Bi-Annual Environmental Monitoring Report, July-December 2014

Bi-annual Environmental Monitoring Report

Project Number: 42145 July - December 2014

Armenia: North-South Road Corridor Investment Program, Tranches 1 and 2 (Financed by the ADB)

Prepared by the “Organization for Implementation of North-South Road Corridor Investment Program” State Non-Commercial organization (PMU) based on the monthly Environmental Monitoring Reports of the Project Management Consultant (PMC)

Table of Contents Part I Introduction ...... 6 1. Construction Activities and Project Progress During Reporting Period ...... 7 2. Environmental Safeguards Staffing ...... 8 2.1 PMU External Impact and Resettlement Component ...... 9 2.2 The PMC Environmental Safeguards Unit ...... 9 2.3 The Contractor’s Environmental Unit ...... 10 Part II Environmental Management ...... 11 3. Environmental Safeguards Program ...... 11 3.1 Compliance with National Safeguards ...... 11 3.2 Compliance with ADB Safeguards ...... 11 3.3 Contractor’s Compliance with the EMP ...... 12 3.4 Approvals of the Site-specific environmental management plans for Quarries, Borrow Pits, Excavated Material Dumping, Topsoil Stockpiling, Concrete Batching Plants and Historical monuments ...... 12 3.5 ADB Mission ...... 12 3.6 Trainings and awareness raising orientation ...... 14 3.7 Archaeological Works Program ...... 14 3.8 Grievance redress mechanism and Consultations ...... 15 3.9 Communication ...... 16 Part III Environmental Monitoring ...... 18 4. Monitoring ...... 18 4.1 Monitoring of the Compliance with EMP in Section 1, Section 2 and Section 3 ...... 18 4.2 Instrumented Measurements and Monitoring of Environmental Parameters of Air Quality, Noise and Vibration, Water Quality...... 19 4.3 PPMS Indicators ...... 20 4.4 Non-compliance Notices ...... 20 5. Conclusions and Recommendations ...... 20 6. Action plan for the reporting period from January to June 2015: ...... 22

A N N E X E S

ANNEX A The Status of Topsoil Stockpiling and Excavated Material Dump Sites in Section 1

ANNEX B Summary Table on Status of Archaeological Excavations

ANNEX C Baseline Data Collection Schedule

ANNEX D Extracts from Noise, Dust and Vibration Assessment Reports

ANNEX E Non-Conformances Detected During Monitoring Visits in Reporting Period

List of Abbreviations

ADB Asian Development Bank

CEMP Contractor’s Environmental Management Plan

EMP Environmental Management Plan

EIA Environmental Impact Assessment

IEE Initial Environmental Examination

IES International Environmental Specialist

NES National Environmental Specialist

PMC Project Management Consultant organization

PMU Project Management Unit

MNP Ministry of Nature Protection

MoTC Ministry of Transport and Communications

MoC Ministry of Culture

SEMP Site Management Plan

TMP Traffic Management Plan

EMR Environmental Monitoring Report

Part I Introduction

This Bi-annual Environmental Monitoring Report covers the time period between July and December of 2014.

The Report was prepared based on the Project Management and Supervision Consultant (PMC) and the contractor reports, which is the joint venture of French “Safege” and Spanish “Eptisa” companies for T1 and T2.

1. 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 funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) under a multi-tranche funding facility (MFF).

2. The MFF is designed to rehabilitate and upgrade national north-south roads to form a new, upgraded and expanded North-South 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.

3. Tranche 1 Project is to improve two road sections of the North-South Corridor, namely, the M-1 section of road north from Yerevan to Ashtarak from km 18+370 to km 29+773 (Section 3 in the contract with Contractor) and the M-2 section of road south from Yerevan to Ararat from km 9+312 to km 47+400 (Section 2 in the contract with Contractor).

4. The Tranche 2 Project starts at km 29+600 in Ashtarak and end at km 71+500 close to Talin (Section 1 in the contract with Contractor). 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 Katnagbyur 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.

Figure 1. Tranche1 and Tranche2 of North-South Road Corridor

1. Construction Activities and Project Progress During Reporting Period

During the reporting period the following construction activities were implemented:

1.1 Section 1 Ashtarak-Talin M1 road (PK 29+600-PK 71+500):

Construction works were implemented by “Corsan Corviam Construction” S.A. Armenian Branch and its subcontractors “Dental Import” LLC, “Mirada” LLC, and “Nivecotrans” LLC.

The following construction activities were implemented: clearing and grubbing, construction of culverts and underpasses, culverts backfilling, embankment, rock ripper excavation, common excavation, located excavation and demolition, blasting, top soil removing and stockpiling as well as preparation of widening of traffic diversions.

Safety/security measures: the construction works through this period include installation of concrete blocks and installation/shifting traffic regulating signs and signals.

1.2 Section 2 Yerevan-Ararat M2 road (PK 9+312-PK 28+900):

Construction works were implemented by “Corsan Corviam Construction” S.A. Armenian Branch and its subcontractors “Dental Import” LLC, “AAB” LLC, “Betonika” LLC, “A. Sargsyan” LLC, “A. Torosyan” LLC, “Jakshin” LLC, “Ergus” LLC, “Mirada” LLC, “Nivecotrans” LLC.

The reconstruction works were implemented in sections PK 9+312 to PK 28+900 of the Yerevan- Ararat M2 road.

The following construction works were implemented: subgrade, sub base and base preparation works, construction of precast drainage, micro milling, approaching to the bridge base, repairing of damages on concrete pavement works, embankment and concrete pavement works, provisional road marking, replacement of obstacles of concrete paver, patching of asphalt, milling of asphalt, construction of shoulders, joint cutting, beveling, sealing, construction of ramp accesses and outflows.

Safety/security measures: the construction works through this period include installation of concrete blocks and traffic regulating sings and signals.

1.3 Section 3 Yerevan-Ashtarak M1 road (PK 18+370-PK 29+773):

Construction works of M1Yerevan–Ashtarak road is being implemented by “Corsan Corviam Construction” S.A. Armenian Branch and its subcontractors “Dental Import” LLC, “Nivecotrans” LLC, “Betonika” LLC and “Mirada” LLC.

The following works have been implemented in (PK 18+370-PK 29+773) road sections of the M1 Yerevan–Ashtarak road: demolition of existing asphalt, excavation, embankment, construction of shoulders, construction of median of the road, bottom excavation, base and sub base preparation, installation of monolithic side ditch works and concrete pavement works, construction of concrete manholes, construction of precast side ditches, joint cutting, beveling and sealing works, and concrete pavement works.

Safety/ security measures: the construction works through this period include installation of concrete blocks and traffic regulating sings and signals.

Construction works are temporarily stopped on all three sections on 20 December 2014 due to unfavourable weather conditions.

2. Environmental Safeguards Staffing

The Project Management Unit is implementing day-to-day management of project execution. The PMU includes a Legal and External Impact Unit whose responsibilities include the management of all environmental aspects of the project.

The Project Management Consultant is providing Technical Assistance to the PMU in the management and reporting of the project. Environmental Safeguards Unit of the PMC is responsible for supervising the construction works in relation to environmental and archaeological impact and, in particular, for supervising and reporting on the Contractor’s performance in the implementation of the EMP.

Contractor is implementing construction works. Contractor’s Environmental Unit is responsible for implementation of the EMP, CEMP and SEMPs, monitoring of the construction activities and reporting.

Monitoring Reporting Project Management Unit

Project Management Consultant

Contractor

2.1 PMU External Impact and Resettlement Component

External Impact and Resettlement activities are undertaken by External Impact and Resettlement Coordinator; Social Safeguards Specialist and Environmental Specialist:

Mr. Gevorg Afyan- External Impact and Resettlement Coordinator, responsible for Environmental, Resettlement and social management of the project, replaced the former External Impact and Resettlemt Coordinator - Armine Yedigaryan in November 2014.

Mss. Sona Poghosyan- Social Safeguards Specialist is responsible for the compliance of the project to ADB’s Safeguard Policy and RA Legislation.

Ms. Mariam Badeyan– Environmental Specialist is responsible for the compliance of the project to ADB’s Environmental Policy and RA Legislation.

2.2 The PMC Environmental Safeguards Unit

Presently the PMC Environmental Safeguard Unit consists of:

Ms. Edita Vardgesyan, the National Environmental Specialist (NES) is responsible for the overall management of the unit. She works on a part-time basis. NES was not involved during July – August and December due to her input time runs over as per Service Agreement VO2 and the environmental safeguard program has been implemented by Engineer’s site- inspectors. The following inputs in Service Agreement VO3 ( which has not been finalized yet) are planned: 1) NES: 10 days in March, 10 days in May, 8 days in August and 8 days in October, and

2) IES: in May (the whole month).

Mr. Boris Gasparyan, the National Archaeology Expert (NAE), is responsible for the consultancy on archaeological issues and implementation of archaeological excavations in Tranche 2, compliance of the construction activities to the related Armenian archaeological legislation and evaluation visits to the borrow pit, dumping and concrete plant sites with archaeological evaluation purposes. During December NAE was not involved due to his input time runs over as per Service Agreement VO2.

Mr. Charles Adamson the International Environmental Specialist (IES) is responsible for the provision of consultation on international best practices on environmental safeguards. During the reporting period he didn’t have input.

2.3 The Contractor’s Environmental Unit

The Contractor’s Environmental Unit is staffed by four people:

Mr. Javier Gomez Moreno, the Quality and Environmental Manager, is responsible for the overall management of the Environmental Unit;

Mr. Viktor Bakhtamyan, the Environmental Specialist, is responsible for the environmental management plan implementation;

Mr. Sos Amirkhanyan, the Social Relation Specialist, is responsible for the compliance of the Contractor’s activities to social part of the ADB Safeguard Policy Statement;

Mrs. Patricia Ortega Gonzalez, Health and Safety Manager is responsible for the compliance of the Contractor’s activities to health and safety part of the ADB Safeguard Policy Statement.

Part II Environmental Management

3. Environmental Safeguards Program

3.1 Compliance with National Safeguards 3.1.1 In the reporting period it was managed that construction complies with all national pertinent environmental laws and regulations.

3.1.2 Topsoil stockpiling operations in Ashtarak- Talin M1 Road Section 1 were implemented in accordance with applicable Armenian legislation and regulations, particularly RA Land Code (2001), RA Government Decision No 1396-N and RA Government Decision No 1026-N.

3.1.3 As an environmentally active economic agent Contractor provides regular environmental reports to MNP in accordance with Armenian legislation. The four quarterly reports for 2014 were submitted by Contractor to MNP during the reporting period.

3.1.4 Contractor ensures all necessary communication with local (communities) and territorial administrative authorities (marzes) to comply with Armenian legislation during construction and obtains permits and approvals for any use of territory and roads for transportation, waste dumping, material borrowing or plant installation purposes.

3.2 Compliance with ADB Safeguards 3.2.1 In order to ensure the environmental performance, it was supervised that construction activity implementation meets EMP requirements which prepared in accordance with ADB Environmental Policy.

3.2.2 Prior operating any site for topsoil stockpiling and excavated material disposal in Ashtarak- Talin M1 Road Section 1 the Site-specific Environmental Management Plan containing the identification of site-specific environmental impacts, risk assessment and mitigation measures is being prepared by Contractor guided with the Environmental Safeguards Information kit prepared by ADB Central & West Asia Department Safeguards Unit. The following procedures are adopted: (i) Contractor selects the site for topsoil stockpiling or dumping of excavated material; (ii) PMC NES and AE visit the site and provide Contractor with site evaluation report with identified sensitive receptors and recommendations on the site use (during the reporting period 6 evaluation reports were provided); (iii) Contractor secures the site and prepares SEMP based on the findings of evaluation report and submits for PMC approval; (iv) PMC NES reviews the SEMP and issues an approval; (v) Then Contractor is permitted to start the site operation.

3.2.3 Following the ADB request the meeting with local NGOs have been held in July in ADB office with the purpose to present the archaeological component of the Project in Section 1 and the progress in implementation of the archaeological works plan, as well as the mitigation measures planned for Aruch Caravansarai archaeological monument and for other area directly impacted by the construction works and situated in close proximity to the road under construction. 3.2.4 A series of public hearings were implemented in communities impacted by the Project in Ashtarak- Talin road sections to meet the ADB SPS (2009) requirements on information disclosure and public participation. The details were presented below in 3.7 Consultations and Grievance redress mechanism.

3.3 Contractor’s Compliance with the EMP 3.3.1 In order to ensure the environmental performance Construction Contractor is guided by the IEE and EMP for Tranche 1 and EIA and EMP for Tranche 2 as a part of the Bid and Contract documents as well as by the Contractor’s Environmental Management Plans for three road sections prepared by the contractor that detail on site environmental management requirements implementation and management, particularly construction impacts mitigation, monitoring and reporting requirements. Compliance with EMP is being regularly monitored and reported (see Part III Environmental Monitoring).

3.4 Approvals of the Site-specific environmental management plans for Quarries, Borrow Pits, Excavated Material Dumping, Topsoil Stockpiling, Concrete Batching Plants and Historical monuments 3.4.1 Series of evaluation visits to road section 1 were implemented to evaluate the sites selected by Contractor for topsoil stockpiling and excavated material disposal from environmental and archaeological point of view. The following sites proposed by Contractor have been visited: Talin-2 excavated material disposal site (DS) and Kosh-3 site for temporary stockpiling of topsoil. Presence of some archaeological sites was stated during the visit in close proximity to the Talin-2 site and Contractor was requested to properly address in the SEMP.

3.4.2 The Site-specific Environmental Management Plans (SEMP) for the following sites in Section 1 have been approved during the reporting period: Katnaghbyur-5 DS (approved on 8 September 2014), Katnaghbyur -4 DS (approved on 22 September 2014), Talin -1 TSS (approved on 20 October 2014), Aruch -1 DS and Aruch -2 DS (approved on 20 October 2014) and final version of Site- specific archaeological management plan (SAMP) for Aruch Caravansaray (approved on 26 September 2014)

Detailed information on the process of preparation and review of SEMPs for topsoil stockpiling and excavated material disposal in Section 1 is provided in monthly progress reports. The status of topsoil stockpiling and excavated material dump sites in Section 1, and the SEMPs for their operation is presented in Annex A.

3.5 ADB Mission

3.5.1 Environmental safeguard review was conducted within the framework of annual country safeguard mission by ADB in 12-13 November 2014 and the mission wrap up meeting on 20 November 2014. Site visits were conducted to the following sites: two concrete plants, both are near closing the production, Jrahovit borrow pit site (closed and handed over the local community), Masis and Ashtarak-2 disposal sites in T1 and Katnaghbyur-3 in T2 (all in operations), Katnaghbyur-2 top soil stockpiling site in T2, three archeological excavation sites along the road sections of T2, T3 alignment from Talin to Lanjik

3.5.2 Mission findings are:

 All recommendations made in the previous audit have been implemented or on-going, except that SEMP should be developed for Shahverd artificial wetland before commencing construction work. The Mission requested that necessary signboards with project information and safety warning signs be placed along the road sections, all disposal sites and topsoil stockpiles.  SEMPs for 6 borrow sites and disposal sites of T1, for 19 disposal sites and topsoil stockpiles of T2 have been developed and approved by PMC on behalf of PIU. 7 disposal and topsoil stockpiling sites’ approvals are in process. A SAMP was approved for Aruch Caravansary heritage site. The mission reminded that (i) PIU informs ADB of approval of SEMPs for records, and (ii) PIU keeps in the project files all hand-over memo after site closure.  PMC: The PMC's national Environmental and Archaeological specialists’ contracts were expired in Oct 2014. VO should be approved by PIU and ADB to provide additional time for their involvement. PIU should ensure that PMC's international environmental consultant provides trainings to PIU, PMC and Contractor staff at each his field visit.  Building PIU’s capacity for ENV management is critical, given that the environmental staff is new and T3 will not have PMC service.  T1 over-pass: Resulted from the public consultation two over-passes have been proposed in locations of Marmarashen and Burastan communities’ interchanges. Design consultant should develop a SEMP for these sites for PIU and ADB approval prior to commencing construction. Special emphasis should be put on the houses located along the road in Marmarashen community and on the drainage system in Burastan community.  Archeological works: Realignment of the access road near Aruch Caravansary heritage site has been endorsed by the PIU and detailed design is on-going. - The excavation work of Agarak archeological site (#2) has opened up a significant habitation site which would have big potential for tourism development and historic conservation. The Mission requested full compliance with SPS 2009 on Physical and Cultural Resources and supported that PMC’s archeological specialist will discuss possible realignment with PIU and Ministry of Culture. No blasting work will be allowed in this area. - Excavation at Aghadzk (#3) may not be completed by end 2014 due to late payment from the contractor - Site #4 (at Nerkin Sasnashen): will be excavated in 2015 after MOC has designated this site as archeological.  Tranche 3. As an EIA for the whole Tranche 3 (46.5 km) has been approved and EIB has agreed to adopt ADB’s SPS 2009 for EIB-financed section, there will not be the need to split up the EIA. However, the Mission requested that bidding documents have a clear footnote requiring the application of EMP for ADB-financed section only (18.7 km). Major environmental concerns on this section are impacts of air pollution (dust) on the two towns in Mastara and Lanjik, and on the productivity of agricultural crops.

Overall the project was assessed compliant. During next reporting period PIU will solve all issues related to the findings.

3.6 Trainings and awareness raising orientation 3.6.1 Regular awareness raising discussions with the PMC’s newly recruited staff on ADB environmental safeguard requirements were conducted by PMC NES.

3.6.2 A special training on ADB environmental safeguard requirements particularly on traffic management plans and road safety issues was organized by Contractor’s environmental team on 10 July in Ashtarak office. Engineer ensured the participation of staff drivers.

3.6.3 Training on Archaeological chance finds procedure and awareness raising session on mitigation measures for construction activities was implemented next to archaeologically sensitive areas in Nerkin Bazmaberd to Kosh for Contractor's engineering and working staff (including subcontractors) on 17 October 2014;

3.6.4 On December 09, 2014 the Environmental Team of “Corsan Corviam Construction” S.A. Armenian branch conducted environmental training with 12 workers of “Kamurjshin” LLC.

3.7 Archaeological Works Program 3.7.1 Excavations and fieldworks have been done in Agarak, Aghtsk and Nerkin Naver archaeological sites.

3.7.2 The final reports on excavations implemented in 2013 in Verin Sasnashen, Nerkin Sasnashen, Nerkin Bazmaberd and Kaqavadzor communities are submitted to the RA State Archaeological Commission and accepted by Commission on 12 of July 2014.

3.7.3 Request submitted by “Scientific Research Center of the Historical and Cultural Heritage SNCO” excavating entity for additional excavations in Nerkin Sasnashen community and supported by MoC is being processed. Request is being justified by the appearance of the endangered archaeological monument as a result of test excavations which needs to be protected. Archaeological Work Plan will be prepared when MoC will provide the official boundaries of the monument.

3.7.4 Series of archaeological evaluation visits were organized to sites selected by Contractor in Talin, Yeghnik, V. Sasnashen, Katnaghbyur and Kosh communities for topsoil stockpiling and excavated material dumping.

3.7.5 Monitoring inspection visits are carried out in Agarak, Nerkin Naver and Aghtsk archaeological sites to check compliance of the works to mitigation measures planned for archaeologically sensitive area situated in close proximity to the road under construction.

3.7.6 Investigation of the area of Aruch- Agarak interchange under the new design took place on 21 November 2014. It showed that the volume of the planned future archaeological excavations will be decreased according to the new design.

3.7.7 Summary report on current status of contracts with excavating units and status of excavations implemented during the reporting period is presented in Annex B.

3.8 Grievance redress mechanism and Consultations

3.8.1 Grievance redress mechanism to address the complaints/suggestions of communities on excessive dust, noise, improper waste dumping and on other environmental issues i s established which is described in Tranche 2 Environmental Impact Assessment. The grievance redress mechanism is additional to the existing channels of petitions in the form of letters and personal pleas established by local governments.

The Grievance Procedure and Redress Mechanism steps are shown graphically in figure 2.

Figure 2. Grievance Procedure and Redress Mechanism

Contractor provided the Complaints Register book to every impacted community which is kept at the office of head of the community and is open accessed to community members. Also the posters posted in every community containing the contact information where to apply should any disturbances occur. Mr. Sos Amirkhanyan, the Contractor’s Social Relation Specialist, is responsible for collecting concerns about project activity. His telephone number, email address, and name is posted on the posters. No complains and/or suggestions on environmental issues are registered as of today.

3.8.2 During the reporting period Contractor provided the Complaints Register book to Aruch and Shamiram communities. Also the posters attached in every community containing the contact information how to make an application should any disturbances occur.

3.8.3 On 23 September 2014 the public hearing was held in Kosh community in the scope of public participation and information disclosure program for Section 1. The purpose of the hearings was to inform the affected community on possible environmental impacts during the construction works. The possible environmental impacts and planned mitigation measures of the project were presented by Contractor’s environmental specialist. It was emphasized that impact shall be temporary and all emissions shall be in the limits of the permitted standards. Contractor applied for the allocation of sites for topsoil stockpiling and excavated material as well as for other construction waste disposal. Also the grievance redresses mechanism for suggestions and complains of effected people for the dissatisfaction cases was presented.

No environmentally related concerns were raised on the public hearing in Kosh community.

3.9 Communication 3.9.1 Regular meetings and discussions with PMC NES and NAE took place during the reporting period and various environmental and archaeological related issues discussed. Particularly the issues on trees hindering the construction process in Section 1: PIU suggested to advise the Contractor to organize the tree cutting in accordance with Contract GS 401.01; on contracts with excavating entities for excavations in Nerkin Naver, Aghtsk and Agarak archaeological sites and procurement procedures; on the SAMP for Aruch Caravansaray archaeological monument; on archaeological excavations in newly discovered site in Nerkin Sasnashen; and other routine issues.

3.9.2 Communication with Contractor’s environmental team took place via regular weekly meetings, official letters, emails, phone calls and personal contacts. Various issues were discussed. Particularly the following issues were discussed during the reporting period:

- Blasting operations: Contractor was reminded that blasting operations were being organized not properly: the Method Statement was not submitted, environmental impacts were not identified and protective measures were not planned; Contractor was requested to make proper arrangements for the next blasting;

- Environmental impacts of blasting operations: Contractor was requested to clean the private land plots in Nerkin Bazmaberd community from the stones appeared there as a result of blasting operations implemented in end of July in Section 1.

Contractor with the Letter Ref No 2292 dated 22 September 2014 reported that all the stones as a consequence of blasting works were removed and cleaned, the head of community Mr. Kh. Noreyan was provided the satisfaction letter; - Method statement for underpass partial demolition: Contractor has submitted the document for Km 57+780 without any environmental considerations;

- On the comments to the rejected SEMPs for Kosh-1 and Kosh-2 dump sites;

- On the arrangement of additional training on environmental and safety safeguards for the newly recruited staff;

- On the arrangements necessarily to be implemented on-site in all three sections before winter season stopping of the construction works;

- On the findings of monitoring of noise level in Section 1 conducted by the end of October 2014. Contractor was notified that the noise maximum levels exceeded the threshold values and requested to take appropriate measures. In the response letter Contractor explained the reasons of exceeding and pointed out that the average noise level is being kept in the standards set by Armenian legislation;

- On the findings of monitoring visit carried out by PMC NES;

- Other routine issues.

Part III Environmental Monitoring

4. Monitoring

During the reporting period monitoring activities were carried out according to the Monitoring program developed based on the ADB safeguards and EMP requirements. The Monitoring program includes:

(1) Regular monitoring site visits on monthly basis to check compliance of construction activities in the road Sections 1, 2 and 3 to the EMP requirements, as well as monitoring of topsoil stockpiling and excavated material disposal in Section 1; (2) Unscheduled inspection visits when needed; (3) Instrumented measurements and monitoring of environmental parameters of air quality, noise and vibration, water quality in road Section 1; (4) Completion of the monitoring checklist and summary of compliances and non-compliances; (5) Issue the non-compliances notices to the Contractor; (6) Collection of monitoring data and providing to the PPMS (7) Review of the Contractor’s weekly monitoring reports.

4.1 Monitoring of the Compliance with EMP in Section 1, Section 2 and Section 3 The most significant detected non-conformances were:

- Concrete wash water traces are detected including in natural landscape area outside the construction site in S1 PK 60+ 190;

- Excavated material is being dumped not keeping safe distances from the edges of dump site;-

- Job-specific environmental and safety training for workers were not provided; an additional training is needed;

- Trucks were not provided with covers;

- Some amount of waste is being left on-site alongside the highway. Contractor doesn’t specify the schedule of the removal;

- Person responsible for environmental compliance was not on site;

- Person appointed to be in charge of emergency procedures was not on site

- The first aid kit and fire extinguisher were mostly not available on site;

- Road barriers are not properly installed.

4.2 Instrumented Measurements and Monitoring of Environmental Parameters of Air Quality, Noise and Vibration, Water Quality. Instrumented measurements and monitoring of environmental parameters of air quality; noise and vibration have been implemented by the Contractor through the ATMS Solutions LLC This part is relevant for Ashtarak- Talin road Section 1.

4.2.1 Baseline data collection.

During the reporting period baseline measurements were implemented in points Dust 4 (PK 36+ 600), Dust 5 (PK 38+500), Dust 6 (PK 43+ 300), Dust 7 (PK 44+ 840), Dust 8 (PK 46+680), Noise 3 (PK 36+ 400), Noise 4 (PK 38+370), Noise 5 (PK 43+ 800) Noise 6 (PK 44+ 560), Noise 7 (PK 46+400). The measurement points are selected based upcoming construction works criteria. Detailed information on the results of baseline data is presented in the Noise and Dust Assessment Report N08 available in “Corsan Corviam Construction” S.A. and PMC offices. The data for the rest points are being collected previousely in July and November 2013. Thus the baseline data are collected for all the points set in the monitoring plan. Baseline data collection schedule for dust, noise and vibration is presented in Annes C.

The baseline data for water quality will be collected by the “Environmental Impact Monitoring Center” SNCO in accordance with Water, Noise, Vibration and Dust instrumented Monitoring Plan for Section 1, 21 days prior the commencement of works in relevant area.

4.2.2 Routine measurements and monitoring.

Instrumented measurements and monitoring of environmental parameters (dust, noise, water and vibration) during the reporting period has been implemented at the following points: Vibration 1 (PK 50+700), Dust 4 (PK 36+600), Dust 5 (PK 38+500), Dust 6 (PK 43+300), Dust 7 (PK 44+840), Dust 8 (PK 46+680), Dust 9 (PK 50+800), Noise 3 (PK 36+400), Noise 4 (PK 38+370), Noise 5 (PK 43+800), Noise 6 (PK 44+560), Noise 7 (PK 46+400) and Noise 8 (PK 50+900). The measurement points are selected based on going construction works criteria.

According to the monitoring reports noise equivalent level values are within the Threshold Limit Values (TLV) set for the identified group of receptors in all measured points. Noise maximum level values are above the TLV in all measured points but almost equal to the baseline level. The dust actual concentrations in all measurement points are within the Maximum Permitted Concentrations (MPC) for dust. Except, on 03.07.2014 and on 09.08.2014 showed slight impact of operational activities on background dust concentration near the point “Dust 9”. The vibration meter didn't register any vibration acceleration in the point Vibration 1 for three orthogonal axes (x,y,z) and the daily vibration exposure values are equal to 0.

Detailed information on the results of operational monitoring is presented in the Noise and Dust Assessment Reports available in “Corsan Corviam Construction” S.A. and PMC offices (see extract from reports in Annex D).

4.3 PPMS Indicators 4.3.1 The following environmental performance indicators for the reporting period are included into PPMS:

4.3.2 Quarterly number of environmental non-compliance notices from PMC to Contractor based on standards for storm water, noise, dust and vibration, and on any breaches of the EIA and EMP regularly measured by PMC or by Contractor under PMC’s control: 1 non-compliance notice. No unsolved notices are registered by the end of reporting period.

4.3.3 Quarterly numbers of environmental complaints from communities along the Ashtarak-Talin road section, from 2013 to 2016 based on Contractor’s records of complaints verified by PMC: 0- no environmentally related complains are received and registered during reporting period.

4.4 Non-compliance Notices 4.4.1 1 non-compliance notice on the dumping of concrete waste in the unpermitted site next to the highway Yerevan- Ararat Km 17+ 899 has been issued to Contractor on 18 September 2014. Contractor was requested to remove the dumped waste material and to clean the site.

On 22 September Contractor’s ES verbally reported that the improper dumping has been corrected and the waste removed to the approved dump site which was checked by Mr. Karen Babayan, the Section 2site inspector. The waste has been removed but some site cleaning works are still needed. Contractor was additionally requested to clean up the site of improper dumping and to rehabilitate up to previous condition which was done in October.

4.4.2 All minor non-conformances detected by PMC NES during the regular monthly monitoring site visits and daily by site- supervisors are being treated in accordance with adopted procedures: Contractor has been notified via monitoring reports and demanded to correct within the deadlines set. Contractor reported on improvement via emails, in the next weekly monitoring report or in the next monthly environmental report. Improvement has been checked by PMC site supervisors and by NES during the next monitoring visit. Contractor was warned that the unimproved non-conformances will be qualified as non-compliances and notices issued in the upcoming month. Summary Table for all non-conformances detected during the reporting period is presented in Annex E.

5. Conclusions and Recommendations

5.1.1 During the reporting period the program has committed itself to ensure the compliance of Project activities to the national legislation such as Contractor’s regular environmental reports submitted to RA MNP in accordance with Armenian legislation: four quarterly reports for 2014 and the annual report for 2014; topsoil stockpiling operations in Ashtarak- Talin M1 Road Section 1 in accordance with RA Land Code (2001), RA Government Decision No 1396-N and RA Government Decision No 1026-N; all necessary communication with local (communities) and territorial administrative authorities (marzes) and permits and approvals for any use of territory and roads. the Contractor’s Environmental Management Plans for three road sections prepared by the contractor that detail on site environmental management requirements implementation and management, particularly construction impacts mitigation, monitoring and reporting requirements. Compliance with EMP is being regularly monitored and reported. (3.1.1- 3.1.4, 3.3.1). 5.1.2 Also the compliance to ADB environmental safeguards such as Contractor’s environmental management plans, approval of Site-specific Environmental Management Plans containing the identification of site-specific environmental impacts, risk assessment and mitigation measures, as well as series of public hearings implemented in communities impacted by the Project in pursuance of ADB SPS (2009) requirements on information disclosure and public participation (for the details see 3.2.1-3.2.4)

5.1.3 Series of evaluation visits to Talin, Yeghnik, Nerkin Sasnashen, Verin Sasnashen Katnaghbyur, Masis, Jrahovit and Kosh communities have been carried for environmental and archaeological evaluation of the sites. The disposal of topsoil and other excavated soil material are being approved prior to the start the operation of site. Totally 5 SEMPs approved for Section 1. Contractor is buying material form the existing quarries and didn’t open any new borrow pits. (3.4.1- 3.4.2).

5.1.4 Awareness raising discussions and trainings went on during the reporting period. Regular awareness raising discussions with the PMC’s newly recruited staff and trainings for Contractor’s newly recruited workers and staff members on ADB environmental safeguard and Armenian legislation requirements were conducted (3.6.1 – 3.6.3).

5.1.5 Archaeological excavation works have been done in Agarak, Aghdsk and Nerkin Naver archaeological sites. The final reports on excavations implemented in 2013 are accepted by the RA State Archaeological Commission. Series of archaeological evaluation and monitoring visits are carried out in Agarak, Nerkin Naver and Aghdsk archaeological sites. The volume of the planned excavations of the area of Aruch- Agarak interchange will be decreased according to the new design. (3.7.1- 3.7.7).

5.1.6 Grievance redress mechanism has been established and regular communication with impacted communities took place in all communities. Public hearing was held in Kosh community. No complains and/or suggestions on environmental related issues such as excessive dust, noise, improper waste dumping, etc. are registered by the end of reporting period (3.8.1-3.8.3).

5.1.7 Regular meetings to communicate the project related issues took place with PMC management and environmental team, official authorities and Contractor’s management and environmental team. Environmental safeguard review was conducted within the framework of annual country safeguard mission by ADB. (3.9.1-3.9.2, 3.5.1-3.5.2).

5.1.8 During the reporting period monitoring activities were carried out which included Regular monitoring site visits on monthly basis to check compliance of construction activities in the road Sections 1, 2 and 3 to the EMP requirements in Sections 1, 2 & 3; and instrumented measurements and monitoring of environmental parameters of air quality, noise and vibration. Monitoring data were recorded in the PPMS. The environmental monitoring showed that the dust, noise and vibration measurements don’t exceed the Armenian standards and Baseline data. The non- conformances detected during the monitoring visits were reflected in the monitoring checklists. Some of them were improved immediately or during the time period set for improvement. Some non- conformances were improved partially. 1 non-compliance notice was issued during the reporting period. The non-compliance was progressively resolved. (4.1-4.4).

6. Action plan for the reporting period from January to June 2015:

N Action Time frame Responsible 1. Consultancy provided to Contractor’s Every month during PMC environmental team on ADB Safeguard Policy Jan -June 2015 Statement 2. Consultancy provided to Contractor’s Every month during PMC environmental team on the Armenian Jan -June 2015 Environmental legislation requirements 3. Evaluation site visits and assistance to the Upon Contractor’s PMU/PMC Contractor in the development of Site-specific request Environmental Management Plans for topsoil stockpiling and excavated material dump sites in Section 1 and other routine working documents. 4. Development of Site-specific Environmental February-March PMC/ Management Plan for Shaverd artificial wetland 2015 Contractor 5. Placement of signboards with project March-April 2015 PMC/ information and safety warning signs along the Contractor road sections, all disposal sites and topsoil stockpiles. 6. Organization of trainings to PIU, PMC and May 2015 PMU/PMC Contractor staff that will be held by PMC's international environmental consultant 7. Discussion and final decision on possible February – April PMU/PMC/ realignment of the road design close to Agarak 2015 Designer archeological site 8. Review the outputs of the construction Every month during PMC monitoring program with regard to measurement Jan -June 2015 of dust, noise, water quality and vibration. 9. Monitor the Contractor’s construction works to By the end of every PMU/PMC ensure the compliance with EMP, CEMP and month SEMP requirements in Sections 1, 2 and 3; 10. Regular awareness orientation sessions for Upon the need PMC/ newly recruited staff Contractor 11. Collect and provide the relevant information on End of March and PMU/PMC environmental indicators to PPMS end of June 2014 12. Assistance and monitoring of the archaeological Every month during PMU/PMC excavations in accordance with archaeological the excavations Works Plan for Tranche 2 13. Preparation of archaeological excavation plan February – June PMU/PMC and excavation of the newly discovered 2015 historical monument in N. Sasnashen community of Talin-Ashtarak section of North- South Road 14. Review and addressing the GRM End of every month PMU/PMC 15. Other routine issues like unscheduled site visits, Upon the need PMU/PMC follow up of the detected defects, environmental assessment of re-designs, management of tree cutting, review and approval of Contractor’s documents, etc. 16. Reporting on environmental safeguards Monthly, Bi-annual PMU/PMC

ANNEX A. The Status of Topsoil Stockpiling and Excavated Material Dump Sites in Section 1

No Name of site purpose SMP Status of approved operation (Y/N) 1 Katnaghbyur- 1 Topsoil stockpiling Yes Operated 2 Katnaghbyur-2 Topsoil stockpiling Yes Operated 3 Katnaghbyur-3 Excavated material Yes Operated 4 Katnaghbyur-4 Excavated material Yes Operated 6 Katnaghbyur-5 Excavated material Yes Operated 7.1 Yeghnik 1 Topsoil stockpiling Yes Operated 7.2 Yeghnik 2 Topsoil stockpiling Yes Non operated 8 Talin-1 Topsoil stockpiling Yes Operated 9 Talin-2 Excavated material No Non operated 10 Nerkin Bazmaberd-1 Topsoil stockpiling Yes Operated 11 Nerkin Bazmaberd-2 Topsoil stockpiling Yes Operated 12 Nerkin Bazmaberd 3 Excavated material Yes Operated 13 Nerkin Bazmaberd 4 Excavated material Yes Operated 14 Davtashen-1 Excavated material Yes Operated 15 Davtashen- 2 Excavated material Yes Operated 16 Davtashen- 3 Topsoil stockpiling Yes Operated 17 Aruch- 1 Topsoil stockpiling Yes Operated 18 Aruch- 2 Excavated material Yes Non operated 19 Verin Sasnashen-1 Excavated material Yes Operated 20 Verin Sasnashen- 2 Excavated material Yes Operated 21 Kosh- 1 Excavated material No Non operated 22 Kosh-2 Excavated material No Non operated 23 Kosh-3 Topsoil stockpiling No Non operated 24 Shamiram- 1 Topsoil stockpiling No Non operated 25 Shamiram- 2 Excavated material Yes Operated

ANNEX B Summary Table on Status of Archaeological Excavations

Community Name of site Exacavating Contract Status of works entity signed 1 Parpi Nerkin Naver CHPC at MOC No on-going 2 Agarak Agarak Historical-Cultural IAE of NAS Yes finished Preserve 3 Aghtsk Aghtsk-1 tomb field CHPC at MOC Yes finished 4 Aruch Aruch archaeological - No not started complex 5 Agarak Hellenistic city remains - No There is no need of (Talin) archaeological excavation due to road interchange redesign 6 Kakavadzor Kakavadzor tomb field CHPC at MOC Yes finished 7 Nerkin N. Bazmaberd tomb field CHPC at MOC Yes finished Bazmaberd 8 Verin & Sasnashen archaeological CHPC at MOC Yes Verin Sasnashen Nerkin complex finished, Nerkin Sasnashen Sasnashen will be started after MOC approval of the boundaries of the archaeological site 9 Davtashen Davtashen archaeological IAE of NAS Yes finished complex 10 Katnaghbyur Katnaghbyur archaeological IAE of NAS Yes finished complex 1 Talin Talin tomb field IAE of NAS Yes finished 1

ANNEX C. BASELINE DATA COLLECTION SCHEDULE

Points PK KM Date of baseline data collection

Dust 1 29+700 25 Jul 2013 Dust 2 32+500 25 Jul 2013 Dust 3 33+700 25 Jul 2013 Dust 4 36+ 600 17 Sep 2014 Dust 5 38+500 17 Sep 2014 Dust 6 43+ 300 16 Sep 2014 Dust 7 44+840 16 Sep 2014 Dust 8 46+680 16 Sep 2014 Dust 9 50+800 02 Nov 2013 Dust 10 63+200 26 Jul 2013 Dust 11 69+000 26 Jul 2013 Dust 12 69+500 26 Jul 2013 Noise 1 29+700 25 Jul 2013 Noise 2 32+500 25 Jul 2013 Noise 3 36+ 400 17 Sep 2014 Noise 4 38+370 17 Sep 2014 Noise 5 43+ 800 16 Sep 2014 Noise 6 44+ 560 16 Sep 2014 Noise 7 46+400 16 Sep 2014 Noise 8 50+900 02 Nov 2013 Noise 9 69+500 26 Jul 2013 Vibration 1 50+700 02 Nov 2013 ANNEX D Extracts from Noise, Dust and Vibration Assessment Reports

Measurement results Measuring results for each measurement point are presented in testing protocols and summarized in Tables for noise, dust and vibration accordingly.

Noise, vibration and dust assessment report № 06

Table 1

Table 2

Table 3

Conclusions 1) Both equivalent and maximum noise baseline levels in measurement point “Noise 8” don’t exceed the TLVs of 60 dBA and 75 dBA accordingly. These TLVs are applied based on the Table 1 of Sanitary Norm № 2-III-11.3 "Noise in the workplaces, in residential and public buildings and in residential construction areas" (since no residential areas are located in the close vicinity of the measuring point the TLV for shops, trading halls, etc. has been applied).

2) Dust concentrations in measurement point “Dust 9” exceed neither daily average nor maximum values of MPC for residential areas set by the RoA Government Decree №160-N "Norms of maximum permissible concentrations (MPC) of atmospheric air pollutants in residential areas".

3) According to the results of vibration baseline measurements, there is no vibration exposure near the measurement point “Vibration 1” (near Qaravansaray monument).

4) Comparison of noise measurement results conducted within the baseline assessment study and on 03.07.2014 shows (see Table 2) almost no impact of operational activities on background noise level near the point “Noise 8”.

5) Comparison of dust concentration measurement results conducted within the baseline assessment study and on 03.07.2014 shows (see Table 3) slight impact of operational activities on background dust concentration near the point “Dust 9”.

Noise, vibration and dust assessment report №07

Table 4

Table 5

Table 6

Conclusions 1) Both equivalent and maximum noise baseline levels in measurement point “Noise 8” don’t exceed the TLVs of 60 dBA and 75 dBA accordingly. These TLVs are applied based on the Table 4 of Sanitary Norm № 2-III-11.3 "Noise in the workplaces, in residential and public buildings and in residential construction areas" (since no residential areas are located in the close vicinity of the measuring point the TLV for shops, trading halls, etc. has been applied).

3) According to the results of vibration baseline measurements, there is no vibration exposure near the measurement point “Vibration 1” (near Qaravanatun monument).

4) Comparison of noise measurement results conducted within the baseline assessment study and on 09.08.2014 shows (see Table 5) almost no impact of operational activities on background noise level near the point “Noise 8”.

5) Comparison of dust concentration measurement results conducted within the baseline assessment study and on 09.08.2014 shows (see Table 6) slight impact of operational activities on background dust concentration near the point “Dust 9”.

Noise and dust assessment report № 08

Table 7

Table 8

Conclusions 1) TLVs of 65 dBA as equivalent and 80 dBA as maximum noise levels were applied for evaluation of noise actual values in measurement points "Noise 4", "Noise 5", "Noise 6" and "Noise 7" based on Item 9 of Table 7 and Notification №2 of Sanitary Norm № 2-III-11.3 "Noise in the workplaces, in residential and public buildings and in residential construction areas.

2) TLV of 80 dBA as both equivalent and maximum noise level was applied for evaluation of noise actual values in measurement point "Noise 3" as there are no objects (both residential and commercial) in the vicinity of measurement point.

3) In measurement point "Noise 3" equivalent noise levels are within the TLV, while maximum noise levels are above the TLV of 80 dBA on 11.5, 11.2 and 11 dBA accordingly (3 measurements were done in point "Noise 3"). 4) In measurement point "Noise 4" equivalent noise levels are within the TLV, while maximum noise levels are above the TLV of 80 dBA on 5.6, 5.9 and 4.7 dBA accordingly (3 measurements were done in point "Noise 4").

5) In measurement point "Noise 5" equivalent noise levels are within the TLV, while maximum noise levels are above the TLV of 80 dBA on 12.6, 11.7 and 11.5 dBA accordingly (3 measurements were done in point "Noise 5").

6) In measurement point "Noise 6" equivalent noise levels are within the TLV, while maximum noise levels are above the TLV of 80 dBA on 10.8, 11.8 and 10.7 dBA accordingly (3 measurements were done in point "Noise 6").

7) In measurement point "Noise 7" equivalent noise levels are within the TLV, while maximum noise levels are above the TLV of 80 dBA on 10.2, 10.7 and 10.7 dBA accordingly (3 measurements were done in point "Noise 7").

8) Dust concentrations in all measurement points exceed neither daily average nor maximum values of MPC for residential areas set by the RoA Government Decree № 160-N "Norms of maximum permissible concentrations (MPC) of atmospheric air pollutants in residential areas".

Noise, vibration and dust assessment report №09

Table 9

Table 10

Table 11

Conclusions 1) Equivalent noise level in measurement point “Noise 8” don’t exceed the TLV of 60 dBA, while maximum noise in the same point are above the 75 dBA TLV. These TLVs are applied based on the Table 9 of Sanitary Norm № 2-III-11.3 "Noise in the workplaces, in residential and public buildings and in residential construction areas" (since no residential areas are located in the close vicinity of the measuring point the TLV for shops, trading halls, etc. has been applied).

2) The exaggeration of maximum noise level is as a result of heavy vehicles traffic density along the highway.

3) Dust concentrations in measurement point “Dust 9” exceed neither daily average nor maximum values of MPC for residential areas set by the RoA Government Decree №160-N "Norms of maximum permissible concentrations (MPC) of atmospheric air pollutants in residential areas".

4) According to the results of vibration baseline measurements, there is no vibration exposure near the measurement point “Vibration 1” (near Qaravanatun monument).

5) Comparison of noise measurement results conducted within the baseline assessment study and on 17.10.2014 shows (see Table 10) slight impact of operational activities on background noise level near the point “Noise 8”.

6) Comparison of dust concentration measurement results conducted within the baseline assessment study and on 17.10.2014 shows (see Table 11) almost no impact of operational activities on background dust concentration near the point “Dust 9”.

ANNEX E Non-Conformances Detected During Monitoring Visits in Reporting Period

Reference Requirement Action to date Action required/comment Non-conformances detected in Section 1 1. Forem an were poorly aware Additional training Improved Additional training is of SEMP on environmental held with foremen in issues and SEMP Section 1 2. Although the garbage Proper amount of Improved The garbage is collection bin is installed, garbage collection collected and site the construction facility site bins installed cleaned was not clean and looked inordinate 3. Concrete wash water traces Clean and restore Improved partly Landscape are detected including in the surface restoration is still natural landscape area needed outside the construction site. 4. Visually the height of Contractor has Improved No further actions stockpiling in Aruch-1 TSS levelled the are required seems to be higher than 2.5 surface and m. explained that the rest is because of uneven step-type surface of the site 5. Some amount of topsoil is Contractor is Improved partly Remove the rest of temporarily heaped outside allowed the remaining heaps the topsoil site area in stockpiling the and stockpile in the Talin-1 alongside the RoW. amount of heaped approved area topsoil on the site. 6. Scattering of dumped Contractor is Improved Exclude the re- material in Nerkin requested to stop operation of site Bazmaberd-4 site is not further operation because the further prevented of the site dumping will definitely result in scattering of stones 7. Trucks were not provided Contractor is Improved Exclude the with covers requested to use operation of trucks trucks that are that don’t have provided with covers covers Non-conformances detected in Section 2 8. Some amount of waste is Remove the Improved Remove the waste being left on-site (PK 16+ waste to approved to approved dump 160; 11-933; 19+900); dump sites sites 9. Works are being Ensure the Improved Ensure the implemented without any environmental appointed person is supervision, person supervision of constantly on-site responsible for works and appoint environmental compliance a responsible was not on-site; person 10. Storages in Masis concrete Provide the fire Improved Keep the fire plant are not provided with extinguishers extinguishers in fire extinguishers operational ready state 11. Roa d barriers are not Ensure road traffic Improved No further actions properly installed safety and place are required barriers inline Non-conformances detected in Section 3 12. Some amount of waste is Remove the Improved partly Remove the waste being left on-site alongside waste to the to the approved the highway approved dump dump site site 13. Person appointed to be in Ensure the Improved No further actions charge of emergency presence of the are required procedures was not on-site appointed person