Draft Initial Environmental Examination - Updated March 2010

Draft Initial Environmental Examination Updated August 2012 ______

Bhutan: Urban Infrastructure Development Project Project Number: 38049

Prepared by K.D Chamling, Environment Engineer, Project Management Consultants Department of Urban Development and Engineering Services, Ministry of Works and Human Settlement, Thimphu

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

Asian Development Bank

Table of Contents _ Section Page

I. INTRODUCTION ...... 1

II. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT ...... 1 A. PROJECT TYPE ...... 1 Infrastucture ...... 1 B. PROJECT CATEGORY ...... 1 C. NEED FOR THE PROJECT ...... 1 D. PROJECT SCOPE ...... 1 E. PROJECT COMPONENTS IN THIMPHU ...... 2 F. PROJECT COMPONENTS IN PHUENTSHOLING ...... 5 G. PROJECT COMPONENTS IN DAGANA ...... 5 H. INSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT COMPONENTS ...... 6 I. COST ESTIMATES ...... 7 J. PIGGY-BACKED ADVISORY TA ...... 7 K. IMPLEMENTATION ARRANGEMENTS ...... 8

III. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT ENVIRONMENT ...... 8 A. PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT ...... 8 B. ECOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT ...... 12

IV. SCREENING OF POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES ...... 15

V. INSTITUTIONAL REQUIREMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN ..... 26 A. INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS ...... 26 B. APPROACH AND RATIONALE FOR MONITORING ...... 27 C. EXISTING CAPACITIES AND TRAINING REQUIREMENTS FOR MONITORING . 28 D. MONITORING PLAN ...... 29

VI. PUBLIC CONSULTATION & INFORMATION DISCLOSURE ...... 33

VII. FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 35

VIII. CONCLUSION ...... 37

ATTACHMENT 4A ...... 38 COMPLIANCE WITH NATIONAL LEGISLATION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL CLEARANCE AND MANAGEMENT ATTACHMENT 4B …………………………………………………………………………...... 43 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLANS FOR THE PROJECT TOWNS ATTACHMENT 4C ...... 55 STRATEGY AND OUTLINE OF A PUBLIC AWARENESS RAISING PROGRAM ATTACHMENT 4D ...... 59 RECORDS OF PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS

I. INTRODUCTION

1. The Urban Municipal Development Project (UMDP) will improve priority urban infrastructure and urban services in Thimphu City, Phuentsholing City and Dagana Town, such that the existing environmental situation is improved and that the capacity of existing infrastructure is upgraded to cope with ongoing expansion. This is to be achieved by (i) improving urban infrastructure planning; (ii) constructing urban roads, drainage, other urban facilities; (iii) increasing water treatment, supply, and sanitation coverage; (iv) enhancing community awareness on proper hygiene; and (v) providing capacity building trainings in urban facility management to staff of project cities and towns, and Ministry of Works & Human Settlement (MoWHS). Expansion in towns around the country is taking place both as a result of population growth and of rural to urban migration. Priority infrastructure to be developed or upgraded includes roads, drainage, water supply, wastewater collection and treatment, and solid waste management. The project is directly aimed at sustained improvements in the urban environment.

2. Although substantial environmental improvements will result from the project, there are potential adverse impacts associated with location, design, construction and operation of the proposed infrastructure. This IEE examines the potential impacts and identifies mitigation measures to order to avoid adverse impacts and maximize beneficial impacts to the extent possible. The IEE is prepared according to the ADB’s Environmental Assessment Guidelines, 2003. Requirements for the Environmental Assessment of projects in Bhutan are set out in the Environmental Assessment Act, 2000. In addition, certain clearance is required for activities that will be carried out under the project .Requirements for compliance with the Act are in detail in Attachment A.

II. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT

A. Project Type

3 Infrastructure. The project will consist of improvements of selected urban infrastructure. The environmental screening process has therefore followed the checklist for roads projects given in the ADB Environmental Guidelines for Selected Infrastructure Projects. Checklists provided in Environmental Assessment Guidelines (2003).

B. Project Category

4 Category B. The appropriate category for these roads according to the ADB's classification is B.

C. Need for the Project

5 The project towns are vulnerable to the effects of unplanned urban expansion, fuelled by both population growth and rural-urban migration, notably the build-up of wastes, poor traffic circulation and poor public health. Planned expansion and improvement of existing urban infrastructure is necessary to guard against these risks, and in managerial capacities, are required to ensure both maintenance and continued expansion of the infrastructure. The project seeks to provide priority infrastructure to minimize these effects and to support the City Corporations of Thimphu and Phuentsholing, and the Dzongkhag Administration in Dagana, as well as foster improvements and legal and policy development will enhance capacities.

D. Project Scope

6 The Project will have five components. Component A: Thimphu Urban Improvement will include (i) city-level works consisting of water supply source augmentation, treatment and distribution; upgrading of the existing waste water treatment plant; and provision of solid waste management

1 infrastructure and equipment; and (ii) local area-level urban infrastructure provision in four, out of the five new local areas of southern Thimphu currently being developed by TCC. Component B: Phuentsholing Urban Improvement will include (i) roads and drainage; (ii) footpaths and pedestrian bridge; and (iii) social infrastructure such as fire hydrants and street lighting. Component C: Dagana Urban Improvement will include (i) water supply source augmentation, treatment and distribution system improvement; (ii) sanitation improvement; and (iii) roads and drainage provision. Component D: Technical Support will include (i) Capacity building to improve operational efficiencies of project cities and Dagana Dzongkhag; and (ii) Public awareness support. Component E: Project Implementation Support will include (i) Consulting services for Project Management Unit (PMU); and (iii) Consulting services to support Project Implementation Units (PIUs) for Design, Monitoring, and Supervision.

E. Project Components in Thimphu

7 The work to be undertaken in Thimphu is based on the 10 Local Area Plans (LAP) developed by TCC. The work involves a combination of infrastructure, utility services, environmental consideration and social issues. The selection process, in conjunction with TCC, narrowed down the project areas to 4 LAPs. The selection of the priority works was then made based on the TCC Urban Corridor strategy also with regard to environmental criteria, which were prioritized according to the most important environmental issues with emphasis on the alleviation of waste accumulation problems. The construction strategy involves constructing all services (roads, drainage, water reticulation, sewerage collection system, power and communications) along the corridors selected to that retrospective construction, and hence digging up of the new roads, is avoided. Also included are works to expand and improve essential services (defined as City Level Works) are required to service the whole area before any development can occur. These are in the Water, Sanitation, and Solid Waste collection areas.

1. City Level Works

8 Water. The overall needs for the upgrading of the water supply are to be met by headworks development of the South Thimphu system. This comprises the design and construction of an intake, water treatment plant, treated water transmission pipeline and offtakes to supply the distribution networks within the local areas. It is proposed that an intake each be constructed on the Bodhi chhu 1 and 2. The selection of this source has been made with regard to the needs of downstream water users. To obtain a safe yield of the stream, TCC established a gauging station and gathered flow data. The information gathered revealed a total discharge of 190 l/sec against a total requirement of 150 l/sec, which is about 79% of the total volume in the stream. This leaves sufficient volume of as environmental flow in the stream. This is essential from an environmental point of view in order to obtain a reliable appreciation of the adequacy of the source, and to determine permissible extraction levels that do no deplete stream water flows.

9 A water treatment plant is to be built at 3.2 km from the intake at an elevation that would enable gravity supply to the entire South Thimphu area, thus avoiding the need for costly pumping. Based on the demand projections and fully-developed catchment conditions, the long-term capacity of the plant should be about 150 L/s. However, a 75 L/s first phase would be adequate for the next 10 years. Hence, a 6,500 m3/d capacity plant is to be constructed. The plant is yet to be designed. The site area will be sized for ultimate production capacity needs (13,000 m3/d), and will include the plant, workshop and administration buildings, living quarters for operations staff, storage and a clear water tank. 1.5 acre of government land had been acquired for the treatment plant.

10 The treated water transmission pipelined will be approximately 24 km long and by following the contours it will retain sufficient elevation for gravity supply to the local area distribution networks. Where practical the pipeline would be laid in existing road reserves. A new 1.2 km -sealed access will be constructed along some sections of the pipeline to allow for maintenance and repairs. A 350 mm diameter pipeline will be constructed along some sections of the pipeline to allow for maintenance and repairs. A 350 mm diameter pipeline of concrete lined -mild steel (MS) construction will have adequate

capacity for the long-term design flow of 150 L/s. The transmission system would also include offtakes and 300 m3 ground-level storage for supplying the four local areas and extension to the existing Changjiji network. Five break pressure tanks of varying capacity viz. Chamgang main line (near Sawmill) – 1 number of 600 m3 , Lungtenphu – 3 numbers of 25 m3 , and Babesa – 2 numbers of 40 m3 and 25 m3 and -7 storage tanks with a total capacity of 2805 m3 {Lungtenphu LAP – 2 nos. (360+450) m3 , Simtokha LAP - I no. (735 m3), Babesa – 2 nos. (360+360) m3, and Changbangdu LAP – 2 nos. (270+270) m3 will also be constructed.

11 The city-level works would also include procurement of some equipment as a precursor to implementing an Unaccounted for Water reduction program in the city core area. Specifically, leak detection instruments, three portable flow meters, six pressure meters and three Global Positioning System instruments would be purchased for field surveys to identify leakages in the system. Five mains (or bulk) water meters (4 nos. for storage tanks and 1 no. electromagnetic flow meter for WTP) would be purchased and installed at all treatment plants to allow accurate recording of water produced. In all, these measures would enable TCC to determine more reliably the actual unaccounted-for water and so develop and embark on a program for its reduction. 12 Wastewater and Sanitation. The existing wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) at Babesa will be overloaded in 2012 as per the original design. With small modifications of the inlet works, overloading is possible until 2014/2015 without threat to the environment. A new site just downstream the existing treatment plant can be obtained. Major part is actually a riverbed and a marshy area. Sufficient land can be reclaimed (as has been done when the existing treatment plant was constructed) thus resolving the land availability problem. With rapid urbanization development taking place the capacity will have to be increased from the existing 1,750 m3/day to 17,045 m3/day by 2024 for a population of 160,000. A flow meter will be installed at the WWTP.

13 The existing 500 mm diameter trunk collector pipeline has adequate capacity for flows of about 200 L/s and would not need to be upgraded until after the year 2016 based on the proposed works. This would mean the local sewer reticulation network from each local area could be linked to the collector pipeline and conveyed to the Babesa WWTP for treatment.

14 Solid Waste Management. Drainage improvements and environment protection works at the existing landfill site at Memilakha. The specific works proposed include: perimeter cut off drains to divert rainfall runoff around the site from upstream areas; interceptor drains to capture site runoff; and a leachate collection pond. These works are considered necessary to reduce the environmental impact from the site and also the potential effects on health of the nearby residents. In addition an electrical substation, access road upgrade, and perimeter fencing to operationalize the Serbithang Pilot Composting Plant; a sorting and recycling center will be constructed to enable waste separation and facilitate recycling, and waste collection equipment will be collected to allow separation of waste at source and to minimize the need for waste disposal at the landfill.

2. Local Area Works

15 Changbangdu Local Area. The proposed development roadworks in Changbangdu concentrate firstly on the area around the Expressway and then extend part way up the hill towards the top area. These works are shown on Figure 25 in the Technical Report 2. The works consist of the main access road, a section of the road leading to the upper area, and a road which heads down the hill and passes underneath the Expressway at the new bridge. This latter section of road services the area between the Expressway and the Wangchu Chhu.The proposed road works crosses the main drainage stream in the LAP on 5 occasions and will require some large drainage structures.

15 Lungtenphu Local Area. The extent of work in this LAP is confined to the flatter lower area and will concentrate on developing the major roads to provide the major feeder roads in the area. The majority of the roads have been cut to a basic bench on the approximate alignments in conjunction with the demarcation of the plots. The roads to be constructed are 1710.32m of 12.0m width, 1185.54m of 3

10.0m width, 513.53m of 9.0m width, 495.705m of 8m width, 716.064m of 6.3m width, 159.26m of 6m width and 3757.44m of 4.5m width. Traffic flow paths will be quite good with access and egress from the Expressway at several points. The construction of the major roads will allow good movement across the LAP and also access through to Simtokha LAP and its road network. There is one intersection near the Neighborhood Node where a roundabout has been shown and is considered that this would be an appropriate treatment. The remainder of the intersections within the LAP are well spaced and should not cause problems. It is expected that the traffic priorities will be able to be sorted out by using the appropriate signs. Drainage for the area is also well defined in the LAP with the major channels being marked. It will be necessary to incorporate Box Culverts under some of these major drainage lines where they cross the roads.

16 Simtokha Local Area. The extent of work in Simtokha LAP is to develop the relatively flat area along the river bank adjacent to the Expressway.. This flatter area will require relatively low retaining walls so that the construction will have low earthworks. The roads to be constructed consist of 1528.075m of 10.0m width, 2083.18m of 8.0m width, 623.93m of 6m width and 1241.41m of 5.5m width. This LAP has good traffic flow as the old highway and the new Expressway service the area. Two major internal roads provide good corridors for movement within and through the LAP. There is a service road along the Expressway and traffic priorities have been sorted out by the provision of one access point and an egress point in Babesa LAP by using an underpass at the new bridge now under construction. The other intersections are uncomplicated and the priorities can be assigned by the use of appropriate signage. Drainage will be along the road network and connect into the present streams and green reserved areas. Culvert crossings will be required where the streams cross the main roads.

17 Babesa Local Area. The development of this LAP will be undertaken in 3 strips parallel to the river. The area below the Expressway and adjacent to the WWTP will have the major feeder and access roads developed. The next section above the Expressway will continue construction of the adjoining roads in Simtokha LAP and this will complete the access to both of the major roads. The third section for development is above the Phuentsholing Highway in the area adjacent to the Babesa Primary School. This construction will open up some of the upper areas of the LAP. The roads to be constructed consist of 3355.07m of 10.0m width, 787.59m of 9.0m width, 291.69m of 8.0m width, 3975.87m of 6.0m width and 1750.13m of 4.5m width. Traffic flows to the area can be obtained by the Expressway, the existing highway and by 2 links between them. Internally, there is a major road, which will circulate traffic around the area, and access and egress can be obtained at 2 points from this upper area. Movement in and out of the LAP can be along the major highways or by connections to main roads in other bordering LAPs. The accesses onto the existing highway will require some prioritization of traffic and it is anticipated that the flows will dictate an intersection controlled by Stop signs. It would also be advisable to incorporate splitter islands to achieve better flows and priority demarcation. Drainage will be along the roads and feed into the main creek within the central park of the area. Culverts will be required under the roads and the capacity will need to be checked for the crossing under the highway.

3. Community Infrastructure

18 Community infrastructure is proposed at the various neighborhood nodes in order to reduce the need for local residents to go to the city core area for such facilities. These would include social amenities such as basic health units (BHU) and crèches which will be particularly helpful for women and infants. The facilities would be operated by the TCC. Other social amenities include community halls, pedestrian bridges for safer road crossings at the neighborhood nodes, and parking areas for buses and taxis. Green areas and playgrounds would provide a place for children and families would be a great social asset to the people of Thimphu. Street lighting is proposed along selected road sections to provide greater public safety in the outer areas. The inclusion of this item would be dependent on the electricity network being extended into those areas. However, these items are now not in the scope of works.

F. Project Components in Phuentsholing

19 The proposed works for Phuentsholing have been developed in conjunction with priorities indicated by PCC. There are several categories of work for Phuentsholing, including road improvements, drainage, footpaths, sewerage extensions, social facilities such as parks and playgrounds as well as traffic flow improvements and pedestrian facilities. Considering that the city core is of small area, the works have been grouped by areas rather than work types. This ensures that one contractor is responsible for one area eliminating any overlaps and hence delays in implementing the works. The work will be undertaken in various packages as prioritized and detailed below. The re-packaging has been formalized through the Project Steering Committee.

20 Package 1 (PCC/Roads/001)

a) Roads from PCC office to KMT Press (meat processing Plant) b) Construction of Road and Parking at old Karten Oil Mill c) Parking Near Pay & Use toilet (scrap yard) d) Improvement of Recreation ground (Archery, Khuru & Daghor ground) e) Up-gradation of PSA ground to Mini Stadium

21 Package 2 (PCC/Elect/001) a) Street lighting b) Purchase of fire hydrant

22 Package 3 PCC/Roads/Combined i) Pedestrian overpass near RICB Junction ii) Pedestrian Bridge over Om chu iii) RICBL junction improvement iv) Junction improvement near CMI (near Lyonpo Leki’s Building) v) Road improvement from auction Yard junction to WTP vi) Road connecting Phuentsholing-Thimphu Highway to Gaki Lam vii) Parking near Bus Terminal (RSTA) viii) Development of community Park in front of RICBL office ix) Footpath from Thimphu Highway to Pemaling Housing. x) Widening of Norkhil Lam from Namgay Phodrang Building (old vegetable market) to Dhuti Bridge. xi) Drainage improvement and road widening along Thuen Lam.

1. Community Infrastructures

23 There is a shortage of social amenities and recreational areas in Phuentsholing which is supported by the results of the community perception survey conducted this project. The community infrastructure proposed for inclusion includes 1) Archery, Khuru and Daghor Ground 2) Mini stadium 3) children's park and playground 4) street lighting 5) vegetable market 6) footpaths.

G. Project Components in Dagana

24 The proposed work is to provide assistance in the roads, water and sanitation areas. The roads to be developed/improved are in 2 separate areas which will greatly assist the Dagana Administration in providing good quality services. The second area is in improving the water supply, which is inadequate. Sanitation is also included for the currently developing housing development.

25 Roads. The first area is to continue the work that has already commenced. The Dagana Administration has done all the preliminary negotiations with the landowners so that there are no land issues to deal with. This will allow the project to commence quickly and without delays and it will also 5 reinforce the development direction that the Administration has embarked on. The second project site is at the NHDC colony. This is undergoing considerable development construction at present and the upgrading of the access road will ensure reliable access to the site. The works to be constructed will be in accordance with the Urban Rods Design Standards 2002, so that construction methods are country specific and well known to contractors. This will comprise improvement of 1.1km of main roads in the new high street development area and the road leading to the National Housing Development Corporation colony, and associated roadside drainage. These works will be contingent on the findings of a slope stability study to be carried out under a piggy-backed Advisory TA.

26 Water Supply. The water supply component of the Project in Dagana comprises development of a new source, simple water filtration facility and a distribution pipe network in the built up area. The new headworks is needed as the quantity and quality various throughout the year. The water is not treated and so people residents need to boil the water prior to consumption. Turbidity during the rainy season is high and given the poor condition of the raw water transmission main, breakages are frequent leading to water shortages.

27 The proposed new source at Woobjilum is approximately 8 km from the town. Two new intakes will be constructed and the existing intake rehabilitated. A 65 mm diameter pipeline from the source to the town would be adequate for at least the next 10 years. A treatment facility of 300 m3/day capacity comprising filtration and disinfection should be located just to the northwest of the town centre. This would enable a piped supply to all areas of the town, including the Dzong, by gravity. Additionally, an on-ground storage tank will also be provided for back up in case of disruptions to the raw water transmission main and for fire fighting purposes. These facilities will be located on an area of 0.5 hectares. Eight km of main supply pipeline for water supply by gravity will be provided to serve all areas of the town. The main line from the source will follow the existing footpath where the damage to the existing vegetation is minimal. However at the beginning of the source for about 600m approximate the alignment passes through a steep and rocky terrain. Additional precautionary measures have to be in place during the time of laying the pipes. A footpath needs to be constructed along the alignment to enable the workers to safely access the site and later for regular maintenance purposes. Two break pressure tanks will be constructed. Further network development will be contingent on the findings of the slope stability study to be undertaken under a piggy-backed TA.

28 Sanitation. At present people commonly use house-level pit latrines, which they change at 2- year intervals. Bathing and showering are done at community standpipes. Water from the bathing area is freely discharged to the nearest drainage path. As the population density increases, particularly in the vicinity of the main street, this will become a health risk to people living nearby. Therefore, sanitation is considered as an emerging problem and septic tanks are not considered as a suitable system. The project proposes to install a Packaged Treatment Plant (Eco-Line system) similar to the currently being constructed by Tsirang Dzongkhag, with a capacity of treatment plant for 1500 population. The treatment plant would serve the present proposed town of 1325, (including the Higher secondary School, town community, Dagana Dzongkhag staff, Forest Office and BHU). The DD has identified and acquired two parcels of land belonging to (i) Ms. Lhadon Dorji for the construction of packaged Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) and (ii) Lham Migma for the construction of approach road to STP. Approximately 200 meters of HDPE pipe will be embedded 1 meter deep in the ground to dispose safely the effluent into a natural gully. The effluent will not affect any community as there are no settlements near to the STP. The STP is for treatment of domestic sewage only.

H. Institutional Development Components

29 Capacity building under the project will be achieved through the involvement of the PMU at central level, and the PIUs within the City Corporations and with the Dzongkhag Administration in Dagana. Institutional capacities will be enhanced at the local level by promoting active involvement of counterpart staff in the day-to-day management of the project. This will be enhanced by additional support provided through the Capacity Building assistance packages, providing the opportunity for

technology transfer. The Capacity Building Packages will cover the areas of Technical Support, Operational Efficiency Improvements, Public Support and Financial Management Enhancement. A further potential contributor to overall capacity for construction and maintenance for infrastructure is the private sector. The capacity of private contractor firms engaged to undertake physical works under the project will be enhanced through careful contract document preparation and contract supervision, such that contractors are obliged to adhere to high but realistic quality standards, including environmental and social safeguarding. A mechanism for capacity building of the private sector is the engagement of competent international firms through International Competitive Bidding, making association with local contractors a requirement. The involvement of PIU staff in contract supervision will help develop the institutional relationship between public and private sector for infrastructure construction, operation and maintenance.

I. Cost Estimates

1. The total cost of the Project is estimated at $30.75 million equivalent (including taxes $7.7 million), of which $9.41 million (30.8%) is the foreign exchange cost including $1.0 million in interest charges during construction, and $21.11 million equivalent (69.2%) is the local currency cost.

J. Piggy-backed Advisory TA: Capacity Building for Urban Planning

2. An advisory TA will be provided to address issues critical to municipal planning and the further development of municipal infrastructure. It will have the following components:

3. Solid Waste Management Strategy and Action Plan for Thimphu. Development of a comprehensive Solid Waste Management Strategy and Action Plan will be carried out under the TA, identifying concrete short-term, medium-term and long-term measures to minimize and manage solid waste for Thimphu. While the short-term measures may include rehabilitation of the existing landfill site and composting plant, medium to long-term measures will include identification of future landfill site and transfer station near Truck Parking for Thimphu, improvement in waste segregation at source and waste collection.

4. Geotechnical and Slope Stability Study of Dagana High Street Development. A Geotechnical and Slope Stability Study will be conducted for the new High Street development in Dagana to ensure its long-term stability and minimize potential risks to the development and its inhabitants. This study will be completed prior to commencement of any design and physical works under subcomponent b and c of Component C. Based on the recommendations of Geotechnical and Slope Stability study, drainage system improvement, sub-soil drainages and retaining walls have been constructed which has provided some stability to the slope. The slope stability works are now complete.

5. Unaccounted-for-Water Reduction and Water Calibration. The current financial records of TCC and PCC show that both City Corporations' water supply operations are self-sustaining with general maintenance costs recovered through existing tariffs. However, water tariffs are generally low and revenue collected covers mostly chemical, electrical, and some repair costs, but is unable to cover needed repair and expansion of water coverage. Wastewater tariffs have been introduced by both TCC and PCC, and are pegged at 50% of water rates. Therefore, the foundations for some cost recover in water and sanitation are in place. However, due to an acute shortage of skilled professionals and technicians, systems are starting to deteriorate and unaccounted for water (UFW) are typically 25% to 30%, despite the fact the systems are not that old. The TA will (i) develop an understanding within the PCC and TCC of the procedures for identifying the nature of UFW, (ii) prepare UFW reduction program including performance-based bid invitation documents, and progress monitoring, and (iii) recommend establishing a national center for calibrating and repairing water meters (bulk and connections), which can involve private sector participation in the future. 7

K. Implementation Arrangements

6. The project will be managed by a 3 tier structure consisting of a Project Steering Committee, a Project Management Unit (PMU) located at DUDES and three Project Implementation Units (PIUs) located at TCC, PCC and Dagana Dzongkhag administration. It will be implemented over a period of 6 years, expected to commence during the fourth quarter of 2006. Local procurement is preferred for goods and services, though this is judged not to be practical in all situations. Consulting services are to be engaged for final design work.

7. This project will implement its works in a way that will an equitable distribution of development. The works in Thimphu have been programmed so that the most desirable works, from a planning and a needs perspective will be implemented first. This will provide a quicker response to the community needs and relieve pressure on TCC. The works for Phuentsholing and Dagana ensure that there is a regional balance throughout the project which reinforces the need for equity enunciated by the Government.

8. The World Bank is also embarking on a similar programme in the northern LAPs of Thimphu and cooperation between the project will be evident in the sharing of data and methodology. It is envisaged that this will lead to more competitive bidding and hence a least cost implementation of works.

9. Some resettlement will be necessary. The Project minimizes land acquisition and resettlement and subproject selection included a criterion on resettlement impacts. To the extent possible, priority was given to subprojects involving rehabilitation within the premises of existing urban infrastructure facilities, and construction of new facilities in Government land. Resettlement impacts have further been minimized through careful siting and aligning and using technical solutions during design. A Resettlement Plan (RP) prepared for the Project has been updated and finalized. The Resettlement Framework (RF) has been updated and uploaded in the ADB website.

III. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT ENVIRONMENT

10. The description of the environment of the project covers the physical environment (topography, soil, geology, water, climate, air, and noise), the ecological environment (protected areas, biological corridors, vegetation, wildlife, forestry management units) and the socio-economic environment population, economic activities. A description of these follows, which will be further developed following detailed site visits and consultations, to appear in the IEE report.

A. Physical Environment

1. Topography

11. Topographical features of the country comprise the High Himalayas in the northern region with many peaks and plateaus, north-south running ranges and deep valleys in the central region and foothills in the south of the country. Almost all flat land beyond the foothills lies over the border, in India.

12. Thimphu. Thimphu district, the capital of Bhutan covers an area of 2,232 km2. It falls within the section of north-south running ranges. The capital city of Thimphu, which occupies an area of 26 km2, is situated in the Wang Chhu river valley. The city is built mostly on the relatively flat valley floor, with some limited development on the steep valley sides. Restrictions are imposed on further development of the valley sides. Elevations range from 2,200masl to 2,400 masl approximately.

13. Phuentsholing. Phuentsholing town is located in the extreme south-western part of Chhukha district sharing its boundary with India. It falls within the southern belt of the country where the Himalayan foothills descend into the Indian plains. The town is built on the lower extremities of the

foothills, and has only a minor extent of flat land. Topography around the core of the town is generally undulating, but there is considerable and expanding development on the sleeper periphery. Elevations range from 190masl to 320masl approximately.

14. Dagana. The district of Dagana is located in the south-western part of the country, adjacent to Chhukha district, which is made up of high north-south ranges with river terraces and high side valley fans, the main range being the Dagala range. The town of Dagana itself occupies a hillside, with the central historical administrative building the Dzong, occupying a prominent spur. Elevations range from 1470masl to 1680masl approximately, with development concentrated largely alongside the two principal roads, which broadly follow contours.

2. Geology and Soils

15. The country is divided into two broad geological zones, the Lesser Himalayan belt along the southern and south-eastern border and the Tethyan belt in remaining parts. The Lesser Himalayan formation includes a wide range of sedimentary and low grade metamorphic rocks including argillites and metargillites, sandstones, quartzites, limestone, dolomite and gypsum. The Tethyan formation mainly includes stronger gneisses which accounts for more than 70 per cent of the country's bedrock and schists and marble, affording a relatively high degree of stability, compared to other locations in the Himalayas.

16. Soil types are greatly influenced by the nature of surface material formed from different kinds of nature processes such as glacial and peri-glacial deposition, colluvium, debris flows, river alluvia and windblown material. General trends are increase in leaching, acidification and podzolisation with increase in altitude together with slower decomposition and greater accumulation of organic matter.

17. Thimphu. Thimphu district falls in the Tethyan belt and bedrock comprises mainly gneiss and Tethyan metasediments, schists, quartzite and limestone. The valley flow on which the city is situated bears soil with a high content of alluvium which has been deposited over time by the Wang Chhu river.

18. Phuentsholing. Geological formations of Chukha district include tectonically active sedimentary and meta-sedimentary rocks of the Lesser Himalayan formation and gneiss, schist, quartzite and limestone. The "main central thrust"1 area falls close to the Phuentsholing town, hence it is underlain mostly by schistose rocks. The majority of the soil in and around the town is comprised of weaker phyllites. This makes the soil texture very fine and hence the slopes very unstable.

19. Dagana. The bedrock in this district is mostly made up of relatively strong gneiss, schist, quartzite and limestone with some intrusions. Parts of the rocks belong to the Lesser Himalayan rocks and some to the Tethyan rocks. Soils in the area are dominated by temperate forest soils, featuring mainly podzols and stagnogleys which are generally sufficiently fertile to sustain crop production.

3. Water Resources

20. Water resources in Bhutan, fed by precipitation over the mountain and hill ranges, consist principally of a network of mountain streams and rivers, which form four major river basins. Groundwater occurs in porous sediments and fractured rock deposits around the country, feeding seasonal or perennial springs that are an important water source in rural areas, as is evident from frequent springs on hillsides around the country. Existing and projected uses of water are considerable and despite the abundance of the resource, the management of water resources as a whole is a high national priority. Uses such as hydropower, increased agricultural self sufficiency and expanding industry are all central to the country's development strategy. There is a need for reliable and permanent data gather facilities.

1 This refers to a series of thrusts that occurred to the rocks when the Indian and Eurasian continental plates collided and resulted in the uplift of the Himalayas. 9

21. Thimphu. The Wang Chhu river which flows through Thimphu is the principal river of the Wang Chhu basin, one of the four principal river basins in the country. The river flow varies from a low of 3 to 5 m3/s in January/February, to around 135 m3/s in some years in August/September. The river is relatively clean in comparison to other rivers in Himalayan towns but does contain significant levels of pollutants and pathogens. Two tributaries near the southern part of the city, the Olarong Chhu and the Nabarang Chhu, are similarly fast flowing and relatively clean. Waste from the city is a significant source of contaminants.

22. Testing was undertaken in October 2005 for sulphate, nitrate, phosphate and turbidity for the Wang Chhu, the mouth of the Olerang Chhu, and for three stormwater drains in the city:

Table 1 Results of water quality testing of stream water Wang Chhu Olarong Chhu North of city Upstream Downstream Upstream of Downstream Near in-flow boundary of boundary of WWTP of WWTP to Wang core area core area Chhu Nitrate (mg/L) 1.8 1.7 1.9 1.4 1.8 1.8 Phosphate 0.04 0.01 0.07 0.07 0.03 0.05 (mg/L) Turbidity (NTU) 0.5 1.0 1.0 2.0 2.0 1.0 Notes: 1. Faecal coliform was detected in each location, but not quantified. 2. No sulphates were detected in stream water 3. The Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP) is located at Babesa, south of the city core

Table 2: Results of water quality testing of stormwater drains Location of drain Opposite Post Office, Nr. Swimming Pool, city S. Thimphu near WWTP city core core Sulphate (mg/L) 22 10 11 Nitrate (mg/L) 4 2.6 3.0 Phosphate (mg/L) 0.73 0.39 1.52 Turbidity (NTU) 13 2.7 25 Notes: 1. Faecal coliform was detected in each location, but not quantified. 2. The drain in South Thimphu also serves as an irrigation channel

23. The figures for Wang Chhu show increasing turbidity through the city, though levels of nitrate and phosphate show no marked increase, despite the distinct presence of these in the city's stormwater drains. Levels of sulphate, nitrate and phosphate in stormwater drains suggest some household wastewater enters the drains. Concentrations of pollutants are likely to rise in the winter, when flows in the Wang Chhu are markedly lower.

24. Phuentsholing. The Amo Chhu river, one of the major rivers in Bhutan, originating in China and flowing through a well defined valley system, encounters the alluvial plain, where banks are weaker and the river is prone to change its course. The river has caused substantial land erosion near Phuentsholing. Flow discharges can reach as high as 1000 m3/s and flooding can occur.

25. Dagana. Two tributaries of Darachhu and Dagachhu drain the area of Dagana district and flow into the Sankosh river then flows into the Punatsangchhu basin.

4. Climate

26. The general climate of the country is wet and hot in the south, dry and cold in the north, dry and warm in the inner valleys most and cool on the north-south ranges and alpine, arctic in the High Himalayas. Temperatures vary with altitude with lapse rates of 0.5 to 0.6 degrees centigrade per 100m of altitude and mean air temperatures ranging from over 20°C to below zero.

27. The country receives relatively high rainfall with the monsoon season falling between June and September. Rainfall varies markedly with elevation and according to the interaction between the direction of flow of moist air during the summer, and topography, reducing rapidly as altitude increases as the rain-shadow areas such as some of the northern and western facing slopes of the interior valleys. The average annual rainfall in Bhutan is 1,150 mm. The eastern part of the country, where the project towns are situated, receives rainfall in the range of 600 to 3,000 mm, a greater variation than is encountered in the Western part.

28. Thimphu. Thimphu's climate is characterized as cool and temperate. Temperatures range from 0°C in winter to around 18°C in summer. The highest temperature recorded in the city in 2002 was 25,8°C during the month of September while the lowest was recorded to be -3.4°C during the month of January. The average rainfall that the city received in 2002 was 840.5 mm with a maximum average of 232.8 mm during the month of August and minimum of 0.1 mm during the month of November.

29. Phuentsholing. This town experiences warm sub-tropical climatic conditions, with temperatures ranging between 10 to near 40°C during the summer. The local climate is wet, and the highest rainfall of the country is reported to occur in the southern foothills including Phuentsholing town where it has been known to reach a total maximum of 4,400 mm.

30. Dagana. Climatic conditions in the central part of the district where Dagana town is located is warm temperature sub-alpine. Reliable data on temperature and rainfall is not available.

5. Air Quality

31. Location specific issues of air pollution exist (particularly in the urban and industrial areas) and air pollution features as one of the five priority environmental issues of the country.2

32. Dust, vehicular emissions, and the burning of wood in bukharis (traditional fireplaces) during the winter are the main causes of pollution in the urban areas. Industrial air pollution is mainly confirmed to areas in the south-eastern and south-western parts of the country where most industries are located. Air pollution from vehicles is mainly caused by the use of low-grade diesel and failure to tune vehicles to run properly at high altitude.

33. Thimphu. Thimphu city is a perfect example of an urban area with air pollution problems. As mentioned above the major source of air pollution in this city is vehicular emissions and burning of wood in bukharis. In addition to the high population and larger traffic in comparison to other towns of Bhutan, Thimphu city is a high elevation valley, surrounded by mountains which do not let pollutants in the air disperse off easily to nearby areas or regions. The combination of high elevation and low temperature levels especially during the winter cause the city to be covered by a blanket of cold air which prevents any pollutants in the air to rise and disperse off into the atmosphere. A regular ambient air quality testing regime for Thimphu is being established by the NEC. Two 24 hour high volume air samplers will be established in Thimphu.

2 According to the State of Environment, Bhutan, 2001 Report 11

34. Phuentsholing. Vehicle emission is the major source of air pollution in Phuentsholing town. Since it is located right next to the border hundreds of Indian vehicles pass through the town on a daily basis in addition to the Bhutanese vehicles.

35. Dagana. Air pollution is not a major issue in Dagana town as the number of vehicles are very low and there are no large industries in the area.

6. Air Quality

36. Similar to air pollution, noise is generally not a problem in Bhutan. However there are certain areas such as the urban and industrial areas where issue of noise exist.

37. Thimphu. Noise levels in Thimphu come primarily from construction activity and traffic. As a result of the current high level of development in the city, an average of 200 buildings are under construction each day. With levels of industry also set to rise, noise pollution is an emerging issue within the city.

38. Phuentsholing. Similar to Thimphu, Phuentsholing town also faces problems of noise from construction activities and vehicle movement. Again the daily in and outflow of a large number of traffic from neighboring Indian towns contributes significantly to this issue.

39. Dagana. As a result of minimal traffic and an absence of industries, noise has not become a matter of concern in Dagana town, although, once more, construction noise is a potential issue as the town continues to develop.

B. Ecological Environment

1. Vegetation

40. Bhutan has a wide variety of plants, many of which have conservation significance. There are three main eco-floristic zones: the alpine zone; the temperate zone and the sub-tropical zone. Towns and cities currently occupy only a small portion of the total land area. Trees and shrubs are planted extensively within urban areas around the country and are an important part of the urban environment.

41. Phuentsholing. The northern periphery Phuentsholing town is surrounded by sub-tropical forests. Many sub-tropical ornamental plants have been planted within the city. These include mature trees in existing recreational grounds.

42. Dagana. Forests comprise 80 per cent of Dagana district while agricultural areas comprise 11 per cent. Coniferous forests are found in the north-eastern parts of the districts while broadleaf forests are found in the remaining areas including the surrounding of Dagana town. Both young and mature trees grow within the town itself.

2. Protected Areas

43. There are nine protected areas in Bhutan, four of which are designated as national parks, four are wildlife sanctuaries, and one is a strict nature reserve. There are also areas identified as "Biological corridors". Two of the wildlife sanctuaries and the strict nature reserve are not currently operational. Phibsoo wildlife sanctuary is near the southern part of Dagana district, but not near the town. It has been confirmed with the Nature Conservation Division of the Department of Forestry that there are no biological corridors in or around the towns of Dagana, Phuentsholing or Thimphu. The figure below shows the location of protected areas and biological corridors in Eastern Bhutan, highlighting project towns.

Source: Ministry of Agriculture, Department of Forestry, Nature Conservation Division

3. Wildlife

44. Bhutan is situated within a biodiversity hotspot, an area that extends in an arc shape from Northern Pakistan, across Nepal, Bhutan and northeast India. The term "biodiversity hotspot" refers to areas of both high existing biodiversity, and high vulnerability and the country provides valuable habitants for a number of wildlife species of global conservation significance. Once more however, as the nation's towns are few and small, these habitats are not significantly under threat from urban development. National data exists on the extent of habitats for a number of species. The nearest habitats to project towns include some of the hornbill, Aceros nepalensis, the musk deer, Moschus chrysogaster, red panda, Ailurus fulgens, and tiger, Panthera tigris. In each case, towns occur near the edge and not within the potential habitat, and the habitat range within the country is extensive. Information as to specific occurrences of these species is limited and have been supplemented by means of public consultations.

4. Socio-Economic Environment

45. Communities and Population. Approximately 79% of Bhutan's population live in rural areas and are primarily dependent on agriculture. The population is believed to be growing at about 2.2% per year. 3 The remaining 21% live in different urban centers with varying rates of population growth. Thimphu and Phuentsholing are the two largest urban centers of the country. With rapid rural-urban migration taking place in addition to natural increase in population, the population growth rate is estimated to be between 7% and 10% in Thimphu. The urban residents of both Thimphu and Phuentsholing are from three broad ethnic groups namely Ngalop (western region), Sharchop (eastern region) and Lhotshampa (southern region). The residents of Dagana town are mainly from the district itself.

46. Economic Development. Much of the economy in the country is dependent on Agriculture. Most of the land currently under cultivation lies in small and often isolated pockets along the main river valleys and is concentrated in the southern foothills. There is a shortage of flat land for farming, and some farming land on the Wang Chhu valley floor near Thimphu is subject to conversion to residential or industrial use.

3 Bhutan Country Profile, Earthtrends. http://earthtrends.wri.org 13

47. Industrial development in Bhutan is still at an early stage with very few large scale industries. Both Thimphu and Dagana have industrial centres, the principal types of industry being construction, service industries, mining, agro and food processing, cement manufacturing, chemical plant and steel manufacturing. In 2003 there were a total of 14,310 industries. Of these, most were contract based and service based industries.

48. Chhukha Dzongkhag, including Phuentsholing town, was recorded to have a total of 1406 industrial establishments in 2003, most of them being contract based. In addition Phuentsholing town has a number of wood processing and agro based industries.

49. Thimphu Dzongkhag was recorded to have a total of 5662 industrial establishments; again most of them were contract based. Thimphu city has a significant number of service industries (vehicle repair, sawmills, etc.) located in the Changzamtog industrial area. Vehicle repair centers (workshops) have been relocated to the left bank of Olarong chhu.

50. Industrial activity around the town of Dagana is limited, comprising mainly agriculture, handicraft and small scale construction enterprises.

51. Public Health. The Ministry of Health has a widespread network of health facilities across the country, covering around 90% of the population. Institutional health facilities were earlier concentrated in the urban centres, but today the emphasis has shifted to the rural areas where the majority of the population lives. Health care is delivered in a totally integrated system, through an organized structure, with Basic Health Units (BHUs) and Out Reach Clinics (ORCs) serving as referral centres at the community level and National, Regional and District Hospitals delivering care for more serious illnesses, etc.. The BHUs in remote areas such as Dagana are staffed with well-trained paramedical personnel and are equipped to treat minor ailments and advise on preventive measures to avoid the spread of communicable diseases.

52. Water borne and air borne diseases such as diarrhea, dysentery, skin diseases, coughs and colds, are high contributors to morbidity in the country. The following table lists the most common complaints treated in the various hospitals around the country.

Table 3: Top Ten Diseases in Bhutan in 2008

Sl. No. Name of the diseases Number in 2008 1 Common cold 2,66,164 2 Skin infection 97,514 3 Peptic ulcer syndrome 63,039 4 Musculo-skeletal 61,001 5 Acute Pharyngitis/Tonsilitis 60,510 6 Other disorders of skin & Subcutaneous-tissues 59,335 7 Diarrhea 58,537 8 Other disease of the Digestive System 54,859 9 Other Respiratory and Nose diseases 51,145 10 Conjunctivitis 37,240 Source: Annual Health Bulletin, 2009 (Ministry of Health, RGoB Thimphu Bhutan)

53. The national referral hospital is located in Thimphu city. In addition the city has an army hospital in Lungtenphu, an indigenous hospital in Kawajangsa and an Indian military hospital. Phuentsholing town has one general hospital. Facilities in Dagana are limited to BHUs.

54. The maximum number of patients (4,49,854) was reported at the Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital in Thimphu in 2008. This was followed by 83,141 in the Phuentsholing general hospital the same year.

55. Aesthetic Resources. Featuring spectacular scenery, relatively well managed protected areas and a large number of buildings of religious and architectural significance, Bhutan has considerable aesthetic appeal, on which a high value/low volume tourism industry is based. The tourism industry continues to develop, maintaining its essential low-impact focus.

56. Thimphu, as a capital city, plays an important role in tourism development and has a number of tourist sites such as museums, monasteries, a small zoo, a Royal Botanical Park (at Serbithang), a Royal Botanical Garden (at Lamperi), building and designated scenic walks. Phuentsholing town serves more as the port of entry and exit for some tourists, particularly from within the South Asia region, but has fewer assets of natural or cultural significance, except for a crocodile center (mini zoo) and a monastery at Rinchending . The town of Dagana and its surroundings feature considerable natural beauty, and its appeal is strongly enhanced by a number of well maintained buildings of cultural significance. While Dagana and several similar towns around the country lack tourism infrastructure, it has the potential to develop further low impact tourism, to the benefit of the local economy.

IV. SCREENING OF POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

57. Environmental impacts and mitigation measures have been identified through a review of project components, discussion with engineers on the PPTA team, resource persons and stakeholders, and through field visits in each town. The extent and nature of impacts reflects the criteria used in sub- project selection, which were:

. Prioritization according to the most important urban environment issues . Alleviation of waste accumulation problems . Selection of water source development subprojects with due regard for downstream needs and other users . Use of appropriate and implementable technology

58. The following table summarizes positive and negative impacts that are expected to arise from the project. The assessment of significance is made on the assumption that the recommended measures are taken. Arrangements for implementing the mitigation measures are given in Environmental Management Plans for each town in Attachment B. Further details on a public awareness raising program is given in Attachment C.

Potential Nature and Location Mitigation measure(s) Assessment of Temporary Environmental duration impact with/without or Impact recommended permanent mitigation Conflicting Some stream Thimphu Levels of extraction will Moderate/Not Permanent demands for water is currently be kept well below the dry significant stream water used for irrigation season flow. A stream and domestic level monitoring facility drinking water has been established to supply determine levels of water available and thus reliably control levels of extraction Potential cross- Cross- Thimphu, Water and sewerage Severe/ Eliminated Permanent contamination contamination Phuentsholing pipes will be offset, mostly by sewage may take place if and Dagana at separate levels, and pipes laid fractures occur in pipes of an adequately alongside water sewage and strong material will be pipes water pipes, or used. In Dagana, a slope when service stability assessment will trenches are be undertaken to excavated for determine long term slope 15

Potential Nature and Location Mitigation measure(s) Assessment of Temporary Environmental duration impact with/without or Impact recommended permanent mitigation any purpose in stability. This will take the future. place prior to design works. Risk of Untreated Thimphu and Adequate hydraulic Severe/ Not Permanent overflowing of sewage in the Phuentsholing design of the sewerage significant the sewerage sewerage system, reducing the risk system or network to be of blockage and of leakage from it installed in parts overflow. Provision for of the town may secure connections to the escape into system and watertight neighboring manhole covers, drains if subject preventing the possibility to blockage or of stormwater entering the influx of system. stormwater Generation of While road Thimphu, Making waste concrete Minor/ Eliminated Temporary construction surface Phuentsholing and old pavement waste improvements and Dagana material available for any will not require landscaping that may be removal of the taking place in Thimphu existing pavement layers, Removal of surplus waste items such as to a landfill or other sidewalks and approved location drainage structures will need to be dismantled, broken up and removed from site. This waste will not be hazardous, and volumes will be limited Downstream Risks of Thimphu N/a Beneficial impact Permanent pollution downstream pollution from raw or inadequately treated sewage will be substantially reduced by the upgrading of the sewerage plant. Encroachment The water Thimphu Reinstating vegetation on Minor / Not significant Permanent of precious treatment plant, slopes and any other bare ecological pipeline and earth surfaces (as below) areas. pipeline service road will be constructed through a forested area. In the case of the landfill, an area of approximately 25 ha will be

Potential Nature and Location Mitigation measure(s) Assessment of Temporary Environmental duration impact with/without or Impact recommended permanent mitigation cleared. The forest, which is dominated by Blue Pine, is part of a large forested area in the Olorang Chhu valley. The landfill is on the northern side of the valley, where the main road between Thimphu and Wangdue is located, causing a higher level of human disturbance than on the southern side. Local inhabitants report that animals such as tigers and bears are occasionally encountered on the southern side of the valley, but not the northern side. The landfill is not in a protected area.

In the case of the water treatment plant, pipeline and service road, levels of clearance will be minor the area concerned is not protected, and has little conservation value. No endangered flora and fauna are going to be negatively impacted by the proposed WTP site, intake source and the main trunk line constructions. However, 25 nos. of trees will need

17

Potential Nature and Location Mitigation measure(s) Assessment of Temporary Environmental duration impact with/without or Impact recommended permanent mitigation to be removed in the proposed WTP site at Megoipang and ground cover is mainly weed species. Slope stability The treatment Thimphu/Dag Removal of spoil and Moderate / Not Permanent and generation plant, pipeline ana deposition in an approved significant of spoil for and service road location. Inclusion of water treatment will be adequate drainage and plant, pipeline constructed in slope protection and service hilly terrain, measures; revegetation of road potentially prone bare slopes. to erosion. Spoil Generation of Dagana Deposition of spoil in an Minor / Not significant Temporary generation from spoil from approved location; pipeline laying excavations reinstatement of pipeline made to lay the by revegetation as water supply necessary pipeline. Historical/cultur No monuments Thimphu, N/a No Impact N/a al monuments or cultural values Phuentsholing and values will be affected and Dagana by any project works Effects on No community Thimphu, N/a No impact (Thimphu Permanent community areas will be lost Phuentsholing and Dagana) recreational or reduced in and Dagana Beneficial impact areas size. (Phuentsholing) The development of a bare site into a recreational area is included in Phuentsholing. Blocking of Access is largely Thimphu, N/a No impact N/a access or other existing, or will Phuentsholing potential need to be and Dagana difficulties extended through associated with an area that is water not protected and transmission does not have lines, sewerage conservation network value. Similarly, pipelines, and new pipelines will access roads be installed largely alongside roads, or other locations where they will not cause disruption with other services, or affect private property Overflows of The existing Thimphu N/a Minor N/a sewage from sewage plant in the treatment Babesa, plant constructed in

Potential Nature and Location Mitigation measure(s) Assessment of Temporary Environmental duration impact with/without or Impact recommended permanent mitigation 1990 (then upgraded in 1999), features a bund that is 2m above ground level and 2.9m above mean stream level. Studies undertaken for the design of the plant4 determined that the top level of the river training structure protecting the sewage plant is above level that may occur in a 1 in 50 year flood event level. The plant is situated adjacent to a flood plain, so that more severe floods should not cause significant increase in water levels. Potential Dagana Design of plant to Severe / Not Permanent overflows if the adequate capacity, significant plant is not including additional designed to capacity to enable adequate handling storm events capacity Noise and dust Noise and dust is Thimphu, Limiting of work times to Minor / not significant Temporary nuisance from likely to be Phuentsholing daytime hours. construction caused by and Dagana Providing information to activities. excavation of nearby residents about trenches, the duration of noise operation of generating operations. vehicles and Use of high quality plant. The impact vehicles and equipment, will occur mainly and maintenance of them at sites where in good condition. excavation is Covering or wetting of done, and will be stockpiles during windy temporary. conditions. Providing the workers with appropriate Personal Protective Equipment as per the existing General Rules and Regulations on Occupation, Health and Safety (OHS) in Construction,

4 Carl Bro International als (1990). Urban Centres Sewerage Project Thimphu Sewer System: Design Report. 19

Potential Nature and Location Mitigation measure(s) Assessment of Temporary Environmental duration impact with/without or Impact recommended permanent mitigation Manufacturing, Mining and Service Industries— August 2006, MoLHR Disruption of Road traffic is Thimphu, Provision of advance Minor / Not significant Temporary road traffic by likely to be Phuentsholing information to the public excavation impeded by and Dagana on the timing and duration operations excavation works of construction operations to lay pipes, road that will affect traffic flows. surface Maintenance of one lane improvement of traffic flow, and use of works and culvert a suitable temporary upgrading works, signaling system. with blocking of one lane of traffic necessary on occasion. This impact will occur mainly for culvert replacement or installation works and will be temporary Release of silt Silt and other fine Thimphu, Use of silt traps and Moderate / Not Temporary from material Phuentsholing temporary cutoff drainage significant construction extracted during and Dagana swales during excavation operations excavation work. operations may Prompt and proper be washed into disposal of excavated nearby streams, material particularly Limiting of excavation during rain. This work to the dry (winter) will occur only season to the extent during practicable construction, and primarily during the wet season. Leakage of Sewage flowing Phuentsholing Phased rehabilitation of Moderate / Not Temporary wastewater into the existing the pumps. significant during wastewater pump Provision of an rehabilitation of plant during emergency standby the pumps. construction may pump. accumulate and Delay of new connections escape into until rehabilitation work is nearby drains. complete The risk is temporary and confined to the construction period. Pollution of Any failure to Thimphu Planned construction Preliminary design of Temporary receiving maintain providing for the upgrading works waters due to satisfactory maintenance of a currently in progress construction of operation of the continual treatment the sewage plant during stream, and emergency treatment plant construction will procedures for cause raw or disinfection and inadequately containment of raw or treated sewage partially treated sewage.

Potential Nature and Location Mitigation measure(s) Assessment of Temporary Environmental duration impact with/without or Impact recommended permanent mitigation to be released Delay of new connections into the Wang until rehabilitation work is Chhu. This risk is complete confined to the construction period is therefore temporary. Pollution from Improper storage Thimphu, Secure and controlled Moderate / Eliminated Temporary chemicals, handling of Phuentsholing storage of all toxic and fuels and chemicals and and Dagana hazardous materials temporary fuels used in Management of vehicles worker toilet construction pose and equipment in good facilities a risk at condition, ensuring no construction undue leakage of oil or sites, and any fuel storage or depot Servicing of vehicles and facilities equipment at properly established managed and equipped during workshops, where waste construction. oil is collected and Inadequate disposed of at approved provision of toilet locations facilities for Provide sanitation workers will arrangements at work result in the sites, such that no raw release of raw sewage is released into sewage into drains or streams streams. The impact is temporary, as the risk will be confined to the construction period. Dust and noise Extraction of Thimphu, Sourcing of road Minor / Eliminated Temporary from quarrying materials for road Phuentsholing materials from licensed operations construction and and Dagana quarries only. crushing operations will result in the generation of dust, and potential noise nuisance to nearby residents. Air pollution Release of air Thimphu, Mandatory use of the Minor / Not significant Temporary and noise from pollutants and Phuentsholing Asphalt plant in Thimphu asphalt plant noise from and Dagana In Dagana and asphalt Phuentsholing: manufacture, appropriate siting of particularly if mobile asphalt plant fuelwood is used distant from dwellings; to heat asphalt placing of a bund around An asphalt plant the plant; control of dust has been and of silt release; use of installed on the an approved fuel for outskirts of heating bitumen.

21

Potential Nature and Location Mitigation measure(s) Assessment of Temporary Environmental duration impact with/without or Impact recommended permanent mitigation Thimphu. The site is distant from any dwellings, has trained operators, dust suppression facilities, sediment traps and was built to international standards Safety hazards Exposure of Thimphu, Training and briefing of Severe / Not Temporary to workers and workers or Phuentsholing works on safety significant the public members of the and Dagana precautions, their public to risk of responsibility for their accidents during safety and the safety of construction. others. Within the scope Provision of protective of works of the clothing and equipment to project, the risk is workers. minor but Ensuring that vehicle and impedance of equipment operators are traffic, excavation properly licensed and of trenches and trained. some other Arranging for provision of operations first aid facilities, present a risk to emergency transport to works and the nearest hospital; passers-by. The accident and emergency risk is temporary, department. Allocation of and confined to responsibility to ensure the construction that these are period. arrangements kept in place. Provision of hazard warning signs at construction sites, and directing vehicle and pedestrian traffic away from work sites. Accidental There is a risk of Thimphu, Detailed site inspections Moderate / Eliminated Temporary damage to damage to Phuentsholing prior to commencement of utilities utilities such as and Dagana works; careful site existing water supervision; provision of pipes, during emergency supply of execution of the repair materials for works. This risk incidents such as burst will exist during water pipes. construction only. Discharge of Pollutants such Thimphu, In Thimphu, gross Moderate / Not Permanent pollutants from as liquid and Phuentsholing pollutant traps will be significant road and solid household and Dagana installed at drain outflows, storm-water and other waste, preventing or minimizing drainage entering the the discharge of network into drains within the pollutants rive systems city will In Phuentsholing, review potentially be of drainage maintenance washed into the practices to minimize

Potential Nature and Location Mitigation measure(s) Assessment of Temporary Environmental duration impact with/without or Impact recommended permanent mitigation nearby river (in blockages the case of In Dagana: Installation of Thimphu and simple trapping devices Phuentsholing) or for silt and waste below irrigated rice the existing stormwater fields (in the case cascade of Dagana), Public awareness increasing the Program. levels of pollutant carried by the river. The risk of this will be long term, and will be largely dependent on public co- operation in preventing undue discharge of household, industrial and other waste. Risk of The level existing Thimphu Requirement for Moderate / Not Permanent deteriorating settlement near watershed area to be Significant water quality the upper designated as a critical from reaches of the watershed under Chapter settlement, source stream, is VI, Section 21 of the animals, or limited and below Forest and Nature development the proposed Conservation Act of activities in the water treatment Bhutan, 1995. water site. Activity such catchment as grazing is also area. very limited in the catchment area at present. However in the long term, there is a potential risk of further development, incompatible with water catchment. Risk of release Potential risks Thimphu and Provision for secure, dry Minor / Eliminated Permanent of hazardous occur, such as Dagana storage facilities for chemicals such release of hazardous chemicals as those used chlorine through Training of staff and for water inadequate allocation of responsibility treatment facilities for to ensure that materials handling and are properly handled and storing used hazardous chemicals. Those most at risk are the plant operators, there is also a remote risk to the public of chlorine dosing

23

Potential Nature and Location Mitigation measure(s) Assessment of Temporary Environmental duration impact with/without or Impact recommended permanent mitigation exceeds safe limits. Increased The connection Thimphu and The increased capacity of Moderate / Not Permanent sewage flow in of water supplies Dagana the city sewage works, as significant the town due to to new homes is a result of upgrading increased likely to result in under the project, will water supply increased water suffice to handle usage, and additional wastewater hence greater flows. release of waste water into the sewerage system Pollution from Source water has Thimphu and Sludge from the sewage Minor / Not significant Permanent sludge low turbidity, Dagana treatment plant will be produced by reducing both dewatered in situ, both water sludge rendered safe and made treatment and generation and available for agricultural sewage the requirement and horticultural use. treatment plant for alum for Sludge generation from flocculation. The water treatment plant will plant will be dewatered on site prior therefore require final disposal will be at the infrequent de- city landfill facility. sludging (around once every three to five years), and will not have a high residual alum content. However, it is not likely to be suitable for any form of re-use. The sewage treatment plant will require de- sludging approximately annually, but will be suitable for re- use. Health and The sewage Thimphu, Operator safety is Moderate / Eliminated Permanent safety hazards treatment plant Phuentsholing primarily ensured through associated with provides a and Dagana training and establishing operation of the potentially operational rules and water supply hazardous procedures. Restriction of and wastewater environment to entry to the site, and plant in both plant maintenance of existing Thimphu and operators and gate and perimeter fence Dagana and unauthorized will reduce the danger to wastewater visitors to the the general public. pumping plant site. in Phuentsholing Algal growth in Minimal risk as Thimphu and N/a Not significant N/a water storage the treated water Dagana reservoir. will be disinfected prior to transfer

Potential Nature and Location Mitigation measure(s) Assessment of Temporary Environmental duration impact with/without or Impact recommended permanent mitigation to the storage tank. Noise and Proposed Thimphu N/a Not significant N/a other public treatment plant nuisance from site is distant treatment plant from any homes or settlement. Odour and Some odour will Dagana Ensure adequate buffer Minor / Not significant Permanent effects on pest be emitted distance to houses is (intermittent populations occasionally maintained. ) from the typically during sewerage plant calm wind conditions In Thimphu the Thimphu N/a Not significant N/a improvements will comprise upgrading of existing sewage treatment facilities at the same site, and will not result in any increase in odor or encouragement of pests such as dogs and rodents. A buffer zone of over 100m to nearby houses exists at present. In Dagana, the new plant site is separated by a wider buffer both vertically and horizontally from houses. Effects of traffic In existing built Thimphu, N/a Beneficial impact Permanent on air quality up areas, traffic Phuentsholing circulation will and Dagana improve as a result of the road and junction upgrading will ease traffic congestion and as a result, reduce the buildup of exhaust fumes. In new areas roads will be designed to aid traffic flow and off road footpaths will reduce the 25

Potential Nature and Location Mitigation measure(s) Assessment of Temporary Environmental duration impact with/without or Impact recommended permanent mitigation need for use of cars within the neighborhood. Aesthetic Existing Thimphu, N/a Beneficial impact Permanent impacts during problems such as Phuentsholing operation waste and Dagana accumulation will be alleviated, and park areas will be developed.

V. INSTITUTIONAL REQUIREMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN

59. ADB requires that environmental monitoring form part of the overall program of benefit and effects monitoring for its sector and project loans. This section discusses general considerations in setting up a monitoring plan and provides recommendations on the nature and content of the monitoring.

A. Institutional Arrangements

60. Overall responsibility for Environmental Management rests with the National Environment Commission, which empowered for the issuance of environmental clearances and of national standards. Responsibility for day to day environmental monitoring in connection with urban infrastructure rests with the City Corporations (in the case of Thimphu and Phuentsholing) and the Dzongkhag administrator in the case of Dagana.

61. In Thimphu, management of urban infrastructure and associated environmental monitoring is the responsibility of the Thimphu City Corporation (TCC), which has autonomous status under the Charter of the Thimphu Municipal Corporation, 2003. In Phuentsholing, the role is taken by the Phuentsholing City Corporation (PCC), which is to attain similar autonomous station in the near future, but currently comes under the Department of Urban Development and Engineering Services (DUDES). The relevant authority in Dagana is the district (or Dzongkhag) administration which has an Engineering section. This section receives advisory and technical support from the DUDES.

62. During project implementation, a Project Management Unit (PMU) is to be established within DUDES, which will provide technical assistance as well as project management support to the project. However, in line with the RGoB's decentralization policy, the agencies with principal responsibility for supervising project implementation will be the TCC, PCC and Dagana Dzongkhag Administration, respectively. During implementation, these three agencies will each be supported by a Project Implementation Unit (PIU).

63. For environmental monitoring, DUDES will be responsible for ensuring that the required mitigation is taken into account during the detailed design phase. During construction, the supervision role will fall on the TCC, PCC and Dagana Dzongkhag administration, with the assistance of the PIU in each case. In Thimphu, a full time environment specialist will be recruited to assist with compliance monitoring of project works. In Phuentsholing, where the quantum of project works is smaller, environmental compliance monitoring supervision will be carried out by the PCC's environment wing. In Dagana, where fewer works will be carried out, the Dzongkhag Administration's Engineering section will carry out compliance monitoring, with advice and assistance from the Team Leader of the PIU. In each case, the PIU will be responsible for undertaking monitoring and reporting on the findings of monitoring to the PMU, situated at DUDES.

64. During the operation phase, it is envisaged that primary data gathering will remain the responsibility of the three implementing agencies. The collection of information for environmental management developed according to a strategy developed by NEC with DANIDA assistance for an Environmental Information Management System (EIMS). The EIMS is a system for gathering and processing environmental monitoring information. It has been developed and operationalised (up and running) and currently the data are being punched. Implementation of this strategy commenced in late 2004. As it becomes adopted by towns around the country its value as an information tool will grow, enabling NEC to have early and reliable knowledge of issues such as deterioration of air or water quality, the status of solid waste management, and other significant trends. Under the DANIDA funded Environment and Urban Sector Project Support (EUSPS) EIMS's are being established in the towns of Gelephu, Damphu, Gyalphosing, Trashigang and Samtse. The intention is to establish the system will cover all town in the country, and the opportunity exists for the project to contribute significantly to this endeavor by designing or adapting the project monitoring system to be compatible with EIMS.

B. Approach and Rationale for Monitoring

65. Under the project, environmental monitoring will be undertaken to ensure compliance with specified mitigation during design, construction and operation, and to assess changes, perceived or measured, in the certain environmental parameters before, during and after construction. Changes in the environment as perceived by project beneficiaries will be determined through the Project Performance Monitoring System (PPMS). Further changes will be measured by means of water, leachate and sludge monitoring at selected sites.

66. The aims of the monitoring program are to: Ensure compliance with the EMP Check the nature and extent of environmental effects, identifying emerging problems at an early stage, Provide a comparison of the before and after project situation, and Provide data that will be of value in planning further urban infrastructure improvements and upgrades.

67. The approach advocated for the monitoring system is to ensure that its importance is readily understood by the agencies involved in implementing it, that it is technically implementable, that it yields information that identifies effects of the project on the environment. It is also considered highly desirable for the monitoring system to feed readily into the EIMS. However, as the EIMS is in an early stage of development, it is recommended that the system be reviewed and adjusted prior to and during implementation, in order to match the parameters and data gathering techniques as closely as possible to the EIMS, facilitating its wider adoption and greater value around the country.

68. Accordingly, besides compliance monitoring the system will gather information on opinions and perceptions of inhabitants of the project area, and on water quality at key sites that will yield information on the effects of infrastructure installed under the project.

C. Existing Capacities and Training Requirements for Monitoring

1. Agencies Active in Environmental Monitoring

69. The NEC undertakes water and air quality monitoring, in order to identify patterns in environmental health in the country.

70. For air quality, there are currently four sites (Thimphu – 2 nos, and Phuentsholing – 2 Nos), where a high volume air sampler is installed. At present, there is a shortage of trained technicians to operate the equipment, and no laboratory available in the country where filter papers from the samplers can be analyzed. It is intended that NOx, Sox, micro particles and ozone will be tested, along with 27 meteorological parameters such as temperature and wind direction and speed. A proposal has been prepared by the NEC covering equipment and training needs for more regular air quality monitoring.

71. A number of water quality parameters are tested by the NEC, which currently has five water testing kit. A number of studies have been carried out in certain rivers around the country. Some 25 parameters tested, covering the presence of pathogens, traces of heavy metals, and other pollutants.

72. The NEC plans to upgrade its monitoring facilities for routine water quality and air quality monitoring and is currently seeking external support for this.

73. The Ministry of Trade and Industry established an environmental unit in 2002, with Danida support. The unit has a mobile testing laboratory which makes bi-annual visits to industries around the country. The van is equipped to test emissions from factories into the air and surrounding waters, and there are two fully trained inspectors who carry out the tests.

74. Water quality testing is undertaken by the Ministry of Health, particularly to test the potability of water in rural water supplies. There is a testing laboratory at the hospital in Thimphu.

75. The City Corporations undertake water quality testing of drinking water sources, and of the receiving waters into which wastewater (treated or untreated) flows. The Thimphu City Corporation has a mobile testing kit, operated by a trained technician, and basic laboratories at the city's existing water treatment and wastewater treatment plant.

76. The Royal Society for the Protection of Nature (RSPN) undertake water quality monitoring on a participatory basis, with a focus on streams and rivers. This is done mainly by eliciting volunteer support, mainly from schools. Water testing kits are distributed, that are inexpensive and simple to use. While the range of parameters that are tested is limited, they still suffice to give some indication of the levels environmental problems such as release of waste into streams and rivers, that can lead to corrective action. The approach can potentially be appropriate for community based water quality monitoring.

2. Training and Resource Requirements

77. City corporations have an existing capacity to undertake monitoring, this capability is supplemented by capacities in other Government agencies. However, the capacities at the start of the project need to be re-assessed in case trained staff have left the corporations, for any reason. Difficulties occur with the reliability of testing equipment, supplies of reagents. Expertise, equipment and reagents for testing the presence of heavy metals, required for leachate and sludge monitoring, are not currently available in Bhutan but can be obtained at specialized laboratories in the region.

D. Monitoring Plan

1. Compliance Monitoring

78. Compliance with required mitigation, as specified in the EMP, will be monitored at the design, construction and operation stages of the project.

79. During detailed design, the agency with responsibility to ensure that mitigation measures to be incorporated during detailed design is DUDES. Besides the mitigation measures specified in EMP DUDES will be responsible for ensuring that the EMP is afforded full contractual standing in the bid documents.

2. Environmental Monitoring within the PPMS

80. Under the PPMS, changes in the environment as perceived by project beneficiaries will be determined. Beneficiaries will be asked about the following parameters relevant to the health of their urban environment: Parameters Indicators Locations Operation of the wastewater Smell and appearance Thimphu; Dagana treatment plant Operation of the sewerage system Smell, occurrence of breakages Thimphu; Phuentsholing; and overflows Dagana Changes in water quality Taste and color Thimphu; Dagana Adequacy of water supply quantity Continuity of supply and pressure Thimphu; Dagana Changes in ease of traffic flow Congestion; noise; air pollution Thimphu; Phuentsholing from exhaust fumes Operation of road and stormwater Occurrence of overflows and Thimphu; Phuentsholing; drains blockages Dagana Operation of Solid Waste Efficiency and frequency of Thimphu; Phuentsholing; Management collection; effectiveness of Dagana dustbins Effectiveness of river training works Comments Thimphu; Phuentsholing

The implementation of the PPMS will be through the use of a Management Information System that is to be established by the loan TA (see Section D of the PPMS appendix).

3. Water, sludge and leachate Monitoring

81. Water Quality Monitoring. Water quality monitoring will be carried out to check for changes in key parameters, as an indication of the performance project infrastructure such as gross pollutant traps and the landfill at Thimphu, and to detect any deterioration in quality. National standards for water are published in relation to industrial discharges. Relevant standards for ambient freshwater and drinking water have not yet been developed for Bhutan, however those recommended in the State of the Environment: Bhutan (2001) provide useful interim standards. The table below lists the parameters to be tested, normal ranges for each parameter (following the approach to water quality monitoring developed by the RSPN) and relevant standards.

Table 4: Parameters to be Tested for Water Quality Monitoring Parameter Normal Ambient Drinking Value of Information Range Freshwater Water Quality Standards Standards Indication of changes in water quality Temperature - - 2-20°C for aquatic life Indication of changes in water quality of pH 5.5-9 6.5-9 6.5-8.5 aquatic life Indication of possible erosion and Turbidity 5-25 NTU - 5 NTU pollution Suspended 500 mg/L (total Indication of possible erosion and <10 mg/L 10 mg/L solids solids) pollution Changes indicate possible increase in Dissolved 5-8 mg/L - - bacterial activity attributable to waste oxygen deposition >0.3 Indication of possible presence of raw Ammonia - - mg/L sewage >2.5 Indication of possible presence of Phosphate - - mg/L sewage and other wastes Hardness 200-500 - - Indication of level of inert impurities 29

Parameter Normal Ambient Drinking Value of Information Range Freshwater Water Quality Standards Standards mg/L Biological Standardized estimate of degree of Oxygen <50 mg/L - - contamination of the water Demand Chemical <250 Indication of levels of inorganic Oxygen - - mg/L contaminant in the water Demand Presence of Escherichia Absent - - Potential danger to human health coli 201 Notes: 1. Freshwater Standards: Recommended Standards of NEC, published in State of the Environment: Bhutan (2001) 2. Drinking Water Quality Standards: Indian Standards (IS 10 500) New Delhi: Indian Standards Institute, published in State of the Environment: Bhutan (2001)

82. Water quality monitoring will be carried out at the following locations:

Thimphu In the Wang Chhu, upstream and downstream of gross pollutant traps In the Wang Chhu, upstream and downstream of the wastewater treatment plant (as is done at present) In the Olarang Chhu, upstream, between and the downstream of the solid waste landfill sites At the spring water outlet beneath the new landfill site Phuentsholing In the Amo Chhu, upstream and downstream of the city In the Amo Chhu, upstream and downstream of the wastewater pumping plant Dagana At the culvert fed by the stormwater drain in the lower part of the town (N27° 04 19.2 E89° 53 14.2)

83. The frequency of water quality monitoring will be done quarterly during construction, and bi- annually during operation. Monitoring may be carried out by the city corporations, who may undertake the required monitoring on behalf of Dagana Dzongkhag administration.

84. Sludge and Leachate Monitoring. Sludge will be produced by the water treatment plant and the wastewater treatment plant. In the case of sludge from the water treatment plant, its composition is largely known as a result of standard testing by TCC. In the case of sludge from the wastewater treatment plant, which is to be made available agricultural and horticultural use, monitoring of persistent toxins is necessary to establish its safety and suitability for these purposes. Monitoring for heavy metals is recommended for this purpose.

85. In the case of leachate, from the existing landfill, again the presence of heavy metals must be determined in order to confirm that leachate can safely be treated in the Wastewater Treatment Plant. In addition, Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) should be monitored and results recorded to gauge the overall level of pollutants entering the landfill. Monitoring of the efficacy of containing and controlling leachate flows will be apparent from water quality monitoring.

86. Heavy metal testing involves the use of sophisticated spectroscopy techniques, which are not currently available in Bhutan. Sampling can however be arranged in laboratories in the region. On detection of traces of heavy metals, risks and corrective action will be identified on a case by case basis. Elements to be tested are Mercury (Hg), Cadmium (Cd), Arsenic (As), Lead (Pb), Zinc (Zn) and Copper (Cu).

4. Monitoring Costs

87. Compliance monitoring: to be included in a TA package under the project

88. PPMS: to be included in a TA package under the project

89. During construction, water and sludge monitoring is required, including leachate at the existing landfill

Table 5: Monitoring Costs During Construction Item Facility to be Cost per No of sites Frequency Annual Cost used sample (Nu) (Nu) Water quality Laboratories 4,500 7 Quarterly 126,000 operated by the city corporations Leachate BOD Laboratories 1,500 2 Quarterly 12,000 and COD: operated by the city corporations Sludge and Private 8,500 2 Quarterly 68,000 leachate: laboratory in the Heavy Metals region Total 206,000

90. Assuming a construction period of 4 years, the total estimated cost of monitoring during construction is Nu: 824,000.

Table 6: Monitoring Costs During Operation Item Facility to be Cost per No of sites Frequency Annual Cost used sample (Nu) (Nu) Water quality Laboratories 4,500 7 Biannually 63,000 operated by the city corporations Sludge and Private 8,500 3 Biannually 51,000 leachate laboratory in the region Total annual cost 114,000

91. Assumptions: Costs of monitoring by city corporations is to cover equipment wear and tear, reagents, and training costs incurred

92. Costs of monitoring at a private laboratory in the region are based on market rates, as well as handling and dispatch of samples.

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5. Monitoring Summary

Means of Monitoring Frequency Responsible Agency Indicative Annual Cost (Nu) Impact to be Construc Implementation Construction Implementation Construction Implementation Monitored tion Phase Phase Phase Phase Phase Phase Water quality Changes in water quality as perceived To be established under PMU DUDES To be established under the loan by project beneficiaries, under the the loan TA TA PPMS Laboratory testing of samples at Quarterl Twice Yearly PIUs Local 126,000 63,000 specified locations (Water, sludge and y Authorities leachate Monitoring) Adequacy of Continuity of supply and system To be established under PMU DUDES To be established under the loan water supply pressure as reported by project the loan TA TA quantity beneficiaries under PPMS Sludge and BOD, COD, determined by laboratories Quarterl - PIUs - 12,000 - Leachate operated by the city corporations y Presence of heavy metal pollutants, as Quarterl Twice Yearly PIUs Local 68,000 51,000 determined by a private laboratory in y Authorities the region Operation of Reports on smell and appearance from To be established under PMU DUDES To be established under the loan the project beneficiaries, under the PPMS the loan TA TA wastewater treatment plant Operation of Reports on smell and occurrence of To be established under PMU DUDES To be established under the loan the sewerage breakages and overflows from project the loan TA TA systems beneficiaries, under the PPMS Changes in Reports on congestion, noise and To be established under PMU DUDES To be established under the loan ease of traffic exhaust fume nuisance from project the loan TA TA flow beneficiaries, under the PPMS Operation of Reports on occurrence of breakages To be established under PMU DUDES To be established under the loan road and and overflows from project the loan TA TA stormwater beneficiaries, under the PPMS drains Collection Reports on efficiency and frequency of To be established under PMU DUDES To be established under the loan and collection and effectiveness of dustbins the loan TA TA treatment of from project beneficiaries, under the solid Waste PPMS

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VI. PUBLIC CONSULTATION & INFORMATION DISCLOSURE

93. Consultations took place during the IEE preparation process to gather the view of principal stakeholders; experience from previous and current projects involved in urban management, and to determine the concerns and insights of the public in the project area relating to the project. Besides members of the public and community leader in Thimphu, Phuentsholing and Dagana the following stakeholder were consulted: (i) Thimphu City Corporation, (ii) Phuentsholing City Corporation, (iii) Dagana Dzongkhag Administration, (iv) Ministry of Works and Human Settlement, (v) The Project Manager, Urban Infrastructure Improvement Project (ADB Loan 1625), (vi) National Environment Commission, (vii) Environment Unit, Ministry of Trade and Industry, (viii) Royal Society for the Protection of Nature (RSPN), (ix) Bhutan Water Partnership, (x) Environment and Urban Sector Program Support (Danida), (xi) Road Safety & Transport Authority.

94. Meetings with members of the public and community representatives took place with groups individuals, with the following basic agenda: (i) A summary of the proposed works under the project, (ii) A summary of project objectives and likely positive and negative environmental impacts, including construction phase and operational impacts. Attendees of the meeting were informed of effects such as nuisance in the form of noise, dust and possible traffic impedance during construction, (iii) Feedback was sought in respect of any areas of concern that the public may have, and suggested means of implementation, (iv) Attendees and interviewees were asked about their general level of acceptance, or otherwise, of the project.

95. In the LAP's in Thimphu, 4 meetings were held with a total of 22 participants. In Phuentsholing a town committee meeting was held and a further 4 meetings with business people and members of the public, attended by 17 persons in all. In Dagana 3 meetings were held, with 8 attendees from the public. The names of attendees, issues discussed and outcomes were recorded for all meetings and are included in Attachment D. Overall the issues raised by the pubic and residents of the three towns accord with the project components and its commencement is keenly anticipated. There is a strong consensus on the need for a public awareness raising program to elicit greater community cooperation in issues such as the management of waste.

96. Issues relating to current water supply and waste problems were raised in almost all areas while other issues of importance included flood risks, drainage problems, road access, slope stabilization and problems associated with poorly managed construction sites. The proposed public awareness raising component received strong support and a number of suggestions. Issues, requests and suggestions raised in Dagana, Phuentsholing and the four local areas in which the project will focus in Thimphu (Changbangdu, Lungtenphu, Simtokha and Babesa) are summarized in Table 7.

Table 7: Summary of Findings from Consultations Issue Where raised Nature of the issue Project response Current difficulty Thimphu (all Difficulties were expressed Identification of new water with water supply four local areas) relating the quantity of water, sources, proposed water continuity of supply, its quality treatment plant and Dagana and concern was expressed distribution network over increasing difficulty as the construction in Dagana and population grows. The Thimphu. associated problem of hygiene was emphasized. Current difficulty Thimphu (all Odors, effects on hygiene and Installation of wastewater with sewage four local areas) public health, difficulties for treatment plant in Dagana latrines and arranging for clearance of septic and upgrading of the plant in wastewater Phuentsholing tanks (Thimphu). Blockages in Thimphu. Installation of a the sewerage system wastewater collection Dagana (Phuentsholing) network in Thimphu and 33

Issue Where raised Nature of the issue Project response Dagana

Rehabilitation of the wastewater pumping system in Phuentsholing.

O&M capacity building component (project wide) Accumulation of Thimphu (all Irregular or inadequate Provision of solid waste solid waste four local collection, tendency for people collection trucks and bins areas); to practice open dumping when and construction of new Phuentsholing; collection services are not landfill (Thimphu) Dagana provided; requirement for a landfill to be constructed Addressing of collection (Dagana) system through O&M capacity building component (project wide)

Public awareness raising to foster greater community involvement in reducing the extent of the problem (project wide)

Assistance with developing a solid waste strategy and identification of a site for future landfill construction (Dagana) Overflow from Phuentsholing; Uncontrolled flow of dirty water Drainage improvement stormwater drains Thimphu: during the rainy season. works are included Changbangdu; alongside road construction Lungtenphu and road improvements Flood risks Phuentsholing; Safety risks (particularly to River training works in Thimphu: children); loss of and damage of Phuentsholing and Thimphu. Changbangdu property. Safety features are to be Safety of pedestrians/loggers included in the detailed using the top of the retaining design of the retaining river wall as a walking surface training structures (as required for the EMP for the project)

Poor road access Changbangdu Difficulty and inconvenience in Expansion of the road to homes at and Lungtenphu reaching roads, particularly network in these two areas present when goods and large items need to be transported Difficulty with Dagana Failure of several newly Provision of advice under slope retention constructed retaining walls the project on appropriate retaining wall design and slope drainage.

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Issue Where raised Nature of the issue Project response Community Phuentsholing The existing archery ground is N/a – endorsement of this infrastructure also used by pedestrians component of the project. (including schoolchildren). This problem will be solved by the proposed construction of a new archery ground, on a current wasteland site near the river. Risks and Phuentsholing; Generation of dust, general Requirement of the EMP for nuisance from Thimphu: untidiness and obstruction to the project to adopt construction Lungtenphu pedestrian and vehicle traffic materials and waste materials and from stockpiled materials and management measure to waste piled at uncollected construction waste limit the amount of time that construction sites at work sites material is stored at the site, and contain or wet it as necessary to reduce the generation of dust.

97. Further consultation is required under the Regulation for Environmental Clearance of Projects, 2002, which requires that public disclosure of the findings of the completed environmental assessment is made.

VII. FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

98. The objectives of the project are to improve urban infrastructure & services in the project towns, introduce effective and sustainable management of urban services, and to enhance community participation in infrastructure upkeep. The context of the project features rapid urban growth, and the improvements in the extent, quality and upkeep of infrastructure are specifically intended to arrest environmental degradation and sustain improvements in the environment of Bhutan’s towns.

99. Subprojects have been selected on the basis of their priority in terms of alleviating environmental problems and threats, with an emphasis on subprojects that address and alleviate waste accumulation problems. Water source development projects have been selected with due regard for downstream needs and other users, and in all cases, emphasis has been given on appropriate and implementable technology.

100. The project will, in the main, address existing and emerging environmental and public health problems and mitigate against the effects of accelerated growth of the urban population in the project towns. Specific environmental benefits will arise from the main project components as follows:

Component Benefits Towns Improvements in wastewater Substantial reduction in risks of Thimphu, Phuentsholing collection and treatment downstream pollution, and incidence of and Dagana waterborne diseases Improvements in water Improved health, hygiene and quality of Thimphu and Dagana supply treatment and life for water users distribution Road and junction Improved air quality and traffic flow; Thimphu, Phuentsholing improvements reduced noise pollution and Dagana Drainage improvements Reduced formation of stagnant ponds; Thimphu, Phuentsholing reduced erosion and Dagana Improvements in solid waste Safe containment disposal of solid Thimphu (collection and

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Component Benefits Towns management collection and waste; improved aesthetic quality of treatment); treatment the towns; containment of toxins; reduced public nuisance from odor. Phuentsholing and Dagana (collection only) River training Reduced risk to building and public Thimphu and Phuentsholing spaces from river bank erosion Urban Amenities Enhanced urban living environment Thimphu and Phuentsholing and quality of life, improved pedestrian movement and public safety Capacity building in Increased efficiency in maintenance The urban sector in Bhutan. municipal management and management of municipal infrastructure, resulting in improved waste collection and management and improved aesthetic quality of the towns.

101. A number of potential negative impacts have been identified, due to design, location, construction and operation. Mitigation measures for all negative impact have been identified. Though negative, construction impacts are the most apparent and the successful application of the EMP during construction is important.

102. In order to ensure adequate implementation of the EMP, the following measures are recommended:

The EMP is made a bid document, and that bidding contractors are required to submit a method statement detailing how the EMP will be complied with. The adequacy of this method statement will then be a criterion on bid evaluation. This measure will both allow contractors to identify their own means of complying with the EMP, and provide a set of requirements that they will be obliged to comply with. From prior experience in Bhutan and the region, problems occurs either when Contractors are required to submit environmental management plans, safety plans and similar on after signing the contract and commencing the works.

Compliance monitoring is carried out by the TCC, PCC and DDA as appropriate, with support from the PIU in each case.

103. Development of the land in the catchment for the source steams is a potential issue in the future, posing a risk to the quality of source water. Provision exists under the Forest and Nature Conservation Act of Bhutan, 1995, for the designation of such land as a critical watershed under Chapter VI, Section 21 of the act. It is recommended that the appropriate watershed area is identified and designated as a critical watershed.

104. In the detailed design of the works in the project towns, scope exists to maintain and enhance their aesthetic qualities through amenity planning, imaginative design of structures, and minor landscaping where scope exists. It is recommended that the concept of future enhancing the appeal of the towns be followed during detailed design.

105. During the operation phase, sustained environmental safeguarding is dependent on a high level of operation and maintenance, particularly of the wastewater treatment plant and water treatment plant to be constructed and commissioned under the project. An Operation and Maintenance (O&M) programme is to be included in the project.

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106. A further critical issue in sustaining the protection of the urban environment is an increasing level of public awareness of environmental and public health issues, the benefits of individual action, and effects of individual choices on the environment. A strategy and outline of a public awareness program has been provided for inclusion of a public awareness raising program under the project. A summary of project objectives

VIII. CONCLUSION

107. The overall funding of the IEE is that the Project will not cause significant environmental problems and that potential adverse impacts are manageable through the implementation of the EMP. No further environmental assessment is therefore required, beyond the issues to be reviewed during detailed design.

108. The Project can therefore be classified under Category B: Projects judged to have some adverse environmental impacts, but of lesser degree or significance than those for Category A projects.

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Attachment 4A

Compliance with National Legislation for Environmental Clearance And Management

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1. The Environmental Assessment Act and Regulation for Environmental Clearance of Projects, 2002

109. The Act establishes procedures for assessment of effects of plans, policies, programs and projects. The principal agency for supervision and approval is the National Environmental Commission (NEC), whose functions and powers are listed in Chapter 5 of the act. The NEC supervises the activities of the competent authority, which is the government agency which has the power to issue a Development Consent for a project.

110. With regard to projects, the issuance of an environmental clearance is a prerequisite to issuance of a Development Consent. Environmental clearance from the secretariat is also required for projects that do not need a Development Consent (CH 2, article 8).

111. For projects that require a Development Consent, a competent authority is identified, and the project proponent must include a description of potential environmental effects with the application for a Development Consent (Ch3, article 11). Conditions under which the competent authority may grant clearance are given Article 18 of the Act. Responsibility for consultation of concerned people and organizations, and information to them, rests with the applicant (article 16).

112. In the Regulation for the Environmental Clearance of Projects and Regulation on Strategic Environmental Assessment, 2002, details are provided on the environment assessment and clearance process. Annex 2 of the regulation lists activities that Competent Authorities are empowered to screen and issue environmental clearances for. The devolution of responsibility for clearance of these projects is intended to streamline the process of project approval, avoiding delays that would occur if sole responsibility for clearance rested with the NEC. These include construction of urban roads, road improvements, construction of urban drainage, utilities and service lines, and river training works and encompass the components of UMDP.

113. The table below identifies the compliance with this IEE.

Requirements under Environmental Compliance with this IEE, prepared to ADB Assessment Act /Environmental format Assessment Regulations Applicant’s details, including the name of the Not normally required in an IEE, however these applicant, contact details, and contact details of details can be provided in a covering letter consultants who prepared the application submitted with the IEE. Project Objectives Covered in the IEE format, along with a description of the need for the project Overall Planning: stating whether an Urban An implementation schedule is required. Development Plan covers the project and Reference can be given in this section to an tentative start and completion dates for the Urban Development Plan for the project project Funding and Costs. Total estimate cost, and the These are covered in the ADB format. Under amount allocated to environmental management project information, the cost of the project is stated, and environmental costs are determined in Environmental Management Plan preparation. Project Details: Location is to be given, along A description of the project location is given for with a summary of materials requirement, types, information on the project. The assessment of quantity and means of storing materials, environmental impacts includes consideration requirements for explosives, use of labor and effects of materials extraction, handling, machinery and ancillary facilities, and details of hazards associated with the use of explosives, public consultations. risks and impact associated with the use of labor and machinery and ancillary facilities. 39

Details of public consultations are also to be reported on in the IEE. Physical Environmental Details, Project Site Covered in the Description of the Environment Ecological Details, and Project Social in the ADB format Environment Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures Covered in the ADB format Monitoring Program Covered in the ADB format No Objection Certificates A description of country requirements is required, which should, inter alia, identify which agencies No Objection certificates are required form

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2. Relevant Policies and Regulations for the Components of the Project

Project Component Relevant Guidelines and Standards Relevant Act/Regulation Requirements 1 Roads I Road improvement and drain Environmental Codes of Practice for Urban Environmental Assessment Act 2000 Environment clearance from the improvements including, Roads and Traffic Management, providing and Regulation for the Standard Quality Control Authority junction improvements, guidelines on Environmental and Safety Environmental Clearance of Projects (SQCA) under the Ministry of Considerations on Urban Road Design and and Regulation on Strategic Woks and Human Settlements. Construction and Traffic Management. Environmental Assessment References for further technical guidelines are provided in section IV.

Application of Environmental Clearance – Guidelines for Highways and Roads

Forest and Nature Conservation Permit required for use of stones, Rules, 2000 boulders and sand from government land (if any of these are to be sourced directly by the contractor). If these resources are to be sourced from existing contractors it should be ensured that they have all necessary permits. ii. Parking and Foot bridges Environmental Codes of Practice for Urban Roads and Traffic Management 2 Water Supply I Installation of fire hydrants Regulation for the Environmental Environment clearance from NEC Ii Construction of water treatment Clearance of Projects and plant Regulation on Strategic Environmental Assessment iii Establishment of piped network Environmental Codes of Practice of Installation of Underground and Overhead Utilities 3 Wastewater and Sanitation I Upgrading existing wastewater EA Act 2000 and Regulation for the Environmental clearance from treatment plant Environmental Clearance of Projects NEC/ SQCA, MoWHS ii Expansion of the sewer system Environmental Codes of Practice for and Regulation on Strategic Installation of Underground and Overhead Environmental Assessment Utilities

Project Component Relevant Guidelines and Standards Relevant Act/Regulation Requirements iii Upgrading of the wastewater transfer pump iv Establishment of packaged wastewater treatment plants. 4 Solid Waste Management i Establishment of new landfill Forest and Nature Conservation Forestry clearance from site Rules 2000 Department of Forests& Park Services for felling of trees (clause 22 (2)) ii Improvement of drainage and Regulation for the Environmental Environmental clearance from environmental protection works Clearance of Projects and NEC at existing landfill site Regulation on Strategic Environmental Assessment iii Monitoring of leachate flow from landfill iv Public awareness campaigns on solid waste management v Distribution of dustbins Environmental Codes of Practice for Urban Roads and Traffic Management: includes guidelines on Urban Amenities and the Roadside Environment 5 River Bank Protection i Wall construction along river Regulation for the Environmental Environmental clearance Clearance of Projects and NEC/SQCA under MoWHS/TCC Regulation on Strategic Environmental Assessment 6 Community Infrastructure i Establishment of an archery, Regulation for the Environmental Environmental clearance from the khuru and deyghor ground east Clearance of Projects and City Corporation of the Karma Industrial area Regulation on Strategic ii Redevelopment of existing PSA Environmental Assessment ground into a Mini stadium iii Children's park and playground iv New vegetable market v Construction of BHU, crèches etc. vi Street lighting Environmental Codes of Practice for Urban Roads and Traffic Management: includes guidelines on Urban Amenities and the Roadside Environment

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Attachment 4B

Environmental Management Plans for the Project Towns

EMP Thimphu

Approximate Institutional Responsibility Environmental Impact Mitigation measures Cost Estimate Location Implementation Compliance Impacts due to Location and Design Conflicting demands for Levels of extraction will be kept well below the Olarong Chhu (Bodi Ongoing, funded by MTI and TCC - stream water maximum allowable value given in NEC guidelines. chhu at Megoipang) RGoB A stream level monitoring facility has been established to determine levels of water available and thus reliably control levels of extraction. Potential cross- Water and sewerage pipes will be horizontally and Service trenches Included in project Design TCC contamination by sewage typically sewers will be at a greater depth than works Consultants pipes laid alongside water pipes. Adequately strong material will be used water pipes for pipes Risk of overflowing of the Adequate hydraulic design of the sewerage system, Sewerage network Included in project Design TCC sewerage system or reducing the risk of blockage and of overflow. works Consultant leakage from it Provision for secure connections to the system and watertight manhole covers, preventing the possibility of stormwater entering the system. Generation of Making waste concrete and old pavement material Road and drain Included in project Contractor TCC construction waste available for any landscaping that may be taking construction sites works place in Thimphu Removal of surplus waste to a landfill or other Road and drain approved location construction sites Slope stability and Removal of spoil and deposition in an approved Water treatment plant, Included in project Contractor/ TCC generation of spoil location. Inclusion of adequate drainage and slope pipeline and service works Design protection measures; revegetation of bare slopes. road Consultant Impacts during Construction Noise and dust nuisance Limiting of work times to daytime hours. Road, drain and pipe Engineering Cost Contractor TCC from construction laying sites in activities Providing information to nearby residents about the residential area duration of noise generating operations

Use of high quality vehicles and equipment, and maintenance of them in good condition.

Covering and/or wetting stockpiles when prolonged storage is unavoidable or during windy conditions. Disruption of road traffic Provision of advance information to the public on Roadworks sites in Engineering Cost Contractor TCC by excavation operations the timing and duration of construction operations residential areas that will affect traffic flows. Maintenance of one lane

Approximate Institutional Responsibility Environmental Impact Mitigation measures Cost Estimate Location Implementation Compliance of traffic flow, and use of a suitable temporary signaling system. Release of silt from Use of silt traps and temporary cut off drainage Road, drain and pipe Engineering Cost Contractor TCC construction operations swales during excavation work. laying sites in residential areas Prompt and proper disposal of excavated material

Limiting of excavation work to the dry (winter) season to the extent practicable. Pollution of receiving Planned construction providing for the maintenance Babesa Wastewater Included in project Design TCC waters due to of a continual treatment stream, and emergency Treatment Plant works Consultants/ construction of the procedures for disinfection and containment of raw Contractor sewage treatment plant or partially treated sewage.

Delaying new connections until rehabilitation work is complete Pollution from chemicals, Secure and controlled storage of all toxic and All stores, depots and Engineering Cost Contractor TCC fuels and temporary hazardous materials worksites worker toilet facilities Management of vehicles and equipment in good condition, ensuring no undue leakage of oil or fuel

Servicing of vehicles and equipment at properly managed and equipped workshops, where waste oil is collected and disposed of at approved locations

Provide sanitation arrangements at work sites, such that no raw sewage is released into drains or streams Dust and noise from Sourcing of road materials from licensed quarries Sources outside Engineering Cost Contractor TCC quarrying operations only. Thimphu Air pollution and noise Mandatory use of the Asphalt plant in Thimphu Motithang, Thimphu Engineering Cost Contractor TCC from asphalt plant Safety hazards to Training and briefing of works on safety All work sites Engineering Cost Contractor TCC workers and the public precautions, their responsibility for their safety and the safety of others.

Provision of protective clothing and equipment to workers.

Ensuring that vehicle and equipment operators are

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Approximate Institutional Responsibility Environmental Impact Mitigation measures Cost Estimate Location Implementation Compliance properly licensed and trained.

Arranging for provision of first aid facilities, emergency transport to the hospital accident and emergency department. Allocation of responsibility to ensure that these arrangements are kept in place.

Provision of hazard warning signs at construction sites, and directing vehicle and pedestrian traffic away from work sites. Accidental damage to Detailed site inspections prior to commencement of All work sites Engineering Cost Contractor TCC utilities works; careful site supervision; provision of emergency supply of repaid materials for incidents such as burst water pipes. Impact during operation Discharge of pollutants Gross pollutant traps will be installed at drain Entry point of Construction cost Design TCC from road and outflows, preventing or minimizing the discharge of stormwater drains to included in project Consultants stormwater drainage pollutants Wang Chu works network into river systems Operational Cost included in O&M Cost Estimates Public awareness program Project wide Included in capacity MoHWS MoWHS building component Risk of deteriorating Requirement for watershed area to be designated Upper catchment of MoHWS NEC water quality from as a critical watershed under Chapter VI, Section 21 Olerong Chhu as settlement, animals, or of the Forest and Nature Conservation Act of appropriate development activities in Bhutan, 1995. the water catchment area. Risk of release of Provision of secure, dry storage facilities for Water treatment plant Construction cost Design TCC hazardous chemicals hazardous chemicals included in project Consultants such as those used for works water treatment Operational Cost included in O&M Cost Estimates Training of staff and allocation of responsibility to Project wide Included in capacity TCC MoHWS ensure that materials are properly handled and building component

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Approximate Institutional Responsibility Environmental Impact Mitigation measures Cost Estimate Location Implementation Compliance used Increased sewage flow in The increased capacity of the city sewage works, as Sewage network and Included in project Design TCC the city due to increased a result of upgrading under the project, will suffice Wastewater Treatment works Consultants water supply to handle additional wastewater flows. Plant Pollution from sludge Sludge from the sewage treatment plant will be Wastewater Treatment Construction cost Design TCC produced by both water dewatered in situ, rendered safe and made Plant included in project Consultants treatment and sewage available for agricultural and horticultural use. works treatment plant Sludge from the Water Treatment Plant will be taken to the landfill Water Treatment Plant Operational Cost included in O&M Cost Estimates Health and safety Operator safety is primarily ensured through training Project side Included in capacity TCC hazards associated with and establishing operational rules and procedures. building component operation of the water and wastewater plants Restriction of entry to the site, and maintenance of existing gate and perimeter fence will reduce the Wastewater Treatment Normal running TCC danger to the general public. Plant cost

EMP Phuentsholing

Approximate Institutional Responsibility Environmental Impact Mitigation measures Cost Estimate Location Implementation Compliance Impacts due to Location and

Design Potential cross-contamination Water and sewerage pipes will be offset, Service trenches Included in project Design PCC by sewage pipes laid mostly at separate levels, and pipes of an works consultants alongside water pipes adequately strong material will be used. Risk of overflowing of the Adequate hydraulic design of the Sewerage network Included in project Design PCC sewerage system or leakage sewerage system, reducing the risk of works consultants from it blockage and of overflow. Provision for secure connections to the system and watertight manhole covers, preventing the possibility of stormwater entering the system. Generation of construction Making waste concrete and old pavement Road and drain Included in project Contractor PCC waste material available for any landscaping construction sites works that may be taking place in Phuentsholing Removal of surplus waste to a landfill or Road and drain Included in project Contractor PCC 47

Approximate Institutional Responsibility Environmental Impact Mitigation measures Cost Estimate Location Implementation Compliance other approved location construction sites works Public safety associated with Provision in detailed design for safety Om Chhu Included in project Design PCC reiverbank protection wall measures such as wider walking surface works consultants (raised during public for pedestrian traffic and/or parapets consultation) Impacts during Construction Noise and dust nuisance from Limiting of work times to daytime hours. Road, drain and pipe Engineering Cost Contractor PCC construction activities laying sites in Providing information to nearby residents residential areas about the duration of noise generating operations.

Use of high quality vehicles and equipment, and maintenance of them in good condition.

Covering and/or wetting stockpiles when prolonged storage is unavoidable or during windy conditions Disruption of road traffic by Provision of advance information to the Roadworks sites in Engineering Cost Contractor PCC excavation operations public on the timing and duration of residential sites construction operations that will affect traffic flows. Maintenance of one lane of traffic flow, and use of a suitable temporary signaling system. Release of silt from Use of silt traps and temporary cut off Road, drain and pipe Engineering Cost Contractor PCC construction operations drainage swales during excavation work. laying sites in residential areas Prompt and proper disposal of excavated material

Limiting of excavation work to the dry (winter) season to the extent practicable. Leakage of wastewater during Phased rehabilitation of pumps, Wastewater pump site Engineering Cost Contractor PCC rehabilitation of pumps. maintaining at least one in running condition at all items.

Provision of an emergency standby pump.

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Approximate Institutional Responsibility Environmental Impact Mitigation measures Cost Estimate Location Implementation Compliance Delaying new connections until rehabilitation work is complete Pollution from chemicals, fuels Secure and controlled storage of all toxic All stores, depots and Engineering Cost Contractor PCC and temporary worker toilet and hazardous materials worksites facilities Management of vehicles and equipment in good condition, ensuring no undue leakage of oil or fuel

Servicing of vehicles and equipment at properly managed and equipped workshops, where waste oil is collected and disposed of at approved locations

Provide sanitation arrangements at work sites, such that no raw sewage is released into drains or streams Dust and noise from quarrying Sourcing of road materials from licensed Sources outside Engineering Cost Contractor PCC operations quarries only. Phuentsholing Air pollution and noise from Appropriate siting of mobile asphalt plant To be determined Engineering Cost Contractor PCC asphalt plant distant from dwellings, control of dust and of release of silt, use of an approved fuel for heating bitumen. Safety hazards to workers and Training and briefing of works on safety All work sites Engineering Cost Contractor PCC the public precautions, their responsibility for their safety and the safety of others.

Provision of protective clothing and equipment to workers.

Ensuring that vehicle and equipment operators are properly licensed and trained.

Arranging for provision of first aid facilities, emergency transport to the hospital accident and emergency department. Allocation of responsibility to ensure that these arrangements are kept in place.

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Approximate Institutional Responsibility Environmental Impact Mitigation measures Cost Estimate Location Implementation Compliance Provision of hazard warning signs at construction sites, and directing vehicle and pedestrian traffic away from work sites. Accidental damage to utilities Detailed site inspections prior to All work sites Engineering Cost Contractor PCC commencement of works; careful site supervision; provision of emergency supply of repair materials for incidents such as burst water pipes. Impacts during operation Discharge of pollutants from Review of drainage maintenance All road side-drains Included in O&M cost PCC PCC the road drainage network into practices to ensure that the occurrence of estimate river systems blockages is minimized.

Public awareness program Project wide Included in Capacity MoHWS MoHWS Building Component Health and safety hazards Operator safety is primarily ensured Project wide Included in Capacity PCC PCC associated with operations of through training and establishing Building Component the wastewater pumping plan operational rules and procedures.

Restriction of entry to the plant, and Wastewater pumping Normal running cost PCC PCC maintenance of existing gate and plant perimeter fence will reduce the danger to the general public Risk of blockage, leakage or Provision for training in operation and Project wide Included in Capacity PCC PCC overflowing of the sewerage maintenance. Building Component system Specifying a suitable regular inspection Sewerage network Normal running cost PCC PCC and maintenance regime for the system, and technical resources for rapid repair of pipe breakages

EMP Dagana

Approximate Institutional Responsibility Environmental Impact Mitigation measures Cost Estimate Location Implementation Compliance Impacts due to Location and

Design Potential cross-contamination Water and sewerage pipes will be offset, Service trenches Included in project Design DDA5

5 Dagana Dzongkhag Administration. The DDA will receive technical support from the PIU in undertaking compliance monitoring. 50

Approximate Institutional Responsibility Environmental Impact Mitigation measures Cost Estimate Location Implementation Compliance by sewage pipes laid mostly at separate levels, and pipes of an works Consultants alongside water pipes adequately strong material will be used.

Slope stability will be assessed under a separate Advisory TA prior to design works. Overflows of sewage from the Design of plant to adequate capacity, Wastewater treatment Included in project Design DDA treatment plant including additional capacity to enable plant works Consultants handling storm events Damage to vegetation and Deposition of spoil in an approved Water pipeline Included in project Design DDA Spoil generation from pipeline location; reinstatement of pipeline by alignment works Consultants/ laying revegetation as necessary. Avoid Contractor unnecessary cutting/felling of trees along the pipe line alignment. Realign the pipe line to avoid felling the trees. Impacts during Construction Noise and dust nuisance from Limiting of work times to daytime hours. Road, drain and pipe Engineering Cost Contractor DDA construction activities. laying sites Providing information to nearby residents about the duration of noise generating operations.

Use of high quality vehicles and equipment, and maintenance of them in good condition.

Covering and/or wetting stockpiles when prolonged storage is unavoidable or during windy conditions. Disruption of road traffic by Provision of advance information to the Roadwork sites Engineering Cost Contractor DDA excavation operations public on the timing and duration of construction operations that will affect traffic flows. Maintenance of one lane of traffic flow, and use of a suitable temporary signaling system Release of silt from Use of silt traps and temporary cut off Road, drain and pipe Engineering Cost Contractor DDA construction operations drainage swales during excavation work. laying sites

Prompt and proper disposal of excavated material

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Approximate Institutional Responsibility Environmental Impact Mitigation measures Cost Estimate Location Implementation Compliance

Limiting of excavation work to the dry (winter) season to the extent practicable Pollution from chemicals, fuels Secure and controlled storage of all toxic All stores, depots and Engineering Cost Contractor DDA and temporary worker toilet and hazardous materials worksites facilities Management of vehicles and equipment in good condition, ensuring no undue leakage of oil or fuel Servicing of vehicles and equipment at properly managed and equipped workshops, where waste oil is collected and disposed of at approved locations

Provide sanitation arrangements at work sites, such that no raw sewage is released into drains or streams Dust and noise from quarrying Sourcing of road materials from licensed Sources outside Engineering Cost Contractor DDA operations quarries only. Dagana Air pollution and noise from Appropriate silting of mobile asphalt plant To be determined Engineering Cost Contractor DDA asphalt plant distant from dwellings, control of dust and of release of silt, use of an approved fuel for heating bitumen. Safety hazards to workers and Training and briefing of works on safety All work sites Engineering Cost Contractor DDA the public precautions, their responsibility for their safety and the safety of others.

Provision of protective clothing and equipment to workers.

Ensuring that vehicle and equipment operators are properly licensed and trained.

Arranging for provision of first aid facilities, emergency transport to the hospital in Thimphu. Allocation of responsibility to ensure that these arrangements are kept in place.

Provision of hazard warning signs at

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Approximate Institutional Responsibility Environmental Impact Mitigation measures Cost Estimate Location Implementation Compliance construction sites, and directing vehicle and pedestrian traffic away from work sites. Accidental damage to utilities Detailed site inspection prior to All work sites Engineering Cost Contractor DDA commencement of works; careful site supervision; provision of emergency supply of repair materials for incidents such as burst water pipes Impacts during operation Discharge of pollutants from Installation of a simple trapping device Existing stormwater Construction Costs: Design DDA road and stormwater drainage below the existing stormwater cascade cascade Included in project Consultant/ network into river systems works DDA Regular cleaning and removal of trapped material Operational cost: included in O&M Cost Public awareness program Estimate Risk of release of hazardous Provision for secure, dry storage facilities Water treatment plan Construction Costs: Design DDA chemicals such as those used for hazardous chemicals Included in project Consultants for water treatment works

Operational cost: included in O&M Cost Estimate

Training of staff and allocation of Project wide Included in capacity MoWHS MoWHS responsibility to ensure that materials are building component properly handled and used Increased sewage flow in the A wastewater system and treatment Wastewater network Included in project Design DDA town due to increased water facility, of sufficient capacity to handle the and treatment plant works Consultants supply project wastewater flow, is to be installed under the project. Pollution from sludge Sludge from the sewage treatment plant Wastewater treatment Included in O&M Cost Design DDA produced by both water will be dewatered in situ, rendered safe facility Estimates Consultants/ treatment and sewage and made available for agricultural and DDA treatment plant horticultural use. Health and safety hazards Operator safety is primarily ensured Project wide Included in capacity DDA DDA associated with operation of through training and establishing building component the water supply and operational rules and procedures. wastewater treatment plant Provision of perimeter fence, restriction of Wastewater treatment Construction of DDA DDA entry to the site, and maintenance of facility perimeter fence

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Approximate Institutional Responsibility Environmental Impact Mitigation measures Cost Estimate Location Implementation Compliance existing gate and perimeter fence will included in project reduce the danger to the general public works

Control of entry is normal running cost. Odor from the wastewater Ensure adequate buffer distance to Wastewater treatment Included in project Design DDA treatment facility houses in maintained. facility works Consultants

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Attachment 4C

Strategy and Outline of a Public Awareness Raising Program

A. Background and Approach

114. Environmental education and awareness raising a means of eliciting lasting changes in people's behavior and attitudes towards the environment and public health, such that greater public co-operation in environmental management is achieved. Such co-operation can foster more efficient and effective solid waste management, improved care of water supply, wastewater and other infrastructure, and an understanding of critical principals of hygiene.

115. Improvements in Solid Waste Management are particularly dependent on public co-operation. As both economic and population growth continues around the country, both the amount of solid waste and proportion of non degradable components increases, while resources for thorough collection, separation, treatment and disposal remain limited. With effective awareness raising activities, the public may become increasingly inclined to contribute to solving the problem, through reducing the use of non degradable items such as plastic bags and bottles; separating their waste to enable management measures such as recycling and composting to become cost effective.

116. While such approaches have been tried elsewhere in the region with mixed success, fostering of awareness in and care of the environment is consistent with the emphasis afforded environmental protection in the nation's constitution.

117. Environmental education and awareness raising currently takes place in Bhutan on the initiative of the Royal Society for the Protection of Nature (RSPN), who work primarily through schools. Experience has shown that schools prove highly effective in awareness raising, both of school children and possible of the public at large. On the other hand, initiatives such as "clean up days" have had little lasting impact, but the use of media, such as poster and radio campaigns has been largely untried. The table below gives a list of activities that may have value, with appropriate adaptation to the Bhutanese social and cultural context, in an awareness raising Program.

Possible Public Education and Awareness Raising Activities

Forum Activities Comments Schools Building upon existing initiatives for work Children, as the adults of tomorrow are through schools, such as the work of generally interested in environmental issues RSPN and more amenable to adopting new values.

Production of children's books that foster School going children make up a relatively high understanding of and enthusiasm for care proportion of the population, constituting a of the environment and principles of wide, receptive audience hygiene and public health

Developing resource packs for teachers Resource requirements (materials, time, skilled people and funding) vary from relatively low to Establishment of an Education Resource relatively high (books, teacher's pack, resource Entre centre).

Some activities require committed, enthusiastic teachers, which is already evident in many schools in Bhutan.

An Education Resource Centre would be open to all people and not just school children and teachers.

Media Production and distribution of leaflets/ All media activities require follow up practical pamphlets to waste generators/ polluting activities or initiatives to build on the messages industries being communicated to the public. For

example, there is no point in educating people Preparation of posters for display in public about the source separation of refuse unless places the opportunity exists for them to actually do this. Painting murals on public buildings/walls Required resources vary from relatively low National radio or TV Programs (mural painting, posters) to high (video, TV Programs).

There is the potential to run some activities (e.g. posters, pamphlets) as competitions for school children. Events Public meetings With any events, the City Corporations/Dzongkhag administrations must Competitions (essays, posters, poems, be seen to be practicing what they are songs, etc.) encouraging people to do. For example, bins and containers be provided organized events, Drama, street theatre, music while and the use of disposable plates/cups/ cutlery should be avoided.

Competitions can reach a wide audience, particularly if the best entries are publicly exhibited.

The effectiveness of events can be enhanced by some form of entertainment to encourage people to come (e.g. extra appeal of drama, street theatre and music). Other Promotion of alternative durable shopping Bags and T-shirts are simple but effective bags with slogans means of generating interests, while providing a strong message. Theme T-shirts Characters, logos or slogans can give a sense Creation of a character or logo or slogan of continuity to a campaign

Reward or incentive schemes (for good Examples of positive incentive schemes behavior) include vouchers prizes for all people who do tasks such as separate their waste at source; or industries such as workshops who effectively dispose of waste oil.

118. An important aspect of a strategy for public environmental education and awareness raising is that Bhutan does not have an extensive NGO sector and the range of organizations who could take up and manage such a Program is limited. Consideration should therefore be given to engaging Government agencies, commercial consulting firms, and NGOs for undertaking the Program.

B. Outline of a Public Awareness Raising Program

1. Objective

119. The initiation and sustaining of a gradual change in public attitudes to solid waste issues and environmental management. 2. Implementation Arrangements

120. It is envisaged that the Program will involve employing a publicity education and awareness specialist for an initial period of 3 years. Consultant support will be made available to set up the project and provide intermittent support. This individual will:

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(i) Design, with support from consultants as necessary, components of the Program and prepare packages for their implementation. Activities may include preparing resource material for teaching in primary schools, developing a pilot Program to encourage source separation of household solid waste, development of publicity material, and competitive events. (ii) Work closely with staff of the City Corporations and Dagana Dzongkhag administration to provide support to implement the Program (iii) Recruit and organize assistance from community workers as required for contacting households and industries to elicit participation in the Program (iv) Work with primary teachers in developing Programs for school children for their awareness and understanding of environmental and public health issues.

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Attachment 4D

Records of Public Consultations

1. Thimphu

Stakeholders Key Participants Date of Issues Raised Outcomes Consultation Residents of Mrs. Tshewang Lham November 17th There is a lot of dirty water flowing The public awareness campaign for Changbangdu (Landlady) 2005 unchecked in the neighborhood. This is solid waste management proposed mainly due to clogged drains and lack of under the project will help to curb this civic sense among the people. problem Ms. Rinzin (Tenant), Mr. Tshering Penjor (Tenant),

Mr. K. B Ghalley (tenant), Mrs. Tshering Dem (Landlady, Mr. Tempa Dorji (tenant) There is an acute and urgent problem The centralized water distribution with water supply for domestic use. The system will be expanded to also community has collectively built a water supply water to the Changbangdu tank and everybody contributes to its area under the project. maintenance and employment of a guard for the tank. However it is not treated water and it is not enough for washing clothes and maintaining a hygienic environment. Hence, they frequently have to wash their clothes in the nearby river (Wangchhu). This problem also leads to conflicts among the residents of the area. Foul smelling puddles of waste water The Changbangdu area will be form in the neighborhood creating a very connecting to the sewerage treatment unhygienic environment. Connecting the plant in Babesa under the project. houses to the existing sewer treatment plant in Babesa would extremely be helpful to prevent this. The lack of an access road to many A 1.4 km road winding up the A road houses in the area creates a lot of on Changbangdu hill is proposed difficulties for the residents. Some under the project. This will help to give people have to walk for 10-15 minutes immediate road access to some of the to reach the road and it is problematic houses, and reduce the distance to when they have to haul heavy items the road for others (gas cylinders, rice bags etc.) in and out of their houses. The limitations in the road network Due to this some residents already

Stakeholders Key Participants Date of Issues Raised Outcomes Consultation reduce the availability of public services practice some form of waste such as the solid waste collection trucks separation between the biodegradable and emptying of septic tanks. waste and the plastic material and papers which they burn. This practice provides a useful precedent for the Public Awareness campaign to build on.

The entire area will be connected to the existing Sewerage Treatment Plant, substantially alleviating the sewage issue. The solid waste collection trucks come Additional garbage collection trucks to the area (near the road) once a week. are planned to be provided under the However, the service is not regular and project. This could contribute to this leads to open dumping, often near providing regular waste collection the river. services to various areas of Thimphu including Changbangdu. In addition 7 dust bins are proposed to be placed at the less accessible areas in Changbangdu. This should also helps to minimize the problem of waste accumulation inside homes. There has been loss of land (agricultural The proposed construction of 500m of and others) due to slope undercutting by river bank protection under the project the river. There is concern over danger will help to solve these problems in to children as they have easy access the particular location where the the river side unless a wall is in place construction will take place, reducing ready access by small children. Establishment of a BHU, crèches, street A BHU, crèches, street lighting and an lighting etc. are a top priority for the exhibition center is to be established residents and would be highly beneficial. in Changbangdu under the project. A public awareness campaign on solid These concerns will be incorporated in waste management which focuses on the Public Awareness Campaign the grass roots people and involves the under the project. local area officials should be used. Use of the media (tv and radio) has not been very effective so it would be advisable to use other means of public education Monitoring various aspects of the Participatory monitoring activities, environment could be taken up by the such as those that take place with the

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Stakeholders Key Participants Date of Issues Raised Outcomes Consultation local residents. However, a proper support of RSPN, will be included in institution and system involving local the public awareness component. authorities would be necessary to make it happen. Residents of Mrs. Gem (farmer), November 17th Dust, noise and slush during the rainy The Environmental Management Plan Lungtenphu 2005 season are the most bothersome includes details on the timing of Colonel K. Thinley (retired) aspects of road construction. Black construction in order to minimize (permanent resident), topping the road immediately after disturbance to residents. It also Mrs. Holay, Ms. Yangchen cutting would help minimize these includes measures to minimize dust. (tenant), Mr. Dorji (tenant) problems These include immediate blacktopping as well as a range of measures that limit the time that material is stockpiled, and will provide for covers and containing of the materials. Currently residents located near the Construction of 6.1 km of road is army camp but not belonging to the proposed under the project. This will army camp cannot travel very easily as help to connect many of the non army the existing road is not open at all times camp houses to the express way as of the day due to security reason. well as the existing Thimphu – Phuentsholing highway and have in and out access at all times. Some of the septic tanks in the area are All households in Lungtenphu will be not built properly due to lack of connected to the Sewerage Treatment knowledge and awareness. This has led Plant in Babesa, hence most sewer to construction of very small tanks that related problems will be solved by the do not function properly and break down project. easily. Waste collection trucks do not provide Construction of access road, providing services to some parts of the area. addition waste collection trucks and Hence the area is very dirty and the provision of 10 community dust bins problem is worsened by dogs. for Lungtenphu under the project will help to bring proper waste disposal in the area. A lot of waste water flows unchecked Road side drains, to be constructed from the army camp especially during under the project will help to control the rainy season. Similarly the septic the overflowing of waste water. tanks from the army camp are also Connection of the area to the sewer overflowing. treatment plant at Babesa will substantially alleviate the sewage problems. Water supply for the existing residents is The new water supply system

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Stakeholders Key Participants Date of Issues Raised Outcomes Consultation adequate at the moment but will not proposed for the southern local areas suffice as development continues. The under the project will provide regular supply is sometimes irregular during the drinking water to all the plots in summer due to the clogging of the tank Lungtenphu. outlet. Establishment of a BHU, crèches, street A BHU, crèches, and street lights are lighting etc. are a top priority for the planned to be established in residents and would be highly beneficial. Lungtenphu under the project. A public awareness campaign on solid These suggestions will be considered waste management involving the local in the public awareness campaign authorities is a must to make the area proposed under the project. more hygienic. Public awareness campaigns could be carried out using the media. Residents of Mrs. Kinely Yangzom November 18th The water supply is regular but during The new water supply system Simtokha (landlady), Mr. Ugen 2005 the monsoon season the water tank proposed for the southern local areas (student), Mrs. Karma Dem outlet gets clogged by floating debris. under the project will provide regular (farmer), Mrs. Dema Also the amount would not be enough in drinking water to all the plots in (farmer), Mrs. Yeshay future as the number of residents Simtokha. Wangmo (tenant) increase. Community infrastructure such as a A BHU, crèche, vegetable market, BHU and crèches are a high priority for football ground and street lighting is the residents and will be highly proposed for Simtokha under the appreciated. This would help remove project. difficulties such as having to travel all the way to the hospital in Thimphu especially during the night. Residents face difficulties with the All the households of Simtokha will be cleaning out of septic tanks due to the connected to the waste water required administrative formalities. A treatment plant in Babesa. foul smelling unhygienic environment is Administrative processes are also to created when the septic tanks fill up and be addressed under the capacity start overflowing. building component. The services of the garbage collection Provision of additional solid waste trucks are no regular. It is necessary for collection trucks under the project the trucks to come more frequently (at could help to address the issue of least twice a week) and more regularly. irregular services. 6 community bins are proposed for Simtokha. Involvement of local officials and local This suggestion will be considered in awareness meetings on a continuous the public awareness campaign basis would be an effective method of proposed under the project.

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Stakeholders Key Participants Date of Issues Raised Outcomes Consultation raising public awareness on solid waste management. Residents of Bidha (farmer), Mrs. Phub November 18th Septic tanks fill up very fast and produce All households in Babesa will be Babes Dem, Ms. Lhadon, Mr. 2005 a very bad smell connected to the Sewerage Treatment Ugen Tenzin, Mr. Samdrup Plant under the project. (farmer), Mr. Tsagay, Mrs. Thinley (farmers) Some areas do not receive the services Public awareness campaigns on solid of the solid waste collection trucks. waste management under the project Where the services are available, the will help residents to improve their trucks do not come regularly. As a result practice of waste separation. In some residents are already practicing addition 12 community dust bins are waste separation wherein they compost proposed for Babesa under the the bio degradable waste and burn the project. rest. However, residents feel that this practice does not seem to work very well with the increasing number of residents. Regular and adequate services from the garbage collection trucks would help to solve the waste problem. The drinking water is not clean enough The new water supply system and the supply is not regular. proposed for the southern local areas under the project will provide regular and clean drinking water to all the plots in Babesa. Availability of a BHU, crèches, street Such facilities will be made available lighting etc. are a top priority for the under the project in Babesa. residents of Babesa. The quicker these structures/facilities are established the better if will be for the residents. Use of the media will be effective in This suggestion will be considered in creating awareness on solid waste the public awareness campaigns on management amongst the public. solid waste management under the project.

2. Phuentsholing

Stakeholders Key Participants Date of Issues Raised Outcomes Consultation Town Committee Lha Tshering, Committee October 21st Waste disposal or removal of remaining Proper disposal of waste in well

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Stakeholders Key Participants Date of Issues Raised Outcomes Consultation members member 2005 construction materials is usually not designated areas will be included in Thinley Dorji, Committee done properly after road construction/ the Environmental Management Plan Phuentsholing member maintenance works. for the contractor. City Corporation C.B. Chettri, Survey, PCC (PCC) Officials M.D Rai, PCC Thinley Norbu, PCC Naphel Drukpa, PCC Karma Dorji, PCC Sonam Tobgay, PCC Deepak Chhetri, PCC R.S. Tamang, PCC J Gyeltshen, PCC R. Dorji, PCC Karma Yangzom, Gyeltshen Consultancy Poor quality of construction has caused Quality standards for construction will accidents near the Dhoti Khola area as be provided in contractor's documents well as in areas with weak slabs for all the roads and drains under the covering the drains. project. Excessive storm water flows over the Road improvements include the roads in the area around the banks. This upgrading of storm drains, from PSA not only creates an unhygienic ground to Gaki Lam. environment but also makes it dangerous for school children to walk across the road. Sometimes there is a backflow of foul The waste water pump at the northern smell from the sewerage pipes. part of the town will be upgraded to accommodate the increased sewer network coverage. Under the riverbank protection works, Appropriate design measures for the top of the wall could be broader as safety aspects are included in the the current one is too narrow people EMP could fall over into the river. Temporary migrants to Phuentsholing One of the target focus groups for the town contribute significantly to public awareness campaigns on generation of trash and waste in the waste management will be the town. temporary migrants (via television, posters). A short TV program showing ways of These suggestions will be considered proper waste disposal land avoiding for incorporation in the project's public dirty habits such as spitting dorma, awareness campaign.

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Stakeholders Key Participants Date of Issues Raised Outcomes Consultation rubbing the doma lime of walls etc. could be aired on a periodic basis as part of the public awareness campaign. Dark areas in the Hathidunga area Street lights will be provided in the encourage street crime. Hathindunga area under the project. Shopkeeper and Pema Lhamo 22nd October Foul odor is produced from the drains in Improving the road and drains of Resident of 2005 the streets in front of her bar especially street in front of her bar is included in Phuentsholing Honglen Bar when it is dry. the project. The better drains will help to reduce the foul odor of the drains. (Lower market area) Residents are concerned that the Dhoti The river bank protection work under khola (Omchu river) may overflow and the project in the Kabreytar area will cause a flood. help to minimize the danger of floods. Household waste (packed in plastic The public awareness campaigns on bags) is often thrown onto the roadside solid waste management and from residents in the buildings especially distribution of dust bins in the town at nigh. area under the project will help to mitigate if not minimize this problem. Shop keeper and Mrs. Bina Dorji, LD 22nd October, A flood occurred in 2005 which was very River bank protection walls that will be resident of Enterprises 2005 destructive and the reoccurrence of a built along the Omchhu river at Phuentsholing similar flood remains a concern. Kabreytar will help to reduce the town (Lower danger of floods. market area) Using school children as one of the The target groups for the public target groups for the public awareness awareness component will build on campaigns will be a good idea as the existing schemes that address public children will convey the messages to awareness through schools. their parents. Shop keeper and Mrs. Chuki, Pema Nima 22nd October There are very frequent drain blocks in The road and drains running along the resident of Tshongkhang 2005 Phuentsholing as people throw their front of the building will be improved Phuentsholing waste into the drains and this also under the project. This in combination (next to mini serves as a breeding ground for with the public awareness campaigns stadium site) mosquitoes. will help to take care of this issue. There is poor circulation of traffic in the The road connecting PSA ground and neighborhood due to poor road network Gaki Lam to be constructed under the connectivity. project will help to solve this problem. Careless disposal of solid waste impairs Distribution of dust bins in the town the appearance of the area. area and awareness campaigns on solid waste management will help reduce this problem.

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Stakeholders Key Participants Date of Issues Raised Outcomes Consultation It would be more effective to conduct This suggestion will be incorporated in public meetings with live demonstrations the project's public awareness to make people aware about solid waste campaign. management. Resident of Mr. Jigme Singye, Bhutan 22nd October Road improvement works being carried The provision of service ducts Phuentsholing Telecom 2005 out in an uncoordinated manner with alongside project roads will reduce the town constant digging required for different need to repeatedly dig up the roads to purposes (cable, water pipes etc.) lay services. creates a lot of inconvenience for the residents. There are frequent drain blocks in the Upgrading of roads in the project also town causing dirty water to flow unto the include drains. Hence, the new drains road. should be able to work more efficiently. Further the awareness campaign on solid waste management will educate people on proper disposal of solid waste (no disposal into drains). The current location of the archery Location of the new archery, khuru ground is dangerous for the public as and deyghor ground east of the there are many schoolchildren and other Karma Industrial area under the pedestrians (employees of the banks, project will make it safe for public in Tala hydropower project, Bhutan the PSA ground area. Telecom etc.) in the area. Meetings with the public and relevant This suggestion will be considered for sector heads within the town (PCC the public awareness campaigns to be officials) would be an appropriate carried out in the project. method for awareness raising on solid waste management. The children's park is important for Improvement of the children's park is recreation, but is badly impaired by included in the project. The carelessly deposited solid waste. awareness raining component will help address the issue of irresponsible solid waste disposal.

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