50387-001: Irrigation Rehabilitation Project

Home , Aksuat, Altai Town, Ayagoz, Bukhtarma, Karatal, Lake Alakol

Initial Environmental Examination

August 2019

KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Project

East Kazakhstan Province Subprojects

Project No. 50387-001

Prepared by the Republican State Enterprise “KazvodKhoz”, Republic of Kazakhstan, for the Asian Development Bank.

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

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Table of Contents Abbreviations and Acronyms ...... i Executive Summary ...... 1 1. Introduction ...... 1 2. Description of the Project ...... 1 3. Key findings ...... 2 4. Public Consultation Process ...... 3 5. Recommended actions ...... 3 A. Introduction ...... 4 A.1. Purpose of the report ...... 4 A.2. Category of Project ...... 5 A.3. Project proponent ...... 5 A.4. Nature, size, and location of the subprojects ...... 6 A.5. IEE Boundaries ...... 6 A.6. Methodology applied ...... 7 A.7. Constraints and limitations ...... 7 A.8. Structure of the report ...... 8 B. Legal, policy and administrative framework ...... 9 B.1. General ...... 9 B.2. Country policies and administrative framework ...... 9 B.2.1. Overall legal framework ...... 9 B.2.2. Environmental Impact Assessment ...... 9 B.2.3. Administrative Framework ...... 10 B.3. Air, Water, Land and Noise Legislation ...... 11 B.3.1. Air Quality Legislation ...... 11 B.3.2. Water Quality Legislation ...... 12 B.3.3. Health and Safety...... 14 B.3.4. Physical Cultural Heritage ...... 14 B.3.5. Waste ...... 15 B.3.6. International Conventions and Treaties ...... 17 B.4. Environmental Quality Standards ...... 19 B.4.1. Air Quality Standards ...... 19 B.4.2. Water Quality Standards ...... 19 B.4.3. Noise Standards ...... 23 B.5. ADB Safeguard Policy Statement 2009 ...... 24 C. Project Description ...... 28 C.1. Irrigation Rehabilitation Project ...... 28 C.2. Need for the Project ...... 30 C.3. Location and scope ...... 30 C.3.1. Subprojects location in East-Kazakhstan Province ...... 30 C.3.2 Scope of works ...... 34 C.4. Description of Typical Works ...... 36 C.4.1. Mechanical Cleaning ...... 36 C.4.2. Concrete Lining ...... 38 C.5. Alternatives...... 41 C.5.1 Lined vs. unlined canals alternatives ...... 41 C.5.2 “No project” alternative ...... 41 C.5.3. Geogrids Alternative...... 42 D. Description of the Environment ...... 47 D.1. Physical Resources ...... 47 D.1.1 Topography, geology and soils ...... 47 D.1.2 Climate ...... 50 D.1.3 Air quality ...... 52 D.1.4 Hydrological resources and surface water quality ...... 53 D.1.5. Natural Hazards ...... 60

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

D.1.6. Radiation ...... 61 D.1.7 Flora and fauna ...... 62 D.1.8 Protected areas ...... 63 D.2. Socio-Economic Development ...... 71 D.2.1. Industries and Agriculture ...... 71 D.2.2. Current Status of Irrigation and Drainage Infrastructure ...... 73 D.2.3. Current Cropping Pattern...... 73 D.2.4. Current Crop Yields ...... 73 D.2.5. Noncrop Agricultural Production ...... 74 D.2.6. Current Situation of Marketing ...... 74 D.3. Infrastructure and Transportation facilities ...... 74 D.4. Social and Cultural Resources ...... 74 D.4.1 Population and communities ...... 74 D.4.2 Health & Education facilities ...... 75 D.4.3. Ethnic Groups ...... 76 D.4.4. Languages ...... 77 D.4.5. Religion ...... 77 D.5. Public cultural resources ...... 77 E. Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures ...... 79 E.1. Impacts ...... 79 E.1.1. Types of Project Impacts ...... 79 E 1.2. Positive Project’s Impacts ...... 80 E.2. Anticipated Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures ...... 81 E.2.1. Design / Pre-construction Phase ...... 81 E.2.2. Construction phase ...... 81 E 2.3. Operation Phase ...... 89 F. Environmental Management Plan ...... 103 F.1. EMP implementation responsibilities...... 103 F.2. EMP Costs ...... 119 G. Public Consultation, Information Disclosure & Grievance Mechanism .... 121 G.1. Public Consultations and Information Disclosure...... 121 G.2. Grievance Redress Mechanism...... 121 G.2.1. Three levels of grievance resolution ...... 122 H. Conclusions and Recommendations ...... 124 H.1. Conclusions ...... 124 H.2. Recommendations ...... 124 APPENDICES ...... 125 Appendix A: Location Maps ...... 125 Appendix B: Photographs ...... 135 Appendix C: Settlements Along the Canals ...... 140 Appendix D: Public Consultations ...... 141 Appendix E: Typical Cross Sections ...... 159 Appendix F: Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) Checklist ...... 160

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

List of Tables Table 1: Summary of Final Project Area ...... 2 Table 2: List of subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province...... 6 Table 3: Air quality legislation ...... 11 Table 4: Water quality legislation ...... 13 Table 5: International Conventions and Treaties ...... 17 Table 6: Air quality standards in Kazakhstan ...... 19 Table 7: List of Pollutants and Maximum Permissible Concentrations (MPC) Polluting the Surface Waters of the Republic of Kazakhstan ...... 20 Table 8: Recommended Maximum Concentrations of Trace Elements in Irrigation Water ...... 21 Table 9: Soil quality standards in Kazakhstan ...... 22 Table 10: IFC Noise Level Guidelines ...... 23 Table 11: IFC Work Environment Noise limits ...... 24 Table 12: Project scope ...... 29 Table 13: Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province ...... 29 Table 14: Water river systems of East Kazakhstan Province Project Area ...... 31 Table 15: East-Kazakhstan province quantities for Infrastructure Rehabilitation and Improvement .... 35 Table 16: Quantities of works and structures to be rehabilitated under the Project in selected districts of East-Kazakhstan province per districts ...... 35 Table 17: Technological process of weeds removal from canal side slopes and banks in the earthen channel ...... 37 Table 18: Comparison of Steel Reinforced and Geogrid Reinforced Concrete ...... 46 Table 19: Meteorological characteristics in target districts of the Project ...... 51 Table 20: List of irrigation canals and rivers feeding canals ...... 55 Table 21: General classification of water bodies by pollution level in Kazakhstan ...... 58 Table 22: Water Quality in Subprojects’ Rivers and Lakes ...... 58 Table 23: Economic data of Project districts in East-Kazakhstan province ...... 72 Table 24: Crop Yields in East Kazakhstan Province ...... 73 Table 25: Education and health statistics in selected subproject areas ...... 76 Table 26: Environmental Aspects ...... 79 Table 27: Summary of probable residual impacts ...... 80 Table 28: Typical hazard scenarios and recommended measures ...... 93 Table 29: Environmental Impacts and proposed mitigation measures for East-Kazakhstan Province 95 Table 30: Environmental Management Plan ...... 104 Table 31: EMP Mitigation Costs ...... 119 Table 32: GRM levels and composition of the GRCs ...... 123

List of Figures Figure 1: Project districts in East Kazakhstan Province (blue stars) ...... 31 Figure 2: Location of Core Irrigation Systems in East Kazakhstan Province ...... 33 Figure 3: Cleaning of earthen channel...... 36 Figure 4: Tower Concrete Mixing Plants ...... 39 Figure 5: Geogrid’s rib formation in machine and cross machine directions of manufacturing process ...... 43 Figure 6: A representation of Geogrid Confining the aggregates ...... 43 Figure 7: Improvement of Bearing Capacity ...... 44 Figure 8: Mechanism for Improved Bearing Capacity ...... 44 Figure 9: Lateral Restraining Capability ...... 45 Figure 10: Topography of Kazakhstan and East-Kazakhstan Province ...... 48 Figure 11: Topography of East-Kazakhstan ...... 48 Figure 12: Main River Basins of Kazakhstan ...... 54 Figure 13: Seismic Hazard Map ...... 61 Figure 14: Meteorological stations monitoring radiation in East Kazakhstan province ...... 62 Figure 15: View of Markakol state natural reserve...... 64 Figure 16: Landscapes of Western-Altai Nature reserve ...... 65 Figure 17: Protected areas of Kazakhstan ...... 66 Figure 18: Protected areas of Kazakhstan ...... 67 Figure 19: Map of Semey Ormany State Forest Natural Reserve (Zharma is in green) ...... 69

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Figure 20: Important Bird Area (just to the north of the Subproject area) ...... 70 Figure 21: Typical cross section for earth bed channels...... 159 Figure 22: Typical cross section of a concrete lined channel...... 159

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Abbreviations and Acronyms

ADB Asian Development Bank

Akimat Town Mayor Office

CAREC Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation Program

CFW Committee for Forestry and Wildlife

CO Carbon monoxide

CO2 Carbon Dioxide

CWR Committee for Water Resources

dBA decibel

DOE Department of Environment (Province level)

EA Executing Agency

EARF Environmental Assessment and Review Framework

EC Environmental Code

EIA Environmental Impact Assessment

EMP Environmental Management Plan

EO Environment Officer

ERP Emergency Response Plan

ES Executive Summary

FS Feasibility Study

GoK Government of Kazakhstan

GOST Technical Standard

GRC Grievance Redress Committees

GRM Grievance Redress Mechanism

Ha Hectare

HSP Health and Safety Plan

IBA Important Bird Area

IFI International Financing Institution

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

IEE Initial Environmental Examination

IUCN International Union for the Conservation of Nature

km Kilometer

km2 Square kilometer

KVK KazVodKhoz

LARP Land Acquisition and Resettlement Plan

M Meter

M2 Square meter

M3 Cubic Meter

MAC Maximum Allowable Concentrations

MPE Maximum Permissible Emission

MoA Ministry of Agriculture

MoE Ministry of Energy

NGO Non-Governmental Organization

NOx Nitrogen oxides

Province Province

OM Operational Manual (of ADB)

OVOS EIA according to the Kazakhstan’s legislation

PAH Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons

Pb Lead

PC Public Consultation

PCR Physical and Cultural Resources

PEIA Preliminary Environmental Assessment

PM Particulate matter

PMU Project Management Unit

PPE Personal Protective Clothing

PPTA Project Preparatory Technical Assistance (Concept Paper)

Rayon District

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

SanPiN Sanitary Regulations and Standards

SES Sanitary and Epidemiological Services of MoHSD

SSEMP Site Specific Environmental Management Plan

SO2 Sulphur Dioxide

TEPO Territorial Environmental Protection Offices

ToR Terms of Reference

TSP Total Suspended Particulates

USD United States Dollar

VER Valued Environmental Receptor

WB World Bank

WHO World Health Organization

WMP Waste Management Plan

°C Degrees Celsius

Currency Exchange Rates as of 10 June 2019: 1 US$ = 383.34 T (Kazakhstan Tenge) ($ refers in this report to US-Dollars)

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TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Executive Summary

1. Introduction

1. The present Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) of the subprojects in East- Kazakhstan Province is prepared under the proposed Irrigation Rehabilitation Project to meet requirements of ADB’s Guidelines and Safeguard Policy Statement (SPS 2009), as well as to comply with environmental legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan. 2. The IEE was prepared to: • identify potential direct, indirect, cumulative, and induced environmental impacts and risks that may emerge due to implementation of East-Kazakhstan subprojects; • analyze subprojects’ alternatives of location, design and technical solutions, including “no project” option; • develop general Environmental Management Plan (EMP) that will include proposed mitigation, monitoring and reporting measures, institutional and organizational arrangements, and capacity development and training provisions, to be included into subproject design package and further implemented by contractor; • describe undertaken consultations with stakeholders, information disclosure and propose grievance redress procedures for East-Kazakhstan subprojects.

2. Description of the Project

3. The proposed Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project (hereinafter – project) is being prepared as part of Kazakhstan Government’s “State Program on Development of Agricultural Industry for 2017-2021”1 in an effort to further diversify economy, lessen dependence on export of mineral resources, provide employment opportunities in rural areas, decrease poverty, and strengthen food security. The proposed project to be financed under ADB loan stipulates rehabilitation and modernization of agricultural irrigation infrastructure in order to return into operation currently unused 171,100 ha of previously irrigated agricultural lands in East-Kazakhstan, Kyzylorda, Karaghandy, and Zhambyl provinces. Most of the irrigation infrastructure in Kazakhstan, which was built in the past century (1960-80s), has deteriorated over time after collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. Disassembly of the past soviet system of agricultural collective farms (kolkhoz) led to lack of proper management of water resources, abandonment of irrigation infrastructure, and its subsequent deterioration due to absence of capital investments. 4. In order to bring irrigation infrastructure into efficient systemic management at national level, asset ownership and operational responsibility for republican bulk water storage, transportation, irrigation and drainage systems are currently being transferred from various national and local agencies to Republican State Enterprise “KazVodKhoz” (KVK), a government owned utility that was established in 2011 by merging several state enterprises. Committee for Water Resources of the Ministry of Agriculture is the Implementing Agency and the administrator of KVK from the government side. KVK is the Executing Agency for the proposed project. 5. Technical Assistance TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project was provided by ADB in May 2017. TRTA team was created to develop project’s Feasibility Study and to undertake project management requirements, including financial management, procurement and safeguard due diligence. As of November 2018, national design entity

1 Decree of the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan No. 423 dated July 12, 2018. http://adilet.zan.kz/rus/docs/P1800000423 1

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

“Ulmad” LLP that was recruited under the TRTA has finalized Feasibility Study of the project and submitted it for the State Expertise – a mandatory approval process for project development and implementation in Kazakhstan. 6. Following subprojects in four Provinces to be designed and implemented under the project are presented below. Table 1: Summary of Final Project Area2

Province Number of Area, ha schemes Total Irrigation Area to be System Area Rehabilitated East Kazakhstan 22 104,717 79,256 Karaghandy 10 68,786 27,900 Kyzylorda 11 228,394 28,974 Zhambyl 202 63,191 34,977 PROJECT TOTAL 245 465,088 171,107

7. This IEE is prepared for 7 subprojects, which are located in 6 districts of East- Kazakhstan Province.

3. Key findings

8. As a result of this IEE, it can be concluded that East-Kazakhstan subprojects corresponds to Environmental Category B project as defined in ADB SPS (2009). 9. The IEE established that there were no significant environmental issues that could not be either prevented or adequately mitigated to levels acceptable to Kazakhstan and international standards. A complete Environmental Management Plan has been prepared, with tables listing mitigation measures and monitoring actions to be undertaken during the preconstruction, detailed design, construction and operating period of the project. 10. Although most of the proposed works are fairly small scale, they could generate adverse environmental impacts: (i) water and air pollution; (ii) noise; (iii) soil erosion; (iv) dumping of excavated sediments and other materials from irrigation; and (v) drainage channels, structures; occupational hazards, etc. 11. At the same time, the project will bring several positive environmental and social impacts, and in particular, reduction in: (i) water logging, (ii) salinization and water losses; (iii) improved irrigation distribution; (iv) reduction in seepage losses from main canal; (v) loss of lands; (vi) erosion of soil and (vii) over-supply of irrigation, with a beneficial effect for the area - a lower water table, a lower risk of salinity, and less stagnant water pools in the village causing health problems. 12. Direct positive impacts will be also generated by increased production, more employment and increased income, increased climate resiliency and adaptation capacity. 13. There are 11 protected areas in East-Kazakhstan province, 5 of them are located in Zharma, Kokpekti, Kurchum, Tarbagatai and Zaisan districts and special attention should be paid during the design phase to borders of buffer zones of protected areas in order to prevent any adverse impact.

2 Source: KVK Regional Offices estimates. 2

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province 4. Public Consultation Process

14. First set of stakeholder consultations were undertaken in November 2018 only for Zharma district of the East-Kazakhstan province where initially pilot sub-project was proposed. Second set of consultations were conducted in February 2019 in Ust-Kamenogorsk city to cover all of 6 districts of East-Kazakhstan Province. During the meetings the project has been introduced, the IEE process explained and potential impacts discussed as well as recommendations, comments and concerns/complaints have been collected. The consultations with villagers, local officials and government representatives identified that all possible adverse environmental impacts could mitigated by measures proposed herewith. The consultations with the East-Kazakhstan Province Department for Natural Resources, Department of Forestry and Wildlife, and Ertis river Basin Inspection did not reveal any specific environmental issues that would result from Project works. 15. The communities support the proposed project activities. They welcomed the project activities and outcomes and expressed their desire that the project will be carried in accordance with the requirements of the national and international legislation in the social and environmental sphere. 16. On the basis of the consultations and the site visit to the project areas it appears that the project will have no insurmountable environmental impacts, but more potential positive social and environmental impacts. The overall process and results are described in the main text of this report.

5. Recommended actions

17. Implementation of the EMPs is required and the environmental impacts associated mainly with the construction of the subprojects need to be properly mitigated. 18. When the detailed designs are completed the impacts and mitigation measures will need to be further reviewed to take account of how the contracts are set up and in the light of any fine tuning of the project proposal, thus the revised and adapted IEEs/EMMP must be an integral part of the construction contracts. Relevant SSEMPs to be prepared by Contractors. 19. During the preparation for the project construction phase the future contractors must be notified and prepared to co-operate with the executing agency, project management, supervising consultants and local population in the mitigation of impacts. 20. To ensure that all of the above mitigation actions are completed according to the requirements of the EMP, monitoring shall be undertaken of by the responsible Engineer and by independent monitoring specialists. Specifically, both observational monitoring and instrumental monitoring shall be undertaken. 21. Special care needs to be taken to prevent grievances, especially during construction. Proper communication and participation before and during the rehabilitation works for the pilot objects will identify possible potential disturbances and thus the EMP and construction plan can be adjusted accordingly. Grievance Redress Mechanism was developed, and responsible officers were officially assigned at district, Province and Central levels governing authorities, Project Management and Supervision, as well as KVK. Complaints and grievances due to planning, construction and operation will be addressed at the districts and community administration level by Contractor, Supervision Consultant, and KVK branch. If unsuccessful, grievances will be forwarded to Province and Central levels within set timeframes.

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province A. Introduction

22. Republic of Kazakhstan has a large territory with a significant distance between large industrial cities. In Soviet times with central planning, industrial cities were supplied with agricultural products from the southern provinces of Kazakhstan and boundary provinces of Uzbekistan and Russia, while there were no borders between the republics, there were no customs fees or other taxes. Nowadays foodstuffs and other agricultural products imported from abroad are very expensive for residents of Kazakhstan due to transportation costs and all kinds of taxes and fees. 23. President of the Republic of Kazakhstan has set a task: to rehabilitate irrigated agriculture in the provinces of Kazakhstan to a level that will ensure food independence of the country with maximum use of land, water and other natural resources both through domestic resources and investments of international financial institutions. 24. As a part of the Kazakhstan Government’s “State Program on Development of Agricultural Industry for 2017–2021”, under the indicator of rehabilitation of unused in-demand areas of regular irrigation RSE Kazvodhoz is taking measures to rehabilitate currently unused irrigated areas in the Republic of Kazakhstan with total area over 617.0 thsd ha. 25. Over the post-Soviet period due to inadequate attention to the problems of water management in the republic, an existing irrigation network, especially the on-farm part, has been almost completely destroyed. Due to insufficient funding, communally and privately owned main and interfarm irrigation networks also require capital repairs and reconstruction. As a result, a part of land fund remains unused, since there is no connection with an irrigation source. 26. Irrigated agriculture is the most water-intensive sectors of economy of the republic. At present, a significant part of water resources is wasted on process losses (filtration, evaporation) at canals. At the same time, irrigated areas located in the tail of inter-farm and on-farm canals, as a rule, are under-irrigated, in other words they lack water, proving a low technical level of irrigation systems. 27. There is a need for an integrated modernization of irrigation systems, particularly rehabilitation and modernization of pump stations, pipelines and open canals, and rehabilitation of irrigated areas in 4 provinces of the Republic of Kazakhstan with a total irrigated area of 171,100 ha. 28. To increase the production of agricultural products, it will be necessary to expand the irrigated areas, which, in turn, can be achieved by increasing irrigation water supply up to 15.34 bln m3 by restoring and modernizing water management, irrigation and drainage infrastructure. 29. In this regard, the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan has applied to the Asian Development Bank (ADB or Bank) for a loan equivalent to USD 249.80 million to finance a project aimed at the rehabilitation of water management, irrigation and drainage systems in East Kazakhstan, Karaghandy, Kyzylorda and Zhambyl provinces (Project). 30. The scope of project will mainly focus on rehabilitation of existing irrigation systems to the standard levels for in-demand areas of regular irrigation.

A.1. Purpose of the report

31. The Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) of the subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province is conducted as part of preparation of the proposed Irrigation Rehabilitation Project (hereinafter – the Project) to meet requirements of ADB’s Guidelines and Safeguard Policy Statement (SPS 2009), as well as to comply with environmental legislation of the Republic of

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Kazakhstan. The IEE covers all proposed physical activities under the project, including all canals, hydraulic structures, pumping stations, and pipelines. Due to vast spreading of the subprojects throughout the country and for practical convenience, the IEE was split into 4 reports based on geographical divisions, with each IEE covering one of four Provinces under the project: East-Kazakhstan, Karaghandy, Kyzylorda, and Zhambyl. 32. The present IEE report covers 7 subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province with the aim to: • describe the existing socio-environmental conditions within the Project area; • identify potential direct, indirect, cumulative, and induced environmental impacts and risks that may emerge due to subprojects implementation; • analyze subprojects’ alternatives of location, design and technical solutions, including “no project” option; • develop Environmental Management Plan (EMP) that will include proposed mitigation measures, monitoring program and reporting requirements, institutional and organizational arrangements, capacity development and training provisions; • describe grievance redress procedures under the Project.

A.2. Category of Project

33. Rapid Environmental Assessment checklists (see in Appendix 1), review of National Feasibility Study report, together with several site visits to most of the 3,434.96 km of project canals and pipelines, as well as review of their location vicinities through Google Earth and other GIS services were used to assign the category of the Project. Based on the existing ADB Environmental Safeguards Policy (2009), this Project falls under ADB’s project Category B. According to ADB SPS 2009 proposed project can be classified as Category B due to the following reasons: • adverse environmental impacts are less adverse than those of category A projects; • these impacts are site-specific, few if any of them are irreversible, and • in most cases mitigation measures can be designed more readily than for category A projects. 34. An initial environmental examination is required for category B projects. A category is assigned to a project by its most sensitive component, therefore, all of the outputs and activities to be undertaken under the Project fall under Category B as well.

A.3. Project proponent

35. The Project proponent is the Government of Kazakhstan (GoK) acting through its Ministry of Agriculture (MoA). The Implementing Agency (IA) is the Committee for Water Resources (CWR) of MoA and the Executing Agency (EA) is Republican State Enterprise “KazVodKhoz” (KVK). KVK is a government owned company that was established in 2011 by merging several state branch enterprises under the Committee for Water Resources related to water resources management. In order to bring irrigation infrastructure into efficient systemic management at national level, asset ownership of and operational responsibility for republican bulk water storage, transportation, irrigation and drainage systems are currently being transferred from various national and local agencies to KVK. 36. Nowadays "KazVodKhoz" is the major state supplier of drinking and irrigation water in the Republic of Kazakhstan. The company is responsible for the proper operation of 77 reservoirs of various capacities, 81 water catchment systems, more than 10,000 km of pipeline canals and their distributors and more than 2,000 km of irrigation network. Every year RSE "KazVodKhoz" concludes canal water supply contracts with water users, such as cooperatives, limited liability partnerships, peasant and farm enterprises, industrial 5

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province enterprises, municipal water companies, state institutions and other legal entities. Canal water supply services provided by RSE "KazVodKhoz" fall under natural monopoly.

A.4. Nature, size, and location of the subprojects

37. ADB funds will be used to finance activities on rehabilitation of 7 subprojects’ 22 irrigation schemes with total of 98 canals located in 6 districts of East-Kazakhstan Province (Table 2). Total length of concrete lined canals—436.12 km and earthen canals—364.92 km. 98 head structures with fish protection and flow metering structures, as well as 1,132 water outlets are planned for rehabilitation.

Table 2: List of subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province Number of Province / Subproject District schemes East-Kazakhstan Province 22 1 Kurchum Subproject Kurchum district 2 2 Kitaika Subproject Kurchum district 6 3 Tarbagatay Subproject Tarbagatay district 3 4 Urdzhar Subproject Urdzhar district 8 5 Zharma Subproject Zharma district 1 6 Zaysan Subproject Zaysan district 1 7 Kokpekti Subproject Kokpekti district 1

A.5. IEE Boundaries

38. For the purpose of the IEE, physical area considered as potentially being affected by the subprojects in 6 districts of East-Kazakhstan province, covering I&D facilities serving to 82,247 ha, which include: • areas of direct impacts due to construction activities and their vicinity, including: o 98 canals to be reconstructed with total length of 801 km; o construction sites for reconstruction of hydraulic structures; o access roads along canals and construction sites; o dumpsite for construction and household wastes; o borrow pits and quarries used as material sources; o any other sites to be used by contractor, such as sites for labor camp, concrete batching plant, temporary material stockpiling and storage areas, etc.; • areas of indirect impacts, including: o water sources and receivers, such as rivers, streams, creeks, water reservoirs, and their aquatic habitats; o vicinity of affected water bodies, such as riparian habitats in river valleys, water reservoir shorelines, tree belts along creeks; o 82,247 ha of lands to be recovered for irrigation; o all adjacent lands potentially subject to pollution with dust generated by construction activities; o all adjacent lands potentially subject to waterlogging and salinization, especially in downstream, suppressed, and lower parts of irrigated cluster; o downstream water users. 39. During detail project design and further project implementation, other actively used remote sites can be included into consideration of subproject’s environmental impact 6

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province assessment and scope of mitigation measures in contractor’s EMP, such as material borrow pits and quarries, waste dumps, concrete production facilities, labor camps, etc.

A.6. Methodology applied

40. The methodology is based on the ADB SPS (2009). It included following tasks: • to collect baseline data, • to conduct public consultation, • to assess impacts, • to analyze alternatives, • to conduct baseline analysis. 41. Environmental assessment was made through desk studies and field visits, quantitative data were preferred where possible. Background data and information was obtained from published and unpublished sources, (e.g., on climate, topography, hydrology, geology and soils, natural resources, flora and fauna, agriculture, and socio-economic data). 42. Several site inspections were conducted jointly by Regional Environmental Specialist and National Counterparts during November 2018 - February 2019. The areas of irrigation schemes and areas of potential environmental significance assessed carefully. 43. Meetings were held with authorities responsible for environmental management, forestry and wildlife, and water basin inspection at local and Province level to gather maps and data related to the subproject area, and to get their perspective on the subproject’s impacts. The main information was acquired from the Projects’ Feasibility Study and its annexes, including minutes of meetings and letters related to projects’ decision-making process. 44. Different data was gathered throughout internet resources, including websites of environmental authorities, legislative databases, websites of legally protected areas, monitoring data from national hydro-meteorological service of Kazakhstan - “Kazhydromet”, as well as other published scientific literature, news, and reports from similar projects. Some environmental data was acquired via official requests through KVK from State Natural Forest Reserve “Semey Ormany”, whose “core zone” is rather far from the subproject area >100 km to Semey city, but whose “buffer zone” is close to several canals in Zharma district. Canals’ and facilities locations were put as overlay into Google Earth to account for surroundings of environmental, social and resettlement significance. 45. Data and expert input were also obtained from other PPTA specialists. Public consultations were held at Kalbatau village of Zharma district, as well as in Oskemen in period from November 2018 to February 2019 to present initial findings on impacts and proposed mitigation measures, receive feedback from local community and future users of the irrigation water on accepted environmental measures.

A.7. Constraints and limitations

46. The present stage of the project is Feasibility Study and detail design with final technical decisions on canal types (unlined / lined), excavation and filling of soils, sources of materials, borrow pits, quarries, labor accommodation may differ from currently accepted scope of works, thus, leading to potential changes in impacts and mitigation measures. In case of unexpected changes in impacts, additional environmental assessment process and development of mitigation measures should be conducted for any new impacts. However, such changes, if any, most likely will be insignificant in the context of general impact of the Project.

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

47. The IEE and EMP will be updated during Detailed Design stage based on final technical decisions, such as on list of included canals, their length, type of lining, and sensitive receptors in their vicinity.

A.8. Structure of the report

48. The report is organized to comply with ADB Safeguard Policies (2009) as follows: • Section A: Introduction – The section in hand provides the introductory information for the Project. • Section B: Legal, Policy and Administrative Framework - This section presents an overview of the policy/legislative framework as well as the environmental assessment guidelines of Kazakhstan that apply to the proposed project. The section also identifies relevant Asian Development Bank Safeguard Policies that will apply. • Section C: Description of the Project – Section C describes the Project and the need for the Project. A detailed scope of works is also provided indicating the type of engineering works required. The final portion of this section discusses Project alternatives. • Section D: Description of the Environment – This section of the report discusses the regional and local environmental baseline conditions. • Section E: Screening of Potential Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures – Section E outlines the potential environmental impacts and proposes mitigation measures to manage the impacts. • Section F: Environmental Management Plan & Institutional Requirements – This section provides the EMP for the design, construction and operational phases of the Project. • Section G: Public Consultation, Information Disclosure & Grievance Mechanism – Section G provides a summary of all of the stakeholder consultation activities undertaken. A grievance mechanism for project affected persons is also provided along with information regarding the disclosure process. • Section H: Conclusions and Recommendations – The final section of the report provides the report conclusions and any necessary recommendations.

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province B. Legal, policy and administrative framework

B.1. General

49. This section presents an overview of legal, policy and administrative framework of the subproject, including national requirements for environmental assessment and water resources management, as well as ADB’s requirements that will be applicable to the subproject. The subproject will be required to comply with all applicable international agreements, national legislation, and ADB’s requirements.

B.2. Country policies and administrative framework

B.2.1. Overall legal framework 50. The overarching legislative framework that establishes the legal framework for environmental protection in Kazakhstan is the Environmental Code, adopted on January 9, 2007 with latest amendments and additions on October 10, 2018.3 Three main laws (the Law on Environmental Protection, the Law on Ecological Expertise and the Law on Air Protection) were abrogated subsequent to their integration into the Environmental Code. Moreover, some 80 normative legal acts were abrogated after the adoption of the Environmental Code. 51. Detail standards, such as requirements to air, water, soil quality, calculation of emissions from different sources, classification of environmental and sanitary hazards of different production facilities, environmental monitoring, sanitary-epidemiological standards, hygienic norms for indoors and outdoors, health and safety at workplace, etc. are established by different regulations, instructions, rules, procedures, norms, methodologies and other types of documents enacted through orders, laws, and decrees of Presidential, Governmental, Ministerial or regional levels. 52. The Water Code establishes requirements to sustainable management of all water resources in the Republic of Kazakhstan for public, industrial and environmental needs; requirements to protection of water resources from pollution, contamination, and depletion; provisions for prevention and recovery from adverse impacts of water bodies (such as floods); and ensures enforcement and compliance to water legislation in water relations4. 53. The Forest Code regulates public relations in ownership, use, and management of all forests in the Republic of Kazakhstan, as well as establishes legal grounds for protection, preservation, regeneration, and sustainable management of forest reserves. Its ultimate goal is to preserve available forested areas and constantly increase them at national level5. Any cutting of trees under the Project shall be performed only based on a pre-issued “tree felling permit”. 54. The Land Code regulates legal grounds for ownership of lands and land relations in the Republic of Kazakhstan; establishes types of land use; provides protection of soil fertility; provides equal development of all types of industries; ensures land rights, and enforcement of compliance to land legislation6.

B.2.2. Environmental Impact Assessment 55. According to Article 36 of the Environmental Code, development of EIA (OVOS) is mandatory for all types of activities and projects that can have direct or indirect impact on environment or human health. All projects should pass through a process of State Expertise

3 Latest version in Russian: http://adilet.zan.kz/rus/docs/K070000212_ 4 Latest version in Russian: http://adilet.zan.kz/rus/docs/K030000481_ 5 Latest version in Russian: http://adilet.zan.kz/rus/docs/K030000477_ 6 Latest version in Russian: http://adilet.zan.kz/rus/docs/K030000442_ 9

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province in order to get clearance for implementation. Project design package that is submitted for clearance should include section on “Environment Protection”. 56. The Decree No.204-p of the Ministry of Environmental Protection of GoK (June 28, 2007 with latest amendments and additions on 17 June 2016) on “Approval of the instruction on conducting environmental impact assessment” establishes requirements for EIA process. 57. The EIA process consists of three stages: (i) Preliminary environmental assessment (PEIA or predOVOS): essentially a scoping-level desk study prepared in parallel with an engineering feasibility study; (ii) Environment Impact Assessment (EIA or OVOS): a comprehensive assessment of positive and negative environmental impacts with detailed mitigation & monitoring plan prepared during design stage; and (iii) Section “Environment Protection” is developed if there are changes in final detail design or project is prepared in one single stage, and included in the final set of a project design documentation, which is then submitted for approval by the mandatory State Expertise. 58. A “Notification of environmental consequences” is prepared by the project proponent as an annex to each stage of EIA documentation and is submitted for the State Expertise along with other project documentation.

B.2.3. Administrative Framework 59. The central executive body for environmental protection in the Kazakhstan is the Ministry of Energy (MoE) and its Committee for Environmental Regulation and Control (CERC). MoE's responsibilities include enforcement of compliance with the Environmental Code, development and implementation of national environmental programs, state supervision and licensing of environmental activities, and state environmental expertise of Category I projects. MoE oversees the country’s compliance with ratified international environmental conventions and interstate environmental agreements. It also controls emissions and discharges of pollutants, climate change related programs and regulations, distributes and manages trade of carbon credits under National Plan on GHG emissions for 2016-2020, issues emission permits for Category I projects, and determines maximum limits of pollutants to be emitted into environment. 60. At the local level, CERC has 17 (14 Province, and 3 major cities) territorial Departments of Ecology, whose responsibility includes inspection of local sites, consultations and recommendations to businesses and other authorities on environmental matters, and state environmental expertise of Category I projects of local importance (based on approved list of projects of local importance7 or decision of CERC). Akimats (the executive branch of local government) and Maslikhats (representative local authorities) are entitled to perform state supervision and can approve certain provisions and tariffs for use of natural resources. They also determine, within certain limits, the pollution charges paid by enterprises; allocate natural resources, including mountain and woodland pastures and grasslands; establish and administer local legally protected natural areas, as well as enact regulations for use of natural resources within their competencies. 61. Other state bodies within administrative framework with relevant environmental responsibilities are: • The Committee for Water Resources (CWR) under the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) administers implementation of the Water Code and maintenance of national

7 Source: Order of the Ministry of Environment Protection No. 143-o dated July 23, 2009 http://adilet.zan.kz/rus/docs/V090005741_ 10

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

system for protection and efficient use of all water resources. CWR’s responsibility includes managing water intake from natural watercourses and groundwater; freshwater consumption; water use for production; water use for agriculture; conservation and reuse of fresh water; sewage discharges into natural water bodies and into ground water. Water resources are managed through eight river basin inspections created and named according to hydrographic or river basin principles: Ertis (East-Kazakhstan Province), Nura-Sarysu (Karaghandy), Aral- Syrdarya (Kyzylorda), Shu-Talas (Taraz), Balkhash-Alakol (Almaty), Esil (Astana), Zhayik-Kaspi (Atyrau), and Tobol-Torgay (Kostanay). First four of the basin inspections oversee project water sources in the Project’s four Provinces and have been consulted on relevant topics.

• The Committee for Forestry and Wildlife (CFW) within MoA ensures implementation of the Forest Code and manages all woodlands and legally protected natural areas. There are total of 10 national natural reserves and 13 national natural parks in the Republic of Kazakhstan. At the local level, territorial offices of CFW manage forestry and biodiversity, and their Forest Conservation Branches (accountable to CFW) are responsible for specifically allotted areas of forest protection and conservation. Their relevant branches in the four Provinces have been consulted on the protected areas and forest reserves in project vicinity.

• The Emergency Management Committee of the Ministry of Internal Affairs is responsible for environmental disaster management and prevention (such as fires, floods, mudslides, industrial accidents).

B.3. Air, Water, Land and Noise Legislation

B.3.1. Air Quality Legislation 62. The Environmental Code defines the basic terms and principles for State control of air and soil conditions. In addition, Sanitary Regulations and Standards (referred to as "SanPiN") establish requirements to protection of human health. 63. Quality of ambient air for urban and rural localities is established by the Order No. 11036 of the Minister of National Economy dated May 13, 2015 called “On approval of hygienic standards for atmospheric air in urban and rural settlements". 64. The emission of hazardous substances (pollutants) in the atmospheric air by the stationary source is allowed only on the basis of a special permit issued by the authorized state body in charge of atmospheric air protection or its territorial subdivisions. The fee is based on the total annual emissions of the polluter without disaggregating data by emission sources. The issuing of air pollution permits for stationary sources of emissions (ground and air transport) is stipulated in the Environmental and Tax Codes of the Republic of Kazakhstan. 65. All motor vehicles of any type (including buses and trucks) are required to pass an annual test, which includes emission testing that must be in accordance with the regulations referred to below. Table 3: Air quality legislation On approval of hygienic standards for The Order No. 11036 of the Minister of National atmospheric air in urban and rural settlements Economy dated May 13, 2015 On approval of certain methodological The Order No. 221-o of the Minister of documents in the field of environmental Environmental Protection and Water Resources protection of the Republic of Kazakhstan dated June 12, 2014

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

On approval of the Rules for conducting The Order of the Minister of Energy of the automated monitoring of emissions under Republic of Kazakhstan dated September 7, industrial environmental monitoring and reporting 2018 No. 356 requirements for the results of industrial environmental monitoring On approval of the Rules for monitoring and The Order No. 221 of the Minister of Energy of control of greenhouse gases the Republic of Kazakhstan dated March 19, 2015. On Approval of the Methodology for Calculation The Order No.110-ө of the Minister of of Emission Limits Environmental Protection of the Republic of Kazakhstan dated April 16, 2012.

B.3.2. Water Quality Legislation 66. The Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan has adopted “State Program on Development of Agro-Industrial Complex for 2017–2021” via Decree No.423 on July 12, 2018, which among other objectives is aimed at protection and efficiency of use of water resources. 67. The main document in the field of water resources protection and its use is the Water Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan No. 481 dated July 09, 2003. According to the definition provided in the Water Code, “Water Bodies Protection” is an activity aimed at conservation, rehabilitation and reproduction of water bodies, as well as prevention of adverse impacts of water. 68. According to Article 112, water bodies shall be protected from: i. natural and industrial pollution by hazardous chemical and toxic substances and its compounds, as well as thermal, bacterial, radiation and other types of pollution; ii. pollution by solid, non-soluble objects, industrial, household and other wastes; iii. exhaustion. 69. Water bodies shall be protected to prevent: i. disturbance of the environmental stability of natural systems; ii. causing harm to the lives and health of population; iii. reduction of fishery resources and other water fauna; iv. deterioration of the water supply conditions; v. weakening of the natural self-reproduction and cleansing functions of the water bodies; vi. worsening of hydrological and hydrogeological regimes of water bodies; vii. other unfavorable conditions that negatively affect physical, chemical and biological qualities of water bodies. 70. Protection of water bodies is carried out through: i. establishing of general requirements to protection of water bodies to all water users, who carry out any type of water use; ii. establishing of special requirements for certain types of economic activity; iii. improving and applying water protective measures with the help of new equipment and environmentally and epidemiologically safe technologies; iv. establishment of water conservation zones, water bodies protection zones, sanitary protection zones for drinking water supply sources; v. execution of public and other forms of control over the use and protection of the water bodies; vi. applying sanctions for non-observance of the water protection requirements. 71. Central and local execution authorities of Provinces (cities of republican significance, capital), in accordance with the legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan, take measures that are in compliance with the principles of sustainable development towards water resources

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province conversation, prevention of their pollution, littering, and exhaustion, as well as liquidation of such events. 72. Individuals and legal entities, activities of which affect conditions of water bodies, are obliged to comply with environmental requirements set out by the environmental legislation of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and conduct organizational, technological, forestry and land reclamation, agro technical, hydro-technical, sanitary-epidemiological and other activities, which ensure protection of water bodies from pollution, littering, and exhaustion. 73. Article 116 of the Water Code regulates issues related to the water protection zones: to maintain water bodies and water facilities in the condition required by the hygiene-sanitary and environmental norms; to prevent pollution, littering and exhaustion of the surface water; as well as water protection zones and belts are required to preserve flora and fauna. 74. While developing any project, which may have any impact on the water system/resources, the project design should be agreed with the local executive bodies responsible for water resources protection. 75. In developing the Water Code, the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan has adopted normative acts for procedures on permits of water reservoirs use for special needs, procedures for permits issuance for special water use, procedures for water use for fire- fighting needs, classifying water ways as navigable routes, and for using water reservoirs for air traffic needs. The Government has developed a list of water bodies (underground waters) that have health-improving significance in the country, as well as water bodies that have special state significance or special value, which restricts or completely prohibits its use. 76. The maximum permissible concentrations (MPC) of pollutants have been developed for the water standards, just as for the atmosphere air standards. As a rule, the MPC for fishing water reservoirs are stricter than MPC for drinking water reservoirs. It is necessary to emphasize that this refers primarily to the fish industry, and the human needs protection was taken here into account, probably, through water ecosystems protection principles. 77. Same as in case of atmosphere air, various indices, which enable the consideration of the presence of several pollutants, are used for comparative assessment of the water pollution. The most widely used index is Water Pollution Index (WPI). The basic document regulating the condition of the surface waters and content of the pollutants is the “Sanitary and epidemiological requirements for water sources, water intake sites for household and drinking purposes, household water supply and places of cultural and community water use and safety of water bodies” approved upon the Order of the Minister of National Economy of the RK No.209 dated 16.03.2015. 78. The legislative and regulatory and procedural documents in the field of the water environment protection are listed below:

Table 4: Water quality legislation

The Calculation Procedure for Standards of Approved upon the Order of the Minister of Discharged Waters with Pollutants (MPD) into Environmental Protection No. 100-pdated April the Water Bodies, Disposal Fields and Relief of 18, 2008 Land (Appendix 19) On approval of the Methodology for the The Joint Order of the Deputy Prime Minister of development of target indicators of water quality the Republic of Kazakhstan, Minister of in surface water bodies and measures to Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan dated achieve them October 6, 2016 No. 422 and Minister of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan dated November 27, 2016 No. 505.

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Procedural Definitions of Norms and Standards Approved upon the Order of the Minister of of Water Resources Use in Various Natural Ecology and Bio Resources of the RK dated Climatic Zones of the Republic of Kazakhstan 1997 during Ecological Zoning. On Approval of the Methodology for Calculation The Order No.110-ө of the Minister of of Emission Limits Environmental Protection of the Republic of Kazakhstan dated April 16, 2012.

B.3.3. Health and Safety 79. During the construction phase it is necessary to meet the requirements of CSaR 3.06.04-91 “Construction Safety”. 80. Personal protective equipment shall comply with the applicable GOST (special aprons under the GOST 12.4.029, rubber gloves under the GOST 20010, respirator "The Petal” under the GOST 12.4.028, gloves under the GOST 12.4.010, goggles under the GOST 12.4.013 and breathing mask of В type or В with filter, helmets). The site should be kept in safe, clean and good sanitary conditions. The Contractor shall bear the responsibility for clean-up of the site from garbage, construction waste and household rubbish and their removal to the municipal solid waste landfill (MSW). In this regard the Contractor shall be guided by the CSaR No3.01.016.97 81. In addition, the World Bank Group Environmental Health and Safety Guidelines will be used as a reference for health and safety during construction and operation throughout the whole project. In case, there is a conflict between the national legislation and the World Bank Guidelines the more stringent standard shall be implemented.

B.3.4. Physical Cultural Heritage 82. The main legislative documents on cultural heritage are as follows: • The Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan "About Culture”, dated 15.12.2006 No.207- III • The Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On Protection and Use of the Historical Cultural Heritage", dated 2.07.1992 No.1488-XII • The Land Code of the RK, dated 20.06.2003 No.442-II. 83. For the purpose of recording and protection the historical and cultural monuments they are divided into the following categories: • Historical and cultural monuments of international status representing the historical, scientific, architectural, artistic and memorial objects included in the UNESCO World Heritage List; • Historical and cultural monuments of national status representing the historical, scientific, architectural, artistic and memorial objects, having the special significance for the history and culture of the whole country; • Historical and cultural monuments of local significance representing the historical, scientific, architectural, artistic and memorial objects, having the special significance for the history and culture of the province (city of republican status, capital), districts (centres of provinces). 84. According to Art. 127 of the Land code of the Republic of Kazakhstan dated June 20, 2003 No.442-II construction works without carrying out of archaeological examination are connected with risks for the project. 85. According to Art.39 of the Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan "About protection and use of objects of historical and cultural heritage". That is, after full archaeological studying of

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province the monuments, located in a zone of road construction and their removal from the State account: • The survey on identification of objects of historical and cultural heritage have to be carried out prior to land acquisition. • In case of detection of the objects having historical, scientific, art and other value, private and juridical persons are obliged to suspend further works conducting and to report about it to authorized body. • Work conducting, which can create threat to existence of objects of historical and cultural heritage is forbidden. 86. Any works, which can expose to danger the existing monuments, are forbidden. The enterprises, organizations, institutes, public associations and citizens in case of identification of archaeological or other sites of historical, scientific and cultural value, are obliged to inform authorized bodies on preservation and use of historical and cultural heritage, and to stop the current works.

B.3.5. Waste 87. The following summarizes the Environmental Code requirements for waste management including the requirements for hazardous waste management. 88. Article 286. Industrial and Consumption Waste. Types of Industrial and Consumption Waste - In terms of hazard they may pose, industrial and consumption waste may be hazardous, non-hazardous, and inert. Hazardous waste is the waste that contains one or several of the following substances: 1. explosives; 2. highly inflammable liquids; 3. highly inflammable solid substances; 4. self-inflammable substances and waste; 5. acidifying substances; 6. organic peroxides; 7. poisonous substances; 8. toxic substances causing long-lasting and chronic disease; 9. infectious substances; 10. corrosive substances; 11. eco-toxic substances; 12. substances or waste giving off flammable gases when put in contact with water; 13. substances or waste which may give off toxic gases when put in contact with the air or water; and 14. substances and materials that may form other materials with one of the abovementioned properties. 89. Article 288. General Environmental Requirements Applicable upon Treatment of Industrial and Consumption Waste 1. Individuals and legal entities, whose undertakings generate waste, must implement measures of safe treatment of the waste, comply with environmental and sanitary and epidemiological requirements, and carry out recycling, neutralization and safe disposal of the same. 3. The places of placement of waste are designated for safe storage of waste for up to three years if the waste is to be recovered or processed, or for up to one year if the waste is to be buried. 5. Waste owners must ensure a gradual reduction of the volumes of waste throughout the entire production cycle, including through the improvement of production

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

processes, waste recycling, and giving the waste out to individuals and legal entities who are interested in using it. 6. When choosing methods and places for neutralization and placement of waste and selecting individuals and legal entities to carry out the processing, disposal or placement of waste, the owners of the waste must ensure that the movement of the waste from their source of origin is kept to a minimum. 90. Article 290. Environmental Requirements Applicable upon Planning of Activities Related to Waste Treatment 1. In the design of facilities the operation of which generates waste, there shall be mandatory to: 1) prepare a waste management program as an integral part of the project documentation; 2. In the design of residential buildings, industrial enterprises, buildings, premises, facilities and other objects the operation of which generates waste there shall be necessary to provide spaces (sites) for the accumulation of waste in compliance with the rules, regulations and requirements established by the environment protection authority and the government agency for sanitary and epidemiological well-being of the population. 91. Article 296. Waste Accounting 1. The owners of waste must keep waste accounting (type, quantities and origin of the waste) and collect and keep information on waste’s properties that endanger the environment and/or human health. 3. The owners of waste must keep waste accounting records for a period of five years. 4. The owners of waste must on an annual basis submit to the environment protection authority reports on their activities in respect of waste management, in order for this information to be entered into the State Registry of Wastes. 92. Article 289. Hazardous Waste Profile Sheet 1. A hazardous waste profile sheet must be prepared and approved by individuals and legal entities if their undertakings generate hazardous waste. 5. The hazardous waste profile sheet must be registered with the environment protection authority within three months after the waste has been generated. 7. Copies of the registered hazardous waste profile sheets must be issued to the individual or legal entity carrying out transportation of a lot of hazardous waste or part thereof, as well as to each consignee of such lot (or part thereof). 12. A hazardous waste profile sheet must contain the information on precautionary measures to be taken in order to prevent and mitigate the consequences of emergencies that may be caused by the hazardous waste, including those arising in the course of transportation and loading/unloading operations. 93. Article 293. Environmental Requirements Applicable upon Handling Hazardous Waste 1. Individuals and legal entities whose undertakings and activities generate waste must carry measures aimed at the prevention or reduction of the formation of waste and/or reduction of the level of hazard posed by waste. 3. The owner of hazardous waste must ensure labeling of packages containing hazardous waste wherein their hazardous properties would be denoted. When transferring such hazardous waste to other persons for a certain period of time, the

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

owner of the waste must inform them in writing of the waste’s hazardous properties and of handling precautions that need be taken. 4. There shall be prohibited to mix hazardous waste with non-hazardous or/and inert waste, as well as intermix different types of hazardous waste in the course of production, transportation and placement. 5. The placement of hazardous waste must be performed at specifically equipped places pursuant to the requirements set out in environmental permits. Carrying out any other activities at the waste placement site that are not directly related to waste treatment shall be prohibited. 6. Enterprises whose business is to collect, recycle, transport and dispose hazardous waste must develop emergency and accident action plans. 94. Article 294. Environmental Requirements Applicable upon Transportation of Hazardous Waste 1. Formation of hazardous waste and their transportation must be kept to a minimum. 2. Transportation of hazardous waste shall be permitted subject to the following conditions: 1) hazardous waste is packaged and labeled as appropriate for purposes of transportation; 2) hazardous waste is transported in properly equipped transportation means having special signs; 3) a hazardous waste profile sheet is present along with documentation for transportation and transfer of hazardous waste, with information on the volumes of hazardous waste being transported, purpose of transportation, and place of destination; and 4) safety requirements for transportation of hazardous waste and loading/unloading operations are met.

B.3.6. International Conventions and Treaties 95. Kazakhstan is a signatory of the following international conventions an treaties relevant to environmental issues. Table 5: International Conventions and Treaties

# Convention Name Description/Convention Objectives

1. The Convention on Aims to prevent a danger of extinction of migratory migratory Conservation of species; implementation of scientific research related to migratory Migratory Species and species and their protection. Wild Animals

2. Convention on Its aim is to ensure that international trade of wild animals and plants International Trade of does not threaten the survival of the species; the agreement Endangered Species of provides for varying degrees of protection to more than 35,000 Wild Flora and Fauna species of animals and plants. (CITES)

3. Convention on Access The convention promotes protection of the right of each person of to Information, Public present and future generations to live in the environment favorable Participation in for his health and welfare. Each Party that signed the present Decision-making and Convention grants the rights regarding access to ecological Access to Justice in information, participation of the public in decision-making process Environmental Matters,

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

# Convention Name Description/Convention Objectives Aarhus, 1998, June for access to justice on the environmental issues according to the 25th. provisions of the present Convention.

4. Convention on the The Convention sets the rules for the international trade in International Trade in endangered species of wild flora and fauna. The trade of these Endangered Species of species must be supervised to ensure that international trade of wild Wild Flora and Fauna animals and plants does not threaten the survival of the species in (Washington, March 3, the wild and can be permitted only under exceptional 1973): circumstances.

5. UN Convention to The Convention aims to combat desertification and mitigate the Combat Desertification effects of drought through the integrated approach aimed at achievement of sustainable development in affected areas including the increase of lands efficiency, rehabilitation, preservation, stable and rational use of land and water resources to improve living standards, especially communities.

6. Convention on The goals of the Convention are the conservation of biological Biological Diversity (Rio diversity, sustainable use of its components and fair and equitable de Janeiro, June 5, sharing of benefits arising from genetic resources including access 1992) to genetic resources and transfer of relevant technology with the account of all rights for such resources and technology as well as through proper financing.

7. Convention on The Convention: Protection of the World • adopts a general policy which aims to give special functions to the Cultural and Natural cultural and natural heritage in public life and to integrate Heritage (Paris, protection of that heritage into the comprehensive planning November 16, 1972): programmes. • sets up within its territories, where such services do not still exist, one or more services for protection, conservation and promotion of the cultural and natural heritage… • develops scientific and technical studies and research, methods of work, allowing the state to counter dangers that threaten its cultural or natural heritage

8. Kyoto Protocol to the UN • At present the Amendment to Kyoto-2 is not ratified in the Framework Convention Republic of Kazakhstan. Kazakhstan does not enter the list of on Climate Change the countries of the Appendix B of the Kyoto Protocol. The (Kyoto, December 11, National plan of distribution of quotas for the amount of green 1997). house gas emissions for 2014-2015 has been adopted in Kazakhstan. (The resolution of the Government of the Republic

of Kazakhstan dated December 31, 2013 No. 1536). The Kyoto Protocol regulates: • Obligations for restriction and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. • Implementation of policy and measures for increase of the efficiency of use of energy, stable forms of agriculture, protection and improvement of quality of absorbers and stores of greenhouse gases.

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

# Convention Name Description/Convention Objectives

9. UN Framework The objective of the Convention is to "stabilize greenhouse gas Convention on Climate concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that would prevent Change, May 9, 1992 dangerous anthropogenic interference in the climate system", in the terms sufficient for natural adaptation of ecosystems to climate

change allowing not to pose risks to food production and providing further economic development on a stable basis.

B.4. Environmental Quality Standards

96. The project will be implemented following both national and international standards. ADB’s Safeguard Policy requires applying pollution prevention and control technologies and practices consistent with international good practice, as reflected in internationally recognized standards such as the World Bank Group's Environment, Health and Safety Guidelines8 (IFC Standard). These standards contain performance levels and measures that are normally acceptable and applicable to projects. When Kazakhstan standards differ from those levels and measures, KVK will achieve whichever is more stringent. In case if no national standard for a certain environmental aspect exists, an international standard will be applied.

B.4.1. Air Quality Standards 97. The air quality standards establish permissible concentrations of harmful substances both at workplace and in residential areas. The main terms and definitions related to air pollution, monitoring programs, behavior of pollutants in the ambient air are determined by the GOST 17.2.1.03-84; Environmental Protection, Atmospheric Air Terms and Definitions for Contamination Control. Table 6: Air quality standards in Kazakhstan9 Substance Maximum Allowable Concentration, mg/m3 Hazard Class One Time Maximum Daily Average Inorganic dust 0.3 0.1 3 Nitrogen Dioxide 0.2 0.04 2 Sulphur Dioxide 0.5 0.05 3 Carbon Monoxide 5.0 3 4

B.4.2. Water Quality Standards 98. Water quality standards in Kazakhstan are set for fishery waters and for water bodies used for household drinking and utility water as shown in Table 7. The table also shows the 2017 WHO standards for drinking water.

8 http://www.ifc.org/wps/wcm/connect/topics_ext_content/ifc_external_corporate_site/sustainability-at-ifc/policies- standards/ehs-guidelines 9 Source: The Order No. 11036 of the Minister of National Economy “On approval of hygienic standards for atmospheric air in urban and rural settlements ", May 13, 2015. 19

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Table 7: List of Pollutants and Maximum Permissible Concentrations (MPC) Polluting the Surface Waters of the Republic of Kazakhstan10 Pollutant MPC for Fishery MPC for the water WHO Standard for water bodies bodies used for Drinking Water (mg/dm3) household and (2017)11 drinking and recreational water (mg/dm3) Chrome (3+) - - - Chrome (6+) 0.02 0.05 - Ferrum (total) 0.1 0.3 - Ferrum (2+) 0.005 - - Ferrum (3+) - - - Zinc (2+) 0.01 5.0 - Mercury (2+) 0.00001 0.0005 0.006 Cadmium 0.005 0.001 0.003 Arsenic 0.05 0.05 0.01 Copper (2+) 0.001 1.0 2.0 BOD5 - - - Phenols 0.001 0.25 - Oil Products 0.05 0.1 - Flourides 0.05 1.5 1.5 Nitrites 0.08 - 3 Nitrates 40.0 45.0 (for NO3) 50 Salt Ammonia 0.5 - - Sulfates 100.0 500 200 Magnesium 40.0 - - Manganese 0.01 0.1 (0.5) 0.05 Nickel 0.01 0.1 0.07 Dissolved oxygen <4 pH 6-9 6.5-8.5 B.4.2.1. Water Quality for Agriculture 99. Kazakhstan's water quality standard is determined by the Order No. ? 151 of the Chairman of the Committee of water resources of the Ministry of Agriculture RoK dated 09.11.2016 "On approval of unified classification system of water quality in water bodies". According to the Order quality of surface water is identified based on the hydromorphological and physico-chemical parameters (42 indicators) and classified into 5 classes. Waters of classes 1 up to 4 can be used for irrigation purposes. 100. There are also recommendations of FAO on trace elements in irrigation water as shown in 101. Table 8: Recommended Maximum Concentrations of Trace Elements in Irrigation Water.

10 Water Quality Standards and Norms in the Republic of Kazakhstan. The Regional Environmental Center for Central Asia. 2009 11 Source: Information Bulletin of Status of Environment of Republic of Kazakhstan. 2018. and WHO’s Guidelines for Drinking Water Quality. 4-th edition 2017. 20

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Table 8: Recommended Maximum Concentrations of Trace Elements in Irrigation Water12

Recommended Maximum Element Remarks Concentration (mg/l)

Al (aluminum) 5.0 Can cause non-productivity in acid soils (pH < 5.5), but more alkaline soils at pH > 7.0 will precipitate the ion and eliminate any toxicity.

As (arsenic) 0.10 Toxicity to plants varies widely, ranging from 12 mg/l for Sudan grass to less than 0.05 mg/l for rice.

Be (beryllium) 0.10 Toxicity to plants varies widely, ranging from 5 mg/l for kale to 0.5 mg/l for bush beans.

Cd (cadmium) 0.01 Toxic to beans, beets and turnips at concentrations as low as 0.1 mg/l in nutrient solutions. Conservative limits recommended due to its potential for accumulation in plants and soils to concentrations that may be harmful to humans.

Co (cobalt) 0.05 Toxic to tomato plants at 0.1 mg/l in nutrient solution. Tends to be inactivated by neutral and alkaline soils.

Cr (chromium) 0.10 Not generally recognized as an essential growth element. Con- servative limits recommended due to lack of knowledge on its toxicity to plants.

Cu (copper) 0.20 Toxic to a number of plants at 0.1 to 1.0 mg/l in nutrient solutions.

F (fluoride) 1.0 Inactivated by neutral and alkaline soils.

Fe (iron) 5.0 Not toxic to plants in aerated soils, but can contribute to soil acidification and loss of availability of essential phosphorus and molybdenum. Overhead sprinkling may result in unsightly deposits on plants, equipment and buildings.

Li (lithium) 2.5 Tolerated by most crops up to 5 mg/l; mobile in soil. Toxic to citrus at low concentrations (<0.075 mg/l). Acts similarly to boron.

Mn (manganese) 0.20 Toxic to a number of crops at a few-tenths to a few mg/l, but usually only in acid soils.

Mo (molybdenum) 0.01 Not toxic to plants at normal concentrations in soil and water. Can be toxic to livestock if forage is grown in soils with high concentrations of available molybdenum.

Ni (nickel) 0.20 Toxic to a number of plants at 0.5 mg/l to 1.0 mg/l; reduced toxicity at neutral or alkaline pH.

Pd (lead) 5.0 Can inhibit plant cell growth at very high concentrations.

12 Source: R.S. Ayers and D.W. Westcot. Water Quality for Agriculture. Food and Agriculture Organization. 1985. 21

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Se (selenium) 0.02 Toxic to plants at concentrations as low as 0.025 mg/l and toxic to livestock if forage is grown in soils with relatively high levels of added selenium. An essential element to animals but in very low concentrations.

Sn (tin)

Ti (titanium) ---- Effectively excluded by plants; specific tolerance unknown.

W (tungsten)

V (vanadium) 0.10 Toxic to many plants at relatively low concentrations.

Zn (zinc) 2.0 Toxic to many plants at widely varying concentrations; reduced toxicity at pH > 6.0 and in fine textured or organic soils.

B.4.3. Land Quality Legislation and Standards 102. New sanitary rules were introduced in Kazakhstan following long-term scientific studies. As such, SanPiN (Sanitary Rules and Norms) 2.1.7.1287-03 Sanitary and Epidemiological Requirements for Quality of Soil and Subsoil establishes standards for soils quality in inhabited localities and agricultural lands, and control the observance of the sanitary- hygienic standards during engineering, construction, renewal (technical upgrading and operation of facilities for different purposes that may cause the adverse impact on soil). 103. The main terms related to the chemical contamination of soils are defined by the GOST 27593-88. The basic regulatory documents for control of the soil pollution content is “Standards of the Maximum Allowable Concentrations of the Hazardous Substances, Harmful Microorganisms and Other Biological Materials Being the Soil Pollutants” approved by the Order of the Ministry of Health of the GoK #99, 30.01.2004 and the Order of the Ministry of Environmental Protection of the GoK №21П, 27.01.2004. 104. The maximum allowable concentration (MAC) or allowable permissible concentration (APC) of chemical substances in soil refer to principal criteria for the sanitary assessment of soil contamination by chemical agents. 105. This requirement applies to all land uses and does not differentiate between various land uses. The verification of the MAC of the chemical substances in the soil is based on 4 main nuisance values identified. The Maximum Allowable Concentration for the soil valid in Kazakhstan is shown in the Table 9 below. Table 9: Soil quality standards in Kazakhstan13

Substance Maximum Allowable Limiting Rate Concentration, mg/kg

Manganese (gross form)* 1500 According to the General Sanitary Norms

Cupric (flexible form)* 3.0 According to the General Sanitary Norms

Lead (gross form) 32.0 Translocational

13 Source: “Sanitary and Epidemiological Requirements for Atmospheric Air in Urban and Rural Areas, Soils and Their Protection, Maintenance of the Territories of Urban and Rural Settlements, Working Conditions with Sources of Physical Impacts Affecting People", dated January 25, 2012. 22

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Zink (gross form)* 23.0 Translocational

Arsenic (gross form) 2.0 According to the General Sanitary Norms

* Due to the absence of these substances in new SanPiN data was taken from the previous document «Standards of the Maximum Allowable Concentrations of the Hazardous Substances, Harmful Microorganisms and Other Biological Materials Being the Soil Pollutants» approved by the Order of the Ministry of Health of the GoK №99, 30.01.2004 and Order of the Ministry for Environmental Protection of the GoK №21П, 27.01.2004.

B.4.3. Noise Standards 106. The sanitary rule regulating noise level in the workplace and within settling areas is Hygienic standards for physical factors affecting a person approved with the Order of MNE № 169 from 28.02.2015, and noise standards are set depending on the frequency and type of the occupation. In residential area noise levels are generally regulated with respect to sound levels at specific places referred to as "sensitive receptors" such as schools, hospitals or, in the absence of such facilities, at residential buildings or a given distance from the source of the noise. 107. Equivalent level of noise for workplaces of drivers and service personnel of self- propelled chassis tractors, trailed and mounted agricultural machines, road construction and other similar machines - 80 dBA 108. The equivalent level of noise is assumed for areas neighboring on the residential houses, rest areas of the micro-districts and residential groupings, school areas, playgrounds of the preschool after adjustment as follows: • For living rooms depending on the time of the day from 7 hour till 23 hour - 40 dBA, from 23 hours till 7 am – 30 dBA. • For hospitals and sanatoriums daylight time from 7 am till 23 hour - 35 dBA, from 23 hours till 7 am – 25 dBA. • For schools – 40 dBA. 109. The IFC also publish noise limits for residential areas which are similar to the Kazakh standards with the exception of the timings, with daytime noise being classified as 0700 to 2200, see Table 10 below. Table 10: IFC Noise Level Guidelines

Receptor One hour Laeq (dBA)

Daytime: 07.00-22.00 Night-time: 22.00 – 07.00

Residential; institutional; educational 55 45

Industrial; commercial 70 70

110. For workplace noise the following IFC standards are applicable.

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Table 11: IFC Work Environment Noise limits

Type of Work, workplace IFC General EHS Guidelines Heavy Industry (no demand for oral communication) 85 dBA Equivalent level Laeq,8h

Light industry (decreasing demand for oral 50-65dBA Equivalent level Laeq,8h communication)

111. Measures of protection is determined according to the construction norms SN RK 2.04- 02-2011 «Noise Protection».

B.5. ADB Safeguard Policy Statement 2009

112. The ADB has three safeguard policies that seek to avoid, minimize or mitigate adverse environmental impacts and social costs to third parties, or vulnerable groups as a result of development projects.14 113. Safeguard Requirements 1: Environment. 114. The objectives are to ensure the environmental soundness and sustainability of projects, and to support the integration of environmental considerations into the project decision-making process. Environmental safeguards are triggered if a project is likely to have potential environmental risks and impacts. Eleven ‘Policy Principles’ have been adopted as part of the SPS, including: 1. Use a screening process for each proposed project, as early as possible, to determine the appropriate extent and type of environmental assessment so that appropriate studies are undertaken commensurate with the significance of potential impacts and risks. (The Project was initially screened by the ADB and classified as a Category B project) 2. Conduct an environmental assessment for each proposed project to identify potential direct, indirect, cumulative, and induced impacts and risks to physical, biological, socioeconomic (including impacts on livelihood through environmental media, health and safety, vulnerable groups, and gender issues), and physical cultural resources in the context of the project’s area of influence. Assess potential transboundary and global impacts, including climate change. Use strategic environmental assessment where appropriate. (The IEE herewith provides the environmental assessment for the Project, including an assessment of climate change. Transboundary impacts are not applicable) 3. Examine alternatives to the project’s location, design, technology, and components and their potential environmental and social impacts and document the rationale for selecting the particular alternative proposed. Also consider the no project alternative. (Alternatives have been considered, including the ‘no project’ alternative in Section C.7 – Alternatives) 4. Avoid, and where avoidance is not possible, minimize, mitigate, and/or offset adverse impacts and enhance positive impacts by means of environmental planning and management. Prepare an environmental management plan (EMP) that includes the proposed mitigation measures, environmental monitoring and reporting requirements, related institutional or organizational arrangements, capacity

14 ADB. 2009. Safeguard Policy Statement, Manila.

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

development and training measures, implementation schedule, cost estimates, and performance indicators. Key considerations for EMP preparation include mitigation of potential adverse impacts to the level of no significant harm to third parties, and the polluter pays principle. (An EMP has been prepared for the Project and is outlined in detail in Section F - Environmental Management Plans and Institutional Requirements) 5. Carry out meaningful consultation with affected people and facilitate their informed participation. Ensure women’s participation in consultation. Involve stakeholders, including affected people and concerned nongovernment organizations, early in the project preparation process and ensure that their views and concerns are made known to and understood by decision makers and taken into account. Continue consultations with stakeholders throughout project implementation as necessary to address issues related to environmental assessment. Establish a grievance redress mechanism to receive and facilitate resolution of the affected people’s concerns and grievances regarding the project’s environmental performance. (Consultations were held in Akimats in Aktobe and Atyrau to discuss environmental issues, the findings of the consultations (and a description of the Project grievance redress mechanism) are presented in Section G - Public Consultation, Information Disclosure & Grievance Mechanism) 6. Disclose a draft environmental assessment (including the EMP) in a timely manner, before project appraisal, in an accessible place and in a form and language(s) understandable to affected people and other stakeholders. Disclose the final environmental assessment, and its updates if any, to affected people and other stakeholders. (This IEE and its EMP have been disclosed on the ADB website) 7. Implement the EMP and monitor its effectiveness. Document monitoring results, including the development and implementation of corrective actions, and disclose monitoring reports. (The IEE and its EMP outline a plan to monitor the implementation of the EMP and the institutional responsibilities for monitoring and reporting throughout the Project lifecycle: Section F.2 - EMP Institutional Responsibilities) 8. Do not implement project activities in areas of critical habitats, unless (i) there are no measurable adverse impacts on the critical habitat that could impair its ability to function, (ii) there is no reduction in the population of any recognized endangered or critically endangered species, and (iii) any lesser impacts are mitigated. If a project is located within a legally protected area, implement additional programs to promote and enhance the conservation aims of the protected area. In an area of natural habitats, there must be no significant conversion or degradation, unless (i) alternatives are not available, (ii) the over all benefits from the project substantially outweigh the environmental costs, and (iii) any conversion or degradation is appropriately mitigated. Use a precautionary approach to the use, development, and management of renewable natural resources. (No critical habitats have been identified that would be significantly impacted by the Project) 9. Apply pollution prevention and control technologies and practices consistent with international good practices as reflected in internationally recognized standards such as the World Bank Group’s Environmental, Health and Safety Guidelines. Adopt cleaner production processes and good energy efficiency practices. Avoid pollution, or, when avoidance is not possible, minimize or control the intensity or load of pollutant emissions and discharges, including direct and indirect greenhouse gases emissions, waste generation, and release of hazardous materials from their production, transportation, handling, and storage. Avoid the use of hazardous materials subject to international bans or phase-outs. Purchase, use, and manage pesticides based on integrated pest management approaches and reduce reliance on synthetic chemical pesticides. (The IEE and its EMP outline specific mitigation and management

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

measures to prevent and control pollution: Section F - Environmental Management Plans and Institutional Requirements. No pesticides will be used during the lifecycle of the Project) 10. Provide workers with safe and healthy working conditions and prevent accidents, injuries, and disease. Establish preventive and emergency preparedness and response measures to avoid, and where avoidance is not possible, to minimize, adverse impacts and risks to the health and safety of local communities. (The IEE and its EMP outline the requirement for specific health and safety plans and emergency response plans: Section F - Environmental Management Plans and Institutional Requirements.) 11. Conserve physical cultural resources and avoid destroying or damaging them by using field-based surveys that employ qualified and experienced experts during environmental assessment. Provide for the use of “chance find” procedures that include a pre-approved management and conservation approach for materials that may be discovered during project implementation. (With the exception of one cemetery, no physical and cultural resources have been identified that would be significantly impacted by the Project. A chance find procedure is provided in Section E.9.4 – Physical and Cultural Resources) 115. Safeguard Requirements 2: Involuntary Resettlement. 116. The objectives are to avoid involuntary resettlement wherever possible; to minimize involuntary resettlement by exploring project and design alternatives; to enhance, or at least restore, the livelihoods of all displaced persons in real terms relative to pre-project levels; and to improve the standards of living of the displaced poor and other vulnerable groups. The safeguard requirements underscore the requirements for undertaking the social impact assessment and resettlement planning process, preparing social impact assessment reports and resettlement planning documents, exploring negotiated land acquisition, disclosing information and engaging in consultations, establishing a grievance mechanism, and resettlement monitoring and reporting. 117. The involuntary resettlement requirements apply to full or partial, permanent or temporary physical displacement (relocation, loss of residential land, or loss of shelter) and economic displacement (loss of land, assets, access to assets, income sources, or means of livelihoods) resulting from (i) involuntary acquisition of land, or (ii) involuntary restrictions on land use or on access to legally designated parks and protected areas. Resettlement is considered involuntary when displaced individuals or communities do not have the right to refuse land acquisition that results in displacement. A land acquisition and resettlement plan (LARP) has been prepared for the Project to ensure compliance with the safeguard on Involuntary Resettlement. 118. Safeguard Requirements 3: Indigenous Peoples. 119. The objective is to design and implement projects in a way that fosters full respect for Indigenous Peoples’ identity, dignity, human rights, livelihood systems, and cultural uniqueness as defined by the Indigenous Peoples themselves so that they (i) receive culturally appropriate social and economic benefits, (ii) do not suffer adverse impacts as a result of projects, and (iii) can participate actively in projects that affect them. 120. For operational purposes, the term Indigenous Peoples is used in a generic sense to refer to a distinct, vulnerable, social and cultural group possessing the following characteristics in varying degrees: • self-identification as members of a distinct indigenous cultural group and recognition of this identity by others; • collective attachment to geographically distinct habitats or ancestral territories in the project area and to the natural resources in these habitats and territories;

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

• customary cultural, economic, social, or political institutions that are separate from those of the dominant society and culture; and • a distinct language, often different from the official language of the country or province. 121. In considering these characteristics, national legislation, customary law, and any international conventions to which the country is a party will be taken into account. 122. Guidelines provide a rational approach for determining environmental category of the Project, the need for public consultation and disclosure, environmental management planning, and resolving involuntary resettlement, indigenous people and gender issues. 123. Activities carried out under the project needs to conform to current laws in Kazakhstan and sound social and environmental principles. In general, the project activities will not trigger serious impacts on physical and human environment.

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province C. Project Description

C.1. Irrigation Rehabilitation Project

124. The proposed Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project is part of Kazakhstan Government’s “State Program on Development of Agricultural Industry for 2017-2021”. The proposed project to be financed under ADB loan stipulates rehabilitation and modernization of agricultural irrigation infrastructure in order to return into operation currently unused 171,100 ha of previously irrigated agricultural lands in East-Kazakhstan, Kyzylorda, Karaghandy, and Zhambyl Provinces (Table 12). Most of the irrigation infrastructure in Kazakhstan, which was built in the past century (1960-80s), has deteriorated over time after collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. Disassembly of the former soviet system of agricultural collective farms “kolkhoz” led to lack of proper management of water resources, abandonment of irrigation infrastructure, and its subsequent deterioration due to absence of capital investments. 125. In order to bring irrigation infrastructure into efficient systematic management at national level, asset ownership and operational responsibility for republican bulk water storage, transportation, irrigation and drainage systems are currently being transferred from various national and local agencies to Republican State Enterprise “KazVodKhoz” (KVK), a government owned utility that was established in 2011 by merging several state enterprises for water management. Committee for Water Resources of the Ministry of Agriculture is the Implementing Agency and serves as the administrator of KVK from the government side. KVK is the Executing Agency for the proposed project. 126. The Project Feasibility Study identifies the following three components proposed to be financed under ADB loan: (i) Output 1: Irrigation infrastructure rehabilitated and/or improved. The output will support the rehabilitation and/or improvement of about 245 irrigation schemes in the four provinces. For canals, the works would involve desilting and removal of vegetation in the lined and unlined canals, re-sectioning of the unlined canals, and repair of damaged sections of the lined canals. The total length of new concrete lined canals will be about 1,064 km while the improved earth canals will be about 1,976 km. A total of about 4,185 hydraulic structures including water measuring devices will be constructed or rehabilitated. About 358 km drainage collectors will be rehabilitated and/or improved. A drip irrigation system to cover 9,300 ha will be established in Zhambyl province. In addition, about 24 sets of the supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system will be installed in the main canals of the four provinces.

(ii) Output 2: Water management improved and beneficiary capacity enhanced. The project will support (i) pilot-testing a system to monitor water and agricultural productivity using remote sensing technology in selected irrigation schemes; (ii) assisting in organizing the beneficiaries into the agricultural cooperatives established on hydrological boundaries, and develop the capacity of the cooperatives with respect to their functioning as well as with physical inputs like office furniture and equipment; (iii) training farmers on using improved irrigation management and climate change-related aspects; and (iv) providing consulting services for capacity development. This output will help KVK to extend its advice services to farmers on on-farm water management and crop choices.

(iii) Output 3: KVK’s capacity strengthened. The project will strengthen KVK’s governance and support its internal reforms by providing consulting services for (i) capacity development and training of KVK staff on financial, procurement, and water management aspects; the (ii) formulation and implementation of an asset management plan. The project will also support (i) provision of machinery, 28

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

equipment, and vehicles for the four KVK branch offices to carry out their O&M function and improve system performance; (ii) rehabilitation and/or construction of repair workshops; (iii) construction of the KVK headquarters building; (iv) construction of an office building for KVK’s East Kazakhstan branch; (v) organization of a study tour for KVK staff and project beneficiaries to learn from advanced irrigation practices; and (vi) the operations of the project management office and project implementation units to ensure smooth implementation.

127. Technical Assistance TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project was approved by ADB in May 2017. TRTA team was created to develop project’s Feasibility Study and to undertake project management requirements, including financial management, procurement and safeguard due diligence. As of November 2018, national design entity “Ulmad” LLP recruited under the TRTA has finalized Feasibility Study of the Project and submitted it for the State Expertise – a mandatory approval process for project development and implementation in Kazakhstan. 128. The final total number of schemes for the project is 245. On scrutiny, the team realized that many of the individual schemes presented by KVK were too small and generally represented small segments of bigger systems. Many schemes in a district lie in one or few hydrologic zones and hence schemes in one zone could be integrated and renamed as a subproject. 129. Thus, various schemes have been grouped into fewer subprojects with due consideration to hydrologic boundaries, geographical closeness, and administrative boundaries. As a result, the proposed 245 schemes have been grouped into 16 subprojects under the Project in 4 provinces of Kazakhstan. List of selected provinces and areas which will be rehabilitated there as result of project implementation are presented in Table 12 below. Table 12: Project scope

No. Location Area to be rehabilitated, ha 1 East-Kazakhstan Province 79,256 2 Karaghandy Province 27,900 3 Zhambyl Province 34,977 4 Kyzylorda Province 28,974 Total for the Project 171,107 130. This IEE is developed for sub-projects in East-Kazakhstan Province. There are 7 subprojects in 6 selected districts, which are presented below in Table 13: Table 13: Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province Area

District(s)/ Number of Province/Subproject Cities schemes Total Irrigation Area to be System Area rehabilitated

Kurchum 2 14,628 11,881 Kurchum Subproject Kurchum 6 5,774 5,377 Kitaika Subproject Tarbagaty 3 20,674 6,205 Tarbagaty Subproject Urdzhar 8 16,560 11,622 Urdzhar Subproject

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Zharma 1 20,868 17,958 Zharma Subproject Zhysan 1 24,494 24,494 Zaisan Subproject Kokpekty 1 1,719 1,719 Chigilik River System Subproject 22 104,717 79,256 East Kazakhstan

C.2. Need for the Project

131. The Project is being developed as part of “State Program on Development of Agricultural Industry for 2017-2021” of GoK, which is aimed to further diversify national economy, reduce dependence on export of mineral resources (oil and gas), provide employment opportunities in rural areas, decrease poverty, and strengthen national food security. While in 2015, the agriculture sector's share of gross domestic product was only 4.9% of GDP, the sector accounted for 17.1% of total employment. Moreover, half the country's population is located in rural areas with living standards depending heavily on income generated from agricultural production. 132. Due to unreliable and insufficient supply of irrigation water, local people lost interest in irrigated agriculture. This coupled with other socio-economic issues and little sources of reliable income in rural areas has contributed to mass migration of people, especially youth of active working age, to large cities, and decline of local population. According to some estimates, 1000 ha of irrigated lands create 60-200 employment opportunities depending on type of cultivated crops.15 133. A total of 79,256 ha is planned for rehabilitation under the Project in East-Kazakhstan Province. As a result, new opportunities will open for raising irrigated crops, generating income for families, and reviving agricultural activities in the province, which in turn will help creating new employment opportunities for local people, engaged not only in direct agricultural activities, but also following product handling, storage, transportation chains, generating additional income for local budget, and developing professional skills of different kinds of specialists.

C.3. Location and scope

134. Geographical position of the East-Kazakhstan province is in the interior of continent and on the border of great plains - Western Siberia and Kazakhstan, the diversity of natural conditions and resources is favorable for its economic development. East Kazakhstan lies at the intersection of a great waterway along Irtysh and Ob rivers, and is connected by the most important railway and automobile highways with neighboring provinces of the Republic of Kazakhstan and with countries with developed economics and culture.

C.3.1. Subprojects location in East-Kazakhstan Province 135. Project districts where 7 subprojects were selected are indicated in the map of the East-Kazakhstan province below.

15 Source article: http://agroinfo.kz/v-minselxoze-rk-rasskazali-o-sostoyanii-i-perspektivax-razvitiya-vodnyx- resursov/ 30

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Figure 1: Project districts in East Kazakhstan Province (blue stars) 136. The more detailed information on river water systems and Core Irrigation Systems to be covered by subprojects in East-Kazakhstan province, data on total irrigation area and area to rehabilitated are presented in Table 14 and Figure 2 below: Table 14: Water river systems of East Kazakhstan Province Project Area No. Subprojects/ Schemes Area, ha Total Irrigation Area to be System Area Rehabilitated 1 KURCHUM DISTRICT A. Kurchum Subproject 14,628 11,881 1 Kurchum river water system 14,588 11,841 2 Zhenishke river water system 40 40 B Kitaika Subproject 5,774 5,377 1 Orta Terekty river water system 2,212 1,815 2 Kalzhir river water system 2,930 2,930 3 Bas Terekty river water system 217 217 4 Ashaly river water system 100 100 5 Shet Terekty river water system 305 305 6 Tentek river water system 10 10 2 TARBAGATAY DISTRICT C Tarbagatay Subproject 20,674 6,205 1 Kandysu river water system 11,477 4,665

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

2 Kargyba river water system 4,597 640 3 Bazar river water system 4,600 900 3 URDZHAR DISTRICT D Urdzhar Subproject 16,560 11,622 1 Eginsu river water system 3,042 4,827 2 Kusak river water system 6,082 700 3 Makanshy-Karasu river water 1,259 1,259 system 4 Urdzharka river water system 3,977 2,720 5 Kdach feeder water system 300 300 6 Kaindy river water system 400 400 7 Katynsu river water system 1,500 1,416 8 Reconstruction of water - - development on Karakol river with main canals "Right-bank" and "Left- bank' 4 ZHARMA DISTRICT E Zharma Subproject 17,958 17,958 5 ZAISAN DISTRICT F Zaisan Subproject 24,494 24,494 1 Uidene River System 13,000 13,000 2 Kenderlik River System 11,484 11,484 6 KOKPEKTY DISTRICT G Chigilik River System Subproject 1,719 1,719 EAST KAZAKHSTAN TOTAL 101,723 79,256

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Figure 2: Location of Core Irrigation Systems in East Kazakhstan Province

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

C.3.2 Scope of works 137. The Project is being undertaken in several phases as follows: 1. Feasibility / Design phase – Under TA-9317 provided by ADB, a team of individual international consultants and national consultants were engaged, as well as national design entity “Ulmad” LLP. Feasibility Study of the Project has been finalized and submitted for the State Expertise in November 2018. Four IEEs, including this report, are being prepared for each Province under the Project. Detail design of all irrigation schemes and subsequent construction are planned for second half of 2019. The EMP developed in the IEEs will be provided to the detail design team and will be included into design package and bidding documents. 2. Construction Phase – the following activities will be undertaken: • Construction activities – Currently main construction activities under the 16 subprojects in selected provinces include o Fixing of existing canals, including main, inter-farm and on-farm ones; o Mechanical cleaning of canals from sediments, rubbish and vegetation, stripping of rush; o dismantling of destroyed parts of canals; o concrete and/or reinforced concrete works on canals, rehabilitation of longitudinal and cross sections, lining of working sections; o geomembrane; o repair or construction of gauging stations, installation of water level staff; o construction of gauging footbridges; o construction/repair of water outlets; o dismantling and installation of gates at canal structures; o repair and construction of head structures; o rehabilitation of small reservoirs for water accumulation; o rehabilitation of wells; o grading of inspection roads along canals; o SCADA for canals of 10 m3/s and higher; automated outlet gate management system and up-to-date facilities for remote control; o rehabilitation of reinforced pipeline networks, valves, plungers, discharges; o rehabilitation of pump stations; o design of high-voltage networks. • The scope and types of works shall be confirmed at development stage. It is should be noted that some changes in list and number of schemes, scope and type of works can be made during implementation. Consultant shall first review design solutions as per the FSs and other documents provided by the Client, visit project sites, conduct detailed inspections and engineer surveys. If required, Consultant can propose alternate design solutions with detailed justification of their advantages as opposed to the design solutions from the FSs. D&E shall include design solutions approved by the Client. Relevantly IEE should be updated. • Site Specific Environmental Management Plan (SSEMP) – SSEMPs will be developed by contractor for approval by supervision engineer as a prerequisite for overtaking construction sites. No access to the site will be allowed until the SSEMP is reviewed by Supervision Engineer and approved by Environment Protection Officer of Project Management Office. 3. Operational phase – Commences from the date of taking over of the works by the employer. 138. Main works and structures to be rehabilitated which were proposed under the Project in East-Kazakhstan province in total and in selected districts are presented in Table 15: East-

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Kazakhstan province quantities for Infrastructure Rehabilitation and ImprovementTable 15 and Table 16 below. Table 15: East-Kazakhstan province quantities for Infrastructure Rehabilitation and Improvement

Item Units Quantities Earthen channels km 364.92 Lined channels, flumes and pipelines km 436.12 Hydraulic structures: head regulators, outlets, pipe No 2,558 crossing, bridges, water meters and underground closing systems SCADA systems No 6

Table 16: Quantities of works and structures to be rehabilitated under the Project in selected districts of East-Kazakhstan province per districts District Type of works Unit Quantity

Zharma 3 canals in Shar river system, total length km 40.8 district – Gates nos. 104 17,958 ha gauging stations nos. 4 water outlets nos. 109 fish-protection structures nos. 4 Zaisan Canals in Uidene river systems Km 138.1 district – Canals in Kendirlik river systems km 89.8 24,494 ha gauging stations nos. 9 water outlets nos. 195 head structures, nos. 9 Gates nos. 55 fish-protection structures. nos. 9 Kokpekty Canals in Chigilik river systems km 2.20 district – Mechanical cleaning – m3 4,400; 1,719 ha uprooting ha 38.2 Gates nos. 8 Concrete works m3 58,452 Reinforcement t 390 gauging station nos. 1 water outlets; nos. 24 head structure; nos. 1 fish-protection structure nos. 1 Kurchum 22 canals in river systems km 192.392 district – gauging stations nos. 9 11,881 ha water outlets nos. 195 head structures nos. 9 Gates nos. 55 fish-protection structures nos. 9 Tarbagatai 8 canals in river systems, total length km 112.988 district – gauging stations nos. 8 6,205 ha water outlets nos. 170 head structures nos. 8 Gates nos. 41 fish-protection structures nos. 8 11 canals in river systems, total length – km 176.75

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Urdzhar gauging stations nos. 11 district – water outlets nos. 271 11,622 ha head structures nos. 11 Gates nos. 227 fish-protection structures nos. 11 139. Typical cross-sections of canals, design of hydraulic structures, head gates, fish protection, and outlets are presented in Annex E.

C.4. Description of Typical Works

C.4.1. Mechanical Cleaning 140. Flow scheme of sediment removal operations on canals in the earthen channel with depth up to three meters depend on a type of used unit and are presented in figure. While cleaning the canals, the sediments are removed by operating device of excavator or by ditch cleaner as they move along the canal. Alternate of working movements of the basic machines are chosen depending on the sedimentation layer thickness, canal width and depth, canal situation and parameters of operating devices. With a single-pass working movement of the basic machine the canal is cleaned from one position and the operating device is able to influence the sedimentation layer throughout its entire cross-section. When it works from one position, it is cleaned in two or more passages of basic machine.

Figure 3: Cleaning of earthen channel. 36

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Where: a – ditch cleaner with double-rotor operating device; в – backhoe excavator with tilting ladle; г – excavator with equipment of side dragline; д – ditch cleaner with auger operating device; е – in-the canal ditch cleaner based on narrow tractor with cleanup dumps and rotary operating device; ж, и – excavator or ditch cleaner with multi-bucket or scraping operating device; к –excavator with dragline equipment 141. Weed removal process from side slopes and canal banks in the earthen channel includes the work operations presented in the table. Ditch cleaning process in the earthen channel from weeds depends on local conditions and equipment used. Under specific conditions, some technological operations listed in the table may be excluded from the technological process. For example: • at regular mowing of herbaceous vegetation on canal banks and side slopes (two to four times during the growing season), the need for specialized cutting of trees and shrubs, removing it from the channel and utilization is dropped out, as trees and shrubs do not succeed to develop up to sizes inaccessible for mowing by ameliorative mowing machines; • in case of massive overgrowing of banks and slopes with tree and shrubs and its subsequent removal the herbaceous vegetation does not remain and it’s mowing doesn’t carried out. Table 17: Technological process of weeds removal from canal side slopes and banks in the earthen channel Working operation Ways and means of performance Removal of foreign objects (stones, scrap Tractor manipulators, excavators, metal etc.) from canal banks bulldozers, loaders-buckets and manually Revelation and marking with a range rod the Manually nearly invisible structures and invincible obstacles on canal side slopes and banks Cut of trees and shrubs on canal banks Brush-cutting machines, bulldozers, manually Gathering of cut shrub on bank and small Bulldozers, root extractors-gatherers, tractor forest in a pile rakes, loaders- buckets Removal of foreign objects (stones, scrap Tractor manipulators, excavators, loaders metal etc.) from canal beds dozers, loader-buckets and manually Cut of trees and shrubs on canal side slopes Brush cutters, manually Extraction of cut vegetation from canal bed Loader-buckets, tractor rakes, bulldozers, with its subsequent movement into the root extractors-gatherers, gathering- formed piles transportation vehicles

Stump pulling on canal bank and bed Root extractors-gatherers, single-bucket excavators with special buckets Hilling and shaking up piled wood and soil Root extractors-gatherers, loaders-buckets mass Processing of trees and shrubs (stocking up Manually, chippers firewood, chopping into chips and others) Loading the convertible tree and shrubs and Loaders, loader-buckets wood residues into vehicles

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Removal the convertible tree and shrubs and Tractor trailers, motor transport wood residues to consumers or to storage sites Leveling of soil heaps, leveling of banks Bulldozers and graders Mowing of banks Front mowing machines, and where there is a road any ameliorative or agricultural mowing machines Mowing of side slopes Ameliorative mowing-machines and ditch cleaners with mowing operating devices Mowing of inaccessible places for mowing - Manually machines

C.4.2. Concrete Lining 142. The complex technological process of concreting structures, according to the general scheme, includes preparing concrete and transporting it to a construction site, supplying, distributing, laying and compacting in the structure, curing of concrete during hardening. 143. The concrete mix is prepared in accordance with the brand of concrete specified in the project and with the water permeability requirements, frost resistance, and preservation of mechanical properties in aggressive media. In addition, it must have certain technical properties that provide transportation and operational comfort with it. In this regard, the mixture should not segregate and have a certain consistency, which, depending on the placement conditions of mixture can vary from liquid to thick and hard. 144. Concrete mix is prepared in concrete mixers, which, depending on the method of loading the components and delivery of ready mix, are divided into continuous concrete mixers (loading and delivery of the mixture occurs continuously) and cyclical. In the last ones, the work takes place on the cycle of "loading - mixing - unloading". 145. Equipment arrangement for concrete mixing plants is carried out according to two schemes: (i) a tower when the components of the concrete mix is risen once to the upper point of technological process and then moved downwards under the action of their own gravity, and (ii) two stages when the rise occurs twice. The most compact and economical are tower- type plants, but because of considerable height (up to 35 m), their installation is difficult. Figure 4 shows typical concrete mixing plants with two gravitational concrete mixers (750 l volume). 146. Permanent fixed concrete plants produce ready-mixed concrete for consumers in nearby areas. Large plants in a complex with a fleet of concrete vehicles supply concrete mixes to construction sites within a radius of up to 100 km. 147. The on-site plants usually operated for two or three years provide with dismountable or separate blocks. Dismountable inventory installations are advisable when objects are located outside the range of concrete plants and a slight need for concrete (50-70 m3/day); such plants consist of concrete mixers, weighing batchers and aggregate warehouses. 148. The process of laying concrete mix includes the following operations: preparing the bedding, supply the concrete mix into the concrete structure, leveling it and compacting it. Before laying the mixture, the formwork should be cleared of debris and dirt, and the existing gaps should be sealed. The formwork surfaces adjacent to the concrete must be coated with grease. 149. The concrete mixture is placed on prior prepared base: layers of silty, vegetable, peaty and other soils of organic origin are removed from the subgrade and replaced with sand; natural or artificial subgrade should retain the physical and mechanical properties provided by

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province the project; the base, which is subject to flooding by groundwater or surface water, should be provided with water-reducing devices. 150. Prior to the laying of the concrete mix, the correctness of installation of 6 cm thick geogrid, presence of concrete pads and other supports ensuring the predetermined thickness of the concrete cover are especially carefully checked. For the passage of workers on the formwork a narrow plank boards on pillars are placed. Geogrid is fixed with 20 cm long metal pins, one pin per 1 m2 of geogrid. 151. Geomembrane is laid on designed canal sections, with its ends fixed/buried at canal dam at 20 cm depth, in 20 cm from concrete shoulder. When making construction joints, cross and longitudinal edges of geomembrane are melted with each other. Geogrid is laid on geomembrane on the bed and slopes, its cells are fixed with G-type anchors/pins of reinforcement А-I Ø8 mm 20 cm long, pins shall have a bend up to 5 cm over geogrid.

Figure 4: Tower Concrete Mixing Plants where a layout schemes 1 conveyor in a warehouse of aggregates; I tower (vertical) 2 aggregate supply conveyor to feed bins; II two-stage (ground floor) 39

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

3, 9, 10 respectively rotary, guide and distribution fillers; 4 feed bin; 5 cement pneumatic feed pipe; 6, 7, 8 batchers, respectively, of cement, aggregates, water; 11 concrete mixer; 12 distributing hopper; 13 ready mix truck; 14 cement truck; 15 skip hoist or conveyor; б SB-SV-II inventory installation 1, 3 conveyors; 2 elephant trunk; 4 elevator; 5, 6, 12 batchers; 7, 8 consumable cement hoppers and aggregates; 9 receiving funnel; 10 concrete mixer; 11 distributing hoppers.

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

C.5. Alternatives

152. Feasibility Study has considered two alternatives from technical standpoint: earth bed canals vs. lined with concrete.

C.5.1 Lined vs. unlined canals alternatives 153. The Feasibility Study considered two technical alternatives for rehabilitation of existing canals: (i) unlined earth bed canals vs (ii) lined with concrete and geomembrane. During meetings and discussions with FS designer, KVK and ADB TRTA team, it was decided that some canals will remain unlined based on initial economic feasibility assessment, assumptions of tariff burdens on potential water users, and general project cost. 154. Earth bed canals’ advantages are: (i) low cost of works; (ii) guaranteed water supply during initial time after reconstruction due to clean and compacted earth bed with stable slopes, and new hydraulic structures; disadvantages are: (i) earth bed lining is too old technology for capital investment of such size aimed at modernization of irrigation infrastructure; (ii) operation of earth bed canals, despite maintenance works, will inevitably lead to loss of original design characteristics over time, due to gradual erosion and siltation processes, and overgrowth with weeds and bushes; (iii) gradual deterioration of canal cross-section characteristics will lead to insufficient and untimely delivery to the fields and potential yield losses, and inefficient water use per ha of irrigated land in the context of water scarcity in Kazakhstan; (iv) infiltration and percolation of irrigation water will lead to larger water losses, thus decreasing efficiency of water delivery (0.5-0.55), increase in necessary water intake from the source per ha of irrigated land, and increase in groundwater recharge, potentially leading to rising of water table, waterlogging and subsequent salinization of soils, which finally may render saline lands unusable for cultivation. 155. Concrete lined bed canals’ advantages are: (i) significant reduction of infiltration and percolation rates, avoiding problems with water losses, water table rising, waterlogging, salinization of soils, and potential groundwater pollution; (ii) smaller cross-section area of canal with higher water flow velocity; (iii) higher efficiency in water delivery of up to 0.8-0.97, thus addressing water use efficiency per ha in the long run; (iv) longer life span of up to 50 years with guaranteed water supply to the fields; disadvantages are: (i) lined canals are more “sterile” to habitats compared to unlined; (ii) construction costs are around twice as compared to unlined canals. 156. Final decisions on canal bed design will be taken during detail design stage. As of current Feasibility Study stage, for East-Kazakhstan Province 397.42 km of canals are accepted in earth bed and 441.07 km as lined concrete.

C.5.2 “No project” alternative 157. Not implementing the subproject will have positive as well as negative consequences. Positive consequences include: 41

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

(i) environmental conditions will remain the same in the subproject area and there will be no impacts due to subproject construction and operation, such as: a. disturbance and loss of topsoil for access roads and construction sites; b. temporary impacts of dust from construction activities, including vehicle movement on access roads, excavation and filling works, dust generating material handling, and other construction works; c. potential water and wind induced soil erosion; d. potential increase in rivers water pollution with pesticides and fertilizers; e. potential groundwater pollution due to infiltration and percolation processes; f. potential water table rising, waterlogging, and subsequent salinization of soils due to improper drainage of water, and; g. alteration and loss of some habitats emerged within rivers basin, including aquatic and riparian wildlife, and habitats within currently silted and overgrown canals; (ii) no newly created long-term potential risks related to irrigation and agricultural activities. 158. However, considering that the subproject areas of rivers basin are already impacted by anthropogenic intrusion and the subproject stipulates not construction of new, but only rehabilitation of previously used irrigation infrastructure, and returning into use of currently unused lands, the above positive consequences of avoiding potential impacts do not outweigh negative consequences of “no project” scenario, whereby irrigation infrastructure will continue to deteriorate over time and socio-economic situation of sub-projects districts community will not gain benefits of subproject implementation.

C.5.3. Geogrids Alternative 159. Geogrids are proposed to replace steel reinforcement for concrete lining of the irrigation canals in the revised feasibility studies. Geo-grids are geo-synthetic material made from polymers such as polypropylene, polyethylene or polyester. 160. Geogrids can be categorized as geosynthetic materials that are used in the construction industry in the form of a reinforcing material. Geogrids are commonly used to reinforce retaining walls, as well as subbases or subsoils below roads or structures. Soils pull apart under tension. Compared to soil, geogrids are strong in tension. This fact allows them to transfer forces to a larger area of soil than would otherwise be the case. The high demand and application of Geogrids in construction are due to the fact that it is good in tension and has a higher ability to distribute load across a large area. 161. Geogrids are commonly made of polymer materials, such as polyester, polyvinyl alcohol, polyethylene or polypropylene. They may be woven or knitted from yarns, heat- welded from strips of material, or produced by punching a regular pattern of holes in sheets of material, then stretched into a grid. 162. The key feature of all geogrids is that the openings between the adjacent sets of longitudinal and transverse ribs, called "apertures," are large enough to allow for soil strike- through from one side of the geogrid to the other. The ribs of some geogrids are often quite stiff compared to the fibers of geotextiles. 163. The geosynthetic material, geogrids, are polymeric products which are formed by means of intersecting grids. The polymeric materials like polyester, high-density polyethylene and polypropylene are the main composition of geogrids. 164. These grids are formed by material ribs that are intersected by their manufacture in two directions: one in the machine direction (md), which is conducted in the direction of the manufacturing process. The other direction will be perpendicular to the machine direction ribs, which are called as the cross-machine direction (CMD).

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Figure 5: Geogrid’s rib formation in machine and cross machine directions of manufacturing process 165. These materials form matrix structured materials. The open space, as shown in the above figure, due to the intersection of perpendicular ribs are called as the apertures. This aperture varies from 2.5 to 15cm based on the longitudinal and transverse arrangement of the ribs. 166. Among different types of geotextiles, geogrids are considered stiffer. In the case of geogrids, the strength at the junction is considered more important because the loads are transmitted from adjacent ribs through these junctions. 167. Functions and working of Geogrids. The geogrids serve the function of holding or capturing the aggregates together. This method of interlocking the aggregates would help in an earthwork that is stabilized mechanically. The apertures in geogrids help in interlocking the aggregates or the soil that are placed over them. A representation of this concept is shown below.

Figure 6: A representation of Geogrid Confining the aggregates 168. The geogrids as mentioned above helps in redistribution of load over a wider area. This function has made the pavement construction more stabilized and stronger. It has the following functional mechanisms when applied for pavement construction:

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

169. Tension Membrane Effect. This mechanism is based on the concept of vertical stress distribution. This vertical stress is from the deformed shape of the membrane as shown in the figure below. This mechanism was initially considered as the primary mechanism. But later studies proved the lateral restraining mechanism is the major criteria that must be taken into consideration.

Figure 7: Improvement of Bearing Capacity

Figure 8: Mechanism for Improved Bearing Capacity 170. One of the main mechanisms happening after Geogrid installation in pavement is the reduction in lateral movement of the aggregate. This would result in the elimination of stresses; that if exists would have moved to the subgrade. 171. The Geogrid layer possesses sufficient frictional resistance that opposes subgrade lateral movement. This mechanism hence improves the bearing capacity of the layer. Reduction of outward stresses means inward stresses are formed, which is the reason behind the increase in bearing capacity.

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Figure 9: Lateral Restraining Capability 172. The stresses produced by means of the wheel loadings coming over the pavement results in the lateral movement of the aggregates. Which in turn affects the stability of the whole pavement arrangement. The Geogrid act a restraint against this lateral movement. 173. Types of Geogrids. Based on the manufacturing process involved in geogrids it can be of: • Extruded Geogrid • Woven Geogrid • Bonded Geogrid 174. Based on which direction the stretching is done during manufacture, geogrids are classified as: • Uniaxial geogrids • Biaxial Geogrids 175. Uniaxial Geogrids. These geogrids are formed by the stretching of ribs in the longitudinal direction. So, in this case, the material possesses high tensile strength in the longitudinal direction than on the transverse direction. 176. Biaxial Geogrids. Here during the punching of polymer sheets, the stretching is done in both directions. Hence the function of tensile strength is equally given to both transverse and longitudinal direction. 177. Advantages of Geogrids in Construction. 178. Ease of Construction: Geogrid can be installed in any weather conditions. This makes it more demanding. 179. Land Optimization: This method of Geogrid installation in soils makes an unsuitable area suitable for preparing it to meet desired properties for construction. Geogrid thus helps in proper land utilization. • Geogrid promotes soil stabilization • A higher strength soil mass is obtained • Higher load bearing capacity • It is a good remedy to retain soil from erosion • No requirement of mortar. The material is implemented dry. • No difficulty in material availability • Geogrids are flexible in nature. They are known for their versatility.

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

• Geogrids have high durability reducing maintenance cost. They are highly resistant against environmental influences. • Materials are tested based on standard codes and regulations. Table 18: Comparison of Steel Reinforced and Geogrid Reinforced Concrete

Concrete reinforced with steel Concrete reinforced with geogrid Cost Expensive Less expensive option Materials Concrete and steel Concrete and geosynthetics. Lower demand of concrete. Working Non-aggressive Aggressive and non-aggressive environment Structural Due to corrosion structural and High structural and reinforcement integrity reinforcement integrity may worsen integrity Environmental Comparatively high environmental Lower environmental impacts based impacts impacts based on Life Cycle Analysis on LCA covering supply of raw material, manufacture of the concrete and geosynthetics, its use and decommissioning.16 Application Well-established technology Innovation with limited application so far 180. Using of Geogrid as a replacement for steel reinforcement in canal lining was discussed by KVK and the designer Ulmad in December 2018. The purpose of this innovation was to reduce the costs of the project and use of the materials. KVK have some previous experience in using Geogrids. As can be seen from the above table using of geosynthetics is less costly as compared with reinforced steel, shows high structural and reinforcement integrity, allows to operate in aggressive environments and have lesser environmental impacts (based on LCA analysis).

16 https://www.eagm.eu/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/140924_Berlin_Wallbaum.pdf 46

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province D. Description of the Environment 181. This section of the report discusses the existing environmental and social conditions within the Project area under the following headings: • Physical Resources (air quality, hydrology, topography, etc.); • Ecological Resources (flora, fauna, protected areas); • Economic Resources (infrastructure, land use, etc.); • Social and Cultural Resources (health, education, noise, cultural resources, etc.) 182. The potential impacts of the Project on its surrounding physical and biological environments include air and water quality impacts, noise generation, land transformation and changes to soil. These are expected to reduce with the increased distance from the Project facilities, affecting more the areas located closer, up to one kilometer, to the Project facilitities. For this, a study area of one kilometer around the site was delineated, to assess the baseline conditions in the areas likely to be affected by the Project due to its proximity to the Project site. This is referred to as the Project Area in this report. The Project Area selected for the IEE includes sensitive receptors 17 that are most likely to be impacted by the Project’s development activities.

D.1. Physical Resources

D.1.1 Topography, geology and soils 183. Generic Considerations (at province level). East Kazakhstan Province occupies the easternmost part of Kazakhstan, along both sides of the Irtysh River and Lake Zaysan. Its administrative center is Oskemen (also known as Ust-Kamenogorsk). The East-Kazakhstan Province in the new borders after merging with Semey Province is located in the basin of upper Irtysh river, which divides it into left and right bank parts, and traverses it for 1,500 km. Province total area is 283,226 square kilometers. The province borders with Russia in the north, the People's Republic of China in the east, Almaty Province in the south, Pavlodar and Karaghandy Provinces in the south. 184. Geographical position of the Province is in the depth of continent and on the border of great plains - Western Siberia and Kazakhstan. Diversity of natural conditions and resources is favorable for its economic development. East-Kazakhstan lies at the intersection of great waterways of Irtysh and Ob rivers, and is connected via railway and automobile highways with neighboring Provinces of the Republic of Kazakhstan and neighboring countries. 185. A small territory of East-Kazakhstan is occupied by Altai and Saur-Tarbagatai mountains with eternal glaciers on tops, Kalba mountain range, small-hilly plains, Kazakh hillocks, Irtysh plain, Zaisan and Alakol intermountain areas, wide depressions and extensive plains along rivers.

17 Sensitive receptors include, but are not limited to, residential areas, schools, places of worship, wetlands, and habitats. These are areas which are more susceptible to the adverse effects of an anthropogenic activity such as noise, air emissions, traffic influx, and privacy issues

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Figure 10: Topography of Kazakhstan and East-Kazakhstan Province

Figure 11: Topography of East-Kazakhstan 186. Site-Specific Considerations. Soil formation is conditioned by (i) weathering; (ii) movement of organic and mineral compounds in soil; and (iii) humus formation. These three groups of processes determine formation of soil horizons.

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

187. In the lowlands of Southern Altai (south of Kurchumsky district) and in the north of Zaisan depression, brown desert-steppe soils are formed in arid climate, with little humus and are much crushed due to year-round dry winds. 188. Chestnut soils. Light chestnut soils are typical for arid provinces of lowlands, foothills, intermountain depressions and hummocky topography relief of Kalba and Tarbagatai mountains. Range zones of chestnut and light chestnut soils are considered as zones of risky farming: without irrigation crops do not grow. 189. At an altitude of 600-800 m, light chestnut soils change to dark chestnut soils that occupy bottom of Southern Altai and Saur mountains. They have distinct humus horizon of brown color up to 40 cm 190. Chernozems are common in foothills, lowlands and intermountain valleys of Rudny, Southern Altai and Kalba ranges reaching up to heights of 1500 m. Chernozems of plains are best lands for arable agriculture in East-Kazakhstan Province and contain 40-90 up to 120 cm of humus horizon. 191. Mountainous gray forest and sod-podzolic soils occupy exclusively northern slopes of medium mountains of Kalba, Rudny, Southern Altai and Saur. Characterized with layer of forest humus horizon of up to 30-40 cm, they have enough moisture for efficient growth of plants. 192. Mountain-meadow soils are common on the southern slopes of mid-mountain belt of Ore and Southern Altai. 193. Mountain-tundra soils occupy high parts of flattened Alpine relief in Ore and Southern Altai above 2000 m with small thickness - up to 30-40 cm, and rich in fluorine. 194. Zharma district. Subproject area is located to the northwest of Kalba mountainous range, where Char river originates from. While Char river basin area has wide undulating plain and hillocky features in northwest direction, Kalba range to the south of Char water reservoir is presented with medium hills such as Askarly, Saryzhal, Karauyltobe, Zhuantobe, Baraktykan, Akbiik, Karamuryn, with altitude of 500-865 m above sea level, and high hills to the southeast Saryzhal, Kandygatai, Zhumagul, Kargaly, Zheldikara, and others with altitude of 780-1090 m above sea level. Terrain in Char river basin is typical for riparian landscape with soils of alluvial formation. General altitude of the subproject area descends from 490 m at Char reservoir down to 350 m above sea level near Troitskoye village in western direction. Almost all lands within the subproject area are used for agricultural purposes, and some areas in the lower parts have alkali features. 195. Zaisan district. Most of the area is located in the Zaisan and Shilikta depressions, which represent a vast intermountain trough. Less than half of the area is mountainous. The mountains stretch in a latitudinal direction, occupying the entire southern part of the province and are represented by the Saur and Manyrak ranges. The Saur Ridge is located in the southeastern part of the district. The highest points of the Saur Range, the Muztau Mountains (“ice mountain”), reach 3500–3816 m, from which small glaciers descend. Towards the northwest, the height gradually decreases to 1500–1800 m. 196. Kokpekty district. The relief of the district is mainly small-slope, in the north - the mountain (Kalbinsky ridge), in the south - the northern part of the Zaisan lake basin. The highest point of the province is Mount Karazhal (1,606 m). The soils of the province are loamy and solonets. 197. Kurchum district. The relief of the territory of the district is mainly mountainous, except for the extreme south-western lowland part located in the Zaisan depression. In the east of the district, there are mountain ranges of Altai - Kurchum (with the highest point of the area - the mountain Aksubas with a height of 3,305 m), Azutau and Sarymsakty, in the north-west - the Narym range. The soils of the province are mountain-chestnut and mountain-chernozem.

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

198. Tarbagatai district. The relief of the district is flat in the northern part, mountainous - in the southern. The highest point of the province, Mount Tastau (2,992 m), is located in the Tarbagatai Mountains on the southwestern border. The soils from the southeast to the northwest are light yellow, with an increase in the height of the terrain — chernozem. 199. Urdzhar district. The relief of the area is mostly flat. The southern part of the district is located in the Balkhash-Alakol hollow. The Tarbagatai mountains stretch up to 2992 meters along the northeastern border of the province. In the east there are spurs of the Birliktu ridge, up to 1114 meters high.

D.1.2 Climate 200. Generic Considerations (at province level). Climate of East-Kazakhstan Province is sharply to moderate continental, with great diversity of four climatic zones: desert, semi-desert, steppe, foothill and mountainous areas. Climatic conditions of plains and mountainous provinces differ from each other both in temperature and precipitation amounts. Sharp continental features of desert and semi-desert areas of Province are significantly relieved in mountainous and foothill areas. By the law of latitudinal zonal variation, an increase in solar radiation balance indices is observed from 46.1 to 50.6 kcal/cm2 per year from north to south. 201. Weather varies by seasons depending on atmospheric circulation. During winter, under influence of western part of Mongolian high-pressure system, anticyclone type of weather is set (steady, clear, frosty, and cloudless). Influence of North Atlantic (Azores) maximum contributes to the establishment of cyclonic type of weather (unstable, warm, cloudy, with precipitation) in both winter and summer periods. In addition, atmospheric circulation during summer is influenced by area of increased pressure over Arctic Ocean, contributing to development of summer anticyclones (low temperature, dry air, late frosts). Features of summer circulation are complicated by outbreak of tropical air masses from south and local mountain-valley winds (in mountainous areas). 202. Coldest month is January. It has an average monthly air temperature of -17… -18°С, and in some places -13°С…-27°С. During warm winters, an average monthly temperature in the southwestern part of the Province does not fall below -10°C. Temperature of the warmest month July is +16...+23°С. The annual temperature amplitude range is 33-43°С. Absolute minimum during some winters reaches -43 -55°С, and absolute maximum during summer is +35…+43°С. Distribution of average temperatures in the mountains depends on an altitude. Frost-free period in mountainous and foothill areas lasts less than three months, the rest of territory - up to five months. 203. Site-specific context. 204. Zharma district. Average temperature of Zharma subproject area in January is - 16°С…-18°С, in July +20°С…+22°С. 205. Winter is cold and lasts 5-6 months. Snow cover is uneven: in mountainous and foothill areas it reaches 60-80 cm, in steppe and semi-desert areas does not exceed 15-25 cm, and in some areas less than 15 cm. Unevenness of snow cover causes uneven soil freezing depth. 206. Precipitation of warm periods is uneven as well. In areas around Zaisan lake precipitation falls less than 100 mm. In mountainous and foothill areas more than 300 mm. Annual precipitation throughout the province varies from 165–200 mm (in desert and semi- desert) to 800-1500 mm (Orlovka, Malaya Ulba, mountainous part of Tarbagatai). Maximum precipitation falls during second half of summer. Average precipitation amounts in Zharma subproject area range from 200 to 300 mm. 207. During winter period, prevailing winds in the province are of southeastern and southern directions; during warm period – eastern and northeastern. Average wind speeds are 2.5-3.5 m/s. However, in some areas strong winds (15 m/s) are not exception and happen in an average of 18-20 days per year. Most windy circulations are observed near Zhangiz-Tobe,

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Karaul and Zharma meteorological stations. Over multiannual observation an average of 70 to 105 days with strong winds of 15 m/s and more occur during fall-spring October to March period. 208. Zaisan district. The climate of the district is sharply continental with large daily amplitudes of air temperature. According to climatic conditions, the territory of the province belongs to the desert-steppe dry and alpine tundra-meadow zones. Summer is dry and hot, winter is snowless and harsh. The average annual rainfall is 281 mm. The average annual air temperature is −4 ° С. The absolute minimum temperature falls in January - −50 ° С, the absolute minimum in July - 46 ° С. The duration of the frost-free period is 130-150 days. Snow cover is established in the second half of November, converges in early April. The average height of snow cover reaches 20–30 cm by the end of winter, with fluctuations in some years from 5 to 40 cm. 209. Kurchum district. The climate is sharply continental. The average January temperature is −14 ... -18 ° C, July - 17 ... 22 ° C. The average annual amount of precipitation on the plains is 200–400 mm, and in the mountains, 500–700 mm. 210. Tarbagatai district. The climate of the province is sharply continental. The average January temperature is –17°C ... –19°C, July - 20°C ... 22°C. The average annual amount of precipitation is 200–300 mm, in the mountains - up to 800 mm. Most of the precipitation occurs in the winter season. 211. Kokpekti district. The climate is continental. The average January temperature is - 20.9°C, July: 20.4 °C. The average annual precipitation is from 200 mm in a hollow to 350– 400 mm on the Kalba Ridge. 212. Meteorological characteristics and coefficients determining the conditions for dispersion of pollutants into the atmosphere are presented in the Table 19 below. Table 19: Meteorological characteristics in target districts of the Project NN Characteristics Value 1 Coefficient depending on the stratification of the 200 atmosphere, A 2 Terrain coefficient 1 3 Average maximum outdoor temperature of the hottest month +28,8 of the year, T ºС 4 Average maximum outdoor temperature of the coldest -9,4 month of the year, T ºС 5 Average wind rose, % North 14 North-East 6 East 16

South-East 15 South 11 South-West 11 West 18 North-West 9 Calm, % 38

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Wind speed according to average annual data, the 5 frequency of which exceed 5 %, м/с

213. Chemical composition of the precipitation in the East Kazakhstan Province. Observations on the chemical composition of precipitation consisted in sampling rainwater at 4 meteorological stations (Ridder, Semey, Ulken Naryn, Ust-Kamenogorsk). Concentrations of all detectable pollutants in precipitation do not exceed the maximum permissible concentration. 214. The precipitation samples were dominated by the content of bicarbonates 34.1%, sulfates 24.85%, calcium ions 13.66%, chlorides 9.03%, sodium ions 5.88%. The highest total mineralization was noted at MS Ust-Kamenogorsk - 51.54 mg / l, the lowest - 17.75 mg / l - at MS Ulken Naryn. The conductivity of precipitation ranged from 27.09 (MS Ulken Naryn) to 79.01 µS / cm (MS Ust-Kamenogorsk). The precipitation has the character of slightly acidic, neutral and slightly alkaline environment and ranges from 5.58 (MS Ulken Naryn) to 6.51 (MS Ust-Kamenogorsk). 215. Winter is cold and lasts 5-6 months. Snow cover is uneven: in mountainous and foothill areas it reaches 60-80 cm, in steppe and semi-desert areas does not exceed 15-25 cm, and in some areas less than 15 cm. Unevenness of snow cover causes uneven soil freezing depth. 216. Precipitation of warm periods is uneven as well. In areas around Zaisan lake precipitation falls less than 100 mm. In mountainous and foothill areas more than 300 mm. Annual precipitation throughout the province varies from 165–200 mm (in desert and semi- desert) to 800-1500 mm (Orlovka, Malaya Ulba, mountainous part of Tarbagatai). Maximum precipitation falls during second half of summer. Average precipitation amounts in Zharma subproject area range from 200 to 300 mm. 217. During winter period, prevailing winds in the province are of southeastern and southern directions; during warm period – eastern and northeastern. Average wind speeds are 2.5-3.5 m/s. However, in some areas strong winds (15 m/s) are not exception and happen in an average of 18-20 days per year. Most windy circulations are observed near Zhangiz-Tobe, Karaul and Zharma meteorological stations. Over multiannual observation an average of 70 to 105 days with strong winds of 15 m/s and more occur during fall-spring October to March period.

D.1.3 Air quality 218. General. In East Kazakhstan air quality is continuously monitored in Ust-Kamenogorsk, Ridder, Zyranovsk, Shemonaiha, Semei and in the village Glubokoe. Due to the metallurgy industry in the province air in these settlements are the most polluted. According to the monitoring data of Kazhydromet for the 4th quarter of 2018 the level of pollution of the atmospheric air of the city is characterized as high, it is determined by the SI value equal to 9 (high level). 219. The average concentrations of the following pollutants exceeded allowable levels: sulfur dioxide - 2.3 times, nitrogen dioxide — 1.8 times, hydrogen fluoride — 1.4 times, the concentrations of the remaining pollutants did not exceed the maximum allowable average daily level of pollutants. 220. In the project site monitoring of air quality is not conducted, however considering the fact that there are no heavy industries in project areas air quality is considered to be better than in the abovementioned settlements.

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province D.1.4 Hydrological resources and surface water quality D.1.4.1. Surface Water Hydrology 221. East Kazakhstan province is rich in water resources as more than 40% of all water resources of the country are concentrated in it. The rivers of the Eastern subregion belong to the basin of the Arctic Ocean. Drainage network density depends on the natural conditions: topography, climate, and vegetation. 222. About 885 rivers, more than 10 km long, flow in the territory of East Kazakhstan. Among the largest ones are the Black Irtysh, Bukhtarma, Kurchum, Kalzhyr, Narym, Uba, and Ulba. The main waterway of province is Irtysh, on which there are 3 hydroelectric power stations; Bukhtarma, Shulbinsk and Ust-Kamenogorsk. Irtysh river divides the territory to the left bank and right bank. 223. Mountain glaciers are the most important storage of fresh water. According to specified data from scientists of the National Academy of Sciences of Kazakhstan, there are 350 glaciers with a total area of 99.1 km2 in South-West Altai. Glaciers are common in the highlands of Rudny, Southern Altai and on Saur. M.V. Thronov identified two centers of glaciation in Southern Altai. One of them is in the river headwaters of the Bereli and Bukhtarma rivers, the other is in the headwaters of Kurchum. The coldest water comes from glaciers, namely Berel, Bukhtarma, and Sarymsakty while the warm water comes from the low mountains namely Char and Kokpekty. The rivers freeze in the second half of November and the ice lasts for 80 to 200 days. The rivers of the left bank are fed exclusively by the melting of seasonal snow. The role of rainwater is very small and the share of ground water inflow increases in the foothills. According to its water regime, the spring flows cause flooding. In winter, groundwater feed prevails. In areas where there is a large amount of precipitation, the rivers have a flood regime. Low water occurs in summer or winter. Small rivers of lowlands can dry up in summer. 224. The main sources of river recharge of the right bank are also snow melt waters and rains; the flow from glaciers increases in the highlands. 225. There are about 1,000 lakes larger than 1 hectare in East Kazakhstan province. They are unevenly distributed across the territory - the largest number of lakes is concentrated in the northern and north-east parts of province. By origin, lake basins are very diverse. The most characteristics are tectonic, pondage, and floodplain. By condition of water exchange, the lakes are divided into closed, periodically open, and open. Most of the lakes are closed, fed by precipitation, groundwater and glaciers. According to salt load of the lake, they are fresh and poorly mineralized. Mineralization increases in dry years. The largest lakes of the province are Zaisan, Markakol, Bukhtarma, Ulmes, Caracol, Turangakol, Dubygaly, Kemirkol, as well as Alakol and Sasykkol located on the border of East Kazakhstan and Almaty provinces.

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

East-Kazakhstan subprojects

Figure 12: Main River Basins of Kazakhstan

D.1.4.2. Groundwater Resources 226. The Eastern subregion has significant groundwater resources of good quality. The freshwater aquifers lie at the depths of 10-15 to 50-100 m in Rudny, Altai, Tarbagatay and in the adjacent areas of Hummocky topography. Their long-term reserves are estimated at 160 billion m3. 227. Groundwater can be widely used for water supply of cities, mining enterprises, and agriculture. For sustainable use, ground water needs protection, careful consumption, and contamination prevention. D.1.4.3. Available Water Resources 228. Water resources of East Kazakhstan province belong to the Ertis water basin. Long- term characteristics of the river flows of water resources are as follows: • Average total surface water resources - 36.4 km3/year of which: • Resources generated within the province – 26.9 km3/year, and • Inflows from areas outside the province - 9.5 km3/year. 229. Estimated reserves of groundwater of the Ertis water basin is 8.322 km3/year, of which approved reserves are 2.945 km3/year, including mineral waters estimated at 0,00086km3/year. An average volume of annually water taken by water users in the Ertis water basin is 3.58 km3, of which from surface sources is 3.51 km3. Of this, 0.58 km3 is taken on the average in East Kazakhstan province, of which surface sources are 0.43 km3 and ground sources are 0.15 km.3 From this amount of water, about 99.0 million m3 to 140.0 million m3 is taken annually for regular irrigation. 230. As can be seen from the above analysis of the volume of water resources in the Ertis water basin and the average volume of annually taken water for regular irrigation, the volume

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province of water resources is sufficient for irrigating agricultural crops to existing irrigated lands and long-term perspective, taking into account the project irrigated lands of 82,247 ha. 231. Based on the data received from Kazvodhoz the rivers that nurture the canals in Kurchum district in East Kazakhstan are as shown in Table 20. Table 20: List of irrigation canals and rivers feeding canals18 Water source Sl.No. Name of project Length, km

Kurchum District 1 MC Altai 29.97 river Kurchum 2 MC Tore-Togam 10.30 river Kurchum 3 MC Zhaugashty 7.73 river Kurchum 4 Canal Kerzhachii 18.7 river Kurchum 5 MC Shukinskii 14.20 r.Orta Terekti 6 MC Cherepanovskii 2.30 r.Orta Terekti 7 MC Srednii 11.35 r.Orta Terekti 8 MC Karakya 25.00 r. Kalzhir 9 MC Pobeda 20.00 r. Kalzhir 10 Canal Derevenskii 23.70 r. Kalzhir 11 Canal Rovenskii 19.20 r. Kalzhir Canal Derevenskii- r. Kalzhir 24.38 12 Zhidely Canal Derevenskii- r. Kalzhir 14.70 13 Buran 14 MC "Еrezhep" 13.40 r. Kalzhir MC Bolshoi r.Bas Terekti 13.30 15 Nikolaevskii 16 MC "Levoshalinskii" 5.60 r.Shet Terekti 17 MC Sandytogan 10.13 r.Shet Terekti 18 MC Popovskii 3.90 r.Shet Terekti 19 MC Lopatinskii 2.67 r.Shet Terekti 20 MC "Ipatyevskii" 2.12 r.Shet Terekti 21 MC "Zhana Togam" 3.49 r.Zhinishke 22 MC "Tentekskii" 3.40 r.Tentek Total 279.55 Tarbagatai District 23 MC Begetai 12.00 river Kandysu 24 MC Kazakbai 18.00 river Kandysu 25 MC Karasha 21.00 river Kandysu 26 MC Bolat 24.00 river Kandysu 27 MC Karatogan 23.00 river Kandysu 28 MC Dauletbai 15.10 river Kargyba on-farm canal river Bazar 2.50 29 Zhanbike MC Ryurikovskii (МC river Terisairyk 8.20 30 "Burymbet") Total 103.00 Urdzhar District 31 MC Otgonnyi 34.0 Kaska River 32 MC Nazar-Oral 7 Unknown 33 MC Toktybai 9.1 Makanshy-Karasu 34 MC Soedinitelnyi 25.0 Urdzhar

18 Source: Based on Feasibility Study: Modernization of Irrigation Systems for Irrigated Lands. 2018 55

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

35 MC "Amankeldy" 10 Urdzhar 36 MC "Almaly" 5 Urdzhar 37 MC "Shoshkaly" 2 Urdzhar 38 MC "Kyzylshoky" 5.0 Urdzhar 39 MC "Akbastau" 4 Klyucha Knach 40 MC "Zhanai" 4 Kaindy On-farm canals of river Eginsu 96.65 41 system Eginsu Total 201.75 Zharma District 42 MC Goltsovskii 5.50 r.Char 43 MC Korykshar 13.50 r.Char 44 MC Aktogan 21.80 r.Char Total 40.8 Kokpekty District On-farm canals of river river Chigilik 2.20 45 system Chigilik Total 2.20 Zaisan District On-farm canals of river river Uidene system Uidene including 46 LХ-4 3.70 reservoir Uidene 47 LХ-5 4.60 reservoir Uidene 48 ОХ-2 5.60 reservoir Uidene 49 ОХ-2А 1.80 reservoir Uidene 50 ОХ-2Б 3.20 reservoir Uidene 51 ОХ-3 5.40 reservoir Uidene 52 ОХ-4 5.20 reservoir Uidene 53 ОХ-5 5.10 reservoir Uidene 54 ОХ-6 3.10 reservoir Uidene 55 ОХ-7 3.70 reservoir Uidene 56 ОХ-8 4.20 reservoir Uidene 57 ОХ-9 5.30 reservoir Uidene 58 ОХ-10 5.00 reservoir Uidene 59 ЛХ-3 2.90 reservoir Uidene 60 ОХ-1-1 4.10 reservoir Uidene 61 ОХ-1-2 4.30 reservoir Uidene 62 Ох-1-3 3.80 reservoir Uidene 63 Ох-1-4 1.90 reservoir Uidene 64 Ох-1-5 5.80 reservoir Uidene 65 АХ-1 7.90 reservoir Uidene 66 МХ-1 6.50 reservoir Uidene 67 МХ-2 5.00 reservoir Uidene 68 МХ-3 3.80 reservoir Uidene 69 МХ-4 4.20 reservoir Uidene 70 АХ-1-1 4.30 reservoir Uidene 71 ОPХ-1 2.70 reservoir Uidene 72 ОPХ-2 2.20 reservoir Uidene 73 ОPХ-3 1.90 reservoir Uidene 74 ОPХ-4 1.00 reservoir Uidene 75 ОPХ-5 1.60 reservoir Uidene 76 ОPХ-6 1.10 reservoir Uidene 77 ОPХ-7 2.60 reservoirUidene 78 ОPХ-8 2.80 reservoir Uidene 79 ОPХ-9 3.40 reservoir Uidene 80 АХ-2 4.30 reservoir Uidene 81 АХ-3 4.10 reservoir Uidene 56

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

On-farm canals of river system Kendirlik including 82 Ak-Komei 2.70 r.Kendirlik 83 Sotnya-1 1.90 r.Kendirlik 84 Sotnya-1а 2.20 r.Kendirlik 85 Sotnya-2 1.00 r.Kendirlik 86 Sotnya-3 1.60 r.Kendirlik 87 Kok-Koshkar 1.10 r.Kendirlik 88 Konyr Buka 2.60 r.Kendirlik 89 Levyi -1 2.80 r.Kendirlik 90 Levyi -2 3.40 r.Kendirlik 91 Levyi -3 4.30 r.Kendirlik 92 Trudovoi 4.10 r.Kendirlik 93 Saryeshki 14.00 r.Kendirlik 94 Cholak Togam 14.00 r.Kendirlik 95 Zhymsak aral 14.00 r.Kendirlik 96 Kara Kas 7.08 r.Kendirlik 97 Koldenen tal 5.00 r.Kendirlik 98 Torbie 8.00 r.Kendirlik Total 227.88 Total on EKO 801.04

D 1.4.4. Surface Water Quality 232. In 2018, surface water quality monitoring in Kazakhstan was being conducted at 389 hydro chemical monitoring stations over 139 water bodies including 90 rivers, 14 reservoirs, 31 lakes, 3 canals and 1 sea. Among parameters monitored are ammonia, boron, iron (2+ and total), cadmium, copper, arsenic, magnesium, manganese, nitrites, nitrates, nickel, mercury, sulfates, fluorides, chlorides, chromium, zinc, phenols, and oil products. In the East Kazakhstan province, observations have been carried out at 12 water bodies, specifically: rivers Kara Yertis, Yertis, Breksa, Tikhaya, Ulbi, Glubochanka, Krasnoyarka, Oba, Buktyrma, Emel, Aygoz, Markakol Lake, Buktyrma and Ust-Kamenogorsk reservoirs. The monitoring results and their analysis were published in the Information Bulletin on Status of Environment of Republic of Kazakhstan (2018). 233. In addition to this monitoring program, monitoring has been carried out in the framework of observations over Balkhash Lake, and Alakol – Sassyk-Kol system of Lakes, where some subprojects are located (Urdzhar district). The monitoring results are available in the Information Bulletin on Status of Environment of Balkhash Lake and Alakol – Sassyk-Kol system of Lakes (2018). 234. Water quality under the monitoring programs is assessed by comparing pollutants’ concentrations with Maximum Permissible Concentrations (MPCs) for fisheries19 for each pollutant observed. MPC is measured in mg/l. In addition to that the level of water pollution is assessed by complex water pollution index (CWPI), which is used for comparison and identification of change in water quality.

19 There are no standards of water quality for irrigation purposes in Kazakhstan. Recommendations from FAO are used as a reference. 57

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Table 21: General classification of water bodies by pollution level in Kazakhstan20

Indicators of water body pollution # Pollution level By О , By BPK , by CWPI 2 5 mg/dm3 mg/dm3

1 Regulatory clean ≤ 1,0 ≥4,0 ≤3,0

2 Moderately polluted 1,1÷3,0 3,1-3,9 3,1-7,0

3 Highly polluted 3,1÷10,0 1,1-3,0 7,1-8,0

4 Extremely highly polluted ≥10,1 ≤1,0 ≥8,1

235. Except for Urdzhar district, subprojects are located far away from Kazhydromet hydrologic monitoring stations. This can probably be explained by the fact that monitoring stations are designed to monitor sources of pollution in industrial areas, while most of the subprojects are on mountainous, comparatively cleaner rivers, in rural areas. However, in one case, Kara Yertis River which is fed by some subprojects’ rivers is included in Kazhydromet monitoring network. In the case of Urdzhar district, regular monitoring data is also available for subproject rivers as detailed in Table 22. Table 22: Water Quality in Subprojects’ Rivers and Lakes Kara Yertis Average River near Water quality concentr Exceedance, for 2017 for 2018 Boran village parameters ation, times mg/dm3 10.44 11.77 Dissolved oxygen 11.77 - (regulatory (regulatory clean) clean)

1.85 2.23 BOD5 2.23 - (regulatory (regulatory clean) clean) 2.10 2.10 Heavy metals (moderately (moderately Copper (2+) 0.17 1.7 polluted) polluted) Katynsu River Average Water quality concentr Exceedance, for 2017 for 2018 parameters ation, times mg/dm3 9.65 10.25 Dissolved oxygen 10.25 - (regulatory (regulatory clean) clean)

1.17 1.40 BOD5 1.40 - (regulatory (regulatory clean) clean) Heavy metals

20 Guidelines on integrated assessment of surface water quality through hydrochemical indicators, Astana, 2012. 58

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Copper (2+) 0.0018 1.8 2.08 1.53 Manganese (2+) 0.013 1.3 (moderately (moderately polluted) polluted) Biogenic substances Ammonia salts 0.74 1.5 Urdzhar River Average Water quality concentr Exceedance, for 2017 for 2018 parameters ation, times mg/dm3 9.44 10.65 Dissolved oxygen 10.65 - (regulatory (regulatory clean) clean)

1.45 1.40 BOD5 1.40 - (regulatory (regulatory clean) clean) 1.78 2.20 Heavy metals (moderately (moderately Iron, total 0.22 2.2 polluted) polluted) Eginsu River Average Water quality concentr Exceedance, for 2017 for 2018 parameters ation, times mg/dm3 9.14 10.65 Dissolved oxygen 10.65 - (regulatory (regulatory clean) clean)

1.31 1.80 BOD5 1.80 - (regulatory (regulatory clean) clean) 2.6 1.50 Heavy metals (moderately (moderately Copper (2+) 0.0015 1.5 polluted) polluted) Alakol Lake Average Water quality concentr Exceedance, for 2017 for 2018 parameters ation, times mg/dm3 10.1 10.39 Dissolved oxygen 10.39 - (regulatory (regulatory clean) clean)

1.34 1.33 BOD5 1.33 - (regulatory (regulatory clean) clean) Heavy metals Copper (2+) 0.0146 14.6 6.49 (highly 4.71 (highly Zinc (2+) 0.015 1.5 polluted) polluted) Manganese (2+) 0.013 1.3 Basic ions

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Sulfates 1312 13.1 Sodium 761 6.3 Magnesium 203 5.1 Chlorides 747 2.5 Biogenic substances Fluorides 1.5 2.0 Ammonia salts 1.21 2.4 Iron, total 0.12 1.2 Sasyk-Kol Average Lake Water quality concentr Exceedance, for 2017 for 2018 parameters ation, times mg/dm3 9.0 9.75 Dissolved oxygen 9.75 - (regulatory (regulatory clean) clean)

1.45 1.05 BOD5 1.05 - (regulatory (regulatory clean) clean) Heavy metals Copper (2+) 0.002 2.0 Manganese (2+) 0.018 1.8 Basic ions 2.2 2.09 Sulfates 149 1.5 (moderately (moderately polluted) polluted) Biogenic substances Fluorides 1.36 1.8 Ammonia salts 1.33 2.7 Iron, total 0.43 4.3 Nitrogen, nitrites 0.055 2.7

236. To eliminate deficiency in surface water quality data, baseline monitoring of subproject rivers will be conducted and included in the final IEE.

D.1.5. Natural Hazards 237. A map indicating the low seismic hazard classification of the Project area is provided below. Sub-projects in East-Kazakhstan province are located in low and medium seismic hazards zones.

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Figure 13: Seismic Hazard Map

D.1.6. Radiation 238. Observations of the level of gamma radiation on the ground are carried out on a daily basis by Kazhydromet at 17 meteorological stations in East Kazakhstan province: Akzhar, Ayaguz, Dmitrievka, Barshatas, Bakty, Zaisan, Zhalgiztobe, Katon-Karagay, Kokpekty, Kurshim, Ridder, Samarka, Semey, Ulken-Naryn, Ust-Kamenogorsk, Shar, Shemonaiha. They are shown in the fig. D-5. The average values of the gamma radiation background of the surface layer of the atmosphere in the settlements of the province in the 4th quarter of 2018 were within 0.05-0.23 µSv / h. On average, in the province, the radiation gamma background was 0.14 μSv / h and was within acceptable limits. 239. Radioactive pollution of the surface layer of the atmosphere in the province was monitored at 7 meteorological stations: Ayagoz, Barshatas, Bakty, Zaisan, Kokpekty, Semey, Ust-Kamenogorsk. A five-day sampling was carried out at all stations. The average daily density of radioactive fallout in the surface layer of the atmosphere in the province ranged from 0.8 to 2.1 Bq / m2. The average value of the density of depositions in the province was 1.3 Bq / m2, which does not exceed the maximum permissible level.

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Figure 14: Meteorological stations monitoring radiation in East Kazakhstan province

D.1.7 Flora and fauna 240. Most part of East-Kazakhstan Province is occupied by steppe along northern and western foothills of Rudny, Southern Altai and Kalba mountain ranges and in the vast river valleys with Motley and Feather Grass chernozem steppes. Forest steppe belts are transitional and typical for the Southern Altai provinces. It is presented by mixed and Larch woods, and on the southern slopes and in intermountain basins - steppe vegetation. Rudny Altai’s forest- steppe belts have less density and less clear boundaries. Forest occupies about 11,9% of East-Kazakhstan Province. In general, forest belts depending on natural conditions vary in combinations of landscapes - from mixed Spruce-Fir, Spruce-Larch to Spruce-Birch, Aspen- Birch and pine-leaf woods. 241. Basically, forest areas are located on spurs of ranges of the Altay Mountains. The dark coniferous forest spreads here. Deciduous and mixed forests occur in the bottom belt of the forest area. Belt pine forests in the northwest of the province are of special sight. In all, flora of Rudny Altay numbers more than 1000 species, and that of fauna – 300 species of different kinds of birds, about 100 species of mammals. In the forestry and steppes there are an elk, a mountain goat, an argali, a kabarga, a roe, a wolf, a bear, a lynx, an ermine, a weasel, a sable, a polecat, a kolinsky, a fox, a hare. A maral (a red deer) is in the upriver of Bukhtarma. There is a wild boar in the foothills, on the banks of the rivers and lakes. 242. Flora of East-Kazakhstan is rich with useful, valuable, and medicinal plants: (i) fodder grasses: Orange Foxtail, Cocksfood, Awnless Brome, Sickle Lucerne, Red Clover and many other kinds of herbs; (ii) ethereal and oil-bearing grasses: Ziziphora Odoriferous, Origanum, Siberian Thyme; (iii) medicinal herbs: Common Ephedra, St. John's Wort, chamomile Nude, Sandy Everlasting; (iv) edibles: Siberian Mountain Ash, Black Currant, Highest Currant, Altai Onion, Rhubarb Compact; (v) vitaminous breeds: cinnamon Rose, Common Pine, Strawberry Green, Raspberry, Black Currant; (vi) honey plants: common Origanum, Great Willow Herb, Bush Honeysuckle, Willow; (vii) poisonous plants: black Henbane, Poison Parsley, Aconitum Altaicum, Bee Larkspur, Cowbane. 243. Diversity of natural conditions of East-Kazakhstan has affected richness of its fauna as well. Semi-deserts and deserts of Zaisan basin is inhabited with Predatory Camel Spider, Poisonous Scorpion, Tarantula Spider; sand dunes of Aygyrkum, Kyzylkum, Muyunkum deserts are populated by Hamster of Roborovsky and a walnut size Salpingotus. 244. Steppes are widely populated by human and many of animals that inhabited them in last centuries have now become rare. These include Steppe Eagle, Imperial Eagle, and Long

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Legged Buzzard. East Steppe Viper Adder, Pallid Harrier, Lesser Kestrel, Gray Partridge, Steppe Polecat are still quite common, but their numbers are also steadily declining. 245. Woodlands are most rich in diversity of species. Most of their representatives are typical for Siberian taiga setting: (i) mammals: brown Bear, Squirrel, Chipmunk, Sable, Wolverine, Siberian Weasel, Musk Deer, Moose, Maral, Roe Deer, etc; (ii) birds: wood Grouse, Black Grouse, Hazel Grouse, Black and Three-Toed Woodpeckers; numerous representatives of the order Passeriformes; birds of prey: Forest Owlet, Goshawk, Tawny Owl; (iii) reptiles: Sand Lizard, Black Adder; (iv) amphibians: Moor Frog and Common Toad inhabit water bodies. 246. High mountains are represented by their original fauna: Viviparous Lizard, Corvidae birds – Killigrew and Yellow-Billed Chough, occasionally there is a Black Raven; Gray Marmot and Siberian Ibex are comparatively common, while Siberian Argali, Altai Snowcock, and Snow Leopard are rare. Rocks of southern ridges have small populations of Stone Marten and golden Eagle. High mountain lakes are nested by Ruddy Sheld Duck, Scoter, and Black- Throated Loon. 247. In the rivers there are a pike, an orfe, and a sazan, in mountain lakes and rivers – a taimen, a grayling, a trout, a peled, in the Markakol Lake – an uskuch, a bream. 248. Zharma district is inhabited by Lynx, Polecat, Weasel, Wolf, Hare, Fox, Wild Boar, Roe Deer; birds include: Red listed Black Stork, Demoiselle Crane; and widely spread common Partridge and Black Grouse. Vegetation is represented by typical steppe Feather Grass, Artemisia, Volga Fescue, and Meadow Oat-Grass; and trees: Marsh Elder, Weeping Willow, Poplar, Maple, Elm-tree, Wild Apple, and Hawthorn.

D.1.8 Protected areas 249. There are 11 protected areas in East-Kazakhstan province, including 3 state natural reserves (Western-Alay, Markakol and part of Alakol natural reserve), Katon-Karagay state national nature park, protected area with sustainable use of natural resources as State Forest Natural Reserve “Semey Ormany”, Alatay botanical orchard, and number of species management areas (Nizhne-Turguzinski, Kuludzha, Karatal sands, Tarbagatai zoological management area, natural monument “Sinegorskaya silver fir grove”). 250. Markakol State Nature Reserve is a nature reserve located in the East Kazakhstan province, near Lake Markakol (the lake occupies 44,7 % of the reserve area). The reserve was established on August 4, 1976; the total area is about 103 thousand hectares. Administratively, the reserve is located in the Kurchum district, 250 km to the east of Kurchum village and 500 km south-east of the Ust-Kamenogorsk (Oskemen), and the central estate of the reserve is located in Urnhayka village.

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Figure 15: View of Markakol state natural reserve 251. The reserve protects natural complexes of grasslands, steppes, larch taiga, mountain coniferous forests, subalpine and alpine meadows and rocky tundra on the mountain slopes of the southern Altai province around Lake Markakol. Flora of the reserve includes more than 700 species of higher plants, fauna – 55 species of mammals (including typical species as Leopard, lynx, brown bear, maral) and 250 species of birds. 252. The Western-Altai State Nature Reserve was established with the goal of comprehensive protection of the Altai mountain system in 1992, to preserve the landscapes of deciduous and mountain taiga forests characteristic only for Western Altai (“dark taiga”). It covers an area of about 86 thousand hectares at the northeastern border of the East Kazakhstan province and located at the distance of 120 km to the North-East side from Oskemen. 253. The reserve is located on the lands of the Ridder city area and part of the territory of the Zyryanovsky administrative district, in area of Ivanovsky, Lineysky, Kholzun and Koksinsky ranges. Thee river White and black Uba, Turgusun and its tributary Badger originate from the territory of the reserve. There is Teletskoe Lake in area of reserve, larch, cedar forests, alpine meadows, mountain tundra. Among mammals are sable, brown bear, maral, etc.

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Figure 16: Landscapes of Western-Altai Nature reserve 254. Alakol State Nature Reserve was organized by the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan (No. 355) on April 21, 1998. On October 5, 2010, by the Decree of the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan No. 1025, the territory of the Alakol GPP was expanded through the annexation of 45,505 hectares of land in the Urzhar District of the East -Kazakhstan province. 255. Today, the area of reserve is 65,672 hectares, of which, 17877 hectares are located in the Alakol district of the Almaty province and 47795.0 hectares - in Urzhar district of the East Kazakhstan province. On November 25, 2009, the Alakol-Sasykkol Lakes System was included in the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance under the number 1892. 256. In May 2013 Alakol State Natural Reserve was included in the "World Network of Biosphere Territories". 257. Kuludzha state species management area (zoological) is located in Kokpekty district of East-Kazakhstan province and was created in 1986 with purpose to preserve and restore the number of rare and endangered roes – Capreolus pygargus. The Kyzyl-Kum sands are one of the wintering lands for migratory Siberian roe deer. 258. Tarbagatai state species management area (zoological) was created in 1986 with purpose to preserve and restore the number of Kazakhstan mountain sheep - Ovis amon Linnaeus. It is located at the area of Zaisan and Tarbagatai districts of East-Kazakhstan province, which were selected for the Project. 259. The “Karatal sands” species management area (botanical) is also located in Zaisan district, selected for the Project. It was created in 1986 was created to protect, preserve and restore the relict sea-buckthorn thickets growing along the inter-barchan depressions.

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

260. The figure D-8 below shows location of the protected areas, including described above ones which are located in East-Kazakhstan province. The figure D-9 shows location of protected areas in scale of the province.

Figure 17: Protected areas of Kazakhstan

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Western-Altay State Nature reserve

Kuludzha species management area Semey Ormany Forest reservation Markakol State Nature reserve

Karatal sands species management area

Tarbagatai species management area

Alakol state nature reserve

Figure 18: Protected areas of Kazakhstan 261. No canals are located within any natural protection areas. D.1.8.1 Semey Ormany Forest reservation area 262. One of the subprojects, Zharma, is located near “buffer zone” of State Forest Natural Reservation “Semey Ormany” (protected area with sustainable use of natural resources) – a separate public enterprise based in Semey city that was established by Ministry of Agriculture in 2003 to protect forest belts of East-Kazakhstan province that were frequently suffering from fire outbreaks and other anthropogenic impacts, as well as to increase forested areas by nursing and growing native forest trees on large scale across the province (Figure 19). Total area of the reserve is 662,167 ha, of which (i) “core zone” with reserve status is for conservation of nature is 53,886 ha or 8.1% - mostly located near Semey city, and (ii) “buffer zone” for environmentally sustainable activities and regeneration of natural resources with 608,449 ha or 91.9% is spread throughout the province, including Char river basin of the subproject area. 263. Canals in Zharma district are located near the buffer zone lands of Semey Ormany, which are comprised of several tree belts within Char river basin and have legally established requirements to activities to be undertaken within its boundaries. 264. Activities permitted in buffer zone include limited, regulated, and with no adverse impacts on the environment: 1) scientific research and organization of centers for education and training of specialists; 2) environmental monitoring and monitoring of changes in ecological systems;

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

3) forestry activities, fire prevention, and protection of forests; 4) traditional land use under framework of ensuring long-term preservation and protection of biological diversity of the core zone and, in general, sustainability of ecological systems of the state nature reserve; 5) implementation of measures on restoration of biological and landscape diversity, natural ecological systems; 6) tourism and recreational use under controlled and regulated management in accordance with recreational load established by regulations for visiting natural protected areas by individuals; 7) use of mineral waters and medicinal resources; 8) environmental education, training programs, organization of demonstration sites, and environmentally benign use of resources. 265. Activities that could have negative impacts on ecological systems of the core zone are restricted in buffer zone, including: 1) creation of new settlements; 2) placement and operation of industrial facilities; 3) construction and operation of production facilities; 4) geological exploration and extraction of mineral resources; 5) final felling; 6) introduction of new species of plants and animals; 7) actions that change hydrological regime of the core zone and the buffer zone; 8) other activities that may have an impact on ecological system of the core zone.

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Figure 19: Map of Semey Ormany State Forest Natural Reserve (Zharma is in green) TRTA team has officially requested instructions from Semey Ormany through KVK on precautions and measures to be taken to ensure no negative impacts are caused onto buffer zone. In response, Semey Ormany has requested to: (i) keep all construction works and activities within existing canals; and (ii) not change original Char riverbed and hydrological regime in any location. D.1.8.2 Important Bird Area 266. Important Bird and Biodiversity area has been identified to the north of Kalbatau village – listed in the Integrated Biodiversity Assessment Tool (IBAT)21 as Western and northern foothills of the Kalba Range (Figure D-11). The following bird species are of concern: • Least concern: White-winged Lark (Alauda leucoptera), Demoiselle Crane (Anthropoides virgo), Corncrake (Crex crex), Lesser Kestrel (Falco naumanni) • Near threatened: Pallid Harrier (Circus macrourus), Black-winged Pratincole (Glareola nordmanni), Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa) • Vulnerable: Eastern Imperial Eagle (Aquila heliaca) • Endangered: Steppe Eagle (Aquila nipalensis), Saker Falcon (Falco cherrug) 267. This area is defined by BirdLife International (formerly International Council for Bird Preservation) as a key ornithological zone or Important Bird Area (IBA). This site is the most

21 Source: https://conservation.ibat-alliance.org/ 69

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province important for habitat and conservation of globally threatened bird species. In Kazakhstan, leading organization for implementation of the IBA Conservation Project is Association for Conservation of Biodiversity of Kazakhstan (ACBK), with support of Committee for Forestry and Wildlife of Ministry of Agriculture. 268. The territory includes northwestern sides of Kalba Ridge and its foothills. Prevailing relief is a low-ridge with significant part of ruined relief of granite intrusions and wide structural flat valleys of Char and Kyzylsu rivers. Separate rocky massifs are Aiyrtau, Kyzyltau, Delbegetey, and others. The territory is mostly steppe, with mesophytic vegetation growing from west to east, and the southeast part is the most forested. In general, steppe areas occupy about 80% of the territory, forests - 10%, rocky areas, debris, etc. - 7%; remaining 3% - arable land, sown meadows, and buildings. 269. The territory, above all, is an important nesting place for a number of birds of prey, including rare and globally threatened - Saker Falcon, Lesser Kestrel, Eastern Imperial Eagle, Golden Eagle, Steppe Eagle (the latter two have a very high population), Pallid Harrier, and others. The area has a long-lasted steppe ecosystem and, respectively, species bounded by “Eurasian Steppe” biome. In addition to key species and a typical set of small passerines, the territory supports large nesting groups, such as Rose-Colored Starling. More or less isolated groups of Argali (Ovis ammon) inhabit in separate rock massifs - Aiyrtau, Kyzyltau, etc. Manul (Otocolobus manul) is known to be inhabiting Delbegetei and, probably, other rocky hills. Within the IBA, several endemic plant species are present, in particular, Caragana bongardiana (Aiyrtau). 270. Most of the territory is used for grazing, with low or moderate intensity, ensuring normal condition of herbage and maintenance of food base for feathered predators. Threats associated with mining industry (developments in the vicinity of Auezov, Shalabay, Oktyabrsky, Akshoky villages) and infrastructure (construction of Char-Oskemen railway) are growing. However, they have narrow and local type of impacts and can hardly affect status of nesting groups of any species. Nevertheless, active protection of Saker Falcon is a top priority among others.

Figure 20: Important Bird Area (just to the north of the Subproject area)

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province D.2. Socio-Economic Development

D.2.1. Industries and Agriculture 271. East Kazakhstan is a developed industrial-agrarian province of the country. The basic sector of its economy is nonferrous metal industry. Engineering and metalworking, energy, forestry and wood processing industries, light industry and food industry are well developed as well. 272. The province has essential reserves of mineral resources and the main wealth – polymetallic ores consisting of zinc, lead, copper, rare and precious metals. There are deposits of coal in Semey and Zaisan districts. The province also has essential deposits of gold, rare and precious metals, raw materials for production of concrete, lass slag, etc. 273. Nonferrous metallurgy is well-developed on the basis of deposits of polymetals in Rudny Altai. The main directions of the economy of the province are engineering and metalworking, wood processing industries, light industry and food industry, production of construction materials. Rainfed agriculture is prevalent in the provincial agriculture. Shipping is well-developed on Irtysh River. 274. Nonferrous metallurgy enterprises produce more than a half of the total volume of industrial products in the province. East Kazakhstan is one of the main producers of lead, zinc, copper, fine gold and silver and the only province producing titanium, magnesium, fuel for nuclear power stations in the country. The biggest enterprises of the province are LLP Kazzinc, Ust-Kamenogorsk Titanium Magnesium Plant, Ulba Metallurgy Plant, “Vostokkazmed” association. 275. The engineering sector of the province is represented by such enterprises as CJSC Asia-Auto, JSC VostokMashZavod, JSC Ust-Kamenogorsk Valve Plant, JSC Ust- Kamenogorsk Condenser Plant, JSC Semey Mashzavod, etc. These enterprises manufacture “Niva”, Skoda cars, ore mining, processing equipment, oil and gas fittings, household electro motors and pumps of different modifications, condensers and other electric technical and cable products. 276. The regional wood processing industry is represented by such enterprises as LLP Irtyshtransoil, JSC Zhanazemeyshaplzavody, JSC Ust-Kamenogorsk Furniture Plant. The major part of the enterprises is small business entities specializing in production of timber, crude products, rounded logs for housing construction, door and window blocks, furniture. 277. The light industry is represented by LLP “Leather and Fur Factory”, JSC KAZRUNO, LLP SKMK, LLP NIMEKS-Textile, LLP “Rauan”, etc. 278. There are several major enterprises representing the construction industry in the province such as JSC Bukhtarma Cement Plant, LLP Silikat and LLP Semey Concrete Plant. 279. Three major power plant including LLP Ust-Kamenogorsk Hydro Power Plant, Shulbinskaya HPP, Bukhtarma Hydro Power Complex of JSC Kazzinc produce electric energy in the province. Besides, Leningradskaya HHP of JSC “LC HPP Company” produces electricity as well. 280. Electricity and heat are also produced by LLP Ust-Kamenogorsk Thermal Power Plant, Sogrinskaya Thermal Power Plant, Ridder Thermal Power Plant, LLP Teplocommunenergo. Currently, 7.8 bln kWh of electricity and 10.8 mln Gkal of heat are produced in the province. The dominant industrial sector is non-ferrous metallurgy and includes Bokinsky mining and concentration plant and mines Akzhol, Auezov, Bokinsky, building materials plant in Suykbulak. There are also enterprises of mechanical engineering, energy, chemical and woodworking, light and food industries, and construction material production. In addition, competitive specializations of the province include production of nuclear fuels and nuclear research. The province has gold, cobalt, nickel, cadmium, tungsten, building materials reserves etc. 71

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

281. Along with the development of industry, the province has a natural and climatic potential to contribute to the development of agro-industries. East Kazakhstan province is the second in Kazakhstan Republic in milk and eggs production, the third-fourth in meat production. The province districts are specialized in production of livestock and crops. Cattle- breeding is developed as well as coarse- and fine-wool sheep-breeding, wool goat-breeding, horse- and pig-breeding, poultry-farming, antler reindeer-breeding and beekeeping. 282. Data on districts are provided in Table 23 below. Table 23: Economic data of Project districts in East-Kazakhstan province22

Area, Population, Name of district Economic facilities ‘000 km² persons • Sown area, all crops, all categories of farms – 28 329,330 ha • Crop prod’n (tons): grain and legumes – 14.2, Zharma district 23.4 38 701 potato – 20.6, vegetables – 14.9 • Livestock and poultry production (tons) – 13,687.5 • Sown area, all crops, all categories of farms – 21 040,400 ha Zaisan district • Crop prod’n (tons): grain and legumes – 12.6, 10.44 37 196 potato – 3.8, vegetables - 1 • Livestock and poultry production (tons) – 12,437.3 • Sown area, all crops, all categories of farms – 153 361,460 ha Kokpekty district • Crop prod’n (tons): grain and legumes – 74.6, 14.58 28 950 potato – 7.4, vegetables – 6.7 • Livestock and poultry production (tons) – 11,091.8 • Sown area, all crops, all categories of farms – Kurchum district 29 080,380 ha 23.2 25 126 • Crop prod’n (tons): grain and legumes – 12.6,

potato – 3.8, vegetables - 1 • Livestock and poultry production (tons) 14,558 • Sown area, all crops, all categories of farms – 12 736,600 ha Tarbagatai district • Crop prod’n (tonnes): grain and legumes – 23.73 39 592 3.2, potato – 12.1, vegetables – 5.5 • Livestock and poultry production (tons) – 17,619.5 • Sown area, all crops, all categories of farms – 181 134,157 ha Urdzhar district • Crop prod’n (tons): grain and legumes – 77.3, 23.41 74 766 potato – 59.9, vegetables – 43.1 • Livestock and poultry production (tons) – 14,270.9

22 Source: stat.gov.kz 72

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province D.2.2. Current Status of Irrigation and Drainage Infrastructure 283. In the past, huge works were undertaken in the province for the development of irrigated agriculture and expansion of irrigated areas. In 2017, water saving technologies were used for irrigation of 8,500 ha area, including sprinkling irrigation system on 7,800 ha and drip irrigation method on 700 ha area. Irrigation system in the province mostly constitute main distribution canals diverting water from rivers and supplying directly to local irrigation areas. 284. In the proposed project, about 801 km long 98 canals will be rehabilitated. Although the existing irrigation network is huge consisting mostly of earthen canals, its conveyance capacity is insignificant as the system is in the state of disrepair because of neglected O&M in the past. Canal discharges varies from 0.5 m3/sec to 6.2 m3/sec. Canals are silted, overgrown with weeds, and structures are generally nonfunctional. Water metering system, with expired service life, is out of order.

D.2.3. Current Cropping Pattern 285. In 2017, the area in East-Kazakhstan province under crops was 1.369 million ha, of which spring crops were grown on 1.122 million ha, winter crops on 26,000 ha, and perennial grasses on 221,400 ha. Cultivated area during 2017 increased by 53,000 ha compared to 2016. 286. Current cropping pattern is given below: Grains and legumes 583,500 ha 42.6% Oilseeds 434,900 ha 31.8% Fodder 316,300 ha 23.1% Potatoes 21,000 ha 1.5% Vegetables and cucurbits 13,800 ha 1%

D.2.4. Current Crop Yields 287. Crop yields in the province over 2013-2017 are presented in Table 24 below. Table 24: Crop Yields in East Kazakhstan Province Yields, centner/ha Crops 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Cereals and legumes 14.2 12.6 11.3 13.7 11.8 of which: Wheat, winter and spring 14.2 12.4 11.0 12.7 11.3 Corn for grain 19.4 23.5 25.5 33.6 27.9 Barley, winter and spring 14.1 12.5 12.0 16.1 12.5 Rye, winter and spring 21.1 24.2 20.4 14.5 12.5 Oats 16.4 15.5 13.5 17.1 13.2 Buckwheat 11.7 11.0 7.9 13.1 11.2 Millet 13.3 8.4 12.3 17.6 15.2 Legumes 14.5 11.9 14.0 14.0 14.4 Potatoes 184.1 191.1 188.3 201.4 205.1 Oilseeds 8.2 7.9 8.7 11.0 12.4 of which: Soybeans 15.6 8.2 10.4 8.4 9.6 Sunflover 8.1 7.8 8.8 11.1 12.5 Safflower 4.7 4.9 5.5 9.3 6.7 Rape 10.2 12.6 9.8 11.1 17.9 Common flax 0.8 18.2 14.1 8.3 6.0 Vegetables and cucurbits 257.6 263.7 264.8 279.6 265.4 of which:

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Yields, centner/ha Crops 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 Open ground vegetables 252.8 260.6 256.6 276.8 276.8 Cucurbits 267.3 267.0 284.5 282.7 245.9 Grapes 76.2 83.5 86.6 74.3 77.7 Berries and fruits 110.3 125.0 130.0 134.1 132.0

D.2.5. Noncrop Agricultural Production 288. In 2017, 270,800 tons of meat was produced (increase by 4.9% compared to the previous year), 876,700 tons of milk (increase by 4.8%), and 147.8 million of eggs (increase by 0.5%). The number of cattle increased by 3%, horses by- 3.4%, poultry by 3%, and pigs by 7.4%.

D.2.6. Current Situation of Marketing 289. With 143,942 households’ agrarian sector of East Kazakhstan province has 16,382 agrarian formations, including 15,416 peasant (farmer) and 966 agricultural enterprises. Project districts have 3,578 agrarian formations, including 2,499 peasant and farmer enterprises, and 1,079 agricultural enterprises.

D.3. Infrastructure and Transportation facilities

290. East Kazakhstan province has the developed industrial infrastructure which is presented by all basic types of transport: railway, aviation, water and automobile. Railway transport connects the regional center with such cities and towns as: Semey, Ziryan, Ridder, Ayagoz, Shemonaikha. The main railway branches leading beyond the province are – “Zashita-Lokot” (Russia), “Semey- Lokot'”, “Semey-Almaty”, “Aktogai-road Druzhba (Frendship) (China). 291. Two airports function in the province, located in Ust-Kamenogorsk and Semey cities. Private enterprises are carried out the passenger and cargo transportation on navigational routes (“VIRP” Ltd, “Irtyshtranc” Ltd) and Ust-Kamenogorsk cargo port of low power. There are two lines of ferry transportations of passengers in the area of Kaznakovka settlement and Ulken Naryn settlement. 292. Automobile and railway transportations account for the greatest volume of transportations of cargoes and passengers. Highway transportation transports 89,9 % of cargoes, railway - 10 %. The volume of passenger transportations by motor transport makes up 96,2%, railway - 2,5 %, aviation – 1,3%. 293. Highways of the general usage are of great importance in realization of domestic transportations, their condition and level of development influence on economic indicators of the province. The length of highways of the general usage makes up 11835,8 km, including roads of the republican value - 3414 km, local - 8421,8 km. The hard-surface roads make up 3052,6 km, gravel - 354,4 km, unpaved roads – 7 km of the total length of the republican roads. The length of the hard-surface local roads makes up 4038,12 km, gravel - 3620,13 km, unpaved roads - 763,5 km.

D.4. Social and Cultural Resources

D.4.1 Population and communities 294. Zharma district is located in the central part of the province. Area of the district is 23,400 km.2 Administrative structure includes one city and 53 rural settlements in 21 counties. Administrative center is Kalbatau willage. As of 1 January 2018, population of the district was 38,701 people with an average density of 1.7 people per km.2 The area has a developed

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province network of road communications. The railways as well as Almaty-Ridder and Omsk- Maikapchagai highways pass through the district. 295. Zaisan district is located in the south-east of the province. Area of the district is 10,400 km.2 Administrative structure includes one city and 36 rural settlements in 8 counties. Administrative center is Zaisan. As of 1 January 2018, population of the district was 37,196 people with an average density of 3.6 people per km.2 Agriculture is the dominant ector of the district. 296. Kokpekty district covers an area of 14,600 km.2 Administrative structure includes 52 rural settlements in 17 counties. Administrative center is Kokpekty village. As of 1 January 2018, population of the district was 28,950 people with average density of 2.0 people per km.2 The area is agrarian. The most efficient sectors are beef cattle and sheep breeding and irrigated and rainfed cropping. 297. Kurchum district covers an area of 23,200 km.2 Administrative structure includes 49 rural settlements in 12 counties. Administrative center is Kurchum village. As of 1 January 2018, population of the district was 25,126 people with an average density of 1.1 people per km.2 Agriculture is the driving engine of the district economy. Villages and settlements along the canals are shown in the Appendixes. 298. Tarbagatai district covers an area of 23,700 km.2 Administrative structure includes 60 rural settlements in 17 counties. Administrative center is Aksuat village. As of 1 January 2018, population of the district was 39,592 people with an average density of 1.7 people per km.2 Major part of population is involved in production and processing of agricultural products. 299. Urdzhar district covers an area of 23,400 km.2 Administrative structure includes 55 rural settlements in 27 counties. Administrative center is Urdzhar village. Population of the district was 72,235 people on I July 2018 with an average density of 3.08 people per km.2

D.4.2 Health & Education facilities 300. Regional context. Education is universal in Kazakhstan and mandatory through to the secondary level, and the adult literacy rate is 99.5%.23 There are 235 preschool organizations and 590 mini-centres in the province. Preschool education coverage in the province made up 98,2 % that up by 0,8 % compared to the last year. 301. There are 69360 children in preschool establishments, including 35514 children with the Kazakh language of instruction. Today in the province there are 825 kindergartens and mini-centres, including 502 with the Kazakh language of instruction; an educational process in the official state language is organized in the mixed kindergartens in 237 groups for 7044 children. 302. 3 kindergartens for 370 places are constructed in 2014 within the framework of realization of the Balapan Program: in Beskaragai district for 90 places, Zaisan district for 140 places, Urjar district for 140 places. 303. 17 private preschool establishments for 1439 places are opened: in Semey city for 192 places, in Ust-Kamenogorsk city - 530 places, in Tarbagatai district - 162 places, in Zaisan district - 80 places, in Kokpekty district - 60 places. 304. In the province there are 676 schools, including with intellectual directions: Nazarbayev Intellectual Schools with physical and mathematical, chemical and biological directions and the International School Nur Orda. 305. 33 objects of education, including 21 schools are put into service (including instead of emergency-18), 3 kindergartens, 3 annexes; 6 objects of education are reconstructed.

23 http://www.collegeatlas.org/kazakhstan-colleges-universities.html 75

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

306. In the East-Kazakhstan province there are 81 colleges (47 state, 34 non-state), attended by 38,800 students, 5642 graduates are employed in 2014. 307. Mini-diagnostics centers, equipped with the modern diagnostic equipment, continue to operate in 3 towns of the province that allowed to reduce the flow of patients in the regional diagnostic centre by 11 % for this year as well as to improve availability of rendering of diagnostic services to rural dwellers and to provide treatment places for urban population on the most demanded types of researches. 308. The telemedicine centres are organized in 8 districts of the province, 1613 tele- consultations took place for the accounting period, that up by 65 % compared to 2013. 309. The new direction - the transport-based medicine (mobile clinics) has been established in the region within the framework of interdepartmental interaction. 310. 6 mobile complexes are functioning in the region, for the accounting period 85,2 persons are examined in 161 distant villages. 311. 6 medical and rescue points along highways are placed and function on hazardous sections of major roads of nationwide significance in Zharma, Beskaragai and Ulan districts. 312. The air ambulance - as the most mobile system to provide the population with emergency medical care has been further developed. In 2014, there were 482 visits, including 218 by helicopter and 264 by ambulances. 313. The information on education and health issues per districts is presented in Table 25 below. Table 25: Education and health statistics in selected subproject areas24 Districts Health Facilities (2018) Education Facilities (2017) Doctors (persons) – 77 Schools (units) - 42 Zharma district Nursing staff (persons) - 339 School students – 6,874 Hospitals (units) – 2 Doctors (persons) - 81 Schools (units) - 27 Zaisan district Nursing staff (persons) - 292 School students – 6,332

Hospitals (units) - 1 Doctors (persons) - 81 Schools (units) - 37 Kokpekty district Nursing staff (persons) - 295 School students – 4,045

Hospitals (units) - 2 Doctors (persons) - 72 Schools (units) - 41 Kurchum district Nursing staff (persons) - 263 School students – 4,256

Hospitals (units) - 2 Doctors (persons) - 114 Schools (units) - 50 Tarbagatai district Nursing staff (persons) - 390 School students – 8,195

Hospitals (units) - 3 Doctors (persons) - 163 Schools (units) - 51 Urdzhar district Nursing staff (persons) - 533 School students – 12,468

Hospitals (units) - 4

D.4.3. Ethnic Groups 314. Of total population, Kazakhs represent 80%, Russians - 12.5% and other ethnic groups include Ukrainians, Tatars, Germans, Koreans, Chechens, Belorussians, Azeri, Uzbeks, and other minorities.

24 Source: stat.gov.kz 76

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province D.4.4. Languages 315. Kazakhstan is officially a bilingual country: Kazakh language spoken natively by 64.4% of the population has the status of "state" language, whereas Russian, which is spoken by most Kazakhstanis, is declared an "official" language, and is used routinely in business, government, and inter-ethnic communication. Other minority languages spoken in Kazakhstan include Uzbek, Ukrainian, Uyghur, Kyrgyz, and Tatar.25

D.4.5. Religion 316. According to its Constitution, Kazakhstan is a secular state. Religious freedoms are guaranteed by Article 39 of Kazakhstan's Constitution. Article 39 states: "Human rights and freedoms shall not be restricted in any way”. According to the 2009 Census, 70% of the population is Muslim, 26% Christian, 0.1% Buddhists, 0.2% others (mostly Jews, and 3% Irreligious.26

D.5. Public cultural resources

317. East-Kazakhstan province possesses unique tourist potential due to convenient location (in the center of Eurasia), cooperation with bordering Russian Federation, China and Mongolia, large territory and variety of landscape, unique recreation resources, rich cultural and historical heritage. 318. On the territory of East Kazakhstan province there are 15 sanatoriums and holiday hotels, 670 historical and cultural monuments as well as several dozens of unique natural sites interesting from point of view of tourism. There are several considerable recreation areas within the province: Bukhtarminskoye shore, Sibinskye lakes, the lake Alakol in Katon- Karagaisky district and the town Ridder suburbs. The main natural sites of Rudny Altai are located there attracting numerous tourists. 319. Natural landscape of the province, a lot of rivers and lakes favor rafting, fishing, hunting and research tours, antler curing and resort recreation. Cultural and cognitive tours are interesting for those loving ancient time, history and culture of their people. At their disposal there are guest houses in Katon-Karagaisky district where one can get acquainted with folk traditions, national cuisine and visit apiaries and maral-breeding farms. 320. Semipalatinsk (Semey) province is no less interesting. Rich cultural and historical heritage can be an object of cognitive, scientific and ethnical tourism. 321. The ruins of “Ablainkit” temple are the architectural monument of 1654 and are in the state list of monuments of republican importance. This monument is located in Ulansky district, 15 km from the settlement Nikitinka, in the valley of the river Ablaketka. Ablainkit is a lama temple. It was constructed in 1654. 322. Since the project stipulates only rehabilitation of existing canals, there are no known public cultural resources within project right of way, as well as in the immediate vicinity. However, workers should be warned not to damage any property out of the project area and a chance find procedure should be developed and introduced to foremen and workers for chance finds of valuable archaeological objects, as well as other significant finds in the course of earth excavation and construction activities. 323. According to national legislation, State Expertise of projects requires archaeological survey and clearance of project area by licensed archaeological firms, which will be conducted during detail design stage.

25 http://www.inform.kz/eng/article/2741711 26 Results of the national population census of 2009. Agency of Statistics of the Republic of Kazakhstan. 2010. Retrieved from stat.gov.kz on July 20, 2015. 77

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

324. A list of public cultural monuments is established by Decree of East-Kazakhstan Province Akimat No. 560 dated April 25, 2008.27

27 Source: http://adilet.zan.kz/rus/docs/V08V0002484 78

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province E. Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures

E.1. Impacts

325. This section of the IEE details the Projects potential impacts and proposes mitigation measures to limit any negative impacts identified. The impact assessment and mitigating measures cover the entire cycle of the project activities, from pre-construction to construction and operation and maintenance. The coverage of each of sub-project phases is defined as follows: • Feasibility / Design Phase, or the Pre-construction Phase • Construction Phase • Operation Phase 326. This section is discussed by construction package rather than by specific environmental or social characteristics, e.g. soils, hydrology, etc as this is considered easier to understand the specific issues. 327. The environmental components, which may be adversely affected by projects at their construction, operation and decommissioning stages, generally are grouped as physical, biological and socio-economic ones. Examples of the environmental components which might be of a different levels and attributes are presented in the Table 26 below. Table 26: Environmental Aspects

Physical Components Biological Components Socioeconomic Components

• Physical component of • Fauna • Human health ecosystems (habitats) • Flora • Settlements • Air • Vegetation communities/ • Cultural heritages • Soil (quality, structure, fertility, forests • Employment erodibility) • Animals’ and plants’ • Demography • Land populations (number, • Income • Water resources (surface water abundance, distribution, etc.) • Poverty &, underground water: quality, • Biological component of • Gender availability, hydrological regime); forest, aquatic, meadow, • Education • Landscape/ Aesthetics, etc. steppe and other ecosystems • Migration (as a whole), etc. • Micro-organisms, etc 328. Subprojects’ potential impacts. Within the proposed sub-projects the impacts associated with the activities on rehabilitation of irrigation schemes might be positive and negative. Positive impacts attribute mainly to socio-economic environment. Negative impacts attribute to water, air and soil pollution, additional water and energy consumption, noise, odor, health risks, etc. Measures to be taken to minimize potential negative environmental impacts depend on their type, magnitude, combination and distribution.

E.1.1. Types of Project Impacts 329. Cumulative impact. The cluster of irrigation projects will have positive cumulative impact due to reduction of soil erosion at all, enhanced protection of arable lands from waterlogging, water losses, increasing of productivity of lands due to reduced risk of salinization, which will also have good social, environmental and economic effect. 330. Indirect Impacts. Indirect (or secondary) impacts are those arising from activities associated with direct activities implementing within the project implementation. These might be positive and negative social, economic, or environmental impacts of increased agricultural production due to improved irrigation, and agro-processing. In fact, in agricultural production

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province and agro-processing sectors may relate to purchase of more goods (e.g., fertilizers and pesticides for agricultural production), more transportation service, more fuel, utilities, labor, etc.). Negative indirect environmental impacts resulted from activities of the supported subprojects have to be considered during the EA process and relevant mitigation has to be suggested. 331. Residual Impacts. Residual impacts are those that remain after all mitigation has been carried out. Assuming that all mitigation as indicated in the guideline tables are implemented appropriately, the residual effects, even cumulatively on all sub-projects, should not be significant. Summary of probable residual impacts generated by the proposed activities is presented in the Table 27 below. Table 27: Summary of probable residual impacts

Activity Probable Residual Impact Significance Construction/rehabilitation of Surface water pollution, soil erosion, generation Low irrigation canals of solid wastes, used toxic materials,

E 1.2. Positive Project’s Impacts 332. Most of the proposed works might generate adverse environmental impacts. These could include water and air pollution; noise pollution, soil erosion; dumping of excavated sediments and other materials from irrigation and drainage channels, structures; and occupational hazards. At the same time, the project will bring several positive environmental and social impacts, in particular a reduction in water logging, salinization and water losses; improved irrigation distribution and a reduction in seepage losses from main canal and over- supply of irrigation. The beneficial effect for the area will be a lower water table, a lower risk of salinity, and less stagnant water pools in the villages (which can cause health problems). 333. Direct positive impacts will be also generated by increased productivity, employment and income. The main benefits are summarized below: (i) Improved Agricultural Productivity. Agricultural productivity in the project area has declined in recent years, in large part because of the significant deterioration of the irrigation and drainage systems. The direct result of this deterioration has been a decreasing delivery of irrigation water, increasing water losses, decreasing fertility of soils, expanding areas of fallow agricultural land and rising groundwater levels. The infrastructure improvements planned under the project will restore and improve productivity by increasing delivery of irrigation water (reducing water losses), improving the fertility of soils and expanding the area of agricultural lands returned to production. (ii) Increased Farm Income. The project activities will provide a series of economic and social benefits resulted from expected increases in crop yields, increases in farm family incomes, improved employment opportunities and an overall reduction in rural poverty in the project area. (iii) Reduction in Water Losses. Estimates indicate that significant amounts of the water currently entering the irrigation system are lost as a result of infiltration, evaporation and inefficient, non-rational use of water. These water losses contribute to the high levels of groundwater, the salinity of the soils and the occurrence of waterlogging in low-lying areas. The irrigation and drainage improvements of the project would reduce these water losses, reduce seepage losses from irrigation canals and over-supply of irrigation, with a beneficial effect for the project area: a lower water table, a lower risk of salinity, and less stagnant water pools in the village causing health problems. (iv) Improved Water Resources Management. Drainage system improvements undertaken by the project should have positive impacts on the large areas of poorly drained agricultural land in the project area. The depth of the groundwater is critical for the incidence of secondary salinity in the soil, particularly where the groundwater itself 80

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

is saline and accumulated salts in the soils are not periodically leached. Regular leaching of soil has stopped in most areas. Reducing soil salinity would lead to improved yields of most salt-sensitive crops, helping to prevent significant erosion and increase agricultural productivity.

E.2. Anticipated Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures

E.2.1. Design / Pre-construction Phase Impacts 334. Water Protection Zones – according to the Water Code of RoK along the rivers and canals water protection zone is defined. Usually, it is in the range between 70 meters to 1000 meters depending on the river and canal. 335. Land Acquisition and Compensation – Rehabilitation of irrigation schemes will not cause need for land acquisition and will not impact crops and land within the Project area. 336. Fish protection – Fish protection structures are required to prevent entry into canals and pipes water intake structures of fishes, especially young ones. The selected design envisages installation of bolt mechanism on which hardware cloth is pulled on. Mitigation 337. In the first instance, planning and design of all irrigation schemes components shall be based on international standards such as European standards and ISO or DIN norms under due consideration of local guidelines where available such as SniP and GOST. 338. Mitigation is recommended through strategic avoidance combined with construction and monitoring. Bid and contract documents are recommended to specify that a Site Specific EMP (SSEMP) shall be required. The Contractors shall ensure that the SEMP is submitted to the Engineer for review at least 30 days before taking possession of any work site. No access to the sites will be allowed until the SSEMP is reviewed and approved by the Engineer. The SEMP will include the following Topic Specific Plans: • Waste Management Plan. • OHS Plan. • Traffic Management Plan. • Air Quality Management Plan. • Noise Management Plan. • Spill Response Plan. • Hazardous Materials Management Plan. • Chance Find Procedure.

E.2.2. Construction phase 339. The rehabilitation and construction works have the potential to cause a number of minor temporary environmental impacts arising from the location and management of work camps and haul roads and from disturbance issues relating to dust, noise and vibration, procurement of construction materials, liquid discharges, waste collection and storage. During construction stage the following direct impacts are expected: • Air emissions including dust • Noise and vibration • Soil erosion and contamination • Surface waters contamination • Potential groundwater contamination • Construction and household waste generation • Flora and fauna

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

• Potential impacts on public cultural resources • Health and safety of workers and community 340. Adverse environmental impacts. Potential negative impacts of the project would include: (i) soils pollution during channels rehabilitation activities, including dumping of excavated sediments and other materials from irrigation channels and drainage collectors as well as during the rehabilitation of pumping stations; (ii) increased surface water pollution; (iii) soil erosion associated with the maintenance of existing practices of agricultural production; (iv) air pollution by dust and cement, as well as soil pollution by construction wastes due to improper activities for rehabilitation of concrete canals; (v) damage to trees or other vegetation along canals; (vi) occupational hazards during the rehabilitation of deep wells and pumping stations. 341. As mentioned above, the rehabilitation of irrigation infrastructure activities will generally involve management of dredged sediment and construction debris but may also include (i) interference with access and movement; (ii) disturbance of agricultural activities resulting from access restriction, soil compaction, trenching; (iii) waste, noise, mud and dust at sites and on access roads. E. 2.2.1. Topography and Soils Impacts 342. It is anticipated that construction works will not impact the project’s topography as the project will rehabilitate already existing irrigation facilities. The landscapes in project areas are characterized as agricultural land and no sensitive landscapes will likely be affected. There is also a likelihood of soil contamination with spilled fuel, lubricants, and construction debris. 343. Potential impacts on soils include: • Erosion - Wind and water induced soil erosion due to construction activities, such as top soil removal, canal cleaning, lining, cut and fill operations can likely occur. It is also possible, that stockpiles of soil located close to surface waters could infiltrate the water courses during heavy rainfall and cause siltation of the rivers. • Contamination due to spills or hazardous materials - Potential soil contamination is a possibility resulting from poorly managed fuels, oils and other hazardous liquids used during the project works.

Mitigation

344. During construction, the Engineer and the Contractor will both be responsible for ensuring that embankments are monitored continuously for signs of erosion. Any deep excavations in unstable soils will be shored by the contractor, and below grade construction brought to grade quickly, then excavations closed. Surface soils should be temporarily graded- to-drain and protected as necessary to reduce erosion and sediment runoff. 345. The Contractor, with oversight from the Engineer, will ensure that: • All fuel and chemical storage (if any) will be sited on an impervious base within a bund and secured by fencing. The storage area will be located away from any watercourse or wetlands. The base and bund walls will be impermeable and of sufficient capacity to contain 110% of the volume of tank (or one tank if more than one tank is located in the bund). • The construction camp maintenance yard will be constructed on impervious hardstanding with adequate drainage to collect spills, there will be no vehicle maintenance activities on open ground. 82

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

• Filling and refueling will be strictly controlled and subject to formal procedures. Drip pans will be placed under all filling and fueling areas. Waste oils will be stored and disposed of by a licensed contractor. • All valves and trigger guns will be resistant to unauthorized interference and vandalism and be turned off and securely locked when not in use. • The contents of any tank or drum will be clearly marked. Measures will be taken to ensure that no contaminated discharges enter any soils. • No bitumen drums or containers, full or used, will be stored on open ground. They will only be stored on impervious hardstanding. • Areas using bitumen will be constructed on impervious hardstanding to prevent seepage of oils into the soils. E. 2.2.2. Impact on Hydrologic Characteristics Impacts 346. It is expected that during construction the subprojects will not have any significant impact on water flows. Potential impacts on the quality of surface water from construction activities include pollution from construction vehicles, equipment and material stores, poor sanitation at work sites, and the release of soil where earthworks take place adjacent to water bodies that takes place in the riverbeds. Improper siting and design of construction camps can have negative impacts to hydrology, both surface and groundwater, through improper disposal of liquid waste and spills of hazardous liquids. Mitigation 347. No construction camp, permanent or temporary, will be located within 500 meters of any river, or reservoir. The contractor will also be responsible for the preparation of a Construction Camp Site Plan which will form part of the SEMP. The plan will indicate the system proposed and the locations of related facilities in the site, including latrines, holding areas, septic tanks, etc. The contractor will ensure the following conditions are met within the Plan: (i) Wastewater arising on the site will be collected, removed from the site via a suitable and properly designed temporary drainage system and disposed of at a location and in a way that will cause neither pollution nor nuisance. (ii) There will be no direct discharge of sanitary or wash water to surface water, including the surface water courses identified in this report. Disposal of materials such as, but not limited to, lubricating oil and onto the ground or water bodies will be prohibited. (iii) Liquid material storage containment areas will not be drained directly to surface water. (iv) Lubricating and fuel oil spills will be cleaned up immediately and spill cleanup materials will be maintained (including spill kits) across the Contractors’ construction camp. (v) Construction and work sites will be equipped with sanitary latrines that do not pollute surface waters. (vi) Discharge of sediment-laden construction water directly into surface watercourses or wetlands will be forbidden. Sediment laden construction water will be discharged into settling lagoons or tanks prior to final discharge. (vii) Spill cleanup equipment will be maintained on site. The following conditions to avoid adverse impacts due to improper fuel and chemical storage. (viii) Fueling operations will occur only within containment areas.

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

(ix) All fuel and chemical storage (if any) will be sited on an impervious base within a bund and secured by fencing. The storage area will be located away from any watercourse. The base and bund walls will be impermeable and of sufficient capacity to contain 110% of the volume of the largest storage tank / container in the bund. (x) Filling and refueling will be strictly controlled and subject to formal procedures and will take place within areas surrounded by bunds to contain spills / leaks of potentially contaminating liquids. (xi) All valves and trigger guns will be resistant to unauthorized interference and vandalism and be turned off and securely locked when not in use. (xii) The contents of any tank or drum will be clearly marked. Measures will be taken to ensure that no contaminated discharges enter any drain or watercourses. (xiii) Disposal of lubricating oil and other potentially hazardous liquids onto the ground or water bodies will be prohibited. (xiv) Should any accidental spills occur immediate clean-up will be undertaken and all clean-up materials stored in a secure area for disposal. Disposal of such was will be undertaken by a waste management company contracted by the contractor. The waste management company must have the required licenses to transport and dispose of hazardous waste before any such waste is removed from the site. The Contractor will keep copies of the company’s licenses and provide waste transfer manifests at his camp site for routine inspection by the engineer. E. 2.2.3. Air Quality Impacts 348. General considerations. Transportation of materials and equipment to subproject’s areas and removal of solid wastes such as degraded reinforced concrete structures from the construction sites may generate fugitive dust due to mostly unpaved access roads to the subproject’s sites. The number of trucks delivering materials and equipment is not anticipated to be more than twenty or so per day for each subproject. Rehabilitation of canals including excavation and cleaning of earth canals, reinforced concrete pipelining, concrete lining, etc. will result in elevated, short term and localized air quality impacts from construction machinery and equipment. 349. Exhaust gases are emitted by trucks delivering the materials and removing construction wastes, excavators, graders, bulldozers, and other machinery and equipment. They include particulate matter, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, unburned hydrocarbons, and sulfur dioxide. As a rule, impact of exhaust gases in rural environment is insignificant due to rapid dispersing of emissions. Nevertheless, all machinery and equipment must comply with the national vehicle regulations and international emission standards. 350. Site-specific considerations. Several subprojects will be in vicinity of villages and/or groups of houses in the rural area. Specifically, it concerns Saryolen, Kurchim, Terekty, Kalzhyr, Zhidely, Buran villages in Kurchum district, Zhanaaul village in Tarbagaty district, Burly Agash village in Zharma district, and Yeltai, Amangeldy, Eginsu, Zhanay, Zhana Tlek, and Tasaryk villages in Urdzhar district. Mitigation 351. The following air pollution control mitigation measures will be undertaken during construction phase of the project: • Construction materials (sand, gravel, and rocks) and spoil materials will be transported by trucks covered with tarpaulin; • All vehicles (e.g., trucks, equipment, and other vehicles that support construction works) will comply with the national vehicle regulations and

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

international emission standards. Regular exhaust emissions tests need to be conducted.; • No equipment using any fuel that may produce air pollutants, including mobile generators, will be installed without consent of the engineer. Construction equipment will be maintained to a good standard and fitted with pollution control devices which will be regularly monitored by the engineer. • No burning of debris or other materials will occur on the construction sites • For dust generated from unpaved roads, material stockpiles, etc: o The contractor will ensure that material stockpiles will be located in sheltered areas and be covered with tarpaulins or other such suitable covering to prevent material becoming airborne. o All trucks used for transporting materials to and from the sites will be covered with canvas tarpaulins, or other acceptable type cover (which will be properly secured) to prevent debris and/or materials from falling from or being blown off the vehicle(s). o Effective use of water sprays will be implemented: carrying out watering for dust control at least 3 times a day: in the morning, at noon, and in the afternoon during dry weather with temperatures of over 25°C, or in windy weather specifically in or near, Saryolen, Kurchim, Terekty, Kalzhyr, Zhidely, Buran villages in Kurchum district, Zhanaaul village in Tarbagaty district, Burly Agash village in Zharma district, and Yeltai, Amangeldy, Eginsu, Zhanay, Zhana Tlek, and Tasaryk villages in Urdzhar district. Avoid overwatering as this may make the surrounding muddy). All water used for controlling dust will be free of odor and pollution. E. 2.2.4. Noise and Vibration Impact 352. General considerations. Noise and vibration are likely be generated by large construction equipment, including bulldozers, excavators, trucks, concrete mixers, and power generators, diverted traffic, etc. However, it is expected that many construction sites will be in rural areas away from sensitive receptors. In those cases, where the sites are located near settlements qualitative assessment is done and mitigation measures will be described as shown below. Project area and vehicle movement routes should be inspected for sensitive structures; pictures and precautions should be taken to avoid vibration impacts on sensitive structures near project sites and roads, prone to cracking and breaking caused by vibration from construction activities. 353. Site-specific considerations. Several subprojects will be in vicinity of villages and/or groups of houses in the rural area. Specifically, it concerns Saryolen, Kurchim, Terekty, Kalzhyr, Zhidely, Buran villages in Kurchum district, Zhanaaul village in Tarbagaty district, Burly Agash village in Zharma district, and Yeltai, Amangeldy, Eginsu, Zhanay, Zhana Tlek, and Tasaryk villages in Urdzhar district. Therefore, some noise impacts are expected from heavy machinery. Mitigation 354. During the construction phase the following mitigation measures will be taken: • Time and activity constraints. In case if construction sites will be within or in proximity to villages operations will be scheduled to coincide with periods when people would least likely be affected; work hours and workdays will be limited to less noise- sensitive times. Hours-of-work will be approved by the engineer having due regard for possible noise disturbance to the residents or other activities. Construction activities will be strictly prohibited between 10 PM and 7 AM in the residential areas. When operating close to sensitive areas such as medical facilities and schools, the contractor’s hours of working shall be limited to 8 AM to 6 PM;

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

• Use temporary noise barriers while working in sensitive locations in case accidence of allowable limits is expected. Placing the barrier close to the source proves to be effective. • Give notice as early as possible to sensitive receptors for periods of noisier works such as excavation. Describe the activities and how long they are expected to take. Keep affected neighbors informed of progress. • Within normal working hours, where it is reasonable to do so: o schedule noisy activities for less sensitive times. o provide periods of respite from noisier works (for example, periodic breaks from jackhammer noise). • The weekend/evening periods are important for community rest and recreation and provide respite when noisy work has been conducted throughout the week. Accordingly, work should not usually be scheduled during these times. • All mechanical plant is to be silenced by the best practical means using current technology. Mechanical plant, including noise-suppression devices, should be maintained to the manufacturer’s specifications. Internal combustion engines are to be fitted with a suitable muffler in good repair. • Fit all pneumatic tools with an effective silencer on their air exhaust port. • Install less noisy movement/reversing warning systems for equipment and vehicles that will operate for extended periods, during sensitive times or proximity to sensitive sites. Occupational health and safety requirements for use of warning systems must be followed. • Turn off equipment when not being used. • All vehicular movements to and from the site to only occur during the scheduled normal working hours, unless approval has been granted by the engineer. • Where possible, no truck associated with the work should be left standing with its engine operating in a street adjacent to a residential area. • Provision of noise protection kits such as ear plug, earmuff, for workers who are working in the area with noise level is higher than 85 dB(A). 355. The site-specific EMPs will be developed prior to the start of the construction works. They will contain procedures and plans to ensure that the mitigation measures and monitoring requirements are implemented during the construction period. All civil works will be designed and implemented in accordance with environmentally sound engineering practices and governed by the relevant environmental standards.

E. 2.2.5. Impact on Ecological Resources Impact 356. The project’s rehabilitation works of existing infrastructure will not have a significant adverse impact on the local ecological resources since they are in areas that have already been affected by human activities for a long period. Construction activities are expected to impact only a narrow band of vegetation adjacent to the existing canals. Some subprojects will include cleaning of plants and their roots from overgrown canals, including weeds, bushes, and potential cutting of trees. There will be no adverse impact on specially protected nature areas as the project is limited to mostly rehabilitation of existing irrigation systems. Mitigation 357. It is recommended that each one removed should be replaced by at least two new saplings of the same species or other at suitable locations. Other potential impacts to canal- side trees will be avoided by ensuring that canal rehabilitation activities such as concrete batching plants, construction camps and other ancillary features are properly sited. In addition, the contractor will be responsible for supplying appropriate and adequate fuel in workers’

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province camps to prevent fuel-wood collection. Therefore, considering the nature of the project and the types of works envisaged, there will be no significant loss of flora or habitat. E. 2.2.6. Occupational Health and Safety Impact 358. Workers’ rights including occupational health and safety need to be considered to avoid accidents and injuries, loss of man-hours, labor abuses and to ensure fair treatment, remuneration and working and living conditions. Mitigation 359. An Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Plan shall be prepared by the Contractor to manage worker safety on-site during the construction phase of the Project. 360. Construction activities pose some potential hazards to both workers and the public. Hazards include excavation, movement of plant and equipment in confined spaces, and the use of hazardous substances. Safety to workers and the public can be enhanced by: (i) Proper briefing and training of workers on safety precautions, and their responsibilities for the safety of themselves and others. (ii) Provision to workers of protective clothing including hard hats, and protective footwear. (iii) Ensuring plant and vehicle operators are properly licensed and trained. (iv) Arranging for the provision of first aid facilities, readily available trained paramedical personnel, and emergency transport to the nearest hospital with accident and emergency facilities, and allocation of responsibility for ensuring that these arrangements are continually in place. (v) Arranging for regular safety checks of vehicles and material, and allocation of responsibility for this. (vi) Provision of hazard warning signs around construction sites. 361. All civil works will be designed and operated in accordance with environmentally sound engineering practices and governed by the relevant environmental standards. The works will require the use of heavy machinery (i.e. excavators, bulldozers) but will be small in scale and will not take place on lands already under agricultural use. 362. Movable sanitary facilities should be provided at the work site and kept clean, free of odors and usable. E. 2.2.7. Community Health and Safety Impact 363. The implementation of the project could affect the health, safety and security of the communities in the area of influence as a result of worker-community interactions, in-migration to the area, increased incomes in the local community that may be used for drugs, alcohol and prostitution, the risk of injury associated with construction and operational activities, increased pressure on health care resources and changes to the environment. 364. Workforce, Jobseekers and Social Conflict. In some instances, the local population may not be able to provide the necessary skilled workers for the project. In such cases workers from other provinces may be employed by the contractor. This could lead to social tensions and potential conflict if these workers are not aware of local customs and practices. An increase in disposable income within the project area may also result in a change in spending habits and misbehavior, which poses a threat to community health and safety. 365. During the construction phase workers will be accommodated on-site and as such there will be no pressure on local housing stock. In addition, the contractor will also have his own on-site medical facilities. Any serious injuries will be treated in nearby villages.

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Mitigation 366. The public will be barred from construction areas, and excavations will be fenced and sign posted. Workers should not be allowed to enter trenches deeper than waist height unless they are properly shored. 367. Crews of workers will be used for project works and it is anticipated that they will mainly be locally contracted workers. Construction camp facilities will be required, or project specific accommodation. 368. The Contractor will strictly follow his Traffic Management Plan (TMP) which will outline haul routes and safety measures. The TMP will also describe the method for provision of access in roads where trenches are being excavated. If any diversions are required, they should be outlined in the TMP. E. 2.2.8. Impact on Cultural Resources Impacts 369. No cultural resources have been identified in the project area. Due to the scale and nature of subprojects works located within existing RoWs, no impact on cultural resources (graveyards, etc.) is anticipated. However, chance finds during excavation works are possible. Mitigation 370. No mitigation is required except for preparation of chance find plan. E. 2.2.9. Waste Management Impacts 371. Construction activities can likely generate construction wastes, including wastes from disassembly of old concrete lining, old hydraulic structures, silt from canal beds, spoil materials, and other debris. Spoil material and other construction waste will also be produced during the concrete laying works. 372. Household wastes will be generated by contractor’s workforce throughout construction period. Mitigation 373. To ensure waste management is adequately controlled during the construction phase of the project, the contractor shall be responsible for ensuring that the waste hierarchy is followed including prevention, minimization, reuse and recycling. Specifically, the contractor will be responsible for the following measures: • Implementation of the Waste Management Plan (WMP) – The WMP shall include items relating to the safe handling and management of hazardous and non- hazardous wastes, e.g. plastic, metal, wood, liquid wastes, etc. • Recycling and Reuse – Where possible, surplus materials will be reused or recycled – this should include wood, plastic, metal and glass. A plan for the recycling of materials should be included in the WMP. • Storage of Hazardous Wastes – Oils, fuels and chemicals are substances which are hazardous to human health. They need to be stored properly in correctly labeled containers at construction areas. Oil and fuel will only be kept in small quantities on site should be stored in mobile bunds to contain spillage (the bund should be able to contain at least 110% of the volume of the largest storage tank within the bund). The contractor shall also prepare, as part of his SEMP, a spill response plan for the management of any spills over 10 liters and provide spill kits at all work sites. • Waste Disposal – Waste, both hazardous and non-hazardous, shall be collected and disposed of by a licensed waste management contractor. The contractor will

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

keep copies of the waste management company’s licenses on file at his site office. The contractor shall also keep a record of the waste volumes and types removed from the site and the waste transfer notes provided by the waste management contractor. • Construction of worker camps shall be located close to settlement areas but not near sensitive water resources. In such cases, the constructor needs to provide a detailed design of each work camp including infrastructure planning (water supply, electricity supply, waste management, wastewater treatment and disposal). Workers need to be trained how to behave and to handle waste and wastewater according environmental management requirements.

E 2.3. Operation Phase 374. Environmental impacts of East-Kazakhstan subprojects operation stage include: • impacts from improper water drainage management; • impacts caused by maintenance works from KVK; • rising of water pollution with pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, and other chemicals; • reduced amount of water in rivers available for downstream users. 375. There is a high chance of waterlogging, rising of water table, and salinization of soils during operation stage at irrigated lands and vicinity areas due to bad water management and drainage. 376. Impact on Water Resources & Fisheries. The rehabilitation works will have no affect on the quantity or quality of available water resources in the project area. It is possible that the river water immediately adjacent to the works may become temporarily polluted, but this risk will be addressed in the Environment Management and Monitoring Plan. E.2.3.1. Pest management and mineral fertilizers issues 377. General remarks. The pest management issues which can be potentially raised by the project may relate to indirect effect of stimulating greater use of agro-chemicals associated with more intensive cultivation and/ or higher crop value. The objective of IEE in this regard is to encourage adoption of Integrated Pest Management approach and increase beneficiaries’ awareness of pesticide-related hazards and good practices for safe pesticides use and handling. 378. Principles of the Integrated Pest Management28. The primary aim of pest management is to manage pests and diseases that may negatively affect production of crops so that they remain at a level that is under an economically damaging threshold. Pesticides should be managed to reduce human exposure and health hazards, to avoid their migration into off-site land or water environments and to avoid ecological impacts such as destruction of beneficial species and the development of pesticide resistance. One important strategy is to promote and facilitate the use of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) through preparation and implementation of an Integrated Pest Management Plan (PMP). The IPM consists of the judicious use of both chemical and nonchemical control techniques to achieve effective and economically efficient pest management with minimal environmental contamination. IPM therefore may include the use of: a) Mechanical and Physical Control; b) Cultural Control; c) Biological Control, and d) rational Chemical Control. Although IPM emphasizes the use of nonchemical strategies, chemical control may be an option used in conjunction with other methods. Integrated pest management strategies depend on surveillance to establish the need for control and to monitor the effectiveness of management efforts.

28 This section is based on the World Bank Group in the Environmental, Health, and Safety Guidelines prepared in 2007. 89

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

379. Alternatives to Pesticide Application. Where feasible, the following alternatives to pesticides should be considered: • Rotate crops to reduce the presence of pests and weeds in the soil ecosystem; • Use pest-resistant crop varieties; • Use mechanical weed control and / or thermal weeding; • Support and use beneficial organisms, such as insects, birds, mites, and microbial agents, to perform biological control of pests; • Protect natural enemies of pests by providing a favorable habitat, such as bushes for nesting sites and other original vegetation that can house pest predators and by avoiding the use of broad-spectrum pesticides; • Use animals to graze areas and manage plant coverage; • Use mechanical controls such as manual removal, traps, barriers, light, and sound to kill, relocate, or repel pests. 380. Pesticide Application. If pesticide application is warranted, users are recommended take the following actions: • Train personnel to apply pesticides and ensure that personnel have received applicable certifications or equivalent training where such certifications are not required; • Review and follow the manufacturer’s directions on maximum recommended dosage or treatment as well as published reports on using the reduced rate of pesticide application without loss of effect, and apply the minimum effective dose; • Avoid routine “calendar-based” application, and apply pesticides only when needed and useful based on criteria such as field observations, weather data (e.g. appropriate temperature, low wind, etc.), • Avoid the use of highly hazardous pesticides, particularly by uncertified, untrained or inadequately equipped users. This includes: • Pesticides that fall under the World Health Organization Recommended Classification of Pesticides by Hazard Classes 1a and 1b should be avoided in almost all cases, to be used only when no practical alternatives are available and where the handling and use of the products will be done in accordance with national laws by certified personnel in conjunction with health and environmental exposure monitoring; • Pesticides that fall under the World Health Organization Recommended Classification of Pesticides by Hazard Class II should be avoided if the project host country lacks restrictions on distribution and use of these chemicals, or if they are likely to be accessible to personnel without proper training, equipment, and facilities to handle, store, apply, and dispose of these products properly; • Avoid the use of pesticides listed in Annexes A and B of the Stockholm Convention, except under the conditions noted in the convention and those subject to international bans or phase outs; • Use only pesticides that are manufactured under license and registered and approved by the appropriate authority and in accordance with the Food and Agriculture Organization’s (FAO’s) International Code of Conduct on the Distribution and Use of Pesticides; • Use only pesticides that are labeled in accordance with international standards and norms, such as the FAO’s Revised Guidelines for Good Labeling Practice for Pesticides; • Select application technologies and practices designed to reduce unintentional drift or runoff only as indicated in an IPM program, and under controlled conditions; • Maintain and calibrate pesticide application equipment in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations. Use application equipment that is registered in the country of use;

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

• Establish untreated buffer zones or strips along water sources, rivers, streams, ponds, lakes, and ditches to help protect water resources; • Avoid use of pesticides that have been linked to localized environmental problems and threats. 381. Pesticide Handling and Storage. Contamination of soils, groundwater, or surface water resources, due to accidental spills during transfer, mixing, and storage of pesticides should be prevented by following the hazardous materials storage and handling recommendations. These are the following: • Store pesticides in their original packaging, in a dedicated, dry, cool, frost-free, and well aerated location that can be locked and properly identified with signs, with access limited to authorized people. No human or animal food may be stored in this location. The storeroom should also be designed with spill containment measures and sited in consideration of potential for contamination of soil and water resources; • Mixing and transfer of pesticides should be undertaken by trained personnel in ventilated and well-lit areas, using containers designed and dedicated for this purpose. • Containers should not be used for any other purpose (e.g. drinking water). Contaminated containers should be handled as hazardous waste and should be disposed in specially designated for hazardous wastes sites. Ideally, disposal of containers contaminated with pesticides should be done in a manner consistent with FAO guidelines and with manufacturer's directions; • Purchase and store no more pesticide than needed and rotate stock using a “first- in, first-out” principle so that pesticides do not become obsolete. Additionally, the use of obsolete pesticides should be avoided under all circumstances; A management plan that includes measures for the containment, storage and ultimate destruction of all obsolete stocks should be prepared in accordance to guidelines by FAO and consistent with country commitments under the Stockholm, Rotterdam and Basel Conventions. • Collect rinse water from equipment cleaning for reuse (such as for the dilution of identical pesticides to concentrations used for application); • Ensure that protective clothing worn during pesticide application is either cleaned or disposed of in an environmentally responsible manner • Maintain records of pesticide use and effectiveness. 382. Pest Management Plan (PMP). The content of the Pest Management Plan should apply to all the activities and individuals working. It should be emphasized also that nonchemical control efforts will be used to the maximum extent possible before pesticides are used. The Pest Management Plan should be a framework through which pest management is defined and accomplished. The Plan should identify elements of the program to include health and environmental safety, pest identification, and pest management, as well as pesticide storage, transportation, use and disposal. Management Plan is to be used as a tool to reduce reliance on pesticides, to enhance environmental protection, and to maximize the use of integrated pest management techniques. 383. The Pest Management Plan shall contain pest management requirements, outlines the resources necessary for surveillance and control, and describes the administrative, safety and environmental requirements. The Plan should provide guidance for operating and maintaining an effective pest management program and/or activities. Pests considering in the Plan may be weeds and other unwanted vegetation, crawling insects and other vertebrate pests. Without control, these pests provoke plants’ deceases. Adherence to the Plan will ensure effective, economical and environmentally acceptable pest management and will maintain compliance with pertinent laws and regulations.

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

384. Reviewing and approving Pest Management Plan. A PMP should be prepared in all cases of direct purchasing and usage of pesticides by beneficiaries.

385. Safety issues in mineral fertilizers usage and handling. Similarly, as in the case of usage of pesticides, fertilizers usage may provide important benefits, they also pose certain risks associated with accidental expose of environment and of farmers during their inappropriate handling and usage. To avoid adverse environmental impacts while using mineral fertilizers it is necessary to comply strictly with a series of requirements, stipulated in the existing legal documents as well as in the fertilizers Guidelines for their handling. The rules and procedures of production, storage, transportation and usage of the mineral fertilizers are reflected in a relatively small number of documents, and most of them were adopted at the time of the USSR. 386. Main requirements while using mineral fertilizers. The usage of different mineral fertilizers should be done depending on such factors as type and quality of the soil, type of the crop, system of crop rotation, weather and climate conditions, ways and terms of their application. 387. Provisions with regard to fertilizers storage: • Keep stocks of fertilizers, and soil amendment materials to the minimum required. • Ensure that the storage facility is appropriately secured. • Fertilizers and soil amendment materials are not to be stored in contact with ground surfaces. • Storage areas/facilities are to weather-proofed and able to exclude runoff from other areas. • Do not store in close proximity to heat sources such as open flames, steam pipes, radiators or other combustible materials such as flammable liquids. • Do not store with urea. • Do not contaminate fertilizers, and soil amendment materials with other foreign matter. • In case of fire flood the area with water. • If augers are used to move the material, ensure that any residue(s) in the immediate area is cleaned up. • Dispose of empty bags in the appropriate manner. 388. Provisions with regard to fertilizers field usage: • Keep fertilizer amounts to a minimum and covered to avoid unnecessary expose to open air. • Keep spreaders and air seeders that are left in the field overnight covered. • Cover spreader and air seeders between jobs. • Ensure that the drill, air seeder and/or fertilizer box is completely empty at the end of each day. If the drill, air seeder and/or fertilizer box cannot be fully emptied fill to capacity prior to storage for the night. • Do not store dry urea with dry ammonium nitrate. 389. Ensuring minimization of hazards associated with inappropriate handling and usage of fertilizers - Table 28 below provides information about typical hazard scenarios that that may arise in conjunction with the procurement, handling and storage of fertilizers as well as the recommended measures to control the potential risks.

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Table 28: Typical hazard scenarios and recommended measures Likely Hazard Recommended Control Strategy Scenario Spillage • Ensure all storage areas and/or facilities are secure and appropriate. • Ensure all fertilizer products can be contained within the storage area and/or facility selected • Provide appropriate equipment and materials to clean up a spillage

Transportation and • Cover any loads of fertilizer products whilst in transit delivery of goods • Ensure that deliveries of fertilizer products are made at appropriate times • Do not accept any containers of fertilizer products that are damaged and/or leaking. • Ensure that any spillages that occur during delivery are cleaned up appropriately.

Drift of dust from • Keep fertilizer products covered and/or sealed storage areas and/or • Clean up spillages promptly facilities • Keep “in use” stocks to the minimum required • Staff responsible for storage areas and/or facilities to will ensure that the drift of dust beyond the perimeter is kept to a minimum.

Storage areas - • Keep floor surfaces swept clean of fertilizer to prevent tracking by people and/or vehicles beyond the perimeter. Floors • Sweep up and dispose of spillages in a timely and appropriate manner

Cross contamination • Keep each fertilizer product will in a separate storage container and/or of product position within the facility and/or area.

Confusion of Product • Maintain an accurate storage manifest/register. • Keep products and blends are segregated at all times. • Ensure all storage bays and bins are clearly labeled. • Ensure all storage, loading and blending plant and equipment is cleaned from all residues when changing from one product to another. • Do not store product in bags that are not correctly stamped

Occupational Health • Contact between fertilizer products, people and livestock will be minimized. and Safety Risk Assessments • Risk Assessments are required to be conducted on the procurement, storage and handling of fertilizer products.

Contact with people • Managers will develop, implement and monitor the effectiveness of hazard and livestock management procedures • All persons using fertilizer products are to adhere to the hazard management procedures and adopt safe working practice and ensure that direct contact with fertilizer and the inhalation of fertilizer dust is minimized. • Managers are to ensure that staff is made aware of any national and industry regulations which have to be observed.

Personal Protective • Staff must be provided with appropriate PPE when using fertilizer products. Equipment Lack of appropriate • Managers must ensure that appropriate safety warning signs and/or warning safety information is displayed/ available regarding nature of hazards and risk signage and control measures. information

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Poor housekeeping • All staff is responsible for implementing sound housekeeping practices in and/or routine storage areas and arranging regular routine maintenance for all equipment maintenance used. Defective &/or • Conduct regular inspection & testing of equipment and infrastructure to unserviceable plant & identify what maintenance requirements equipment Incorrect or • Fertilizer blends to be prepared using the right raw materials in the inappropriate appropriate proportions. All products will be loaded into spreaders etc in the mixtures of product right condition to the right weight. No training • Staff will undertake appropriate training. Lack of appropriate • All relevant records and documentation to be kept and maintained eg records &/or training records, risk assessments, maintenance schedules, recipes for documentation fertilizer blends, etc.

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

*Magnitude scale: Small / Moderate / Large *Likelihood scale: Rare / Unlikely / Likely / Certain Table 29: Environmental Impacts and proposed mitigation measures for East-Kazakhstan Province

No. Types of activities Impacts / Mitigation Measures Sensitive Magnitude / Receptors Likelihood EAST-KAZAKHSTAN PROVINCE CONSTRUCTION STAGE 1 Construction activities on: Dust Transportation of materials and vehicle movement: Lands adjacent to generation / project sites and 1. Unlined canals 397.42 km Moderate • All dust generating roads should be watered to suppress dust access roads 2. Lined canals 441.07 km magnitude / formation during movement of vehicles, as frequent as necessary 3. Replacement and Certain depending on circumstances. construction of 2,567 hydraulic • During hot dry summer days and active construction works, it is a structures: head regulators, usual practice to water access roads every two hours. outlets, pipe crossings, • Trucks carrying earth, sand or stone should be covered with tarpaulins bridges, water metering or other suitable cover. devices, and underground closing systems Stockpiles of materials and spoil: 4. Access roads • All stockpiles should be managed to reduce dust emissions 5. Construction sites • Stockpiles should be located downwind of sensitive receptors, such as 6. Labor camps residential areas 7. Borrow pits • Stockpiles emitting dust should be sprayed with water prior to moving • If a stockpile is within 300 m of residential area, precautions should be taken to avoid dust generation, including using of a reusable stockpile cover and fencing to form a high barrier to prevent wind lifting and dispersing Construction sites: • Water should be sprayed on construction sites and material handling routes, where fugitive dust is generated

Air emissions / No burning is allowed on any construction sites throughout the project Air around the Small implementation period project area

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

magnitude /

Certain Construction vehicles and machinery should be maintained to a high standard to minimize emissions and should avoid unnecessary idling to save fuel and reduce emissions

Manufacturing plants locations should be agreed with Supervision Consultant and should be downwind and at least 500 m from nearest residential area

Noise / Small • Noise monitoring should be organized near sensitive receptors, such Residential areas magnitude / as residential areas Certain • All exhaust systems should be maintained in good order • Noise generating equipment should be located at least 300 m from any sensitive areas • Noise generating equipment at construction sites should be isolated and, where possible, should be faced away from most sensitive directions • All construction workers should be provided with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and use them against high noise and/ or lengthy exposure • Noisy works and vehicle movement near sensitive receptors should be limited to daylight working hours • Construction noise will be limited to restricted times agreed to in the permit • During operations the engine covers of generators, air compressors and other powered mechanical equipment should be closed, and equipment placed as far away from residential areas as possible • Measures should be taken to reduce any noise disturbance to community, including advance warning on timing of noisy activities, seeking suggestions from community members to reduce noise annoyance, and dissemination of procedure on handling complaints through GRM

Vibration / Project area and vehicle movement routes should be inspected for sensitive Fragile structures Small structures; pictures and precautions should be taken to avoid vibration impacts and buildings in

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

magnitude / on sensitive structures near project sites and roads, prone to cracking and proximity of Unlikely breaking caused by vibration from construction activities construction sites and transportation

routes Soil erosion / • Minimize unnecessary encroachment onto adjacent lands to reduce Fertile soils on Moderate area of disturbance to vegetation and soil project sites and magnitude / • Fertile topsoil layer should be cut and stockpiled separately from spoil in proximity Likely material to be readily available for later use in slope stabilization and land reinstatement works • Where possible, surplus soil should be used for earth filling works at approved locations • Canal excavation width and depth should be kept to a feasible minimum to reduce extra spoil generation • Settling ponds, silt fences and screens should be used to prevent sediment transport into surface water near construction sites • Intercepting ditches and drains should be organized to prevent runoff entering construction sites and to divert runoff from sites to existing drainage • Works and material handling should be limited during heavy rains and high winds to minimize soil erosion • All disturbed sites prior to project completion and commissioning should be reinstated at least to pre-project conditions by (i) cleaning area from wastes and debris, (ii) mechanical remediation and (iii) biological revegetation with native plants

Soil • Petroleum products, hazardous materials and wastes should be Soils on project contamination / stored covered from precipitation, on an impermeable surface, and sites and in Small secured from acts of vandalism proximity magnitude / • Fuel tanks shall be installed on an impermeable ground in a bunded Likely area with capacity of 110% of fuel tank • Avoid soil contamination with petroleum products, lubricants, or hazardous materials during equipment maintenance and repair, field refueling, and hazardous material handling • Organize spill response kit at each construction site for collection and storage of contaminated soil and provide training for workers on use of spill response kit

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Surface water • No equipment washing is allowed in any surface water bodies Surface water contamination / throughout the project implementation period bodies Small • No wastewater shall be dumped into any ditches or streams magnitude / • Sediment pools arrangement Likely • Wastewater from labor camps and construction sites should be canalized into septic tanks without contacting ground • Septic tanks should be timely emptied by a hired septic truck and transported to legally approved treatment facility or dumpsite • Fuel storage, equipment maintenance and repair workshops, and vehicle washing areas shall be stationed at least 300 m away from any water body

Solid wastes • No wastes shall be burned throughout the project implementation Soils and water generation period bodies Improper • Develop Waste and Spoil Management Plan for handling, storage and disposal of disposal of construction, household wastes, and canal sediment spoil solid and liquid based on actual situation at project sites and selected dumpsites waste, Spills • Waste and Spoil Management Plan should indicate approved spoil and inadequate disposal sites, which should not to be on slopes or near pasture lands, clean-up / and should have further plans for rehabilitation Moderate • All construction wastes and demolition debris should be disposed at magnitude / authorized locations Certain • Stockpiling of construction material should be avoided if possible. If not, construction material should be stored on the construction site, and protected from weathering. Hazardous materials like paints, oils, enamels and others should be kept on impermeable surface, and adsorbents like sand or sawdust should be kept for handling small spillage. • Trees and bushes cut under the project works can be provided for use to local households • All household wastes shall be collected into confined waste containers equipped with covers installed away from sensitive areas • Any toxic/ hazardous wastes shall be kept in safe leak-proof containers labeled with description of contents, properties, and handling information, and disposed at authorized facilities 98

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

• Use waste management hierarchy: (i) avoid waste generation at source; (ii) minimize waste generation, where it is inevitable; (iii) reuse or recycle if possible; (iv) dispose at authorized locations.

Impacts on Acquire tree cutting permit from local forestry and wildlife department for any Flora and fauna flora and fauna, trees to be cut under the project loss of

biodiversity and habitats/ • For any tree cut or valuable grassland area disturbed for project Moderate needs, replant trees or re-vegetate areas at other approved locations; magnitude / best practice ratio is 3 trees planted for 1 cut. For large trees in the Likely vicinity of the activity, mark and cordon off with a fence large tress and protect root system and avoid any damage to the trees • Use only native plants for re-vegetation of disturbed areas • Identify, demarcate and protect sites where small animals, reptiles, and birds of common species live, such as vegetated roadside areas, tree belts, inner areas of bridges, river riparian zones, etc. • All recognized natural habitats and protected areas in the immediate vicinity of the activity will not be damaged or exploited, all staff will be strictly prohibited from hunting, foraging, logging or other damaging activities. • Adjacent wetlands and streams will be protected, from construction site run-off, with appropriate erosion and sediment control features to include but not limited to hay bales, silt fences • No unlicensed borrow pits, quarries or waste dumps in adjacent areas are allowed, especially in protected areas.

Impacts on If any paleontological fossils, archaeological finds or other important cultural Public cultural public cultural objects are encountered during construction, all activities at that location shall resources resources / stop and local authorities shall be notified; works may restart only after Small fulfillment of prescribed measures and permission received to resume works magnitude /

Rare

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Occupational • Contractor shall allocate budget for Occupational Health and Safety Workers Health and measures Safety / Small • All legally required permits should be acquired magnitude / • Health and Safety Specialist shall be hired to develop, implement, and Likely supervise Health and Safety Management Plan (HSMP), subject to approval by Supervision Consultant • H&S Specialist will conduct initial and regular refresher training for all workers on labor rights, occupational health and safety matters, ensure provision and distribution of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), first aid, medical and health services, safety practices, equipment and training, HIV/ AIDS / IEC and alleviation programs and keep record and report on any H&S incidents • HSM Plan shall follow national legislation requirements and include among others requirements to: (i) norms on provision of fresh water at all sites; (ii) adequate hygienic and sanitation facilities; (iii) labelling, warning, storage, and handling procedures for hazardous liquid materials; (iv) emergency response procedures; (v) records of occupational accidents, diseases, and incidents; (vi) OH&S publications, such as brochures, leaflets, posters in Kazakh and Russian languages at relevant construction sites; (vii) monthly records on labor profile, including information on workers’ place of origin, gender, ethnicity, type of contract (full-time/ part-time, unskilled/ semi- skilled/ skilled, management, administration) (viii) ensure all workers have officially signed contracts, correct and timely pay, no excessive use of overtime • Carry out the routine inspection of the machinery and equipment for purpose of the trouble shooting and observance of the time of repair, training and instruction of the workers engaged in maintenance of the machinery, tools and equipment on safe methods and techniques of work. • Special attention should be paid to welding operations. It is prohibited to distribute the faulty or unchecked tools for work performance as well as to leave off hand the mechanical tools connected to the electrical supply network or compressed air pipelines; to pull up and bend the cables and air hose pipes; to lay cables and hose pipes with their intersection by wire ropes, electric cables, to handle the rotating elements of power driven hand tools.

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TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

• Child labor at this subproject is prohibited by national laws and ADB requirements with minimum full 16 years of age

Community Temporary traffic management and road safety awareness measures should be Community near health and taken to ensure safety of nearby residents, community and visitors, when project areas Safety necessary. Traffic management system and staff training should be ensured, especially for site access and near-site heavy traffic. Provision of safe passages Unsafe access and crossings for pedestrians where construction traffic interferes. Active traffic routes and management by trained and visible staff at the site, if required for safe and construction convenient passage for the public. traffic hazards / Small magnitude / Adjustment of working hours to local traffic patterns, e.g. avoiding major Unlikely transport activities during rush hours or times of livestock movement.

Clear signs shall be installed in view of public, warning people of potential dangers, such as moving vehicles, hazardous materials, etc.; all dangerous sites should be secured from unauthorized access

GRM should be established as designed by TRTA team and focal point should be appointed to implement GRM procedures

OPERATION STAGE 2 Operation of Pesticide, herbicide and • Operation and Maintenance Plan should be developed after taking Surface and irrigation fertilizer overuse leading to over of works ground water systems increased levels of surface • O&M Plan should include provisions for regular inspection, quality and ground waters maintenance and cleaning of canals and hydraulic structures to contamination / Moderate ensure operational capacity magnitude / Likely • Monitoring of groundwater quality for selected substances • Training for farmers under Output 2 of the project on pesticide, herbicide and fertilizer management

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TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Incorrect calculation of inflow- • Monitoring of water table levels and waterlogging instances on Water table level outflow volumes and lack of agricultural fields proper drainage leading to • Taking preventive measures during flood periods to maintain normal rising of water table, water table level waterlogging, and • Training for farmers under Output 2 on water inflow/outflow and salinization. Water use drainage management inefficiency / Small magnitude / Unlikely

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TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

F. Environmental Management Plan 390. The environmental management plan (EMP) for the East-Kazakhstan province subprojects defines mitigation and monitoring measures and describes institutional responsibilities and mechanisms to monitor and ensure compliance. Such institutions and mechanisms will seek to ensure continuous improvement of environmental protection activities during preconstruction, construction, and operation of the subproject in order to prevent, reduce, or mitigate adverse impacts. The EMP will be reviewed and updated if there are any changes during the detailed design. The final IEE and EMP will be disclosed on ADB’s website following any required updates.

F.1. EMP implementation responsibilities.

391. The EMP specifies the roles and responsibilities of key project stakeholders in overall environmental management: • Executing Agency – KVK will be the executing agency (EA) for the subproject and will oversee overall project implementation and management activities to ensure smooth and timely implementation and completion of subproject activities. The EA has overall responsibility for the project and therefore is ultimately responsible for ensuring the implementation of the mitigation in the EMP and for ensuring compliance with loan covenants. The EA will guide and coordinate closely with other government agencies and the ADB for timely resolution of any issues. • Project Management Office – PMO will be established at KVK headquarters in Nur-Sultan. On behalf of the executing agency, the PMO will assume day-to-day management of the project and will be responsible for coordinating and implementing project activities, including procurement, recruitment, disbursement, contract administration, monitoring and reporting. The PMO will be headed by Project Manager and will comprise full-time core staff, including Environmental Protection Officer. The PMO consultants will be recruited under the guidance of the EA and ADB. PMO will prepare bidding documentation and will ensure incorporation of IEE/ EMP into bidding package. PMO will consolidate regular quarterly and semi-annual Environmental Monitoring Reports as per ADB requirements and submit them for disclosure on ADB website. • Project Implementation Unit – PIU will be established in Ust-Kamenogorsk city and will be responsible for day-to-day management of subprojects in East- Kazakhstan Province, under guidance from PMO. PIU will supervise and coordinate subproject implementation, including performance of Supervision Consultant and Contractor. PIU will consolidate regular Environmental Monitoring Reports for East-Kazakhstan Province and submit them to PMO. • Design Institute will be hired to prepare detail design of the subproject, incorporating IEE/ EMP into their EIA (OVOS) process, and acquiring State Expertise clearance for design documentation package. Design institute will provide designer supervision for construction period. • Supervision Consultants will be mobilized and located at project sites, and thus, will have immediate and direct supervision over daily EMP implementation, monitoring and reporting. Supervision Consultant will prepare regular quarterly and semi-annual Environmental Monitoring Reports. • Contractor will be responsible for development of Site Specific EMPs, Health and Safety Management Plan, Waste and Spoil Management Plan, and implementation, monitoring and reporting of all environmental mitigation measures during construction period. Contractor will prepare monthly monitoring reports on implementation of EMP. 103

TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Table 30: Environmental Management Plan Project stage/ Potential issues/ Mitigation measures Institutional Monitoring Indicators aspect important factors/ responsibility impacts A. Project Preparation and Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) Development Feasibility IEE Preparation Submit IEE for review and comments by ADB and Kazvodkhoz (KVK) TRTA Approval of IEE by ADB and KVK Study Consultant Public consultations Conduct public consultations in target districts TRTA Report on public consultation Consultant results in IEE; Grievance Redress Prepare GRM TRTA Approval of IEE and GRM by ADB Mechanism (GRM) Validate requirements with KVK Consultant and KVK B. Detail Design Establishing Environmental Hire EPO KVK EPO hired Project Protection Officer Management (EPO) Office (PMO) Training on ADB Training workshop on ADB Environmental Safeguards for KVK, PMO and PMO, ADB Workshop completed Environmental Oskemen PIU Safeguards EIA (OVOS) Incorporating IEE Review, update, and ensure incorporation of this IEE and measures defined in Design - Approval of updated EMP/ EIA preparation results and EMP current EMP into subproject detail design, decision-making, and national EIA institute, by PMO and ADB by detail into detail design (OVOS) process PMO - Approval of subproject EIA design process (OVOS) by State Environmental institute Expertise Consideration of Incorporate into detail design adequate considerations and provisions for Design Approval of EIA and detail design seismicity at the structural integrity of hydraulic structures against potential earthquakes based institute by PMO and ADB subproject area on seismicity zoning and RK construction standards Climate change Incorporate into detail design adequate considerations and provisions in Design Approval of EIA and detail design impacts relation to climate change aspects in subproject area through recommended institute by PMO and ADB climate change adaptation measures and good engineering design practices Public cultural Archaeological research should be undertaken during detail design as required Design - Archaeological report resources by laws institute - Approval of the subproject from State Expertise Grievance Redress • Establish GRM PMO, PIU, GRM established as intended Mechanism • Appoint GRM coordinators / focal points districts

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TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Project stage/ Potential issues/ Mitigation measures Institutional Monitoring Indicators aspect important factors/ responsibility impacts • Conduct initial and refresher training for coordinators / focal points / branches of stakeholders / affected people on GRM procedures KVK Public consultations • Conduct public consultations on decisions made in regards to detail Design Report on public consultations on detail design design, present updated EIA/ EMP, and get feedback to consider in institute, included into final EIA EIA/ EMP final subproject design PMO, Approval of EIA by PMO and ADB • Explain established GRM, disseminate information and contacts districts branches of KVK Bidding IEE and EMP Include EMP obligations in tender documents and specifications, referencing to PMO Bidding documents approved by documents requirements this IEE and EMP PMO and ADB

C. Pre-Construction Stage Pre- Contractor’s Contractor shall hire a full time environmental specialist(-s) with relevant Contractor Environmental Specialist of construction Staffing background and sufficient experience to ensure compliance with all applicable Contractor hired arrangements national laws and regulations, obtain all necessary environmental licenses and permits, and implement EMP requirements All licenses and permits obtained

Roles and Assign roles and responsibilities related to subproject’s Environmental PMO Roles and responsibilities responsibilities Monitoring and Reporting System assigned Environmental Conduct environmental protection training on implementation and supervision PMO Training delivered Protection Training of subproject’s environmental mitigation measures for PIU, KVK, Supervision Consultant and Contractor

Site Specific EMP Prior to any construction works may commence, prepare Site Specific EMPs for Contractor SSEMPs are approved by each construction site based on requirements set forth in bidding documents, Supervision Consultant and PMO design package EIA/ EMP, actual on-site conditions and decisions on work arrangements

Baseline Conduct initial baseline monitoring of water and soil quality at approved Contractor Baseline monitoring results monitoring locations prior to commencement of construction works, to track changes due to consequent project implementation

D. Construction Stage

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TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Project stage/ Potential issues/ Mitigation measures Institutional Monitoring Indicators aspect important factors/ responsibility impacts Air quality Dust generation Transportation of materials and vehicle movement: Contractor Dust related complaints

All dust generating roads should be watered to suppress dust formation during Visual inspection movement of vehicles, as frequent as necessary depending on circumstances. During hot dry summer days and active construction works, it is a usual practice to water access roads every two hours.

Trucks carrying earth, sand or stone should be covered with tarpaulins or other suitable cover.

Stockpiles of materials and spoil:

• All stockpiles should be managed to reduce dust emissions • Stockpiles should be located downwind of sensitive receptors, such as residential areas, schools, hospitals, kindergartens • Stockpiles emitting dust should be sprayed with water prior to moving • If a stockpile is within 300 m of residential area, precautions should be taken to avoid dust generation, including using of a reusable stockpile cover and fencing to form a high barrier to prevent wind lifting and dispersing

Construction sites:

Water should be sprayed on construction sites and material handling routes, where fugitive dust is generated, specifically in Saryolen, Kurchim, Terekty, Kalzhyr, Zhidely, Buran villages in Kurchum district, Zhanaaul village in Tarbagaty district, Burly Agash village in Zharma district, and Yeltai, Amangeldy, Eginsu, Zhanay, Zhana Tlek, and Tasaryk villages in Urdzhar district.

Emissions No burning is allowed on any construction sites throughout the project Contractor Visual inspection implementation period Monitoring reports

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TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province

Project stage/ Potential issues/ Mitigation measures Institutional Monitoring Indicators aspect important factors/ responsibility impacts Construction vehicles and machinery should be maintained to a high standard to minimize emissions and should avoid unnecessary idling to save fuel and reduce emissions

Manufacturing plants locations should be agreed with Supervision Consultant and should be downwind and at least 500 m from nearest residential area

Noise and Noise Noise monitoring should be organized in Saryolen, Kurchim, Terekty, Kalzhyr, Contractor Noise related complaints vibration Zhidely, Buran villages in Kurchum district, Zhanaaul village in Tarbagaty district, Burly Agash village in Zharma district, and Yeltai, Amangeldy, Eginsu, Monitoring reports Zhanay, Zhana Tlek, and Tasaryk villages in Urdzhar district.

All exhaust systems should be maintained in good order

Noise generating equipment should be located at least 300 m from any sensitive areas

Noise generating equipment at construction sites should be isolated and, where possible, should be faced away from most sensitive directions

All construction workers should be provided with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and use them against high noise and/ or lengthy exposure

Noisy works and vehicle movement near sensitive receptors should be limited to daylight working hours

Measures should be taken to reduce any noise disturbance to community, including advance warning on timing of noisy activities, seeking suggestions from community members to reduce noise annoyance, and dissemination of procedure on handling complaints through GRM

Vibration Project area and vehicle movement routes should be inspected for sensitive Contractor Vibration related complaints structures; pictures and precautions should be taken to avoid vibration impacts

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Project stage/ Potential issues/ Mitigation measures Institutional Monitoring Indicators aspect important factors/ responsibility impacts on sensitive structures near project sites and roads, prone to cracking and breaking caused by vibration from construction activities

Soil Soil erosion • Minimize unnecessary encroachment onto adjacent lands to reduce area of Contractor Visual inspection disturbance to vegetation and soil • Fertile topsoil layer should be cut and stockpiled separately from spoil material to be readily available for later use in slope stabilization and land reinstatement works • Where possible, surplus soil should be used for earth filling works at approved locations • Canal excavation width and depth should be kept to a feasible minimum to reduce extra spoil generation • Settling ponds, silt fences and screens should be used to prevent sediment transport into surface water near construction sites • Intercepting ditches and drains should be organized to prevent runoff entering construction sites and to divert runoff from sites to existing drainage • Works and material handling should be limited during heavy rains and high winds to minimize soil erosion • All disturbed sites prior to project completion and commissioning should be reinstated at least to pre-project conditions by (i) cleaning area from wastes and debris, (ii) mechanical remediation and (iii) biological revegetation with native plants

Soil contamination • Petroleum products, hazardous materials and wastes should be stored Contractor Visual inspection covered from precipitation, on an impermeable surface, and secured from acts of vandalism • Fuel tanks shall be installed on an impermeable ground in a bunded area with capacity of 110% of fuel tank. • Avoid soil contamination with petroleum products, lubricants, or hazardous materials during equipment maintenance and repair, field refueling, and hazardous material handling

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Project stage/ Potential issues/ Mitigation measures Institutional Monitoring Indicators aspect important factors/ responsibility impacts • Organize spill response kit at each construction site for collection and storage of contaminated soil and provide training for workers on use of spill response kit

Surface water Surface water • No equipment washing is allowed in any surface water bodies throughout Contractor Visual inspection contamination the project implementation period • No wastewater shall be dumped into any ditches or streams Monitoring reports • Wastewater from labor camps and construction sites should be canalized into septic tanks without contacting ground • Septic tanks should be timely emptied by a hired septic truck and transported to legally approved treatment facility or dumpsite • Fuel storage, equipment maintenance and repair workshops, and vehicle washing areas shall be stationed at least 300 m away from any water body

Solid wastes Waste and spoil No wastes shall be burned throughout the project implementation period Contractor Waste and Spoil Management management Plan approved by Supervision Develop Waste and Spoil Management Plan for handling, storage and disposal Consultant and PMO of construction, household wastes, and canal sediment spoil based on actual situation at project sites and selected dumpsites Visual inspection Waste and Spoil Management Plan should indicate approved spoil disposal sites, which should not to be on slopes or near pasture lands, and should have further plans for rehabilitation

All construction wastes and demolition debris should be disposed at authorized locations

Trees and bushes cut under the project works can be provided for use to local households

All household wastes shall be collected into confined waste containers equipped with covers installed away from sensitive areas

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Project stage/ Potential issues/ Mitigation measures Institutional Monitoring Indicators aspect important factors/ responsibility impacts Use waste management hierarchy: (i) avoid waste generation at source; (ii) minimize waste generation, where it is inevitable; (iii) reuse or recycle if possible; (iv) dispose at authorized locations.

Flora and Impacts on flora Acquire tree cutting permit from local forestry and wildlife department for any Contractor Visual inspection fauna and fauna trees to be cut under the project

For any tree cut or valuable grassland area disturbed for project needs, replant trees or re-vegetate areas at other approved locations; best practice is three trees planted for one cut

Use only native plants for re-vegetation of disturbed areas

Identify, demarcate and protect sites where small animals, reptiles, and birds of common species live, such as vegetated roadside areas, tree belts, inner areas of bridges, river riparian zones, etc.

Strictly prohibit poaching of wildlife and damaging plants Public cultural Impacts on PCR If any paleontological fossils, archaeological finds or other important objects Contractor Chance find procedure developed resources (including human bones, which may have criminal background) are encountered during construction, all activities at that location shall stop and local authorities shall be notified; works may restart only after fulfillment of prescribed measures and permission received to resume works

Health and Occupational • Contractor shall allocate budget for Occupational Health and Safety measures Contractor HSE Management Plan approved Safety Health and Safety • Health and Safety Specialist shall be hired to develop, implement, and by Supervision Consultant and supervise Health and Safety Management Plan (HSMP), subject to approval PMO by Supervision Consultant • H&S Specialist will conduct initial and regular refresher training for all workers on labor rights, occupational health and safety matters, ensure provision and distribution of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and keep record and report any H&S incidents

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Project stage/ Potential issues/ Mitigation measures Institutional Monitoring Indicators aspect important factors/ responsibility impacts HSM Plan shall follow national legislation requirements and include among others requirements to: (i) norms on provision of fresh water at all sites; (ii) adequate hygienic and sanitation facilities; (iii) labelling, warning, storage, and handling procedures for hazardous liquid materials; (iv) emergency response procedures; (v) records of occupational accidents, diseases, and incidents; (vi) OH&S publications, such as brochures, leaflets, posters in Kazakh and Russian languages at relevant construction sites; (vii) monthly reporting on labor profile, including information on workers’ place of origin, gender, ethnicity, type of contract (full-time/ part-time, unskilled/ semi-skilled/ skilled, management, administration) (viii) ensure all workers have officially signed contracts, correct and timely pay, no excessive use of overtime.

Child labor at this subproject is prohibited by national laws and ADB requirements with minimum full 16 years of age.

Community Safety • Temporary traffic management and road safety awareness measures should Contractor Visual inspection be taken to ensure safety of nearby residents, community and visitors • Clear signs shall be installed in view of public, warning people of potential dangers, such as moving vehicles, hazardous materials, etc.; all dangerous sites should be secured from unauthorized access

GRM Grievance redress GRM focal point should be appointed to implement GRM Contractor GRM established mechanism E. Operation Stage Drainage Potential rise in Changes in groundwater levels shall be monitored by KVK KVK in Changes in groundwater levels groundwater levels districts Potential Waterlogging will be monitored KVK in Waterlogging waterlogging in districts downstream areas Canal Sedimentation of Operation and Maintenance Plan should be developed after taking over of KVK in O&M Plan prepared and sedimentation canals works districts implemented

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Project stage/ Potential issues/ Mitigation measures Institutional Monitoring Indicators aspect important factors/ responsibility impacts O&M Plan should include provisions for regular inspection, maintenance and cleaning of canals Pesticide Overuse of Training for farmers on pesticide management KVK in Periodical monitoring of water usage pesticides causing districts quality land and water quality degradation Monitoring of pesticide amounts purchase and use Potential Monitoring of groundwater quality for selected substances KVK in Periodical monitoring of contamination of districts groundwater quality groundwater Fertilizer Overuse of Training for farmers under Output 2 of the Project on fertilizer application KVK in Periodical monitoring of water usage fertilizers causing districts quality land and water quality degradation Monitoring of fertilizer amounts purchase and use Flooding and Risk of flooding and Regular maintenance and repair of canals and water infrastructure to ensure KVK in Visual inspection natural natural disasters operational capacity districts disasters F. Decommissioning Stage Asbestos Risk of lung • PPE should be provided to protect workers from asbestos dust during Contractor cement pipes diseases due to dismantling of asbestos cement pipes inhaling of asbestos • All possible measures should be taken to avoid and minimize crushing, dust grinding, and rendering asbestos material friable and airborne • Removed pipe and its residuals should be wrapped in plastic material and taped, before disposal at legally approved location

ADB = Asian Development Bank; KVK = KazVodKhoz; PMO = Project Management Office; IEE = Initial Environmental Examination; EMP = Environmental Management Plan; SSEMP = Site Specific Environmental Management Plan; Construction sites = include all access roads, areas around canals, water regulating devices, material storage, labor camps, borrow pits, dumpsites, and any other physically affected areas.

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TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province F.2. EMP Costs

Table 31: EMP Mitigation Costs

Activity / Item Frequency Unit Cost Cost /USD

Pre-construction

1. Selection of Construction Once during design Included in Project Budget 0 Camp Site 2. Soil Erosion protection Once during design Included in Project Budget 0 measures 3. Slope Stabilization measures Once during design Included in Project 0 Budget

4. Hydrological measures Once during design Included in Project Budget 0

5. Air Quality Plan Once, forms part of SSEMP Budget 0 SSEMP 6. Waste Management Plan Once, forms part of SSEMP Budget 0 SSEMP 7. Worker Health and Safety Once, forms part of SSEMP Budget 0 Plan SSEMP

8. Noise Monitoring Plan Once, forms part of SSEMP Budget 0 SSEMP 9. Preparation of SSEMP Once for all sub- 15,000 15,000 projects Detailed Design

10. Tree felling Throughout detailed ? ? design 11. Updating of IEEs after final Once for all sub- 3,000 3,000 project design approval projects

Construction

12. Engineers National 10 Months 2,000 per month 20,000 Environmental Specialist

16. Engineers International Environmental Specialist

17. Safety Trainings Every month, by Included in Contractors H&S Staff ProjectConstruction costs

18. Safety Equipment for Once Included in Project 0 Workers Construction costs

19. First aid facilities Once Included in Project 0 Construction costs

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21. Waste disposal Throughout construction Included in Project 0 Construction costs

22. Clean up of construction Once Included in Project 0 sites Construction costs

23. Environmental Permits Once Included in Project 0 Construction costs

24. Embankment vegetation Throughout construction Included in Project 0 Construction costs

25. Spill kits At each hazardous liquid Included in Project 0 storage area (assume 10) Construction costs

27. Temporary drainage / Throughout construction Included in Sub- Project 0 irrigations measures Construction costs

29. Water spraying Daily During dry periods.

30. Tarpaulins Once Included in Project 0 Construction costs

31. HIV/AIDS Training Program Once every 4 months (3 1,000 3,000 times)

32. Instrumental monitoring Routine 2,000 15,000 monitoringsmonitoring (noise, water, air quality), once per quarter Environmental Trainings, 5,000 awareness campaigns

Care for trees 15,000

Total 75,000 USD

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G. Public Consultation, Information Disclosure & Grievance Mechanism

G.1. Public Consultations and Information Disclosure.

392. Two sets of public consultations were organized for East-Kazakhstan Province: (i) on November 16, 2018 for Zharma district; and (ii) on February 26, 2019 in Ust-Kamenogorsk city for all participating 6 districts in East-Kazakhstan Province, to discuss social, resettlement and environmental impacts of the project, proposed mitigation measures, and to explain proposed Grievance Redress Mechanism to be established under the project. Advertisement of the public consultations was published in local newspapers as well as direct invitations to stakeholders and potential affected people were issued by local district Akimats. Participants included representatives of KVK branch in East-Kazakhstan Province, Department of Agriculture of East-Kazakhstan Province, district Akimat, water users, and community representatives. 393. KVK branch representative has presented main technical parameters of the project and decisions taken during Feasibility Study. TRTA team social and environmental specialists have explained ADB safeguards and procedures on social, resettlement, environment, information disclosure, institutional setup, expected project impacts, mitigation measures, and Grievance Redress Mechanism to be established for the project. Brochures with information on project set up, social and environmental requirements, and contact details of GRM focal points were distributed in Kazakh and Russian languages. 394. Lists of participants, minutes of public consultations, advertisement scans, and photos are presented in Annex _.

G.2. Grievance Redress Mechanism.

395. The Project-specific Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) is developed following the principles of ADB SPS (2009) and the Law of the Republic of Kazakhstan “On the procedure for considering appeals of individuals and legal entities” (2007 No. 221). GRM is formed to resolve the grievances of the DPs or public related to the project’s involuntary resettlement and environmental safeguards performance, and information disclosure. It will not replace the country’s judicial system, but aims resolve the grievances in effective and fair manner, and will be maintained for the duration of the Project. All grievances and their resolution status will be monitored and reflected in the project’s progress reports. 396. The Grievance Redress Committees (CRCs) are established with responsible staff of the authorities, Akimats and KVK at the district, regional and central levels to take actions and decisions for solving grievances that can be lodged during the project implementation. Awareness about the GRM and people’s access to it is important. Information about the GRM, contact information of the GRM focal persons assigned by KVK, and members of the in the project provinces that includes representatives of relevant authorities and stakeholders should be disseminated to the affected communities and DPs. Different communication means, such as distribution of the project information brochures, posters, local media, public consultations, community and individual meetings, can be used in awareness raising. 397. KVK is responsible for well-functioning of the GRM and should provide the required human and financial resources. KVK will lead the grievances resolution and the work of the GRC for resolving grievances. KVK has assigned 6 of its staff for social safeguards tasks and serve as focal persons for GRM; 1 staff at the central KVK, 2 staff in Karaghandy, 1 staff in Zhambyl, and 1 staff in East Kazakhstan provinces. The local authorities and Akimats have also assigned staff responsible for GRM in the district and regional levels, including their

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TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province contact information and phone numbers made available for public access (see attachment X copy of the decisions of respective authorities, Akimats and KVK on assigned responsible persons for GRM). 398. The GRM and the GRCs given below were discussed with KVK staff at the central and regional levels as well as during the public consultations in all four provinces. Based on feedback, experience from other ADB-assisted projects in Kazakhstan, the project specifics and geographic scope, the following grievance resolution process is envisaged under the project.

G.2.1. Three levels of grievance resolution 399. The stakeholder’s consultation confirmed the current practice that the residents usually approach to the Akimats for complaints and issues they may have. In some cases, the complainants contact directly the Contractors or KVK. Therefore, the project GRM provides the grievances can be accepted at the offices of all these three actors, registered and forward it by email to the assigned focal person at the central KVK/PMO who will have a consolidated database of all grievances and their status. All complaints and resolution status will be recorded and reported at each level of the GRCs. The steps and the GRCs are given in the Table 32 below. 400. The summary of key steps at the District level: (i) The grievance registration: The staff of the district Akimats, the Contractors and the district KVK appointed as focal persons, will receive and register the grievances (they open a Project Grievance Log Book) and provide acknowledgement of receipt to the complainant. They will put efforts to resolve the grievance at the entry, if not possible, it will be reviewed by the GRC at the district level.

(ii) The grievance processing and resolution: The GRC will resolve the grievance within seven working days. The complainant should be informed about the decision and actions to be taken.

(iii) The feedback and further actions: If the complainant is not agree with the decision, or if the resolution of the complaint requires further assessment and actions on a higher level, it will be forwarded to the GRC at the regional level. The complainant should be informed in written form.

401. The summary of key steps at the regional level: (i) Grievance processing and resolution: KVK will convene the meeting of the GRC to discuss the received grievance (s) and make decision, within ten working days. The minutes of GRC meeting and decisions shall be properly documented and forwarded to the concerned parties.

(ii) Feedback and further actions: If grievance was resolved at the regional level, the complainant will be informed of the outcome in written form. If the complainant is not agreeing with the decision, or if the resolution of the complaint requires further assessment and decision on higher level, it will be forwarded to the GRC at the central level. The complainant should be informed accordingly. 402. The summary of key steps at the central level: (i) Grievance processing and resolution: KVK will convene the meeting of the GRC at the central level to discuss the grievance(s) and resolve it within twenty working days. The minutes of GRC meeting and decisions shall be documented and forwarded to the concerned parties in written form.

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(ii) Feedback and further actions: The decision of the GRC on the grievance will be informed to the complaining party in written form. If the grievance was not satisfied, information will be provided to the complaining party about why the case was not resolved, and how the complaining party can make appeal to the country’s legal system, if wished so. 403. GRM can resolve the complaints and issues effectively if the GRCs members have adequate authority to make decisions and take actions. In consultations with KVK, staff of the relevant authorities on the managerial levels are proposed for CRCs. KVK will coordinate with the authorities and the regional and district Akimats to confirm the proposed members of the GRCs at the district, regional and central levels respectively. Efforts should be made to include women staff in the CRCs to ensure women perspectives in resolving grievances.

Table 32: GRM levels and composition of the GRCs Review and resolving at the district within 7 working days District The entry points: District Akimat, KVK branch, Contractors The complainant (s) can visit, call or send a letter or e-mail or fax to the assigned staff of the Akimats or the Contractor. This local level will be important to give people easy access to GRM. In addition, minor issues can be solved immediately at this level. If not, the grievance will be forwarded for resolution by the GRC at the district level:

The District GRC members:

(i) Head or Deputy Head of the District KVK; (ii) Deputy of the District Akimat; (iii) Deputy Head of the District Agriculture Unit; (iv) KVK assigned focal person; (v) Representatives of the affected persons or communities; (vi) Supervision Consultant, Contractors (during the project implementation); and (vii) Other specialized agencies and experts if required by the case specifics.

Regional Review and resolving at the region level within 10 working days The regional CRC members:

(i) Head or Deputy Head of the regional KVK; (ii) Deputy of the Regional Akimat; (iii) Deputy Head of Agriculture Unit, (iv) Representatives of the affected persons or communities; (v) Supervision Consultant, Contractors (during the project implementation); and (vi) Other specialized agencies and experts if required by the case.

Central Review and resolving at the KVK Central level within 20 working days The Central CRC members:

(i) Head or Deputy Head of the Central KVK/ PMO; (ii) Representatives of the Committee of Water Resources; (iii) Representatives of the affected persons or communities; and (iv) Other specialized agencies and experts if required by the case.

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TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province H. Conclusions and Recommendations

H.1. Conclusions

404. The IEE established that all significant environmental issues can either be totally prevented or adequately mitigated to levels acceptable Kazakhstan and international standards. As such, based on the existing ADB Safeguards Policy (2009), this Project falls under ADB‘s Category B. 405. The project on the rehabilitation of the proposed earthen channels and irrigation infrastructure is a feasible and sustainable option from the engineering, environmental, and socioeconomic points of view and will contribute to improvement of access to strengthened health services of marginalized rural poor people. The project will have significant environmental and social benefits and, if the prescribed mitigation and management measures are fully implemented, the project is unlikely to have major adverse environmental impacts. An environmental management plan has been prepared and responsibilities for implementation assigned. A budget has been allocated for environmental management and monitoring. A full Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) under ADB guidelines is not required. Existing institutional arrangements are sufficient to ensure compliance with ADB SPS 2009.

H.2. Recommendations

406. The EMP, its mitigation and monitoring programs, contained herewith will be included within the Bidding documents for project works. The Bid documents will state that the Contractors will be responsible for the implementation of the requirements of the EMP through their own Site Specific Environmental Management Plans, which will adopt all of the conditions of the EMP and add site specific elements that are not currently known, such as the Contractors borrow pit locations. This ensures that all potential bidders are aware of the environmental requirements of the Project and its associated environmental costs. 407. The EMP and all its requirements will then be added to the Contractors Contract, thereby making implementation of the EMP a legal requirement according to the Contract. The Contractor will then prepare an SSEMP which will be approved and monitored by the Engineers. Should the Engineer note any non-conformance with the SSEMP the Contractor can be held liable for breach of the contractual obligations of the EMP. To ensure compliance with the SSEMP the Contractors will employ a national environmental specialist to monitor and report project activities throughout the Project Construction phase as part of the project performance report.

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Appendix A: Location Maps Location of Irrigation Systems in Zharma District

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Kurchum district: map of the irrigation canals Toretogam, Altaiski, Zhaugashty, Kerzhachi with pieces of irrigated land to be restored (area in orange color)

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Kurchum district: map of the irrigation canals Derevenski, Derevenski-Buran, Derevenski-Zhideli

Village Zhideli

Village Buran

River Kara Ertis River Kara Ertis

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Kurchum district: Map of the irrigation canals Karakia, Pobeda, Erezhep with pieces of irrigated land to be restored (area in orange color)

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Kurchum district: Map of the irrigation canals Sandyktogam, Tentekski, Derevenski near the border with China

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Tarbagatai district: Map of the irrigation canals Bolat, Karasha, Kazakbai

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Tarbagatai district: Map of the irrigation canals Dauletbai, Zhanatogam with pieces of irrigated land to be restored (area in orange color)

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Zaisan district: Map of the irrigation canals Karatogam with pieces of irrigated land to be restored (area in orange color)

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Zaisan district: Map of the irrigation canal OX – 6, OX – 8, OX – 10

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TA-9317 KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project Initial Environmental Examination of Subprojects in East-Kazakhstan Province Urdzhar district: Map of the irrigation canal Toktibay

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Appendix B: Photographs

Erthen channels are over silted

Destroyed concrete parts of irrigation infrastructure

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Deteriorated parts of irrigation structures

Channels are silted and not functioning properly

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Destroyed parts of water intake structures

Fish-Protection Structures are not functioning

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Concrete off-farm channels are destroyed in many places

Concrete parts of channel are absent at this site. The trees were planted by KVK district departments

Siltation of the channels

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Culverts and water outlets do not meet requirements and should be replaced

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Appendix C: Settlements Along the Canals Tarbagatai province

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Appendix D: Public Consultations Public Consultations in November 2018

Location Number of Number of Number of people men women 16 November 2018 Kalbatau village, Zharma 23 7 16 district: conference hall of Zharma branch of East- Kazakhstan provinceial office of KazVodKhoz

East-Kazakhstan Province Public Consultations Zharma district

Date: 16 November 2018 Location: conference hall of Zharma branch of East-Kazakhstan provinceial office of KazVodKhoz

Panel Members: 1. A.T. Ansabaev, Head of Department of enterpreunership and agriculture of Zharma district 2. T.Ahmetkarimov, Head of Zharma department of KazVodKhoz 3. N.Halimova: ADB, international social safeguards specialist 4. B.Ibraev: ADB, national environmental safeguards consultant 5. K.Serdaliev.ADB, National social safeguards consultant

Program 1. Provision of information on project design prepared under the feasibility study – T.S.Ahmetkarimov (in Kazakh) 2. Main approaches of ADB Policy statement (2009) on environmental safeguards, content of IEE/EMP and additional environmental impacts surveys of 2018, monitoring program, project institutional responsibilities on EMP implementation and GRM– B.Ibraev (in Russian, Power Point presentation) 3. Social safeguards and resettlement principles of ADB policies for the Project, Grievance redress mechanism developed for the Project – K.Serdaliev (in Kazakh, power point presentation)

Information brochures in Kazakh and Russian were distributed also to participants with information on issues indicated in the program

List of Participants:

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23 Participants (attached)

# Question / Comment Answer

1 Ms.G.Mamaeva, Head of Currently the work in frame of Zharma district territorial feasibility study in stage if finalization. inspection. What is the budget In 2019 the detail designing will be of the project and when the done, then the costs will be defined project will start?

2 Mr.M. Toleuhan head of farm noted “Zhana-El” proposed to include the reconstruction of off-farm distribution networks from main channels

3 Mr.Myrzabek N., senior noted specialist of Kalbata rural county. Proposed consider the financing of introduction of new technologies in irrigation structures, for example :drip irrigation”

6 Mr.Ahmetkarimov T. proposed noted to include the works on increasing the water level in channel “Aktogan”

Wrap up The participants noted the planned project activities will not have any significant adverse environmental and population health impacts. People were properly informed about the draft IEE and social surveys and on GRM

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Minutes of Public Consultations Scan

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Public Consultations in February 2019

Location Number of Number of Number of people men women

26 February 2019

Conference Hall, Department of 26 21 5 Agriculture of East-Kazakhstan Province, Ust-Kamenogorsk city

East-Kazakhstan Province Public Consultations

Date: 26 February 2019 Location: Conference hall, Department of Agriculture of East-Kazakhstan Province, Ust- Kamenogorsk city

Panel Members: 1. A.S. Zhakupbayev, Head of Agriculture Department of East-Kazakhstan Province 2. A.T. Tursinhanov, East-Kazakhstan Province Branch of KazVodKhoz 3. N. Halimova: ADB, International Social Safeguards Specialist 4. B. Ibrayev: ADB, National Environmental Safeguards Consultant 5. K.Serdaliyev.ADB, National Social Safeguards Consultant

Program 1. Provision of information on project design prepared under the feasibility study – A.T. Tursinhanov 2. Main approaches of ADB Policy statement (2009) on environmental safeguards, content of IEE/EMP and additional environmental impacts surveys of 2018, monitoring program, project institutional responsibilities on EMP implementation and GRM– B.Ibrayev (in Russian, Power Point presentation) 3. Social safeguards and resettlement principles of ADB policies for the Project, Grievance redress mechanism developed for the Project – K.Serdaliev (in Kazakh, power point presentation)

Information brochures in Kazakh and Russian were distributed also to participants with information on issues indicated in the program List of Participants: 26 Participants (attached)

# Question / Comment Answer

1 Mr. K. Chilibayev, Deputy Akim Noted. of Zaysan District of EKO: Proposal to ensure that existing flume channels in deteriorated conditions are properly

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rehabilitated as concrete flume channels.

2 Head of farm “Intymak”: what is According to ADB Gender Policy, the gender policy of ADB? each project should seek for opportunities to improve social and economic conditions for women, as well as their active participation in project implementation.

3 Ms. K.K. Fomina “Flash” In case of land acquisition, LARP will newspaper: What kind of be developed as ADB Policy compensation will be paid – requires, and compensation will be according to ADB Policy or determined based on market price of Kazazkhstan Legislation? lost assets. In case of discrepancy between them, ADB Policy shall apply. On January 21, 2019 changes were introduced to Law “On state property”, whereby it is stated that in case of land acquisition for state needs, market price equivalent compensation shall be provided.

4 Ms. K.K. Fomina “Flash” The consultants won’t be actually newspaper: You said there will doing marketing activities, but be consultants that will help in provide trainings on the subject. marketing of products for farmers? Isn’t it a competitive advantage over other farmers not affected by the project?

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Minutes of public consultations scan in Ust-Kamenogorsk

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Pictures taken during the public hearings in Ust-Kamenogorsk

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Appendix E: Typical Cross Sections

Figure 21: Typical cross section for earth bed channels.

Figure 22: Typical cross section of a concrete lined channel.

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Appendix F: Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) Checklist

Instructions:

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

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

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

Country/Project Title: KAZ: Irrigation Rehabilitation Sector Project (East-Kazakhstan Province)

Sector Division: Agriculture, natural resources and water

Screening Questions Yes No Remarks

A. Project Siting Is the Project area adjacent to or within any of the following environmentally sensitive areas?

X No canals are located within or ▪ Protected Area adjacent to any protected areas.

▪ Wetland X No naturally occurred wetlands are located within project’s vicinity.

▪ Mangrove X Not applicable for Kazakhstan.

▪ Estuarine X No estuarines are within the project area.

▪ Buffer zone of protected area X

▪ Special area for protecting biodiversity X

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Screening Questions Yes No Remarks

B. Potential Environmental Impacts Will the Project cause…

▪ loss of precious ecological values (e.g. result of X The project stipulates only encroachment into forests/swamplands or rehabilitation of existing irrigation- historical/cultural buildings/areas, disruption of drainage infrastructure and no new hydrology of natural waterways, regional flooding, and greenfield lands are to be acquired drainage hazards)? for the project. There are several cultural buildings, cemeteries, and natural waterways at considerable distance from several canals, which will not be impacted by rehabilitation works.

▪ conflicts in water supply rights and related social X The project is aimed to conflicts? rehabilitation of existing irrigation- drainage infrastructure

▪ impediments to movements of people and animals? X Some impediment for livestock during irrigation season.

▪ potential ecological problems due to increased soil X The project is aimed to decreasing erosion and siltation, leading to decreased stream of soil erosion and siltation by capacity? cleaning of canals and their rehabilitation

▪ Insufficient drainage leading to salinity intrusion? X The project is aimed to rehabilitation of irrigation-drainage infrastructure

▪ over pumping of groundwater, leading to salinization X No rehabilitation of pump stations and ground subsidence? are planned in East-Kazakhstan province

▪ impairment of downstream water quality and therefore, X No impairment of downstream impairment of downstream beneficial uses of water? water quality is expected as aftermath of project activities.

▪ dislocation or involuntary resettlement of people? X Project stipulates only rehabilitation of existing irrigation infrastructure. No dislocation or involuntary resettlement is foreseen under the project.

▪ disproportionate impacts on the poor, women and X No disproportionate impacts are children, Indigenous Peoples or other vulnerable foreseen on vulnerable groups, groups? poor, women and children or indigenous peoples.

▪ potential social conflicts arising from land tenure and X Project stipulates only land use issues? rehabilitation of existing irrigation infrastructure. No dislocation or involuntary resettlement is foreseen under the project.

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Screening Questions Yes No Remarks

▪ soil erosion before compaction and lining of canals? X The project aimed to decreasing of soil erosion by rehabilitation of canals

▪ noise from construction equipment? X Temporary noise will be generated during construction. Some canals are located in proximity to rural residential areas. Noise mitigation measures will be implemented, such as restriction of works to day time, covering of noise generating parts of equipment, redirection of noise sources.

▪ dust during construction? X Temporary dust generation during construction. Mitigation measures will be implemented, such as watering of access roads and construction sites, speed limits, restriction of vehicle movement to project roads only.

▪ waterlogging and soil salinization due to inadequate X There is negligible risk of drainage and farm management? waterlogging and soil salinization due to inadequate drainage and farm management. A relevant training will be provided to farms and agricultural cooperatives under the project.

▪ leaching of soil nutrients and changes in soil X There is negligible risk of leaching characteristics due to excessive application of irrigation of fertilizers due to excessive water? application. A relevant training will be provided to farms and agricultural cooperatives under the project.

▪ reduction of downstream water supply during peak X The project will support seasons? rehabilitation of existing irrigation infrastructure which currently can not work with full designed capacity or not used at all due to severe deterioration.

▪ soil pollution, polluted farm runoff and groundwater, X There is some risk of soil pollution and public health risks due to excessive application of due to application of fertilizers. A fertilizers and pesticides? relevant training program for farmers will be developed and implemented.

▪ soil erosion (furrow, surface)? X There is some risk of soil erosion due to application of improper methods of land cultivation. A relevant training program for farmers will be developed and implemented under the project.

▪ scouring of canals? X Scouring of canals might occur on unlined canals.

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Screening Questions Yes No Remarks

▪ clogging of canals by sediments? X The project will include cleaning of canals and rehabilitation of capacity.

▪ clogging of canals by weeds? X The project will include cleaning of canals and rehabilitation of capacity.

▪ seawater intrusion into downstream freshwater X Not applicable, as there are no systems? seas in East-Kazakhstan Province.

▪ introduction of increase in incidence of waterborne or X The project will rehabilitate water related diseases? irrigation networks. There are relevant water sources available for drinking purposes in project area. Kazakhstan has very low incidences of waterborne or water related diseases.

▪ dangers to a safe and healthy working environment X There are occupational health due to physical, chemical and biological hazards during risks project construction and operation? related to fertilizer and chemicals use during operation. A relevant training program for farmers will be developed and implemented.

▪ large population influx during project construction and X Mostly local people will be operation that causes increased burden on social involved. Currently, similar works infrastructure and services (such as water supply and are going under support of sanitation systems)? Government in other irrigations schemes – no influx occurred.

▪ social conflicts if workers from other regions or X No social conflicts are anticipated countries are hired? as mostly local people will be involved.

▪ risks to community health and safety due to the X There are community health risks transport, storage, and use and/or disposal of materials such as explosives, fuel and other chemicals during related to fuel and other chemicals construction and operation? use during construction. A relevant training program for contractors will be implemented. Health and Safety Management plan, Traffic Management plan will be developed.

▪ community safety risks due to both accidental and X Sub-projects are located at the big natural hazards, especially where the structural distance from residential areas. elements or components of the project (e.g., irrigation Nevertheless Health and Safety dams) are accessible to members of the affected Management plan should be community or where their failure could result in injury to developed and relevant measures the community throughout project construction, will prevent potential community operation and decommissioning? safety rosks

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