STATE COMMITTEE OF WATER SYSTEM UNDER THE RA MINISTRY FOR TERRITORIAL GOVERNANCE “ARMWATERSEWERAGE” CJSC

ASIAN DEVELOPMENT BANK FUNDED

WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION SECTOR PROJECT- ADDITIONAL FINANCING

Date of preparation 15.04.2013 Date of revision 27.10.3013

III SUBPROJECT L2860-ICB-1-04: IMPROVEMENT OF LORI REGION SETTLEMENTS WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM

INITIAL ENVIRONMENTAL EXAMINATION

Yerevan October, 2013

JINJ LTD.

STATE COMMITTEE OF WATER SYSTEM UNDER THE RA MINISTRY FOR TERRITORIAL GOVERNANCE “ARMWATERSEWERAGE” CJSC

Table of Content

1. SCOPE OF WORK ...... 3

2. DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS OF THE RESIDENTIAL AREAS ...... 4 2.1 External Water Supply System ...... 4 2.1.1. Water supply system of Town Alaverdi and surrounding villages ...... 4 2.1.2. Town Stepanavans water supply system ...... 4 2.1.3. Water supply system of rural communities in region...... 5 2.2 Brief description of Water Supply Distribution Network ...... 6 2.2.1. Alaverdi sub-area ...... 6 2.2.2. sub-area ...... 7 2.2.3. Wastewater system ...... 8

3. THE GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION AND CLIMATE OF THE RESIDENTIAL AREAS ...... 9 3.1 Alaverdi sub-area ...... 9 3.2 Stepanavan sub-area ...... 10

4. BIODIVERSITY AND SPECIALLY PROTECTED AREAS ...... 11 4.1 Geological conditions ...... 11 4.1.1. Alaverdi sub-area ...... 11 4.1.1. Stepanavan sub-area ...... 12 4.2 Protected areas and biodiversity ...... 12 4.2.1. Alaverdi sub-area ...... 13 4.2.2. Stepanavan sub-area ...... 13 4.2.3. Aquatic ecosystems ...... 13 4.2.4. Historical monuments ...... 14

5. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT ...... 14 5.1 Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) Checklist ...... 16

List of Tables Table 1. The number of population in Alaverdi sub-area...... 10 Table 2. The number of population in Stepanavan sub-area ...... 11

List of Figures

Figure 1. Lori subproject layout ...... 20 HGSN Ltd. - JINJ Ltd. Water Supply and Sanitation Sector Project - Additional Financing

1. SCOPE OF WORK

This initial environmental examination report was developed within the project on “Improvement of water supply and sanitation systems of Towns Alaverdi and Stepanavan and eight nearby villages in the RA Lori marz” funded by ADB and ordered by AWS CJSC. The purpose of this project is improvement of drinking water supply and sanitation systems of towns Stepanavan, Tashir, and Alaverdi and 8 adjacent villages provide the population with sustainable water supply and safe drinking water.

To achieve this goal, the following is planned:

In External water supply system  Dismantling of the non-operational structures exiting in Hovdara- and Hovdara- systems, construction of pressure reducing chamber and chlorination station, reconstruction of emergency segments of water mains, establishment of one common system.  Reconstruction of emergency segments of inlet lines of the residential areas.

In town Alaverdi  Reconstruction of distribution networks, reconstruction and dismantling of DRRs in the I, II, III and IV zones  Construction of about 10.0km long polyethylene and steel water lines.  Replacement of 82 multi-apartment blocks‟ inlet lines.  Installation of water metering nodes for 405 customers.  Construction of 19 water supply chambers  Construction of 4 pressure regulation chambers.  Construction of 86 buried valves.

In town Stepamavan  Reconstruction of distribution networksin the II and III zones, construction and reconstruction of DRRs and pump station.  Construction of about 9.5km long polyethylene distribution network water lines.  Construction of 10 multi-apartment blocks‟ inlet lines.  Construction of inlet lines of 150 private houses.  Construction of 35 water supply chambers  Construction of 12 buried valves.

In Alaverdi region‟s , , Teghut, villages, Tashir region‟s Metsavan, Sarchapet, Lernahovit ‟s villages the following is planned:  Construction of a new DRR and reconstruction of the existing ones.  Construction of new pump stations.  Construction of polyethylene water lines of different diameters.  Installation of water metering nodes for customers.  Construction of water supply and pressure regulation chambers.

As a result of the project implementation it is planned to provide drinking water supply to the settlements and to improve water distribution and metering systems.

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2. DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS OF THE RESIDENTIAL AREAS

2.1 External Water Supply System

2.1.1. Water supply system of Town Alaverdi and surrounding villages

Towns Alaverdi and and the villages adjacent to them are supplied from Lori-Berd underground springs, the headwork structures of which are composed of 19 spring-intakes, water collecting pipe work, pressure reducing chamber and chlorination station.

The 32 km long transmission main begins from the sources and passing through Odzun village reaches Alaverdi town, and then continues to Noyemberyan town some 43 km further.

The diameter of the transmission main is variable - 500-700mm. The present flow through the main is 200l/s, however it will increase by 30% as a result of spring intakes repair.

Presently the transmission main operates at full capacity.

2.1.2. Town Stepanavans water supply system

The water supply to Stepanavan town is provided by means of three systems: Novoseltsovo- Stepanavan (gravity), Gyulidara-Stepanavan (gravity), and Getavan-Stepanavan (pumping) systems.

Novoseltsovo-Stepanavan gravity system starts within the area of Novoseltsovovillage from the water springs located at a distance of 13km from Stepanavan town. The mentioned springs are composed of 32 spring-intakes and 7 self-flowing deep springs.

Currently 30-40% of the captured amount of water from these springs is supplied to Stepanavan. The total flow from these spring intakes (400l/s) is transferred through 9.0km long steel pipeline and cumulated into the water collecting chamber.Before entering the water intake chamber, 120l/s water amount is conveyed towards Stepanavan town through the regulating valve. This transmission main passes on the left bank of the River and coming out of the gorge splits into two branches. Within Stepanavan town area the transmission main continues up to the reservoirs with the capacity of 2x400m3.

The gravity water from the Novoseltsovo sources is chlorinated by means of ALLDOS chlorination equipment installed within the territory of the Aksyutin PS area

The total area of Novoseltsovo‟s sanitary zone is 18ha.

Getavan-Stepanavan mechanical systemstarts from Getavan pump station located at 5km from Stepanavan.Instead of being supplied from the envisaged three water collecting galleries with the total flow of approximately 400l/s, the pumping station is supplied from only one gallery and the yield of the other two are discharged into the Dzoraget River.

The total flow pumped from Getavan to Stepanavan is disinfected at the existing chlorination station located at the pumping station site.

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From the pumping station the water is pumped to the daily regulating reservoirs with the capacity of 2x1000m3 by 500mm diameter steel pressure pipes with the total length of 9.0km, which feeds the residential district situated on the left bank of the river in Stepanavan.

Gyulidara-Stepanavan gravity systemis fed from sources located at the distance of 6 km from the town and having seasonal fluctuations. Their total flow fluctuates within the range of 5- 10l/s. There are five existing spring-intakes, whilst three of them are in an emergency state and need repairing.

The chlorination station within the territory of the sanitary zone does not operate because of lack of power. Currently water is supplied to the town‟s 2x300m3 DRRs without disinfecting.

The gravity transmission main of Gyulidara-Stepanavan is constructed out of 150mm and 200mm diameter cast-iron and asbestos-cement pipeline with the total length of 9km. The latter has been frequently failing and needs replacing.

2.1.3. Water supply system of rural communities in Tashir region

Villages Metsavan, Dashtadem, Meghvahovit, Dzyunashogh, Mikhaylovka, Dzoramut, Petrovka and Norashen in Tashir region are supplied from Hovdara gravity system.

The mentioned system starts from Hovdara (Sevaberd) springs and passing about 30.0km, supplies Tashir regions villages by two separate water mains. Hovdara-Metsavan water main supplies the villages of Metsavan, Dashtadem, and Meghrahovit, while Hovdara-Sarchapet water main supplies the villages of Dzyunashogh, Mikhaylovka, Dzoramut, Petrovka and Norashen. During Soviet years also villagesSarchapetand Lernhovitwas fed from the mentioned water main.

Hovdara spring intake structures were constructed in the 1960-1970s in out-of-the-way places. Some of them need reconstruction. The cast iron, partially steel water main emerging from the spring intakes, reaches the chlorination station clarifier and then by separate cast iron, asbestos-cement and in some places zinc-covered pipes water is supplied by gravity to the water metering chamber at the entry of Metsavan village, feeding on its way communities of Meghvahovit and (Hovdara-Metsavan main, with 16.0km total length). Hovdara-Sarchapet system (about 32.0km) starts from the chlorination station and supplies villages Dzyunashogh, Mikhaylovka, Dzoramut, Petrovka and Norashen, reaching up to the Norashen inlet line.

Chlorination of Hovdara system is made in chlorination station-clarifying basin, through capsules.

2.1.4. Water supply system of Mets Parnivillage in Spitakregion

Water supply of Mets Parni village is implemented from Chakhkal 35-40l/s capacity water spring system by gravity. From this system about 10l/s water is given to the village; however only 3.0-4.0l/s of the mentioned amount is consumed by the customers, while the repaining 6- 7l/s are technical losses because of deteriorated condition of the distribution network. In the eastern part of the village at 1728.0m absolute elevation there is a 1x500m3 capacity DRR, which was constructed in 1970 and is dictating over the whole village.

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2.2 Brief description of Water Supply Distribution Network

2.2.1. Alaverdi sub-area

Alaverdi town is divided into 2 main districts of “Alaverdi” and “” by the river Debed. The mentioned districts have their separate water supply systems with daily regulation reservoirs.

The district “Alaverdi” is the main industrial and commercial area of Alaverdi town, and also includes significant residential areas. The water supply of the area is provided by means of the a 32km 500mm-700mm diameter steel gravity pipeline. Alaverdi lower is supplied from four daily water regulating reservoirs located in Jravazan residential area with a total capacity of 1700m3.

The existing operating 2x500m3 and 2x350m3 DRRs are located at different elevations. The main area of the city is supplied from the reservoirs with the exception of Piruzyan, Shahumyan and Jravazan residential areas, which are supplied directly from the transmission main.

The water supply distribution network was constructed in the 1940s-50s and there are numerous leaks in the network of both technical and commercial nature. Because of missing sectorization of the system the network operation has become unmanageable.

The population of Alaverdi lower on average receives six-hour water supply.

Water supply to “Sarahart” district is implemented from the water pipeline that starts from the distribution valve junction located at Odzun village, from the DRRs with the total capacity of 2000m3. Before reaching the DRRs several multi-apartment buildings receive water directly from the water main that infringes the water main operation.

Water supply to village Arevatsag is implemented through 3 main entry lines, feeding of one of which is implemented from Lori-Berd water main, and of the other two - from Agarak water main. Water supply to several private houses in the northern part of the village is implemented through the water main supplying village . In the village area there is a 100m3 capacity DRR, feeding of which is implemented from Agarak water main. Adjacent to the DRR there is pump station, which pumps the water to the 50.0m3 metal tank, from where water supply to the high-located north-eastern part of the village is provided.

Because of sad condition of the water supply distribution network of the village there is a high leakage level.

The water supply to village Odzun is presently implemented from Lori-Berd and Agarak transmission mains by gravity.

The Lori-Berd transmission main divides into two Ø500(St) pipelines near the village Odzun, which are constructed parallel to each other. However, presently one of them is disconnected and blanked off at the end of the village, and is used as a distribution collector. During the recent years also Ø500(St) pipeline was constructed, by which water is given from Agarak water main to the above mentioned distribution collector. At present a part of the village Odzun, the distribution network of which was constructed recently with the own finances of AWSC, is fed from the above mentioned collector, and the supply to the remaining part is implemented both from Agarak and Lori-Berd water mains.

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The existing water supply distribution network of Odzun is mainly implemented out of polyethylene pipes.

The water supply system of village Teghut is served by the village administration. Water is supplied to the village from Tandzout and Sznut water sources located at about 1km north- east from the village to the 1x25m3 and 1x300m3 storage reservoirs, which in their turn provide proper water supply to the community The existing distribution network covers about 30% of the village area, which was constructed recently and is in a good condition. The remaining 70% takes water from street taps in different parts of the area.

In the systems fed from the mentioned sources chlorination is not implemented because of absence of chlorination systems.

The village had two more water sources, which currently are not used because of about 4.5km long lacking segment of the water main.

The water supply to village Shnogh is carried out from Manstev and Kharatanots fields‟ surface sources in south and south-eastern areas of the village, by gravity.The above mentioned sources represent open brooks without sanitary zones, and the water quality does not correspond to the requirements of “Drinking water” state standard. One district in the north-western part of the village is supplied directly from Lori-Berd water main. Presently the water supply system of the village is served by the village administration. 1x1000m3 and 2x150m3 capacity DRRs are constructed at higher located elevations of the village. The mentioned DRRs are in emergency condition. The distribution network lines are mainly out of steel. There are numerous breakdowns in the network.

Chlorination in these systems is carried out in the chlorination station located nearby KarmirAgheg village, where ALLDOS chlorination equipment is installed.

2.2.2. Stepanavan sub-area

The water supply system of Stepanavan town includes 62km of pipelines ranging between 50mm and 500mm diameter (transmission main and the water distribution network).

The network is constructed out of cast-iron, steel and polyethylene pipework.

The water supply of about 60% of the town population is implemented directly from the transmission mains, without the use of the daily water regulating reservoirs.

Water supply distribution network of town Stepanavan is fed from 6 DRRs, with total capacity of 3400m3. Only 2x400m3 DRRs out of the mentioned ones have been reconstructed, while the remaining ones need repair.

In the water supply system of Stepanavan town, there are numerous problems, which urgently need solution.

The pumping station pumping water to higher located districts from Getavan springs and the 2x1000m3 capacity DRRs are commissioned once every other day. Therefore, these districts receive water from 07.00 to 09.00 a.m., for the rest of the day it is pumping towards the DRRs.

The main amount of water supplied to Stepanavan is disinfected by means of chlorine gas within the sanitary zone of headworks, except 5-10l/s water amount received from Gyulidara gravity sources, which is supplied to the distribution network through the DRRs.

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Water supply distribution network of village Metsavan has been constructed some 40 years ago from cast iron and steel pipes. It is in a deteriorated state because of lack of maintenance works.

Disinfecting of a part of the water supplied to the village is made in the existing DRR by means of chlorine capsules

Through the 200mm 3.9km water main water is given to the beginning part of village Metsavan and through the 2.0km long 200mm water main is supplied to the 1x250m3 capacity

The main part of the population receives water by hourly schedule with 10-13 hours of duration. There are 8 local springs with 3.0l/s total flow in the village, from which only one is used for drinking purpose (about 0.3l/s) by the population of the higher located district, and the other sprigs are used for household needs and watering of animals.

During Soviet years the water supply to village Sarchapet was implemented from the Hovdaray springs. However it is about 20 years that the village does not have a water supply system and currently is not served by AWSC.

The system is in deteriorated condition because of not operating for many years. Currently water supply is implemented by artesian wells drilled by population and local springs without disinfecting.

The water supply system of village Lernahovit currently is implemented by means of two deep wells in the village. Water is supplied to the intake reservoir, from which water is pumped to the DRR. The mentioned DRR is not at a dictating altitude to the village, therefore water supply to a part of the community is implemented directly from the pump station.

Street water lines were replaced in the distribution network of the village and, more recently 45 m3 / h capacity pumps of "Grundfos" production were installed. The distribution network‟s water lines are mainly from steel and polyethylene pipes. The above mentioned system is serviced by the village administration and is not included in the AWSC service area.

The water supply system of village Mets Parni currently is implemented from Chakhkal water spring system by gravity. The 1x500m3 capacity reservoir at 1728.0m absolute elevation is dictating for the village.

The distribution network of the village is almost fully implemented with cast iron pipes. Only in recent years in two streets they were replaced with de110 polyethylene pipes. In the southern part of the village a small house district was constructed after the earthquake where 7-8 households live, according to the head of the village. Water supply to this district is from local springs east from the district. The school of the village is also supplied from these springs.

2.2.3. Wastewater system

Stepanavan and Alaverdi towns have sewerage networks, however they do not have wastewater treatment plants. Household and industrial wastewaters are directly discharged into Dzoraget and Debed rivers accordingly. In the main sewerage collectors and wastewater networks there is a great number of clogged sections, some observation chambers need repair and replacement of manholes.

The rural communities do not have sewerage networks. The population use pit toilets.

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3. THE GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION AND CLIMATE OF THE RESIDENTIAL AREAS

All of the residential areas covered by the sub-project are located within the territory of the Lori Marz. The Lori marz involves the whole basin of river Debed and has mountainous relief. The surface is notable for wide mountain ridges, stepped slopes. Lava plateaus, deep gorges. There are Pambak and Lori depressions and Lori canyon.

The region is notable for its relatively wet climate. In mid and higher altitude zones the climate is temperate, with long and cold winters. There is a stable snow cover each year. Summers are warm, relatively humid. Annual precipitation is 687-722mm. In pre-mountain zone the climate is subtropical, with moderately hot and dry summers, and moderate winters. From agro-climatic point of view the area is within intense irrigation zone.

River Debed with its tributaries of Dzoraget, Martsaget and Pambak, flows through the region area. It is rich also with mineral springs. Forest, mountain-steppe, near-alpine alleys are predominant in the region.

The area under study is divided into two sub-areas: town Alaverdi, with villages Arevatsag, Odzun, Teghut, Shnoghand town Stepanavanwith villages Metsavan, Sarchapet,Lernahovit, Mets Parni.

3.1 Alaverdi sub-area

Alaverdi town is located to the north-west of the Lori Marz. It is located in the strictly complex geographical relief conditions. The Debed River is flowing through the city area and dividing it into two main residential areas called „Alaverdi‟ and „Sarahart‟. Administrative area covers 4977ha.

The climate is subtropical, with moderately hot and dry summers, and moderate winters. Annual precipitation is 500-600mm. From agro-climatic point of view the area is within intense irrigation zone. Natural landscapes are mountain forests.

Village Arevatsag is located in Alaverdi region. It is located in downstream River Dzoraget, on plateau, at 1270m altitude above the sea level. It has pink felsite reserves of industrial importance. The climate is temperate-mountainous, with long and cold winters. There is a stable snow cover each year. Summers are warm, relatively humid. Annual precipitation is 600-700mm. From agro-climatic point of view the area is within intense irrigation zone.

Village Odzun is locatedin the Lori marz, on the left-bank higher located plateau of Debed gorge. Odzun is one of the largest villages of the marz. It is surrounded by forest-covered mountain ridges. The village is located at 1070-1175m altitudes above sea level.

Village Teghut is located on the right bank of Shnogh River, a tributary to Debed. The climate is temperate and relatively humid throughout the year. Average annual precipitation is 640mm. winter is rather cold, spring is moderate-cold, summer is hot and long and autumn is warm and long.

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Village Shnogh is located in Lori marz, in the eastern part of Gugarats mountain ridge, on the right-bank plateau of the River Debed. The area is covered by hills, there are gorges. From north-western part the village is cut by Debed can yon (with up to 200m depth in the part adjacent to the village. The climate is temperate, with moderate winters, close to tropical. Annual average temperature is 110C, maximum temperature - +380C, minimum -220C. Annual precipitation is 55mm.

The forests surrounding the village are rich with valuable tree species, wild fruits, berries, forage.Mountain slopes, pre-mountain areas, river valleys are covered by fertile lands.

The Alaverdi sub-area‟s settlements under study are located at 510-1175m altitudes and at 180-210m distance from Yerevan and at 50-80km from the marz center .

The number of population in Alaverdi sub-area as of 01.01.2012 is provided in Table 1.

Table 1. The number of population in Alaverdi sub-area

Settlement/ Alaverdi Arevatsag Odzun Teghut Shnogh Number of population 16524 782 5500 887 3365

The settlements are built up mainly with 1-2-storey private houses. In town Alaverdi there are 183, and in village Odzun – 3 multi-apartment buildings.

Thus, the Alaverdiregion‟s settlements are located in the III climatic zone and are characterized by relatively moderate summers and winters. Average annual air temperature is 9.1˚C. Absolute maximum air temperature is +37˚C, absolute minimum air temperature is - 24˚C. Annual precipitation is 593mm.Snow cover thickness reaches 60cm. Soil freezing maximum depth is 50cm.

South and north, north-western winds with 2.1 m/s average velocity are predominant here, once in 20 years winds with 25m/sec velocity are possible.

3.2 Stepanavan sub-area

Stepanavan town is situated at the right and left banks of the Dzoraget River, in the north- western part of the Marz, with its administrative area covering 1667ha. The northern peaks of the mountain range are spread in the south-west of the town and the Ledjan mountain slopes are located to the north-east of the town. There are forests, rich natural reserves of construction materials. The town with its climatic and natural conditions is one of the resort zones of .

The settlements under study are located at 1380-1820m altitudes and at 153-170m distance from Yerevan and at 35-66km from the marz center Vanadzor.

Village Metsavan is located in north-western part of the Lori marz. The climate is temperate, with cool summers and moderate winters. Stable snow cover is rare. Annual precipitation is 700-800mm.

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Village Sarchapet is located in northern part of the Lori marz. The relief is mountainous, very much eroded, with cool summers and moderate winters. Winter duration is 202 days, summer duration is 163 days. Annual average temperature is 3.6ºC, maximum temperature is28-30ºC. Annual precipitation is 700-720mm.

Village Lernahovit is located in the north-eastern part of the Lori Marz. It was founded in 1822-23. Climate is moderate, with long and cold winters and cooll summers. The village is located at 1600-1800m altitudes. It is at 163km distance from Yerevan and at 10km distance from Tashir.

The population is mainly engaged in cattle breeding and agriculture.

Village MetsParni is located in in the south-eastern part of the Lori Marz. Climate is moderate, favorable for agriculture. The population is mainly engaged in cattle breeding and agriculture.

The number of population in Stepanavan sub-area as of 01.01.2012 is provided in Table 2.

Table 2.The number of population in Stepanavan sub-area

Settlement/ Stepanavan Metsavan Sarchapet Mets Parni Lernahovit Number of population 16740 7300 2816 2060 1665

The settleements are built up mainly with 1-2-storey private houses. In town Stepanavan there are 147 multi-apartment buildings.

Thus, the Stepanavanregion is characterized by dry continental climate. Absolute maximum air temperature is +35˚C, absolute minimum air temperature is -31˚C. Annual precipitation is 687mm.South-western (in winter) and western (in summer) winds are predominant here, once in 20 years winds with 41m/sec velocity are possible. Wind pressure – 55kg/m2. Snow cover pressure – 70kg/m2. Soil freezing maximum depth is 58cm.

4. BIODIVERSITY AND SPECIALLY PROTECTED AREAS

4.1 Geological conditions

4.1.1. Alaverdi sub-area

From geomorphologic point of view the area is located on Debed‟s left-bank and right-bank lava plateaus. The lava plateau is represented by basalt and andesite-basalt flows, which stretch along the river, passing to left and to right slopes, sometimes both slopes together and gradually widening, the width of plateau reached up to 2.5km.

The area relief is rather flat, characterized by presence of hilly relief forms common for lava plateaus, with a slight inclination to Debed.

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The hydro geological conditions are conditioned by the geological structure of the area. In general, the area is not rich with ground and underground water, since the Debed river canyon is rather deep; near Tumanyan railway station its depth reaches 350 m and its serves as a natural drain.

According to the RA CC II-6.02.2006 the region in the whole and thus the studied area are included in the II (second) seismic zone. The soil condition coefficient of the site, according to Table 4 is 1.0. The design seismicity with maximum acceleration coefficient (g) will be 0.30g. Amax = 0.30g x 1.0 = 0.30g.

4.1.1. Stepanavan sub-area

From relief point of view the area is located in Lori plateau where the relief belongs to volcanic type and is a slit type mountainous relief.

From geomorphologic point of view it is located in Dzoraget and Tashir river basins (Debed basin).

From hydro-geological point of view the areas are included in the region of fracture waters of various eruptive rocks and are water abundant. Underground waters are related to both volcanic and alluvial rocks.

According to the published literature, underground waters are located at 10.0-15.0m depth, and groundwaters – at 3.0-8m depths that can generate significant flow.

From seismic-tectonic point of view the area is located within the folded zone of Armenia. Acceding to the tectonic map of Armenia, a tectonic fault passes along the Tashir River bed from north-west to south-east. The area is considered a seismically active zone of the Armenian upland.

According to the RA CC II-6.02.2006 the region and the area are included in the II (second) seismic zone, with 0.3g-0.4g background acceleration.

Among dangerous physical-geological processes are extensive surface washing by surface waters, erosion volcanic weathering and destruction.

4.2 Protected areas and biodiversity

The areas under study are located within Lori floristic region that is notable for a series of peculiarities. First of all the plant community characteristic for the region is notable. At the same time, along with steppe, valley formations, tragacanth plants here also forests are represented with dominating Quercus and Fagus. There are also wild Pyrus, Malus, Prunus, as well as bushes of Rosa on cliffs. In the field of Lori there are crop plants and valley-steppe communities, in north-east – Juniperus forests. In the higher-mountainous zone there are sub- Alpine and Alpine valley communities. In general, there occur 6 endemic species in Lori floristic region, there are also around 50 rare and endangered species.

The area is notable for its rich and special biodiversity, high value of geological and landscape complexes and their separate components, unique natural and historical-cultural monuments, health and recreation resources.

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4.2.1. Alaverdi sub-area

Here Teghut forest is located, which once was considered one of the best preserved forest areas in Armenia. The Teghut forest lands are typical grey, brown, and grayish. Hard soils of great thickness are predominant here, rich in humus and low water penetrable. The land surface is covered by fragile forest felt.

Teghut forest has rich biodiversity, including over 200 plant species, 55 mammal species, 86 bird species, 10 reptile species and 4 amphibious species. Many of these plants and animals are rare and are on the verge of annihilation, and 6 plant species and 26 animal species are included in the Red Data Book of Armenia.

The region's forests are of emphasized soil protective, water protective and climate regulation significance, as well as high socio-economic, scientific value and are remarkable for their large diversity of plant species. In the lower part of the forests there Georgian oak trees with mixture of Carpinusorientalis Mill, as well as Shibliak.

Given the Alaverdi sub-area‟s cut relief and diversity of the landscapes, both forest typical fauna and desert typical fauna animal species occur in the area. 15 species registered in both Armenian and the International Red books exist in the area, including Vormelaperegusna, Lutralutrameridionalis, Felissilvestriscaucasica, Pantherapardusciscaucasica, Gyps fulvus, Western Black Woodpecker, European Black Raven, Barred Warbler, Rufous-tailed Rock- thrush, Blue Rock-thrush, Iranian Bluethroat, Iranian Penduline Tit, Wallcreeper.

4.2.2. Stepanavan sub-area

“” reserve is located within the marz area. The protection object of the reserve is relict Pinus forests covering 2586 ha areas. The reserve is located at 8km south-east from Stepanavan. Here is also “Sochut” (Pinus forest) arboretum located within Stepanavan‟s administrative area. It was founded in 1933 and together with its flower beds covers an area of 35ha. With its diversity, beautiful alleys.flower beds it has become a very beautiful museum site and being located in a resort zone, it serves also as a resort place.

Among specially protected natural areas in Lori marz are also “” (protection object – forest animals, area – 5000 ha) and “Mrtavardenu” (Rhododentron) (protection object – relict Caucasian Rhododentron - 10000 ha) reserves, which are at great enough distances from the planned activity site.

In the regions under study the animal species are diverse. Among mammals are wolf, fox, rabbit, jackal, hedgehog, squirrel, etc. Among birds are Accipiter gentilis, wild duck, Perdixperdix, Alaudaarvensis, Coturnixcoturnix, Dendrocopos, etc. Among reptiles are Caucasian grass snake. There are many insects here. In small lakes located on Lori plateau various fish species are bred.

4.2.3. Aquatic ecosystems

Within the project implementation area two important rivers of Armenia are flowing: Debed River, which flows through the Alaverditown and river Dzoraget, which flows through Stepanavan town. In addition, a number of rural settlements are located on the banks of the above rivers‟ tributaries (e.g. Shnogh, Lalvar etc.).

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The River Debed is the largest river in the Kura River Basin. It starts from the conjunction of two rivers, one of which is Pambak, and the other is Dzoraget. The Debed River is the largest by water flowmountain river of Armenia.

Theserivers have rich biodiversity. Fish: Salmotruttafario, Leuciscuscephalusorientalis, Chondrostomaoxyrhynchus, Barbuslacertacyri, and Capoetacapoeta ssp. Among zoobenthos species are both representatives of megabenthos and macrobenthos: Oligochaeta, Hirudinae, Odonata, Ephemero- ptera, etc. Phytoplankton and zoo benthos species are rare here, taking into account the rapid flow of the rivers.

4.2.4. Historical monuments

In the Lori marz about 3000 monumentsare under state protection. Especially remarkable are Sanahin and complexes, Odzoun monastery complex and Tashir castle ruins. In a number of settlements there are cemeteries and sepulchers.

Haghpat and Sanahin monasteries (town Alaverdi) included in the UNESCO World Heritage list are also in the Lori marz. Among the best medieval Armenian architecture and engineering structures is Sanahin Bridge.

The Lori-Berd (Stepanavan town) ruins located in the regionare also of historical significance.

5. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

The Initial environmental examination (IEE) identified that negative impact on landscapes, flora and fauna of the residential areas where improvement of water supply system will be done is not expected.

The detailed environmental examination is planned to be implemented in the course of the detailed design when all the construction or reconstruction sites will be approved.

Based on the detailed environmental examination, the sub component will be estimated by category and if needed, environmental management plan, as well as monitoring plan will be prepared.

In spite of the fact that Lori region is rich with specially protected natural areas and various species of flora and fauna, irreversible adverse impact on landscapes, flora and fauna is not expected during the implementation of water supply system improvement works in the sub- project area, since the construction works will be implemented mainly within the residential areas (see map 1).

The above mentioned protected areas are located at big distances from the residential areas: Gyulagarak pine protected area is at about 8km distance, and “Sochut” dendropark is at 12km distance from Stepanavan town; “Margahovit” and “Caucasian Rose-bay” are at 27-30km distance from Arevatsag village, which is the closest one to them among the residential areas included in the sub-project.

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Teghut forest is located at 2km distance from Teghut village and water supply improvement works in the settlement cannot have any negative impact on the ecosystem of the forest.

The ruins of “Lori-Berd” medieval fortress (at 4.5km from Stepanavan) and Tashir fortress constructed in 3-2 millennium B.C. (at 1km from Tashir), which are of historical-cultural value, also are out of the residential areas and out of impact.

Haghpat, Sanahin, Odzun monastery complexes of historical-cultural value, first two of which are included in UNESCO‟s world heritage list, are also out of direct impact zone of the construction. Haghpat complex is at 10km distance from Alaverdi town.

Sanahin monastery complex is in Sanahin district of Alaverdi town, and Odzun monastery complex is within Odzun village area.

Besides, Sanahin stone bridge, constructed in 12th century and retained to date, is also located in Alaverdi town.

Though the mentioned historic-cultural complexes are within the residential area, where improvement works for water supply system will be implemented, they are out of the direct impact zone of the construction (are located at 1-1.5km and more distance from the construction site).

During implementation of construction works, among the natural ecosystems river ecosystems are the most sensitive, since the rivers are flowing near or through the most part of the residential areas. To exclude or mitigate impacts on these ecosystems, special measures must be developed in the environmental management plan.

Since the planned works are mainly to be implemented within the residential areas, they will have temporal adverse impact on the environment, human health and safety.

The assessments and measures for prevention of all these impacts are provided in the EMMP and site specific EMMP, which are an integral part of the detailed design.

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5.1 Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) Checklist

Country/ IMPROVEMENT OF WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION SYSTEMS Project Title: OF THE RESIDENTIAL AREAS OF RA

Sector Division: “Improvement of water supply and wastewater systems of towns Alaverdi and Stepanavan, and thirteen nearby villages”.

Screening Questions Yes No Remarks Screening Questions A. Project siting

Is the project area 1. Densely populated? X Lori's population density is 74people/km², which is close to the

average value in the Republic (87.6 people/km², without Yerevan). 2. Heavy with development X Construction workwill be activities? partiallyimplemented inStepanavanandAlaverdi, whichare not burdened

bydevelopmentactivities.Alaverdi is burdened with copperoreprocessing.There is nosuchproblem inruralareas. 3. Adjacent to or within any X There are not environmentally environmentally sensitive sensitive areas in the sub-project. areas? In allareas there areculturalheritagesitesto 4. Cultural heritage site X whichspecialattentionshould bepaidduringconstruction. 5. Protected Area X X There are not wetlands in the project 6. Wetland implementation area. There are not mangrove areas in 7. Mangrove X Armenia. Armenia is in theupperstream of 8. Estuarine catchment basins and all X rivers(except LakeSevan basin rivers) flowout of thecountry'sterritory.

9. Buffer zone of protected area X The protected areas with their buffer zones are out of the settlements‟ areas. 10. Special area for protecting X biodiversity

11. BAY Will be revealedduring the detailed

design

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Screening Questions Yes No Remarks Screening Questions B. POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS Will the Project cause… 1. pollution of raw water supply X from upstream wastewater Water supply to the communities is discharge from communities, implemented from underground industries, agriculture, and soil springs erosion runoff? 2. impairment of X historical/cultural

monuments/areas and loss/damage to these sites? 3. hazard of land subsidence caused by excessive ground X It is notapplicable tothis sub-project. water pumping? 4. social conflicts arising from X There is not a problem related to the displacement of communities? displacement of communities within this sub-project. 5. conflicts in abstraction of raw X Drinkingwatersupply within the sub- water for water supply with projectis implemented from other beneficial water uses for undergroundsources,withouttreatmen surface and ground waters? t. Besides,inaccordance

withtherequirements ofthe RA WaterCode, water use for drinkingand household purposes is a priority. 6. unsatisfactory raw water X Drinkingwatersupply within the sub- supply (e.g. excessive projectis implemented from

pathogens or mineral undergroundsources, after constituents)? disinfecting. 7. delivery of unsafe water to Possible in case of the system distribution system? pipeswashing anddisinfectiona will X be excluded if the constructionandoperation standards are respected. 8. inadequate protection of intake X Within theproject works at headwork works or wells, leading to structuresare not planned. pollution of water supply? 9. over pumping of ground water, leading to salinization and X Not applicable for this sub-project. ground subsidence? 10. excessive algal growth in X Reservoir water is chlorinated and is

storage reservoir? stored respecting the operatingrules. 11. increase in production of X Communitiesdo not have sewage beyond capabilities of sewagesystems, and thetowns of community facilities? AlaverdiandStepanavan have 45-60% sewage, but do not have treatment plants. 12. inadequate disposal of sludge X Not applicable for this sub-project. from water treatment plants?

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Screening Questions Yes No Remarks Screening Questions 13. inadequate buffer zone around X pumping and treatment plants Designdocumentsare preparedbythe to alleviate noise and other urban planning norms. possible nuisances and protect facilities? 14. impairments associated with X Meeting of urban development transmission lines and access standardsduring design and roads? construction 15. health hazards arising from X inadequate design of facilities Allfacilitiesaredesignedbyurbanandsa for receiving, storing, and nitarynorms handling of chlorine and other hazardous chemicals. 16. health and safety hazards to X workers from handling and management of chlorine used for disinfection, other In case of maintainingthesafetyrules contaminants, and biological and physical hazards during project construction and operation? 17. dislocation or involuntary X

resettlement of people? 18. disproportionate impacts on X the poor, women and children, Sub-projectImpactis the sameon

Indigenous Peoples or other allgroups. vulnerable groups? 19. noise and dust from Will betemporaryin nature. X construction activities? duringconstruction 20. increased road traffic due to Will betemporaryin nature. interference of construction X duringconstruction activities? 21. continuing soil erosion/silt Will be prevented as a result of best runoff from construction X constructionpracticesandimplementat operations? ion of the EM plan. 22. delivery of unsafe water due to X poor O&M treatment The problem of mud accumulations processes (especially mud in filters is not applicable, and the accumulations in filters) and monitoring of chlorine residuals in

inadequate chlorination due to distribution systems is implemented lack of adequate monitoring of by the RA MNP, in the established chlorine residuals in order. distribution systems? 23. delivery of water to distribution system, which is No corrective chemicals are used corrosive due to inadequate X during operation of this system. attention to feeding of corrective chemicals? 24. accidental leakage of chlorine X If technicalsecurity is provided gas?

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Screening Questions Yes No Remarks Screening Questions 25. excessive abstraction of water affecting downstream water X Underground wateruse users? 26. competing uses of water? X Drinking -household water use is a

priority 27. increased sewage flow due to Wastewaterdisposalin X increased water supply ruralareasremainsan openquestion 28. increased volume of sullage In the absence of (wastewater from cooking and treatmentplantsgrowth inthe volume X washing) and sludge from ofsludgearising fromthemis wastewater treatment plant impossible 29. large population influx during X project construction and operation that causes increased burden on social infrastructure The project volumesare quitesmall. and services (such as water supply and sanitation systems)? 30. social conflicts if workers X Under the project it is encouraged from other regions or countries touselocallabor are hired? 31. risks to community health and X safety due to the transport, storage, and use and/or Will be prevented as a result of best disposal of materials such as constructionpracticesandimplementat explosives, fuel and other ion of the EM plan. chemicals during operation and construction? 32. community safety risks due to X both accidental and natural hazards, especially where the structural elements or The problems of the components of the project are communityresidents‟ healthsecurity accessible to members of the are regulated within the framework

affected community or where of EM plan, and the impact their failure could result in ofnaturalhazards, by management of injury to the community forcemajeure. throughout project construction, operation and decommissioning?

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Figure 1. Lori subproject layout

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