42361-013: Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion

Home , Angkor Chum District, Banteay Ampil District, Banteay Srei District, Battambang Province, Boeng Tonle Chhmar, Cambodian riel

Initial Environmental Examination

November 2014

CAM: Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project (Package 2)

Subproject 1: Kampong Thom Province (extension) Subproject 3: Siem Reap Province (extension) Subproject 4: Kandal Province Subproject 5: Banteay Meanchey Province

Prepared by Electricité du Cambodge, Royal Government of Cambodia for the Asian Development Bank.

CURRENCY EQUIVALENTS (Official exchange rate of the National Bank of Cambodia as of 24 November 2014) Currency unit – Cambodian Riel (KHR) KHR1.00 = $0.000246 $1.00 = KHR 4,063

ABBREVIATIONS ADB  Asian Development Bank AP  Affected person APSARA  Authority for the Protection and Management of Angkor and the Region of Siem Reap CEMP  Construction Environmental Management Plan CMAA  Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority DCFA  Department of Culture and Fine Arts DMC  Developing member country DoE  Department of Environment EA  Executing Agency EAC  Electricity Authority of Cambodia EARF  Environmental Assessment and Review Framework EDC  Electricité du Cambodge EIA  Environmental Impact Assessment EMoP  Environmental Monitoring Plan EMP  Environmental Management Plan GRM  Grievance Redress Mechanism IA  Implementing agency IBA  Important Bird Area IEC  International Electrotechnical Commission IEE  Initial Environmental Examination IEIA  Initial Environmental Impact Assessment IFC  International Finance Corporation IUCN  International Union for Conservation of Nature LV  Low voltage MARPOL  Marine Pollution Convention MCFA  Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts MAFF  Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries MoE  Ministry of Environment MV  Medium voltage NPCA  Nature Protection and Conservation Administration OM  Operations Manual O&M  Operations and Maintenance PIC  Project Implementation Consultant PDoE  Provincial Department of Environment PMO1  Project Management Office 1, EDC PPA  Power Purchase Agreement PPE  Personal Protective Equipment REE  Rural Electrification Enterprises RGC  Royal Government of Cambodia

ROW  Right-of-way SEPRU  Social, Environment and Public Relations Unit, EDC SPS  Safeguard Policy Statement (2009), ADB TSBR  Tonle Sap Biosphere Reserve ULAB  Used lead acid battery UNESCO  United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization UNFCCC  United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change UXO  Unexploded Ordnance

WEIGHTS AND MEASURES cct-km  Circuit-kilometer km  kilometer m  meter km2  Square kilometer oC  Degree centigrade m/s  Meter per second kph  Kilometer per hour kWh  Kilowatt-hour ha  Hectare kv  kilovolt

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

This initial environmental examination is a document of the borrower. The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of ADB's Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature. Your attention is directed to the “terms of use” section of this website.

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

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

CONTENTS

Page

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1 I. INTRODUCTION 13 II. POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK 14 A. ADB’s Environmental Safeguard Policies 14 B. Legal and Institutional Framework on Environmental Management in Cambodia 15 C. International Conventions and Agreements 20 III. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT 21 A. Project Scope 21 B. Location 21 C. Technical Components 28 D. Project Schedule and Activities 29 E. Safety Clearance 29 IV. DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT 31 A. Physical Resources 31 B. Biological Resources 45 C. Land Uses 49 D. Social and Cultural Resources 58 V. ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES 63 A. Pre-Construction Phase 63 B. Construction Phase 74 C. Operational Phase 76 VI. ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES 80 A. No Project Option 80 B. Selection of Provinces 80 C. Avoidance of Protected Areas 81 VII. INFORMATION DISCLOSURE, CONSULTATION AND PARTICIPATION 83 A. Stakeholder Consultations in Kampong Thom Province 83 B. Stakeholder Consultations in Siem Reap Province 83 C. Stakeholder Consultations in Kandal Province 84 D. Stakeholder Consultations in Banteay Meanchey 84 E. Future Public Consultation and Information Disclosure Activities 85 VIII. GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM 87 A. Type of Grievances 87 B. Grievance Resolution Process 87 C. Grievance Follow-up 89 D. Confidentiality and Anonymity 89 IX. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 91 A. Mitigation Plan 91 B. Monitoring Plan 107 C. Reporting 108

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

D. Implementation Arrangements 109 E. Institutional Arrangements for EMP Implementation 109 F. Construction Environmental Management Plan 110 G. Environmental Management and Monitoring Costs 110 X. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION 111 XI. REFERENCES 113

APPENDICES

APPENDIX 1: Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) Checklist ...... 115 APPENDIX 2. Stakeholder Survey Instrument ...... 120 APPENDIX 3: Selected Photographs during public Consultations ...... 124 APPENDIX 4 – List of Persons interviewed during public consultation ...... 125 APPENDIX 5 – Project Environmental Progress and Monitoring Report ...... 128

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1. Technical Details of Project Components under Package 2 ...... 28 Table 2. Medium-Voltage (MV) and Low-Voltage (LV) Clearances ...... 30 Table 3. Summary of Districts and Communes of Package 1 extension ...... 58 Table 4. Summary of Districts and Communes of Subproject 4 and 5 ...... 58 Table 5. Summary of Districts and Communes of Subproject 5 ...... 58 Table 6. General Environmental Management Plan ...... 92 Table 7. Specific Environmental Management Plan for Alignments in Ecological and Cultural Protected Areas ...... 101 Table 8. Environmental Monitoring Plan ...... 107 Table 9. Estimated EMP Budget ...... 110

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1. Location of Subprojects Under Package 2...... 12 Figure 2. Alignment of Subproject 1 extension (blue line) in Kampong Thom Province ...... 22 Figure 3. Alignment of Subproject 3 extension (blue line) in Siem Reap province ...... 24 Figure 4. Alignment of Subproject 4 (blue line) in Kandal Province ...... 26 Figure 5. Alignment of Subproject 5 (blue line) in Banteay Meanchey Province ...... 27 Figure 6. Topography of Subproject 1 extension (Kampong Thom) ...... 33 Figure 7. Topography of Subproject 3 extension (Siem Reap) ...... 34 Figure 8. Topography of Subproject 4 (Kandal) ...... 35 Figure 9. Topography of Subproject 5 (Banteay Meanchey) ...... 36 Figure 10. Yearly-Average Maximum and Minimum rainfall in Cambodia ...... 37 Figure 11. Geology of Subproject 1 extension (Kampong Thom) ...... 39 Figure 12. Geology of Subproject 3 extension (Siem Reap) ...... 40 Figure 13. Geology of Subproject 4 (Kandal) ...... 41 Figure 14. Geology of Subproject 5 (Banteay Meanchey) ...... 42 Figure 15. Seismic Map of Southeast Asia ...... 43 Figure 16. Ecological and Cultural Resources near Subproject 1 extension (Kampong Thom) 50 Figure 17. Ecological and Cultural Resources near Subproject 3 extension (Siem Reap) ...... 51 Figure 18. Ecological Resources near Subproject 4 (Kandal) ...... 52 Figure 19. Ecological and Cultural Resources near Subproject 5 (Banteay Meanchey) ...... 53 Figure 20. Landuse in Subproject 1 extension (Kampong Thom) ...... 54 Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Figure 21. Landuse in Subproject 3 extension (Siem Reap) ...... 55 Figure 22. Landuse in Subproject 4 (Kandal) ...... 56 Figure 23. Landuse in Subproject 5 (Banteay Meanchey) ...... 57 Figure 24. Sambor Prei Kuk Conservation Zone (Amendment of Royal-decree NS/RKT/0303/116) ...... 65 Figure 25. Mines/UXO affected area in Kampong Thom subproject ...... 70 Figure 26. Mines/UXO affected area in Siem Reap subproject ...... 71 Figure 27. Mines/UXO affected area in Banteay Meanchey subproject ...... 72 Figure 28. Mines/UXO affected area in Kandal subproject ...... 73 Figure 29. Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) ...... 90

PHOTOGRAPH LOG

Photo 1. An Area of Kandal Subproject near Tonle Sap Floodplain ...... 45 Photo 2. Physical Infrastructures at an Area in APL Zone 2 ...... 64 Photo 3. Area inside the Satellite Zone of Sambor Prei Kuk Temple ...... 65

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1. The proposed Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector project is a sector loan with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) that aims to expand the supply of reliable and cost-effective grid electricity in Kampong Thom, Kampong Cham, Siem Reap, Kandal, and Banteay Meanchey provinces in Cambodia. The Electricite du Cambodge (EDC) is the Executing Agency (EA) of the project.

2. The project is composed of three components: (1) Expanded Medium Voltage Sub- Transmission Network; (2) Project implementation support; and (3) Improved Operational Effectiveness and Efficiency of EDC. Under Component 1 of the project, 22 kilovolt (kV) sub- transmission lines will be connected from grid stations in provincial towns to the existing and new low-voltage distribution and service lines (<0.4 kV), which are owned and operated by private Rural Electrification Enterprises (REEs). EDC will supply electricity to the REEs under a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).

3. The project will include the construction of 468 circuit-kilometer (km) of new 3 phase 22 kV overhead sub-transmission lines including short lengths of 22 kV underground cable, the installation of 22 kV/0.4 kV distribution transformers, advanced electronic metering for all distribution transformers, auto reclosing circuit breakers, and automatic voltage regulators to improve reliability and voltage performance.

4. Component 1 has been divided into two packages, i.e., Package 1 has three subprojects located in Kampong Thom, Kampong Cham, and Siem Reap provinces while Package 2 will cover the areas of Kandal and Banteay Meanchey provinces, with additional extensions of Package 1 in Kampong Thom and Siem Reap provinces.

5. An Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) has been previously prepared by EDC for subprojects under Package 1. This IEE has been prepared for the subprojects under Package 2 (Kandal, Kampong Thom, Kandal and Banteay Meanchey). The preparation of this IEE is guided by the requirements outlined in the Environmental Assessment and Review Framework (EARF) of the project and ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement 2009. The information in the IEE is based on documents provided by EDC, from field inspections and information gathered during community and stakeholder interviews, and from secondary data from Government agencies and related reports. The environmental assessment was carried out with the following objectives:

a. Establish current environmental conditions; b. Identify key environmental issues; c. Assess magnitude of impacts and provide mitigating measures; d. Integrate the environmental issues in the project planning and design stage; and e. Develop an environmental management plan and monitoring plan of the project.

6. Based on the evaluation of the project components and activities of Subprojects 4 and 5 and the extensions of Subproject 1 and 3 of Package 1, the environmental impacts associated with the proposed subprojects are primarily related to the siting and location of poles where the extent of adverse impacts is expected to be local, confined within the subprojects’ main areas of influence, which are the existing road reserves. These identified adverse environmental impacts during project implementation are minimal and reversible and can be generally reduced to acceptable levels through practical mitigation measures associated with good engineering practices.

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

7. Extension of Subproject 1 of Package 1 in Kampong Thom Province. Despite some encroachment into the satellite and community zones of Protected Areas, the extension of subproject 1 in Kampong Thom province will generate minimal adverse environmental impacts due to the following reasons: (i) a segment of sub-transmission line in Sandan commune of Sandan district in Kampong Thom Province will only pass through the periphery of Beung Per Wildlife Sanctuary. It is confirmed during the consultation with Provincial Department of Environment-Kampong Thom that the area along the proposed alignment of sub-transmission line has been transformed into village settlements and agriculture lands, thus no longer holds its original conservation potential. Overhead sub-transmission line is allowed in the area as long as it is routed within the road reserve along the existing developed road, which is the case for the proposed extension of subproject 1, (ii) alternative route was considered to avoid area of high archaeological importance. As a result, none of the alignment is located inside the core zone and buffer zone. A 3.5km segment of sub-transmission line will be inside the Satellite Zone of the Sambor Prei Kuk Temple conservation area and will traverse the northern periphery of Buffer Zone in Sala Visai and Sambour communes to reach the commune center which is characterized as settlement area where commercial estates, market, health center, school, REE-operated Low-Voltage distribution network and telecommunication lines exist. Area along the proposed alignment near the Sambor Prei Kuk Temple is predominantly agriculture land (rice fields).

8. To be in line with the objectives of the management plan of the Satellite Zone, it is necessary for EDC to coordinate with DCFA during the survey/design and construction activities. Appropriate requirements given by MCFA will be incorporated into the Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) to ensure that presence of sub-transmission line in the area will not undermine the conservation objectives as stipulated in the Royal Decree NS/RKT/0303/116 and its amendment of the Sambor Prei Kuk area. . 9. Extension of Subproject 3 of Package 1 in Siem Reap Province. The extension of subproject 3 in Siem Reap province covers, to large extent, additional communes in districts of Srei Snam, Angkor Thum and Svay Leu and, to small extent, additional communes in Krong Siem Reap, Prasat Bakong, Soutr Nikum, Chi Kraeng, Banteay Srei, Puok and Angkor Chhum districts.

10. Two (2) segments of sub-transmission line in Doun Kaev and Leang Dai communes in respective districts of Puok and Angkor Thum are located in Angkor Protected Landscape (APL) – Zone 2. A small segment of sub-transmission line in Krong Siem Reap and Chong Knies commune run through APL Zone 3 and 4 and the transition zone of the Tonle Sap Biosphere Reserve (TSBR). Another small segment of sub-transmission line Kampong Phluk and Mean Chey communes of Prasat Bakong District runs through APL Zone 3 and the transition zone of TSBR. However, in all cases the alignment is within the reserve of existing developed roads, many of which have extensive road side residential and/or commercial development. No alignment passes though the core zone (Zone 1). Previous consultation during the formulation of IEE for Package 1 suggested that EDC will submit to the APSARA Authority a Project Proposal providing detailed information on the RE Project and design specifications and locations with respect to the APL, and request their comment and/or approval. Once EDC receives a letter of approval, any approval conditions with respect to design, construction and maintenance will be incorporated into a revised IEE.

11. A segment of sub-transmission line in Khnang Phnum commune of Svay Leu district in Siem Reap province is located in Phnum Kulen National Park. It is within legal context that EDC

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

is required to secure endorsement from MoE should it wish to extend sub-transmission line into the Natioal Park. A feasibility study to build access road leading to this area was jointly conducted by APSARA and MoE. The segment of this alignment is only considered as an alternative. No project option will apply if the feasibility study renders non-feasible.

12. Subproject 4 (Kandal Province). The subproject in Kandal Province generally follows road alignments and existing sub-transmission lines, including short extensions to nearby province of Kampong Speu and Phnom Penh. The sites are characterized as a mixture of industrial, commercial and residential areas and to a very limited extent, agricultural lands. There are no natural habitats and environmentally sensitive areas that will be affected by the sub-transmission line.

13. Subproject 5 (Banteay Meanchey Province). The subproject in Banteay Meanchey will also follow existing road alignments, which are characterized by village settlement and agriculture land. Commercial and residential areas can be found in community centers along the road. The sub-transmission line, including the segment of the sub-transmission line that will traverse the periphery of Dang Raek Community Protected Forest of the Banteay Chhmar Protected Landscape, will not affect any natural habitats or significant forest areas due to development that already exists along the existing road. It is however suggested that EDC should involve Provincial Department of Environment – Banteay Meanchey during public consultation and information disclosure to inform the public that the availability of sub- transmission line is not meant to encourage further expansion of village settlement and illegal land acquisition into Dang Raek community protected forest.

14. Other environmental impacts associated with the proposed Subprojects 4 and 5 and the extensions of subproject 1 and 3 which need to be considered in project design, planning, construction and operation are:  Mines/UXOs which require clearance by accredited demining agencies in respective Project provinces. Mapping of Mines/UXO was undertaken to determine the extent of removal areas. The removal cost was estimated and clearance procedure was explained.  Cutting/trimming of trees and impact on agricultural land and structures which requires proper consultation with affected person and compensation in accordance with ADB and the Government’s requirements;  Interference with traffic and access ways during pole installation; and  Hazards to workers and the community during construction and operation.

15. Consultations and interviews with communities along the alignment of the sub- transmission lines were carried out from the periods between 25 - 29 August and 10 -15 September 2014 by EDC staff and the ADB environmental consultant. The survey covered the provinces of Kandal, Banteay Meanchey, Kampong Thom and Siem Reap provinces. During the interviews, the proposed project was explained to the stakeholders who were then asked on their awareness of the proposed project, environmental issues and concerns in the communities, perceived positive benefits and negative impacts of the project, and recommendations and suggestions on the implementation of the project. A survey instrument was used as a guide during the interviews. The results of the stakeholder interviews showed that there is a low level of awareness of the project. However, majority of the respondents (99%) have no objection to the implementation of the proposed project. The respondents mentioned that the project would contribute to delivering positive outcome for the community and would help improve their living conditions.

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

16. One of the positive benefits of the project is reduced dependence on lead acid battery (car battery) by communities that will be connected to electricity, resulting to savings in household costs and more reliable and secure supply of electricity. As there will be used lead acid battery (ULAB) that will be generated when households begin to connect to the EDC and Rural Electrification Enterprises (REEs), an information education campaign on the benefits of ULAB collection and recycling will be organized by EDC with assistance of the Project Implementation Consultants (PIC). The program will include an inventory of ULAB recyclers in each province, identifying those with best environmental standards, and ensuring the communities are informed of contact information of these recyclers.

17. An Environmental Management Plan (EMP) has been prepared and will be implemented during all phases of the project. The EMP identifies the environmental mitigation measures to address adverse environmental impacts of the project as well as the institutional arrangements for its implementation. PIC environment specialists (international and national) who are knowledgeable on environmental impact assessment, conservation, preservation and protection of cultural and heritage sites will be hired to assist PMO1’s Social, Environment and Public Relations Unit (SEPRU) in ensuring the effective EMP implementation.

18. Throughout the construction period, PMO1/SEPRU of EDC, in coordination with the contractor and with assistance of the PIC environment specialists will prepare quarterly environmental monitoring reports on the implementation of the EMP and on the environmental monitoring program. The quarterly environmental monitoring reports are to be submitted by EDC to ADB.

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Subproject 5

Subproject 3 extension

Subproject 1 extension

Subproject 4

Figure 1. Location of Subprojects under Package 2

12 Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

I. INTRODUCTION

19. The Electricité du Cambodge (EDC) plans to expand supply of reliable and cost-effective grid-electricity in Kampong Thom, Kampong Cham, Siem Reap, Kandal and Banteay Meanchey provinces. The Government of the Royal Kingdom of Cambodia and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has agreed to implement the Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project, which is financed by a sector loan from the ADB.

20. This IEE is prepared to assess the environmental concerns that need to be taken into account in the implementation of subprojects under Package 2 covering the provinces of Kandal and Banteay Meanchey provinces. Also included under Package 2 are sub-lines that connect to the Rural Electrification Enterprises (REEs). The Executing Agency of the Project is the EDC.

21. The Project has been classified as Category B for environment under the ADB’s Safeguards Policy Statement 2009 (SPS, 2009) and therefore an IEE is required in accordance with the ADB’s guidelines. In particular, the IEE has been prepared to fulfill the requirements of ADB’s Environmental Policy and Operations Manual (OM) 20: Environmental Considerations in ADB Operations.

22. The following methodology has been implemented in the preparation of the IEE: a) Review of project-related documents and secondary information related to the project sites; b) Site visits to assess the environmental conditions in the project areas and the locations of the proposed sub-transmission lines; c) Consultations with community stakeholders to gather information on project area characteristics and potential Project impacts; d) Consultations with the Provincial Department of Environment of Banteay Meanchey, Kampong Thom, Siem Reap to confirm the boundaries of affected protected areas and identify regulatory requirements in relations to construction of sub-transmission line in Protect Landscape, Wildlife Sanctuary, National Park and Community Protected Forest; e) Consultation with the APSARA Authority in Siem Reap to identify any constraints in relation to Project activities within the Angkor Protected Landscape. f) Consultation with the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts (MCFA) and Provincial Department of Culture and Fine Arts (DCFA) of Kampong Thom to cofirm the zonings of Sampong Prei Kuk Temple and inquire on the requirements for sub- transmission line construction in this area; g) Mapping of Mines/UXO contaminated areas along the alignments of subprojects; h) Identification of existing environmental and socio-economic characteristics; i) Screening of environmental impacts and assessment of residual impacts; j) Development of an environmental management plan and environmental monitoring plan; and k) Development of a grievance redress mechanism and future project disclosure and public consultation activities.

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

II. POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK

A. ADB’s Environmental Safeguard Policies

23. The environment safeguards requirement of ADB is outlined in the Safeguard Policy Statement (SPS 2009) and detailed in the Operational Manual Section F1/BP1. The requirements follow ADB’s Strategy 20202, which emphasizes the pursuit of environmentally sustainable and inclusive economic growth for developing member countries (DMCs). ADB outlines a set of requirements for borrowers/clients in addressing environmental and social impacts of projects.

24. Based on the SPS 2009, all ADB-financed projects must undergo an environmental assessment to ensure the environmental soundness and sustainability of projects. It also aims to support the integration of environmental considerations in the project decision-making process by developing safeguards to avoid adverse impacts of projects on the environment and affected people, minimize, mitigate, and/or compensate for adverse project impacts when avoidance is not possible, and help borrowers/clients to strengthen their safeguard systems and develop the capacity to manage environmental and social risks.

1. Environment Screening and Categorization

25. When a Project has been identified for ADB financing and/or administration, environmental screening and categorization is undertaken to determine the (i) significance of potential impacts or risks of the project to the environment, (ii) level of assessment and institutional resources required to address the safeguards issues, and (iii) information disclosure and consultation requirements of the project. This is done through the use of environment screening checklists that have been developed by ADB, whereby the project is initially categorized for potential environmental impacts and risks. During the screening process, a category is assigned to the project depending on the significance of the potential environmental impacts and risks.

26. Category A are those which are large and most complex and requires a full-blown environmental impact assessment (EIA); Category B has environmental impacts which are site specific, less adverse than those of Category A and which requires an initial environmental examination (IEE); and Category C are the smallest and least complex and does not require an EIA or IEE but environmental implications are still reviewed.

27. The proposed project has been evaluated based on the Rapid Environmental Assessment Checklist (Appendix 1). The adverse environmental impacts of the project are considered site-specific and reversible. All Subprojects under Package 2 have been classified as Category B for environment, and therefore, requires an IEE.

2. Environmental Impact Assessment and Public Consultation

28. In the early stage of Project design, the conduct of environmental assessments and preparation of either EIA or IEE and the environmental management plan (EMP) are discussed

1 Operations Manual Bank Policies (BP) issued on 1 October 2013, based on ADB Safeguard Policy Statement, 2009. 2 ADB. 2008. Strategy 2020: The Long-Term Framework of the Asian Development Bank 2008-2020. Manila

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

with the borrower/client. The environmental assessment report should contain the major environmental impacts of the Project and the proposed mitigation measures to address any adverse environmental issues.

29. ADB also requires public consultation in the environmental assessment process and that the borrower/client must consult with stakeholders affected by the proposed project. The consultation should be carried out as early as possible in the project cycle so that views of the affected groups are taken into account in the design of the project and in the development of the environment mitigation measures.

3. Disclosure of IEE Document

30. Upon approval of the EIA or IEE by the borrower/client, the document is disclosed at the ADB website in accordance with the ADB Public Communications Policy. In the case of this project, the draft Environmental Assessment and Review Framework (EARF) and the draft IEE for Package 1 have been uploaded at the ADB website. The draft IEE for Package 2 will also be uploaded upon approval and submission by EDC to ADB.

4. Environment Monitoring

31. The monitoring of implementation of the EMP by the borrower/client is reported to ADB. Based on the draft EARF, subproject environmental assessments will include an Environmental Monitoring Plan (EMoP) that outlines the monitoring tasks to ensure mitigation measures are implemented effectively during each stage of the project, including the schedule and responsibility for monitoring, and the monitoring costs. Based on the project’s EARF, quarterly monitoring reports are to be prepared by PIC Environment Specialists in consultation with PMO1/SEPRU for compilation and inclusion in the progress reports to be submitted to ADB. The reports will include a summary of the results of site inspections and will focus on key issues of concern that need to be resolved.

B. Legal and Institutional Framework on Environmental Management in Cambodia

32. The major legislations in Cambodia are issued through a Royal Decree signed by the King, which ratifies laws that are passed by parliament. These Royal Decrees are supplemented by “Prakas” or ministerial decisions signed by the Prime Minister. There are also sub-decrees and regulations that outline the procedures and standards that are necessary to ensure compliance with the law.

33. In Cambodia’s Constitution (1993), environmental considerations in project implementation are outlined in Article 59, which states that: “The State shall protect the environment and balance the abundant natural resources and establish a precise plan of management of land, water, air, wind, geology, ecological system, mines, energy, petrol and gas, rock and sand, gems, forests and forestry products, wildlife, fish and aquatic resources.”

34. The MoE is the designated Government office to implement this particular provision of the Constitution. The mission of the MoE is inter alia to: promote environmental protection and conservation of natural resources through the Kingdom thus contributing to improvement of environmental quality, public welfare, national culture and the economy. This has to be seen in the context of the Royal Government of Cambodia’s three pillars of development. One of the

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

three pillars is the sustainable use of natural resources and sound environmental management to reduce poverty and improve the livelihood of all Cambodians.

1. Law on Environmental Protection and Natural Resource Management

35. The Law on Environmental Protection and Natural Resource Management (No. NS/RKM/1296/36) which came into force in 1996 requires the government to prepare national and regional plans and sub-decrees concerning a wide range of environmental issues, including environmental impact assessments, pollution prevention and control, public participation, and access to information.

36. On 11 August 1999, Sub-decree No. 72 ANRK.BK was promulgated on the EIA process. The sub-decree requires the submission of an initial EIA (IEIA) or full EIA for selected projects listed in the sub-decree annex. The IEIA or EIA is to be submitted by project owners, whether public or private, to the MoE for review.

37. Article 6 of the 1996 Law on Environmental Protection and Natural Resource Management qualifies that the implementation of an EIA is dependent on the nature and size of the proposed projects and activities. More detailed information on the EIA system within Cambodia was established in the 1999 Sub-Decree on the Environmental Impact Assessment Process. Under the 1999 Sub-Decree, the MoE is responsible for reviewing, monitoring, observing and taking action to ensure that the project owner follows the environmental management during construction, operation, and termination of the project. Chapter 5 of the EIA Sub-Decree (1999) established that MoE must review the feasibility study and initial or full EIA and send recommendations to the project owners and institutions approving the project within 30 days of receiving the documents.

38. Annex of the sub-decree No. 72 ANRK.BK presents the list of projects that require an IEIA. Sub-transmission and rural electrification projects are not included in the list of projects requiring an IEIA or EIA.

2. Royal Decree on the Establishment & Management of TSBR (NS/RKT/0401/070)

39. The Royal Decree which was promulgated in 2001 establishes the Tonle Sap Biosphere Reserve (TSBR) according to the statutory framework of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves. The TSBR is divided into core areas, buffer zone & flexible transition zone.

3. Protected Area Law

40. The Peah Reach Kret (Royal Decree) on the Protection of Natural Areas was signed on 01 November 1993. Under this law, protected areas were established and designated according to the following:

 Natural Park (IUCN Category II) – Natural and scenic area of significance for their scientific, educational and recreational values.  Wildlife Sanctuary (IUCN Category I) – Natural area where nationally significant species of flora or fauna, natural communities, or physical features require specific intervention for their perpetuation.

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

 Protected Landscape (IUCN Category V) – Nationally and significant natural and semi- natural landscapes that must be maintained to provide opportunities for recreation and tourism.  Multiple-Use Management Areas (IUCN Category VI) – Areas that provide for the sustainable use of water resources, timber, wildlife, fish, pasture and recreation with the conservation of nature primarily oriented to support these economic activities.

41. As defined in Preah Reach Kret (Royal Decree) on the Protection of Natural Areas, the Banteay Chhmar Protected Landcape covering an area of 81,200 ha in Banteay Meanchey is declared as a protected scenic view area for its archaeological/cultural sites, including the important temple site.

42. The Prakas Declaration No. 1033 on protected areas was signed on 03 June 1994. The law prohibits specific activities in protected natural areas. These prohibitions include construction of sawmills, charcoal ovens, hunting or placement of hunting traps, deforestation for land use, exploitation of minerals and use of explosives, bringing of domestic animals into the protected areas, water pollution activities, and use of machineries and heavy cars, microphones which could cause noise pollution. Species of international conservation significance (extinct, endangered, vulnerable, and rare) are also outlined in the law.

43. The Protected Area Law No. (NS/RKM/0208/007), which was promulgated in 2008 applies to protected areas defined under the Preah Reach Kram (Royal Decree) No. NS/RKM/1296/36 of December 24, 1996, Royal Decree (Preah Reach Kret) on the establishment and designation of protected areas of November 1, 1993 and other relevant laws. Under this law, the MoE through its Nature Protection and Conservation Administration (NPCA) has jurisdiction on the management of protected areas. Each protected area shall be divided into four management zoning systems as follows:

 Core Zone – management areas of high conservation values containing threatened and critically endangered species, and fragile ecosystems. Access to the zone is prohibited.  Conservation Zone – management areas of high conservation values containing natural resources, ecosystems, watershed areas, and natural landscape located adjacent to the core zone. Access to the zone is allowed only with prior consent of the NCPA.  Sustainable Use Zone – management areas of high economic values for national economic development and management, and conservation of the protected area itself, thus, contributing to the local community, and indigenous ethnic minorities’ livelihood improvement. After consulting with relevant ministries and institutions, local authorities, and local communities in accordance with relevant laws and procedures, the Royal Government of Cambodia may permit development and investment activities in this zone in accordance with the request from the MoE.  Community Zone – management areas for socio-economic development of the local communities and indigenous ethnic minorities and may contain existing residential lands, paddy field and field garden or swidden (Chamkar). The issuance of land title or permission to use land in this zone shall have prior agreement from the MoE.

44. Article 36 strictly prohibits all types of public infrastructure in the Core Zone & Conservation Zone; & allows development of public infrastructures in the Sustainable Use Zone & Community Zone with approval from the Royal Government at MoE’s request. Article 41 prohibits destructive/harmful practices in protected areas, e.g., destroying water quality,

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

poisoning, using of chemical substances, disposing of solid and liquid wastes into water or on land.

45. The law explicitly requires environmental and social impact assessment for all proposals and investments for development within or adjacent to a protected area boundary to be submitted to the MoE. Collaboration of relevant ministries and institutions will be required. The environmental assessment process requires the project owner to conduct an IEIA which is equivalent to an ADB IEE and apply to MoE for review of the IEIA report. This includes payment of a fee to cover costs of the review and a contribution to the Environmental Endowment Fund of the Law on Environmental Protection and Natural Resources. In the case of the project where the potential impacts will be minimal, the submission of the IEIA or IEE equivalent is anticipated to be sufficient to obtain approval without the need to undertake a separate EIA.

46. The objectives of the protected landscape are also defined in the law. These include the following:

 Maintain the complementary interactions of natural and cultural factors, through protection of inland natural landscape and maintain the traditional patterns of land use, patterns of construction, and performance through social and cultural activities.  Support traditional lifestyle and economic activities that are compatible with nature and maintain connections between social and cultural activities of relevant communities.  Maintain the variation of landscape and habitats, as well as relevant species and ecosystem.  Eliminate and prevent the use of land and activities that are inappropriate in terms of size or form, or both.  Provide opportunity for public enjoyment, through recreation and tourist activities that are compatible, in terms of size and form, with the main qualities of the area.  Encourage research and educational activities that contribute in the long term to supporting the well being of people in the area and mobilize public support for environmental protection of the area.  Contribute to supporting the well being of local community through provision of natural products and services.

47. Considering the above objectives, the provision of the electricity through the proposed sub-transmission line project is acceptable within the protected landscape since it contributes to the provision of services for the well being of the local community. However, agreement of the MoE is still necessary when locating inside or at the border of an established protected area.

4. Law on Wildlife Protection

48. The Joint Prakas on MoE and Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) on “Prohibition of Hunting and Catching of Wildlife Animals” (1996) specifically bans hunting of animals and birds for food. The contractor is required to observe this Prakas.

5. Other Environmental Regulations

49. Following the issuance of the Law on Environmental Protection and Natural Resource Management, the MoE passed sub-decrees and regulations to protect the environment, which includes the following:

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

 Sub-decree No.27 on water pollution control, issued on 6 April 1999;  Sub-decree No.36 solid waste management, issued on 27 April 1999;  Sub-decree No.42 on air pollution and noise disturbance, issued on 10 July 2000;  Law on the management and exploitation of mines resources, adopted on 13 July 2001.

6. Heritage Legislation

a. APSARA Authority

50. APSARA, the Authority for the Protection and Management of Angkor and the Region of Siem Reap (hereafter referred to as the APSARA Authority), was established in 1995. It is in charge of research, protection and conservation of cultural heritage of the Angkor Protected Landscape (APL), as well as urban and tourist development. In December of 1995 the World Heritage Committee confirmed Angkor's permanent inscription on the List of World Heritage Sites in Danger.

51. There are several royal decrees related to the establishment and authority of the APSARA Authority and the protection of the cultural heritage of Angkor:

 Royal Decree NS/RKT/0295/12 establishing a National Authority for the Protection and Management of Angkor and the Region of Siem Reap, named APSARA (1995, amended in 1998 by Decree NS/RKT/0199/18)3.

 Royal Decree 001/NS establishing Protected Cultural Zones in the Siem Reap/Angkor Region and Guidelines for their Management4

- The decree establishes management zones within Siem Reap (Zone 1: Monumental Sites; Zone 2: Protected Archaeological Reserves; Zone 3: Protected Cultural Landscapes; Zone 4: Sites of Archaeological, Anthropological or Historic Interest; and Zone 5: The socio-economic and cultural development zone of the Siem Reap/Angkor Region).

- Article 20 states that “for all protected cultural resorts of the Angkor Protected Landscape (Zone 1, 2, 3, 4, 5), installation of power grids with high voltage is prohibited but installation of electric power grids with medium voltage supplied by the local distributors is permitted on the condition that they are not highly visible.”

b. Heritage Law

52. All national monuments in Cambodia are protected by the “Law on Protection of Cultural and National Heritage” (NS/RKM/0196/26), which was promulgated in 1996. The law also protects small temples or ancient structures in Cambodia, which includes the Sambo Prei Kuk Temple. The export and looting of antiquities without a permit are not allowed and that the construction activities should follow the procedures for chance finds or discoveries of cultural property.

3 See http://www.autoriteapsara.org/en/apsara/about_apsara/legal_texts/decree1.html and http://www.autoriteapsara.org/en/apsara/about_apsara/legal_texts/decree2_text.html for English translations. 4 See http://www.autoriteapsara.org/en/apsara/about_apsara/legal_texts/decree3_text.html for an English translation.

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

7. Other Regulations for Rural Electrification

53. Sub-transmission lines and associated low voltage lines are typically aligned along the edge of existing roads and within the specified road reserve. Prime Ministerial Edict. 27 September 1999, entitled “Measures to Eliminate Anarchical Land Grabbing”, declares public land on the verge of roads and railways must not be occupied. These are as follows:  National road 2, 3, 6 and 7: 25 m from centerline  National road 1, 4, and 5: 30 m from center line  National road 11, 22, 64, and 78: 25 m from centerline  Provincial roads: 20 m from center line  Commune roads: 15 m from center line  Railways: 20 m from centerline in urban areas; 30 m in rural areas; 100 m where there is threat of landslides or in old growth forest.

54. Based on the alignment of the proposed sub-transmission lines and sub-mains, the project will traverse the legally designated road reserve.

C. International Conventions and Agreements

55. Besides the national legislations, a number of international environmental conventions/treaties and protocols related to environmental management and protection were also signed, accessed and ratified by the Royal Government of Cambodia. These conventions/treaties and protocols include:  Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, 1971  United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC), 1992, entered into force on 21 March 1994 (Cambodia ratified on 18 December 1995)  Kyoto Protocol 1997, entered into force on 16 February 2005 (Cambodia accessed on 4 July 2002)  Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer, entered into force on 22 September 1988 (Cambodia accessed on 27 June 2001)  Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, 1987, entered into force on 1 January 1989 (Cambodia accessed on 27 June 2001)  The International Convention for the Prevention of Marine Pollution from Ships, 1973 as modified by the Protocol of 1978 relating thereto “MARPOL 73/78”, fully entered into force on 2 October 1983 (Cambodia ratified on 1994)  Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movement of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal, entered into force on 5 May 1992 (Cambodia accessed on 02 March 2001)  United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, entered into force on 26 December 1996 (Cambodia ratified on 18 August 1997).

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

III. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT

A. Project Scope

56. The Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project consists of three components: (1) Expanded Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Network, (2) Support to EDC for implementing subprojects, and (3) Improved operational effectiveness and efficiency of EDC. Under Component 1 of the project, 22 kilovolt (kV) sub-transmission lines will be connected from grid sub-stations in provincial towns to the existing and new low-voltage distribution and service lines (<0.4 kV), which are owned and operated by private REEs. EDC will own, operate and maintain the 22 kV sub-transmission lines installed under the project. The ownership and responsibility for operating and managing the 0.4 kV distribution network will remain with the respective REEs while EDC will supply electricity to REEs under a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).

57. The project will include the construction of 468 circuit-kilometer (km) of new 3 phase 22 kV overhead sub-transmission lines including short lengths of 22 kV underground cable, the installation of 22 kV/0.4 kV distribution transformers, advanced electronic metering for all distribution transformers, auto reclosing circuit breakers, and automatic voltage regulators to improve reliability and voltage performance.

58. Overall, there are five subprojects under the project, as follows:

Package 1:  Subproject 1: 736 circuit-kilometer (cct-km) in Kampong Thom Province  Subproject 2: 217 cct-km in Kampong Cham Province  Subproject 3: 933 cct-km in Siem Reap Province

Package 2:  Extension of Subproject 1: 142 cct-km in Kampong Thom province  Extension of Subproject 3: 214 cct-km in Siem Reap province  Subproject 4: 49 cct-km in Kandal Province  Subproject 5: 63 cct-km in Banteay Meanchey Province.

59. A separate IEE has been previously prepared for Subprojects 1, 2, and 3 under Package 1. This IEE covers the subprojects under Package 2 in Kandal and Banteay Meanchey provinces including the extensions of subprojects 1 and 3 under Package 1.

B. Location

60. Extension of Subproject 1. The extension of subproject 1 in Kampong Thom province covers additional communes which are not covered by Package 1 in districts of Prasat Sambour Santuk and Sandan. These are the communes of Chhuk, Koul, Sambour, Sraeung, Tang Krasau, Khlaeng, Dang Kambet, Mean Chey, Ngan and Ti Pou. Additional 13,244 households will be served by this MV sub-transmission extension. Figure 2 presents the location of the sub- transmission line of subproject 1 to be extended under Package 2.

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Figure 2. Alignment of Subproject 1 extension (blue line) in Kampong Thom Province

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

61. Extension of Subproject 3. The extension of subproject 3 in Siem Reap province covers, to large extent, additional communes in districts of Srei Snam, Angkor Thum and Svay Leu and, to small extent, additional communes in Krong Siem Reap, Prasat Bakong, Soutr Nikum, Chi Kraeng, Banteay Srei, Puok and Angkor Chhum districts. Additional 29,819 households will be served by this MV sub-transmission extension. Figure 3 presents the location of the sub-transmission line of subproject 3 to be extended under Package 2.

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Figure 3. Alignment of Subproject 3 extension (blue line) in Siem Reap province

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

62. Subproject 4. The sub-transmission line in Kandal will primarily serve the province of Kandal but the line will extend also to the nearby province of Kampong Speu and Phnom Penh Capital. A total of 23,715 households will be served by the MV sub-transmission expansion project, covering 16 communes of 9 districts. These are in the districts of S’ang, Muhk Kampul, and Popnhea Lueu, Ang Snuol, Kien Svay and Krong Takhmao in Kandal Province. The sub- transmission line will extend to the nearby district of Odongk in Kampong Speu Province and to the districts of Mean Chey and Ruessey Kaev of Phnom Penh Capital City. Figure 4 presents the location of the sub-transmission line of Subproject 4. The sub-transmission line includes short lengths of 3-km segment of twisted underground cables located in communes of Khsem Khsan of Odongk district, Sambour Meas of Mukh Kampul and Roka Khpos of S’ang district. These segments of underground lines will be laid on the sides of existing road reserves.

63. Subproject 5. The sub-transmission line in Banteay Meanchey will serve 5,543 households in 5 communes of 4 districts. These are in the districts of Malai, Thma Puok, Ou Chrov and Krong Paoy Paet. Figure 5 presents the location of the sub-transmission line of the Subproject.

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Figure 4. Alignment of Subproject 4 (blue line) in Kandal Province

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Figure 5. Alignment of Subproject 5 (blue line) in Banteay Meanchey Province

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

C. Technical Components

64. The subprojects under Package 2 will consist of concrete poles mounted single circuit (3-phase) sub-transmission lines, concrete poles with height of 12 meters and spaced approximately 60 meters apart, 22/0.4 kV transformers mounted on poles at designated locations, and cross arms and insulators on poles to support 3-phase conductors. The medium- voltage transmission poles will consist of round pre-stressed concrete poles to be erected at an average distance of 60 meters between poles. The height of the poles will be 12 – 14 meters. Overhead ground wires will be installed for lightning protection. All insulators and fittings to be utilized by the project shall conform to the international standard of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). The following are the details of the subproject components:

Table 1. Technical Details of Project Components under Package 2

Components Unit Number/Length Subproject 1 extension: Kampong Thom Conductor 150 mm² cct-km 47 Conductor 70 mm² cct-km 69 Conductor 35 mm2 (3 wires) cct-km 26 Transformer 100kVA, 22/0.4kV Set 8 Transformer 50kVA, 22/0.4kV Set 32 MV Protection 3ph system / 5km Set 28 Guy Wire System for MV Pole Set 142 Load Break Switch 630A, 24kV Set 2 FCO 24kV with Fuse link and all Accessories (3pcs/set) Set 10 Subproject 3 extension: Siem Reap Conductor 70 mm² cct-km 110 Conductor 35 mm2 (3 wires) cct-km 116 Transformer 160kVA, 22/0.4kV Set 3 Transformer 100kVA, 22/0.4kV Set 20 Transformer 50kVA, 22/0.4kV Set 30 MV Protection 3ph system / 5km Set 45 Guy Wire System for MV Pole Set 226 Load Break Switch 630A, 24kV Set 4 FCO 24kV with Fuse link and all Accessories (3pcs/set) Set 15 Subproject 4: Kandal Conductor 150 mm² cct-km 47 MV twisted underground cable 3×300mm² , 24 kV cct-km 3 MV Protection 3ph system / 5km Set 9 Guy Wire System for MV Pole Set 47 Subproject 5: Banteay Meanchey Conductor 70 mm² cct-km 53 Conductor 35 mm2 (3 wires) cct-km 10 Transformer 100kVA, 22/0.4kV Set 4 Transformer 50kVA, 22/0.4kV Set 10 MV Protection 3ph system / 5km Set 13 Guy Wire System for MV Pole Set 63 Auto Recloser 630A, 24kV Set 1 FCO 24kV with Fuse link and all Accessories (3pcs/set) Set 5 Source: EDC, October 16, 2014

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

D. Project Schedule and Activities

1. Construction Phase

65. All the sub-transmission lines will be installed along existing national, provincial or commune roads within designated road reserves. The construction activities will involve transporting of the poles on the roadside, augering of ground for pole foundation up to depth of two meters, erection of poles, stringing of conductors, and erection of pole-mounted transformers. These construction activities are primarily done using a small team of workers with minimal use of mechanical equipment. Based on EDC experience, approximately 10 poles can be erected per day.

66. The poles will be erected up to a depth of 2 meters from ground surface. All excavated soil will be utilized for refilling and banking up of the pole foundations.

67. In some cases, trimming or cutting of roadside trees may be required to ensure appropriate safety clearances for the power lines. A minimum vertical clearance of 3 meters from existing structures and trees will be maintained as required for safety. The lines will be sited to avoid houses or structures to the maximum extent possible.

2. Operational Phase

68. During the operational phase, regular activities that will be implemented include the routine monitoring and inspection to check if the required clearances of trees and structures below the line are maintained. Maintenance activities include the trimming of trees and vegetation and checking of nuts and bolts to ensure structural stability of the line. The clearing of vegetation shall be done manually, without the use of heavy equipment and herbicides.

E. Safety Clearance

69. The EDC shall maintain the minimum safety clearance during the construction and maintenance of the sub-transmission lines. These minimum safety clearances are defined in the General Requirements of the Electricity Authority of Cambodia (EAC). The following are minimum safety clearances to be maintained for the sub-transmission lines and sub-lines.

70. Under the Package 2, all overhead sub-transmission lines will require 3-m vertical and horizontal clearance to buildings and structures. A 2-m clearance along the sub-transmission alignment will be required to provide safety and to avoid contact between trees and vegetation with bare electrical live lines. Provision of 3-m vertical clearance is also required wherever chance of a person climbing and reaching the lines is high.

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Table 2. Medium-Voltage (MV) and Low-Voltage (LV) Clearances

Location Minimum Clearance (meters) MV LV Clearances above ground  Across roads 8.0 6.5  Across railway tracks 8.0 6.5  Along roads 5.5  Other places 6.5 5.0 Bare Covered Insulated MV LV MV LV MV LV Clearances to buildings  Vertically 3.0 Bare 2.5 2.0 1.2 1.0  Where a person 3.0 conductor 1.5 1.2 0.5 1.4 may climb not  Horizontally 3.0 permitted 1.5 1.2 0.5 0.4 Clearance to trees and 2.0 No contact No contact No contact No contact No contact vegetation Sources: Draft Environmental Assessment and Review Framework (EARF), Kingdom of Cambodia: Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project, EDC, September 20125

5 Taken from the General Requirements of Electric Power Technical Standards of the Kingdom of Cambodia, issued by the Ministry of Industry, Mines, and Energy in accordance with the Electricity Law of the Kingdom of Cambodia (2004), amended 2007.

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

IV. DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT

A. Physical Resources

71. Cambodia lies in the southwestern part of Southeast Asian peninsula. It has a land area of 181,035 km2. International borders are shared with Thailand on the west; the Lao People’s Democratic Republic to the north; and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam on the east and southeast. Cambodia is bounded on the southwest by the Gulf of Thailand and has a coastline of 440 km.

1. Geography

72. Subproject 1 extension. Kampong Thom is located in the geographical center of Cambodia. It borders Preah Vihear to the North, Kratie to the East, Kampong Cham and Kampong Chnnang to the South and the Tonle Sap Lake and Pursat to the West. The area of the province is 15,060 square kilometers.The extension of sub-transmission line will reach the communes of Chhuk, Koul, Sambour, Sraeung, Tang Krasau, Khlaeng, Dang Kambet, Mean Chey, Ngan and Ti Pou. These communes are all located in areas which are considered rural.

73. Subproject 3 extension. Siem Reap is located in Northwestern part of Cambodia. It borders Oddar Meanchey to the North, Preah Vihear and Kampong Thom to the East, the Tonle Sap Lake to the South and Banteay Meanchey to the West. The area of the province is 10,299 square kilometers. The extension of sub-transmission line will reach, to large extent, additional communes in districts of Srei Snam, Angkor Thum and Svay Leu and, to small extent, additional communes in Krong Siem Reap, Prasat Bakong, Soutr Nikum, Chi Kraeng, Banteay Srei, Puok and Angkor Chhum districts. The areas covered by the subproject extension are a mixture of urban and rural settings.

74. Subproject 4. Kandal encircles Phnom Penh City. It borders Kampong Chhnang and Kampong Cham to the North, Prey Veng to the East, Takeo and Vietnam Border to the South and Kampong Speu to the West. The area of the province is 3,555 square kilometers. The topography of the province is mostly the floodplains of the Mekong-Tonle Bassac river system. Kandal is the upstream beginning of the Mekong Delta which continues down-river into Vietnam. To the west of Kandal are areas of lowland paddy fields. The subproject in Kandal Province generally follows road alignments and existing sub-transmission lines, including short extensions to nearby province of Kampong Speu and Phnom Penh. All areas covered by the subproject are considered urban.

75. Subproject 5. Banteay Meanchey is located in the nowthwest corner of Cambodia bordering Thailand to the north and west, Oddar Meanchey and Siem Reap provinces to the East and Battambang to the South. The area of the province is 6,677 square kilometers. The sub-transmission line also follows existing road alignments. Isolated segments of sub- transmission line are located in Malai districts and Krong Poay Paet. The areas covered by the subproject are largely rural and, to a lesser extent, are also urban.

2. Topography

76. Cambodia is divided into three distinct topographic regions: (i) the central plains, (ii) the flat coastal areas, and (iii) the mountain ranges with high plateaus. The central plains form

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

about 75% of the country and consists of alluvial plains of the Mekong River and the Tonle Sap basin.

77. Subproject 1 extension. Kampong Thom is located in the alluvial plains of the Tonle Sap Region. The topography along extension areas of subproject 1 features low lands which constitute part of the floodplains due to proximity to the Steung Sen River. Elevation along the MV sub-transmission line ranges from 10 – 25 above mean sea level (AMSL). Refer to Fig 6.

78. Subproject 3 extension. Siem Reap is also part of the Tonle Sap Region. Elevation of areas along sub-transmission line in Srei Snam district ranges from 25 – 100m. There are isolated segments of sub-tranmission lines in the districts that are close to the Tonle Sap Lake, namely Krong Siem Reap, Soutr Nikum, Chi Kraeng and Prasat Bakong, sit on a lower elevation ranging from 10 – 25m above mean sea level (AMSL). Whilst the rest of sub-transmission line that are located further North lies on higher elevation ranging from 50 – 100m. Refer to Fig 7.

79. Subproject 4. Figure 8 presents the topography in Subproject 4. Kandal Province, Phnom Penh capital city are located within the central plain region of Cambodia. Kampong Speu Province is in the plateau and mountain region6. Under Subproject 4, the terrain in all areas where the sub-transmission lines will pass is generally flat, with elevation ranging from 0– 25 m above mean sea level (AMSL).

80. Subproject 5. The Banteay Meanchey Province is also in the alluvial plains in the Tonle Sap Lake Region, along with Siem Reap and Battambang provinces. Isolated segments of sub- transmission line in Ou Chrov, Malai districts and Krong Poay Paet are located in rather flat terrain with elevation ranging from 25 – 50m above mean sea level (AMSL). Whilst a much larger extent of MV sub-transmission line in Svay Chek and Thma Puok districts closer to Thai Border is located on elevation ranging from 50 – 100 m above mean sea level (AMSL). Refer to Fig 9.

6 United Nations Environment Programme. Cambodia Environment Outlook. http://geodata.rrcap.unep.org/ (accessed 8 March 2014).

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Figure 6. Topography of Subproject 1 extension (Kampong Thom)

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Figure 7. Topography of Subproject 3 extension (Siem Reap)

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Figure 8. Topography of Subproject 4 (Kandal)

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Figure 9. Topography of Subproject 5 (Banteay Meanchey)

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

3. Climate

81. The climate in Cambodia is influenced by tropical monsoon climate, which causes distinct wet and dry seasons. The southwest monsoon typically brings the rainy season, which prevails from May to October. The northeast monsoon brings the drier and cooler air during the months of November to March while the hotter air occurs from April to May. The annual mean rainfall in the central lowland regions is 1,400 mm. Relative humidity is high throughout the year, usually exceeding 90%. During the dry season, relative humidity falls below 50%.

Figure 10. Yearly-Average Maximum and Minimum rainfall in Cambodia (Source: Department of Meteorology –Cambodia)

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

82. The temperature throughout the country is fairly uniform, with only small variations from average annual temperature of around 28oC. January is considered as the coldest month where lowest temperatures of 12oC have been recorded. April is the warmest month where temperatures reach as high as 42oC. Most of Cambodia’s regions have an average wind velocity of less than 3 m/s. Maximum wind speeds can reach in excess of 20 m/s during the wet season while during the dry season the maximum wind velocities are lower and are in the range of 6 – 8 m/s.

4. Geology and Seismicity

83. Subproject 1 extension. The geology along the ROW of the extension of sub- tranmssion lines from Prasat Sambo district towards Sandan district consists of pediments and floodplains of Steung Sen River, except a small isolated segment of sub-transmission in Ti Pou commune of Santuk district that sits on the alluvial fans. Refer to Fig 11.

84. Subproject 3 extension. The geology along the ROW of the extension of sub- transmission lines in Angkor Thom, Banteay Srei, Svay Leu consists, to large of extent, of pediments. While the extension in Srei Snam district covers an area of deltaic deposits. Further down towards the Tonle Sap Lake, the geology is composed of alluvial fans, lake bed deposits, deltaic deposits and organic deposits (swamps) for the case of Chong Kneas, Kampong Phluk and Kampong Khleang communes. See figure 12. Refer to Fig 12.

85. Subproject 4. The geology along the ROW of the sub-transmission lines under Subproject 4 varies across the districts. A large swath of land where the sub-transmission line will pass through in Popnhea Lueu District of Kandal Province, the geology is pediments and a small extent of flood plains and terrace alluvial deposits (Figure 13). Whereas area in Mukh Kampul district along the Mekong river, the land is composed of organic deposits (swamps) and floodplains. Similar geological formation is found along the sub-transmission alignment in districts of S’ ang, Keing Svay and Krong Takhmao.

86. Subproject 5. The geology in Banteay Meanchey is mostly composed of deltaic deposits along the route lines from the Siem Reap Province to the Preah Netr Preah District. The same geologic formation can be found in Ou Chrov, Mongkol Borei, and Svay Chek districts in Banteay Meanchey (Figure 14). In the area along the Krong Serei Saophoan, the land is mostly composed of lake deposits and with some pediments which is the typical characteristics of the provinces located in the Tonle Sap Lake Region. In the north, the Thma Puok District area is mostly of bedrock pediments but further north and crossing the Banteay Ampil District of the Oddar Meanchey Province, the land is of alluvial fans. The Oddar Meanchey Province is in the plateau and mountain region, thus, the formation of alluvial fans as the water interacts with mountains or hills7.

7 United Nations Environment Programme. Cambodia Environment Outlook. http://geodata.rrcap.unep.org/ (accessed 6 October 2014).

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Figure 11. Geology of Subproject 1 extension (Kampong Thom)

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Figure 12. Geology of Subproject 3 extension (Siem Reap)

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Figure 13. Geology of Subproject 4 (Kandal)

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Figure 14. Geology of Subproject 5 (Banteay Meanchey)

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

87. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the whole country of Cambodia is located on a large stable tectonic region of the Sunda Plate (Figure 15). Therefore, the country is within an area with low seismic hazard.

Figure 15. Seismic Map of Southeast Asia Source: U.S. Geological Survey, Documentation for the Southeast Asia Seismic Hazard Maps, September 2007

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

5. Air Quality and Noise

88. Subproject 1 extension. No major sources of pollution are found in the area. Ambient air quality along the existing road alignments is found to be generally good due to relatively far distance from urban areas. Dust pollution is expected to be more pronounced during the dry season as low transport volume passes over unsurfaced roads. Smoke emitted by domestic cookings using biomass fuels contributes to a very small extent of general ambient air quality in the area where there is minimal impact.

89. Subproject 3 extension. Similar to area of subproject 1 extension, the major sources of noise and air pollution are limited to smoke and dust from vehicles of low transport volumes such as cars and trucks. Ambient air quality is significantly better in communes where population density is low. Smoke emitted by domestic cooking using biomass fuels also contributes to a very small extent.

90. Subproject 4. While dust pollution is less prevalent along the surfaced roads along subproject area in Ponhea Leu district. Noise level is considerably much higher in urban areas where commercial activities and mixed traffic volumes can be seen along the existing roads where the sub-transmission lines will pass through. In the case of the proposed sub- transmission line in Bakheng commune which is located along the National Road 6A, more severe dust pollution is noted because a section of National Road 6 in that area is under construction. Layers of dust cover roadside physical structures such as houses, plants, and trees. In the districts closer to Phnom Penh Capital, pollution due to vehicle emissions is evident due to the greater volume of traffics in the urban setting. The air quality is worsened by the dust particles in the air emitted by industrial and commercial activities.

91. Subproject 5. For the Banteay Meanchey subproject, level of air and noise pollution is distinct in rural and urban settings. The majority of sub-transmission line passes through unsurfaced roads and are located far from district and provincial centers. Dust particles and vehicle emissions are confined to about 50 meters from the roadsides.

92. Noise emitted by the engines of vehicles and business activities along the streets, and by the people is common in the busy business and district centers. In the rural areas, noise from vehicles and community activities is not significant.

6. Water Resources

93. The major water resources in Cambodia are the Mekong River and the Tonle Sap system. Tonle Sap lake is the largest freshwater lake in Southeast Asia. The Tonle Sap River connects the Tonle Sap Lake to the Mekong River at the Chaktomuk confluence in Phnom Penh. The water flow of the Tonle Sap River and Lake is closely related to the hydrological performance of the Mekong River. In the wet season, about May to October, part of the Mekong River water flows into the Lake through the Tonle Sap River. In the dry season, about November to April, the flow changes its course from the Lake by flowing out to the Mekong River. Average annual flow out (flow from the Lake to the Mekong River) of Tonle Sap River between 1996 and 2009 was 69,826 MCM; average annual inflow (flow from the Mekong River to the Lake) was 39,949 MCM.

94. In Kandal, there is an area where the sub-transmission line will pass through a road dike which borders the Tonle Sap River floodplains. This sub-transmission line will connect from the substation in Mukh Kampoul district which is yet to be constructed on the edge of floodplains.

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Photo 1. An Area of Kandal Subproject near Tonle Sap Floodplain

B. Biological Resources

1. Forest

95. There are no natural forest covers in the subproject areas in Kandal Province. Based on information from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fishery and Forestry (MAFF), there is also no clear natural forest cover in Banteay Meanchey. Open woodland is the largest type of forest cover in Banteay Meanchey Province. Secondary forests are divided into concession forests and protected forests in Banteay Meanchey Province. Concession forests may be harvested for sale and were found along the roads. Forest covers can be found in the Tuol Pongro Commune in the Malai District, located to the west of the Banteay Menchey Province.

96. There are two (2) community protected forests located along the proposed sub- transmission lines in Banteay Meanchey and Kampong Thom provinces subprojects. Community forests are managed by the Forestry Department of Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF). The Forest Department grants the management of the area to the community who must abide by a management plan under the supervision of the Forest Department. The community has access to the forest and is allowed to remove forest products and cut trees for their own use. However, they are prohibited from selling these trees. Timber harvesting for sale is only allowed from forest concessions.

97. Vegetation cover along the proposed sub-transmission line subprojects consists of rice fields, cassava plantations and a mixture of open grasslands and unevenly distributed shrublands. Fruit trees are common occurence in areas along the village settlements. Open woodland dipterocarp vegetation is characterized by Shorea obtuse and Dipterocarpus obtusiflolius. Grasses occur in the open spaces between low trees that includes Imperata cylindrica, Saccharum spontaneum, and Desmodium. Burning of grasses during the dry season is common in the area.

2. Ecologically Protected Areas

98. In 1993, the Cambodian Royal Decree on the Designation and Creation of Protected Areas established 23 Protected Areas (PAs) in Cambodia under the management of the

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Ministry of Environment, Department of Nature Conservation and Protection. As a result, 18.23% of the total area of Cambodia is officially declared as Protected Areas. This represents 3,273,200 hectares, or 30.76% of the nation’s forests. These PAs were categorized into seven national parks, ten wildlife sanctuaries, three protected landscapes and three multiple use areas. Each protected area shall be divided into four (4) management zoning systems as the following:

1. Core zone: management area(s) of high conservation values containing threatened and critically endangered species, and fragile ecosystems. Access to the zone is prohibited except the Nature Conservation and Protection Administration's officials and researchers who, with prior permission from the Ministry of Environment, conduct nature and scientific studies for the purpose of preservation and protection of biological resources and natural environment with the exception of national security and defense sectors.

2. Conservation zone: management area(s) of high conservation values containing natural resources, ecosystems, watershed areas, and natural landscape located adjacent to the core zone. Access to the zone is allowed only with prior consent of the Nature Conservation and Protection Administration at the area with the exception of national security and defense sectors. Small-scale community uses of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) to support local ethnic minorities' livelihood may be allowed under strict control, provided that they do not present serious adverse impacts on biodiversity within the zone.

3. Sustainable use zone: management area(s) of high economic values for national economic development and management, and conservation of the protected area(s) itself thus contributing to the local community, and indigenous ethnic minorities’ livelihood improvement. After consulting with relevant ministries and institutions, local authorities, and local communities in accordance with relevant laws and procedures, the Royal Government of Cambodia may permit development and investment activities in this zone in accordance with the request from the Ministry of Environment.

4. Community zone: management area(s) for socio-economic development of the local communities and indigenous ethnic minorities and may contain existing residential lands, paddy field and field garden or swidden (Chamkar).

99. According to the Protected Area Law (2008), issuing land title or permission to use land in these zones shall have prior agreement from the Ministry of Environment in accordance with the Land Law.

100. Banteay Chhmar Protected Landscape. The sub-transmission line of Subproject 5 will traverse about 21 km of the community zone on the eastern border of the Banteay Chhmar Protected Landscape in Thma Puok District of the Banteay Meanchey Province. The protected landscape stretches up to the Banteay Ampil District of the Oddar Meanchey Province. It is located 63 km north of Sisophon and about 20 km east of the border with Thailand.

101. Beoung Per Wildlife Sanctuary. The Boeung Per Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the northern plains of Cambodia covering an area of 242,500 ha in Kampong Thom, Siem Reap and Preah Vihear. It is one of the protected areas defined by the provisions of the Law on Environmental Protection and Natural Resources Management, which was promulgated by Preah Reach Kram (Royal Decree) No NS/RKM/1296/36 of December 24, 1996 and Royal

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Decree (Preah Reach Kret) on the Establishment and Designation of Protected Areas of November 01, 1993.

102. However, in the latest government appropriation of protected land, nearly 20,000 hectares of the Boeung Per wildlife sanctuary have been reclassified as state private land for agro-industrial development. The reclassification of Boeung Per Wildlife Sanctuary followed two sub-decrees which officially reclassified the 19,829 hectares located in the Romny commune of Preah Vihear’s Rovieng district. It is followed by additional four sub-decrees that reclassified almost 30,000 hectares within the Kulen Promtep wildlife sanctuary, north of Boeung Per8.

103. The alignment of sub-transmission line will follow through an existing road reserve and will have no impact on the conservation status of the area as verified by the Provincial Department of Environment – Kampong Thom9.

104. Tonle Sap Biosphere Reserve. The Tonle Sap is the largest freshwater lake in the Greater Mekong Sub-Region with an area of 2,500-3,000 km2 in the dry season and 10,000 – 15,000 km2 in the wet season with water depths ranging from 1 meter in the dry season to 10 meters in the wet season and home to nearly one-third of Cambodia‟s population. In 1997 it was nominated as a Biosphere Reserve under the Man and the Biosphere Reserve Program of United Nations Education and Scientific Cooperation Organization (UNESCO). Biosphere reserves are nominated by governments and remain under their jurisdiction. Reserves are intended to fulfill three complementary functions: (i) a conservation function; (ii) a development function; and (iii) a logistic function. The Tonle Sap Biosphere Reserve (TSBR) has the following zones:

i. Core areas are securely protected sites for conserving biodiversity, monitoring minimally disturbed ecosystems, and undertaking research and other low-impact uses such as education. The TSBR core areas cover a total of about 43,000 ha which are characterized by a flooded forest, streams and water bodies, and rich biodiversity. Nearly 100 water bird species are found there, a dozen of which are of global significance. The areas are also known for their fish, mammals, and reptiles. The three core area of TSBR are as follows:

a) Prek Toal Core Area located in Koh Chiveang Commune, Ek Phnom District, Battambang Province (21,342 ha);

b) Boeng Tonle Chhmar Core Area located in Peam Bang Commune, Stong District, Kampong Thom province (14,560 ha);

c) Stoeng Sen Core Area located in Phat Sanday Commune, Kampong Svay District, Kampong Thom Province (6,355 ha).

ii. The buffer zone covers about 541,482 ha and is used for cooperative activities compatible with sound ecological practices, including environmental education, recreation, ecotourism, and research. Its boundary corresponds to the outer boundary of the Tonle Sap Multiple-Use Area. The TSBR buffer zone surrounds the core areas up to the outer limit of the flooded forest.

8 Posted on August 11th, 2011 , The Phnom Penh Post 9 Consultation meeting with Deputy Director of Provincial Department of Environment – Kampong Thom, 11 September 214

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iii. The transition area is the outer zone which covers 899,600 ha. It is intended to be flexible and allows development in keeping with the needs of the local population. The transition area forms the interface between the TSBR and common land. The southern edge of TSBR transition zone forms a boundary with national road NR5. These boundaries are shown explicitly in Figure 4.3. The flexible transition area is the integrated economic zone, which is managed for the sustainable agriculture, human settlement and land uses, without having adverse effects on the flooded forest, water quality and soils of the region around the Tonle Sap Lake.

105. Around 32 kms of the Project sub-transmission lines are located within in the transition zone of TSBR where existing LV distribution lines and bustling village settlements are found. Tourism, fishing, agricultural cropping and livestock are the main livelihood activities.

106. Phnum Kulen National Park. The Phnum Kulen National Park covering an area of 37,500 km2 is located about 48 km to the north of the provincial town of Siem Reap and about 30 km northwards from Angkor Wat. The area is within the important watershed of the Siem Reap River. It is also an important archaeological site owing to a major symbolic importance for Cambodians as the birthplace of the ancient Khmer Empire, for it was at Phnom Kulen that King Jayavarma II proclaimed independence from Java in 804 CE10.

107. The national park was designated in 1993 by a Royal Decree of King Norodom Sihanouk. It is officially managed by the Ministry of Environment (MoE). However certain areas of archaeological value are managed by the APSARA authority as well as there being several Community Protected Areas (CPA) managed at a commune level. In addition there is one private tourist concession operating with in the park who collects entrance fee and maintain the national park.

108. There are 5 zones defined for management of National Park. The subprojects cover areas of Zone 3 and 4. Parts of these area has largely been cleared of any natural forest cover due to infrastructure development and clearance for agriculture. At present this zone holds little significance in terms of important habitats or diversity. However it is the key corridor area for linking the two main plateaus which contain the largest remaining forest blocks in Zone 1 and Zone 4.

109. According to population statistic from Commune Database in 2013, Khnang Phnom commune which is located on the top of the Kulen plateau consists of 628 families. With the annual increases as a result of natural birth and migration of people from outside areas, the current population in this commune has increased to 827 families, resulting in a total shifting farm land area required for these families of approximately 7,236.25 hectares (nearly 25% of the whole park). This data does not include population figures and data for shifting cultivation area within Ta Han village, Khun Ream commune, Banteay Srey district.

110. The proposed sub-transmission line will reach community zone of Khnang Phnom commune of Phnum Kulen National Park which is intended for socio-economic development of the local communities whose livelihoods depend on existing residential lands, paddy field and field garden or swidden (Chamkar).

111. It is within legal context that EDC must seek clearance from the Ministry of Environment (MoE) for the construction of sub-transmission line in Phnum Kulen National Park. No-Project

10 Higham, Charles (2002). Civilizations of Angkor. University of California Press. ISBN 0-520-23442-1.

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alternative will apply if the joint road feasibility study conducted by APSARA and MoE renders non-feasible.

112. Sambor Prei Kuk Temple. The Sambor Prei Kuk Temple is the Pre-Angkorian temple complex located about 30 kilometers to the north of the provincial town of Kampong Thom Province. The Sambor Prei Kuk conservation area is protected by the Royal Decree NS/RKT/0303/116 on The Limitation of Sambor Prei Kuk Temple promulgated in March 2003. The Royal Decree has been amended and submitted for approval at the Council of Ministers based on recent archaeological findings from Waseda University on the boundary of the core temple zone.

C. Land Uses

113. Subproject 1 extension. In Kampong Thom, the sub-transmission line will run parallel to existing road and will traverse mostly agriculture land characterized by mixture of rice fields interspersed by village settlements where bamboo and palm trees are common. Sparsely distributed regeneration forest can be seen along some segments of sub-transmission line interspersed by ricefields. There is a community forest in Ti Pou commune of Santuk district in Kampong Thom which is located about 50m off the commune road where the sub-transmission line will follow. Refer to Fig 20.

114. Subproject 3 extension. In Siem Reap, the sub-transmission line will also run parallel to existing road and will traverse mostly agriculture land characterized by mixture of rice fields, village settlements, shrublands and grasslands. Sparsely distributed forest interspaced with swidden agriculture land, cassava and cashew plantations can be seen along segments of sub- transmission line located inside Phnum Kulen National Park in Khnang Phnum commune, Svay Leu district. Refer to Fig 21.

115. Subproject 4. In Kandal, areas where the sub-transmission lines will run through are mostly urban. The recent economic development has transformed the agriculture lands into commercial and industrial zones. Settlement areas can be found along the road where people have their small businesses, especially near the district centers. For the districts covered in the Phnom Penh Capital, these are characterized as urban and built-up areas. Figure 22 shows the land uses in Kandal and adjoining provinces.

116. The sub-transmission line includes short lengths of 3-km segment of twisted underground cables located in communes of Khsem Khsan of Odongk district, Sambour Meas of Mukh Kampul and Roka Khpos of S’ang district. These segments of underground lines will be laid on the sides of existing road reserves.

117. Subproject 5. In Banteay Meanchey, the proposed sub-transmission lines will traverse agricultural land planted with rice and cassava. There is also some grassland along the Mongkol Borei, Ou Chrov, Malai, and Svay Chek districts. Areas along the existing road passing through Banteay Chhmar Protected Landscape are characterized by villages settlements interspaced with cassava and degraded forest lands. Areas closer to Krong Paoy Paet are urban and built- up areas. Near the district centers and where there is electricity, the area is more urban and built-up as compared to the rural districts with no electricity supply as shown in Figure 23.

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Figure 16. Ecological and Cultural Resources near Subproject 1 extension (Kampong Thom)

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Figure 17. Ecological and Cultural Resources near Subproject 3 extension (Siem Reap)

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Figure 18. Ecological Resources near Subproject 4 (Kandal)

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Figure 19. Ecological and Cultural Resources near Subproject 5 (Banteay Meanchey)

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Figure 20. Landuse in Subproject 1 extension (Kampong Thom)

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Figure 21. Landuse in Subproject 3 extension (Siem Reap)

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Figure 22. Landuse in Subproject 4 (Kandal)

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Figure 23. Landuse in Subproject 5 (Banteay Meanchey)

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D. Social and Cultural Resources

1. Population

118. Extension of Subproject 1 and 3 of Package 1. The extension of the sub-transmission lines from Package 1 in Kampong Thom and Siem Reap covers a total of 13 districts and 41 communes serving a total of 43,063 households. Most of these communes are considered rural, except a few communes in Krong Siem Reap where sprawling urban settlements can be seen on either sides of the road. Details of district and communes to be connected are shown in Table 3.

Table 3. Summary of Districts and Communes of Package 1 extension Provinces No. of Districts No. of Communes No. of Households 1 Kampong Thom 3 12 13,244 2 Siem Reap 10 29 29,819 Total 13 41 43,063 Source: EDC, 04 September 2014.

119. Subproject 4. The sub-transmission lines in Kandal traverse 3 provinces, namely, (i) Kandal Province, (ii) Phnom Penh Capital City and (iii) Kampong Speu Province. A total of nine districts will be covered by the subproject which are mostly considered urban due to recent expansion of the cities nearby Phnom Penh capital. In terms of population density, Krong Takhmao is the most populated of all the areas to be served by the proposed project.

120. A total of 23,715 households in 58 villages of 10 communes will be served by the subproject. Majority or around 90% of the total households that will be serviced or will benefit from the project are in the Kandal Province. Table 4 presents the details of the villages, communes and districts that will be served by Subproject 4.

Table 4. Summary of Districts and Communes of Subproject 4 and 5 Provinces No. of Districts No. of Communes No. of Households 1 Kandal 6 6 16,712 2 Kampong Speu 1 2 1,481 3 Phnom Penh Capital 2 2 5,522 Total 9 10 23,715 Source: EDC, 04 September 2014.

121. Subproject 5. Four districts will be traversed by the sub-transmission lines of Subproject 5. A total of 5,543 households in 22 villages of 10 communes will be covered by the subproject. Table 5 shows the villages, communes, and districts to be served under Subproject 5.

Table 5. Summary of Districts and Communes of Subproject 5 Provinces No. of Districts No. of Communes No. of Households 1 Banteay Meanchey 4 5 5,543 Total 4 5 5,543 Source: EDC, 04 September 2014.

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

2. Economy

122. Subproject 1 extension. Economic activities found along the extension of subproject 1 in Kampong Thom province are predominantly agriculture. Communities are generally engaged in rice farming. Other sources of income are derived from animal husbandary, firewood collection and seasonal wage labour. Most adults reportedly cross border to Thailand during lean season to work in construction and send remittance home.

123. Subproject 3 extension. While Siem Reap is a major tourism destination, much of its area is still considered rural. Rice farming and wage labour migration to urban area are reported to be the main sources of income. Households living in rural communities along the proposed sub-transmission line further away from Krong Siem Reap are seen growing cash crops and engaged in small business. Swidden or slash-and-burn agriculture is particularly practiced in Khnang Phnum commune of Svay Leu district where banana, cashew and highland rice are grown. Further down toward the Tonle Sap Lake, fisheries and fish precessing contribute to significant sources of income.

124. Subproject 4. Economic activities along the sub-transmission lines in Kandal, and to a small extent in Kampong Speu and Phnom Penh Capital are diverse ranging from trade, manufacturing to limited rice farming. Busy economic activities along the ROW can be spotted along urban centers of Krong Takhmao and closer to Phnom Penh capital. It is the urban setting that clearly sets it apart from other subproject areas.

125. Subproject 5. Banteay Meanchey Province majorly contributes to the rice and cassava industry sectors of Cambodia. It is also among the six provinces considered as an important rice growing area in the country11 and most of the people in the province are engaged in farming. Vast hectares of rice field are very evident in the middle and lower half of the province that will be traversed by the transmission lines. Cassava plantation is predominantly seen along the existing road that passes through Banteay Chhmar Protected Landscape.

126. Further to the north of the Banteay Meanchey Province, the Banteay Chhmar commune in Thmor Pouk District is characterized by land planted with cassava. Most of people’s land is planted with cassava and the dried product is sold to middlemen for export and processing in Thailand. There are parcels of land under concession in Banteay Chhmar that are also planted with cassava.

127. Retail stores selling basic goods can be found in the subproject areas where most of the households in the community are located. Animals such as chickens and cows are raised by farmers for additional source of incomes. Firewood collection and charcoal kilns were also spotted in some areas along the Protected Landscape. Basic services such as local market, repair shops, junk shops, and battery recharging shop are similarly found in the center of the community.

128. The economic activities are totally different in the west of Banteay Meanchey leading to the border with Thailand where the Poi Pet O’Neang Special Economic Zone is located. Local businesses and services, transport and tourism industry, import and export industry, and the like, are a stark contrast to the other areas where the ROW will traverse.

11 Ministry of Commerce of the Kingdom of Cambodia. 2013. Full Report on Cambodia Trade Integration Strategy 2013-2018 and Trade SWAp Road Map 2013-2018.

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

3. Power and Water Supply

129. Access to continuous water supply is a common problem in most subproject areas, except in Kandal Province. Most of the districts and communes lack centralized water supply systems. Rainwater harvesting systems are common in households where large clay jars are used to collect water from roof gutters. Collected rainwater is stored for domestic use, mainly cooking and drinking. Other sources of water in these areas are water peddlers that deliver water from trucks with water tanks. Those living near these areas also source water from ponds or streams nearby. Hand pumps on tube wells are commonly used by rural households in Siem Reap, Kampong Thom and Banteay Meanchey where water tables are about 10 – 20 m below ground level.

130. In terms of power supply, EDC only operates in the urban centers of Siem Reap, Kandal and Banteay Meanchey. Electricity services in rural areas are managed and operated by Rural Electricity Entreprises (REEs). Electricity tariffs are considerably high in remote villages where REEs operate which range from 0.42USD/kWh to 1.5USD/kWh. However most rural households living along the newly proposed sub-transmissions in Kampong Thom, Banteay Meanchey and Siem Reap still have no access to electricity and households still use lead-acid or car battery for lighting purposes as well as for running electric appliances of low power consumptions. Fire wood is a common source of fuel for cooking since this is cheaper and also readily available in rural settings.

4. Health Care

131. Kampong Thom Province is divided into three Operational District (ODs), namely Kampong Thom operational district, Baray-Santuk operational district and Stuong operational district. Kampong Thom Operational District covers districts of Prasat Sambour and Sandan. A health operational district differs from administrative district boundaries. According to the District Data Book 2009, Kampong Thom OD has 1 Referral Hospital and 21 Health Centers. Common illnesses experienced by households in communities along the proposed sub-transmission lines are common cold and fever. Dengue seasonally happens amongst children. Malaria is rare amongst rural population.

132. Siem Reap province Province is divided into four Operational Districts (ODs), namely Siem Reap OD, Soutr Nikum OD, Angkor Chum OD and Kralanh OD. It consists of three referral hospitals, 60 Health Centers and six Health Posts. Common diseases/illnesses are reportedly normal cold and fever. Health centers are located withing 1 – 5 km from areas where the sub-transmission line will pass through. 133. Kandal Province has eight operational districts and 93 health centers12. Health centers are spread across the province in communes, which are especially concentrated in the district centers. Access to health services in Kandal and other provinces neighboring Phnom Penh capital is better in terms of infrastructure and options compared to other Project provinces.

134. In Banteay Meanchey, the province has the Cambodia-Japan Friendship Mongkul Borey Hospital, four operational districts, four referral hospitals, 52 health centers, and 11 health posts. The referral hospitals are situated in the centers of the districts of Preah Net Preah, Mongkol

12 Ministry of Health of the Kingdom of Cambodia, Kandal. http://www.moh.gov.kh?page_id=328&lang=en

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Borei, Ou Chrov, and Thmar Puok, where the transmission lines traverse13. The health centers are within five kilometers from each other in the Mongkol Borei District. However, in other areas such as in Malai District to the west of Banteay Meanchey, and the northern districts of Svay Schek and Tham Puok, access to health centers or even hospitals is more than 10 km away14.

5. Education

135. The communities in the subproject areas have access to schools from pre-school, primary, junior high and high schools. There are a total of 685 schools in Kandal Province15. Schools are spread across the districts in the province and every two kilometers, there is a school in the area along the alignment16. The literacy rates are more than 80% in all its districts. For all the other provinces where the alignment traverse (Kampong Speu and Phnom Penh Capital), the literacy rates are generally 60–80%17.

136. There are a total of 731 schools in the Banteay Meanchey Province18. More schools are situated in the Mongkol Borei District, where there is at least one school for every 2.5 km in the area. All districts covered in the province have literacy rate below 80%, except for Mongkol Borei District, which has a literacy rate above 80%. In the northern part of Banteay Meanchey, the literacy rate along the alignment range from 50 – 70%19 while in the Kampong Thom and Siem Reap, the literacy rates are 71–80%, 61–70%, respectively20.

6. Physical and Cultural Heritage

137. Angkor Protected Lanscape. The Angkor Protected Landscape (APL) covers about 401 km2, and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1992. The different zones of this protected landscape are as follows:

i. Zone 1- Monumental site. This zone is the core zone, monumental sites and protected archaeological reserves. It has the most significant archaeological features and the highest level of protection;

ii. Zone 2 - Protected archaeological reserves. This zone acts as buffer zone, around the monumental sites;

13 Ministry of Health of the Kingdom of Cambodia. Banteay Meanchey. http://www.moh.gov.kh/?page_id=320&lang=en 14 UNESCO. 2011. Literacy Rates in Banteay Meanchey Province. Cambodia. http://www.unesco.org/new/fileadmin/MULTIMEDIA/FIELD/Phnom_Pehn/pdf/literacy rates_01_banteay_meanchey.pdf 15 Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport of the Kingdom of Cambodia. 2013. The Education Statistics and Indicators 2012-2013 Book. http://www.moeys.gov.kh/images/moeys/indicator -and-statistic/325/emis-2012-2013-en.pdf 16 UNESCO. 2011. Literacy Rates in Kandal Province, Cambodia. http://www.unesco.org/new/ fileadmin/MULTIMEDIA/FIELD/Phnom_Penh/pdf/literacy_rates_08_kandal.pd 17 UNESCO. 2011. Literacy Rates in Cambodia. http://www.unesco.org/new/fileadmin/MULTIMEDIA/FIELD/Phnom_Penh/pdf/literacy_rates_national_cambodia.pdf 18 Footnote 10. 19 UNESCO. 2011. Literacy Rates in Banteay Meanchey Province, Cambodia. http://www.unesco .org/new/fileadmin/MULTIMEDIA/FIELD/Phnom_Penh/pdf/literacy_rates_01_banteay_meanchey.pdf 20 Footnote 12.

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iii. Zone 3 - Protected cultural landscapes. Preserved for their distinctive traditional physical and cultural features, including historic buildings and land use practices;

vi. Zone 4 - Sites of archaeological, anthropological or historic interest. This zone is of less significance than the zone 1 and 2, but requires protection for research, education and tourism; and

vii. Zone 5 - The socio-economic and cultural development zone of the Siem Reap- Angkor region. This zone covers the whole of Siem Reap province and broadly corresponds to the catchment area of greater metropolitan Angkor. This zone is to be managed as a multiple-use area with an emphasis on economic and social development through sustainable natural resource use and cultural tourism.

138. Sambor Prei Kuk Temple. The Pre-Angkorian temple complex of Sambor Prei Kuk is located about 30 kilometers to the north of the provincial town of Kampong Thom Province. It was also known as Isanapura, and was the capital of the Chenla Kingdom. Located on the Eastern bank of Tonle Sap close to the Sen River, the central part of Sambor Prei Kuk is divided into three main groups. Each group is located in a square lay out surrounded by a brick wall. The structures of the overall archaeological area were constructed at variable times: the southern and north groups (7th century) by Isanavarman I, and the central group (later date). The buildings of Sambor Prei Kuk are characteristic of the Pre-Angkorean period with a simple external plan. The principal material is brick, but sandstone is also used for certain structures. Architectural features include numerous prasats, octagonal towers, shiva lingams and yonis, ponds and reservoirs, and lion sculptures. Sambor Prei Kuk is located amidst mature sub- tropical forests with limited undergrowth21.

139. Chapter 2, Article 4 of Royal Decree NS/RKT/0303/116 on The Limitation of Sambor Prei Kuk Temple promulgated in March 2003 specifies site limits and zonings of Sambor Prei Kuk Temple as follows:

• Zone 1: Core Conservation Zone or the high protection zone with surface area of 381.11 ha is defined as the main temple area of highly archaelogical significance which may have surface and sub-surface artifacts and were/are being discovered by archaeologist

• Zone 2: Buffer Zone with surface area of 2982.45 ha is defined as archaelogical park where traces of subsurface artifacts both deep and shallow remain in the open fields, land plots, or inside villages and under houses/dwellings which have not yot been discovered by archaeologist. This zone is abundant of archaeological remains that need to be protected from uncontrolled landuse and unsustainable development; and

• Zone 3: Socio-economic Development Zone (Satellite Zone) area covered with radius of 1500m around the buffer zone. This zone is reserved for traditional livelihoods and commercial activities of local communities outside the buffer zone. This zone is intended for conservation of cultural and natural heritage through sustainable development.

140. The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts (MCFA) has recently requested to nominate the site of Sambor Prei Kuk to the list of World Heritage Sites. To support its nomination, the Royal

21 Preservation of Sambor Prei Kuk Monument, Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Decree has been amended and submitted for approval at the Council of Ministers based on recent archaelogical findings from Waseda University on the boundary of the core zone.

V. ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

141. This Chapter presents the potential environmental impacts of the project and the recommended mitigation measures to address adverse environmental impacts. The environmental impacts are structured into the (1) pre-construction phase, (2) construction phase and the (3) operational phase of the project.

142. The assessment was carried out through site surveys and interviews with stakeholders and assessment of the environmental setting of the project areas. Environmental maps such as protected areas, culturally sensitive areas, geology, land use, and secondary data on the environmental and socio-economic setting in Kampong Thom, Siem Reap, Kandal and Banteay Meanchey were generated to determine the extent of the impacts of the project to the communities. The following presents the potential environmental impacts of the project during the various phases of project implementation.

A. Pre-Construction Phase

143. The potential impacts during the design and pre-construction phase of the project are related to siting and survey of the sub-transmission line alignment.

1. Encroachment into Areas of Cultural/Historical Significance

a) Angkor Protected Landscape (APL)

144. The propoped alignment of the sub-transmission line in Leang Dai commune of Angkor Thum District and in Daun Kaev commune of Puok district in Siem Reap province will traverse Zone 2 of Angkor Protected Landscape (APL) at linear distances of 6km and 8.5km, respectively. While a total of 2-km segments of the sub-transmission alignments in Peak Snaeng and Khnar Sanday communes of Angkor Thom and Banteay Srei district will pass through the Zone 3 of APL.

145. About 5km of sub-transmission alignment in Krong Siem Reap and about 2km in Prasat Bakong District will pass through Zone 3 where a total of 2.5km of the sub-transmission alignment in these two districts fall in Zone 4 of Angkor Protected Landscape.

146. In all cases the alignment is within the reserve of existing developed roads, many of which have extensive road side residential and/or commercial development. No alignment passes though the core zone (Zone 1).

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Photo 2. Physical Infrastructures at an Area in APL Zone 2

b) Sambor Prei Kuk Temple

147. Chapter 2, Article 4 of Royal Decree NS/RKT/0303/116 on The Limitation of Sambor Prei Kuk Temple promulgated in March 2003 specifies site limits and zonings of Sambor Prei Kuk Temple as follows:

• Zone 3: Socio-economic Development Zone (Satellite Zone) area covered with radius of 1500m around the buffer zone. This zone is reserved for traditional livelihoods and commercial activities of local communities outside the buffer zone. This zone is subject to preservation of cultural heritage and nature through measures to promote sustainable development.

148. The Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts (MCFA) has recently requested to nominate the site of Sambor Prei Kuk to the list of World Heritage Sites. To support its nomination, the Royal Decree has been amended and submitted for approval at the Council of Ministers based on recent archaeological findings from Waseda University on the boundary of the core zone.

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Photo 3. Area inside the Satellite Zone of Sambor Prei Kuk Temple

Figure 24. Sambor Prei Kuk Conservation Zone (Amendment of Royal-decree NS/RKT/0303/116) Source: MCFA, 2014

149. Alternative route was considered to avoid area of high archaeological importance. As a result, none of the alignment is located inside the core zone and buffer zone. A 3.5km segment

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

of sub-transmission line will be inside the Satellite Zone (Zone 3) and will traverse the northern periphery of Buffer Zone in Sala Visai and Sambour communes to reach the commune center which is characterized as settlement area where a community center with commercial estates, market, health center, school, existing Low-Voltage distribution and telecommunication lines. Area along the proposed alignment near the Sambor Prei Kuk Temple is predominantly agriculture land (rice fields).

149. To be in line with the objectives of the management plan of the Satellite Zone, it is necessary for EDC to coordinate with DCFA during the survey/design and construction activities. Appropriate requirements given by DCFA will be incorporated into the Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) to ensure that presence of sub-transmission line in the area will not undermine the conservation objectives of the Sambor Prei Kuk area as stipulated in the Royal Decree NS/RKT/0303/116 and its amendment.

2. Encroachment on Ecologically Protected Areas

a) Tonle Sap Biosphere Reserve (TSBR)

150. With respect to the Tonle Sap Biosphere Reserve (TSBR), none of the Project sub- transmission lines are located within the core and buffer zones of TSBR, while around 30 kms are located in the transition zone where human settlements are found and agricultural cropping and livestock are the main livelihood activities. The proposed works under this Project will seek to comply with the requirements of the transition zone as stipulated by the Tonle Sap Biosphere Reserve Secretariat, where applicable.

b) Boeung Per Wildlife Sanctuary

151. A 7-km segment of the proposed sub-transmission line in Sandan commune of the district of Sandan will pass through the Eastern periphery of Beoung Per Wildlife Sanctuary. The area along the existing road alignment is characterized by agriculture land and village settlements. No forest cover can be seen within 300m distance on either sides of the road.

152. According to Integrated Biodiversity Assessment Tool (IBAT), Beung Per Wildlife Sanctuary is classified under IUCN Category IV. There are a total of 59 species reported to have been present in the area, of which 1.7% are amphibians, 50.8% are birds, 39% are mammals and 8.5% are reptiles. However, due to recent development and part of government land reclassification, the local natural ecosystem in this particular part (along the existing road) near the Beung Per Wildlife Sanctuary has been significantly altered by human activities and appears to have low conservation significance with only shrubland and scattered secondary forest remaining.

153. Based on the consultation meeting with Deputy Director of Provincial Department of Environment – Kampong Thom on 11 September 2014, the current environmental conditions along the existing road where the sub-transmission alignment will follow and the extent of construction works required for the installation of the concrete poles, no significant environmental impact on existing land uses of the wildlife sanctuary is foreseen. However EDC will implement necessary mitigation measures (Refer to Table 6) to prevent impacts on existing physical resources that remain in the area.

c) Banteay Chhmar Protected Lanscape

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

154. The Banteay Chhmar Protected Landscape is one of the three designated protected landscape areas in Cambodia. It covers the area of 81,200 ha in Thma Puok district of Banteay Meanchey Province and Banteay Ampil district of Oddor Meanchey Province. The other two landscape protected areas are Angkor (10,800 ha) and Preah Vihea (5,000 ha). The local management of Banteay Chhmar Protected Landscape is under the provincial Department of Environment (PDoE).

155. The proposed sub-transmission line will traverse approximately 32 km along existing road in the Banteay Chhmar Protected Landscape in the province of Banteay Meanchey.

156. General landscape along the existing road alignment within the Banteay Chhmar Protected Landscape is characterized by community settlements and agricultural land, which are planted with cassava. Based on consultation with the Provincial Department of Environment, the current environmental conditions at the site and the extent of construction works required for the installation of the concrete poles, no significant environmental impact on land uses and the protected landscape is foreseen.

157. As part of the mitigation measures, the contractor will be required to avoid the cutting of trees in the area and to implement measures on solid waste and construction waste management. The environmental management plan (EMP) which outlines the mitigation measures and responsibilities of the contractor will form part of the contract documents. Refer to Table 6.

3. Impact on Northern Santuk Important Bird Area

158. The IBA is situated in northern Santuk District of Kampong Thom Province. The vegetation of the IBA chiefly comprises degraded deciduous dipterocarp forest, interspersed with seasonal wetlands and patches of paddy rice cultivation. The IBA is one of the only areas in Cambodia currently known to support non-breeding Bengal Floricans (Houbaropsis bengalensis), which visit the site during the wet season when their breeding areas in the inundation zone of Tonle Sap Lake are flooded. Also during the wet season, the seasonal wetlands at the IBA support a number of other globally threatened and near-threatened bird species, including Painted Stork (Mycteria leucocephala), Lesser Adjutant (Leptoptilos javanicus) and Greater Adjutant (Leptoptilos dubius)22.

159. A 7-km segment of the sub-transmission line which is located about 4-km away from the IBA will not have a significant impact on these bird species since the height of the poles and size of the towers are considerably shorter as compared to high-voltage transmission lines. In addition, electromagnetic fields are also considerably low in medium-voltage transmission lines to have an impact on these bird species.

160. Area along the existing road embankment where the proposed alignment will pass through is characterized by flooded shrubland which may form part of habitat of the IBA. To avoid possible discharge of wastes and adverse effects on watercourses, the design of the sub- transmission line and the concrete poles will take into consideration the potential progressive erosion of the foundation structure, scouring and liquefaction to ensure integrity of the foundation. In addition, the potential of the construction works to cause soil erosion and discharge of oil/grease into the water bodies will be avoided.

22 BirdLife International (2014) Important Bird Areas factsheet: Northern Santuk. Downloaded from http://www.birdlife.org, accessed on 10/10/2014

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

4. Impact on Aesthetics

161. The impact of the project on aesthetics has not been foreseen as a significant issue. There are existing sub-transmission lines, distribution lines and telecommunication lines along the road in most Project areas, hence, the impact of additional electric line infrastructure would be less than if such was entirely new to the area. In addition, the sub-transmission lines will be relatively low as compared to the high voltage transmission lines, hence, will not create a significant impact on aesthetics.

5. Presence of Unexploded Ordnance

162. The risk of encountering unexploded ordnances (UXO) and land mines is most significant in Banteay Meanchey, followed by Siem Reap and Kampong Thom provinces due to previous decades of protracted civil war from the 70s to 90s. There are still some areas where UXO/mines accidents are reported. The northwestern regions of Cambodia bordering Thailand are heavily affected by landmines although significant efforts have been put to place to clear these contaminated areas by a number of national and multi-national demining organizations. Mines and UXO have caused a high number of military and civilian casualties and have been one of the factors that hinders the progress of national development in recent decades.

163. Although the agricultural lands and roads in the vicinity have been altered for a long time, risks remain since there may be shallow UXO that could be uncovered during installation of the concrete poles. To determine the risks posed by mines and UXO, mapping was undertaken by CMAA at the request of the National Environment Specialist during the preliminary investigation of the entire project to assess the extent of mine and UXO contamination in the project area and the removal costs were estimated.

164. UXO maps from the CMAA were acquired. The CMAA has the responsibility for regulating, coordinating, and monitoring mine action activities throughout Cambodia. The known mine and UXO within the following project area zones were developed:

 100m either side of the 22 kV MV transmission lines (e.g. 200 m wide zone in total) based on the maximum area that construction activities might take place; and  1000 m either side of the 22 kV MV transmission lines (e.g. 2000 m wide zone in total) based on a safety zone to take into account any errors that might occur from using different data mapping sources.

165. Figures 25, 26, 27 and 28 present the maps of the known mines/UXO areas in each subproject. Based on the CMAA maps, there are known mine/UXO accidents in Kampong Thom Province in the areas of Sambour and Mean Chey communes. In Siem Reap Province, mine accidents have been reported in Svay Leu and Ta Siem communes of Svay Leu district, Peak Snaeng, Svay Chek and Chob Ta Trav communes of Angkor Thum district, Kouk Doung commune of Angkor Chum district, Mean Chey commune of Prasat Bakong district, and Slaeng Spean and Chrouy Neang Ngoun communes of Srei Snam district. In Kandal Province, accidents were reported in Tumob Thum commune of Ponhea Leu district, but are located outside the 200m buffer both sides of the proposed alignment.

166. An affected area of 2,185,897 m2 in Kampong Thom (Subproject 1 extension) and an area of 1,163,360 m2 in Siem Reap (Subproject 3 extension) within the 200-m wide zone centered on the MV alignment were estimated. Subproject 5 in Banteay Meanchey has the most mines/UXO areas totalling 2,837,800 m2. This total estimated area should only be considered

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

indicative as the actual areas that need to be cleared will be limited to surroundings of pole footings along existing road reserves where the majority has already been cleared during road construction. However, a total area of about 618.7 ha is classified as known mines/UXO areas for all Subprojects, except in Kandal (Subproject 4) where areas along the 200-m buffer are predominantly urban and highly populated. Further ground truthing will be required during the survey and design to be done by contractor to better determine the exact extent of affected areas and cost of clearance in each subproject. CMAA estimates the clearance cost to be US$ 0.261/m².

167. The removal of mine/UXO will be the responsibility of the installation contractor who will subcontract the CMAA-accredited mine/UXO removal agencies in each province. Based on the CMAA procedure, the installation contractor is required to contact and directly coordinate with the CMAA for the development of the clearance plan, provincial approval and identification of an accredited demining operator. All clearance works must be completed and appropriate documentation submitted to the installation contractor and EDC before any MV sub- transmission line installation works begin.

168. CMAA has summarised the standard procedure as follows:

- The installation contractor will contact the Mine Action Planning Unit (MAPU) at the Provincial Hall in each province and provide detailed alignment maps and the CMAA known mine/UXO area maps. The respective MAPUs will assist in preparing clearance work plan for each province.

- The plan for mine/UXO clearance must be approved by the provincial authority. The respective MAPUs will be responsible for coordinating this approval process.

- The respective MAPUs will advise as to the next steps, including contacting accredited demining operators for field investigations, providing detailed estimates of clearance costs, and preparing clearance contracts. Where more than accredited operator exists, contracts for clearance of affected areas will be subject to open tender.

- All clearance works must be completed and clearance certificate must be submitted to the installation contractor and EDC before any MV sub-transmission line installation works begin. The clearance certificate shall also be annexed in the Monitoring Report.

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Figure 25. Mines/UXO affected area in Kampong Thom subproject

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Figure 26. Mines/UXO affected area in Siem Reap subproject

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Figure 27. Mines/UXO affected area in Banteay Meanchey subproject

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Figure 28. Mines/UXO affected area in Kandal subproject

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

6. Impact on Agricultural Land

169. The areas where the concrete poles will be erected are close to existing roads where most of the land is characterized as agricultural land planted with rice and other crops such as mango and cassava. During the erection of poles in these agricultural land, temporary disruption of farming activities and disturbance of crops, bunds, canals and drains may be encountered particularly during the planting season of rice. Most of the areas, which are planted with rice, are rainfed. It is therefore necessary for the contractor to plan the installation of the poles during the dry season to avoid any crop disturbance.

170. In the event that paddy bunds and drain or canal embankments are affected, the contractor will be required to reinstate these structures once installation of the poles has been completed.

171. In addition, the affected agricultural lands will be compensated in accordance with the requirements of ADB and the national regulations. In areas where only cutting of tall trees or vegetation is necessary, consultation with the owner and appropriate compensation will be given to valuable trees including those involving loss of production.

B. Construction Phase

172. The impacts during the construction phase relate to the potential of the construction activities to affect communities, agricultural land, properties, trees and other vegetation, drainage canals and other existing utilities along the right-of-way of the sub-transmission line.

1. Cutting or Trimming of Trees

173. There may be some trees along the alignment that may be affected and would need to be cut or trimmed to achieve the standard safety clearances for power lines. However, the line route and the position of the concrete poles can be easily adjusted within the road reserve to minimize impacts on trees.

174. The contractor will be required to select a line route and location of poles that as much as possible minimizes the need for tree cutting or trimming. Where cutting or trimming of trees is necessary, the activity will be done in accordance with EDC’s safety clearance requirements. In addition, compensation to local residents for loss of trees will be provided in accordance with the resettlement plan of the project.

2. Impacts on Property

175. Valuable property including land and structures may be affected by the project. To mitigate this impact, the construction will be required to consult with affected households prior to any construction works. The line route and location should be carefully selected to minimize impacts on property. In addition, careful construction practices needs to be implemented to avoid damage to existing structures.

3. Interference with Traffic and Access Ways

176. The electric poles will be constructed along existing roads, which may cause temporary disruption of traffic along these roads. Commune roads are relatively narrow and movement of large trucks along these roads carrying the electric poles and other materials might cause

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

temporary blockage and nuisance to villagers. Some sections of the sub-transmission lines and sub-lines will traverse narrow, two-lane roads which can cause interference to the normal flow of traffic. This is primarily troublesome in urban areas where roads are being used by vehicles such as bicycles, motorbikes, cars, vans, and trucks. As the area has limited space for the temporary depot of the concrete poles and materials, the contractor may employ possible sidestreet parking of trucks carrying these materials. In such case, there is potential to cause traffic congestion and hazards to commuters using the said road.

177. In order to minimize adverse impacts of the project on traffic, the contractor will be required to properly plan and execute a traffic management plan that is supported by good site supervision. Road safety and warning signs must be posted to inform the public of the temporary blockage of one lane of the road during pole installation works. The contractor will be required to closely coordinate with the local communities and engage good practices for traffic management.

4. Soil Erosion

178. The disturbance of soil during excavation for pole foundation will cause minimal soil erosion if undertaken during the dry season. In addition, the auguring of pole foundation will limit the volume of soil that will be excavated or disturbed. After the pole erection activities, the contractor will be required to rehabilitate any disturbed areas to avoid soil erosion particularly if construction works will be done during the wet season. Timing is also one of the critical factors involved in erosion and sedimentation control in construction sites. Careful scheduling of construction activities during the dry season can minimize the exposed area subject to erosion during the rainy season.

5. Dust and Noise

179. Airborne dusts from ongoing road construction works generally affect the current ground level concentration of total suspended particulates (TSP) in the project area. The impact on air quality and noise of the installation of the concrete poles will be insignificant and temporary as this will be undertaken over very small areas and within limited period of time per site. Good construction practices such as water sprinkling of areas prone to dust generation can minimize impacts of dust. To minimize noise that may cause nuisance to the community, the construction and installation works should only be conducted at daytime using manual and no heavy equipment. These measures shall be specified in the EMP and contract documents.

6. Impacts during Construction on Cultural and Ecological Protected Areas

180. In addition to the pre-construction impacts to the Angkor Protected Landscape and Banteay Chhmar Protected Landscape, construction works and movement of construction vehicles may cause an impact on the archaeological and cultural significance of the area. The following mitigation measures will be implemented during the construction phase:

 No temporary or permanent project facilities shall be established within the Angkor Protected Landscape and Banteay Chhmar Protected Landscape. Such facilities include, but are not limited to vehicle and maintenance areas, storage areas of poles, conductors, transformers, and pole boring equipment.  Workers will be required to comply with the requirements of the MoE and APSARA while working inside the Protected Landscapes.

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

 For the particular case of Banteay Chhmar Protected Lanscape, EDC together with PDoE Banteay Meanchey will hold a joint public meeting with communities living along the sub-transmission line inside the Protected Lanscape with a view to stress that the availability of electricity in the area is not meant to encourage further expansion of settlement in this area. Issuing land title or permission to use land in this community zone requires prior agreement from the Ministry of Environment in accordance with the Land Law.

7. Occupational Health and Safety

181. The construction of a sub-transmission line poses moderate risk to the health and safety of workers. To mitigate this risk, the installation contractor will be required to prepare and implement an occupational health and safety plan that includes the provision of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as hard hats and safety gloves/boots.

182. The existing health services in the project areas are generally located in commune areas and may not be able to accommodate additional patients from the construction workforce during emergencies. Therefore, in the construction phase, the contractor will be required to provide readily available first-aid kit and medicines for workers.

8. Risks to Community Health and Safety

183. The project construction may potentially result to adverse impacts to community health and safety such as toppling of concrete poles, construction traffic and accidents, and emergency spill of liquid materials. In addition, there may be instances where dangerous working areas would expose the villagers to hazards.

184. To mitigate these potential impacts to health and safety of villagers, the contractor will be required to develop a community health and safety plan that incorporates good international practices and recognized standards such as emergency response and preparedness procedures, communication systems and protocols to report any emergency, including interaction with commune and provincial emergency and health authorities.

C. Operational Phase

185. The expected adverse impacts during the operational phase of the 22kV distribution line are generally related to the occupational and community health and safety issues. The impacts are reversible, manageable, and can be mitigated with proper engineering and management controls.

1. Risks to Worker Health and Safety

186. The occupational health and safety issues inherent to the operation of sub-transmission line include hazards due to exposure to live power lines, working in heights and risks of accidents, and potential exposure to electric and magnetic fields. Accidents that may occur include electrocution, lightning, fires, and explosion.

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

187. Exposure to Live Power Lines. Workers may come in contact with live power lines during the maintenance of the facilities and electrocution from direct contact with electricity is a hazard directly related to power lines and facilities.23

188. The EDC should be guided by the “Environmental, Health, and Safety Guidelines – Electric Power Transmission and Distribution” (IFC) dated 30 April 2007 when working at the power line facilities. Some of the prevention and control measures when working with live power lines are:

(i) Restricting access to electrical equipment by workers only trained and certified to work on electrical equipment.

(ii) Adherence to electrical safety standards.

(iii) Proper grounding and deactivation of live power lines during maintenance work or if working in close proximity to the lines.

(iv) Provision of PPE for workers, safety guidelines, personal safety devices, and other precautions

(v) Workers will be required to observe guidelines to minimum approach distances for excavations, tools, vehicles, pruning, and other activities when working around power lines.

189. Working in Heights. Accidents may happen when working in heights. However, a worker safety plan may be implemented to reduce risks that include testing of structural integrity prior to proceeding with the work and the use of fall protection measures.

2. Community Health and Safety

190. Health and safety issues that may be encountered by communities living near power distribution and transmissions lines include electrocution, lightning strikes, explosion and fire, and exposure to magnetic field.

191. Electrocution and Lightning Strikes. The results of the stakeholder interviews suggested that lightning strikes and electrocution risks are perceived as potential negative impacts of the project. The operation of the sub-transmission lines near community areas may expose the villagers to electrocution hazards as a result of direct contact with live conductors, flashover from the conductor to a pole and conductor breakage, particularly if the person, tree or structure is near a live line where safe vertical clearance is compromised.

192. To prevent these hazards, EDC needs to conduct regular inspections on the line to ensure that the minimum vertical clearance as well as protection is maintained. The inspection protocol should include possible conductor snapping and de-energizing of the line within three cycles to avoid the potential for electrocution from a breakage.

23 International Finance Corporation (IFC), Environmental, Health, and Safety Guidelines – Electric Power Transmission and Distribution. 30 April 2007.

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

193. Lightning arresters will be provided along the line. There should also be provision for ensuring security of the cable to avoid vandalism. Regular inspections of the line and the facilities would help identify missing or corroded parts that need immediate replacement.

194. Explosion and Fire. Potential fire events and explosion of equipment may occur in sub- transmission lines. In case of fire events, explosion, and other related situations, a fire management strategy should be developed. This should be included in the emergency preparedness and response plan of the project.

195. Workers should be trained on emergency preparedness and response procedures and a manual on safety and emergency procedures should be prepared and disseminated to workers like extinguishing oil fires, e.g. from transformer. The procedure should outline the system to identify potential emergency situations and potential accidents that can have an impact to the health and safety of the workers and to the community.

196. Exposure to Electromagnetic Field. The transmission frequency commonly used in sub-transmission line systems is considered as extremely low frequency24, with impacts becoming low with distance from the source. The electric fields become shielded by trees, buildings, and other materials that conduct electricity. In general, the proposed project will pose insignificant impacts on exposure to electric fields. However, the public should be warned about the safety distances from the power lines through warning signages.

3. Trimming of Trees

197. One of the regular programs to maintain the integrity of the line is the trimming of tall trees and vegetation along the ROW. This is being done to maintain the necessary conductor clearance of the line.

198. Private and communal trees and plants about 3 m height within the ROW will be either removed or pruned to provide the necessary conductor clearance distance. In addition, large trees within 3 m of the base of the poles will be selectively removed or pruned to reduce the potential to fall and strike these structures. Tree removal or pruning will also be undertaken immediately outside the ROW to prevent trees from falling and striking the lowest conductor.

199. The vegetation maintenance activities may cause minor disturbance to local people. This can be mitigated by limiting use to already existing roads or tracks to reach the sub- transmission lines and informing the locals in advance through the village heads on the schedule of the maintenance works. Care should be observed to avoid encroachment into rice or cropland of villagers by workers who will undertake vegetation trimming.

200. EDC will not allow the use of herbicides and pesticides to control vegetation growth. Burning to control vegetation along the ROW is also prohibited.

4. Reduced Dependence on Lead-Acid Batteries

201. The proposed project is expected to expand the service coverage of quality grid electricity in Kampong Thom, Siem Reap, Banteay Meanchey and Kandal provinces. Households to be served by the project and who are currently using lead-acid battery for households lighting needs will now be able to tap into more reliable power supply source. This

24 Footnote 6.

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

will reduce dependence of lead-acid batteries that are commonly recharged at diesel-run Battery Charging Stations that generate both noise and GHG emissions. The used lead-acid batteries also contain hazardous waste components such as lead and cadmium that require proper management during disposal.

202. The generation of air emissions and hazardous wastes from batteries will be minimized with improved power supply and are therefore considered as positive environmental impacts of the proposed subprojects.

203. The EDC with assistance of the Project Implementation Consultants will conduct an information education campaign on the benefits of recycling lead-acid battery that will be delivered during the construction phase. This will include an inventory of used lead-acid battery (ULAB) recyclers in each province, identifying those with the best environmental standards, and ensuring that contact information for those recyclers is distributed via signs, pamphlets, and other means.

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

VI. ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES

204. The following presents the options considered during the design of the sub-transmission line project.

A. No Project Option

205. A No Project alternative is not an option because the project is fully aligned with the National Strategic Development Plan Update 2014-2018 of the Royal Government of Cambodia, which calls for the development of the energy sector through expansion of the electricity network to meet the poverty reduction objectives of the country. Rural electrification is necessary to increase access to electricity in the rural areas, thereby promoting economic development, reducing poverty, and displacing expensive and environmentally unsustainable off-grid diesel generation with more cost-effective and environmentally efficient electricity supplies.

206. For the extension of subproject 3 in Siem Reap, due to incursion into Phnum Kulen National Park, the 19-km segment of sub-transmission alignment in Khnang Phnum commune of Svay Leu district will only be included in the subproject 3 extension scope if the access road leading to the area is constructed. A feasibility study has been jointly conducted by APSARA authority and the Ministry of Environment (MoE) to build this access road25. Further coordination and consultation with MoE will be required during design and construction of this segment of sub-transmission line. The No Project Option shall apply if the result of the access road feasibility study renders non-feasible.

B. Selection of Provinces

207. EDC has applied for financial support for its electrification program from various institutions including the World Bank, China EXIM Bank, KfW, and AusAID. EDC has pursued a policy of allocating individual provinces for support by these different institutions to avoid duplication of effort.

208. During the initial project design phase, EDC proposed that the project consider the inclusion of Kampong Thom and Siem Reap provinces, as these are not allocated for funding from other institutions, as well as in-fill investments in Takeo, Kampot, and Kandal provinces where World Bank and KfW have already funded electrification projects. Other provinces were identified by EDC for inclusion in the project. These are Preah Vihear, Banteay Meanchey, and Oddar Meanchey.26

209. Of the alternative provinces proposed by EDC for ADB funding, the provinces of Kampong Thom and Siem Reap were found by the project team as most suitable based on the extent of access to the transmission grid power which is a pre-requisite for electrification, the size of these provinces in terms of population, the density of population, the extent of business development, and low household electrification rates. Further consultations with EDC confirmed a preference for the inclusion of Siem Reap and Kampong Thom provinces including the extension of the MV network to connect to the HV substation in Kampong Cham province.

25 Consultation meeting with Director of Provincial Department of Environment-Siem Reap, Mr Phuong Lina, on 12 Sept 2014 26 Initial Environmental Examination Report (draft). CAM: Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project (Kampong Thom, Kampong Cham, and Siem Reap provinces). August 2012.

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210. Subsequently, the subprojects that were identified for ADB funding were grouped into two packages, i.e., Package 1 includes the provinces of Kampong Thom, Kampong Cham, and Siem Reap while Package 2 includes the provinces of Kandal and Banteay Meanchey with a short extension to Oddar Meanchey province.

211. However, a later Review Mission was conducted in Phnom Penh from 2-4 September 201427, with the objectives to review and discuss the (i) proposed schedule of project implementation; (ii) status of bidding documents for Kandal and Banteay Meanchey provinces (Package 2); (iii) update of the procurement plan; (iv) contract awards and disbursements projections; (iv) status of environmental and social safeguards across the subproject locations; and (v) compliance with loan covenants.

212. According to EDC, the grid expansion has proceeded rapidly and extensively into these two provinces (Banteay Meanchey and Kandal) using their own resources and therefore some of the subprojects identified during project design of Loan 2979 have already been covered. The Mission informed EDC that considering this is a sector project, some flexibility in subproject locations is permitted. However as the project outcome in the design and monitoring framework clearly identifies the five provinces upfront (i.e. Kampong Thom, Kampong Cham, Siem Reap, Kandal, and Banteay Meanchey), the subprojects should therefore be located in these provinces.

213. The Mission concluded that as per loan agreement the subprojects of Package 2 shall be selected in accordance with the following criteria unless agreed otherwise by ADB and the government:

(i) The Subproject will be located in the following provinces: Kampong Thom, Kampong Cham, Siem Reap, Kandal and Banteay Meanchay; (ii) the Subproject shall be included in EDC’s 22 kV sub-transmission network expansion plan; (iii) The Subproject shall be technically viable. A feasibility study, detailed engineering design and implementation plan (including a commissioning schedule of directly associated projects) will be used to confirm the technical viability of these projects; (iv) The Subproject shall be financially sustainable and economically viable, and its economic internal rate of return shall be equal to or higher than 12%; and (v) The Subproject shall be classified as Category “B” or “C” according to ADB’s environmental classification, Category “B” or “C” according to ADB’s involuntary resettlement classification and Category “C” according to ADB’s indigenous peoples classification.

C. Avoidance of Protected Areas

214. EDC’s Department of Corporate Planning and Projects proposed the new sub- transmission alignments and PMO1/SEPRU staff conducted the groundtruthing with the assistance of the National Environment Specialist.

215. Efforts have been made to avoid the ecologically and culturally sensitive areas such as national parks, protected landscape and wildlife sanctuary. However due to current demand and changes in physical and environmental conditions in some parts of the Protected Areas, EDC is

27 The Mission comprised Rehan Kausar Unit Head Project Administration/Mission Leader, and Kyoko Uematsu, Safeguards Specialist (Resettlement)

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

obliged to answer to the needs for MV expansions to supplement the already existing physical infrastructures such as roads and village settlements in those areas.

216. A series of consultation meetings were initiated by EDC with support of ADB with MoE, MCFA, APSARA and relevant local authorities in each Project province to confirm the zonings and requirements relative to the installation of MV sub-transmission line in ecologically and culturally sensitive areas. EDC will further coordinate with MoE and MFCA to take into account their technical and regulatory requirements to minimize and mitigate impacts to the existing physical and cultural resources in the areas. Any conditions that may be imposed by the MoE and/or MCFA and relevant local authorities will be taken into consideration during project design.

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

VII. INFORMATION DISCLOSURE, CONSULTATION AND PARTICIPATION

217. Stakeholder and household interviews were conducted along the proposed main line and sub-lines of the proposed MV sub-transmission expansion project. These interviews were conducted from the periods between 25 - 29 August and 10 -15 Septemebr 2014. The survey covered the provinces of Kampong Thom, Siem Reap, Banteay Meanchey, Kandal and Banteay Meanchey.

218. A survey instrument was developed and used as a guide during the stakeholder interview. Appendix 2 presents the survey instrument. EDC’s PMO1 personnel from Social, Environment and Public Relations Unit (SEPRU) and the Corporate Planning and Project Office and the National Environment Specialist conducted roadside interviews in the areas where the proposed sub-transmission lines will be laid out. The respondents were asked about their awareness of the proposed project, the environmental conditions and environment-related hazards experienced in the area, environmental concerns about the proposed project, perceived negative impacts and benefits of the project, approval or disapproval of the project, and recommendations and suggestions in the implementation of the project.

A. Stakeholder Consultations in Kampong Thom Province

219. A series of consultation meetings was held with village chiefs, farmers, small shop owners, and villagers in subproject areas. The participants consisted of almost equal number of women and men who were keen to express their interests and urgent needs for affordable and grid quality electricity for their households. However, the majority was not aware of the proposed project. Most households use lead-acid batteries for lighting needs. A small number of households in Sandan commune use electricity supplied by REE who operates wood-based gasifier to generate electricity. The villagers complained about their unrealiability and high tariff (0.75 US$/kWh).

220. The major environmental concerns raised by the respondents are listed as follows:  Access to clean water and sanitation is extremely low, especially in Sandan district  Firewood is generally used as cooking fuel and is also a secondary source of income for some households who cut and sell these firewoods  Repondents expressed concerns over the uses of firewood to generate electricity using gasifier by REE which will cause deforestration in the areas  Access to health center is available in most communes, albeit at 3 -5 km on average distance. Illness commonly occur amongst households are cold and fever. Malaria and dengue also exist but limited to a small population, especially amongst children  Flood and drought were listed as the reccurring natural disasters  No wildlife encounters have been reported along the proposed sub-transmission line alignments.

B. Stakeholder Consultations in Siem Reap Province

221. Along the proposed sub-transmission alignment in Siem Reap, random household interviews were held with a number of groups including farmers, retail shop owners, commune and village chiefs. About 95% of households interviewed are farmers whose livelihoods depend on rice farming and seasonal wage labour. Most households have access to REE-operated mini-grids and some still used lead-acid batteries for lighting needs. Electricity tariff imposed by REE in Khnang Phnum commune of Svay Leu district is particulary high at 1.5US$/kWh. Villagers indicated urgent needs for grid electricity connection in the area. Although 99% of

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

respondents were not aware of the Project’s MV expansion plan, all respondents indicated positive receptions on the Project citing benefits that the reliable and affordable access to the electricity can bring.

222. The major environmental concerns raised by the respondents are listed as follows:

 Water and sanitation facilities are still limited despite several programmes implemented by Development Partners. Some villages still practice open defecation  Potential forest degradation due to reliance upon firewood as souce of cooking fuel  Regular occurrence of flood and drought  Decline of aquaculture resources due to environmental degradation  Common illness includes cold and fever. Dengue is still prevalent amongst children under five years old. Health centers are located between 1 – 5 km from their dwellings.

C. Stakeholder Consultations in Kandal Province

223. The stakeholders who were interviewed in Kandal Province include retail store owners, and repair shop owners. In terms of awareness of the proposed project, 99% of the respondents are not aware of the project, all sub-project areas have existing MV sub- transmission line and all of the respondents have access to electricity distributed by REE. The rate charged by the REE is $0.3/kWh.

224. The only environmental issue raised by the respondents in Kandal Province is the dust pollution caused by the construction of National Road 6. Questions were raised about land acquisitions for siting of sub-transmission line poles. It was clarified by the EDC and the National Environment Specialist that no land will be acquired, sub-transmission line will be routed along the existing road reserve, although trimming of trees may be required for safety clearance.

225. Overall, all respondents in Kandal Province have no objection to the proposed project. The respondents said that the project would contribute to providing better quality grid electricity. They believe the existing MV lines are already overload due to growing demands of electricity from business and industrial activities.

D. Stakeholder Consultations in Banteay Meanchey

226. In Banteay Meanchey province, a total of 13 households were interviewed composed of groups of farmers, retail store owners, repair show owners and residents who are engaged in agriculture such as cassava plantation. In terms of awareness of the proposed project, 99% of the respondents were not informed about the proposed project.

227. About 70% of the respondents are connected to the REE while 30% do not have electricity but use lead-acid battery for household lighting needs. Those that are connected to the REE pay an average of $0.3 - $0.75/kWh while those that use battery spend around $5 - $8 per month for battery charging. These households using lead-acid battery usually charge each battery every two days through battery charging stations. A new battery replaces the old or busted battery every six months. Old batteries are sold at a minimal price to junk shops who then sells the old batteries to recyclers which brings the old batteries either to Thailand or Vietnam for recovery of lead and processing of new lead-acid batteries.

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

228. The major environmental concerns raised by respondents in Banteay Meanchey are the following:  The majority of households have no access to clean water and most of the households along the proposed sub-transmission line rely on wells. Water for domestic uses are essentially untreated  The common diseases experienced by the respondents and family members are respiratory problems, common colds and cough. Dust pollution from traffic on unsurfaced roads exacerbates this problem  Health centers in communes are located 1 km to 5 km away but the people prefer to go to private clinics or hospital. The nearest hospital is in Banteay Meanchey center which is about 10 km from Ou Prasat.  In terms of sanitation, most of the households have individual toilets with pit latrine.  Along the proposed transmission line, common bird species that are normally observed by residents are egret, mynah, and turtle doves. Most of these birds can be seen during the crop harvest season.

229. Overall, the respondents in Banteay Meanchey strongly welcomed the proposed project because of perceived benefits such as possible decrease in electricity cost. A respondent mentioned that water supply will also improve because there will be electricity to run water pumps.

E. Future Public Consultation and Information Disclosure Activities

230. Based on the above surveys, it is apparent that there is limited project information disclosure prior to any construction works that have been undertaken previously. The respondents where existing distribution lines have been built said that they are not usually informed or consulted by the contractors or EDC/REE about the installation of the lines. As a follow-up to the stakeholder interviews, additional consultation and disclosure activities prior to construction will be conducted.

1. Disclosure of the IEE

231. This IEE report will be disclosed at the ADB website (www.adb.org). A Khmer version of executive summary of the IEE will also be posted at the EDC website (www.edc.com.kh), together with the full report or link of the full report on the ADB website. A Khmer summary of the report will be made available in hard form at the EDC provincial offices.

2. Consultation and Outreach

232. EDC will carry out additional consultation and outreach programs during project construction and operation through the following means:  Newspaper advertisements in local Khmer newspapers in all project provinces to provide project-related information including contact persons, access to the IEE report and information on the Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM). Advertisements will be in Khmer language.  Project signs will be installed along roadsides to provide brief information about the project. These signs in Khmer language will be moved to the next construction sites as the construction progresses.  Project profile/description in Khmer language will be conveyed by EDC to affected commune councils.

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

 During the operational phase of the project, EDC will provide information on ULAB recycling, including the environmental and economic benefits of recycling. The PIC specialists will assist EDC in collecting information for REEs and households about environmentally responsible recycling companies in each province.  EDC will deliver electricity safety awareness campaign in project communities during the operation phase.

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

VIII. GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM

233. A Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) is a systematic process for receiving, evaluating and addressing an affected person’s (AP) project-related complaints. A grievance redress mechanism will be established to address concerns of the stakeholders about the project. The grievance redress procedure will comply with the requirements of ADB SPS (2009) in addressing people’s concerns and complaints promptly and in a transparent manner.

234. As a general policy, EDC will work proactively toward preventing grievances through the implementation of impact mitigation measures and community liaison activities that anticipate and address potential issues before they become grievances. This will be the responsibility of EDC-PMO1/SEPRU. During construction and operation, it is possible that unanticipated impacts may occur if the mitigation measures are not properly implemented or unforeseen issues occur. In order to address complaints if or when they arise, a project GRM has been developed in accordance with ADB requirements and Government practices.

A. Type of Grievances

235. Any AP will be able to submit a grievance with EDC if they believe a practice is having a detrimental impact on the community, environment, or on their quality of life. Grievances could include:  Negative impacts on a person or a community (e.g. financial loss such as from loss of roadside trees, health and safety issues, nuisances, etc.)  Dangers to health and safety or the environment  Social impacts due to construction team activities or impacts on social infrastructure.  Failure to comply with standards or legal obligations.  Harassment of any nature.  Criminal activity.  Improper conduct or unethical behavior  Financial malpractice or impropriety or fraud.  Attempts to conceal any of the above.

236. The GRM will be made public throughout the public consultation process, and will be maintained during operation and maintenance.

B. Grievance Resolution Process

237. The GRM process is presented in Figure 29 and is described as follows:

Step 1. Grievance Resolution by the Contractor

238. The contractor will address grievances related to construction and installation works immediately. An AP may send his/her concerns about the construction of the project to EDC through construction contractor or through the provincial EDC offices or village chief. A meeting will be held among the AP, contractor, village chief and provincial EDC office to discuss the whereabouts of the complaint. Immediate remedial action on the complaint is expected from the contractor. The resolution of the complaint should be done within one week.

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Step 2. Grievance Resolution at EDC PMO1 Level

239. When the AP is not satisfied with the action or decision of the contractor, the AP can submit a written complaint to EDC through the provincial EDC Offices or via the local Commune Committee. In all cases, the grievances will be recorded in writing and then forwarded to the PMO1/SEPRU.

240. Upon receipt by the PMO1/SEPRU, the grievance will be reviewed and assessed for validity. If determined that the grievance is not connected to a project activity or that the project is being carried out in full compliance with applicable national and international standards, PMO1/SEPRU will explain the matter in writing to the complainant. In all other cases, PMO1/SEPRU will investigate, assess the validity of the grievance, and in consultation with the contractor and PIC, seek measures to redress valid grievances and prevent such incidents from occurring again.

241. PMO1/SEPRU will have 15 days to resolve the grievance and respond to the complainant in writing, including disclosing the results of the investigation and the proposed course of action, if any. Depending on the nature of the complaint, the course of action will be implemented by the contractor or EDC. If the complainant considers the issue to be satisfactorily resolved, they will be asked to sign a Statement of Satisfaction. If the grievance remains unresolved, PMO1/SEPRU will advance the grievance to the relevant Commune Council.

Sept 3. Grievance Resolution at Commune Council Level

242. The Commune Council will record the grievance, further investigate the grievance, and in consultation with PMO1/SEPRU attempt to reach a resolution agreeable to both the complainant and PMO1/SEPRU. The Commune Council will have 15 days to resolve the grievance and respond to the complainant and PMO1/SEPRU in writing, including disclosing the results of the investigation and the proposed course of action, if any. Depending on the nature of the complaint, the course of action will be implemented by the contractor or EDC. If the complainant considers the issue to be satisfactorily resolved, they will be asked to sign a Statement of Satisfaction. If the grievance remains unresolved, the Commune Council will advance the grievance to the relevant District Committee.

Step 4. Grievance Resolution at District Office Level

243. The District Office will record the grievance, further investigate the grievance, and in consultation with PMO1/SEPRU attempt to reach a resolution agreeable to both the AP and PMO1/SEPRU. The District Office will have 15 days to resolve the grievance and respond to the complainant and PMO1/SEPRU in writing, including disclosing the results of the investigation and the proposed course of action, if any. Depending on the nature of the complaint, the course of action will be implemented by the contractor or EDC. If the complainant considers the issue to be satisfactorily resolved, they will be asked to sign a Statement of Satisfaction. If the grievance remains unresolved, the District Office will advance the grievance to the relevant Provincial Hall.

Step 5. Grievance Resolution at the Provincial Level

244. The Provincial Hall will record the grievance, further investigate the grievance, and in consultation with PMO1/SEPRU attempt to reach a resolution agreeable to both the AP and PMO1/SEPRU. The Provincial Hall will have 30 days to resolve the grievance and respond to

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

the complainant and PMO1/SEPRU in writing, including disclosing the results of the investigation and the proposed course of action, if any. Depending on the nature of the complaint, the course of action will be implemented by the contractor or EDC. If the complainant considers the issue to be satisfactorily resolved, they will be asked to sign a Statement of Satisfaction. If the grievance remains unresolved the AP will have the option of advancing the grievance to the judicial process.

Step 6. Judicial Process

245. The AP may advance the grievance to the Provincial Court. If the AP is not satisfied with the Provincial Court judgment, there may be an opportunity for appealing to a higher level of court. The AP may also choose to approach ADB under the Accountability Mechanism28.

C. Grievance Follow-up

246. EDC may contact the complainant at a later stage to ensure that the activities continue to pose no further problems. If there is a remaining problem, the issue will be treated as a new grievance and re-enter the GRM process.

D. Confidentiality and Anonymity

247. An AP submitting a grievance may wish to raise a concern in confidence. If the complainant asks PMO1/SEPRU to protect his or her identity, it will not be disclosed without consent. Details of submissions and allegations will remain secure within the team responsible for investigating the concerns.

28 For further information, refer to http://beta.adb.org/site/accountability-mechanism/main

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Affected Person

Grievance

Not Redressed

Redressed Resolution at Contractor Level

Grievance

Not Redressed

Resolution at PMO1/SEPRU Level Redressed

Grievance

Not Redressed

Resolution at Commune Council Redressed

Grievance

Not Redressed

Resolution at District Office Redressed

Grievance Not Redressed

Resolution at Provincial Hall Redressed

Appeal to Provincial Court

Figure 29. Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM)

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

IX. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

248. This chapter presents the mitigation measures, environmental monitoring plan, institutional arrangements, reporting, and budget to address adverse environmental impacts of the project.

A. Mitigation Plan

249. Environmental mitigation measures have been designed to address the significant environmental impacts during pre-construction, construction, operation and maintenance of the MV sub-transmission lines along commune and national roads in the provinces of Kampong Thom, Siem Reap, Banteay Meanchey, Kandal and nearby provinces where the lines will extend. The general mitigation measures, as outlined in the EMP in Table 6, presents the potential significant environmental impacts in the various phases, the proposed mitigation measures, the authority responsible for the implementation of the mitigation, and the mitigation cost or source of funding. The general EMP applies to subprojects in Kampng Thom, Siem Reap, Kandal and Banteay Meanchey.

250. In addition to the general Environmental Management Plan (EMP) in Table 6, specific Environmental Management Plan (EMP) in Table 7 was prepared for the segments of the alignment that will traverse ecological and cultural protected areas, i.e. Banteay Chhmar Protected Lanscape, Angkor Protected Landscape, Sambor Prei Kuk Temple and Boeung Per Wildlife Sanctuary.

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Table 6. General Environmental Management Plan

Potential Environmental Responsible Mitigating Measures Schedule Budget/ Source Impact Entity A. PRE-CONSTRUCTION PHASE Land Acquisition and  Alignment designed to be within road Survey and Design -Base Project Costs EDC resettlement/Loss of reserves, and as much as possible will Stage agricultural productivity avoid the need to remove trees -RP budget

 Loss of fruit-bearing trees that have economic values shall be compensated in accordance with RP

Loss of agricultural land,  Carefully select the line route to Survey and Design -Base Project Costs EDC temporary disruption of minimize impacts on property and to Stage Contractor farming activities, damage avoid structures such as bunds, canals to crops, bunds, canals and drainage. and drains.  Schedule the installation of the poles during the dry season.

Presence of unexploded  Detailed Mine/UXO contamination Survey and design Base Project Costs Contractor ordnance (UXO) maps prepared for each subproject. stage

 Contact the Mine Action Planning Unit (MAPU) at the Provincial Hall in each province and provide detailed alignment maps and the CMAA mine/UXO contamination maps

 Contractor will recruit accredited mine/UXO removal agency in each province, in accordance to guidance provided by MAPU

 Commission an accredited mine/UXO removal agency in coordination with the CMAA for the development of the

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Potential Environmental Responsible Mitigating Measures Schedule Budget/ Source Impact Entity clearance plan  Obtain Mine/UXO clearance certificate prior to start of construction

Cutting of trees and other  Consult with the owner of the affected Survey and design Base Project Costs EDC vegetation trees and vegetation. Contractor  Provide a justified compensation rate RP budget for affected trees and vegetation with economic value according to RP

Encroachment into  Power lines will be routed primarily Survey and design Base Project Costs EDC ecologically sensitive along existing road reserves and as Contractor areas much as possible avoid the need to remove trees.  Consult with relevant stakeholders and authorities responsible for managing the areas and implement any special design requirements imposed by those responsible authorities

Impact on aesthetics /  Poles to be sited to minimize visual Survey and design Poles to be sited to EDC Loss of original landscape impacts wherever possible. minimize visual Contractor beauty  Siting of poles near areas of high impact cultural and historical significance requires consultation with responsible authorities.

B. CONSTRUCTION PHASE Impacts on valuable  Consult and inform APs prior to starting Construction stage Base Project Costs EDC property including land and any construction works. PIC structures.  Immediately cover and stabilize Contractor excavation and disturbed ground after RP budget Loss of agricultural land pole erection that cause temporary  In the event that paddy bunds and disruption of farming drain or canal embankments are activities, damage to affected, the contractor will be required crops, bunds, canals and to rehabilitate the area/structures. This

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Potential Environmental Responsible Mitigating Measures Schedule Budget/ Source Impact Entity drains. shall form part of the contract documents.  Where road reserves are being informally used for agriculture, compensation shall be paid for lost productivity in accordance with the RP.  Implement careful construction practices to avoid damage to existing structures. Location of workers camp  Local communities and local official Construction stage Base Project Costs EDC and materials storage officials shall be consulted when PIC areas could adversely selecting sites for project facilities Contractor affect residential areas and including construction camps, if any, sensitive receptors and materials storage sites. (schools, hospitals/clinics) Cutting or trimming of  Position the concrete poles within the Construction stage Base Project Costs Contractor trees road reserve and avoid to the maximum extent possible areas with RP budget high concentration of trees.  Where cutting or trimming of trees is necessary, the activity will be done in accordance with safety clearance requirements.  Identify offset option with local authorities for loss of indigenous tree species e.g. the Diptherocarpus species) that are listed under Forestry Law (1995)

Interference with traffic  Properly plan and execute a traffic Construction stage Part of construction Contractor and accessways management plan that is supported by cost good site supervision.  Stockpiling of concrete poles, spoils

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Potential Environmental Responsible Mitigating Measures Schedule Budget/ Source Impact Entity and cable reels shall only be done in designated areas where no access will be blocked

 Install highly visible guides, signage and/or marker to direct vehicular traffic, and warning signs to inform the public of temporary blockage of one lane of the road during poles installation works.  Closely coordinate with the local communities.

Soil erosion during  Auguring will limit the area to be Construction stage Part of construction EDC, PIC, auguring/ excavation of disturbed for pole foundation. cost Contractor pole foundation.  Contractor will be required to rehabilitate any disturbed areas to its original conditions.  Schedule the construction activities during the dry season to minimize exposed area subject to erosion.

Risks of soil erosion,  Excavation will be limited within road Construction stage Part of construction EDC, PIC, damages to sub-surface reserve cost Contractor utilities and chance find of  Contractor will be required to check objects of cultural and with local authority whether there are historical value during pipe or telecommunication or other construction of utilities lines exist underground prior to underground cable. excavation  Contractor will be required to restore disturbed areas to its original conditions.  A chance find procedure will be put in place if cultural or historical objects are found during excavation works for installation of underground cables. EDC who will make sure the Contractor strictly follows the following Procedure:

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Potential Environmental Responsible Mitigating Measures Schedule Budget/ Source Impact Entity

 If physical cultural objects are encountered during excavation, all works at the find site should be immediately halted.  The find should be assessed by a competent local District Office of Culture and Fine Arts official, and procedures to avoid, minimize or mitigate impacts to such physical cultural objects should be developed.  Work should not begin until the procedures to avoid, minimize or mitigate impacts to the physical cultural objects have been implemented.  Where avoidance is not feasible, no alternatives to removal exist, and the Project benefits outweigh the anticipated cultural heritage loss from removal, the physical cultural objects should be removed and preserved according to the best available technique.  Any removal should be conducted in accordance with relevant provisions of national heritage protection decrees and laws.  Records should be maintained of all finds, including chain of custody instructions for movable finds.  All Project workers and staff should be made aware of the chance-find procedure.

Dust and noise  Implement good construction practices Construction stage Part of construction EDC such as water sprinkling of areas prone cost PIC to dust generation. Contractor

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Potential Environmental Responsible Mitigating Measures Schedule Budget/ Source Impact Entity  Limit the construction and installation works only at daytime to avoid noise nuisance.  Impose speed limits on construction vehicles to minimize dust emission along areas where sensitive receptors are located (houses, schools, hospitals, temples, etc.)

Air pollution and dust  Limit engine idling to maximum 5 Construction stage Part of construction EDC emission from movement minutes cost PIC and operation of  Dry and windy conditions, watering Contractor construction vehicles and shall be done at least twice a day on equipment dusty and exposed areas at project areas, where necessary.  Impose speed limits on construction vehicles.  Burning of wastes generated by project-related activities shall be strictly prohibited.  Position any stationary emission sources (e.g. diesel generators, compressors, etc.) as far as practical from sensitive receptors (houses, schools, clinics, temples) Noise from construction  Noisy construction-related activities will Construction stage Part of construction EDC activities be minimized during religious or cost PIC cultural events in close proximity to the Contractor sites  Truck drivers and equipment operators shall avoid as much as possible the use of horns in areas with sensitive receptors such as schools, pagodas, and clinics.  Avoid noisy construction activities in the vicinity of sensitive receptors during nighttime or other sensitive periods

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Potential Environmental Responsible Mitigating Measures Schedule Budget/ Source Impact Entity such as during school hours and prayer time. Generation of construction  Segregate and regularly collect Construction stage Part of construction EDC wastes construction wastes. cost PIC  Prohibit disposal of solid wastes into Contractor canals, rivers, watercourses, and agricultural field. Solid wastes shall only be disposed to sites approved by commune/sangkat authorities.  Prohibit burning of construction and domestic wastes.  Recover recyclable wastes that could be reused or sold to recyclers. Ensure that residual wastes are not haphazardly disposed in the environment.

Occupational health and  Installation contractor will be required Construction stage Part of construction EDC safety to implement an Occupational Health cost PIC and Safety plan that includes provision Contractor of PPE such as hard hats and safety gloves.  Contractor will be required to provide readily available first-aid kit and medicines for workers.  Arrange with nearest Health Centers and/or Referal Hospitals for emergency cares of workers

Community health and  Contractor will be required to develop a Construction stage Part of construction EDC safety such as toppling of community health and safety plan that cost PIC concrete poles, traffic and incorporates best practices and Contractor accidents, emergency spill recognized standards of materials, and access of  Implement an emergency response villagers to dangerous and preparedness procedures with working areas. communication systems and protocols to report an emergency

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Potential Environmental Responsible Mitigating Measures Schedule Budget/ Source Impact Entity  Coordinate with commune and provincial emergency and health authorities. C. OPERATIONAL PHASE Impacts on occupational  Allow only trained and qualified workers O&M stage EDC Operational/ EDC health and safety due to to have access to work on electrical Maintenance Budget exposure to live power equipment lines, working in heights,  EDC shall ensure adherence to and risks of accidents electrical safety standards (electrocution, lightning,  Ensure proper grounding and fires and explosion) deactivation of live power distribution lines during maintenance work or if working in close proximity to the lines  Provide PPE for workers, safety guidelines and other precautions  Require workers to observe the minimum approach distances for excavations, tools, vehicles, pruning, and other activities when working around power lines.

Worker accidents when  Require workers to test the structural O&M stage EDC Operational/ EDC working on heights. integrity of the pole prior to proceeding Maintenance Budget with the work  Use fall protection measures, i.e. all workers are required to wear body harness when working on poles.

Impacts to community  EDC and contractor to provide public O&M stage EDC Operational/ EDC / health and safety such as information / awareness campaign on Maintenance Budget Maintenance electrocution and lightning risks and hazards related to live electric contractor strikes, explosion and fire, lines and exposure to magnetic  Conduct regular inspections on the line field. to ensure that the minimum vertical clearance and protection is maintained and that missing or corroded part are immediately identified and replaced

Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project - Package 2

Potential Environmental Responsible Mitigating Measures Schedule Budget/ Source Impact Entity  Provide lightning arresters along the line  Ensure security of cable to avoid vandalism  Conduct training of workers on emergency preparedness and response procedures including guidelines on safety and emergency  Provide warning signages to the public about safety distances from the power lines.

Disturbance to local  Provide advance information to locals O&M stage EDC Operational/ EDC / people due to trimming of through the village heads about the Maintenance Budget Maintenance trees during maintenance. schedule of maintenance works contractor  Avoid encroachment into rice or cropland of villagers during vegetation trimming or pruning activities  EDC will not allow the use of herbicides and pesticides to control vegetation growth, including burning.

Increased disposal of used  EDC with assistance of the PIC will O&M stage EDC Operational/ EDC, with lead-acid batteries prepare a ULAB recycling program in Maintenance Budget assistance of PIC coordination with local ULAB collectors/recyclers in each province, conduct information education campaign on the benefits of recycling ULABs and prepare an inventory list of ULAB recyclers that are implementing environmentally best practices in each province.  Contact information of ULAB recyclers that are implementing best environmental standards will be distributed to the public and REEs via signs, pamphlets, and other visual

100

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Potential Environmental Responsible Mitigating Measures Schedule Budget/ Source Impact Entity means.

Table 7. Specific Environmental Management Plan for Alignments in Ecological and Cultural Protected Areas Potential Environmental Responsible Mitigating Measures Schedule Budget/ Source Impact Entity A. PRE-CONSTRUCTION PHASE Encroachment into the  Alignment design to minimize Survey and design Base Project Cost EDC Angkor Protected encroachment into Angkor Protected stage APSARA Authority Lanscape Landscape (APL)  Formal Project approval request will be sent by EDC to APSARA Authority. The

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Potential Environmental Responsible Mitigating Measures Schedule Budget/ Source Impact Entity proposal shall include an overall map and detailed designs of sub- transmission line segments that enter the APL  Implement/incorporate any special design requirements as stipulated by APSARA Authority in subproject areas within APL  Obtain approval from APSARA Authority Encroachment into the  Coordinate and consult with the Survey and design Base Project Cost EDC Kulen National Park. Provincial Department of Environment stage Contractor (PDoE) – Siem Reap during field PDoE-Siem Reap survey  Alignment will be routed primarily along existing roads/tracks to avoid the need to remove trees  Ensure that poles will be sited according to requirement of PDoE recommendations  No Project Alternative shall apply if the feasibility study jointly conducted by MoE and APSARA to build access road leading to the area proves non-feasible. Encroachment into the  Coordinate with the Provincial Survey and design Base Project Cost EDC, Contractor, Banteay Chhmar Department of Environment (PDoE) – stage PDoE-Banteay Protected Landscape. Banteay Meanchey during field survey Meanchey  Alignment will be routed primarily along existing roads/tracks to avoid the need to remove tree  Ensure that poles will be sited according to requirements to PDoE recommendations Encroachment into the  Coordinate and consult with the Survey and design Base Project Cost EDC, Contractor, Beoung Per Wildlife Provincial Department of Environment stage PDoE-Kampong Sanctuary. (PDoE) – Kampong Thom during field Thom survey Contractor

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Potential Environmental Responsible Mitigating Measures Schedule Budget/ Source Impact Entity  Alignment will be routed primarily along existing roads/tracks to avoid the need to remove trees  Ensure that poles will be sited according to requirements to PDoE recommendations  Carry out a walk-through survey by a qualified ecologist to confirm that there are no species or habitats of importance listed in Prakas No. 1033 along the proposed alignment B. CONSTRUCTION PHASE Impact on physical,  No temporary or permanent Project Construction stage Part of construction EDC cultural and ecological facilities shall be established within the cost APSARA integrity due to APL. Such facilities include but are not PIC encroachment into Angkor limited to, vehicle and maintenance Contractor Protected Landscape areas, storage areas for poles, (APL) conductors, transformers, pole boring equipment etc.

 Contractors and Workers will be required to comply with all APL rules and requirements.

 A Chance Find Procedure will be put in place by EDC who will make sure the Contractor strictly follows the Procedure:

 If physical cultural resources are encountered during the construction phase, all works at the find site should be immediately halted.  The find should be assessed by a competent APSARA Authority expert, and procedures to avoid, minimize or mitigate impacts to the physical cultural resources should be developed.

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Potential Environmental Responsible Mitigating Measures Schedule Budget/ Source Impact Entity  Work should not begin until the procedures to avoid, minimize or mitigate impacts to the physical cultural resources have been implemented.  Where avoidance is not feasible, no alternatives to removal exist, and the Project benefits outweigh the anticipated cultural heritage loss from removal, the physical cultural resource should be removed and preserved according to the best available technique.  Any removal should be conducted in accordance with relevant provisions of national heritage protection decrees and laws.  Records should be maintained of all finds, including chain of custody instructions for movable finds.  All Project workers and staff should be made aware of the chance-find procedure.

Disturbance due to  During mobilization, identify vibration- During pole Part of construction Contractor movement and vibration sensitive areas and/or structures in the installation cost from vehicles, main influence area to plan for the auguring/ excavation of appropriate technology, equipment/tool pole foundations inside and procedure level to apply or use APL  Limit engine idling to a max of 5 minutes  Limit speed to max. 30kph for poles transporting vehicles inside protected areas  Use equipment and tools that emit least vibration  Auguring of poles will be undertaken with the supervision of APSARA

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Potential Environmental Responsible Mitigating Measures Schedule Budget/ Source Impact Entity personnel. Operation of jackhammers, piling, etc. that may cause damage to archaeological relics shall be prohibited  Unless, otherwise approved by APSARA, manual excavation will be undertaken instead of auguring to ensure that uncovered artifacts will be preserved.  Excavation works will be limited to the area to be disturbed for pole foundation.  If physical and cultural resources are encountered during construction, all works at the find site should be immediately halted and a competent APSARA expert should be called in to assess the chance find.  Records should be maintained of all finds.

Impacts to flora and fauna  Avoid cutting of indigenous tree Construction stage Part of construction EDC due to encroachment into species (e.g. the Diptherocarpus cost PIC the Beoung Per Wildlife species) that are listed under Forestry Contractor Santuary, Banteay Law (1995) in the Protected Chhmar Protected Lanscapes, National Park and Wildlife Landscape and Phnom Sanctuary Kulen National Park  Strictly no hunting, buying, bartering or collecting of animal species listed in Annex A, B, C of Prakas No. 1033 on Protected Areas is allowed. Contractor will be required to strictly observe directives of this Prakas  Flammable materials, substances, and equipment that may cause forest fire shall be handled by qualified personnels

Impact on the landscape  Park construction vehicles/equipment is Construction stage N/A Contractor

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Potential Environmental Responsible Mitigating Measures Schedule Budget/ Source Impact Entity from disorderly parking of designated areas (with least or no vehicles/equipment, vegetation as much as possible) stockpiling of concrete poles and cable reels  Avoid stockpiling of concrete poles and cable reels in Protected Areas

Operation of construction  No temporary or permanent project Construction stage Part of construction Contractor equipment, excavation facilities shall be established within the cost works, spoils and waste Protected Landscapes, Wildlife disposal, transport of Sanctuary and National Park such as construction materials. vehicle and maintenance areas, storage areas of poles, cable reels, conductors, transformers and pole boring equipment.  Implement measures on solid waste and construction waste management  Spoils and other construction wastes shall not be disposed within the Protected Landscapes, Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park.  Disposal shall only be to sites approved by commune/Sangkat authorities.  The contractor shall ensure that all construction vehicles are not overloaded to avoid damage to access roads  The contractor shall strictly implement speed limits for all construction vehicles to avoid accidental and physical damages and disturbance to elements inside Protected Areas

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B. Monitoring Plan

251. Environmental monitoring will consist of routine systematic checking that mitigation measures stipulated in the EMP have been implemented effectively during each stage of the project. The PMO1/SEPRU, with assistance from the PIC Environment Specialists, will monitor the status of the EMP, including identifying any non-compliance, proposing actions and a timeline for rectifying deficiencies and following up on the status of previous non-compliances.

252. The proposed monitoring plan, duration and schedule and responsible entities to be involved in the monitoring and evaluation is shown in Table 8.

Table 8. Environmental Monitoring Plan

Parameter Location Method of Schedule Responsibility Monitoring Pre-Construction Phase Obtain approval for Angkor Meetings, site Prior to EDC APSARA for segments Protected inspections approval of of alignment that enters Lanscape plans APL Confirmation that UXO Along ROW Meetings and Prior to start of Contractor clearance have been coordination with construction through CMAA obtained CMAA/ site inspection recognized demining contractor Environmental audit of - Document review Prior to EDC with bid documents to ensure issuance of bid assistance of relevant sections of EMP documents PIC have been included. Consultation with APs Along ROW Meetings with APs Prior to start of Contractor / construction PMO1-SEPRU with assistance of PIC Design audit to check if - Document review Prior to EDC with APSARA and MoE approval of assistance of requirements/ construction PIC recommendations have commencement been addressed for project components within Angkor Protected Landscape, Bateay Chhmar Protected Landscape and Beoung Per Wildlife Sanctuary Approval of contractor’s - Document review One month after PMO1-SEPRU Construction signing of with assistance Environmental construction of PIC Management Plan to contract ensure compliance with EMP and contract document. Construction Phase Regular inspection of Along ROW Site inspection and Monthly PMO1-SEPRU/ construction activities to observation throughout Contractor with

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Parameter Location Method of Schedule Responsibility Monitoring ensure construction- construction assistance of related mitigation period PIC measures as specified in the EMP are properly implemented and are effective. Review Contractor’s - Review of plan; Before start of PMO1-SEPRU/ Occupational Health and monitor worker OHS construction; Contractor with Safety plan and training training and public periodic assistance of health education monitoring. PIC Regular inspection of Along ROW Site inspection and Monthly PMO1-SEPRU traffic safety and control observation throughout with assistance measures construction of PIC period. Damage or nuisance to Along ROW Monitor and inspect Monthly PMO1-SEPRU nearby areas construction works throughout /Contractor with especially impact to construction assistance of communities, roads, period PIC and river, and irrigation, drainage canals. Operation Phase Trees and vegetation Along the Inspect the status of Monthly EDC Provincial control ROW tree and vegetation Units growth that may damage or threaten the integrity of the lines. Health and safety; injury Electric Inspect integrity of the Monthly EDC Provincial to workers and villagers poles poles and line in order Units to maintain and ensure good condition

Inspect Warning Signs/Boards

C. Reporting

253. Throughout the construction period, PMO1/SEPRU, in coordination with the contractor and with assistance of the PIC, will prepare quarterly environmental reports on the implementation of the EMP and on the environmental monitoring program. The report shall contain a summary of the environmental effects, which have been observed, and the project’s compliance with the EMP. Recommended corrective actions in the project construction, if any, and other observations and recommendations shall form part of the report. Appendix 5 presents the template of the environmental progress and monitoring report.

254. During the operational phase, EDC will be responsible for undertaking routine monitoring, reporting and resolution of environmental health and safety issues. All monitoring and reporting activities will be sustained by EDC to ensure that mitigation measures are effectively implemented.

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D. Implementation Arrangements

255. The EDC will be the project executing agency (EA) and will have overall responsibility for implementation. The implementing agency (IA) will be EDC, Project Management Office 1. EDC will be supported by the PIC.

256. The PIC will assist existing EDC staff and will include international and national environmental specialists knowledgeable on environmental assessment, planning and protection of cultural and heritage sites and environmentally-sensitive sites. Based on current organizational set-up of EDC’s PMO1, the office has sufficient in-house capacity to implement the relevant environmental laws and also enable the EDC to meet the safeguards requirements of ADB. However, support of the PIC international and national environmental specialists will include but not limited to the following:  Reviewing bid documents to ensure that the EMP requirements have been included;  Ensure that UXO clearance have been conducted by a CMAA recognized demining contractor;  Undertake a design audit to check that all requirements of MoE and APSARA have been addressed for project components within the Angkor Protected Landscape, Banteay Chhmar Protected Landscape, Phnum Kulen National Park and Beoung Per Wildlife Sanctuary;  Establish environmental monitoring and reporting procedures that are in accordance with ADB requirements;  Undertake environmental compliance monitoring;  Provide a brief refresher training to PMO1/SEPRU on EMP implementation, requirements for preservation and conservation of physical cultural resources in Banteay Chhmar, including ADB monitoring and reporting requirements. The training on chance find procedures will be undertaken in coordination with MCFA/DSPAM.;  Assist in the preparation of periodic environmental monitoring reports;  Conduct an inventory of recyclers of used lead-acid battery (ULAB) in each province and identify those that implement best environmental standards; and  Organize an information education campaign for the communities on the benefits of recycling ULAB through signs, pamphlets, and other means.

E. Institutional Arrangements for EMP Implementation

257. During construction, the contractor will be responsible for implementing the subprojects in compliance with relevant Royal Government of Cambodia (RGC) environmental standards, the policies and procedures of the ADB (as per the SPS 2009) and the EMP, including specifications and special provisions that are set out in the construction contract.

258. During the operational phase, institutional responsibilities and reporting and review requirements in respect of the EMP for the relevant parties have been developed. PMO1/SEPRU of EDC, with support from the PIC Environmental Specialists, will be responsible for ensuring that the overall project is implemented in accordance with the conditions of the ADB loan agreement including ADB environmental guidelines and Government’s environmental regulations and standards. In particular PMO1/SEPRU will be responsible for ensuring, on a day-to-day basis, that the EMP is implemented during each stage of the project (pre- construction, construction and operation). This includes the following activities:

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 Ensuring that Government and ADB requirements and procedures relating to environmental safeguards are complied with prior to construction such as: o The bidding documents include relevant sections of the EMP. o EMP implementation is monitored and results are reported regularly. o Sufficient environmental safeguard staff resources are in place to undertake PMO1/SEPRU’s EMP responsibilities.

 Carrying out regular monitoring of the contractor's construction activities to ensure that work is carried out in full compliance with the EMP, and environmental specifications and provisions set out in the construction contract (to be assisted by the PIC Environment Specialists).   Monitoring the social conditions associated with the project, including any complaints from villagers towards project construction practices, contractor activities, impairment of livelihood resulting from damage to or loss of crops as a result of construction activities, loss of access, etc., (to be assisted by the PIC Environment Specialists).

259. The REEs will have the same responsibilities as EDC with respect to the distribution lines and that the REEs will need to implement national statutory health and safety guidelines and design and operation standards applicable to low-medium voltage distribution lines and abide by the provisions of their operating licenses as issued by the EAC.

F. Construction Environmental Management Plan

260. The Contractor will be required to prepare and implement a Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) in accordance with the EMP in the construction contract. The contractor will also be required to prepare environmental management reports to EDC as part of routine project progress reporting. The environmental management reports will identify the work undertaken over the reporting period and document the environmental protection measures that have been carried out, problems encountered (if any), and follow-up actions that were taken (or will be taken) to correct any problems.

G. Environmental Management and Monitoring Costs

261. The estimated costs for implementing the EMP are presented in Table 9.

Table 9. Estimated EMP Budget Item Estimated Budget, US$ 1. Training on EMP implementation for Contractors Part of PIC cost 2. PMO1/SEPRU inspection and monitoring (@12 months; USD1000/month) 12,000 3. Hiring of PIC Consultants for Environment (National and International) 20,000 TOTAL 32,000

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X. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

262. Based on the analysis conducted in this initial environmental examination, the construction of sub-transmission line for subprojects 4 and 5 (Kandal and Banteay Meanchey) and the extension of subprojects 1 and 3 will generate positive impacts to the communities to be served by the project because of improved connectivity to reliable and secure electricity.

263. The environmental impacts associated with the proposed subprojects are primarily related to the siting and location of poles where the extent of adverse impacts is expected to be local, confined within the subprojects’ main areas of influence, which are the existing road reserves.

264. These identified adverse environmental impacts during project implementation are minimal and reversible and can be generally reduced to acceptable levels through practical mitigation measures associated with good engineering practices.

265. For Subproject 1 extension in Kampong Thom, Integrated Biodiversity Assessment Tool (IBAT) was used to identify important species in Beung Per Wildlife Sanctuary according to IUCN Red List category, however the 7-km encroachment to the Eastern periphery of the Sanctuary will cause no significant impact to its existing condition which has been already significantly altered by human activities, thus having low conservation significance. Areas along existing road alignment are predominantly rice fields and village settlement. During the survey and design stage, a walk-through survey by an ecologist to confirm that there are no species or habitats of importance along this particular segment of subproject will form part of EMP.

266. Impacts within Angkor Protected Lanscape (APL) that will be caused by Subproject 3 extension in Siem Reap will be insignificant due to small scale of construction activities which are confined to road reserves. Implementation of APSARA specified mitigation measures will ensure that no historical/cultural/ecological values within the APL are undermined.

267. For subproject 5 in Banteay Meanchey, although a segment of the sub-transmission line is within the Banteay Chhmar Protected Landscape, this will cause no signification alterations to the existing landscape as areas along existing road reserves are characterized by rice fields and cassava plantations. Therefore, no natural habitats will be affected and other impacts related to the construction of lines will be insignificant. EDC will implement any mitigation measures, i.e. siting of poles and avoidance the removal of indigenous tree species (e.g. the Diptherocarpus species) that are listed under Forestry Law (1995).

268. For subproject 4 in Kandal, most areas along proposed alignment already have MV lines. An additional sub-transmission line on the existing poles will cause no impact to the already existing urban infrastructures. Appropriate health and safety mitigation measures will be put in place during installation and maintenance by EDC.

269. Another potential environmental impact during siting and planning is the presence of UXO or land mines. Mine/UXO accidents and major contaminated areas have been identified in the districts of Svay Chek and Thmar Puok of Banteay Meanchey province. Mapping has been undertaken by CMAA to assess the extent of mine and UXO contamination along subproject areas, removal costs have been estimated and clearance procedures developed. Mine/UXO clearance by an accredited demining contractor is necessary prior to any construction works.

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270. Other environmental impacts associated with the proposed project which needs to be considered in project design, planning, construction and operation are:  Cutting/trimming of trees and impact on agricultural land and structures which requires proper consultation with affected person and compensation in accordance with ADB and the Government’s requirements;  Interference with traffic and accessways during pole installation; and  Hazards to workers and the community during construction and operation.

271. One of the positive benefits of the project is reduced dependence on lead acid batteries by communities that will be connected to grid electricity. An information education campaign on the benefits of ULAB recycling will be organized during the construction phase. The program will include an inventory of ULAB recyclers in each province, identifying those with best environmental standards and ensuring the communities are informed of contact information of these recyclers. Another positive outcome is the replacement of local diesel-operated REEs whose operation and maintenance cost often renders high tariff (0.75$ - 1.5$/kWh) in some areas. There is one REE in Sandan district of Kampong Thom province operates a wood-based gasifier and pays people to collect woods from nearby area to run the gasifier, thus indirectly encouraging deforestation. Therefore access to grid electricity in this area essentially contributes to preventing further environmental degradation to some extent.

272. To ensure that no significant impact will result from the implementation of this Project, a general EMP has been prepared and will be implemented during all phases of executing each subproject. The EMP identifies the environmental mitigation measures as well as the institutional arrangements for its implementation. Specific EMPs for ecological and cultural protected areas have been developed for the segments of the alignment that will traverse those areas.

273. It is therefore recommended that the project be supported by ADB, subject to the implementation of the commitments set forth in the EMP and allocation of appropriate technical, financial and human resources by EDC to ensure these impact mitigation measures are effectively implemented.

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XI. REFERENCES

Cambodia Environment Outlook. United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). http://geodata/rrcap.unep.org/ (accessed 08 March 2014).

Kampong Thom Provincial Data Book 2013. Kampong Thom Province. National Committee for Sub-National Democratic Development (NCDD).

Siem Reap Provincial Data Book 2013. Siem Reap Province. National Committee for Sub- National Democratic Development (NCDD).

Kandal Provincial Data Book 2013. Kandal Province. National Committee for Sub-National Democratic Development (NCDD).

Banteay Meanchey Provincial Data Book 2013. Banteay Meanchey Province. National Committee for Sub-National Democratic Development (NCDD).

Environment, Health and Safety Guidelines – Electric Power Transmission and Distribution.International Finance Corporation (IFC) 30 April 2007.

Environmental Assessment Review Framework (draft). Kingdom of Cambodia: Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project. Project Number 42361. Electricite du Cambodge. Royal Government of Cambodia. September 2012.

General Requirements of Electric Power Technical Standards of the Kingdom of Cambodia. Electricity Law of the Kingdom of Cambodia. Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy. 2004 (amended 2007).

Geomorphology, Archaeo-stratigraphy, and 14C Ages of Sambor Prei Kuk Pre-Angkorean Site, Central Cambodia, BULLETIN of the Graduate School of Education of Waseda University No.22, March 2012.

Initial Environmental Examination Report (draft). CAM: Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project (Kampong Thom, Kampong Cham, and Siem Reap Provinces). Electricite du Cambodge, Royal Government of Cambodia. August 2012.

Integrated Biodiversity Assessment Tool (IBAT) (http://www.ibatforbusiness.org), accessed on 12/15/2014. Provided by BirdLife International, Conservation International, IUCN and UNEP- WCMC.

Literacy Rates in Banteay Meanchey Province, Cambodia. UNESCO. 2011.http://www.unesco.org/new/fileadmin/MULTIMEDIA/FIELD/Phnom_Pehn/pdf/literacy rates_01_banteay_meanchey.pdf

Literacy Rates in Cambodia. UNESCO. 2011.http://www.unesco.org/new/fileadmin/MULTIMEDIA/FIELD/Phnom_Penh/pdf/literacy_rate s_national_cambodia.pdf

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Literacy Rates in Kandal Province, Cambodia. UNESCO. 2011. http://www.unesco.org/new/fileadmin/MULTIMEDIA/FIELD/Phnom_Penh/pdf/literacy_rates_08_ kandal.pdf

Literacy Rates in Siem Reap Province, Cambodia. UNESCO. 2011. http://www.unesco.org/new/fileadmin/MULTIMEDIA/FIELD/Phnom_Penh/pdf/literacy_rates_12_ siemreap.pdf

Ministry of Health of the Kingdom of Cambodia, Kandal.http://www.moh.gov.kh?page_id=328&lang=en

Ministry of Health of the Kingdom of Cambodia. Banteay Meanchey.http://www.moh.gov.kh/?page_id=320&lang=en

Operations Manual Bank Policies (BP). Asian Development Bank. Manila. 01 October 2013.

Project Administration Manual Project Number 42361. Proposed Loan and Administration of Loan Kingdom of Cambodia: Medium-Voltage Sub-Transmission Expansion Sector Project. October 2012.

Safeguards Policy Statement. Asian Development Bank. Manila. 2009

Strategy 2029: The Long-Term Framework of the Asian Development Bank 2008-2020. Asian Development Bank. Manila. 2008

The Education Statistics and Indicators 2012-2013. Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport of the Kingdom of Cambodia. 2013. http://www.moeys.gov.kh/images/moeys/indicator-and- statistic/325/emis-2012-2013-en.pdf

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APPENDIX 1: RAPID ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT (REA) CHECKLIST

Instructions:

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

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

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

CAM: MEDIUM-VOLTAGE SUB-TRANSMISSION EXPANSION SECTOR

PROJECT (Package 2) Country/Project Title:

Sector Division: Energy Division

Screening Questions Yes No Remarks A. PROJECT SITING IS THE PROJECT AREA ADJACENT TO OR WITHIN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE AREAS? . CULTURAL HERITAGE SITE  Part of segments of Subproject 3 extension in Siem Reap Province are located in buffer zone and community zones of Angkor Protected Landscape. In all cases the alignments are within the reserve of existing developed roads, many of which have extensive road side residential and/or commercial development. No alignment passes though the core zone.

About 3.5km segment of Subproject 1 extension in Prasat Sambor district of Kampong Thom province will be located within the Satellite Zone of the Sambor Prei Kuk Temple where community settlements and agriculture lands are predominant.

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Screening Questions Yes No Remarks . PROTECTED AREA  About 7-km segment of subproject 1 extension in Kampong Thom will pass through to the periphery of Beoung Per Wildlife Sanctuary. Areas along existing road alignment are predominantly rice fields and village settlement. Nearly 20,000 hectares of the Boeung Per wildlife sanctuary have been reclassified as state private land for agro-industrial development.

Extension of Subproject 5 will traverse the community zone of the Banteay Chhmar Protected Landsape. The areas along the proposed alignment have been converted to rice fields, community settlement and cassava plantation. . WETLAND 

. MANGROVE  . ESTUARINE 

. BUFFER ZONE OF PROTECTED AREA  The community and satellite zones of Protected Areas will be traversed by Subproject 1, 3 and 5. . SPECIAL AREA FOR PROTECTING BIODIVERSITY 

B. POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS WILL THE PROJECT CAUSE…

. encroachment on historical/cultural areas, disfiguration  Part of Subproject 3 will be located within of landscape and increased waste generation? the Community, Satellite and Buffer zones of the Angkor Protected Lanscape (APL). Approval will be sought from APSARA authority. Special design requirements imposed by APSARA will be implemented by EDC. . encroachment on precious ecosystem (e.g. sensitive or  All alignments of subproject are routed protected areas)? within existing road reserves stipulated in the Government’s edict. There are no natural habitats that will be traversed by the subprojects. . alteration of surface water hydrology of waterways  Insignificant area along existing road crossed by roads and resulting in increased sediment in reserves will be utilized for the concrete streams affected by increased soil erosion at the poles, thus, will not cause significant soil construction site? erosion. Construction will be timed during the dry season. . damage to sensitive coastal/marine habitats by  construction of submarine cables?

. deterioration of surface water quality due to silt runoff,  sanitary wastes from worker-based camps and chemicals used in construction?

. increased local air pollution due to rock crushing,  cutting and filling?

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Screening Questions Yes No Remarks . risks and vulnerabilities related to occupational health  Measures will be implemented to mitigate and safety due to physical, chemical, biological, and risks associated with collapse of poles, radiological hazards during project construction and electrocution, lightning strikes and other operation? related hazards. Medium-voltage lines only generate insignificant electromagnetic field to cause any impact on health. . chemical pollution resulting from chemical clearing of  vegetation for construction site?

. noise and vibration due to blasting and other civil  works?

. dislocation or involuntary resettlement of people?  No resettlement will take place. Poles will be planted on strictly within road reserve and will avoid structures to the extent possible. . disproportionate impacts on the poor, women and  children, Indigenous Peoples or other vulnerable groups?

. social conflicts relating to inconveniences in living  Traffic interference may occur during conditions where construction interferes with pre- installation of poles, cables and existing roads? equipment. However, this will occur during a short period of time and signs installation and coordination with the local community will be implemented. . hazardous driving conditions where construction  interferes with pre-existing roads?

. creation of temporary breeding habitats for vectors of  disease such as mosquitoes and rodents?

. dislocation and compulsory resettlement of people living  in right-of-way of the power transmission lines?

. environmental disturbances associated with the  maintenance of lines (e.g. routine control of vegetative height under the lines)?

. facilitation of access to protected areas in case  Segments of subproject 1, 3 and 5 will run corridors traverse protected areas? along existing road corridors inside protected areas. Areas along the corridors have been converted to community settlements and agriculture lands, thus holding no significant conservation status. . disturbances (e.g. noise and chemical pollutants) if  herbicides are used to control vegetative height?

. large population influx during project construction and  operation that cause increased burden on social infrastructure and services (such as water supply and sanitation systems)?

. social conflicts if workers from other regions or  countries are hired?

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Screening Questions Yes No Remarks . poor sanitation and solid waste disposal in construction  camps and work sites, and possible transmission of communicable diseases from workers to local populations?

. risks to community safety associated with maintenance  of lines and related facilities?

. community health hazards due to electromagnetic  fields, land subsidence, lowered groundwater table, and salinization?

. risks to community health and safety due to the  Risks have been identified. Appropriate transport, storage, and use and/or disposal of materials mitigation measures will be implemented such as explosives, fuel and other chemicals during by contractors. construction and operation?

. community safety risks due to both accidental and  Regular inspection will be conducted by natural hazards, especially where the structural EDC to ensure compliance with the elements or components of the project (e.g., high minimum safety clearance. voltage wires, and transmission towers and lines ) are accessible to members of the affected community or where their failure could result in injury to the community throughout project construction, operation and decommissioning?

Climate Change and Disaster Risk Questions Yes No Remarks The following questions are not for environmental categorization. They are included in this checklist to help identify potential climate and disaster risks.

. Is the Project area subject to hazards such as  earthquakes, floods, landslides, tropical cyclone winds, storm surges, tsunami or volcanic eruptions and climate changes (see Appendix 1.1)?

. Could changes in precipitation, temperature, salinity, or  extreme events over the Project lifespan affect its sustainability or cost?

. Are there any demographic or socio-economic aspects  of the Project area that are already vulnerable (e.g. high incidence of marginalized populations, rural-urban migrants, illegal settlements, ethnic minorities, women or children)?

. Could the Project potentially increase the climate or  disaster vulnerability of the surrounding area (e.g., increasing traffic or housing in areas that will be more prone to flooding, by encouraging settlement in earthquake zones)?

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Appendix I.1 Environments, Hazards and Climate Changes

Environment Natural Hazards and Climate Change Arid/Semi-arid Low erratic rainfall of up to 500 mm rainfall per annum with periodic droughts and high rainfall and desert variability. Low vegetative cover. Resilient ecosystems & complex pastoral and systems, but environments medium certainty that 10–20% of drylands degraded; 10-30% projected decrease in water availability in next 40 years; projected increase in drought duration and severity under climate change. Increased mobilization of sand dunes and other soils as vegetation cover declines; likely overall decrease in agricultural productivity, with rain-fed agriculture yield reduced by 30% or more by 2020. Earthquakes and other geophysical hazards may also occur in these environments. Humid and sub- More than 500 mm precipitation/yr. Resilient ecosystems & complex human pastoral and humid plains, cropping systems. 10-30% projected decrease in water availability in next 40 years; projected foothills and hill increase in droughts, heatwaves and floods; increased erosion of loess-mantled landscapes by country wind and water; increased gully erosion; landslides likely on steeper slopes. Likely overall decrease in agricultural productivity & compromised food production from variability, with rain-fed agriculture yield reduced by 30% or more by 2020. Increased incidence of forest and agriculture- based insect infestations. Earthquakes and other geophysical hazards may also occur in these environments. River valleys/ River basins, deltas and estuaries in low-lying areas are vulnerable to riverine floods, storm deltas and surges associated with tropical cyclones/typhoons and sea level rise; natural (and human- estuaries and induced) subsidence resulting from sediment compaction and ground water extraction; other low-lying liquefaction of soft sediments as result of earthquake ground shaking. Tsunami possible/likely on coastal areas some coasts. Lowland agri-business and subsistence farming in these regions at significant risk.

Small islands Small islands generally have land areas of less than 10,000km2 in area, though Papua New Guinea and Timor with much larger land areas are commonly included in lists of small island developing states. Low-lying islands are especially vulnerable to storm surge, tsunami and sea- level rise and, frequently, coastal erosion, with coral reefs threatened by ocean warming in some areas. Sea level rise is likely to threaten the limited ground water resources. High islands often experience high rainfall intensities, frequent landslides and tectonic environments in which landslides and earthquakes are not uncommon with (occasional) volcanic eruptions. Small islands may have low adaptive capacity and high adaptation costs relative to GDP. Mountain Accelerated glacial melting, rockfalls/landslides and glacial lake outburst floods, leading to ecosystems increased debris flows, river bank erosion and floods and more extensive outwash plains and, possibly, more frequent wind erosion in intermontane valleys. Enhanced snow melt and fluctuating stream flows may produce seasonal floods and droughts. Melting of permafrost in some environments. Faunal and floral species migration. Earthquakes, landslides and other geophysical hazards may also occur in these environments.

Volcanic Recently active volcanoes (erupted in last 10,000 years – see www.volcano.si.edu). Often fertile environments soils with intensive agriculture and landslides on steep slopes. Subject to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions including pyroclastic flows and mudflows/lahars and/or gas emissions and occasionally widespread ashfall.

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APPENDIX 2. STAKEHOLDER SURVEY INSTRUMENT

GUIDE QUESTIONS FOR SOCIAL PERCEPTION SURVEY / PUBLIC CONSULTATION

The objective of this survey is to identify community awareness and acceptability of the proposed rehabilitation of power distribution line and to determine their awareness of environmental issues and concerns in the community. It is expected that the outcome of this survey will guide the preparation of the Environmental Management Plan and Environmental Monitoring Plan of the proposed project.

Name:

Address:

Occupation:

A. Awareness of the Project

1. Are you aware of the proposed medium-voltage power transmission line project?

2. Information on the project was known from:  EDC/REE  Village head  Commune/district head  others

3. Do you need any further information on the project?

4. What is your household’s source of electricity?  EDC/REE  Car battery  None  others

5. What is your means of fuel for cooking?  Firewood  Kerosene/gas  REE  others

B. Environmental Issues in the Community 1. What do you think are the important environmental problems of your community? Why?

    Solid waste mgt Flooding Forest fire/illegal logging others  Sanitation  No water  Wildlife hunting

2. Is the area of the proposed transmission line a route of wildlife animals? Migratory birds? __ Yes __No State animal sightings and regular season sighted.

3. Has the community experienced any environmental disaster such as flooding, earthquake, landslides, drought, etc. in recent times?  Flooding  Drought  Earthquake  others  Forest fire  Landslide

4. What are the main livelihood activities in this village?  Rice Farming  Fishing  Retail services  others

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5. What are the common diseases experienced by your household/community? (respiratory, dengue, malaria)  Dengue/Malaria  Respiratory  Common  others colds/cough

6. Is health service readily available? __ Yes __No If yes, how many? ______

7. How far is the nearest health center or hospital?  < 1 km away  1 km - 5km  > 5 km away  Not accessible

8. How do you dispose toilet wastes?  Individual HH toilets  Individual HH toilet  Communal toilet  Others with septic tank with pit latrine with pit latrine

C. Environmental Concerns on the Project

1. What do you think are the environmental issues when the project is implemented?  Cutting of  Runoff of  Flooding  Electrocution  Disposal  others trees soil from of wastes diggings by contractor  Peace and order  HIV/AIDS  Damage to crops D. Perceptions on the Project

1. What are your perceived positive benefits of the project to the community?  Comfort &  Improvement of  Progress  others convenience businesses

2. What are your perceived negative impacts of the project to the community?

3. Do you approve/disapprove the project? Why?

4. What are your recommendations/suggestions in the implementation of the project?

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APPENDIX 3: SELECTED PHOTOGRAPHS DURING PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS

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APPENDIX 4 – LIST OF PERSONS INTERVIEWED DURING PUBLIC CONSULTATION

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Summarized list of persons interviewed in Kampong Thom Province Name Function/Title District Commune Village Chum Sophon Village Chief Santuk Ti Pou Nimith Chhun Moeurn Deputy village chief Santuk Ti Pou Nimith Yai Chheourn Business owner Santuk Ti Pou Nimith Ly Sopheap Farmer Sandan Mean Chey Veal Snay Ban Pak Village chief Sandan Mean Chey Trabaek Sal Ratana Deputy village chief Prasat Sambour Sraeung Prei Kdei Chhik Eth Villager Prasat Sambour Sraeung Thmei Hy Nat Farmer Prasat Sambour Sraeung Chey Sampov Khoun Sothun Villager Prasat Sambour Koul Praek Meas Seourn Vegetable Sandan Ngan Krang Deum grower/seller Thim Yet Vegetable Sandan Ngan Rovieng grower/seller Ly Nat Villager Sandan Meanchey Popeng Summarized list of persons interviewed in Siem Reap Province Linh Vy Villager Srei Snam Tram Sar Sar Pongro Poa Saly Villager Srei Snam Tram Sar Sar Pongro Chhin Chamroeun Villager Srei Snam Tram Sar Sar Pongro Song Theoun Villager Srei Snam Prei Prei Muoy Bou Pheng Villager Srei Snam Prei Prei Pi Lach Reab Villager Svay Leu Khnang Phnum Preah Ang Thum Lach Rath Villager Svay Leu Khnang Phnum Anlong Thum Lach Sam Ang Villager Angkor Thum Leang Dai Spean Thmei Summarized list of persons interviewed in Banteay Meanchey Province Venerable Sarom Monk Poi Paet Nimith Soriya Peou Yin Deputy village chief Poi Paet Nimith Soriya Mai Moang Villager Poi Paet Nimith Soriya Eng Chhert Villager Poi Paet Nimith Soriya Hach Neam Villager Poi Paet Nimith Soriya Yim Seourn Villager Poi Paet Nimith Soriya Preab Sann Villager Poi Paet Nimith Soriya Lorn Lach Villager Poi Paet Nimith Soriya Lao Lang Villager Poi Paet Nimith Soriya Nak Sour Villager Poi Paet Nimith Soriya Bin Samorn Villager Poi Paet Nimith Soriya Seoung Penghong Villager Poi Paet Nimith Soriya Summarized list of persons interviewed in Kandal Province Mam Sareourn Village chief Ponhea Leu Tomnub Thom Lvea Chum Pheourk Commune council Ponhea Leu Tomnub Thom Lvea Thab Thun Villager Ang Snoul Mkak Traeng Soun Nary Villager Ang Snoul Mkak Srae Kandol Nok Oul Villager Reussei Keo Bakheng Prek Thmei Huot Ou Business owner Reussei Keo Bakheng Kroam Vann Hun Business owner Reussei Keo Bakheng Kdei Chas Heng Bunthan Villager Kien Svay Dei Eth Koah Po Chhum Kimsan Villager Kien Svay Kokir Ta Reab Don Sar Kuoch Veoung Villager Takhmao Takhmao Kampong Samnanh Touch Sareth Farmer Takhmao Kampong Prek Reng Samnanh Chet Soben Farmer Takhmao Kampong Khpob Samnanh

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APPENDIX 5 – PROJECT ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRESS AND MONITORING REPORT

1. Introduction 1.1. Report Purpose 1.2. Project Overview 1.3. Project Implementation Progress

2. Incorporation of Environmental Requirements into Project Contractual Arrangements Manner by which EMP requirements are incorporated into contractual arrangements, such as with contractors or other parties.

3. Summary of Environmental Mitigations and Compensation Measures Implemented Based on EMP; may include measures related to air quality, water quality, noise quality, pollution prevention, biodiversity and natural resources, health and safety, physical cultural resources, capacity building, and others.

4. Summary of Environmental Compliance Monitoring 4.1. Summary of Inspection Activities 4.2. Mitigation Compliance29 4.3. Mitigation Effectiveness30

5. Key Environmental Issues 5.1.1. Key Issues Identified 5.1.2. Action Taken 5.1.3. Additional Action Required

6. Conclusion 6.1. Overall Progress of Implementation of Environmental Management Measures31

29 Overall compliance with mitigation implementation requirements could be described in qualitative terms or be evaluated based on a ranking system, such as the following: 1. Very Good (all required mitigations implemented) 2. Good (the majority of required mitigations implemented) 3. Fair (some mitigations implemented) 4. Poor (few mitigations implemented) 5. Very Poor (very few or no mitigations implemented) Additional explanatory comments should be provided as necessary.

30 Effectiveness of mitigation implementation could be described in qualitative terms or be evaluated based on a ranking system, such as the following: 1. Very Good (mitigations are fully effective) 2. Good (mitigations are generally effective) 3. Fair (mitigations are partially effective) 4. Poor (mitigations are generally ineffective) 5. Very Poor (mitigations are completely ineffective) Additional explanatory comments should be provided as necessary.

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6.2. Problems Identified and Actions Recommended

Appendices 1. Site Inspection / Monitoring Reports 2. Ambient Monitoring Results 3. Photographs 4. Others

31 Overall sector environmental management progress could be described in qualitative terms or be evaluated based on a ranking system, such as the following: 1. Very Good 2. Good 3. Fair 4. Poor 5. Very Poor Additional explanatory comments should be provided as necessary.

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Environmental Monitoring Checklist Template

PROJECT: MONITOR (S) NAMES: CONTRACTOR NAME: MONITORING TIMING: WEATHER CONDITIONS: MONITORING DATE:

White columns to be filled up based on Contract / EMP. Shaded columns to be filled in by monitor.

Environmental Specific Compliant Follow-Up Actions Impact/issue Date Item Mitigation Measures Yes/No Remarks Needed Contract/EMP Monitored Ref (dd/mm/yy)

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Environmental Compliance Inspection and Monitoring Form

Project : Implementing Agency : ______

Sub-Project : Monitoring Agency : ______

Location : Enforcement Agency : ______

Date : Contractor(s) : ______

Reporting Period : Implementation Phase: Preconstruction / Construction / Operation

1. Contractor(s) Contractor Response / Contractor(s) Environmental Awareness Yes / No Actions Required Comment

Contractor(s) aware of mitigation requirements?

Contractor(s) have a copy of EMP?

2. Mitigation Compliance Inspection Impact / Mitigation Mitigations Mitigations Endorsed by: Impact Observed Action Required Contractor Measure Implemented Effective? / Location Response / (From EMP) (Yes, No) (1 to 5)* Monitoring Comment Implementing Agency Agency

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Mitigation Effectiveness Rating Criteria (Indicative examples) 1. Very Good (all required mitigations implemented) 2. Good ( the majority of required mitigations implemented) 3. Fair (some mitigations implemented) 4. Poor (few mitigations implemented) 5. Very Poor (very few mitigations implemented)

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3. Environmental Incidents During Reporting Period (if relevant) Endorsed by: Environmental Incidents Date / Reported Description / Action Taken Further Action Required (accidents, spills, complaint) Location by Location Implementing Monitoring Agency Agency

4. Summary of Actions Required and Follow-up (if relevant) Action Required Timeframe Follow-up Responsible Parties (e.g. within one week) (to be completed if inspection/monitoring indicates actions are required) Required Action Taken:

Effectiveness:

Further Action Required?:

Prepared by:

Date:

Inspection Completed by:______Date:______Signature: ______Attachments: (e.g. notes, photographs)

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