ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE DRAFT BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
13 NOVEMBER 2020 DRAFT
PROPOSED GEMSBOK- KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE DRAFT BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT
ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
TYPE OF DOCUMENT (VERSION) DRAFT
PROJECT NO.: 41102814 DATE: NOVEMBER 2020
WSP BUILDING C KNIGHTSBRIDGE, 33 SLOANE STREET BRYANSTON, 2191 SOUTH AFRICA
T: +27 11 3611390 F: +27 11 361 1301 WSP.COM
WSP Environmental (Pty) Ltd.
QUALITY MANAGEMENT
ISSUE/REVISION FIRST ISSUE REVISION 1 REVISION 2 REVISION 3
Remarks Draft BAR
Date November 2020
Prepared by Tutayi Chifadza
Signature
Checked by Ashlea Strong
Signature
Authorised by Ashlea Strong
Signature
Project number 41102814
Report number 1
File reference W:\000 NEW Projects\41102814 - Eskom Kwamhlanga Powerline BAR\42 ES\2- REPORTS\01-Draft\02-BAR
WSP is an ISO9001:2015, ISO14001:2015 and OHSAS18001:2007 certified company
SIGNATURES
PREPARED BY
Tutayi Chifadza Senior Consultant
REVIEWED BY
Principal Consultant Ashlea Strong
This Draft Basic Assessment Report (Report) for the proposed Gemsbok-KwaMhlanga 132kV Powerline has been prepared by WSP Environmental Proprietary Limited (WSP) on behalf and at the request of Eskom Holdings SOC Limited (Client), as part of the application process for Environmental Authorisation. Unless otherwise agreed by us in writing, we do not accept responsibility or legal liability to any person other than the Client for the contents of, or any omissions from, this Report. To prepare this Report, we have reviewed only the documents and information provided to us by the Client or any third parties directed to provide information and documents to us by the Client. We have not reviewed any other documents in relation to this Report, except where otherwise indicated in the Report.
PRODUCTION TEAM
ESKOM
Environmental Management Officer Palesa Kuaho
WSP
Senior Consultant / Project Manager Tutayi Chifadza
Principal Consultant / Project Director Ashlea Strong
SUBCONSULTANTS
Heritage Specialist Archaetnos Culture & Cultural Resource Consultants: Anton van Vollenhoven
Floodline and Hydrological Assessment The Biodiversity Company: Russel Tate and Michael Ryan
Biodiversity and Avifauna Assessment The Biodiversity Company: Lindi Steyn and Martinus Erasmus
GLOSSARY
ABBREVIATION MEANING
ARC-ISCW Agricultural Resource Council – Institute for Soil, Climate and Water
AIA Archaeological Impact Assessment
BA Basic Assessment
BAR Basic Assessment Report
CA Competent Authority
CBA Critical Biodiversity Area
CR Critically Endangered
CRR Comment and Response Report
DFFE Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment
DRDLR Department of Rural Development and Land Reform
DWS Department of Water and Sanitation
EA Environmental Authorisation
EAP Environmental Assessment Practitioner
ECO Environmental Control Officer
EGI Electricity Grid Infrastructure
EIA Environmental Impact Assessment
EMPr Environmental Management Programme
EN Endangered
GA General Authorisation
HMA Heavily Modified Areas
HS Hydraulic Structures
I&AP Interested and Affected Party
ABBREVIATION MEANING
LT Least Threatened
MAP Mean Annual Precipitation
MAR Mean Annual Runoff
MDARDLEA Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs
MPAES Mpumalanga Protected Area Expansion Strategy
MSDS Material Safety Data Sheets
MTPA Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency
NDM Nkangala District Municipality
NEMA National Environmental Management Act
NFEPA National Freshwater Ecosystem Priority Areas
NHRA National Heritage Resource Act
NPAES National Protected Areas Expansion Strategy
NWA National Water Act
ONA Other Natural Area
PES Present Ecological State
PPE Personal Protective Equipment
SAHRA South African Heritage Resources Agency
SCC Species of Conservation Concern
SCS Soil Conservation Services
SQR Sub Quaternary Reach
THLM Themibisile Hani Local Municipality
VU Vulnerable
WMA Water Management Area
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED Page v
ABBREVIATION MEANING
WSP WSP Environmental (Pty) Ltd
WUL Water Use License
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED Page vi
TABLE OF 1 INTRODUCTION ...... 16 1.1 Background and Terms of Reference ...... 16 CONTENTS 1.2 Purpose of the BA Process ...... 17 1.3 Details of EAP and Project Proponent ...... 17 1.4 Specialists ...... 18 1.5 Competent and Commenting Authorities ...... 18 1.6 Basic Assessment Report Structure...... 19
2 GOVERNANCE FRAMEWORK ...... 22
3 BASIC ASSESSMENT PROCESS ...... 25 3.1 Procedural Framework ...... 25 3.2 Application ...... 25 3.3 Baseline Environmental Assessment ...... 26 3.4 Impact Assessment Methodology ...... 26 3.5 Stakeholder Egnagement Process ...... 30 3.6 Assumptions and Limitations ...... 32
4 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ...... 35 4.1 Location of the Proposed Project ...... 35 4.2 Layout and Description ...... 42 4.3 Needs and Desirability of the Project ...... 44
5 BASELINE ENVIRONMENT ...... 45 5.1 Climate ...... 45 5.2 Geology and Soils...... 49 5.3 Surface Water ...... 53 5.4 Air Quality ...... 58 5.5 Noise ...... 58 5.6 Biodiversity ...... 58 5.7 Heritage and Palaeontology ...... 75 5.8 Traffic ...... 81
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
5.9 Socio-Economic ...... 81
6 IMPACT ASSESSMENT ...... 83 6.1 Air Quality ...... 83 6.2 Noise Emissions ...... 84 6.3 Soil Erosion and Contamination ...... 85 6.4 Surface Water ...... 87 6.5 Groundwater ...... 89 6.6 Biodiversity ...... 90 6.7 Avifauna ...... 96 6.8 Traffic ...... 98 6.9 Health and Safety ...... 99 6.10 Waste Management ...... 101 6.11 Socio-Economic ...... 102 6.12 Heritage ...... 102 6.13 Palaeontological ...... 103 6.14 No-Go Alternative ...... 103
7 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT...... 104 7.1 Environmental Sensitivities ...... 104 7.2 Specialist Conclusions ...... 1 7.3 Impact Summary ...... 2 7.4 Impact Statement ...... 4
8 CONCLUSION ...... 5
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
TABLES TABLE 1-1: DETAILS OF THE EAP ...... 17 TABLE 1-2: DETAILS OF PROPONENT ...... 17 TABLE 1-3: DETAILS OF SPECIALISTS ...... 18 TABLE 1-4: COMPETENT AND COMMENTING AUTHORITIES ...... 18 TABLE 1-5: LEGAL REQUIREMENTS AS DETAILED IN APPENDIX 1 OF GNR 326 OF THE 2014 EIA REGULATIONS, AS AMENDED . 19 TABLE 2-1: APPLICABLE LEGISLATION AND POLICIES ...... 22 TABLE 3-1: NATURE OR TYPE OF IMPACT 27 TABLE 3-2: PHYSICAL EXTENT RATING OF IMPACT ...... 27 TABLE 3-3: DURATION RATING OF IMPACT ...... 27 TABLE 3-4: REVERSIBILITY OF IMPACT ..... 28 TABLE 3-5: MAGNITUDE RATING OF IMPACT ...... 28 TABLE 3-6: PROBABILITY RATING OF IMPACT ...... 28 TABLE 3-7: SYMBOLS REFERENCE...... 29 TABLE 3-8: SIGNIFICANCE RATINGS ...... 29 TABLE 3-9: SITE NOTICE LOCATIONS ...... 31 TABLE 4-1: CADASTRAL INFORMATION OF THE SITE ...... 36 TABLE 4-2: COORDINATES OF THE POWERLINE ...... 37 TABLE 4-3: WASTE MANAGEMENT OPTIONS ...... 43 TABLE 5-1: SOIL CONSERVATION SERVICES HYDROLOGIC SOIL CLASS INTERPRETATION (SANRAL 2013) ...... 51 TABLE 5-2: TREES, SHRUBS AND WEEDS IN PROJECT AREA ...... 69 TABLE 5-3: MAMMAL SPECIES IN PROJECT AREA AND CONSERVATION STATUS ...... 70 TABLE 6-1: CONSTRUCTION IMPACT ON GENERATION OF DUST AND PM...... 83 TABLE 6-2: CONSTRUCTION IMPACT ON NOISE ...... 84 TABLE 6-3: CONSTRUCTION IMPACT ON SOIL EROSION ...... 85 TABLE 6-4: CONSTRUCTION IMPACT ON SOIL CONTAMINATION ...... 85 TABLE 6-5: OPERATION IMPACT ON SOIL CONTAMINATION ...... 86
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
TABLE 6-6: CONSTRUCTION IMPACT ON DETERIORATION IN WATER QUALITY ...... 87 TABLE 6-7: CONSTRUCTION IMPACT ON DETERIORATION IN GROUNDWATER QUALITY ...... 89 TABLE 6-8: CONSTRUCTION IMPACT ON LOSS AND FRAGMENTATION OF FLORA ...... 90 TABLE 6-9: CONSTRUCTION IMPACT ON LOSS OF FLORA SCCS...... 91 TABLE 6-10: CONSTRUCTION IMPACT ON DISPLACEMENT OF FAUNA AND LOSS OF HABITAT ...... 92 TABLE 6-11: CONSTRUCTION IMPACT ON MORTALITIES OF FAUNA ...... 93 TABLE 6-12: CONSTRUCTION IMPACT ON SPREAD IN ALIEN INVASIVE SPECIES ...... 94 TABLE 6-13: OPERATIONAL IMPACT ON DISPLACEMENT AND FRAGMENTATION OF FLORA .. 94 TABLE 6-14: OPERATIONAL IMPACT ON DISPLACEMENT OF FAUNA ..... 95 TABLE 6-15: OPERATIONAL IMPACT ON CONTINUED ALIEN VEGETATION ENCROACHMENT ...... 95 TABLE 6-16: CONSTRUCTION IMPACT ON SENSORY DISTURBANCE ...... 96 TABLE 6-17: CONSTRUCTION IMPACT ON DESTRUCTION OF NESTS ...... 96 TABLE 6-18: CONSTRUCTION IMPACT ON DESTRUCTION OF HABITAT .... 97 TABLE 6-19: CONSTRUCTION IMPACT ON DISTURBANCE OR MORTALITY OF SCC ...... 97 TABLE 6-20: OPERATION IMPACT ON ELECTROCUTION OF AVIFAUNA ...... 98 TABLE 6-21: OPERATION IMPACT ON COLLISIONS WITH POWERLINES...... 98 TABLE 6-22: CONSTRUCTION IMPACT ON INCREASED LOCAL TRAFFIC .. 98 TABLE 6-23: OPERATION IMPACT ON INCREASED LOCAL TRAFFIC .. 99 TABLE 6-24: CONSTRUCTION IMPACT ON EMPLOYEE HEALTH AND SAFETY ...... 99 TABLE 6-25: OPERATION IMPACT ON EMPLOYEE HEALTH AND SAFETY ...... 100
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
TABLE 6-26: CONSTRUCTION IMPACT ON LITTERING...... 101 TABLE 6-27: CONSTRUCTION IMPACT ON EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES ...... 102 TABLE 6-28: CONSTRUCTION IMPACT ON DAMAGE TO HERITAGE AND PALAEONTOLOGICAL RESOURCES ...... 102 TABLE 7-1: IMPACT SUMMARY ...... 2
FIGURES FIGURE 1-1: GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE AND ALTERNATIVE ...... 16 FIGURE 3-1: MITIGATION SEQUENCE/HIERARCHY ...... 30 FIGURE 4-1: GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE AND ALTERNATIVE ...... 35 FIGURE 5-1: TOTAL ANNUAL RAINFALL PER MONTH FOR THE PROJECT AREA (DWS, 2020) ...... 45 FIGURE 5-2: MAP FOR B31D CATCHMENT AND PREDICTED FUTURE CHANGE (OCTOBER 2020) ...... 46 FIGURE 5-3: MAP FOR B31B CATCHMENT AND PREDICTED FUTURE CHANGE (OCTOBER 2020) ...... 46 FIGURE 5-4: TOTAL ANNUAL EVAPORATION PER MONTH FOR THE PROJECT AREA (DWS, 2020) ...... 47 FIGURE 5-5: POTENTIAL EVAPORATION CHANGE FOR THE B31D CATCHMENT (DWS, 2020) ...... 47 FIGURE 5-6: POTENTIAL EVAPORATION CHANGE FOR THE B31B CATCHMENT (DWS, 2020) ...... 48 FIGURE 5-7: CURRENT STREAMFLOW AND PREDICTED CHANGE FOR THE B31D CATCHMENT (DWS, 2020) ...... 48 FIGURE 5-8: CURRENT STREAMFLOW AND PREDICTED CHANGE FOR THE B31B CATCHMENT (DWS, 2020) ...... 49 FIGURE 5-9: WATERSHED LAND-USE BY AREA AND PERCENTAGE ...... 49 FIGURE 5-10: LANDCOVER MAP FOR THE TWO WATERSHEDS
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
CONSIDERED IN THIS DETERMINATION (SEPTEMBER 2020) ...... 50 FIGURE 5-11: LANDTYPE FOR THE TWO WATERSHEDS CONSIDERED IN THIS DETERMINATION (SEPTEMBER 2020) ...... 51 FIGURE 5-12: GEOLOGICAL MAP FOR THE RESPECTIVE WATERSHEDS CONSIDERED IN THIS DETERMINATION (SEPTEMBER 2020) ...... 52 FIGURE 5-13: HYDROLOGICAL CONTEXT FOR THE POWERLINE FROM THE GEMSBOK TO KWAMHLANGA SUBSTATION (SEPTEMBER 2020) ...... 53 FIGURE 5-14: THE WATERCOURSE FOR WATERSHED 1 (SEPTEMBER 2020) ...... 54 FIGURE 5-15: THE WATERCOURSE FOR WATERSHED 2 (SEPTEMBER 2020) ...... 54 FIGURE 5-16: IDENTIFIED HYDRAULIC STRUCTURES (SEPTEMBER 2020) ...... 55 FIGURE 5-17: BRAIDED CHANNELS IN WATERSHED 1 BECAUSE OF LOW/ALTERED TOPOGRAPHY 56 FIGURE 5-18: MODELLED 1-50 AND 1-100 YEAR FLOODLINES FOR WATERSHED 1 (OCTOBER 2020) ...... 57 FIGURE 5-19: MODELLED 1-50 AND 1-100 YEAR FLOODLINES FOR WATERSHED 2 (OCTOBER 2020) ...... 57 FIGURE 5-20: PROJECT AREA IN RELATION TO THE TERRESTRIAL MPUMALANGA BIODIVERSITY SECTOR PLAN ...... 59 FIGURE 5-21: PROJECT AREA IN RELATION TO THE FRESHWATER MPUMALANGA BIODIVERSITY SECTOR PLAN ...... 60 FIGURE 5-22: ECOSYSTEM THREAT STATUS61 FIGURE 5-23: ECOSYSTEM PROTECTION STATUS ...... 62 FIGURE 5-24: MPUMALANGA PROTECTED AREAS EXPANSION STRATEGY MAP ...... 63 FIGURE 5-25: VEGETATION MAP (BGIS, 2018) ...... 64
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
FIGURE 5-26: MAP SHOWING THE GRID DRAWN TO COMPILE AN EXPECTED SPECIES LIST (BODATSA-POSA, 2019) ...... 65 FIGURE 5-27: LIST OF BIRD SPECIES OF REGIONAL OR GLOBAL CONSERVATION IMPORTANCE EXPECTED TO OCCUR IN PENTADS ...... 66 FIGURE 5-28: MAMMAL SPECIES OF CONSERVATION CONCERN .... 67 FIGURE 5-29: A) CORK BUSH (MUNDULEA SERICEA), B) DROLPEER (DOMBEYA ROTUNDIFOLIA), C) CORAL TREE (ERYTHRINA LYSISTEMON), D) STAMVRUG (ENGLEROPHYTUM MAGALISMONTANUM), E) POISON BULB (BOOPHONE DISTICHA) ...... 70 FIGURE 5-30: A) SOUTHERN ROCK AGAMA (AGAMA ATRA), B) TRANSVAAL GECKO (PACHYDACTYLUS AFFINIS), C) VARIEGATED SKINK (TRACHYLEPIS VARIEGATA) AND D) GECKO SP. EGGS...... 71 FIGURE 5-31: LOCATION OF THE WHITE BELLIED KORHAAN OBSERVED IN RELATION TO THE PROJECT FOOTPRINT ...... 72 FIGURE 5-32: BIODIVERSITY THEME SENSITIVITY MAP ...... 73 FIGURE 5-33: ANIMAL THEME SENSITIVITY MAP ...... 73 FIGURE 5-34: BIODIVERSITY SENSITIVITY MAP ...... 74 FIGURE 5-35: LOCATION OF SITE 1 (GPS: 25°24'33.61"S 28°49'25.78"E)..... 76 FIGURE 5-36: LOCATION OF SITE 2 (GPS: 25°28'30.92"S 28°45'41.58"E)..... 76 FIGURE 5-37: LOCATION OF SITE 3 (GPS: 25°26'54.05"S 28°43'26.48"E)..... 77 FIGURE 5-38: LOCATION OF SITE 4 (GPS: 25°28'21.41"S 28°44'13.28"E)..... 78 FIGURE 5-39: LOCATION OF SITE 5 (GPS: 25°28'41.44"S 28°44'48.92"E)..... 78 FIGURE 5-40: LOCATION OF SITE 6 (GPS: 25°28'43.86"S 28°45'21.64"E)..... 79 FIGURE 5-41: LOCATION OF SITE 7 (GPS: 25°26'42.86"S 28°43'6.45"E) ...... 80 FIGURE 5-42: PALAEONTOLOGICAL SENSITIVITY ...... 81
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
FIGURE 7-1: ENVIRONMENTAL SENSITIVITY MAP ...... 2
APPENDICES A EAP AND SPECIALIST CV A-1 Tutayi Chifadza A-2 Ashlea Strong A-3 Lindi Steyn A-4 Michael Ryan A-5 Anton van Vollenhoven B EAP AND SPECIALIST DECLARATIONS B-1 Tutayi Chifadza B-2 Lindi Steyn B-3 Michael Ryan B-4 Anton van Vollenhoven C STAKEHOLDER DATABASE D MAPS D-1 Locality Map D-2 Layout Map D-3 Rivers and Wetlands Map D-4 Palaeosensitivity Map D-5 Environmental Sensitivity / Summary Map E PUBLIC PARTICIPATION E-1 Advert E-2 Site Notices E-3 Email Notifications E-4 SMS Notifications E-5 Tribal Authorities Meeting Attendance Registers E-6 Non-Technical Summary F SPECIALIST STUDIES F-1 Biodiversity and Avifauna Assessment F-2 Floodline and Hydrological Assessment
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
F-3 Archaeological Assessment G EMPR
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND AND TERMS OF REFERENCE
Eskom Holdings SOC Limited (Eskom) proposes to construct a 132kV powerline that will run from the existing Gemsbok substation to the newly proposed KwaMhlanga substation, which will replace the current KwaMhlanga substation. The newly proposed KwaMhlanga substation was previously assessed and approved in a separate basic assessment application process. The proposed powerline will pass through several farm portions (described in Section 6) in the KwaMhlanga area, Wards 10, 14 and 32, Thembisile Hani Local Municipality, Nkangal District Municipality, Mpumalanga. The current KwaMhlanga 33/11kV 2x10MVA substation is currently fed from the Gemsbok 132/33kV 2x20MVA substation through a 33kV network. The transformers need to be upgraded in order to cater for the future loads which are mostly electrifications. However, there is not enough space to extend the substation because of the residential developments around the substation and there is no space for 132kV lines to enter the substation. The proposed powerline requires an environmental authorisation (EA) in terms of the National Environmental Management Act (Act 107 of 1998), as amended (NEMA) and the associated Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Regulations, 2014 as amended. WSP Environmental (Pty) Ltd (WSP) was appointed by Eskom as the independent Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP) to facilitate the Basic Assessment (BA) process in accordance with the EIA Regulations, 2014, as amended. The farm portions on which the powerline will be constructed are owned by the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform (DRDLR) with the Ndzundza and Manala Traditional Authorities as the custodians on behalf of the DRDLR. Figure 1 below shows a locality map of the proposed location of the powerline and the associated alternative route. Figure 1-1 below shows a locality map of the proposed location of the powerline and the alternative route.
Figure 1-1: Gemsbok-KwaMhlanga 132kV Powerline and Alternative
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
1.2 PURPOSE OF THE BA PROCESS
The BA process is an interdisciplinary procedure to ensure that environmental and social considerations are included in decisions regarding projects. Simply defined, the process aims to identify the possible environmental and social effects of a proposed activity and how those impacts can be mitigated. In the context of this report, the purpose of the BA process is to inform decision-makers and the public of potential negative and positive consequences of the proposed construction of the powerline. This provides the competent authority (CA) sufficient information to make an informed decision with regards to granting or refusing the EA applied for.
1.3 DETAILS OF EAP AND PROJECT PROPONENT
WSP was appointed in the role of Independent EAP to undertake the BA processes for the proposed construction of the powerline. The CV of the EAP is available in Appendix A-1. The EAP declaration of interest and undertaking is included in Appendix B. Table 1-1 details the relevant contact details of the EAP. In order to adequately identify and assess potential environmental impacts, the EAP was supported by a number of specialists. Table 1-1: Details of the EAP
EAP WSP ENVIRONMENTAL (PTY) LTD
Company Registration: 1995/08790/07
Contact Person: Tutayi Chifadza
Physical Address: Building C, Knightsbridge, 33 Sloane Street, Bryanston, Johannesburg
Postal Address: P.O. Box 98867, Sloane Park 2151, Johannesburg
Telephone: 011 361 1390
Fax: 011 361 1301
Email: [email protected]
Table 1-2 provides the relevant details of the project proponent. Table 1-2: Details of Proponent
PROPONENT: ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Company Registration: 2002/015527/30
Contact Person: Palesa Kuaho
Physical Address: Cnr Jelicoe and Watermeyer, Eskom Park, Emalahleni
Postal Address Cnr Jelicoe and Watermeyer, Eskom Park, Emalahleni
Telephone: 072 623 5379
Email: [email protected]
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
1.4 SPECIALISTS
Specialist input was required in support of this application for EA. The details of the specialists are provided in Table 1-3 below. The Curriculum Vitae of the specialists are attached in Appendix A and their declarations in Appendix B. Table 1-3: Details of Specialists
SPECIALIST NAME OF SECTIONS IN REPORT ASSESSMENT SPECIALIST COMPANY REPORT ATTACHED AS
Biodiversity and Lindi Steyn, and The Biodiversity Company Section 5.6 Appendix F-1 Avifauna Assessment Martinus Erasmus
Floodline and Andrew Husted The Biodiversity Company Section 5.3 Appendix F-2 Hydrological Assessment
Archaeological Prof Anton van Archaetnos Culture & Section 5.7 Appendix F-3 Assessment Vollenhoven Cultural Resource Consultants
1.5 COMPETENT AND COMMENTING AUTHORITIES
Table 1-4 provides the relevant details of the competent and commenting authorities on the project. Table 1-4: Competent and Commenting Authorities
COMPETENT / COMMENTING ASPECT AUTHORITY CONTACT DETAILS
Competent Authority: Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Integrated Environmental Authorisations Environment (DFFE) Environmental Tel: 012 399 9388 Authorisation (Case Officer to be confirmed)
Commenting Department of Environmental Affairs: Biodiversity Conservation Unit Authorities Biodiversity Conservation Unit Tel: 012 399 9411 Portia Makitla [email protected]
South African Heritage Resource Agency Uploaded to SAHRA Website during public review (SAHRA) period.
Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Tel: 013 692 5843 Rural Development, Land and Dineo Tswai Environmental Affairs (MDARDLEA) [email protected]
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
COMPETENT / COMMENTING ASPECT AUTHORITY CONTACT DETAILS
Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency Tel: 013 235 2395 (MTPA) Khumbelo Malele [email protected]
Nkangala District Municipality Department of Social Services and Environmental Services Tel: 013 249 2163 Life Mahlaule [email protected]
Thembisile Hani Local Municipality Tel: 013 986 9100 MMC for Social Development Services Cllr P Msiza [email protected]
Water Use Department of Water and Sanitation Water Use Licence Applications (DWS) Nevondo Seani Tel: 012 318 0516 [email protected]
1.6 BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT STRUCTURE
The Draft BAR (this report) was prepared to meet the requirements as described in Appendix 1 of GNR 326 of the NEMA EIA Regulations, 2014, as amended. To demonstrate legal compliance, Table 1-5 cross-references the sections within the BA report with the requirements of Appendix 1 of GNR 326. Table 1-5: Legal Requirements as detailed in Appendix 1 of GNR 326 of the 2014 EIA Regulations, as amended
APPENDIX 1 OF RELEVANT GNR 326 DESCRIPTION REPORT SECTION 3(1) (a) Details of the EAP who prepared the report and the expertise of Section 1.3 the EAP, including a curriculum vitae Appendix A 3(1) (b) The location of the activity Section 4.1 3(1) (c) A plan which locates the proposed activity or activities applied for Section 4.2 as well as associated structures and infrastructure at an appropriate scale 3(1) (d) A description of the scope of the proposed activity Section 4
3(1) (e) A description of the policy and legislative context within which Section 2 the development is proposed
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
APPENDIX 1 OF RELEVANT GNR 326 DESCRIPTION REPORT SECTION 3(1) (f) A motivation for the need and desirability for the proposed Section 4.3 development including the need and desirability of the activity in the context of the preferred location 3(1) (g) A motivation for the preferred site, activity and technology Section 4 alternative 3(1) (h) A full description of the process followed to reach the proposed Section 4 alternative within the site 3(1) (i) A full description of the process undertaken to identify, assess and Section 3.4 rank the impacts the activity will impose on the preferred location through the life of the activity 3(1) (j) An assessment of each identified potentially significant impact and Section 6 risk 3(1) (k) Where applicable, a summary of the findings and impact Section 6 management measures identified in any specialist report complying with Appendix 6 to these Regulations and an indication as to how these findings and recommendations have been included in the final report 3(1) (l) An environmental impact statement Section 7.4 3(1) (m) Based on the assessment, and where applicable, impact Appendix G management measures from specialist reports, the recording of the proposed impact management objectives, and the impact management outcomes for the development for inclusion in the Environmental Management Programme (EMPr). 3(1) (n) Any aspects which were conditional to the findings of the Not applicable assessment either by the EAP or specialist which are to be included as conditions of authorisation. 3(1) (o) A description of any assumptions, uncertainties and gaps in Section 3.6 knowledge which relate to the assessment and mitigation measures proposed 3(1) (p) A reasoned opinion as to whether the proposed activity should or Section 7 should not be authorised, and if the opinion is that it should be authorised, any conditions that should be made in respect of that authorisation 3(1) (q) Where the proposed activity does not include operational aspects, Not applicable the period for which the environmental authorisation is required, the date on which the activity will be conducted, and the post construction monitoring requirements finalised 3(1) (r) An undertaking under oath or affirmation by the EAP Appendix B 3(1) (s) Where applicable, details of any financial provisions for the Not applicable rehabilitation, closure, and ongoing post decommissioning management of negative environmental impacts
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
APPENDIX 1 OF RELEVANT GNR 326 DESCRIPTION REPORT SECTION 3(1) (t) Any specific information that may be required by the competent Not applicable authority 3(1) (u) Any other matters required in terms of section 24(4)(a) and (b) of Not applicable the Act
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
2 GOVERNANCE FRAMEWORK
The South African regulatory framework establishes well-defined requirements and standards for environmental and social management of industrial and civil infrastructure developments. Different authorities at both national and regional levels carry out environmental protection functions. The applicable legislation and policies are shown in Table 2-1 below. Table 2-1: Applicable Legislation and Policies
APPLICABLE LEGISLATION AND POLICY DESCRIPTION OF LEGISLATION
The Constitution of South The Constitution cannot manage environmental resources as a stand-alone piece of Africa (No. 108 of 1996) legislation, hence additional legislation was promulgated in order to manage the various spheres of both the social and natural environment. Each promulgated Act and associated Regulations are designed to focus on various industries or components of the environment to ensure that the objectives of the Constitution are effectively implemented and upheld in an on-going basis throughout the country. In terms of Section 7, a positive obligation is placed on the State to give effect to the environmental rights.
National Environmental In terms of Section 24(2) of the NEMA, the Minister may identify activities which may not Management Act (No. 107 of commence without prior authorisation. The Minister thus published GNR 327 (Listing Notice 1998) 1), 325 (Listing Notice 2) and 324 (Listing Notice 3) listing activities that may not commence prior to authorisation (7 April 2017). The regulations outlining the procedures required for authorisation are published in GNR 326 [Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations (EIA)] (2014, as amended). Listing Notice 1 identifies activities that require a Basic Assessment (BA) process to be undertaken, in terms of the EIA Regulations, prior to commencement of that activity. Listing Notice 2 identifies activities that require an S&EIR process to be undertaken, in terms of the EIA Regulations, prior to commencement of that activity. Listing Notice 3 identifies activities within specific areas that require a BA process to be undertaken, in terms of the EIA Regulations, prior to commencement of that activity. WSP undertook a review of the listed activities according to the proposed project description to conclude that Listed Activity 11 of GNR 327 is considered applicable and therefore a BA process must be followed. An EA is required and is being applied for.
Listing Notice 1: GNR 327 Activity 11 – The development of facilities or infrastructure for the transmission and distribution of electricity– (i) outside urban areas or industrial complexes with a capacity of more than 33 but less than 275 kilovolts Description: The proposed project will involve the construction of a 22 km 132 kV powerline and associated infrastructure from the existing Gemsbok substation to the location of the proposed new KwaMhlanga substation.
Listing Notice 3: GNR 324 Activity 12 – The clearance of an area of 300 square metres or more of indigenous vegetation except where such clearance of indigenous vegetation is required for maintenance purposes undertaken in accordance with a maintenance management plan. f. Mpumalanga ii. Within critical biodiversity areas identified in bioregional plans; Description:
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
APPLICABLE LEGISLATION AND POLICY DESCRIPTION OF LEGISLATION
The proposed project will have clearance of vegetation at locations where the monopoles will be constructed. This is in a CBA area, although the specialist report has indicated that the area has already been degraded due to previous transformations by grazing and agriculture.
National Environmental The objectives of this Act are within the framework of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, Management Act, include: 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004) — The management and conservation of biological diversity within the Republic of South Africa and the components of such biological diversity — The use of indigenous biological resources in a sustainable manner; and — The fair and equitable sharing among stakeholders of benefits arising from bio prospecting involving indigenous biological resources; and — Giving effect to ratified international agreements relating to biodiversity which are binding on the Republic. The Act, amongst others, provides the framework for biodiversity management and planning, comprising a national biodiversity framework, bioregions and bioregional plans, and biodiversity management plans and agreements. Threatened and protected ecosystems (Section 52) have been listed (December 2011) and activities or processes within those ecosystems may be listed as ‘threatening processes’, thus triggering the need to comply with the NEMA EIA regulations. List of critically endangered, endangered, vulnerable and protected species have also been promulgated in terms of this Act (2007), covering species affected by ‘restricted’ activities; effectively those species hunted, bred or traded for economic gain. In addition, regulations addressing alien and invasive species and their management/control were promulgated in 2014. The proposed project area falls within a CBA area, however, the specialist indicated that the area has already been degraded due to previous transformations by grazing and agriculture, as such, is no longer suitable to be a CBA area. However, the Biodiversity Conservation Unit of the DFFE and the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency will confirm that determination.
National Water Act, 1998 (Act The National Water Act, 1998 (Act No. 36 of 1998) (NWA) provides the framework to No. 36 of 1998) protect water resources against over exploitation and to ensure that there is water for social and economic development, human needs and to meet the needs of the aquatic environment. The Act defines water source to include watercourses, surface water, estuary or aquifer. A watercourse is defined in the Act as a river or spring, a natural channel in which water flows regularly or intermittently, a wetland, lake or dam into which or from which water flows, and any collection of water which the Minister may declare a watercourse. The proposed powerline route has two river/stream crossings on non-perennial river systems. The powerline monopoles will be constructed at 100m intervals, will also be located at a distance of at least 100m before, and after each of the two identified river/stream crossings. This means the monopoles will be at least 200m apart at each of the two river/stream crossings. This approach will be used to avoid Section 21 (c) and (i) triggers as per the National Water Act. The current proposed locations to construct the monopoles, which the power lines will be suspended from, is at least 100m before and after each river/stream crossing. This will however still be inside the 500m regulated area of a defined watercourse, which is yet to be fully delineated as the riparian and wetland components are still required. A Section 21 (c) and (i) DWS risk assessment will be required as part of the recommended aquatics or wetland assessment as the monopoles are considered to impeding or diverting the flow of water in a watercourse. A GA will be considered sufficient for the powerline provided the anticipated risks provided by the DWS risk assessment are considered low.
National Heritage Resources The National Heritage Resource Act (Act No. 25 of 1999) (NHRA) serves to protect national Act (Act No. 25 of 1999) and provincial heritage resources across South Africa. The NHRA provides for the protection
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
APPLICABLE LEGISLATION AND POLICY DESCRIPTION OF LEGISLATION
of all archaeological and palaeontological sites, the conservation and care of cemeteries and graves by the South African Heritage Resource Agency (SAHRA), and lists activities which require any person who intends to undertake to notify the responsible heritage resources agency and furnish details regarding the location, nature, and extent of the proposed development. In terms of the Section 38 of the NHRA, any person who intends to undertake a linear development exceeding 300m in length or a development that exceeds 5000m2 must notify the heritage resources authority and undertake the necessary assessment requested by that authority. In the case of the proposed powerline, the project triggers the 300m threshold as it is 22km. An Archaeological Impact Assessment (AIA) was conducted and the specialist indicated that seven sites of cultural heritage significance were identified, however, it is unlikely that they will be impacted. The ‘Chance find Procedure’ should be followed as required if any other sites are encountered during construction. Construction activities should be conducted carefully and all activities ceased if any archaeological, cultural and heritage resources are discovered. The SAHRA should be notified and investigation conducted before any activities can commence. The South African Heritage Resources Information System (SAHRIS) tool indicated that the proposed project falls within the blue and grey areas which indicate low and insignificant/zero paleontological sensitivity respectively. No palaeontological studies are required, however, a protocol for finds is required.
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
3 BASIC ASSESSMENT PROCESS
3.1 PROCEDURAL FRAMEWORK
As defined in Appendix 1 of the EIA Regulations, 2014 (as amended), the objective of the impact assessment process is to, through a consultative process: — Determine the policy and legislative context within which the proposed activity is located and how the activity complies with and responds to the policy and legislative context; — Identify the alternatives considered, including the activity, location, and technology alternatives; — Describe the need and desirability of the proposed alternatives; — Through the undertaking of an impact and risk assessment process, inclusive of cumulative impacts which focused on determining the geographical, physical, biological, social, economic, heritage, and cultural sensitivity of the sites and locations within sites and the risk of impact of the proposed activity and technology alternatives on these aspects to determine— — The nature, significance, consequence, extent, duration, and probability of the impacts occurring to; and — The degree to which these impacts— — Can be reversed; — May cause irreplaceable loss of resources; and — Can be avoided, managed or mitigated — Through a ranking of the site sensitivities and possible impacts the activity and technology alternatives will impose on the sites and location identified through the life of the activity to– — Identify and motivate a preferred site, activity and technology alternative; — Identify suitable measures to avoid, manage or mitigate identified impacts; and — Identify residual risks that need to be managed and monitored.
3.2 APPLICATION
The application phase consisted of completing the appropriate application form as well as the subsequent submission and registration of the application for EA with the DFFE. The application form was submitted to the DFFE on 13 November 2020. A reference number will be included in the Final BAR following acknowledgment of receipt from the DFFE. WSP will notify a number of commenting authorities of the proposed project via a notification letter and by submitting the draft BAR. The commenting authorities include: — Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment: Biodiversity Conservation Unit; — Mpumalanga Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs (MDARDLEA); — Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency — Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS); — South African Heritage Resource Agency (SAHRA); — Nkangala District Municipality (NDM); and — Thembisile Local Municipality (THLM). WSP will collate comments received during the public review phase (13 November 2020 to 14 December 2020) and compile a Comments and Responses Report (CRR) that will be attached to the Final BAR as an Appendix.
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
3.3 BASELINE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
The description of the environmental attributes of the project area was compiled through a combination of desktop reviews and site investigations. Desktop reviews made use of available information including existing reports, aerial imagery and mapping. The specialist teams started site investigations on 14 September 2020 to provide impact assessments for the proposed powerline route.
3.4 IMPACT ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY
The BAR uses a methodological framework developed by WSP to meet the combined requirements of international best practice and NEMA, Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2014, as amended (GN No. 326). As required by the EIA Regulations (2014) as amended, the determination and assessment of impacts is based on the following criteria: — Nature of the Impact; — Significance of the Impact; — Consequence of the Impact; — Extent of the impact; — Duration of the Impact; — Probability if the impact; — Degree to which the impact: — can be reversed; — may cause irreplaceable loss of resources; and — can be avoided, managed or mitigated. Following international best practice, additional criteria have been included to determine the significant effects. These include the consideration of the following: — Magnitude: to what extent environmental resources are going to be affected; — Sensitivity of the resource or receptor (rated as high, medium and low) by considering the importance of the receiving environment (international, national, regional, district and local), rarity of the receiving environment, benefits or services provided by the environmental resources and perception of the resource or receptor); and — Severity of the impact, measured by the importance of the consequences of change (high, medium, low, negligible) by considering inter alia magnitude, duration, intensity, likelihood, frequency and reversibility of the change. It should be noted that the definitions given are for guidance only, and not all the definitions will apply to all of the environmental receptors and resources being assessed. Impact significance was assessed with and without mitigation measures in place.
3.4.1 METHODOLOGY Impacts are assessed in terms of the following criteria: a) The nature; a description of what causes the effect, what will be affected and how it will be affected.
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Table 3-1: Nature or Type of Impact
NATURE OR TYPE OF IMPACT DEFINITION Beneficial / An impact that is considered to represent an improvement on the baseline or introduces a Positive positive change.
Adverse / An impact that is considered to represent an adverse change from the baseline, or introduces Negative a new undesirable factor.
Direct Impacts that arise directly from activities that form an integral part of the Project (e.g. new infrastructure).
Indirect Impacts that arise indirectly from activities not explicitly forming part of the Project (e.g. noise changes due to changes in road traffic resulting from the operation of Project).
Secondary Secondary or induced impacts caused by a change in the Project environment (e.g. employment opportunities created by the supply chain requirements).
Cumulative Impacts are those impacts arising from the combination of multiple impacts from existing projects, the Project and/or future projects. b) The physical extent. Table 3-2: Physical Extent Rating of Impact
SCORE DESCRIPTION
1 the impact will be limited to the site;
2 the impact will be limited to the local area;
3 the impact will be limited to the region;
4 the impact will be national; or
5 the impact will be international; c) The duration, wherein it is indicated what the lifetime of the impact will be: Table 3-3: Duration Rating of Impact
SCORE DESCRIPTION
1 of a very short duration (0 to 1 years)
2 of a short duration (1 to 5 years)
3 medium term (5–15 years)
4 long term (> 15 years)
5 Permanent d) Reversibility: An impact is either reversible or irreversible. A scale of the level of reversibility if an impact is reversible and how long before impacts on receptors cease to be evident.
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Table 3-4: Reversibility of Impact
SCORE DESCRIPTION
1 The impact is immediately reversible.
3 The impact is reversible within 2 years after the cause or stress is removed.
5 The activity will lead to an impact that is in all practical terms permanent. e) The magnitude of impact on ecological processes, quantified on a scale from 0-5, where a score is assigned. Table 3-5: Magnitude Rating of Impact
SCORE DESCRIPTION 0 small and will have no effect on the environment.
1 minor and will not result in an impact on processes.
2 low and will cause a slight impact on processes.
3 moderate and will result in processes continuing but in a modified way.
4 high (processes are altered to the extent that they temporarily cease).
5 very high and results in complete destruction of patterns and permanent cessation of processes. f) The probability of occurrence, which describes the likelihood of the impact actually occurring. Probability is estimated on a scale where: Table 3-6: Probability Rating of Impact
SCORE DESCRIPTION
1 very improbable (probably will not happen).
2 improbable (some possibility, but low likelihood).
3 probable (distinct possibility).
4 highly probable (most likely).
5 definite (impact will occur regardless of any prevention measures). g) The significance, which is determined through a synthesis of the characteristics described above (refer formula below) and can be assessed as low, medium or high; h) The status, which is described as either positive, negative or neutral; i) The degree to which the impact can be reversed; j) The degree to which the impact may cause irreplaceable loss of resources; and k) The degree to which the impact can be mitigated.
The significance is determined by combining the above criteria in the following formula: Significance = (Extent + Duration + Reversibility + Magnitude) x Probability
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
[푆 = (퐸 + 퐷 + 푅 + 푀) × 푃] Where the symbols are as follows: Table 3-7: Symbols Reference
SYMBOL CRITERIA DESCRIPTION
S Significance Weighting Refer to Table 3-8
E Extent Refer to Table 3-2
D Duration Refer to Table 3-3
R Reversibility Refer to Table 3-4
M Magnitude Refer to Table 3-5
P Probability Refer to Table 3-6
The significance weightings for each potential impact are as follows: Table 3-8: Significance Ratings
SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE OVERALL RATING RATING SCORE (NEGATIVE) (POSITIVE) DESCRIPTION
< 30 points Low Low where this impact would not have a direct influence on the decision to develop in the area
31 - 60 points Medium Medium where the impact could influence the decision to develop in the area unless it is effectively mitigated
> 60 points High High where the impact must have an influence on the decision process to develop in the area
3.4.2 MITIGATION The impact significance without mitigation measures will be assessed with the design controls in place. Impacts without mitigation measures in place are not representative of the proposed development’s actual extent of impact, and are included to facilitate understanding of how and why mitigation measures were identified. The residual impact is what remains following the application of mitigation and management measures, and is thus the final level of impact associated with the development. Residual impacts also serve as the focus of management and monitoring activities during Project implementation to verify that actual impacts are the same as those predicted in this BAR. The mitigation measures chosen are based on the mitigation sequence/hierarchy which allows for consideration of five (5) different levels, which include avoid/prevent, minimise, rehabilitate/restore, offset and no-go in that order. The idea is that when project impacts are considered, the first option should be to avoid or prevent the impacts from occurring in the first place if possible, however, this is not always feasible. In the event that this is not attainable, the impacts can be allowed, however they must be minimised as far as possible by considering reducing the footprint of the development for example so that little damage is encountered. In the event that impacts are unavoidable, the next goal is to rehabilitate or restore the areas impacted back to their original form after project completion. Offsets are then considered if all the other measures described above fail in order to remedy high/significant residual negative impacts. If no offsets can be done on a potential impact which results in full destruction of any ecosystem for example, the no-go option is considered so that another activity or location is considered in place of the original plan. The mitigation sequence/hierarchy is shown in Figure 3-1 below.
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Figure 3-1: Mitigation Sequence/Hierarchy
3.5 STAKEHOLDER EGNAGEMENT PROCESS
Stakeholder engagement (public participation) is a requirement of the BA process. It consists of a series of inclusive and culturally appropriate interactions aimed at providing stakeholders with opportunities to express their views, so that these can be considered and incorporated into the BA decision-making process. Effective engagement requires the prior disclosure of relevant and adequate project information to enable stakeholders to understand the risks, impacts, and opportunities of the proposed project. The objectives of the stakeholder engagement process can be summarised as follows: — Identify relevant individuals, organisations and communities who may be interested in or affected by the proposed project; — Clearly outline the scope of the proposed project, including the scale and nature of the existing and proposed activities; — Identify viable proposed project alternatives that will assist the relevant authorities in making an informed decision; — Identify shortcomings and gaps in existing information; — Identify key concerns, raised by Stakeholders that should be addressed in the specialist studies; — Highlight the potential for environmental impacts, whether positive or negative; and — To inform and provide the public with information and an understanding of the proposed project, issues and solutions.
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
3.5.1 STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION Stakeholders were identified and will continue to be identified through several mechanisms. These include: — Holding meetings with each of the Traditional Authorities (Ndundza and Manala Tribal Authorities); — Networking with local business owners, non-governmental agencies, community based organisations, and local tribal and council representatives; — Field work in and around the project area; — Advertising in the press: — Mpumalanga News; and — Placement of site notices at the following locations: — Gemsbok Substation; — Thembisile Hani Local Municipality; — Proposed KwaMhlanga Substation Location; — Ndzundza Traditional Authority Offices; — Manala Traditional Authority Offices; — KwaMhlanga Community Hall; and — KwaMhlanga Public Library. No specific public meeting will be held regarding the project due to the Covid-19 Level 1 restrictions. However, the EAP held separate meetings with the Ndzundza Traditional Authority and the Manala Tribal Authority at their respective tribal offices on 21 October 2020 where the project was presented. The attendance register is indicated in Appendix E5. The tribal leaders will in turn inform their community members of the proposed project and provide a database of the community members to allow them to be notified during the public review period. A non-technical summary (NTS) which summarised the project background, legal framework, baseline environmental state of the site, summary of impacts and highlighted the public participation process was also compiled and was also placed along with the Draft BAR for review. The majority of copies of the NTS were translated to isiNdebele, which is the main language in the area and a few copies in English. A copy has been attached in Appendix E6. All stakeholders identified to date have been registered on the project stakeholder database. The EAP endeavoured to ensure that individuals/organisations from referrals and networking were notified of the proposed project. Stakeholders were identified at the horizontal (geographical) and vertical extent (organisations level). A list of stakeholders captured in the project database is included in Appendix C. All concerns, comments, viewpoints and questions (collectively referred to as ‘issues’) that will be received will be documented and responded to in a CRR, which will be in the final BAR. Specialist studies for Biodiversity, Wetland and Heritage Assessment were conducted. The findings and recommendations from both studies have been incorporated in this Draft BAR. Table 3-9 below shows details of site notices used for stakeholder notification. The proof of display will be indicated in the Final BAR. Table 3-9: Site Notice Locations
PHOTOGRAPHS LOCATION CO-ORDINATE ZOOMED IN LANDSCAPE Gemsbok 25°25’53.16”S To be included in final BAR To be included in final BAR Substation 28°48’44.98”E Thembisile Hani 25°18’31.48”S To be included in final BAR To be included in final BAR Local Municipality 28°56’48.53”E Proposed 25°25’10.83”S To be included in final BAR To be included in final BAR KwaMhlanga 28°41’30.38”E Substation
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
PHOTOGRAPHS LOCATION CO-ORDINATE ZOOMED IN LANDSCAPE Ndzundza 25°24’11.07”S To be included in final BAR To be included in final BAR Traditional 28°46’52.28”E Authority Offices Manala 25°19'16.64"S To be included in final BAR To be included in final BAR Traditional 28°45'54.57"E Authority Offices KwaMhlanga 25°26’3.77”S To be included in final BAR To be included in final BAR Community Hall 28°42’51.66”E KwaMhlanga 25°26’17.11”S To be included in final BAR To be included in final BAR Public Library 28°42’42.53”E
The site notices will serve to inform the occupiers of the land along with the newspaper advert and existing stakeholder database. In accordance with GN. R 326 41(2)(c) of Chapter 6, an advert was placed in the Mpumalanga News (published 11 November 2020). The proof of the advert will be displayed in the Final BAR.
3.5.2 PUBLIC REVIEW The Draft BAR will be placed on public review for a period of 30 days from 13 November 2020 to 14 December 2020, at the following public places: — Ndzundza Traditional Authority Offices; — Manala Traditional Authority Offices — KwaMhlanga Community Hall; — KwaMhlanga Library; and — WSP website (https://www.wsp.com/en-ZA/services/public-documents). All registered stakeholders and authorising/commenting state departments were notified of the public review period as well as the locations of the Draft BAR via email and bulk sms. The Final BAR will be made available to the competent and commenting authorities as well as the I&APs following the expiry of the Draft BAR public review period.
3.6 ASSUMPTIONS AND LIMITATIONS
General assumptions and limitations relating to the BA process are listed below: — The EAP hereby confirms that they have undertaken to obtain project information from the Client that is deemed to be accurate and representative of the project; — The comments received in response to the public participation process, are representative of comments from the broader community; and — The competent authority would not require additional specialist input, as per the proposals made in this report, in order to make a decision regarding the application. Key assumptions and limitations relevant to the AIA included: — Cultural Resources are all non-physical and physical man-made occurrences, as well as natural occurrences associated with human activity (Appendix A of AIA). These include all sites, structures and artefacts of importance, either individually or in groups, in the history, architecture and archaeology of human (cultural) development. Graves and cemeteries are included in this. — The significance of the sites, structures and artefacts is determined by means of their historical, social, aesthetic, technological and scientific value in relation to their uniqueness, condition of preservation and
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
research potential. The various aspects are not mutually exclusive, and the evaluation of any site is done with reference to any number of these aspects. — Cultural significance is site-specific and relates to the content and context of the site. Sites regarded as having low cultural significance have already been recorded in full and require no further mitigation. Sites with medium cultural significance may or may not require mitigation depending on other factors such as the significance of impact on the site. Sites with a high cultural significance require further mitigation (see Appendix C of AIA). — The latitude and longitude of any archaeological or historical site or feature, is to be treated as sensitive information by the developer and should not be disclosed to members of the public. — All recommendations are made with full cognisance of the relevant legislation. — It has to be mentioned that it is almost impossible to locate all the cultural resources in a given area, as it will be very time consuming. Developers should however note that the report should make it clear how to handle any other finds that might occur. — Some sections of the surveyed area have been disturbed by recent human activities associated with housing development. Accordingly, these areas are seen as low risk to reveal heritage sites. — The vegetation cover is reasonably low and open, which had a positive effect on both the horizontal and the vertical archaeological visibility. — Certain areas could not be accessed due to the lack access points (locked gates and high fences). The Biodiversity and Avifauna Assessment Reported noted the following limitations: — Some of the areas had limited access; — Portions of the project area were burned at time of the survey; — As per the scope of work, the fieldwork component of the assessment comprised of one assessment only, which was conducted during the early wet season, and therefore no temporal trends have been assessed; — The basic assessment reports for the Gemsbok substation were not made available at time of completion of this report; and — Despite these limitations, a comprehensive desktop assessment was conducted, in conjunction with the detailed results from the surveys, and as such there is a high confidence in the information provided. The Hydrological Report listed the following assumptions and limitations: — No storage facilities (dams) were modelled upstream or downstream of the project area due to the low resolution of contour data; — No flood protection infrastructure was modelled; — The floodline presented should only be used for indicative and environmental planning purposes, and not for detailed engineering designs, unless signed off by a suitably qualified and registered engineer; — The floodline presented must only be considered within the 500m regulated area up and downstream of each crossing point. This is the location where the flow hydrograph was calibrated. No detailed contour data (<1m) was available for the modelling of the entire watershed areas and watercourse channels considered in this study with the information available restricted to the immediate crossings; — No hydraulic structures such as weirs or culverts were considered in this study; — The floodline areas modelled in this assessment should be interpreted with caution; given the overall low resolution elevation data utilised; — No wetland or riparian habitat assessment was completed for this study; — The floodline completed for Watershed 1 indicated complex topography and returned highly inaccurate results. Recommendations provided in this report conclude that additional elevation data is required for an updated delineation; and — Although additional watercourses will be potentially impacted by the proposed project, only two reaches were considered to be relevant to this study. The motivation for this selection was based on the crossing localities (direct impacts) as opposed to watercourses which may be indirectly impacted. Moreover, where no direct crossing were anticipated, upstream source zone watercourses, with limited flood extents, are expected to be impacted. These watercourses should be effectively covered in an aquatic ecology and/or wetland delineation specialist study to define the full extent of the sensitive areas.
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Notwithstanding these assumptions, it is the view of WSP that this BA report provides a sound description of the issues associated with the project and the resultant impacts, and that the CA would be able to make a decision using this information.
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
4 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
This section provides a description of the location of the project area and the site location alternatives considered for the project. The descriptions encompass the activities to be done during the construction and operational phases as well as the consideration for site accessibility, water demand, supply, storage and site waste management as well as the needs and desirability of the project in accordance with Appendix 1 of GNR 326.
4.1 LOCATION OF THE PROPOSED PROJECT
The proposed powerline route will run from the existing Gemsbok substation to the newly proposed KwaMhlanga substation. The proposed powerline will pass through several farm portions (described in Section 6) in the KwaMhlanga area, Wards 10, 14 and 32, Thembisile Hani Local Municipality, Nkangala District Municipality, Mpumalanga. Figure 4-1 below shows the proposed powerline route and the assessed alternative. The proposed powerline route will pass through the land parcels outlined in Table 4-1 below.
Figure 4-1: Gemsbok-KwaMhlanga 132kV Powerline and Alternative
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Table 4-1: Cadastral Information of the Site DETAILS REQUIRED AS PER GN.R 326 ANNEX 1 (3) DETAIL
21 Digit Surveyor General Code of each Cadastral — T 0JR 0000 00000231 00025 Land Parcel — T 0JR 0000 00000651 00000 — T 0JR 0000 00000233 00000 — T 0JR 0000 00000248 00002 — T 0JR 0000 00000248 00001 — T 0JR 0000 00000248 00021 — T 0JR 0000 00000248 00020 — T 0JR 0000 00000248 00007 — T 0JR 0000 00000248 00006 — T 0JR 0000 00000246 00005 — T 0JR 0000 00000246 00006 — T 0JR 0000 00000246 00000 — T 0JR 0000 00000246 00003 — T 0JR 0000 00000246 00004 — T 0JR 0000 00000434 00003 — T 0JR 0000 00000434 00017 — T 0JR 0000 00000617 00000 — T 0JR 0000 00000217 00004 — T 0JR 0000 00000217 00003 Physical Address and Farm Name Portion 25 of Gemsbokfontein, 231/JR Enkeldoring 651/JR Lanseria 233/JR Portion 2 of Leeuwfontein, 248/JR Portion 1 of Leeuwfontein, 248/JR Portion 21 of Leeuwfontein, 248/JR (Option 2) Portion 20 of Leeuwfontein, 248/JR (Option 2) Portion 7 of Leeuwfontein, 248/JR (Option 2) Portion 6 of Leeuwfontein, 248/JR (Option 1 &2) Portion 5 of Zustershoek, 246/JR Portion 6 of Zustershoek, 246/JR (Option 1 &2) Zustershoek, 246/JR (Option 1 &2) Portion 3 of Zustershoek, 246/JR (Option 1 &2) Portion 4 of Zustershoek, 246/JR (Option 1 &2) Portion 3 of Hartebeestspruit, 434/JR (Option 2) Portion 17 of Hartebeestspruit, 434/JR (Option 2) KwaMhlanga, 617/JR Portion 4 of Enkeldoorn, 217/JR Portion 3 of Enkeldoorn, 217/JR
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Landuse Zoning Tribal Land and Eskom servitudes
The coordinates of the preferred powerline route are shown in Table 4-2 below. Coordinates are provided at 100m intervals (as per location of monopoles) except at route turning points and at river crossings where the monopoles are at least 200m apart (100m before and after each river crossing). Table 4-2: Coordinates of the Powerline
POINTS LATITUDE LONGITUDE POINTS LATITUDE LONGITUDE
A1 25°25'54.59"S 28°48'44.98"E A95 25°28'18.56"S 28°43'57.91"E
A2 25°25'55.06"S 28°48'43.93"E A96 25°28'15.31"S 28°43'38.88"E
A3 25°25'57.59"S 28°48'42.10"E A97 25°28'13.63"S 28°43'27.36"E
A4 25°26'0.23"S 28°48'40.18"E A98 25°28'13.24"S 28°43'23.80"E
A5 25°26'2.95"S 28°48'38.22"E A99 25°28'12.85"S 28°43'20.32"E
A6 25°26'5.70"S 28°48'36.24"E A100 25°28'12.50"S 28°43'16.79"E
A7 25°26'8.42"S 28°48'34.26"E A101 25°28'12.08"S 28°43'13.25"E
A8 25°26'11.07"S 28°48'32.34"E A102 25°28'11.67"S 28°43'9.76"E
A9 25°26'13.88"S 28°48'30.31"E A103 25°28'11.24"S 28°43'6.19"E
A10 25°26'16.73"S 28°48'28.25"E A104 25°28'10.88"S 28°43'2.60"E
A11 25°26'19.49"S 28°48'26.26"E A105 25°28'10.57"S 28°43'0.71"E
A12 25°26'22.28"S 28°48'24.23"E A106 25°28'7.33"S 28°43'0.96"E
A13 25°26'25.13"S 28°48'22.16"E A107 25°28'4.06"S 28°43'1.22"E
A14 25°26'27.84"S 28°48'20.20"E A108 25°28'0.79"S 28°43'1.47"E
A15 25°26'30.60"S 28°48'18.21"E A109 25°27'57.50"S 28°43'1.59"E
A16 25°26'33.28"S 28°48'16.26"E A110 25°27'54.28"S 28°43'1.86"E
A17 25°26'35.97"S 28°48'14.30"E A111 25°27'51.01"S 28°43'2.14"E
A18 25°26'38.71"S 28°48'12.31"E A112 25°27'47.78"S 28°43'2.41"E
A19 25°26'41.50"S 28°48'10.32"E A113 25°27'44.54"S 28°43'2.68"E
A20 25°26'44.23"S 28°48'8.35"E A114 25°27'41.30"S 28°43'2.98"E
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
POINTS LATITUDE LONGITUDE POINTS LATITUDE LONGITUDE
A21 25°26'46.89"S 28°48'6.42"E A115 25°27'38.09"S 28°43'3.29"E
A22 25°26'49.59"S 28°48'4.48"E A116 25°27'34.82"S 28°43'3.59"E
A23 25°26'52.41"S 28°48'2.43"E A117 25°27'31.61"S 28°43'3.87"E
A24 25°26'55.05"S 28°48'0.54"E A118 25°27'28.36"S 28°43'4.15"E
A25 25°26'57.89"S 28°47'58.49"E A119 25°27'25.12"S 28°43'4.41"E
A26 25°27'0.49"S 28°47'56.63"E A120 25°27'21.88"S 28°43'4.67"E
A27 25°27'3.35"S 28°47'54.58"E A121 25°27'18.62"S 28°43'4.93"E
A28 25°27'6.13"S 28°47'52.50"E A122 25°27'15.39"S 28°43'5.18"E
A29 25°27'8.84"S 28°47'50.56"E A123 25°27'12.15"S 28°43'5.43"E
A30 25°27'11.61"S 28°47'48.58"E A124 25°27'8.91"S 28°43'5.70"E
A31 25°27'14.42"S 28°47'46.60"E A125 25°27'5.65"S 28°43'5.95"E
A32 25°27'17.10"S 28°47'44.70"E A126 25°27'2.41"S 28°43'6.22"E
A33 25°27'19.79"S 28°47'42.72"E A127 25°26'59.17"S 28°43'6.47"E
A34 25°27'22.54"S 28°47'40.81"E A128 25°26'55.94"S 28°43'6.74"E
A35 25°27'25.29"S 28°47'38.85"E A129 25°26'52.73"S 28°43'7.01"E
A36 25°27'27.98"S 28°47'36.92"E A130 25°26'49.48"S 28°43'7.27"E
A37 25°27'30.68"S 28°47'34.98"E A131 25°26'46.18"S 28°43'7.54"E
A38 25°27'33.37"S 28°47'33.02"E A132 25°26'45.30"S 28°43'4.06"E
A39 25°27'36.07"S 28°47'31.05" A133 25°26'44.53"S 28°43'0.58"
A40 25°27'38.87"S 28°47'28.99"E A134 25°26'43.79"S 28°42'57.10"E
A41 25°27'41.50"S 28°47'27.05"E A135 25°26'43.08"S 28°42'53.62"E
A42 25°27'44.32"S 28°47'24.97"E A136 25°26'42.39"S 28°42'50.17"E
A43 25°27'46.96"S 28°47'23.02"E A137 25°26'41.85"S 28°42'46.65"E
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
POINTS LATITUDE LONGITUDE POINTS LATITUDE LONGITUDE
A44 25°27'49.63"S 28°47'21.06"E A138 25°26'41.08"S 28°42'43.22"E
A45 25°27'52.40"S 28°47'18.99"E A139 25°26'40.24"S 28°42'39.81"E
A46 25°27'55.04"S 28°47'17.05"E A140 25°26'39.36"S 28°42'36.36"E
A47 25°27'57.96"S 28°47'14.97"E A141 25°26'38.51"S 28°42'32.88"E
A48 25°28'0.64"S 28°47'13.04"E A142 25°26'37.63"S 28°42'29.47"E
A49 25°28'3.38"S 28°47'11.07"E A143 25°26'36.73"S 28°42'25.99"E
A50 25°28'6.05"S 28°47'9.16"E A144 25°26'35.95"S 28°42'22.55"E
A51 25°28'8.85"S 28°47'7.14" A145 25°26'35.08"S 28°42'19.07"E
A52 25°28'11.56"S 28°47'5.18"E A146 25°26'34.17"S 28°42'15.61"E
A53 25°28'14.40"S 28°47'3.10"E A147 25°26'33.10"S 28°42'12.20"E
A54 25°28'17.02"S 28°47'1.18"E A148 25°26'32.11"S 28°42'8.80"E
A55 25°28'19.83"S 28°46'59.11"E A149 25°26'30.90"S 28°42'5.44"E
A56 25°28'22.48"S 28°46'57.16"E A150 25°26'29.09"S 28°41'59.00"E
A57 25°28'25.25"S 28°46'55.13"E A151 25°26'28.17"S 28°41'55.54"E
A58 25°28'28.03"S 28°46'53.13"E A152 25°26'27.29"S 28°41'52.11"E
A59 25°28'30.85"S 28°46'51.07"E A153 25°26'26.42"S 28°41'48.65"E
A60 25°28'33.58"S 28°46'49.13"E A154 25°26'25.57"S 28°41'45.20"E
A61 25°28'36.24"S 28°46'47.24"E A155 25°26'24.70"S 28°41'41.75"E
A62 25°28'38.89"S 28°46'45.35"E A156 25°26'23.77"S 28°41'38.35"E
A63 25°28'41.03"S 28°46'43.80"E A157 25°26'22.92"S 28°41'34.89"E
A64 25°28'40.59"S 28°46'40.27"E A158 25°26'21.97"S 28°41'31.50"E
A65 25°28'40.09"S 28°46'36.69"E A159 25°26'21.05"S 28°41'28.08"E
A66 25°28'39.69"S 28°46'33.15"E A160 25°26'20.18"S 28°41'24.69"E
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
POINTS LATITUDE LONGITUDE POINTS LATITUDE LONGITUDE
A67 25°28'39.27"S 28°46'29.58"E A161 25°26'19.28"S 28°41'21.30"E
A68 25°28'33.63"S 28°45'48.52"E A162 25°26'18.45"S 28°41'17.84"E
A69 25°28'33.17"S 28°45'44.96"E A163 25°26'17.55"S 28°41'14.40"E
A70 25°28'32.71"S 28°45'41.41"E A164 25°26'16.60"S 28°41'11.01"E
A71 25°28'32.15"S 28°45'37.87"E A165 25°26'15.76"S 28°41'7.83"E
A72 25°28'31.56"S 28°45'34.36"E A166 25°26'13.62"S 28°41'5.14"E
A73 25°28'30.68"S 28°45'26.24"E A167 25°26'11.51"S 28°41'2.46"E
A74 25°28'30.26"S 28°45'22.70"E A168 25°26'9.36"S 28°40'59.76"E
A75 25°28'29.72"S 28°45'19.15"E A169 25°26'7.22"S 28°40'57.08"E
A76 25°28'29.23"S 28°45'15.62"E A170 25°26'5.10"S 28°40'54.39"E
A77 25°28'28.78"S 28°45'12.08"E A171 25°26'2.98"S 28°40'51.68"E
A78 25°28'28.27"S 28°45'8.53"E A172 25°26'0.86"S 28°40'48.96"E
A79 25°28'26.78"S 28°44'57.92"E A173 25°25'57.38"S 28°40'44.66"E
A80 25°28'26.38"S 28°44'54.48"E A174 25°25'54.95"S 28°40'47.02"E
A81 25°28'25.89"S 28°44'50.96"E A175 25°25'52.53"S 28°40'49.43"E
A82 25°28'25.40"S 28°44'47.43"E A176 25°25'50.01"S 28°40'51.78"E
A83 25°28'24.85"S 28°44'43.90"E A177 25°25'47.58"S 28°40'54.09"E
A84 25°28'24.32"S 28°44'40.39"E A178 25°25'45.10"S 28°40'56.41"E
A85 25°28'23.77"S 28°44'36.85"E A179 25°25'42.64"S 28°40'58.71"E
A86 25°28'22.79"S 28°44'29.76"E A180 25°25'40.10"S 28°41'1.01"E
A87 25°28'22.50"S 28°44'26.20"E A181 25°25'37.58"S 28°41'3.28"E
A88 25°28'22.15"S 28°44'22.67"E A182 25°25'35.05"S 28°41'5.54"E
A89 25°28'21.84"S 28°44'19.13"E A183 25°25'32.55"S 28°41'7.83"E
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
POINTS LATITUDE LONGITUDE POINTS LATITUDE LONGITUDE
A90 25°28'21.29"S 28°44'15.57"E A184 25°25'30.03"S 28°41'10.13"E
A91 25°28'20.75"S 28°44'12.02"E A185 25°25'28.42"S 28°41'11.57"E
A92 25°28'20.12"S 28°44'8.53"E A186 25°25'11.84"S 28°41'29.24"E
A93 25°28'19.57"S 28°44'5.01"E A187 25°25'11.10"S 28°41'30.18"E
A94 25°28'19.07"S 28°44'1.47"E A188 25°25'10.93"S 28°41'30.47"E
4.1.1 SITE LOCATION ALTERNATIVES In terms of the EIA Regulations, feasible alternatives are required to be considered within this Draft BAR. All identified, feasible alternatives are required to be evaluated in terms of social, biophysical, economic and technical factors. Two options were identified and both will be assessed in the impact assessment in Section 7. A key challenge of the BA process is the consideration of alternatives. Most guidelines use terms such as ‘reasonable’, ‘practicable’, ‘feasible’ or ‘viable’ to define the range of alternatives that should be considered. Essentially, there are two types of alternatives: — Incrementally different (modifications) alternatives to the project; and — Fundamentally (totally) different alternatives to the project. Fundamentally, different alternatives are usually assessed at a strategic level, and EIA practitioners recognise the limitations of project-specific BAs to address fundamentally different alternatives. Project level alternatives such as site selection and technology alternatives have been addressed below. The original EA application issued in June 2013 assessed three possible routes that focused routing the powerlines in the northern parts of the KwaMhlanga area, passing through the edges of residential areas and some uninhabited areas. However, due to delays in project commencement, the areas earmarked for development were encroached on and people settled in the areas. Eskom predicts that these developments will likely continue towards the south, passing through Enkeldoring 651JR, Leeuwfontein 248JR and Zusterhoek 246JR farm portions. As such, the options proposed for this project pass through the southern most sections of portions of Leeuwfontein 248JR and Zusterhoek 246JR closer to the stream crossing to ensure that they will not be occupied by the time construction commences.
OPTION 1 – PREFERRED ROUTE
The preferred powerline route will run from the existing Gemsbok substation to the proposed new KwaMhlanga substation. The proposed 132kV powerline will run parallel to the existing 132kV Ekangala / Gembsbok and 132kV Gembsok / Rethabiseng powerlines as well as the two 533kV Cahora / Apollo powerlines (1 and 2) in a slight southwest direction for a distance of 6,1km crossing the savannah grassland. The powerline will turn and run in a slight northwest direction for 6,3km, first crossing non-perennial stream, passing under the two 533kV Cahora / Apollo lines in a perpendicular direction and the R568 regional road. The powerline will then run in a slight northwest direction for 2,6km while running in a parallel direction to the R568 towards KwaMhlanga and then turns in a northwest direction for about 4,4km. The powerline will finally turn in a northeast direction and run parallel to the Moloto Road (R573) for about 2km where it reaches the proposed KwaMhlanga substation after crossing a river. This option is preferred for the following reasons: — Allows for Eskom to develop without interruptions from encroachments; — Relatively shorter than the alternative route; — Avoids passing through residential areas which would potentially delay the construction activities; and
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
— No major sensitive areas were identified along the route and thus, has limited impact. The disadvantage of the preferred route is that it is longer than it needs to be, which leads to potentially more impact than required, however, this is in a bid to avoid encroachments by the time construction activities commence.
OPTION 2 – ALTERNATIVE ROUTE
The proposed 132kV powerline will run parallel to the existing 132kV Ekangala / Gembsbok and 132kV Gembsok / Rethabiseng powerlines as well as the two 533kV Cahora / Apollo powerlines (1 and 2) in a slight southwest direction for a distance of 7km crossing the savannah grassland. The powerline will turn and run in a slight northwest direction for 5,8km, first crossing non-perennial stream, passing under the two 533kV Cahora / Apollo lines in a perpendicular direction and the R568 regional road. The powerline will then run in a slight northwest direction for 3.4km while running in a parallel direction to the R568 towards KwaMhlanga and then turns in a northwest direction for about 4,4km. The powerline will finally turn in a northeast direction and run parallel to the Moloto Road (R573) for about 2km where it reaches the proposed KwaMhlanga substation after crossing a river. The alternative route considered is similar to the preferred option as they run through the same lengths for the majority of the route. The difference is that the alternative runs further south before slightly turning towards the northwest. The advantages of this option are that: — Allows for Eskom to develop without interruptions from encroachments as it runs further south from where developments are occurring; — Avoids passing through residential areas which would potentially delay the construction activities; and — No major sensitive areas were identified along the route and thus, has limited impact. The disadvantage of the preferred route is that it is longer than the preferred route, which leads to potentially more impact than required.
NO-GO OPTION The no-go option will mean the status quo remains. Both the potential positive and negative impacts from the proposed project will not occur. The current infrastructure of the existing KwaMhlanga substation fed through a 33kV powerline from the Gemsbok substation is not capable of supplying the existing and cater for future loads. Since there is not enough space to upgrade the existing KwaMhlanga substation due to lack of space as it is adjacent to the regional road (R568) and residents, a new substation along with the proposed powerline will be constructed to ensure that current and future loads can be catered for. The no-go option will mean that the electrification programme that forms part of the Electricity Grid Infrastructure (EGI) as per GN 113 is hindered as the current infrastructure is incapable of handling the desired loads.
4.2 LAYOUT AND DESCRIPTION
4.2.1 CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES The detailed project and activity description includes: — Construct 22 km single circuit, 132kV, Kingbird line between the two substations; — Gemsbok spare bay, establish new 132kV feeder bay; — Plant 7618 – 3 Poles structure in line with the new feeder bay and swing the Kwaggafontein feeder into the new bay; — Dismantle the Kwaggafontein strain lattice terminal tower to create way/route for the Kwamhlanga closing span; — Plant new 7808 terminating structure on the Ekangala and dismantle the existing Ekangala strain lattice terminal tower;
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
— Close Span for KwaMhlanga 132kV line at Gemsbok substation; and — Impact of a 31 m footprint due to site activities. The constructor laydown area will be at the existing Gemsbok substation for material store and collected on a daily basis for the construction activities along the servitude. This limits areas to be impacted for storage areas along the servitude as well as for security purposes when activities cease at the end of each day. No major site clearance of indigenous grass, small trees and shrubs will be done with only trimming of vegetation expected along the servitude on a 31m servitude along the proposed powerline route to ensure it does not interfere with the lines. Small excavations will be done for setting foundations of the masts. The proposed route mainly has existing access roads and no temporary access roads will be developed for the project. The powerline monopoles will be constructed at 100m intervals, will also be located at a distance of at least 100m before, and after each of the two identified river/stream crossings. This means the monopoles will be at least 200m apart at each of the two river/stream crossings. Eskom will apply for a GA based on the specialist recommendation.
4.2.2 OPERATIONAL ACTIVITIES During operational phase of the powerline, there will be little to no movement along the servitude as the only activities are limited to clearing the servitude to allow for easier access by the maintenance team when required. Limited impact is expected during operation since there will not be any intrusive work done outside of maintenance in the event that major damage occurs to site infrastructure.
4.2.3 DECOMMISSIONING ACTIVITIES Decommissioning will be considered when the powerline is regarded obsolete and will be subject to a separate authorisation and impact assessment process. This is not expected to occur in the near future.
4.2.4 WASTE MANAGEMENT Waste Management at the project site will be undertaken in line with the EMPr to consider the correct disposal of general and hazardous waste generated on the project. Table 4-3 describes the different waste products that the proposed project will produce, as well as the various options to dispose of them. Waste will mainly be generated during the construction phase. During operation, contractors are only on the site for limited amount of time as and when maintenance is required. Table 4-3: Waste Management Options
TYPE OF WASTE WASTE MANAGEMENT OPTIONS
Hydrocarbons Hazardous Fuel and oil spillages can be a source of contamination of water sources and the soil. (Contaminated soil) Management options include: — Using spill kits to clean any spillages; — Ensure storage facilities are maintained and meet industry regulations; — Transportation and storage of fuel must be regulated and correctly managed according to the EMPr; — Waste generated along servitude to be taken to the contractor laydown area at the Gemsbok substation at the end of each day; — Co-ordinate waste removal with the removal of waste from the contractor laydown area at the Gemsbok substation; and — All hazardous waste is to be disposed of at a registered hazardous landfill (safe disposal certificates must be obtained).
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
TYPE OF WASTE WASTE MANAGEMENT OPTIONS
Contaminated Hazardous PPE can be contaminated during handling of hydrocarbons. Management options Personal Protective include: Equipment (PPE) — Store contaminated PPE in hazardous waste skips along the servitude; — Waste generated along servitude to be taken to the contractor laydown area at the Gemsbok substation at the end of each day; — Co-ordinate waste removal with the removal of waste from the contractor laydown area at the Gemsbok substation; and — Ensure contaminated PPE is disposed of at a registered hazardous landfill (safe disposal certificates must be obtained).
General waste General General waste (inorganic matter) can be disposed of as per normal and form part of the municipal waste management system. Management options include: — Ensure waste is stored securely in refuse bins; — Waste generated along servitude to be taken to the contractor laydown area at the Gemsbok substation at the end of each day; and — Co-ordinate waste removal with the general removal of waste from the contractor laydown area at the Gemsbok substation.
Food waste General Food waste is generated as site personnel take their meals on the construction site. Management options include: — Store any waste and packaging into a labelled food waste bin; — Waste generated along servitude to be taken to the contractor laydown area at the Gemsbok substation at the end of each day; — Co-ordinate waste removal with the removal of waste from the contractor laydown area at Gemsbok substation; and — Co-ordinate waste removal with the general removal of waste from the Gemsbok substation.
4.3 NEEDS AND DESIRABILITY OF THE PROJECT
The Needs and Desirability Guidelines highlights the need to consider how the geographical, physical, biological, social, economic and cultural species of the environment that may be affected by the proposed activity. The current KwaMhlanga 33/11kV 2x10MVA substation is currently fed from the Gemsbok 132/33kV 2x20MVA substation through a 33kV network. A new substation is required as the existing KwaMhlanga substation cannot supply the existing load. Furthermore, the transformers need to be upgraded in order to cater for the future loads that are now used in most electrification upgrade projects. However, there is not enough space to extend the substation because of the residential developments around the substation and there is no space for 132kV lines to enter the substation. To realise this, a new substation and 132kV kingbird line from Gemsbok 132/22kV substation is required. As indicated before, the original EA application issued in June 2013 assessed three possible routes that focused routing the powerlines in the northern parts of the KwaMhlanga area, passing through the edges of residential areas and some uninhabited areas. However, due to delays in project commencement, the areas earmarked for development were encroached on and people moved in and settled. As such, there is a need to identify a new route sufficiently removed from the expanding settlements such that the new route will not be inhabited prior to the commencement of construction.
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
5 BASELINE ENVIRONMENT
This section provides a description of the baseline environment of the project area. The descriptions encompass the geographical, physical, biological, social, economic, heritage and cultural aspects in accordance with Appendix 1 of GNR 326.
5.1 CLIMATE
The climate data in this section was sourced from the Floodline and Hydrological Assessment (Appendix F-2) conducted by The Biodiversity Company for the proposed project. The closest weather station to the proposed powerline from the Gemsbok to Kwamhlanga Substation is the Rust De Winter Res. @ Rust De Winter Dam (B3E004) station that is 34km North West and has a temporal scale from 1965 to present.. The town of Kwamhlanga lies at 1420m above sea level resulting in a warm and temperate climate classified as a Cwb by the Köppen-Geiger climate classification (Climatedata, 2020). The area receives a low average monthly rainfall with a Mean Annual Precipitation (MAP) of 677 mm. Evaporation rates are higher monthly than rainfall, causing a deficit available water to assist in runoff volumes. The regions rainfall is dominated in the summer with the highest rainfall received in January with an average of 116.3mm and the least in July with 1.4mm. The average annual temperature of Kwamhlanga 16.8 °C with the average temperatures varying by 11.3 °C. Figure 5-2 and Figure 5-1 represent the catchment rainfall and modelled future impacts of climate change on the rainfall trends. The project area falls within the B31D1 and B31B1 catchments as the powerline crosses from one quaternary catchment into another. The powerline crosses from the B31D1 into the B31B1 which receive a MAP of 550.71 and 591.09 respectively. The B31D1 catchment has a 2.8% projected drop in rainfall, while the B31B1 catchment is projected to increase by 2.9% by 2045.
Figure 5-1: Total Annual Rainfall per Month for the Project Area (DWS, 2020) The MAP for B31D catchment and predicted future change is shown in Figure 5-2 below.
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Figure 5-2: MAP for B31D Catchment and Predicted Future Change (October 2020) The MAP for B31B catchment and predicted future change is shown in Figure 5-3 below.
Figure 5-3: MAP for B31B Catchment and Predicted Future Change (October 2020)
5.1.1 EVAPORATION Monthly evaporation rates were considered for the project area which were compiled from the Rust De Winter Res. @ Rust De Winter Dam (B3E004) weather station. The results are represented in Figure 5-4. This indicates higher evaporation rates than rainfall all year round with the highest evaporation in the summer months of October to February with the highest experienced evaporation of 226.6 mm in October. The DWS (2020) National Integrated Water Information System was consulted for potential evaporation rates for the catchment. This data was also compared to that of the Water Resources of South Africa, 2012 study. The proposed powerline construction crosses the B31D into the B31B respectively. The average potential evaporation as well as modelled future changes for these two catchments are represented in Figure 5-5 and Figure 5-6. The quaternary catchment have been further divided into 3 with the catchments of concern B31D1 and B31B1. This indicates evaporation 1645.65mm/a for the B31D1 catchment and 1626.53 for the B31B1 catchment with projected 10.9% and no change projected for 2045.
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Figure 5-4: Total Annual Evaporation per Month for the Project Area (DWS, 2020) The B31D catchment potential evaporation change is illustrated in Figure 5-5 below.
Figure 5-5: Potential Evaporation Change for the B31D Catchment (DWS, 2020) The B31D catchment potential evaporation change is illustrated in Figure 5-6 below.
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Figure 5-6: Potential Evaporation Change for the B31B Catchment (DWS, 2020)
5.1.2 MEAN ANNUAL RUNOFF Mean Annual Runoff (MAR) was considered for the watercourses within the project area. The streamflow and predicted change for the catchments crossed by the proposed powerline are represented below in Figure 5-7 and Figure 5-8, respectively. The MAR data was compared to that provided in the Water Resources of South Africa, 2012 study and deemed relevant. The project area falls within the B31D1 and B31B1 catchments and while this catchment drains more than the catchment delineated for the project area, it provides a holistic understanding of regional flow in the greater catchment.
Figure 5-7: Current Streamflow and Predicted Change for the B31D Catchment (DWS, 2020)
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Figure 5-8: Current Streamflow and Predicted Change for the B31B Catchment (DWS, 2020)
5.2 GEOLOGY AND SOILS
Land cover types and lithology affects the rates of infiltration and runoff within a catchment. Land cover and soil coverages were used during the peak flow calculations. The land cover of the immediate catchment area upstream of the lowest point in the modelled river was assessed during the determination. In addition, land cover classes from the 2013 – 2014 South African National Land-Cover dataset (Geoterraimage, 2015) and Google Earth imagery was also utilised to calculate the overall catchment land use coverages. Generalised soil coverages for the catchment area were derived based on the Land Type and Capability dataset from the Agricultural Resource Council – Institute for Soil, Climate and Water (ARC-ISCW). A total of 16 and 19 of the 73 land cover classes were derived for watershed 1 and 2 respectively (Thompson, 2019). These were then grouped into appropriate classes for simplification as well as according to land use types required by the Drainage utility program for calculation peak flows. The dominant land cover type across both watersheds was derived to be grasslands (65.96% and 81.18% respectively) followed by Forestry, Woodlands and Thickets (23.78% and 12.68% respectively). This is followed by residential areas in watershed 1 (9.84%) and Light Bush and Cultivated Land in watershed 2 (3.38%) with all remaining land uses forming just over 1%. Considering the findings of the land cover assessment, the majority of the land cover in the delineated watersheds is natural. The land use types and percent coverage is represented in Figure 5-9 and Figure 5-10. The watersheds for the project area considered was small and therefore is comprised of uniform geology, land cover and soil types.
Figure 5-9: Watershed Land-use by Area and Percentage
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Figure 5-10: Landcover Map for the Two Watersheds Considered in this Determination (September 2020) Soils are a key natural regulator of watershed hydrological response due the capacity that soils have for absorbing, retaining, and releasing water (Schulze, 1989). The soils within the watersheds are varied throughout the undulating elevation. The Soil Conservation Services (SCS) hydrological soil classes of the watersheds are presented in Figure 5-11 below.
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Figure 5-11: Landtype for the Two Watersheds Considered in this Determination (September 2020) The SCS hydrological soil classes represented within both watersheds include C class soils with the interpretation of the classes provided in Table 5-1. C class soils are sandy clay loam soils which are semi impermeable as they have low infiltration rates when thoroughly wetted. Table 5-1: Soil Conservation Services Hydrologic Soil Class Interpretation (SANRAL 2013)
CLASS DESCRIPTION
Class A Sand, loamy sand or sandy loam types of soils. It has low runoff potential and high infiltration rates even when thoroughly wetted. They consist chiefly of deep, well to excessively drained sands or gravels and have a high rate of water transmission.
Class B Silt loam or loam. It has a moderate infiltration rate when thoroughly wetted and consists chiefly or moderately deep to deep, moderately well to well drained soils with moderately fine to moderately coarse textures.
Class C Soils are sandy clay loam. They have low infiltration rates when thoroughly wetted and consist chiefly of soils with a layer that impedes downward movement of water and soils with moderately fine to fine structure.
Class D Soils are clay loam, silty clay loam, sandy clay, silty clay or clay. This HSG has the highest runoff potential. They have very low infiltration rates when thoroughly wetted and consist chiefly of clay soils with a high swelling potential, soils with a permanent high water table, soils with a claypan or clay layer at or near the surface and shallow soils over nearly impervious material.
The soils of the two watershed include Bb9, Fa7 and Ib12 landtypes. Watershed 1 is comprised of Ib12 (95%) and Bb9 (5%) in the north eastern tip of the watershed at its source. Watershed 2 is comprised of Fa7 (67%) along the north western edge of the catchment, Ib12 (30%) in the centre of the watershed surrounding the river and Bb9
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(3%) in the west around the source of the catchment. Bb9 soils are comprised of Mispah (Ms10), Glenrosa (Gs15), Avalon (Av26), Ruston (Av16) types present in the A horizon and Southwold Cv26, Oatsdale Cv16 types present in the B-horizon. Ib12 soils are comprised of primarily roots and rocks (55%) with Mispah (Ms10), Glenrosa (Gs15), Msinga (Hu26), Klipfontein (Ms11), Kusasa (Cf31) types present in the A horizon. Fa 7 Soils are comprised of 20% roots and rocks with Farningham (Hu17), Appam (Gc16), Mispah (Ms10), Klipfontein (Ms11), Williamson (Gs16) types present in the B horizon. These soil types belong to S2, S16 and S17 soil classes. S17 soil classes are undifferentiated structureless soils with favourable physical properties associated with classes 1 to 4. These classes are often high erodibility, restricted soil depth, excessive or imperfect drainage, have low base status. S16 soil classes are non-soil land classes with restricted land use options. They often form water-intake areas. S2 soil classes are freely drained, structureless soils resulting in favourable physical properties. The soil patterns of the project area follow the same distribution as the landtypes and soil classes, comprised of LP1, PT1 and R soils. LP1 patterns coincide Fa7 landtypes and are soils with minimal pedological development that are usually shallow, on hard or weathering rock, with or without intermittent diverse soils. PT1 soil patterns coincide with Bb9 landtypes and are red, yellow and/or greyish soils with low to medium base status and a plinthic horizon. R soil patterns coincide with Ib12 landtypes and are rocky areas with limited soils. The geology of the two relevant watersheds for the proposed powerline are comprised of the Rashoop Suite and Lebowa Suite in watershed 1 with the additional Selons River Formation also present in watershed 2 as presented in Figure 5-12 which indicates the dominant formation, group or supergroup which is exposed at surface. The rocktypes exposed at surface may comprise of multiple suites however, the rock types are similar composed of grey to pink coarse-grained granite of the Lebowa Suite and granophyre of the Rashoop Suite, Rhyolite of the Selons River Formation (Rooiberg Group), with some sandstone and grit of the Ecca Group. There is also coarse to medium-grained Nebo granite, fine-grained Klipkloof granite (Bushveld Complex). These igneous intrusions and extrusions are considered semi permeable to impermeable in nature dependent on grain size and packing.
Figure 5-12: Geological Map for the Respective Watersheds Considered in this Determination (September 2020)
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5.3 SURFACE WATER
The hydrological setting of this assessment was the two basins delineated around the sections of a tributary of the Enkeldoringspruit or B31D - 00816 Sub Quaternary Reach (SQR) in the north and a tributary of the Hartbeesspruit or B31B – 00942 SQR in the west. These perennial systems fall within the B31D to the B31B quaternary catchments with the tributary of the Enkeldoringspruit in the B31D quaternary catchment and the tributary of the Hartbeesspruit in the B31D quaternary catchment. These catchments are on the edge of the western edge of the Olifants Water Management Area (WMA- 4) and the Eastern Bankveld aquatic ecoregion. The Hartbeesspruit in the south is a higher source zone tributary of the Elands River with the Enkeldoringspruit the next major river to have a confluence with the Elands River. The Elands River joins the Olifants River in Marblehall, continuing east until merging with the Limpopo River and Flowing into the Atlantic Ocean at Inhampsi. The relevant watersheds of the watercourse considered in this study area is presented in Figure 5-13, indicating the area which drains through the systems crossed by the proposed powerline. Watershed 1 has a size of 3.57 km2 and 19.36 km2 for watershed 2 upstream of the crossing points.
Figure 5-13: Hydrological Context for the Powerline from the Gemsbok to KwaMhlanga Substation (September 2020)
5.3.1 TOPOGRAPHY AND DRAINAGE The topography of the watershed 1 varied from 1468 metres above mean sea level (mamsl) in the south of the watershed to 1271 mamsl in the north at the source of the watershed. Watershed 2 varied from 1495 metres above mean sea level (mamsl) in the south of the watershed to 1337 mamsl in the east at the source of the watershed. The small watershed size was delineated in order to assess the drainage which would affect the section of the tributaries which has the potential to be impacted upon by the proposed powerline. The topography of the two delineated watersheds upstream of the crossing points of the proposed powerline are both considered to have a gentle gradient (5% - 9%) with an average watershed slope of approximately 5% for watershed 1 and 3% for watershed 2. This indicates a flat topography in the majority of the watershed area.
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
5.3.2 MANNINGS ROUGHNESS The mannings roughness for natural streams with widths less than 30m was used for the watercourse instream roughness ratings (Chow, 1959). The watercourse considered in this study is well developed channels with poor and inconsistent flow with some wetlands from pooling water. Figure 5-14 represents the watercourse modelled for watershed 1 which is uniform straight channel with overhanging marginal vegetation.
Figure 5-14: The Watercourse for Watershed 1 (September 2020) Figure 5-15 represents the watercourse modelled for watershed 2 which represents a heavily incised channel dominated with instream sedimentation and wetland vegetation slowing down flow. The riparian area is poorly developed due to the erosion with minimal marginal vegetation as a result. A mannings roughness rating of 0.035 and 0.045 was applied to the reaches respectively. Riparian vegetation in watershed 1 is a combination of grasses and woodland species such as Sericea. The riparian vegetation in watershed 2 is poorly developed and consisted of a combination of high and short grass and wetland vegetation. For overland roughness values utilised in the HEC-RAS model literature including Zi and Zhang (2000), WRP (1994) and USDT (2014).
Figure 5-15: The Watercourse for Watershed 2 (September 2020)
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5.3.3 HYDRAULIC STRUCTURES The hydraulic structures (HS) observed in the project area are described and presented in Figure 5-16.
Figure 5-16: Identified hydraulic structures (September 2020) HS1 is a bridge with two piers with a 200 mm width. It has three openings each with a width opening of 2 850 mm. HS2 is a bridge with one pier with a 160 mm width. It has two openings each with a width opening of 3 050 mm. HS3 is a box culvert with four piers with a 100 mm width. It has three openings each with a width opening of 2 850 mm.
5.3.4 WATER QUALITY ANALYSIS Ex-situ chemical analysis was conducted by XLAB (Pty) Ltd. Samples were collected at the surface water sites namely HS1 and HS2. According to the chemical analyses results, the ex-situ surface water quality sites were deemed largely natural. The pH is considered neutral for both systems. The EC was very low as expected for a source zone of a watercourse at HS2, however considered elevated at HS1 with a reading of 110 mS/m. The wastewater treatment works upstream is suggested as the source of the elevated EC. Aluminium (Al) was found to be elevated above TWQR of 0.05 mg/l at site HS1 and HS2. The limit which would cause chronic effects to aquatic life is however 0.1 and therefore levels are elevated. Further, dissolved aluminium is toxic in systems which are acidic (pH below 6.5) or alkaline (pH above 8) where it is mobilised in the aquatic environment, which is not the case in the two reaches. While levels are elevated they are not considered to be detrimental to aquatic life as the Al is not soluble under the current pH but it will become if pH values drop below 6.5. Phosphorus levels are below 5g/L which indicates Oligotrophic conditions in both reaches (DWAF, 1996). The remaining tested parameters were all below the prescribed limits for aquatic life and not considered to adversely affect aquatic life.
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5.3.5 FLOODLINES AND WATERCOURSE EXTENTS The results of the floodline delineation for watershed 1 indicated a complex braided channel network (Figure 5-17). The topography of the immediate study area of watershed 1 contains open pits and an impoundment, this created the secondary channels as observed in the flow analysis in the HEC-RAS model. Considering these pits, as well as the low accuracy elevation data, a flawed flood model was produced for watershed 1. In order to rectify the braided channel as a result of the direct precipitation model, the peak flow hydrograph was input as an internal boundary condition. However, the peak flow volume from this method still exited the active channel into the braided channel network and produced a flawed floodline extent. It is therefore recommended that detailed elevation of the crossing point is obtained, after which the peak flow is remodelled.
Figure 5-17: Braided Channels in Watershed 1 because of Low/Altered Topography The modelled 1:50 and 1:100 year floodlines for the watercourse are indicated on Figure 5-18 and Figure 5-19. None of these floodlines are considered to be flawed.
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Figure 5-18: Modelled 1-50 and 1-100 year floodlines for Watershed 1 (October 2020)
Figure 5-19: Modelled 1-50 and 1-100 Year Floodlines for Watershed 2 (October 2020)
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5.3.6 SITE SENSITIVITY The legal definition of the extent of a watercourse is defined in the amendment of the GA for section 21 (c) and (i) water uses. The extent of the watercourse is defined as: — A river, spring or natural channel in which water flows regularly or intermittently “within the outer edge of the 1 in 100 year floodline or riparian habitat measured from the middle of the watercourse from both banks”; and — Wetlands and pans “within 500 m radius from the boundary (temporary zone) of any wetland or pan”. All the aspects of a watercourse described below should then be merged and 30m buffer was delineated around it to indicate the “No go” area which is to be protected for the watercourses future health (Macfarlane, et al., 2015). This was conducted for a tributary of the Hartbeesspruit and a tributary of the Enkeldoringspruit however only one aspect which defines a watercourse extent was conducted. It is therefore recommended that a wetland and riparian study is completed in order to delineate these areas in an effort to demarcate the full sensitive areas extent. In terms of currently available data, the sensitive areas are therefore the floodline extent delineated in Figure 5-19 above. Using the considered sensitivities from a hydrological aspect, the preferred option for the proposed powerline extent is option 1 as it crosses the same amount of watercourses. Moreover, the option one occurs near the sources of tributaries rather than the main system and therefore the watercourse extents of these systems would be smaller and inundation states reduced. Further the area covered in the upper reaches are smaller and therefore the flood extent will inundate smaller areas of riparian area. Since the area is less the potential footprint for degradation is lower. The selection of Option 1 may therefore reduce the potential impact to local watercourses. The current proposed locations to construct the monopoles, which the power lines will be suspended from, is at least 100m before and after each river/stream crossing. This will however still be inside the 500m regulated area of a defined watercourse, which is yet to be fully delineated as the riparian and wetland components are still required. A Section 21 (c) and (i) DWS risk assessment will be required as part of the recommended aquatics or wetland assessment as the monopoles are considered to impeding or diverting the flow of water in a watercourse. A GA will be considered sufficient for the powerline provided the anticipated risks provided by the DWS risk assessment are considered low.
5.4 AIR QUALITY
No baseline information was available on the background noise in the area, however, due to the semi-rural nature of the area, air quality pollution levels were observed to be low during the site walk. Due to the nature of the area, the most likely pollutants in the area are as a result of dust, veld fires, wood and coal burning for heating, cooking in homes and to a small extent, vehicle emissions.
5.5 NOISE
No baseline information was available on the background noise in the area, however, due to the semi-rural nature of the area, noise levels were observed to be low during the site walk. Furthermore, noise receptors in the proposed powerline project area are at a good distance away as there is low density of occupation around the proposed powerline servitude. The powerline route is mostly isolated with no discernible noises audible during the site walk.
5.6 BIODIVERSITY
The Biodiversity Company was assigned to conduct the biodiversity component (fauna, avifauna and flora) for the proposed powerline project. The report is attached as Appendix F-1 of this report. The project area was superimposed on the Mpumalanga Biodiversity Sector Plan (MBSP) Terrestrial critical biodiversity areas (CBA) map as shown in Figure 5-20. Based on this, the project area option 1 (preferred route) will overlap with: — Critical Biodiversity Area (CBA) optimal;
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— Other Natural Area (ONA); — Moderately modified old lands; and — Heavily Modified Areas (HMAs).
Figure 5-20: Project Area in Relation to the Terrestrial Mpumalanga Biodiversity Sector Plan Figure 5-21 shows the project area superimposed on the MBSP Freshwater CBA map. Based on this, the project area option 1 and option 2 will overlap with: — Heavily modified; and — Other natural areas. The CBA area in which the project area fall is in a degraded state and does not correlate to the ascribed status.
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Figure 5-21: Project Area in Relation to the Freshwater Mpumalanga Biodiversity Sector Plan
5.6.1 ECOSYSTEM THREAT STATUS Ecosystem Threat Status outlines the degree to which ecosystems are still intact or alternatively losing vital aspects of their structure, function and composition, on which their ability to provide ecosystem services ultimately depends (Skowno et al., 2019). Ecosystem types are categorised as Critically Endangered (CR), Endangered (EN), Vulnerable (VU) or Least Threatened (LT), based on the proportion of each ecosystem type that remains in good ecological condition (Skowno et al., 2019). The proposed project area was superimposed on the terrestrial ecosystem threat status (Figure 5-22). As seen in this figure the project area falls across one ecosystem, which is listed LC.
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Figure 5-22: Ecosystem Threat Status
5.6.2 ECOSYSTEM PROTECTION LEVEL Ecosystem Protection Level details whether ecosystems are adequately protected or under-protected. Ecosystem types are categorised as either not protected, poorly protected, moderately protected or well protected, based on the proportion of each ecosystem type that occurs within a protected area recognised in the Protected Areas Act (Skowno et al., 2019). The project area was superimposed on the ecosystem protection level map to assess the protection status of terrestrial ecosystems associated with the development (Figure 5-23). Based on this the terrestrial ecosystems associated with the proposed project area are rated as poorly protected and moderately protected. This means that these ecosystem types (and associated habitats) are not well protected anywhere in the country (such as in nationally protected areas).
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Figure 5-23: Ecosystem Protection Status
5.6.3 MPUMALANGA PROTECTED AREAS EXPANSION STRATEGIES The Mpumalanga Protected Area Expansion Strategy (MPAES, 2013), commissioned by the MTPA, serves to function as a provincial framework for an integrated, co-ordinated and uniform approach in the expansion and consolidation of the Provincial PAS, in line with the requirements of the National Protected Areas Expansion Strategy (NPAES). The priority areas for PA Expansion within Mpumalanga were spatially established based on the premise that the primary goal of these areas is to protect biodiversity targets. Several biodiversity data sources were used for the assessment, namely the: Threatened Ecosystems, MBCP Terrestrial Assessment, MBCP Aquatic Assessment, MBCP Irreplaceability, C-plan Irreplaceability, and the National Spatial Biodiversity Assessment Priority areas. A combination of all these were used, together with the spatial priorities established within the NPAES, to establish the spatial priority areas that will guide the MPAES over the next 20 years as reflected below (Figure 5-24). Option 1 crosses a MPAES area, while option 2 is approximately 340 m from a separate MPAES area.
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Figure 5-24: Mpumalanga Protected Areas Expansion Strategy Map
5.6.4 FLORA The site is situated in the Savanna biome. The savanna vegetation of South Africa represents the southernmost extension of the most widespread biome in Africa (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006). Major macroclimatic traits that characterise the Savanna biome include: — Seasonal precipitation; and — (Sub) tropical thermal regime with no or usually low incidence of frost (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006). Most savanna vegetation communities are characterised by a herbaceous layer dominated by grasses and a discontinuous to sometimes very open tree layer (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006). The savanna biome is the largest biome in South Africa, extending throughout the east and north-eastern areas of the country. Savannas are characterised by a dominant grass layers, over-topped by a discontinuous, but distinct woody plant layer. At a structural level, Africa’s savannas can be broadly categorised as either fine-leaved (microphyllous) savannas or broad-leaved savannas. Fine-leaved savannas typically occur on nutrient rich soils and are dominated by microphyllous woody plants of the Mimosaceae family (Common genera include Acacia and Albizia) and a generally dense herbaceous layer (Scholes & Walker, 1993).
VEGETATION TYPES The Grassland biome comprises of many different vegetation types. The proposed project area falls within Central Sandy Bushveld and Loskop Mountain Bushveld (Figure 5-25) vegetation type (SANBI, 2019). The conservation status of the Central Sandy Bushveld community was listed by Mucina and Rutherford (2006) as VU. The national conservation target of 19% of which less than 3% is statutorily conserved across many nature reserves. The Loskop Mountain Bushveld community is classified as LC, with its national conservation target being 24%. About 15% has been statutorily conserve in the Loskop Dam and Mabusa Nature Reserve.
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Figure 5-25: Vegetation Map (BGIS, 2018)
PLANT SPECIES OF CONSERVATION CONCERN Based on the Plants of Southern Africa (BODATSA-POSA, 2019) database, 327 plant species are expected to occur in the project area. Figure 5-26 shows the extent of the grid that was used to compile the expected species list based on the Plants of Southern Africa (BODATSA-POSA, 2016) database. The list of expected plant species is provided in Appendix A of the biodiversity and avifauna impact assessment report attached as Appendix F-1. Of the 327-plant species, two species are listed as being Species of Conservation Concern (SCCs).
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Figure 5-26: Map Showing the Grid Drawn to Compile an Expected Species List (BODATSA-POSA, 2019)
5.6.5 FAUNA
AVIFAUNA
Based on the South African Bird Atlas Project, Version 2 (SABAP2) database, 319 bird species are expected to occur in the vicinity of the project area (pentads 2520_2835; 2520_2840; 2520_2845; 2525_2835; 2525_2840; 2525_2845; 2530_2840; 2530_2845; 2530_2850). The full list of potential bird species is provided in Appendix B of the biodiversity and avifauna impact assessment report (Appendix F-1). Of the expected bird species, twelve (12) species are listed as SCC either on a regional scale or international scale (Figure 5-27). The SCC include the following: — Three (3) species that are listed as EN on a regional basis; — Five (5) species that are listed as VU on a regional basis; and — Four (4) species that are listed as NT on a regional basis. Five species were given a low likelihood of occurrence based on a lack of suitable habitat and the level of disturbances.
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Figure 5-27: List of Bird Species of Regional or Global Conservation Importance Expected to Occur in Pentads Alcedo semitorquata (Half-collared Kingfisher) is listed as NT on a regional scale and occurs across a large range. This species generally prefers narrow rivers, streams, and estuaries with dense vegetation onshore, but it may also move into coastal lagoons and lakes. It mainly feeds on fish (IUCN, 2017). The possibility of occurrence is moderate due to the streams that occur in the project area, they are disturbed which does decrease the likelihood of occurrence. Circus macrourus (Pallid Harrier) is listed as NT on a regional and global scale, and overwinters in semi-desert, scrub, savanna and wetlands. The species is migratory, with most birds wintering in sub-Saharan Africa or south- east Asia (IUCN, 2017). The species is most likely only to use the area as a migratory route or a temporary overwintering location from August to March, the likelihood of occurrence is moderate. Coracias garrulous (European Roller) is a winter migrant from most of South-central Europe and Asia occurring throughout sub-Saharan Africa (IUCN, 2017). The European Roller has a preference for bushy plains and dry savannah areas (IUCN, 2017). There is a moderate chance of this species occurring in the project area as they prefer to forage in open/disturbed grassland areas. Eupodotis senegalensis (White-bellied Korhaan) is Near-endemic to South Africa, occurring from the Limpopo Province and adjacent provinces, south through Swaziland to KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape. It generally prefers tall, dense sour or mixed grassland, either open or lightly wooded, occasionally moving into cultivated or burnt land (Hockey et al, 2005), which is present in the project area. The species was observed in the study. Falco biarmicus (Lanner Falcon) is native to South Africa and inhabits a wide variety of habitats, from lowland deserts to forested mountains (IUCN, 2017). They may occur in groups up to 20 individuals but have also been observed to be solitary. Their diet is mainly composed of small birds such as pigeons and francolins. The likelihood of incidental records of this species in the project area is rated as high due to the natural veld condition and the presence of many bird species on which Lanner Falcons may predate. Neotis denhami (Denhams Bustard) is listed as VU on a regional scale and NT on a global scale. It occurs in flat, arid, mostly open country such as grassland, karoo, bushveld, thornveld, scrubland and savanna but also including modified habitats such as wheat fields and firebreaks Collisions with power lines may be a significant threat in parts of the range, particularly South Africa (IUCN, 2007). The habitat at the project site does provide suitable habitat for this species and therefore its likelihood of occurrence is rated as high. Sagittarius serpentarius (Secretarybird) occurs in sub-Saharan Africa and inhabits grasslands, open plains, and lightly wooded savanna. It is also found in agricultural areas and sub-desert (IUCN, 2017). The likelihood of occurrence is rated as high due to the extensive grasslands and wetland/stream areas present in the project area.
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MAMMALS
The IUCN Red List Spatial Data (IUCN, 2017) lists 93 mammal species that could be expected to occur within the vicinity of the project area (Appendix C of the biodiversity and avifauna impact assessment report (Appendix F-1)). Of these species, 9 are medium to large conservation dependant species, such as Ceratotherium simum (Southern White Rhinoceros) and Equus quagga (Plains Zebra) that, in South Africa, are generally restricted to protected areas such as game reserves. These species are not expected to occur in the project area and are removed from the expected species list (Appendix C of the biodiversity and avifauna impact assessment report). Of the remaining 92 small to medium sized mammal species, fifteen (15) are listed as being of conservation concern on a regional or global basis (Figure 5-28). The list of potential species includes: — Three (3) that are listed as EN on a regional basis; — Four (4) that are listed as VU on a regional basis; and — Eight (8) that are listed as NT on a regional scale. Eleven species were given a low likelihood of occurrence based on the lack of suitable habitat and the high level of disturbance specifically in the form of poaching.
Figure 5-28: Mammal Species of Conservation Concern Aonyx capensis (Cape Clawless Otter) is the most widely distributed otter species in Africa (IUCN, 2017). This species is predominantly aquatic, and it is seldom found far from water. Based on some streams in the project area although somewhat disturbed, the likelihood of occurrence of this species occurring in the project area is considered to be moderate. Atelerix frontalis (South African Hedgehog) has a tolerance of a degree of habitat modification and occurs in a wide variety of semi-arid and sub-temperate habitats (IUCN, 2017). Based on the Red List of Mammals of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland (2016), A. frontalis populations are decreasing due to the threats of electrocution, veld fires, road collisions, predation from domestic pets and illegal harvesting. Although the species is cryptic and therefore not often seen, there is areas of suitable habitat in the project area and therefore the likelihood of occurrence is rated as moderate.
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Hydrictis maculicollis (Spotted-necked Otter) inhabits freshwater habitats where water is un-silted, unpolluted, and rich in small to medium sized fishes (IUCN, 2017). Suitable habitat may be available in the streams in the project area, therefore the likelihood of occurrence is moderate. Leptailurus serval (Serval) occurs widely through sub-Saharan Africa and is commonly recorded from most major national parks and reserves (IUCN, 2017). The Serval’s status outside reserves is not certain, but they are inconspicuous and may be common in suitable habitat as they are tolerant of farming practices provided there is cover and food available. In sub-Saharan Africa, they are found in habitat with well-watered savanna long-grass environments and are particularly associated with reedbeds and other riparian vegetation types. Large areas of natural grassland occur in the project area and as such the likelihood of occurrence is rated as high.
HERPETOFAUNA (REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS) REPTILES Based on the IUCN Red List Spatial Data (IUCN, 2017) and the ReptileMap database provided by the Animal Demography Unit (ADU, 2017) 82 reptile species are expected to occur in the project area (Appendix D of the biodiversity and avifauna impact assessment). Three (3) reptile SCC are expected to be present in the project area, two of which have a low likelihood of occurrence based on a lack of suitable habitat. Homoroselaps dorsalis (Striped Harlequin Snake) is partially fossorial and known to inhabit old termitaria in grassland habitat (IUCN, 2017). Most of its range is at moderately high altitudes, reaching 1,800 m in Mpumalanga and Swaziland, but it is also found at elevations as low as about 100 m in KwaZulu-Natal. The likelihood of occurrence was rated as moderate based on suitable habitat being available although somewhat disturbed. AMPHIBIANS Based on the IUCN Red List Spatial Data (IUCN, 2017) and the AmphibianMap database provided by the ADU (ADU, 2017). Thirty (30) amphibian species are expected to occur in the project area (Appendix E of the biodiversity and avifauna impact assessment). No amphibian SCC are expected to occur in the project area according to the above-mentioned sources.
5.6.6 FIELD STUDY The field survey for the project area was conducted from the 14th to 15th of September 2020. During the survey the floral and faunal communities within the project development footprint were assessed. The project area was ground-truthed on foot, which included spot checks in pre-selected areas to validate desktop data. Photographs were recorded during the site visit and some are provided in this section of the report. All site photographs are available on request.
FLORA ASSESSMENT The vegetation assessment was conducted throughout the extent of the project area. A total of 95 tree, shrub and herbaceous plant species were recorded in the project area during the field assessment (see Table 8-5 of biodiversity and avifauna impact assessment report). Plants listed as Category 1 alien or invasive species under the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEMBA) appear in green text. Plants listed in Category 2 or as ‘not indigenous’ or ‘naturalised’ according to NEMBA, appear in blue text. Three species were found that are protected under schedule 11 of the Mpumalanga Nature Conservation Act no 10 of 1998. The Common sugar bush (Protea caffra) were restricted to the grasslands, while the Poison bulbs (Boophone disticha) were found in the bushveld habitat. The Tamboti (Spirostachys africana) were found mainly in the riparian habitat. ALIEN AND INVASIVE PLANTS Below is a brief explanation of the three categories in terms of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (Act 10 of 2004) (NEMBA): — Category 1a: Invasive species requiring compulsory control. Remove and destroy. Any specimens of Category 1a listed species need, by law, to be eradicated from the environment. No permits will be issued. — Category 1b: Invasive species requiring compulsory control as part of an invasive species control programme. Remove and destroy. These plants are deemed to have such a high invasive potential that infestations can
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
qualify to be placed under a government sponsored invasive species management programme. No permits will be issued. — Category 2: Invasive species regulated by area. A demarcation permit is required to import, possess, grow, breed, move, sell, buy or accept as a gift any plants listed as Category 2 plants. No permits will be issued for Category 2 plants to exist in riparian zones. — Category 3: Invasive species regulated by activity. An individual plant permit is required to undertake any of the following restricted activities (import, possess, grow, breed, move, sell, buy or accept as a gift) involving a Category 3 species. No permits will be issued for Category 3 plants to exist in riparian zones. Note that according to the regulations, a person who has under his or her control a category 1b listed invasive species must immediately: — Notify the competent authority in writing — Take steps to manage the listed invasive species in compliance with: — Section 75 of the Act; — The relevant invasive species management programme developed in terms of regulation 4; and — Any directive issued in terms of section 73(3) of the Act. Thirteen (13) Category 1b invasive plant species were recorded within the project area and it is recommended that an alien invasive plant management programme be implemented in compliance of section 75 of the Act as stated above. The NEMBA listed species identified within the project area are listed in Table 5-2 below. Table 5-2: Trees, Shrubs and Weeds in Project Area
SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAMES ALIEN CATEGORY
Argemone ochroleuca Mexican poppy NEMBA Category 1b
Cereus jamacara Queen of the night NEMBA Category 1b
Cirsium vulgare Spear Thistle NEMBA Category 1b
Datura ferox Thorn apple NEMBA Category 1b
Eucalyptus camaldulensis Red River Gum NEMBA Category 1b
Lantana camara Lantana NEMBA Category 1b
Ligustrum japonicum Wax-leaf privet NEMBA Category 1b
Melia azedarach “Syringa”, Persian Lilac NEMBA Category 1b
Opuntia ficus indica Prickly-pear NEMBA Category 1b
Ricinus communis Castor Oil NEMBA Category 1b
Solanum mauritianum Bugweed NEMBA Category 1b
Solanum sisymbriifolium* Sticky nightshade NEMBA Category 1b
Xanthium strumarium Rough cocklebur NEMBA Category 1b
Plant species identified in the project area are shown in Figure 5-29 below.
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Figure 5-29: A) Cork Bush (Mundulea sericea), B) Drolpeer (Dombeya rotundifolia), C) Coral tree (Erythrina lysistemon), D) Stamvrug (Englerophytum magalismontanum), E) Poison bulb (Boophone disticha)
FAUNA MAMMALS Overall, mammal diversity in the project area was considered to be good, with 8 mammal species being recorded during the September 2020 survey based on direct observations and/or the presence of visual tracks & signs (Table 5-3). The habitat observed has a high likelihood of supporting SCC, especially Serval. Table 5-3: Mammal Species in Project Area and Conservation Status
SPECIES COMMON NAME REGIONAL (SANBI, 2016) IUCN (2017)
Canis mesomelas Black-backed Jackal LC LC
Chlorocebus pygerythrus Vervet Monkey LC LC
Cynictis penicillata Yellow Mongoose LC LC
Felis silvestris African Wildcat LC LC
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SPECIES COMMON NAME REGIONAL (SANBI, 2016) IUCN (2017)
Hystrix africaeaustralis Cape Porcupine LC LC
Lepus saxatilis Scrub Hare LC LC
Raphicerus campestris Steenbok LC LC
Sylvicapra grimmia Common Duiker LC LC
HERPETOFAUNA (REPTILES & AMPHIBIANS) Five reptile species were recorded in the project area, while only one amphibian species was recorded (Figure 5-30). Some tadpoles were also observed. It is expected after some rains that the number of amphibian species present will increase. Large portions of the project area were burned, and this could have contributed to the lower number of reptiles recorded in the project area compared to the high number of species that were expected.
Figure 5-30: A) Southern Rock Agama (Agama atra), B) Transvaal Gecko (Pachydactylus affinis), C) Variegated Skink (Trachylepis variegata) and D) Gecko sp. eggs.
AVIFAUNA Fifty eight species were recorded across four habitats (see Table 8-8 and Figure 8-5 of biodiversity and avifauna impact assessment report attached as Appendix F-1). One of the species, the White-bellied Korhaan (Eupodotis
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
senegalensis), is classified as VU in South Africa. The Korhaan were not noticed in the 100 m buffer area of the project area, but based on their presence it is of utmost importance that the area be examined prior to any development and that a walked-through be undertaken prior to construction (Figure 5-31 below). No nests were observed for the Korhaan, but this could just be as a result of the time of the survey.
Figure 5-31: Location of the White Bellied Korhaan Observed in Relation to the Project Footprint These birds are known to occur in grassland habitats which does form part of the project area, should these species or their nests be noticed prior/during construction an appropriate specialist must be contacted to advise on the appropriate steps to follow.
5.6.7 HABITAT SENSITIVITY The biodiversity theme sensitivity as indicated in the screening report was derived to be Low with small patches of Very High (Figure 5-32). The animal species theme sensitivity were Medium with some areas being classified as High (Figure 5-33). Species that were highlighted were predominantly avifaunal species which comprised of Denham's bustard (Neotis denhami), Secretary bird (Sagittarius serpentarius) and African Grass Owl (Tyto capensis), as well as mammal species, namely Spotted-necked otter (Hydrictis maculicollis). The Denham's bustard and Secretary bird were given a high likelihood of occurrence in the project area based on the available habitat. The African Grass Owl were given a low likelihood of occurrence as no suitable habitat were present for this species in the project area. The Spotted-necked otter has a moderate likelihood of occurrence. None of these species were observed but mitigation measures have been prescribed nonetheless.
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Figure 5-32: Biodiversity Theme Sensitivity Map
Figure 5-33: Animal Theme Sensitivity Map
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
The completion of the terrestrial biodiversity assessment confirmed the areas classified as Low sensitivity, the area to the north of the project area has been altered and does not uphold its Very High status anymore and cannot be regarded as CBA optimal anymore. As per the terms of reference for the project, GIS sensitivity maps are required in order to identify sensitive features in terms of the relevant specialist discipline/s within the project area. The sensitivity scores identified during the field survey for each terrestrial habitat are mapped in Figure 5-34. In terms of terrestrial habitats, areas that were classified as having a low sensitivity are those areas which were deemed by the specialists to have been impacted upon and/or were modified from their original condition due to factors such as clearing of vegetation and dumping of litter and rubble. The habitats rated as possessing a moderate-high sensitivity are habitats that: — support various faunal and floral species; — are mostly in a natural condition or has the capacity to recover; and — have a moderate-high diversity. The habitat rated as possessing a High sensitivity is riparian habitat that is home to species restricted to water resources. Moreover, if this habitat were lost, the species in the surrounding habitats would also decrease as they are dependent on the refuge, foraging and water typically associated with this habitat type. It is important to note that this map does not replace any local, provincial or government legislation relating to these areas or the land use capabilities or sensitivities of these environments but is done in relation to the legislation.
Figure 5-34: Biodiversity Sensitivity Map
BUFFER REQUIREMENTS The White-bellied Korhaan (Eupodotis senegalensis) were observed outside of the 100 m buffer area of the project footprint. No nest was observed for the Korhaan and it could possibly be that they use the area for foraging alone. No no-go buffer was assigned for that reason. It is however pertinent that before construction begins that the area be walked through and assessed for nests and the presence of these birds. Should they occur a qualified specialist
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must be contacted for advice on how to proceed. The flora SCCs found can be relocated should they be in the footprint of the line and therefore also do not require a buffer.
5.6.8 CONCLUSION It is clear from the regional ecological overview, as well as the baseline data collected to date that much of the project area has been altered, both historically and at present due to the surrounding land use and the existing powerlines. Four main habitats were identified in the project area; Disturbed areas, Grasslands, Bushveld and Riparian habitat. These habitats were given a sensitivity of low, moderately high (Grasslands, Bushveld) and high, respectively. Three plant species were found that are protected under Schedule 11 of the Mpumalanga Nature Conservation Act no 10 of 1998. The Common sugar bush (Protea caffra) were restricted to the grasslands, while Poison bulbs (Boophone disticha) were found in the bushveld habitat. The Tamboti (Spirostachys africana) were found mainly in the riparian habitat. Only one faunal species of conservation concern was identified the White- bellied Korhaan (Eupodotis senegalensis) which is classified as VU in South Africa. This species also has a high risk for collisions with the powerlines and therefore specific mitigations such as the installation of bird flappers in the riparian and grassland habitat were prescribed. The habitats and sensitivities of the two alternatives were in a similar state, as such we do not object to the preferred Option 1 route. The greatest impact on the overall habitat is expected to be an increase in alien plant infestations as a result of the construction disturbances, through the implementation of an alien management plan this impact can successfully be mitigated. The greatest impact on the avifauna is envisioned to be electrocution and collisions these can be mitigated with changes in the design and the installation of bird flappers. All the impacts can be successfully mitigated, it is therefore imperative that the issuing authority consider the mitigations and recommendations.
5.7 HERITAGE AND PALAEONTOLOGY
Information relating to the heritage, archaeological resources within the proposed study area was obtained from the Archaeological Impact Assessment Report undertaken by Archaetnos Culture and Cultural Resource Consultants and is included as Appendix F-3 of this report. Palaeontological information came from the South African Heritage Information System (SAHRIS) tool.
5.7.1 HERITAGE During the survey, seven sites of cultural heritage significance were identified within the immediate project area.
SITE 1 – CEMETERY The grave site is about 364m x 200m in size and is located about 2,6km northeast of the Gemsbok substation and consists of approximately 2 223 graves. This is a formal cemetery that is still in use and is surrounded by a fence. Headstones are made from granite, cement and metal plaques, the grave dressings are constructed out of granite, bricks, cement and stone and gravel. Grave goods are present on the graves. Graves are orientated southeast to northwest (Figure 5-35). No graves older than 60 years of age were found. Most of the graves are younger than 60 years and there are approximately 20 new unmarked graves. The site has a high significance rating, with a field-rating of 24, Local Grade IIIB, which requires for the site to be included in the heritage register and may be mitigated. However, this site is outside of the proposed powerline route servitude, as such, will not be impacted by any construction activities.
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Figure 5-35: Location of Site 1 (GPS: 25°24'33.61"S 28°49'25.78"E)
SITE 2 – FARM YARD The site is about 327m x 125m in size and is located about 50m north of the proposed option 1 powerline (indicated by the blue line) and consists of approximately eight (8) structures and is historic in nature. Four of these are collapsed structures that are made from mud bricks. One is measuring about 12m x 10m with four rooms. The second one is measuring about 20m x 20m with four rooms, and one partial mud wall was still standing. The third structure measures about 5m x 4m and has one room with one partial mud wall. The fourth structure measures about 14m x 10m and had three rooms with partial mud walls still standing. A broken lower grinding stone was found in the fourth structure. The other four structures are stone animal kraals; two rectangles of 20m x 16 and two rectangles of 10m x 9m (Figure 5-36).
Figure 5-36: Location of Site 2 (GPS: 25°28'30.92"S 28°45'41.58"E)
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The site has a low significance rating, with a field-rating of 4, Local Grade IIIC and it may be granted destruction at the discretion of the relevant heritage authority without a formal permit application, subjected to the granting of an EA. However, the site will be left intact during the construction activities.
SITE 3 – CEMETERY
The grave site is about 376m x 190m in size and is located about 480m east of the proposed option 1 powerline (indicated by the blue line) and consists of approximately 2 775 graves. This is a formal cemetery that is still in use and is surrounded by a fence. Headstones are made from granite, cement and metal plaques, and the grave dressings are constructed out of granite, bricks, cement and stone and gravel. Grave goods are present on the graves. Graves are orientated east to west (Figure 5-37). No graves are older than 60 years of age were found. Most of the graves are younger than 60 years and there are several new unmarked graves. The site has a high significance rating, with a field-rating of 24, Local Grade IIIB, which requires for the site to be included in the heritage register and may be mitigated. However, this site is outside of the proposed powerline route servitude of 31m corridor, as such, will not be impacted by any construction activities.
Figure 5-37: Location of Site 3 (GPS: 25°26'54.05"S 28°43'26.48"E)
SITE 4 – STONE KRAAL The site is about 13m x 12m in size and is located about 20m south of the proposed option 1 powerline (indicated by the blue line) and consists of a single stone kraal that is historic in nature. There are signs of animal activity that has caused the collapse of most of the walls (Figure 5-38). The site has a low significance rating, with a field- rating of 2, Local Grade IIIC and it may be granted destruction at the discretion of the relevant heritage authority without a formal permit application, subjected to the granting of an EA. However, the site will be left intact during the construction activities.
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Figure 5-38: Location of Site 4 (GPS: 25°28'21.41"S 28°44'13.28"E)
SITE 5 – FARMYARD The site is about 100m x 51m in size and is located about 240m north of the proposed Option 2 powerline (indicated by the green line) and consists of approximately four (4) structures and is historic in nature. The first is a circular structure with one (1) room with four (4) windows and is 3m in diameter. The second structure is 14m x 9m mud brick structure and has four (4) rooms. The last two (2) structures are about 10m x 4m, has one (1) room each and is constructed with mud bricks and stones (Figure 5-39).
Figure 5-39: Location of Site 5 (GPS: 25°28'41.44"S 28°44'48.92"E)
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The site has a low significance rating, with a field-rating of 4, Local Grade IIIC and it may be granted destruction at the discretion of the relevant heritage authority without a formal permit application, subjected to the granting of an EA. However, the site will be left intact during the construction activities as it is outside of the 31m corridor of the powerline routes.
SITE 6 – STONE HOUSES
The site is about 147m x 20m in size and is located about 340m north of the proposed Option 2 powerline (indicated by the green line) and consists of three (3) structures and is historic in nature. All three (3) of the houses is about 8m x 4m in size and has four (4) windows in door opening. They are constructed out of rock and cement. The first two only have one room and the last one has two (Figure 5-40).
Figure 5-40: Location of Site 6 (GPS: 25°28'43.86"S 28°45'21.64"E) The site has a low significance rating, with a field-rating of 4, Local Grade IIIC and it may be granted destruction at the discretion of the relevant heritage authority without a formal permit application, subjected to the granting of an EA. However, the site will be left intact during the construction activities as it is outside of the 31m corridor of the powerline routes.
SITE 7 – GRAVES
The grave site is about 7m x 3m in size and is located about 80m south of the proposed option 1 powerline (indicated by the blue line) and consists of four (4) graves. These graves are located next to a dirt road with no fences. Headstones are made with granite and cement and the grave dressings are constructed out of granite, bricks and stone. Grave goods are present on the graves. Graves are orientated east to west (Figure 5-41). There are two graves 60 years and older and two graves younger than 60 years. No unmarked graves were found.
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Figure 5-41: Location of Site 7 (GPS: 25°26'42.86"S 28°43'6.45"E) The site has a high significance rating, with a field-rating of 24, Local Grade IIIB, which requires for the site to be included in the heritage register and may be mitigated. However, this site is outside of the proposed powerline route 31m corridor, as such, will not be impacted by any construction activities.
5.7.2 PALAEONTOLOGY The proposed project falls within the blue and grey areas which indicate low and insignificant/zero paleontological sensitivity respectively. No palaeontological studies are required, however, a protocol for finds is required. The palaeontological sensitivity of the project area is illustrated in Figure 5-42 below.
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Figure 5-42: Palaeontological Sensitivity
5.8 TRAFFIC
No baseline information was available on the background traffic in the area, however, since KwaMhlanga is a small town, traffic levels along the powerline were observed to be low during the site walk. Furthermore, the powerline mostly moves along unoccupied farm areas, therefore, limited movement was observed. Traffic impacts will be negligible during the project phases.
5.9 SOCIO-ECONOMIC
The KwaMhlanga nodal point is the highest order node in the Thembisile Hani municipal area that lies to the north-east of the City of Tshwane, along the Moloto Road. The spatial structure is characterized with a business core branching out along the main roads surrounded by a strong residential component. The area has very good access and visibility from two provincial roads, namely the R573 and R568. The majority of the energy of the node is centred on the intersection of the R573 and R568 including Crossroads Plaza with linear development taking place along the two roads. The land uses range from retail, business and service industry
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5.9.1 POPULATION Based on the 2011 Census, the KwaMhlanga area has a population of 7 124 people, 52% female and 48% male. The population is 99% Black African and the remaining 1% made up by the rest. The population distribution is at 27.48% below the age of 15, 71.12% at the age range of 15 to 64 and 1.4% above 65. The area has a dependency ratio for people between in the 15 to 64 age-range of 64.8%. The area has a high population density of 1 029.2 persons/km2 within 278.14 households/ km2. The predominant languages are isiNdebele (50%) followed by Sepedi (20%) and isiZulu (11%) with the balance made up by Sesotho, English, Setswana and others. The proposed project provide some boost to the local economy with regards to jobs and service delivery to the contractors during the construction activities.
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6 IMPACT ASSESSMENT
This Chapter identifies the perceived environmental and social effects associated with the proposed Project. The assessment methodology is outlined in Section 3.4. The issues identified stem from those aspects presented in Chapter 6 of this document as well as project description provided. The impact assessment will be based on the preferred alternative at all project phases. This section only assesses the preferred option along with the no-go section. The mitigation hierarchy criteria for each mitigation measure is indicated in brackets after each measure indicated. Furthermore, decommissioning assessment will be considered as part of the decommissioning process that will be subject to a separate authorisation and impact assessment process. Any decommissioning impacts will be assessed at this stage. The impact assessment in this section encompasses the geographical, physical, biological, social, economic, heritage and cultural aspects in accordance with Appendix 1 of GNR 326.
6.1 AIR QUALITY
6.1.1 CONSTRUCTION PHASE
DUST AND PARTICULATE MATTER Air quality guidelines are provided by the ambient dust concentration limits prescribed by SANS 1929:2005. Whilst these guidelines are currently not enforceable they do serve as recommendations for good practice. SANS 1929:2005 sets out dust deposition rates, expressed in units of mg.m-2.day-1 over a typical 30-day averaging period. During the construction phase, dust and vehicular emissions will be released as a result of excavations as well as earth moving machinery and trucks transporting construction material. The emissions will, however, have short term impacts on the immediate surrounding areas that can be easily mitigated and thus the authorisation of such emissions will not be required. All construction phase air quality impacts will be minimised with the implementation of dust control measures contained within the EMPr (Appendix G) and the dust impacts will be short term in nature. The impact of the construction phase on the generation of dust and PM is shown in Table 6-1 below. Table 6-1: Construction Impact on Generation of Dust and PM
Potential Impact:
Generation of Dust and PM Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility Without Mitigation 2 2 3 1 4 32 Medium (-) High With Mitigation 1 1 3 1 3 18 Low (-) High Mitigation and Management Measures — Dust-reducing mitigation measures must be put in place and must be strictly adhered to, for all roads and dumps especially. This includes wetting of exposed soft soil surfaces and not conducting activities on windy days which will increase the likelihood of dust being generated; — All stockpiles (if any) must be restricted to designated areas and may not exceed a height of two (2) metres; — Ensure that all vehicles and machines are adequately maintained to minimise emissions; — It is recommended that the clearing of vegetation from the site should be selective and done just before construction so as to minimise erosion and dust;
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Potential Impact:
Generation of Dust and PM Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility — All materials transported to site must be transported in such a manner that they do not fly or fall off the vehicle. This may necessitate covering or wetting friable materials. — No burning of waste, such as plastic bags, cement bags and littering is not permitted; and — All issues/complaints must be recorded in the complaints register.
6.1.2 OPERATIONAL PHASE There are no anticipated air quality impacts during the operational phase as maintenance activities will occur as and when required and will be extremely short term.
6.2 NOISE EMISSIONS
6.2.1 CONSTRUCTION PHASE Elevated noise levels are likely to be generated by the construction activities (machinery and vehicles) and the workforce. It is important to note that noise impacts (nuisance factor) may vary in the different areas as a result of the surrounding land uses and will be temporary in nature. Due to the temporary and limited nature of the project activities, coupled with the fact that there are a limited number of noise receptors around the project area, the impacted is regarded as low. The construction impact on noise is indicated in Table 6-2 below. Table 6-2: Construction Impact on Noise
Potential Impact:
Noise Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility Without Mitigation 2 1 3 1 4 28 Low (-) High With Mitigation 2 1 1 1 3 15 Low (-) High Mitigation and Management Measures — The equipment must be in good working order, within service dates, and inspected before use; — Align working times with the substation related operational times; and — Install noise reducing fittings on machinery (if required).
6.2.2 OPERATIONAL PHASE There are no anticipated noise impacts during the operational phase as maintenance activities will occur as and when required and will be extremely short term.
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6.3 SOIL EROSION AND CONTAMINATION
6.3.1 CONSTRUCTION PHASE
SOIL EROSION During the construction phase, measures should be implemented to manage stormwater and water flow on the site. If the stormwater and water flow is not regulated and managed onsite, it could cause significant erosion of soil around the cleared areas. During the construction phase, the project activities could leave soils exposed and susceptible to erosion. The construction impact on soil erosion is indicated in Table 6-3 below. Table 6-3: Construction Impact on Soil Erosion
Potential Impact:
Soil Erosion Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility Without Mitigation 2 1 3 2 4 32 Medium (-) High With Mitigation 1 1 3 2 3 21 Low (-) High Mitigation and Management Measures — Only the proposed tower foundation footprint areas should be cleared of vegetation. This should be done in stages as construction works progress, if possible; — Implement stormwater management measures that will help to reduce the speed of the water. These measures must also assist with the prevention of water pollution, erosion and siltation; — Any exposed earth should be rehabilitated promptly, and this could include planting suitable vegetation (vigorous indigenous grasses) that mimics the surrounding environment to protect the exposed soil; — If excavations or foundations fill up with stormwater, these areas should immediately be drained and measures to prevent access to these areas should be implemented; — Erosion control measures should be implemented during the construction phase on large exposed areas and where stormwater is temporarily channelled; and — Rehabilitate the area to manage erosion.
SOIL CONTAMINATION During construction activities, construction vehicles/trucks/machinery as well as hazardous substances stored on the site might spill and contaminate the soil. The impact of the construction phase on soil pollution is indicated in Table 6-4 below. Table 6-4: Construction Impact on Soil Contamination
Potential Impact:
Soil Contamination Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility Without Mitigation 2 1 3 3 4 36 Medium (-) High
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
With Mitigation 1 1 3 2 3 21 Low (-) High Mitigation and Management Measures — All construction vehicles, plant, machinery and equipment must be properly maintained to prevent leaks; — Plant and vehicles are to be repaired immediately upon developing leaks; — Drip trays shall be supplied for all idle vehicles and machinery; — No repair work may be undertaken on machinery onsite or campsite area; — Drip trays are to be utilised during daily greasing and re- fuelling of machinery and to catch incidental spills and pollutants; — Drip trays are to be inspected daily for leaks and effectiveness, and emptied when necessary. This is to be closely monitored during rain events to prevent overflow; — Ensure appropriate handling of hazardous substances; — Keep spill kits onsite and train personnel to use them appropriately; — Fuels and chemicals must be stored in adequate storage facilities that are secure, enclosed and bunded; and — Implement stormwater management measures that will help to reduce the speed of the water flows. These measures must also assist with the prevention of wider range of the site.
6.3.2 OPERATIONAL PHASE
SOIL EROSION There are no anticipated soil erosion impacts expected during the operational phase as maintenance activities will occur as and when required and will be extremely short term, however, erosion and stormwater controls should be set up around the towers during construction to protect them during the operational phase.
SOIL CONTAMINATION Soil contamination is expected to be limited during the operational phase as maintenance activities will occur as and when required and will be extremely short term. All the vehicles which might leak hydrocarbons will be contained by the covered surfaces which are to be cleaned to limit contaminated runoff to flow to the stormwater system. The operational impact on soil contamination is indicated in Table 6-5 below.
Table 6-5: Operation Impact on Soil Contamination
Potential Impact:
Soil Contamination Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility Without Mitigation 2 1 3 3 3 27 Low (-) High With Mitigation 1 1 3 2 2 14 Low (-) High Mitigation and Management Measures — Vehicles and machinery are to be repaired immediately upon developing leaks;
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
— Drip trays shall be supplied for all idle vehicles and machinery; — No repair work may be undertaken on machinery onsite or campsite area; — Drip trays are to be utilised during daily greasing and re- fuelling of machinery and to catch incidental spills and pollutants; — Drip trays are to be inspected daily for leaks and effectiveness, and emptied when necessary. This is to be closely monitored during rain events to prevent overflow; — Ensure appropriate handling of hazardous substances; — Keep spill kits onsite and train personnel to use them appropriately; and — Fuels and chemicals must be stored in adequate storage facilities that are secure, enclosed and bunded.
6.4 SURFACE WATER
6.4.1 CONSTRUCTION PHASE
DETERIORATION IN WATER QUALITY
There is a potential to affect the surface water quality in the area due to construction activities. This is influenced by spills and leaks, the storage of chemicals, mixes and fuel, location and protection of stockpiles, onsite waste management and the management of stormwater. The impact of construction on deterioration in water quality is shown in Table 6-6 below. Table 6-6: Construction Impact on Deterioration in Water Quality
Potential Impact:
Deterioration in Water Quality Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility Without Mitigation 2 1 3 3 4 36 Medium (-) High With Mitigation 1 1 3 2 3 21 Low (-) High Mitigation and Management Measures — A spill management plan must be put in place to ensure that should there be any chemical spill out or over that it does not run into the surrounding areas. The Contractor shall be in possession of an emergency spill kit that must always be complete and available on site. Drip trays or any form of oil absorbent material must be placed underneath vehicles/machinery and equipment when not in use. No servicing of equipment on site unless necessary. All contaminated soil / yard stone shall be treated in situ or removed and be placed in containers; — Leaking equipment and vehicles must be repaired immediately or be removed from project area to facilitate repair; — Ensure that no activities are conducted outside the 30m buffer delineated outside of the 1:100 year floodline; — Ensure that the monopoles are constructed at least 100m before and after any river/stream crossings;
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Potential Impact:
Deterioration in Water Quality Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility — Construction areas should be demarcated and development limited to these boundaries; — Construction method statements are to be adhered to. These method statements should consider hydrological flow regimes, flora and fauna; — Stormwater channels and preferential flow paths should be delineated, filled with aggregate and/or logs (branches included) to dissipate and slow flows limiting erosion; — During construction, contractors used for the project must have spill kits available to ensure that any fuel or oil spills are clean-up and discarded correctly; — A suitable stormwater management plan must be formulated for the project to control stormwater movement onsite; — The stormwater management plan should incorporate “soft” engineering measures as much as possible, limiting the use of artificial materials; — As much material must be pre-fabricated and then transported to site to avoid the risks of contamination associated with mixing, pouring and the storage of chemicals and compounds on site; — All chemicals and toxicants during construction and operation must be stored in bunded areas; — All machinery and equipment should be inspected regularly for faults and possible leaks, these should be serviced off-site; — All contractors and employees should undergo induction which is to include a component of environmental awareness. The induction is to include aspects such as the need to avoid littering, the reporting and cleaning of spills and leaks and general good “housekeeping”, as well as an understanding of environmental risks in their various areas of work; — Adequate sanitary facilities and ablutions on the site must be provided for all personnel throughout the project area. Use of these facilities must be enforced (these facilities must be kept clean to deter the use of the surrounding vegetated areas); and — Have action plans on site, and training for contactors and employees in the event of spills, leaks and other impacts to the aquatic systems.
6.4.2 OPERATIONAL PHASE There are no anticipated deterioration in water quality impacts expected during the operational phase as maintenance activities will occur as and when required and will be extremely short term.
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
6.5 GROUNDWATER
6.5.1 CONSTRUCTION PHASE
DETERIORATION IN GROUNDWATER QUALITY There is a potential to affect the groundwater quality in the area. This is influenced by spills and leaks, the storage of chemicals, mixes and fuel. Any contaminants that are not cleaned from the ground will seep into underground water resources. The impact of construction on change in water quality is shown in Table 6-7 below. Table 6-7: Construction Impact on Deterioration in Groundwater Quality
Potential Impact:
Deterioration in Water Quality Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility Without Mitigation 3 2 3 2 3 30 Medium (-) High With Mitigation 2 2 3 2 2 18 Low (-) High Mitigation and Management Measures — Construction areas should be demarcated, and wetland areas marked as “restricted” in order to prevent the unnecessary impact to and loss of these systems; — Laydown yards, camps and storage areas must be beyond the wetland areas where applicable; — Stormwater channels and preferential flow paths should be delineated, filled with aggregate and/or logs (branches included) to dissipate and slow flows limiting erosion; — During construction contractors used for the project must have spill kits available to ensure that any fuel or oil spills are cleaned-up and discarded correctly; — A suitable stormwater management plan must for formulated for the project to control the movement of water onsite; — The stormwater management plan should incorporate “soft” engineering measures as much as possible, limiting the use of artificial materials; — As much material must be pre-fabricated and then transported to site to avoid the risks of contamination associated with mixing, pouring and the storage of chemicals and compounds on site; — All chemicals and toxicants during construction and operation must be stored in bunded areas; — All machinery and equipment should be inspected regularly for faults and possible leaks, these should be serviced off-site; — All contractors and employees should undergo induction which is to include a component of environmental awareness. The induction is to include aspects such as the need to avoid littering, the reporting and cleaning of spills and leaks and general good “housekeeping”; — Adequate sanitary facilities and ablutions on the servitude must be provided for all personnel throughout the project area. Use of these facilities must be enforced (these facilities must be kept clean so that they are a desired alternative to the surrounding vegetation); and
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
— Have action plans on site, and training for contactors and employees in the event of spills, leaks and other impacts to the aquatic systems.
6.5.2 OPERATIONAL PHASE There are no anticipated groundwater quality impacts expected during the operational phase as maintenance activities will occur as and when required and will be extremely short term.
6.6 BIODIVERSITY
6.6.1 CONSTRUCTION PHASE
LOSS AND FRAGMENTATION OF FLORA The construction phase involves the clearance of vegetation which leads to destruction, further loss and fragmentation of the vegetation community as well the destruction of a portion of an endangered vegetation type (VU), however, this is limited as the proposed site is previously disturbed and mostly populated by grass. The construction impact on loss and fragmentation of flora is indicated in Table 6-8 below. Table 6-8: Construction Impact on Loss and Fragmentation of Flora
Potential Impact:
ersibility Loss and Fragmentation of Flora Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Rev Without Mitigation 4 3 3 4 4 56 Medium (-) High With Mitigation 2 1 1 2 3 18 Low (-) High Mitigation and Management Measures — Areas of indigenous vegetation, even secondary communities outside of the direct project footprint (31m servitude), should under no circumstances be fragmented or disturbed further. Clearing of vegetation should be minimized and avoided where possible; — When vegetation is cleared, hand cutting techniques should be used as far possible to limit the use of intrusive machinery. This is also relevant for maintenance on the line; — Vegetation may not be cleared in the riparian areas of the project area. Powerline should span the riparian habitat; — All construction/operational and access must make use of the existing roads as far as possible; — Protected plant species must be relocated to nearby areas, outside of the project footprint; — The project area must be walked through prior to construction and protected species must be marked. SCC must be avoided, alternatively a permit may be required for the removal of selected species; — All laydown, chemical toilets etc. should be restricted to disturbed areas. No materials may be stored for extended periods of time and must be removed from the project area once the construction phase has been concluded. No permanent structures should be permitted at construction sites;
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Potential Impact:
ersibility Loss and Fragmentation of Flora Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Rev — It should be made an offence for any staff to /take bring any plant species into/out of any portion of the project area. No plant species whether indigenous or exotic should be brought into/taken from the project area, to prevent the spread of exotic or invasive species or the illegal collection of plants; and — A fire management plan needs to be complied and implemented to restrict the impact fire might have on the habitats. Controlled burning at the required ecological rate should be undertaken to prevent over-burning as well as protect infrastructure from unforeseen fires.
LOSS OF FLORA SPECIES OF CONSERVATION CONCERN
The proposed construction activities will lead to loss of flora SCCs. The construction impact on loss of flora SCCs in the project area is shown in Table 6-9 below. Table 6-9: Construction Impact on Loss of Flora SCCs
Potential Impact:
Loss in Flora SCCs Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility Without Mitigation 3 2 3 4 4 48 Medium (-) High With Mitigation 2 2 1 2 3 21 Low (-) High Mitigation and Management Measures — Prevent the loss of species of conservation concern which are known to occur within the project area; — Limiting the construction area to the defined project areas and only impacting those areas where it is unavoidable to do so otherwise; — A fire management plan needs to be complied and implemented to restrict the impact fire might have on the habitats. Controlled burning at the required ecological rate should be undertaken to prevent over-burning as well as protect infrastructure from unforeseen fires; and — The areas outside the defined project area, should be declared a ‘no-go’ areas during the construction phase and operational phase and all efforts must be made to prevent access to this area from construction workers and machinery.
DISPLACEMENT OF FAUNA AND LOSS OF HABITAT The construction activities will lead to the displacement, direct mortalities and disturbance of faunal community due to habitat loss and disturbances (such as site clearance, dust, vibrations, poaching and noise). This also impacts potential threatened species. The construction impact on displacement of fauna is indicated in Table 6-10 below.
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Table 6-10: Construction Impact on Displacement of Fauna and Loss of Habitat
Potential Impact:
Displacement of Fauna Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility Without Mitigation 3 3 3 4 4 52 Medium (-) High With Mitigation 2 2 1 2 2 14 Low (-) High Mitigation and Management Measures — A qualified environmental control officer must be on site when construction begins to oversee the construction activities. Ensure that no faunal species that remain in the habitat and get killed. Should animals not move out of the area on their own relevant specialists must be contacted to advise on how the species can be relocated; — Noise must be kept to an absolute minimum during the evenings and at night to minimize all possible disturbances to amphibian species and nocturnal mammals; — No trapping, killing, or poisoning of any wildlife is to be allowed; — The duration of the construction should be minimized to as short term as possible, to reduce the period of disturbance on fauna; — Progressive construction must be done, no holes may be left uncovered overnight as fauna species will fall into them; — All construction and maintenance motor vehicle operators should undergo an environmental induction that includes instruction on the need to comply with speed limits, to respect all forms of wildlife. Speed limits must still be enforced to ensure that road killings and erosion is limited; — Schedule any activities and operations during least sensitive periods, to avoid migration, nesting and breeding seasons; — Limiting the construction area to the defined project areas and only impacting those areas where it is unavoidable to do so otherwise; — Staff should be educated about the sensitivity of faunal species and measures should be put in place to deal with any species that are encountered during the construction process. The intentional killing of any animals including snakes, lizards, birds or other animals should be strictly prohibited; — The areas outside the defined project area, should be declared a ‘no-go’ areas during the construction phase and operational phase and all efforts must be made to prevent access to this area from construction workers and machinery; — A fire management plan needs to be complied and implemented to restrict the impact fire might have on the habitats. Controlled burning at the required ecological rate should be undertaken to prevent over-burning as well as protect infrastructure from unforeseen fires; and — All snakes encountered must not be killed but rather relocated by specialists.
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
MORTALITIES OF FAUNA
The construction activities will lead to mortalities of fauna due to temporary access roads and open holes (for the poles). The construction impact on mortalities of fauna is indicated in Table 6-11 below. Table 6-11: Construction Impact on Mortalities of Fauna
Potential Impact:
Mortalities of Fauna Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility Without Mitigation 4 3 3 4 4 56 Medium (-) High With Mitigation 2 1 1 2 2 12 Low (-) High Mitigation and Management Measures — A qualified environmental control officer must be on site when construction begins to oversee the construction activities. Ensure that no faunal species that remain in the habitat and get killed. Should animals not move out of the area on their own relevant specialists must be contacted to advise on how the species can be relocated; — No trapping, killing, or poisoning of any wildlife is to be allowed; — The duration of the construction should be minimized to as short term as possible, to reduce the period of disturbance on fauna; — Progressive construction must be done, no holes may be left uncovered overnight as fauna species will fall into them; — Schedule any activities and operations during least sensitive periods, to avoid migration, nesting and breeding seasons; — Limiting the construction area to the defined project areas and only impacting those areas where it is unavoidable to do so otherwise; — Staff should be educated about the sensitivity of faunal species and measures should be put in place to deal with any species that are encountered during the construction process. The intentional killing of any animals including snakes, lizards, birds or other animals should be strictly prohibited; — The areas outside the defined project area, should be declared a ‘no-go’ areas during the construction phase and operational phase and all efforts must be made to prevent access to this area from construction workers and machinery; — A fire management plan needs to be complied and implemented to restrict the impact fire might have on the habitats. Controlled burning at the required ecological rate should be undertaken to prevent over-burning as well as protect infrastructure from unforeseen fires; and — All snakes encountered must not be killed but rather relocated by specialists.
SPREAD OF ALIEN INVASIVE SPECIES
Construction activities have the potential to lead to an increase in alien invasive species in the area. There is a potential for a spread and/or establishment of alien and/or invasive species, especially in areas that are cleared as it is brought to the project area via site personnel and trucks. These are brought by site personnel on their clothing
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
or via the truck tyres or as a result of pioneer species following a construction activity. The construction impact on spread in alien invasive species in the area is shown in Table 6-12 below. Table 6-12: Construction Impact on Spread in Alien Invasive Species
Potential Impact:
Spread in Alien Invasive Species Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility Without Mitigation 4 3 3 4 4 56 Medium (-) High With Mitigation 2 1 1 2 2 12 Low (-) High Mitigation and Management Measures — Compilation of and implementation of an alien vegetation management plan; — The footprint area of the construction should be kept to a minimum. The footprint area must be clearly demarcated to avoid unnecessary disturbances to adjacent areas; — Limiting the construction area to the defined project areas and only impacting those areas where it is unavoidable to do so otherwise; — It should be made an offence for any staff to bring any plant species into any portion of the project site, including offices. No plant species whether indigenous or exotic should be brought into the project area, to prevent the spread of exotic or invasive species; and — Rehabilitation and de-weeding of areas that have been disturbed by construction activities, to avoid occupation by alien species.
6.6.2 OPERATIONAL PHASE
CONTINUED DISPLACEMENT AND FRAGEMENTATION OF FLORA There is a continued displacement, disturbance and fragmentation of flora due to ongoing habitat degradation from anthropogenic disturbances such as mowing and clearing of vegetation under the line during the operational phase. The operational impact is indicated in Table 6-13 below. Table 6-13: Operational Impact on Displacement and Fragmentation of Flora
Potential Impact:
Displacement and Fragmentation of Flora Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility Without Mitigation 2 2 3 4 4 44 Medium (-) High With Mitigation 1 1 3 2 2 14 Low (-) High Mitigation and Management Measures — Areas of indigenous vegetation, even secondary communities outside of the direct project footprint (31m), should under no circumstances be fragmented or disturbed further. Clearing of vegetation should be minimized and avoided where possible; — When vegetation is cleared, hand cutting techniques should be used as far possible in order to avoid the use of heavy machinery. This is also relevant for maintenance on the line; — Vegetation may not be cleared in the riparian areas of the project area;
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Potential Impact:
Displacement and Fragmentation of Flora Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility — All construction/operational and access must make use of the existing roads as far as possible; — Areas that are denuded during construction need to be re- vegetated with indigenous vegetation to prevent erosion during flood events. This will also reduce the likelihood of encroachment by alien invasive plant species; and — A fire management plan needs to be complied and implemented to restrict the impact fire might have on the habitats. Controlled burning at the required ecological rate should be undertaken to prevent over-burning as well as protect infrastructure from unforeseen fires.
CONTINUED DISPLACEMENT OF FAUNA AND LOSS OF HABITAT There is a continued displacement, direct mortalities and disturbance of the faunal community due to habitat loss and ongoing anthropogenic disturbances (noise, light, traffic, dust, pollution and vibrations) during the operational phase mainly through the maintenance line. The operational impact is indicated in Table 6-14 below. Table 6-14: Operational Impact on Displacement of Fauna
Potential Impact:
Displacement of Fauna Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility Without Mitigation 3 3 3 4 3 39 Medium (-) High With Mitigation 2 1 3 2 2 16 Low (-) High Mitigation and Management Measures — All maintenance motor vehicle operators should undergo an environmental induction that includes instruction on the need to comply with speed limits, to respect all forms of wildlife. Speed limits must still be enforced to ensure that road killings and erosion is limited; and — Schedule any activities and operations during least sensitive periods, to avoid migration, nesting and breeding seasons.
CONTINUED ALIEN VEGETATION ENCROACHMENT During operation, there is continued habitat degradation due to litter and alien vegetation encroachment. The operation impact on the site is indicated Table 6-15 below. Table 6-15: Operational Impact on Continued Alien Vegetation Encroachment
Potential Impact: tude
Continued Alien Vegetation Encroachment Extent
Duration
Character
Magni
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility Without Mitigation 4 3 3 4 4 56 Medium (-) High With Mitigation 2 2 3 3 2 20 Low (-) High Mitigation and Management Measures — It should be made an offence for any staff to /take bring any plant species into/out of any portion of the project area. No plant species whether indigenous or exotic should be brought into/taken from the project area, to prevent the
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Potential Impact: tude
Continued Alien Vegetation Encroachment Extent
Duration
Character
Magni
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility spread of exotic or invasive species or the illegal collection of plants; — The footprint area of the maintenance should be kept to a minimum. The footprint area must be clearly demarcated to avoid unnecessary disturbances to adjacent areas; — Limiting the maintenance area to the defined project areas and only impacting those areas where it is unavoidable to do so otherwise; and — Rehabilitation and de-weeding of areas that have been disturbed by construction activities, to avoid occupation by alien species.
6.7 AVIFAUNA
6.7.1 CONSTRUCTION PHASE
SENSORY DISTURBANCE
Sensory disturbance of avifauna occurs during construction due to noise, dust and vibrations which will potentially displace a large proportion of local avifauna. However, this is anticipated to be temporary in nature as it only lasts during the construction phase. The construction impact on the site is indicated Table 6-16 below. Table 6-16: Construction Impact on Sensory Disturbance
Potential Impact:
Sensory Disturbance Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility Without Mitigation 4 3 3 3 4 52 Medium (-) High With Mitigation 2 2 3 2 2 18 Low (-) High Mitigation and Management Measures — Appropriate specialist must be contacted to advise on how to proceed should nests be found or if species do not move off on their own.
DESTRUCTION OF NESTS
During construction, there will potentially be destruction of nests and nesting material due to clearance activities. However, this is anticipated to be temporary in nature as it only lasts during the construction phase. The construction impact on the site is indicated Table 6-17 below. Table 6-17: Construction Impact on Destruction of Nests
Potential Impact:
Destruction of Nests Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility Without Mitigation 4 3 3 4 4 56 Medium (-) High With Mitigation 2 2 3 2 2 18 Low (-) High
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Potential Impact:
Destruction of Nests Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility
Mitigation and Management Measures — Appropriate specialist must be contacted to advise on how to proceed should nests be found or if species do not move off on their own.
DESTRUCTION OF HABITAT
During construction, there will potentially be destruction of avifauna habitats due to clearance activities. However, this is anticipated to be temporary in nature as it only lasts during the construction phase. The construction impact on the site is indicated Table 6-18 below. Table 6-18: Construction Impact on Destruction of Habitat
Potential Impact:
Destruction of Habitat Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility Without Mitigation 4 3 3 3 4 52 Medium (-) High With Mitigation 2 2 3 2 2 18 Low (-) High Mitigation and Management Measures — Appropriate specialist must be contacted to advise on how to proceed should nests be found or if species do not move off on their own.
DISTURBANCE OR MORTALITY OF SPECIES OF CONSERVATION CONCERN
During construction, there will potentially be disturbance or mortality of avifauna SCC due to clearance activities. However, this is anticipated to be temporary in nature as it only lasts during the construction phase. The construction impact on the site is indicated Table 6-22 below. Table 6-19: Construction Impact on Disturbance or Mortality of SCC
Potential Impact:
Disturbance or Mortality of SCC Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility Without Mitigation 5 4 5 4 4 72 High (-) High With Mitigation 3 3 3 3 2 24 Low (-) High Mitigation and Management Measures — Appropriate specialist must be contacted to advise on how to proceed should nests be found or if species do not move off on their own.
6.7.2 OPERATIONAL PHASE
ELECTROCUTION OF AVIFAUNA During the operational phase, there will potentially be electrocution of avifauna by the powerlines. The operation impact on the site is indicated Table 6-23 below.
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Table 6-20: Operation Impact on Electrocution of Avifauna
Potential Impact:
Electrocution of Avifauna Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility Without Mitigation 5 4 3 4 4 64 High (-) High With Mitigation 3 2 3 3 2 22 Low (-) High Mitigation and Management Measures — Bird friendly structures must be used in the construction of the powerline.
COLLISIONS WITH POWERLINES During the operational phase, there will potentially be avifauna collisions with the powerlines. The operation impact on the site is indicated Table 6-23 below. Table 6-21: Operation Impact on Collisions with Powerlines
Potential Impact:
ration
Collisions with Powerlines Extent
Du
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility Without Mitigation 5 4 3 4 4 64 High (-) High With Mitigation 2 2 3 3 2 20 Low (-) High Mitigation and Management Measures — Bird friendly structures must be used in the construction of the powerline; and — Bird flappers must be installed on the lines at 10m intervals. They must specifically be placed over the area that crosses the riparian and grassland habitats.
6.8 TRAFFIC
6.8.1 CONSTRUCTION PHASE The impact of additional traffic during construction is expected to be minimal and short term. The majority of the proposed powerline route is directly adjacent to the local regional and access roads. During the site visit, it was observed that there is limited movement of vehicles on this road which means the intermittent movement of trucks delivering construction supplies will have a low impact. The construction impact on traffic is indicated in Table 6-22 below. Table 6-22: Construction Impact on Increased Local Traffic
Potential Impact:
Increased Local Traffic Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility Without Mitigation 2 1 3 1 4 28 Low (-) High With Mitigation 2 1 1 1 3 15 Low (-) High Mitigation and Management Measures — Ensure deliveries are done as and when required; — The road network which surrounds the proposed development will have to be correctly maintained in order
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
to support additional movement of vehicles. Transport should be limited to non-peak hours; — Since the access road is narrow, ensure that all vehicles do not park along the road but within the farm boundary; and — All site vehicles must limit the idle time on the access road.
6.8.2 OPERATION PHASE During the operational phase, increased local traffic impacts are expected to be limited as well and only movement expected as and when maintenance occurs. The impact is expected to be low as was with the operation phase and this is indicated in Table 6-23 below. Table 6-23: Operation Impact on Increased Local Traffic
Potential Impact:
Increased Local Traffic Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility Without Mitigation 2 1 3 1 3 21 Low (-) High With Mitigation 1 1 1 1 3 12 Low (-) High Mitigation and Management Measures — Ensure maintenance is done as and when required; and — All site vehicles must limit the idle time on any access roads.
6.9 HEALTH AND SAFETY
6.9.1 CONSTRUCTION PHASE During construction, the employees are exposed to health and safety hazards from the mechanical machines and equipment used on the site. Furthermore, there is a potential for snakes and other dangerous animals in the area, to which the employees must be warned about and trained on how to handle situations if any encounters occur. The construction impact on health and safety is indicated in Table 6-24 below. Table 6-24: Construction Impact on Employee Health and Safety
Potential Impact:
Employee Health and Safety Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility Without Mitigation 4 2 3 4 4 52 Medium (-) High With Mitigation 2 1 3 4 2 20 Low (-) High Mitigation and Management Measures — Eskom’s HSE officer will monitor safety conditions during construction activities; — Ensure employees are properly trained to use specific equipment or machinery; — Train personnel on how to deal with snake encounters, as well as encounters with other dangerous animals known to occur in the area; — Provide suitable personal protective equipment (PPE);
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Potential Impact:
Employee Health and Safety Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility — Conduct site and safety induction to raise awareness of the risks associated with the site; — Conduct regular toolbox talks as refreshers to improve health and safety; — Develop safe work instruction method statements that should be used by employees in completing their tasks; — Train all relevant personnel on handling, use and storage of hazardous substances; — Provide Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for all hazardous substances kept onsite; and — All visitors should undergo site induction and be made aware of the risks associated with the site.
6.9.2 OPERATIONAL PHASE The operational phase health and safety impacts are expected to be limited to loading and unloading of heavy equipment as well as via the storage and handling of any hazardous material onsite. The impact is expected to be low following mitigation and is indicated in Table 6-25 below. Table 6-25: Operation Impact on Employee Health and Safety
Potential Impact:
Employee Health and Safety Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility Without Mitigation 3 2 3 3 3 33 Medium (-) High With Mitigation 2 1 3 4 2 20 Low (-) High Mitigation and Management Measures — Eskom’s HSE officer will monitor safety conditions during construction activities; — Ensure employees are properly trained to use specific equipment or machinery; — Train personnel on how to deal with snake encounters, as well as encounters with other dangerous animals known to occur in the area; — Provide suitable PPE; — Conduct site and safety induction to raise awareness of the risks associated with the site; — Conduct regular toolbox talks as refreshers to improve health and safety; — Develop safe work instruction method statements that should be used by employees in completing their tasks; — Train all relevant personnel on handling, use and storage of hazardous substances; — Provide MSDSs for all hazardous substances kept onsite; and
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
Potential Impact:
Employee Health and Safety Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude
Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility — All visitors should undergo site induction and be made aware of the risks associated with the site.
6.10 WASTE MANAGEMENT
6.10.1 CONSTRUCTION PHASE
LITTERING
The proposed development will potentially lead to littering by construction personnel through illegal disposal of waste. The negative impact of this phase is limited as it is temporary as well. The construction impact on littering is indicated in Table 6-27 below. Table 6-26: Construction Impact on Littering
Potential Impact:
Littering
Magnitude Extent Reversibility Duration Probability Significance Character Confidence Without Mitigation 3 1 3 1 4 32 Medium (-) High With Mitigation 2 1 1 1 3 15 Low (-) High Mitigation and Management Measures — Waste management must be a priority and all waste must be collected and stored adequately. It is recommended that all waste be removed from site on a weekly basis to prevent rodents and pests entering the site; — Litter, spills, fuels, chemicals and human waste in and around the project area; — A minimum of one toilet must be provided per 10 persons. — The Contractor should supply sealable and properly marked domestic waste collection bins and all solid waste collected shall be disposed of at a licensed disposal facility; — Where a registered disposal facility is not available close to the project area, the Contractor shall provide a method statement with regards to waste management. Under no circumstances may domestic waste be burned on site; and — Refuse bins will be emptied and secured. Storage of domestic waste shall be in covered waste skips.
6.10.2 OPERATIONAL PHASE
No conceivable operational phase impacts are expected as Eskom already has a maintenance team will only be on site as and when required (intermittently) and for an extremely limited time. As such, the impacts are negligible.
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
6.11 SOCIO-ECONOMIC
6.11.1 CONSTRUCTION PHASE
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES The proposed development will create a limited number of employment opportunities for individuals in the surrounding area. The positive impact of this phase is limited as it is temporary as well. The construction impact on employment opportunities is indicated in Table 6-27 below. Table 6-27: Construction Impact on Employment Opportunities
Potential Impact:
Employment Opportunities
Magnitude Extent Reversibility Duration Probability Significance Character Confidence Without Mitigation 2 1 3 1 3 24 Low (+) High With Mitigation 2 2 3 2 3 36 Medium (+) High Mitigation and Management Measures — The project must aim to use local labour in order to benefit the local community, where possible and applicable for the project.
6.11.2 OPERATIONAL PHASE No conceivable operational phase impacts are expected as Eskom already has a maintenance team in place for the proposed powerline servitude. As such, there will be no opportunities for locals at that stage of the project.
6.12 HERITAGE
6.12.1 CONSTRUCTION PHASE Based on the specialist study, seven sites of cultural heritage significance were identified within the project area. However, none of the sites is within the proposed 31m servitude to be used for the construction of the powerline, although some of the sites are close to the access roads to be used to gain access to the proposed site. Construction activities should be conducted carefully and all activities ceased if any archaeological, cultural and heritage resources are discovered. The SAHRA should be notified and investigation conducted before any activities can commence. The potential for any heritage impacts is indicated in Table 6-28 below. Table 6-28: Construction Impact on Damage to Heritage and Palaeontological Resources
Potential Impact:
Damage to Heritage and Palaeontological
Extent
Duration
Character
Magnitude Resources Probability Confidence
Significance
Reversibility Without Mitigation 2 1 3 5 2 22 Low (-) High With Mitigation 1 1 3 1 2 12 Low (-) High Mitigation and Management Measures — Conduct site excavations carefully to avoid damaging any potential heritage resources;
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
— Ensure that any sites close to the servitude are marked and fenced; — Ensure that temporary access routes avoid any of the identified heritage sites; and — If any heritage resources are discovered, the South African Heritage Resource Agency (SAHRA) should be notified and investigation conducted before any activities can commence.
6.12.2 OPERATIONAL PHASE There are no anticipated heritage impacts during the operational phase as any existing resources would have been discovered during excavations and other intrusive construction activities.
6.13 PALAEONTOLOGICAL
The area falls outside areas of palaeontological sensitivity, and it is unlikely that the scale and construction of the project will impact on any paleontological resources. As such, there are no impacts expected with regards to palaeontological resources.
6.14 NO-GO ALTERNATIVE
The no-go alternative will mean none of the negative and positive impacts described above will come into effect.
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
7 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT
The essence of any impact assessment process is aimed at ensuring informed decision-making, environmental accountability, and to assist in achieving environmentally sound and sustainable development. In terms of NEMA, the commitment to sustainable development is evident in the provision that “development must be socially, environmentally and economically sustainable…. and requires the consideration of all relevant factors…” NEMA also imposes a duty of care, which places an obligation on any person who has caused, is causing, or is likely to cause damage to the environment to take reasonable steps to prevent such damage. In terms of NEMA’s preventative principle, potentially negative impacts on the environment and on people’s environmental rights (in terms of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, Act No. 108 of 1996) should be anticipated and prevented, and where they cannot be prevented altogether, they must be minimised and remedied in terms of “reasonable measures”. In assessing the environmental feasibility of the proposed construction of the powerline, the requirements of all relevant legislation have been considered. The identification and development of appropriate mitigation measures that should be implemented in order to minimise potentially significant impacts associated with the project, has been informed by best practice principles, past experience and the relevant legislation (where applicable). The conclusions of this BA are the result of comprehensive assessments. These assessments were based on issues identified through the BA process and the parallel process of public participation that will be conducted when submitting for public review. The public consultation process will be undertaken according to the requirements of NEMA and every effort was made to include representatives of all stakeholders within the process.
7.1 ENVIRONMENTAL SENSITIVITIES
The following environmental sensitivities were identified on the site and will require specific applications or measures for mitigation to minimise impact. The proposed project site is located in the following sensitive environments: — Hydrology: — All the aspects of a watercourse described below should then be merged and 30m buffer was delineated around it to indicate the “No go” area which is to be protected for the watercourses future health (Macfarlane, et al., 2015). This was conducted for a tributary of the Hartbeesspruit and a tributary of the Enkeldoringspruit however only one aspect which defines a watercourse extent was conducted. It is therefore recommended that a wetland and riparian study is completed in order to delineate these areas in an effort to demarcate the full sensitive areas extent. In terms of currently available data, the sensitive areas are therefore the floodline extent delineated. Using the considered sensitivities from a hydrological aspect, the preferred option for the proposed powerline extent is option 1 as it crosses the same amount of watercourses. Moreover, the option one occurs near the sources of tributaries rather than the main system and therefore the watercourse extents of these systems would be smaller and inundation states reduced. Further the area covered in the upper reaches are smaller and therefore the flood extent will inundate smaller areas of riparian area. Since the area is less the potential footprint for degradation is lower. The selection of Option 1 may therefore reduce the potential impact to local watercourses. — Biodiversity: — Based on the Plants of Southern Africa (BODATSA-POSA, 2019) database, 327 plant species are expected to occur in the project area. Figure 8-2 shows the extent of the grid that was used to compile the expected species list based on the Plants of Southern Africa (BODATSA-POSA, 2016) database. The list of expected plant species is provided in Appendix A. Of the 327-plant species, two species are listed as being SCCs. — The biodiversity theme sensitivity as indicated in the screening report was derived to be Low with small patches of Very High. The animal species theme sensitivity were Medium with some areas being classified as High. Species that were highlighted were predominantly avifaunal species which comprised of Denham's bustard (Neotis denhami), Secretary bird (Sagittarius serpentarius) and African Grass Owl
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
(Tyto capensis), as well as mammal species, namely Spotted-necked otter (Hydrictis maculicollis). The Denham's bustard and Secretary bird were given a high likelihood of occurrence in the project area based on the available habitat. The African Grass Owl were given a low likelihood of occurrence as no suitable habitat were present for this species in the project area. The Spotted-necked otter has a moderate likelihood of occurrence. None of these species were observed but mitigation measures have been prescribed nonetheless. — Based on the South African Bird Atlas Project, Version 2 (SABAP2) database, 319 bird species are expected to occur in the vicinity of the project area (pentads 2520_2835; 2520_2840; 2520_2845; 2525_2835; 2525_2840; 2525_2845; 2530_2840; 2530_2845; 2530_2850). The full list of potential bird species is provided in Appendix B of the biodiversity and avifauna impact assessment report (Appendix F-1). Of the expected bird species, twelve (12) species are listed as SCC either on a regional scale or international scale The SCC include the following: — Three (3) species that are listed as EN on a regional basis; — Five (5) species that are listed as VU on a regional basis; and — Four (4) species that are listed as NT on a regional basis — Five species were given a low likelihood of occurrence based on a lack of suitable habitat and the level of disturbances. — The IUCN Red List Spatial Data (IUCN, 2017) lists 93 mammal species that could be expected to occur within the vicinity of the project area (Appendix C of the biodiversity and avifauna impact assessment report). Of these species, 9 are medium to large conservation dependant species, such as Ceratotherium simum (Southern White Rhinoceros) and Equus quagga (Plains Zebra) that, in South Africa, are generally restricted to protected areas such as game reserves. These species are not expected to occur in the project area and are removed from the expected species list (Appendix C of the biodiversity and avifauna impact assessment report). — Of the remaining 92 small to medium sized mammal species, fifteen (15) are listed as being of conservation concern on a regional or global basis (Figure 5-28). The list of potential species includes: — Three (3) that are listed as EN on a regional basis; — Four (4) that are listed as VU on a regional basis; and — Eight (8) that are listed as NT on a regional scale. — Eleven species were given a low likelihood of occurrence based on the lack of suitable habitat and the high level of disturbance specifically in the form of poaching. — The habitats and sensitivities of the two alternatives were in a similar state, as such we do not object to the preferred Option 1 route. — Heritage: — During the survey seven sites of cultural heritage significance were identified within the immediate project area. Three of the sites identified, number 1, 3 and 7, are graveyards. There are always of high heritage significance. However, none of the graves are in danger of being impacted by the development. Therefore, they may merely be left in situ. It should however be included in the heritage register. — All other sites, i.e. farmyards and historical structures (site 2, 4, 5 and 6) are of low heritage significance. The description in this phase 1 heritage report is seen as sufficient recording and it may be granted destruction at the discretion of the relevant heritage authority without a formal permit application, subjected to the granting of EA. It is however unlikely that any of these sites will be impacted on as the nearest one is 20 m from option 1 for the power line. The proposed powerline project footprint sensitivities are shown in Figure 7-1 below.
PROPOSED GEMSBOK-KWAMHLANGA 132KV POWERLINE WSP Project No. 41102814 November 2020 ESKOM HOLDINGS SOC LIMITED
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Figure 7-1: Environmental Sensitivity Map
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7.2 SPECIALIST CONCLUSIONS
7.2.1 FLOODLINE AND HYDROLOGICAL ASSESSMENT The aim of the project was to define the extent and hydrology of the watercourse associated with the proposed Gemsbok to Kwamhlanga Powerline. This aim was effectively completed using standard methods. Floodline extents and monthly Mean Annual Runoff for the watercourse were effectively modelled. The results of the floodline delineation for watershed 1 indicated a complex braided network as a result of historical disturbance of topography as a result of mining activities as well as impoundments. The floodline delineated for watershed 1 was therefore considered to be flawed and therefore it is recommended that this watershed is remodelled with more accurate elevation data. The 1:100 year floodline extent were then provided a 30m buffer that was delineated as sensitive areas. This delineation lacks aspects that define watercourse extent such as wetland and riparian delineations that are recommended. As part of these assessments a DWS risk assessment is required to assess the potential impact of the powerline on the watercourse as the monopoles are within the 500m regulated area. Provided anticipated risks is low, a GA is deemed sufficient for the powerline. Based on the delineated extent and sensitive areas for the tributary of the Hartbeesspruit and a tributary of the Enkeldoringspruit, option 1 is the preferred alternative path for the proposed powerline.
7.2.2 BIODIVERSITY AND AVIFAUNA ASSESSMENT The survey, which was completed, resulted in good site coverage, assessing the major habitats and ecosystems, obtaining a general species (fauna and flora) overview and observing the major current impacts. It is clear from the regional ecological overview, as well as the baseline data collected to date that much of the project area has been altered, both historically and at present due to the surrounding land use and the existing powerlines. Four main habitats were identified in the project area; Disturbed areas, Grasslands, Bushveld and Riparian habitat. These habitats were given a sensitivity of low, moderately high (Grasslands, Bushveld) and high, respectively. Three plant species were found that are protected under Schedule 11 of the Mpumalanga Nature Conservation Act no 10 of 1998. The Common sugar bush (Protea caffra) were restricted to the grasslands, while Poison bulbs (Boophone disticha) were found in the bushveld habitat. The Tamboti (Spirostachys africana) were found mainly in the riparian habitat. Only one faunal species of conservation concern was identified the White- bellied Korhaan (Eupodotis senegalensis) which is classified as VU in South Africa. This species also has a high risk for collisions with the powerlines and therefore specific mitigations such as the installation of bird flappers in the riparian and grassland habitat were prescribed. The habitats and sensitivities of the two alternatives were in a similar state, as such we do not object to the preferred Option 1 route. The greatest impact on the overall habitat is expected to be an increase in alien plant infestations as a result of the construction disturbances, through the implementation of an alien management plan this impact can successfully be mitigated. The greatest impact on the avifauna is envisioned to be electrocution and collisions these can be mitigated with changes in the design and the installation of bird flappers. All the impacts can be successfully mitigated, it is therefore imperative that the mitigations and recommendations be considered by the issuing authority.
7.2.3 ARCHAEOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT The survey of the indicated areas was completed successfully. During the survey, seven sites of cultural heritage significance were identified within the immediate project area. Three of the sites identified, number 1, 3 and 7, are graveyards. There are always of high heritage significance. However, none of the graves are in danger of being impacted by the development. Therefore they may merely be left in situ. It should however be included in the heritage register. All other sites, i.e. farmyards and historical structures (site 2, 4, 5 and 6) are of low heritage significance. The description in this phase 1 heritage report is seen as sufficient recording and it may be granted destruction at the
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discretion of the relevant heritage authority without a formal permit application, subjected to the granting of the EA. It is however unlikely that any of these sites will be impacted on as the nearest one is 20 m from option 1 for the powerline. From a heritage perspective there is no preference for any of the two options for the power line. Any of these may thus be used. The proposed development may continue after receiving the necessary authorisation from the relevant heritage authority.
7.3 IMPACT SUMMARY
A summary of the identified impacts and corresponding significance ratings for the proposed powerline is provided in Table 7-1 below. Table 7-1: Impact Summary WITHOUT MITIGATION WITH MITIGATION
IMPACT NO. PHASE DESCRIPTION SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE
STATUS STATUS
C1 Generation of Dust Construction Medium (-) Low (-) and PM C2 Noise Construction Low (-) Low (-)
C3 Soil Erosion Construction Medium (-) Low (-)
C4 Soil Construction Medium (-) Low (-) Contamination C5 Deterioration in Construction Medium (-) Low (-) Water Quality (Surface Water) C6 Deterioration in Construction Medium (-) Low (-) Water Quality (Groundwater) C7 Loss and Construction Medium (-) Low (-) Fragmentation of Flora C8 Loss of Flora SCCs Construction Medium (-) Low (-)
C9 Displacement of Construction Medium (-) Low (-) Fauna and Loss of Habitat C10 Mortalities of Construction Medium (-) Low (-) Fauna C11 Spread of Alien Construction Medium (-) Low (-) Invasive Species C12 Sensory Construction Medium (-) Low (-) Disturbance (Avifauna)
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WITHOUT MITIGATION WITH MITIGATION
IMPACT NO. PHASE DESCRIPTION SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE
STATUS STATUS
C13 Destruction of Construction Medium (-) Low (-) Nests C14 Destruction of Construction Medium (-) Low (-) Habitat C15 Disturbance or Construction High (-) Low (-) Mortality of SCCs C16 Increase in Local Construction Low (-) Low (-) Traffic C17 Employee Health Construction Medium (-) Low (-) and Safety C18 Littering Construction Medium (-) Low (-)
C19 Employment Construction Low (+) Medium (+) Opportunities C20 Damage to Construction Low (-) Low (-) Heritage Resources O1 Soil Operation Low (-) Low (-) Contamination O2 Continued Habitat Operation Medium (-) Low (-) Degradation O3 Continued Operation Medium (-) Low (-) Displacement and Fragmentation of Flora O4 Continued Operation Medium (-) Low (-) Displacement of Fauna and Loss of Habitat O5 Continued Alien Operation Medium (-) Low (-) Vegetation Encroachment O6 Electrocution of Operation High (-) Low (-) Avifauna O7 Collisions with Operation High (-) Low (-) Powerlines (Avifauna) O8 Increase in Local Operation Low (-) Low (-) Traffic
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WITHOUT MITIGATION WITH MITIGATION
IMPACT NO. PHASE DESCRIPTION SIGNIFICANCE SIGNIFICANCE
STATUS STATUS
O9 Employee Health Operation Medium (-) Low (-) and Safety
7.4 IMPACT STATEMENT
The overall objective of the BA is to provide sufficient information to enable informed decision-making by the authorities. This was undertaken through consideration of the proposed project components, identification of the aspects and sources of potential impacts and subsequent provision of mitigation measures. It is the opinion of WSP that the information contained in this document (read in conjunction the EMPr) is sufficient for the DEA to make an informed decision for the environmental authorisation being applied for in respect of this project. Mitigation measures have been developed, where applicable, for the above aspects and are presented within the EMPr (Appendix G). It is imperative that all impact mitigation recommendations contained in the EMPr, of which the environmental impact assessment took cognisance, are legally enforced. Considering the findings of the respective studies, no fatal flaws were identified for the proposed project. Should the avoidance and mitigation measures prescribed be implemented, the significance of the considered impacts for all negative aspects pertaining to the environmental aspects is expected to be low. It is thus the opinion of the EAP that the project can proceed, and that all the prescribed mitigation measures and recommendations are considered by the issuing authority.
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8 CONCLUSION
Eskom proposes to construct a 132kV powerline that will run from the existing Gemsbok substation to the newly proposed KwaMhlanga substation. This report provides a description of the proposed project and details the aspects associated with the construction and operation. The report also includes the methodology followed to undertake the BA process. A detailed description on the existing environment (bio-physical as well as socio-economic) is provided based on findings from the specialist surveys and existing information. Stakeholder engagement was undertaken from the onset of the project in a transparent and comprehensive manner. Outcomes of all comments received from the public review period will be recorded and responded to in the Final BAR. Based on the environmental description, specialist surveys as well as the stakeholder engagement, a detailed impact assessment was undertaken and, where relevant, the necessary management measures have been recommended. In summary, the BA process assessed both biophysical and socio-economic environments and identified appropriate management and mitigation measures. The biophysical impact assessment revealed that there are no moderate or major environmental fatal flaws and no significant negative impacts associated with the proposed project should mitigation and management measures be implemented. In addition, it should be noted that the socio-economic impacts associated with the project are positive but limited. The Draft BAR has been made available for public review from 13 November 2020 to 14 December 2020. All issues and comments should be submitted to WSP, and will be incorporated in the CRR which will be attached as an appendix to the Final BAR. The Draft BAR has also been submitted to the competent authorities. It is the opinion of WSP that the information contained in this document is sufficient for the DFFE to make an informed decision for the EA being applied for in respect of this project. If you have any further enquiries, please feel free to contact: WSP Environmental (Pty) Ltd Attention: Tutayi Chifadza PO Box 98867, Sloane Park, 2152 Tel: 011 361 1390 Fax: 011 361 1301 E-mail: [email protected]
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APPENDIX
A EAP AND SPECIALIST CV
APPENDIX
A-1 TUTAYI CHIFADZA
APPENDIX
A-2 ASHLEA STRONG
APPENDIX
A-3 LINDI STEYN
APPENDIX
A-4 MICHAEL RYAN
APPENDIX
A-5 ANTON VAN VOLLENHOVEN
APPENDIX
B EAP AND SPECIALIST DECLARATIONS
APPENDIX
B-1 TUTAYI CHIFADZA
APPENDIX
B-2 LINDI STEYN
APPENDIX
B-3 MICHAEL RYAN
APPENDIX
B-4 ANTON VAN VOLLENHOVEN
APPENDIX
C STAKEHOLDER DATABASE
APPENDIX
D MAPS
APPENDIX
D-1 LOCALITY MAP
APPENDIX
D-2 LAYOUT MAP
APPENDIX
D-3 RIVERS AND WETLANDS MAP
APPENDIX
D-4 PALAEOSENSITIVITY MAP
APPENDIX
D-5 ENVIRONMENTAL SENSITIVITY / SUMMARY MAP
APPENDIX
E PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
APPENDIX
E-1 ADVERT
APPENDIX
E-2 SITE NOTICES
APPENDIX
E-3 EMAIL NOTIFICATIONS
APPENDIX
E-4 SMS NOTIFICATIONS
APPENDIX
E-5 TRIBAL AUTHORITIES MEETING ATTENDANCE REGISTERS
APPENDIX
E-6 NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY
APPENDIX
F SPECIALIST STUDIES
APPENDIX
F-1 BIODIVERSITY AND AVIFAUNA ASSESSMENT
APPENDIX
F-2 FLOODLINE AND HYDROLOGICAL ASSESSMENT
APPENDIX
F-3 ARCHAEOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT
APPENDIX
G EMPR