Environmental Assessment Report

Summary Environmental Impact Assessment Project Number: 39038 February 2006

People’s Republic of China: Heilongjiang Road Network Development Project

Prepared by Heilongjiang Provincial Communications Department for the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

The The summaryviews expressed environmental herein areimpact those assessment of the consul is tanta document and do not of necessarilythe borrower. represent The views those expressed of ADB’s herein members, do not Board necessarily of Directors, represent Management, those of orADB’s staff, Boardand may of Directors,be preliminary Mana ingement, nature. or staff, and may be preliminary in nature.

CURRENCY EQUIVALENTS (as of 13 February 2006)

Currency Unit – yuan (CNY) CNY1.00 = $0.1242 $1.00 = CNY8.0505

ABBREVIATIONS

ADB – Asian Development Bank BOD5 – biological oxygen demand (5-day) CO – carbon monoxide COD – chemical oxygen demand EIA – environmental impact assessment EMP – environmental management plan GB – guojia biaozhun (national standard) HIV/AIDS – human immunodeficiency syndrome/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome HPCD – Heilongjiang Provincial Communications Department NO2 – nitrogen dioxide PRC – People’s Republic of China RP – resettlement plan SEIA – summary environmental impact assessment SEPP – soil erosion prevention plan TSP – total suspended particles

WEIGHTS AND MEASURES

dB(A) – decibel (measured in audible noise bands) ha – hectare km – kilometer km2 – square kilometer m – meter m2 – square meter m3 – cubic meter mg – milligram MTE – medium truck equivalent mu – unit of area commonly used in the PRC; 15 mu = 1 hectare

NOTE

In this report, "$" refers to US dollars. CONTENTS

Page

MAP

I. INTRODUCTION 1

II. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT 1

III. DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT 2 A. Physical Resources 2 B. Ecological Resources 5 C. Land Resources, Land Use, and Crops 6 D. Mineral Resources 6 E. Social and Economic Development 7 F. Economic Conditions and Quality of Life 7 G. Cultural, Historical, and Tourism Sites 8 H. Songhua River Bridge 8

IV. ALTERNATIVES 9

V. ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES 11 A. Topography, Geology, Seismology, and Soils 11 B. Air Quality and Vehicle Emissions 13 C. Water Quality 15 D. Noise 17 E. Flora 19 F. Fauna 20 G. Land Resources, Land Use, and Crops 20 H. Mineral Resources 21 I. Induced Development 21 J. Cultural, Historical, and Tourism Sites 21 K. Aesthetic Impacts 21 L. Linking Roads 22 M. Possible Change in Alignment 22

VI. ECONOMIC ASSESSMENT AND COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS 23

VII. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 23

VIII. PUBLIC CONSULTATION AND DISCLOSURE 25

IX. CONCLUSION 26

APPENDIXES 1. Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures 27 2. Summary of Soil Erosion Prevention Plan 31 3. Environmental Management Plan 35 4. Environmental Monitoring Plan 41 5. Environmental Protection Costs 42

I. INTRODUCTION

1. The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)1 for the Heilongjiang Road Network Development Project (the Project), based on the feasibility stage design, was issued by the Heilongjiang Provincial Research Institute of Environmental Sciences in September 2005. The EIA of linking roads in the Project was included. The main highway includes the 2.6 kilometer (km) Songhua River Bridge, for which a separate EIA was conducted, and the EIA report for Songhua River Bridge was issued in December 2005.2 The consultant engaged under the technical assistance (TA)3 reviewed the report and visited locations that might experience environmental impacts in October–November 2005. This summary environmental impact assessment (SEIA) was based on the EIA report, following Asian Development Bank (ADB) policy and guidelines as indicated in the Environmental Policy of the Asian Development Bank (2002) and Environmental Assessment Guidelines (2003). Further information was obtained through meetings with the Executing Agency, Heilongjiang Provincial Communications Department (HPCD), design engineers, and county level local government4 representatives, during site visits.

2. The EIA for all other sections of the Project requires approval from the provincial level environmental authority, but the EIA for the Songhua River Bridge needs to be approved by the State Environmental Protection Administration (SEPA). The EIA for the main highway and linking roads was approved by Heilongjiang Provincial Environmental Bureau in January 2006. The EIA for the Songhua River Bridge was submitted to SEPA in December 2006 and approval is expected in March 2006.

3. The EIA was conducted in accordance with relevant laws, regulations, and standards applicable in the People’s Republic of China (PRC), including in particular (i) Technical Guidelines on Environmental Impact Assessment and Environmental Protection Standards of the PRC (September 1993); and (ii) Standards for Environmental Impact Assessment of Highway Construction Projects, Ministry of Communications (January 1996).

II. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT

4. The Project will (i) improve economic efficiency, encourage trade, and facilitate interregional integration by reducing vehicle operating costs and engineering-induced traffic accidents through improved road surfaces; (ii) reduce the Jixi–Nehe journey time by around 8 hours; (iii) spread economic development and social benefits over a wide cross-section of local communities by integrating rural connecting roads into project roads, and facilitating opportunities for cultural exchange; and (iv) catalyze economic growth in Heilongjiang Province which will, in turn, improve poor people’s incomes and well- being.

5. The Project comprises (i) upgrading or constructing six sections of the Jixi-Nehe Highway (the main project road) totaling 413.0 km of class III or unclassified roads to two-lane class I or class II roads with a major new 2.6 km bridge over the Songhua River, two other bridges more than 500 meters (m) long, an 80.8 km section through the Xiaoxing’anling mountains between Tonghe and Tieli counties, and a 23.4 km new alignment between Fangzheng and Tonghe counties; (ii) constructing a toll management center (Tieli), two management offices (Fangzheng and Suiling), and 9 toll stations; (iii) improving 155.0

1 Heilongjiang Provincial Research Institute of Environmental Sciences. 2005. Environmental Impact Assessment Report for Jixi-Nehe Highway Project (Jixi-Baiquan Section). Vols. 1 and 2. Harbin. 2 Heilongjiang Provincial Research Institute of Environmental Sciences. 2005. Environmental Impact Assessment Report for Songhua River Bridge Project. Harbin. 3 Asian Development Bank. 2005. Technical Assistance to the People’s Republic of China for Preparing the Heilongjiang Road Network Development Project. Manila. 4 Agriculture Bureau, Animal Husbandry Bureau, Communications Bureau, Cultural Bureau, Environmental Protection Bureau, Forestry Bureau, and Water Resources Bureau. 2 km of linking roads consisting of 21 sections of between 0.6 km and 34.4 km to strengthen the integrated network in the project area; (iv) upgrading county bus terminals from class II5 to class I and constructing class IV township bus terminals; (v) building roadside stations along the main roads; (vi) procuring equipment, consulting services, and capacity development; and (vii) land acquisition and resettlement.

6. The Project road sections are summarized in Table 1. The location of each section and linking roads are in the map.

Table 1: Project Roads

Section Location Length Linking Roads Linkou Bypass K62+950 to 14.33 km 1.39 km (Gucheng to Yicun) K77+285 Linkou to Harbin K116+000 to 88.61 km 30.15 km (Sandaotong to Tuchengzi, Dabeishun, Expressway K204+614 and Malanhe), 34.36 (Lianhua to Dongxing and Xinmin), 7.30 km (Diaoling to Yuanfa, Sihe, and Changqing), 0.560 km (“Eight Women” Monument) Fangzheng to K245+490 to 23.41 km Tonghe, Class I K268+897 Tonghe to Tieli, K268+900 to 138.00 km 1.58 km (Fengshan to Shuangfeng and Forest Section K406+895 Malanghe), 11.67 km (Fenshang to Fengyang), 2.40 km (Taoshan to Aimin) Qing’an to Suiling K433+600 to 70.29 km 2.49 km (Qing’an), 15.10 km (Qinlao to K503+893 Shuguang, Qinli, and Chaoxian), 1.40 km (Shangji to Baotian and Nuominhe), 4.64 km (Nierhe to Fubei and Weixing), 10.62 km (Changshan to Heyan), 5.16 km (Houtou), 2,58 km (Kaoshan) Hailun to Baiquan K543+268 to 78.26 km 2.14 km (Hailun to Baocheng), 4.45 km (Qianjin K621+529 to Shuangquan, Shengli, and Minzhong) 11.45 km (Gonghe to Zhongping and Gonghe),1.50 km (Yonghe), 2.09 km (Sanddaozhen to Gexin and Fuyi), 2.00 km (Xingguo) Total 412.90 km 155.03 km km = kilometer. Source: Environmental Impact Assessment (2005).

III. DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT

A. Physical Resources

7. Assessment Boundaries. The study areas for the EIA are (i) terrestrial environment – 200 m from the center line of the road but extended to borrow pits and material stockpile sites; (ii) aquatic environment – 200 m from the center line of the road, while for major bridges the study area extends from 1 km upstream to 2 km downstream; (iii) air quality – 200 m from the center line of the road; and (iv) noise – 200 m from the center line of the road and extended in sensitive areas such as schools and residential areas.

5 The Ministry of Communications classifies bus terminals according to their daily passenger handling capacity: (i) class I, over 10,000 passengers; (ii) class II, 5,000–10,000 passengers; (iii) class III, 3,000–5,000 passengers; (iv) class IV, 500–3,000 passengers; and (v) class V, 500 passengers. 3

8. Topography, Geology/Seismology, and Soils. The main project road runs east–west between 126o03’19”–130o53’18” east longitude and 45o43’01”–47o37’31” north latitude. In general, the terrain is hilly in the east and flat in the west. Between Fangzheng–Tonghe and from Qing’an–Baiquan, the topography is mainly low plain and terraces as well as gently rolling plains. Between Linkou–Daluomi and Tonghe–Tieli, the topography is mainly river valley through hilly areas.

9. The main project road crosses the Zhangguangcai Ridge, Laoye Ridge, and Wandashan Ridge, the central and northern edge of Songnen Plain, and the southern mountains and hills of Xiaoxing’anling. The altitude of the road ranges from 100–500 m. The road crosses eight rivers: Wusihun, Mudan, Songhua, Hulan, Chalin, Nuomin, Tongken, and Shuangyang.

10. The geological units along the alignment are (i) low and high floodplains of muddy clay, sand, and gravels of the Holocene and lower Pleistocene series; (ii) terraces of the Songhua River floodplain composed of loess, clay, muddy clay, loam, and gravels of the upper Pleistocene series; (iii) gently rolling plains of loess, clay , and gravels of the upper, middle, and lower Pleistocene series; and (iv) degradation terraces with eroding sands and gravels.

11. According to the Chinese Earthquake Regional Chart, the peak shaking accelerated speed value of all sections of the road is less than 0.05 gravity acceleration (G) apart from the section between Fangzheng and Tonghe, where the value is 0.05 G. Earthquakes are mainly distributed along the belt from the Yilan–Yitong, Nen River–Long River, Bei’an–Suibei, Mishan–Dunhua, Menor River, and Second Songhua River faults. According to earthquake risk analysis, the yearly maximum probability of earthquakes in the project area is 10% and the corresponding intensity value is 5.7–5.8, with a basic intensity of VI degrees.

12. Meteorology. The project area is in a cold-temperate continental monsoon climate zone, with dry cold winters and hot rainy summers. Winter can last for 5–6 months and spring is short. The yearly temperature in the east ranges from -41.4oC to 39.1oC with an average of 5.7oC. The rainy season is from July to October, with a yearly average rainfall of 23.3 millimeter. The ground freezes in mid–late November to a depth of 2.05 m and does not thaw until mid-April. In the spring, most winds are from the southwest and west whereas in the winter most winds are from the northwest with speeds of up to 36 meters per second (m/s).

13. In the west, yearly temperature ranges from -42.6oC to 36.3oC. The rainy season is from June to August. The ground freezes between September and mid-November to a depth of 2.5 m and does not thaw until late May. In the spring, most winds are from the southwest and west whereas in the winter most winds are from the northwest with speeds of up to 28 m/s.

14. The extreme temperatures present a technical challenge for road pavement design. Materials need to be selected to prevent frost heave in winter and pavement deformation due to high temperatures in summer. According to the EIA, cement concrete is the preferred pavement material for the project road from Linkou to Qing’an (K64+110–K445.917) due to its ease of construction, wear-resistance, anti- distortion characteristics, and long service life. Between Qing’an and Baiquan (K445+917–K621+262), the average annual rainfall is 400–600 mm, so the use of asphalt concrete is recommended to avoid water seeping through joints in the surface into the roadbed.

15. Air Quality. Overall, there is very little industry along the project road, so air pollution from industrialThe views sourcesexpressed is herein limited. are The those greatest of the consul sourcetant of and air do pollution not necessarily is total representsuspended those particles of ADB’s (TSP) from members, Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature. movement of vehicles on un-paved roads and smoke from house chimneys and burning of agricultural residues.

4

16. Ambient levels of carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and TSP were measured for three consecutive days in June 2005 at 13 sensitive sites at schools, workplaces, and residential areas along the main project road. Table 2 shows that none of the results exceed air quality standards.

Table 2: Air Quality in Project Area (mg/m3)

No. Location Distance CO NO2 TSP Residential From Stan- Conc. Conc/ Stan- Conc. Conc/ Stan- Conc. Conc/ Area/ Existing dard (mg/ Stan- dard (mg/ Stan- dard (mg/ Stan- School Road (day m3) ard (day m3) ard (day m3) ard ave.) ave.) ave.) 1 Xujia 20 m 4 <1.25 <0.31 0.12 0.003– 0.025– 0.3 0.102– 0.340– 0.004 0.033 0.131 0.437 2 Shuguang Forest 20 m 4 <1.25 <0.31 0.12 0.006– 0.050– 0.3 0.065– 0.217– Farm 0.017 0.142 0.091 0.303 3 Fengshan Town 15 m 4 1.25– 0.31- 0.12 0.012– 0.100– 0.3 0.153– 0.510– 1.35 0.34 0.016 0.133 0.089 0.630 4 Taipingying 40 m 4 <1.25 <0.31 0.12 0.003– 0.025– 0.3 0.037– 0.123– Forest Office 0.004 0.033 0.041 0.137 8 Qianhanjia 20 m 4 1.28– 0.32- 0.12 0.004– 0.033– 0.3 0.102– 0.340– 1.49 0.37 0.009 0.075 0.139 0.463 9 Zhifu Town 20 m 4 <1.25 <0.31 0.12 0.006– 0.050– 0.3 0.095– 0.317– Central Primary 0.009 0.075 0.141 0.470 School 10 Shangji Town 80m 4 1.26– 0.32- 0.12 0.007– 0.058– 0.3 0.109– 0.363– 1.38 0.35 0.008 0.067 0.167 0.557 11 Shengli Village 15 m 4 <1.25 <0.31 0.12 0.010– 0.083– 0.3 0.146– 0.487– 0.017 0.142 0.172 0.573 13 Dongsheng 20 m 4 <1.25 <0.31 0.12 0.008– 0.067– 0.3 0.052– 0.173– Village 0.015 0.125 0.073 0.243 ave. = average, conc. = concentration, m = meter, CO = carbon monoxide, NO2 = nitrogen monoxide, TSP = total suspended particles, m3 = cubic meter, mg = milligram. Source: Environmental Impact Assessment (2005).

17. Water Quality. The project area has abundant water resources. Most rivers belong to the Songhua River system and its tributaries, except those in the Baiquan region, which belong to the Nen River system. The Songhua River has a 928-km long main channel and is one of the seven longest rivers in the PRC; it is formed by the convergence of the Neng River and the Second Songhua River. The Neng River originates from Daxing’anling Yilehuli Mountain in Inner Mongolia and the Second Songhua River originates from Changbai Mountain in Jilin Province. The Songhua River flows into the Heilong River in Heilongjiang Province. The river freezes in the winter for an average of 140 days annually.

18. Industrial pollution activities is not the main cause of water pollution in the project area, except for accidents. Water pollution occurs from discharge of municipal and domestic waste directly into watercourses, and runoff from agricultural land.

19. Drinking water comes from groundwater from most of the project area; villages and forest farms have their own wells. There are no drinking water sources within 5 km up or downstream of the six major bridges over the Wusihun (two bridges), Mudan, Hulan, Noumin, and Tongen rivers. On a functional scale of class I (best quality) to class V (worst quality), Nuomin River is class II and the Wusihun, Mudan, Hulan, and Tongken rivers are all class III.

20. In June 2005, water quality was sampled at points 500 m downstream of the planned sites of the six major bridges on the main project road. The monitoring results shown in Table 3 indicate that all rivers fail to meet their class requirements for chemical oxygen demand (COD) due to nonpoint source pollution 5 from Linkou, Suilin, and Qing’an counties. Levels of suspended solids in Tongken River are particularly high because the bottom material had been disturbed by a storm.

Table 3: Surface Water Quality Monitoring Results

No. River pH COD Petroleum SS Perm. BOD5 Ammonia Index St MR St MR St MR St MR St MR St MR St MR 1 Wusihun 1 6-9 7.44 20 24.38 0.05 0.03 150 23.2 6 4.81 4 1 1 0.791 2 Wusihun 2 6-9 7.75 20 21.27 0.05 0.03 150 16.0 6 5.18 4 1 1 0.164 3 Mudan 6-9 7.97 20 28.67 0.05 0.03 150 25.5 6 5.19 4 1 1 0.157 4 Hulan 6-9 7.64 20 36.75 0.05 0.02 150 102.1 6 9.92 4 1 1 0.091 5 Nuomin 6-9 7.25 15 39.69 0.05 0.01 150 61.0 4 11.94 3 1 0.5 0.264 6 Tongken 6-9 7.05 20 38.96 0.05 0.01 150 1834.5 6 67.23 4 1 1 0.213 BOD5 = biological oxygen demand (5-day), COD = chemical oxygen demand, MR = monitoring result, no. = number, perm. = permanganate, pH = measure of acidity/alkalinity, SS = suspended solids, St = standard. Source: Environmental Impact Assessment (2005).

21. Noise. The main project and linking roads mostly run through agricultural land, forests, and wasteland where the noise environment is generally quiet. There are no industrial or mineral enterprises in the project areas. The main noise sources are from vehicles traveling on existing roads, agricultural machinery, and human activity.

22. During the EIA, noise measurements were made in 13 locations at schools, workplaces, and residential areas along the main project road. Measurements taken 1 m in front of the relevant noise sensitive sites indicate that average noise levels are 43.1–53.8 decibels (measured in audible noise bands) [dB(A)] during the day and 37.2–43.0 dB(A) at night. Table 4 shows that current noise levels are well within relevant noise standards.

Table 4: Noise Levels in Project Area [dB(A)]

Distance Daytime Nighttime No. Location Residential Area/School from (08:00–22:00) (23:00–06:00) Existing Standard Observed Standard Observed Road 1 Xibeileng 15 m 70 46.8 55 39.2 2 Xibeileng Primary School 30 m 60 48.5 55 3 Xujia 20 m 70 47.5 55 38.1 4 Shuguang Forest Farm 20 m 70 50.1 55 39.0 5 Sima Village 20 m 70 50.2 55 37.5 6 Fengshan Town 15 m 70 55.6 55 41.0 7 Taipingyang Forest Office 40 m 70 49.1 55 39.2 8 Taiping Primary School 30 m 60 48.7 55 9 Zhifu Town Central Primary School 20 m 60 51.0 55 10 Shangji Town 80 m 70 52.0 55 41.8 11 Shengli Village 80 m 70 47.5 55 36.9 12 Shengli Village Middle School 15 m 60 49.1 55 13 Sijianfang 20 m 70 51.0 55 39.7 m = meter, no. = number. Source: Environmental Impact Assessment (2005).

B.The viewsEcological expressed Resources 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. 23. Flora. The main project road crosses four forest counties in the middle section (Linkou, Fangzheng, Tonghe, and Tieli) and six agricultural counties (Qing’an, Suiling, Hailun, Baiquan, Yi’an, and Nehe) in the west. Forests are mostly secondary growth and man-made. Forest resources include larch,

6 lime, mulberry, birch, Korean pine, spruce, Manchurian ash, camphor, and other economically valuable trees. Shrubs include hazel, Shandingzi, Shanhuai, and wild rose. Grasses include Wuhua grass, Wula grass, little-leaf camphor, five-flower grass, and reeds. Wild fruits include grapes, wild pears, walnuts, hazelnuts, and pine nuts. Edible wild herbs include brake, Cilaoya, and day lily.

24. The 26,812 hectares (ha) Xinglong Forest Park6 is located in the Tonghe–Tieli section. The main highway and a linking road pass through the tourism area. The scenic area is about 1 km from the project roads. The park includes the Xinmin, Erhe, Taiping, Qingfeng, Fengshan, Shuguang, Heping, and Xiaodong forestry centers as well as 80 forest farms. Forestry and agriculture are practiced extensively in the park. Non-timber forest products collected in the area include mushrooms, edible ferns, ginseng, and edible and medicinal roots.

25. The Qingfeng Natural Forest,7 a 2,000 ha area of primarily broad-leaved mixed forest with trees averaging 200–300 years old, lies in a remote, mountainous area within the park boundary. Tree species include Korean pine, Manchurian ash, walnut, catalpa, spruce, and other valuable trees. No endangered species are found in the project area.

26. Fauna. Fauna found in the area includes bears, wild boar, deer, foxes, and wolves. Common wild animals include squirrels, chipmunks, hares, voles, frogs, and snakes. Bird species include chickadees, magpies, cuckoos, bulbuls, pheasants, and owls. Fish species include carp, pike, spotted silver carp, loach, catfish, Xilin, Liugen, Huluzai, Caogen, and other cold water species.

27. Livestock breeding plays an important role in the agricultural economy. Domesticated animals and poultry include cattle, horses, mules, donkeys, pigs, sheep, rabbits, dogs, chickens, and geese. Baiquan County is famous for production of Chinese yellow beef. Yi’an County is famous for its Chinese white geese and Fangzheng for its cultivation of edible tree frogs and silver carp. Fish are cultivated in ponds in several locations along the alignment. No endangered species are found in the project area.

C. Land Resources, Land Use, and Crops

28. Heilongjiang is a nationally important commodity grain and soybean producer. In agricultural areas, the main farm crops are corn, soybean, paddy rice, wheat, barley, and sorghum. Other important crops are beans, sugar beet, flax, and tobacco.

29. Fangzheng County is famous for production of Chinese Fuxi Rice. Tieli City is one of the PRC’s four ginseng production bases. Qing’an County is the PRC’s first national organic agriculture model district and national grain production base for soybean and paddy rice. Hailun City and Baiquan County are known as the hometowns of soybean, and Nehe County is famous for potatoes.

D. Mineral Resources

30. There are abundant mineral reserves around Jixi City, including coal, graphite, sillimanite, marble, dolomite, diopside, feldspar, and iron. Jixi is one of the PRC’s coal production bases. Linkou County is famous for construction materials, especially Chusan rock. Mineral resources include coal, graphite, gold, and iron. Tieli City has many mineral resources, including linarite and zinc.

31. The major rivers along the alignment provide abundant resources of sand, gravel, and stone aggregates for road construction.

6 PRC forest parks are different from natural parks in other countries. The main objective of the forest park system is to promote tourism using forestry resources. 7 The natural forests of Qingfeng Mountain are about 30 km away from the project roads. 7

E. Social and Economic Development

32. Population. Table 5 shows the population of each of the cities/counties and number of households in villages, forest farms, and towns, which are located within 200 m of the new or upgraded main project roads.

Table 5: Population (2003)

Location Total Population Number of Households within 200 m of New/Upgraded Roads Jixi City 1,945,000 Linkou County 448,000 1,110 households (Hexi, Xiaobashun and Sihe villages, Xujia and Sanjaizi towns, Shuguang Forestry Farm Mechanical Sector, Shuguang Service Office) Fangzheng County 226,000 328 households (Xu’ai and Dong’ai County, Jinguo County; Lijia Town, Sanmenyujia, Laolonggang) Tonghe County 230,000 2,344 households (Huashu town, Yonghe, Sima and Liuhe villages, You’ai town, Chuankou and Wanliu villages, Fengshan town [Heping village], Hexi, Shengli, and Fengyang villages, Taipingying) Tieli City 386,000 617 households (Nanguanzuizi [Ai’min village], Bazuafang, Liujiadian, Nanhanjia, Houhanjia and Xinnan town) Qing’an County 385,000 2,100 households (Wangchengming town, Zhifu village, Tongle village Tongfu village) Suiling County 326,000 248 households (Songyuxiansheng, Shangji, Xushen and Fushan towns, Kaoshan village) Hailun City 817,000 237 households (Liundanaodai town, Shengli, Qianjin and Yonghe villages) Baiquan County 550,000 240 households (Kaitounen, Sijianfang [Dongsheng village], Wangmantou town) Yi’an County 481,000 - m = meter. Source: Environmental Impact Assessment (2005).

33. There are over 20 ethnic minority nationalities living in Heilongjiang Province. Of the 14 minority nationalities living along the road, the majority are Chaoxian, Manchu, Mongols, Ewenke, and Hui.

F. Economic Conditions and Quality of Life

34. In 2003, Heilongjiang’s average rural per capita income was CNY2,180 and per capita gross domestic product was CNY5,400 compared with the provincial per capita gross domestic product of CNY11,615. More than 18% of the rural population is defined as poor, with annual per capita incomes below CNY900. Villages with an average annual income of below CNY1,300 are designated as “poverty villages.” Two of the 11 counties and 3938 of the 1,023 administrative villages in the project area are poverty-designated. Table 6 indicates the number of poverty villages in each administrative area based on year 2000 statistics from the Poverty Alleviation Office quoted in the Resettlement Plan.

Table 6: Poverty Village Statistics

Location Poverty Village Poverty Village No. of Poverty Cultivated Land per Population (2000) Poor Population Villages Capita in Poverty (No. of Households) (No. of Households) Villages JixiThe City views expressed herein63,613 are those(17,141) of the consul 21,324tant and(5,684) do not necessarily 182 represent those 0.373 of ADB’s ha Linkoumembers, County Board of Directors,27,209 Management, (7,073) or staff, 7,900 and (2,022) may be preliminary 53 in nature. 0.242 ha Fangzheng County 38,051 (9,586) 15,347 (4,124) 83 0.272 ha

8 These include 3,120 “natural” villages or village groups under the administrative villages.

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Location Poverty Village Poverty Village No. of Poverty Cultivated Land per Population (2000) Poor Population Villages Capita in Poverty (No. of Households) (No. of Households) Villages Tonghe County 68,966 (19,221) 48,141 (13,717) 137 0.348 ha Tieli City 5,750 (19,221) 2,819 (943) 22 0.132 ha Qing’an County 26,637 (6,276) 8,206 (1,989) 88 0.452 ha Suiling County 23,703 (5,826) 9,170 (2,475) 69 0.417 ha Hailun City 336,007 (74,134) 78,213 (20,860) 674 0.374 ha Baiquan County 231,576 (50,850) 112,411 (28,748) 747 0.587 ha Yi’an County 286,992 (70,536) 103,265 (26,629) 907 0.550 ha Nehe City 66,061 (17,134) 17,114 (4,505) 158 0.519 ha ha = hectare, no. = number. Source: Resettlement Plan (2005).

35. Poverty in the project area is caused by (i) geographical remoteness and isolation; (ii) inadequate irrigation water supply (e.g., droughts and floods); (iii) collapse of the timber industry due to restrictions on cutting trees; (iv) farmers’ lack of knowledge and technical skills in cash cropping and animal husbandry; (v) limited access to credit and development investment; and (vi) poor communications and infrastructure.

36. The linking road component will improve existing links between remote villages and the main project road by paving the roads and providing and reconstructing bridges to make them available for the vehicle in all weathers. This will help maximize the spread of road improvement benefits to the rural poor. Rural farmers will be in a position to increase their agricultural incomes through (i) better access to markets and technical advice, (ii) more competitive prices for their products, and (iii) cheaper transport costs.

G. Cultural, Historical, and Tourism Sites

37. Existing and potential tourism sites along the route include Lotus Lake9 and Eight Immortals Lake near Tieli, the “Martyrdom Site of Eight Women Jumping into River” during the Fifteen Years War10 on the Wusihun River, Qingfeng Natural Forest, and many other scenic areas along the road. Linkou County contains 30 historical sites dating from the Neolithic Age to the Qing Dynasty. The Wulong Hunting Ground in Tonghe County is one of the eight largest hunting grounds in the PRC. Hailun is a famous center for the traditional Chinese craft of paper cutting.

H. Songhua River Bridge

38. Location and Background. The Songhua River Bridge is planned 180 km downstream from Harbin City. The bridge is planned as a part of the main highway; its length is 2.6 km and width is 21.5 m. Songhua River is one of seven major rivers in the PRC. The river basin covers Heilongjiang Province, Jilin Province, and Inner Mongolia. Tonghe County is located in the north bank of middle reaches of the river and the county center of Fengchen is 15 km south of the crossing point. The crossing point is 5 km downstream of the Mayi River inflow point and 3.5 km downstream of the Chalin River inflow point. The distance between both riverbanks is 3.5 km to 4.5 km and the river is used for the ship route for Harbin City.

39. Hydrology. The volume of water flow is 5,030 cubic meters per second (m3/sec) in the normal situation. The average depth is 3.5 m. It freezes in the winter for an average of 140 days annually. The

9 The lake is a reservoir for hydropower production. 10 The war for anti-Japanese invasion was fought from 1931 to 1945. 9 water quality standard for Songhua River is categorized as class III. The results of the water quality survey, conducted in October 2004, are in Table 7.

Table 7: Songhua River Water Quality Monitoring Results

No. Sampling pH COD Petroleum SS Perm. Point Index St MR St MR St MR St MR St MR 1 500 m upstream 6-9 6.5 20 16.98 0.05 0.03 150 38.7 6 5.76 2 500 m downstream 6-9 6.8 20 19.12 0.05 0.02 150 43.1 6 6.09 3 5,000 m downstream 6-9 6.7 20 18.97 0.05 0.03 150 37.3 6 6.23 Source: Environmental Impact Assessment of Songhua River Bridge (2005).

40. Ecological Environment. Land surface is covered by rush-mat sediment, of which the average depth is 80 cm. Beneath the strata, sand and gravel from the river are observed. The terrain around the bridge is flat and the area is covered by rice paddy, small ponds, and bushes. Although there are frequent agricultural and industrial activities, the level of environmental conservation is relatively high, particularly around rush-mat areas near the water. Around 100 botanical species were observed during the survey. The superior plants are small-leaves camphor, wild millet straw, Fuzi couch grass, and fog grass. On the land, a total of 198 animal species were counted, including 17 bird species. During the survey, 56 species of fish were observed although the total number of species known in the river was 72. There were no endangered species in the area. Similar ecological environments are frequently found along the river.

IV. ALTERNATIVES

41. No Action Alternative. Without the Project, people living, studying, and working along existing roads will continue to be adversely affected by dust because of the movement of vehicular traffic over unpaved surfaces. Transport of people and goods will continue to be difficult during periods of rain and snow. Without construction of the Songhua River Bridge, the movement of vehicles—particularly trucks and buses—between Fangzheng and Tonghe counties will continue to be restricted by the frequency and capacity of the river ferries. Roads in Tonghe and Tieli counties will continue to be dead ends, requiring intercounty traffic to undertake long detours via Harbin.11

42. Alternative Transport Modes. Transportation by water east–west is not a viable option because the rivers freeze in the winter and, apart from major north–south flowing rivers such as the Songhua, are too shallow at other times of year. Transportation by rail in an east–west direction is restricted by the layout of the two main north–south railway lines. Freight to be transported from Jixi City to Nehe would either have to go via a southern route through Mudanjiang, Harbin, and Qiqiha’er or via a northern route through Linkou, Jiamusi, Tieli, Suihua, Hailun, Tongbei, Bei’an, and Fuyu. The Project will provide better access to the existing rail network. There are regional airports at Mudanjiang, Jiamusu, and Qiqiha’er.

43. Alternative Alignments. A number of alternative alignments (Table 8) for different sections of the main project road have been investigated. The recommended alignment was selected based on (i) acquisition of productive agricultural land; (ii) loss of existing infrastructure; (iii) minimizing impacts on protected areas, i.e., Xinglong National Forest Park; (iv) potential need for resettlement; and (v) construction costs.

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.

11 Without the Songhua River Bridge, vehicles have to detour more than 150 km upstream (Harbin city) or downstream (Jiamusi city).

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Table 8: Alternative Alignments

Section Unit Alternative A Alternative C Comments A. Linkou Bypass Start/end point km K54+219–K78+200 K45+254–K70+883 Length km 14.100 25.629 A: shortest, uses section of Heda highway; C: longest, upgrades existing road + some new Earthworks 1,000 m3 505.424 500.786 C: least earthworks Drainage works 100 m3 213.15 249.25 A: least drainage works Pavement 1,000 m3 141.925 218.948 A: least pavement Interchanges no. 11 17 C: most interchanges (links to settlements/existing roads) Removal of electric no. 12 15 A: least disturbance to lines/telecoms infrastructure Land take 1,000 m2 267.642 575.391 A: least land take Estimated cost CNY10,000 11,490 18,442 A: least expensive Cost per km CNY10,000 814.9 719.5 C: cheapest per km Additional Joins Kuishan and C: shortest/straightest route considerations Anshan towns Jixi–Linkou C selected

Section Unit Alternative A Alternative E Comments B. Fangzheng Bypass Start/end point km K245+150– K245+150– K260+260.98 K259+301.04 Length km 15.83 14.151 A: longest, upgrades existing road; E: shortest, all new alignment Earthworks 1,000 m3 599.170 657.818 A: least earthworks Drainage works 100 m3 11.34 6.9 A: least drainage works Pavement 1,000 m3 254.27 285.810 A: least pavement Bridges no./length 2 bridges; 132.16 m - E: no bridges Removal of electric no. 12 5 A: least disturbance to lines/telecoms infrastructure Land take 1,000 m2 484.830 558.800 A: least land take Estimated cost CNY10,000 19,904 19,909 A: least overall cost Cost per km CNY10,000 1,257.4 1,406.9 A: least cost per km A selected

Section Unit Alternative A Alternative G Comments C. Tieli-Tonghe Start/end point km K320+310– K320+310– K401+129.36 K385+310 Length km 80.819 65.000 A: longest Earthworks 1,000 m3 1,904.567 1,725.172 G: least earthworks Drainage works 100 m3 1,005.74 1,032.97 A: least drainage works Bad geological sections km 25.616 4.887 G: least sections of bad geology Pavement 1,000 m3 842.002 675.433 A: least pavement Bridges no./length 11 bridges; 593.48 m 8 bridges; 385.32 m A: least bridges Interchanges no. 42 27 A: most interchanges Removal of electric 20 7 A: existing power supply; G: least lines/telecoms infrastructure disturbance Land take 1,928.017 1,708.321 G: least land take Estimated cost CNY10,000 50,286 41,678 G: least overall cost Cost per km CNY10,000 622.2 641.2 A: least cost per km Additional Avoids Xinglong Through Xinglong A: minimizes potential impacts on considerations National Forest Park National Forest Park “protected area” A selected

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Section Unit Alternative A Alternative L Comments D. Sandao Bypass Start/end point km K569+670– K569+670– K590+000 K586+734.524 Length km 20.330 17.064 L: shortest; A: longest Earthworks 1,000 m3 477.410 414.910 L: least earthworks Drainage works 100 m3 73.92 66.32 L: least drainage Pavement 1,000 m3 208.563 175.398 L: least pavement Bridges no./length 3 bridges; 405.20 m 2 bridges; 330.12 m L: least bridges Interchanges no. 17 8 A: most interchanges Removal of electric no. 1 6 A: least disturbance to lines/telecoms infrastructure Land take 1,000 m2 375.500 447.580 A: least land take Estimated cost CNY10,000 13,579 14,584 A: least overall cost Cost per km CNY10,000 667.9 854.7 A: least cost per km Additional A: closer to town; G: 6 km considerations from town A selected

Section Unit Alternative A Alternative M Comments E. Baiquan Bypass Start/end point km K610+940– K610+940– K621+262.719 K623+544.671 Length km 10.323 12.605 A: shortest route Earthworks 1,000 m3 209.341 229.642 A: least earthworks Drainage works 100 m3 4.93 114.21 A: least drainage works Pavement 1,000 m3 101.572 131.667 A: least pavement Interchanges no. 8 15 M: most interchanges Removal of electric no. 5 8 A: least disturbance to infrastructure lines/telecoms but demolition of petrol/LPG stations Land take 1,000 m2 246.900 327.680 A: least land take Estimated cost CNY10,000 6,264 9,465 A: least overall cost Cost per km CNY10,000 600.7 750.8 A: least cost per km A selected K = kilometer station, km = kilometer, LPG = liquid propane gas, m = meter, m2 = square meter, m3 = cubic meter, no. = number. Source: Environmental Impact Assessment (2005).

44. Alternative for Songhua River Bridge. For Songhua River Bridge, six alternative routes were studied. While the riverbanks around the bridge are developed, the environmental impacts are almost equivalent for all alternatives. Since the river is a shipping route in the summer, ship courses determine the maximum span. Also, the characteristics of the floodwater were studied using historical hydrology data since 1951. Scaled model hydrology experiments were conducted so that the infrastructures do not cause unexpected erosion of the riverbanks and riverbed.

V. ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

45. The major environmental impacts and proposed measures to reduce or eliminate adverse impacts are summarized in Appendix 1.

A. Topography, Geology/Seismology, and Soils

46. General Construction Activities and Access Roads. According to the soil erosion prevention planThe views(SEPP) expressed prepared herein by Heilongjiangare those of the Provincial consultant Research and do not Institute necessarily of Water represent and those Soil ofConservation, ADB’s the Projectmembers, will Board require of Directors, excavation Management, of over 2.40 or staff,million and m may3 of earthbe preliminary and rocks. in nature. Excavated earth will be used as much as possible as fill for road subgrade. However, the total estimated fill volume required is 9.44 million m3. Based on field surveys, 68 borrow pits have been identified, of which 41 will be used for

12 disposal of the estimated 0.98 million m3 of waste earth and rock (spoil) that will require disposal. A summary of the SEPP is in Appendix 2.

47. Quarries, Borrow Pits, and Sand and Gravel Sites. Quarry sites have not been identified within the SEPP. There are a number of old quarries along the alignment, from which rock will be acquired where necessary.

48. The SEPP identified 68 borrow pit sites along the main project road corridor. A strict borrow site and materials storage site rehabilitation will be implemented and included in the construction contracts. The contractors will prepare detailed work programs and plans indicating the construction activity sequences, topsoil storage areas, and borrow pit restoration measures. Rehabilitation will include surface compaction and stabilization as well as planting with vegetation types that have root systems which hold the soil in early stages, then with trees and larger vegetation for later stages.

49. A spoil disposal plan will be prepared for excavated materials. The plan will include (i) use and management of waste materials; (ii) a material transport scheme; (iii) material dumping arrangements; (iv) stabilization of stockpiles against rain, wind, frost, and ice; (v) a drainage system; and (vi) rehabilitation of exposed areas. This plan—to be a contractual requirement—will be carefully monitored by HPCD. Ongoing maintenance, revegetation, and rehabilitation measures for all spoil sites will be documented.

50. Sand and gravel resources are abundant along the major rivers in the area. No specific sand and gravel extraction sites have been identified in the SEPP. According to PRC regulations, work sites along river tributaries will require permits from the provincial river management office.

51. Materials Haulage for Construction. The transport of excavated and fill materials will require the use of trucks. Damage to access roads, elevated emission of dust and noise levels, and increased vehicular flow are expected. Access roads will be maintained to minimize disruption to residents and other road users. Proper scheduling of trucks for haulage operations, so that peak hours do not coincide with school hours and during night time, will help minimize disturbance to sensitive locations such as schools and residential areas.

52. The establishment of temporary construction camps and storage places will be handled to minimize impacts on soil erosion and the need for land take. The use of abandoned establishments that can be used for such activities will be encouraged.

53. Slope Protection in Construction Period. Slope protection works will involve a variety of standard bioengineering and structural measures to reduce erosion and landslides based on the PRC’s Highway Protection Guidelines and Technical Standards of Highway Projects. On road embankments, (i) grass turfing will be used on slopes up to 2.5 m high, (ii) turfing with geo-textile netting on slopes 2.5–4.5 m high, and (iii) turfing with stone arch protection and drainage on slopes over 4.5 m high. On cut slopes and stone excavation sites, (i) turfing with geo-textile netting will be used on non-stone slopes below 4 m high, and (ii) turfing with stone arch protection will be used on non-stone cuts where the slope is over 4 m high. Surface wall protection or low wall protection will be used in sections where the rock is decayed and expected to be decayed. In addition, poplar, birch, pine, and other hardy local tree species will be planted at 2.5–3.5 m along the roadside and slopes in appropriate locations.

54. Regular monitoring of erosion prevention measures during the construction phase will be undertaken by county environmental monitoring stations (CEMSs) and Water Resources Bureau.

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55. Operating Period. During the operation of the Project road, no significant impacts on topography, geology, and soils are predicted—other than those resulting from neglected protection works in spoil disposal sites and erosion prone areas, and failure to maintain revegetated areas along the alignment. To prevent this, regular monitoring inspections will be undertaken to ensure that drainage and revegetation are maintained, in accordance with SEPP requirements.

56. Maintenance of road slopes, cuts, and embankments—such as watering, fertilizing, pest control, and replanting when needed—will be continued during operations. Maintenance of all such areas will be budgeted as a part of regular highway maintenance. Regular monitoring of erosion prevention measures during the operation phase will be undertaken by the CEMSs and Water Resources Bureau.

B. Air Quality and Vehicle Emissions

57. Construction Period. In general, the air quality along the alignment is good. Sources of air pollution during construction are (i) dust generated by movement of vehicles and heavy machinery on existing unpaved roads and haul roads; (ii) dust emissions from aggregate preparation, concrete mixing plants, and haulage activities; (iii) odor emissions from asphalt melting and mixing; and (vi) exhaust emissions from vehicles and equipment.

58. The perceived impact of dust in reducing the yields of crops adjacent to road construction works was raised in several meetings held during preparation of the SEIA.

59. To limit the generation of dust from construction activities, construction roads will be watered with specific emphasis on village areas, based on a set daily schedule (taking into consideration weather conditions), using water trucks. All trucks that transport powdered or granular materials (e.g., lime), aggregates, and spoil will be covered during haulage.

60. Aggregate preparation and storage areas, concrete mixing plants, and asphalt plants will be located more than 300 m downwind of the nearest residential area. Dust suppression equipment will be installed on the concrete batching plants.

61. Proper maintenance of vehicles and diesel equipment and reduction of unnecessary running of vehicle or equipment engines will reduce vehicle emissions. No vehicle that emits visible black smoke will be allowed to operate on site.

62. Air quality will be measured quarterly during the construction period at the 13 sensitive sites where baseline monitoring was carried out during EIA preparation. Additional monitoring will be undertaken when necessary, e.g., if complaints are made by the local community. Monitoring will be undertaken by the CEMS. Fines will be imposed and remedial action costs charged to the contractor if the contractor defaults on its duty to implement the environmental management plan (EMP).

63. Operating Period. Future air quality conditions were estimated based on traffic forecasts from the preliminary design report, which are detailed in Table 9. The parameter modeled was NO2, a major component of vehicle exhaust emissions.

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.

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Table 9: Traffic Forecasts

2016 2024 Location Traffic/Day Daytime/Hour Nighttime/Hour Traffic/Day Daytime/Hour Nighttime/Hour Linkou–Daluomi 2,989 168 37 5021 282 63 Tonghe–Tieli 2,232 125 28 3,682 207 46 Qing’an–Suiling 2,915 164 36 4,631 260 58 Hailun–Baiquan 3,594 202 45 5,778 325 72 Note: Proportion of vehicle types: small (62.4%), medium (31.0%), large (6.6%). Source: Environmental Impact Assessment (2005).

64. The results in Table 10 indicate that predicted air quality will remain well within the PRC standard. In addition, emissions of TSP (dust) will be considerably reduced from existing levels by the upgrading and paving of the existing, unpaved roads.

Table 10: Air Quality in Project Area (mg/m3)

No. Location Distance NO2 Residential From Standard Background Average Average Area/ Existing (day) Level Concentration Concentration School Road 2016 2024 1 Xujia 20 m 0.12 0.004 0.0256 0.0621 2 Shuguang 20 m 0.12 0.011 0.0241 0.0598 Forest Farm 3 Fengshan Town 15 m 0.12 0.014 0.0213 0.0510 4 Taipingying 40 m 0.12 0.003 0.0162 0.0401 Forest Office 8 Qianhanjia 20 m 0.12 0.006 0.0201 0.0523 9 Zhifu Town 20 m 0.12 0.008 0.0226 0.0530 Central Primary School 10 Shangji Town 80m 0.12 0.007 0.0235 0.0541 11 Shengli Village 15 m 0.12 0.015 0.0265 0.0612 13 Dongsheng 20 m 0.12 0.012 0.0271 0.0653 Village m = meter, NO2 = nitrogen dioxides. Source: Environmental Impact Assessment (2005).

65. A second source of air pollution during the operation phase is the heating systems for the three management centers and nine toll stations. While not anticipated to be a major source of pollution, chimney emissions will be monitored by the CEMSs.

66. Vehicle Emissions Control. The principal air quality impacts during operation will come from vehicle emissions. The Government has taken several steps to control vehicle emissions: (i) imposing regulations on the vehicle industry, (ii) requiring an annual vehicle test, and (iii) drafting a vehicle inspection and maintenance program. These measures set emissions and fuel efficiency targets and offer tax incentives for manufacturing more “environmentally friendly” cars.

67. Heilongjiang Province has a program of vehicle emissions control. All vehicles are required to be tested for exhaust emissions as part of the annual vehicle safety inspection. Vehicle testing arrangements are in Table 11.

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Table 11: Emissions Testing in Project Area

County Testing Arrangements Linkou Take vehicle to emissions testing station in Mudanjiang Fangzheng Take vehicle to emissions testing station in Harbin Tonghe Take vehicle emissions testing station in Harbin Tieli Vehicle emissions testing unit visits Tieli Qing’an Vehicle emissions testing unit visits Qing’an Suiling Vehicle emissions testing unit visits Suiling Hailun Vehicle emissions testing unit visits Hailun Baiquan Vehicle emissions testing unit visits Baiquan Source: Environmental Impact Assessment (2005).

68. The Public Security Bureau has the power to randomly stop vehicles and enforce emissions testing. Random spot checks that indicate noncompliance result in a CNY50–CNY200 fine and the vehicle user is given a time limit to make repairs to meet the emissions standard.

69. Paved roads provide a smoother and dust-free running surface, and allow faster vehicle movements with less interruption by frequent braking, so air quality in the project area is likely to improve.

C. Water Quality

70. Construction Period. Unless hydrological studies for design are adequate, there is a possibility of alteration of natural drainage, which can result in erosion as well as flooding. Irrigation flows of paddy fields are a critical element in crop production. Any interruption of these flows during construction or any permanent alteration of these flows will have a direct impact on crop production during the construction period.

71. The project design has been undertaken in consultation with county water resources and agriculture bureaus, and takes account of natural and manmade drainage features in the area. Upgrading of the existing road presents the opportunity to improve the sizing and location of some of the current drainage structures. Irrigation and drainage channel diversion and reconstruction works must be completed prior to road construction, before the irrigation season starts, and be based on consultation with relevant stakeholders.

72. There is a possibility of groundwater contamination and surface water contamination from slurries used in bridge and culvert construction, particularly during drilling and grouting. Surface water or groundwater may be contaminated by improper utilization or storage of construction materials that are toxic or hazardous, such as chemicals or petroleum products. Lime used in ground stabilization is known to be toxic to fish.

73. Bridge and Road Construction. The main project road and linking roads pass over many rivers and drainage channels which will require protection during construction and operation. Cast-in-place concrete piles will be used in the construction of major bridges. During boring, cofferdams will be installed to prevent silt arising from boring operations from mixing with river water. When large amounts of boring slag are produced, these will be hauled to spoil disposal areas, which will be provided with retaining walls and vegetation cover. Measures will be undertaken to ensure that short-term diversion of rivers for bridge construction are properly designed and constructed to avoid future bank erosion. For Songhua River BridgeThe views construction, expressed herein measures are those formulated of the consul usingtant the and scaled do not modelnecessarily experiments represent willthose be of appliedADB’s to avoid unexpectedmembers, Board river of bank Directors, erosion. Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature.

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74. Surface drainage from major bridge construction sites will be intercepted and directed into temporary settling ponds (with 48-hour detention capacity). A geo-textile filter should be provided at pond outlets to intercept suspended sand and silt, in case overflows occur.

75. Water quality at the six major bridge sites, where baseline measurements were made during EIA preparation, will be monitored by the CEMS. Water quality of the Songhua River will be monitored by the Heilongjiang Provincial Environmental Protection Bureau. Additional monitoring will be undertaken when necessary, e.g., if complaints are made by the local community.

76. Soil Erosion. The SEPP estimates that the Project’s impact on 1,429 ha of virgin land and generation of 0.98 million m3 of spoil will increase soil erosion by 22,775 tons. The average soil erosion intensity is estimated at 950–1,500 tons/km2/year. Protection measures against soil erosion will be required. The SEPP and specific engineering solutions described in the EIA will be implemented to minimize soil erosion.

77. Soil erosion is most likely to occur between June and October. The time interval between sites being cleared of vegetation and construction works beginning should be as short as possible. To ensure maximum slope protection at all times, construction of slope protection works, and grass and tree planting in the right of way in each section, will proceed concurrently with construction works. In sections with large volumes of cut and fill, the contractor will stabilize slopes by retaining structures to be designed and implemented based on the PRC’s Highway Protection Guidelines and Technical Standards of Highway Projects12.

78. All permanent and temporary drains will be designed and constructed to prevent surface runoff from eroding natural and built slopes. Collection chambers or settlement ponds will be constructed wherever necessary to prevent silt from flowing into rivers and ponds.

79. Waste Management. Construction waste typically includes surplus rock, sand and gravel, lime, asphalt, cement, steel products, wood, and prefabricated components in addition to liquid wastes, such as petroleum products, other chemicals, and sewage.

80. A waste management plan will be prepared and implemented by the contractor. A hazard and emergency action plan will also be prepared and implemented by the contractor to deal with incidents such as accidents involving injuries, fires, and spills of chemicals or other materials.

81. Construction workers and work camps will require provision of safe drinking and cooking water, and will also generate sewage and solid wastes. To protect water quality, sewage pits and temporary sewage treatment works will be constructed. Sewage waste discharges will be managed according to PRC discharge standards.

82. The contractor will ensure that solid waste generated by work camps will be properly stored and disposed of. Recycling and reuse of materials will be encouraged to minimize waste. The contractor will provide appropriate waste storage containers, which will be emptied regularly. The contractor will sign agreements with local villages for waste disposal through village facilities. These arrangements will be made before construction starts.

83. All wastes will be stored away from water bodies, including rivers and ponds. Toxic, hazardous, and harmful construction materials such as caustic and acidic substances, oil and waste oil, diesel, and bitumen will be stored in paved, bounded areas to reduce the impacts of accidental spills. Monitoring will

12 Ministry of Communications. 2005. Highway Protection Guidelines and Technical Standards of Highway Projects. Beijing 17 be carried out to observe whether hazardous materials, including petroleum products, are being transported, handled, and stored properly.

84. Any use of lime, cement, and petroleum products close to watercourses or fishponds will be carefully regulated to minimize adverse impacts on fish.

85. Operating Period. During operations, impacts will be limited to (i) storm-water runoff from paved road surfaces into watercourses, (ii) failed erosion protection works, (iii) effluent leakage from solid and liquid waste treatment facilities provided for toll stations and management centers, and (iv) accidental spills. Under normal circumstances, with good management procedures, there will be little impact on water quality.

86. Hazardous Goods. Explosions, spillage of materials, or fire resulting from traffic accidents could contaminate the environment and damage the road. PRC regulations control the transport of hazardous goods by motor vehicles. All vehicles carrying dangerous goods should be inspected at the toll station to ensure that the carrier is certified as an operator of “dangerous goods transport” and that proper consignment documentation is being carried. The average accidental rate in the province is 20–25 cases per 108 km vehicles13 for class I highway and 150–160 cases per 108 km vehicles for class II highway. The rate varies depending on the traffic volume. Using the accident rate and the ratio of hazardous goods transportation, the probabilities of hazardous accidents were calculated as shown in Table 12.

Table 12: Probability of Hazardous Accident (cases per year)

Year Probability of Hazardous Accident 2010 0.9 * 10-2 2015 1.3 * 10-2 2020 1.8 * 10-2 2025 2.3 * 10-2 Source: Environmental Impact Assessment (2005).

87. Even with low probability of a spill, the toll operator should have a spill contingency plan for cleaning up hazardous and toxic materials. This plan, prepared as a manual, will be kept at all toll stations and provide information on (i) the acting authority and responsible persons; (ii) required actions and sequence of actions; (iii) materials and equipment required, storage location, and how to use them; and (iv) reporting responsibility. Firefighting and spill control equipment will be stored at strategic locations along the road. Training must be given to maintenance and operations personnel in implementation of the plan. Management, supervisory, and administrative personnel must be trained in their roles during response situations.

D. Noise

88. Construction Period. A significant increase in noise levels is expected during construction. Primary sources are the various construction activities that will involve operation of heavy machinery such as excavators, bulldozers, graders, stabilizers, concrete mixing plants, drills, stone crushing and screening plants, and rollers. While noise levels may be high, they will be temporary and localized. Noise intensity from these activities may range from 80 dB(A) to 100 dB(A) at the source. Sustained noise levelsThe views during expressed construction herein areare thoseexpected of the to consul exceedtant 70 and dB do(A) not at necessarily a distance represent of 200 m those from of the ADB’s source during members, Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature.

13 “case per 108 km vehicles” is a unit of accidental rate, which is commonly used in China and Japan.

18 daytime. Blasting for the cutting section, although the application is expected to be very limited because of the geology, will create severe noise peaks [over 100 dB(A)] up to 1 km from the blast site.

89. Reduction of noise levels can be achieved with proper equipment maintenance and restriction of the operating period to 06:00–20:00 hours. Other measures that can be implemented are the siting of rock crushing, concrete, and materials storage yards at least 2 km from sensitive sites, such as residential areas and schools. Sound suppression methods will be applied where piling equipment is operating within 500 m of residential areas and schools.

90. Large volumes of borrow and spoil materials will be transported to and from the construction sites. This is due to take place frequently during the 12–13 hour working days of the 6-month per year construction period for 3 years. As a result, haul roads passing through or near villages will experience frequent noise in the 70–80 dB(A) range if proper measures are not applied.

91. To reduce nighttime noise, work hours within 1 km of any residential area will be restricted to 06:00–20:00 hours. If possible, the movement of heavy vehicles along urban and village roads will be restricted during this period.

92. Noise levels at the 13 sensitive sites, where baseline levels were measured during EIA preparation, will be monitored by the CEMSs during the construction period. Additional monitoring will be undertaken when necessary, e.g., if complaints are made by the local community. If noise standards are exceeded, equipment and construction conditions will be checked under the supervision of the chief construction engineer, and measures put in place immediately to solve the problem. Fines and payment of costs by the contractor for mitigation done by the employer will be the final option.

93. Operating Period. During the operating phase, noise will be generated by vehicles passing by. In open areas, traffic noise will be linearly dispersed, and will only have a minor impact. During the field investigation for the EIA, daytime and nighttime noise levels were measured at 13 sensitive sites along the existing road. No noise levels exceeded the guojia biaozhun (national standard). Traffic noise modeling for impacts at the same sites was undertaken for 2016 and 2024, using the traffic volumes shown in Table 9. The predicted results are shown in Table 13.

Table 13: Noise Levels in Project Area [dB(A)]

Location Daytime Nighttime Distance from (08:00–22:00) (23:00–06:00) No. Residential Existing Road Standard 2016 2024 Standard 2016 2024 Area/School 1 Xibeileng 15 m 70 65.4 68.0 55 56.3 59.4 30 m 53.7 57.8 45.4 48.9 2 Xibeileng Primary 30 m 60 58.1 62.0 55 School 3 Xujia 20 m 70 61.7 65.6 55 53.4 57.1 30 m 54.0 57.4 46.4 49.0 4 Shuguang Forest Farm 20 m 70 62.0 65.5 55 53.5 57.1 30 m 54.7 58.2 46.5 49.0 5 Sima Village 20 m 70 60.4 64.1 55 52.0 55.5 30 m 51.4 65.5 43.6 47.0 6 Fengshan Town 15 m 70 63.9 66.8 55 55.1 58.2 30 m 57.1 58.6 48.6 47.7 7 Taipingyang Range 40 m 70 54.3 58.2 55 46.0 49.7 Institute 50 m 50.4 53.1 41.3 44.1 8 Taiping Primary 30 m 60 56.7 60.4 55 19

Location Daytime Nighttime Distance from (08:00–22:00) (23:00–06:00) No. Residential Existing Road Standard 2016 2024 Standard 2016 2024 Area/School School 9 Zhifu Town Central 20 m 60 60.8 65.4 55 Primary School 10 Shangji Town 80 m 70 48.7 54.2 55 40.4 45.7 11 Shengli Village 80 m 70 66.6 68.5 55 58.1 60.0 55.7 58.0 46.7 49.7 12 Shengli Village Middle 15 m 60 63.9 66.0 55 School 30 m 13 Sijianfang 20 m 70 63.9 66.0 55 55.5 57.3 30 m 56.5 58.6 47.1 49.4 m = meter. Source: Environmental Impact Assessment (2005).

94. By 2016, schools at Zhifu and Shengli are predicted to exceed the PRC’s daytime noise standard by 0.8 dB(A) and 3.9 dB(A), respectively. Xibeileng, Fengshan town, and Shengli village will exceed the nighttime noise standard by 0.1–3.1 dB(A) at 15 m from the centerline, and will require monitoring. By 2024, schools at Xibeileng, Taiping, Zhifu, and Shengli are predicted to exceed the daytime noise standard by 0.4–6.9 dB(A), and all noise sensitive points within 20 m of the road centerline will exceed the nighttime noise standard by 0.5–5.0 dB(A).

95. The noise mitigation measures are proposed, consistent with noise reduction measures specified in relevant government guidelines and as recommended in the EIA.

96. In residential areas where noise standards are expected to be exceeded within 30 m of the road centerline, houses may be relocated to other areas. In areas where noise standards are expected to be exceeded within 30–80 m of the centerline, the installation of double-glazed windows to reduce noise to the allowed range will be considered. It is also proposed that a 20-m wide vegetation strip will be provided in six villages, although the effectiveness of this measure in terms of noise reduction is debatable. Restrictions will be placed on the construction of new residences, schools, or other noise- sensitive buildings with 30 m of the centerline of the main project road.

E. Flora

97. Loss of vegetation and natural habitat will inevitably occur during construction, and thousands of mature trees planted alongside the existing roads will be destroyed. Clearance of vegetation and felling of trees in areas inside and outside the right of ways will be strictly controlled.

98. The main project alignment does not cross any protected areas or old growth forests. There are no known endangered or rare species of flora in the area. Xinglong National Forest Park—an area of secondary forest, plantations, and agricultural land—is located between Tonghe and Tieli. All construction managers and workers hired to work in this section will attend training sessions to make them aware that any impacts on the park must comply with national and provincial regulations on protected areas, Wildlife Protection Law, Wild Plants Protection Law, and other applicable laws and regulations. A written code of conduct will be given to each person when hired to work in this section. Establishment of construction camps, excavation of borrow pits, dumping of spoil and waste of any kind, cuttingThe views of expressedtrees for hereinfuel, arehunting, those ofand the collectionconsultant andof wilddo not food necessarily (e.g., mushrooms)represent those within of ADB’s the park by constructionmembers, Board workers of Directors, will Management,be strictly forbidden. or staff, and All may construction be preliminary workers in nature. will be trained in waste management and forest fire awareness.

20

99. In compliance with PRC forestry law, HPCD will undertake compensatory planting for an equivalent or larger area for affected forest tree plantations. The program, which will be implemented in coordination with the county forestry bureaus, will have the following components: (i) an inventory of the trees to be removed and approximate location relative to the alignment; (ii) preparation of a reforestation layout including a topographic map of the site indicating the approximate number of trees to be removed and the planting location, number, and species of trees to be replanted; and (iii) a maintenance program detailing the timeframe, logistical requirements, and workforce required.

100. Trees take a long time to grow in Heilongjiang due to the extreme seasonal climatic conditions. Plantings must be maintained during the operating period by regular watering, protection from grazing animals, and disease control. It is proposed that 20-m wide vegetation strips are provided in six villages. Trees outside the right of way but within the impact corridor, including those planted in areas prone to erosion, will need to be tended for at least 3 years.

101. Since soil erosion will occur in areas without vegetation cover, the interval between site clearance and start of works should be as short as possible. Stabilization with grass turfing and other plants should take place as soon as the work ceases for that section.

F. Fauna

102. There are no known endangered or rare species of fauna in the project area. However, the project road passes the Xinglong National Forest Park. A written code of conduct will be given to each person when hired to work in this section. Hunting by construction workers within the park will be strictly forbidden.

G. Land Resources, Land Use, and Crops

103. Estimated requirements for permanent and temporary land take requirements for the main project road are shown in Table 14. Permanent land take comprises paddy land (17.9%), dry or nonirrigated agricultural land (34.6%), forests (15.5%), and wasteland, e.g., land alongside rivers (32%).

Table 14: Land Acquisition Requirements14

Land Type and Quantity (ha) Permanent/ Irrigated Section Dry Agricultural Temporary Agricultural Forests Wasteland Land Land (Paddy) Linkou–Daloumi Permanent 49.814 29.492 74.962 105.988 Temporary 49.813 7.889 5.956 Fangzheng–Tonghe Permanent 35.504 30.025 20.384 Temporary 19.724 1.550 Tonghe–Tieli Permanent 41.415 93.149 63.954 151.282 Temporary 84.656 16.557 14.998 Qing’an–Suiling Permanent 45.797 73.284 11.544 4.927 Temporary 40.200 11.150 Hailun–Baiquan Permanent 2.050 110.890 28.570 Temporary 20.920 6.270 Total 174.580 552.152 174.906 351.064 ha = hectare. Source: Environmental Impact Assessment (2005).

14 These totals, quoted in the EIA and draft resettlement plan, are currently inconsistent with the Summary Erosion Protection Plan. 21

104. Temporarily occupied agricultural land will be rehabilitated (e.g., topsoil applied) and returned to agricultural use following completion of use at that particular site. Planting trees along the highway and linking roads will compensate for permanent loss of forestland. Temporarily occupied forestland will be replanted following use of the occupied forestland site.

H. Mineral Resources

105. Materials required by the construction works include stone, gravel, sand, cement, steel, oil, and lime. Stone, gravel, and sand will be acquired from borrow pits, rivers, and existing quarries along the alignment. Crushed stone for the asphalt concrete surface will be brought from the Geshan basalt resources in Suiling County. Cement will be acquired from cement factories in Harbin and Wenchun. Steel will be acquired from Jixi, Harbin, Hailun, and Yichun Xilin steel companies. Oil and asphalt will be supplied by the Highway Bureau asphalt storage station. Lime will be supplied by Yuquan. Other materials will be supplied by the counties and cities where the Project is located.

I. Induced Development

106. Heilongjiang is an area rich in agricultural, forestry, and mineral resources. It is anticipated that project-induced development of service, commercial, and industrial enterprises will result at key locations near existing population centers. This development, which is perceived as something to be encouraged, should occur proportionally to the induced traffic forecast for the Project. To minimize indirect impacts from induced industrial growth, it is recommended that the total pollutant emission quantity control is strictly implemented and an EIA carried out for all industrial projects, based on PRC law. With these mitigation measures, environmental impacts from new industrial growth induced by the Project can be controlled to an acceptable limit.

J. Cultural, Historical, and Tourism Sites

107. The EIA identified a designated historic protection site, “Eight Women”, in the vicinity of the proposed Project, as well as a number of other sites around Fangzheng where pottery and other artifacts have been found. The Project includes a linking road and bridge to improve access to the “Eight Women” site. The alignment around Fangzheng passes 150 m from the site where archaeological finds are reported to have been made.

108. Site clearance, excavations, and other earthworks may lead to the discovery of archaeological artifacts. If any historical or cultural artifacts are found, work will stop immediately until authorities have a chance to evaluate the significance and nature of such findings. No borrow sites or construction access roads will be permitted in the area near Fangzheng mentioned above.

109. It is anticipated that road improvement will increase the number of visitors to local cultural, historical, and tourism sites. It is recommended that, as a minimum, basic facilities are provided at the tourism sites, such as signs and information boards, toilets, and waste bins (which should be emptied on a regular basis).

K. Aesthetic Impacts

110. Placement and rehabilitation of spoils or waste soil areas could create negative visual impacts unlessThe views properly expressed managed herein areand those supervised. of the consul Placementtant and doand not rehabilitation necessarily represent of spoils those and ofwaste ADB’s soil should members, Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature. be planned and executed with sensitivity to topographic and visual aspects and will be carried out in such a way that the disposal areas enhance rather than detract from the visual quality of the highway route.

22

111. Construction of several major new bridges provides the opportunity to develop visually pleasing as well as functional designs. The bridges, particularly the new 2.6 km structure over the Songhua River, may become tourism attractions.

112. Tree and vegetation planting along the main project road—to replace the thousands of trees destroyed during construction and compensate for loss of trees elsewhere—will be decorative and visually pleasing as well as functional. Flowering shrubs may be included among the species planted based on consultations with local Forest Bureau authorities.

L. Linking Roads

113. The Project includes improving 155 km of rural roads connecting to the main project road to strengthen the integrated road network, linking to 48 villages and urban areas. The 21 linking roads range in length from 0.56 km (access to the “Eight Women” monument) to 30.15 km (Sandaotong to Malanhe) and 34.36 km (Lianhua to Xinmin).

114. In general, the linking roads selected for upgrading have been chosen on the basis of the size and number of village(s) served, and whether the villages have connections to alternative roads. Some of the linking roads connect an urban area to proposed main road. Improvement of the linking roads is likely to include widening of carriageways from around 6.5 m to 8 m and paving to produce an all weather driving surface.

115. No major realignment or significant reconstruction is planned for any of the linking roads. However, the Sandaotong–Tuchengzi–Dabeishun–Malanhe road crosses a mountainous area and includes a new 458 m bridge over the Mudanjiang River. Depending on the alignment, construction of the new bridge may require resumption and demolition of a number of houses and business properties. The Lianhua–Dongxing–Xinmin road, which links to the Sandaotong–Malanhe road, runs partway up the face of a steep cliff on the northern bank of the Mudanjiang River. Upgrading of these two roads will require more care than other sections that are located in easier terrain in terms of provision of roadside drainage and slope stabilization works, bridge construction, and blasting works.

116. In general, the linking roads construction will have less impact than the main highway construction. The scale of earthwork will be much smaller than the main highway. The same SEPP will be applied for the linking road construction. For air quality during construction, no major impacts are expected, because equipment used for the construction will be small tracks, small shovels, hand-guided compaction rollers, and small asphalt finishers. For water quality during construction, the same environmental protection measures as the main road will be applied to prevent potential adverse impacts. With a few exceptions, almost all linking roads are planned in the existing right of way. The adverse impacts for flora and fauna will be very limited. No endangered species are found in the construction area.

117. During the operating period, the traffic volume of linking roads will be very low because the traffic on the linking roads will only serve the villagers’ daily demands. Pavement and well-designed drainage system will improve current environmental problems. Dust from unpaveds road will be eliminated. Soil erosion along the roads will be reduced by protection measures to be applied to the slopes. Low traffic volume means that noise and air pollution from vehicles on the road will cause little serious adverse impacts.

M. Possible Change in Alignment

118. In the case of a possible change in alignment, the following measures will be taken: (i) minor deviation in the alignment: environmental design engineer will propose mitigation measures and 23 incorporate them into the detailed design drawings; (ii) major deviation that may cause significant environmental impacts or affect additional people: executing agency (EA) will conduct additional environmental assessment, including public consultation. The revised EIA report will be submitted to Heilongjiang Environmental Protection Bureau, following government procedures; and (iii) EA will determine whether the deviation is minor or major, in consultation with ADB.

VI. ECONOMIC ASSESSMENT AND COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS

119. Costs of Environmental Mitigation. What constitutes an environmental protection cost is often a matter of interpretation. Most cost items usually identified as “environmental protection cost” would normally be included in project costs anyway as “best practice” engineering. The difference in normal engineering and construction costs and environmental protection costs often is in the manner in which the improvements are designed and installed, and the sensitivity of design and construction to environmental issues. Drainage, land acquisition, and resettlement costs would all be incurred whether environmental and socioeconomic sensitivities were observed or not. A summary of environmental mitigation costs (including water quality, air quality, and noise monitoring costs) totaling CNY68,217,300 is shown in Appendix 5.

120. Benefits of Environmental Mitigation. The Project will foster new economic activities and help to reduce poverty. Anticipated benefits from the Project include stimulating economic growth, improving transport mobility in rural areas and improved/new east–west links between counties, increasing access to markets and information, promoting investments, creating job opportunities, and increasing incomes of the project area’s population. Economic benefits arising from the Project include (i) reduced vehicle operating cost and time savings, (ii) benefits from generated traffic, (iii) savings from avoided engineering-induced traffic accidents, and (iv) savings to freight in transit.

121. Economic Analysis of Environmental Impacts. Methodologies for quantitative analysis of environmental benefits are not well established, except for fuel consumption analysis. The reduction of fuel consumption and vehicle emission can be calculated using traffic flow forecast data and road network data. The area of tree planted can be compared before and after the Project.

122. Environmental benefits will include (i) reduced vehicle emissions from faster and smoother flow of traffic, (ii) reduced dust emissions from paving the existing roads, and (iii) afforestation along the highway. On the other hand, noise levels and vehicle emission will inevitably increase due to increased volumes of traffic along the highway, and part of secondary forests will be demolished. These negative impacts are inevitable for the project highway construction. However, the increase of traffic volume in the project highway is transferred traffic from other corridors. The total vehicle emission in the project area will be reduced due to the project highway. The emission from vehicles on the project highway will be reduced about 30% compared with the without-project situation. In addition, current unpaved roads are causing dust problems and these will be reduced to a negligible level. Therefore, it is clear that the overall environmental impacts of the Project, with adequate mitigation measures, will be positive.

VII. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

123. The mitigation measures defined in the EIA and enhanced in the SEIA’s EMP will be included in the environmental specifications in the bidding documents. The Environmental Management Plan (EMP) is in Appendix 3 and the Environmental Monitoring Program is in Appendix 4. 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. 124. To ensure that the contractor complies with the provisions of the EMP, the following specifications should be incorporated into all bidding procedures: (i) a set of environmental preconditions for potential bidders; (ii) a list of environmental items to be budgeted by bidders in their proposal, and environmental

24 evaluation factors for bid reviewers; (iii) environmental clauses for contract terms, conditions, and specifications; and (iv) an environmental contract for insertion in the loan agreement, specifying the borrower’s environmental responsibility based on the EMP. The EIA, SEIA, and EMP will be provided to the contractor as reference in Chinese language.

125. Institutional Requirements. To undertake a credible environmental compliance monitoring program, HPCD, the contractor, and local partners must be committed to (i) administrative and managerial participation to mitigation and monitoring; (ii) clear chain of command to deal with mitigation implementation and the application of fines in noncompliance situations; (iii) skilled environmental monitors/analysts (contracted through CEMSs); and (iv) systematic and credible data collection, organization, and reporting system.

126. The principal environmental management agency in the PRC is the SEPA, with which HPCD must administratively coordinate significant environmental impacts and monitoring issues. HPCD will supervise all activities for the Project with close collaboration with Heilongjiang Provincial Environmental Protection Bureau (HPEPB). As stipulated Environmental Protection Law in PRC, HPEPB has responsibility for the environment in the Province. The Implementation Unit in HPCD will supervise contractors for the Project with close collaboration with CEMSs. The primary responsibility of environmental protection is designated to the contractors. The contract documents will specify the environmental protection and monitoring responsibilities for the contractors. Monitoring of noise, air, and water quality should be contracted to the relevant CEMS. In addition, HPCD will engage an independent organization for environmental monitoring (IOEM). If CEMS’ capacity is not adequate for this kind of major project, IOEM will report to HPEPB and adequate measures will be taken by HPCD. The independence of the IOEM will be ensured by the contract between HPCD and IOEM.

127. The contractor must ensure that mitigation measures are implemented and sustained throughout the construction period. In turn, HPCD must check that contractors have environmental skills and are aware of their environmental protection responsibilities. HPCD must confirm that the contractor’s contract specification contains environmental mitigation and monitoring responsibilities as defined in the EMP.

128. Environmental Monitoring. During the project design period, monitoring will ensure that (i) design measures are specified for sensitive areas, (ii) bidding documents contain environmental requirements, and (iii) criteria for the selection of qualified contractors are clearly defined and followed.

129. Two types of environmental monitoring are required. One type is compliance monitoring. This determines whether (i) the contractor is complying with the conditions of the contract; and (ii) operational procedure requirements, with respect to environment-related processes and activities, are met. Another type of monitoring is impact monitoring. This measures environmental impacts to ensure that critical factors (such as dust or noise levels) are not exceeded. It also helps to determine whether mitigation measures should be increased or decreased, and it helps in evaluation of impacts as an input to decisions on future projects.

130. During construction, compliance monitoring will be undertaken as the work is carried out. Impact monitoring of noise, air, and water quality will be carried out by the CEMS. HPCD should report to ADB on environmental performance twice a year. Within 6 months of completing construction, a construction mitigation completion report should be submitted to ADB. The report should indicate the extent and success of mitigation completed and the operation phase maintenance and monitoring requirements.

131. Operation phase monitoring will focus maintaining mitigation measures initiated during the construction phase. 25

132. Update of EMP. To ensure the EMP’s effective application, it will be updated at each stage of design, construction, and operation. In the design stage, HPCD will update the EMP. During the construction stage, the project implementation unit to be established in HPCD will update it. During the operation stage, the highway operation organization to be established by HPCD will update it. Throughout the project period, HPCD has the final responsibility as the highway policy administrator of the province. HPCD will supervise EMP updating at each stage. If a major change is envisaged in the EMP, HPCD or each entity under HPCD will accomplish any required legal and institutional arrangements.

VIII. PUBLIC CONSULTATION AND DISCLOSURE

133. Two phases of consultation have been undertaken during project preparation. The first phase formed part of the environmental and socioeconomic surveys carried out in June–July 2005. The second phase involves the additional consultation undertaken by the EA and ADB TA team after the EIA was completed October–December 2005.

134. The Notice about Strengthening Public Participation in Appraising Project Impacts on the Environment, ratified by Heilongjiang Environmental Protection Bureau, requires public participation to include the deputy to the local People’s Congress and government officials where the project is to be carried out. The proportion of residents and studies involved should be 70% directly impacted, 20% indirectly affected, and 10% government officers and experts.

135. During preparation of the EIA in June–July 2005, meetings were held by the Heilongjiang Provincial Institute for Environmental Sciences and Environmental Protection with government departments, schools, and members of the public at county and village levels along the main project road. A public opinion survey involving the distribution of 400 questionnaires was undertaken. The questionnaire covered issues such as whether the Project was necessary, anticipated environmental and economic impacts, and proposed environmental protection measures, and invited comments. Of the 370 responses received, 70% were received from farmers, 13% from the Communist Party and government officials, 5% from teachers, and 11% from others.

136. The responses indicated that there was 100% support for construction of the Jixi–Nehe highway and 95% thought that the Project would develop the economy. However, only 35% supported expropriation of land, and removal and relocation of buildings; and 12% were concerned about receipt of compensation for loss of property and use of land. Suggestions included (i) implementation of environmental protection measures, (ii) competent handling of compensation procedures and monitoring of compensation payments, (iii) high-quality road construction, and (iv) continued road maintenance during operation.

137. Additional awareness-raising about the Project took place during the baseline socioeconomic survey undertaken by Heilongjiang Provincial Academy of Social Sciences in June–July 2005, where interviews were held with 509 people at various locations along the route.

138. After the EIA was completed in October and November 2005, meetings were held in Linkou, Fangzheng, Tonghe, Tieli, Qing’an, Suiling, Hailun, and Baiquan counties with representatives of the county government and county level organizations including the Agricultural Bureau, Animal Husbandry Bureau, Communication Division, Construction Division, Cultural Bureau, Environmental Protection Bureau,The views Forest expressed Bureau, herein Land are Administrationthose of the consul Bureau,tant and Planning do not necessarily Committee, represent Poverty those Reduction of ADB’s Office, and members, Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature. Water Resources Bureau.

26

139. In general, the proposed alignment was supported and a range of economic and environment benefits from implementing the Project were identified. Improved access to the national rail network—as well as to the north (i.e., the Russian Federation) and west (i.e., Inner Mongolia)—were some of the benefits highlighted. The Forestry Bureau indicated that, although the Project would destroy many roadside trees, it provided the opportunity for replanting with a wider variety of species. In addition, the response time to forest fire alerts would be quicker. However, in Tieli County, the proposed route through a demonstration agricultural area was challenged; and in Fangzheng County, officials stated that, if the alignment of the proposed road did not fit in with their urban development plan, they were not interested in being involved with the Project.

140. Interviews with a wide range of people—including potentially affected households, truck drivers, bus passengers, and ferry operators—are currently underway as part of the ADB TA socioeconomic and resettlement studies.

141. HPCD will make copies of the final version of the EIA available for review in Harbin and major population centers along the main project road. The final version of the SEIA will be made available on ADB’s website prior to loan appraisal.

IX. CONCLUSION

142. The proposed Heilongjiang Road Network Development Project will generate both positive and negative environmental impacts. The predicted adverse effects of the proposed road upgrading works will be minimized and reduced to an acceptable level, provided the mitigation and monitoring actions summarized in the SEIA are implemented. There will be minor residual effects, but these will be offset by the long-term economic benefits to the project area and province.

143. Considerable efforts have been made to ensure that resettlement and permanent loss of valuable agricultural land are minimized. A resettlement plan has been drafted and is currently being reviewed and updated. This plan will serve as the guidance documents for resettlement implementation and payment of compensation to affected people, to ensure that they will maintain their economic status or become better off as a result of the Project. It is understood that, in most cases, people will be able to be resettled within their home villages.

144. The environmental gains from the Project include (i) reduction in dust levels as a result of paving the existing roads, and (ii) reduction in vehicle emissions through smoother driving conditions. The Project, which is welcomed along most of the alignment, will have a positive economic impact in the area in terms of better access to markets, employment opportunities, and services. Appendix 1 27

PROJECT IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

Type of Location of Pollutant Applicable Pollution Pollution Source Pollution Mitigation Measures Parameter Standards Source Source Soil erosion Throughout the Legal As required by law, a project SEPP project corridor requirement soil erosion prevention plan (SEPP) has been prepared.

Before Construction Disposal of Throughout Borrow pits will be SEPP earthworks project corridor redeveloped in accordance (excavation) at all with details found in the site Materials construction operations plans, the Loss of topsoil sites summary environmental Soil Compaction of soil impact assessment (SEIA), Haphazard and within the SEPP. Spoils borrowing of rock will be dumped into Degradation of abandoned borrow areas, borrow areas but must be rehabilitated Soil erosion and and returned to productive During Construction siltation farmland. Contamination of soil by fuel and lubricants Noise from vehicles, Construction 55–85 decibels Low noise-high efficiency Guojia biaozhun plants, and site (measured in plant and equipment should (GB) (national equipment audible noise be used. Operation of noisy standard) bands) [dB(A)] plant and equipment is not 12523-90 in daytime and allowed from 20:00 to 06:00 During 45–55 dB(A) at hours. Build noise Construction night attenuation structures, if necessary. Traffic noise Along the line Varies Relocate facilities where Satisfy the necessary. Install sound- standard for Noise insulated windows for 354 functional zones. households within 30 meters (m) of the center of the road. Plant trees in 20 m wide strip for six villages. Erect speed limit and “no During Operation horn” signs at residential areas and schools. Loss of water Throughout Water level Any source of water Resettlement sources project (potable or otherwise) for plan requirement corridors, all the community such as access roads, wells and ponds, sites incidentally lost, will be temporarily replaced immediately.

Water Quality acquired, and all borrow During Construction areas 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.

28 Appendix 1

Type of Location of Pollutant Applicable Pollution Pollution Source Pollution Mitigation Measures Parameter Standards Source Source Flooding Project Varies Prevent temporary or Contract terms corridors, permanent flooding of the and conditions access roads, site or any adjacent area. temporary sites, borrow areas Revegetation to Entire project Varies Revegetation will be done People’s prevent erosion corridors, all immediately after Republic of and siltation access roads construction ceases at a site China (PRC) and temporary and no tree or vegetation Law: 49-‘91 and sites other than those approved Reg. No. 120 for removal by the Heilongjiang Forestry Bureau will be cut. Alteration of Entire project Varies In sections along Contract terms Drainage corridors, all watercourses or close to and conditions access roads, cross-drainage channels, temporary sites earth, stone, or any other acquired, and construction materials will borrow areas. be properly disposed of so as to not block the flow or drainage of water. Contamination of Throughout Chemical (i) Construction work close Contract terms water from project oxygen to the streams or water and conditions construction wastes corridors, demand bodies will be avoided access roads, (COD), during rainy periods; the sites biological concrete mixing station temporarily oxygen should be 200 m away from acquired, and demand (BOD) any water body and only in cut/borrow sites a place where depth of groundwater is over 2 m. (ii) Cofferdam should be set for bridge construction and sediment tank will be adopted near the river. Contamination from Throughout COD, BOD, Waste petrochemicals must Contract terms petrochemicals project petroleum be collected, stored, and and conditions corridors and at taken to approved disposal associated sites in compliance with worksites PRC guidelines.

Sanitation and Work sites and COD, BOD, Wastewater from work GB: 8978–1996 waste disposal in construction petroleum, etc. camps should be treated construction camps camps before discharge. Wastewater from Nuomin River working site should be transported to Suiling sewer network for treatment.

Wastewater from Toll stations Suspended Domestic sewage should be GB8978-1996 toll stations solids, COD, treated to meet grade I Grade III BOD standard of GB8978–96. standards During Operation Appendix 1 29

Type of Location of Pollutant Applicable Pollution Pollution Source Pollution Mitigation Measures Parameter Standards Source Source Emissions from Construction Increase total Continuous management Contract terms construction sites, access suspended measures to be imposed at and conditions vehicles and roads, and particles, construction sites. equipment and surrounding nitrogen machinery areas dioxide, sulphur dioxide levels at construction sites and surrounding areas. Generation of dust Construction Total Sprinkling of road regularly Contract terms

During Construction sites, access suspended (at least twice a day). and conditions roads, and particles Vehicles that carry soil, Air Pollution surrounding concrete, and lime should areas be covered and should not be overloaded. Atmospheric Along the road, Main pollutants Enhance the road PRC pollution from service areas, are smoke, management and standard vehicles and toll stations dust, sulphur maintenance. dioxide, Strictly perform the tail gas- During

Operation nitrogen releasing standard. oxides, etc. Cut and fill, tree Xinglong Forest Loss of Careful selection of National Forest cutting, noise and Park precious alignment to minimize Park vehicle emission, ecology impact. Getting approval Management induced pollution from the Heilongjiang Forest Regulation from tourism Bureau, environmental protection bureau, and Xinglong Forest Park Ecology Management Office before Construction construction. No Before and During construction camp, borrow

EncroachmentPrecious on pit, spoil site is allowed in the park. No pollution Along the Loss of Careful selection of Cultural Relic anticipated alignment of historical alignment to minimize Protection Law Fangzheng values impact. County section Before Construction Historical Areas Encroachment on Hazardous Whole Serious Careful planning and PRC Regulation materials alignment health/safety to operation and maintenance JTJ3130-88 travelers and and competent emergency neighbors cleanup. Emergency response team

Materials with equipment should be

and Operation planned. Spills of Hazardous During Construction

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.

30 Appendix 1

Type of Location of Pollutant Applicable Pollution Pollution Source Pollution Mitigation Measures Parameter Standards Source Source No pollution Whole Loss of scenic Careful planning to minimize PRC Regulation anticipated alignment values and offset losses JTJ 005-96 Before Aesthetics Construction Environmental

Whole Without Competent construction State alignment monitoring, stage monitoring Environmental contractor not Protection likely to comply Administration with constraints management During

Monitoring regulation for Operations Construction Construction construction project Whole Without Competent post- Environmental alignment monitoring, construction monitoring impact contractor assessment Law cannot assess adequacy of Monitoring Operations project design Post Project

Post-Construction Whole Without Total pollutant emission EIA law alignment environmental quantity control policy impact should be followed. EIAs for assessments expansion of industry or (EIAs) for the new industry should be induced strictly conducted. industries, may from Industry cause other During Operation environmental Induce Negative Impact problems Bypass of Conflict with Careful selection of EIA Law counties of local alignment to minimize Linkou, development impact. Solicit comments Tonghe, plan from local government. Fangzheng, Before Tieli, Qing’an, Construction Impact on the Suiling, Hailun, Local Master Plan Baiquan Source: Environmental Impact Assessment (2005).

Appendix 2 31

SUMMARY OF SOIL EROSION PREVENTION PLAN

A. General

1. The Soil Erosion Prevention Plan (SEPP) for Jixi–Nehe highway and the 21 linking roads was completed by Heilongjiang Provincial Research Institute of Water and Soil Conservation in October 2005 based on the following regulations and reports:

(i) Laws: National Soil Erosion Prevention Law, the National People’s Congress, June 29, 1991, and other 9 related laws. (ii) Regulations: Regulation of Soil Erosion Protection for Road Construction Project, Ministry of Water Resources and Ministry of Communications, Shuibao No. 12, 2001. (iii) Technical specifications and design codes: Technical Specification of Soil Erosion Prevention Plan of Development and Construction Projects, SL204-98, Ministry of Water Resources. (iv) Reports and documents: Project Feasibility Study reports, Heilongjiang Provincial Highway Design Institute, August 2005.

2. Land to be permanently acquired for the Jixi–Nehe highway is about 972.76 hectares (ha). Land to be temporarily acquired is about 456.3.4 ha, and is spread throughout the eight counties along the route: Linkou, Fangzheng, Tonghe, Tieli, Qing’an, Suiling, Hailun, and Baiquan counties. Table A2.1 shows the areas of different land type.

Table A2.1: Summary of Land Acquisition (ha)

Type Paddy Field Dry Farmland Forestland Wasteland Total Permanent 174.31 336.84 150.46 311.15 972.76 Temporary 341.30 24.45 90.55 456.30 Total 174.31 678.14 174.95 401.70 1,429.06 ha = hectare. Source: Environmental Impact Assessment (2005).

3. According to the project feasibility study report, a balance between cutting and filling needs to be achieved in the construction of the road. Note that total excavation volume is 2.40 million cubic meters (m3) and total fill volume 9.44 million m3, and it is hard to achieve a complete balance between them. Based on field surveys, 68 borrow pits have been selected; 41 of them will be used as spoil sites as well to meet the need for 0.98 million m3 of waste earth. A summary of SEPP and the cost for SEPP are shown in Table 2.5

B. Current Status of Erosion

4. The highway will pass through two major topographic areas, including hilly area from Jixi County to Tieli County and flat area from Tieli County to Baiquan County. Based on Standards for classification and gradation of soil erosion PRC standard SL 190-96,15 the current soil erosion in the project area is classified as light water erosion. The soil erosion intensity is 750 t/square kilometer (km2) per annum in 2 theThe hilly views area expressed and 500 herein km areper thoseannum of thein the consul flat tantarea. and The do soilnot necessarilyerosion amount represent is 16,865 those of tons. ADB’s members, Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature.

15 Based on the standards, soil erosion intensities are classified in six classes: slight, light, modest, strong, very strong, and severe.

32 Appendix 2

C. Predicted Erosion Amount

5. During construction, the Project will impact on virgin land surface totaling 1,429 ha, which will increase soil erosion by 21,492 tons. The spoil of 0.98 million m3 of waste earth will increase 2,283 tons of soil erosion. The average soil erosion intensity during construction will be 950 t/square kilometer (km2) to 1,500t/km2 per annum.

D. Soil Erosion Impacts Assessment

6. Table A2.2 summarizes the soil erosion impacts of the Project. It can be seen that the current soil erosion intensity exceeds the allowed level. During construction, the erosion will increase. However, with the implementation of the proposed mitigation measures, the soil erosion intensity during operation will decrease to 200 t/km2 per annum, the permitted value for the project area.

Table A2.2: With and Without Project Soil Erosion Comparison

With Project Without Factor Allowed Project Without Mitigation With Mitigation Measures Measures Erosion intensity (t/km2/annum) 200 500-750 950-1,500 200 Erosion amount (t) 16,865 40,640 2,874 km2 = square kilometer, t = ton. Source: Environmental Impact Assessment (2005).

E. Mitigation Measures

7. The SEPP assesses the soil erosion protection function of major engineering works, including pavement works. Supplemental actions are proposed for borrow pits, spoil sites, and temporary land use. Design maps for borrow site protection and spoil site protection are provided. The mitigation measures include retaining wall, drainage ditch, reuse of topsoil for farmland rehabilitation, tree planting, sediment tank, level off landform, slope cut, cofferdam for bridge construction, etc.

F. Schedule

Table A2.3: Implementation Schedule for Mitigation Measures

Item 2007 2008 2009 A. Mitigation Measure Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 1. Main part of project a. Road construction b. Slope protection c. Retaining wall, drainage ditch d. Greening 2. Borrow and spoil sites a. Temporary retaining b. Slope cut c. Drainage ditch d. Farmland rehabilitation/tree planting 3. Temporary road a. Drainage ditch b. Level off of landform Appendix 2 33

Item 2007 2008 2009 4. Temporary construction area a. Temporary drainage ditch b. Level off of landform 5. Bridge construction area a. Temporary retaining b. Farmland rehabilitation/tree planting 6. Monitoring Source: Environmental Impact Assessment (2005).

G. Monitoring

Table A2.4: Monitoring Schedule

Location Content Frequency Cut slope Areas of earth surface disturbed Once before construction, once during Poor geology and vegetation removed, amount of construction, and once after construction Borrow site cut and fill, topsoil piling Temporary road Monthly during June–September every Amount of soil erosion year and once after heavy rain (greater Bridge construction than 30mm precipitation) Temporary construction Source: Environmental Impact Assessment (2005).

H. Assurance

8. During preliminary and detailed design, the mitigation measures proposed in the approved SEPP by the Ministry of Water Resources should be incorporated. Any revision of the SEPP and project design should be reported to the Ministry of Water Resources and permission obtained beforehand.

9. The authors of bid documents should prepare specific requirements on soil erosion prevention and list them in the bidding contracts. The responsibilities of the contractor and quarry owners regarding soil erosion prevention should be defined in the bidding contract.

10. Professional certificated erosion prevention supervisors should be recruited to supervise the implementation of mitigation measures proposed in the SEPP. Completion appraisal of the mitigation measures should be conducted to ensure that all of these measures have been properly taken.

11. Based on the Soil Erosion Monitoring Technical Regulation (SL277-2002), monitoring should be carried out by a qualified unit. The monitoring unit should prepare a detailed monitoring plan and conduct monitoring based on this plan. The monitoring results should be submitted to the Heilongjiang Provincial Communications Department (HPCD) and County Water Resources Bureau (CWRB) and serve as the basis for completion appraisal.

12. An erosion prevention implementation unit should be established with technical staff to manage mitigation measures implemented under the direction and inspection of CWRB. The erosion prevention implementation unit will determine the entities to be responsible for each measure and define the requirementsThe views expressed and methodology herein are those for of the the consulimplementatitant andon, do notsupervision, necessarily andrepresent completion those of appraisal ADB’s of the mitigationmembers, Boardmeasures. of Directors, The Management,mitigation measures or staff, and should may be be preliminary carried inout nature. by the contractor under the supervision of the CWRB.

34 Appendix 2

Table A2.5: Summary of SEPP

Construction site Heilongjiang Province

Category Class II

Songhuajiang river The Project includes a 621.38 km highway (of which 212.69 km will use River basin the existing road and the remaining 408.69 km will be newly built) and 21 basin linking roads with a total length of 155 km. The project roads will pass through eight counties. Total cost (CNY) 3.69 billion Components

Summary of Project Construction period 32 months

Protection scope 1,510 ha

Damage area of erosion prevention facilities 192 ha Project construction area 1,429 ha

Impact area of the earth-surface 1,429 ha Direct affected area 81.7 ha

Predicted total erosion quantity 40640 t Erosion quantity reduction 37766 t

Control percentage of erosion Control percentage of impact earth surface 95.2% 92.9% quantity

Topography Hilly area and flat area

Heilongjiang government soil erosion demarcation Major supervision area, prevention area, and erosion control area

Erosion prevention area 550.9 ha Erosion prevention percentage 96.15%

The mitigation measures for construction roads, 500~750 Current erosion intensity 2 borrow pits, and spoil sites will consist mainly of t/km /annum engineering measures and will be supplemented by 62.9 ha of tree planting and 219.9 ha of agricultural Target erosion intensity 200/km2/annum land rehabilitation. There will also be six sediment tanks in the bridge construction area. Allowable erosion intensity in the 2 Mitigation Stockpiles of topsoil will be maintained in 200 t/km /annum measures accordance with Heilongjiang Provincial project area Agricultural Department specifications. On road embankment slopes, slopes of all cuts, etc., shrubs and grass will be planted. Objective Objective To control soil erosion and siltation from Erosion prevention ratio 1 earthworks, slope drains, sedimentation ponds, grasses, etc. will be installed.

Spoil retaining ratio 95.5%

Area suitable for greening 260.63 ha There will be 68 borrows pits; 41 of them will be used as spoil sites for the 0.98 million m3 waste Borrow pits and earth. Mitigation measures for these sites include Project greening area 245.83 ha spoil sites 14 km of drainage ditch, 55.43 ha of tree planting, and 63.9 ha of agricultural land rehabilitation. Project greening ratio 94.3%

Greening coverage ratio 16.27%

Total 5.44 million Protection cost 2.46 million Included in 1.12 million Compensation cost 0.96 million engineering Increased cost 4.32 million Monitoring cost 0.51 million

Per ton erosion Increased Supervision cost 0.15 million cost (CNY) cost (CNY) Cost (Yuan) CNY111 per t prevention cost Others 0.24 million CNY = yuan, h = hectare, km = kilometer, km2 = square kilometer, t = ton. Source: Environmental Impact Assessment (2005).

Appendix 3 35

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

Environmental Mitigation Measures References in Location Responsible Time Frame Issue Law/Contract Organization Documents A. Preconstruction 1. Environmental (i) Prepare environmental Summary Entire project Provincial Before specifications for prequalification environmental Communications construction contractor questionnaire for impact assessment Department begins prequalification, contractor (SEIA) and technical (ii) Prepare environment environmental specifications, section in terms of impact assessment environmental reference for bidders (EIA) clauses for (iii) Prepare contracts and loan environmental contract covenant clauses for contractor, special conditions, e.g., reference environmental management plan (EMP) and monitoring table 2. Environmental Training in environment Contract terms and Entire project All employees, Before awareness protection, waste conditions, EIA including construction education management, health and management and starts, ongoing safety, forest fire workers during awareness construction 3. Health and Training in health issues, Contract terms and Entire project All employees, Before HIV/AIDS16 including HIV/AIDS and conditions, EIA including construction education sexually transmitted management and starts, ongoing infections awareness workers, local during villages construction 4. Soil erosion Soil erosion prevention Legal requirement Project corridor Provincial Before protection and plan (SEPP) has been Communications construction conservation prepared and will be Department and starts updated to match Design Institute detailed design. No construction camp, borrow pit, or spoil site allowed in Forest Park 5. Removal of trees Vegetation replanting Legal requirement Right of way width Contractor in Before ground layout will be developed and additional consultation with breaking for site showing locations required local forestry replanting areas, type of for compensatory department and vegetation/planting, and planting local community maintenance program. Use SEPP as a guide 6. Land and Information dissemination RP and project Right of way as County level Before property acquisition and community management defined in RP communications construction consultation on department starts on any entitlements based on section Land Administration Law Compensation will comply with resettlement plan (RP) 7. Utility relocation All utilities will be Contract Refer to utility County level Before relocated with approval of specifications location drawings communications construction relevant agencies department and starts on any contractor section 8. Removal of All community utilities, RP and contract Any water sources County level Before community utilities such as wells, will be specifications within construction communications construction replaced at suitable zone department and starts on any locations contractor section 9. Relocation of Community meetings to RP and contract To be defined as County level Before ancestralThe views graves expressed be held herein to locate are gravesthose of thespecifications consultant and partdo notof detailed necessarily communications represent those constructionof ADB’s and identify relocation designs department and starts on any members, Board ofsites Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary incontractor nature. section

16 Human immunodeficiency syndrome/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.

36 Appendix 3

Environmental Mitigation Measures References in Location Responsible Time Frame Issue Law/Contract Organization Documents 10. Relocation of Any relocation of Contract terms and Any irrigation County level Before irrigation systems irrigation structures will conditions and RP system located communications construction be discussed and agreed within construction department and starts on any on with village committee zone or affected contractor section and and County Water by construction before start of Resources Bureau. irrigation system 11. Possible (i) With a minor deviation SEIA Entire project Provincial Before change of in the alignment, the Communications construction alignment environmental design Department starts on any engineer will propose section mitigation measures and incorporate them into the detailed design drawings. (ii) With a major deviation that may cause significant environmental impacts or affect additional people, the Executing Agency will conduct additional environmental assessment, including public consultation. The revised EIA report will be submitted to Heilongjiang Environmental Protection Bureau, following government procedures. (iii) The Executing Agency will determine whether the deviation is minor or major, in consultation with ADB. 12. EMP update EMP will update when SEIA Entire project Provincial Before detailed design is Communications construction completed. In addition, if Department starts on any the design is revised section significantly, adequate revision of EMP will be conducted.

B. Construction 1. Loss of topsoil Stockpiles of topsoil will Soil Erosion Throughout project Contractor During be maintained in Protection Law, corridor and all construction accordance with SEPP No. 49-’91 and borrow and spoil and Agriculture Reg. No. 120 of the areas Department People’s Republic specifications of China (PRC) 2. Compaction of (i) Construction vehicles, Contract Throughout project Contractor During soil machinery, and specifications corridor and all construction equipment will move or temporarily used be stationed in areas; at all cut designated areas. and fill sites (ii) Ensure that method of Contract stockpiling materials, use specifications of plant, and siting of temporary buildings or structures do not adversely affect the stability of cut or fill. 3. Material borrow (i) The contractor will PRC Law 49-’91 All construction Contractor During areas facilitate inspection of all and Reg. No. 20 sites and borrow construction borrow areas by areas Environmental Protection and Water Resources Bureaus. Appendix 3 37

Environmental Mitigation Measures References in Location Responsible Time Frame Issue Law/Contract Organization Documents (ii) No soil or aggregates Contract will be borrowed from or specifications spoil dumped on graveyards. 4. Borrow area Borrow pits will be filled Contract PRC Law 49-’91 Contractor During rehabilitation with spoil, top soiled, and specifications and Reg. No. 120 construction vegetated or left as fishponds in accordance with site operation plan and SEIA. 5. Soil erosion and (i) On road embankment Design requirement Within Contractor During siltation slopes, slopes of all cuts construction construction shrubs and grass will be corridor and all planted in accordance construction sites, with the SEPP. all borrow and (ii) To control soil erosion PRC Law 49-’91 spoil areas, and siltation from and Reg. No. 120 service roads and earthworks, slope drains, equipment storage sedimentation ponds, areas, etc. grasses, etc. to be installed. 6. Soil (i) Vehicles, machinery Contract terms and Throughout project Contractor During contamination by and equipment conditions corridor, access construction fuel and lubricants maintenance and roads, temporary refueling to be carried out sites, and so that spillages do not borrow/spoil seep into soil. disposal areas (ii) Fuel storage and refueling areas will be at least 300 meters (m) from drainage structures and important water bodies. (iii) Fuel storage and refueling areas, if in agricultural land or vegetated areas, will have topsoil stripped, stockpiled, and returned after completion of refueling activities. (iv) Oil traps will be provided for toll station areas and within drainage systems for bridges. 7. Soil (i) All spoil will be Throughout project Contractor During contamination by disposed of. corridor, access construction construction (ii) All waste materials will roads, temporary material waste be disposed of as defined sites and and the site fully cleaned borrow/spoil before handing over to disposal areas the operating unit. 8. Loss of water Any source of water for RP requirement Throughout project Contractor Whenever it sources the community, e.g., corridor, access occurrence wells and ponds that are roads, temporary during lost through construction sites, and construction works will be replaced borrow/spoil immediately disposal areas 9. Flooding Prevent temporary or Contract terms and Throughout project Contractor During The views expressedpermanent herein flooding are those of the of theconditions consul tant and corridor,do not accessnecessarily represent those constructionof ADB’s and site and any adjacent roads, temporary defects liability members, Board ofarea Directors, Management, or staff, and maysites, be andpreliminary in nature. period borrow/spoil disposal areas

38 Appendix 3

Environmental Mitigation Measures References in Location Responsible Time Frame Issue Law/Contract Organization Documents 10. Siltation into Cofferdams will be Bridge Contractor During water bodies constructed before bridge construction sites construction footings or pile driving in any major watercourse. 11. Revegetation to Revegetation will be PRC Law 49-’91 Throughout project Contractor and During prevent erosion and done immediately after and Reg. No. 20 corridor, access local unit retained construction siltation construction ceases at a roads, temporary to do replanting site, and no tree or sites, and vegetation other than borrow/spoil those approved for disposal areas removal by Forestry Department will be cut. 12. Alteration of (i) In sections along Throughout project Contractor During drainage watercourses, all waste corridor, access construction construction materials will roads, temporary be properly disposed of. sites, and (ii) Temporary irrigation borrow/spoil and drainage systems disposal areas will be built before permanent systems are blocked or removed. 13. Water (i) Measures will be taken PRC GB 8978- Throughout project Contractor During contamination from to prevent contamination 1996 corridor, access construction construction wastes by wastewater during roads, temporary construction. sites, and (ii) Construction work borrow/spoil close to water bodies will disposal areas be avoided during rainy periods. (iii) Discharge standards in PRC regulation guojia biaozhun (GB) (national standard): 8978-1996 will be strictly complied with. 14. Water Waste petrochemicals Throughout project contamination from must be collected, stored, corridor and at petrochemicals and taken to approved associated work disposal sites in sites compliance with PRC regulations. 15. Sanitation and (i) Work camps must be All construction Contractor During waste disposal in at least 200 m from the workers’ camps establishment, construction camps nearest residential area. operation, and (ii) Sanitation facilities removal of work must be properly camps designed, built, and operated. (iii) Arrangement for proper disposal of sewage must be made. 16. Generation of (i) Vehicles delivering Throughout project Contractor During dust granular and/or fine corridor, access construction materials will be covered. roads, temporary (ii) Materials storage sites sites, and should be 300 m from borrow/spoil residential areas and disposal areas covered with canvas or sprayed with water. (iii) Water will be sprayed on construction sites and unpaved roads at least twice a day during the dry season. (iv) Dust from work sites, rock crushing machinery, and equipment will not Appendix 3 39

Environmental Mitigation Measures References in Location Responsible Time Frame Issue Law/Contract Organization Documents exceed 2.0 milligrams per cubic meter (m3) within 150 m of the work sites. 17. Emissions from (i) Discharge standards PRC-GB 14761.7- Throughout project Contractor During construction under Environmental 93 corridor, access construction vehicles, equipment Protection Law, 1989, will roads, temporary and machinery be strictly adhered to. sites, and (ii) An inspection borrow/spoil certificate will be initiated. disposal areas 18. Noise from (i) Equipment and PRC GB 12523-90 Throughout project Contractor During vehicles, plant, and machinery will strictly corridor, access construction equipment conform to PRC and local roads, temporary noise standard. sites, and (ii) At construction sites borrow/spoil within 150 m of disposal areas residential areas, noisy construction work will be stopped from 22:00 to 06:00 hours. 19. Noise from Blasting and the use of All blasting sites Contractor During blasting explosives will be strictly preparation, controlled. operation, and closure of sites 20. Loss or damage (i) All works will be Design Throughout project Contractor During to flora and fauna carried out to minimize requirement, SEIA corridor, access construction damage or disruption to roads, temporary flora and fauna. sites, and (ii) It is prohibited to borrow/spoil borrow materials from or disposal areas dump spoil outside those sites identified in the construction design and SEPP. (iii) Construction workers will be forbidden to harvest wild food or animals. 21. Spread of A prevention/education Project corridor Nongovernment During HIV/AIDS and program will be and neighboring organization construction sexually transmitted implemented. Information villages infections centers will be established at each construction site. 22. Loss of access At all times, the As specified in RP Throughout project Contractor During contractor will provide documents corridor, access construction safe and convenient roads, and passage for vehicles, temporary sites pedestrians, and livestock to and from side roads and property access connecting to the project road. 23. Use of Herbicides or other toxic PRC Reg. No. Throughout project Contractor During hazardous and toxic chemicals will be used 3130-88 corridor, access construction materials strictly in accordance with roads, and the manufacturer’s temporary sites instructions and according to PRC regulations. 24. EMP update EMP will update when SEIA Entire project Project Before operation The views expressedthe constructionherein are is those of the consultant and do not necessarilyimplementation represent those startsof ADB’s on any completed. In addition, if unit under section members, Board ofthe Directors, design is revised Management, or staff, and may be preliminary inHeilongjiang nature. significantly, adequate Provincial revision of EMP will be Communications conducted. Department (HCD)

40 Appendix 3

Environmental Mitigation Measures References in Location Responsible Time Frame Issue Law/Contract Organization Documents C. Operation 1. Management of Storm water should not Project corridor Country drainage Operation storm water be drained directly into departments class II rivers. 2. Air pollution from (i) New afforestation EIA All project corridor Municipal level Operation vehicles projects will be adjacent and affected Environmental to road. villages Protection Bureau (ii) Vehicles on the road GB 14761.1, and Public will be tested for vehicle 14761.7-93 Security Bureau emissions on an ad hoc basis. (iii) Vehicle emission inspection program will be encouraged. 3. Noise pollution (i) Noise pollution will be EIA and Refer to noise Highway operation Operation monitored. environmental pollution entity to be (ii) “No Horn Permitted” management plan monitoring established by signs will be set up near program HPCD and County schools. Environmental (iii) Random weighing of Protection Bureau vehicles will be done. 4. Handling and (i) Individual consultants PRC Reg. JT3130- All project corridor Local public Throughout transport of will enforce compliance 88 and surroundings security bureau operations hazardous and toxic with PRC regulations. Local Transport materials (ii) A spill management Reg. on Hazardous plan will be prepared. Substances (ii) In case of accident SEIA involving hazardous substances, the relevant emergency team will be called. 5. Waste (i) Sewage and EIA All toll areas Toll area operators Throughout management wastewater at toll operations stations will be treated. (ii) Solid waste will be removed on a regular basis. (ii) Oil traps will be maintained and monitored regularly. 6. EMP update EMP will be update when SEIA Entire project Highway operation Throughout required. entity to be operations established by HPCD D. Monitoring Environmental References in Law Location Responsible Time Frame Frequency Monitoring and Contract Party and Documents Budget 1. Air quality, water Monitoring will be Monitoring station Heilongjiang Throughout Quarterly (total quality, noise conducted based on selected and County construction suspended relevant specifications or verified in field Environmental (3 years) particles only for standards issued by Monitoring air) State Environmental Stations (CEMSs) Throughout Protection Administration operation Half yearly (noise (SEPA), using the (20 years) and water) schedule set out in the Annual (nitrogen SEIA. dioxide only for air) Source: Environmental Impact Assessment (2005).

Appendix 4 41

ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN

Environmental Issue Monitoring Frequency and Implementing Agency Total Cost Location (CNY) A. Noise Protection Construction: 24 hour Environmental Protection CNY190,000 continuous noise monitoring Management Engineers or 3 times/year (spring, summer, Local Environmental autumn) at residential areas Monitoring Stations and schools within 100 meters of road; random monitoring, if necessary, for 3 years Operation: 24-hour continuous Environmental Protection CNY1,300,000 noise monitoring 2 times per Management Engineers or year at 13 sites, for 20 years Local Environmental Monitoring Stations B. Air Pollution Construction: 24-hour Local Environmental CNY450,000 continuous total suspended Monitoring Stations particles level monitoring 3 times/year (spring, summer, autumn) at residential areas, schools, and sensitive areas near concrete batching plants, for 3 years Operation: 24-hour continuous Local Environmental CNY1,300,000 nitrogen dioxide monitoring (or Monitoring Stations 4 times/day) at 9 sites/12 boiler room chimneys at toll stations, for 20 years C. Water Quality Construction: 1 day person Local Environmental CNY185,500 Protection hours, chemical oxygen Monitoring Stations demand, suspended solids, and petroleum oil monitoring 3 times/year (spring, summer, autumn) under 6 bridges, for 3 years Operation: 2 day person hours, Local Environmental CNY5,000,000 chemical oxygen demand, Monitoring Stations biological oxygen demand (5-day) and petroleum oil monitoring 2 times/quarter (spring, summer, autumn) at toll station discharge points, for 20 years D. Ecological Construction: Monitoring Local Environmental CNY200,000 Protection revegetation growth and soil Monitoring Stations and erosion on side slopes and Water Bureaus borrow pit/spoil disposal sites, for 3 years Operation: Monitoring Local Environmental CNY4,000,000 revegetation growth and soil Monitoring Stations and The views expressed hereinerosion are those on ofside the slopes consul andtant and do not necessarilyWater Bureaus represent those of ADB’s members, Board of Directors,borrow Management, pit/spoil disposal or staff, sites,and may be preliminary in nature. for 20 years CNY12,625,500 Source: Environmental Impact Assessment (2005).

42 Appendix 5

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION COSTS

Environmental Issue Environmental Protection Unit Cost Total Cost Measures A. Soil Erosion See Soil Erosion Prevention Plan Prevention Cost (SEPP) Table A 2.5 CNY5,440,000 CNY5,440,000 B. Noise Protection Installation of 2 noise insulation Window = CNY200 windows/house for 354 families located within 20 meters (m) of the road CNY341,600 Planting of 300 m long 20 m wide Planting vegetation 1m2 = vegetation belt at 6 villages CNY18 CNY648,000 Installation of speed limit and “No Horn Permitted” signs CNY400,000 CNY1,389,600 C. Air Pollution Watering unpaved roads during construction CNY1,372,200 CNY1,372,200 D. Water Quality 20 sets of sewage water disposal Set = CNY200,000 Protection facilities for construction period; possible reuse for toll stations during operation period CNY4,550,000 Construction of 6 sedimentation Sedimentation pond = ponds for bridge construction CNY20,000 CNY120,000 CNY4,670,000 E. Ecological Construction of 30 temporary Temporary wall = Protection earth-retaining walls CNY200,000 CNY600,000 Rehabilitation of 9 borrow Rehabilitation cost = pits/spoil disposal sites CNY200,000 CNY1,800,000 Restoration of vegetation, agricultural fields, temporary roads CNY8,000,000 Highway greening CNY20,270,000 Compensation fee for using forestland CNY9,950,000 CNY40,620,000 F. Solid Waste Provision of waste containers at Management work camps CNY100,000 CNY100,000 G. Environmental See Monitoring Plan, Appendix 4. Monitoring CNY12,625,500 CNY12,625,500 H. Accident Monitoring System (no details available) CNY1,000,000 CNY1,000,000 I. Contingency CNY1,000,000 CNY1,000,000 Total CNY68,217,300 Source: Environmental Impact Assessment (2005).