ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC (PTY) LTD

DRAFT BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF ESKOM TYALARA -QUNU 132 KV POWER LINE AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE

SEPTEMBER 2013 J31096

GIBB Environmental 9 Pearce Road East London, South Africa 5241 www.gibb.co.za

Contact : Mervin Olivier Tel: +27 43 706 3656 Fax: +27 43 721 0141 [email protected]

DRAFT BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF ESKOM TYALARA-QUNU 132KV POWER LINE AND ASSOCIATED INFRASTRUCTURE CONTENTS

Chapter Description Page

SECTION A: ACTIVITY INFORMATION ...... 3 SECTION B: SITE/AREA/PROPERTY DESCRIPTION ...... 29 SECTION C: PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ...... 48 SECTION D: IMPACT ASSESSMENT ...... 51 SECTION E: RECOMMENDATION OF PRACTITIONER ...... 79 SECTION F: APPENDIXES ...... 81

APPENDICES

Appendix A1: 21-Digit Site Reference Appendix A2: 250m Coordinates Appendix A3: Locality Map Appendix A4: Vegetation Map Appendix A5: Terrestrial Critical Biodiversity Areas Appendix A6: Aquatic Critical Biodiversity Areas Appendix A7: Route Deviation around Nelson Mandela’s Property Appendix B: Photographs Appendix C1: Facility Illustration - Route Delineation Appendix C2: Facility Illustration - Structure Design Appendix D1: Specialist reports: Avifaunal Impact Assessment Appendix D2: Specialist reports: Archaeological Impact Assessment Appendix D3: Specialist reports: Paleontological Impact Assessment Appendix E: Public Participation Process Report Appendix F: Detailed Impact Assessment Appendix G: Environmental Management Programme Appendix H1: Details of the Environmental Assessment Practitioner Appendix H2: Curriculum Vitae of the Environmental Assessment Practitioner Appendix H3: Environmental Assessment Practitioner Declaration of Independence Appendix I1: Specialists Declaration of Interest - Avifaunal Appendix I2: Specialists Declaration of Interest - Archaeology Appendix I3: Specialists Declaration of Interest - Palaeontology Appendix J: Other Information (NONE)

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

(For official use only) File Reference Number: Application Number: Date Received:

Basic assessment report in terms of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2010, promulgated in terms of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998), as amended.

Kindly note that:

1. This basic assessment report is a standard report that may be required by a competent authority in terms of the EIA Regulations, 2010 and is meant to streamline applications. Please make sure that it is the report used by the particular competent authority for the activity that is being applied for. 2. This report format is current as of 1 September 2012 . It is the responsibility of the applicant to ascertain whether subsequent versions of the form have been published or produced by the competent authority 3. The report must be typed within the spaces provided in the form. The size of the spaces provided is not necessarily indicative of the amount of information to be provided. The report is in the form of a table that can extend itself as each space is filled with typing. 4. Where applicable tick the boxes that are applicable in the report. 5. An incomplete report may be returned to the applicant for revision. 6. The use of “not applicable” in the report must be done with circumspection because if it is used in respect of material information that is required by the competent authority for assessing the application, it may result in the rejection of the application as provided for in the regulations. 7. This report must be handed in at offices of the relevant competent authority as determined by each authority. 8. No faxed or e-mailed reports will be accepted. 9. The signature of the EAP on the report must be an original signature. 10. The report must be compiled by an independent environmental assessment practitioner. 11. Unless protected by law, all information in the report will become public information on receipt by the competent authority. Any interested and affected party should be provided with the information contained in this report on request, during any stage of the application process. 12. A competent authority may require that for specified types of activities in defined situations only parts of this report need to be completed. 13. Should a specialist report or report on a specialised process be submitted at any stage for any part of this application, the terms of reference for such report must also be submitted.

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14. Two (2) colour hard copies and one (1) electronic copy of the report must be submitted to the competent authority. 15. Shape files (.shp) for maps must be included on the electronic copy of the report submitted to the competent authority.

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SECTION A: ACTIVITY INFORMATION

Has a specialist been consulted to assist with the completion of this section? YES


NO If YES, please complete the form entitled “Details of specialist and declaration of interest” for the specialist appointed and attach in Appendix I. 1. PROJECT DESCRIPTION a) Describe the project associated with the listed activities applied for

INTRODUCTION

Eskom’s core business is the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity. Eskom generates approximately 95% of the South African electricity in accordance with supply and demand requirements. Reliable provision of electricity by Eskom is critical for industrial and sustainable development in South Africa, which inevitably provides and sustains job opportunities for jobseekers. As electricity cannot be stored, power is generated and delivered over long distances to where it is required. This is achieved through thousands of kilometres of high voltage transmission and distribution lines which transmit this power from power stations located outside the Eastern Cape Province, to Eskom’s major substations. At these major substations, the voltage loading is reduced and distributed to smaller substations. From here the voltage is further reduced for distribution to industry, businesses, farms and homes. In order to maintain a reliable power supply within the entire network, the voltages at all substations are required to be within certain desired limits.

If the network is operated at voltages below these limits, power outages may be experienced, which results in unreliable electricity supply. In order to avoid this, the distribution network must have the capacity to supply the electricity required by customers at all times. The network must therefore be designed with reserve distribution capacity in order to ensure an uninterruptable supply of electricity.

GENERAL PROJECT DESCRIPTION

GIBB has been appointed by Eskom Distribution to conduct a Basic Assessment as part of a network strengthening project in the Province of the Eastern Cape.

The project in its entirety entails the rebuilding of existing power lines and construction of new 132 kV Eskom power line on guyed steel monopole structures from the Neptune substation located near East London to the Vuyani substation located near Mthatha in the Eastern Cape. The total line distance is 180.2 km comprising 86.4 km of new servitude and 93.8 km break and build of old servitude, as depicted in Figure 1. (A larger version of the Map is attached in Appendix A)

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Figure 1: Locality map for the entire power line showing sections to be rebuilt (green) and construction of new sections (red).

The project links 132 kV Eskom power lines over a distance of 180.2 km between seven (7) substations, as follows:

• Neptune – Chaba • Chaba – Butterworth • Butterworth – Idutywa • Idutywa – Tyalara • Tyalara – Qunu • Qunu – Vuyani

This Basic Assessment Report is for a project component, specifically the Tyalara to Qunu section , whose details are provided below.

DESCRIPTION OF THE TYALARA-QUNU 132 KV LINE

The proposed section from Tyalara to Qunu entails the re-building of approximately 15.5 km and construction of 2 km of new Chickadee 132 kV power line on guyed steel monopole structures. The proposed power line takes off from the Tyalara substation (31°54'34.62" S and 28°29'8.04" E) and travels in a north east direction to the Qunu substation (31°48'17.09"S and 28°37'5.05"E). Both substations are situated within the King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality (KSDLM) and the Qunu substation is situated approximately 30 km south of Mthatha, along the N2.

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Figure 2: Ariel image showing the location of the proposed Tyalara Qunu powerline, 30 km south of Mthatha, along the N2.

The proposed project will involve the construction of:

• 17.5 km of 132 kV overhead Chickadee power line • 58 guyed steel monopole struct ures.

The new Tyalara - Qunu 132 kV overhead power line is required to strengthen the electricity grid supply to the eastern areas of the KSDLM and improve the network:

• The new network with longer lifespan • Improve network integrity/reliability • This will also create a stronger network since it will be supplied from two 400 kV sources.

4. LOCATION AND SITE DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT

The take-off point of the proposed Tyalara - Qunu 132 kV distribution power line is at the existing Tyalara substation and will extend for 17.5 km in a north-easterly direction the Qunu substation.

Table 1: GPS Co -ordinates for the Tyalara-Qunu 132 kV power line Take-off point (Tyalara substation) 31°54'34.52"S 28°29'9.02"E End point (Qunu substation) 31°48'13.30"S 28°37'6.83"E

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4.1. Surrounding Land Use

The land use of the areas traversed by the proposed power line is restricted largely to rural villages and communal subsistence farming including low intensity subsistence livestock grazing and food plots. Vegetation has been cleared for arable lands along the route and remaining grass lands are overgrazed. Surrounding rivers and streams are also highly degraded.

The area consists of state-owned land under the jurisdiction of the Department of Land Affairs. Land tenure is primarily communal, with chiefs and headmen responsible for the allocation of land-use rights.

4.2 Demographics

Statistics SA: Community Survey 2007 indicated that the O.R. Tambo region has a population of 1.86 million people and covers an area of 16,617 km2. This indicates an average of about 112 people per square kilometre. Approximately 45% of the population are younger than 15 years, 49% are between the age of 15 and 64, and 6% of the population are older than 65 years. The ratio of men to women is 47% to 53% respectively.

Of the potential economically active population, 18% are formally employed, 7.8% informally employed and 71.5% unemployed, 46.5% of the population falls within the under 15 age group which suggest continuing population growth in the district with a need for education facilities and a focus on education and skills training. The dependency ratio is 1:5, which means that each employed person sustains an average of five members of their family. In many instances families are dependent on elderly people who receive pensions. The overall male-female ratio maybe ascribed to migrant and commuter labour which has resulted in many households having a woman as the heed of the household and the chief breadwinner living away from the home.

The lack of energy resources within rural areas of South Africa is recognised as a major factor retarding socio-economic development . According to Statistics South Africa Census 2001, less than half of the population in the Eastern Cape have electricity for lighting purposes, while 28% and 24% of the Eastern Cape population utilise electricity for cooking and heating respectively. It is evident from the above information that network strengthening in terms of electricity distribution in the Eastern Cape is greatly needed. The King Sabatha Dalindyebo IDP (2012/ 2013) identified the upgrading and installation of electricity supply as a priority project for the financial year.

4.3 Climate

Mthatha receives approximately 556 mm of rain per year, with most rainfall occurring mainly during summer. It receives the lowest rainfall (6 mm) in June and the highest (87 mm) in March. The monthly distribution of average daily maximum temperatures shows that the average midday temperatures for Mthatha range from 19.4 °C in July to 25.8 °C in February. The region is the coldest during July when the temperature drops to 5.8 °C on average during the night.

4.4 Geology and Soils

O.R. Tambo is underlain by a variety of lithologies (rock types) representing a considerable time span. As a broad generalization the area is underlain by sedimentary rocks (sandstones and shales), through which magmas have intruded to form dolerite dykes and sills.

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The dolerite dykes represent the conduits that fed the lavas that form the higher lying areas of the Drakensburg. Kimberlites, diatremes and other centres of volcanic activity also occur at a number of localities within O.R. Tambo.

The underlying geology and geomorphology of the region are closely tied to the formation of soils. In general, soils are arable with much of the more productive soils currently under cultivation. Soils are generally highly erodible and, with the poor veld management and mismanagement of riparian areas, erosion dongas and gullies may develop.

4.5 Heritage

Heritage (Archaeology and Palaeontology) is dealt with in section 6 of this report. Please also refer to Appendix D2: Archaeology Specialist Report and Appendix D3: Palaeontology Specialist Report.

4.6 Vegetation

From the Tyalara substation for approximately 11 km, the power line falls within the Eastern Valley Bushveld. The vegetation type then changes to the Mthatha Moist grassland for the next 6 km to the Qunu substation (Mucina Rutherford, 2006). Please refer to the Vegetation Map attached in Appendix A.

Eastern Valley Bushveld

The Eastern Valley Bushveld is classified as a least threatened vegetation type by Mucina and Rutherford, 2005 (Please refer to Appendix A for a map depicting vegetation and conservation status). This semi-deciduous Savanna woodland is a mosaic with thickets, often succulent and dominated by species of Euphorbia and Aloe. Most of the river valleys run along a northwest-southeast axis which results in unequal distribution of rainfall on respective north facing and south facing slopes since the rain bearing winds blow from the south. The steep north facing slopes are sheltered from the rain and also receive greater amounts of insolation adding to xerophilous conditions on these slopes.

The vegetation type traversed by the powerline has been completely transformed, mainly by agriculture, interspersed by rural settlements and cannot therefore be considered as a true reprehensive of the vegetation type. This has contributed to the loss of naturally occurring bushveld, for the entirety of the powerline route.

Mthatha Moist Grassland

The undulating plains and hills characteristic of the vegetation type and area, support species-poor, sour, wiry grassland with Egrostis plana and Sporobolus africanus . Under good condition, the area may be dominated by Themeda triandra .

The area and vegetation is also characterised by a high level of utilisation which has lead to degradation and transformation and the vegetation shows various stages of over utilisation.

Shifting cultivation and the effects of development have caused continuous disturbance of the soil surface which has led to secondary succession changes in the grassland. Poor grazing management has led to the dominance of unpalatable grasses and invasion by weedy, mostly alien, forb species (Mucina Rutherford, 2006).

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Specific to the project site, the area has largely been transformed by cultivation and is therefore not a true reflection of the vegetation type. Land negotiations have been undertaken by Eskom, for both the existing section (to be rebuilt) as well as the new sections of the proposed line.

4.7 Biodiversity

Approximately 7 km of the proposed Tyalara - Qunu power line falls within terrestrial CBA 2 area (refer to Appendix A) and the entire line falls within an aquatic CBA 3 area.

4.8 Avifauna

Mr Brendon Steytler from Indwe Environmental Consulting undertook an avifaunal specialists study during July 2013 (please refer to Appendix D1: Avifaunal Specialist Study). Approximately 125 bird species can be found within the study area using lists obtained from the South African Bird Atlas Project (SABAP). Of the species likely to occur within the Tyalara Qunu study area, only 7 were recorded breeding. A total of 4 Red Listed species were recorded, comprising 2 Vulnerable and 2 Near ‐threatened species. It is of note that the number of field cards submitted under the SABAP project for this study area is very low and hence the real diversity of bird species is likely to be higher. Much of the authors’ knowledge in predicting potential bird species that are likely to occur within the study area has therefore been employed in this assessment. The reality is that a lot more Red Listed species are to be found within the study area. Some of these Red Listed Species are particularly vulnerable to impacts associated with power lines. In general terms, the impacts that could be associated with a project of this nature include: collision of birds with the overhead cables; electrocution of birds whilst perched on the tower structures; destruction of habitat; and disturbance of birds. The key species which are important to this study are the Cape Vulture (Gyps coprotheres), Martial Eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus), Denham’s Bustard (Neotis denhamii) and Grey Crowned Crane (Balearica regulorum). The Cape Vulture and Martial Eagle are both particularly vulnerable to electrocution on the proposed power line, but the proposed pole structure (guyed steel monopole) will be relatively safe for these birds particularly if used together with a standard Bird Perch.

The Grey Crowned Crane and Denham’s Bustard will be further at risk of collision with the overhead cables, particularly in the grassland, arable lands and areas adjacent to stock dams and wetlands where they are likely to forage. T

4.9 Current Land-use

The current land-use includes mostly subsistence farming, including low intensity subsistence livestock grazing and maize food plots.

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5 ACTIVITY PHASES

5.1 Construction Phase

The actual construction activities associated with the power line are as follows:

1. Building of foundations for the towers 2. Tower assembly and erection 3. Conductor stringing 4. Final inspection of the line and taking over from contractor 5. Rehabilitation of disturbed areas.

The foundations are constructed first, followed by the assembly of the towers on the ground, then the erection of the towers and finally the stringing and regulation of the conductors.

Construction of 17.5 km the 132 kV Overhead Power Line from Existing Tyalara Substation to the Existing Qunu Substation

For the proposed overhead power lines, an area with a strip width of 6 m will be cleared along the entire route. Holes will then be drilled for each supporting pole or blasting may be employed. Small amounts of concrete will be mixed for the site stabilizing towers (~ 0.5 cubes per strain tower / 1 every 1.5 km). The internal towers will generally be placed on pre-cast foundations (~ 0.5 x 0.5 x 0.5 m).

Construction of Access Roads

Due to the existing power line, access largely exists. Minor access tracks may however be required. All areas that will be disturbed such as construction camps, access roads and the construction area around the towers will have the topsoil stripped and stockpiled for use during the rehabilitation phase. Eskom estimates that it takes approximately 1 month for every 12 km. The construction for this project should thus be completed after approximately 2 months.

5.2 Operational Phase:

Maintenance of Infrastructure

The 132 kV power line will require routine maintenance work using access roads. Existing roads will be used as far as possible to avoid constructing new roads.

Corrosion

Corrosion of structures is frequently found where the protective system, either galvanizing or a protective organic coating, has weathered, exposing the steel substrate. With routine maintenance, this form of corrosion can be avoided.

9 BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT b) Provide a detailed description of the listed activities associated with the project as applied for

Listed activity as described in GN R.544, 545 Description of project activity and 546 GN R.544 Item 10(i): The construction of The rebuilding and construction of 132kV power facilities or infrastructure for the transmission line on guyed steel monopole structures from the and distribution of electricity outside urban areas Tyalara substation to the Qunu substation in the or industrial complexes with a capacity or more Eastern Cape. than 33 but less than 275 kilovolts

GN R.54 6 Item 1 2 (a): The clearance of an area This activity has been included as the proposed of 300 square metres or more of vegetation power line falls within a terrestrial CBA 2 area and where 75% or more of the vegetative cover an aquatic CBA 3 area. Only ~ 2 km of the route constitutes indigenous vegetation - within critical will require clearing, where there is a deviation biodiversity areas identified in bioregional plans. from the existing line. Due to the existing 15.5 km of powerline that will be re-built, the area has previously cleared. The 2 km of new entails the erection of 6 pylons in order to avoid Nelson Mandela’s property. GN R.54 6 Item 16(a)ii.(ff): The construction of Pylons and overhead powerline infrastructure covering 10 m2 or more The proposed power line falls within a terrestrial Where such construction occurs within 32 m of a CBA 2 area and an aquatic CBA 3 area. watercourse, measured from the edge of a watercourse excluding where such construction occur behind the development setback line; In (a) Eastern Cape; ii. Outside urban areas; in (ff) critical biodiversity areas or ecosystem service areas as identified in systematic biodiversity plans adopted by the competent authority or in bioregional plans

5. FEASIBLE AND REASONABLE ALTERNATIVES

“alternatives” , in relation to a proposed activity, means different means of meeting the general purpose and requirements of the activity, which may include alternatives to—

(a) the property on which or location where it is proposed to undertake the activity; (b) the type of activity to be undertaken; (c) the design or layout of the activity; (d) the technology to be used in the activity; (e) the operational aspects of the activity; and (f) the option of not implementing the activity.

Describe alternatives that are considered in this application as required by Regulation 22(2)(h) of GN R.543. Alternatives should include a consideration of all possible means by which the purpose and need of the proposed activity (NOT PROJECT) could be accomplished in the specific instance taking account of the interest of the applicant in the activity. The no-go alternative must in all cases be

10 BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT included in the assessment phase as the baseline against which the impacts of the other alternatives are assessed.

The determination of whether site or activity (including different processes, etc.) or both is appropriate needs to be informed by the specific circumstances of the activity and its environment. After receipt of this report the, competent authority may also request the applicant to assess additional alternatives that could possibly accomplish the purpose and need of the proposed activity if it is clear that realistic alternatives have not been considered to a reasonable extent.

The identification of alternatives should be in line with the Integrated Environmental Assessment Guideline Series 11, published by the DEA in 2004. Should the alternatives include different locations and lay-outs, the co-ordinates of the different alternatives must be provided. The co-ordinates should be in degrees, minutes and seconds. The projection that must be used in all cases is the WGS84 spheroid in a national or local projection.

a) Site alternatives Alternative 1 Description Lat (DDMMSS) Long (DDMMSS)

In the case of linear activities: Alternative: Latitude (S): Longitude (E): Alternative S1 ( preferred alternative ) • Starting point of the activity 31°54'34.52"S 28°29'9.02" E • Middle/Additional point of the activity 31°51'21.82"S 28°33'10.01"E • End point of the activity 31°48'13.30"S 28°37'6.83" E Alternative S2 ( minor alternative ) • Starting point of the activity 31°48'50.62"S 28°36'18.37"E • Middle/Additional point of the activity 31°48'51.70"S 28°36'46.91"E • End point of the activity 31°48'19.35"S 28°36'58.85"E Alternative S3 (if any) • Starting point of the activity N/A • Middle/Additional point of the activity • End point of the activity

For route alternatives that are longer than 500 m, please provide an addendum with co-ordinates taken every 250 meters along the route for each alternative alignment.

PLEASE REFER TO APPENDIX A2 FOR A LIST OF COORDINATES

In the case of an area being under application, please provide the co-ordinates of the corners of the site as indicated on the lay-out map provided in Appendix A.

11 BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT b) Lay-out alternatives

Alternative 1 (preferred alternative) Description Lat (DDMMSS) Long (DDMMSS) The study area is located approximately 3 0 km to the south of Mthatha, along the N2 and falls within the King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality.

Layout Alternative 1 (preferred alternative) is indicated by the blue line in Figure 3 below and takes off from the existing Tyalara substation. The preferred option, indicated in blue in Figures 3, will travel in a north-easterly direction for approximately 17 km where it links up with the Qunu substation. This preffered route options entails the rebuild of 15 km of existing powerline, and construction of 2 km of powerline to avoid traversing Nelson Mandela’s Qunu Property. Most of the servitude therefore already exists, and requires no change in land- use.

The proposed works falls within un-alienated state land. Wayleave are entered into between ESKOM and the relevant tribal authority regarding access to land for servitudes. The department of Land Affairs compensates communities financially where relevant. The Department of Land Affairs (DLA), through a community resolution process will undertake the site transfer process, should an Environmental Authorisation (EA) be issued. The community leaders have signed a letter of no objection to the project proposal.

Alternative 2 Description Lat (DDMMSS) Long (DDMMSS) The minor alternative, indicated in red in Figure 3 below , follows the same route as the preferred alternative but continues straight toward the Qunu substation, whereas the preffered alternative (blue line) deviates in an easterly direction for approximately 1.7 kms toward the Qunu substation. The minor alternative 2 travels for approximately 1.5 km where it joins the preferred alternative route. In both cases the surrounding vegetation have been heavily impacts from surrounding agricultural activities including extensive overgrazing.

Layout alternative 2 follows the exisitng servitide of the powerline, however travels directly through an occupied portion of Nelson Mandelas Qunu home. During community resolution undertaken by Eskom, Cllr Meme Kgagara required for the line to be relocated toward the property boundaries of the residence. Following the

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existing servitude may pose a risk to occupiers of the residence, and furthermoe access to the property during construction may also be restricted.

Figure 3: Aerial Image of the proposed 17.5 km powerline from the Tyalara substation to the Qunu Substation indicating the preferred alternative (blue line) and minor deviation, alternative 2 shown in red.

Alternative 3 Description Lat (DDMMSS) Long (DDMMSS) N/A c) Technology alternatives Monopole and lattice structures have been considered. However due to the maintenance requirements, negative impacts on wildlife, vegetation clearing requirements and visual impacts associated with lattice structures, monopole structures are preferred. Due to the high weights associated with the concrete monopole structures, steel monopoles will be utilised for the proposed powerline construction.

Alternative 1 (preferred alternative)

Steel Monopole structure

• Monopoles are single structures used to minimize impact on land use, wildlife and scenic views. • The multitude of elbows and joints of lattice structures make ideal raptor perches which, in tandem with wide, clear-cut rights -of-way, create measurable negative impacts on wildlife. • Some monopoles a re single, self -supporting, vertical poles with no guy wire anchors. They can be as tall as lattice towers, but their single stem makes them less obtrusive, and they require only

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an eight -foot base.

Monopoles offer aesthetic benefits and definitely require a smaller servitude for adequate placement. The monopole designs include rounded edges, which eliminates raptor perches and protects them from accidental electrocution.

In terms of design, various support towers or “pylons” were considered. These included a 5-pole wooden tower, concrete monopole tower or a steel monopole tower. The 5-pole wooden tower is no longer considered feasible due to the excessive maintenance requirements where poles require regular replacement. The two feasible alternatives are therefore concrete monopole towers or steel monopole towers with guides.

Figure 4: Alternative Towers to be considered: Concrete Monopole (left) and a Steel Monopole with Guides (right).

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Alternative 2

Lattice structure

• Lattice structures mostly four -legged structures. • Lattice structures require guy wire anchors for support. They are also tall and obtrusive.

The pylon design will be in accordance with the OHS Act which stipulates the clearance levels to ground, road, building etc., and also by taking into account the local area in terms of birds and animals.

Figure 5: Lattice Structures Towers are more obtrusive

Alternative 3

d) Other alternatives (e.g. scheduling, demand, input, scale and design alternatives) –

Alternative 1 (preferred alternative) N/A Alternative 2

Alternative 3

e) No-go alternative Due to the planned growth in the O.R. Tambo area an upgrade of the existing ESKOM distribution infrastructure is required. The new 132 kV overhead powerline is therefore required to strengthen the grid supply in the Eastern Cape in response to planned growth.

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In terms of providing stable electricity supply in the O.R. Tambo area, the no-go alternative is not a practical or feasible project alternative. By not increasing the supply to the greater area, development will be constrained as the existing networks are at capacity. New electricity connections will not be viable and households will continue using alternative sources of energy for cooking, heating and lighting. These sources are mostly from non-renewable sources of electricity such as paraffin, gas, candles and fire-wood. Such forms of energy deplete fertile sources of fossil fuels. In addition, many are considered unsafe (e.g. paraffin and wood fires) and create safety risks to communities. Economic benefits related to the development, include job opportunities during construction and operation, contribution to infrastructure and development of the area.

The no-go alternative will therefore have a direct impact on the provision of electricity and development in the area. The No-Go alternative may prevent the occurrence of negative environmental impacts such as construction associated risks (fires, spills of hazardous materials), impacts on ground and surface water quality with particular respect to nearby streams; impacts on air quality and noise generation during construction; potential soil erosion from earthworks.

Paragraphs 3 – 13 below should be completed for each alternative.

6. PHYSICAL SIZE OF THE ACTIVITY a) Indicate the physical size of the preferred activity/technology as well as alternative activities/technologies (footprints):

Alternative: - N/A Size of the activity: Alternative A1 1 (preferred activity alternative) m2 Alternative A2 (if any) m2 Alternative A3 (if any) m2 or, for linear activities:

Preferred Alternative: Length of the activity: Alternative A1 (preferred activity alternative) 17.5 km Alternative A2 (if any) 2 km Alternative A3 (if any) N/A b) Indicate the size of the alternative sites or servitudes (within which the above footprints will occur):

Alternative: Size of the site/servitude: Alternative A1 (preferred activity alternative) m2 Alternative A2 (if any) m2 Alternative A3 (if any) m2

1 “Alternative A..” refer to activity, process, technology or other alternatives .

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7. SITE ACCESS

Does ready access to the site exist ?


YES NO If NO, what is the distance over which a new access road will be built Unknown

Describe the type of access road planned:

Access roads are available due to the existing powerline. These access routes will be utilised , however new access tracks to the powerlines may need to be built and will be done so according to the Eskom requirements and approved management plans for this project. Access tracks will be limited to single tracks as close to the servitude as possible or within the servitude.

Include the position of the access road on the site plan and required map, as well as an indication of the road in relation to the site.

8. LOCALITY MAP

An A3 locality map must be attached to the back of this document, as Appendix A. The scale of the locality map must be relevant to the size of the development (at least 1:50 000. For linear activities of more than 25 kilometres, a smaller scale e.g. 1:250 000 can be used. The scale must be indicated on the map.). The map must indicate the following:

• an accurate indication of the project site position as well as the positions of the alternative sites, if any; • indication of all the alternatives identified; • closest town(s;) • road access from all major roads in the area; • road names or numbers of all major roads as well as the roads that provide access to the site(s); • all roads within a 1km radius of the site or alternative sites; and • a north arrow; • a legend; and • locality GPS co-ordinates (Indicate the position of the activity using the latitude and longitude of the centre point of the site for each alternative site. The co-ordinates should be in degrees and decimal minutes. The minutes should have at least three decimals to ensure adequate accuracy. The projection that must be used in all cases is the WGS84 spheroid in a national or local projection).

PLEASE REFERT TO APPENDIX A3

9. LAYOUT/ROUTE PLAN

A detailed site or route plan(s) must be prepared for each alternative site or alternative activity. It must be attached as Appendix A to this document.

The site or route plans must indicate the following:

• the property boundaries and numbers of all the properties within 50 metres of the site; • the current land use as well as the land use zoning of the site; • the current land use as well as the land use zoning each of the properties adjoining the site or sites;

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• the exact position of each listed activity applied for (including alternatives); • servitude(s) indicating the purpose of the servitude; • a legend; and • a north arrow. PLEASE REFER TO APPENDIX A3 AND C1

10. SENSITIVITY MAP

The layout/route plan as indicated above must be overlain with a sensitivity map that indicates all the sensitive areas associated with the site, including, but not limited to:

• watercourses; • the 1:100 year flood line (where available or where it is required by DWA); • ridges; • cultural and historical features; • areas with indigenous vegetation (even if it is degraded or infested with alien species); and • critical biodiversity areas.

The sensitivity map must also cover areas within 100m of the site and must be attached in Appendix A. PLEASE REFERT TO APPENDIX A

11. SITE PHOTOGRAPHS

Colour photographs from the centre of the site must be taken in at least the eight major compass directions with a description of each photograph. Photographs must be attached under Appendix B to this report . It must be supplemented with additional photographs of relevant features on the site, if applicable. PLEASE REFERT TO APPENDIX B

12. FACILITY ILLUSTRATION

A detailed illustration of the activity must be provided at a scale of at least 1:200 as Appendix C for activities that include structures. The illustrations must be to scale and must represent a realistic image of the planned activity. The illustration must give a representative view of the activity. PLEASE REFER TO APPENDIX C1 AND C2

18 BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

13. ACTIVITY MOTIVATION

Motivate and explain the need and desirability of the activity (including demand for the activity):

1. Is the activity permitted in terms of the property’s existing


YES NO Please explain land use rights? Fifteen kilometres (15 km) of the powerline will be built on existing line route; therefore will not constitute a change in land use. The current land-use includes mostly subsistence farming, including low intensity subsistence livestock grazing and maize food plots. The properties traversed by the proposed power line are tribally managed state owned land under jurisdiction of the Department of Land Affairs.

Eskom has undertaken community resolution to avoid potential social disputes. Wayleave has been entered into between ESKOM and the relevant tribal authority regarding access to land for servitudes. The department of Land Affairs compensates communities financially where relevant. The Department of Land Affairs (DLA), through a community resolution process will undertake the site transfer process, should an Environmental Authorisation (EA) be issued. The community leaders have signed a letter of no objection to the project proposal. 2. Will the activity be in line with the following? (a) Provincial Spatial Development Framework (PSDF)


YES NO Please explain As per section 2.4.5 of the Eastern Cape Provincial Spatial Development Plan, 2010 (PSDP), electricity supply capacity is under stress in the province and large development projects are often affected by these limitations. The PSDP therefore includes assisting ESKOM in being able to plan according to an agreed long term spatial development scenario and build capacity in those areas where development is to be promoted.

(b) Urban edge / Edge of Built environment for the area


YES NO Please explain An urban edge has not yet been identified as yet for both the King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality and the O.R. Tambo District Municipality. As per the O.R Tambo District Municipality IDP (2012-2017) the development and definition of the urban edge has been identified as a priority project for the municipality in order to minimize the chances of settlement sprawl of low density developments, however this project is not expected to fall within the parameters of the urban edge. (c) Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and Spatial Development Framework (SDF) of the Local Municipality (e.g. would the approval of this application compromise


YES NO Please explain the integrity of the existing approved and credible municipal IDP and SDF?). The KSD Local Municipality IDP (2012-2017, pg 63 and 92 ) identifies the installation and upgrading electricity as a priority for the municipality, further more stating that Eskom is managing the rural electrification and several new substations are in the process of being constructed in rural areas. The Municipality has implemented an Indigent Policy that places a strain on the resources of the institution, both financially and in terms of the capacity to implement the policy. The Municipality has requested funding to the value of R252 million to upgrade the aging and overloaded electricity network. The latest versions of the O.R Tambo Strategic Development Framework (2009/10) and KSD Local Municipality SDF (2007) identified electricity as a priority project.

19 BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

(d) Approved Structure Plan of the Municipality


YES NO Please explain n/a since the structure is existing (e) An Environmental Management Framework (EMF) adopted by the Department (e.g. Would the approval of this application compromise the integrity of the existing


YES NO Please explain environmental management priorities for the area and if so, can it be justified in terms of sustainability considerations?) In terms of sustainable development, upgrading of the power line will result in positive economic and social impacts for the surrounding rural areas, as well as contributing to improved municipal infrastructure. Adding to this, the development of power line must be undertaken in accordance with EMPr, which takes into consideration the potential adverse environmental impacts that may arise, and provides specifications to eliminate or lower environmental impacts to acceptable levels. (f) Any other Plans (e.g. Guide Plan) YES NO Please explain N/A 3. Is the land use (associated with the activity being applied for) considered within the timeframe intended by the existing approved SDF agreed to by the relevant environmental
YES NO Please explain authority (i.e. is the proposed development in line with the projects and programmes identified as priorities within the credible IDP)? The development proposal of the KSD Local Municipality IDP includes electricity as an important goal in terms of improved infrastructure. A planned objective of the IDP is to supply electricity to all by 2014. 4. Does the community/area need the activity and the associated land use concerned (is it a societal priority)? (This refers to the strategic as well as local level (e.g. development is a


YES NO Please explain national priority, but within a specific local context it could be inappropriate.) Upgrading the power line will allow for a higher utilisation which will in turn (it is hoped) act as a catalyst to local economic development in this undeveloped and poverty stricken part of the province. 5. Are the necessary services with adequate capacity currently available (at the time of application), or must additional capacity be created to cater for the development?


YES NO Please explain (Confirmation by the relevant Municipality in this regard must be attached to the final Basic Assessment Report as Appendix I.) N/A The proposed activity will not require the use of services.

20 BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

6. Is this development provided for in the infrastructure planning of the municipality, and if not what will the implication be on the infrastructure planning of the municipality (priority and placement of services and


YES NO Please explain opportunity costs)? (Comment by the relevant Municipality in this regard must be attached to the final Basic Assessment Report as Appendix I.) The District Growth and Development Summit 2007, states that the municipality together with the OR Tambo District Municipality will commit to engaging with ESKOM and the Department of Minerals and Energy to align plans with identified priorities and SDF’s in order to eradicate all electrification backlogs by 2014. This project therefore contributes to this goal. 7. Is this project part of a national programme to address an
YES NO Please explain issue of national concern or importance? Yes, the project forms part of the Eskom Transmission Ten-Year Development Plan (2011-2020). Furthermore the installation and upgrading of electricity and associated infrastructure, especially in rural areas in an issue of national concern. 8. Do location factors favour this land use (associated with the activity applied for) at this place? (This relates to the
YES NO Please explain contextualisation of the proposed land use on this site within its broader context.) Since the structure is existing, land use will not be affected. Furthermore, the location of the powerline will:

• Provide capacity for existing and future developments in the area • Improves reliability of supply • Increased revenue • De-loads existing substations which will help to maintain firmness within the study area.

9. Is the development the best practicable environmental option


YES NO Please explain for this land/site? No major environmental impacts are anticipated as a result of the development. 10. Will the benefits of the proposed land use/development


YES NO Please explain outweigh the negative impacts of it? The proposed activity is not fatally flawed and all potential impacts can be mitigated to an acceptable level. 11. Will the proposed land use/development set a precedent for YES


NO Please explain similar activities in the area (local municipality)? Similar projects have already been undertaken within the municipality, and will continue to be undertaken as funding is available.

21 BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

12. Will any person’s rights be negatively affected by the YES
NO Please explain proposed activity/ies? An Interested and Affected Parties register will be circulated and all stakeholders and adjacent landowners will be informed about the proposed development. This will allow them to express their views and concerns, from the Public Participation meeting conducted by Eskom no objections have been received so far. 13. Will the proposed activity/ies compromise the “urban edge” YES
NO Please explain as defined by the local municipality? An urban edge has not yet been identified as yet for both the King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality and the O.R. Tambo District Municipality. As per the O.R Tambo District Municipality IDP (2012-2017) the development and definition of the urban edge has been identified as a priority project for the municipality in order to minimize the chances of settlement sprawl of low density developments, however this project is not expected to fall within the parameters of the urban edge. 14. Will the proposed activity/ies contribute to any of the 17
YES NO Please explain Strategic Integrated Projects (SIPS)? The proposed activity will contribute to SIP 9: Electricity Generation to support socio-economic development and SIP 10: Electricity Transmission and Distribution for all.

15. What will the benefits be to society in general and to the local Please explain communities? The proposed project will:

• Enable the much needed network strengthening in the area • Enables the provision and access to safe electricity • Reduce the requirements on fossil fuels • Improve the reliability of supply of electricity • Encourage growth in the area in line with the SDF’s • Increase capacity for businesses, schools, clinics and other social amenities • Allow for temporary job opportunities during the construction phase

22 BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

16. Any other need and desirability considerations related to the proposed Please explain activity? Providing electrification to all households has been one of government’s priorities and is in line with the national policy target where all households are to have access to safe electricity by 2013.

Need and Desirability of the Project

The reliable provision of electricity by Eskom is critical for industrial development and related employment and sustainable development in South Africa. As electricity cannot be stored, power is generated and delivered over long distances at the very instant that it is required. In South Africa, thousands of kilometres of high voltage Transmission lines (i.e. 765 kV, 400 kV and 275 kV Transmission lines) transmit this power, which is predominantly generated at the power stations located outside the Eastern Cape Province, to Eskom’s major substations. At these major substations, the voltage is down-rated and distributed to smaller substations all over the country via distribution lines (e.g. 132 kV, 88 kV and 66 kV power lines). Here the voltage is down-rated further for distribution to industry, businesses, farms and homes. In order to maintain a reliable power supply within the entire network, the voltages at all substations are required to be within certain desired limits.

If the network is operated at voltages which are below these limits, voltage collapse problems and power outages may be experienced which will in turn adversely impact on the economic growth potential of the area.

17. How does the project fit into the National Development Plan for 2030? Please explain This activity seeks to address a number of the nine challenges addressed by the National Development Plan for 2030 as it seeks to expand infrastructure, create jobs and improve livelihoods and transform urban and rural spaces.

23 BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

18. Please describe how the general objectives of Integrated Environmental Management as set out in section 23 of NEMA have been taken into account. The proposed development has been adequately considered by trained and competent Environmental Assessment Practitioners (EAPs) and identified specialist, and all potential impacts that may have a significant impact on the receiving environment have been considered and mitigated to acceptable levels as required by the NEMA 2010 EIA regulations. The conclusions of the environmental impact assessment have been concisely summarised to adequately inform decision- making by the competent authority. A comprehensive Public Participation Process will be undertaken, which conforms to requirements in Chapter 6 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations. Further all Interested and Affected Parties were given ample time to review and comment on all documents and reports.

The EAP has thus endeavoured to integrate of the principles of environmental management in all considerations for this application by:

• identifying, predicting and evaluating the actual and potential impact on the environment, socio- economic conditions and cultural heritage, the risks and consequences and alternatives and options for mitigation of activities, with a view to minimising negative impacts, maximising benefits, and promoting compliance with the principles of environmental management • ensuring that the effects of activities on the environment receive adequate consideration before actions are taken in connection with them • ensuring adequate and appropriate opportunity for public participation in decisions that may affect the environment • ensuring the consideration of environmental attributes in management and decision-making which may have a significant effect on the environment; and • identifying and employing the modes of environmental management best suited to ensuring that the activity is pursued in accordance with the principles of environmental management

Lastly is it is assumed that the template for a Basic Assessment Report, as prepared by the Department, adheres to all provisions of the National Environmental Management Act in terms of Integrated Environmental Management (including the objectives and principles of NEMA) and the EAP has therefore endeavoured to provide as much detailed information as possible in the sections above and below.

24 BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

19. Please describe how the principles of environmental management as set out in section 2 of NEMA have been taken into account. The provision of electricity ensures that social and economic rights defined in Chapter 2 of the Constitution are respected, protected and fulfilled. Through the undertaking of a Basic Assessment, specialist investigations and public participation processes, the social and economic rights defined in the constitution are further respected, protected and fulfilled. People and their needs are considered paramount when undertaking the Basic Assessment process.

The principals of environmental management as set out in Section 2 of NEMA have therefore been taken into account through the following:

• Through the implementation of the EMP there will be no loss to biodiversity • Pollution and degradation of the environment will avoided where possible and where unavoidable they will be minimised and remedied • The disturbance to areas of cultural heritage was assessed through the undertaking of a Heritage (Archaeological and Paleontological) Specialist Investigation and any possible impacts avoided, minimised and remedied. • Minor quantities of waste will be generated during the construction phase only. All waste generated will be reused or recycled where possible and the remaining waste disposed of at a landfill site utilised by the Municipality • The proposed activity will reduce the exploitation of non-renewable resources; and • Where the proposed activity will impact the environment or people’s environmental rights, the project specific EMPr will attempt to prevent, minimise and remedy the possible impacts.

14. APPLICABLE LEGISLATION, POLICIES AND/OR GUIDELINES

List all legislation, policies and/or guidelines of any sphere of government that are applicable to the application as contemplated in the EIA regulations, if applicable:

Title of legislation, policy or Applicability to the project Administering Date guideline authority Constitution of the Republic Protection of the Environment . South African 1996 of South Africa Act No. 108 of Government 1996 National Environmental Through the requirement for a DEA 1998 Management Act (NEMA) No. Basic Assessment. 107 0f 1998 (as amended) Environmental Impact Guidelines pertaining to the DEA 2009 Assessment Regulations Basic Assessment process. (Government Notice No. R. 543 and 544) National Heritage Resources The requirement of a Heritage SAHRA 1999 Act (NHRA) No. 25 of 1999 Impact Assessment to protect areas and artefacts of archaeological and

25 BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

paleontological significance. Local Government: Municipal Through the municipality Provincial 2000 Systems Act: Act No.32 bylaws Noise Control Regulation PN Noise generating activities Provincial & National 1998 627 of 1998 during construction

15. WASTE, EFFLUENT, EMISSION AND NOISE MANAGEMENT a) Solid waste management

Will the activity produce solid construction waste during the construction/initiation


YES NO phase? If YES , what estimated quantity will be produced per month? ~ 5 m 3

How will the construction solid waste be disposed of (describe)?

The w aste to be produced on site include plastic bags and other domestic waste that the contractors may bring on site. This waste should be collected weekly and disposed of in a safe manner at the landfill utilised by the Local Municipality. The management of this waste is to be addressed in the Environmental Management Programme (EMPr) (Appendix G).

Where will the construction solid waste be disposed of (describe)? Constru ction waste, solid waste and general waste produced during construction will be disposed at a landfill as utilised by the King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality.

Will the activity produce solid waste during its operational phase? YES


NO If YES , what estimated quantity will be produced per month? N/A How will the solid waste be disposed of (describe)? N/A If the solid waste will be disposed of into a municipal waste stream, indicate which registered landfill site will be used. N/A Where will the solid waste be disposed of if it does not feed into a municipal waste stream (describe)? N/A If the solid waste (construction or operational phases) will not be disposed of in a registered landfill site or be taken up in a municipal waste stream, then the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA.

Can any part of the solid waste be classified as hazardous in terms of the NEM:WA? YES


NO If YES , inform the competent authority and request a change to an application for scoping and EIA. An application for a waste permit in terms of the NEM:WA must also be submitted with this application.

Is the activity that is being applied for a solid waste handling or treatment facility? YES


NO If YES , then the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA. An application for a waste permit in terms of the NEM:WA must also be submitted with this application.

26 BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT b) Liquid effluent

Will the activity produce effluent, other than normal sewage, that will be disposed of YES


NO in a municipal sewage system? If YES , what estimated quantity will be produced per month? N/A Will the activity produce any effluent that will be treated and/or disposed of on site? YES


NO If YES , t he applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA.

Will the activity produce effluent that will be treated and/or disposed of at another YES


NO facility? If YES , provide the particulars of the facility: N/A Facility name: Contact person: Postal address: Postal code: Telephone: Cell: E-mail: Fax:

Describe the measures that will be taken to ensure the optimal reuse or recycling of waste water, if any:

Although no effluent will be disposed on site, adequate measures have to be put in place to ensure that construction workers use portable toilets supplied by contractor. The open veld may not be used for ablutions. The EMPr must address the management of this issue. c) Emissions into the atmosphere

Will the activity release emissions into the atmosphere other that exhaust emissions YES


NO and dust associated with construction phase activities? If YES , is it controlled by any legislation of any sphere of government? N/A YES NO If YES , the applicant must consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA. If NO , describe the emissions in terms of type and concentration: During the construction phase, it is expected that there will be short -term dust generation and emissions from vehicles and machinery. However, the dust and emissions will have a medium- to short-term duration and have a limited impact on the very immediate surrounding rural areas. Where appropriate, dust suppression measures will be implemented to reduce the impacts. It is recommended that construction vehicles be serviced and kept in good mechanical condition to minimise possible exhaust emission. d) Waste permit

Will any aspect of the activity produce waste that will require a waste permit in terms YES


NO of the NEM:WA?

If YES, please submit evidence that an application for a waste permit has been submitted to the competent authority

27 BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT e) Generation of noise

Will the activity generate noise?


YES NO If YES , is it controlled by any legislation of any sphere of government? YES


NO If YES , the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA. If NO , describe the noise in terms of type and level: Noise Control Regulations and SANS 10103

Short term noise impacts are anticipated during the construction phase of the project caused by construction vehicles and drilling machines. It is, however, anticipated that the noise will be localised and contained within the construction site.

In order to minimise the impacts of noise during the construction phase, construction activities should be restricted to between 07 H00 and 17 H00, Monday to Friday, and 08 H00 – 13 H00 on Saturdays. No work must be undertaken on Sundays and Public Holidays. This is required to avoid noise disturbances outside normal working hours. All construction equipment must be maintained and kept in good working order to minimise associated noise impacts.

The noise level is anticipated to be less than 50 dBA as required by SANS 10103 and thus authorisation will not be required for the noise.

16. WATER USE

Please indicate the source(s) of water that will be used for the activity by ticking the appropriate box(es):

River, stream,


Other – The activity will Municipal Water board Groundwater dam or lake water tanker not use water

If water is to be extracted from groundwater, river, stream, dam, lake or any other N/A natural feature, please indicate the volume that will be extracted per month: Does the activity require a water use authorisation (general authorisation or water YES


NO use license) from the Department of Water Affairs? If YES , please provide proof that the application has been submitted to the Department of Water Affairs .

17. ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Describe the design measures, if any that have been taken to ensure that the activity is energy efficient:

N/A as the project entails the construction of power lines for the distribution of electricity.

However, the contractor will be advised to transport all construction materials on site at the same time where possible and the collection of waste material conducted simultaneous with other activities to reduce the amount fuel usage for such transportation.

Describe how alternative energy sources have been taken into account or been built into the design of the activity, if any:

28 BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

N/A as the project entails the construction of power lines for the distribution of electricity. Diesel fuel will be used on site instead of electricity.

SECTION B: SITE/AREA/PROPERTY DESCRIPTION

Important notes: 1. For linear activities (pipelines, etc) as well as activities that cover very large sites, it may be necessary to complete this section for each part of the site that has a significantly different environment. In such cases please complete copies of Section B and indicate the area, which is covered by each copy No. on the Site Plan.

Section B Copy No. A. A

2. Paragraphs 1 - 6 below must be completed for each alternative.

3. Has a specialist been consulted to assist with the completion of this section? YES


NO If YES, please complete the form entitled “ Details of specialist and declaration of interest” for each specialist thus appointed and attach it in Appendix I. All specialist reports must be contained in Appendix D.

Property Province Eastern Cape description/physi District Municipality O.R. Tambo District Municipality cal address: Local Municipality King Sabatha Dalinyebo Local Municipality Ward Number(s) Farm name and See Appendix A for the list of farms traversed by the number powerline Portion number See Appendix A SG Code See Appendix A

Where a large number of properties are involved (e.g. linear activities), please attach a full list to this application including the same information as indicated above. PLEASE REFER TO APPENDIX A 1 FOR A LIST OF SG CODES AND PORTION NUMBERS

Current land -use Un -alienated state owned land or communal land . zoning as per local municipality IDP/records: In instances where there is more than one current land -use zoning, please attach a list of current land use zonings that also indicate which portions each use pertains to, to this application.

Is a change of land -use or a consent use application required? YES


NO

29 BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

1. GRADIENT OF THE SITE

Indicate the general gradient of the site.

Alternative S1: Flat 1:50 – 1:20 – 1:15 1:15 – 1:10 1:10 – 1:7,5 1:7,5 – 1:5 Steeper 1:20


than 1:5 Alternative S2 (if any): Flat 1:50 – 1:20 – 1:15 1:15 – 1:10 1:10 – 1:7,5 1:7,5 – 1:5 Steeper 1:20


than 1:5 Alternative S3 (if any): Flat 1:50 – 1:20 1:20 – 1:15 1:15 – 1:10 1:10 – 1:7,5 1:7,5 – 1:5 Steeper than 1:5

2. LOCATION IN LANDSCAPE

Indicate the landform(s) that best describes the site:

2.1 Ridgeline 2.4 Closed valley 2.7 Undulating plain / low hills


2.2 Plateau 2.5 Open valley


2.8 Dune 2.3 Side slope of hill/mountain


2.6 Plain 2.9 Seafront

3. GROUNDWATER, SOIL AND GEOLOGICAL STABILITY OF THE SITE

Is the site(s) located on any of the following?

Alternative S1: Alternative S2 Alternative S3 Minor Alt (if any): Shallow water table (less than 1.5m deep) YES


NO YES


NO YES NO Dolomite, sinkhole or doline areas YES


NO YES


NO YES NO Seasonally wet soils (often close to water YES


NO YES


NO YES NO bodies) Unstable rocky slopes or steep slopes with YES


NO YES


NO YES NO loose soil Dispersive soils (soils that dissolve in water) YES


NO YES


NO YES NO Soils with high clay content (clay fraction YES


NO YES


NO YES NO more than 40%) Any other unstable soil or geological feature YES


NO YES


NO YES NO An area sensitive to erosion


YES NO


YES NO YES NO

If you are unsure about any of the above or if you are concerned that any of the above aspects may be an issue of concern in the application, an appropriate specialist should be appointed to assist in the completion of this section. Information in respect of the above will often be available as part of the project information or at the planning sections of local authorities. Where it exists, the 1:50 000 scale Regional Geotechnical Maps prepared by the Council for Geo Science may also be consulted.

30 BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

4. GROUNDCOVER

Indicate the types of groundcover present on the site. The location of all identified rare or endangered species or other elements should be accurately indicated on the site plan(s).

Natural veld with Natural veld - Natural veld with Veld dominated heavy alien Gardens good condition E scattered aliens E by alien species E infestation E Cultivated land Building or other Sport field Paved surface Bare soil





structure


Vegetation

Two vegetation types, namely the Eastern Valley Bushveld and the Mthatha Moist Grassland dominate the study area (Please refer to Appendix A: Vegetation Map). From the Tyalara substation and for ~ 11 km of the power line route is situated within the Eastern Valley Bushveld, which then gradually changes to the Mthatha Moist Grassland for the next ~ 5.5 km toward the Qunu substation. (SANBI Maps, 2013). The Eastern Valley Bushveld is classified as being Least Threatened, while the Mthatha Moist Grassland is classified as Vulnerable.

Much of the indigenous vegetation has been transformed by agriculture (i.e. cultivated lands) and settlements in the vicinity of the project and thus the human impact levels on natural vegetation have been very high. Open grasslands that are grazed with domestic stock have been poorly managed in terms of high stocking density and the application of poor burning regimes. This has caused many of the highly palatable grass species (e.g. Themeda triandra ) to become replaced with less desirable/ unpalatable grasses (e.g. Aristida sp ). Remaining intact patches of indigenous vegetation are therefore of high conservation value as they provide habitat and refuge for the remaining indigenous fauna species in the study area. The area and vegetation is also characterised by a high level of utilisation which has led to degradation and transformation and the vegetation shows various stages of over utilisation. Shifting cultivation and the effects of development have caused continuous disturbance of the soil surface which has led to secondary succession changes in the grassland. Poor grazing management has led to the dominance of unpalatable grasses and invasion by weedy, mostly alien, forb species (Mucina Rutherford, 2006).

Specific to the project site, the area has largely been transformed by cultivation and is therefore not a true reflection of the vegetation type. Land negotiations have been undertaken by Eskom, for both the existing section (to be rebuilt) as well as the new sections of the proposed line. The vegetation type traversed by the powerline has been completely transformed, mainly by agriculture, interspersed by rural settlements and cannot therefore be considered as a true reprehensive of the vegetation type. This has contributed to the loss of naturally occurring bushveld, for the entirety of the powerline route.

No indigenous mammals were observed during the site visit. Given the high level of anthropogenic disturbance, it is to be expected that populations of indigenous large mammals will be restricted to forests, secluded valleys, proclaimed or fenced protected areas. No such forests, secluded valleys or protected areas occur within the immediate study area.

31 BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

Avifaunal species

The key species which are important to this study are the Cape Vulture (Gyps coprotheres ), Martial Eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus ), Denham’s Bustard (Neotis denhamii ) and Grey Crowned Crane (Balearica regulorum ). Cape Vulture and Martial Eagle are both particularly vulnerable to electrocution on the proposed power line, but the proposed pole structure (guyed steel monopole) will be relatively safe for these birds particularly if used together with a standard Bird Perch.

The Grey Crowned Crane and Denham’s Bustard will be further at risk of collision with the overhead cables, particularly in the grassland, arable lands and areas adjacent to stock dams and wetlands where they are likely to forage. These sections of the line will require bird collision mitigation in the form of line marking devices on the earth wire. It is essential that once the exact route is finalized and individual pole positions surveyed, an avifaunal walk ‐through be conducted in order to identify the exact spans of power line that will pose a collision risk. This walk through will also identify any sensitive breeding species that may require special attention. None of these species can afford more Mortalities from power lines, and every effort should be made to mitigate these impacts as effectively as possible. In addition, installation of mitigation for these large ‐winged species will also benefit various other non ‐threatened bird species in the area. Provided that the recommendations of this report, in particular the use of the Bird Perch on every pole, and the carrying out of an avifaunal walk through as part of the site specific Environmental Management Plan, are implemented, this project can proceed with acceptable levels of avifaunal impact.

5. SURFACE WATER

Indicate the surface water present on and or adjacent to the site and alternative sites?

Perennial River


YES NO UNSURE

Non-Perennial River


YES NO UNSURE

Permanent Wetland YES


NO UNSURE

Seasonal Wetland YES


NO UNSURE

Artificial Wetland YES


NO UNSURE

Estuarine / Lagoonal wetland YES


NO UNSURE

If any of the boxes marked YES or UNSURE is ticked, please provide a description of the relevant watercourse.

32 BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

The powerline passes over the Tyalara, Ngweni , Bumbane and Kwakanyi Non Perennial Rivers and the Buwa Perennial River. However, specific construction activities do not occur within the 32 m of these rivers. Pylon positions are located a minimum of 60 m from Perennial and Non Perennial Streams.

The proposed overhead powerline will cross the Buwa Perennial River at 7 different locations, including an unnamed non-perennial tributary of the Buwa River; the Tyalara River at 4 locations; the Ngweni non-perennial river at two locations and the Bumbane and Kwakanyi Non Perennial tributary at one location. For the purpose of this section, these crossings will be labelled point 1 – 15, in order from the Tyalara substation to the Qunu Substation:

No. Co-ordinates Name 1. 31 °54' 25.99" S and 28° 29' 24.91"E Tyalara Non-Perennial River 2. 31° 54' 21.39" S and 28° 29' 37.38"E Tyalara Non-Perennial River 3. 31° 54' 07.37" S and 28° 30' 08.24"E Tyalara Non-Perennial River 4. 31° 53' 52.82" S and 28° 30' 31.49"E Tyalara Non-Perennial River 5. 31° 53' 17.40" S and 28° 31' 24.90"E Unnamed Non-Perennial Tributary of the Buwa River 6. 31° 53' 01.64" S and 28° 31' 39.47"E Buwa Perennial River 7. 31° 52' 52.18" S and 28° 31' 47.19"E Buwa Perennial River 8. 31° 52' 31.52" S and 28° 32' 06.71"E Bumbane Non-Perennial River 9. 31° 52' 18.11" S and 28° 32' 18.66"E Buwa Perennial River 10. 31° 52' 00.64" S and 28° 32' 34.78"E Buwa Perennial River 11. 31° 51' 41.77" S and 28° 32' 51.94"E Buwa Perennial River 12. 31° 51' 15.20" S and 28° 33' 16.09"E Buwa Perennial River 13. 31° 50' 36.12" S and 28° 33' 59.96"E Ngweni Non-Perennial River 14. 31° 50' 18.75" S and 28° 34' 22.56"E Ngweni Non-Perennial River 15. 31° 50' 03.23" S and 28° 34' 43.05"E Kwakanyi Non-Perennial River

Confirmation with the electrical design engineer indicated that the power line poles are located approximately 60 m from the banks of the Buwa River at its nearest point. The structures used will have minimum impact as they are guyed steel mono poles. These will be planted in the ground and stayed using steel stay rods and stay plates which are directly buried in the ground. Most structures are planted in areas that were previously or currently used for farming. Bird flight diverters will be applied to the shield wire in this area.

The pole positions of the proposed power line are therefore sited such that they are the furthest away from the Rivers and tributaries and thus have the least impact. A buffer of 60 m will be maintained from all surface water bodies.

The impact of the powerline on the Buwa River has been determined as low with the implementation of the mitigation measures contained within the project specific EMPr.

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6. LAND USE CHARACTER OF SURROUNDING AREA

Indicate land uses and/or prominent features that currently occur within a 500m radius of the site and give description of how this influences the application or may be impacted upon by the application:

Natural area


Dam or reservoir Polo fields Low density residential


Hospital/medical centre Filling station H Medium density residential School Landfill or waste treatment site High density residential Tertiary education facility Plantation Informal residential A Church Agriculture


Retail commercial & warehousing Old age home River, stream or wetland


Light industrial Sewage treatment plant A Nature conservation area Medium industrial AN Train station or shunting yard N Mountain, koppie or ridge


Heavy industrial AN Railway line N Museum Power station Major road (4 lanes or more) N Historical building Office/consulting room Airport N Protected Area Military or police Harbour Graveyard base/station/compound Spoil heap or slimes dam A Sport facilities Archaeological site Quarry, sand or borrow pit Golf course Other land uses (describe)

If any of the boxes marked with an “ N “are ticked, how will this impact / be impacted upon by the proposed activity? N/A If any of the boxes marked with an " An " are ticked, how will this impact / be impacted upon by the proposed activity? Specify and explain: N/A If any of the boxes marked with an " H" are ticked, how will this impact / be impacted upon by the proposed activity? Specify and explain: N/A

Does the proposed site (including any alternative sites) fall within any of the following:

Critical Biodiversity Area (as per provincial conservation plan)


YES NO Core area of a protected area? YES NO


Buffer area of a protected area? YES NO


Planned expansion area of an existing protected area? YES NO


Existing offset are a associated with a previous Environmental Authorisation? YES NO


Buffer area of the SKA? YES NO

If the answer to any of these questions was YES, a map indicating the affected area must be included in Appendix A. PLEASE REFERT TO APPENDIX A: AQUATIC CBA MAP AND TERRESTRIAL CBA MAP

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7. CULTURAL/HISTORICAL FEATURES

Are there any signs of culturally or historically significant elements, as defined in YES


NO section 2 of the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999, (Act No. 25 of 1999), including Archaeological or paleontological sites, on or close (within 20m) to the

site? If YES, explain: Archaeological Impact Assessment An Archaeological Assessment (Appendix D2) undertaken by Karen van Reynerveld (Archaeomaps) identified eight (8) features of cultural significance that require permanent sign-posting and must be barricaded prior to the commencement of construction

Heritage feature GPS co-ordinates TQ S 1. Late Iron Age / Contemporary – Cemetery S31°54’00.2”; E28°29’47.1” TQ S 2. Late Iron Age / Contemporary – Cemetery S31°54’02.6”; E28°29’43.5” Late Iron Age – Abathembu Bumbane Great Place & royal TQ S 3. S31°52’21.5”; E28°31’50.7 cemeteries TQ S 3.1. Royal wives’ cemetery S31°52’25.2”; E28°31’50.1” TQ S 3.2. AbaThembu Kings’ cemetery S31°52’22.9”; E28°31’56.7” TQ S 4. Late Iron Age / Contemporary – Cemetery S31°49’14.3”; E28°35’58.4” TQ S 5. Late Iron Age / Contemporary – Cemetery S31°49’12.6”; E28°35’59.4” TQ S 6. Late Iron Age - Livestock enclosures S31°49’11.2”; E28°36’00.7”

These areas must be clearly demarcated as no-go areas, and must be fenced off with permanent sign-posting prior to construction. The impact upon these features is therefore of low significance as they will not be disturbed. Should any other heritage features be uncovered during the construction phase, work will be stopped immediately and an archaeological specialist will be contacted to investigate and provide specifications of the way forward.

Figure 6: Location of heritage features along the proposed route

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Figure 7: Late Iron Age / Contemporary – Cemetery (TQ S 1.)

Figure 8: Late Iron Age / Contemporary – Cemetery (TQ S 2.)

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Figure 9: Late Iron Age – Abathembu Bumbane Great Place & royal cemeteries (TQ S 3.)

Figure 10: Royal wives’ cemetery (TQ S 3.1.)

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Figure 11: AbaThembu Kings’ cemetery (TQ S 3.2.)

Figure 12: Late Iron Age / Contemporary – Cemetery (TQ S 4.)

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Figure 13: Late Iron Age / Contemporary – Cemetery (TQ S 5.)

Figure 14: Late Iron Age - Livestock enclosures (TQ S 6.)

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Paleontological Impact Assessment

A Paleontological Impact Assessment (Appendix D3) was undertaken by Robert Gess (Rob Gess Consulting). To the immediate north west of the southern portion of the route demonstrated that these strata do contain fossil vertebrate skulls, other skeletal elements and burrow casts. During the survey, vertebrate skeletal fragments, fossil wood, invertebrate burrow casts and fossil plant fragments were observed, but within restricted areas.

Where the route crosses the dolerite sill between points 13 and 15 (please refer to Figure 15) there is essentially no threat to palaeontological heritage. In areas where the route crosses rolling countryside with thick alluvial soils there is a minimal likelihood of palaeontological material being disturbed.

There is a low chance that palaeontological material will be disturbed in the vicinity of the Tyalara Stream at point 14 and around points 16 and 17 (please refer to Figure 15) since no construction works will take place here. A moderate likelihood of vertebrate fossils being disturbed does exist between points 3 and 7 (please refer to Figure 17).

No material requiring Phase 2 excavation and removal was observed. The likelihood does not warrant monitoring of excavations by a professional palaeontologist. Nonetheless the ECO should be instructed to monitor excavations between points 3 and 7 and in the vicinity of points 14, 16 and 17 (please refer to Figure 15 and to particularly be on the lookout for fossil vertebrate bones. These should immediately be reported to ECPRA and/or a professional palaeontologist for evaluation and possibly removal (please refer to Appendix D3: Paleontological Impact Specialist Report.

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Figure 15: Survey points for the Paleontological Impact Assessment.

If uncertain, conduct a specialist investigation by a recognised specialist in the field (archaeology or palaeontology) to establish whether there is such a feature(s) present on or close to the site. Briefly explain the findings of the specialist: Please refer above

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Will any building or structure older than 60 years be affected in any way? YES NO


Is it necessary to apply for a permit in terms of the National Heritage Resources YES NO


Act, 1999 (Act 25 of 1999)? If YES, please provide proof that this permit application has been submitted to SAHRA or the relevant provincial authority.

N/A

8. SOCIO-ECONOMIC CHARACTER a) Local Municipality

Please provide details on the socio-economic character of the local municipality in which the proposed site(s) are situated.

King Sabata Dalinyebo Local Municipality

Level of unemployment:

In 2007 the KSD labour force (15 -64) was made up of roughly 229 668 people or 53% of the total population. Of these, 28% (66 158) were employed; while only 15% (35 944) fell in the category of the unemployed. A staggering 127 566, or some 55% of the labour force was classified as not economically active. The latter is matter of grave concern to the municipality especially because the youth and women constitute a considerably large majority of the labour force. A disaggregation of employment by economic sector further helps to unmask the challenge of employment within the municipality. Government and the Community Services sectors accounted for the largest share (54%) of employment in 2008, followed by the Finance and Wholesale and trade sectors which respectively accounted for 9 and 8 percentage points.

The unemployment rate in the ORTDM was 71.7%. This unemployment is higher than the provincial and national unemployment estimated at 49, 75 and 35, 6% respectively. There are very low levels of income in the OR Tambo DM. According to the community survey 73% of the potential economic workforce in the OR Tambo receives no formal income. This indicates the high levels of poverty in the District and the dependency on social grants for survival. KSD has the highest levels of income in the district as this is where the economic hub Mthatha is located.

Economic profile of local municipality:

In 2008 the KSD’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was estimates at R7.6 billion (ECSECC, 2000 Constant Prices). In the 13 years since 1995 the size of the municipal economy has grown by 40% at an average annual growth of 3%. While the growth is above the annual rate of population growth, it remains severely inadequate for addressing the pressing challenges of endemic high rates poverty and unemployment that face the municipality.

In 2008 the Community and the Government services sector accounted for over 47% of the total GDP. In the same period, the Finance and Business Services sector constituted 16% of the municipal GDP while Wholesale and Retail Trade Sector accounted for 10%. The GDP share of the Agriculture and forestry sectors, which is one of KSD’s leading economic sectors, was in 2008 estimated at 0.8%.

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Level of education:

Information below has been sourced from the Census 2011 Municipal report, Eastern Cape:

• No schooling: 31 369 • Some primary education: 37 199 • Complete primary education: 11 663 • Some secondary education: 77 310 • Complete secondary education, Grade 12: 42 379 • Higher education: 24 010

b) Socio-economic value of the activity

What is the expected capital value of the activity on completion? Confidential What is the expected yearly income that will be generated by or as a result of the Nil activity? Will the activity contribute to service infrastructure? YES


NO Is the activity a public amenity? YES NO


How many new employment opportunities will be created in the development and 2 to 3 construction phase of the activity/ies? What is the expected value of the employment opportunities during the R8000.00 development and construction phase? What percentage of this will accrue to previously disadvantaged individuals? Eskom BEE and Affirmative action policies will be enforced How many permanent new employment opportunities will be created during the Nil operational phase of the activity? What is the expected current value of the employment opportunities during the Nil first 10 years? What percentage of this will accrue to previously disadvantaged individuals? Nil

9. BIODIVERSITY

Please note: The Department may request specialist input/studies depending on the nature of the biodiversity occurring on the site and potential impact(s) of the proposed activity/ies. To assist with the identification of the biodiversity occurring on site and the ecosystem status consult http://bgis.sanbi.org or [email protected]. Information is also available on compact disc (cd) from the Biodiversity-GIS Unit, Ph (021) 799 8698. This information may be updated from time to time and it is the applicant/ EAP’s responsibility to ensure that the latest version is used. A map of the relevant biodiversity information (including an indication of the habitat conditions as per (b) below) and must be provided as an overlay map to the property/site plan as Appendix D to this report.

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a) Indicate the applicable biodiversity planning categories of all areas on site and indicate the reason(s) provided in the biodiversity plan for the selection of the specific area as part of the specific category)

If CBA or ESA, indicate the reason(s) for its Systematic Biodiversity Planning Category selection in biodiversity plan Approximately 7 km of t he proposed Tyalara - Qunu power line falls within terrestrial CBA 2 area (refer to Appendix A) and the entire line falls within an aquatic CBA 3 area.

Ecological Other No Natural


Critical The project site falls within the Mthatha Moist Support Natural Area Biodiversity grassland vegetation type and the Eastern Area Area Remaining Area (CBA) (ESA) (ONA) (NNR) Valley Bushveld (Mucina and Rutherford, 2006) which are classified as least threatened and vulnerable respectively (please refer to Appendix A, for Vegetation Map, Critical CBA Area Maps). While the project site it is situated in the ‘Mthatha Moist Grassland’ and “Eastern Valley Bushveld’, there is very limited natural vegetation and the immediate area has been transformed by agriculture and rural human settlements.

The project site has already been disturbed by the existing powerline road, and rural livelihood. All required vegetation clearing will be limited to grasses, and areas that have been previous cleared. b) Indicate and describe the habitat condition on site

Description and additional Comments and Percentage of Observations habitat (including additional insight into condition, Habitat Condition condition class e.g. poor land management practises, (adding up to presence of quarries, grazing, harvesting 100%) regimes etc). These are the steeper areas that have been Natural 20% unsuitable for agriculture. Near Natural (includes areas with low to 0% moderate level of alien

44 BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT invasive plants) Degraded (includes areas heavily 0% invaded by alien plants) Transformed Areas where no natural habitat remain. (includes cultivation, dams, 80% Overgrazing and agriculture farming has urban, plantation, roads, etc) resulted in a transformed environment.

b) Complete the table to indicate: (i) the type of vegetation, including its ecosystem status, present on the site; and (ii) whether an aquatic ecosystem is present on site.

Terrestrial Ecosystems Aquatic Ecosystems Ecosystem threat Critical Wetland (including rivers, status as per the Endangered depressions, channelled and National unchanneled wetlands, flats, Estuary Coastline Environmental Vulnerable


seeps pans, and artificial Management: Least wetlands) Biodiversity Act (Act Threatened YES


NO UNSURE YES


NO YES


NO No. 10 of 2004)

45 BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT d) Please provide a description of the vegetation type and/or aquatic ecosystem present on site, including any important biodiversity features/information identified on site (e.g. threatened species and special habitats)

Vegetation Type

Two main vegetation types, namely the Eastern Valley Bushveld and the Mthatha Moist Grassland dominate the study area. The Eastern Valley Bushveld is classified as being Least Threatened, while the Mthatha Moist Grassland is classified as Vulnerable. The Eastern Valley Bushveld covers a slight majority of the study area over the Mthatha Moist Grassland (SANBI Maps, 2013).

Much of the indigenous vegetation has been transformed by agriculture (i.e. cultivated lands) and settlements in the vicinity of the project and thus the human impact levels on natural vegetation have been very high. Open grasslands that are grazed with domestic stock have been poorly managed in terms of high stocking density and the application of poor burning regimes. This has caused many of the highly palatable grass species (e.g. Themeda triandra ) to become replaced with less desirable/ unpalatable grasses (e.g. Aristida sp ). Remaining intact patches of indigenous vegetation are therefore of high conservation value as they provide habitat and refuge for the remaining indigenous fauna species in the study area.

The area and vegetation is also characterised by a high level of utilisation which has led to degradation and transformation and the vegetation shows various stages of over utilisation. Shifting cultivation and the effects of development have caused continuous disturbance of the soil surface which has led to secondary succession changes in the grassland. Poor grazing management has led to the dominance of unpalatable grasses and invasion by weedy, mostly alien, forb species (Mucina Rutherford, 2006).

Specific to the project site, the area has largely been transformed by cultivation and is therefore not a true reflection of the vegetation type. Land negotiations have been undertaken by Eskom, for both the existing section (to be rebuilt) as well as the new sections of the proposed line. The vegetation type traversed by the powerline has been completely transformed, mainly by agriculture, interspersed by rural settlements and cannot therefore be considered as a true reprehensive of the vegetation type. This has contributed to the loss of naturally occurring bushveld, for the entirety of the powerline route.

No indigenous mammals were observed during the site visit. Given the high level of anthropogenic disturbance, it is to be expected that populations of indigenous large mammals will be restricted to forests, secluded valleys, proclaimed and fenced protected areas. No such forests, secluded valleys or protected areas occur within the immediate study area.

Aquatic Ecosystem

The powerline passes over the Tyalara, Ngweni, Bumbane and Kwakanyi Non Perennial Rivers and the Buwa Perennial River. However, specific construction activities do not occur within the 32 m of these rivers. Pylon positions are located a minimum of 60 m from Perennial and Non Perennial Streams.

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The proposed overhead powerline will cross the Buwa Perennia l River at 7 different locations, including an unnamed non-perennial tributary of the Buwa River; the Tyalara River at 4 locations; the Ngweni non-perennial river at two locations and the Bumbane and Kwakanyi Non Perennial tributary at one location.

The pole positions of the proposed power line will be sited such that they are the furthest away from the Rivers and tributaries and thus have the least impact. A buffer of 60 m will be maintained from all surface water bodies. Confirmation with the electrical design engineer indicated that the power line poles are located approximately 60 m from the banks of the Buwa River at its nearest point. The structures used will have minimum impact as they are stayed steel mono poles. These will be planted in the ground and stayed using steel stay rods and stay plates which are directly buried in the ground. Most structures are planted in areas that were previously or currently used for farming. Bird flight diverters will be applied to the shield wire in this area.

The impact of the powerline on the Buwa River has been determined as low with the implementation of the mitigation measures contained within the project specific EMPr.

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SECTION C: PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

1. ADVERTISEMENT AND NOTICE

Publication name The Daily Dispatch Date published 22/08/2013 Site notice position Latitude Longitude

Date placed 19/08/2013

Include proof of the placement of the relevant advertisements and notices in Appendix E1.

2. DETERMINATION OF APPROPRIATE MEASURES

Provide details of the measures taken to include all potential I&APs as required by Regulation 54(2)(e) and 54(7) of GN R.543.

Key stakeholders (other than organs of state) identified in terms of Regulation 54(2)(b) of GN R.543:

Title, Name and Surname Affiliation/ key stakeholder status Contact details (tel number or e-mail address) Mr Qondile Paliso IEM Manager at the Department of 047 531 1191 Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEDEAT), Mthatha Mr TJ Tyala Acting Municipal Manager of King 047 501 4238 Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality Mr HT Hlazo Municipal Manager of OR Tam bo 047 501 6460 District Municipality Mr Vuyisa Mdlalo -Sifanele Department of Rural Affairs and 047 532 5959 Land Reform Mr Sello Mokhanya Archaeology, Palaeontology and [email protected] Meteorites Unit, Eastern Cape Provincial Heritage Resources Authority Ms Lizna Fourie Department of Water Affairs [email protected]

Include proof that the key stakeholder received written notification of the proposed activities as Appendix E2. This proof may include any of the following:

• e-mail delivery reports; • registered mail receipts; • courier waybills; • signed acknowledgements of receipt; and/or

48 BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT

• or any other proof as agreed upon by the competent authority.

3. ISSUES RAISED BY INTERESTED AND AFFECTED PARTIES

Summary of main issues raised by I&APs Summary of response from EAP

4. COMMENTS AND RESPONSE REPORT

The practitioner must record all comments received from I&APs and respond to each comment before the Draft BAR is submitted. The comments and responses must be captured in a comments and response report as prescribed in the EIA regulations and be attached to the Final BAR as Appendix E3.

5. AUTHORITY PARTICIPATION

Authorities and organs of state identified as key stakeholders:

Authority/Organ Contact Tel No Fax e-mail Postal of State person No address (Title, Name and Surname) DEDEAT Mr Qondile 047 [email protected] Paliso 531 1191 King Sabata Mr TJ Tyala 047 P.O. Box Dalindyebo Local 501 44 or 45, Municipality 4238 Mthatha, 5099 OR Tambo Mr HT 047 [email protected] OR District Hlazo 501 Tambo Municipality 6460 House, Nelson Mandela Drive, Myezo Park, Mthatha, 5099 Department of Mr Vuyisa 047 [email protected] Rural Affairs and Mdlalo- 532 Land Reform Sifanele 5959 Eastern Cape Mr Sello [email protected] 74 Heritage Mokhanya Alexander Resources Road, Authority King

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Williams Town, 5600 Department of Ms Lizna [email protected] Private Water Affairs Fourie Bag X7019, East London, 5200

Include proof that the Authorities and Organs of State received written notification of the proposed activities as appendix E4.

In the case of renewable energy projects, Eskom and the SKA Project Office must be included in the list of Organs of State.

6. CONSULTATION WITH OTHER STAKEHOLDERS

Note that, for any activities (linear or other) where deviation from the public participation requirements may be appropriate, the person conducting the public participation process may deviate from the requirements of that sub-regulation to the extent and in the manner as may be agreed to by the competent authority.

Proof of any such agreement must be provided, where applicable. Application for any deviation from the regulations relating to the public participation process must be submitted prior to the commencement of the public participation process.

A list of registered I&APs must be included as appendix E5.

Copies of any correspondence and minutes of any meetings held must be included in Appendix E6.

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SECTION D: IMPACT ASSESSMENT

The assessment of impacts must adhere to the minimum requirements in the EIA Regulations, 2010, and should take applicable official guidelines into account. The issues raised by interested and affected parties should also be addressed in the assessment of impacts.

1. IMPACTS THAT MAY RESULT FROM THE PLANNING AND DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, OPERATIONAL, DECOMMISSIONING AND CLOSURE PHASES AS WELL AS PROPOSED MANAGEMENT OF IDENTIFIED IMPACTS AND PROPOSED MITIGATION MEASURES

Provide a summary and anticipated significance of the potential direct, indirect and cumulative impacts that are likely to occur as a result of the planning and design phase, construction phase, operational phase, decommissioning and closure phase, including impacts relating to the choice of site/activity/technology alternatives as well as the mitigation measures that may eliminate or reduce the potential impacts listed. This impact assessment must be applied to all the identified alternatives to the activities identified in Section A(2) of this report.

A complete impact assessment in terms of Regulation 22(2)(i) of GN R.543 must be included as Appendix G.

PLEASE SEE TABLE 2 BELOW AND REFER TO APPENDIX G FOR A DETAILED DICUSSION

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Table 2: Detailed Impact Table Activity Impact summary Significance Proposed mitigation After Mitigation PLANNING AND DESIGN PHASE Layout Alternative 1 (Preferred alternative) Direct : Impact on the Surrounding Ecological Support The Tyalara -Qunu powerline follows an existing line and Area: servitude, apart from the deviation (Alternative 2), near the Qunu substation. While the line traverses CBA areas, these areas have • Route Powerline route delineation and position of the pylons been transformed by cultivation and low-density rural residential delineation that does not incorporate areas of environmental areas. Since there is an existing servitude, minimum vegetation • Positioning of sensitivity may compromise the functioning of Low Negative clearing will be required, and this must be undertaken in pylons ecologically important areas, especially due to the accordance with Section 4.4.2 of the EMPr. The powerline • Design of pylon occurrence of CBA areas within the project area. delineation is void of sensitive habitats. This includes wetlands, structures protected areas as well as ridge areas. Pylons have also been sited so to avoid areas of inappropriate geological or soil properties. Direct : Loss of Fauna Proposed monopole structures have been selected in terms of avifaunal impacts as opposed to 5-pole wooden towers: Pylon structures selected which do not take into consideration avifaunal species especially in valley • Pylons will be fitted with perching brackets (please refer to Low Negative areas, may result in electrocution of bird species and Appendix C, Figure 2) adversely affect biodiversity. • River crossing will be marked with suitable anti-collision/ electrocution marking devices to mitigate the impact of bird collision.

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Activity Impact summary Significance Proposed mitigation After Mitigation Direct : Disturbance (Nuisance) to surrounding landowners Access roads are available due to the existing powerline. These Low Negative Planning of access roads may unnecessarily impact on access routes will be utilised. private land, causing security issues and nuisance to surrounding Landowners. Direct : Improved Electricity Supply

Planning for the upgrading of the existing power supply Medium No mitigation is required will have a direct positive impact on the economy and Positive social livelihood of both the Local and District Municipality. Direct : Damage to Access Roads

• Use of Access Minor damage to roads in the study area could Land negotiations have been undertaken by Eskom, for both the routes during potentially result from continued travelling of vehicles on existing section (to be rebuilt) as well as the new sections of the surveying minor and gravel roads by land surveyors, engineers Low Negative proposed line. and Eskom staff during route and site investigations, and land owner negotiations. It is unlikely though that damage to the roads will be noticeable over the short to medium term. Indirect : No indirect impacts have been identified during No mitigation is required the planning and design phase N/A Cumulative : No cumulative impacts have been No mitigation is required identified during the planning and design phase N/A Layout Alternative 2

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Activity Impact summary Significance Proposed mitigation After Mitigation Direct : All direct impacts identified for Alternative 1 are Refer above • Route identical to Alternative 2, apart from the impact Low Negative delineation discussed below: • Positioning of Direct: Disturbance to surrounding landowners pylons Planning of access roads may unnecessarily impact on Five existing pylons traverse Nelson Mandela’s property (Please private land, causing security issues and nuisance to refer to Appendix C5). Currently these five pylons pass through High Negative surrounding Landowners. Of particular concern is that an occupied portion of his land. Construction activities in this he existing powerline traverses Nelson Mandela’s area may pose a nuisance and security issue. Three new pylons property in Qunu. will thus be placed toward the ends of the property boundaries. Location of the three pylons has been negotiated by Eskom. Indirect : No indirect impacts have been identified during No mitigation is required the planning and design phase N/A Cumulative : No indirect impacts have been identified No mitigation is required during the planning and design phase N/A Technology Alternative 1 (preferred) • Selection of Direct: Loss of Fauna monopole structures The erection of monopole structures may result in Low Negative Pylons will be fitted with perching brackets and sensitive areas electrocution of bird species. such as river crossing, will be marked with suitable anti-collision marking devices. Direct: Loss of Flora

Vegetation clearing requirements for the installation of Low Negative Monopoles are single structures whose smaller dimensions monopole structures. minimize impact on wildlife. Some monopoles are single, self- supporting, vertical poles with no guy wire anchors. Direct: Visual impacts Low Negative

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Activity Impact summary Significance Proposed mitigation After Mitigation Visual impacts may result as the structures deface the Monopol es offer aesthetic benefits as they require a smaller natural area. servitude for adequate placement. Indirect: No indirect Impacts have been identified for No mitigation is required technological alternatives during the planning and N/A design phase Cumulative: No cumulative impacts have been No mitigation is required identified for technological alternatives during the N/A planning and design phase Technology Alternative 2 • Selection of Direct: Loss of Fauna Lattice Structures The erection of Lattice structures may result in Medium Lattice structures are fitted with perching brackets, however the electrocution of bird species. Negative multitude of elbows and joints of lattice structures with wide, clear-cut rights-of-way, create measurable negative impacts on wildlife. Direct: Loss of Flora

Medium Loss of Flora due to vegetation clearing requirements for The existing servitude will be utilised, however lattice structures Negative the installation of Lattice structures. mostly four-legged structures and still require larger areas of vegetation clearing. Direct: Visual impacts

Medium Visual impacts of Lattice structures may result as the No mitigation is possible - Lattice structures require guy wire Negative structures deface the natural area. anchors for support. They are also tall and obtrusive.

Indirect: No indirect impacts have been identified for No mitigation is required technological alternatives during the planning and N/A design phase.

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Activity Impact summary Significance Proposed mitigation After Mitigation Cumulative: No cumulative impacts have been No mitigation is required identified for technological alternatives during the N/A planning and design phase. CONSTRUCTION PHASE Alternative 1 (preferred alternative ) and Alternative 2 Direct: Impact on the Surrounding Ecological Support Area:

• Vegetation clearing Important Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBAs) contribute As a section of the powerline is surrounded by a Terrestrial CBA 2 • Removal of to the attainment of biodiversity conservation targets. In area and an Aquatic CBA 3 area, construction activities in this indigenous systematic conservation planning they are accorded this section should be limited to the confines of the road reserve, as species status because they contain representative samples of much as this is technically feasible. Clearing of vegetation should • Removal of biodiversity and threatened species (flora and fauna) be kept to a minimum and must be introduced in a phased grass layer. where they can persist over the long term. They also manner, where rehabilitation is immediately undertaken as soon contain abiotic features and processes indispensible for as a section of road construction is finished. No animals shall be biodiversity conservation, such as providing a system of Low Negative harmed. natural pathways (corridors) facilitating the movement of fauna and flora.

In terms of the biodiversity pattern aspect, the footprint of the proposed powerline is too small to have a significant impact as the ecology is only slightly altered if effective mitigation measures as described in the accompanying EMPr are implemented.

In terms of the biodiversity process aspect, the movement of biota across the corridor is no more

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Activity Impact summary Significance Proposed mitigation After Mitigation influenced by the construction activity than it is by the presence of the existing powerline, which is to say the impact is present, but is of low negative status. Direct: Loss of species -Vegetation

Loss of important Taxa and Ineffective vegetation The Tyalara-Qunu powerline follows an existing route and rehabilitation measures could result in encroachment of servitude, apart from the deviation (Alternative 2), near the Qunu Low alien vegetation. substation. While the line traverses CBA areas, these areas have Negative been transformed by cultivation and low-density rural residential areas. Furthermore, since there is an existing servitude, minimum vegetation clearing will be required, and this must be undertaken in accordance with Section 4.4.2 of the EMPr. Direct: In creased Storm Water run -off and Soil Erosion • Stripping of topsoil Soil erosion may occur where the soils’ moisture A full depth topsoil should be stripped from areas affected by • Excavation absorption capacity and rate are decreased. This construction and related activities prior to the commencement of • Incorrectly causes increased runoff which subsequently promotes major earthworks. This should include all working areas and managed topsoil erosion. During the construction phase, soil erosion may storage areas. Soils that are compacted during the construction and construction arise from activities which expose and/or compact the of the powerline should be efficiently ripped to loosen and even stockpiles soil layer. Such activities (decreased ability for soil to the compacted layers. This will provide for a balanced absorption • Soil compaction absorb water), and may cause unnecessary soil erosion. Low Negative rate. during bulk earth works (soil Incorrect topsoil stripping and stockpile management The site must be managed in a manner that prevents pollution of moisture can result in soil losses via erosion (wind and water). downstream watercourses or groundwater, due to suspended content). Since the construction phase is a short term, temporary solids, silt or chemical pollutants. Unmitigated this potential phase, erosion must be monitored during earth work impact is of medium significance, but can be reduced to low if activities as guided by the specification of the EMPr. It is effective mitigation measures as described in the accompanying thus possible to prevent erosion to acceptable levels. EMPr are implemented. This potential impact is of low negative significance in

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Activity Impact summary Significance Proposed mitigation After Mitigation the flat sections. Where they are inclines the potential for storm water erosion damage and the works under construction definitely exists when there is heavy rain occurring.

Direct: Damage to Cultural / Paleontological Resources Cultural, heritage and paleontological artefacts may Continued care should be taken to observe any site of heritage potentially be uncovered during excavation and/or significance during construction. Should any archaeological possibly damaged by construction activity. Low Negative artefacts and paleontological remains be exposed during construction, work on the area where artefacts were found will cease immediately and appropriate department and/ or person will be notified as soon as possible. Direct: Impact on Watercourses The extent of the construction site near the stream crossings • Construction Pollution from construction waste and hazardous waste must be avoided and must be clearly demarcated as a no-go area activities within may enter the non perennial tributaries. Uncontrolled where required. Construction activities must be restricted to near the non excavation or stock piling may result in river defined area. The powerline upgrade must: perennial sedimentation. tributaries • ensure that aquatic or riverine vegetation are not removed or disturbed Low Negative • No plant material, fish or fauna may be removed from the site under any circumstances.

The site must be managed in a manner that prevents pollution of downstream watercourses or groundwater, due to suspended solids, silt or chemical pollutants. Temporary cut-off drains and berms may be required to capture stormwater and promote infiltration and protect from erosion

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Activity Impact summary Significance Proposed mitigation After Mitigation Direct: Increased Noise Generation:

• Use of Excessive noise pollution from the construction sites Dust and noise during construction must be monitored and construction may impact the surrounding environment. Construction controlled so as to minimise disturbance to wildlife and users of machinery and machinery (e.g. jackhammer) and construction vehicles the reserve. vehicles. (e.g. trucks loaded with stone) will create noise. Such • Vehicular noise will be generated in a discontinuous fashion Factors such as wind can often affect the intensity to which these movement on during daytime only while the road is being built. Noise impacts are experienced. levels will be restricted to dust roads Low Negative • Exposure of soil Drilling and other noise and dust creating construction activities • Excavation should be restricted to normal working hours between 07h00 and activities. 17h00. All material stockpiles are to be covered with a temporary cover, such as heavy duty shade cloth or tarpaulin, in order to control dust and migration of the material beyond the storage area. Where necessary and feasible water may be sprayed as a dust suppressant. Progressive replacement of vegetation cover as construction is completed along the route must be undertaken. Direct: Incre ased Dust Generation All vehicles and equipment are to be maintained in an acceptable Movement of machinery and haul vehicles to the site is condition. Vehicles are to maintain vehicle speed limits to avoid likely to lead to increased dust. Besides its nuisance dust generation. Dust suppression measures need to be Low Negative factor to humans, increased dust deposition on roadside implemented on site when necessary to reduce the dust impacts. vegetation may negatively affect plant growth and wildlife grazing on this vegetation.

Direct: Waste Management Impact – loss of natural • Disposal of habitat and impact on the visual landscape Low Negative A well-organized site must be kept to ensure minimal negative construction visual impact. Construction rubble and waste must not be allowed

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Activity Impact summary Significance Proposed mitigation After Mitigation waste The incorrect disposal of construction waste could lead to be dumped permanently at the site, but must be removed by to a negative visual impact and loss of natural habitat. the contractor. The contractor must provide adequate waste With appropriate mitigation this impact will be reduced disposal and sanitation facilities. Portable toilets must be to an insignificant level. There is not a lot of rubble provided and adequate facilities for the cooking needs of the generated with the construction of a powerline. The bulk construction workers should be provided. During construction, will be general waste and concrete and this will be wastes must be separated at source and disposed at relevant spoiled in borrow pits and in Land fills. suitably licensed facilities. Waste should be separated into recyclable and non-recyclable materials and distributed for recycling where applicable. During the construction phase, construction waste will be used as fill material and as foundation for the proposed upgrade processes where possible. The re-use of construction waste materials will minimize the amount of waste that will need to be disposed of at registered municipal waste facilities. Only inert, non-hazardous construction material will be re-used. Direct: Increased risk of fires All hazardous chemicals used on site, must be stored in • Storage of Fires may occur as a result of incorrectly stored appropriate containers and within a bund or bunded area to Hazardous chemicals such as fuel, oil and chemical spills; or from prevent spills (bunding must provide for 110% capacity of chemicals cooking and heating activities by workers. chemicals contained).

Low Negative Hazardous waste that may arise from construction activity must be correctly containerised, stored undercover and timeously removed by appropriate contractors.

Spill Kits and Fire control equipment must be kept on site and selected staff must be provided with fire fighting training Direct: Contamination of ground and surface water Low Negative

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Activity Impact summary Significance Proposed mitigation After Mitigation Leaks may arise where hazardous chemicals are The storage of chemicals must comply with the relevant incorrectly stored or where spills occur during the provisions of the hazardous materials legislation. As a minimum handling of hazardous chemicals, which may pollute soil legible signage must be in place and staff must be provided with and ground water and potentially end up in streams. appropriate training by the contractor.

Direct: Job Creation

• Acquisition The project will include temporary job creation for the No mitigation is required. of contract local communities. In terms of sustainability, selected Low Positive workers workers will be provided prior to construction, which will allow for skill development in the community.

Indirect: Storm Water Management

Activities that Storm water contamination has been listed as a direct No mitigation is required. may result in soil environmental impact that may arise from chemical or erosion (see soil solid waste that spills or enters streams or ground Low Negative erosion above) water.

Storm water contamination can also be an indirect impact of erosion. Since erosion may result in sedimentation of downstream watercourses. Indirect : Loss of Habitat

The indirect impact of erosion and sedimentation, as Erosion should be managed in order to prevent the indirect • Activities that described above, may result in sediment deposition Low Negative impacts of sedimentation. may result in within the aquatic habitat downstream of the road. soil erosion (see soil Where soil erosion accelerates due to alteration in water

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Activity Impact summary Significance Proposed mitigation After Mitigation erosion volume and levels, there is a reduction in bank stability, above) and therefore, an increase in sediment loading. These fine sediments can increase the turbidity of the water, clouding it and preventing sufficient light penetration, which adversely affects the health of the flora and fauna. This may result in a decrease in the ecological state of the aquatic habitat. Loss of wildlife habitat, loss of species and biodiversity, and introduction of alien species are among the consequences of such changes. However, construction impacts are temporary in nature, whereas sedimentation due to ongoing erosion and deterioration of the existing servitude is ongoing and long term. Cumulative: No cumulative impacts have been N/A identified during the construction phase. OPERATIONAL PHASE Layout Alternative 1 (preferred alternative) and Alternative 2 • Operation of Direct: Loss of fauna powerline • Pylons will be fitted with perching brackets (please refer to Low • Powerline Bird collision with the proposed overhead power line Appendix C, Figure 2) Negative maintenance (electrocution). • River crossing will be marked with suitable anti-collision marking devices to mitigate the impact of bird collision. Direct: Improved Electricity supply

Medium Supply of an uninterrupted electricity supply. The impact No mitigation is required Positive of power provision on the socio-economic structure of the region. Improved reliability of power supply. • Use of access Direct : Damage to Access Roads Low

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Activity Impact summary Significance Proposed mitigation After Mitigation roads during Negative surveying Minor damage to roads in the study area could Maintenance is undertaken as required, and due to frequency, potentially result during maintenance of powerlines. this does not pose a significant impact.

Indirect: No indirect impacts have been identified during No mitigation is required N/A the Operational Phase. Cumulative: No cumulative impacts have been No mitigation is required identified during the Operational Phase. N/A

Layout Alternative 2 Direct : All direct impacts identified for Alternative 1 are Refer above synonymous to Alternative 2, apart from the below impact.

Powerline Direct: Access to pylons during maintenance Medium No mitigation is available. Maintenance Negative Should maintenance of pylons on Nelson Mandela’s property be required, access may be restricted and may further pose a disturbance security issue. Technology Alternative 1 (preferred) • Selection of Direct: Loss of Fauna monopole structures The erection of monopole structures may result in Low Negative Pylons will be fitted with perching brackets and sensitive areas electrocution of bird species. such as river crossing, will be marked with suitable anti-collision marking devices. Direct: Visual impacts

Low Negative Visual impacts may result as the structures deface the Monopoles offer aesthetic benefits as they require a smaller natural area. servitude for adequate placement.

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Activity Impact summary Significance Proposed mitigation After Mitigation Indirect: No indirect Impacts have been identified for No mitigation is required technological alternatives during the planning and N/A design phase Cumulative: No cumulative impacts have been No mitigation is required identified for technological alternatives during the N/A planning and design phase Technology Alternative 2 • Selection of Direct: Loss of Fauna Lattice Structures The erection of Lattice structures may result in Medium Lattice structures are fitted with perching brackets, however the electrocution of bird species. Negative multitude of elbows and joints of lattice structures with wide, clear-cut rights-of-way, create measurable negative impacts on wildlife. Direct: Visual impacts

Medium Visual impacts of Lattice structures may result as the No mitigation is possible - Lattice structures require guy wire Negative structures deface the natural area. anchors for support. They are also tall and obtrusive.

Indirect: No indirect impacts have been identified for No mitigation is required technological alternatives during the planning and N/A design phase. Cumulative: No cumulative impacts have been No mitigation is required identified for technological alternatives during the N/A planning and design phase. DECOMMISIONING PHASE Direct: N/A The Tyalara-Qunu 132 kV powerline entails the

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Activity Impact summary Significance Proposed mitigation After Mitigation establishment of an infrastructure which forms part of the OR Tambo District Municipality public services it is unlikely that it will be decommissioned within any meaningful timeframe.

For this reason decommissioning of the project is not specifically addressed, however, provisions for decommissioning are included in Appendix G: EMPr. Indirect: No indirect impacts have been identified for the N/A decommissioning phase. Cumulative: No cumulative impacts have been N/A identified for the cumulative phase. NO-GO OPTION • No planning, Direct : Electricity backlog design, High construction and By not planning the upgrade of the Tyalara-Qunu No mitigation required Negative operation of the powerline, electricity backlogs will remain and

powerline development will be constrained as the existing networks are at capacity Direct : Landscape remains untouched Implement the construction of the distribution line as proposed Low positive

Direct : No additional jobs created Low Negative Implement the construction of the distribution line as proposed

Indirect: Indirect impact: Current supply likely to inhibit High Implement the construction of the distribution line as proposed economic development Negative

Indirect: Access to non-serviced households will not be High Implement the construction of the distribution line as proposed achieved Negative

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Activity Impact summary Significance Proposed mitigation After Mitigation Cumulative : No indirect impacts have been identified during the planning and design phase N/A

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2. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT

Taking the assessment of potential impacts into account, please provide an environmental impact statement that summarises the impact that the proposed activity and its alternatives may have on the environment after the management and mitigation of impacts have been taken into account, with specific reference to types of impact, duration of impacts, likelihood of potential impacts actually occurring and the significance of impacts.

Impacts were assessed in terms of the criteria presented in the table below.

Criteria used to Description determine the significance ratings Spatial extent The extent of impact describes the region in which the impact will be experienced:

Site (S) Immediate area of impact Local (L) Area within 20km of the development Regional (R) Entire Municipality

Duration The duration is the time frame in which the impact will be experienced:

Short Term (ST) Less than the duration of the activity Medium Term (MT) Impact persists until activity ceases Long Term (LT) Impact persists well beyond the cessation of the activity Permanent (P) Impact is permanent Probability (likelihood) The probability of the impact occurring:

Low (L) Unlikely Medium (M) Possible High (H) Likely

Intensity or Magnitude of impact The intensity describes the magnitude or size of the impact:

Low (L) Ecological functions may continue undisturbed. No rare or endangered species affected. No objection from I&APs. Medium (M) Ecological functioning temporary affected. No rare or endangered species affected. Some concern from I&APs. High (H) Ecological functioning permanently altered. Rare or endangered species impacted. Major concern from I&APs.

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ALTERNATIVE SITE 1 ACTIVITY (Post Mitigation impact rating)

IMPACT SCALE SPATIAL DURATION PROBABILITY INTENSITY SIGNIFICANCE MITIGATED POST TYPE IMPACT Positive (+) or Negative (-)

PLANNING AND DESIGN PHASE (Alternative Design 1) DIRECT IMPACTS • Route delineation Impact on the Surrounding • Positioning of pylons S ST M M L Ecological Support Area (-) • Design of pylon structures • Route delineation Loss of Fauna (-) • Positioning of pylons S MT M M M • Design of pylon structures • Route delineation Disturbance (nuisance) to • Positioning of pylons S ST L L L surrounding landowners (-) • Design of pylon structures • Route delineation Improved electricity supply (+) • Positioning of pylons R MT H M M • Design of pylon structures Damage to access roads (-) • Use of access routes during surveying S MT M L L INDIRECT IMPACTS No indirect impacts were identified for alternative design 1 during the planning and design phase. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS No cumulative impacts were identified for alternative design 1 during the planning and design phase.

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ALTERNATIVE SITE 1 ACTIVITY (Post Mitigation impact rating) DURATION DURATION PROBABILITY INTENSITY SIGNIFICANCE MITIGATED POST IMPACT SCALE SPATIAL TYPE IMPACT Positive (+) or Negative (-)

PLANNING AND DESIGN PHASE (Alternative Design 2) DIRECT IMPACTS • Route delineation Impact on the Surrounding • Positioning of pylons S ST M M L Ecological Support Area (-) • Design of pylon structures • Route delineation Loss of Fauna (-) • Positioning of pylons S MT M M M • Design of pylon structures • Route delineation Disturbance (nuisance) to • Positioning of pylons S ST L L L surrounding landowners (-) • Design of pylon structures • Route delineation Improved electricity supply (+) • Positioning of pylons R MT H M M • Design of pylon structures Damage to access roads (-) • Use of access routes during surveying S MT M L L Disturbance to surrounding • Route delineation (-) S MT H M M land owners • Positioning of pylons INDIRECT IMPACTS No indirect impacts were identified for alternative design 1 during the planning and design phase. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS No cumulative impacts were identified for alternative design 1 during the planning and design phase.

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ALTERNATIVE SITE 1 ACTIVITY (Post Mitigation impact rating) DURATION DURATION PROBABILITY INTENSITY SIGNIFICANCE MITIGATED POST IMPACT SCALE SPATIAL TYPE IMPACT Positive (+) or Negative (-)

PLANNING AND DESIGN PHASE (Technology Alternative 1) DIRECT IMPACTS Loss of fauna (-) • Selection of monopole structures S MT M L L Loss of flora (-) • Selection of monopole structures S ST M L L Visual impacts (-) • Selection of monopole structures S MT H L L INDIRECT IMPACTS No indirect impacts were identified for technology alternative 1 during the planning and design phase. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS No cumulative impacts were identified for technology alternative 1 during the planning and design phase. PLANNING AND DESIGN PHASE (Technology Alternative 2) DIRECT IMPACTS Loss of fauna (-) • Selection of lattice structures S MT M L L Loss of flora (-) • Selection of lattice structures S ST M M M Visual impacts (-) • Selection of lattice structures S MT H M M INDIRECT IMPACTS No indirect impacts were identified for technology alternative 2 during the planning and design phase. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS

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ALTERNATIVE SITE 1 ACTIVITY (Post Mitigation impact rating) DURATION DURATION PROBABILITY INTENSITY SIGNIFICANCE MITIGATED POST IMPACT SCALE SPATIAL TYPE IMPACT Positive (+) or Negative (-)

No cumulative impacts were identified for technology alternative 2 during the planning and design phase. CONSTRUCTION PHASE (Alternative Design 1 and 2) DIRECT IMPACTS • Construction activities within a terrestrial and Aquatic CBA Area. Impact on the Surrounding • Vegetation clearing L ST M M L Ecological Support Area (-) • Removal of indigenous species • Stripping of topsoil • Excavation (for the stormwater drainage channels, service trenches and access Increased Storm Water run- road ) L ST M M L off and Soil Erosion (-) • Incorrectly managed topsoil and construction stockpiles • Soil compaction during bulk earth works (soil moisture content). • Construction activities that may result in pollution of the stream (construction Impacts on Watercourses (-) and hazardous waste or material) L MT L M L • Earth works and stock piling that may lead to sedimentation Increased Noise Generation (-) • Use of construction machinery Vehicles. S ST M L L • Vehicular movement on dust roads Increased Dust Generation (-) • Exposure of soil S ST M L L • Excavation activities. Damage to Cultural / • Excavation S ST L L L Paleontological Resources (-) • Removal of grass layer Loss of species -Vegetation (-) S ST L L L • Rehabilitation of cleared areas

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ALTERNATIVE SITE 1 ACTIVITY (Post Mitigation impact rating) DURATION DURATION PROBABILITY INTENSITY SIGNIFICANCE MITIGATED POST IMPACT SCALE SPATIAL TYPE IMPACT Positive (+) or Negative (-)

Waste Management Impact – loss of natural habitat and • Incorrect disposal of construction waste L ST M L L impact on the visual (-) landscape Increased risk of fires (-) • Storage of hazardous chemicals S ST L L L Interruption of Existing • Excavation activities L MT L M L Services (-) Job Creation (+) • Acquisition of contract workers L ST H M L • Road rehabilitation Traffic Impact: (-) S ST M L L • Erection of stop/ go control Increased risk of fires (-) • Storage of hazardous chemicals S ST M L L Contamination of ground • Storage of hazardous chemicals S ST M L L and surface water (-) INDIRECT IMPACTS Storm water Management (-) • Activities that may result in soil erosion (see soil erosion above) L MT L M L

Loss of Habitat (-) • Activities that may result in soil erosion (see soil erosion above) L LT L M L

CUMULATIVE IMPACTS

No cumulative impacts were identified. - - - - -

OPERATIONAL PHASE (Layout Alternative 1 (preferred alternative) ) DIRECT IMPACTS

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ALTERNATIVE SITE 1 ACTIVITY (Post Mitigation impact rating) DURATION DURATION PROBABILITY INTENSITY SIGNIFICANCE MITIGATED POST IMPACT SCALE SPATIAL TYPE IMPACT Positive (+) or Negative (-)

• Operation of powerline Loss of fauna (-) S MT M L L • Powerline maintenance • Operation of powerline Improved electricity supply (+) R MT H M M • Powerline maintenance Damage to access roads (-) • Use of access roads during surveying S MT M L L INDIRECT IMPACTS

No indirect impacts were identified for layout alternatives 1 during the construction phase. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS

No cumulative impacts were identified for layout alternatives 1 during the construction phase. OPERATIONAL PHASE (Layout Alternative 2) DIRECT IMPACTS • Operation of powerline Loss of fauna (-) S MT M L L • Powerline maintenance • Operation of powerline Improved electricity supply (+) R MT H M M • Powerline maintenance Damage to access roads (-) • Use of access roads during surveying S MT M L L Access to pylons during • Powerline maintenance S MT M M M maintenance (-)

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ALTERNATIVE SITE 1 ACTIVITY (Post Mitigation impact rating) DURATION DURATION PROBABILITY INTENSITY SIGNIFICANCE MITIGATED POST IMPACT SCALE SPATIAL TYPE IMPACT Positive (+) or Negative (-)

INDIRECT IMPACTS

No indirect impacts were identified for layout alternatives 2 during the construction phase. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS

No cumulative impacts were identified for layout alternatives 2 during the construction phase. OPERATIONAL PHASE (Technology Alternative 1 (preferred)) DIRECT IMPACTS

Loss of fauna (-) • Selection of monopole structures S MT M L L

Visual impacts (-) • Selection of monopole structures S MT H L L INDIRECT IMPACTS

No indirect impacts were identified for technology alternative 1 during the operational phase. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS

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ALTERNATIVE SITE 1 ACTIVITY (Post Mitigation impact rating) DURATION DURATION PROBABILITY INTENSITY SIGNIFICANCE MITIGATED POST IMPACT SCALE SPATIAL TYPE IMPACT Positive (+) or Negative (-)

No cumulative impacts were identified for technology alternative 1 during the operational phase. OPERATIONAL PHASE (Technology Alternative 2) DIRECT IMPACTS

Loss of fauna (-) • Selection of lattice structures S MT M M M

Visual impacts (-) • Selection of lattice structures S MT H M M INDIRECT IMPACTS

No indirect impacts were identified for technology alternative 2 during the operational phase. CUMULATIVE IMPACTS

No cumulative impacts were identified for technology alternative 2 during the operational phase. DECOMISSIONING PHASE (Alternative Design 1 and 2) This is not applicable the powerline will not be decommissioned within any

reasonable lifespan. PLANNING AND DESIGN PHASE (No-Go Alternative)

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ALTERNATIVE SITE 1 ACTIVITY (Post Mitigation impact rating) DURATION DURATION PROBABILITY INTENSITY SIGNIFICANCE MITIGATED POST IMPACT SCALE SPATIAL TYPE IMPACT Positive (+) or Negative (-)

- If this powerline upgrade is not undertaken there will be no planning phase to assess. - - - - -

CONSTRUCTION PHASE (No-Go Alternative) If this powerline upgrade is not undertaken there will be no construction phase to ------assess. OPERATIONAL PHASE (No-Go Alternative) Ecological impact The overall impact of the N2 cutting through the CBA is negative and of low-medium No Activity (-) significance for the functioning of the surrounding Critical Biodiversity Area, even L P M L L when the situation stays as it is, i.e. the road is not upgraded.

DECOMMISIONING PHASE (No-Go Alternative) If this road upgrade is not undertaken ------there will be nothing to decommission

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Layout Alternative 1 (preferred alternative) This option is preferred route alignment because it presents low environmental impacts with mitigation.

In terms of the biodiversity pattern aspect, the footprint of the proposed powerline is too small to have a significant impact as the ecology is only slightly altered if effective mitigation measures, as described in the accompanying EMPr, are implemented. This is also on account of the existing servitude which the powerline will follow. In terms of the movement of biota across the corridor - this is no more influenced by the construction activity than it is by the presence of the existing powerline, which is to say the impact is already present, but is of low negative status.

Furthermore the CBA areas traversed by the powerline have been transformed. The alignment passes through communal subsistence lands covered by grass land and some Bhisho Thornveld on the steeper sections. Vegetation has been cleared for arable lands along the route and remaining grasslands are overgrazed. Rivers and streams are also highly degraded. The proposed route is therefore not a true representative of the natural vegetation types. Distance of construction activities from the watercourses also contribute to a low-very low impact, provided specifications of the EMPr are adhered to.

Where there are inclines in topography, the potential for storm water erosion damage and the works under construction definitely exists when there is heavy rain occurring. However anti-erosion measures that are stipulated in the EMPr, will successfully lower potential negative environmental impacts. Erosion can therefore be effectively managed and is of low negative status.

Pollution from construction (rubble and general) waste and hazardous waste may enter the non perennial tributaries. Uncontrolled excavation or stock piling may further result in river sedimentation. However the distance of construction activities from water courses lowers the potential for this impact, and work near the courses are strictly prohibited as per the specification of the EMPr.

Eight (8) features of cultural significance require permanent sign-posting and must be barricaded prior to the commencement of construction. These areas must be clearly demarcated as no-go areas. The impact upon these features is therefore of low significance as they will not be disturbed. Should any other heritage features be uncovered during the construction phase, work will be stopped immediately and an archaeological specialist will be contacted to investigate and provide specifications of the way forward.

During construction surrounding land owners will potentially be affected by noise, dust and other construction related nuisances. These negative impacts will be mostly site specific and temporary, and will be of a low magnitude. With mitigation in place the environmental significance is very low.

Negotiations have been however been undertaken by Eskom to ensure that surrounding land owners are content with the proposed powerline upgrade. The negative impacts identified have therefore already been mitigated and are accordingly of very low significance.

During the operational phase, electrocution of avifaunal species will be prevented due to the installation of perching brackets on every monopole as well as the use of suitable anti-collision/ electrocution marking devices to mitigate the impact of bird collision.

Positive impacts will be associated with network strengthening in the King Sabata Dalindyebo Local

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Municipality and identified as a priority projects in the Municipality’s five year Integrated Development Plan (2012-2017). Layout Alternative 2( Minor alternative) The impacts for Layout Alternative 2 are identical to those of Alternative 1, apa rt from the issue of Landowners. Alternative 2 follows an existing line which passes through an occupied portion of Nelson Mandela’s Qunu Residence. Construction phases and Operational phases of this project will thus create a disturbance and nuisance to residents on the property and may additionally create a security issue and access to the property may be restricted.

Negotiations have been undertaken by Eskom, and a consensus was reached to relocate the portion of the line to the boundaries, so as to alleviate potential impact on the monumental property Technology Alternative 1 – Steel Monopole Structures ( Preferred ) Monopoles offer aesthetic benefits and definitely require a smaller servitude for adequate placement. The monopole designs include rounded edges, which eliminates raptor perches and protects them from accidental electrocution. The negative impacts identifi ed during the operational phase are therefore of low significance, especially due to the previous powerline. Technology Alternative 2 – Lattice Structures Lattice structures are fitted with perching brackets, however the multitude of elbows and joints of lattice structures with wide, clear-cut rights-of-way, create measurable negative impacts on wildlife. No mitigation is available for the visual impacts. Lattice structures require guy wire anchors for support. They are also tall and obtrusive. No -go a lternative (compulsory) The No -Go alternative is not regarded as a practical or feasible project alternative as the power line upgrade forms part of the Eskom Transmission Ten-Year Development Plan (2011-2020) and electrification has furthermore been identified as a priority project in the OR Tambo District Municipality.

By not increasing the supply to the greater area, development will be constrained as the existing networks are at capacity. New electricity connections will not be viable and households will continue using alternative sources of energy for cooking, heating and such as paraffin, gas, candles and fire- wood. Such forms of energy deplete fertile sources of fossil fuels. In addition, many are considered unsafe (e.g. paraffin and wood fires) and create safety risks to communities.

Economic benefits related to the development, include job opportunities during construction and operation, contribution to infrastructure and development of the area. The no-go alternative will therefore have a direct impact on the provision of electricity and development in the area.

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SECTION E: RECOMMENDATION OF PRACTITIONER

Is the information contained in this report and the documentation attached hereto YES sufficient to make a decision in respect of the activity applied for (in the view of the NO


environmental assessment practitioner)?

If “NO”, indicate the aspects that should be assessed further as part of a Scoping and EIA process before a decision can be made (list the aspects that require further assessment). N/A

If “YES”, please list any recommended conditions, including mitigation measures that should be considered for inclusion in any authorisation that may be granted by the competent authority in respect of the application. Based on the overall low environmental impact it is recommended that this activity receives authorization in terms of layout and technology alternatives 1. Best management and construction practices must be implemented, by the contractor, from the onset of road construction to ensure that disturbances to the neighboring community and to the surrounding Critical Biodiversity Area are kept to a minimum. The environmental management plan and other conditions of environmental authorisation must be adhered to. The following recommendation are additionally made:

• All mitigation measures proposed in the report form part of the EMPr and adherence to the specifications of the EMPr should form part of the conditions of the environmental authorisation, should this be granted • An Independent Environmental Control Officer (ECO) must be appointed for the construction of the proposed development to monitor compliance to EMPr • The EMPr must be adhered to by the contractor under, the supervision of the engineer and an ECO. • the ECO audits must include: o A monthly compliance audit - with the first audit being conducted no later than one month after construction commences on site; and o A post construction (rehabilitation) compliance audit is to be conducted no later than two weeks before the contractor hands over the completed project. • Bird Perches must be fitted on every pole • Areas of grassland, arable lands and areas adjacent to stock dams require line marking devices on the earth wire in order to avoid bird collision. • A final avifaunal walk through must be undertaken by the appropriate specialist prior to commencement of construction • Stream crossings are to be completely avoided by the powerline and labour teams. • Soils compacted by construction activities are to be ripped. • Topsoil is to be stripped from all areas affected by construction and related activities prior to the commencement of major earthworks and conserved for rehabilitation. • Should any archaeological or palaeontological remains be exposed during operations, work on the area where the artefacts were found must cease immediately and the appropriate specialist will be notified as soon as possible.

In the opinion of the Environmental Practitioner, the proposed activity is not fatally flawed and all potential impacts can be mitigated to an acceptable level. As such, it is recommended that the proposed construction of the power line continue if all recommendations and mitigation measures are followed.

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Is an EMPr attached? YES NO
The EMPr must be attached as Appendix G.

The details of the EAP who compiled the BAR and the expertise of the EAP to perform the Basic Assessment process must be included as Appendix H.

If any specialist reports were used during the compilation of this BAR, please attach the declaration of interest for each specialist in Appendix I.

Any other information relevant to this application and not previously included must be attached in Appendix J.

Richard Judge ______NAME OF EAP

______SIGNATURE OF EAP DATE

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SECTION F: APPENDIXES

The following appendixes must be attached:

Appendix A1: 21-Digit Site Reference Appendix A2: 250m Coordinates Appendix A3: Locality Map Appendix A4: Vegetation Map Appendix A5: Terrestrial Critical Biodiversity Areas Appendix A6: Aquatic Critical Biodiversity Areas Appendix A7: Route Deviation around Nelson Mandela’s Property Appendix B: Photographs Appendix C1: Facility Illustration - Route Delineation Appendix C2: Facility Illustration - Structure Design Appendix D1: Specialist reports: Avifaunal Impact Assessment Appendix D2: Specialist reports: Archaeological Impact Assessment Appendix D3: Specialist reports: Paleontological Impact Assessment Appendix E: Public Participation Process Report Appendix F: Detailed Impact Assessment Appendix G: Environmental Management Programme Appendix H1: Details of the Environmental Assessment Practitioner Appendix H2: Curriculum Vitae of the Environmental Assessment Practitioner Appendix H3: Environmental Assessment Practitioner Declaration of Independence Appendix I1: Specialists Declaration of Interest - Avifaunal Appendix I2: Specialists Declaration of Interest - Archaeology Appendix I3: Specialists Declaration of Interest - Palaeontology Appendix J: Other Information (NONE)

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References

Eskom 2000 Standards for Bush Clearance and Maintenance Within Overhead Powerline Servitudes.

Eastern Cape Socio Economic Consultative Council. Statistics At Your Fingertips Database.

King Sabata Dalindyebo Local Municipality, 2012, King Sabata Dalindyebo Municipality Integrated Development Plan 2012 -201

7Mucina, l., & Rutherford, M. (2006). The vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland. Pretoria: South African Biodiversity Institute.

Presidential Infrastructure Coordinating Commission 2012, Provincial and Local Government Conference A Summary of the Infrastructure Plan

O.R. Tambo District Municipality, 2010, O.R. Tambo District Municipality Spatial Development Framework Review 2009/10

Province of the Eastern Cape, 2010, Eastern Cape Provincial Spatial Development Plan

Statistics South Africa (STATS SA), 2009 Community Survey 2007: Basic Results – Eastern Cape

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APPENDIX A: SITE PLAN(S)

Appendix A1: 21-Digit Site Reference Appendix A2: 250m Coordinates Appendix A3: Locality Map Appendix A4: Vegetation Map Appendix A5: Terrestrial Critical Biodiversity Areas Appendix A6: Aquatic Critical Biodiversity Areas Appendix A7: Route Deviation around Nelson Mandela’s Property

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APPENDIX B: PHOTOGRAPHS

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APPENDIX C: FACILITY ILLUSTRATION(S)

Appendix C1: Facility Illustration - Route Delineation Appendix C2: Facility Illustration - Structure Design

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APPENDIX D: SPECIALIST REPORTS

Appendix D1: Specialist reports: Avifaunal Impact Assessment Appendix D2: Specialist reports: Archaeological Impact Assessment Appendix D3: Specialist reports: Paleontological Impact Assessment

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APPENDIX E: PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

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APPENDIX F: IMPACT ASSESSMENT

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APPENDIX G: ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME (EMPr)

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APPENDIX H: DETAILS OF EAP

Appendix H1: Details of the Environmental Assessment Practitioner Appendix H2: Curriculum Vitae of the Environmental Assessment Practitioner Appendix H3: Environmental Assessment Practitioner Declaration of Independence

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APPENDIX I: DETAILS OF SPECIALISTS AND DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE

Appendix I1: Specialists Declaration of Interest - Avifaunal Appendix I2: Specialists Declaration of Interest - Archaeology Appendix I3: Specialists Declaration of Interest - Palaeontology

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APPENDIX J: OTHER INFORMATION

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DOCUMENT CONTROL SHEET (FORM IP180/B)

CLIENT : ESKOM (Pty)Ltd PROJECT NAME : ESKOM Tyalara - Qunu 132 kV PROJECT No. : J31096 powerline and associated infrastructure TITLE OF DOCUMENT : Draft Basic Assessment Report for the construction of the proposed Tyalara – Qunu 132 kV powerline and associated infrastructure ELECTRONIC LOCATION : P:\J31096_Eskom Neptune 132kv BAR \Tasks\Reports\Tyalara - Qunu\Draft BAR \Tyalara-Qunu Draft BAR.docx Approved By Reviewed By Prepared By ORIGINAL NAME NAME NAME Mervin Olivier Elizabeth Nortje Mary -Anne Crocker DATE SIGNATURE SIGNATURE September SIGNATURE 2013

Approved By Reviewed By Prepared By REVISION NAME NAME NAME

SIGNATURE SIGNATURE SIGNATURE

Approved By Reviewed By Prepared By REVISION NAME NAME NAME

DATE SIGNATURE SIGNATURE SIGNATURE

This report, and information or advice, which it contains, is provided by GIBB solely for internal use and reliance by its Cl ient in performance of GIBB duties and liabilities under its contract with the Client. Any advice, opinions, or recommendations wi thin this report should be read and relied upon only in the context of the report as a whole. The advice and opinions in this rep ort are based upon the information made available to GIBB at the date of this report and on current SA standards, codes, techn ology and construction practices as at the date of this report. Following final delivery of this report to the Client, GIBB will have no further obligations or duty to advise the Client on any matters, including development affecting the information or ad vice provided in this report. This report has been prepared by GIBB in their professional capacity as Consulting Engineers. The contents of the report do not, in any way, purport to include any manner of legal advice or opinion. This report is prep ared in accordance with the terms and conditions of the GIBB contract with the Client. Regard should be had to those terms and conditions when considering and/or placing any reliance on this report. Should the Client wish to release this report to a T hird Par ty for that party's reliance, GIBB may, at its discretion, agree to such release provided that: (a) GIBB written agreement is obtained prior to such release, and (b) By release of the report to the Third Party, that Third Party does not acquire any rights, contractual or otherwise, whatsoever against GIBB and GIBB, accordingly, assume no duties, liabilities or obligations to that Third Party, and (c) GIBB accepts no responsibility for any loss or damage incurred by the Client or for any conflict of GIBB int erests arising out of the Client's release of this report to the Third Party.

GIBB (Pty) Ltd Website : www.gibb.co.za Postal Address : P.O. Box 19844, Tecoma Physical Address : 9 Pearce St, Berea, East 5214 London Contact Person : Richard Judge Email Address : [email protected] Telephone No. : 043 706 3638 Fax No. : 043 706 3647

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