
VII. CENSUS SURVEY AND CUTOFF DATE 9. The final census to prepare 100% asset inventory of APs and Socio-Economic Survey (SES) of 100% Affected Households (AHs) according to preliminary design alignment was concluded up to February 12th 2010 before the Republic of Armenia (RA) Government Notification Decree on the Tranche-2 Project’s eminent domain. The Government Notification Decree on the Tranche-2 Project’s eminent domain was adopted on May 27, 2010 and was published on August 5, 2010. Therefore, it is anticipated that upon finalization of design and alignment of the Project road, the amendment to the Government Notification Decree will be issued and the verification of DMS data will be conducted, and the date of this activity is marked as cut-off date for entitlement.
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B. IMPACTS ASSESSMENT AND THE AH/AP CENSUS
I. GENERAL 10. This chapter provides detailed quantification of the final impacts and affects on the eighteen (18) communities along the Ashtarak-Talin section. All these communities are located within the administrative territory of Aragatsotn Marz. Compensation and rehabilitation measures have been worked out based on these impacts.
II. SURVEY ACTIVITIES AND METHODOLOGIES 11. The road alignment, as per the preliminary engineering design, was finalized by the Artsakhroad Institute CJSC (AR) based on the engineering survey. The numbers of villages were identified as per the preliminary alignment. Digitized cadastral maps were collected from the State Committee of Real Estate Cadastre (SCREC) of the GoA. The road alignment was superimposed in the digitized cadastral map in order to identify the number of land parcels and their demarcation including the quantification. This cadastral survey was the basis for initiating the Impact/Census and the Sample Socio-Economic Survey (SES). An impact survey6 was carried out also by the Artsakhroad Institute CJSC. 12. Based on the cadastral details and AR’s impact survey, a team of survey enumerators from the Strategic Development Agency (SDA), a non-government organization (NGO), were engaged to carry out supplementary impact and the AP Census Surveys. Additionally, SDA carried out a sample SES in the Project affected areas. The AP Census Survey is considered as the cut-off date for the Project which is February 12th 2010.7. 13. The surveys involved different data-gathering techniques, including household interviews, interviews with heads of communities and analysis of relevant documents (maps, cadastre certificates etc.). All collected data was entered into a Statistical Package for Social Sciences 16 (SPSS-16) file for further analysis. Several measures have been adopted to ensure the quality of the data. These included: 1) training of the survey team; 2) quality check in the office of all questionnaires; 3) 25% of questionnaires were verified by phone; 4) random observation of interviews by field supervisors; 3) crosschecking of the collected data by AR and SDA. These check and control measures helped avoiding mistakes and ensured the quality of the collected data. 14. During the cadastre survey, AR identified 405 land plots to be affected, of which 18 land plots belong to communities. The cadastre information about land impact (types, size, impact etc.) was collected and analyzed for 405 land plots. However, the household interviews were conducted only with the owners of 356 lands, excluding 18 community lands.8
6 AR did the following: identify impacts on Cadastral Map; set proposed road corridor alignment basing on coordinate of preliminary design drawing and identify impact assets (land, structure etc.) by type referring to coordinate of cadastral map and list, measured each boundary, affected area and non-affected area; updated cadastral list and map confirming with regional cadastre offices, property owners; identified impact at the site, trees to be compensated, also utilities for public services such as water, gas and electric supply. 7 The Government had already declared the freezing of any development and land transaction other than under the North-South Road Corridor Project in August 2009. 8 For the 31 lands whose owners chose not to respond, due to the lack of the notification decree for the Project, which meant that the surveys did not have official status and APs could choose not to answer or to be present, 5 | Page
III. IMPACTS ASSESSMENT
1. IMPACTS ON LAND
1.1 General Impacts on Land 15. According to the initial estimate of impacts on land between Ashtarak-Talin (km 30.08- 71.38) the total area of affected land is 2,699,663 m2 of which 342,997 m2 will be acquired for the Project. Overall 405 plots will be affected, of which about 78% is agricultural. Two (2) of the affected plots are non-legal meaning that the owner does not have a land cadastre certificate. However these plots can be legalised. The APs will initiate a legalization process based on pertinent regulations, and the EA will assist the APs seeking legalization and will facilitate their cases. See land impact details in the Table 1.
Table 1: Land Losses by Category and Legal Status Land Type Legal/titles Leases Non-legal Total Legalizabl Non- e legalizabl e Plots Area (m2) Plots Area (m2) Plots Area Plots Area Plots Area (m2) No No No (m2) No (m2) No I. Agricultural o Arable Irrigable 18 115,43 1 266 1 867 19 116,57 0 o Arable Non Irrigable 39 25,8024 3,587 43 29,389 23 Sub-total arable land 22 141,24 5 3,853 1 867 145,96 3 o Orchard 29 16,734 29 16,734 o Vineyards 22 18,778 1 235 23 19,013 o Pasture 23 26,482 5 4,758 1 1,07 29 32,310 I. Sub-total 30 203,23 1 8,846 2 1,93 31 214,01 II. Residential/commercial 59 33,348 4 791 634 34,139 III. Industrial 7 9,268 3 16,28 10 25,551 II-III Sub-total 73 59,690 IV. Community 18 69,290 18 69,290 Grand Total 38 252,77 1 25,92 2 1,93 - - 40 342,99
16. In general the lands can be divided into two major groups: agricultural and non-agricultural. Three hundred and fourteen (314) agricultural land plots will be affected with 1,613,017 m2 total area. The Project will acquire 214,017 m2. In the Project communities there are about four main types of agricultural affected lands. The major impact will be on arable lands. The number of affected arable lands is 233 of which 190 plots are irrigable. The most affected communities in terms of agricultural lands are Ujan, Kosh, Shamiram and Katnaghbyur. 17. The number of non-agricultural lands is 73 with 546,426 m2 total area. The Project will
information about the lands was obtained from cadastre survey data. The LARP surveys will nevertheless be updated after the Project’s notification decree to produce an implementation ready LARP. 6 | Page
acquire 59,690 m2. Non-agricultural lands include residential/settlement9 and industrial10 types of land. In total, 63 residential land parcels will be affected, of which the major part is for individual residential building construction. The total area of affected residential lands is 283,526 m2. The Project will acquire an estimated 34,139 m2 of residential land. Despite the large amount of residential land acquired, there will be no relocation impacts and therefore no resettlement as such. These lands are mostly located in Ujan, Kosh, Shamiram, Nerqin Bazmaberd communities. The biggest impact will be in Kosh and Shamiram. There are 7 industrial land plots within the Ashtarak-Talin section Tranche-2 Project’s RoW. The total area of these lands is 262,900 m2, of which 25,551 m2 will be acquired.
2. IMPACTS ON BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
2.1 Buildings and Structures on the Affected Lands
18. According to the Project’s current, preliminary design, seventeen (17) buildings/structures will be affected, fourteen (10) of which are for public use. The later includes bus stops (1), a water pumping station (1) and roadside memorials (8) for highway accident victims. The private buildings/structures include non-residential buildings (2) and special buildings (5). All the buildings/structures are stone made and one story. The total acquired area of these buildings/structures is 1,452 m2. Table 2 shows number and areas of these buildings by category.
Table 2: Private and Public Buildings and Structures for Acquisition
Building Category No. Of Buildings Area (m2) Private Buildings/Structures 2 56 Special Buildings/Structures o Parking, Bus Stop Pavilion Structure 1 12 o Trade Hall 1 159 o Quarry Substations 2 511 o Quarry Warehouse 1 297 Public Bus Stops 1 21 Water Pumping Station 1 108 Roadside Memorials 8 288
9 Under the “residential” land category we differentiate two major types of lands: Residential area/homestead and for public construction. The first type of lands is envisaged for individual residential buildings, secondary constructions attached to them, separate structures and constructions under seen for gardening, construction and performance of separate buildings and structures of residential significance arte considered the lands for residential construction. The second type of lands is envisaged for constructing and serving buildings and constructions for satisfying the social needs of the population. These buildings can be owned by state, private or non-governmental organizations (NGOs). 10 These are lands providing for the necessary conditions for industry, agricultural production and exploitation of technological equipment, construction and performance of buildings and structures envisaged for use as stocks, and allocated for entrails-use. 7 | Page
Total 17 1,452
2.2 Resettlement Requirements 19. Although the Project will acquire some residential land, it will not cause displacement or disruption of residential buildings/structures or any relocation of AHs. It will affect only non- residential buildings/structures. Therefore, there is no need for a resettlement and relocation strategy or for relocation allowances.
3. IMPACTS ON CROPS AND TREES
3.1 Crops
20. The major crops being cultivated in the Project Corridor of Impact (COI) are various cereals. These primarily include wheat and barley. The total area affected is 138,753 m2. Of this, wheat constitutes 76 percent and barley 24 percent. See details in the Table 3.
Table 3: Crop Impacts
Variety Area Affected Yield (Kg/m2) Total Losses in Kgs Percent Wheat 105,130 0.3 31,539 76 Barley 33,623 0.3 10,087 24
Total 138,7 53 41,626 100 %
3.2 Trees
21. On the Project’s COI there are about nine varieties of 2,129 fruit trees. Of this, 38 percent are peach, followed by 28 percent apricot and 25 percent apple, these three varieties constituting overall 91 percent of the affected fruit trees.11 See details in Table 4.
Table 4: Affected Fruit Trees
Variety Saplings Productive Non-Productive Total Trees Affected Percent Peach 161 630 22 813 38 Apricot 8 581 2 591 28 Apple 304 244 0 548 25 Walnut 37 60 0 97 4 Quince 22 21 0 43 2 Cherry 5 13 0 18 1 Plum 0 14 0 14 1 Pear 1 2 0 3 0.5 Sour cherry 0 2 0 2 0.5
11 Affected trees to be acquired are located mostly in Agarak, Ujan, Voskevaz, Kosh, Aruch and Aghdzq communities. 8 | Page
Total 538 1,567 24 2,129 100%
22. In addition to fruit trees, strawberries are a major impacted fruit. There are a total of 2,565 m2 impacted by the Project, and their compensation, based on productivity by m2 is included in the Project compensation.
23. The Project will affect 194 wood trees, of which 64 percent are poplar and 36 percent are willow shade trees. All of these trees, 48 (25%) are saplings and 146 are not-yet-productive trees (75%). See details in Table 5.
12 Table 5: Affected Wood Trees
Variety Sapling Non-Productive Productive Total Trees Affected Percent Poplar 30 95 0 125 64 Willow 18 51 0 69 36
Total 48 146 0 194 100%
24. The Project will affect 945 linear meters and a total of 3,855 m2 of acquired vineyards. See details in Table 6.
Table 6: Affected Vineyards, by Linear Meter and Area (m2) Acquired
Total m2 Linear Meter 3,855 945
4. IMPACTS ON BUSINESS
4.1 General Typology of Affected Businesses
25. In total ninety-two (92) entities/AHs were identified during the DMS involved in business activities, of which 66 percent are classified as movable/mobile and 34 percent as non-movable. Sixty-one (61) AHs are running “road-side” trade, though they do not have any property or building for their business activity. This type of businesses is conditionally classified as movable/mobile businesses. Thirty-one (31) businesses occupy property and buildings; and this group was classified as non-movable businesses. The Project will have a temporary impact on this non-movable, or fixed businesses, as they will only be affected throughout duration of the Ashtarak-Talin Highway reconstruction. For details see Table 7.
Table 7: Types of Temporary Business Impact
Business Total
A. Movable
12 Diameter measurement: Sapling - up to 5 cm; Not-Yet-Productive - 5-15 cm; Productive - 15cm and more. 9 | Page
1. Fruit/Food Stalls 61 B. Fixed 1. Retail Trade of Agricultural Products 3 2. Retail Trade of Construction Materials 1 3. Retail Trade of Food and Non-Food Products 4 4. Retail Trade of Fuel and Lubricants 7 5. Gas Station 2 6. Retail Trade of Funeral Accessories 1 7. Car Service 3 8. Hotel Service 2 9. Restaurants 7 10. Quarry 1 Subtotal Fixed Businesses 31 TOTAL Number of Businesses 92 Note: Twenty (20) of «fixed» businesses are involved in several types of business activities: public catering services (15 entities); car services (13 entities); retail trade of fuel and lubricants (13 entities) and retail trade of food and non- food products (9 entities).
26. Sixty-one (61) households running “road-side” trade business are considered as temporary affected, although, the Project will have a minimal impact on them, as they are mobile and can organize their trade in other parts of the highway. Therefore, they will not be compensated and will be assisted in moving to outside the COI, where needed. 27. Thirty (30) fixed businesses out of thirty-one (31) are legally assist registered and have tax declarations. This group will receive compensation based on their tax declaration. One (1) such business is not legally registered. Therefore, it will receive 3 month Rehabilitation Allowance equal to maximum non-taxable salary in Armenia, which is 30,000 AMD.
Table 8: Businesses With and Without Tax Declaration
Business Tax Status No 1. With Tax Declaration 30 2. Without Tax Declaration 1 3. Total 31
4.2 Employment Loss
28. Businesses to be affected will impact one hundred and sixty-nine (169) APs, of which one hundred and fifty (150) are employees and the other nineteen (19) are business owners. The employees of the affected businesses will receive a 3 month of minimum monthly salary allowance. The village of Ujan has the largest number of AP employees, 104 of the total 150, or 69 percent. For details see Table 9. 10 | Page
Table 9: Temporary Employment Loss
Community Total Number of Employees 1. Agarak 4 2. Ujan 104 3. Kosh 3 4. Kaqavadzor 10 5. V.Sasnashen 7 6. Davtashen 4 7. Katnaghbyur 13 8. Talin 5 9. Total 150
5. IMPACTS ON PUBLIC UTILITIES
Table 10: Affected Public Facilities
Communication Electric Cables Gas Line Drinking Cables Name of Irrigation # Length/km Linear Water Pipe Community Pipe Meter (lm) lm Poles By Poles lm lm (Piece) Air Piece) 1 Parpi 0+000 - 1+120 38 47 - 130 2 - - 2 Agarak 1+120 -3+450 60 594 - 323 6 - - 3 Aghdzq 3+450 - 6+900 - 3,556 - 398 4 - - 4 Ujan 6+900 -10+450 - 2,022 - 2,045 24 - - 5 Kosh 10+450 - 16+085 - 5,794 - 2995 30 - - 6 Shamiram 16+085 - 18+900 - - 41 648 9 294 5 7 Aruch 18+900 - 20+750 - - 72 - - 1,012 20 8 Kaqavadzor 20+750 - 23+290 - - 42 - - 346 5 9 N. Bazmaberd 23+290 - 28+420 - - 60 - - - - 10 N. Sasnashen 28+420 - 29+150 ------11 V. Sasnashen 29+150 - 31+640 - - - 842 16 - - 12 Davtashen 31+640 - 33+900 - - 49 815 14 - - 13 Katnaghbyur 33+900 - 37+370 128 - - 671 11 - - 14 Eghnik 37+370 - 38+690 36 - - - - 231 5 15 Talin 38+690 - 45+800 1,200 - 839 888 11 - -
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6. AH CENSUS
6.1 Summary of Impacts
29. According to the Impact Survey, a total of 269 AHs will be affected by this Project’s LAR effects, with 1447 APs. Table 11 gives the details of various categories of impacts and AH/APs.
Table 11: Detailed of AH by Type of Impacts
……Affected Households (AHs) Number of Comments APs
X Impact Type Absolute Type Of Impact Without Double Counting A. Lands A1. Agricultural 314 238 1,285 A2. Residential/Commercial 63 26 141 A3. Industrial 10 5 27 18 A4. Community Land Sub-Total (A) 405 269 1,453 B. Crops B1. Crop Owners 233 - Included in A B2. Tree Owners 62 - Included in A
Sub-Total (B) 295
C. Business/Income Losses C1. Temporary Small 92 - Included in A Business Losses C2. Wage Included in A Workers/Employee 150 Sub-Total (C) 242 - D. Permanent Structures D1. Commercial Structures 5 - Included in A D2. Non- Residential 2 - Included in A D3.For Public Use 10 - Sub-Total (D) 17 Total (A+B+C+D) 959 269 1,453 12 | Page
6.2 Severely Affected AHs
30. Sixty (60) AHs of the 269 AHs owning agricultural lands are severely affected (losing more than 10% of farming lands). It means that these sixty AHs (22% of all agricultural land owning AHs) will be provided an additional allowance for severe impacts in accordance to the Entitlement Matrix. See Table 12.
Table 12: Number of HHs per Degree of Affect
Degree of Affect No AH Severely Affected (Affected With More Than 10%) 60
6.3 Ethnic Groups
31. Armenians are 97.9% of the total national population. Therefore, primarily the Project will affect only ethnic Armenians. Nevertheless, some Ethnic Minority (EM) groups are present in the Project’s COI. These groups are mostly Yezidis, who are 1.3% of Armenia’s total population. Yezidis have been fully integrated into the institutional, cultural, and economic processes of Armenia, and cannot be classified as indigenous peoples (IPs) as per the ADB’s definition of IPs. Therefore, the Project is classified category C for IP issues.
Table 13: Ethnic groups AH General Description
Ethnicity AHs Number of Head of AH Number of AH Family Members 1. Armenian 260 260 1,399 2. Yezdi 9 9 48 3. Total 269 269 1,447
6.4 Vulnerable AHs
32. ADB’s Involuntary Resettlement Policy defines vulnerable as poor, female headed, and ethnic minority AHs. One hundred and thirty-eight (138) AHs are poor, which is about 51% of total AHs. A poverty assessment was done based on the National Statistical Service of the Republic of Armenia’s (NSS RA) methodology.13 See details in the Table 14.
13 The poverty calculation is based on NSS RA methodology, which is using average monthly consumption indicators for a member of HH calculated for food and goods baskets. HH is considered extremely poor when average monthly consumption per adult member is no more than extreme poverty line (food basket cost) and poor when average total expenditures are higher than extreme poverty line but low from common poverty line (cost of basket of goods). NSS of RA calculate extreme (food) poverty level as 17,232 AMD, and poverty level as 25,188 AMD. Note that the affected Aragatzotn Marz has 57.0 percent poverty level considered among the highest in Armenia. The poverty level percentage along the Astharak-Talin Highway are likely not as high as for this province 13 | Page
Table 14: Vulnerable Poor AHs
Category Number Percent 1. Poor 138 51 - Extremely Poor 88 - Poor 50 2. Not Poor 131 49 3. Total 269 100%
33. Forty -five (45) AHs are female-headed families, which is about 17% of the total AHs. See Table 15.
Table 15: Head of AH by Gender, No of AHs and Percent
Female Headed AHs Percent Male Headed AHs Percent Total AHs Percent 45 16.7 224 83.3 269 100
34. Overall the number of vulnerable AHs is 165. Eight (8) poor AHs are ethnic minority Yezidi Kurds of Shamiram Village (pop 945). The village itself is located about two kilometers from the Tranche-2 Highway, and nine (9) Yezidi will lose some land to the Project’s RoW. The Yezidi are well acculturated with Armenian society, and Shamiram’s economy is primarily based on highland grazing. See details in the Table 16.
Table 16: Vulnerable AHs
Category No AHs Percent 1. Male Headed Extremely Poor and Poor AHs 111 67.2 2. Female Headed Extremely Poor and Poor AHs 27 16.3 3. Female Headed Non Poor AHs 18 11 4. Ethnic Minority AHs 9 5.5 - Ethnic Minority Poor AHs 8 4.9 - Ethnic Minority Non-Poor AHs 1 0.6 5. Total 165 100%
overall, as the province also include more remote communities. United Nations. 2005. Human Poverty and Pro- poor Policies in Armenia. Yerevan: United Nations Office in Armenia. http://www.undp.am/docs/publications/2005publications/propooreng.pdf 14 | Page
C. SOCIOECONOMIC PROFILE
I. GENERAL
35. Data in this chapter is from two sources: o A Detailed Measurement Survey (DMS) was carried out by Artsakhroad Institute CJSC (AR) covering 100 percent of the AHs; o Additionally, a sample Socio-Economic Survey (SES) was conducted by Strategic Development Agency SDA) in all the communities of the Project’s COI for Ashtarak-Talin highway covering about 28% of total AHs, (180 AHs). The selection of AHs was done based on two criteria: (1) typology of the land and (2) intensity of impact on the AH. The number of AHs in each community was proportionally distributed according to the above mentioned criteria. The selection of AHs was done based on systematic random sampling. The AH member most informed about the AH socio-economic issues was selected as the respondent. The main objective of SES was to provide a description of the major socio-economic features of the affected population and community, viz., education levels, modes of livelihood, sources of income, poverty/income levels, house type/value and land tenure types. The SES, as a basis for preparing the LARP budget, also identified any vulnerable and risk groups needing additional support. This information is presented in the above impacts chapter. The interviews were carried out through household survey questionnaire, and information was collected by a team of trained interviewers having extensive experience in conducting standardized, face to face interviews in Armenia.
II. DETAILED MEASUREMENT SURVEY (100%) DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE OF AFFECTED HOUSEHOLDS
1. FAMILY SIZE
36. The total population of surveyed 269 AHs is 1,447 persons including 711 male (49.1 %) and 736 female (50.9 %). The average AH size of is 5.4 persons with 2.64 male and 2.74 female. About 40.5 AHs are living as two-generation nuclear family households, while 54.7 AHs are living as extended family. The majority of surveyed AH heads (78.8%) are married. 18.2 % are widows.
2. GENDER
37. About half of the 1447 APs are women and half are men. On the other hand, female- headed AHs are only about 16.7 percent of the total 229 AHs, whereas male-head AHs are 83.3 percent.
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Table 17: No AHs and APs, by Gender AHs APs Male % Female % Tota % Mal % Femal % Tota % Heade Heade l e e l d d AHs APs 224 83. 45 16. 269 100 711 49. 736 50. 144 100 3 7 % 1 9 7 %
3. AGE
38. The majority (54%) of AH heads are from 46-65 age groups, 147 Heads of AHs. Another 27 percent of AH Heads are over 66 years. About 83.3 percent of all AH heads are male. This is consonant with the eldest as head of family and is associated primarily with cultural specifics of rural communities. In this case the head of family is considered the eldest family member despite the fact of how he/she is involved in decision making and income earning process.
Table 18: Age of AH Head, by Gender and Percent
Age Cohort Male AH Heads Female AH Heads Total No % No % No Percent 25-35 6 3 1 2 7 3 36-45 39 18 4 9 43 16 46-55 81 36 7 16 88 32 56-65 48 21 11 24 59 22 66 and more 50 22 22 49 72 27 Total 224 100% 45 100% 269 100% Source: DMS
39. Table 19 below presents the total number of APs by age cohort and gender. The distribution is more or less average for this demographic variable, with 41 percent under 24 years of age.
Table 19: Age of APs, by Gender and Percent
Age Cohort Male Female Total No % No % No Percent 1-5 73 10 55 8 128 9 6-15 107 15 90 12 197 14 16-24 113 16 152 21 265 18 25-35 109 15 123 17 232 16 36-45 97 14 86 11 183 13 46-55 103 15 91 12 194 13
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Age Cohort Male Female Total No % No % No Percent 56-65 53 7 50 7 103 7 66 and more 56 8 89 12 145 10
Total 711 100% 736 100% 1447 100% Source: DMS 4 EDUCATION LEVEL
40. The majority of AHs heads have secondary (38%) and secondary vocational (25%) education. 24% of HH heads have higher education. Forty percent (40%) of male AH heads have secondary education compare to twenty-four percent (24%) of female heads. Females have a much higher dropout rate for secondary level education, with 20 per cent dropping out compared to 6 percent for males. The percentage for male AH heads achieving higher education is 25% and for females 16 percent respectively. For details see Table 20.
Table 20: Education of AH Heads, by Gender and Percent
Educational Level Male AH Heads Female AH Heads Total AH Heads No % No % No Percent Secondary 90 40 11 24 101 38 Secondary & Vocational 54 24 12 27 66 25 Higher 58 25 7 16 65 24 Incomplete Secondary 13 6 9 20 22 8 Elementary 2 1 4 9 6 2 Incomplete Higher 4 2 0 0 4 1 Uneducated 1 1 2 4 3 1 Postgraduate 2 1 0 0 2 1 Total 224 100% 45 100% 269 100% Source: DMS 41. About 41% of APs have secondary education, 19% vocational, 7% non-complete higher and 15% higher education. Male and female percentages at all levels show a remarkable equal proportionality. Table 21 below shows the education of all APs by gender and percent.
Table 21: Education of APs by Gender and Percent
Educational Level Male Female Total No % No % No Percent Secondary 312 44 286 39 598 41 Secondary Vocational 90 13 133 18 223 15 Higher 122 17 106 14 228 16
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Incomplete Secondary 45 6 58 8 103 7 Incomplete Higher 43 6 61 8 104 7 Elementary 23 3 34 5 57 4 Uneducated 2 0.5 5 0.5 7 1 Postgraduate 3 0.5 1 0.5 4 1 Non applicable14 71 10 52 7 123 8 Total 711 100% 736 100% 1447 100 % Source: DMS 5 EMPLOYMENT STATUS
42. The majority of AHs (66%) is headed by an employed family member and 28% of AHs is headed by a pensioner. Only 5% of affected AH heads are unemployed, and only one AH is headed by a housewife. See details in Table 22.
Table 22: Employment Status of AH Head by Gender and Percent
Employment Status Male AH Heads Female AH Heads Total No % No % No of AH Percent Employed 158 70 19 42 177 66 Pensioner 53 24 22 49 75 28 Unemployed 13 6 1 2 14 5 Housewife 0 0 3 7 3 1 Total 224 100% 45 100% 269 100% Source: DMS
43. According to Table 23 below, 39% of APs are employed. Students constitute the next largest group, at 20 followed by pensioners (10%), housewives (10%) and the unemployed (10%). Military are only 1% of APs. Of male APs 49% are employed, compared to only 30% of female APs, whereas 19% of female APs are housewives. The percentage of unemployed (11%) is pretty same for both male and female APs (10% and 11%).
Table 23: Employment Status of APs by Gender and Percent
Employment Status Male Female Total No % No % No Percent Employed 350 49 219 30 569 39 Student. 137 8 144 12 281 20 Pensioner 58 19 89 20 147 10 Housewife/husband 1 1 143 19 144 10
14 Aged 5 and below. 18 | Page
Unemployed 68 10 79 11 147 10 Military 18 2 0 0 18 1 Non applicable15 79 11 62 8 141 10 Total 711 100% 736 100% 1447 100% Source: DMS
III. SOCIOECONOMIC SURVEY (SES)
SES data are analyzed and presented for all 27 communities along the Ashtarak-Gyumri highway within the Project’s COI. In total 180AHs were interviewed covering about 28% of total affected AHs for Tranche 2 and Tranche 3.
1. HOUSING CONDITIONS
44. The SES survey shows that 88% of AH are living in privatized single houses, 5% in state multi apartment buildings. Two percent of AHs are living in rented apartments and 5% of respondents are living with their friends or relatives. See details in the Table 24.
Table 24: AH Housing Conditions, by Type of Ownership, by Numbers and Percent
Type of Privatized % Not Privatized % Rented % w/Friend % Total % Housing or Relative Private House 150 90 9 5 0 0 8 5 167 100 State Multi 8 80 1 20 1 20 0 0 10 100 Apartment Building
Other 0 0 0 0 2 67 1 33 3 100 Total 158 88% 10 6% 3 2% 9 5% 180 100% Source: SES (N=180)
45. The Table 25 shows the availability and functioning of public utilities. Electricity and telephone communication, especially cell phones are available to everybody. About 57 % of respondent have natural gas supply. Drinking water is available for about 84% of households, although 56% of respondent mentioned that it is available periodically. More than half of surveyed households don’t have a heating system, hot water and also sewerage.
Table 25: AH Utilities Availability, by Percent
Utility Available On Periodically Not Doesn’t Total Demand Available Available Exist Electricity 97.8 1.6 0.0 0.6 100 Cell Phone 94.0 0.6 0.6 4.8 100 Phone (Landline) 57.5 4.0 3.5 35.0 100
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Centralized Gas Supply 57.0 0.6 3.9 38.5 100 Sewerage 28.5 1.7 10.6 59.2 100 Drinking Water Supply 27.9 56.4 4.5 11.2 100 Hot Water (Water Heater) 19.0 2.2 7.8 71.0 100 Local Heating System 14.0 3.4 11.7 70.9 100 Source: SES (N=180)
46. More than a half of respondents (64.8%) evaluated their housing conditions as satisfactory. 9.5% and 17.9% of respondents described their housing conditions as bad and very bad correspondingly. For details refer to Table 25.
Table 26: Subjective Assessment of Housing Conditions, by Percent
Level Of Satisfaction Percent Satisfactory 65 Good 6 Very good 2 Subtotal 73 Bad 18 Very bad 9 Subtotal 27 Total 100% Source: SES (N=180)
47. The survey results on future possible changes of housing conditions show that 55.9% of respondents are planning to make some changes in their houses in near next years, of which 76.7% are intended to do renovation. 41.9% are not planning any changes.
2. SOURCE OF LIVLIHOOD
48. Agriculture played an important role in AH livelihood. This is a significant source of income for 48% of AH (crop marketing) and for 44% AHs it is a significant source of food, overall 92% with lands as significant source of income and food. Another 7% of households are not using their lands at all. For details refer to Table 27.
Table 27: Primary Use of AH Agricultural Lands, by Percent
Use Percent Significant Source of Income 48 Significant Source of Food 44 Subtotal 92 Not Used in any Way 7 Other 1 Total 100% Source: SES (N=180) 20 | Page
3. AH INCOME RELIANCE ON AGRICULTURE
49. Agriculture is the most important source of income for surveyed community AHs; hence even a small decrease of incomes in this field may worsen their socio-economic situation. While comparing AHs agricultural and non-agricultural average incomes we can see that in eleven (11) communities (Agarak, Aghdzq, Akunk, Azatan, Horom, Kaqavadzor, Lusakert, Mastara, Oshakan, Shamiram, V. Sasnashen) the proportion of agriculture income is more than 51%, and in remaining 16 communities (Aruch, Beniamin, Davitashen, Dzorakap, Eghnik, Hayrenyats, Katnaghbyur, Kosh, Landgik, Maralik, N. Bazmaberd, N. Sasnashen, Parpi, Talin, Ujan, Voskevaz) it is in the range of 20-50%. See Table 28.
Table 28: Proportion of Agricultural and Non Agricultural Annual Incomes p er Household, Data as of 2009 (%)
An Average Income Total Average Number Of An Average Income By By Non Agricultural Income Per Community Affected Agricultural Activities Activities Per Household Households Per Household (%) Household (%) (AMD) Kaqavadzor 5 22 78 11,083,569 Parpi 2 66 34 6,798,979 Beniamin 16 61 39 5,884,328 Kosh 36 59 41 5,553,628 Agarak 35 48 52 5,534,731 Azatan 32 32 68 5,192,851 Voskevaz 10 64 36 4,776,175 Aruch 19 54 46 3,913,416 Ujan 60 52 48 3,465,461 Aghdzq 9 47 53 3,263,339 Shamiram 8 28 72 3,090,832 Maralik 23 67 33 3,007,632 Dzorakap 44 62 38 2,951,617 Talin 11 55 45 2,926,398 Hayrenyats 24 52 48 2,826,184 V. Sasnashen 4 28 72 2,738,763 Davitashen 15 60 40 2,679,664 Lusakert 52 44 56 2,655,475 N. Bazmaberd 21 75 25 2,598,767 Horom 13 48 52 2,546,703 Landgik 37 50 50 2,382,080 Akunq 3 35 65 2,222,635 Mastara 125 36 64 2,042,599 N. Sasnashen 2 76 24 1,634,111
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An Average Income Total Average Number Of An Average Income By By Non Agricultural Income Per Community Affected Agricultural Activities Activities Per Household Households Per Household (%) Household (%) (AMD) Katnaghbyur 26 65 35 1,518,605 Eghnik 5 54 46 1,215,248 Oshakan 1 47 53 643,722
Total Averages 638 50 50 3,264,430 Sources: DMS
50. It is important also to identify which agricultural activates are providing main portion of income. In average, in all communities, agricultural income derives from crop farming (44%), animal husbandry (39%) and horticulture (17%). 51. Table 29 shows that more than 51% of income is provided: in ten (10) communities (Agarak, Akunq, Davitashe, Dzorakap, Yeghnik, Kaqavadzor, Maralik, N. Bazmaberd, Shamiram, V. Sasnashen) by animal husbandry, in ten (10) communities (Azatan, Beniamin, Hayrenyats, Horom, Landgik, Lusakert, Mastara, Oshakan, Parpi, Talin) by crop farming and in two (2) communities (Ujan and Voskevaz) by horticulture. 52. Also, agriculture is important not only for income-making but also for solving a problem related to unemployment by providing jobs to household members. Therefore, possible reduction of plot sizes may lead increase of unemployment rate. 53. Despite the importance of agricultural income, the surveyed households emphasize the significance of non-agricultural income as well. Even small amount of non-agricultural income is important for the households, because it is considered as a stable cash income. In the structure of non-agricultural income AHs give the importance to incomes received from paid work, pensions and transfer from family members working abroad. 54. If we classify the AHs incomes’ sources (agricultural and non agricultural) by their importance we will see that non -agricultural income is considered to be the most important for all communities in average. In the second and third places are the incomes received from land farming and animal husbandry.
Table 29: Agricultural Income Structure in 2009, per Household
An Average An Average Income An Average Income Average Annual Income Per Income By Crop From Animal Community From Horticulture Household From Agriculture Farming Per Husbandry Per Per Household (%) Household (%) Household (%) (AMD) Kaqavadzor 8 89 3 8,619,769 Azatan 91 9 0 3,550,020 Agarak 14 67 19 2,867,817 Parpi 78 - 22 2,315,479 Kosh 30 38 33 2,297,883 Beniamin 62 36 2 2,295,640 Shamiram 27 70 3 2,237,332 V. Sasnashen 34 54 12 1,969,763
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An Average An Average Income An Average Income Average Annual Income Per Income By Crop From Animal Community From Horticulture Household From Agriculture Farming Per Husbandry Per Per Household (%) Household (%) Household (%) (AMD) Aruch 44 34 22 1,787,658 Aghdzq 40 11 49 1,719,539 Voskevaz 3 2 95 1,715,575 Udjan 12 10 78 1,666,918 Lusakert 68 31 1 1,497,277 Akunq 15 69 16 1,437,635 Hayrentyats 63 37 0 1,368,042 Talin 75 17 8 1,330,489 Horom 75 24 2 1,314,442 Mastara 53 42 5 1,306,597 Landgik 52 47 0 1,192,451 Dzorakap 41 56 2 1,130,666 Davitashen 21 64 14 1,067,357 Maralik 31 65 4 996,179 N. Bazmaberd 22 63 15 639,805 Eghnik 11 80 9 563,448 Katnaghbyur 32 44 24 531,182 N. Sasnashen 40 34 26 396,711 Oshakan 68 4 28 343,722
An A verage Per Household 44 39 17 1,641,996 Source: DMS 4. ACCESSIBILITY TO EDUCATIONAL AND HEALTH SERVICES
4.1 Educational Services
55. In general educational services/facilities are available in all surveyed communities. In Aruch, Eghnik, Shamiram and V. Sasnashen communities there are only incomplete secondary education services (middle schools) and the distance to the nearest secondary school varies between 7-25 km. 56. Some 53.7% (95 AH) of respondents mentioned that in last 12 months at least one of AH family members visited any educational institution (kindergarten, school, vocational trainings, University and etc.). 46.5% of those respondents are completely satisfied with quality of educational services and 42.6 % are satisfied generally.
4.2 Health Services
57. Primary health service facilities/ambulatories are available in all surveyed communities. However, the hospitals/clinics are operating mostly in urban communities and the distance to
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the nearest hospital from the rural communities varies from 7-28 km mostly. 58. 54.8% (97 AH) of respondents mentioned that in last 12 months at least one of members of AH needed to visit a doctor, but didn’t visit. The main reason is financial, high official (60%) and non-official (28%) payments. The reasons are reflected in Table 30.
Table 30: Reasons for Not Visiting a Doctor In Case Of Need Durin g Last 12 months, by Percent
Reason Percent Official High Fees/Payments 60.0 Unofficial High Expenses 27.9 Unavailability 5.0 Low Quality 2.9 Lack of Trust 2.8 Lack of Time 1.4 Total 100% Source: SES (N=180) 59. This is the reason that HHs prefer to visit mostly state owned facilities. According to SES data 94.8% of all visits are made to state entities: 55% out of visit cases were visits to hospitals, 28% to policlinics, 13.8% to outpatient clinics, 2.4% to dentist and 0.6% used an emergency service (one person). The respondents’ satisfaction level with the quality of health services in general is pretty low. About 61% of respondents are not satisfied with the quality of health and only 21% are satisfied.
IV. IMPACTS ON WOMEN 60. Women have important economic roles in project areas and engage in a very wide range of income making activities in the agricultural and marketing sector. The project pays particular attention to ensure that women are the recipients of the compensation pertaining to their activities and to ensure that women who are de-facto household heads are clearly listed as beneficiaries of compensation and rehabilitation proceedings under the loan. Special attention will be given to the impact of resettlement on women and other vulnerable groups during monitoring and evaluation of the LARP. The project will have a positive impact on gender, because the civil works contracts will include provisions to encourage employment of women during implementation. Additionally, women headed households have been considered as the vulnerable group and special additional assistance was provided in the entitlement of the LARP.
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D. LEGAL AND POLICY BACKGROUND
I. ARMENIA’S LAWS AND REGULATIONS ON LAND ACQUISITION AND RESETTLEMENT
61. The Armenia’s Constitution (1995) guarantees protection of private ownership rights. It also provides that private ownership may be terminated “in exclusive cases of prevailing public interests” based on established procedure and with prior adequate compensation. Land acquisition and compensation issues are discussed in the Land Code Article 102, 104, the Civil Code (1998), Articles 218 through 221 and in the Law of RA on the Alienation of the Private Property for Public and State Needs adopted on 27 November 2006. Under the existing law of RA on the Alienation of the Private Property for Public and State Needs the RA Government will issue a Decree determining the case of exclusive public and state priority needs based on the request from relevant state agencies. The government decree on recognition of the item as prevailing and exclusive public interest shall set out: a. The exclusive and prevailing public interest, for which alienation of property shall be executed; b. The party acquiring the alienated property; c. The units constituting the alienated property (addresses, location and/or other information, which makes the property different from other assets); d. Final deadline to launch the alienation process. 62. Law of RA On the Alienation of the Private Property for Public and State Needs discusses procedural aspects of land acquisition and compensation rights of titled landowners and owners of immovable property in cases of alienation of their property for public purposes. Upon enactment of the government decree on recognition of property as prevailing exclusive public interest, the authorized body shall compile minutes describing the alienated property according to the procedure and deadlines defined by the government; acquiring party, owners and those holding property rights towards the alienated property may participate in compilation of such minutes if the latter had not been compiled during the preliminary survey of the property. One copy of the minutes describing the alienated property shall be, within no later than three days after its compilation, duly communicated to the owner and persons holding property rights towards such property, who are entitled to protest it with the authorized body and/or court within ten days after the due receipt thereof. 63. The consideration for the land/property being acquired is established by agreement between MOTC and APs taking into account the market value of and damages, including consequential damages, and may include exchange of land/property. Adequate compensation shall be paid to the owner against alienation of his/her property. Adequate shall be the amount 15 percent over and above the market price for the alienated property. Assessment of the real estate or the real estate rights shall be made in accordance with the procedure defined in the Law of the Republic of Armenia on Assessment of Real Estate in Armenia adopted in October 4, 2005.
II. ADB’S PROVISIONS ON INVOLUNTARY RESETTLEMENT UNDER THE 25 | Page
SPS
64. The ADB Policy on Involuntary Resettlement is based on the following principles: o Involuntary resettlement is to be avoided or at least minimized. o Compensation/Rehabilitation provisions will ensure the maintenance of the APs’ pre- project standards of living. o APs should be fully informed and consulted on LAR compensation options. o APs’ socio-cultural institutions should be supported/used as much as possible. o Compensation will be carried out with equal consideration of women and men. o Lack of legal title should not be a bar to compensation and/or rehabilitation. o Particular attention should be paid to households headed by women and other vulnerable groups, such as Indigenous Peoples, and appropriate assistance should be provided to help them improve their status. o LAR should be conceived and executed as a part of the project, and the full costs of compensation should be included in project costs and benefits. o Compensation and resettlement subsidies will be fully provided prior to clearance of right of way/ground leveling and demolition.
III. COMPARISON OF ARMENIA’S LAW AND REGULATIONS ON LAR AND ADB SPS
65. Differences between Armenian laws/regulations and ADB policy are outlined in Table 31 below.
Table 31: Comparison of Resettlement Laws and Regulations Armenian Laws and Regulations ADB SPS Land compensation only for titled landowners Lack of title is not a bar to compensation and/or rehabilitation. Non-titled landowners receive rehabilitation All affected houses/buildings are compensated for ADB Policy includes compensation for buildings damages/demolition caused by a project, unregistered commercial structures as well with the exception of unregistered commercial structures Crop losses compensation provided only to Crop losses compensation provided only to registered landowners registered landowners Land valuation based on current market value plus Land valuation based on current market 15% of the assessed value. rate/replacement value Information on impacts quantification/costing, The Same entitlements, and amounts of compensation and financial assistance are to be disclosed to the
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Armenian Laws and Regulations ADB SPS AH/APs prior to appraisal No provision for income/livelihood rehabilitation The ADB policy requires rehabilitation for measure, allowances for severely affected APs and income/livelihood, for severe losses, and for vulnerable groups, or resettlement expenses expenses incurred by the APs during the relocation process
66. In general, there are no principal differences between the Armenian legislation and ADB policies regarding the land acquisition and resettlement. However, the Armenian laws and regulations are not very clear on how the rehabilitation is to be achieved. Another issue is that ADB recognizes titled and non-titled owners as well as registered and unregistered tenants, i.e. lack of legal title is no bar to compensation and rehabilitation. 67. To reconcile eventual gaps between the RA legislation and ADB’s Safeguard Polices, MOTC has adopted this Policy for the Project, ensuring compensation at full replacement cost of all items and at least rehabilitation of informal/non-titled settlers, unregistered businesses. The LARF also provides for rehabilitation packages for APs that will be relocated are vulnerable or severely affected. 68. Attempts should first be made to acquire private land on the basis of negotiation with individual affected entities. Should the negotiation fail, the power of eminent domain will be sought and the expropriation process will start. In case of negotiated sale ADB requires that appropriate due-diligence will be put in place to ensure that the AP are offered fair price, are informed, are allowed sufficient bargaining space and their case is monitored by and independent external party. These conditions are fully guaranteed by the use of an Independent Monitoring Agency (see chapter K below) and by the Armenian Government practice of engaging independent land assessors to determine asset compensation rates.
IV. LARF PRINCIPLES AND ENTITLEMENTS ADOPTED FOR THE MFF
69. Based on Armenian laws and ADB’s SPS, 2009, core involuntary resettlement principles are developed for this MFF which are as follows: o Land acquisition, and other involuntary resettlement impacts will be avoided or minimized exploring all viable alternative project designs; o Where unavoidable, a time-bound LARP will be prepared and APs will be assisted in improving or at least regaining their pre-program standard of living; o Consultation with APs on compensation, disclosure of resettlement information to APs, and participation of APs in planning/implementing sub-projects, such as providing their views on design alternatives and participating in monitoring activities, will be ensured; o Vulnerable and severely affected APs will be provided special assistance; o Non-titled APs (e.g., informal dwellers or squatters, APs without registration details) will receive a livelihood allowance in lieu of land compensation and will be fully compensated for losses other than land. o Legalizable APs will be legalized and fully compensated for land losses. o Provision of income restoration and rehabilitation;
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o The LARP will be disclosed to the APs in the local language o Payment of compensation, resettlement assistance and rehabilitation measures will be fully provided prior to the contractor taking physical possession of the land and to the commencement of any construction activities on a particular package and . o Appropriate redresses mechanisms to solve APs grievances are established.
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E. COMPENSATION ELIGIBILITY AND ENTITLEMENTS
70. LAR tasks under the Project will be implemented according to a compensation eligibility and entitlements framework in line with both Armenian laws and regulations and ADB Policy. A summary entitlements matrix is included in Table 32 below.
Table 32: Entitlement Matrix Type of Loss Application Definition of APs Compensation Entitlements 1. Agricultural AH losing Owners Compensation at replacement value +15% either in land Loss agricultural land cash at market rates or cadastral values (whichever regardless of the highest) or through replacement land acceptable to impact severity the AP. When there are no active land markets cash compensation will be based on the value of the yearly product of the land for a sufficient number of years to ensure the affected parties rehabilitation for the loss of their land. Legalizable Owner Legalizable APs will be legalized and paid the same compensation as above Leaseholder of Leaseholder will be compensated as full owners at community,state land maket rates or cadastral values (whichever the highest) or will be given a new lease. If this is not possible , they will receive compensation equal to “the market or cadastral value of affected land (whichever the highest) + 15%” in the following proportions according to the length of the lease: i) < 1 year 5%; 2) < 15 years 14% ; 3) < 25 years 20%;4)>25 years -25%. Non-legalizable AHs These APs will receive a rehabilitation allowance based on the affected land market or cadastral value (whichever the highest) In proportions to the number of years of land occupation as follows:: i) < 1 year 5%; 2) < 15 years 14% ; 3) < 25 years 20%;4)>25 years - 25%. 2. Non- AH losing their Owners Compensation at market value or cadastral value Agricultural commercial/ (whichever the highest) +15% or through replacement Land loss residential land land acceptable to the AP. Legalizable Owner Same compensation as above. Renter/Leaseholder These AH will be compensated as full owners at maket (community, state) rates or cadastral values (whichever the highest) or will be given a new lease. If this is not possible they will receive compensation equal to “the market or cadastral value of affected land (whichever the highest) + 15%” in the following proportions according to the length of the lease: i) < 1 year 5%; 2) < 15 years 14% ; 3) < 25 years 20%;4)>25 years -25%. Non legalizable AHs These APs will receive a rehabilitation allowance based on the affected land market or cadastral value whichever the highest. In proportions to the number of years of land occupation as follows:: i) < 1 year 5%; 2) < 15 years 14% ; 3) < 25 years 20%;4)>25 years - 25%. 3. Residential All AH regardless of Cash compensation + 15% for loss of building at full buildings legal status. replacement cost free of depreciation/transaction costs and salvaged materials. Partial impacts will entail the compensation of the affected portion of the building plus repairs.
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Relocated Renters Relocation and severe impact allowance as entitlement 9 and 10 below 4. Non- AHs with valid Cash compensation + 15% for loss of building at full residential registration replacement cost free of depreciation/transaction costs buildings/assets and salvaged materials. Partial impacts will entail the compensation of the affected portion of the building plus repairs. AHs without valid As above but after building is legalized/registered, in registration cases of legalisation/regostration of the building. Relocated Renters Relocation and severe impact allowance as entitlement 9 and 10 below 5. Common Community/Public Community/State Reconstruction of lost structure and restoration of their property Loss Assets functions in consultation with community/state authority. 6. Crop Losses Standing crops All AH regardless of Crop compensation in cash at market rate by default at affected legal status (including gross crop value of expected harvest. owners subject to obtining legal status and residents having no rasidency status) 7. Tree Losses Trees affected All AH regardless of Cash compensation at market rate based on type, age legal status.. and productive value of the trees. (including owners subject to obtining legal status and residents having no rasidency status) 8. Business or Business All AH regardless of Entrepreneurs (i). (permanent impact) cash indemnity Employment employment loss legal status. (including of 1 year net income; (ii) (temporary impact) cash Losses owners subject to indemnity of net income for months of business obtining legal status stoppage up to 1 year. Assessment to based on tax and residents having declaration. In absence of tax declaration the AH will no rasidency status) receive a rehabilitation allowance based on the maximum non-taxable salary for the number of months of business stoppage up to 1 year. The maximum non taxable salary is equal to minimum salary.. Permanent Worker/Employees: Indemnity equal to: (i) Permanent job loss 6 months of minimum salary; (ii) Temporary loss minimum monthly salary for the number of months of job loss up to 6 months.. 9. Allowances AH with >10% All severely affected i) 1 additional crop compensation covering 1 year yield for Severe agricultural AHs including for APs affected by severe agricultural income losses Impacts income loss or informal settlers ii) a rehabilitation allowance of 6 months at minimum more to be salary for relocated AHs.. relocated 10. Relocation Transport/transition All relocated AH Provision of funds to cover transport costs and allowances costs including relocated livelihood expenses for 1 month. renters 11 Vulnerable AHs below poverty Allowance equivalent to 6 months of minimum salary People line or headed by and employment priority in project-related jobs Allowances Women or elderly people 12. Temporary All Ahs Due rent and rehabilitation for temporarily affected impacts assets will be provided1. 13. Unforeseen MOTC will consider the unforeseen resettlement LAR impacts, if impact during project and will compensate them based any on the above provisions. 1 Due rent and rehabilitation will correspond to the income of the affected item for the entire period of the impact.
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Principles of compensation, envisaged under Paragraph 8 “Entrepreneurship / business” and Paragraph 11 “Support to Vulnerable People” of the above Entitlement Matrix have been stated in a separate document named “Principles of Compensation Under Land Acquisition and Resettlement Framework” presented in Appendix A.
I. ELIGIBILITY 71. APs entitled for compensation or at least rehabilitation provisions under the Project are:
o All APs losing land either covered by legal title/traditional land rights, Legalizable, or without legal status; o Tenants and sharecroppers whether registered or not; o Owners of buildings, crops, plants, or other objects attached to the land; and o APs losing business, income, and salaries.
72. Compensation eligibility will be limited by a cut-off date to be set for each Project on the day of the beginning of the AP Census and DMS. APs who settle in the affected areas or make any improvements after the cut-off date will not be eligible for compensation. They, however will be given sufficient advance notice, requested to vacate premises and dismantle affected structures prior to project implementation. Their dismantled structures materials will not be confiscated and they will not pay any fine or suffer any sanction.
II. COMPENSATION ENTITLEMENTS
73. Entitlement provisions for APs losing land, houses, and income and rehabilitation subsidies will include provisions for permanent or temporary land losses, buildings losses, crops and trees losses, a relocation subsidy, and a business losses allowance based on tax declarations and/or lump sums. These entitlements are detailed below:
Agricultural land impacts will be compensated at either (i) in cash at market or cadastral value (whichever the highest) plus a 15% allowance. When there are no active land markets cash compensation will be based on the value of the yearly product of the land for a sufficient number of years to ensure the affected parties rehabilitation for the land loss of their land or (ii) through replacement land equal in value/productivity to the plot lost acceptable to the AP. Non-directly affected sections of a plot which become inaccessible or unviable for cultivation or any use after the impact will be included in the affected land. When >10% of an AP agricultural land is affected, AP (owners, leaseholders and sharecroppers) will get an additional allowance for severe i mpacts equal to the market value of a year’s gross yield of the land lost. Transaction taxes and fees will be paid by the EA or waived.
o Legalizable APs will be legalized and paid as titled owners. Non-legalizable APs will be compensated with one time self-relocation allowances in cash equal to the market or cadastral value of the affected land (whichever the highest) in proportion to the past years of land use: : i.) < 1 year - 5% of land value; 2) < 15 years - 14% of land value; 3) < 25 years - 20% of land value; 4) 25 years - 25% of land value. 31 | Page
o Leaseholders will be legalized and compensated as full owners or will be given a new lease. If this is not possible they will receive compensation in cash at market or cadastral value (whichever the higher) of the affected land + a 15% allowance in proportion to the remaining years of lease as follows: i.) < 1 year - 5% of land value; 2) < 15 years - 14% of land value; 3) < 25 years - 20% of land value; 4) 25 years and more- 25% of land value.
Non agricultural land (Residential/commercial land). Legal owners will be compensated at either (i) in cash at market value plus a 15% allowance. If there is no market rate, compensation will be based n the annual productivity of land calculated for the number of years which will provide the AH’s recovery for land loss. or (ii) in form of a replacement plot acceptable to the AP. Non-directly affected sections of a plot which become inaccessible or unviable for cultivation or any use after the impact will be included in the affected land.
o Legalizable APs will be legalized and paid as titled owners. Non-legalizable APs will be compensated with one time self-relocation allowances in cash at market or cadastral value (whichever the highest) in proportion to the past years of land use as follows: :i.) < 1 year - 5% of land value; 2) < 15 years - 14% of land value; 3) < 25 years - 20% of land value; 4) 25 years and more- 25% of land value.
o Leaseholders will be compensated as full owners or be given a new lease as mentioned above. If this is not possible they will receive compensation in cash at market or cadastral value (whichever the higher) of the affected land + a 15% allowance in proportion to the remaining years of lease as follows: i.) < 1 year - 5% of land value; 2) < 15 years - 14% of land value; 3) < 25 years - 20% of land value; 4) 25 years and more - 25% of land value.
Residential Buildings will be compensated to all APs irrespective of the house registration status in cash at replacement cost plus a 15% allowance. However house owners without registration will have to be legalized in order to obtain this provision. Compensation will be free of deductions for depreciation, transaction costs and salvageable materials. In case of partial impacts and unwillingness of the owner to relocate, building impacts will cover only the affected portion of a building and its full rehabilitation to previous use. Relocated renters will be given all relocation and severe impacts allowances (see below).
Non-Residential Buildings will be compensated in the same fashion as residential buildings only to those Aps who have resistered legally their property (see above). However APs without registration will be compensated, only after legalization and compensaton. To legalize thier buildings the APs without registration shall pay necessary sums for registration. Relocated renters will be given all relocation and severe impacts allowances (see below).
Crops: Cash compensation at current market rates for the gross value of 1 year’s harvest by default. Crop compensation will be paid both to landowners and tenants based on their specific sharecropping agreements.
Trees: Cash compensation at market rate based on type, age and productivity of trees.
Businesses: Permanent losses for business activity will be compensated in cash equal to a 1-year net income based on tax declaration; temporary losses will be compensated in cash equal to the monthly income based on tax declaration with the number of months of business stoppage. In absence of tax declaration these APs will be compensated as above but based on the maximum non- taxable salary (minimum salary).
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Permanent business workers and emplo yees: Indemnity for lost wages for the period of business interruption up to a maximum of 6 months.
o Relocation subsid y: APs forced to relocate (including renters) will receive a relocation subsidy sufficient to cover transport costs and living expenses for 1 month.
o Community Structures and Public Utilities: Will be fully replaced or rehabilitated so as to satisfy their pre-project functions.
o Severe impacts allo wances. These will be given to AH losing 10% or more of agricultural income (see above) or to relocated AH (including renters).
o Vulnerable people Livelihood: Vulnerable people (APs below poverty line and widow or elder headed households) will be given a rehabilitation allowance equal to 6 months at minimum salary and priority in employment in project-related jobs.
III. ASSESSMENT OF COMPENSATION UNIT VALUES
74. Assessment of the real estate or the real estate rights shall be made in accordance with the procedure defined in the Law of the Republic of Armenia on Assessment of Real Estate in Armenia. The unit compensation rates will be assessed by a certified independent evaluator based on clear and transparent methodologies acceptable to ADB. The assessed compensation rates will then be verified and certified by the resettlement division of MOTC/PIO. 75. During LARP preparation, the PPTA Consultant engaged the services of a competent and acknowledged independent assessor, responsible for undertaking zonal valuation to determine replacement cost of affected properties and assets. The following guiding principles for the valuation will be taken into account:
1. Replacement Cost 76. With regard to land and structures, the replacement value is defined as follows: (i) Agricultural Land will be valued at market rates based on a survey of land sales in the year before the impact survey. (ii) Houses/Buildings will be valued at replacement rate based on construction type, materials cost, labor, transport/other construction costs. No deduction for depreciation/transaction costs or salvaged materials will be applied. If an AP does not wish to relocate, partial impacts may be paid only for the affected portion of the building or repairs. (iii) Annual Crops will be valued at net market rates at the farm gate for the first year crop. In the eventuality that more than one-year compensation is due to the APs the crops after the first will be compensated at gross market value. (iv) Trees will be valued according to different methodologies depending whether the tree lost is a wood tree or a productive tree. a. Wood trees will be valued based on age category (a. seedling; b. medium growth and c. full growth) and wood value and volume. b. Fruit/productive trees will be valued based on age (a. seedling; b. adult-not fruit bearing; and c. fruit bearing). Stage (a) and (b) trees will be compensated based on the value of the
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investment made; stage (c) trees will be compensated at net market value of 1 year income x number of years needed to grow a new fully productive tree.
77. In determining the replacement cost to be compensated to the APs, depreciation of the asset and the value of salvage materials are not taken into account, nor is the value of benefits to be derived from the project deducted from the valuation of an affected asset. Where Armenian laws and regulations do not meet the standard of compensation at full replacement cost, ADB guidelines and technical specifications for compensation at replacement cost will be applied. 78. Compensation for land, structures, business, fixed improvements and other temporary assets will be based on market valuation, productivity valuation, negotiated settlements, material and labour valuation, disposition of salvage materials and other fees paid. It should be noted that lack of title, license or permit is not a bar to compensation.
2. Rehabilitation Cost
79. In addition to compensation for lost assets, APs will be entitled to transitional assistance which include moving expenses, temporary residence (if necessary), employment training and income support while awaiting employment and should have an option for full compensation if duration of impact is to exceed two years. These losses will be estimated for each individual case and may vary from (temporary or permanent) loss of business opportunities to loss of crops, orchards, trees, and other items
IV. CONDITIONS FOR EXPROPRIATIONS
80. Acquisition of land through expropriation proceedings entails lengthy procedures often may be resisted. Such an approach will thus be pursued under the Program only in extreme cases when negotiations between APs and MOTC fail and no alternative land is available to implement a Project. In these cases, however, MOTC will not occupy the needed plots until: (i) the proper judicial process as defined by the law is initiated; (ii) a court injunction has been obtained and properly communicated to the APs; and (iii) the compensation/rehabilitation amounts are deposited in an escrow account.
V. CONDITIONS FOR LEGALIZATION
81. In principle all occupants of untitled-plots can be legalized as long as they do not occupy areas classified as "Red Zones" (areas that are officially reserved for specific public use such military areas, hospital areas, school areas or areas that are not fit for settlement (river beds, radioactive terrains or other dangerous or ecological unfit lands)16 or private property by violating the rights of private owner protected by RA Constitution.
The legalization of non-titled APs (land and structures) is regulated by the following laws and Government decrees:
16 See Land Code of the Republic of Armenia (2nd of May,2001) article 60 34 | Page
1. RA Civil Code /adopted May 5, 1998/ 2. RA Land Code / /adopted May 2, 2001/ 3. RA Government decree on “On Illegal Constructions Legalization and Disposal Procedure Approval /N 912, May 18, 2006/ 4. RA Government decree on “Limiting the construction of buildings and structures on the agricultural, public and industrial lands that belong to private people and legal entities” /N 498, May 11, 2002/ 5. RA Government decree on “Establishing the state or community property right’s registration procedure for the illegal structures on the state or community lands” /N 731, May 18, 2006/
The State agencies that are responsible for the legalization/registration) are: The State Committee of Real Estate Cadastre of RA Local-self authorities Regional authorities
To be Legalized the APs will have to initiate a legalization process in accordance to pertinent administrative regulations. The EA will assist APs seeking legalization and will facilitate their cases.
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F. PUBLIC CONSULTATION, PARTICIPATION, AND DISCLOSURE
82. This chapter describes the mechanisms for public consultation process with the APs, disclosure of the LARP through distribution of informative material to create awareness among the APs regarding their entitlements and compensation payment procedures and grievances redress mechanism. All these aspects are briefly given below:
I. PUBLIC CONSULTATION 83. In general, at a preliminary design stage during the DMS and SES, APs were informed about the Project. Consultation meeting has been held in Aragatsotn Marzpetaran office with the heads of the affected communities, representatives of the regional authorities and representatives of the regional cadastre offices. In total 55 people participated in the meeting that took place on March18th 2010 in Aragatsotn Marz. Table 33: Participants in the Aragatsotn Marz Consultation Meeting, March 18, 2010
Participants/Representatives No Affected Communities 38 Marz Authorities 4 Regional Cadastre Office 2 Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) 2 and Ministry of Territorial Administration (MTA) Artsakhroad Institute 3 ADB 3 PADECO 2 Total 55 84. The major concerns raised by the heads of the affected Aragatsotn Marz communities were the following: o How the titled and non-titled APs will be compensated; o What kind of compensation can the community receive in case of community lands; o What is the cut off date for legalization of APs within the Project COI; o The availability of underground or over ground overpasses, especially in the cases where the new road section divides the cultivated lands into two parts or makes difficult the access to pastures; o How land will be compensated in case the new road section divides it into two parts and makes both parts unusable; o Concerns regarding the new alignment (Ujan) of the road section, which will divide the orchards into two parts; o When the civil works will start and how long will the villagers be able to continue their lands; o What is the replacement cost, and how is it calculated; and o What if the land is being used as a different land type than registered in the cadastre offices and how compensation will be calculated in such cases.
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85. Following the publication of the GoA decree on eminent domain on August 5, 2010 and its entry into force on August 15, 2010, the official notification letters were sent to all the AP included in the list as well as leaders of affected communities. The envelops sent to all the APs included formal letter addresses to AP, copy of GoA decree on eminent domain with the page where the name of AP and cadastral lot and code of the land plot owned by AP were mentioned, information leaflet providing basic information on Tranche 2 activities as well as main steps and procedures and land acquisition process. Following letters sending the set of consultation with APs in all the communities affected have been organized and conducted. Minutes of meetings were developed for each of the consultations conducted, including list of participants as well as protocol of question-and-answer session. The names of communities where consultations have been held as well as dates and number of participants are summarized in the following Table 34. Table 35 exemplifies the main questions and answers asked during the meetings. Table 34: List of Consultation Meetings and number of participants
Community Date No of Participants Parpi 18 September 2010 2 Oshakan 18 September 2010 1 Voskevaz 18 September 2010 8 Agarak 18 September 2010 37 Aghdzk 18 September 2010 12 Ujan 17 September 2010 47 Kosh 17 September 2010 20 Shamiram 16 September 2010 14 Aruch 16 September 2010 23 Kakavadzor 15 September 2010 4 N. Bazmaberd 15 September 2010 18 N. Sasmashen 15 September 2010 2 V. Sasmashen 15 September 2010 3 Davtashen 16 September 2010 11 Katnaghbyur 14 September 2010 37 Eghnik 14 September 2010 6 Talin 14 September 2010 11
Table 35 Main issues discussed during the meetings
Question Answer Who will calculate the value of The compensation will be calculated by licensed independent valuator in accordance lands, assets and orchards? with the ADB guidelines and RA legislation. How the agricultural lands will Compensation for agricultural land will be based on the principles stated in LARF, in be compensated? particular, agricultural land impacts will be compensated at market value plus a 15% allowance. Details on compensation calculation and procedures applies to legalizable and non-legalizable APs and leaseholders as explained to participants. It was also highlighted that severe impacts allowances will be given to AH losing 10% or more of agricultural income or to relocated AH (including renters). How the non-agricultural lands Compensation for non-agricultural land will be based on the principles stated in LARF, will be compensated? in particular, legal owners of non-agricultural land (Residential/ commercial land) will be compensated at market value plus a 15% allowance. Details on calculation of compensation as well as procedures applies to legalizable and non-legalizable APs and leaseholders were explained to participants.
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How the affected structures/ Compensation for structures/ buildings will be based on the following principles stated buildings will be compensated? in LARF: Residential Buildings will be compensated to all APs irrespective of the house registration status at replacement cost plus a 15% allowance. However house owners without registration will have to be legalized in order to obtain this provision. Compensation will be free of deductions for depreciation, transaction costs and salvageable materials. Non-Residential Buildings will be compensated in the same fashion as residential buildings only to those APs who have resistered legally their property. However APs without registration will be compensated, only after legalization and compensaton. To legalize thier buildings the APs without registration shall pay necessary sums for registration. Relocated renters will be given all relocation and severe impacts allowances. Whether there is compensation In case of crops there is cash compensation at current market rates for the gross value envisaged for loss of crops and of 1 year’s harvest by default. Crop compensation will be paid both to landowners and trees? tenants based on their specific sharecropping agreements. In case of trees there is cash compensation at market rate based on type, age and productivity of trees. How the compensation of Permanent losses for business activity will be compensated in cash equal to a 1-year business will be calculated? net income based on tax declaration; temporary losses will be compensated in cash equal to the monthly income based on tax declaration with the number of months of business stoppage. In absence of tax declaration these APs will be compensated as above but based on the maximum non-taxable salary (minimum salary). For permanent business workers and employees the indemnity for lost wages for the period of business interruption up to a maximum of 6 months will be provided. What will happen with community Community infrastructure affected during the project will be fully rehabilitated or infrastructure in affected areas? replaced, so as it is fully functional. How an AP can appeal any During consultation, survey and compensation the APs will be dully notified about their disagreeable decision, practice rights and the procedure of complaints introduction. The Grievance resolution process or activity arising from land or described in LARF was explained to participants in details. It was also noted that the other assets compensation? grievance mechanism does not limit the AP’s right to submit the case to the court of law just in the first stage of grievance process. APs from Ujan raised concern Participants were explained that consultations are held based on alignment proposed in regarding the proposed preliminary design. t was also clarified that their concern will be communicated to final alignment, which will divide design consultant, to that duly attention is paid to their request during finalization of their orchards into two parts. detailed design.
II. DISCLOSURE OF LARRELATED INFORMATION MATERIAL 86. A preliminary information leaflet has been prepared and distributed to the APs after the entry into force of the GoA Decree on eminent domain in order to create awareness among the APs regarding their entitlements and the compensation payment procedures and grievances redress mechanism.
87. Based on the LARP, a brochure summarizing the principles and entitlements defined in the LARP will be prepared in Armenian and distributed to all APs before approval of the loan.
88. This LARP will be translated in Armenian. Before loan approval the LARP in English will be disclosed on ADB’s website while the Aremenian vwerion will be posted on the EA website. Copies of the LARP in Armenian will also be made available at each affected local government office and at the EA offices.
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G. INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS
89. ADB will be the funding agency of the Program. The compensation/rehabilitation tasks described in the LARF of the Project involve distinct processes and dynamics and different actors. PIO will be the IA, MOTC will be the EA. The PMO has been established in MOTC and with the assistance of the consultants it will develop and implement the LARP for each Project based on the policy and procedures set out in the LARF and additions to LARF. Several other Government agencies will play instrumental roles in LAR processes. Pursuant to current legislation, the State Committee of Real Estate Cadastre of the Government of the Republic of Armenia is responsible for providing information about the status of real estate ownership, and is in charge of the state registration of ownership. Local governments will also be involved. The role of each of these actors is detailed below. An organogram of the organizational setting for the program is included in Figure 2.
I. MOTC/PIO 90. MOTC has overall responsibility for the Program. This includes preparation, implementation and financing of all LAR tasks and cross-agency coordination. MOTC will exercise its functions through PIO. The PIO will have LAR team (LART) who will be responsible directly to the PIO head for the general management of the planning and implementation of all LAR tasks. A Project Governing Council (PGC) made up of representatives from concerned ministries and chaired by RA Prime Minister will be established to oversee the Project and make high level decisions, including resolving high profile AP grievances or serving as a final decision making body for AP grievances, short of their being referred to the Courts. 91. The LART will be responsible for: (i) coordinate with Cadastral Office and local governments; (ii) obtain the needed cadastral maps and land records; (iii) assist the Consultants in Mapping, Surveying and Title Verification Activities; (iv) assist the Consultants in hiring the independent asset valuators and in defining the compensation rates for each affected item; (v) assist the consultants and local governments with the organization and implementation of public consultation meetings; (vi) send the LARP to ADB for review; (vii) disclose the LARP and the information pamphlets; (viii) plan and manage LARP implementation and the distribution of compensation; (ix) initiate eventual expropriation cases and coordinate with the courts; (x) assist in case of complaints; (xi) ensure proper internal monitoring; (xii) hire, following ADB recommendation, the Independent Monitoring Agency (IMA) and (xiii) coordinate with the appropriate government agencies to provide all needed documentation and ensure the prompt allocation of LAR budgets to the APs and will maintain the coordination of all LAR related activities. 92. All concerned staff involved in LAR tasks at PIO will undergo a two days-long orientation and training in ADB resettlement policy, management and Armenian legislation related to LAR. The training will be provided by the international and local Resettlement specialists of the project preparation consultants. Training will cover the following topics: i). Principles and procedures of land acquisition; ii). Public consultation and participation; iii). Entitlements and compensation & assistance disbursement mechanisms; iv). Grievance redress; and v). Monitoring of resettlement operations. 39 | Page
93. The Marzpetaran Transport Departments (MTDs) will assist the activities of the PIO and in particular SRS and will facilitate the communication with local authorities, assist in case of complaints and in the course of compensation delivery to the APs. At the level of the community local authorities will support surveys, complaints resolution and compensation delivery as needed.
II. CONSULTANTS 94. Different types of consultants will be involved in LAR tasks: i. PPTA Consultants: These will include international and local LAR capacity and needed survey teams and will carry out all field-surveys and prepare the needed LARPs for the first tranche. ii. Design Consultants: These will include international and local LAR capacity and needed survey teams and will carry out the same activities for updating/finalizing the First tranche LARPs and will prepare LARPs for the following tranches. iii. Supervision Consultants: These will include international and local LAR capacity and needed survey teams and will assist in the overall supervision of the projects. The supervision consultants will also oversee LARP Implementation and carry out external monitoring and evaluation of the implementation of LARP for following tranches of the Program. iv. Independent Monitoring Agency (IMA). This consultant will be hired to conduct the external monitoring and evaluation of the implementation of Tranche 2 LARP implementation. In the absence of a supervision consultant, the IMA will continue to carry out the external monitoring and evaluation for all the tranches. v. Independent Asset Valuators. These will be accredited private firms hired by PIO or Design consultants to evaluate the affected assets.
III. LOCAL SELF GOVERNMENT 95. Local authorities have direct jurisdiction for land administration and title verification. State Committee of Real Estate Cadastre Regional Offices will provide the data available in the local land registry and will facilitate the communication with community authorities. Community authorities will support surveys tasks, complaints resolution, AP consultation and compensation delivery as needed.
IV. OTHER AGENCIES AND INSTITUTIONS 96. Several other institutions will participate to the preparation and implementation of LAR tasks. These are: i Ministry of Finance. The budgets for the implementation of the LARPs will be provided to MOTC by the Ministry of Finance following the official approval of the final LARPs. ii State Committee of R eal Estate Cadastre of the Government of the Republic of Armenia. The State Committee of Real Estate Cadastre of the Government of the Republic of Armenia is responsible for providing information about the status of real estate ownership, and is in charge of the state registration of ownership. iii Local Courts. In case of expropriation issues MOTC will have to rely on the Marz
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court which based on due legal process will have to review the expropriation cases, carry out a hearing and decide whether the land can be expropriated and at what price.
V. ADB 97. Beside supervising periodically the Project ADB will review all LARPs and clear contract awards signing and initiation of civil works to all Projects with LAR. Figure 2: LAR Organogram and Action
Ministry of Finance
MOTC PGC
PIO State Committee of Cou
PIO/MTD Consultants Assessor Assist consultants
State Committee of Real Estate Cadastre Regional Office
Plot Verification
COMMUNITY AUTHORITIES
Functional role
Approval
Finances APs Complaints & grievanc
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H. COMPLAINTS AND GRIEVANCES
98. A grievance mechanism will be available to allow an AP appealing any disagreeable decision, practice or activity arising from land or other assets compensation. The Grievance resolution process will follow the steps defined below: (i) First, complaints resolution will be attempted at community level with the involvement of the community authorities and informal mediators. (ii) If still unsettled, a grievance can then be lodged to the MOTC, which will forward it to the PIO. Within 15 days the MOTC will dismiss the case or recommend its settlements to the PIO. (iii) If after the intervention and assistance with the MOTC and PIO no solution has been reached, MOTC must consult the PGC for their decision on whether to settle or go to Court. The PGC will provide a response within 15 days of registering the complaint. The PGC decision must be in compliance with these LARF provisions. (iv) Should the grievance redress system fail to satisfy the AP, they can pursue further action by submitting their case to the appropriate court of law.Nevertheless, above mentioned grievance mechanism does not limit the citizen’s right to submit the case to the court of law just in the first stage of grievance process.
99. A Grievance Redress Committee (GRC) will be established at the community level in each Village affected by the Project to resolve complaints and grievances informally through community participation. The GRC will be formed with representatives from MOTC, Village leader, APs, women APs (if any), to allow voices of the affected communities to be heard and ensure a participatory decision-making process. GRC decisions will be on a majority basis and will be publicized among the local communities. If the complainants are not satisfied with the GRC decisions, they can always file their cases in court. The GRCs will be established at the village level and will be composed as follows:
(i) Representative of LAR Commission of RDMRDI : Convener (ii) Representative Rayon LAR team : Member Secretary (iii) Village leader : Member (iv) Representative of APs : Member (v) Representative of Women APs (if any) : Member
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Figure 3: Organogram of the Complaints Process
MOTC PGC
State Committee of Real Estate PIO Court
Assessor
COMMUNITY AUTHORITIES
APs Functional role
Complaints & grievances
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I. LARP IMPLEMENTATION PROCESS
I. GENERAL 100. The time for implementation of resettlement plan will be scheduled as per the overall project implementation. All activities related to the land acquisition and resettlement must be planned to ensure that compensation is paid prior to displacement and commencement of civil works. Public consultation, internal monitoring and grievance redress will be undertaken intermittently throughout the project duration. However, the schedule is subject to modification depending on the progress of the Project activities. As part of advance actions following loan negotiations the EA (MOTC) will enhance the capacity in the PIO for resettlement implementation. The project LAR activities to be conducted are the followings (i) Updating DMS data and conducting detailed valuation survey and full consultations with APs; (ii) preparing Implementation-Ready LARP based on detailed design; (iii) Monitoring which includes both internal and external monitoring and (iv) Evaluation based on the stages of work and process of implementation, the details of activities involved in these phases are project preparation phase, LARP implementation phase including monitoring and Post-Implementation Evaluation phase.
II. PROJECT PREPARATORY STAGE 101. Setting up Project Management Unit for the resettlement activities will be the major task during the preparatory stage which is pre- implementation phase. Additionally, the Design Consultant needs to be appointed at this stage. The Implementation-ready LARP should be completed based on update of DMS and detailed valuation surveys based on the detailed engineering design in late December 2010. The updated LARP has to be sent to ADB and GoA for approval in January 2011, and upon the approval, the LARP needs to be disclosed.
III. LARP IMPLEMENTATION PHASE 102. Upon the approval of LARP, all the arrangements for fixing the compensation and the disbursement needs to be done which includes payment of all eligible assistance; relocation of APs; initiation of rehabilitation and rehabilitation measures; site preparation for delivering the site to contractors for construction and finally commencement of the civil work. Monitoring will be the responsibility of MOTC/PIO and will start early during the project when implementation of LARP starts and will continue till the complementation of the project.
IV. POST IMPLEMENTATION EVALUATION 103. The post-implementation evaluation will start immediately after the completion of the LAR implementation and upon start of the civil construction and will be carried out on intermittent basis by an Independent Monitoring Agency.
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V. LARP IMPLEMENTATION SCHEDULE 104. A timeline for LARP preparation, implementation and post implementation has been prepared in accordance with the key deadlines set with respect to Tranche-2: Finalization of LARP and submission to ADB: by 10 January 2011 ADB approval of LARP: by 5 February 2011 GoA approval of LARP: by 15 February 2011 Loan effectiveness (tentative): by 31 March 2011 Award of civil works contract for tranche 2: by 15 July 2011 Award of construction supervision contract for tranches 2 and 3: by 15 July 2011 Start of civil works: 15 August 2011
Different steps covered under this LARP and presented in Table 36 below.
Table 36: Timeline for LARP Preparation & Implementation
STEP ACTION RESPONSIBILITY DATE A) LARP PREPARATION 1 Assessment of Project’s Poverty and Social Impacts Consultant 2 Finalization of Detailed design Design consultants
3 Prepare surveys forms for Census and DMS, train local Census and DMS teams, and establish Consultant coordination with relevant local government s 4 Collection of cadastral and land parcel maps of the project area Consultants/ PIO 5 Verify land records in affected areas, update cadastral maps and carry out impacts and valuation Consultant/ PIO surveys – Detailed Measurement Survey (DMS) 6 Conduct public consultations Consultant/ LART 7 Negotiations with Aps Consultant/ LART 8 Integrate data from Census into the RP Consultant 9 Submission of LARP to Government of Armenia and ADB for approval Consultant/MOTC/PIO/ADB 10 Disclosure Consultant/ PIO B) LARP Finalization (Detailed Design) 1 Detailed Design Design Consultant 2 Review of impacts and AP lists based on detailed design Consultant/ LART 3 Review of prices based on the updated rate MOTC/ LART 4 Legalization of legalizable MOTC/ PIO 5 Preparation of the final LARP Consultant/ LART 6 ADB Approval ADB 7 Final RP disclosure: Distribution of RP and information pamphlets in Armenia in the affected LART /Consultant/ADB communities; posting of RP in English on the ADB website 8 Signing of civil contract award ADB/ PIO C) LARP IMPLEMENTATION 1 Approval of Contract awards Signing ADB 2 Detailed Schedule for compensation action plan LART/ MOTC 3 Distribution of Relocation Notices to Aps MOTC/ PIO 4 Award of Cheques for Land Compensation MOTC/ PIO
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STEP ACTION RESPONSIBILITY DATE 5 Award of Cheques for other Compensation & Assistance/ Rehabilitation MOTC/ PIO 6 Demolishing/ Relocation of Affected Structures/Assets MOTC 7 Review of RP Implementation through a compliance report MOTC/ LART /EMA/ADB 8 If RP Implementation found satisfactory, Notice to proceed for Civil works is issued ADB/ MOTC D) POST-IMPLEMENTATION TASKS 1 Independent evaluation of LARP EMA E) CYCLICAL/CONTINUOUS TASKS 1 Internal monitoring. Quarterly reporting to ADB LART 2 External Monitoring. Semi-annual reporting to ADB EMA/Supervision Consultant 3 Grievances Redress/Law Suites MOTC/ PIO /PGCC /Court 4 Inter-agency coordination and Communication with AP MOTC/ LART
105. This is a tentative schedule for LARP implementation for the project. However, section wise implementation mechanism may be followed in order to start the civil work in the completed section and to simultaneously proceed with the implementation of LARP for other section
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Table 37 LARP Preparation and Implementation Schedule Action 2010 2011 TASK Jan-Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Draft LARP Preparation 1 2 3 4 1 2 3412341234123412 3 4 123412341234 41234123 4 Cadastral survey Project Decree Detailed survey Preliminary valuation Draft LARP Preparation ADB review/approval Government Approval Draft LARP Disclosure PFR signing LARP Finalization Final detailed design. alignment Amendment Gov .Decree Decree publication/Letters to AP Final consultation DMS/Valuation/Legalization/ Description protocols finalized Final LARP preparation Final LARP approval(ADB) Final LARP approval (GOV) LARP budget allocation Civil works contract signing AP contracts signing /compensation Expropriation proceedings Compliance report submitted NOL for construction Start of civil works Monitoring
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J. RESETTLEMENT BUDGET AND FINANCING
I. GENERAL
106. The resettlement cost estimate for this Project includes eligible compensation, rehabilitation allowances and support cost for LARP implementation. The support cost, which includes administrative expenses are part of the overall project cost. Contingency provisions (10% of the total cost) have also been made to take into account variations from this estimate. Budgets for compensation for land and buildings/structures include also 50% contingency envisaged to shift from zonal cadastral price to market price. In case of any over-run in cost, MOTC will provide additional funds as needed in a timely fashion. Some of the features of this LAR cost estimate are outlined below: (i) Compensation for agricultural, pasture, residential/commercial land at their replacement value%; (ii) Compensation for structures and buildings at their replacement cost; (iii) Compensation for crops and trees; (iv) Assistance in lieu of the loss of business and livelihood ; (v) Assistance for severely affected HH; (vi) Assistance for Relocation and shifting of the structures; (vii) Assistance for vulnerable groups for their livelihood restoration; and (viii) Cost for implementation of LARP.
II. COMPENSATION
1. Compensation for Land
107. Values for the compensation of agricultural and residential land has been derived based on cadastral values + 15%. This valuation will be redone by an independent assessor based on market values + 15% once the final road alignment is defined and the results will be reflected in the final LARP. However to already reflect in this LARP a budget that can approach the final LARP valuation figures the budget provided below includes a 50% contingency. Legalizable APs will be legalized and paid as titled owners. Non-legalizable APs will be compensated with one time self-relocation allowances in cash equal to the cadastral value of the affected land. Leaseholders will be compensated as full owners or will be given a new lease. If this is not possible they will receive compensation based on the market value or cadastral value (whichever the highest) of the affected land + 15% in the following proportions based on the remaining years of lease: i) < 1 year 5%; 2) < 15 years 14% ; 3) < 25 years 20%;>25% 25% years. 108. Compensation amounts for land are presented below in Table 38 according to legal 2 status of the land and also overall for land compensation, 348,756,264 AMD for 273,707 m acquired. This compensation amount includes a 15 percent compensation provision, in line 48 | Page
with the Entitlement Matrix. Compensation for land having legal title is 338,280,022 AMD for 245,850 m2 acquired (90% of the total acquired), 195,918,950 AMD of which is for agricultural land for 203,234 m2 acquired (83%). Similarly, compensation for Leased & Non- Legal land is 10,476,242 AMD for 27,857 m2 acquired (10% of the total acquired), of which 2.666,479 AMD is for agricultural land, 8,846 m2 acquired (32%). Overall, including 50% contingency to shift from zonal cadastral price to market price, the compensation for land is calculated to be 523,134,396 AMD.
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Table 38: Land Losses by Category, Legal Status, and AMD Cost
Land Type Legal/Titles Legal Land Legal Land Leases & Leases & Unit Cost Total Leases & Non- Non-legal Non-legal Total Legal Land Unit Land Total Cost
No 2 2 No 2 2 No 2 Area (m ) AMD/m AMD Area (m ) AMD/m AMD Area m Cost (AMD) Plots Plots Plots II. Agricultural
o Arable Irrigable 18\8 115,438 728.67 84,116,207 2 1,133 497.79 563,996, 190 116,571 84,653,203 o Arable Non Irrigable 39 25,802 728.67 18,801,143 4 3,587 497.79 1,785,572 43 29,389 20,586,715 o Orchard 29 16,734 2,205.34 36,904,159 29 16,734 36,904,159 o Vineyards 22 18,778 2,671.549 50,166,347 1 235 534 125,490 23 19,013 50,291,837 o Pasture 23 26,482 223.967 5,931,094 6 5,828 37.478 218,421 29 32,310 6,149,515
I. Sub-total 301 203,234 - 195,918,950 13 8,846 - 2,666,479 314 214,017 198,585,429 III. Residential/Commercial 59 33,348 1,916.7 134,673,092 4 791 1,127.227 891,637 63 34,139 135,564,729 IV. Industrial 7 9,268 1,242.0 7,687,980 3 16,283 424.868 6,918,126 10 25,551 14,606,106
Grand Total 367 245,850 - 338,280,022 20 27,857 - 10,476,242 387 273,707 348,756,264
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2. Compensation for Structures
109. Compensation of structures is based on the unit rate collected from an independent property evaluator. Buildings/structures will be compensated to all APs irrespective of the house registration status in cash at replacement cost plus a 15% allowance. In case of partial impacts and unwillingness of the owner to relocate, building impacts will cover only the affected portion of a building and its full rehabilitation to previous use. 110. The overall compensation for buildings is estimated at 126,166,500 AMD. With a 15 percent compensation provision of 18,924,975 AMD, this comes to 145,091,475 AMD. Overall, including 50% contingency to shift from zonal cadastral price to market price, the 2 compensation for land is calculated to be 217,637,213 AMD. Overall, there are 1,452 m acquired, of overall construction uniformity (single story stone construction) but have varying unit costs. There are no residential structures among those lost and therefore no relocation of AHs. The structures are all owned by businesses or Government and communities, and no business will suffer permanent impacts from loss of their buildings, many of which are peripheral to their main business activities. See Table 39 for details.
Table 39: Buildings/Structures Prices
Building Category No Of Buildings Area Unit Total 2 (m ) Cost (AMD) (AMD)
Private
Buildings/Structures 2 56 92,000 5,152,000
Special Buildings/Structures
o Parking, Bus Stop Pavilion 1 12 57,500 690,000 Structure o Trade Hall 1 159 115,000 18,285,000
o Quarry Substations 2 511 92,000 47,012,000
o Quarry Warehouse 1 297 92,000 27,324,000
Public
Bus Stops 1 21 57,500 1,207,500
Water Pumping Station 1 108 92,000 9,936,000
Roadside Memorials 8 288 57,500 16,560,000
Total 17 1,452 126,166,500
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3. Compensation for Crops and Trees
111. Crop compensation will be paid to all AHs in cash at market rate by default at gross crop value of expected harvest. The unit rate has been decided based on the yielding of major crop over a period of one year. The major crops being cultivated in the Project Corridor of Impact (COI) are various cereals. These primarily include wheat and barley. In terms of value in AMD, wheat constitute 78 percent of the loss and barley 22 percent of the total loss of 4,427,555 AMD. See Table 40 below for details
Table 40: Crop Compensation
Variety Area Affected Yield (Kg/m2) Total Losses in Kgs Market Value per Kg Losses AMD Percent Wheat 105,13 0.3 31,539 110 3,469,290 78 Barley 33,623 0.3 10,087 95 958,265 22
Total 138,7 53 41,626 4,427,555 100 %
112. Compensation of trees is based on the replacement cost which has been calculated based on type, age and productive value of the trees. Tables 41 and 42 below show compensation calculated for saplings and non-productive trees and for productive trees respectively. The former is based on unit cost of the saplings and trees whereas the latter is based on productivity per m2 of orchard acquired.
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Table 41: Fruit Tree Compensation, Sapling and Non-Productive Saplings Not-Yet Productive Grand Total No Trees Unit Cost Total No Trees Unit Cost Total (AMD) Variety 1 tree (AMD) (AMD) 1 Tree (AMD)
Apple 304 5,000 1,520,000 0 na 0 1,520,000 Peach 161 5,000 805,000 22 2,000 44,000 849,000 Walnut 37 7,000 259,000 0 na 0 259,000 Quince 22 5,000 110,000 0 na 0 110,000 Apricot 8 5,000 40,000 2 10,000 20,000 60,000 Cherry 5 5,000 25,000 0 na 0 25,000 Pear 1 5,000 5,000 0 na 0 5,000 Plum 0 na 0 0 na 0 0 Sour Cherry 0 na 0 0 na 0 0 Total 2,764,000 64,000 2,828,000
Table 42: Fruit Tree Compensation, Productive Summary No Annual Yield Annual Total Yield Total No. Years To Grand Total (kg/m2) (kg) Unit Market Value AMD/Year Re-Grow Of Yield to Productive Category Total m2 (AMD/kg) Level Peach 630 11,034 1.5 16,551 388 6,421,788 3 19,265364 Apricot 581 14,674 1.3 19,076 154 2,937,735 4 11,750,940 Strawberries na 2,565 1.9 4,873 422 2,056,406 1 2,056,406 Apple 244 7,074 1.0 7,074 213 1,506,762 6 1,506,762 Walnuts 60 836 0.3 251 1,000 250,800 6 1,504,800 Quince 21 388 1.2 466 422 196,483 5 982,415 Sour Cherry 2 114 3.8 433 377 163,316 3 489,948 Plum 14 448 0.3 134 278 37,363 5 186,815 Pear 2 414 0.3 124 227 28,193 6 169,158 Cherries 13 141 0.2 28 254 7,163 5 35,815 Rosehip na 4 1.5 6 500 3,000 3 9,000 Total 356 37,692 m2 49,016 kg 11,552,603 35,901,017
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113. Overall compensation for fruit trees is presented in Table 43. The compensation for fruit trees will total 38,729,017 AMD, of which over 93 percent will be for 356 productive fruit trees, based on their Kg productivity per m2.
Table 43: Overall Summary Compensation for Fruit Trees
Type A MD Total Percent Productive 35,901,017 93 Sapling 2,764,000 6 Non Productive 64,000 1 Total 38,729,017 100 %
114. The compensation for fruit trees will total 38,729,017 AMD, of which over 93 percent will be for 356 productive fruit trees, based on their Kg productivity per m2. 115. There were no productive wood trees found in the highway COI. Compensation for wood trees will be 2,050,000 AMD for poplar trees (60%) and 1,365,000 AMD for willow trees (40%), for an overall total compensation of 3,415,000 AMD, as indicated in Table 44 below. 17 Table 44: Affected Saplings and Non-Productive Wood Trees
Saplings Not-Yet Productive Grand Total No Trees Unit Cost Total No Trees Unit Cost Total (AMD) Variety 1 Tree (AMD) 1 Tree (AMD) (AMD) Poplar 30 5,000 150,000 95 20,000 1,900,000 2,050,000 Willow 18 5,000 90,000 51 25,000 1,275,000 1,365,000 Total 48 240,000 146 3,175,000 3,415,000
4. Compensation for Vineyards
116. Compensation for vineyards is primarily based, as with productive fruit trees, on the productivity of Kg per M2 of acquired vineyard. For 3,855 m2 acquired vineyards, the compensation will be 4,487,220 AMD. In addition, compensation will be awarded to cover the cost of structures supporting the vineyards and is calculated by linear meter of vines. For the affected 945 linear meter of vines there are an estimated 475 concrete structures, at 3000, AMD per structure, for a cost of 1,425,000 AMD. The total compensation for vineyards will thusly be 5,912,220 AMD as shown in Table 45 below.
17 Diameter measurement: Sapling - up to 5 cm; Not-Yet-Productive - 5-15 cm; Productive - 15cm and more. 54 | Page
Table 45: Vineyard Compensation, by Productivity of Acquired m2 and by Linear Meter
Type Total Total Yearly Total Unit Total No. Years Grand LM m2 Yield Yield of Market AMD/Year To Re- Total 2 (kg/m ) All Value Of (AMD) Grow to (AMD Vineyards Yield Productive (kg) (AMD/kg) Level Vineyards na 3,855 0.4 1,542 291 448,722 4 4,487,220
Supporting Structures per Linear 945 1,425,000 Meter (LM) of Vine18
Total 5,912,220
4. Compensation for Business Loss
117. The unit cost for business loss has been calculated based on the one year net income. Assessment to be based on tax declaration. In absence of tax declaration the AH will receive a rehabilitation allowance based on the maximum non-taxable salary for the number of months of business stoppage up to 1 year. Permanent business employees will receive a rehabilitation allowance up to a maximum of 6 month’s minimum salary. Calculations for compensation for businesses having a tax declaration were carried out on a business by business bases based on the SES survey, as without an official notice declaration for the Project, this information could be obtained. However, it is probable that the total 81,841,800 AMD, is close to the reality, and this will be determined after the notice declaration is obtained and the LARP is updated having access to official Government records. The compensation for businesses with tax declaration will constitute about 99 percent of the total business compensation of 83,701,800 AMD.
Table 46: Compensation for Business Losses
Type of Business Number of Business Unit Cost Number of Months Total With Tax Declaration 30 na 3 81,841,800 Without Tax Declaration o Fixed Business 1 30,000 1 30,000 o Mobile Business 61 30,000 1 1,830,000 Total 92 83,701,800 118. There are 150 employees who will lose employment temporarily for about three months. They are compensated at 30,000 AMD per month for a total of 15,030,000 AMD.
Table 47: Table Compensation for Employment Loss
Number of Unit Cost, Number of Total
Employees AMD Months Compensation for Employees 150 30,000 3 13,500,000
18 For 945 LM compensation of vineyard structures (trellis) is for 475 concrete structures, at 3000, AMD per structure. The total is 1,425,000 AMD. 55 | Page
5. Rehabilitation Allowances
5.1 Severe Impact Allowances
119. One additional crop compensation covering 1 year yield will be provided for APs affected by severe agricultural losses. The relocated AHs will receive also rehabilitation allowance equal to 6 months minimum salary.
5.2 Relocation Allowances
120. Relocation allowances have been considered as taking in to account the cost for hiring a vehicle to transport the materials of the houses/and business structures. Additionally, a livelihood allowance of one month is considered as transitional period. Table 48 below summarizes the allowances budget, at 33,900,000 AMD
Table 48: Allowances Budget Type of Allowance Number of AH Allowance Unit Rate Total Vulnerable AH 165 180,00019 29,700,000 Severe Impacted AHs 60 70,000 AMD20 4,200,000 Total 225 33,900,000
6. Community Structures and Public Utilities
121. Will be fully replaced or rehabilitated so as to satisfy their pre-project functions.
19 Six months x 30,000 AMD 20 121 AMD average market value per m2 x 547 m2 average loss per severely affected (60 Severely Affected AHs) = 66,236 AMD = 70,000 AMD. This will be cross checked with the Valuator. 56 | Page
III. SUMMARY LARP COSTS AND SOURCE OF FINANCING
122. The total LARP cost calculated for the implementation of LARP for Tranche-2 Project is 1,506,670,092 AMD which is equivalent to 4,159,000 US Dollar, as detailed in Table 49 below. However, this cost will be revised and detailed based on the updated DMS and detailed valuation survey carried out after the RA Government Notification Decree on recognition of the Project as a public interest project. The MOTC will ensure the allocation of funds for compensation to be paid for land acquisition and resettlement. MOTC will get the budget approved from the Ministry of Finance and allocate in advance the funds for implementation of LARP. 123. Miscellaneous expenses have been kept as a provision to cover the administrative cost as may be incurred during implementation of the LARP. This has been considered on a lump sum basis.
Table 49: Summary Budget Costs
ITEM TOTAL I. COMPENSATION BUDGET, INCLUDING ALLOWANCES Land (Includes a 15% Compensation Provision and 50% adjustment) 523,134,396 Buildings and Structures (Includes a 15% Compensation Provision and 50% 217,637,213 adjustment) Crops 4,427,555 Fruit Trees 38,729,017 Wood Trees 3,415,000 Vineyards 5,912,220 Businesses 83,701,800 Employment 13,500,000 Allowances 33,900,000 Sub-Total 924,357,201 II. ADMI NISTRATIVE COSTS Direct Administration Costs [5% of Total] 46,217,860 External Monitoring Agency [5% of Total] 46,217,860 Total 1,004,446,728 Contingency 50% 502,223,364 Total LAR Budget (AMD) 1,506,670,092 Total LAR Budget (USD)21 4,159,20 0
21 1 USD = 362.25 AMD 57 | Page
K. MONITORING AND EVALUATION
I. INTERNAL MONITORING
124. Internal monitoring will be carried out routinely by PIO either directly or through the services of a consultant. The results will be communicated to ADB through the quarterly project implementation reports. Indicators for the internal monitoring will be those related to process and immediate outputs and results. This information will be collected directly from MTD and reported monthly to PIO/MOTC to assess the progress and results of LARP implementation, and to adjust the work program, if necessary. The monthly reports will be quarterly consolidated in the standard supervision reports to ADB. Specific monitoring benchmarks will be: o Information campaign and consultation with APs; o Status of land acquisition and payments on land compensation; o Compensation for affected structures and other assets; o Relocation of APs; o Payments for loss of income; o Selection and distribution of replacement land areas; and o Income restoration activities
125. The above information will be collected by PIO which is responsible for monitoring the day-to-day resettlement activities of the project through the following instruments: o Review of census information for all APs; o Consultation and informal interviews with APs; o In-depth case studies; o Sample survey of APs; o Key informant interviews; and o Community public meetings.
II. EXTERNAL MONITORING
126. External monitoring will be carried out in parallel with the implementation of each LARP and will result in a quarterly report and in a final compliance report indicating whether the compensation program has been carried out based on the provisions of this LARF and ADB policy and with the satisfaction of the APs. The compliance report will be communicated to PIO/MOTC and ADB and will be a condition to start civil works. External monitoring for the Tranche 2 will be carried out by an IMA to be selected and hired among NGOs, Academic Institutions or independent consultants by PIO. Indicators for External Monitoring tasks will include: 58 | Page
o Review and verify internal monitoring reports prepared by PIO/MOTC; o Review of the socio-economic baseline census information of pre-displaced persons; o Identification and selection of impact indicators; o Impact assessment through formal and informal surveys with the affected persons; o Consultation with APs, officials, community leaders for preparing review report; and o Assess the resettlement efficiency, effectiveness, impact and sustainability, drawing lessons for future resettlement policy formulation and planning. 127. As part of the final compliance report the IMA will also assess the status of project affected vulnerable groups such as female-headed households, disabled/elderly and families below the poverty line. The following will be considered as the basis for indicators in monitoring and evaluation of the project: o Socio-economic conditions of the APs in the post-resettlement period; o Communications and reactions from APs on entitlements, compensation, options, alternative developments and relocation timetables etc.; o Changes in housing and income levels; o Rehabilitation of informal settlers; o Valuation of property; o Grievance procedures; o Disbursement of compensation; and o Level of satisfaction of APs in the post resettlement period. 128. The IMA will carry out a post-implementation evaluation of the LARP about a year after completion of its implementation. The compelling reason for this study is to find out if the objectives of the RP have been attained or not. The benchmark data of SES of severely affected APs conducted during the preparation of the LARP and Poverty Social Assessment (PSA) will be used to compare the pre and post project conditions. The IMA will recommend appropriate supplemental assistance for the APs should the outcome of the study show that the objectives of the LARP have not been attained.
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APPENDIX A
Principles of Compensation Under Land Acquisition and Resettlement Framework
Principles of compensation, envisaged under Paragraph 8 “Entrepreneurship / business” and Paragraph 11 “Support to Vulnerable People” of the Scheme of Rights, presented under Land Acquisition and Resettlement Framework (LARF) have been presented within the format of this Document.
Acronyms, used in this Document have been formed under the LARF.
As detailed in the LARF the eligibility to receive provisions listed below is limited by a cut-off date set for subproject on the day of the begining of the affected persons census and DMS (signing decsription protocols with each affected person). Affected persons who settle in the affected areas or make any improvements after the cut-off date will not be eligible for compensation.
1. Compensation of Legal Entity and Private Entrepreneur
The basis for compensation will be the information provided by the State Revenue Committee under the Government of RA, which will be based on the financial and tax statements submitted by legal entity and private entrepreneur for previous fiscal year. Calculation of compensation will be made based on the following principles:
1) In case of permanent termination of activities of the legal entity or private entrepreneur and as a result of Project implementation – one-off compensation, equal to net annual revenue stated in the previous fiscal year financial reports or declaration, but not less than AMD 30000 (30-fold of the minimum salary) per each month.
2) In case of temporary termination of activities of legal entity or private entrepreneur as a result of Project implementation – one-off compensation for the whole period of termination of activities (up to one year) following the date, indicated in the application, submitted to the State Revenue Committee under the Government of RA and before the completion of construction activities in the given section of the road (according to the set forth Schedule of Construction Activities). For these months, yet not more than for one year, compensation for each whole month of temporary termination of activities shall be made in the amount of monthly average of the net annual revenue for the previous fiscal year, but not less than AMD 30000 (30- fold of the minimum salary) per each month. In case construction lasts longer than determined in the LARP and lengthens the temporary termination of activities, additional compensation shall be provided during project implementation for those additional whole months, but not more than for one year in total. The PIU will assist the affected parties in submission of the application on termination of activities to the State Revenue Committee under the Government of RA.
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2. Compensation of Leg al Entity and Private Entrepreneur without financial reports or declaration
Calculation of compensation the legal entity or private entrepreneur without tax declaration will be made based on the following principles:
1) Legal entity or private entrepreneur with state registration
a) In case of permanent termination of activities, legal entity or private entrepreneur with state registration will receive absolute compensation against the expenses for state registration and acquisition of license plus one-off compensation for one year to be calculated in the monthly amount of AMD 30000 (30-fold of the minimum salary)
b) In case of temporary termination of activities, legal entity or private entrepreneur with state registration will receive one-off compensation to be calculated in an amount of AMD 30000 (30-fold of the minimum salary) per each month of termination of activities (up to one year).
The period of termination is determined based on the duration of construction in the road section occupied by the affected property as specified in the LARP. The provision of the compensation is conditional to submission of application on temporary termination of activities by the AP to the State Revenue Committee under the Government of RA for the duration specified in the LARP. In case construction lasts longer than determined in the LARP and lengthens the temporary termination of activities, additional compensation shall be provided during project implementation for those additional months, but not more than for one year in total. The PIU will assist the affected parties in submission of the application on termination of activities to the State Revenue Committee under the Government of RA.
2) Entrepreneurs without state registration will be considered as permanently affected and will receive only one-off compensation for one year to be calculated in the monthly amount of AMD 30000 (30-fold of the minimum salary).
3. Compensation of Workers
Permanent workers are considered those people, who work in the organization, located in the affected territory (at the entrepreneur) who pay social charges for those workers, according to the established order before the date, when the GoA Decree on approving this Documents, enters into force. The calculation of compensation shall be made by the following principles:
1) In case of permanent termination of operation of the organization or private entrepreneur the worker shall receive a one-off compensation for 6 months in the monthly amount of AMD 30000 (30-fold of minimum salary).
2) In case of temporary termination of activities of the organization or private entrepreneur the worker/employee shall receive a one-off compensation for those months of termination of activities, which will follow the month of submission by the Employer of the Application of termination of activities to the State Revenue Committee and before the completion of road
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construction activities in the given section, yet total compensation shall be provided for not more than for 6 months in the monthly amount of AMD 30000 (30-fold of the minimum salary).
4. Compensation to Socially Vulnerable People
Socially vulnerable people shall receive a one-off allowance for 6 months in the monthly amount of AMD 30000 (30-fold of the minimum salary).
Socially vulnerable people are considered:
a) Poverty -stricken households, which are registered in the Family Benefit System of the MLSI of RA and receive corresponding allowance according to the order, set forth under RA legislation. b) Households, headed by lonely, widowed or with lost breadwinner women, where there is no other working age person, except the one of pension age, the one passing his mandatory service in the armed forces of RA, holding 1st or 2nd degree of disability or a full-time student of up to 23 years. c) Households, headed by people of the pension age (elderly), where there is no other working age person, except the one of pension age, the one passing his mandatory service in the armed forces of RA, holding 1st or 2nd degree of disability or a full-time student of up to 23 years.
5. Compensation of AH-s, below the Poverty Line
If during drafting of descriptions, consulting companies of the PIU reveal that the AH is poor, yet has not been involved in the Family Benefit System, then the PIU shall inform the MLSI of RA and body providing social services for the given region to involve given households in the Family Benefit System, according to the order, established under the Law. These households shall receive rehabilitation allowance only after the involvement in the Family Benefit System.
Those households (families) will receive rehabilitation assistance only in case when those families are registered in the insecurity assessment system and if they obtain the right for family allowance.
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