44138-022: Greater Mekong Subregion East-West Economic

Initial Environmental Examination

October 2020

Lao People’s Democratic Republic: Greater Mekong Subregion East-West Economic Corridor Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project

Prepared by the Department of Irrigation, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and the Asian Development Bank.

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

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

INITIAL ENVIRONMENTAL EXAMINATION Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) East-West Economic Corridor (EWEC) Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project (AISP)

Salavan Province, Khong Xedon District Chan-Lan-Xe Subproject

Executive Summary

a. Comparison of data between concept engineering design (CED) and detailed engineering design (DED).

b. Water balance to show sufficient water was available to irrigate the increased area.

c. Mapping of the changes in the distribution system layout and increased irrigation.

d. Summary of affected land area in Chan Lan Xe subproject.

e. Summary of affected farmers and paddy field areas.

3. The DED has been prepared in close consultation with the local authorities and beneficiaries. In this regard, the changes to the CED have been thoroughly discussed and the implications accepted and endorsed by the local stakeholders. 4. The irrigated area had slightly increased from 300ha in CED to 317.47ha in DED. The irrigation canal and structures including main, secondary and tertiary canals and controlling structures were changed to accommodate the increase irrigated areas. 5. The Greater Mekong Subregion East West Economic Corridor Agricultural Infrastructure Sector Project (GMS-EWEC-AISP, or AISP in this document) would comprise improvements to productive rural infrastructure (PRI) and provide technical and advisory support to beneficiary communities in formation and strengthening of water user groups, technical support and capacity building for extension services and support in post-harvest handling, produce storage and marketing. It would provide project management support and capacity building for provincial and district level offices which would take the lead role in project implementation, in accordance with the Government’s decentralization policy of 2000. It is a sector project, and specific subprojects for the improvement of productive rural infrastructure in the two project provinces would be prepared and implemented.

6. An Environment and Assessment Review Framework (EARF)1 was prepared for the project setting out the procedures for screening and assessment of environmental impacts, reporting and management for subprojects in line with the Government of Lao PDR Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Decree no. 21/gov 2019) and ADB Safeguard Policy Statement (2009) requirements. 7. Investment projects are categorized according to a schedule in the EIA decree. For small-scale irrigation, those with a command area of between 100 and 2,000 ha are category 1 requiring an Initial Environmental Examination (IEE). The Chan Lan Xe’s command area of 317.47 ha belongs to category 1 in accordance with EIA decree no. 21/gov 2019. 8. The Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) checklist from the EARF was used to screen the subproject based on literature review, site visits and discussion with local beneficiaries. This subproject is classified as Environment Category B. A Preliminary Climate Risk Screening using a checklist developed for the EARF scored the subprojects as medium risk.

Description of the Subproject

9. Chan Lan Xe Subproject. The Chan Lan Xe irrigation scheme and access road subproject is located in the Khongxedon District, at a distance of about 11.0 km east of the district center and 80.0 km from the Salavan Provincial Capital through Road 15. The irrigation scheme was originally constructed in 1996, through joint initiative between the Provincial Agriculture and Forestry Office (PAFO) and the local WUG. It was subsequently upgraded in 2008 through concrete lining of selected canal reaches. The components in the Chan Lan Xe irrigation scheme involves a pumped scheme system served by two (2) pump stations operating from moored pontoons located on the Xe Don River in the villages of Chan Lan Se and Tanpiew. The total existing dry season irrigable area (command area) is in the order of 150 ha and dry season irrigation rice is currently grown on about 65 ha. The proposed improvements will enable dry season cropping area to increase to 317.47 ha, thereby producing a wet and dry season crop, and serving 237 households from four villages: Tanpiew, Donphaiban, Chanlanxe and Tadsoum. 10. As described in the DED IEE Update (Annex 6.8):

• The Number of beneficiary households in the command area is 237 households , from 4 villages such as: Tanpiew, Donphaiban, Chanlanxe and Tadsoum. • The Affected Persons (APs) and type of asset and land are summarized as follows: - The irrigation canal would be through 143 parcels of paddy field with a total area of 213.42 ha. The expectation of paddy field affected by irrigation canal is 11.28 ha (see details in Annex 4 [of Annex 6.8])

1 https://www.adb.org/projects/documents/gms-ewec-agriculture-infrastructure-sector-project-earf

11. The number of paddy field owners affected by the canal construction as per detailed engineering design is 134 households from 4 villages such as: Chanlanxe (28 households), Tanpiew (79 households), Donephaiban (26 households) and Tadsoum (1 household). The actual affected households will be examined again when the affected household list is to be formulated. 12. The scheme is supplied with water from Xe Don River, served by two pump stations operating from moored pontoons located at the two villages of Chan Lan Xe and Tanpiew. Water discharges by gravity from a stilling basin through a rectangular lined main canal (MC) and cross a village access road to an ungated division box to farmer’s field blocks either directly from the main canals or via secondary and tertiary canals.

Present Condition and Characteristics of the Subproject

13. The irrigation scheme water source is the Xe Don River which is a perennial river with regular fluctuations in water level throughout the year. The water source is assured and the potential demand has been estimated at 3.4 million-m3 per year. 14. The existing scheme layout is a semi-farmer built irrigation system which has significantly been deteriorated with age. Few lined canals and control structures were built and those structures built are not gated, therefore, there is no water control. What control exists is through temporary earth and brush wood or plastic sheet checks. 15. The scheme is originally served by two pump stations operating from moored pontoons located on the Xe Don River. Existing pumping is via centrifugal units driven by electric motors powered off the national grid. 16. The existing headworks sites are on uniform, deep and stable stream lines; but they will not be suitable for the proposed consolidating system in terms of effective water distribution. The existing pontoons are considerably in fair condition and their sizes would not fit with the proposed three-pump installation. The pump sets have significantly deteriorated and more frequent repairs are needed.

Rehabilitation of the Existing Subproject

17. The irrigation scheme rehabilitation will increase the command area to 317.47ha through the construction of new canals with related water control structures. The rehabilitation plan aims to improve the efficiency of the water distribution network and extend the network to irrigate land to the north and south of the existing command areas and bring an additional 167.47ha into production. 18. The rehabilitation of the water distribution system will include one (1) new main canal, eight (8) secondary canals, six (6) tertiary canal and support for construction of quaternary (farm) canals. Appropriate water control structures (254) will be built to regulate discharge in the system. Irrigation service roads will be constructed along the main, secondary and tertiary canals to provide machinery access to cropped areas and O&M of the

irrigation infrastructure. Existing natural drainage system improvements and drainage continuity will be maintained through the cross drainage structures. 19. The improvements include consolidation of the two existing pump stations into one headworks. The proposed location of the headworks is in the middle of the command area between Chan Lan Xe and Tanpiew villages where the source river has a uniform and deep streamlines and a gentle and stable slope. 20. The natural drainage network was considered to be adequate for drainage of the cropped area. The drain improvement will be limited to the construction of cross drainage structures where the canals cross natural drains

Policy, Legal and Administrative Framework

21. The 8th National Social and Economic Development Plan (8th NSEDP) emphasizes raising agricultural productivity as a development priority since the majority of the Lao PDR workforce is currently engaged in agriculture. One of the biggest challenges that Lao PDR faces is the proper management and protection of the environment and natural resources (land, water resources, forests, minerals, biodiversity). Without adequate and sustainable planning and management of natural resources, the development actions proposed in the 8th NSEDP will cause serious ecological and socio-economic problems, lead to irreversible damage to the environment, and exacerbate poverty. To address this issue, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MoNRE) has developed the 10-year Natural Resources and Environmental Strategy, 2016-2025, based on national directions and policies (National Social and Economic Development Plan, the National Strategies for Economic Development and Poverty Reduction, the IX Government Resolution and sectoral strategies) as well as on regional and global orientations and policies (Millennium Development Goals, climate change, and Multilateral Environmental Agreements). 22. Investment projects are categorized according to a schedule in the EIA decree into (i) category 1 – small scale, requiring an IEE or (ii) category 2-large scale, requiring an environmental impact assessment (EIA). For irrigation projects, those with a command area of between 100 and 2000 ha are in category 1, and those with a command area greater than 2,000 ha are in category 2. The corresponding category to Lao PDR Category 1 in the ADB’s classification system is B, which, similarly, requires an IEE and EMP. 23. According to the Regulation on Environmental Assessment in the Lao PDR, the IEE of the Project is required to be submitted to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment at the provincial level (PoNRE) for approval through the issuance of an environmental certificate prior to the project commencement (no civil work is allowed prior to the approval).

Description of the Environment

24. The Chan Lan Xe subproject is located in the Khongxedon District, at a distance of about 11.0 km east of Khongxedon District Center and 80.0 km from Salavan Provincial

Capital through Road 15 and a local access road which are passable all year around by all types of vehicles. The area is generally flat along the broader river margins where the irrigation scheme is located and rises to higher ground to the north. The elevation at Chan Lan Xe is around 130MASL. 25. Lao PDR has a tropical monsoon climate which features a dry season (November to February) and a wet season (May to October). The dry season is generally cooler, though temperatures rise significantly in March and April prior to the onset of the rains. The average annual precipitation in Salavan is around 1,800mm, although this is highly variable from year to year. 26. Lao PDR has been increasingly affected by natural hazards such as floods, droughts, and severe storms, leading to landslides, fires, outbreaks of animal diseases and mortality, damage to infrastructure, and increased food insecurity. Salavan is one of three provinces in Lao PDR identified in 2006 to have over 40 per cent of households at risk of drought. 27. The Chan Lan Xe is divided into three distinct areas: (1) lowland in the northwest dominated by the cultivation of rain fed rice; (2) higher land in the southeast with a mix deciduous forested area; (3) marsh (Beung Lom Lok) enclosed by rice paddy in the middle of the subproject. 28. There are two international and national designated protected areas within 50 km of the subproject site based on IBAT and WPDA. These are the Xe Bang Nouan National Biodiversity Conservation Area (NBCA) and the Phou Xiengthong NBCA. Both NCBAs are also identified as key biodiversity areas with Xe Bang Nouan being a locally designated wildlife site and the Phou Xiengthong being an Important Bird Area (IBA). The UNEP’s and ADB SPADE web application tool do not show potential Critical Habitat within the immediate project area but highlights potential critical habitat south of the Dong Xe River. The natural boundary of the Dong Xe river to the south and a tributary to the river which runs from the northeast to southwest was considered for the Area of Analysis (AoA) for critical habitat assessment. There are identified important species associated with the Mekong River, its tributaries and associated flood plains, with most being migratory fish moving up the river system for spawning. However, there is limited data available on specific spawning locations. 29. Within the proposed subproject there is Beung Lom Lok marsh. The marsh is surrounded by the roads, canals and irrigated areas proposed. This marsh has a vast area of around 42.5ha, covering land use of the three villages: Chan Lan Xe, Tanpiew and Donphaiban. The marsh plays a significant role in terms of biodiversity protection and conservation area for the community as it has been designated as the village’s biodiversity and conservation area. Local people also rely on the marsh for food sources especially fish for their household consumption. 30. There are no endangered/critical animals found in the subproject area from field survey with local communities. There is only one (1) vulnerable bird, Columba punicea, reported in the subproject area. This species is an annual migrant and their preferred habitat

is thought to prefer mixed board leaved coniferous, unstocked forest, and open area habitat such as meadows, steppes, and dry mountain slopes near water. 31. There are no known items of historical or archaeological significance, as confirmed in community consultations in March 2018.

Human and Economic Development

32. Their main villagers’ incomes are from rice production both wet and dry season, some from cassava planted in the upper land areas in and outside the village territory and sale of livestock. Agriculture sources cover just slightly above half (50.56%) of the household income. Non-Agriculture sources, a second main income, accounted for 49.44% of the majority of household incomes. 33. An inventory of socio-economic data from all households in the 7 main villages benefiting directly from the rehabilitation of the irrigation system, called a “Village Master List” in Feasibility Study Annex 8 (Social Impact Assessment) was compiled. Based on the Village Master lists data was collected to describe the human and economic development of the four (4) beneficiary villages. 34. The main crop grown in the Chan Lan Xe area is predominantly paddy rice because farmers can sell from time to time within the local market and also bought by buyers from district center, provincial center and some of them from Pakse. 35. In Cha-Lan-Xe Subproject Villages, there are 45HHs (12%) landless households; 12 HHs (17.6%) reside in Chalanxe Village, 22 HHs (12.9%) live in Tanpiew and 11 HHs (8.4%) in Donphaiban Villages, respectively. 36. There is no household ranked as poor, all households (100%) were classified as rich or moderate households. All have access to public service facilities including electricity, health, education, marketing, phone, and television. 37. Data on UXO from Salavan Labour and Social Welfare Department confirmed that the proposed subproject area has a low risk of UXO based on national data base of the UXO from IMSMA program.

Anticipated Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures

38. In the IEE, potential impacts were assessed by means of site visits, discussions with local authorities and beneficiaries and the use of secondary sources of information from similar projects elsewhere. An Environmental Impact Matrix was developed based on current environmental laws and legislation including, without limitation, the Rules and Regulations of Lao PDR relating to: air; noise; water supply; land/soil; waste water; solid waste; land use; biodiversity; cultural; health; education; safety resettlement; income; ethnic groups, unexploded ordinance (UXO); and climate. The scoring indicated in the matrix reflects an impact scale of each parameters during the three phases of subproject development pre- construction, construction and operation. Negative impact is shown in yellow, orange and red while positive impact recorded is shown from light to dark green. Scale of the impact of

each type (negative or positive) is classified by a score 0, ±5 and ±10. A score of 5-minor impact and 10-significant impact. 39. Rankings for the severity of impacts and effectiveness of mitigation measures were made. A summary of environmental impacts before and after mitigation is shown in the tables below. Potential environmental impacts and required mitigation are incorporated into the EMP, which would be part of all construction contracts, and agreements with the WUG. The IEE also includes a detailed Environmental Monitoring Plan.

Summary Matrix of Environmental Impacts

Activities and Project Impacts Table Chan Lan Xe Irrigation Project

Output/Activity

Air

UXO

Noise

Safety

Health Ethnic

Impact

Climate

Income

Cultural

Average Average

Land Use Land

Minorities

Education

Land/soils

Solid Waste Solid Biodiversity

Total ImpactTotal

WaterSupply Waste-Water Resettlement

Pre-Construction Pump Station + Headworks 0 0 0 -5 0 0 0 -5 -5 0 0 0 -5 10 0 0 -5 -15 -0.94 Main/secondary canals 0 0 0 -5 0 0 0 -5 -5 0 0 0 -5 10 0 0 -5 -15 -0.94 Access / village roads -5 0 0 -5 0 0 0 -5 0 0 0 0 -5 10 0 0 -5 -15 -0.94 Canal service roads -5 0 0 -5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -5 10 0 0 -5 -10 -0.63 Drainage channels 0 0 0 -5 -5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -5 10 0 0 -5 -10 -0.63 Construction Pump Station + Headworks -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 0 -5 -5 5 0 -5 0 -60 -3.75 Main/secondary canals -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 0 -5 -5 5 0 -5 0 -60 -3.75 Access / village roads -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 0 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 0 -5 0 -70 -4.38 Canal service roads -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 0 -5 0 -5 -5 5 0 -5 0 -55 -3.44 Drainage channels 0 -5 0 -5 -5 -5 0 -5 0 -5 0 -5 -5 5 0 -5 0 -40 -2.50 Operation Pump Station + Headworks 0 0 5 -5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -5 -5 10 0 0 -5 -5 -0.31 Main/secondary canals 0 0 5 0 0 -5 0 0 0 -5 0 -5 -5 10 0 0 -5 -10 -0.63 Access / village roads 0 0 0 0 0 -5 0 0 0 5 5 -5 -5 10 0 0 0 5 0.31 Canal service roads -5 0 0 -5 0 -5 0 0 0 -5 0 -5 -5 10 0 0 0 -20-1.25 Drainage channels 0 0 5 -5 -5 -5 0 0 0 -5 0 -5 -5 10 0 0 0 -15-0.94

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact Average total Impact 5 Pre-Construction -0.86 0 No significant impact Construction -3.83 -5 Operation -0.47 -10 Very negative impact

Summary Matrix of Environmental Impacts After Mitigation

Activities and Project Impacts Table - With Anticipated Mitigation Measures Chan Lan Xe Irrigation Project

Output/Activity

Air

UXO

Noise

Safety

Health

Ethnic

Impact

Climate

Income

Cultural

Average Average

Land Use Land

Minorities

Education

Land/soils

Biodiversity

Solid Waste Solid

Total ImpactTotal

WaterSupply Waste-Water Resettlement

Pre-Construction Pump Station + Headworks 0000000000000 10 0 0 -5 5 0.31 Main/secondary canals 0000000000000 10 0 0 -5 5 0.31 Access / village roads 0000000000000 10 0 0 -5 5 0.31 Canal service roads 0000000000000 10 0 0 -5 5 0.31 Drainage channels 0000000000000 10 0 0 -5 5 0.31 Construction Pump Station + Headworks 00000000000005000 50.31 Main/secondary canals 0 0 -5 0 00 0 00 00 00 50 0 0 00.00 Access / village roads 00000000000005000 50.31 Canal service roads 00000000000005000 50.31 Drainage channels 00000000000005000 50.31 Operation Pump Station + Headworks 0050000000000 10 0 0 -5 10 0.63 Main/secondary canals 0050000000000 10 0 0 -5 10 0.63 Access / village roads 0000000005500 10 0 0 0 20 1.25 Canal service roads 0000000000000 10 0 0 0 10 0.63 Drainage channels 0050000000000 10 0 0 0 15 0.94

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact Average total Impact 5 Pre-Construction 0.31 0 No significant impact Construction 0.23 -5 Operation 0.78 -10 Very negative impact

40. Potential permanent land and asset losses would be identified in a Preliminary Measurement Survey (PMS) that was used to develop a preliminary Inventory of Losses (IOL). The details of the IOL would be presented in Feasibility Study Annex 7 (Land Acquisition and Compensation Plan), presently under preparation. 41. Construction of irrigation canals/irrigation service roads would result in the removal of topsoil and other material containing vegetative matter that is not suitable for re-use on the road but can be utilized locally for house construction and other common community uses within or near the village. Villagers confirm there is a substantial demand for this material. Environmental impacts related to construction would be temporary, and can in most cases be mitigated before and during the construction period. Mitigation of any risks of sediment runoff would be achieved by Contract requirements. Surplus spoil should be used as fill, for example backfilling of culvert walls, wherever possible. 42. Construction operations would involve the temporary closure of the irrigation systems. Ensuring that local farmers are aware of the construction schedule would help mitigate the effects of temporary closure. However, it is unlikely to be feasible to maintain full irrigation flows while the works are taking place. 43. Environmental negative impacts related to location and design are anticipated in land/soils, resettlement, and climate. The negative impacts in land/soils and resettlement can be mitigated with careful design and proper implementation of resettlement plan. 44. Excavation works would result in localized concentrations of airborne particulate matter, which may pose a significant dust nuisance where it occurs in proximity to villages, schools, or dwellings. Where excavation operations carried out during dry and windy conditions are within 50m of an occupied dwelling, excavated sites should be sprayed with water to control dust release. Operating equipment would cause localized air pollution through exhaust fumes, particularly exhaust gases from diesel engines, although it would not be expected to persist but rather disperse fairly quickly. Lao PDR has legislation on vehicle exhaust emissions but testing facilities are not available within Lao PDR. Mitigation would be

necessary ensuring equipment is well-maintained while trucks idling for over 15 minutes would not be allowed in populated areas. Similarly, as most construction would involve manual labor or medium sized plant, noise nuisance is not expected to be significant. However, contractors would be prevented from working between the hours of 21:00 and 06:00 in populated areas, or near schools and hospitals. 45. For temporary use of land, owners would receive compensation in the form of rents payable during scheme construction period and land would be re-instated to pre-construction levels. Contractors are to protect sensitive urban, agricultural and natural areas during construction. Sensitive areas would be clearly demarcated to minimize risk of encroachment. 46. While the Contractor would be encouraged to engage local people for the works, some skilled workers and possibly supplementary labor would need to be brought to the site from elsewhere in Lao PDR or outside the country. Interactions with local residents can potentially lead to the spread of communicable diseases, and in particular COVID-19. Numerous mitigation measures are specified in the EMP, and the Contractor would develop and implement an appropriate Contractor’s Environmental Management Plan (CEMP), approved by the supervisory engineer, to address these and other public health issues. The contents of the CEMP and the Contractors’ responsibilities with respect to environmental and social issues are specified. Some construction activities would pose a small safety risk to workers and to local people. The CEMP would include an effective Health and Safety Plan, a construction waste and Hazardous Materials Management Plan. 47. Advice to farmers, including emphatic discouragement of the use of persistent pesticides should continue through DAFO. The Government is strongly supportive of the introduction of organic and green agriculture. PPMO and DCO staff would receive training in Integrated Pest Management and Soil Fertility Management (Feasibility Study Annex 3 Present Agriculture and Agricultural Development Plan) that would use the three Phase I subprojects as a pilot for the introduction of the training program with assistance from the LIC. Subsequently DCO with assistance from the PPMO would continue the training program. 48. The expansion of the command area would increase the irrigated area of paddy fields that are seasonally inhabited by fish, mollusks, crustaceans and aquatic insects. The project would improve the seasonal aquatic ecosystem in the agricultural land. 49. In common with all irrigation schemes, an increase in soil salinity may occur as a result of the accumulation of salts that are dissolved in the irrigation water, and upward transport of salt deposits in lower soil horizons in the case of over-irrigation. These risks are low for the scheme, as any salt not taken up by growing plants would be subject to natural flushing by rainwater in the wet season. 50. Some studies indicate that paddy rice fields contribute approximately 9-13 percent of the global emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG), especially methane and nitrous oxide.

The total CO2e emissions from the AISP would be well below the ADB’s significance threshold of 100.000tons CO2e. However, the Project would review research literature on management practices to reduce GHG emissions from paddy land to see if it would be feasible to train farmers and the District Agriculture and Forestry Office (DAFO) staff in the recommended management practices.

51. Climate risk screening (IEE Annex 6.6 Rapid Environmental Assessment and Climate Change Checklist) carried out at the start of the subproject Feasibility Study scored the subproject risk as medium which requires consideration of mitigation and adaptation measures. The subproject has numerous features that are designed to mitigate the effects of climate change events, such as concrete structures built to survive periodic inundations and reduce seepage loses from irrigation water. The impact of the subproject on climate change is considered medium while mitigation introduced through design would reduce adverse impacts of climate change on the subproject. 52. The Project area is vulnerable to flood, and climate change models project an increase in the frequency and severity of flood and drought in southern Lao PDR. Mitigation to reduce the severity of impacts has been addressed in the concept engineering design (Feasibility Study Feasibility Study Annex 2) and is discussed below in section 5.8.2 (Impact of Climate Change and Project Adaption Measures, Design Mitigation). The subproject reportedly floods every few years after heavy rain but once the rain stops flood water rapidly subsides, IEE Annex 6.1 (Disclosure, Consultation and Participation). The last major flood was 2011 that saw the flood level up to 1.5m high and it caused severe damage to crops production. Flooding has been addressed in the detailed engineering design. The continuity of natural drainage would be maintained and enhanced through construction of cross-drainage culverts. This would reduce the period of inundation of paddy land during flood and the risk of flood damage to crops. 53. Discharge in the Xe Don river has reportedly reduced in recent years perhaps as a result of climate change and land use change in the catchment. In part, the reduced water supply would be mitigated through a reduction in water losses by lining canals throughout the distribution network thus reducing seepage loses. Further, crop diversification would be introduced to reduce crop water requirements, paddy has a high crop water requirement.

Transboundary Issues

54. The controlled use of irrigation water and the use of potentially harmful chemicals in pest control are, to some extent, transboundary issues. Risks of the use of harmful substances or excessive use of less harmful substances in irrigated agriculture are heightened by ready availability from neighboring countries. These risks can be reduced by improved information on agrichemicals available on the local market, and dissemination on their proper use through the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) training program, see Feasibility Study Annex 3 (Present Agriculture and Agricultural Development Plan)

Analysis Alternatives

The “no subproject” alternative, while feasible, would simply mean the substitution of the Chan Lan Xe irrigation scheme and access road with an alternative subproject, likely to be based on a different irrigation scheme within Salavan province.

Information Disclosure and Consultation

55. Consultations were conducted during visits to Chan Lan Xe in March 2018 which included a focus group discussion during which the Project was disclosed to community representatives and environmental and other issues discussed. The overall consensus is that the subproject is needed and people want it to start as soon as possible.

Grievance Redress Mechanism

56. The Grievance Redress Mechanism has been developed to provide a redress mechanism for grievances that may arise over effects on private property and the environment. Persons affected by the subproject activities, or concerned about environmental impacts are entitled to lodge complaints regarding any aspect of the subproject development. 57. The objective of the grievance redress mechanism is to resolve complaints as quickly as possible and at the local level through a process of conciliation; and, if that is not possible, to provide clear and transparent procedures for appeal.

Conclusion and Recommendation

58. The IEE process has found that the Chan Lan Xe subproject would not cause significant negative environmental impacts. Potential negative impacts relate mainly to the construction phase and can be managed and brought to acceptable levels through the implementation of the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plans. 59. The proposed subproject would have significant positive impacts. The reliable supply of irrigation water in the dry season and supplementary irrigation in the wet season would mitigate the impact of drought. The detailed engineering design maintains and enhances the continuity of the drainage system through drain culverts and aqueducts potentially reducing the impact of flood on standing crops and access roads in the wet season. 60. The expansion of the command area would increase the irrigated area of paddy fields that are seasonally inhabited by fish, mollusks, crustaceans and aquatic insects that provide a source of varied nutrient to local beneficiaries and increase the biodiversity. The subproject would improve the seasonal aquatic ecosystem in the agricultural land. No further environmental assessment is therefore required. The Project is therefore confirmed as Category B according to the ADB’s classification system. 61. The IEE would form part of the contract and the EMP and monitoring plan be included in agreements made with Water User Groups.

List of Abbreviation

ADB : Asian Development Bank APs/AHs : Affected Person / Affected Households DAFO : District Agriculture and Forestry Office DCO : District Coordination Office DLWU : District Lao Women’s Union DMU : District Management Unit DOI : Department of Irrigation DOP : Department of Planning EA : Executing Agency EIA : Environmental Impact Assessment EIRR : Economic Internal Rate of Return EMDP : Ethnic and Minority Group Development Plan EMP : Environmental Management Plan EMR : Environmental Monitoring Report FS : Feasibility Study GIC : Grant Implementation Consultant GOL : Government of Lao PDR HH : Household IA : Implementing Agency IEE : Initial Environmental Examination IPP : Indigenous Peoples Plan ISA : Initial Social Assessment ISF : Irrigation Service Fee Lao PDR : Lao People’s Democratic Republic LARC : Land Acquisition and Resettlement Committee MAF : Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry NAFRI : National Agriculture and Forestry Research Institute NAFES : National Agriculture and Forestry Extension Service NBCA : National Biodiversity Conservation Area NCMI : Northern Community-Managed Irrigation Sector Project NRIDP : Northern Rural Infrastructure Development Sector Project NSC : National Steering Committee NPM : National Project Manager NPMO : National Project Management Office O&M : Operation and Maintenance PAM : Project Administration Manual PAFO : Provincial Agriculture Forestry Office PBME : Project Benefit Monitoring and Evaluation pH : Hydrogen-Ion Exponent

PIS : Provincial Irrigation Section PLUP : Participatory Land Use Planning PPO : Provincial Project Office PPTA : Project Preparatory Technical Assistance RMC : Road Maintenance Committee SIA : Social Impact Assessment SRI : System of Rice Intensification SSEMP : Site Specific Environment Management Plan TA : Technical Assistance TOR : Terms of Reference WUA : Water User Association WUG : Water User Group

UNITS ha : Hectare kg : Kilogram km : Kilometer lit : Liter m : Meter m2 : Square meter m3 : Cubic meter mm : Millimeter

Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 2 DESCRIPTION OF THE SUBPROJECT ...... 2 2.1 Subproject Scope ...... 2 2.2 Present Condition and Characteristics of the Scheme ...... 4 2.3 Rehabilitation of the Subproject ...... 9 2.3.1 Climate Resilient Infrastructure Design ...... 9 2.3.2 Improvements in Agriculture Infrastructure ...... 9 3 POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK ...... 13 3.1 Environmental Policy ...... 13 3.2 Relevant Laws ...... 14 3.3 Decrees, Regulations and International Conventions ...... 16 3.4 Government’s Requirement on IEE/EIA approved in Lao PDR ...... 17 3.5 Additional Project Requirements ...... 17 4 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT ...... 18 4.1 Physical Resources ...... 18 4.1.1 Location and Topography ...... 18 4.1.2 Geology and Soils ...... 18 4.1.3 Climate ...... 18 4.1.4 Water Resources ...... 20 4.1.5 Ecological Resources ...... 21 4.1.6 Items of Historical and Archaeological Significance ...... 34 4.1.7 Human and Economic Development ...... 34 (i) Local Economy ...... 34 (ii) Land Use ...... 35 (iii) Quality of Life ...... 35 4.1.8 Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) ...... 36 5 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES .... 38 5.1 Assessment method ...... 38 5.2 Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Related to Location and Design ...... 46 5.3 Environmental Management Plan ...... 46 5.4 Environmental Impacts Related to Pre-Construction...... 46 5.5 Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Related to Construction ...... 47 5.6 Environmental Impacts Related to Operation ...... 49 5.7 Safety ...... 51 5.8 Climate Change ...... 52 5.8.1 Project’s Emissions of Greenhouse Gases ...... 52 5.8.2 Impact of Climate Change and Project Adaptation Measures ...... 53 6 Global, Transboundary and Cumulative Impacts ...... 55 7 ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES ...... 55 8 INFORMATION DISCLOSURE, CONSULTATION, AND PARTICIPATION ...... 56 9 GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM ...... 57 10 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN ...... 59 10.1 Responsibilities for Environmental Management ...... 59 10.2 Approach to Environmental Monitoring ...... 60 11 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 64 Annex 6.1: Information Disclosure, Participation and Consultation ...... 67 Annex 6.2: Environmental Management Plan ...... 75

Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Annex 6.3: Details of the Impact Assessment and Summary of Mitigation Measures ...... 88 Annex 6.4: Environmental and Social Clauses for Civil Works Contracts ...... 108 Annex 6.5: Environmental and Social Monitoring Process ...... 118 Annex 6.6: REA CHECK LIST (SALAVAN PROVINCE) ...... 136 Source: AISP 2019 ...... 138 A Checklist for Preliminary Climate Risk Screening ...... 139 Annex 6.7: UXO confirming letter from Salavan Labour and Social Welfare Department .. 142 Annex 6.8: Detailed Engineering Design IEE Update Report ...... 144

Annex 6.9: Critical Habitat Screening…….…………………………………………………………..165

Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

iii

Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

SCHEDULE OF TABLES

Table A6.1: Existing Pump Station Details...... 6 Table A6.2: Comparison of CED and DED layout and structures ...... 11 Table A6.3: Meteorological Data Mean Evaporation (mm) and Mean Rainfall (mm) ...... 19 Table A6.4: Common Trees in the Subproject Area ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. Table A6.5: Common Mammals in the Subproject Area ... Error! Bookmark not defined. Table A6.6: Common Birds in the Subproject Area ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. Table A6.7: Common Fish in the Subproject Area ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. Table A6.8: Common Reptile and Amphibian in the Subproject Area .... Error! Bookmark not defined. Table A6.9: Environmental Management Plan Summary ...... 39 Table A6.10: Summary Matrix of Environmental Impacts ...... 44 Table A6.11: Summary Matrix of Environmental Impacts After Mitigation ...... 45 Table A6.12: Factors Used for Calculating Emission Levels of Greenhouse Gases from Paddy Fields 52 Table A6.13: GWP for Chan Lan Xe Subprojects ...... 53 Table A6.14: Project Climate Change Adaptation Measures ...... 54 Table A6.15: Project Main Steps of Grievance Mechanisms ...... 57 Table A6.16: Parameters, Limits of Values and Recorded Values for Water Quality Testing 60 Table A6.17: Environmental Monitoring Plan ...... 62 Table A6.18: Environmental Management Plan ...... 76

Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

SCHEDULE OF FIGURES

Figure A6.1: Location of the Subproject, Khongxedon District, Salavan Province ... 3 Figure A6.2: Existing Irrigation Scheme Layout and Access Road ...... 5 Figure A6.3: Existing Head Works Pontoon Pump Station ...... 6 Figure A6.4: Typical Sections of the Canal Water Distribution System ...... 8 Figure A6.5: Layout of the Rehabilitated Irrigation Scheme ...... 12 Figure A6.6: Mean Monthly Xe Don Water Levels at Khongxedon Gauging ...... 21 Figure A6.7: Overall view of the Beung Lom Lok closest to main canal ...... 33 Figure A6.8: Graveyard of Chan Lan Xe Village ...... 34 Figure A6.9: Subproject Visit March 2018 ...... 70 Figure A6.10: Persons Met in Salavan Province ...... 71

Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination 1 INTRODUCTION

1. This document is an updated Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) and Environmental Management Plan (EMP) based on the completed detailed engineering design (DED) for the Chan Lan Xe agriculture infrastructure subproject, which involves irrigation scheme rehabilitation and agricultural access road improvement. The IEE is prepared according to the ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement of June 2009 and the Decree No. 21/gov 2019 of Lao PDR and ADB Safeguard Policy Statement (2009) requirements. 2. The Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) checklist from the Project’s Environmental Assessment and Review Framework (EARF) was used to screen the subproject as well as from literature review, site visits and discussion with local beneficiaries. This subproject was classified as Environment Category B. 3. The engineering design consultants (EDC) submitted the DED IEE update report on 24 June 2020. The report is attached as Annex 6.8 to this IEE, and includes: a. Comparison of data between concept engineering design (CED) and detailed engineering design (DED). b. Water balance to show sufficient water was available to irrigate the increased area. c. Mapping of the changes in the distribution system layout and increased irrigation. d. Summary of affected land area in Chan Lan Xe subproject. e. Summary of affected farmers and paddy field areas. 4. The DED has been prepared in close consultation with the local authorities and beneficiaries. In this regard, the changes to the CED have been thoroughly discussed and the implications accepted and endorsed by the local stakeholders. Summary of key changes in DED relevant to the IEE

Design change The DED has increased the command area from 300ha to 317.47ha. As described below, the change is not significant in relation to the conclusions of the original IEE. The list of affected households, however, does need to be confirmed as part of the land acquisition and compensation plans.

Land use The DED schematic shows the location of the four plots of land which together comprise the increase of 17.47ha (i.e., 3.85, 4.39, 2.95 and 6.28ha). The existing land use is clearly paddy, so there is no change from a land use perspective.

Application of The change represents a 5.8 percent increase in the command area. The agriculture increase is not significant in terms of the IEE considerations vis-à-vis the chemicals use of agriculture chemicals and is addressed in the IEE’s EMP. Water The water supply for the irrigation scheme is from a pumped source which Balance: has adequate supply to meet the 5.8 percent increase. irrigation water requirements

5. The Greater Mekong Sub-region East West Economic Corridor Agricultural Infrastructure Sector Project (GMS-EWEC-AISP, or AISP in this document) would comprise improvements to productive rural infrastructure (PRI) and provide technical and advisory A6-1

Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination support to beneficiary communities in formation and strengthening of water user groups, technical support and capacity building for extension services and support in post-harvest handling, product storage, and marketing. It would provide project management support and capacity building for provincial and district level offices which would take a lead role in project implementation, in accordance with the Government’s decentralization policy of 2000. It is a sector project, and specific subprojects for the improvement of PRI in the two project provinces, Savannakhet and Salavan, would be prepared and implemented. 6. This document provides an Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) of the Chan Lan Xe subproject, a subproject under the GMS-EWEC-AISP involving irrigation scheme and access road rehabilitation. Full subproject preparation, including feasibility study and safeguards assessment and planning, are included to demonstrate subproject preparation requirements. The IEE is prepared according to the ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement of June 2009 and the EIA decree of April 2010 (This Decree was superseded by new EIA decree no. 21/gov 2019).

2 DESCRIPTION OF THE SUBPROJECT

2.1 Subproject Scope 7. The Chan Lan Xe irrigation scheme and access road subproject is located in the Khongxedon District, at a distance of about 11.0 km east of Khongxedon District Center and 80.0 km from Salavan Provincial Capital through Road 15 (Figure A6.1). The scheme was originally constructed in 1996 through a joint initiative between the Provincial Agriculture and Forestry Office (PAFO) and the local Water Users Group (WUG). It was subsequently upgraded in 2008 through the introduction of concrete lining of selected canal reaches. 8. The irrigation schemes, like a considerable number of irrigation developments in Salavan Province, is a pumped scheme served by two (2) pump stations operating from moored pontoons located on the Xe Don River in the villages of Chan Lan Xe and Tanpiew. The total existing dry season irrigable area (command area) is in the order of 150ha and dry season irrigated rice is currently grown on about 65ha. The proposed improvements are to enable the dry season cropping area to increase to 317.47 ha producing a wet and a dry season crop, and serving 237 households2.

2 As reported in the DED Annex 8, Social Impact Assessment. A6-2

Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Figure A6.1: Location of the Subproject, Khongxedon District, Salavan Province

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

2.2 Present Condition and Characteristics of the Scheme 9. The irrigation scheme water source is the Xe Don River which is a perennial river with regular fluctuations in water level throughout the year. The water source is assured and the potential demand has been estimated at 3.4 million-m3 per year. 10. The existing scheme layout is a semi-farmer built irrigation system which has significantly been deteriorated with age. Few lined canals and control structures were built and those structures built are not gated, therefore, there is no water control. What control exists is through temporary earth and brush wood or plastic sheet checks. A Water User Group had been established and remains functional, however, with limited support from the government or any other funding agency, they were not be able to bear all cost for upgrading the incomplete distribution system and replacement of the deteriorated pump sets. 11. The scheme layout has a small pocket configuration lying along Xe Don River next to the villages of Chan Lan Xe and Tanpiew. The scheme is originally served by two pump stations operating from moored pontoons located on the Xe Don River at the two aforementioned villages, details are set down in Table A6.1. Existing pumping is via centrifugal units driven by electric motors powered off the national grid. For each pump station, water is pumped through two rising mains into a stilling basin from where it discharges through a lined main canal to ungated distribution boxes with left and right main canal off-takes. The flow is distributed by gravity through the left and right main canals to farmer’s field blocks either directly from the main canals or via secondary or tertiary canals. The existing scheme is shown in Figure A6.2. 12. The existing headworks sites are on uniform, deep and stable stream lines; but they will not be suitable for the proposed consolidating system in terms of effective water distribution. The existing pontoons are considerably in fair condition and their sizes would not fit with the proposed three-pump installation. The pump sets have significantly deteriorated, more frequently repairs are needed. The pumps are connected to a stilling basin by two, six (6) m flexible pipes and two (2) 250mm Φ iron pipe rising mains. The pipes are functional but deteriorated. The rising main has been placed on the ground without appropriate support structure; while the pipe size is too small resulting in high friction loses that reduce efficiency and increase pumping costs. The existing stilling basins are also not functional. 13. Chan Lan Xe Canal System: Water discharge from a stilling basin through a rectangular lined main canal (MC) and cross a village access road to an ungated division box. Water is then discharged from a division box into a left and right main canals (LMC and RMC) as shown in Figure A6.3-A6.4 below. The main canals have a combined length of 2.0km of which 0.1km were lined with concrete. The lined section of the main canals are considerably in good condition; however it was considered that their sizes will be too small for the proposed consolidation of the scheme. There are a number of temporary division boxes to a secondary earth canal (SC-1) of approx. 0.80km and six (6) tertiary earth canals (TC.1 though to TC.6) with a total length of 1.74km. There is no permanent turn-out into farms fields directly from main, secondary and tertiary canals. The absence of water control structures and turn-outs results in inefficiencies in water distribution. 14. Tanpiew Canal System: Similarly, water discharge from a stilling basin through a rectangular lined main canals (MC) and cross a village access road to an ungated division box. Water is then discharged from a division box into a left and right main canals (LMC and RMC). The main canals have a combined length of 1.74km of which 0.4km, lined with concrete and serve directly to tertiary canals and farmer fields trough temporary turn-outs.

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Figure A6.2: Existing Irrigation Scheme Layout and Access Road

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Table A6.1:Existing Pump Station Details

Detail Description Chan Lan Xe Tanpiew Pump (No) 2 1 Capacity (l/sec per pump) 185 185 Motor (No) 2 1 Motor (kW per motor) 75 75 Pontoon 6000 x 3650 mm 6000 x 3650 mm Rising main 2 x 250mm iron pipes 1 x 250mm iron pipe Theoretical pump head (m) 15 - 25 15 - 25 Actual measured pumping elevation (m)3 - 13.375

Figure A6.3: Existing Head Works Pontoon Pump Station

Plate A6.1: Pontoon mounted pump station with Plate A6.2: Deteriorated Pump wooden access

Plate A6.3: Deteriorated motor Plate A6.4: Functional Control Panel

3 Measured during the field asset condition surveys

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Plate A6.5: Poor Sizing and Poorly Installed Rising Plate A6.6: Poor Piping and Malfunctioning Stilling Main Basin

15. Most of the canals have no service road. There are no permanent bridging structures across the canals although local ingenuity invariably solves the challenge with locally fabricated bridge structures. 16. The natural drainage network was considered to be adequate for drainage of the dry season cropped area. The requirements for drain improvement will be limited to the construction of cross drainage structures where the canals cross natural drains.

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Figure A6.4: Typical Sections of the Canal Water Distribution System

Plate A6.7: Head Reach of Main Canal, MC.2 Plate A6.8: An Ungated Division Box

Plate A6.9: A Lined Main Canal (LMC.2) Plate A6.10: An Unlined Secondary Canal (SC.2-2)

Plate A6.11: A Farmer-Built Tertiary Offtake Plate A6.12: A Farmer-Built Thresher Crossing

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

2.3 Rehabilitation of the Subproject 2.3.1 Climate Resilient Infrastructure Design 17. The projected impact of climate change is discussed in detail below in Section 5.8.2. Lao PDR is among one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change. Increases in temperature and precipitation are forecast for the next 20-30 years by most of the climate models. The projected 13.5 per cent increase in precipitation would result in an increase in annual runoff causing increased flood events, while reduced dry season rainfall in southern provinces would increase the occurrence and severity of drought.

18. Mitigation against increased flood and drought events and their severity are incorporated into the agriculture infrastructure design for resilience and sustainability including: • concrete lining of canals to increase their resilience and sustainability during periodic inundations of flood, and reduce dry season seepage loses conserving limited water resources;

• the provision of bioengineering protection for earth works, bank protection at the head works and vegetation on all earth back fill for concrete lined canals; and

• provision of participatory water resources management planning.

19. The concrete lining of canals would afford greater water control particularly of seepage loses into the local water table and facilitate crop diversity into higher value crops that cannot withstand waterlogging. It would also reduce the costs of routine maintenance.

2.3.2 Improvements in Agriculture Infrastructure 20. Scheme rehabilitation will increase the command area to 317.47ha through the construction of new canals with related water control structures, see Figure A6.5. The rehabilitation plan is aimed at improving the efficiency of the water distribution network and extending the network to irrigate land to the north and south of the existing command areas and bring an additional 167.47ha into production. 21. As reported in the DED update report (see Annex 6.8, items 9 to 13): • The Number of beneficiaries households in the command area is 237 households, from 4 villages of Tanpiew, Donphaiban, Chanlanxe, and Tadsoum.

• According to the final design drawing of EDC 2, the Affected Persons (APs) and type of asset and land was summarized as follows:

• The irrigation canal would be through 143 parcels of paddy field with a total area of 213.42 ha. The expectation of paddy field affected by irrigation canal is 11.28 ha (see details in Annex 4 [of Annex 6.8])

• The number of paddy field owners affected by the canal construction as per detailed engineering design is 134 households from 4 villages such as: Chanlanxe (28 households), Tanpiew (79 households), Donphaiban (26 households), and Tadsoum (1 household). The actual affected households will be examined again when the affected household list is to be formulated.

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

• Detailed number of affected farmers and paddy field areas and community consultation of the change are shown in the table of Annex 5 and Annex 6 [of Annex 6.8] respectively.

22. The rehabilitation of the water distribution system will include one (1) new main canal, eight (8) secondary canals, six (6) tertiary canal and support for construction of quaternary (farm) canals. Appropriate water control structures will be built to regulate discharge in the system. Irrigation service roads will be constructed along the main, secondary and tertiary canals to provide machinery access to cropped areas and O&M of the irrigation infrastructure. Existing natural drainage system improvements and drainage continuity will be maintained through the cross drainage structures. 23. The improvements include consolidation of the two existing pump stations into one headworks. The proposed location of the headworks is in the middle of the command area between Chan Lan Xe and Tanpiew villages where the source river has a uniform and deep streamlines and a gentle and stable slope. The new pump station with connection to the national power grid, and supplied with new pump sets connected through a rising main and short main canal to a stilling basin. A service access road will be built to the head works to facilitate operation and maintenance. 24. Canal rehabilitation will comprise a trapezoidal lined main canal of approx. 736m in length discharging into a division box where water discharge to secondary canals. The main canal will have a water measurement structure, and twelve (12) divisions. There will be three (3) concrete access road with the total length of 10.92km to be built. 25. Eight (8) RC lined secondary canals (SC.1, SC.1-1, SC.1-2, SC.2 and SC.2-1) with trapezoidal sections totaling 9.678km in length will be constructed. A series of canal structures will be provided in the secondary canals which includes twelve (12) division boxes/tertiary offtakes, one hundred and thirty one (131) farm turn outs, and twelve (12) end structures. Twenty seven (27) farm bridges or thresher crossings will be constructed across the canals to provide field access. Irrigation service roads are provided along the secondary canal embankments; the service roads passing through residential areas will have a concrete pavement to reduce the adverse impact from dust in the dry season while in agricultural areas the pavement will be armored natural gravel. Cross drainage structures for secondary canals will be provided through the construction of seven (7) single barrel pipe culverts. 26. Six (6) RC lined trapezoidal section tertiary canals will be constructed (TC1 through to 6) with a combined length of 4.723km. The canal structures will include one hundred thirty one (131) quaternary off-takes or farm turn-outs, twenty seven (27) farm bridges, and twelve (12) end structures. 27. Lined quaternary canals (field canals) with an estimated length of 2.0km will be determined in cooperation with farmers and included in the detailed design. The quaternary canals will be pre-cast sections installed by farmers. 28. Water control structures with the total numbers of 254 will be constructed where appropriate within the canal distribution network. The structures reinforced concrete with steel gates will be installed on off-takes and canal regulators to enable water to be managed effectively. In addition, measuring weirs will be introduced at key locations to enable the WUG to apportion flows, quantify losses, and monitor usage. 29. The natural drainage network was considered to be adequate for drainage of the cropped area. The drain improvement will be limited to the construction of cross drainage structures where the canals cross natural drains. 30. A comparison of the rehabilitation of the irrigation scheme between the CED and DED is shown in the box below:

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Table A6.2: Comparison of CED and DED layout and structures

Concept Detail Items Description Unit Remark design Design

I. Irrigation Area (Dry season) ha 300 317.47 1.1 Rice ha 200 217.47 1.2 Crop ha 100 100 II. Head work 2.1 Pontoon m 4x6x1.2 6x2x1.5 LxBxH 2.2 Pump set 3(582l/s) 3(540l/s) 2.3 Bioengineering erosion protection m2 480 480 2.4 Stilling Basin m 3.6x3.3x2 4x3x1.3 LxBxH 2.5 Transformer Kva 315 500 2.6 Power Supply kV 22 22 2.7 Design Discharge l/s 1,164 1,943 2.8 Mean Annual Flow m3/sec 175 170 III. Irrigation Canal 3.1 Main Canal m/line 25/1 736/1 Pipe 3.2 Secondary Canal m/line 7,880/5 9,678/8 3.3 Tertiary m/line 5,700/7 4,723/6 3.4 Farm canal m 2,000 2,000 IV. Structures 113 254 4.1 Water measurement structure Point 1 1 4.2 Division Boxes Point 9 12 4.3 Road Crossing Point 4 0 4.4 Farm turnout or offtakes Point 47 131 4.5 Farm bridge or thresher crossing Point 24 27 4.6 Check Structures Point 0 6 4.7 End Structures Point 9 12 4.8 Drain structures Point 20 50 4.9 Drop Point 0 15 V. Major access Road m 12,787/4 10,922.06/3 Concrete

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Figure A6.5: Layout of the Rehabilitated Irrigation Scheme

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

31. Agriculture infrastructure improvements would be based on designs and documentation prepared by the Engineering Design Consultant and construction carried out by a contractor, appointed by public tender in accordance with ADB procurement rules. Supervision of construction would be carried out by the engineering design consultants and staff from the Provincial Project Management Office and District Coordination Office with support from the Loan Implementation Consultant (LIC).

3 POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK

3.1 Environmental Policy 32. The 8th National Social and Economic Development Plan (8th NSEDP) emphasizes raising agricultural productivity as a development priority since the majority of the workforce is currently engaged in agriculture. One of the biggest challenges that Lao PDR faces is the proper management and protection of the environment and natural resources (land, water resources, forests, minerals, biodiversity). Without adequate and sustainable planning and management of natural resource, the development actions proposed in the 8th NSEDP will cause serious ecological and socio-economic problems and lead to irreversible damage to the environment and exacerbate poverty. 33. The Ministry of Natural Resource and Environment (MoNRE) has developed the “10-year Natural Resources and Environmental Strategy, 2016-2025” based on national directions and policies (National Social and Economic Development Plan, the National Strategies for Economic Development and Poverty Reduction, the IX Government Resolution and sectoral strategies) as well as on regional and global orientations and policies (Millennium Development Goals, climate change and Multilateral Environmental Agreements).4 34. The formation of MoNRE in June 2011 out of the Water Resources and Environment Administration (WREA), the National Land Management Authority, the Geology Department and some divisions of the Department of Forestry was a move to strengthen environmental protection and management within government. Specific policy for environmental management of investment projects is stated in the objectives for the Decree on Environmental Impact Assessment, April 2010 which states that all investment projects that may create adverse environmental and social impacts, are to be designed with the correct and appropriate environmental and social impact prevention and mitigation measures or environmental management and monitoring plans (EMMP) and social management and monitoring plans (SMMP) (Article 1). 35. The law governing the protection of the environment, including the assessment and management of projects, is the Environmental Protection Law (EPL), (1999, revised in 2012) which is further elaborated on by the Decree on the Implementation of the EPL, of 2002. Responsibilities and procedures for Environmental Assessment, together with requirements for environmental monitoring of projects, have been revised and are set out in the EPL, the Environment and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) Decree dated 16 February 2010 and Ministerial Instruction on ESIA dated 17 December 2013. 36. The decree sets out the principal institutional arrangements, assigning primary responsibility for undertaking environmental assessment of projects to the project developer, which may be an individual or private sector entity as well as a Government Department. In the case of development projects, the relevant line Ministry is responsible to review and assess draft environmental assessments and issue its own approval before submission to MoNRE and local administrations, as appropriate. The MoNRE is responsible for review and approval of environmental assessment reports, co-ordination of monitoring and evaluation, and issuance of compliance certificates, acting through the head office in Vientiane or through its provincial departments in the case of IEEs. The public is consulted in most environmental

4 MoNRE, Natural Resources and Environmental Strategy, 2016-2025

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination issues as required under the EPL and decrees. The ESIA Decree and subsequent Ministerial Instruction introduced an inclusive mechanism for public consultation and broader civil society participation in project design and implementation; while the instruction further elaborates the roles and responsibilities of key agencies and the timing of consultations 37. Key organizations and agencies involved in the EIA process include: the Government of Lao PDR (GoL); the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO); MoNRE [previously the Water Resources and Environment Administration (WREA), and before that the Science Technology and Environment Agency (STEA)]; the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF); the Water Resources Committee; the Ministry of Energy and Mines (MEM); the Ministry of Finance; the Department of National Land-use and Planning; the Ministry of Education and Culture; and the Provincial and District Governor(s) of the project locations. 38. Investment projects are categorized according to a schedule in the EIA decree into (i) category 1 – small scale, requiring an initial environmental examination (IEE) or (ii) category 2-large scale, requiring an environmental impact assessment (EIA). Where a project is of a type that is not listed, an investment application is submitted to MoNRE for screening. For irrigation projects, those with a command area of between 100 and 2000ha are in category 1 (such as this Project), and those with a command area greater than 2,000ha are in category 2. The corresponding category in the ADB’s classification system is B, which, similarly, requires an IEE and EMP. Section 3.4 below sets out the process for PoNRE issuing the required Environmental Clearance Certificate for acceptance of the IEE. 39. The Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) checklist presented in the Environmental Assessment and Review Framework 5 (EARF) was used to screen the subproject and establish it as Category B in the ADB classification requiring an IEE and EMP. The REA is presented in Annex 6.6 (Rapid Environmental Assessment and Climate Change Checklist).

3.2 Relevant Laws 40. The following Lao PDR laws are pertinent to the AISP: 1. The Lao PDR Constitution (1991) acknowledges the need for natural forests as well as environmental protection in Lao PDR and requires that Environmental Assessment give particular attention to the assessment of potential positive and negative socio-economic impacts of project development and to prevention and/or mitigation of harmful impacts. 2. The Environmental Protection Law No.02/99/NA, (1999, revised 2012) assigns to the Science, Technology and Environmental Agency (now MoNRE) the rights and primary responsibilities for protection, mitigation and restoration of the environment in Lao PDR. The law defines the environmental conservation responsibilities of other GOL agencies such as the Department of Electricity, Department of Forestry, etc. It directs that environmental management and monitoring units (EMMUs) be established at all levels of government, with responsibilities to include such things as: establishing and enforcing sector environmental plans; taking action to mitigate environmental damage; issuing orders to adjust, suspend, remove or close down activities that cause negative impacts. The overriding principles promulgated by the law are that:

• Environmental conservation comes before mitigation and restoration

5 Environmental Assessment and Review Framework, Project Number 44138, May 2013

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

• Those who generate an environmental impact are responsible for the resulting damage caused. 3. The Water and Water Resources Law (1997) classifies all catchment areas for various uses and promotes protection and rehabilitation of forests, fishery resources and the environment. It suggests that EIA should be carried out on large-scale water development projects, and requires that funds be provided for protecting and enhancing catchment area resources, and for resettlement compensation. 4. The Amended Forestry Law, No 06/NA (Dec. 2007): determines basic principles, regulations and measures on sustainable management, preservation, development, utilization and inspection of forest resources and Forestland, promotion of regeneration and tree planting, and increase of forest resources in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic aiming for maintaining the balance of nature, making forest and Forestland a stable source of living and use by the people, ensuring sustainable preservation of water sources, prevention of soil erosion and maintenance of soil quality, conserving plant and tree species, wildlife species as well as environment and contributing to the national socio-economic development. Article 18 Logging Survey of the law states:

“For the construction of infrastructure, surveying all tree species with circumference over 15cm is required.” 5. The Wildlife and Aquatics Law, No 07/NA (Dec. 2007) determines principles, regulations and measures on wildlife and aquatic life, promotes husbandry and breeding; specifies utilization of wildlife and aquatic life in sustainable manner, without harmful impact to natural resources and habitats; restricts the decrease and extinction of wildlife and aquatic life; encourages people to understand and recognize the value and significance of wildlife. The law requires the management, monitoring, conservation, protection, and utilization of wildlife and aquatics in sustainable manner to ensure a rich and vibrant ecosystem while improving livelihoods of the ethnic population and developing the national economy. 6. Land Law (1997) Land within Lao PDR is the property of the national community, and individuals are charged with the effective use and stewardship of the land. The law sets out the rights of those who have been allocated land, including the right to transfer that land, are protected by the State. 7. Road Law (1999) Environmental protection is required during road activities. National and provincial authorities of the Ministry of Communications, Transport, Post and Construction are responsible for environmental protection on road projects. Reasonable compensation must be paid to individuals whose land is expropriated for road rights-of-way, relocation of replacement structures, and loss of trees and crops. 8. Law on National Heritage (2005) The Law on National Heritage determines the principles, regulations and measures for the administration, use, protection, conservation, restoration, [and] rehabilitation of the national heritage, and also determines the rights and duties of the State, social organizations and individuals to preserve the value of the national cultural, historical and natural heritage, with the aims of educating citizens with a conscious love for their nation and fine national traditions that is deeply embedded in their hearts and of assuring the elements for prosper sustainability of the nation

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3.3 Decrees, Regulations and International Conventions 41. The following are relevant to the AISP: 1. Prime Minister’s Decree No. 164/1993 established eighteen protected areas and required that the government develop management plans for each area. Two additional protected areas, referred to as National Biodiversity Conservation Areas (NBCAs), have since been added and now one more additional NBCA, Nam Kane NBCA has been established making the total 21 NBCAs nationwide. The current area totals 3.4 million hectares or 14.3% of the country’s area. In addition, provinces and districts have also designated their own conservation areas and protection forests bringing the overall national total to 5.3 million hectares or 22.6% of the total land area. NBCAs are now known as National Protected Areas (NPAs). 2. Decree on the Preservation of Cultural, Historical and Natural Heritage requires that in order to prevent exploitation of relics and antiquities, any person who discovers archaeological relics or a cultural site must inform the provincial and district offices within three days. 3. PM Decree No. 192/PM on the Compensation and Resettlement (2005) The decree comprises six sections and nineteen articles.

• Section I sets out the objective and fundamental principle for compensation, and relocation of project affected people. It also provides instructions and measurement procedure for mitigation and compensation for all potential negative socio-economic impacts and the livelihood of the affected people within or in the vicinity of the project areas. It defines and classifies affected groups e.g. the vulnerable and ethnic groups of affected people.

• Section II states and defines the right of project affected person in receiving compensation.

• Section III states and defines the compensation requirement and procedures, as well as assistance to be provided during the relocation, settlement and livelihood development.

• Section IV defines resettlement and compensation components which states and emphasizes the significance of local culture and tradition, community participation in the process, grievance measure and budgetary consideration.

• Section V refers to enforcement procedures and

• Section VI sets out the implementation procedure as well as the institutional frame work and responsibility of all parties. 4. MAF Regulation Nº 0360/MAF.2003, on Management of National Biodiversity Conservation Areas, Aquatic Animals and Wildlife provides guidelines on NBCA establishment and zoning and also on restricted activities and development fund establishment and the rights and duties of state agencies in NBCA management. 5. Regulation on Environmental Impact Assessment of Road Projects in Lao PDR (2004) Guidance for environmental assessment requirements and procedures, regulation for assessing a project, in road sector.

42. Lao PDR is signatory to the following international environmental agreements:

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• ASEAN Agreement on the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources • Convention for the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage • United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification • United Nations Framework Convention for Climate Change • Convention on Biological Diversity • Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer • Vienna Convention for the protection of the Protocol of the Ozone Layer • Millennium Declaration • Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora • Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants • Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar Convention) • Agreement on the Cooperation for Sustainable Development of Mekong River Basin

3.4 Government’s Requirement on IEE/EIA approved in Lao PDR 43. According to the Regulation on Environmental Assessment in the Lao PDR, the IEE of the Project is required to be submitted to the Ministry of Nature Resources and Environment at the provincial level (PoNRE) for approval through the issuance of an environmental certificate prior to the project commencement (no civil work is allowed prior to the approval). Therefore, the Project Developer, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) is required to consider the conditions and timing on the approval. 44. The first consultation with local beneficiaries is aimed at the collection of data concerning the local environment and opinions on environmental challenges and concerns in the subproject area and its surrounds. Annex 6.3 (Information Disclosure, Participation and Consultation) presents a questionnaire and responses used in preparation of the IEE. 45. The project proponent (MAF) after reviewing the IEE document would submit it to the Environmental Impact Assessment Division (EIA) of PoNRE for its review and for its decision. Within 40 days of completing the IEE report or receiving from the project owner (MAF) (which in this case is also the Development Project Responsible Agency (DPRA) must give to PoNRE a written record for its decision concerning the review of the IEE report. Within 10 days of receiving the DPRA’s record of decision, PoNRE would either issue an environmental compliance certificate for the project with or without conditions for the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) measures and implementation (all conditions attached to the environmental compliance certificate would be the legal obligation of the project owner).

3.5 Additional Project Requirements 46. The EARF stipulates once the IEE is completed, a summary will be prepared in Lao. The IEE and Lao language summary should be distributed to the Kumbans6 and village government for their information and for display to the public for a period of thirty days. A presentation will be made to the local beneficiaries of the IEE. During the period of display comments, including any grievances, on the design layout and IEE will be recorded and discussed at the end of the 30-day period. Where appropriate these comments will be addressed through changes in the IEE.

6 The EARF refers to Commune Councils but these are not part of the local government infrastructure in Lao PDR. A Kumban is a cluster of villages, a level of administration between the village and the district

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47. The IEE is an annex of the subproject feasibility study that is submitted to ADB for review and approval. ADB approval of the feasibility study is a pre-requisite to the start of subproject detailed design. 48. If during the detailed design there are changes in the alignment of agriculture infrastructure an assessment of the environmental impact would be carried out and where necessary the Environmental Management Plan amended to reflect these changes. Similarly during construction additional works or changes in the design alignments would require environmental impact assessment and where necessary changes in the EMP.

4 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT

4.1 Physical Resources 4.1.1 Location and Topography 49. The Chan Lan Xe subproject is located in the Khongxedon District, at a distance of about 11.0 km east of Khongxedon District Center and 80.0 km from Salavan Provincial Capital through Road 15 and a local access road which are passable all year around by all types of vehicles. The area is generally flat along the broader river margins where the irrigation scheme is located and rises to higher ground to the north. The elevation at Chan Lan Xe is around 130MASL. 4.1.2 Geology and Soils 50. The geology of eastern Savannakhet Province, extending further north to Thakhek and central Lao PDR is considered similar to that of Northeast Thailand, as these areas all lie within the Khorat Plateau, a large saucer-shaped basin tilted to the east. The Plateau consists of Mesozoic and Tertiary aged sedimentary rocks known as the Khorat Group. 51. As is common to the lowland areas adjoining the Mekong River in Southern Lao PDR, underlying rock is mostly recently deposited mudstone, underlain by older sandstone bedrock. 52. Soils on the command area are mostly derived from alluvial deposits and are classified as alisols, which are strongly acidic, have good water holding capacity and have high activity clays in the subsoil and generally lack nitrogen (N) and potassium (K), as well as phosphorus (P) to a lesser degree. They are suitable to shallow rooting crops such as rice, and intensive irrigated and rain fed agriculture. Yields can be significantly improved through the application of mineral fertilizer. 4.1.3 Climate 53. Lao PDR has a tropical monsoon climate which features a dry season (November to February) and a wet season (May to October). The dry season is generally cooler, though temperatures rise significantly in March and April prior to the onset of the rains. 54. The average annual precipitation in Salavan is around 1,800mm, although this is highly variable from year to year. The peak period of rain occurs between May to September. However, the dry season is particularly pronounced, with rainfall in December and January almost insignificant, while evaporation rates are at their highest. The monthly distribution is illustrated in Figure AError! Reference source not found.6.6 below, while average rainfall levels in the subproject area and evaporation rates are shown in Table A6.3. 55. Temperature averages 27oC over the year, with lowest temperatures of around 16oC occurring in December and January and February, and reaching 35o C in April. Monthly mean maximum temperatures are above 30o C for most of the year.

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Figure A6.6: Salavan Mean Monthly Precipitation and Evaporation (mm)

Mean Monthly Rainfall & Evaporation (mm) 600.0

500.0

400.0

300.0

200.0

100.0 Rainfall Rainfall & Evaporation (mm) 0.0 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Months

Salavan Mean Rainfall (mm) Khongxedon Mean Rainfall (mm) Mean Evaporation (mm)

Table A6.3: Meteorological Data Mean Evaporation (mm) and Mean Rainfall (mm)

Source: Department of Meteorology and Hydrology, Salavan

56. Likely due to the effects of climate change, Lao PDR has been increasingly affected by natural hazards such as floods, droughts, and severe storms, leading to landslides, fires, outbreaks of animal diseases and mortality, damage to infrastructure, and increased food insecurity. Salavan is one of three provinces in Lao PDR identified in 20067 to have over 40 per cent of households at risk of drought, Figure A6.7 below. These potential adverse impacts of climate change on the subproject are, as far as possible, addressed through design in the pre-construction phase. The subproject impact on climate change is considered low. The Climate Risk screening of the Chan Lan Xe subproject was scored 4, and is considered a medium risk project, Annex 6.3 Climate (Potential Impacts and Mitigation Measures)

7 Source: WFP Lao PDR, CFSVA Community Survey, 2006

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Figure A6.7: Natural Drought Hazard Map Lao PDR

4.1.4 Water Resources 57. Main water source of the scheme is from Xe Don River, a tributary of the Mekong River, having a total length of 1,475km. It has its origin in the north-eastern side of Bolaven Plateau near Thateng District at 800MASL. The catchment area is 6,170km², and has an annual discharge is 5,064.7million-m³.8 Several gauging stations are installed on the river, the one nearest to the scheme at Khongxedon. Data from the station provided by the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology within the PAFO in Salavan relating to the period 2000 to 2011 show a mean dry season (October to May) water level of around 1.4m, varying

8 http://www.wepa-db.net/policies/state/laos/river.htm (accessed 27 February 2016)

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only between 1.3m and 1.8m while rising to a high of 5.5m in August. The annual fluctuation is 1.3 to 5.5m Figure A6.6

Figure A6.8: Mean Monthly Xe Don Water Levels at Khongxedon Gauging Station 2000-2011

58. There was no baseline for water quality that had been established for Chan Lan Xe yet. It was reported that dry season river flow in the Xe Don river has gradually declined in the recent years due to climate change and possibly a change in land use and water extraction for local irrigation upstream may cause this impact. For water quality, there are no complaints from local people about water pollution or pollution sources in the area that affects water quality of the Xe Don river.

4.1.5 Ecological Resources (1) Landscape and land use 59. Landscape in the subproject is dominated by flat low rice land areas spreading along the right bank of Xe Don River and located immediately to the northwest of Chan Lan Xe and Tanpiew villages with a natural lake, Nong Lom Loke, in the middle. Forest areas seems to be mainly found scattered along the access road no. 1 and along edges of paddy plots. These forests provide crucial household energy sources of firewood for farmers as well as non-timber forest products sources. 60. In general terms the land use of the Chan Lan Xe is divided into three distinct areas: (1) lowland in the northwest dominated by the cultivation of rain fed rice; (2) higher land in the southeast with a mix deciduous forested area; (3) marsh (Beung Lom Lok) enclosed by rice paddy in the middle of the subproject. The main canals of the irrigation scheme constructed under the existing scheme have an established right of way through mostly paddy areas. Rehabilitation of the main canals and their associated irrigation service roads would be within the footprint of the existing canals and roads. There would be no encroachment on forest land. The main area of irrigation would be to the north and west of the village. The irrigated area is in the proposed original command area and would not involve the development of any land not already used for rain fed cultivation of paddy.

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Figure A6.9: Landscape of the Chan Lan Xe

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(2) Protected area

61. There are two international and national designated protected areas within 50 km of the subproject site based on IBAT and WPDA. These are the Xe Bang Nouan National Biodiversity Conservation Area (NBCA) and the Phou Xiengthong NBCA as shown in Figure A6.10. Both NCBAs are also identified as key biodiversity areas with Xe Bang Nouan being a locally designated wildlife site and the Phou Xiengthong being an Important Bird Area (IBA). 62. The Xe Bang Nouan NBCA covers 1,500 km2 and consists mainly of mixed forest habitats. The Phou Xiengthong NBCA was first designated in 1993 and covers an area of 1,200 km2. Phu Xiang Thong comprises of semi-dry evergreen forest and extensive areas of bamboo, is located just about 2 km to the west of Ban Keng Houat between Road 13 and the Mekong River. It is thought that Asiatic black bear, banteng, clouded leopard, Douc langur, elephant, gibbon, guar, Siamese crocodile and tiger and inhabit this area. The Xe Bang Nouan NCBA lies some 20km to the north of the Xe Don River and straddles the border of Savannakhet and Salavan provinces. An extensive area of highly modified secondary forest lies to the southeast of the Xe Don River at Ban Chan Lan Xe.

Figure A6.10: National Protected Areas Near the Subproject

Source: Base Map – Google Easth – Site Boundaries WDPA

63. The UNEP’s and ADB SPADE web application tool do not show potential Critical Habitat within the immediate project area but highlights potential critical habitat south of the Dong Xe River. Similarly, the SPADE web application shows that the project area contains modified habitat with potential natural habitat south of Dong Xe. The natural boundary of the

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Dong Xe river to the south and a tributary to the river which runs from the northeast to southwest was considered for the Area of Analysis (AoA) for critical habitat assessment. See Figure A6.11. The screening has used an initial buffer of 50 km from the project area. Details of the Critical Habitat Screening can be found in Annex 6.7.

Figure A6.11: Boundary of Area of Analysis (AoA)

Source: Base Map – Google Earth

64. Table _ presents the long list of CR, EN, and Vu species which may be present. This shows a total of 107 threatened species as set out in the IUCN Global Red List of which there are 16 CR species, 26 EN species, and the remaining 65 species are classed as Vulnerable to extinction.

Table A6.4: Long List of Species Based on 50 Km Buffer

Scientific Name Common Name IUCN Status 1 Aaptosyax grypus Mekong Giant Salmon Carp CR 2 Crocodylus siamensis Siamese Crocodile CR 3 Indotestudo elongata Elongated Tortoise CR 4 Manis javanica Sunda Pangolin CR 5 Pangasianodon gigas Mekong Giant Catfish CR 6 Pangasius sanitwongsei Giant Pangasius CR

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Scientific Name Common Name IUCN Status 7 Probarbus jullieni Jullien's Golden Carp CR 8 Pygathrix nemaeus Red-shanked Douc Langur CR 9 Catlocarpio siamensis Giant Carp CR 10 Datnioides pulcher Siamese Tiger Perch CR 11 Terniopsis ubonensis CR 12 Gyps bengalensis White-rumped Vulture CR 13 Sarcogyps calvus Red-headed Vulture CR 14 Emberiza aureola Yellow-breasted Bunting CR 15 Gyps tenuirostris Slender-billed Vulture CR 16 Panthera pardus ssp. delacouri Indochinese Leopard CR 17 Laubuka caeruleostigmata Flying Minnow EN 18 Cuora amboinensis Southeast Asian Box Turtle EN 19 Elephas maximus Asian Elephant EN 20 Hylobates pileatus Pileated Gibbon EN 21 Nycticebus pygmaeus Pygmy Slow Loris EN 22 Panthera tigris Tiger EN 23 Probarbus labeamajor Thicklipped Barb EN 24 Trachypithecus phayrei Phayrea’s Leaf-monkey EN 25 Anisoptera costata EN 26 Dipterocarpus intricatus EN 27 Hopea thorelii EN 28 Hemitrygon laosensis Mekong Freshwater Stingray EN 29 Nycticebus bengalensis Bengal Slow Loris EN 30 Trachypithecus germaini Indochinese Silvered Langur EN 31 Viverra megaspila Large-spotted Civet EN 32 Pangasianodon hypophthalmus Striped Catfish EN 33 Pachydrobia zilchi EN 34 Anulotaia forcarti EN 35 Terniopsis chanthaburiensis EN 36 Urogymnus polylepis EN 37 Pavo muticus Green Peafowl EN 38 Asarcornis scutulata White-winged Duck EN 39 Sterna acuticauda Black-bellied Tern EN 40 Leptoptilos dubius Greater Adjutant EN 41 Northern Yellow-cheeked Nomascus annamensis Crested Gibbon EN 42 Calostoma insigne EN 43 Bos gaurus Gaur VU 44 Helarctos malayanus Sun Bear VU 45 Lutrogale perspicillata Smooth-coated Otter VU 46 Macaca arctoides Stump-tailed Macaque VU 47 Nicobar Crab-eating Macaca fascicularis Macaque VU

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Scientific Name Common Name IUCN Status 48 Neofelis nebulosa Clouded Leopard VU 49 Panthera pardus Leopard VU 50 Tenualosa thibaudeaui Mekong herring VU 51 Ursus thibetanus Asiatic Black Bear VU 52 Hopea odorata VU 53 Dipterocarpus alatus VU 54 Dipterocarpus costatus VU 55 Shorea roxburghii White Meranti VU 56 Shorea thorelii VU 57 Macaca leonina Northern Pig-tailed Macaque VU 58 Arctictis binturong Binturong VU 59 Rusa unicolor Sambar VU 60 Aonyx cinereus Asian Small-clawed Otter VU 61 Mekhongthelphusa kengsaphu VU 62 Bayadera hyalina VU 63 Wallago attu VU 64 Bagarius yarrelli VU 65 Pseudohemiculter dispar VU 66 Osphronemus exodon Elephant Ear Gourami VU 67 Oxygaster pointoni VU 68 Epalzeorhynchos munense Red Fin Shark VU 69 Black and White Spitting Naja siamensis Cobra VU 70 Ophiophagus hannah King Cobra VU 71 Datnioides undecimradiatus VU 72 Scaphognathops bandanensis VU 73 Bangana behri VU 74 Cirrhinus microlepis Small Scaled Mud Carp VU 75 Hypsibarbus lagleri VU 76 Pangasius krempfi VU 77 Pachydrobia levayi VU 78 Hydrorissoia munensis VU 79 Hubendickia pellucida VU 80 Jullienia prasongi VU 81 Lacunopsis munensis VU 82 Tor sinensis Red Mahseer VU 83 Yasuhikotakia nigrolineata Black-Lined Loach VU 84 Pachydrobia bertini VU 85 Lacunopsis minutarpiettei VU 86 Stenothyra decollata VU 87 Jullienia minima VU 88 Lacunopsis deiecta VU 89 Stenothyra laotiensis VU 90 Tricula conica VU

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Scientific Name Common Name IUCN Status 91 Jullienia albaobscura VU 92 Paraprososthenia lynnei VU 93 Jullienia costata VU 94 Python bivittatus Burmese Python VU 95 Dalzellia ranongensis VU 96 Hanseniella heterophylla VU 97 Mulleripicus pulverulentus Great Slaty Woodpecker VU 98 Buceros bicornis Great Hornbill VU 99 Rhyticeros undulatus Wreathed Hornbill VU 100 Carpococcyx renauldi Coral-billed Ground-cuckoo VU 101 Columba punicea Pale-capped Pigeon VU 102 Clanga clanga Greater Spotted Eagle VU 103 Leptoptilos javanicus Lesser Adjutant VU 104 Ciconia episcopus Asian Woollyneck VU 105 Arctonyx collaris Greater Hog Badger VU 106 Physignathus cocincinus Chinese Water Dragon VU 107 Capricornis sumatraensis Mainland Serow VU

65. A summary of the screening of the CR and EN species is presented in Table A6.5. The assessment provides a note on each species and then an initial assessment of that species likelihood of qualifying the AoA as Critical Habitat.

Table A6.5: Summary of IBAT CR and EN Species and Potential as Critical Habitat Qualifying Species (Criteria 1 – 3) Common IUCN Qualifying Scientific Name Notes 1 2 3 name Status Species? A Mekong River species. IUCN mapping suggests that this species is not present in the AoA. Poulsen et al (2004) suggest that this is mainly a Mekong River Not considered X X X likely to be species but will use main present in AoA tributaries. Mapping present by the authors Mekong does not indicate the Giant likely presence of this Aaptosyax Salmon species within the AoA grypus Carp CR (Poulsen, et al., 2004). A species of floodplains Potentially and river systems. present within Poulsen et al (Ibid) show AoA but X X X unlikely to fulfil the potential distribution global Catlocarpio for this species to population siamensis Giant Carp CR include the AoA but no threshold for

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Common IUCN Qualifying Scientific Name Notes 1 2 3 name Status Species? definitive records within Criterion 1, 2 the AoA or 3 Unlikely to be a qualifying species based on Criterion 1 a) threshold of ≥ 0.5% of the global population and ≥ 5 reproductive P X X units, but is likely to meet Criterion 1 c) Threshold of areas containing Noted as present within important the Xe Dong which is concentrations within the AoA. of regionally Crocodylus Siamese (Simpson & Bezuijen, listed EN or siamensis Crocodile CR 2010) CR species Potentially A species of floodplains present within and river systems. AoA but Potentially present in unlikely to fulfil AoA. show the X X X global population distribution for this threshold for Datnioides Siamese species including the Criterion 1, 2 pulcher Tiger Perch CR AoA. or 3 May be present within AoA but does not meet Criterion 1 as it is not a breeding X X X species in Laos PDR. Migratory species, Unlikely to wintering in Laos and obtain numbers within Yellow- other SE Asia countries. AoA that meet breasted Feeding in cultivated and the Criterion 3 Emberiza aureola Bunting CR scrubby areas. threshold Considered by IUCN and Birdlife International to White- be likely extinct within X X X No rumped area of Laos where AoA Gyps bengalensis Vulture CR is situated Slender- billed Possibly extinct in this X X X No Gyps tenuirostris Vulture CR area of Laos

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Common IUCN Qualifying Scientific Name Notes 1 2 3 name Status Species? WCS survey work indicates that this is an X X X No Indotestudo Elongated unlikely species for the elongata Tortoise CR AoA IUCN mapping shows as Potentially present within AoA. present within Utilises a range of AoA but unlikely to fulfil habitat types, including X X X global wetland systems. population Sunda Found in artificial as well threshold for Manis javanica Pangolin CR as natural habitats Criterion 1 IUCN mapping shows this species range as on south western edge of AoA. A species said to be restricted to the Mekong River and main tributaries, but much reduced in distribution. A WWF report (2012) Potentially suggests that it is present within present in Laos but in AoA but limited areas. One map unlikely to fulfil X X X global presented in the report population shows this species threshold for recorded - through local Criterion 1, 2 knowledge records or 3 within the Mekong River in the AoA. This species migrates considerable distances for spawning although relatively little Mekong is known about these Pangasianodon Giant movements and gigas Catfish CR spawning locations Potentially present within AoA but A Mekong River species. unlikely to fulfil Poulsen et al (Ibid) X X X global population shows species threshold for Pangasius Giant distribution includes the Criterion 1, 2 sanitwongsei Pangasius CR Mekong River at the AoA or 3 Panthera pardus Indochinese X X X No ssp. delacouri Leopard CR Extinct in Laos IUCN mapping shows Potentially this species having a present within AoA but Jullien's distribution including the X X X unlikely to fulfil Golden AoA. Poulsen et al (Ibid) global Probarbus jullieni Carp CR also report this species population

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Common IUCN Qualifying Scientific Name Notes 1 2 3 name Status Species? distribution includes threshold for parts of the AoA. Criterion 1, 2 Spawning grounds are or 3 unknown IUCN mapping suggests this species is found in eastern Laos and not within the project X X X No Red- location. Additionally, shanked prefers woodland Pygathrix Douc habitat so unlikely to be nemaeus Langur CR present in AoA. Red-headed Possibly extinct in this X X X No Sarcogyps calvus Vulture CR area of Laos IUCN mapping for this species includes AoA but species is recorded in only one location in Thailand and is a species X X X No of fast flowing rocky rivers. Not considered Terniopsis to be likely to be present ubonensis CR within AoA Tree species with scattered distribution. Found in dry or moist woodland, potentially X X X No along rivers. IUCN and others do not describe Anisoptera Ben mon the species as likely costata (Laos) EN present in the AoA IUCN mapping shows that this is a species X X X No Anulotaia endemic to Thailand and forcarti EN not found in Laos. IUCN mapping shows that this species is extant White- in the south of Laos but X X X No Asarcornis winged not present within the scutulata Duck EN AoA Not reported from Laos Calostoma but a Thailand woodland X X X insigne EN species IUCN mapping shows Potentially this species as extant present within within the project area AoA but X X X unlikely to fulfil Southeast including the AoA. The global Cuora Asian Box species is a generalist in population amboinensis Turtle EN terms of habitat and may threshold for

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Common IUCN Qualifying Scientific Name Notes 1 2 3 name Status Species? be found in man made Criterion 1, 2 habitats including or 3 irrigation ditches, water bodies and open areas of water IUCN mapping shows a highly discontinuous Potentially distribution of this tree present within species. However, AoA but research shows that it unlikely to fulfil X X X global may be present as population isolated specimens threshold for within rice fields and Criterion 1, 2 Dipterocarpus cultivated areas of Laos or 3 intricatus EN (Foley, 2017) Asian X X X No Elephas maximus Elephant EN Recorded to NW of AoA Potentially present within AoA but unlikely to fulfil Possibly extant in AoA, a X X X global population Mekong Mekong endemic found threshold for Hemitrygon Freshwater in main river and some Criterion 1, 2 laosensis Stingray EN tributaries or 3 IUCN mapping shows this tree species as present to the west of X X X No the AoA across the Hopea thorelii EN border in Thailand IUCN mapping shows the northern extent of this species is some distance to the south of the AoA. X X X No Additionally, the AoA does not support Hylobates Pileated habitats preferred by pileatus Gibbon EN this species Potentially present within AoA but unlikely to fulfil X X X global population Mekong River basin threshold for Laubuka Flying species, potentially Criterion 1, 2 caeruleostigmata Minnow EN present within AoA or 3 Leptoptilos Greater X X X No dubius Adjutant EN Likely extinct in Laos PDR

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Common IUCN Qualifying Scientific Name Notes 1 2 3 name Status Species? This species is found in No, unlikely to tall evergreen and semi- be present Red- evergreen forest, IUCN X X X based on Nomascus cheeked mapping shows present mapping and gabriellae Gibbon EN in south east of AoA. habitats Widespread distribution across Laos PDR but utilises rain forest habitats and some X X X No plantation areas, not Nycticebus Bengal Slow likely present in habitats bengalensis Loris EN within the AoA. IUCN mapping shows this species present in X X X No Nycticebus Pygmy Slow eastern Laos PDR but pygmaeus Loris EN absent from the AoA. The species is considered to be restricted to the X X X No Pachydrobia Mun River drainage, zilchi EN eastern Thailand Potentially present within IUCN and Poulsen et al AoA but show distribution unlikely to fulfil includes AoA. A X X X global population Mekong River species, threshold for Pangasianodon Striped migratory within the Criterion 1, 2 hypophthalmus Catfish EN river basin or 3 Likely extinct in this part X X X No Panthera tigris Tiger EN of Laos Green Likely extinct in this part X X X No Pavo muticus Peafowl EN of Laos Potentially present within AoA but unlikely to fulfil X X X global population threshold for Probarbus Thicklipped Criterion 1, 2 labeamajor Barb EN Mekong endemic species or 3 Sterna Black- X X X No acuticauda bellied Tern EN Likely extinct in Laos Terniopsis X X X No chanthaburiensis EN Endemic to Thailand. IUCN mapping shows species distribution to south of AoA. Based on X X X No Indochinese preferred rock habitats, Trachypithecus Silvered not considered to be germaini Langur EN likely present within AoA

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Common IUCN Qualifying Scientific Name Notes 1 2 3 name Status Species? Forest species in primary and secondary woodland and will use plantation areas. Based on habitat X X X No Phayreâ’s type this species is Trachypithecus Leaf- unlikely to be present phayrei monkey EN within the AoA Potentially present within AoA but unlikely to fulfil X X X global population threshold for Urogymnus River species, possible Criterion 1, 2 polylepis EN present in AoA or 3 IUCN shows distribution including AoA. Mixed habitat types but X X X No Large- principally woodlands so Viverra spotted unlikely to present megaspila Civet EN within the AoA

66. Based on the IBAT search none of the species would be considered as Criterion 1, or loss of a population which wold push the IUCN status from VU to either CR or EN. The screening indicates that the AoA is not considered to be Critical Habitat. However, there are identified important species associated with the Mekong River, its tributaries and associated flood plains, with most being migratory fish moving up the river system for spawning. However, there is limited data available on specific spawning locations. The project needs to be aware of the potential presence of the following species: Catlocarpio siamensis, Datnioides pulcher, Emberiza aureola, Manis javanica, Pangasianodon gigas, Pangasius sanitwongsei, Probarbus jullieni, Cuora amboinensis, Dipterocarpus intricatus, Hemitrygon laosensis, Laubuka caeruleostigmata, Pangasianodon hypophthalmus, Probarbus labeamajor, and Urogymnus polylepis.

67. Within the proposed subproject is the Beung Lom Lok marsh. The marsh is surrounded by the roads, canals and irrigated areas proposed. This marsh has a vast area of around 42.5ha, covering land use of the three villages: Chan Lan Xe, Tanpiew and Donphaiban. The marsh plays a significant role in terms of biodiversity protection and conservation area for the community as it has been designated as the village’s biodiversity and conservation area. Local people also rely on the marsh for food sources especially fish for their household consumption.

Figure A6.12:Overall view of the Beung Lom Lok closest to main canal

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

4.1.6 Items of Historical and Archaeological Significance 68. There are no known items of archaeological significance, as confirmed in community consultations in March 2018. There is only a village sacred site (Hor Ban) or old temple area of the village which is located next to the access road and main canal to be improved. Locations of these area see Figure A6.13 below.

Figure A6.13: Graveyard of Chan Lan Xe Village

Village sacred site (Hor Ban) Village sacred site (Hor Ban)

Plate A6.17: Religious significant sites in Chan Lan Xe Subproject

4.1.7 Human and Economic Development (i) Local Economy 69. Based on a sample survey in Chan Lan Xe subproject, all households are involved in lowland agriculture mainly wet season and some dry season rice cultivation. Their main incomes are from rice production both wet and dry season, some from cassava planted in the upper land areas in and outside the village territory and sale of livestock. However, villagers’ aggregated income is mainly, although declining, from agricultural activities approximately LAK 823.8 – 884.88 million (52.15 – 50.56%) over the 3-years to 2016. There has been an

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination increase in income from non-agricultural sources in the same period rising from approximately LAK 755.9 – 865.2 (47.85 – 49.44%). Non-agricultural income is from salary working in government and private organization, small businesses, providing labor for construction works and remittances9 from family members working in Thailand; while the farm income is from selling of rice, cash crops and livestock. Presently the agricultural economic base is limited to rain fed paddy rice production with limited irrigated dry season production and livestock. 70. The main crop grown in the Chan Lan Xe area is paddy particularly glutinous rice. Marketing is not a major constraint, though cassava is also currently one important product in the area for 5 years. Villagers use the upper land area around the villages (mainly Chalanxe Villagers) planting cassava for sale. There are 5 rice mills in the area (1 in Cha-Lan-Xe, 2 in Tanpiew and the other 2 in Donphaiban). These rice mills provide rice milling service inside the village and buy rice from farmers. The local price is around LAK 1,800-2,000/Kg (mainly farm gate price) practicing the villagers with outside buyers. 71. Sticky rice is the main product from the area because farmers can sell from time to time within the local market and also bought by buyers from district center, provincial center and some of them from Pakse. Sticky rice is also kept for household consumption or can be used for producing liquor for local sale and used for pig rearing and poultries. 72. In Cha-Lan-Xe Subproject Villages, there are 45HHs (12%) landless households; 12 HHs (17.6%) reside in Chalanxe Village, 22 HHs (12.9%) live in Tanpiew and 11 HHs (8.4%) in Donphaiban Villages, respectively (Refer Table19). Some of these households do not own land they are tilling and are still sharing their parent’s lands for rice and crop cultivation some times. Some of them are employees and Government staffs who have less interest on agricultural production. (ii) Land Use 73. In the subproject villages, there are 905 ha lowland paddy areas planted wet season rice regularly by 324HHs; and of which 61.62 ha practice irrigated dry season rice farming through the existing Cha-Lan-Xe and Tanpiew irrigation Systems. Since 2008, Donphaiban villagers ( 23HHs) have been sharing around 11 ha of Chalanxe Village dry season irrigated area for dry season rice planting. Cassava is one important cash crop planted in and outside the villages. During the year 2016, cassava has been planted inside the territory of the Subproject Village around 48.55 ha by 32 HHs and while outside of these villages, around 13.90 ha by 5HHs. There are two plots of land: one in Chalanxe (3ha) and one in Tanpiew (0.5ha); and 3 HHs have fishponds with the area 1.84 ha. 74. The land use in the subproject area is predominantly irrigated and rain fed lowland rice agriculture although forest areas records mainly along drainage further to the northern side of the subproject. (iii) Quality of Life 75. Wealth ranking as an indicator of poverty status used 1-poor, 2-medium and 3-rich10. All households (100%) in Chalanxe Village are classified as moderate status; while 88 HHs (52%); and 82 HHs (48%) in Tanpiew Village are ranked as moderate and better off; and 33 HHs (25%) and 98 HHs (75%) in Donphaiban are ranked as moderate and better off

9 Many villagers confirmed that the labor aged family members are working in Thailand 1- 2 persons/household and can make money 10,000 – 20,000 THB/month. This can solve the immediate financial problems of villagers, but can also reduce the number of young people following vocational education 10 Wealth ranking the Poverty Status: "1" - Poor; "2" - Medium; and "3" – Rich: have been agreed with the village authority (based on village categorization during the survey) and applied: "1" - Poor household income is below 2001 poverty line income of 85,000 kips/month/person.; and "2" – Medium household income are within 2005-2009 poverty line income of 85,000 to 180,000 kips per month per person); and "3" - Rich, income is above 180,000 kips per month per person.

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination households respectively. 63.5% (40 HHs) and 36.5% (23HHs) of female headed households are classified as moderate and better off respectively. 76. In Chan Lan Xe Subproject villages, there are 1,024 people (62%) of the total population that graduated from different education levels. The majority (64%) have primary education, 21% have secondary education, while 4% and 11% have completed vocational courses and university degrees. The population has good access to education because the villages are located not very far from the Town Centre and the villagers have good understanding for the benefit from education. Likewise, villagers have suitable household income that can support their children’s basic and vocational education. 77. The community is well endowed with household assets with: 2 HHs one in Tanpiew and other one in Donphaiban have two 4-wheeled tractors (1 for each HH); while one Combine harvester held by 1 HH of Tanpiew Village. There are 266 HHs (72%) with 2-wheeled hand tractors (268 units) for their own farm use, 9 HHs (2.4%) have 9 rice threshing machines; 5 HHs (1.4%) have 5 rice mills; 22 households have 22 trucks. There are 8 pickups used for accessing to the town; 469 motorbikes owned by 319 HHs (86.4%), 20 HHs (5.4%) have 20 boats; 32 HHs (8.7%) have 32 Washing machine; 301 HHs (81.6%) have 303 refrigerators; 338 households (91.6%) have 352 colored televisions; 341 HHs have 554 fans; 347 households (94%) have more than 610 mobile phones; and 342 HHs (93%) have 331 pour flush toilets. 78. Water supply is from a number of sources. 72% (265HHs) of households in three Subproject Villages drink bottled water produced and delivered by the factories located in Khongxedon Town; while the 28% (104HHs) drink boiled water (tea or traditional medicinal herbs) among them 7% (24%) use water from piping system; ( 9% (34HHs) used water from artesian boreholes and 12% (46HHs) from the open well. 79. The village has good education facilities in the immediate area although poor maintenance of the access road makes travel difficult. There are i the primary schools in each village. There is a lower secondary school (class1-3) at Tanpiew Village for all children of the villages of Kumban Tanpiew. The upper secondary school children have to share the upper secondary school (class 4-7) in the Salavan–Danang11 Friendship Secondary School of Kongsedone District located in Khongnakhone Village (8-10km from their villages). Higher education facilities such as technical and vocational colleges and universities are in Kaysone Phomvihane (Savannakhet Province), about 200 Km away and in Pakse (Champasak Province), about 50Km away from Khongxedon District. 4.1.8 Unexploded Ordnance (UXO)

80. Salavan province (in particular the eastern part) is among the highest contaminated area by UXO (Unexploded Ordnance) because large number of fighting happened in the past war. In 1996 present, over 730 villages (47%) were reported as polluted area by UXOs. Proposed irrigation schemes in Salavan City are located on the polluted area, while Vapi and Khongxedon Districts are located in western part of the province, which is less contaminated as compared to the eastern part. 81. Data on UXO from Salavan Labour and Social Welfare Department confirmed that the proposed subproject area has a low risk of UXO based on national data base of the UXO from IMSMA program (see Annex 6.8). However, the Department recommended to the Contractor to be self-conscious and if any UXO is found during the construction this incident must be reported to them immediately.

11 Salavan - Da Nang Friendship Secondary School is the main District Secondary School of Khongxedon District of Salavan Province which have sponsorship from Da Nang Provincial Authority (Vietnam) for the construction of some school buildings.

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Figure A6.14: US bombing data map during Second Indo-China War (1964-1973)

Source: NRA for UXO/Mine Action Sector Lao PDR (http://www.nra.gov.la/uxomap.html)

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

5 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

5.1 Assessment method 82. Potential impacts have been assessed by means of site visits, discussions with local authorities and beneficiaries and the use of secondary sources of information including similar projects elsewhere. This section summarizes the potential environmental impacts and required mitigation, which are incorporated into the Environmental Management Plan. 83. An Environmental Impact Matrix for the Project was developed based on current environmental laws and legislation including, without limitation, the Rules and Regulations of Lao PDR relating to: air, noise, water supply, land/soil, waste water, solid waste, land use, biodiversity, cultural, health, education, safety resettlement, income, ethnic groups, unexploded ordinance (UXO), and climate. The summary matrices, before and after mitigation, for Chan Lan Xe subproject are shown in Table A6.10: Summary Matrix of Environmental Impacts and Table A6.11: Summary Matrix of Environmental Impacts after Mitigation below. The scoring indicated in the matrix reflects the impact scale of each activity during the three phases of subproject development pre-construction, construction and operation. Negative impact is shown in yellow, orange and red while positive impact is shown from light to dark green. The scale of the impact of each type (negative or positive) are classified by a score 0, ±5 and ±10; a score of 5-minor impact and 10-significant impact. 84. The severity of impacts and effectiveness of mitigation measures ranking developed is detailed in Annex 6.3 (Details of Impact Assessment and Summary of Mitigation Measures). Details of mitigation, responsibilities of the contractor(s) and guidance on environmental monitoring are included in Annex 6.4 (Environmental and Social Clauses for Civil Works Contract), Annex 6.5 (Environmental and Social Monitoring Process) and Annex 6.6 Climate Change Check List, respectively.

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Table A6.6:Environmental Management Plan Summary

Potential Environmental Responsibility f or Mitigation measure(s) Cost Allocation Impact Implementation Pre-Construction Stage Construction Contractor Safety Hazards to workers and Preparation of plans by the Contractor, including the Contractors Environmental Cost local people, and effects of Management Plan, Health and Safety Plan, Hydrocarbons and Hazardous Waste temporary worker populations Management Plan, a Camp Management Plan and Work Plan. Allocating in the area responsibilities for safety, health and welfare to senior staff; preparation of plans for first aid and emergency procedures; preparation of plans for satisfactory accommodation of workers, and of information and instruction to be disseminated to workers regarding risks of communicable diseases. The appointment of a full-time Environmental Safeguards officer. RF budget NPMO / Effects on homes and property Completion of land acquisition and compensation tasks as detailed in the Resettlement Consultants Framework for the sector project

Design task PAFO / PPMO / Effects of the construction of a Selection of the alignment of the access track to minimize extent of earthworks (negligible DCO temporary vehicle access necessary; securing of agreements with affected landowners cost) track

Emphasis on bioengineering approach and only where necessary appropriate civil works Design task NPMO/LIC/EDC-2 River bank stabilization in the conceptual engineering design and detailed design (negligible cost)

Canal distribution network lined throughout – main canal to field canals – reducing seepage Design task NPMO/LIC/EDC-2 Drought loses. Gated control structures and water measurement weirs in the distribution system to (negligible cost) enhance control over irrigation water distribution. Crop diversification away from paddy to reduce crop water demand. Impacts from Construction Note: Most Construction Issues would be covered in the CEMP and Contract clauses (see Annex 6.4)

The contractor’s machinery and staff would not encroach within former temple area (Hor Construction Contractor Impacts on cultural/sacred site Ban) of the village. No excavation would be carried out in the said area around the site. Cost of Chan Lan Xe The contractor will mark-off an exclusion zone.

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Potential Environmental Responsibility f or Mitigation measure(s) Cost Allocation Impact Implementation Impact on biodiversity of the (i) Contractor’s staffs are strictly not allowed to do hunting or fishing in the marsh; marsh (ii) Throwing of garbage and other wastes into the marsh will be strictly prohibited. Construction Contractor Cost

Head Works at Pump Station The working footprint on the river embankment for rising main and associated structures Construction Contractor should be minimized. Outside the footprint natural vegetation should not be impacted. cost Reinstate any damaged areas upon completion of construction.

Construction Contractor Effects associated with the (i) re-use of excavated material to the extent practicable, (ii) obtaining materials from Cost extraction of materials licensed quarries and (iii) forming appropriate agreements with landowners for borrow sites, and landscaping works to used borrow sites, in accordance with the agreements made with landowners. Construction Contractor Release of silt (i) Adequate supervision of the works, (confining excavation works to the dry months, (iii) Cost discretionary use of silt traps where warranted and (iv) careful placing of excavated material Construction Contractor Temporary closure of the Use of temporary diversions using pipes and pumps where necessary; involvement of Cost irrigation system scheme users in planning of the works Construction Contractor Dust generation Wetting of excavation sites and stockpiled material during dry and windy weather, when Cost within 500m of an occupied dwelling

Construction noise Contractors will not be permitted to work between the hours of 19:00 and 06:00 within Construction Contractor 500m of populated areas, or near schools, clinics and hospitals. Vehicles are to be well Cost maintained with adequate mufflers to minimize noise generation. Construction Contractor Use of land for storage and as Compensation to landowners according to the LARP and restoration of land to former Cost works depots condition or better, according to agreements formed with landowners Construction Contractor Effects of construction of (i) careful supervision of earthworks to ensure minimal damage to farmland and Cost temporary vehicle access vegetation, (ii) reuse of surplus spoil, distribution to users in or near the Project area, or track disposal at a site approved by the PAFO / PPMO, (iii) restoration of areas temporarily affected damaged during construction.

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Potential Environmental Responsibility f or Mitigation measure(s) Cost Allocation Impact Implementation Construction Contractor Effects of temporary worker (i) consultation with local people on acceptable areas for siting of facilities, (ii) provision of Cost populations clean and potable water supply and installation of suitable toilets such as pit latrines and grey water drainage facilities such as soakage pits (iii) arrangements for collection of solid waste, (iv) briefing of workers and awareness raising of the local population on dangers of communicable diseases and viruses, including COVID19, and (v) assignment of responsibility for worker and local peoples’ welfare to a senior member of the Contractor’s staff.

Construction Contractor Safety hazards to workers and Allocation of responsibility for site safety to the Contractor’s site supervisors staff, who Cost local people will ensure that all reasonable safety measures, such as use of safety clothing and equipment and placing of hazard warnings are implemented. The contractor will prepare a Camp Management Plan and Health and Safety Plan that includes education of workers and local people on HIV and other STDs, malaria control at work sites and camps, and communicable disease and COVID19 prevention protocols at the workplace.

Covid-19 and other infectious It is a duty of the Contractor to provide a prevention measures for their works in order to Construction Contractor diseases prevention measures prevent any pandemic of the COVID-19 and other infectious diseases in the construction Cost site. Following measures have to be strictly complied throughout the construction period: (1) Keep premises clean and provide garbage bins with cover (2) Minimize number of face-to-face meetings and gatherings, as practicable and ensure that these meetings do not have more than 10 people (3) Practice social distancing of at least 1 meter. (4) Make wearing mask as compulsory for all staffs and workers (5) Regularly monitor workers’ temperature before starting daily work. Any workers found to have flu-like symptoms/high temperature than 37.3ºC, have to be taken to a hospital for observation or ordered to do self-quarantine for 14days to monitor the symptom. (6) Provide soap/hand sanitizing points in the construction camp/sub-camp. (7) Carry out awareness campaign on CoVID-19 prevention to all staffs and workers prior to commencement of the construction work after being awarded the Contract.

Impacts from Operation Included in Contractor / PAFO Erosion and scouring Grass planting on embankment slopes as a bioengineering measure. project design

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Potential Environmental Responsibility f or Mitigation measure(s) Cost Allocation Impact Implementation Included in WUG / PAFO Obstruction of water flows in Support to water user groups so that users discourage or prevent any placing of material project the canals from sediment or or solid waste in the canals. Cleaning of canals during annual maintenance. design/O&M other deposits cost WUG Negligible cost PONRE/WUG Extraction of water during the Monitoring of river flows and extraction levels, ensuring that an adequate riparian flow is normal dry season maintained. monitoring O&M cost WUG Competition for use of Reliable collection of information on water levels in the reservoir and canal system, to irrigation water and with other enable sound planning of further water use development plans water uses O&M cost WUG/PAFO Collapse of canals Routine and periodic maintenance, according to a well-designed and adequately resourced maintenance program Training cost WUG/PAFO Excessive use of pesticides and PAFO and DAFO will continue agricultural extension training on correct use of use of inappropriate pesticides appropriate agrichemicals and Integrated Pest Management, correct use and and other agrichemicals storage of fertilizer and pesticides, and on the proper disposal of spent/empty containers.

O&M / training WUG/DAFO Leaching of nutrients Promotion of sustainable irrigated agriculture and soil management methods cost Operation & WUG/PAFO Occurrence of water related (i) promoting improved operation and maintenance of the irrigation scheme and road Maintenance diseases through water user groups (ii) raising awareness on hazards posed by poor sanitation, costs water logging and use of untreated irrigation water for drinking. O&M Training NPMO Risks of increasing Provide warning signs and fencing on canals to keep people and animals away. cost accidents such as Carry out training and awareness raising for community on dangers of the canals. drowning of children or Awareness-raising among roadside and road user populations on road traffic hazards animals in canals and and their avoidance. increased vehicular accidents

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Potential Environmental Responsibility f or Mitigation measure(s) Cost Allocation Impact Implementation Conflicts arising from A River Basin Management Plan is under preparation by the Department of Water Arbitration PAFO competition or complaints Resources. Water allocation would be based on data provided in this plan. Resolution costs from downstream water of conflict over water use would be through inter-provincial negotiations. user’s due to the Project’s abstraction of too much water

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Table A6.7:Summary Matrix of Environmental Impacts

Activities and Project Impacts Table Chan Lan Xe Irrigation Project

Output/Activity

Air

UXO

Noise

Safety

Health Ethnic

Impact

Climate

Income

Cultural

Average Average

Land Use Land

Minorities

Education

Land/soils

Solid Waste Solid Biodiversity

Total ImpactTotal

WaterSupply Waste-Water Resettlement

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact Average total Impact 5 Pre-Construction -0.86 0 No significant impact Construction -3.83 -5 Operation -0.47 -10 Very negative impact

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Table A6.8:Summary Matrix of Environmental Impacts After Mitigation

Activities and Project Impacts Table - With Anticipated Mitigation Measures Chan Lan Xe Irrigation Project

Output/Activity

Air

UXO

Noise

Safety

Health

Ethnic

Impact

Climate

Income

Cultural

Average Average

Land Use Land

Minorities

Education

Land/soils

Biodiversity

Solid Waste Solid

Total ImpactTotal

WaterSupply Waste-Water Resettlement

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact Average total Impact 5 Pre-Construction 0.31 0 No significant impact Construction 0.23 -5 Operation 0.78 -10 Very negative impact

A6-45 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

5.2 Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Related to Location and Design 85. Negative environmental impacts related to location and design are anticipated in land/soils, land acquisition and resettlement, and climate. The negative impacts in land/soils and resettlement can be mitigated with careful design and proper implementation of the land acquisition and compensation plan. 86. Climate change models project an increase in the frequency and severity of flood and drought. The subproject was reported as vulnerable to flooding especially in 2011 when there was a severe flooding with flood water level of about 1.5m high, Annex 6.1 (Disclosure, Consultation and Participation). This has been addressed in the Detailed Engineering Design (Feasibility Study Annex 2 Concept Engineering Design) and is discussed below in section 6.6 (Climate Change). The continuity of natural drainage would be maintained and enhanced through construction of cross-drainage structures. This would reduce the period of inundation of paddy land during flood and the risk of flood damage to crops. In part, the impact of drought would be mitigated through a reduction in water demand by lining canals throughout the distribution network thus reducing seepage losses. Further, crop diversification would be introduced to reduce crop water requirements, paddy has a high crop water requirement.. 87. Construction of irrigation canals/irrigation service roads would result in the removal of topsoil and other material containing vegetative matter that is not suitable for re-use on the road but can be utilized locally for house construction and other common community uses within or near the village. Villagers confirm there is a substantial demand for this material. 88. Environmental negative impacts related to location and design are anticipated in land/soils, resettlement, and climate. The negative impacts in land/soils and resettlement can be mitigated with careful design and proper implementation of resettlement plan. 89. A minor local increase in greenhouse gas emissions (methane and nitrous oxide) can be expected from increased paddy rice cultivation in the area. The literature suggests this can in part be mitigated by changes in agricultural practices.

5.3 Environmental Management Plan 90. A summary of the subproject Environmental Management Plan is shown in Table A6.9: Environmental Management Plan Summary, above, and the plan is detailed in Annex 6.2. The Plan is sub-divided into the three main stages of subproject implementation: pre- construction; construction; and operation. The table shows the potential environmental impacts, mitigation measures, and cost allocation and responsibility for implementation.

5.4 Environmental Impacts Related to Pre-Construction. 91. Contractors’ mobilization would include appointment of health and safety staff, the Environmental Safeguards Officer and liaison officer to consult and work with the impacted communities. 92. The contractors Environmental Safeguards Officer would be mobilized within 14-days of the contractor receiving the Notice to Proceed from the NPC after the officer’s CV had been presented and accepted by the LIC. 93. The contractor would prepare a contractors site-specific Environmental Management Plan, within 30-days of the Notice to Proceed, that would include six sub-plans: a health and safety plan; a hydrocarbon and hazardous waste management plan; camp management plan; erosion and sediment plan; a quarry and borrow pit plan; and a waste management plan these along with other requirements detailed in Annex 6.4 (Environmental and Social Clauses for Civil Works Contracts). The contractors’ staff would be trained in Health and Safety requirements and procedures including the risks of communicable diseases. The siting of labor camps and storage areas would be agreed with landowners, either farmers or the local authorities, and rental agreements for the land use drawn up and signed. Copies of the rental

A6-46 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination agreements must be provided to the NPMO through the PPMO. On completion of the construction works the land used for camps and/or storage must be returned to their original condition. 94. Completion and acceptance, after ADB review, of the pre-construction requirements is a pre-requisite to the start of construction. 95. The contractors Environmental Safeguards Officer, a full-time appointment, would be appointed within 14-days of the issuance of the Notice to Proceed. The officer’s CV would be included in the Bid documents for LIC review and acceptance. 96. The detailed engineering report provides a list of the affected land holders and the associated affected areas (see Annex 6.8). The subproject is having an LACP prepared for ADB approval. The Land Acquisition and Compensation Plan would be revised and submitted to ADB for approval before the disbursement of compensation is carried out. Disbursement of compensation (mitigation) must be completed, report and approved by ADB before civil works construction can be started. Reporting is through the Land Acquisition and Compensation Report. 97. Access to construction sites might require the contractor’s machinery travelling across agricultural land. Repeated passes of machinery across the same land would result in soil compaction and damage to the soil structure. The alignment of access tracks to construction sites would be agreed with landowners before the start of construction and land would be restored after completion of construction. 98. Construction footprint has to be clearly marked especially RoW where the access road construction would be carried out near Hor Ban (village sacred site) of Chan Lan Xe and the Mahesack forest to minimize impact on the these areas.

5.5 Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Related to Construction 99. Environmental negative impacts related to construction would be temporary, and can in most cases be mitigated before and during the construction period. The impacts, mitigation, responsibility and budget source are presented in Table A6.9: Environmental Management Plan Summary. Mitigation measures are listed in Environmental Management Plan Annex A6.2 Details of the Impact Assessment and Summary of Mitigation Measures). Detailed responsibilities and contract clauses for the contractors are found in Annex A6.4 (Environmental and Social Clauses for Civil Works Contract). 100. The head works is a pontoon mounted pump station with twin rising mains and a RC service stairway down the river bank to the pump station. The main potential adverse impact would be excessive clearing of established embankment vegetation during construction. Mitigation at the pre-construction phase in subproject detailed design would concentrate on bioengineering techniques and strict limitation of site clearance. During excavation for construction of the rising main and access stairway on the river embankment a silt fence would be constructed at the base of the slope to protect river water quality from sediment in storm water run-off. Appropriate design and maintenance of the silt fence is critical for it to be effective. 101. Excavation work associated with irrigation service roads upgrading, the preparation of canals for the installation of lining, and borrows areas would result in the movement and deposition of silt away from the source, except when works are carried out during dry conditions. However, if the works are well supervised and timing of works is controlled, quantities would be small, and would either be carried away by the irrigation water when the scheme is completed, or would settle on roads, paths and fields where it would not cause a problem. The use of silt fences may be required at spoil disposal and borrow sites if there is a risk of moderate erosion as a result of surface water flows into water bodies. Each borrow or disposal site must be addressed individually to determine whether silt fences or other mitigation works are required. Silt fences would generally not be necessary for canal lining

A6-47 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination operations but careful placement of excavated material would be essential in order to reduce the likelihood of sediment movement into adjoining agricultural land. It is essential that borrow pits are left safe and sanitary. Steep sided borrow pits are prone to collapse causing erosion into the surrounding area while ponded water in burrow pits presents an ideal breeding ground for mosquito’s a dangerous disease vector. 102. Mitigation of any risks of sediment runoff would be achieved by (i) the contractors site supervisor staff being on site for all excavation work, (ii) confining excavation operations to the dry season, (iii) use of silt traps where warranted, according to instructions from the construction supervisors and supervising agency and (iv) disposal of spoil from excavation works at sites approved by the construction supervising agency. Surplus spoil should be used as fill, for example backfilling of culvert walls, wherever possible. 103. Construction operations occurring during the irrigation season may involve the temporary closure of the existing irrigation systems. This may have significant impact on the crop and livestock production and on local livelihoods for those currently having access to irrigation so it is critical that user communities be involved in scheme planning and construction scheduling. Ensuring that local farmers are aware of the construction schedule would further mitigate the effects of temporary closure. These impacts are addressed in the Land Acquisition and Compensation Plan (Annex 7). 104. Excavation works would result in localized concentrations of airborne particulate matter, which may pose a significant dust nuisance where it occurs in proximity to villages, schools, dwellings or farmers working in their fields. Where excavation operations carried out during dry and windy conditions are within 50m of susceptible locations as noted above excavated sites would be sprayed with water to control dust release. The operation of construction equipment is not expected to cause a significant increase in air pollution, as most construction tasks are likely to involve hand labor. Only light equipment such as cement mixers and water pumps are likely to be used. Operating equipment would cause localized air pollution through exhaust fumes, particularly exhaust gases from diesel engines, although it would not be expected to persist but rather disperse fairly quickly. Although minimum emission standards are available in the Agreement on the National Environmental Standards12 there are limited testing facilities in Lao PDR to monitor compliance. Consequently, good maintenance of equipment is essential. Truck idling for over 15-minutes would not be allowed in populated areas. 105. Similarly, as most construction would involve hand labor or small equipment, noise nuisance is not expected to be significant. However, contractors would not be permitted to work between the hours of 21:00 and 06:00 within 500m of populated areas, or near clinics or hospitals. 106. For temporary use of land, owners would receive compensation in the form of rents payable during the scheme construction period, and land would be re-instated in accordance with the Resettlement Framework and the Project’s Resettlement Plan. The contractor is to protect sensitive urban, agricultural and natural areas during construction. 107. While the Contractor would be encouraged to engage local people for the works, some skilled workers and possibly supplementary labor would need to be brought to the site from elsewhere in Lao PDR or from outside the country. These workers are likely to be accommodated in buildings rented by the Contractor, though temporary accommodation may also be built. Interactions with local residents can potentially lead to the spread of communicable diseases, or conflict. Temporary toilet facilities can release raw sewage. These potential effects can be avoided or mitigated by: (i) consultation with local people on acceptable areas for the siting of facilities; (ii) installation of suitable toilets such as pit latrines and grey water drainage facilities such as soakage pits; (iii) arrangements for collection of

12 Agreement on the National Environmental Standards Prime Minister’s Office Water Resources and Environment Administration No2734 /PMO.WREA Vientiane Province, dated 7 Dec 2009

A6-48 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination solid waste; (iv) briefing of workers and awareness raising of the local population on dangers of communicable diseases; and (v) assignment of responsibility for worker and local peoples’ health and safety to a senior member of the Contractor’s staff. The Contractor would have, and implement, an appropriate Contractor’s Environmental Management Plan (CEMP), a Health and Safety Plan, a Hydrocarbon and Hazardous Waste Management Plan and a Camp Management Plan, approved by the EDC-2 construction supervision engineer and the LIC Environmental specialist. The contractors’ resident Environmental Safeguards Officer would be responsible for the contractors’ compliance. The contents of the CEMP and the Contractors’ responsibilities with respect to environmental and social issues are specified in Annex A6.4 (Environmental and Social Clauses for Civil Works Contracts). 108. Some construction activities, including excavations and use of plant and the use and handling of fuels or other hazardous materials, would pose a small safety risk to workers and to local people. These would be mitigated by the allocation of responsibility for site safety to the Contractor’s site supervisory staff who would ensure that all reasonable safety measures are taken, such as use of safety clothing and personal protective equipment and placing of hazard warnings and fencing, where appropriate. The Contractor would have an appropriate Health and Safety Plan (part of the CEMP) to address these issues, approved by the NPMO. 109. The incidence of waterborne diseases in local communities is significant. Risks would come both from waterborne pathogens, and from any increase in ponding that may result from inappropriate disposal of waste water in camps and on the construction site. Standing water provides a habitat for insect vectors of disease. These risks can be mitigated by (i) promoting improved sanitation in contractors’ camps with appropriate drainage of waste water (ii) raising awareness, during training of staff on health and safety; and (iii) contractors ensuring that borrow pits, not used for fish culture, are left in a stable condition with drainage to ensure water does not pond in the pits during the wet season. 110. Hydrocarbons from oil spillage and other hazardous materials may also cause soil contamination or pollution of waterways. These risks can be mitigated by having a clearly defined and lined storage site at least 20m from any watercourse that is surrounded by a compacted earth bund of a suitable size such that it is able to contain the total volume of fluids stored within. The use of commercial fuel providers operating in the area is another option for the management and storage of these materials on the construction site. All waste hydrocarbons, including fuel and oil filters, would be deposited in sealed containers and removed from the site for recycling or safe disposal as appropriate. 111. The incidence of waterborne diseases in local communities is significant. Risks would come both from waterborne pathogens, and from any increase in ponding that may result from inappropriate disposal of waste water in camps and on the construction site. Standing water provides a habitat for insect vectors of disease. These risks can be mitigated by: promoting improved sanitation in contractors’ camps with appropriate drainage of waste water; raising awareness, during training of staff on health and safety; and contractors ensuring that borrow pits, not used for fish culture, are left in a stable condition with drainage to ensure water does not pond in the pits during the wet season. These aspects would be detailed in the contractors Camp Management subplan, Quarry and Borrow Pit Management sub-plan. 112. There is a low risk of UXO being found in the area as confirmed from the Department of Salavan Labour and Social Welfare, Salavan Province. However, the Contractor should be self-conscious and if any UXO is found during the construction this incident must be reported to them immediately.

5.6 Environmental Impacts Related to Operation 113. Agriculture practiced by beneficiary farmers would intensify and this would bring significant long term benefit to users. Users who are not currently obtaining irrigation water would resume irrigated agriculture. The potential for increased use of pesticides would be addressed by the subproject agricultural development plan, Feasibility Study Annex 3

A6-49 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

(Present Agriculture and Agricultural Development Plan) that includes training in Integrated Pest Management. Training of PPMO/DCO staff from both provinces and all twelve districts involved in the Project was carried out by the LIC Agronomist in February 2019. Subsequently at subproject level a pilot training program for farmers would be carried out at the three (3) Phase I subprojects. The training would be given by PPMO/DCO agriculture staff mentored by the LIC Agronomist. The agricultural staff from PPMO/DCO would conduct the training at subproject level in Phase II and Phase III subprojects. Advice to farmers, including emphatic discouragement of the use of persistent pesticides would continue through DAFO. 114. Water quality monitoring would be continued on a quarterly basis with the PPMO sending water samples to the NPMO for analysis at the Department of Irrigation (DOI), Vientiane Capital. 115. Although historically the introduction and rehabilitation of irrigation systems has led to encroachment on forest and wetland the occurrences have generally occurred where canals transverse forested or wetland areas. This is unlikely in Chan Lan Xe as there is little non- agricultural land adjacent to the irrigated area that is in command area for the rehabilitated canals and there is no wetland that would be affected. 116. The rehabilitation of the irrigation scheme would increase the irrigated area of paddy fields that are seasonally inhabited by fish, mollusks, crustaceans and aquatic insects. The subproject would improve the seasonal aquatic ecosystem in the agricultural land. 117. While the intensification of agriculture often leads to greater use of inorganic fertilizers, extension activity in the area, by DAFO, has raised awareness of the risks of excessive use of inorganic fertilizers and provided training on appropriate application rates. Training on crop nutrition (fertilizers and soil fertility) and the production of organic fertilizer was provided by the LIC Agricultural Agronomist in February 2019.The training included a Training of Trainers program for PPMO/DCO staff. Risks associated with the use of inorganic fertilizers such as raising the nutrient status of the water released at the outflow of the system, increasing the chemical oxygen demand of the water, are therefore not considered significant. A water sampling program to tested water quality at the subproject was started on 7th June 2017, see Section 10.2 (Approach to Environmental Monitoring) and would continue throughout the Project lifecycle. 118. The incidence of waterborne diseases in local communities is significant. Irrigation water is used as a supplementary source for domestic purposes like clothes washing and this practice would increase after construction when more water would be flowing through the system. Risks would come both from waterborne pathogens, and from any increase in ponding that may result from wastages, as ponds provide a habitat for insect vectors of disease. These risks can be mitigated by: promoting improved operation and maintenance of the schemes as part of the training and support provided to water user groups so that canal blockages or failures of the canal walls that can result in ponding of water are rapidly repaired; and raising awareness, during training and support to water user groups, on the hazards posed by poor sanitation, water logging and use of untreated irrigation water for drinking or bathing. 119. Competition with other water uses, population growth and increasing incomes would place increasing demands for domestic water supply, as well as for irrigation. At present, the water for domestic use is obtained from a variety of sources including boreholes and artesian wells while some households use bottled water for drinking. Water from the irrigation canals is used for washing clothes, and bathing especially children; and in some cases, drinking and cooking. Also, with increasing population and use of irrigated agriculture, the demand for irrigation water would grow and potentially lead to conflict among users within the scheme and between different schemes with the same source of water. At the subproject level the WUGs are responsible for water allocation plans. There is a water scarcity in the irrigation scheme and historically this has resulted in conflict particularly between users at the head and tail end of the distribution system. However, local beneficiaries said these issues were resolved through discussion within the WUG. The Grievance Redress Mechanism, see chapter 9

A6-50 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination below, would remain in effect throughout the life of the Project and be used to resolve any conflict arising over water use, or other issues. Rehabilitation of the irrigation scheme would improve the efficiency of the distribution system and increase the area under crop production in the dry season from 100 to 180ha. The command area is 654ha so the potential for conflict between water users remains. The WUG would develop a plan for water allocation in the dry season and supplementary irrigation in the wet season in consultation with all members. 120. In common with all irrigation schemes, an increase in soil salinity may occur as a result of the accumulation of salts that are dissolved in the irrigation water and upward transport of salt deposits in lower soil horizons in the case of over-irrigation. These risks are low for the scheme as any salt not taken up by growing plants would be subject to natural flushing by rainwater in the wet season. Over-irrigation is prevented both by the relative shortage of irrigation water towards the edges of the command area, and by water regulation for areas closer to the primary canal. While salt build-up may occur in these areas, risks of widespread soil salinity over irrigated fields are low. 121. Risks of increasing erosion and scour are minimal. Land either side of the canal alignment is gently sloping and not readily prone to erosion. There may be some risk to water flows by the deposition of material excavated for house building or other construction purposes, or from dumping of solid waste into the system. The road alignment follows flat terrain. Some minor erosion may occur on embankments, which is mitigated by inclusion of vegetative protection as a bioengineering measure. 122. Table A6.10 and Table A6.11 above, present a summary of environmental impacts before and after mitigation measures are applied for the Operation phase. Details of the analysis and additional information are found in Annex 6.3 (Details of Impacts and Summary of Mitigation Measures).

5.7 Safety 123. The existing and proposed irrigation improvements can pose safety concerns both to the workers during construction and to the nearby communities during construction and operation. These impacts include: • Potential impacts from work-place accidents to workers and the local community; • Possible increase in vehicular accidents on irrigation service and access roads due to increased speeds; • Potential minor impacts from accidents in the vicinity of head works due to poor control of access to the site and using weirs to cross the canals; and • Possible increase in accidental drownings of children.

124. The Contractor’s mitigation measures during construction as part of their required CEMP Health and Safety Plan would include: • Training and awareness-raising for workers on occupational and community health and safety, including HIV/AIDS; • Provide awareness campaign and education program to local people especially fisherman; • Provision of adequate personal protective equipment to workers; • Adequate signage, lighting, and control of construction sites; • Traffic control measures to ensure public safety; and • Establishment of efficient emergency/contingency plans, adequate facilities and equipment, and trained staff for handling emergencies. 125. During the scheme operation, PAFO would be responsible for:

A6-51 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

• Carrying out training and awareness-raising for community on dangers of the canals and increased traffic speed on the access road; • Adequate signage and fencing to keep people and animals away from stilling basins and other potentially dangerous structures.

5.8 Climate Change 126. There are two considerations in the climate change impact analysis: first, the quantity of greenhouse gases emitted by the subproject, and second, what is the likely impact of climate change on the subproject, and what adaptation mechanisms and resilience are built into the subproject design. 5.8.1 Project’s Emissions of Greenhouse Gases 127. Paddy rice fields are thought to contribute approximately 9-13 percent of the global emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG)13. Methane and nitrous oxide are the dominant GHG emissions largely from flooded paddy fields and the energy needed to pump water. Paddy rice emits, for example, between 3 and 8 times the emissions of wheat.14 128. Numerous studies have provided mechanisms for calculating yearly emission levels of the principal GHG related to paddy rice cultivation, methane (CH4), carbon dioxide (CO2), and nitrous oxide (N2O). For this project, the following factors are used are shown in Table A6.1215: Table A6.9: Factors Used for Calculating Emission Levels of Greenhouse Gases from Paddy Fields

CH4 66 kg/ha

CO2 690 kg/ha

N2O 1.93 kg/ha

129. Global Warming Potential (GWP) is expressed in terms of equivalent levels of CO2 using the following formula:

Global warming potential (GWP) = CO2 emissions + CH4 emissions*21 + N2O emissions*310

130. Error! Reference source not found. Table A6.13 shows the GWP for the subproject. The total GWP for the increase in paddy area of subprojects is approximately 241tons CO2e/year, which is very much less than ADB’s significance threshold value of 100,000 tons 16 CO2e/year, and therefore no further monitoring is required.

13 “Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Options from Rice Field” Sirintornthep Towprayoon, The Joint Graduate School of Energy and Environment, King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi Bangmod, Bangkok, Thailand 10140 14 “Greenhouse gas emissions from rice”, RGTW Working Paper Number 3, 2013, Alfred Gathorne- Hardy 15 “Initial Environmental Examination, Cambodia: Uplands Irrigation and Water Resources Management Sector Project” prepared for ADB, July 2015 16 Projects emitting more than the threshold are required to carry out an annual quantification of GHG emissions in accordance with internationally recognized methodologies, and evaluate technically and financially feasible and cost-effective options to reduce or offset project-related greenhouse gas emissions during project design and operation, and pursue appropriate options (SPS, 2009).

A6-52 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Table A6.10: GWP for Chan Lan Xe Subprojects

CH GWP Increase in Rice 4 CO emissions N O emissions emissions 2 2 (tons/year Paddy area (ha) (kg/year) (kg/year) (kg/year) CO2e) 317.47 20,953 219,054 613 241

131. Encouraging farmers to grow other crops that produce less GHG may help reduce GHG emissions, but rice agriculture would predominate and is one of the major purposes of this subproject. Many different mechanisms for controlling methane emissions have been proposed, including varietal choice and fertilizer use, but water management and modifying quantities of organic amendment are the most important according to the available literature.17 The Project is proposing to introduce recommended water management practices that have been demonstrated to reduce GHG emissions in paddy production. Training on climate- friendly agricultural methods are built into the Project's overall capacity-building program which includes appropriate study tours. 5.8.2 Impact of Climate Change and Project Adaptation Measures 132. Lao PDR is among the most vulnerable locations with respect to climate change. Increases in temperature and precipitation are forecast for the next 20-30 years by most of the climate models. The Mekong River Commission estimates that the most likely effects of climate change in the region would include18: • Basin-wide temperature increase of 0.79°C, with greater increases in colder catchment areas in the north • Annual precipitation increase of 200 mm (a 13.5% rise) • Increase in dry-season precipitation in northern catchments and decrease in southern catchments • Total annual runoff increase of 21% • Increase in flooding in all parts of the Basin with the greatest impact on downstream catchments of the Mekong River • Climate change is expected to affect natural ecosystems and agriculture throughout the Mekong River Basin, thereby exacerbating the challenges of meeting the increasing demand for resources from growing populations.” 133. Based on these and other potential impacts Table A6.14, below, shows adaptation measures that have been built into the Project and incorporated in the the detailed design and EMP.

17 “Greenhouse gas emissions from rice”, RGTW Working Paper Number 3, 2013, Alfred Gathorne- Hardy 18 http://www.mrcmekong.org/mekong-basin/climate/

A6-53 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Table A6.11: Project Climate Change Adaptation Measures

Climate Change Effect Project Measure

Likely temperature increase of up Project capacity building and linkage with research institutes to 1°C (Lao-IRRI) to include adaptation measures to enable the rice plant to perform optimally under adverse climatic conditions through suitable cultural and genetic strategies.19 20 Improved varieties tolerant to higher and low temperatures would be introduced as they are released by the research institutes. Training of farmers would also include mitigation measures to reduce GHG emissions, such as cultivating crops other than rice that may emit less GHG, and employing better water management for rice.

Likely increases in annual Project implementation to include careful monitoring of water precipitation sources to strive for optimal use of the resource. Engineering design to maintain and enhance drainage continuity and cross-draining in the subproject irrigation scheme and access roads to reduce the impact of flooding on crops and infrastructure.

Increases in flooding Flooding was already reported as a problem in the subproject area. An increased intensity of storms could result in more localized flooding and increased erosive run-off. The subproject design includes mitigate for potential impact of flooding:

• Lining of main and secondary canals with concrete to reduce damage during periodic inundations; • Paving the subproject access roads with concrete and paving parts of the service roads where potential flood damage (or dust) makes this necessary; • Maintaining and improving drainage continuity and cross drainage; and • Providing bioengineering and rip-rap protection on the earth dam embankments, and providing sodded dirt backfill for concrete canals to reduce flood damage.

Increases in occurrences and The Project is designed to help farmers in the area during severity of droughts droughts by providing irrigation water during the dry season and supplementary water if necessary, during the wet season. Water allocation among users at the subproject level would be the responsibility of the WUG.

Improved varieties tolerant to crop submergence during flood would be introduced as they are released by the research institutes.

19 http://www.esciencecentral.org/journals/strategies-for-boosting-rice-yield-in-the-face-of-climate- change-in-india-jrr.1000105.php?aid=18969 20 Rice in Southeast Asia: Facing risks and Vulnerabilities to Respond to Climate Change, Suzanne K. Redfern, Nadine Azzu and Jesie S. Binamira FAO www.fao.org/fileadmin/templates/agphome/.../climate/Rice_Southeast_Asia.pdf

A6-54 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

6 Global, Transboundary and Cumulative Impacts

134. The controlled use of irrigation water and the use of potentially harmful chemicals in pest control are, to some extent, transboundary issues. Risks of the use of harmful substances or excessive use of less harmful substances in irrigated agriculture are heightened by ready availability from neighboring countries. These risks can be reduced by improved information collection on agrichemicals available on the local market, and dissemination on their proper use. The Agricultural Development Plan (Feasibility Study Annex 3) includes training on IPM. 135. A cumulative impact associated with irrigation development is the conversion of forests land through unregulated expansion of the irrigated area. Although this activity is known it is unlikely to be an impact at Chan Lan Xe subproject. There are small areas of forest particularly along the southeastern edge of the command area but these areas are out-of- command from the irrigation distribution canal network. 136. Irrigation schemes always cause some reduction in downstream water flows as a result of water being pumped out of the river. In southern Lao PDR climate change models predict a reduction in dry season rainfall increasing the frequency and severity of drought. Salavan PAFO reported flow in the Xe Don was critically low in 2011 with reaches of the river dry. At some juncture, a forthcoming river basin management plan (BMP) will be available for the river, as demanded by the Integrated Water Resource Management principles, and currently being developed by the Department of Water Resources (DOWR)21. The cumulative impacts of water abstraction from the Xe Don could only then be critically assessed. At present assessment suggests for a small scheme such as this one at Chan Lan Xe, the transboundary impact is minimal but any successful promotion of efficient use of irrigation water will both minimize wastage in the scheme itself and also provide a source of knowledge for adoption by practitioners of irrigated agriculture in the neighboring area. Two main approaches have been taken to increase water use efficiency and hence reduce demand. The distribution canal system is lined throughout reducing seepage losses and crop diversification will be encouraged to grow more water efficient crops. 137. Successful promotion of efficient use of irrigation water would both minimize wastage in the scheme itself, the appropriate use of agrichemicals and within-group capacities for co- operative action would have a potentially cumulative impact in the area, by contributing to a build-up of knowledge and skills among communities who interact with neighboring communities.

7 ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES

138. The Chan Lan Xe scheme is one of a number of candidate subprojects selected for the GMS-EWEC-AISP. Alternative subprojects that meet the agreed selection criteria are mainly irrigation schemes. Other rural infrastructure improvement subprojects could comprise any of a combination of irrigation and access road improvement. The Chan Lan Xe subproject has been identified by the Salavan PAFO and selected through a screening process that included site visits and consultations with principals. 139. The existing irrigation system, including head works, main canal, secondary and tertiary canal network requires rehabilitation to improve efficiency and overcome difficulties with distribution of water due to seepage losses and failed structures. The Xe Don river is the only viable water source for the scheme. While groundwater is used in some towns in Salavan Province, for water supplies, it is generally unreliable in the dry season and there are no indications from geological information that any substantial groundwater reserves exist in the

21 The BMP was not available as of July 2016.

A6-55 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination area. The proposed scheme makes use of existing infrastructure, is relatively simple to construct and inexpensive to operate. 140. The “no project” alternative would, in this case, simply mean the substitution of the Chan Lan Xe subproject with an alternative subproject, likely to be based on a different irrigation scheme within Savannakhet or Salavan provinces.

8 INFORMATION DISCLOSURE, CONSULTATION, AND PARTICIPATION

141. Meetings were held with local stakeholders in Salavan province between February - March 2017. During the kick-off meetings, the project was disclosed to local stakeholders who were informed about the proposed technical/engineering survey work program. Based on the discussion and evaluation reached in the kick-off meetings, a concept engineering design layout was developed and presented at the follow-up meetings. The consultation and information disclosure process entailed village-level interviews through village authority, sample households’ interviews and Focus Group Discussion (FGD). 142. Overall, the AISP consultation and public participation presented the following agenda and information about the proposed subprojects. The presentations were followed by discussions to collect opinions from people who may be affected: • Summary of the proposed works under the subproject; • Summary of subproject objectives and likely positive and negative environmental impacts during the construction and operational phases; • Any areas of concern that they may have during project implementation; and • Acceptability of the proposed works to the public.

143. To improve the impact of the project, it was recommended that: Training and capacity building activities should not be limited to target organizations but have a wide participation level i.e. communication skills would be of benefit to a range of organizations including WUG, village heads and line agencies, Women’s Union; training in accounting is not limited to the WUG but to other individuals and organizations in the village; training in auditing skills should be extended to several community organizations. 144. To avoid past mistakes on irrigation construction, the community (farmers and WUG as a minimum) must be fully involved in construction implementation so that they have a full disclosure and knowledge of technical design, and bidding, and can participate in community supervision and oversight. Labor from participating villages should be engaged wherever possible to provide employment opportunities 145. The participation and concerns or feedback from the local stakeholders during the consultation meetings have been recorded. 146. Follow-up consultation meetings and interviews with villagers were conducted in March 2018 during the DED. The results of these meetings/interviews are presented in Annex 6.1. Information gathered from respondents were used to validate issues and problems in the existing irrigation system, environmental issues, and other community concerns. 147. Further consultations will be conducted to present the IEE to commune officials and the public, district administrations and to PAFO and provincial MONRE in Salavan. Copies of the IEE will be left for review for a period of 30 days. 148. During project construction and operation, communities in and around the Project area will be kept informed of construction activities that are likely to cause noise and dust nuisance, or disruption to irrigation flows or roads and pathways. 149. The overall consensus is that the Project is needed, and people want it to start as soon as possible. Villagers have some experience and different skills from their production

A6-56 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination practice, operation and maintenance of the village road but need more developed and advance technical skills to ensure effectiveness of the operation and maintenance of the both irrigation scheme and access roads.

9 GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM

150. The Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) that has been defined in the Project’s Resettlement Framework and in the EARF will apply for the Chan Lan Xe subproject. The information for APs about entitlements, compensation and supportive mitigation options and grievance mechanisms shall be provided by the Project’s relevant agencies and committees. Environment-related complaints and nuisances by affected persons about the project implementation can be aired through the grievance redress mechanism. Extensive meetings with APs also allow the implementing agencies to identify the needs and preferences of APs pertaining to compensation and rehabilitation assistance and to reduce any negative potential impacts caused by the proposed subproject. 151. In terms of grievance redresses, the villagers have been briefed about rights to grievance and the procedures during feasibility and detailed design stages in case LARC items would become a subproject related issue. This shall be repeated at the start of construction phase. The APs may present their complaints to the concerned local administrative officials and resettlement committees. The complaint can be filed first at the village level and can be elevated to the highest or provincial level if the APs are not satisfied with the decisions made by the village and district levels/committees. APs will be exempted from all taxes, administrative and legal fees associated with their claims and grievance redress. 152. The grievance redress process includes five steps, as illustrated in Table 6.15. Complaints would ideally pass through only four stages before they are elevated to a court of law as a last resort. However, complainants are entitled to lodge complaints regarding any aspect of the preparation and implementation of the resettlement plan or of other project activities without prejudice to their right to file complaints with the court of law at any point in the process. Table A6.12: Project Main Steps of Grievance Mechanisms

Steps, Actions and Levels of Intervention Time ▼ V I L L A G E

1.1 Complainant explains problem/issue verbally.

1.2 In communities existing village mediation committees (VMCs) would be the first

contact for affected persons (APs), or complainants on environmental matters, to address

their concerns. 5 1 1.3 VMC would be responsible for land acquisition and compensation (LAC) issues or the days village would establish a Project related village LAC committee. 1.4 The committee aims at clarifications and solution within its village and with the complainant. 1.5 This mediation aims at a Project internal immediate solution. If the complaint cannot be solved at this stage, the next step is to apply.

▼ S U B – P R O J E C T If not solved before:

2.1 Complainant presents complaint/s or grievance/s verbally or in writing.

2.2 A Project grievance committee (SPGC) would be the second contact for Further complainants to address their concerns. 2 10 2.3 Registration of the complaint by SPGC. days 2.4 In collaboration with VMC and complainant this SPGC would elaborate on the complaint. 2.5 This mediation aims at a Project internal amicable solution. If the complaint cannot be solved at this stage, the next step is to apply.

A6-57 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

▼ D I S T R I C T If not solved before:

3.1 APs would address their complaints to the Grievance Redress Committee (GRC). Further 3 3.2 Involvement of authorities and departments 10 3.3 Collaboration with complainants, SPGC and village committee. days 3.4 This mediation aims at a mutual arrangement to solve the complaint. If the complaint cannot be solved at this stage, the next step is to apply.

▼ P R O V I N C E If not solved before:

4.1 Complainants with or without support from CSO/NGO, but with

assistance from the Project would address their complaints to the

provincial departments and possibly governor’s office. Further 4.2 Shall involve GRC. 4 10 4.3 Can involve independent, external advice on the issues of the complaint. days 4.4 At this level, a formal agreement would be the objective to agree upon. 4.5 Before applying step 5, provincial and district staff should make final efforts to find an agreement with the AP. If the complaint cannot be solved at this stage, the next step is to apply. ▼ C O U N T R Y If not solved before: Open, 5.1 Final step to solve land acquisition, boundary and/or compensation but issue. 5 further 5.2 Court would take note and register the case. 20 5.3 Court to provide final juristic decision. days 5.4 In case of required actions the complainant and/or Project proponent have to follow.

Notes N-1: Concerning step 1 the village should decide about its internal approach and time required N-2: The shown approach is in line with the Technical Guidelines on Compensation and Resettlement of Affected People by Development Project, March 2010. N-3: The shown days per step should be understood as a maximum duration. N-4: The grievance procedures are also applied for environment related complaints.

153. It is recognized that, in many cases, complainants do not have the writing skills or being able to express their grievances verbally, however, complainants are encouraged to seek assistance from the independent monitor, the nominated local NGOs or other family members, village heads or community chiefs to have their grievances recorded in writing and to have access to the project documentation, to ensure that where disputes do occur all the details have been recorded accurately enabling all parties to be treated fairly. 154. The NPMO would be responsible for all administrative costs incurred in the resolution of grievances and complaints within the project-level grievance redress mechanism. If the complainant seeks grievance redress through country-level judicial and administrative mechanisms, the requirements and procedures applicable to the relevant jurisdiction shall apply. All complaints and resolutions would be properly documented by the concerned resettlement committee and be available for the public and review for monitoring purposes. 155. Safeguard monitoring reports would include the following aspects pertaining to progress on grievances: (a) number of cases registered with the Grievance Redress Committee (GRC), level of jurisdiction (first, second, and third tiers), number of hearings held, decisions made, and the status of pending cases; and (b) lists of cases in process and already decided upon may be prepared with details such as name, ID with unique serial number, date of notice,

A6-58 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination date of application, date of hearing, decisions, remarks, actions taken to resolve issues, and status of grievance (i.e. open, closed, pending). ADB’s Accountability Mechanism would also be explained to people from households that would be affected by the project. The AISP website has a link to the mechanism http://www.adb.org/Accountability- Mechanism/default.asp. 156. Local stakeholders were asked whether they were aware of the Grievance Redress Procedures and if there had been any grievances to date. Generally, people are aware of the procedure and there have not been any grievances to date. 157. There have been grievances, often considered by village authorities as minor, that have not been recorded. The need to maintain a record has been stressed but to no avail. It is thought the use of the word grievance or complaint in Lao PDR are seen as negative and there is reluctance of the authorities to record what are thought negative comments about the subproject. The use of the Lao language used in the GRM should be reviewed to enable comments of concern about the subproject to be made and recorded without the inferred negative attitude.

10 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

10.1 Responsibilities for Environmental Management 158. Error! Reference source not found. above summarizes the mitigation measures required for design, construction and operation of the scheme, as well as the cost and responsibility allocation arrangements. Overall responsibility for implementing the Environmental Management Plan rests with PAFO, which during design and construction would be supported by the provincial project management office (PPMO) in Salavan province, and during operation would involve co-operation with the DAFO of Khongxedon district and through DAFO the scheme users. Responsibility for incorporating mitigation into scheme design rests with PAFO, supported by the project implementation consultants who would have appropriate specialists based at the national project management office (NPMO) in Vientiane. 159. In the pre-construction stage fulfilment of the contract conditions relating to the EMP are the responsibility of the NPMO supported by the LIC. 160. To ensure that potential environmental problems are detected and addressed appropriately, place during construction of the subproject. The responsibility for compliance with environmental mitigation measures is with the contractors’ resident Environmental Safeguards officer and the EDC-2 construction supervision team. 161. During scheme operation, responsibility for mitigation rests primarily with the scheme users (WUG), supported by DCO/DAFO while the overall responsibility would be with the PAFO through the PPMO. 162. WUG support would continue for at least ten years during the operation phase. The PAFO and the WUGs would develop agreements whereby the PAFO would be responsible for repairs for catastrophic events and specify the responsibilities of the WUG. The implementation consultant would estimate O&M costs for the schemes and recommend irrigation service fees, as well as the percentages of budgets to be allocated to Government and to the users. The PAFO would be responsible for monitoring the O&M activities of the WUGs. The Loan Implementation Consultant would estimate O&M costs for the schemes and recommend irrigation service fees, as well as the percentages of budget to be allocated to Government and to the WUG. The PAFO would be responsible for monitoring the O&M activities of the WUGs. A similar draft Memorandum of Understanding between the MAF and PAFO has already been produced by the LIC and is under consideration with the Executing Agency (EA). 163. The EMP would form part of the civil works contract documents so that the contractor would incorporate the cost of mitigation into the bid price, including provision of staff and equipment necessary to carry out all mitigation tasks in full. These plans must be approved and

A6-59 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination adhered to throughout construction and would be monitored with the assistance of the staff of the District Coordination Office (DCO) under the supervision of the environmental safeguards officer appointed at the Provincial Project Management Office (PPMO). Being closer to the construction site, the staff of the DCO would be the main point of contact for the PPMO who would delegate responsibility for: (i) assisting with community development initiatives through the associated investments; (ii) coordination of resettlement activities; (iii) coordination of environment management activities; (iv) coordination of all other safeguard and gender activities; (v) monitoring of implementation of the subproject; and (vi) reporting on progress of implementation. 164. The contractor would appoint a resident Environmental Safeguards Officer (ESO) responsible for monitoring civil works implementation and compliance with the site-specific CEMP. The ESO would maintain a daily log covering civil works activities and compliance with the CEMP. The EDC-2 construction supervision engineer would be responsible for checking and reporting on daily maintenance of the log. Copies would be sent to the NPMO, monthly, for review by the Environment officer and LIC. The LIC environmental monitoring specialist would verify the log on a quarterly monitoring site visit. 165. The LIC would monitor CEMP implementation and compliance quarterly and submit a report under separate cover. Non-compliance notices would be issued to the contractor with remedial work to be carried out within an agreed time frame. Follow-up visits would be made to monitor compliance. 166. A more detailed list of mitigation measures that would be taken as part of the EMP is shown at the end of Annex 6.3 (Details of the Impact Assessment and Summary of Mitigation Measures). In the construction phase, Annex 6.4 (Environmental and Social Clauses for Civil Works Contracts) presents all necessary measures on protection of the environment that shall be carried out by the Contractor through the site-specific “Contractor’s Environmental Management Plan” (CEMP), these environmental clauses would be part of the civil works contract.

10.2 Approach to Environmental Monitoring 167. Environmental monitoring would cover (i) compliance monitoring, to ensure that mitigation specified in the EMP is carried out to an adequate standard, (ii) community feedback to obtain views and information on relevant environmental parameters and (iii) water quality testing. Guidance on monitoring procedures and sample checklists are found in Annex 6.4 (Environmental and Social Monitoring Process). 168. Water quality testing is necessary to detect any deterioration of water quality and it is inevitable that some scheme users would use the water in the irrigation system as a supplementary source of domestic water supply, to ensure that it is not dangerous for that purpose. Testing against drinking water quality standards is therefore not warranted. In order to determine the safety of the water, it should be tested for levels of coliform bacteria, chemical and biological oxygen demand. Table A6.13:Parameters, Limits of Values and Recorded Values for Water Quality Testing

Parameters Maximum Value

pH 5.5 - 9

Fecal Coliforms <1,000 per 100 ml

Biological Oxygen Demand (20oC) <25 mg/l

Chemical Oxygen Demand <35 mg/l

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169. Samples would be taken twice, at six-monthly intervals during the twelve months prior to construction, twice a year during construction and at quarterly intervals during operation, and taken to an appropriate laboratory for analysis. For the Chan Lan Xe Subproject it is recommended that sampling take place at the beginning of the irrigation scheme (for example at the beginning point of canal) and at the end (at or near the end of the drainage channel). 170. Semi-annual safeguards monitoring reports are to be submitted to ADB and disclosed at the ADB website. The report should contain the status of implementation of the environmental mitigation measures, monitoring of stream water flows, water quality, and any unanticipated environmental risks and impacts that may arise during implementation of the subproject. Corrective or preventative actions to manage any unanticipated risks are to be reported in the monitoring reports.

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Table A6.14: Environmental Monitoring Plan

Impact to be Monitored Parameters Location Measurements Frequency Responsibility

Design and Pre-construction Phase

Selected sample sites pH; Fecal Coliform; in the command area Collection of Quarterly, Level of pathogens in Biological Oxygen (near the start of the sample and approximately 12 water for irrigation / Demand (20oC) and PPMO scheme, such as the laboratory months prior to domestic use Chemical Oxygen stilling basin, and at analysis construction Demand the end of the scheme drain.

Health and safety and All work sites / PAFO / PPMO Compliance with EMP Compliance Once welfare of workers and the worker /EDC-2/LIC public accommodation

Construction Phase

Changes as perceived To be decided by Participating villages Consultations PAFO / PPMO by irrigation scheme PAFO / PPMO at the users start of the works

Prevention of accumulation Selected sample sites pH; Fecal Coliform; of excessive pathogens in in the command area Collection of Biological Oxygen water for irrigation / (near the start of the sample and Demand (20oC) and Twice yearly PAFO / DAFO domestic use scheme, such as the laboratory Chemical Oxygen stilling basin, and at analysis Demand the end of the scheme drain.

Adequacy of and effectiveness To be decided by of the scheme: quantity of Opinions of users Participating villages Consultations PAFO / PPMO at the PAFO / DAFO water; increases in crop yields; start of the works occurrence of disputes

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Impact to be Monitored Parameters Location Measurements Frequency Responsibility

Implementation of To be decided by Compliance with the EMP construction mitigation All work sites Consultations PAFO / PPMO at the PAFO / DAFO and CEMP measures detailed above start of the works

Operation Phase

Changes as perceived by Participating villages Consultations To be decided by PAFO / PAFO irrigation scheme users PPMO at the start of the works

Prevention of accumulation of Selected sample sites in excessive pathogens in water for pH; Fecal Coliform; the command area (near Biological Oxygen Demand the start of the scheme, irrigation / domestic use Collection of sample Semi-annually (before and (20oC) and Chemical such as the stilling basin, PAFO / WUG / and laboratory at the end of irrigation Oxygen Demand and at the end of the WUA analysis season) scheme drain.

To be decided by PAFO /

Opinions of users Participating villages Consultations PPMO at the start of the WUG / WUA works Adequacy of and effectiveness of the scheme: quantity of water; increases in crop yields; Presence of water ponding PAFO / DAFO / Throughout the scheme Observations Monthly occurrence of disputes from leaks or canal WUG collapses

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11 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

171. The IEE process has found that the subproject would not cause significant negative environmental impacts if mitigation is implemented effectively. 172. The proposed subproject would provide a significant positive impact to the area, in particular enhancing agricultural production as well as contributing to flood and drought mitigation throughout the irrigation system. The expansion of the command area would increase the irrigated area of paddy fields that are seasonally inhabited by fish, mollusks, crustaceans and aquatic insects that provide a source of varied nutrient to local beneficiaries and increase the biodiversity. The subproject would improve the seasonal aquatic ecosystem in the agricultural land. 173. Potential negative impacts relate mainly to the construction phase and can be managed and brought to acceptable levels through the implementation of the Contractors site- specific Environmental Management Plan. 174. The subproject was reported vulnerable to flooding and this has been addressed in the concept engineering design (Feasibility Study Annex 2) and detailed engineering design. The continuity of natural drainage would be maintained and enhanced through construction of cross-drainage culverts. This would reduce the period of inundation of paddy land during flood and the risk of flood damage to crops. 175. The water distribution canal network would be lined throughout. In part, the impact of drought would be mitigated through a reduction in water demand by lining canals that would reducing seepage losses. Further, crop diversification would be introduced to reduce crop water requirements, paddy has a high crop water requirement. 176. Overall, results for baseline water quality seems to comply with national standard excluding fecal coliform taken from the river at the head works. The fecal coliform had a slightly higher value than the standard. The source of pollution is unknown but is probably from open defecations by humans or animals in or near the head works. 177. Irrigation service roads would have a concrete pavement. This would reduce road maintenance costs and improved road travel for farm machinery. 178. The increased area of dry season paddy cultivation would increase greenhouse gas emission. Although relatively small emissions can be reduced by changes in cultural practices. The Project is reviewing the most appropriate method of introducing these practices to the farming community. 179. The IEE process has found that the subproject would not cause significant negative environmental impacts given proper mitigation. Potential negative impacts relate mainly to the construction phase and can be managed and brought to acceptable levels through the implementation of the site-specific contractors Environmental Management Plan. 180. No further environmental assessment is therefore required unless changes in infrastructure layout are made at the detail design stage or during construction that would require updating of the IEE and EMP. The subproject at the feasibility study stage is therefore confirmed as Category B according to the ADB’s classification system. This classification refers to projects that are judged to have some adverse environmental impacts, but of lesser degree or significance than those for Category A projects. 181. The Environmental Management Plan and Annex 6.5 (Environmental and Social Monitoring Process), or the IEE and EMP, would be included in contract bidding documentation for civil works and the EMP and monitoring plan would be included in agreements formed with water user groups.

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ANNEX 6.1 Information Disclosure, Consultation and Participation

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Annex 6.1: Information Disclosure, Participation and Consultation

Chan Lan Xe Environment Questions and Stakeholder Answers: 182. Please describe the current pump operations. Is there a legal Water Users Association (WUA) or a Water Users Group (WUG). - There are three beneficiary villages in this subproject: Chan Lan Xe, Tanpiew and Donphaiban. At present, there is a headworks in Tanpiew with two motors each 75kW. The motors function normally. Water User Groups has been established. There are 3 persons, all males.

183. Is the Grievance Redress mechanism used during the land acquisition process operational now? What are the roles (coordination, reporting, etc.)? Are there any unresolved grievances about the land acquisition? Any other issues such as traffic, environment, noise, etc.? - Within the village there is a village grievance committee. So far all complaints were sorted out at the village level, never sent a case to the District to solve a problem. - There have no ever complaints about the proposed subproject. People really eager for the project and would it to implement as soon as possible.

184. What are main environmental issues or concerns here? - Main concern issues here are use of chemical fertilizers and solid waste problem of the village due to there is no landfill for the village.

185. Are there any important cultural features in Chan Lan Xe that might be affected by the project? - The proposed subproject will not affect protected areas of the village, however there is Hor Ban (village sacred site) of Chan Lan Xe and it is also the Mahesack forest. This site is located next to the access road and main canal to be improved. - Within the village there is a protected marsh (Beung Lom Lok) which is a large and long marsh covering areas of the three villages and it is also lied in irrigated areas of the subproject. The marsh has an area of 42,500ha and it is protected area of village for biodiversity. The marsh stretches along alignment of the village access road and canals to be improved and in some section it is close to the marsh with distance of around 200-1,000 meters. The villagers commented that the contractor for this project should not enclose or do any hunting activities in the marsh because it is the village protected area and sacred site of local people.

186. Is there a hospital in Chan Lan Xe? Is it on a road that might be improved by the Project? - All three villages have one dispensary at Ban Tanpiew, located next to the access road to be upgraded. There are two primary schools (at Ban Chan Lan Xe and Ban Donphaiban), one secondary school (Tanpiew). These schools are next to the access road.

187. Has water quality been tested locally (in canals, river, ponds, and/or drains)? When and how often? How about groundwater testing (by MoH or others)? Where do people get their water for drinking, cooking, bathing, clothes washing, animals, gardens? Do people spray water on local dirt roads to reduce dust in the dry season?

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- In the past, there was no water quality analysis in the area was carried out. - Most people in the area have accessed to clean water due to there is a local drinking water company supply the water. About 90% of the households consume bottled water and the rest 10% remain still rely on boiled water as they are still poor family. - Water in the canal only uses for washing clothes, bathing especially young children.

188. Are there any national/protected forest area in the project area? If so, how much do people use the National Protected Area? (farming, hunting, NTFP, recreation, other?) Is there good access into the NPA from Chan Lan Xe? Are there other NPAs nearby, including provincial? How are these used? - There is Phouxiengthong Conservation Forest near the area, about 4-5 km from the village.

189. What rare animals and plants can be found there? Is it possible to do a brief visit the protected area to see its condition? - Plant: Irvingia cambodiana, Ficus religiosa, Pterocarpus macrocarpus, Tectona grandis, Azadirachta indica, Alstonia rostrata Fischer, Lagerstroemia florribunda, Careya sphaerica Roxburgh, Syzygium cumini, Mangifera sp., Tamarindus indica, Bombax ceiba. - Mammals: Callosciurus finlaysoni, Varanus bengalensis, Manis javanicus, Lepus peguensis, Bandicota indica, Callosciurus erythraseus. - Bird: Columba punicea, Botaurus stellaris, Mesophoyx intermedia, Amaurornis phoenicurus, Spizaetus cirrhatus, Tadorna tadorna, Columbidae sp., Phylloscopus armandii, Geopelia striata, Corvus macrorhynchos. - Fish: Chitala ornate, Trichogaster trichopterus, Oxyeleotris marmorata, Wallago attu, Macrognathus sp., Mastacembelus armatus, Cyprinus carpio, Pseudolais pleurotaenia, Channa striata, Anabas testudineus, Monopterus albus. - Reptile: Naja sp., Ptyas mucosus, Bungarus candidus, Bungarus fasciatus.

190. What ethnic groups/minorities live in Chan Lan Xe? What about nearby villages that may benefit from the project? - They are 100% Lao.

191. Is this expanded area already being farmed or is there some other land use there? - The proposed expanded areas are rain fed paddy area. There is no forest or any new clearing area.

192. How much chemical fertilizers and pesticides are being used for rice? Is this likely to remain the same after project is implemented? - Around 70% of the villagers use chemical fertilizers in their farms, the remain rely on organic fertilizer.

193. Where is the rice grown in the Chan Lan Xe project area marketed? Do the buyers come to the farm gate? On average, how long does it take farmers to get from their farms to the place where rice is marketed? - There are four buyer families in the village that buy rice from people. Normally, the buyers come to the farm gate and the rice will be sold individually. Moreover, some families directly sell their products in the district and Tong Mixay Rice Storage in Ban Koutmixay.

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194. Is there any fish farming in the area? Does it use water from the canals? - There are around 40 household fish ponds in the village which mainly rely on rain water for the ponds.

195. What are other alternative crops farmed here? - Cassava

196. Is there livestock production in the Project area (pigs, cattle)? If so, where is the water for this obtained? Where does drainage go? Where do solid wastes go? How and where are animals taken to market? - There is no livestock production, only just for household consumption

197. What capacity building programs are going on now? Are there extension services from PAFO or DAFO on use of pesticides, herbicides, fertilizer? Any other training, particularly related to environment? - DAFO came to the area each year before starting the rice season to promote the use of pesticides, herbicides and chemical fertilizer, how to produce domestic organic fertilizer as well as rice seed selection.

198. What other Irrigation schemes (how much do they withdraw)? Hydropower? - There are in total 15 irrigation projects that extract water from Xe Don river. Total water volume is around 68,000m3/day.

199. Is Chan Lan Xe subject to periodic flooding? When was the last major flood (lasting more than a few days and causing damage to buildings, roads, etc.)? - The area is vulnerable to flooding every year. The most severe flood was in 2011 which saw the flood level up to 1.5m high. This caused significant impact to production areas as well as damages to irrigation canals.

200. Have there been any UXO incidents in Chan Lan Xe or the general project area? Is there any UXO program going on now in or near Chan Lan Xe? - There used to have a UXO problem here in the past but the UXO Lao had clear it from the area. Till now there is no record of the UXO finding in the area.

201. Any other issues or concerns? - None.

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Figure A6.15: Subproject Visit March 2018

Kick-off meeting in Chan Lan Xe Condition of an existing earth canal

Plate A6.20: Existing canals under need an Plate A6.21: Access road access road

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Figure A6.16: Persons Met in Salavan Province

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ANNEX 6.2 Environmental Management Plan

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Annex 6.2: Environmental Management Plan

202. This Environmental Management Plan (EMP) is developed for the Chan Lan Xe subproject. It identifies the potential project environmental impacts and defines mitigation measures and monitoring requirements for the design, construction, and operational stages of the project. All potential negative impacts from the project throughout the implementation of the project including preconstruction, construction and operational phase have been anticipated with proper mitigation measures also had been addressed in order to prevent, reduce, or mitigate adverse environmental impacts and risks. Detail of work plan with mitigation measures for the EMP indicated in Table A6.12 below.

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Table A6.15:Environmental Management Plan

Item Environmental Impacts and Issues Mitigation Measures and/ or Safeguards Responsibility for Supervision of Budget Implementation Implementation 1.1 Design Stage / Pre- construction Final Detailed Design EDC-2 NPMO/LIC Design costs Final Detailed design of irrigation system layout including canal alignment and control structure location will be completed taking into account the EMP Final Detailed Design Final Detailed design of irrigation system layout including EDC-2 NPMO/LIC Design costs canal alignment and control structure location will be completed taking into account the EMP Irrigation Operation and Maintenance Operation and maintenance planning and practices for NPMO/LIC NPMO/ADB Planning (move) irrigation water allocation and drainage will be documented and approved by the EA and ADB before completion of construction and handing over to the system to the WUG. This will include an MOU between the province, the subproject WUG and MAF.

Baseline water quality Establish baseline water quality for surface water (see PPMO NPMO/LIC Project budget Environmental Monitoring Plan) Air Quality Air Quality: Minor increase in air Ensure vehicles well maintained PPMO / NPMO / LIC / PPMO / NPMO / LIC Project / pollution from survey and consultation EDC-2 / EDC-2 consultants teams visiting the subproject budget Increase in dust from unpaved roads Design appropriate road pavement in relation to location: NPMO / LIC / EDC-2 NPMO / LIC NPMO / LIC / irrigation service roads in agricultural areas with natural EDC-2 budget gravel and in urban areas with Double Bituminous Surface Treatment (DBST) or where areas prone to flooding concrete

Noise None None required Water Supply None None required Land/soils Poor design of downstream Appropriate design of headworks bioengineering NPMO / LIC / EDC-2 NPMO / LIC Project / bioengineering protection leading to protection and access road to avoid erosion consultants erosion. Poor design of headworks budget leading to erosion on embankments. Waste Water Minor - none None required Solid Waste None None required

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Item Environmental Impacts and Issues Mitigation Measures and/ or Safeguards Responsibility for Supervision of Budget Implementation Implementation Land Use Impacts on productive land resulting Minimize impacts in detailed design phase. Compensation NPMO / LIC / EDC-2 NPMO / LIC Project / from land acquisition for canals and paid to affected-households as detailed in the Land consultants irrigation service roads. Acquisition and Compensation Plan budget Biodiversity Potential minor impact to aquatic Design repairs to intake and regulating at the outlet NPMO / LIC / EDC-2 NPMO / LIC Project / ecology at the headworks and distribution structure to protect aquatic life. consultants biodiversity protection site from budget construction of access roads and main Design the main canals and access roads to protect canals that locate close to the Beung aquatic life and ecology system. Lom Lok marsh. Culture Minor - none None required Health Minor - none None required Education Minor - none None required Safety Minor - none None required Resettlement Minor acquisition of land, commercial Land Acquisition and Compensation Plan including NPMO / EDC-2 / NPMO / EDC-2 / Project / trees and field structures, and loss of compensation budget prepared for identified preliminary DAFO DAFO consultants dry season crop. loses, following ADB Safeguards Policy and the Lao budget Resettlement Decree regarding resettlement. Compensation to be completed prior to construction. Income Subproject is designed to provide None required significant income improvements from allowing two rice crops per year to the beneficiaries. Ethnicity Project is designed to provide significant None required income improvements from irrigated agriculture to beneficiaries, including to ethnic minorities. UXO Potential from UXO throughout the PAFO PPMO to formally request UXO Lao to remove the PPMO PPMO PPMO / UXO project area due to evidence of heavy bomb and clear the irrigation areas, especially where new Lao bombing in the vicinity in 1973 canals are to be installed Climate Minor local increase in greenhouse gas None likely to be practical or feasible at subproject design NPMO / LIC NPMO / LIC NPMO emissions (methane) from increased level. However, farmer training on methods developed in rice cultivation Thailand to reduce GHG from paddy rice should be investigated and applied Potential increase in frequency and Irrigation supply canals from main to field canals lined to NPMO / LIC / EDC-2 intensity of drought in dry season reduce water losses from seepage in design.

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Item Environmental Impacts and Issues Mitigation Measures and/ or Safeguards Responsibility for Supervision of Budget Implementation Implementation Increased and intensive rain fall in wet All access roads vulnerable to flooding designed with a NPMO / LIC / EDC-2 NPMO / LIC /EDC-2 NPMO / season could result in flooding of concrete pavement and enhanced cross drainage Consultants access roads resulting in damage to the Budget road pavement and reducing road use Increased and intensive rain fall in wet Design of scheme to ensure continuity of existing drainage NPMO / LIC / EDC-2 NPMO / LIC NPMO / LIC season could result in flooding of and where appropriate construction of additional drainage productive land and crop damage channels

1.2 Construction Air Quality Exhaust gases Ensure all construction vehicles and equipment are well- Contractor NPMO / PPMO / Project / maintained; and do not idle for more than 15 minutes in DACO / EDC-2 / LIC Consultants populated areas Budget Dust Contractors to control dust during construction through Contractor NPMO / PPMO / Project / regular watering of exposed areas; Cover all trucks DACO / EDC-2 Consultants carrying dispersible materials to or from the site; Budget Noise Noise impact on sensitive areas from No construction between 21:00 and 06:00 near residential Contractor DAFO / EDC-2 Project / equipment and vehicles accessing and or other sensitive areas. Trucks to be maintained and Consultants working on site have effective silencers on exhausts. Budget Water Supply Minor amounts needed for construction Contractors to acquire water from available nearby Contractor DAFO / EDC-2 Project / acquired from village sources could surface water sources as approved by local authorities Consultants cause local shortages in dry season Budget Land/soils Impacts to soils from erosion increases Contractors to provide adequate erosion control during Contractor DAFO / EDC-2 Project / due to inappropriate construction construction. For construction materials such as sand, Consultants procedures and improper management stone, and fill soil contractor should choose legal service Budget of borrow pits. Impact on land adjacent providers who have exploitation licenses and to the construction footprint resulting in environmental protection commitment issued by local compaction and damage to vegetation authorities. Contractor to operate within a narrow working including standing crops. footprint outside the infrastructure area

Waste Water Minor increase in wastewater from Contractors to manage wastewater discharges at Contractor DAFO / EDC-2 Project / construction camps that could contain construction camps. Site camps so as to avoid impacts to Consultants petroleum/chemical pollution or other surface and groundwater. Monitor surface and Budget contaminants resulting in contamination groundwater quality at or near camps. Use temporary of surface water. diversion drains & bunds, temporary silt traps and ponds to prevent contamination of surface water. Stockpile spoil in flat areas away from drainage routes

A6-78 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Item Environmental Impacts and Issues Mitigation Measures and/ or Safeguards Responsibility for Supervision of Budget Implementation Implementation Solid Waste Minor local impacts from improper Contractors to use best practice with respect to waste Contractor DAFO / EDC-2 Project / disposal of solid waste from management at the camps and construction sites, Consultants construction activities or workers including proper disposal of solid waste at locations Budget approved by local authorities

Land Use Minor impacts to local land uses during Contractor to protect sensitive urban, agricultural and Contractor DAFO / EDC-2 Project / construction natural areas during construction, pay for any temporary Consultants use of land, and restore to original condition any land used Budget temporarily Biodiversity Minor / temporary negative impacts Contractors to protect sensitive natural areas, especially Contractor DAFO / EDC-2 Project / during construction of the access road construction of main canals and access roads that close to Consultants and main canals along the Beung Lom the Beung Lom Lok marsh during the subproject Budget Lok marsh where it is regarded as a construction by prohibiting disposal of wastes into the biodiversity protection site for the marsh. village. Culture No impacts are anticipated Health Possible increase in STDs or other Contractors to screen and educate workers for HIV and Contractor DAFO / EDC-2 Project / diseases from construction workers other STDs, implement malaria control and COVID19 Consultants interacting with local population. prevention measures at work sites and camps, and Budget Potential increased breeding grounds provide adequate toilet facilities and clean water for for vectors of water borne diseases if workers. borrow pits not stabilized and drained. Contractors to stabilize and provide permanent sustainable drainage of borrow pits unless alternative productive use agreed e.g. to use as fish pond. Possible increase in Covid-19 It is a duty of the Contractor to provide a prevention widespread measures for their works in order to prevent any pandemic of the COVID-19 in the construction site. Followings measures have to be strictly complied throughout the construction period: (1) Keep premises clean and provide garbage bins with cover (2) Minimize number of meeting gathering not more than 10 people and practice social distancing of at least 1 meter. (3) Make a wearing mask is compulsory for all staffs and workers (4) Regularly monitor workers’ temperature before starting daily work. Any workers found to have flu-like symptoms/high temperature than 37.3ºC,

A6-79 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Item Environmental Impacts and Issues Mitigation Measures and/ or Safeguards Responsibility for Supervision of Budget Implementation Implementation have to be taken to a hospital for observation or order to do self-quarantine for 14days to monitor the symptom. (5) Provide soap/hand sanitizing points where necessary in the construction camp/sub-camp (6) Carry out awareness campaign on COVID-19 prevention to all staffs and workers prior commencement of the construction work after being awarded the Contract Education Minor negative impacts from possible Contractor required to maintain safe access to education Contractor DAFO / EDC-2 Project / impaired access to schools during facilities at all times. Consultants construction Budget Safety Potential impacts from work-place Training and awareness raising for workers on Contractor DAFO / EDC-2 Project / accidents to workers, local community, occupational health & safety. Contractor to provide Consultants or vehicles. adequate personal protective equipment to workers. Budget Adequate signage, lighting, and control of construction sites. Traffic control measures to ensure public safety. Contractor to establish efficient emergency/ contingency plans, adequate facilities & equipment & trained staff for handling emergencies. Resettlement Potential for temporary impacts due to Contractor to pay rent for temporary use of land. Only Contractor DAFO / EDC-2 Project / contractors' use of land. Temporary vacant land to be used. Use of land will not disturb Consultants closure of irrigation system during dry businesses. Land temporarily used will be restored to pre- Budget season impact on crops and livestock project condition or improved. Contractor will work with WUG to minimize impact of temporary irrigation system closure. Income Potential temporary loss of access to Contractor to employ local workers with about 21 per cent Contractor DAFO / EDC-2 Project / irrigation water in dry season. of contract price paid in wages. Contractors to provide Consultants Temporary increase in income for access to shops / businesses / homes at all times. Budget beneficiaries employed by the contractor. Multiplier effect in local economy from increased disposable income. Ethnicity None anticipated since no members of none required ethnic minority community impacted UXO No impacts are anticipated

A6-80 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Item Environmental Impacts and Issues Mitigation Measures and/ or Safeguards Responsibility for Supervision of Budget Implementation Implementation Climate Minor or none, assuming proper waste See Air Quality and Waste Management (Construction) Contractor DAFO / EDC-2 Project / management and lower emission above Consultants vehicles Budget

1.3 Operation Air Quality Damage to gravel road pavement of DAFO and WUG to Control use of the service roads to WUG DAFO Irrigation irrigation service roads by unauthorized authorized vehicles only to reduce damage to road. Service Fees or overloaded vehicles resulting in dust especially in the dry season Noise Minor or none none required Water Supply Minor positive impact from additional The WUA needs training and support during the operation WUG DAFO Irrigation (non-potable) water, including ground phase to develop operational rule curves for the pumping Service Fees water, available near canals and drains station. These curves must take into account of other during dry season. Demands on Lake water users. Climate change future scenarios for the water supply will increase with region indicate both droughts and floods could become expanded command area. Water more severe. The pumping station should keep daily balance shows it is sufficient, but water records of lake levels and pumping amounts. Setting up a management is important. basic rainfall gauge would also help in the future to refine the operation rule curve. Land/soils Inadequate maintenance leading to Adequate maintenance and care of landscaping of: the WUG DAFO Irrigation erosion of: headworks embankment dam embankments; vegetative cover on canal Service Fees erosion; canal side slopes especially embankments and raised sections of the access roads; where canals are in deep cut; gravel pavement of irrigation service; cross-drainage structures; pavement on irrigation service roads; and channels of the irrigation drainage network the drainage network Waste Water Drainage from irrigated fields in which Develop an on-going capacity-building program to instruct WUG / DCO DAFO DAFO large amounts of fertilizers and people not to use drainage water without testing for pesticides have been used could contaminants. Train farmers in methods for Integrated contaminate water which might be used Pest Management and crop nutrition. Coordinate with downstream by other farmers or even Agriculture Extension Centre to ensure that farmers are for domestic use and also is harmful to trained in correct use and storage of fertilizer, pesticides, aquatic species. and other potentially hazardous substances

A6-81 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Item Environmental Impacts and Issues Mitigation Measures and/ or Safeguards Responsibility for Supervision of Budget Implementation Implementation Solid Waste Impacts from improper disposal/ Develop an on-going capacity-building program to raise WUG / DAFO / LIC DAFO DAFO dumping of solid wastes in canals, along awareness of local communities of the impacts of the access and irrigation service roads and disposal/dumping of waste in the canals, drains and along in drainage channels. This could lead to roads. reduced efficiency of flow in canals and drains

Land Use Encroachment on non-agricultural land, The WUG/WUA responsible for monitoring illegal irrigation WUG DAFO Irrigation especially forest land, near supply water supply off-takes and associated land clearance Service Fees canals and the illegal off-take of irrigation water supply Biodiversity (i) Improved biodiversity of paddy fields None required WUG/PAFO DAFO Irrigation under irrigation; (ii) Siamese crocodile service habitat fee/Seek International grants Culture minor to none none required Health Potential negative impact from the Farmers to be instructed in the control of mosquito and WUG / DCO DAFO DAFO / provision of additional open surface water borne diseases, especially breeding sites. Water Irrigation water that can lead to increased flow in canals should not be impeded, and stagnant Service Fee incidence of mosquitos and water-borne ponding from overflows should be avoided and drained. diseases. Improvement in health from paving and None required reducing dust from village roads, and from improved access to health facilities Potential for increase in waterborne WUG / DCO DAFO DAFO / diseases if drainage channels are Training program to instruct farmers and other residents in Irrigation allowed to stagnate or are purposefully the control of mosquitos and water borne diseases. Water Service Fee ponded. Possible negative health flow in drainage channels should not be impeded and impacts from the use of contaminated stagnant water ponding should be avoided. drainage water for domestic purposes. Residents should be instructed to avoid using drainage water for domestic purposes due to the possibility of contamination from fertilizer and other agrichemicals. Education Positive impacts from improved access None required to education facilities, especially secondary schools.

A6-82 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Item Environmental Impacts and Issues Mitigation Measures and/ or Safeguards Responsibility for Supervision of Budget Implementation Implementation Safety Possible increase in accidental DCO to carry out training and awareness raising for WUG / DCO DAFO DAFO / drownings of children or animals in community on dangers of the canals. Adequate signage Irrigation canals and large structures and fencing to keep people and animals away from stilling Service Fee basins and other potentially dangerous structures. Possible increase in vehicular accidents Road safety training. Local authorities to control traffic WUG / DCO / NPMO DAFO DFO / Irrigation due to increased speeds on paved speeds in villages, possibly with speed-reduction methods Service Fee access roads such as speed humps. Possible increase in accidents from Road safety training. Local authorities to control traffic use WUG / DCO / NPMO DAFO DAFO / improper use or damage to the irrigation on irrigation service roads. Irrigation service roads Service Fee / Project Budget

Resettlement Possible on-going disputes or Establish and fully implement the Grievance Redress Village Mediation DAFO / NPMO Village grievances Mechanism be in force for the life of the project Committee if Government / necessary continue DAFO / Project through Budget implementation of Grievance Redress Mechanism Income Significant income improvements from Can also promote aquaculture development and crop WUG / DCO DAFO DAFO / allowing two or more rice crops per year diversification into higher value crops with sustainable Irrigation to the beneficiaries. Multiplier effect in water supply. Service Fee local economy from increased disposable income. Ethnicity Project is designed to provide significant None required income improvements from irrigated agriculture to beneficiaries, including to ethnic minorities. UXO None None required Climate Minor local increase in greenhouse gas DCO to provide awareness-raising for local population of WUG / DCO / NPMO / DAFO / NPMO / LIC Project Budget emissions from increased rice the increased emissions of methane from rice cultivation LIC / Consultants cultivation and encouragement to change methods or raise other Budget crops. Possibly invite researchers from Thailand who have developed paddy rice methods that reduce GHG

Increased and intensive rain fall in wet Village Maintenance Committee to maintain cross Village Maintenance DAFO Village season could result in flooding of drainage structure and road side drains Committee Government / access roads resulting in damage to the DAFO road pavement and reducing road use

A6-83 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Item Environmental Impacts and Issues Mitigation Measures and/ or Safeguards Responsibility for Supervision of Budget Implementation Implementation Increased and intensive rain fall in wet WUG/WUA to maintain all cross-drainage structures and WUG DAFO Irrigation season could result in flooding of drainage channels to maintain continuity of drainage Service Fee / productive land and crop damage system DAFO

A6-84 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

A6-85 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

ANNEX 6.3 Detail of Impact Assessment and Summary of Mitigation Measures

A6-86 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

A6-87 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Annex 6.3: Details of the Impact Assessment and Summary of Mitigation Measures

Air Quality (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Chan Lan Xe Irrigation Project

Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Anticipated Mitigation Measures Rating

Pre-Construction Pump Station + Headworks None; pumps are electric and power comes from None required 0 the national grid which is primarily hydropower. Main/secondary canals None 0 None required Access / village roads Increased air pollution in villages Design traffic measures to reduce emissions. -5 Pave roads to reduce dust in dry seaason Canal service roads Increased dust from unpaved roads -5 Design gravel roads to minimize dust Drainage channels None 0 None required Construction Pump Station + Headworks Minor air quality impacts from construction Construction vehicles to meet Euro 2 emission vehicles (emissions). standards. Contractors to control dust during construction through regular watering of exposed areas; -5 Cover all trucks carrying dispersible materials to or from the site; Ensure all construction vehicles and equipment are well-maintained; Main/secondary canals Minor air quality impacts from construction Construction vehicles to meet Euro 2 emission vehicles (emissions) and dust in dry season standards. Contractors to control dust during construction through regular watering of exposed areas; -5 Cover all trucks carrying dispersible materials to or from the site; Ensure all construction vehicles and equipment are well-maintained; Access / village roads Minor air quality impacts from construction Construction vehicles to meet Euro 2 emission vehicles (emissions) and dust in dry season standards. Contractors to control dust during construction through regular watering of exposed areas; -5 Cover all trucks carrying dispersible materials to or from the site; Ensure all construction vehicles and equipment are well-maintained; Canal service roads Minor air quality impacts from construction Construction vehicles to meet Euro 2 emission vehicles (emissions) and dust in dry season standards. Contractors to control dust during construction through regular watering of exposed areas; -5 Cover all trucks carrying dispersible materials to or from the site; Ensure all construction vehicles and equipment are well-maintained; Drainage channels None 0 None required Operation Pump Station + Headworks None 0 None required Main/secondary canals None 0 None required Access / village roads None 0 None required Canal service roads Increased dust from unpaved roads PAFO and WUG to Control use of the service -5 roads to authorized vehicles only to reduce damage to road and dust in dry season. Drainage channels None 0 None required

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

A6-88 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Noise (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Chan Lan Xe Irrigation Project

Output/ActivityPrincipal Potential Impacts Anticipated Mitigation Measures Rating

Pre-Construction Pump Station + HeadworksNone 0 None required Main/secondary canalsNone 0 None required Access / village roadsNone 0 None required Canal service roadsNone 0 None required Drainage channelsNone 0 None required Construction Nuisance noise from equipment and vehicles No construction between 21:00 and 06:00 near accessing the site. residential or other sensitive areas. Pump Station + Headworks -5 Trucks to be maintained and have aappropriate mufflers. Nuisance noise from equipment and vehicles No construction between 21:00 and 06:00 near accessing the site. residential or other sensitive areas. Main/secondary canals -5 Trucks to be maintained and have aappropriate mufflers. Nuisance noise from equipment and vehicles No construction between 21:00 and 06:00 near accessing the site. residential or other sensitive areas. Access / village roads -5 Trucks to be maintained and have aappropriate mufflers. Nuisance noise from equipment and vehicles No construction between 21:00 and 06:00 near accessing the site. residential or other sensitive areas. Canal service roads -5 Trucks to be maintained and have aappropriate mufflers. Nuisance noise from equipment and vehicles No construction between 21:00 and 06:00 near accessing the site. residential or other sensitive areas. Drainage channels -5 Trucks to be maintained and have aappropriate mufflers. Operation Pump Station + HeadworksNone 0 None required Main/secondary canalsNone 0 None required Access / village roadsNone 0 None required Canal service roadsNone 0 None required Drainage channelsNone 0 None required

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

A6-89 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Water Supply (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Chan Lan Xe Irrigation Project

Output/ActivityPrincipal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating

Pre-Construction Pump Station + HeadworksNone 0 None required Main/secondary canalsNone 0 None required Access / village roadsNone 0 None required Canal service roadsNone 0 None required Drainage channelsNone 0 None required Construction Minor amounts needed for construction and dust Contractors to acquire water from available Pump Station + Headworks control acquired from village sources could cause local -5 nearby surface water sources as approved by shortages in dry season local authorities Minor amounts needed for construction and dust Contractors to acquire water from available Main/secondary canals control acquired from village sources could cause local -5 nearby surface water sources as approved by shortages in dry season local authorities Minor amounts needed for construction and dust Contractors to acquire water from available Access / village roads control acquired from village sources could cause local -5 nearby surface water sources as approved by shortages in dry season local authorities Minor amounts needed for construction and dust Contractors to acquire water from available Canal service roads control acquired from village sources could cause local -5 nearby surface water sources as approved by shortages in dry season local authorities Drainage channelsNone 0 None required Operation Minor positive impact from additional (non-potable) None required Pump Station + Headworks 5 water available near canals during dry season. Minor positive impact from additional (non-potable) None required Main/secondary canals 5 water available near canals during dry season. Access / village roadsNone 0 None required Canal service roadsNone 0 None required Minor positive impact from additional (non-potable) None required Drainage channels water available near drainage channels during dry 5 season.

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

A6-90 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Land/soils (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Chan Lan Xe Irrigation Project

Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating

Pre-Construction Poor design of bank protection leading to riverside Careful design of headworks to avoid bank Pump Station + Headworks -5 erosion erosion Improper siting of canals and access roads to Careful design of canals to avoid erosion Main/secondary canals -5 them leading to erosion Improper siting/design of roads leading to erosion Careful siting and design of access roads to Access / village roads -5 avoid erosion Improper siting/design of unpaved service roads Careful design of canals and their service Canal service roads -5 leading to erosion roads to avoid erosion Improper siting/design of drainage channels Careful design of drainage to avoid erosion Drainage channels -5 leading to erosion Construction Impacts to soils from erosion increases due to Contractors to provide adequate erosion inadequate construction procedures and improper control during construction. For construction management of borrow pits. materials such as sand, stone, and fill dirt, Pump Station + Headworks -5 contractor should choose legal service providers who have exploitation licenses and environmental protection commitment issued by local authorities. Same as above Contractors to provide adequate erosion control during construction. For construction materials such as sand, stone, and fill dirt, Main/secondary canals -5 contractor should choose legal service providers who have exploitation licenses and environmental protection commitment issued by local authorities. Same as above Contractors to provide adequate erosion control during construction. For construction materials such as sand, stone, and fill dirt, Access / village roads -5 contractor should choose legal service providers who have exploitation licenses and environmental protection commitment issued by local authorities. Same as above Contractors to provide adequate erosion control during construction. For construction materials such as sand, stone, and fill dirt, Canal service roads -5 contractor should choose legal service providers who have exploitation licenses and environmental protection commitment issued by local authorities. Impacts to soils from erosion increases due to Contractors to provide adequate erosion inadequate construction procedures control during construction. For construction materials such as sand, stone, and fill dirt, Drainage channels -5 contractor should choose legal service providers who have exploitation licenses and environmental protection commitment issued by local authorities. Operation Inadequate maintenance of headworks leading to Adequate maintenance and care of Pump Station + Headworks -5 bank erosion landscaping of riverbanks Main/secondary canals none 0 none required Access / village roads none 0 none required Inadequate maintenance of gravel roads leading Adequate maintenance and care of service Canal service roads -5 to erosion roads Inadequate maintenance of drainage leading to Adequate maintenance and care of drainage Drainage channels -5 erosion

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

A6-91 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Waste Water (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Chan Lan Xe Irrigation Project

Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating

Pre-Construction Pump Station + Headworks Minor to None 0 None required Main/secondary canals same as above 0 None required Access / village roads same as above 0 None required Canal service roads same as above 0 None required Drainage from irrigated fields in which large Design should require PAFO to instruct people amounts of fertilizers and pesticides have been not to use drainage water without testing for Drainage channels used could include contaminated water which -5 contaminants might be used downstream by other farmers or even for domestic use. Construction Minor increase in wastewater from construction Contractors to manage wastewater camps, including petroleum/chemical pollution. discharges at construction camps. Contamination of surface water. Site camps so as to avoid impacts to surface and groundwater. Monitor surface and groundwater quality at or Pump Station + Headworks -5 near camps. Use temporary diversion drains & bunds, temporary silt traps and ponds to prevent contamination of surface water. Stockpile spoils in flat areas away from drainage routes Main/secondary canals same as above -5 same as above Access / village roads same as above -5 same as above Canal service roads same as above -5 same as above Drainage channels same as above -5 same as above Operation Pump Station + Headworks None 0 None required Main/secondary canals same as above 0 None required Access / village roads same as above 0 None required Canal service roads same as above 0 None required Drainage from irrigated fields in which large PAFO to develop an on-going capacity-building amounts of fertilizers and pesticides have been program to instruct people not to use drainage used could include contaminated water which water without testing for contaminants. might be used downstream by other farmers or PAFO to train farmers in methods for reducing even for domestic use. the use of chemicals. Drainage channels -5 Coordinate with Agriculture Extension Centre to ensure that farmers are trained in correct use and storage of fertilizer, pesticides, and other potentially hazardous substances

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

A6-92 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Land Use (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Chan Lan Xe Irrigation Project

Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating

Pre-Construction No effect on land use since headworks will not none required Pump Station + Headworks 0 require land acquisition. No effect on land use since irrigated areas are none required Main/secondary canals 0 already being farmed. Access / village roads same as above 0 none required Canal service roads same as above 0 none required Drainage channels same as above 0 none required Construction Minor impacts to local land uses during Contractor to protect sensitive urban, construction agricultural and natural areas during Pump Station + Headworks -5 construction, pay for any temporary use of land, and restore to original condition any land used temporarily same as above Contractor to protect sensitive urban, agricultural and natural areas during Main/secondary canals -5 construction, pay for any temporary use of land, and restore to original condition any land used temporarily same as above Contractor to protect sensitive urban, agricultural and natural areas during Access / village roads -5 construction, pay for any temporary use of land, and restore to original condition any land used temporarily same as above Contractor to protect sensitive urban, agricultural and natural areas during Canal service roads -5 construction, pay for any temporary use of land, and restore to original condition any land used temporarily Drainage channels none 0 none required Operation Pump Station + Headworks none 0 none required Main/secondary canals none 0 none required Access / village roads none 0 none required Canal service roads none 0 none required Drainage channels none 0 none required

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5

A6-93 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Solid Waste (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Chan Lan Xe Irrigation Project

Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating

Pre-Construction Pump Station + Headworks none 0 none required Main/secondary canals none 0 none required Access / village roads none 0 none required Canal service roads none 0 none required Drainage channels none 0 none required Construction Minor local impacts from improper disposal of Contractors to use best practice with respect solid waste from construction activities or workers to waste management at the camps and Pump Station + Headworks -5 construction sites, including proper disposal of solid waste at locations approved by local authorities same as above Contractors to use best practice with respect to waste management at the camps and Main/secondary canals -5 construction sites, including proper disposal of solid waste at locations approved by local authorities same as above Contractors to use best practice with respect to waste management at the camps and Access / village roads -5 construction sites, including proper disposal of solid waste at locations approved by local authorities same as above Contractors to use best practice with respect to waste management at the camps and Canal service roads -5 construction sites, including proper disposal of solid waste at locations approved by local authorities same as above Contractors to use best practice with respect to waste management at the camps and Drainage channels -5 construction sites, including proper disposal of solid waste at locations approved by local authorities Operation Pump Station + Headworks none 0 none required impacts to canals from improper PAFO to develop an on-going capacity-building disposal/dumping of solid wastes in canals program to instruct people not to dump waste in the canals. Main/secondary canals -5 Coordinate with Agriculture Extension Centre to ensure that farmers are trained in correct methds for storage of fertilizer, pesticides, and other potentially hazardous substances impacts to roads from improper disposal/dumping PAFO to develop an on-going awareness- Access / village roads of solid wastes on and along roads -5 raising program against littering

impacts to roads from improper disposal/dumping PAFO to develop an on-going awareness- Canal service roads of solid wastes on and along roads -5 raising program against littering

impacts to drainage channels from improper PAFO to develop an on-going capacity-building Drainage channels disposal/dumping of solid wastes which could lead -5 program to instruct people not to dump waste to reduced efficiency of the drains in the drainage channels.

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

A6-94 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Biodiversity (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Chan Lan Xe Irrigation Project

Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating

Pre-Construction Potential minor impact to aquatic ecology at the Design the the pump and headworks to Pump Station + Headworks -5 headworks and pump station protect aquatic life and ecology system. Potential minor impact to aquatic ecology in Design the main/secondary canals to protect Main/secondary canals -5 Lomlok lake, located in the irrigated areas aquatic life and ecology system. Potential minor impact to aquatic ecology in Design the access roads to protect aquatic life Access / village roads Lomlok lake, located in the irrigated areas where -5 and ecology system. the roads will also be improved Canal service roads Minor to none 0 none required Drainage channels Minor to none 0 none required Construction Minor / temporary negative impacts during Contractors to protect sensitive natural areas Pump Station + Headworks construction at the River, construction camps and -5 during the Project construction nearby water courses Same as above Contractors to protect sensitive natural areas Main/secondary canals -5 during the Project construction Same as above Contractors to protect sensitive natural areas Access / village roads -5 during the Project construction Same as above Contractors to protect sensitive natural areas Canal service roads -5 during the Project construction Same as above Contractors to protect sensitive natural areas Drainage channels -5 during the Project construction Operation Pump Station + Headworks Minor to none 0 none required Main/secondary canals Minor to none 0 none required Access / village roads Minor to none 0 none required Canal service roads Minor to none 0 none required Drainage channels Minor to none 0 none required

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

A6-95 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Cultural Resources (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Chan Lan Xe Irrigation Project

Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating

Pre-Construction Potential minor impact to village cemetery at the Design pump and head works to protect sensitive Pump Station + Headworks -5 headworks and pump station that located near by cultural areas Potential minor impact to a village cemetery that Design canal alignment to protect sensitive Main/secondary canals -5 located near by propsed canals cultural areas Access / village roads Minor to None 0 None required Canal service roads Minor to None 0 None required Drainage channels Minor to None 0 None required Construction Minor / temporary negative impacts during Contractor to protect sensitive cultural areas Pump Station + Headworks -5 construction at the Pump Station and Headworks during construction Minor / temporary negative impacts during Contractor to protect sensitive cultural areas Main/secondary canals -5 construction at the main/secondary canals during construction Access / village roads Minor to None 0 None required Canal service roads Minor to None 0 None required Drainage channels Minor to None 0 None required Operation Pump Station + Headworks Minor to None 0 None required Main/secondary canals Minor to None 0 None required Access / village roads Minor to None 0 None required Canal service roads Minor to None 0 None required Drainage channels Minor to None 0 None required

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

A6-96 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Human Health (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Chan Lan Xe Irrigation Project

Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating

Pre-Construction Pump Station + Headworks Minor to None 0 None required Main/secondary canals Minor to None 0 None required Access / village roads Minor to None 0 None required Canal service roads Minor to None 0 None required Drainage channels Minor to None 0 None required Construction Possible increase in STDs or other diseases from Contractors to screen and educate workers for HIV construction workers interacting with local population and other STDs, implement malaria control at Pump Station + Headworks -5 work sites and camps, and provide adequate toilet facilities and clean water for workers. same as above Contractors to screen and educate workers for HIV and other STDs, implement malaria control at Main/secondary canals -5 work sites and camps, and provide adequate toilet facilities and clean water for workers. Potential minor and temporary negative health impacts Contractors to provide adequate access to health from reduced access to health facilities in villages. facilties at all times. Contractors to screen and Possible increase in STDs from construction workers educate workers for HIV and other STDs, Access / village roads -5 interacting with local population implement malaria control at work sites and camps. Provide adequate toilet facilities and clean water for workers. same as above Contractors to provide adequate access to health facilties at all times. Contractors to screen and educate workers for HIV and other STDs, Canal service roads -5 implement malaria control at work sites and camps. Provide adequate toilet facilities and clean water for workers. same as above Contractors to screen and educate workers for HIV and other STDs, implement malaria control at Drainage channels -5 work sites and camps, and provide adequate toilet facilities and clean water for workers. Operation Pump Station + Headworks Minor to None 0 None required Potential minor negative impact from the provision of Farmers to be instructed in the control of additional open surface water that can lead to mosquito and water borne disease control by increased incidence of mosquitos and water-borne PAFO. Main/secondary canals -5 diseases. Water flow in canals should not be impeded, and stagnant ponding from overflows should be avoided. Improvement in health from paving and reducing dust None required Access / village roads from village roads, and from improved access to health 5 facilities Minor negative impact from increased dust from Service roads to be maintained and surfaced with Canal service roads unpaved roads during dry season. -5 non-dust-producing materials in villages, or watered during dry season Potential for increase in waterborne diseases if PAFO should have an ongoing program to instruct drainage channels are allowed to stagnate or are farmers and other residents in the control of purposefully ponded. mosquito and water borne diseases. Possible negative health impacts from the use of Water flow in drainage channels should not be contaminated drainage water for domestic purposes. impeded, and stagnant ponding should be avoided. Drainage channels -5 Residents should be instructed to avoid using drainage water for domestic purposes due to possibility of contamination from fertiizers and pesticides.

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

A6-97 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Education (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Chan Lan Xe Irrigation Project

Output/ActivityPrincipal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

A6-98 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Safety (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Chan Lan Xe Irrigation Project

Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating

Pre-Construction Pump Station + Headworks Minor to none 0 Not required Main/secondary canals Minor to none 0 Not required Access / village roads Minor to none 0 Not required Canal service roads Minor to none 0 Not required Drainage channels Minor to none 0 Not required Construction Potential impacts from work-place accidents to Training and awareness raising for workers on workers, local community, or vehicles. occupational health & safety. Contractor to provide adequate personal protective equipment to workers. Adequate signage, lighting, and control of construction sites. Pump Station + Headworks Traffic control measures to ensure public safety. Contractor to establish efficient emergency/ contingency plans, adequate facilities & equipment & trained staff for handling -5 emergencies. Main/secondary canals same as above -5 same as above Potential impacts from work-place accidents to same as above workers, local community. Access / village roads Possible increase in vehicular accidents on access and village roads. -5 Canal service roads same as above -5 same as above Drainage channels same as for canals and pump stations, above -5 same as above Operation Potential minor impacts from accidents in the PAFO to carry out training and awareness vicinity of pump stations due to poor control of raising for community on dangers of the pump access to the sites. operations. Pump Station + Headworks Adequate signage and fencing to keep people and animals away from the pump stations. -5 Possible increase in accidental drownings of PAFO to carry out training and awareness children or animals raising for community on dangers of the canals. Main/secondary canals -5 Adequate signage and fencing to keep people and animals away from stilling basins and other potentially dangerous structures. Possible increase in vehicular accidents due to Local authorities to control traffic speeds in Access / village roads increased speeds on paved roads -5 villages, possibly with speed-reduction methods such as speed humps. Possible increase in accidents from improper use PAFO and local authorities to control traffic Canal service roads -5 or damage to the unpaved roads use on service roads. Possible increase in accidental drownings of PAFO to carry out training and awareness children or animals raising for community on dangers of the Drainage channels -5 drainage channels. Adequate signage and fencing to keep people and animals away.

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

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Resettlement (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Chan Lan Xe Irrigation Project

Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating

Pre-Construction Minor land acquisition may be required for the Resettlement Plan has been prepared to define headworks. compensation, following ADB Safeguards Policy and the Lao Resettlement Decree regarding resettlement. Compensation to be completed Pump Station + Headworks -5 prior to construction. In some cases, local authorities have carried out a land exchange program to provide affected people with suitable alternative land nearby. Minor acquisition of land, trees, or fences may be same as above Main/secondary canals -5 required. Access / village roads same as above -5 same as above Canal service roads same as above -5 same as above Drainage channels same as above -5 same as above Construction Potential for temporary impacts due to - Contractor to pay rent for temporary use of land. Pump Station + Headworks contractors' use of land -5 - Only vacant land to be used same as above - Contractor to pay rent for temporary use of land. - Only vacant land to be used - use of land will not disturb businesses Main/secondary canals - land temporarily used will be restored or improved to pre-project condition -5 same as above - Contractor to pay rent for temporary use of land. - Only vacant land to be used - use of land will not disturb businesses Access / village roads - land temporarily used will be restored or improved to pre-project condition -5 same as above - Contractor to pay rent for temporary use of land. - Only vacant land to be used - use of land will not disturb businesses Canal service roads - land temporarily used will be restored or improved to pre-project condition -5 same as above - Contractor to pay rent for temporary use of land. - Only vacant land to be used - use of land will not disturb businesses Drainage channels - land temporarily used will be restored or improved to pre-project condition -5 Operation Possible on-going disputes or grievances Establish and fully implement the Grievance Pump Station + Headworks -5 Resolution Process to be in force for the life of the project same as above Establish and fully implement the Grievance Main/secondary canals Resolution Process to be in force for the life of the -5 project same as above Establish and fully implement the Grievance Access / village roads Resolution Process to be in force for the life of the -5 project same as above Establish and fully implement the Grievance Canal service roads Resolution Process to be in force for the life of the -5 project same as above Establish and fully implement the Grievance Drainage channels Resolution Process to be in force for the life of the -5 project

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

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Income (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Chan Lan Xe Irrigation Project

Output/ActivityPrincipal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating

Pre-Construction Project is designed to provide significant income none required Pump Station + Headworks improvements from allowing two rice crops per year to the beneficiaries. 10 Main/secondary canalssame as above 10 none required Access / village roadssame as above 10 none required Canal service roadssame as above 10 none required Drainage channelssame as above 10 none required Construction Some people are hired to work as labour with the Contractor to employ local beneficiaries and Pump Station + Headworks project. pay 21% of contract price in wages to local 5 people including 30% female employees Some people are hired to work as labour with the Contractor to employ local beneficiaries and Main/secondary canals project. pay 21% of contract price in wages to local 5 people including 30% female employees Posible minor negative impact to income for shops Contractor to employ local beneficiaries and due to lack of access during construction pay 21% of contract price in wages to local Access / village roads people including 30% female employees. Contractors to provide access to shops / -5 businesses / homes at all times. Some people are hired to work as labour with the Contractor to employ local beneficiaries and Canal service roads project. pay 21% of contract price in wages to local 5 people including 30% female employees Some people are hired to work as labour with the Contractor to employ local beneficiaries and Drainage channels project. pay 21% of contract price in wages to local 5 people including 30% female employees Operation Significant income improvements from allowing Can also promote aquaculture development Pump Station + Headworks two or more rice crops per year to the due to sustainable water supply. beneficiaries. 10 Main/secondary canalssame as above 10 none required Access / village roadssame as above 10 none required Canal service roadssame as above 10 none required Drainage channelssame as above 10 none required

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

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Ethnic Minorities (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Chan Lan Xe Irrigation Project

Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating

Pre-Construction Project is designed to provide significant income none required improvements from irrigated agriculture, including Pump Station + Headworks to ethnic monrities. However, there are no identified ethnic minority villages in the project area. 0 Main/secondary canals same as above 0 none required Access / village roads same as above 0 none required Canal service roads same as above 0 none required Drainage channels same as above 0 none required Construction None anticipated since there are no ethnic none required Pump Station + Headworks minority villages 0 Main/secondary canals same as above 0 same as above Access / village roads same as above 0 same as above Canal service roads same as above 0 same as above Drainage channels same as above 0 none required Operation Project is designed to provide significant income none required improvements from irrigated agriculture, including Pump Station + Headworks to ethnic monrities. However, there are no identified ethnic minority villages in the project area. 0 Main/secondary canals same as above 0 none required Access / village roads same as above 0 none required Canal service roads same as above 0 none required Drainage channels same as above 0 none required

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

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UXO (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Chan Lan Xe Irrigation Project

Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating

Pre-Construction minor or none as the UXO had been cleared from None required the areas by the UXO Lao and there is no records Pump Station + Headworks of any finding in the irrigated areas according to a report by local authority. 0 Main/secondary canals same as above 0 same as above Access / village roads same as above 0 same as above Canal service roads same as above 0 same as above Drainage channels same as above 0 same as above Construction Potential from UXO throughout the project area No construction on the scheme until UXO has Pump Station + Headworks due to evidence of heavy bombing in the vicinity in declared that the area is safe 1973 -5 Main/secondary canals same as above -5 same as above Access / village roads same as above -5 same as above Canal service roads same as above -5 same as above Drainage channels same as above -5 same as above Operation Pump Station + Headworks None 0 None required Main/secondary canals None 0 None required Access / village roads None 0 None required Canal service roads None 0 None required Drainage channels None 0 None required

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

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Climate (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Chan Lan Xe Irrigation Project

Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating

Pre-Construction Minor local increase in greenhouse gas emissions none likely practical or feasible at project (methane) from increased rice cultivation design level. However, farmer training on Pump Station + Headworks methods developed in Thailand to reduce GHG from paddy rice should be investigated and -5 applied Main/secondary canals same as above -5 same as above Access / village roads same as above -5 same as above Canal service roads same as above -5 same as above Drainage channels same as above -5 same as above Construction Minor or None, assuming proper waste See "Air" section for lower emission vehicles Pump Station + Headworks management and lower emission vehicles 0 recommendation same as above See "Air" section for lower emission vehicles Main/secondary canals 0 recommendation same as above See "Air" section for lower emission vehicles Access / village roads 0 recommendation same as above See "Air" section for lower emission vehicles Canal service roads 0 recommendation same as above See "Air" section for lower emission vehicles Drainage channels 0 recommendation Operation Minor local increase in greenhouse gas emissions PAFO to provide awareness-raising for local from increased rice cultivation population of the increased emissions of methane from rice cultivation and Pump Station + Headworks encouragement to change methods or raise other crops. Possibly invite researchers from international/national who have developed -5 paddy rice methods that reduce GHG same as above PAFO to provide awareness-raising for local population of the increased emissions of methane from rice cultivation and Main/secondary canals encouragement to change methods or raise other crops. Possibly invite researchers from Thailand who have developed paddy rice -5 methods that reduce GHG Access / village roads Minor to none 0 none required Canal service roads Minor to none 0 none required Drainage channels Minor to none 0 none required

Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact

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A6-105 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

ANNEX 6.4 Environmental and Social Clauses for Civil Works

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Annex 6.4: Environmental and Social Clauses for Civil Works Contracts

203. The Mitigation Measures of the IEE and EMP provide general and specific guidance on protection and mitigation of potential environmental damage. The EMP is attached to the Technical Specifications and shall be considered as binding on the Contractor. All necessary measures on protection of the environment shall be carried out by the Contractor in accordance with the order of competent authorities, the EMP, and instructions of the Engineer (Supervision Engineer as appointed by the NPMO).

1. Obligations of the Contractor

204. The general environmental and social obligations of the Contractor within this Contract, without prejudice to other official provisions in force, include the following: ▪ Respecting and abiding by the environmental, health, safety and labor regulatory provisions in force in Lao PDR (including those announced during the execution of the works if imposed by the Engineer), the contractual provisions of this Contract as well as the conditions fixed by the various authorizations or approvals required; ▪ Respecting and abiding by national and international labor codes, including the ILO Conventions ratified by Lao PDR and ensure that it and its sub-contractors make available employment opportunities for both men and women and ensuring a gender-sensitive work environment, and employment opportunities for local villagers; ▪ Assuming full responsibility for the consequences of its choices and actions; in particular, and without prejudice to the regulatory provisions in force, it guarantees, if necessary, the repair at its cost and according to the most appropriate technologies and deadlines, notably with regard to the level of sensitivity of the site concerned, of damage caused to the environment and residents by failure to respect regulatory and/or administrative provisions and/or the applicable technical specifications, as well as the payment of fines, damages or other penalties which may be incumbent upon it; ▪ Agreeing with the Engineer and implementing technical approaches and solutions to the design of the Chan Lan Xe Irrigation Scheme (the Project) where the Project would encroach on private or communal lands. Preference shall be given to the technical solutions that do not require taking or demolition of temporary and permanent properties. In case the taking or demolition of property cannot be avoided the Contractor shall notify the Engineer and cease the works in that particular section of the Project. Construction activities may only proceed with approval of the Engineer. ▪ Taking all measures to ensure the environmental quality of operations which are the subject of this contract and not disrupt the quality of life of the adjacent villages, in particular by applying the applicable specifications and provisions. The Contractor shall consider the execution of works or the implementation of environmental and social provisions as an integral part of the operations relating to the general construction program of the works; ▪ Providing appropriate information and training for Contractor personnel, including management staff, with regard to the environmental and social quality of operations;

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▪ Informing the local authorities (village heads, district governor) and the affected population on planned construction activities, sites and schedule at least 2 weeks in advance of any planned construction activities (including signage); ▪ Holding information meetings at least 2 weeks before entering any village area for planned construction activities, to inform and consult with the villagers regarding the nature of the forthcoming works, their duration and all effects such as dust, smoke, interruption of irrigation water, or noise that would be felt in the village, the mitigation measures that would be applied, and provide villagers with opportunities to ask questions and express concerns; ▪ Providing a medium for ongoing communication with villagers, including a point of contact/ liaison to address any potential issues during construction with the physical works or with subcontractors, and provide a plan for mediation of any problems that arise in relation to the works under this Contract and documenting concerns and resolution of these. ▪ Refraining from destroying, removing or clearing trees, timber, scrub, crops and other flora to any extent greater than is approved by the Engineer as being necessary for the execution of this Contract and shall take such measures as may be necessary to prevent its employees from hunting, fishing, disturbing, capturing or destroying stock, crops and such flora as may be protected by relevant statutes; ▪ Siting borrow pits or other similar excavations as well as waste accumulation and disposal sites only in locations approved by the Engineer; ▪ Controlling pollution, noise and nuisances generated by the works. No construction to be carried out between 19:00 and 06:00 near (minimum 500m) residential, hospital, or other sensitive areas; ▪ Re-using materials available on the existing site each time the technical and financial conditions allow for this in a satisfactory manner from the point of view of the Engineer. Recycling and reuse of wastes (e.g. lubricants, plastic bottles, paper) is encouraged where appropriate. Strictly banning the use of fire for clearing and grubbing and cleaning sites, except for the treatment of organic waste as approved by the Engineer; ▪ Preserving to the maximum extent possible natural resources and the minimizing the use of space, soil and vegetation, in particular by minimizing cleared and stripped surfaces, by the passage of blades at a high level (5 cm above the natural ground level) each time that a simple clearing or a provisional storage of material is required, by controlling logging, including any tree removals, by the appropriate management of the topsoil, by driving and working the machines perpendicular to the slope, by the maintenance on the sites of naturally grassed areas, and by the control of site erosion; ▪ As appropriate, systematically stripping topsoil of all work sites unless (with prior consent of the Engineer) the soil structure of the surface, predominantly organic matter ("topsoil" or mud), does not exist or has a thickness less than the working height adjustment of the blade of the excavator or machine used, taking into account the state of the terrain (eroded soil, gravel, soil with rocks that prevent the passage of the machine, etc.); ▪ Respecting, for the whole of its site (including borrow sites and disposal areas, quarries and installations) the zones, areas, elements and periods which are

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environmentally sensitive, including, but not limited to locations and areas identified in the EMP. In the project areas adjacent to specially protected areas, machinery shall not go beyond the work zone as approved by the Engineer; there shall be no waste accumulations and waste disposal sites in the same areas; and there shall be no use and storage of explosives and toxic and chemical substances. ▪ Discharging or disposal of used water, mud, grout, bituminous products, pollutants of any kind, etc. into wells, boreholes, surface water or groundwater, water courses, natural streams, drains, ditches, etc. is strictly forbidden; ▪ Not creating a dam or altering a permanent or temporary watercourse for the requirements of the site (unless otherwise specified in the Design), without authorization of the Engineer; ▪ Ensuring that all construction vehicles shall travel at low speed (as specified in Lao PDR regulations) within 100m on either side of any areas around villages where children are present; ▪ Ensuring that all construction vehicles are well-maintained, and meet basic emission standards such as Euro 2, and that idling of trucks shall not exceed 15 minutes when in populated areas within 100m on either side of any areas around villages; ▪ Controlling health risks relating to the works and personnel of the Contractor, in particular the adoption of minimum hygiene rules at the work sites and camps and for the benefit of residents in the affected communities, the control of dust emissions in populated areas and the control of stagnant waters as specified in the EMP; ▪ Exercising every reasonable precaution to protect persons or property from injury. The Contractor shall erect and maintain all necessary temporary fencing, barricades, barriers, signs and lights and provide fire alarm, fire extinguishing and firefighting services at strategic points on the Site. The Contractor shall also be responsible for erecting and maintaining structures for storage and containment of hazardous materials or liquids. The Contractor shall adopt and enforce such rules and regulations as may be necessary, desirable or proper to safeguard the public, all persons engaged in the work and its supervision. The Contractor shall be responsible for the flagging and control of traffic and he shall comply with the requirements of the Engineer and competent authority in these matters. The Contractor shall keep clear and in good working order all temporary access road structures, bridges, culverts, drains and other waterways necessary for the execution of the works during the term of the Contract; ▪ Ensuring, in as far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare at work of its personnel including those of its subcontractors and of all other persons on the Site or crossing the site. The Contractor shall provide protective clothing and equipment to workers that are appropriate to the workers’ tasks. The Contractor shall be fully responsible for ensuring necessary first aid services to its staff and workers, including transport for injured personnel to hospital or other appropriate accommodation as and when required. The organization of the construction sites and work places, and the Contractor’s approach to the aspects listed below, shall be included in the Contractor’s Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) to be prepared by the Contractor and approved by the Engineer.

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▪ Cleaning, restoring and then, if necessary, providing for the appropriate rehabilitation or redevelopment of work sites, camps, quarries and borrow pits released by the Contractor as the work progresses. This obligation, which includes possible drainage of stagnant water and the completion of compensatory tree plantations (if envisaged by the Design), is a condition of the acceptance of the works; ▪ Taking appropriate sanctions against personnel violating the applicable specifications and provisions on environmental and social matters; ▪ Checking, by regular inspection, that all stipulated environmental and social provisions are being adhered to; ▪ Systematically and in a timely manner informing the Engineer of each incident or accident, damage or degradation caused to the environment, workers or residents or their assets, in the course of the works. Contractor shall also take appropriate measures, as approved by the Engineer, to address the incident or accident in timely fashion; and ▪ Providing environmental and social monitoring of the works and the writing of corresponding monthly reports.

2. Contractor’s Environmental Management Plan 205. The Contractor shall establish a Contractor’s Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) in order to meet his obligations concerning this matter; the CEMP shall include in particular the following: 1. Management Acknowledgements; 2. Organization & Staffing; 3. Communications and Reporting; 4. Environmental, Health and Safety Management Provisions; 5. A camp management sub-plan; 6. A hydrocarbon and hazardous waste sub-plan; 7. A quarry and borrow pit management sub-plan; 8. A disposal area management sub-plan; and 9. An erosion and sediment control sub-plan.

206. The Contractor shall prepare and submit for the Engineer’s approval a CEMP within 30 days of the commencement date. The Engineer may require periodic reviews, including updating of the CEMP during the Works. 2.1 Management Acknowledgement 2.2.1 Certification and Commitment 207. The CEMP submitted by the Contractor shall provide a signed statement from the Contractor’s Managing Director(s) attesting to a commitment that all environmental protection, safety, and occupational health aspects of the Contract would be given highest priority in the discharge of contractual obligations and certifying a commitment to the provisions in the EMP and CEMP as approved by the Engineer.

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2.2.2 Statutory Understanding and Compliance

208. The Plan shall provide a statement attesting the firm’s understanding of, and means of ensuring due compliance with, the statutory regulations relating to construction work in Lao PDR, specifically in regard to compliance with: (i) All safety and occupational health legislation including, without limitation, the Rules and Regulations of Lao PDR and the authorities having jurisdiction. (ii) All current environmental laws and regulations, including both national and local regulations, related to the following, but not limited to: ▪ Noise; ▪ Vibration; ▪ Air pollution; ▪ Water contamination; ▪ Solid and hazardous waste disposal; ▪ Liquid waste disposal; ▪ Sanitary conditions (water supply, sewerage, etc.); ▪ Use of explosives; ▪ Protection of public traffic; ▪ Protection of the environment, and of historical, cultural and archaeological monuments/sites, ▪ Resettlement, land acquisition, servitude, temporary use of land and compensation, etc. 2.2.3 Availability of Documents 209. The Plan shall state where copies of safety and occupational health regulations and documents will be available on the construction site and verify that all regulations and documents have been or will be available. 2.2.4 Management of Subcontractors 210. The requirements of this and related sections and obligations therein shall be required for execution of parts of the Works by the approved subcontractors while the Contractor shall: (i) Provide subcontractors with copies of the CEMP, incorporate such provisions into all sub-contracts, and ensure compliance with such plan under the Contract. (ii) Require all subcontractors to appoint a safety representative who shall be available on the site throughout the operational period of the respective sub-contract and ensure as far as is practically possible that staff and employees of subcontractors are conversant with appropriate parts of the CEMP and the statutory regulations. 2.3 Organization and Staffing 2.3.1 Organization Chart 211. The Plan shall include an organization chart identifying (by job title and by the name and contact information of the individual) the personnel to be engaged solely for environmental

A6-112 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination protection, health, safety and traffic control. The chart and the supporting text shall identify participants and their areas of responsibility and contact details. (i) Appointment of Resident Environmental Safety Officer (ESO) 212. The Contractor shall submit for approval the name and details (full CV) of its proposal for an ESO to the Engineer within 14 days of the commencement date. The ESO shall be responsible for day-to-day issues of environmental management for the duration of the Contract. The Contractor shall obtain approval of such person being appointed, who shall be in position to carry out his duties prior to Works activities commencing on site except as may be agreed in exceptional circumstances in writing with the Engineer. The ESO will not be removed from the site without the express written permission of the Engineer/LIC. Within fourteen (14) days of any such removal or notice of intent of removal, a replacement ESO will be nominated for approval by the Engineer/LIC. 213. The ESO shall be empowered to instruct employees of the Contractor and Subcontractors to cease operations and shall take the appropriate action as is necessary and within his limits of delegation by informing others as may be appropriate to prevent unsafe working practices or other infringements of the Plan or the statutory regulations. The ESO shall maintain a daily site diary comprehensively recording all relevant matters concerning site environmental management, safety and traffic control, inspections and audits, related incidents and the like. The site diary shall be available at all times for inspection by the Engineer and his staff. 2.3.2 Communication and Reporting 214. The Contractor shall prepare and submit to the Engineer for his approval monthly progress reports on compliance with implementation of EMP and CEMP. It is expected that these reports will include information on: ▪ Environmental, social, health, and safety management actions/measures taken, including approvals sought from local or national authorities; ▪ Problems encountered in relation to environmental, social, health, and safety aspects (incidents, including delays, cost consequences, etc. as a result thereof); ▪ Lack of compliance with contract requirements on the part of the Contractor; ▪ Changes of assumptions, conditions, measures, designs and actual works in relation to environmental, social, health, and safety aspects; ▪ Observations, concerns raised and/or decisions taken with regard to environmental, social, health, and safety management during site meetings; ▪ Chance historical, cultural and archaeological finds; ▪ Follow-up on the status and efficacy of remedial measures and/or corrective actions identified in Incident Reporting Forms included in EMPs or otherwise; and ▪ Follow-up, including remedial measures, status of measures and their efficacy, related to lack of compliance with contract requirements. 2.4 Environmental, Health and Safety Management Provisions 215. The CEMP should include, as a minimum, the methodology and resources to meet the requirements of these Technical Specifications including but not limited to the following: ▪ Stakeholder communication (including nearby affected residents) and mechanism for documenting public concerns in relation to the works under this Contract and resolution of these through the Grievance Redress Mechanism;

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▪ Relevant staff training;

▪ To the extent possible, maintaining farmers’ access to irrigation water if the works are implemented during the irrigation season; ▪ Maintaining vehicle access to the communities; ▪ Pollution control (including spill prevention, dust abatement, noise, etc.); ▪ Provision of portable water and washing/toilet facilities to workers; ▪ Provision of lodging and insecticide-treated mosquito nets to workers as appropriate; ▪ Provision of health care to workers and treatment for injuries and infections; and providing workers with access to condoms; ▪ Assessing importance of, and reporting and investigating, chance historical, cultural and archaeological finds; ▪ Immediately ceasing work and notifying the Engineer in any part of the Project Site where UXO is discovered or suspected to be present, marking the location and controlling access to it; and ▪ Inspection and monitoring. 2.5 HIV-AIDS Provisions 216. The Contractor shall: ▪ Require its personnel to attend the HIV Awareness Program provided by the UNAIDS and/or the National Committee for the Control of AIDS (NCCA) which is developing the new National Strategic and Action Plan on HIV/AIDS/STI 2016-2020. Attendance shall be in the course of their employment and during their normal working hours or any period of overtime provided for in the relevant employment contracts and uses all reasonable endeavors to ensure this instruction is followed;

▪ Deliver to all employee’s HIV/AIDS leaflets available through UNAIDS and/or the NCCA. ▪ Give all reasonable cooperation to the UNAIDS and/or the NCCA office on providing the HIV Awareness Program if any planned, by providing suitable space for delivery of the Program and do nothing to dissuade the personnel from attending the Program; ▪ Encourage voluntary HIV/STD testing. 217. The Contractor shall not be required to undertake or pay for treatment or medication for personnel found to be suffering from HIV/AIDS. Such personnel shall not be discriminated against however (including discrimination in employment opportunities, employment retention, treatment, etc.). 2.6 Income 218. The Borrower shall cause the Project Provinces to ensure that their relevant records of labor employment (disaggregated by gender and ethnic groups) are properly maintained and tracked in the Project performance monitoring system, and compliance is strictly monitored22.

22 Project Loan Covenant

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219. The contractors would pay approximately 21 per cent of the contract price in local wages generated from the project construction activities, with 30 per cent of the wages for women under equal pay conditions23. 220. To fulfill the conditions set out in this paragraph 180 the contractor must provide full details of staff employed on a monthly basis to the Provincial Project Management Office (PPMO). The details must include:

• Name and unique identity; • Gender and ethnicity; • Permanent residency; • Age; • Period of employment • Position of employment; • Salary paid and any deductions; • Date of salary payment; and • Any other employee details requested by the PPMO.

23 Monitoring and Design Framework

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ANNEX 6.5 Environmental and Social Monitoring Process

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Annex 6.5: Environmental and Social Monitoring Process

221. Environmental monitoring would take place on a quarterly basis during construction and semi-annually during operation of the Project. The Environmental Monitoring Process for the Chan Lan Xe Irrigation Subproject is as follows:

a) Establish the Environmental Monitoring Team (suggested the PAFO-PPMO and/or DAFO representative, M&E officer, construction supervision engineer, specialized consultants as needed, and an officer from DONRE who would act as a technical reference but may not participate in the field work unless there are significant environmental problems); b) Select the Team Leader (TL). This person would be responsible for convening the team and scheduling monitoring sessions at least once per quarter. The TL will also ensure that appropriate resources are needed for the monitoring process, such as transport; c) Carry out the field monitoring every three months:

1 Visit the site. Visually inspect those aspects that can cause impacts, as specified in the EMP. Use the attached site visit visual inspection checklists to record EMP and CEMP compliance with the stated mitigations measures; 2 Water Testing (for irrigation schemes): Water is to be tested: (i) for monitoring of quality in schemes where canals pass through or near to built-up areas, (ii) to identify changes of the presence of surplus fertilizer compounds in tertiary canals, as a means of monitoring improvements in proper use of fertilizers, and (iii) to detect traces of hazardous pesticide, herbicide or fungicide substances, as a means of monitoring improvements in proper use of these chemicals. The following parameters and limits are recommended for this purpose:

Parameters Range/Maximum Value pH 5.5 - 9 Fecal Coliforms <1,000 per 100 ml Biological Oxygen Demand (20oC) <25 mg/l Chemical Oxygen Demand <35 mg/l

3. Samples should be taken twice, at six-monthly intervals during the twelve months prior to construction and during construction, quarterly during operation, and taken to a certified laboratory for analysis. Samples shall be taken from a point midstream in one of the canals at each site. A single sample is sufficient. The cost of one set of tests, including packaging, courier costs and laboratory fees is approximately $250; 4. Interview the farmers or other beneficiaries to ensure that they are following the requirements of the EMP. Use the attached interview checklist on the next page; 5. Interview neighbors (2 or 3, or more if there have been complaints) to determine if there are any complaints or grievances that have not been resolved; 6. Ensure that mitigation measures are being implemented by the Contractor. Suggest and document additional mitigation measures to address unforeseen problems; 7. On the basis of the visual inspection, water testing, and interviews determine if there are significant environmental problems that need to be addressed. If so, contact the PONRE or DONRE representative for advice and action;

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8. Within 30 days’ week of the end of the field mission, the TL (or his designee) writes the Monitoring Report as outlined in this template document; and 9. TL submits Monitoring Report to the NPMO, local authorities, and ADB, and addresses any comments or questions.

222. Checklists to be used for the monitoring during the construction and operational stages are on the following pages. One checklist is to be completed for each Project component.

Sample Questions to be Posed to Beneficiaries and Persons Involved in Monitoring

1. What is your name, contact details (phone or email) and responsibility? (such as contractor, IA, beneficiary, affected person, etc.)

2. What are your primary concerns regarding the project and the monitoring process?

3. From your observations, is project IEE and EMP monitoring for environmental and safeguards compliance being carried out by responsible parties (contractor, sub-contractor, IA, other government agency, local community members, NGOs, etc.)?

4. Were any suggestions or directives given to the project implementers regarding environmental or social issues?

5. How often was monitoring done? When was the last monitoring?

6. What equipment was used for monitoring?

7. Were there sufficient resources, such as transport, to do the monitoring?

8. What are your primary concerns regarding the project and the monitoring process?

9. Where were the monitoring locations?

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Sample Questions to be Posed to Beneficiaries and Persons Involved in Monitoring

10. What parameters or indicators were addressed, such as water quality, air, noise, biodiversity, etc.? Was a checklist used?

11. Were there any concerns, complaints, or grievances expressed by you or anyone affected by the project? If so, how were these addressed?

12. Have you seen the IEEs, EMMPs, all the monitoring reports/notes? Can copies be made available?

13. Discussion of other topics or questions raised by the interviewed persons.

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Lao People’s Democratic Republic: Greater Mekong Subregion East-West Economic Corridor Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Chan Lan Xe Subproject EMP COMPLIANCE MONITORING CHECKLIST (Construction) Sub-Project: Chan Lan Xe Subproject Date: Location: Name of Contact person: Contractor:

Name, designation Contact information: Monitoring TL: Monitoring team members

Persons Met during the monitoring: Name, designation Contact Information

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Greater Mekong Subregion East-West Economic Corridor - Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project ADB Loan No. 3024

(Title of the Workshop/Conference/Meeting/Training Course): …………………………….. Date………………………….. Venue………………………….

Tick () in Ethno-Linguistic Group Specific Ethnic Name and Family Sex Contact number (If No. Organization Position Mon- Hmong- Chinese- Group Name Signature name (M/F) Lao- Tai any) Khmer Iumien Tibetan (Somphao) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

A6-122 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Observed Compliance with EMP, Potential Impacts EMP Mitigation Measures CEMP or other Mitigation Measures

Air Quality • Construction vehicles to meet Euro 2 emission standards, or Minor air quality better. impacts from construction • Contractors to control dust vehicles along during construction through canals. regular watering of exposed areas; • Dust from construction • Cover all trucks carrying operations dispersible materials to or from the site; • Vehicle emissions • Ensure all construction vehicles and equipment are well- maintained

• Disallow diesel engine idling for prolonged periods (>15 minutes) in residential areas.

Noise • Ensure all construction vehicles and equipment are well- • Nuisance maintained noise from equipment • Avoid use of air brakes and loud and vehicles horns in populated areas accessing the site. • No construction between 19:00 and 06:00 near (minimum 0.5 Km) residential, hospital, or other sensitive areas.

Water resources • Contractors to acquire water and quality from available nearby surface water sources as approved by • Minor local authorities amounts needed for • Contractors to manage construction wastewater discharges at and dust construction camps. Siting control camps so as to avoid impacts to acquired from surface and groundwater. village sources could • Monitor surface and groundwater cause local quality at or near camps, and in shortages in canals as discussed in the EMP dry season • Use temporary diversion drains • Minor & bunds, temporary silt traps and increase in ponds to prevent contamination wastewater of surface water. from construction • Stockpile spoils in flat areas camps, away from drainage routes including petroleum/che

A6-123 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

Observed Compliance with EMP, Potential Impacts EMP Mitigation Measures CEMP or other Mitigation Measures

mical • Contractor should coordinate pollution. with PPMO and cultivation households reach agreement on • Contamination water supply in case of the of surface and construction is not completed in groundwater due time

• Changed • Contractors to notify farmers of drainage/irriga possible temporary disruptions to tion affecting irrigation and strive to minimize farmers (due these disruptions. to blocking flows for construction of headworks)

Solid wastes • Identify suitable waste dumping sites and obtain approval from local authorities. • Minor local impacts from improper • Collect solid wastes and temporarily disposal of store at a safe place before solid waste transporting to approved from disposal sites construction activities or • Establish regulations on ensuring workers sanitation, stipulated dumping yard and waste treatment methods and disseminate those regulations to workers

Siltation/erosion • Install diversion drains & bunds, temporary silt traps/pond as • Impacts to soils required from erosion increases due • Stockpiling of spoil in flat areas & far to inadequate from drainage routes construction procedures • Contractors to provide adequate and improper erosion control during management construction. For construction of borrow pits. materials such as sand, stone, and fill dirt, contractor should choose legal service providers who have exploitation licenses and environmental protection commitment issued by local authorities.

Land Use • Contractor to protect sensitive urban, agricultural and natural areas during construction, and pay for • Minor impacts to local land any temporary use of land uses during construction

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Observed Compliance with EMP, Potential Impacts EMP Mitigation Measures CEMP or other Mitigation Measures

Human Health • Contractors to provide adequate access to health facilities at all • Potential minor times. and temporary negative • Contractors to screen and educate health impacts workers for HIV and other STDs. from reduced access to • Establish malaria control at work health sites and camps. facilities. • Provide adequate toilet facilities and • Increase in STDs clean water for workers. from construction workers interacting with local population

• Increases in water-borne diseases from improper sanitation at work camps and vicinity

Safety • Training and awareness-raising for workers on occupational health & • Potential impacts safety. from work- place • Contractor to provide appropriate accidents to personal protective equipment workers, local (PPE) to workers, including eye community, or and ear protection, gloves, vehicles reflective vests, and steel-toed boots. • Increase in traffic accidents due • Adequate signage, lighting, and to construction control of construction sites. traffic • Traffic control measures to ensure public safety, including appropriate use of flag-persons and signage.

• Contractor to establish efficient emergency/ contingency plans, adequate facilities & equipment & trained staff for handling emergencies.

Resettlement • Contractor to pay rent for temporary use of land as agreed with • Potential for owner. temporary impacts due to

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Observed Compliance with EMP, Potential Impacts EMP Mitigation Measures CEMP or other Mitigation Measures

contractors' • Only vacant land to be used use of land • Use of land will not disturb businesses

• Land temporarily used will be restored or improved to pre- project condition

Community Income • Contractors to notify farmers of possible temporary disruptions to • Possible irrigation and strive to minimize disruption on these disruptions. existing irrigation • Contractors to provide access to shops / businesses / homes at all • Possible minor times. negative impact to • Contractors to hire local people to income for the extent possible. shops due to lack of access • Contractor workers not allowed to during fish in project area, unless they are construction local people.

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Notes/Photos:

Recommendations to Water User Group:

Follow-up requirement (e.g., with PONRE or other officials) and any need to re- monitor:

Approximate date of next monitoring:

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Lao People’s Democratic Republic: Greater Mekong Subregion East-West Economic Corridor Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Chan Lan Xe Subproject EMP COMPLIANCE MONITORING CHECKLIST (Operation) Sub-Project: Chan Lan Xe Subproject Date: Location: Name of Water Contact: User Group:

Name, designation Contact information: Monitoring TL: Monitoring team members

Persons Met during the monitoring: Name, designation Contact Information

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Greater Mekong Subregion East-West Economic Corridor - Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project ADB Loan No. 3024

(Title of the Workshop/Conference/Meeting/Training Course): …………………………….. Date………………………….. Venue………………………….

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Potential Impacts EMP Mitigation Measures Observed Compliance with EMP or other Mitigation Measures

Increased dust from • PAFO and WUG to Control unpaved service roads use of the service roads to authorized vehicles only to reduce damage to road and dust in dry season.

Inadequate maintenance of • Adequate maintenance and headworks, service roads, care of landscaping of or drainage leading to bank riverbanks, service erosion roads and drainage channels

Drainage from irrigated • PAFO to develop an on- fields in which large going capacity-building amounts of fertilizers and program to instruct pesticides have been used people not to use could include contaminated drainage water without water which might be used testing for downstream by other contaminants. farmers or even for

domestic use. • PAFO to train farmers in methods for reducing the use of chemicals.

• Coordinate with Agriculture Extension Centre to ensure that farmers are trained in correct use and storage of fertilizer, pesticides, and other potentially hazardous substances

• Monitor water quality in the canals by sampling as discussed in the EMP.

Obstruction of water flows • Discouragement and/or in the canals from sediment prevention on disposal or other deposits from of materials and any improper disposal of solid solid waste in the waste canals, drainage channel, or roads will be disseminated by DAFO/PAFO to WUGs

• Enforcement by WUGs’ management committee

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Potential Impacts EMP Mitigation Measures Observed Compliance with EMP or other Mitigation Measures

Potential minor negative • Farmers to be instructed in impact from the provision of the control of mosquito additional open surface and water borne water that can lead to disease control by increased incidence of DAFO/PAFO. mosquitos and water-borne diseases. • Water flow in canals should not be impeded, and stagnant ponding from overflows should be avoided.

Potential minor impacts • PAFO and WUG to carry from accidents in the out training and vicinity of pump stations or awareness raising for canal structures due to poor community on dangers control of access to the of the pumps, canals, sites. and drainage channels.

• Adequate signage and fencing to keep people and animals away.

Possible on-going disputes • PAFO and WUG to or grievances establish and fully implement the Grievance Resolution Mechanism to be in force for the life of the project

Minor local increase in • PAFO to provide greenhouse gas emissions awareness-raising for from increased rice local population of the cultivation increased emissions of methane from rice cultivation and encouragement to change methods or raise other crops. Possibly invite researchers from Thailand who have developed paddy rice methods that reduce GHG

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Notes/Photos:

Recommendations to Water User Group:

Follow-up requirement (e.g., with PONRE or other officials) and any need to re- monitor:

Approximate date of next monitoring:

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A6-133 Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

ANNEX 6.6 Climate Change Check List

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Annex 6.6: REA CHECK LIST (SALAVAN PROVINCE)

Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) Checklist Instructions:

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

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

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

Country/Project Title: LAO - Greater Mekong Subregion East-West Economic Corridor Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project (AISP) Phase III – Salavan Province

Sector Division: SEER

Screening Questions Yes No Remarks A. Project Siting No impacts anticipated Is the Project area adjacent to or within any of the following environmentally sensitive areas?

▪ Protected Area X No proposed subproject located in National Protected Areas ▪ Wetland X Minimal impact on reservoir and paddy field is expected ▪ Mangrove X No mangrove area located

▪ Estuarine X No estuarine located

▪ Buffer zone of protected area X No buffer zones are delineated

▪ Special area for protecting biodiversity X None of the special area located within subproject areas B. Potential Environmental Impacts All impacts will be mitigated to less- Will the Project cause… than-significant levels

▪ loss of precious ecological values (e.g. result of The Project activities will not cause encroachment into forests/marshlands or loss of precious ecological values. historical/cultural buildings/areas, disruption of hydrology X of natural waterways, regional flooding, and drainage hazards)? ▪ conflicts in water supply rights and related social There is no conflict in water use in the conflicts? X project command or catchment area.

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Screening Questions Yes No Remarks ▪ impediments to movements of people and animals? The road component of the subproject aims to support movement X of people. Also, it is designed for maintaining green corridor for support animal movement by canal cover etc. ▪ potential ecological problems due to increased soil Soil erosion may occur due to erosion and siltation, leading to decreased stream construction activities on bank of capacity? X water sources. However, this problem will be solved by demonstrative bioengineering. ▪ Insufficient drainage leading to salinity intrusion? X There is no information about existence of saline layers. ▪ over pumping of groundwater, leading to salinization and No pumping ground water ground subsidence? X

▪ impairment of downstream water quality and therefore, Construction works cause such impairment of downstream beneficial uses of water? X contamination will be supervised by appointed environment officers or staff of the contractor. ▪ dislocation or involuntary resettlement of people? X There is no involuntary resettlement.

▪ disproportionate impacts on the poor, women and Project engages activities for children, Indigenous Peoples or other vulnerable groups? X supporting poor, women or ethnic group. ▪ potential social conflicts arising from land tenure and land Mostly from trucks transport use issues? construction materials through agricultural land. Control measures X are proposed throughout the Project. The land has to be restored and compensation should be made to AP. ▪ soil erosion before compaction and lining of canals? Erosion is anticipated at cutting and banking work for canal, road, etc. X Erosion control measures are proposed including bioengineering throughout the Project. ▪ noise from construction equipment? Mostly from trucks in residential X areas. Work will be suspended between 21:00 and 06:00. ▪ dust during construction? Dry season road dust is common and mitigation measures will be taken X such as limitation of operation time, watering, etc., based on environment S/V. ▪ waterlogging and soil salinization due to inadequate There is no waterlogging and soil drainage and farm management? X salinization under the project.

▪ leaching of soil nutrients and changes in soil Agriculture techniques are also characteristics due to excessive application of irrigation X supported for use of proper irrigation water? water.

▪ reduction of downstream water supply during peak Excessive withdrawals of irrigation seasons? water may result into reduction of X downstream water supply, but waterflow is designed to avoid significant reduction.

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Screening Questions Yes No Remarks ▪ soil pollution, polluted farm runoff and groundwater, and Project does not cause those public health risks due to excessive application of X pollutions and also the contamination fertilizers and pesticides? will be monitored.

▪ soil erosion (furrow, surface)? Effective irrigation matching with X market-oriented production will decrease furrow and surface erosion ▪ scouring of canals? Scouring problem is not significant X throughout the irrigation project in Northern Laos ▪ clogging of canals by sediments? Clogging by sedimentation in the X canals can occur but will be maintained by WUGs. ▪ clogging of canals by weeds? Clogging by weeds in the canals can X occur but will be managed and maintained by WUGs. ▪ seawater intrusion into downstream freshwater systems? X The project area is very far away from seawater. ▪ introduction of increase in incidence of waterborne or Can occur but sufficient mitigation water related diseases? X measures will be provided in the IEE/EMP. ▪ dangers to a safe and healthy working environment due to Minor impacts from hazardous physical, chemical and biological hazards during project X materials and wastes (mostly construction and operation? petroleum products) may occur, but to be mitigated. ▪ large population influx during project construction and Not anticipated. operation that causes increased burden on social X infrastructure and services (such as water supply and sanitation systems)? ▪ social conflicts if workers from other regions or countries Contractor will be required to hire are hired? locals, but workers from elsewhere X will probably be involved. Proper and suitable mitigation measures will be included in the subproject IEE/EMP. ▪ risks to community health and safety due to the transport, Contractor is required to use and storage, and use and/or disposal of materials such as store the fuels and other hazardous explosives, fuel and other chemicals during construction X materials properly. Detailed mitigation and operation? measures will be included in the subproject IEE/EMP. ▪ community safety risks due to both accidental and natural The canal is accessible for all hazards, especially where the structural elements or villagers for their living water also. components of the project (e.g., irrigation dams) are Natural hazards will be considered in accessible to members of the affected community or X the design of irrigation and dam. where their failure could result in injury to the community Emergency management plan will be throughout project construction, operation and included in the IEE/EMP. decommissioning?

Source: AISP 2019

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A Checklist for Preliminary Climate Risk Screening

Country/Project Title: LAO: GMS EWEC - Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project

Sector:

Subsector:

Division/Department:

Screening Questions Score Remarks24

Location and Is siting and/or routing of the project (or its No, the location of the sub- Design of components) likely to be affected by climate project and its components project conditions including extreme weather-related 0 is determined by existing events such as floods, droughts, storms, irrigation scheme and landslides? topography

Would the project design (e.g. the clearance for Yes, the design for culverts, bridges) need to consider any hydro- canals and access roads meteorological parameters (e.g., sea-level, peak 1 would take into river flow, reliable water level, peak wind speed consideration flood and etc.)? drought events

Materials and Would weather, current and likely future climate Yes, concrete for all Maintenance conditions (e.g. prevailing humidity level, irrigation scheme temperature contrast between hot summer days structures, canals and water and cold winter days, exposure to wind and control structures, natural 1 humidity hydro-meteorological parameters likely armored gravel pavement affect the selection of project inputs over the life of on irrigation service roads project outputs (e.g. construction material)? and hard pavement (concrete) for access road

Would weather, current and likely future climate Yes, extreme flood events conditions, and related extreme events likely affect would cause some damage the maintenance (scheduling and cost) of project to infrastructure although 1 output(s)? more resilient construction materials (see above) would reduce the damage.

24 If possible, provide details on the sensitivity of project components to climate conditions, such as how climate parameters are considered in design standards for infrastructure components, how changes in key climate parameters and sea level might affect the siting/routing of project, the selection of construction material and/or scheduling, performances and/or the maintenance cost/scheduling of project outputs.

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Performance Would weather/climate conditions, and related Yes, extreme weather of project extreme events likely affect the performance (e.g. events, flood and drought, outputs annual power production) of project output(s) (e.g. 1 would impact on crop hydro-power generation facilities) throughout their production. design life time?

Options for answers and corresponding score are provided below:

Response Score

Not Likely 0

Likely 1

Very Likely 2

223. Responses when added that provide a score of 0 will be considered low risk project. If adding all responses will result to a score of 1-4 and that no score of 2 was given to any single response, the project will be assigned a medium risk category. A total score of 5 or more (which include providing a score of 1 in all responses) or a 2 in any single response, will be categorized as high-risk project.

Result of Initial Screening (Low, Medium, High): __Medium_

Other Comments: ______

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ANNEX 6.7:

Unexploded Ordinance Clearance Certificate

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Annex 6.7: UXO confirming letter from Salavan Labour and Social Welfare Department

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ANNEX 6.8

Detailed Engineering Design IEE Update Report

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Annex 6.8: Detailed Engineering Design IEE Update Report

LAO PEOPLE’S DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC PEACE INDEPENDENCE DEMOCRACY UNITY PROSPERITY

MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY DEPARTMENT OF IRRIGATION

GMS EAST-WEST ECONOMIC CORRIDOR AGRICULTURE INFRASTRUCTURE SECTOR PROJECT CHANLANXE IRRIGATION AND ACCESS ROADS IMPROVEMENT SUBPROJECT

DETAIL DESIGN DATA FOR INITIAL ENVIRONMENTAL EXAMINATON UPDATE

Project: Chanlanxe Irrigation and Access Roads Improvement Subproject Location: Khongxedon District, Salavan Province

Lao-ASIE Consultants Group JUNE, 2020

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Summaries Detail of Changes between CED and DED.

1. The Resettlement specialist of EDC-2 had reviewed the status of Chanlanxe Subproject based on the comparison of the Concept Engineering Design with the Detailed Engineering Design of the said subproject from May 22nd – June 23rd, 2020.

2. Finding result of the review is summarized as follows: 3. Project Location and background The Chanlanxe subproject is located in the Khongxedon District, at a distance of about 11.0 km east of Khongxedon District Center and 80.0 km from Salavan Provincial Capital through Road 15 and a local access road which are passable all year around by all types of vehicles.

4. The proposed rehabilitation scheme comprises two small scale irrigation systems namely Chan Lan Xe and Tanpiew; the irrigation system were originally constructed in 2011 and 1996 respectively through a joint initiative between the Provincial Agriculture and Forestry Office (PAFO), and the local Water Users Group (WUG). It was subsequently upgraded in 2008 through the introduction of concrete lining of selected canal reaches. The irrigation schemes like a considerable numbers of irrigation developments in Salavan Province, is a pumped scheme served by two (2) pump stations operating from moored pontoons located on the Xe Don River in the villages of Chan Lan Xe and Tanpiew. The total existing dry season irrigable area (command area) is in the order of 150ha and dry season irrigated rice is currently grown on about 65ha. The proposed improvements is to enable the dry season cropping area to increase to 300 ha producing a wet and a dry season crop.

5. Two major access roads are existent in the command area as shown in figure 2.1 on Concept design. The access roads, classed as rural roads and village internal access. They are compacted earth road with a combined length of approx.14.5km. It is frequently inundated by flood in the wet season, when it can be impassable, and vulnerable to damage and deterioration of the pavement that increases travel time and vehicle operating cost.

6. The scheme water source is the Xe Don River which is a perennial river with regular fluctuations in water level throughout the year. The water source is assured and the potential demand has been estimated at 3.4 million-m3 per year. At some juncture a forthcoming river basin management plan (BMP) will be available for the river, as demanded by the IWRM principles, and currently being developed by the Department of Water Resources (DOWR)25.

7. The existing scheme layout is a semi-farmer built irrigation system which has significantly been deteriorated with age. Few lined canals and control structures were built and those structures built are not gated so afford no water control, what control exists is through temporary earth and brush wood or plastic sheet checks. A Water User Group had been established and remains functional; but however, with limited supports

25 The BMP was not available as of July 2016.

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from the government or any other funding agency, they were not be able to bear all cost for upgrading the in completed distribution system and replacement of the deteriorated pump sets.

8. According to the DED report on water control structures with a total numbers of 254 structures would be built where appropriate within the canals distribution network (shown in the table of Annex 1).

9. The detailed calculations to show the pumps can provide adequate water to irrigate the increased area are shown in the Annex 2.

10. The Mapping of the changes in the distribution system layout and increased irrigation are shown in the Annex 3.

11. The Number of beneficiary households in the command area is 237 households26, from 4 villages such as: Tanpiew, Donphaiban, Chanlanxe and Tadsoum village.

12. According to the final design drawing of EDC 2, the Affected Persons (APs) and type of asset and land was summarized as follow:

The irrigation canal would be through 143 parcels of paddy field with a total area of 213.42 ha. The expectation of paddy field affected by irrigation canal is 11.28 ha (see details in Annex 4)

13. The number of paddy field owners affected by the canal construction as per detailed engineering design is 134 households from 4 villages such as: Chanlanxe 28 households, Tanpiew 79 households, Donephaiban 26 households and Tadsoum 1 household. The actual affected households will be examined again when the affected household list is to be formulated.

14. During the construction time, in the result of the extension of some secondary and tertiary canals along with some extent of service roads to be constructed according to the DED some land owners will lose some area of their own land under the construction of these items.

15. List of Affected farmers and paddy field areas is shown in the table of Annex 5.

16. The details of community consultation of the changes are shown in Annex 6.

17. According to the Detail Engineering Design, there are 3 access roads with total length of 10,922.06 m, the road will be constructed along the alignment of the existing road and within the road limit (right-of-way) that is 5 m either side of the Center Line. It is not anticipated to any land acquisition associated with access road construction. Therefore, they’re no significant impact for surrounding households which is detailing as fallow: • The access road No.1 Construction linked with National Road 13 south at Khongkhoum village to the irrigation system near Tanpiew village with total length 3,879.4 m, 2.5 m wide Concrete Pavement and 0.75 m shoulder of both side with Gravel Pavement, and every 300 m will be constructed passing way with 2 m wide Concrete Pavement.

26 Number of beneficiary households from the WUG representatives, 18 March 2018.

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There’re no significant affect to the 2 paddy fields alongside the access road.(See the detail on annex 5). • The access road No.2 will construct inside of the Chanlanxe village with total Length 1,317.66 m; 4 m wide with Concrete Pavement without shoulder. • The access road No.3 start from National Road 13 south to the Chanlanxe village with total Length 5,725 m; 2.5 m wide with Concrete Pavement and 0.75 m shoulder for each side with Gravel Pavement, and every 300 m will be constructed passing way with 2 m concrete pavement.

18. Environmental Impacts of the Chanlanxe sub-project remains the same as previous submitted during the concept design as the extension of those concerned tertiary canals are made in the same area of the existing ones.

19. It has had a UXO problem here in the past, but was cleared by the UXO Lao previously. Till now there is no record of the UXO finding in the area.

20. There are no known items of archaeological significance, as confirmed in community consultations in March 2018. Only passing in front of the village holy site (Hor ban) or old temple with no significant affect which is located next to the access road and main canal to be improved.( see detail in annex 3)

21. There is National Protected Areas (NPA) within 5km of the subproject site. The nearest NPA is Phu Xiang Thong which is at least 4-5km away to the west of the subproject. However, within the proposed subproject there is Beung Lom Lok marsh. The marsh is surrounded by the roads, canals and irrigated area proposed. This marsh has a vast area of around 42.5 ha, covering land use of the three villages: Chanlanxe, Tanpiew and Donphaiban. The marsh plays a significant role in terms of biodiversity protection and conservation area for the community as it has been designated as the village’s biodiversity and conservation area. Local people also rely on the marsh for food sources especially fish. It seems to be safe for natural and social impact. (See detail on annex 3).

22. Conclusion although the detailed engineering designed had slightly changed the number of expected command area originally set by Concept Design (the reason why paddy field area are increased from 300 to 317.47 ha, because of villagers needs to expand their cultivated area), the construction of extended tertiary canals and some additional proposed structures related to these canals would be practiced in the same areas as of the existing canals. Therefore, the change of IEE impacts would not be significant, except for the list of affected people who will lose some part of their own land for the irrigation canal construction as mentioned above. 23. Recommendations i) The Resettlement Committee should follow up the land acquisition settlement with those affected people according to the legal rule. ii) It is suggested that the IEE and EMP previously submitted would be monitored and controlled during the construction time.

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Annexes

Annex 1 : Comparison of data between CED and DED.

Annex 2.1 : Head Loss in Pump Components and Pipeline for Chanlanxe

Annex 2.2 : Detail Design of pump Capacity calculation of Chanlanxe

Annex 3 : Mapping of the changes in the distribution system layout and increased irrigation.

Annex 4 : Summary of affected land area in Chanlanxe Subproject.

Annex 5 : Summary List of Affected Farmers and paddy field areas.

Annex 6 Details of community consultation Chanlanxe Subproject.

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Annex 1: Comparison of data between CED and DED Concept Detail Items Description Unit Remark design Design I. Irrigation Area (Dry season) ha 300 317.47 1.1 Rice ha 200 217.47 1.2 Crop ha 100 100 II. Head work 2.1 Pontoon m 4x6x1.2 6x2x1.5 LxBxH 2.2 Pump set 3(582l/s) 3(540l/s) 2.3 Bioengineering erosion protection m2 480 480 2.4 Stilling Basin m 3.6x3.3x2 4x3x1.3 LxBxH 2.5 Transformer Kva 315 500 2.6 Power Supply kV 22 22 2.7 Design Discharge l/s 1,164 1,943 2.8 Mean Annual Flow m3/sec 175 170 III. Irrigation Canal 3.1 Main Canal m/line 25/1 736/1 Pipe 3.2 Secondary Canal m/line 7,880/5 9,678/8 3.3 Tertiary m/line 5,700/7 4,723/6 3.4 Farm canal m 2,000 2,000 IV. Structures 113 254 4.1 Water measurement structure Point 1 1 4.2 Division Boxes Point 9 12 4.3 Road Crossing Point 4 0 4.4 Farm turnout or offtakes Point 47 131 4.5 Farm bridge or thresher crossing Point 24 27 4.6 Check Structures Point 0 6 4.7 End Structures Point 9 12 4.8 Drain structures Point 20 50 4.9 Drop Point 0 15 V. Major access Road m 12,787/4 10,922.06/3 Concrete

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Annex 2.1: Head Loss in Pump Components and Pipeline for Chanlanxe AISP Chanlanxe Sub-project Head less in pump components and pipeline

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Annex 2.2: Detail Design of Pump Capacity Calculation of Chanlanxe.

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Annex 3:

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Mapping of the changes in the distribution system layout and increased irrigation CHANLANXE subproject

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Annex 4: Summary of affected land area in Chanlanxe Subproject. Total area of paddy field Area of affected paddy field Area Type of canals Number of Area (m2) Area (ha) Area (m2) parcels (ha) SC 1 42 285,461.94 28.54 37,824.41 3.78 SC 1-1 3 17,027 1.7 2,476.77 0.24 SC 1-2 13 241,412 24.14 10,077.62 1 SC 1-3 5 57,263 5.72 2,514.34 2.51 SC 2 17 123,948 12.39 18,003.98 1.8 SC 2-1 5 104,965.83 10.49 3,169.60 0.31 SC 2-2 8 114,830 11.48 7,499.66 0.74 SC 2-3 6 92,480 9.24 3,432.46 0.34 TC 1 13 352,170 35.21 10,182.22 1.01 TC 1-1 3 96,517 9.65 2,976.62 0..29 TC 2 8 135,565 13.55 3,743.23 0.37 TC 3 5 90,951 9.09 2,419.46 0.24 TC 4 8 170,478 17.04 3,377.65 0.33 TC 5 5 244,334 24.43 5,086.89 0.5 ROAD No.1 2 6,818.39 0.68 54.36 0.005 Total 143 2,134,221.40 213.42 112,839.26 11.28

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Annex 5: Summary List of Affected Farmers and paddy field areas. Area of Land Owners Land Area No. Code Land Owners (English Version) Village Type of canals effected paddy Right/ Type (Lao Version) (m2) field Left SC1 (42 HHs ໄດ້ຮັບຜົນກະທົບ)

1 TP-010 ນາງ ສສະໝຸດີ Mrs. Sysamouth Tanpiao 18,390.61 SC1 371.45 R TYPE-SC1-01 2 TP-011 ທາວ້ ສຸໂພ Mr. Soupho Tanpiao 36,203 SC1 2,644.28 R TYPE-SC1-01 3 TP-012 ນາງ ພອນລດດາັ ທນກາດົ າ Mrs. Phonlatda Thonkadam Tanpiao 2,336 SC1 885.50 R TYPE-SC1-01 4 TP-013 ນາງ ປອງ້ Mrs. Pohng Tanpiao 13,924 SC1 2,450.69 R TYPE-SC1-01 5 TP-032 ທາວ້ ງາ Mr. Nga Tanpiao 8,750 SC1 713.13 R TYPE-SC1-01 6 TP-033 ນາງ ສາ Mrs. Sah Tanpiao 3,063 SC1 97.65 R TYPE-SC1-01 7 TP-036 ນາງ ເຫ ອງ Mrs. Leuang Tanpiao 1,783 SC1 564.64 R TYPE-SC1-01 8 TP-038 ນາງ ບວຜົ ນັ Mrs. Bouaphanh Tanpiao 12,455 SC1 343.31 R TYPE-SC1-01 9 TP-039 ນາງ ຈນເພັ ງັ Mrs. Chanpheng Tanpiao 1,050 SC1 348.08 R TYPE-SC1-01 10 TP-047 ນາງ ຈນທັ ີ Mrs. Chanthy Tanpiao 27,467 SC1 188.37 R TYPE-SC1-01 11 TP-048 ທາວ້ ບຸນຕຸມ້ Mr. Bounthoumh Tanpiao 5,472 SC1 64.50 R TYPE-SC1-01 12 TP-049 ນາງ ຈາປາ Mrs. Champah Tanpiao 6,745 SC1 57.08 R TYPE-SC1-01 13 TP-054 ທາວ້ ຄາຫ າ້ + ນາງ ບວທອງົ Mr. Khamla+ Mrs. Bouathong Tanpiao 9,717 SC1 307.64 R TYPE-SC1-01 14 TP-057 ນາງ ແດງ Mrs. Deng Tanpiao 2,060 SC1 67.78 R TYPE-SC1-01 15 TP-058 ນາງ ໝອນ Mrs. Mone Tanpiao 2,926 SC1 27.17 R TYPE-SC1-01 16 TP-059 ນາງ ໃບ Mrs. Bai Tanpiao 2,853 SC1 6.16 R TYPE-SC1-01 17 TP-060 ທາວ້ ກິ Mr. Ki Tanpiao 11,032 SC1 164.31 R TYPE-SC1-01 18 TP-061 ທາວ້ ສາຍຝນົ Mr. Saifonh Tanpiao 10,904 SC1 365.84 R TYPE-SC1-01 19 TP-071 ນາງ ແພງ ພນທະດວງຈັ ດິ Mrs. Pheng Phanthadouangchit Tanpiao 1,230 SC1 493.12 R TYPE-SC1-01 20 TP-072 ນາງ ຄາ Mrs. Kham Tanpiao 1,763 SC1 523.22 R TYPE-SC1-01 21 TP-073 ນາງ ເຄນ Mrs. Khene Tanpiao 3,878 SC1 990.25 R TYPE-SC1-01 22 TP-074 ນາງ ຄາກອງ Mrs. Khamkong Donephaiban 3,969 SC1 1,107.56 R TYPE-SC1-01

23 TP-075 ນາງ ຕອຍ້ Mrs. Toy Tanpiao 4,659 SC1 408.22 R TYPE-SC1-01 24 TP-076 ນາງ ບວພົ ນັ ປະສດພິ ມມະຈົ ນັ Mrs. Bouaphan pasithphommachanh Tanpiao 2,366 SC1 190.99 R TYPE-SC1-01 25 TP-077 ນາງ ບວໄຂົ Mrs. Bouakhai Donephaiban 8,602 SC1 471.39 R TYPE-SC1-01

26 TP-101 ນາງ ໄລ Mrs. Lai Tanpiao 11,183 SC1 141.47 R TYPE-SC1-01 27 TP-100 ທາວ້ ສຸກຸນຄາ Mr. Soukounkham Tanpiao 12,538 SC1 578.25 R TYPE-SC1-01 28 TP-099 ນາງ ດາ Mrs. Da Donephaiban 5,447 SC1 459.24 R TYPE-SC1-01

29 TP-098 ນາງ ເປງັ Mrs. Peng Tanpiao 12,532 SC1 902.12 R TYPE-SC1-02 30 TP-102 ນາງ ຈາປາ Mrs. Champah Tanpiao 10,153 SC1 126.89 R TYPE-SC1-02 31 TP-103 ທາວ້ ສມອນີ Mr. Symone Donephaiban 4,598 SC1 1,133.20 R TYPE-SC1-02

32 TP-104 ນາງ ຄ າກອງ Mrs. Khamkong Tanpiao 4,045 SC1 259.68 R TYPE-SC1-02 ້ 33 TP-105 ທາວ້ ສນັ Mr. Sanh Tanpiao 7,117 SC1 594.77 R TYPE-SC1-02 34 TP-106 ນາງ ແຕງອ່ ອນ Mrs. Teng-On Tanpiao 8,874 SC1 369.67 R TYPE-SC1-02 35 TP-107 ນາງ ດວງໃຈ Mrs. Douangchai Donephaiban 5,377 SC1 136.62 R TYPE-SC1-02

36 ດນຫວິ ່ າງ Unknown the owner Tanpiao SC1 509.00 R TYPE-SC1-02 37 ດນຫວິ ່ າງ Unknown the owner Tanpiao SC1 1,952.68 R TYPE-SC1-02 38 ດນຫວິ ່ າງ Unknown the owner Tanpiao SC1 5,350.31 R TYPE-SC1-02 39 ດນຫວິ ່ າງ Unknown the owner Tanpiao SC1 420.48 R TYPE-SC1-02 40 ດນຫວິ ່ າງ Unknown the owner Tanpiao SC1 829.18 R TYPE-SC1-02 41 ດນຫວິ ່ າງ Unknown the owner Tanpiao SC1 1,006.25 R TYPE-SC1-02 42 ດນຫວິ ່ າງ Unknown the owner Tanpiao SC1 9,202.28 R TYPE-SC1-02 Total 1: 285,461.94 37,824.41 SC1-1 (3 HHs ໄດ້ຮັບຜົນກະທົບ)

1 TP-014 ທາວ້ ຄາມະນ ີ Mr. Khammany Tanpiao 3,389 SC1-1 524.45 R TYPE-SC1-1-01 2 TP-015 ນາງ ໂສພາ Mr. Sopha Tanpiao 10,209 SC1-1 811.04 R TYPE-SC1-1-01 3 TP-019 ນາງ ແພງ ພນທະດວງຈັ ດິ Mrs. Pheng Phanthadouangchit Tanpiao 3,429 SC1-1 1,141.28 R TYPE-SC1-1-01 Total 2: 17,027 2,476.77

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Area of Land Owners Land Area No. Code Land Owners (English Version) Village Type of canals effected paddy Right/ Type (Lao Version) (m2) field Left SC1-2 (13 HHs ໄດ້ຮັບຜົນກະທົບ) 1 TP-077 ນາງ ບວໄຂົ Mrs. Bouakhai Donephaiban 8,602 SC1-2 848.31 L TYPE-SC1-2-01

2 TP-076 ນາງ ບວພົ ນັ ປະສດພິ ມມະຈົ ນັ Mrs. Bouaphan pasithphommachanh Tanpiao 2,366 SC1-2 591.93 L TYPE-SC1-2-01 3 TP-078 ທາວ້ ສຸກສະໃໝ Mrs. Souksamai Tanpiao 8,661 SC1-2 1,680.03 L TYPE-SC1-2-01 4 TP-079 ນາງ ພູວຽງ Mrs. Phouvieng Tanpiao 18,499 SC1-2 666.47 R TYPE-SC1-2-01 5 TP-093 ນາງ ແຫ ້ Mr. Lae Tanpiao 7,839 SC1-2 175.75 R TYPE-SC1-2-01 6 TP-080 ນາງ ໃບລກາິ Mr. Bailika Tanpiao 13,219 SC1-2 355.39 L TYPE-SC1-2-01 7 TP-082 ນາງ ສອຍ້ Mrs. Soy Tanpiao 12,782 SC1-2 444.09 L TYPE-SC1-2-01 8 TP-083 ນາງ ຕອມ້ Mrs. Tom Tanpiao 14,717 SC1-2 464.62 R TYPE-SC1-2-01 9 TP-081 ນ ນວນ+ ທ. ສວມ+ ນ ເຕະ Mrs. Nouan + Mr. Souam + Mrs. Tei Tanpiao 41,086 SC1-2 1,066.55 R TYPE-SC1-2-01 10 TP-086 ທາວ້ ສທອງໜີ ນູ Mr. Sythongmoune Tanpiao 17,522 SC1-2 1,059.06 R TYPE-SC1-2-01 11 TP-087 ນາງ ໝຸດ Mrs. Mouth Tanpiao 35,314 SC1-2 441.10 L TYPE-SC1-2-01 12 TP-085 ນາງ ບວສົ ດົ Mrs. Bouasoth Tanpiao 43,633 SC1-2 1,554.37 L TYPE-SC1-2-01 13 TP-131 ທາວ້ ສທອງໜີ ນູ Mr. Sythongmoune Tanpiao 17,172 SC1-2 729.96 L TYPE-SC1-2-01 Total 3: 241,412 10,077.62 SC1-3 (5 HHs ໄດ້ຮັບຜົນກະທົບ) 1 TP-103 ທາວ້ ສມອນີ Mr. Symone Donephaiban 4,598 SC1-3 1,133.20 L TYPE-SC1-3-01 2 TP-102 ນາງ ຈາປາ Mrs. Champa Tanpiao 10,153 SC1-3 352.54 L TYPE-SC1-3-01 3 TP-105 ທາວ້ ສນັ້ Mr. Sanh Tanpiao 7,117 SC1-3 302.65 R TYPE-SC1-3-01 4 TP-106 ນາງ ແຕງອ່ ອນ Mrs. Teng-On Tanpiao 8,874 SC1-3 81.73 R TYPE-SC1-3-01 5 TP-089 ທາວ້ ສນັ້ Mr. Sanh Tanpiao 26,522 SC1-3 644.21 R TYPE-SC1-3-01 Total 4: 57,263 2,514.34 SC2 (17 HHs ໄດ້ຮັບຜົນກະທົບ) 1 CLX-056 ນາງ ຄອນ Mrs. Khone Chanlanxe 10,121 SC-2 139.98 L TYPE-SC2-01 2 CLX-055 ທາວ້ ໂດກ ດອນໃຜ່ ບານ້ Mrs. Phay + Mr. Dok Donephaiban 31,500 SC-2 344.67 L TYPE-SC2-01 3 CLX-054 ທາວ້ ສມອນີ Mr. Symone Chanlanxe 3,289 SC-2 35.21 L TYPE-SC2-01 4 CLX-053 ທາວ້ ໝ່ ນ Mr. Meune Chanlanxe 6,622 SC-2 217.33 L TYPE-SC2-01 5 CLX-052 ນາງ ຍມມະລາດົ Mrs. Gnommalath Chanlanxe 4,754 SC-2 244.28 L TYPE-SC2-01 6 CLX-051 ນາງ ຫວນິ Mrs. Vinh Chanlanxe 5,941 SC-2 233.97 L TYPE-SC2-01 7 CLX-050 ນາງ ວນນັ ີ Mrs. Vanny Chanlanxe 13,189 SC-2 237.18 L TYPE-SC2-01 8 CLX-049 ນາງ ມ ີ ດອນໄຜ່ ບານ້ Mrs. My Chanlanxe 5,282 SC-2 102.48 L TYPE-SC2-01 9 CLX-048 ທາວ້ ໂຖນ Mr. Thone Chanlanxe 10,026 SC-2 126.57 L TYPE-SC2-01 10 CLX-047 ນາງ ບວນ Mrs. Bouan Chanlanxe 7,637 SC-2 567.70 L TYPE-SC2-01 11 CLX-62 ທາວ້ ທອງດີ Mr. Thongdy Tadsoum 25,588 SC-2 239.16 L TYPE-SC2-01 12 ດນຫວິ ່ າງ Unknown the owner Chanlanxe SC-2 1,046.93 R TYPE-SC2-01 13 ດນຫວິ ່ າງ Unknown the owner Chanlanxe SC-2 502.95 R TYPE-SC2-01 14 ດນຫວິ ່ າງ Unknown the owner Chanlanxe SC-2 6,023.30 R TYPE-SC2-01 15 ດນຫວິ ່ າງ Unknown the owner Chanlanxe SC-2 2,559.81 R TYPE-SC2-01 16 ດນຫວິ ່ າງ Unknown the owner Chanlanxe SC-2 2,465.42 R TYPE-SC2-01 17 ດນຫວິ ່ າງ Unknown the owner Chanlanxe SC-2 2,917.04 R TYPE-SC2-01 Total 5: 123,948 18,003.98 SC2-1 (5 HHs ໄດ້ຮັບຜົນກະທົບ) 1 CLX-047 ນາງ ບວນ Mrs. Bouan Chanlanxe 7636.557 SC2-1 597.33 R TYPE-SC2-1-01 2 CLX-048 ທາວ້ ໂຖນ Mr. Thone Chanlanxe 10025.656 SC2-1 93.60 R TYPE-SC2-1-01 3 CLX-046 ນາງ ຍມມະລາດົ Mrs. Gnommalath Chanlanxe 46522.844 SC2-1 1,427.33 R TYPE-SC2-1-01 4 DPB-014 ທາວ້ ແສງພະຈນັ Mr. Sengphachanh Donephaiban 17183.482 SC2-1 642.01 R TYPE-SC2-1-01 5 DPB-015 ນາງ ຄ່ າຍ Mrs. Khay Donephaiban 23597.289 SC2-1 409.33 R TYPE-SC2-1-01 Total 6: 104,965.83 3,169.60

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Area of Land Owners Land Area No. Code Land Owners (English Version) Village Type of canals effected paddy Right/ Type (Lao Version) (m2) field Left SC2-2 (8 HHs ໄດ້ຮັບຜົນກະທົບ) 1 CLX-025 ນາງ ຕກິ ທາມະເທບ Mrs. Tick Thamamthep Chanlanxe 7,249 SC2-2 428.55 R TYPE-SC2-2-01 2 CLX-026 ທາວ້ ບວລາົ ຈນດາວັ ງົ Mr. Bouala Chandavong Chanlanxe 1,885 SC2-2 284.89 R TYPE-SC2-2-01 3 CLX-027 ນາງ ສຟອງີ Mrs. Syfong Chanlanxe 2,116 SC2-2 404.51 R TYPE-SC2-2-01 4 CLX-022 ທາວ້ ທດໂສມິ Mr. Thitsome Chanlanxe 25,677 SC2-2 451.90 R TYPE-SC2-2-01 5 CLX-023 ທາວ້ ຄອນ+ ນາງ ມະນຄອນີ Mr. Khone+Mrs. Manikhone Chanlanxe 6,658 SC2-2 380.17 R TYPE-SC2-2-01 6 CLX-029 ນາງ ພອນສີ Mrs. Phonsy Donephaiban 19,225 SC2-2 967.03 R TYPE-SC2-2-01 7 DPB-002 ນາງ ນີ Mrs. Ny Donephaiban 37,057 SC2-2 1,775.77 R TYPE-SC2-2-01 8 DPB-004 ນາງ ນາງ Mrs. Nang Donephaiban 14,964 SC2-2 2,806.85 R TYPE-SC2-2-01 Total 7: 114,830 7,499.66 SC2-3 (6 HHs ໄດ້ຮັບຜົນກະທົບ) 1 CLX-001 ນາງ ສມໃຈົ Mrs. Somchai Chanlanxe 13,691 SC2-3 1,002.11 L TYPE-SC2-3-01 2 CLX-002 ທາວ້ ບວພາົ Mr. Bouapha Chanlanxe 35,664 SC2-3 987.94 L TYPE-SC2-3-01 3 CLX-020 ນາງ ບງອອນັ Mrs. Bang-On Chanlanxe 15,136 SC2-3 591.34 R TYPE-SC2-3-01 4 CLX-005 ນາງ ສຸກນັ Mrs. Soukan1 Chanlanxe 4,374 SC2-3 579.81 R TYPE-SC2-3-01 5 CLX-018 ນາງ ໜໄຜູ ່ Mrs. Nouphai Chanlanxe 5,026 SC2-3 180.92 L TYPE-SC2-3-01 6 CLX-016 ທາວ້ ເສມີ + ນາງ ກງົ Mr. Seum+Mrs. Kong Chanlanxe 18,587 SC2-3 90.34 L TYPE-SC2-3-01 Total 8: 92,480 3,432.46 TC1 (13 HHs ໄດ້ຮັບຜົນກະທົບ)

1 TP-167 ນາງ ໝອນ Mrs. Mone Tanpiao 22,406 TC-1 785.49 R TYPE-TC1-01 2 TP-174 ນາງ ດາ Mrs. Da Donephaiban 32,203 TC-1 677.37 R TYPE-TC1-01

3 TP-175 ນ ທອງມ+ີ ນ ສ+ີ ນ ເພດັ Mrs. Tongmy+ Mrs. Sy+ Mrs. Pheth Tanpiao 47,852 TC-1 2,920.44 R TYPE-TC1-01 4 TP-173 ນາງ ແຫ ້ Mrs. Lae Tanpiao 5,626 TC-1 99.85 R TYPE-TC1-01 5 TP-172 ນາງ ນດັ ສຫາລາດີ Mrs. Nath Syhalath Tanpiao 6,247 TC-1 35.89 R TYPE-TC1-01 6 TP-171 ທາວ້ ຄາມະນ ີ Mr. Khammany Tanpiao 4,629 TC-1 74.81 R TYPE-TC1-01 7 TP-156 ນາງ ໝອນ ໄຊຍະບຸພາ Mrs. Mone Sayaboupha Tanpiao 41,181 TC-1 888.17 L TYPE-TC1-01 8 TP-154 ນາງ ແພງ ພນທະດວງຈັ ດິ Mrs. Pheng Phanthadouangchit Tanpiao 42,744 TC-1 94.09 L TYPE-TC1-01 9 TP-153 ນາງ ຈນທອນັ Mrs. Chanthone Tanpiao 26,909 TC-1 1,974.07 L TYPE-TC1-01 10 TP-152 ນາງ ຄາພ Mrs. Khampho Tanpiao 20,700 TC-1 791.31 L TYPE-TC1-01 11 TP-151 ນາງ ໄພວນັ Mrs. Phaivanh Tanpiao 18,176 TC-1 531.28 R TYPE-TC1-01 12 TP-150 ນາງ ພວງມະລີ Mrs. Phouangmaly Tanpiao 37,898 TC-1 1,022.07 R TYPE-TC1-01 13 TP-149 ນາງ ທອງສີ Mrs. Thongsy Tanpiao 45,596 TC-1 287.38 R TYPE-TC1-01 Total 9: 352,170 10,182.22 TC1-1 (3 HHs ໄດ້ຮັບຜົນກະທົບ) ້ 1 TP-158 ນາງ ເປອງ Mrs. Beuang Tanpiao 29,783 TC-1 992.45 L TYPE-TC1-1-01 2 TP-157 ນາງ ບານ+ ນາງ ແຫ ້ Mrs. Bane + Mrs. Lae Tanpiao 28,460 TC-1 451.54 L TYPE-TC1-1-01 3 TP-155 ນາງ ກງໃສົ (ທດນອງິ ) Mrs. Kongsai(Thit Nong) Tanpiao 38,274 TC-1 1,532.63 R TYPE-TC1-1-01 Total 10: 96,517 2,976.62 TC2 (8 HHs ໄດ້ຮັບຜົນກະທົບ)

1 TP-185 ນາງ ຈນເພັ ງັ Mrs. Chanpheng Tanpiao 964 TC-2 219.32 L TYPE-TC2-01 2 TP-020 ນາງ ເບງັ Mrs. Beng Tanpiao 19,996 TC-2 727.35 L TYPE-TC2-01 3 TP-021 ທາວ້ ສຸກຸນຄາ Mr. Soukounkham Tanpiao 12,697 TC-2 398.28 L TYPE-TC2-01 4 TP-024 ທາວ້ ຄາພາ Mr. Khampha Donephaiban 9,779 TC-2 364.29 R TYPE-TC2-01

5 TP-023 ນາງ ໜໃສູ Mrs. Nousai Tanpiao 36,098 TC-2 868.43 R TYPE-TC2-01 6 TP-026 ນາງ ໄຫ Mrs. Laih Tanpiao 9,424 TC-2 184.37 L TYPE-TC2-01 7 TP-025 ນາງ ຄາປຸນ Mrs. Khampoune Tanpiao 8,104 TC-2 109.94 L TYPE-TC2-01 8 TP-027 ນາງ ສມສະຫວົ ນິ Mrs. Somsavinh Tanpiao 38,502 TC-2 871.27 L TYPE-TC2-01 Total 11: 135,565 3,743.23

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Area of Land Owners Land Area No. Code Land Owners (English Version) Village Type of canals effected paddy Right/ Type (Lao Version) (m2) field Left TC3 (5 HHs ໄດ້ຮັບຜົນກະທົບ) ້ 1 TP-067 ນາງ ເບາົ Mrs. Pao Tanpiao 10,843 TC3 164.60 L TYPE-TC3-01 2 TP-068 ນາງ ໜໃສູ Mrs. Nousai Tanpiao 9,770 TC3 212.99 L TYPE-TC3-01 3 TP-084 ນາງ ບວົ Mrs. Boua Tanpiao 35,231 TC3 935.02 R TYPE-TC3-01 4 TP-064 ນາງ ກງໃສົ Mrs. Kongsai Tanpiao 6,627 TC3 3.96 R TYPE-TC3-01 5 TP-063 ນາງ ທຸມ Mrs. Thouma Donephaiban 28,480 TC3 1,102.89 R TYPE-TC3-01 Total 12: 90,951 2,419.46 TC4 (8 HHs ໄດ້ຮັບຜົນກະທົບ) 1 DPB-027 ທາວ້ ໃຫຍ່ ອວນ້ Mr. Gnai-Ouanh Donephaiban 28,464 TC-4 272.33 L TYPE-TC4-01 2 DPB-028 ນາງ ກມມະລົ ີ Mrs. Kommaly Donephaiban 14,030 TC-4 426.70 R TYPE-TC4-01 3 DPB-021 ທາວ້ ພອນ Mr. Phone Donephaiban 19,613 TC-4 579.30 R TYPE-TC4-01 4 DPB-022 ນາງ ໄຊຍະລາດ Mrs. Xayalath Donephaiban 6,663 TC-4 142.85 L TYPE-TC4-01 5 DPB-023 ນາງ ຜາງ Mrs. Phaang Donephaiban 20,728 TC-4 325.59 L TYPE-TC4-01 6 DPB-025 ທາວ້ ເດອນກ ນຍາັ Mr. Deuankanya Donephaiban 5,249 TC-4 303.34 R TYPE-TC4-01 7 DPB-038 ນາງ ວນນາັ Mrs. Vanna Donephaiban 59,481 TC-4 976.67 L TYPE-TC4-01 8 DPB-039 ທາວ້ ໄຫ ວ Mr. Vaih Donephaiban 16,250 TC-4 350.89 L TYPE-TC4-01 Total 13: 170,478 3,377.65 TC5 (5 HHs ໄດ້ຮັບຜົນກະທົບ) 1 DPB-006 ນາງ ສຸກກະເສມີ Mrs. Soukkaseum Donephaiban 46,513 TC-5 505.98 L TYPE-TC5-01 2 DPB-010 ນາງ ເຈຍ້ Mrs. Cheer Donephaiban 85,949 TC-5 2,143.58 L TYPE-TC5-01 3 DPB-009 ນາງ ໃຈ + ນາງ ຕຽງ Nang Chai+Nang Tiang Donephaiban 26,898 TC-5 632.17 L TYPE-TC5-01 4 DPB-008 ນາງ ຄາກອງ Mrs. Khamkong Donephaiban 47,465 TC-5 1,413.69 L TYPE-TC5-01 5 CLX-031 ທາວ້ ເພງັ Mr. Pheng Chanlanxe 37,509 TC-5 391.48 L TYPE-TC5-01 Total 14: 244,334 5086.89 ROAD No.1= The access road No.1 Construction of access road linking National Road 13 south at Khongkhoum village to the irrigation system near Tanpiao village

1 TP-014 ທາວ້ ຄາມະນ ີ Mr. Khammany Tanpiao 3389.272 R-1 38.17 R TYPE-R1-01 2 TP-019 ນາງ ແພງ ພນທະດວງຈັ ດິ Mrs. Pheng Phanthadouangchit Tanpiao 3429.12 R-1 16.19 L TYPE-R1-01 Total 15: 6,818.39 54.36

Area of Effected Total Area (m2) paddy field (m2) Grand Total sum (1:15) 2,134,221.40 112,839.26 Remark: These calculations are based on the drawing of detail designed alignment. For final confirmation it should be investigated again on the field situation. Vientiane capital, date: 23/06/2020 EDC2 – Resettlement specialist

Chanthip LATSAVANH

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Annex 6: Details of community consultation of the changes Chanlanxe

Lao People’s Democratic Republic Peace Independence Democracy Unity Prosperity Salavan Province AISP District

Minutes of Meeting (Used as of report)

On 20th October 2019 at 9:30 am, the meeting was organized at Chanlanxe Temple, Khongxedone District, Salavan Province in the aim to discuss and approval of Irrigation System Design and Access Road to Chanlanxe subproject pump station which’s attended by different sectors such as: Irrigation Department, National Project Management Office, EDC team, Irrigation Division, Provincial Project Management Unit, District Agriculture and Forestry Office and 4 beneficiaries village offices namely: Chanlanxe, Donephaiban, Tanpiew and PakXeuak-Nahang with total participants of 34 persons, 4 women (see detail on registration sheet).

❖ Objectives of meeting: To present a data collection report, canals layout alignment, others facilities along the canals and access roads of irrigation project conducting to pump station of Chanlanxe, Khongxedone District.

The meeting had been hearing the report of data collection, layout design of canals systems, structures and access roads presented by Mr. Khamthong, EDC teams in regard of preliminary data collection of Chanlanxe irrigation project with total area of 317ha, of these 3 beneficiaries villages liked: Chanlanxe, Donephaiban and Tanpiew.

After detail discussion among participants, the representatives from village authorities proposes to improve some points in order to comply with existing area as following:

➢ Headwork systems - Propose to construct of both side alleys to pump machine: 2 meters wide each. - Propose to construct a sliding ramp to facilitating of pump reparation (in case of broken). - The design of Irrigation transmission pipe should be stronger and more durable.

➢ Canals systems 1. SC1 propose to install drainage pipe under canal at 4 points station: 1+175, 2+450 2+850, 3+125. Move drainage pipe from station: 2+000 to station 1+900. 2. Modify the incorrect rice field owner at drawing plan properly. 3. TC1 Propose to install drainage pipe under canal 1point station: 0+850. 4. TC1-1 Propose to install drainage pipe under 1 point station: 0+250, add 1 Walk way bridge at station: 0+300. 5. TC2 propose to add 1 Walk way bridge at station: 0+300. 6. SC2 propose to install drainage pipe under canal at 3 points station: 0+830, 0+900, 1+130. 7. SC2-3 propose to install drainage pipe under canal at 2 points station: 0+100, 0+350. 8. SC2-2 propose to install drainage pipe under canal at point station: 0+575. 9. TC5 propose to install Farm turnout on Left side 2 points station: 0+325, 0+500. 10. TC4 propose to install drainage pipe under canal at 2 points station: 0+250, 0+400. 11. SC2-1 propose to install drainage pipe under canal at 1point station: 0+675.

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In addition, they are recommended to revise the paddy field which’s doesn’t have irrigated canal and make a drainage canals.

➢ Access roads: in total 3 units. 1. R1 - Install 1 drainage pipes under road at station: 0+800. - Install 5 drainage pipes under road in PakXeuak-Nahang village. - Install drainage pipe under road at the end of SC1. - In each location of drainage pipe crossing the canal should be install of pipe under road as well. 2. R2 - Install 3 drainage pipes under road at station: 0+150, 0+500, 1+550. 3. R3 - The installation of cross road drainage pipe should comply with alignment of cross canal drainage pipe.

After the presentation of irrigation system, all structures along the canal and access road by consultant teams and technical staffs of project in morning session, on afternoon, all participants and village authorities went to site for real inspection and got some data in order for good designing and defined appropriate structure location.

At 16:30pm in same day, the presentation of irrigation canal layout design and site visit are finished with unanimous decision and good success.

Therefore, this Minute of Meeting makes as a reference for future implementation.

Khongxedon District 20/10/2019

District Coordination Unit Recorder

Mr. Sonexay XAYALATH Phanit

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List of participants

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Annex 6.9: Critical Habitat Screening

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Table of Contents

1 introduction ...... 169 1.1 Preamble ...... 169 2 Project Description ...... 170 2.1 Preamble ...... 170 2.2 Project Location ...... 170 2.3 Project Description ...... 171 2.4 Process ...... 172 2.5 Data Sources...... 172 3 Results ...... 173 3.1 Protected Areas ...... 173 3.1.1 ...... International and National Sites 173 3.1.2 ...... Key Biodiversity Areas 174 3.2 UNEP Critical Habitat Screening ...... 174 3.3 Potential Critical Habitat Qualifying Species ...... 174 3.3.1 ...... IFC Process for Critical Habitat Assessment 174 3.3.2 ...... Area of Analysis 177 3.3.3 ...... Results Criteria 1 - 3 – IBAT Species Output 179 3.4 Other Species...... 189 3.5 Vulnerable Species ...... 189 3.6 Protected Areas ...... 189 4 Conclusions ...... 190 4.1 Presence of Critical Habitat ...... 190 4.2 Presence of Important Species ...... 190 4.3 Further Work ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. 5 References ...... 191

LIST OF FIGURES Figure 2.1 Contextual Location of Project 170 Figure 2.2 Location of Chan Lan Xe Sub Project elements 171 Figure 3.1 Designated Sites 173 Figure 3.3 Boundary of Area of Analysis 178

LIST OF TABLES Table 3-1 Long List of Species Based on 50 Km Buffer 179 Table 3-2 Summary of IBAT CR and EN Species and Potential as Critical Habitat Qualifying Species (Criteria 1 – 3) 183

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Acronyms ADB Asian Development Bank AoA Area of Analysis CH Critical Habitat CR Critically Endangered EN Endangered EOO Extent of Occurrence IBA Important Bird Area IBAT Integrated Biodiversity Assessment Tool IFC International Finance Corporation IUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature KBA Key Biodiversity Area PDR Peoples Democratic Republic SPS Safeguard Policy Statement VU Vulnerable WCS World Conservation Society WPDA World Database on Protected Areas

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1 introduction

1.1 Preamble This Annex on Critical Habitat has been prepared with support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), as part of a broader assessment of a number of subprojects including one at Chan Lan Xe which relates to rehabilitation, upgrading and potential expansion of an existing irrigation system.

The South East Asia Division of the ADB has requested an initial screening study for Critical Habitat within the Area of Influence of the sub-project. This report sets out the outcomes of the conducted screening and assessment for the proposed subproject. The determination of the presence or potential presence of Critical Habitat is a fundamental part of ADB Safeguard Policy Statement (Asian Development Bank, 2009).

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2 Project Description

2.1 Preamble The following text provides an overview of the proposed project relating to the Chan Lan Xe sub-project. This description is provided only for contextual information as the determination of the presence of or potential presence of Critical Habitat is independent of the proposed project, construction activities and operational/maintenance features (IFC, 2019).

2.2 Project Location The project is located in towards the south of Laos PDR. The context of the location is presented in Figure 2.1. The project area is situated some 23 km from the Mekong River which at this section forms the international border between Laos PDR and Thailand. The project lies adjacent to the Dong Xe.

Figure 2.1 Contextual Location of Project

Source: Base Map – Google Earth

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2.3 Project Description The sub-project relates to the rehabilitation of an existing irrigation system. A brief overview of the sub-project scope is set out below and is referenced from the Chan Lan Xe Initial Environmental Examination.

The location and landscape type are presented in Figure 2.2. The project lies to the north of the Dong Xe river. The majority of the land within this area is irrigated or urbanised, with no significant areas of natural habitats present.

One area of potential interest is the lake within the east of the sub-project area. This is described as a community lake for fishing and swampy area within the IEE.

Figure 2.2 Location of Chan Lan Xe Sub-Project elements

Source: Base Map – Google Earth

The project will involve improvements of the head water area, additional irrigation channels and rehabilitation of existing channels. The irrigation scheme is a pumped scheme served by two pump stations operating from moored pontoons located on the

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Xe Don River in the villages of Chan Lan Xe and Tanpiew. The total existing dry season irrigable area is in the order of 150ha and dry season irrigated rice is currently grown on about 65ha. The proposed improvements are to enable the dry season cropping area to increase to 300 ha producing a wet and a dry season crop and serving 200 households.

2.4 Process Two related aspects have been screened. The first is the presence of protected or designated areas which may affect sub-project development and financing and the second the potential presence of Critical Habitat27 based on an initial risk assessment of the presence of Threatened Species (Critically Endangered (CR) and Endangered (EN) species as defined by the IUCN, and to a lesser extent Vulnerable (VU) species).

The process has utilised the International Finance Corporation’s (IFC) recommended approach to identification of Critical Habitat but at a more preliminary screening level. The method is presented as part of the IFC’s Performance Standard No 6 of 2012, within the Guidance Note for the Performance Standard which was last updated in June 2019 (IFC, 2019).

2.5 Data Sources The screening process has involved review of publicly available sources of data relating to protected sites and species conservation status.

The following primary sources of data were utilised:

• Integrated Biodiversity Assessment Tool (IBAT); • The World Database of Key Biodiversity Areas website (WPDA); • Important Bird Areas (Birdlife International); • Ramsar website; • IUCN Red list; • World Conservation Society Report (2020); and • UNEP-WCMC (2017) Global Critical Habitat Screening layer.

These were supported by general searches for information and data on the project area. Such sources are quoted within the Bibliography section of the report.

27 Note the use of the term Critical Habitat refers to the definition utilised by ADB in the Safeguard Policy Statement of 2009 and the International Finance Corporation Performance Standard No 6 – Biodiversity.

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3 Results

3.1 Protected Areas 3.1.1 International and National Sites

A review of international and national designated sites based on IBAT and WPDA data indicated that there are two designated areas within 50 km of the project area, these are shown in Figure 3.1. Both are national designations.

Figure 3.1 Designated Sites

Source: Base Map – Google Earth – Site Boundaries WDPA

Xe Bang Nouan This site is nationally designated as a National Biodiversity Conservation Area and was first designated in 1993. The designation covers 1,500 km2 and consists of mixed forest habitats mainly.

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Phou Xiengthong This is designated as a National Biodiversity Conservation Area and was first designated in 1993 and covers an area of 1,200 km2.

3.1.2 Key Biodiversity Areas

Both of the above sites are additionally identified as KBA’s, with Xe Bang Nouan being a locally designated wildlife site and Phou Xiengthong being an Important Bird Area designated by Birdlife International.

3.2 UNEP Critical Habitat Screening The base layer from UNEP’s and ADB SPADE web application for Critical Habitat Screening tool do not show potential Critical Habitat within the immediate project area but highlights potential CH south of the Dong Xe river. Similarly, the SPADE web application shows teat the project area contains modified habitat with potential natural habitat south of the Dong Xe.

3.3 Potential Critical Habitat Qualifying Species 3.3.1 IFC Process for Critical Habitat Assessment

The screening for Critical Habitat has been conducted based on species which may qualify the habitat as Critical. This has been based on the approach as set out in the 2019 IFC updates to Performance Standard No 6 Guidance note (IFC, 2019). This utilises five criteria to determine if the area under consideration would qualify as Critical Habitat. Three of the criteria (1-3) relate to species and have thresholds which are based on the risk of extinction of species as designated by the IUCN Red List status for each species. Criterion 4 and 5 relate to ecosystems and evolutionary processes and do not utilise thresholds. A summary of the criteria is set out below.

Criterion 1: Critically Endangered and Endangered Species Species threatened with global extinction and listed as CR and EN on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species shall be considered as part of Criterion 1. Critically Endangered species face an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild. Endangered species face a very high risk of extinction in the wild.

As described in footnote 11 of Performance Standard 6, the inclusion in Criterion 1 of species that are listed nationally/regionally as CR or EN in countries that adhere to

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IUCN guidance shall be determined on a project-by-project basis in consultation with competent professionals.

Thresholds for Criterion 1 are the following:

(a) Areas that support globally important concentrations of an IUCN Red-listed EN or CR species (≥ 0.5% of the global population AND ≥ 5 reproductive units of a CR or EN species).

(b) Areas that support globally important concentrations of an IUCN Red-listed Vulnerable (VU) species, the loss of which would result in the change of the IUCN Red List status to EN or CR and meet the thresholds.

Criterion 2: Endemic and Restricted Range Species For purposes of this Guidance Note, the term endemic is defined as restricted range. Restricted range refers to a limited extent of occurrence (EOO).

• For terrestrial vertebrates and plants, restricted range species are defined as those species that have an EOO less than 50,000 km2. • For marine systems, restricted range species are provisionally being considered those with an EOO of less than 100,000 km2. • For coastal, riverine, and other aquatic species in habitats that do not exceed 200 km width at any point (for example, rivers), restricted range is defined as having a global range of less than or equal to 500 km linear geographic span (i.e., the distance between occupied locations furthest apart).

The threshold for Criterion 2 is the following:

a) Areas that regularly hold ≥10% of the global population size AND ≥10 reproductive units of a species.

Criterion 3: Migratory and Congregatory Species Migratory species are defined as any species of which a significant proportion of its members cyclically and predictably move from one geographical area to another (including within the same ecosystem).

Congregatory species are defined as species whose individuals gather in large groups on a cyclical or otherwise regular and/or predictable basis. Examples include the following:

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• Species that form colonies. • Species that form colonies for breeding purposes and/or where large numbers of individuals of a species gather at the same time for non- breeding purposes (for example, foraging and roosting). • Species that utilise a bottleneck site where significant numbers of individuals of a species occur in a concentrated period of time (for example, for migration). • Species with large but clumped distributions where a large number of individuals may be concentrated in a single or a few sites while the rest of the species is largely dispersed (for example, wildebeest distributions). • Source populations where certain sites hold populations of species that make an inordinate contribution to recruitment of the species elsewhere (especially important for marine species).

Thresholds for Criterion 3 are the following:

(a) Areas known to sustain, on a cyclical or otherwise regular basis, ≥ 1 percent of the global population of a migratory or congregatory species at any point of the species’ lifecycle.

(b) Areas that predictably support ≥10 percent of the global population of a species during periods of environmental stress.

Criterion 4: Highly Threatened or Unique Ecosystems The IUCN is developing a Red List of Ecosystems, following an approach similar to the Red List for Threatened Species. The client should use the Red List of Ecosystems where formal IUCN assessments have been performed. Where formal IUCN assessments have not been performed, the client may use assessments using systematic methods at the national/regional level, carried out by governmental bodies, recognised academic institutions and/or other relevant qualified organisations (including internationally recognised Non-Government Organisations (NGOs)).

The thresholds for Criterion 4 are the following:

a) Areas representing ≥5% of the global extent of an ecosystem type meeting the criteria for IUCN status of CR or EN.

b) Other areas not yet assessed by IUCN but determined to be of high priority for conservation by regional or national systematic conservation planning.

Criterion 5: Key Evolutionary Processes The structural attributes of a region, such as its topography, geology, soil, temperature, and vegetation, and combinations of these variables, can influence the

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evolutionary processes that give rise to regional configurations of species and ecological properties. In some cases, spatial features that are unique or idiosyncratic of the landscape have been associated with genetically unique populations or subpopulations of plant and animal species. Physical or spatial features have been described as surrogates or spatial catalysts for evolutionary and ecological processes, and such features are often associated with species diversification. Maintaining these key evolutionary processes inherent in a landscape as well as the resulting species (or subpopulations of species) has become a major focus of biodiversity conservation in recent decades, particularly the conservation of genetic diversity. By conserving species diversity within a landscape, the processes that drive speciation, as well as the genetic diversity within species, ensures the evolutionary flexibility in a system, which is especially important in a rapidly changing climate.

For illustrative purposes, some potential examples of spatial features associated with evolutionary processes are as follows:

• Landscapes with high spatial heterogeneity are a driving force in speciation, as species are naturally selected based on their ability to adapt and diversify. • Environmental gradients, also known as ecotones, produce transitional habitat, which has been associated with the process of speciation and high species and genetic diversity. • Edaphic interfaces are specific juxtapositions of soil types (for example, serpentine outcrops, limestone, and gypsum deposits), which have led to the formation of unique plant communities characterised by both rarity and endemism. • Connectivity between habitats (for example, biological corridors) ensures species migration and gene flow, which is especially important in fragmented habitats and for the conservation of metapopulations. This also includes biological corridors across altitudinal and climatic gradients and from “crest to coast.” • Sites of demonstrated importance to climate change adaptation for either species or ecosystems are also included within this criterion.

3.3.2 Area of Analysis

The IFC Approach to Critical Habitat Assessment requires the establishment of an Area of Analysis (AoA) to be determined for the assessment.

As set out in the IFC Guidance on Critical Habitat Assessment, the AoA will be based on the general location of the project but the selected AoA should not reflect the projects potential impacts or risks. The AoA is not synonymous with the projects Area of Influence. The guidance suggests selecting boundaries which represent

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ecological units and/or are physical features within the landscape such as roads or rivers.

For the current project, it is considered that a single AoA is appropriate.

The selected AoA is shown in Figure 3.2. A relatively small AoA is considered appropriate for the sub-project. The natural boundary of the Dong Xe river to the south and a tributary to the river which runs from the north east to south west form much of the selected boundary. The north/north east boundary being arbitrarily applied through an area of relatively uniform agricultural landscape.

It is considered that this AoA encompasses the main habitats and ecosystem services which may be affected by the project development.

Figure 3.2 Boundary of Area of Analysis

Source: Base Map – Google Earth

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3.3.3 Results Criteria 1 - 3 – IBAT Species Output

Based on an IBAT search for species, a long list of Threatened Species; Critically Endangered (CR), Endangered (EN) and Vulnerable (VU) have been identified as potentially present in the AoA. The screening has used an initial buffer of 50 km from the project area.

The long list of CR, EN and VU species which may be present is shown in Table 3-1. This shows a total of 107 Threatened Species as set out in the IUCN Global Red List of which there are 16 CR species, 26 EN species and the remaining 65 species are classed as Vulnerable to extinction.

Table 3-1 Long List of Species Based on 50 Km Buffer Scientific Name Common Name IUCN Status 1 Aaptosyax grypus Mekong Giant Salmon Carp CR 2 Crocodylus siamensis Siamese Crocodile CR 3 Indotestudo elongata Elongated Tortoise CR 4 Manis javanica Sunda Pangolin CR 5 Pangasianodon gigas Mekong Giant Catfish CR 6 Pangasius sanitwongsei Giant Pangasius CR 7 Probarbus jullieni Jullien's Golden Carp CR 8 Pygathrix nemaeus Red-shanked Douc Langur CR 9 Catlocarpio siamensis Giant Carp CR 10 Datnioides pulcher Siamese Tiger Perch CR 11 Terniopsis ubonensis CR 12 Gyps bengalensis White-rumped Vulture CR 13 Sarcogyps calvus Red-headed Vulture CR 14 Emberiza aureola Yellow-breasted Bunting CR 15 Gyps tenuirostris Slender-billed Vulture CR 16 Panthera pardus ssp. delacouri Indochinese Leopard CR 17 Laubuka caeruleostigmata Flying Minnow EN 18 Cuora amboinensis Southeast Asian Box Turtle EN 19 Elephas maximus Asian Elephant EN 20 Hylobates pileatus Pileated Gibbon EN 21 Nycticebus pygmaeus Pygmy Slow Loris EN 22 Panthera tigris Tiger EN 23 Probarbus labeamajor Thicklipped Barb EN 24 Trachypithecus phayrei Phayrea’s Leaf-monkey EN 25 Anisoptera costata EN 26 Dipterocarpus intricatus EN 27 Hopea thorelii EN

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Scientific Name Common Name IUCN Status 28 Hemitrygon laosensis Mekong Freshwater Stingray EN 29 Nycticebus bengalensis Bengal Slow Loris EN 30 Trachypithecus germaini Indochinese Silvered Langur EN 31 Viverra megaspila Large-spotted Civet EN 32 Pangasianodon hypophthalmus Striped Catfish EN 33 Pachydrobia zilchi EN 34 Anulotaia forcarti EN 35 Terniopsis chanthaburiensis EN 36 Urogymnus polylepis EN 37 Pavo muticus Green Peafowl EN 38 Asarcornis scutulata White-winged Duck EN 39 Sterna acuticauda Black-bellied Tern EN 40 Leptoptilos dubius Greater Adjutant EN 41 Northern Yellow-cheeked Nomascus annamensis Crested Gibbon EN 42 Calostoma insigne EN 43 Bos gaurus Gaur VU 44 Helarctos malayanus Sun Bear VU 45 Lutrogale perspicillata Smooth-coated Otter VU 46 Macaca arctoides Stump-tailed Macaque VU 47 Nicobar Crab-eating Macaca fascicularis Macaque VU 48 Neofelis nebulosa Clouded Leopard VU 49 Panthera pardus Leopard VU 50 Tenualosa thibaudeaui Mekong herring VU 51 Ursus thibetanus Asiatic Black Bear VU 52 Hopea odorata VU 53 Dipterocarpus alatus VU 54 Dipterocarpus costatus VU 55 Shorea roxburghii White Meranti VU 56 Shorea thorelii VU 57 Macaca leonina Northern Pig-tailed Macaque VU 58 Arctictis binturong Binturong VU 59 Rusa unicolor Sambar VU 60 Aonyx cinereus Asian Small-clawed Otter VU 61 Mekhongthelphusa kengsaphu VU 62 Bayadera hyalina VU 63 Wallago attu VU 64 Bagarius yarrelli VU 65 Pseudohemiculter dispar VU

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Scientific Name Common Name IUCN Status 66 Osphronemus exodon Elephant Ear Gourami VU 67 Oxygaster pointoni VU 68 Epalzeorhynchos munense Red Fin Shark VU 69 Black and White Spitting Naja siamensis Cobra VU 70 Ophiophagus hannah King Cobra VU 71 Datnioides undecimradiatus VU 72 Scaphognathops bandanensis VU 73 Bangana behri VU 74 Cirrhinus microlepis Small Scaled Mud Carp VU 75 Hypsibarbus lagleri VU 76 Pangasius krempfi VU 77 Pachydrobia levayi VU 78 Hydrorissoia munensis VU 79 Hubendickia pellucida VU 80 Jullienia prasongi VU 81 Lacunopsis munensis VU 82 Tor sinensis Red Mahseer VU 83 Yasuhikotakia nigrolineata Black-Lined Loach VU 84 Pachydrobia bertini VU 85 Lacunopsis minutarpiettei VU 86 Stenothyra decollata VU 87 Jullienia minima VU 88 Lacunopsis deiecta VU 89 Stenothyra laotiensis VU 90 Tricula conica VU 91 Jullienia albaobscura VU 92 Paraprososthenia lynnei VU 93 Jullienia costata VU 94 Python bivittatus Burmese Python VU 95 Dalzellia ranongensis VU 96 Hanseniella heterophylla VU 97 Mulleripicus pulverulentus Great Slaty Woodpecker VU 98 Buceros bicornis Great Hornbill VU 99 Rhyticeros undulatus Wreathed Hornbill VU 100 Carpococcyx renauldi Coral-billed Ground-cuckoo VU 101 Columba punicea Pale-capped Pigeon VU 102 Clanga clanga Greater Spotted Eagle VU 103 Leptoptilos javanicus Lesser Adjutant VU 104 Ciconia episcopus Asian Woollyneck VU 105 Arctonyx collaris Greater Hog Badger VU

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Scientific Name Common Name IUCN Status 106 Physignathus cocincinus Chinese Water Dragon VU 107 Capricornis sumatraensis Mainland Serow VU

IFC PS No 6 approach focuses initially on CR and EN for Criterion No 1 and these have been reviewed using IUCN distribution maps, other literature and likely habitat requirements.

A summary of the screening of the CR and EN species is presented in Table 3-2. This provides a note on each species and then an initial assessment of that species likelihood of qualifying the AoA as Critical Habitat based on Criteria 1-3.

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Table 3-2 Summary of IBAT CR and EN Species and Potential as Critical Habitat Qualifying Species (Criteria 1 – 3) IUCN Scientific Name Common name Notes 1 2 3 Qualifying Species? Status A Mekong River species. IUCN mapping suggests that this species is not present in the AoA. Poulsen et al (2004) suggest that this is mainly a Mekong River species Not considered likely to be X X X but will use main tributaries. Mapping present in AoA present by the authors does not indicate Mekong Giant the likely presence of this species within Aaptosyax grypus Salmon Carp CR the AoA (Poulsen, et al., 2004). A species of floodplains and river systems. Poulsen et al (Ibid) show the potential Potentially present within AoA but unlikely to fulfil distribution for this species to include the X X X global population threshold AoA but no definitive records within the for Criterion 1, 2 or 3 Catlocarpio siamensis Giant Carp CR AoA Unlikely to be a qualifying species based on Criterion 1 a) threshold of ≥ 0.5% of the global population and ≥ 5 reproductive units, but is P X X likely to meet Criterion 1 c) Threshold of areas Noted as present within the Xe Dong containing important which is within the AoA. (Simpson & concentrations of regionally Crocodylus siamensis Siamese Crocodile CR Bezuijen, 2010) listed EN or CR species A species of floodplains and river systems. Potentially present within Potentially present in AoA. show the AoA but unlikely to fulfil X X X distribution for this species including the global population threshold Datnioides pulcher Siamese Tiger Perch CR AoA. for Criterion 1, 2 or 3 May be present within AoA Migratory species, wintering in Laos and but does not meet Criterion X X X Yellow-breasted other SE Asia countries. Feeding in 1 as it is not a breeding Emberiza aureola Bunting CR cultivated and scrubby areas. species in Laos PDR.

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

IUCN Scientific Name Common name Notes 1 2 3 Qualifying Species? Status Unlikely to obtain numbers within AoA that meet the Criterion 3 threshold Considered by IUCN and Birdlife White-rumped International to be likely extinct within X X X No Gyps bengalensis Vulture CR area of Laos where AoA is situated Slender-billed X X X No Gyps tenuirostris Vulture CR Possibly extinct in this area of Laos WCS survey work indicates that this is an X X X No Indotestudo elongata Elongated Tortoise CR unlikely species for the AoA IUCN mapping shows as present within Potentially present within AoA. Utilises a range of habitat types, AoA but unlikely to fulfil X X X including wetland systems. Found in global population threshold Manis javanica Sunda Pangolin CR artificial as well as natural habitats for Criterion 1 IUCN mapping shows this species range as on south western edge of AoA. A species said to be restricted to the Mekong River and main tributaries, but much reduced in distribution. A WWF report (2012) suggests that it is present in Potentially present within Laos but in limited areas. One map AoA but unlikely to fulfil X X X presented in the report shows this global population threshold species recorded - through local for Criterion 1, 2 or 3 knowledge records within the Mekong River in the AoA. This species migrates considerable distances for spawning Mekong Giant although relatively little is known about Pangasianodon gigas Catfish CR these movements and spawning locations A Mekong River species. Poulsen et al Potentially present within Pangasius (Ibid) shows species distribution includes X X X AoA but unlikely to fulfil sanitwongsei Giant Pangasius CR the Mekong River at the AoA A6-184

Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

IUCN Scientific Name Common name Notes 1 2 3 Qualifying Species? Status global population threshold for Criterion 1, 2 or 3 Panthera pardus ssp. Indochinese X X X No delacouri Leopard CR Extinct in Laos IUCN mapping shows this species having a distribution including the AoA. Poulsen et Potentially present within AoA but unlikely to fulfil al (Ibid) also report this species X X X global population threshold Jullien's Golden distribution includes parts of the AoA. for Criterion 1, 2 or 3 Probarbus jullieni Carp CR Spawning grounds are unknown IUCN mapping suggests this species is found in eastern Laos and not within the project location. Additionally, prefers X X X No Red-shanked Douc woodland habitat so unlikely to be Pygathrix nemaeus Langur CR present in AoA. Sarcogyps calvus Red-headed Vulture CR Possibly extinct in this area of Laos X X X No IUCN mapping for this species includes AoA but species is recorded in only one location in Thailand and is a species of X X X No fast flowing rocky rivers. Not considered Terniopsis ubonensis CR to be likely to be present within AoA Tree species with scattered distribution. Found in dry or moist woodland, potentially along rivers. IUCN and X X X No others do not describe the species as Anisoptera costata Ben mon (Laos) EN likely present in the AoA IUCN mapping shows that this is a species endemic to Thailand and not found in X X X No Anulotaia forcarti EN Laos.

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IUCN Scientific Name Common name Notes 1 2 3 Qualifying Species? Status IUCN mapping shows that this species is extant in the south of Laos but not X X X No Asarcornis scutulata White-winged Duck EN present within the AoA Not reported from Laos but a Thailand X X X Calostoma insigne EN woodland species IUCN mapping shows this species as extant within the project area including the AoA. The species is a generalist in Potentially present within AoA but unlikely to fulfil terms of habitat and may be found in X X X global population threshold man made habitats including irrigation for Criterion 1, 2 or 3 Southeast Asian ditches, water bodies and open areas of Cuora amboinensis Box Turtle EN water IUCN mapping shows a highly discontinuous distribution of this tree Potentially present within species. However, research shows that AoA but unlikely to fulfil X X X it may be present as isolated specimens global population threshold Dipterocarpus within rice fields and cultivated areas of for Criterion 1, 2 or 3 intricatus EN Laos (Foley, 2017) Elephas maximus Asian Elephant EN Recorded to NW of AoA X X X No Potentially present within Possibly extant in AoA, a Mekong AoA but unlikely to fulfil X X X Mekong Freshwater endemic found in main river and some global population threshold Hemitrygon laosensis Stingray EN tributaries for Criterion 1, 2 or 3 IUCN mapping shows this tree species as present to the west of the AoA across the X X X No Hopea thorelii EN border in Thailand IUCN mapping shows the northern extent of this species is some distance to the south of the AoA. Additionally, the AoA X X X No does not support habitats preferred by Hylobates pileatus Pileated Gibbon EN this species A6-186

Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

IUCN Scientific Name Common name Notes 1 2 3 Qualifying Species? Status Potentially present within AoA but unlikely to fulfil X X X Laubuka Mekong River basin species, potentially global population threshold caeruleostigmata Flying Minnow EN present within AoA for Criterion 1, 2 or 3 Leptoptilos dubius Greater Adjutant EN Likely extinct in Laos PDR X X X No This species is found in tall evergreen and No, unlikely to be present Red-cheeked semi-evergreen forest, IUCN mapping X X X based on mapping and Nomascus gabriellae Gibbon EN shows present in south east of AoA. habitats Widespread distribution across Laos PDR but utilises rain forest habitats and some X X X No plantation areas, not likely present in Nycticebus bengalensis Bengal Slow Loris EN habitats within the AoA. IUCN mapping shows this species present in eastern Laos PDR but absent from the X X X No Nycticebus pygmaeus Pygmy Slow Loris EN AoA. The species is considered to be restricted to the Mun River drainage, eastern X X X No Pachydrobia zilchi EN Thailand Potentially present within IUCN and Poulsen et al show distribution AoA but unlikely to fulfil X X X Pangasianodon includes AoA. A Mekong River species, global population threshold hypophthalmus Striped Catfish EN migratory within the river basin for Criterion 1, 2 or 3 Panthera tigris Tiger EN Likely extinct in this part of Laos X X X No Pavo muticus Green Peafowl EN Likely extinct in this part of Laos X X X No Potentially present within AoA but unlikely to fulfil X X X global population threshold Probarbus labeamajor Thicklipped Barb EN Mekong endemic species for Criterion 1, 2 or 3 Sterna acuticauda Black-bellied Tern EN Likely extinct in Laos X X X No Terniopsis X X X No chanthaburiensis EN Endemic to Thailand.

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

IUCN Scientific Name Common name Notes 1 2 3 Qualifying Species? Status IUCN mapping shows species distribution to south of AoA. Based on preferred X X X No Trachypithecus Indochinese rock habitats, not considered to be likely germaini Silvered Langur EN present within AoA Forest species in primary and secondary woodland and will use plantation areas. X X X No Phayreâ’s Leaf- Based on habitat type this species is Trachypithecus phayrei monkey EN unlikely to be present within the AoA Potentially present within AoA but unlikely to fulfil X X X global population threshold Urogymnus polylepis EN River species, possible present in AoA for Criterion 1, 2 or 3 IUCN shows distribution including AoA. Mixed habitat types but principally X X X No woodlands so unlikely to present within Viverra megaspila Large-spotted Civet EN the AoA

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

3.4 Other Species The IBAT Proximity Searches utilise current IUCN Red List classification of species. These may be out of date and inaccurate in some instances. A review of the IUCN Red List for Laos did not indicate any further species which should be considered within the CHA.

3.5 Vulnerable Species For the Vulnerable species identified through the IBAT search, a review of these indicates that none would reach the threshold for Criterion 1, namely loss of a population which would push the IUCN status from VU to either CR or EN.

3.6 Protected Areas ADB SPS states that designated or proposed designation at an international level should be considered as Critical Habitat. This does not include IBA’s and therefore there are no designated areas within the wider area which would qualify as Critical Habitat.

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Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Post Detailed Engineering Design Feasibility Chan Lan Xe Subproject Initial Environmental Examination

4 Conclusions

4.1 Presence of Critical Habitat Based on this initial screening work, the AoA is not considered to be Critical Habitat.

4.2 Presence of Important Species Even if some of the species considered to be present do not meet the IFC Thresholds for qualifying the AoA as Critical Habitat, it is clear that there are a number of species of importance within the area. Many of these are associated with the Mekong River, its tributaries and associated flood plain,

The project shall be aware of the potential presence of these species. The species are:

• Catlocarpio siamensis • Datnioides pulcher • Emberiza aureola • Manis javanica • Pangasianodon gigas • Pangasius sanitwongsei • Probarbus jullieni • Cuora amboinensis • Dipterocarpus intricatus • Hemitrygon laosensis • Laubuka caeruleostigmata • Pangasianodon hypophthalmus • Probarbus labeamajor • Urogymnus polylepis

The majority of these are fish species of the Mekong River and its main tributaries and so may be present within the Dong Xe river. In general, little is known about the distribution and life cycles of these species. Many are migratory fish and move up the river system for spawning, although limited data is available on specific spawning locations.

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5 References

Asian Development Bank, 2009. Safeguard Policy Statement, s.l.: s.n. Foley, S., 2017. Invisible Forests: Trees in Rice Landscapes in Lao PDR, s.l.: FAO, Laos PDR. IFC, 2019. Guidance Notes: Performance Standard No.6: Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Management of Living Natural Resources, s.l.: International Finance Corporation. Poulsen, A. F. et al., 2004. Distribution and Ecology of Some Important Riverine Fish Species of the Mekong River Basin, s.l.: Mekong River Commission. Simpson, B. K. & Bezuijen, M. R., 2010. Siamese Crocodile Crocodylus siamensis. In: S. C. Manolis & C. Stevenson, eds. Status Survey and Conservation Action Plan. Third Edition ed. s.l.:Crocodile Specialist Group, pp. 120-126.

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