Initial Environmental Examination

Project No. 40540-014 January 2020

Revised Initial Environmental Examination for Additional Work Scope Under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

Improvement of Joydebpur-Chandra-Tangail-Elenga Road (N-4) To a 4-lane Highway

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

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

Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh Ministry of Road Transport and Bridges Road Transport and Highways Division Roads and Highways Department (RHD)

Revised Initial Environmental Examination for Additional Work Scope Under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

Improvement of Joydebpur-Chandra-Tangail-Elenga Road (N-4) To a 4-lane Highway

Project Implementation Consultants: Kunhwa Engineering & Consulting Co. Ltd. (South Korea) in Joint Venture With Korea Consultants International Co. Ltd. (South Korea) Intercontinental Consultants and Technocrats Pvt. Ltd. (India) in association With

Development Design Consultants Ltd. (Bangladesh )

February 2019

List of Abbreviation

AAQ Ambient Air Quality AOI Area of Influence APHA American Public Health Association BOD Biological Oxygen Demand BMD Bangladesh Meteorological Department BBS Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics BARC Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council BWDB Bangladesh Water Development Board BIWTA Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority BFDIC Bangladesh Forest Industries Development Corporation BNBC Bangladesh National Building Code BBS Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics CO Carbon Monoxide COD Chemical Oxygen Demand DO Dissolved Oxygen DoE Department of Environment DAE Department of Agricultural Extension DD Data Deficient EC Electrical Conductivity ECA Ecological Critical Area ECR Environment Conservation Rule ECC Environmental Clearance Certificate EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EMP Environmental Management Plan ENP Environmental National Policy EHS Environmental Health and Safety EQS Environment Quality Standard FGD Focused Group Discussion FD Forest Department DPP Development Project Proposal GoB Government of Bangladesh GSB Geological Survey of Bangladesh GIS Geographic Information System IEE Initial Environment Examination IUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature ICTPs International Conventions, Treaties and Protocols IECs Important Environmental Components IBAs Important Bird Areas KII Key Informant Interview LGED Local Government Engineering Department

LC Least Concern MoL Ministry of Land NEMAP National Environment Management Action Plan NOx Oxides of Nitrogen NO Nitrogen Oxides NT Nearly Threatened NLTP National Land Transport Policy NGOs Non-Government Organization PCM Public Consultation Meeting PPE Personal Protective Equipment PM Particulate Matter PCU Passenger Car Unit pH Potential of Hydrogen RFI Request for Information RHD Roads and Highways Department

SO2 Sulpher di oxide SRDI Soil Research and Development Institute SES Social Economic Survey SHWL Standard High Water Level SPARRSO Space Research and Remote Sensing Organization SDGs Sustainable Development Goals MoEF Ministry of Environment, Forest and climate change TDS Total Dissolved Solid TIA Traffic Impact Assessment TOR Terms of Reference TSS Total Suspended Solid 3R Recycle Reuse Reduce NBSAP National Biodiversity Strategy & Action Plan MoWR Ministry of Water Resources USGS United States Geological Survey

Contents

Overview of the project ...... 1-2 Need of the project...... 1-2 Objective of the project ...... 1-3 Purpose of the Study ...... 1-4 Extent of the study ...... 1-4 Project Description ...... 1-6 Road components ...... 1-6 Construction materials Sourcing ...... 1-6 Purpose and scope of the EIA...... 1-7 Scope of the EIA Study ...... 1-7 Approach and Methodology of The EIA Study ...... 1-8 Methodology for the EIA study ...... 1-9 Methods of Impacts Assessment ...... 1-15 Resources/Receptors and Impacts considered in scoping ...... 1-21 EIA Team ...... 1-23 Limitation of The Study ...... 1-23 Structure of The Report...... 1-24

Introduction ...... 2-1 Environment-Related Policies in Bangladesh ...... 2-1 Environment and social Related Legislations in Bangladesh ...... 2-5 The Environment Conservation Act, 1995 (as amended in 2000, 2002 & 2010) 2-5 Environment Conservation Rules (ECR), 1997 (as amended in 2002 & 2003) 2- 5 The Acquisition and Requisition of Immovable Property Act, 2017 ...... 2-5 Framework for Leasing of Government (Khas) Agricultural Land ...... 2-7 Administrative Setup Related to Environment in Bangladesh ...... 2-13 Department of Environment (DoE) ...... 2-13 Environmental Clearance Process ...... 2-13 Institutional Arrangements Related to Land Acquisition in Bangladesh ...... 2-17 Project Relevant International Treaties and Conventions ...... 2-18 ADB Safeguard policy statement, 2009 ...... 2-19 Applicable EHS Standards ...... 2-20 Categorization of The Project ...... 2-21 Project Classification as per DOE, Ministry of Environment and Forest, Bangladesh ...... 2-21 Project Classification as per ADB Safeguard Policy Statement ...... 2-21

The Project ...... 3-1 Objectives of the project...... 3-2 Project Area ...... 3-2 Project Location ...... 3-2 Integration of SMVT lane along with proposed new 2 lane roads ...... 3-3

Existing and Proposed Cross Drainage Structures ...... 3-3 SMVT Crossing Schedule ...... 3-4 Guardrail between the SMVT and Carriageway ...... 3-5 Integration of the existing road along with SMVT Lane...... 3-5 Alignment and ROW ...... 3-6 Incorporation Project Feature ...... 3-10 Road safety aspects ...... 3-10 Disability access ...... 3-11 Climate resiliency ...... 3-11 Bus Bays ...... 3-11 Toilets and locker facilities ...... 3-12

Introduction ...... 4-1 Study Area ...... 4-2 Physical Environment ...... 4-3 Geology ...... 4-3 Topology of the project area ...... 4-5 Land Use and Land Cover ...... 4-5 Physiography ...... 4-8 Geomorphology ...... 4-11 Soil type of the project area ...... 4-14 Agro ecological zone ...... 4-21 Bio ecological zone ...... 4-23 Meteorology ...... 4-26 Natural Hazards ...... 4-30 Earthquake ...... 4-30 Flood ...... 4-32 Cyclone and Storm Surges ...... 4-35 Environmental Quality ...... 4-36 Ambient Air Quality ...... 4-36 Ambient Noise Level ...... 4-40 Surface Water Quality ...... 4-43 Ground Water Quality ...... 4-45 Soil Quality ...... 4-49 Biological Environment...... 4-50 Introduction ...... 4-50 Objectives ...... 4-51 Bio-Ecological Zone of the Study Area ...... 4-52 Methodology for terrestrial flora survey ...... 4-54 Terrestrial Floral Analysis...... 4-55 Aquatic Flora...... 4-58 Biodiversity of fauna...... 4-59 Mammals ...... 4-64 Fishes ...... 4-64 Protected areas ...... 4-66 Madhupur National Park ...... 4-68 Bhawal National Park ...... 4-70

Ecological Critical Areas (ECA) ...... 4-70 Turag River ...... 4-70 Hydrological and Drainage Scenario ...... 4-72 Existing Traffic and Forecast ...... 4-72

Administrative area and location ...... 5-1 Project Area ...... 5-2 Demographic Profile of Affected Population ...... 5-3 Gender Distribution of Household Heads ...... 5-3 Project Impact on Gender ...... 5-3 Age Distribution of Affected Population ...... 5-3 Population by religion and Ethnicity ...... 5-4 Primary Occupation of Affected Households ...... 5-4 Affected Non- Land Assets ...... 5-5 Land Acquisition ...... 5-5 Impaction on Structures by Section ...... 5-6 Impaction on Common Property Resources (CPRs ...... 5-6 Affected Trees ...... 5-7 Loss of ponds ...... 5-8 5.1.1 Education ...... 5-9 5.1.2 Settlement and Housing ...... 5-9 Public Utilities ...... 5-11 Water Supply ...... 5-11 Electricity ...... 5-11 Sanitation ...... 5-12 Health Care Facility...... 5-13 Solid Waste ...... 5-13 Economy and Employment ...... 5-13 Traffic and Transport ...... 5-15

Scope of the Assessment ...... 7-1 Assessment Methodology ...... 7-1 Impacts during Pre-Construction Phase ...... 7-5 Land Acquisition ...... 7-5 Loss of Trees/Vegetation ...... 7-5 Impacts on Archaeological/Historical/ Sites ...... 7-6 Public utility ...... 7-7 Impacts during Construction Phase...... 7-7 Setting up Labor Camp ...... 7-7 Air Pollution ...... 7-8 Noise Pollution and vibration ...... 7-11 Impact on Surface Water Bodies...... 7-12 Impact of Surface Water Quality ...... 7-14 Groundwater Contamination ...... 7-15 Soil Compaction and Pollution ...... 7-15 Waste Pollution ...... 7-18

Drainage Congestion ...... 7-19 Impact on Biological Environment ...... 7-20 Occupational Health and Safety ...... 7-22 Community Health and Safety ...... 7-23 Influx of Construction Workers and Prevalence of Diseases ...... 7-24 Employment Generation and Benefit to Local Business ...... 7-25 Impacts during Operation Phase ...... 7-25 Air Pollution ...... 7-25 Noise Pollution ...... 7-26 Impact on Community Health and Safety ...... 7-27 Impacts on Socioeconomic Environment ...... 7-27

Objective of EMP ...... 8-1 During Operation Phase ...... 8-15 Environmental Monitoring Plan ...... 8-17 During Construction Phase ...... 8-18 During Operation Phase ...... 8-20 Institutional Setting and Implementation Arrangement ...... 8-23

Institutional Settings, Implementation Arrangements ...... 9-1 Institutional Arrangement for EMP Implementation ...... 9-3 RHD’s Involvement in EMP Implementation ...... 9-3 Training Requirements ...... 9-3 Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) ...... 9-5 Grievance Mechanism Development and its Requiring Steps ...... 9-5 Proposed Grievance Redress Mechanism for SMVT Project ...... 9-7 Resources Required for Grievance Mechanism Implementation ...... 9-12 Nominated Grievance Officer ...... 9-12 Engagement of Third Party ...... 9-12 Monitoring and Reporting ...... 9-12 Monitoring ...... 9-12 Reporting ...... 9-13

Introduction ...... 10-1 Approach and Methodology for Consultation ...... 10-1 Stakeholder Assessment ...... 10-1 Information disclosure and consultation ...... 10-8 Key Informant Interview (KII) ...... 10-8 Focus Group Discussion ...... 10-15 Public Consultation ...... 10-19

Introduction ...... 11-1 Objective of Emergency Response Plan ...... 11-1 Elements of an Emergency Response Plan ...... 11-1 Hazards Associated with the proposed project ...... 11-2 On-site emergency response and preparedness plan of construction contractor 11-3

Emergency Response Procedure ...... 11-3 Identification of Emergency ...... 11-3 Emergency Action Plan at project site ...... 11-3 Assembly Points ...... 11-4 The Key Personnel for Emergency in the project ...... 11-4 Alarm System ...... 11-5 Communication System ...... 11-5 Siren for Emergency ...... 11-6 Counting of Personnel ...... 11-6 All Clear Signal ...... 11-6 Emergency Facilities ...... 11-6 Hazardous Control Measures...... 11-6 Fire ...... 11-6 Natural Disasters ...... 11-8 Electrical Accidents ...... 11-8 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)...... 11-9 First Aid ...... 11-9

Conclusion ...... 12-1 Recommendation ...... 12-1

List of Tables

Table 1-1: Different Components of the SMVT Project ...... 1-6 Table 1-2: Tasks Undertaken for the EIA Study ...... 1-10 Table 1-3: Primary Baseline Data for the EIA Study ...... 1-12 Table 1-4: Collected Information and Sources...... 1-13 Table 1-5: Resources/Receptors and Impacts Considered in Scoping ...... 1-21 Table 1-6: EIA Team Composition ...... 1-23 Table 2-1: Policies relevant to Environment ...... 2-2 Table 2-2: National Legal Instruments Relevant to the Project ...... 2-8 Table 2-3: Project Relevant International Treaties and Conventions ...... 2-18 Table 2-4: Project categorization asper ADB Safeguard ...... 2-22 Table 3-1: Proposed SMVT lane along with administrative unit ...... 3-2 Table 3-2: Component and Design Standard for SMVT Lane ...... 3-3 Table 3-3: List of New Major Bridges along with SMVT ...... 3-4 Table 3-4: Inclusion of underpass along with JCTE Road ...... 3-4 Table 3-5: Schedule for guardrail between the SMVT and carriageway ...... 3-5 Table 3-6: Road Safety Features ...... 3-10 Table 3-7: Proposed Bus Bays ...... 3-11

Table 4-1: Land use Pattern of the Project Area ...... 4-5 Table 4-2: Flood Levels of JCTE Section ...... 4-32 Table 4-3: Methodology for analysis of Ambient Air Quality...... 4-37 Table 4-4: Air Quality Monitoring Locations ...... 4-37 Table 4-5: Summary of Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Results ...... 4-39 Table 4-6: Ambient Noise Monitoring Locations ...... 4-40 Table 4-7: Noise level in the study area ...... 4-42 Table 4-8: Surface Water sampling location ...... 4-43 Table 4-9: Surface Water Analysis Result ...... 4-45 Table 4-10: Ground Water sampling location ...... 4-46 Table 4-11: Ground Water Quality in the Project Area ...... 4-49 Table 4-12: Soil Sampling Location ...... 4-49 Table 4-13: Soil quality of the project location ...... 4-50 Table 4-14 : Bio-ecological Zone: Madhupur Sal Tract ...... 4-52 Table 4-15: Quadrates study of floral species ...... 4-55 Table 4-16: Biodiversity index of floral species at project area ...... 4-58 Table 4-17: Aquatic flora counted in the study area...... 4-59 Table 4-18: Check List of Avifaunal species found in project area ...... 4-60 Table 4-19: List of Herpeto-faunal species recorded in the project area ...... 4-62 Table 4-20: Check List of Mammal Species Found in Project Area ...... 4-64 Table 4-21: Checklist of Fish species found in project area ...... 4-65 Table 4-22: Protected areas of Bangladesh ...... 4-67 Table 4-23: Existing and traffic forecast for JCTE Road ...... 4-73 Table 5-1: Composition of the study area ...... 5-1 Table 5-2: Summary of the project affected area ...... 5-2 Table 5-3: Total Number of Vulnerable Households Affected by the Project ...... 5-3 Table 5-4: Total Number of Affected Population by Age Group and Location ...... 5-4 Table 5-5: Primary Occupation of Affected HHs ...... 5-4 Table 5-6: Land Requirement by Area ...... 5-5 Table 5-7: Category of land by Work Package ...... 5-6 Table 5-8: Impacts of Quantity of Structure by Work Package ...... 5-6 Table 5-9: Total Number of Affected CPRs by Type and Contract Package ...... 5-7 Table 5-10: Number of Trees Affected in RTW by Work Package and Size ...... 5-7 Table 5-11: Number of Trees Affected in Private Land by Type, Size & Work Package ..... 5-8 Table 5-12: Types of structure and Housing Tenancy in the Study Area ...... 5-10 Table 5-13: Sources of Drinking Water in the Study Area...... 5-11 Table 5-14: Employment status of the Study Area ...... 5-14 Table 7-1: Impact Identification Matrix for the Proposed Project ...... 7-2 Table 8-1: Mitigation Measures during Pre- Construction and Construction Phase ...... 8-2 Table 8-2: Mitigation Measures during Operation Phase ...... 8-16 Table 8-3: Monitoring Plan During and Construction Phase/Year ...... 8-18 Table 8-4: Monitoring Plan during Operation Phase ...... 8-21 Table 9-1: Training Program Schedule for the Project ...... 9-4 Table 9-2: Contact Details of Grievance Officers ...... 9-8 Table 9-3: Records of Grievance Received ...... 9-9 Table 10-1: Stakeholder Mapping for the Project ...... 10-4 Table 10-2: Key Informant Interview ...... 10-9

Table 10-3: Summary of Focus Group Discussion ...... 10-16 Table 10-4: Details of Public Consultations of the Project ...... 10-20

List of Figures

Figure 1-1: Geographic Location of The Project With Regional Settings ...... 1-5 Figure 1-2: Approach to the EIA study ...... 1-9 Figure 1-3: Impact Assessment Process for the EIA Study ...... 1-14 Figure 2-1: DoE Environmental Clearance Applicability and Procedure ...... 2-15 Figure 2-2: Flow chart of EIA process applicable to the proposed project ...... 2-16 Figure 3-1: Typical Cross Section ...... 3-7 Figure 4-1: Map of the Study area ...... 4-2 Figure 4-2: Geology of the Study Area ...... 4-4 Figure 4-3: Topography of the Project Area ...... 4-6 Figure 4-4: Land Use and Land Cover ...... 4-7 Figure 4-5: Physiography map of the Project Area ...... 4-10 Figure 4-6: Geomorphology of the Study Area ...... 4-13 Figure 4-7: Soil types of the Project Area ...... 4-20 Figure 4-8: Agro-ecological Zone of the Project Area ...... 4-22 Figure 4-9: Bio Ecological zones of the Study Area ...... 4-25 Figure 4-10: Climatic sub-regions of Bangladesh ...... 4-27 Figure 4-11: Temperature variation of the project area (2000-2018) ...... 4-28 Figure 4-12: Monthly Average Rainfall at Project site (2000-2018) ...... 4-29 Figure 4-13: Monthly Average Relative Humidity of the project site (2000-2016) ...... 4-29 Figure 4-14: Earthquake Zone of Bangladesh ...... 4-31 Figure 4-15: Flood prone areas of Bangladesh ...... 4-33 Figure 4-16: Exposure to flood threat map of the project area ...... 4-34 Figure 4-17: Cyclone and Storm Surges areas of Bangladesh ...... 4-35 Figure 4-18: Photographs of Ambient Air Quality Monitoring ...... 4-37 Figure 4-19: Air Quality and Noise Level Monitoring Location ...... 4-38 Figure 4-20: Noise Monitoring location of the project...... 4-40 Figure 4-21: Photographs of Noise Level Quality Monitoring ...... 4-41 Figure 4-22: Surface Water Sampling Location ...... 4-44 Figure 4-23: Photographs of Surface Water Collection ...... 4-44 Figure 4-24: Ground Water and Sediment Sampling location ...... 4-47 Figure 4-25: Photographs of Ground Water Sample Collection ...... 4-47 Figure 4-26: Map of soil sampling location ...... 4-50 Figure 4-27: Bio-Ecological Zone of Bangladesh ...... 4-54 Figure 4-28: Pictorial view Quadrates study of Flora ...... 4-55 Figure 4-29: Comparison of Number of Species (family) ...... 4-56 Figure 4-30: Comparison plants according to use ...... 4-57 Figure 4-31: Aquatic Vegetation found in the study site ...... 4-58 Figure 4-32: Number of avifaunal species found in project area (family wise) ...... 4-62 Figure 4-33: Herpeto-faunal species recorded in the project area ...... 4-63 Figure 4-34: Protected Areas of Bangladesh ...... 4-69 Figure 4-35: Ecological Critical Area of Bangladesh ...... 4-71 Figure 5-1: Loss of pond due to construction of the project ...... 5-9

Figure 5-2: Literacy of the Study Area ...... 5-9 Figure 5-3: Electricity connection of the Study Area ...... 5-12 Figure 5-4: Sanitation facility in the Study Area ...... 5-12 Figure 9-1: Proposed Grievance Mechanism for the Proposed Project during Construction Stage ...... 9-10 Figure 10-1: Selected Photos of Key Informant Interview (KII) With Different Stakeholders 10- 14 Figure 10-2: Selected photographs of Focused Group Discussion ...... 10-18 Figure 10-3: Selected Figures of Public Consultation Meeting ...... 10-23

Executive Summary Executive Summary

E-1 Introduction Smooth communication network is one of the prerequisites of the development of any nation. As the Government of Bangladesh (GoB) is very much concerned about the economic flourishment and development of nation, it is one of the main focuses of the government is to widen important road and ensure safety features. Therefore, ministry of Road Transport and Bridges, Road and Highways Davison has decided to upgrade about 70 km of upgrade about 70 km of the Joydevpur-Chandra-Tangail-Elenga Road, which is part of Asian Highway No. 2 & 41 South Asia Sub regional Economic Cooperation (SASEC) Road Corridor Nos. 4 and 9, to a 4-Lane Highway with safety features including separate lanes for slow-moving traffic and construction of flyovers at the busiest junctions.

The main component of the Project is to upgrade the Joydevpur-Chandra-Tangail-Elenga Road (JCTE) to a 4-Lane Highway with safety features including separate Lanes for Slow- moving Vehicular Traffic (SMVT). The proposed JCTE Road is one of the vital links in the National Highway network. The existing road, which is a two-lane highway having no divider between two opposite direction traffic and no separate lane for slow-moving vehicles, often gets severely congested also poses significant threats to road safety. Given that the capacity of this 2-lane Highway is constrained due to rapid traffic growth, the upgrading of this Highway to a 4-lane Highway having continuous median, flyover at busy sections & intersections, underpasses and both sides separate SMVT lanes will significantly increase the capacity and safety of this important Highway section.

When SMVT lanes are constructed on both sides of the highway there would be insignificant or no inter-lapping between fast moving and slow-moving vehicles.

E-2 Project Location The JCTE road located north of Dhaka city will start at Vogra Bazaar Junction (N 23° 58' 39 and E 90° 22' 51") at an intersection 2.7 km south of Joydevpur roundabout where the N3 Dhaka – Mymensingh road meets the N105 Dhaka Eastern Bypass, joining the N4 Joydevpur – Chandra – Tangail - Elenga road at project Chainage 2.900 at a point 2.38 km west of Joydevpur (N 23° 59' 22" and E 90° 21' 30"). The route then follows the N4, including the Kaliakor, Mirzapur and Tangail bypasses (south end: N 24° 14' 33" and E 89° 56' 27", north end: N 24° 16' 03" and E 89° 56' 15") to Elenga (N 24° 20' 22" and E 89° 55' 28"). The total length is around 70 km (RDPP, 2018).

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E-3 Necessity of the Report

This Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is part of the process of compliance with the Government of Bangladesh and ADB guidelines. The responsible authority (DoE) to issue Environmental Clearance Certificate (ECC) has categorized construction/ reconstruction/ expansion of road (regional, national & international) as Red category (item no 67) which requires to prepare a separate EIA. The EIA provides a road map to the environmental measures needed to prevent and/or mitigate negative environmental effects associated with the development project. The EIA also provides a detailed description of the direct and indirect environmental effects associated with the proposed project during key periods of work.

E-4 Baseline Environmental Status E-4.1 Physical Environment E-4.1.1 Geology According to the Geological Survey of Bangladesh (GSB), the proposed project area falls under three geological units “Madhupur Clay and Residuum, Alluvial Silt and Clay, and Alluvial Silt”.

Madhupur Clay and residuum Light yellowish- grey, orange, light to brick-red, and greyish- white, micaceous silty clay to sandy clay. Sand fraction dominantly quartz; minor feldspar (orthoclase greater than plagioclase) and mica; sand content increases with depth.

Alluvial silt and clay Medium to dark-grey silt to clay; color is darker as amount of organic material increases. Large areas underlain by this unit are dry only a few months of the year; the deeper part of depressions and beels (beels) contain water throughout the year.

Alluvial silt Light- to medium-grey, fine sandy to clayey silt. Commonly poorly stratified; average grain size decreases away from main channels. Chiefly deposited in flood basins and inter-stream areas.

E-4.1.2 Topology From Topographic data from ASTER Digital Elevation Model (DEM) it is evident that, topography of the project area of Gazipur is likely to be governed by the river network of Turag. The depth of the river network ranges between -4.9 to -5.53 m from Mean Sea Level (MSL) (ASTER DEM, 2019). The analysis also indicates that, elevation on the north side of the project area is comparatively higher (above 18.77m MSL) to than other parts of the project area as Madhupur Sal forest lies on that area (Source: GIS mapping and interpretation of satellite imagery by EQMS, Feb 2019).

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E-4.1.3 Physiography According to the physiography of Bangladesh, the proposed project area falls under the physiographic unit of “Jamuna Flood Plain, Madhupur Tract, and Old Brahmaputra Flood Plain”.

E-4.1.4 Geomorphology The proposed project area falls under the geomorphic unit of “Flood plains and Pleistocene Uplands”.

E-4.1.5 Soils Different types of soils are reported from the project area. Soil types of the project area includes “Acid Basin Clay, Deep Grey Terrace Soil, Deep Red Brown Terrace Soil, Non Calcareous Grey Flood plain (non-saline), Shallow Grey soil, Shallow Red Brown Soil” (Source: Geological Survey of Bangladesh, 1991).

E-4.1.6 Land Use A major part of the study is Agricultural land, which approximately covers 33.65% of the study area. The remaining predominant land use-land cover of the study area includes Settlements with Homestead Vegetation (25.85%), Industrial Park, Roads and Highways, Urban Areas etc (Source: GIS mapping and interpretation of satellite imagery by EQMS, Feb 2019).

E-4.1.7 Meteorology Temperature: Meteorological data was collected from Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD). Analyzing meteorological data since 2000-2018 it was found that, the lowest average temperature recorded in January 2013 (08.0°C) in Tangail weather station. On the other hand, the highest temperature reached 40.2°C in April 2014 (Source: BMD, 2018).

Rainfall: The meteorological data analysis of last 18 years of the project area shows that the annual average rainfall is around 1994.6 mm/year and 1860.6 mm/y for Dhaka and Tangail respectively. (Source: BMD, 2018).

Humidity: February is the driest month with minimum average of around 49% humidity. However, humidity increases to maximum in monsoon period. Average maximum humidity ranges from 94% to 97%, whereas minimum average ranges from 31% to 64%. (Source: BMD, 2018).

E-4.1.8 Agro-ecology The major type of agro-ecological unit is reported from the study area include the “Madhupur Tract and Young Brahmaputra and Jamuna Flood plain”.

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E-4.1.9 Environmental Quality Ambient Air Quality: To evaluate the baseline air quality in the study area, four AAQ samples were collected from the project area (AAQ1: Intersection of N-04 and N-195, AAQ2: In front of Turag CNG Filling Station, AAQ 3: Mirzapur Bypass Bus Stand, AAQ4: Between Hazi Filling Station and Four Brothers Filling Station). The baseline condition of the air environment was monitored for the parameters like PM2.5, PM10, SO2, NOx and CO. All the measured air quality was within the DoE, Bangladesh permissible limit.

Ambient Noise Level: To understand the noise environment in the study area, a noise survey was conducted using a sound level meter. Noise measurements were carried out at twelve locations (three sample from each silent, commercial, residential and mixed category) at different environmental conditions as per the DoE, Bangladesh guideline (Table 4-7). In case of silent zone like mosque, noise level exceeded the standard of DoE due to relatively close location to roads. In other cases, the noise level was within permissible range.

Water Quality: To understand the water quality in the study area, five surface water (Table 4-8) and eight groundwater samples (Table 4-10) from the nearest settlement were collected and analyzed in the laboratory.

E-4.2 Biological Environment During the baseline survey, ecological study was conducted by literature review, visual survey, KII, consultation with the local people and taking the photographs using a digital camera. Secondary literature also has been collected from different sources. An inventory of the flora and fauna has been prepared separately and provided in the report.

E-4.2.1 Bio-ecological Zone According to the Bio-ecological Zones classified by the IUCN, the study area has fallen under the “Madhupur Sal Tract and Brahmaputra-Jamuna Flood Plain”.

E-4.2.2 Protected Areas There is no protected area like National Park, Wildlife Sanctuary etc. within the study area of 400m (200m each side) buffer zone of the project location. The nearest protected area is Madhupur National Park which is located around 5.34 km away from the project area.

E-4.2.3 Ecological Critical Areas The nearest protected area (Turag River) is located around 8.10 km away from the project location at Joydevpur.

E-4.3 Socio-Economic Environment The proposed project site is composed of 19 union(s) of 7 upazila of 2 district Gazipur and Tangail. The following socio-economic conditions of the proposed project area were found:

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Population and Demography: A total of 1,707 households (HHs) are affected by the project’s ROW and the total affected population is 6,883 (male 3855 and female 3028). The average house hold size in the project area is 4.03 which is lower than the national average of 4.4 (BBS 2011). Among the fourcontract packages, WP-03 has the largest number of households (831) or 49% of the total affected HHs. It is followed by WP-02 and WP-03 with 544 (32%) and 262(15%) affected HHs, respectively. WP-01 has the least affected population with only 70(4%) HHs. (Source: Supplementary Resettlement Plan, October 2018)

Religion: The majority (80.26%) of the affected population in the project area professes Muslim (Islam) as their religion. The remaining 19.74% of the affected population is Hindu. Based on FGD and census conducted in the project area, there was no known indigenous peoples (IPs) in the project area. (Source: Supplementary Resettlement Plan, October 2018)

Livelihood: About 41% of the affected households is engaged in business and 33% of the affected households is engaged in service/ working in garment factories. Other primary occupations of the affected households are laborers (10%), agriculture/ farming (8.4%) and other jobs (4.9%). Of the 1,707 affected HHs, 56 (3.3%) are housewives and have no stable job or regular source of income. (Source: Supplementary Resettlement Plan, October 2018)

Education: Based on the Socio Economic Survey (SES) conducted (June to August 2018), a total 205 people were found to have in formal education with 223 people have basic literacy only. There were 617 people who obtained secondary level of education and 205 in primary level. In all education levels, the number of female populations is lower than the male population. (Source: Supplementary Resettlement Plan, October 2018)

Sanitation: In the study area, about 31.0% and 46.1% of households use non-water sealed and water-sealed sanitary latrine facility respectively, whereas about 20.2% households use no sanitary facilities. On the contrary, 2.6% households defecate in open places with no access to hygienic latrine facilities. (Source: BBS, 2011).

E-5 Identification, Assessment and Evaluation of Potential Impacts

E-5.1 Impacts during Pre-Construction Phase

During the pre-construction stage of the proposed project the major impacts will due to the removal of trees and vegetation for site cleaning and preparation and establishment of construction camp will have significant impact if environmental issues are properly mitigated. However, it is most likely that, preconstruction activity will have insignificant impact on soil, water and air as preconstruction activities are generally related with field preparation which is not likely to produce air emission, water pollution and soil contamination.

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E-5.1.1 Impacts during Construction Phase

During the construction stage major impacts on the air quality will be dust generation from earth work, transportation of construction materials, unloading of construction materials, brick and stone crashing and mixing plant etc.

Ambient air quality will also be impacted from the exhaust emission from construction vehicles, machineries and equipment’s and from operation of DG sets. During the construction period, major noise will be generated from the transportation activity, civil construction including concrete mixing plant, brick and stone crushing machine etc. Vibration will also be generated from the piling activities and movement of heavy vehicles, instruments and machineries. Construction wastes, such as metal cutting, debris, packaging materials which may contaminate soil at the site of construction. Liquid and solid wastes will be generated from construction labor camp facilities and improper disposal during the construction phase can pollute soil quality as well as the water quality. Accidental spillage or inappropriate management of fuels, engine oil and hazardous chemicals during the maintenance and replacement of vehicles and equipment’s can pollute the surface soil.

The construction phase will create employment opportunities for the skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled workers. The project construction phase will also generate indirect employment opportunities (small shops like tea stalls, hotels, supply of intermediate raw materials, repair outlets, hardware stores, etc.) apart from direct employment. This will be a positive socio- economic development for the region. The population influx in the project area can lead to unwarranted pressure on key local infrastructures such as water, healthcare, electricity and road etc. This could lead to increase in sexually transmissible diseases (HIV/AIDS, syphilis among others), injuries and loss of life or properties.

E-5.1.2 Impacts during Operation Phase

Due to the improved road network traffic will be increased which will impact the air quality (dust, particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, lead) affecting the immediate vicinity of the project site. Noise and vibration level will be increased at project site due to the increasing number of vehicles. It is also to mention that; the land value will be increased due to improved road network. It is expected that; the improved road network will increase the road safety as well. By the implementation of the proposed project the employment and business opportunities will be definitely increased in the study area, which will help to improve their social status. Potential impacts of the project have been predicted in Chapter-7 of the EIA Report.

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E-6 Mitigation Measures

After identification of the potential environmental and social impacts of the project, impacts significance was identified and discussed in Chapter-8. The impact significance was evaluated based on nature of impacts, extent, duration, intensity/severity, irreplaceable, probability and magnitude of impact. Based on the significance of impacts, mitigation of negative impacts has been proposed in Chapter-8. Aftermath, this study suggests necessary mitigation measures to the project with the objective of limiting negative impacts as minimum as possible in compliance with ECA, 1995 and enhancing ecological and societal benefit.

E-7 Environmental Monitoring Plan

Successful implementation of the EMP depends on regular monitoring with the selected indicators at specified locations in and around the project area. The automatic inbuilt monitoring devices regularly update every potential source of hazards and the project personnel will submit the performance report, particularly quality of the environmental parameters like air, water, noise, sediment, ecology etc. compliance to ECR, 1997 and amendments. The EHS officer of the contractor should monitor the EMP implementation and submit a report to the concerned department of RHD. The monitoring cost has been incorporated during estimation of EMP cost. A detail monitoring plan for the proposed project is also given in Chapter-8.

E-8 Institutional Settings, Implementation Schedule and Grievance Readdress Mechanism

This section describes the need of establishment of a Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) to receive and facilitate resolution of complainants, concerns and grievances regarding the project’s performance in the constructional, operational or production phases. The details of the mechanism have been described in Chapter- 9 of the EIA Report.

E-9 Stakeholder Consultation

Detail public consultation meetings were held on 18th and 19th January 2019 at Korotia Bazar and Kaliakoir Upazila respectively. The proceedings commenced at 11:00 am. The meeting was attended by a total of 63 people, which represented local people, UP member, business man, student, teacher, senior citizen and political leaders. Detail description of the public consultation meeting is discussed in Chapter-10. A range of stakeholder engagement and consultation methods have been used to identify concerns, issues and suggestions for the project. This included any suggested management and mitigation measures. This involved consultation, KII and FGD. In the consultation meeting local community was supportive of the proposed project. They believe that the proposed project will create direct and indirect

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employment during its pre-construction and construction, business opportunities will be increased, industries will be expanding in other areas, communication and transportation system will be developed and it will be able to improve the quality of life. This EIA has addressed each stakeholder concern with the development of specific mitigation and management measures.

E-10 Conclusions and Recommendations

Based on the environmental impact assessment, all possible environment aspects have been adequately assessed and necessary control measures have been formulated to meet with statutory requirements, in the preparation of the EIA. The proposed project will improve the road connectivity and road safety between Dhaka and Northern Parts of Bangladesh. For mitigating the air pollution, the proposed project will spray water on open or bare surface and dust generation site, less amount of trees/vegetation will be removed. Liquid wastes that will be generated from the different activity will not be allowed to discharge into the river. The proposed project will strictly follow the EMP during its pre-construction, construction and operation stage as per the approved EIA from the DoE, Bangladesh. Considering that the proposed project will contribute in reducing road accidents and help in environmental and social improvement of society. However, an Environmental Clearance may be accorded for the proposed project.

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Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION

Introduction Smooth communication is one of the pre requisites for the development of a country. As the government of Bangladesh (GoB) is now very concern about the economic development of the country, they are working to improve the road connectivity between each part of the country which is one of the objectives of National Land Transport Policy (2004) defining long- term (20 years) Road Master Plan (RMP).

The RMP has identified Joydevpur- Chandra — Tangail - Elenga (JCTE) road (National highway no 4) as an important road in the national highway network. The length of the road is around 70 km. Currently; the existing 2 lane structured road is being upgraded to 4 lanes under South Asia Sub-Regional Economic Cooperation (SASEC) project with provisions for Slow-moving Vehicular Traffic (SMVT). The SMVT will resolve capacity constraints caused by congested junctions, markets, and community areas.

Despite government ban, slow-moving vehicles are still operating on highways across the country, causing frequent road accidents. Different slow-moving vehicles, including converted utility vehicles, battery-run three-wheelers, rickshaws, vans, human haulers and locally-made engine-run vehicles, are mainly responsible for accidents on highways. According to many reports of Bangladesh Passengers’ Welfare Association,” the slow- moving vehicles are responsible for 65-68% percent road accidents on highways”. The report also compiled that, there are about three lakh unfit vehicles and 10 lakh converted utility vehicles and easy-bikes across the country and they are mainly responsible for accidents on highways. Previously, various attempts were taken by governments meeting with the agencies concerned to devise means to help reduce the intensity of traffic problem. Some tangible improvements were assured within the shortest possible time.

The construction of the SMVT will have its associated different environmental impacts which require proper consideration in project design for its mitigation. The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report is carried out with a view of determining the likely significant environmental impacts due to preparation and construction of the project and mitigation measures to avoid, minimize, and/or compensate these impacts.

In preparation of the report, the guidance of the Roads and Highways Department (RHD) which is the project Executing Agency (EA) was followed. Considering ADB’s Screening Checklist for Environmental Classification the proposed roads have been categorized under Category B of ADB’s environmental classification system. The required level of environmental assessment for JCTE with respect to Government of Bangladesh (GoB) requirements was

1-1 SASEC Road Connectivity Project www.eqms.com.bd Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project established prior to commencing the assessments. Accordingly, as the road is proposed for developments are either national or regional roads which are in the Red List of GoB Environment Conservation Rules, 1997, the requirement is for preparation of EIA.

Overview of the project

Need of the project Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, is the administrative and commercial epicenter of the country. The high population density is reflected in the transport sector which consists of different modes both motorized and non-motorized. These various modes of transport often use the same road space resulting in high levels of traffic congestion and operational difficulties. Estimates indicate that 80% of registered vehicles in Bangladesh operate in Dhaka (Azad. M, 2011). Therefore, road connection network to Dhaka from other areas of Bangladesh is of immense importance.

National Highway N4 connect Dhaka with two very important cities, Gazipur & Tangail directly. Moreover, traffic from Rajshahi, Natore, Pabna, Sirajganj and other cities enters Dhaka using the corridor. It is very easy to understand that a lot of number of traffic of both motorized and non-motorized moves through the road.

Many studies have identified that different slow-moving vehicles, including converted utility vehicles, battery-run three-wheelers, rickshaws, vans, human haulers and locally-made engine-run vehicles, are mainly accountable for accidents on highways. According to many reports, the slow-moving vehicles are responsible for 65-68% percent road accidents on highways. As such, the Roads and Highways Department (RHD) is has decided to upgrade the road structurer from two lanes to four lanes and construct a separate Slow-moving Vehicle Traffic on the left side of the upgraded road network. The project has been screened by the PPP Authority and has received in-principal approval from the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs on January 26, 2016. The geographic location of the project with regional setting is illustrated in the following Figure 1-1.

Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, is the administrative and commercial epicenter of the country. The high population density is reflected in the transport sector which consists of different modes both motorized and non-motorized. These various modes of transport often use the same road space resulting in high levels of traffic congestion and operational difficulties. Estimates indicate that 80% of registered vehicles in Bangladesh operate in Dhaka. Therefore, road connection network to Dhaka from other areas of Bangladesh is of immense importance.

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National Highway N4 connect Dhaka with two very important cities, Gazipur & Tangail directly. Moreover, traffic from Rajshahi, Natore, Pabna, Sirajganj and other cities enters Dhaka using the corridor. It is very easy to understand that a lot of number of traffic of both motorized and non-motorized moves through the road. Many studies have identified that different slow- moving vehicles, including converted utility vehicles, battery-run three-wheelers, rickshaws, vans, human haulers and locally-made engine-run vehicles, are mainly accountable for accidents on highways. According to many reports, the slow-moving vehicles are responsible for 65-68% percent road accidents on highways.

This part of the highway is serving as artery as well as Gateway to entire northern part of Bangladesh districts utilizing the Bangabandhu Bridge at the vital road link. Very large number of fast-moving vehicles which include bus, truck, covered van, car and mini/micro bus ply on this section resulting one of the busiest highways of Bangladesh. Moreover, other slow-moving vehicles like CNG operated vans; rickshaw and cart also regularly ply on this section using the same track of the highway, fast moving vehicles and the slow-moving vehicles on the same track conflict seriously and fatal road accidents have become regular phenomena.

To resolve the conflicting traffic movement on the same track MRTB has envisaged segregation of road tracks between fast moving and slow-moving vehicles. Separate lanes for Slow-moving Vehicles on both sides of the main road is very effective in reducing congestion and more importantly eliminating road crash. This separate lane is termed as Slow-moving Vehicular Traffic (SMVT) lane. When SMVT lanes are constructed on both sides of the highway there would be insignificant or no inter-lapping between fast moving and slow-moving vehicles.

Segregation of separate SMVT Lane necessitates separate bridge over the waterways along with the other bridges with the waterways along with the other bridges which cater the main fast-moving traffic flow.

In one side SMVT lane scenario, the slow-moving vehicle still need to cross the road to get into the SMVT lane which may still be a threat to the road safety, on the other hand, the government of has banned the movement of slow-moving vehicle in National highways in 2015. Considering this fact, this is essential to construct, SMVT both sides along JCTE road. Therefore, SMVT has been proposed in the Revised Development Project Proposal (RDPP) on the both side of the road. It is important to mention that, at the three-bridge location namely Kodda 1, Kodda 2 and Bymail SMVT has been proposed as well.

Objective of the project Overall Objectives of the road upgradation are: . To create a separate lane for slow-moving vehicle traffic

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. To improve the safety features of the existing road . To improve the quality of life of road user of the corridor Purpose of the Study The SMVT of JCTE road largely passes through inhabited areas and small portion through reserve forest area. This road crosses various water bodies, which are important from aquatic ecology prospective. Considering the flood threat and effect of climate change on flooding modeling and ecological studies have been undertaken.

The EIA has been carried out to identify the impacts of the proposed road improvement works on terrestrial and aquatic ecology, land use, air, and water and noise quality. In order to mitigate the potential impacts, appropriate measures have also been proposed in the Environmental Management Plan (EMP). Extensive public consultations undertaken as part of the EIA work have been considered for identifying the mitigation measures.

Extent of the study

During the preparation of this EIA report, most up-to-date project details provided by the project design team was used. The corridor of impact has been defined as 200 m on either side from the edge of the road alignment. Whereas for land use analysis, study area was extended to 200 m wide area on both side of the alignment. Satellite images were analyzed for the preparation of landuse map using Geographical Information System (GIS) techniques. It is also mentionable that, the impacts on ecologically sensitive areas (e.g. national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, biosphere reserve, and protected places) within 5 km of the project areas have also been assessed.

The scope of the EIA study has been confined to project related activities associated with design, construction (e.g. site clearing, earth borrowing, quarrying, material transportation, paving, camping) and operation stages. Preparation of Supplementary Resettlement Action Plan for the project affected people was not included under the scope of study. Hence, impacts assessment for such facilities was not carried out.

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Figure 1-1: Geographic Location of The Project With Regional Settings

Source: EQMS,2019

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Project Description

The project road, with an overall length of about 70.00 Km, starts at Vogra Bazar (N 23°58´39´´and E 90°22´51´´). The SMVT will be constructed at an intersection 2.7 km south of Joydevpur roundabout where the N3 Dhaka – Mymensingh road meets the N105 Dhaka Eastern Bypass, joining the N4 Joydevpur – Chandra – Tangail road at project Chainage 2.900 at a point 2.38 km west of Joydevpur (N 23°59’22’’ and E 90°21’30’’). Road components

Road components and the details of the project design is enlisted in the following table

Table 1-1: Different Components of the SMVT Project SMVT Components General Features Length 69.30 Km (≈70 km) Alignment Both side of the alignment (0.00km- 69.30 of four-lane road network including the bypass area for construction of SMVT

Flyovers/ Overpass/ rail 5 Flyovers (at Konibari Market, Shafipur Bazar, Chandra overpasses Intersection, and Elenga bazar) one additional loop a loop at Chandra flyover 7 Overpasses (Kaliakor bypass road crossing, Dhamrai-Kalikor, intersection, Mirzapur-Kumarja intersection, Korotia-Delduar intersection, Tangail bypass road crossing) 6 new underpass 1 Railway Overpasses (Shohagpor railway/road crossing) Bridges / culverts 3 One side SMVT Bridge 23 SMVT bridges 76 culverts Embankment design Embankment height established for 1m free board on 20 years frequency HFL Dredged river sand based, side slope 2 hor: 1 ver, 500 m compacted cladding layer and turf for slope stabilization. Structural Design Roads and Highways Department (RHD) Bridge Design Standard Standard 2004 American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Standards Specification Source: Revised Development Project Proposal (RDPP), February 2018 Construction materials Sourcing . Cement and Steel Reinforcement: Source: Chittagong, Dhaka. . Bitumen: Bitumen will be imported . Water: ground water & surface water (Source: Pungli River and Turag River).

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Purpose and scope of the EIA The project is being done under the SASEC Road Connectivity Project which is being implemented by Asian Development Bank (ADB), OPEC Fund for International Development and Abu Dhabi Fund for Development. However, ADB is the lead development partner of the project. During the project screening and scoping it was concluded that the project falls under Category “B” for environment, Category “A” for involuntary resettlement and Category “C” for indigenous people, and thus requires a comprehensive IEE study with Resettlement Framework and Resettlement Action Plan. Furthermore, according to the Environment Conservation Rules (ECR) 1997, Construction/reconstruction/expansion of road (regional, national & international) falls under Red category and require an EIA approval prior to start of construction activities at site. Considering the above categorization and approved ToR for EIA study by the DoE, this EIA study was carried out to meet the environmental and social safeguard requirements of the ADB as well as the applicable laws of Bangladesh.

Scope of the EIA Study

The scope of work for overall study is to identify and suggest mitigation measures to conduct an environmental impact assessment to assess potential impacts of various project components and propose appropriate mitigation measures and prepare an Environmental Management Plan (EMP). The study also covered the initial screening, collection and review of baseline and secondary data, identification, assessment and evaluation of potential aspect of impacts of the proposed project. Main tasks, which are to be performed as a part of this study also includes

. Review the legal and regulatory framework relevant to construction of roads from social and environment perspective. . Identify the aspects of the project likely to result in significant impacts to resources/ receptors . Conduct environmental impact assessment of the Project taking into consideration the applicable reference framework; . Develop Environmental Management Plan (EMP) providing recommendations for safeguarding anticipated environmental and social impacts in compliance with the applicable reference framework; . Review and analysis of environmental policy and legal requirement; . Assessment of baseline conditions (Physical, Biological and Socio-economic condition); . Assessment of environmental quality (Air, Water, Noise and Sediment); . Assessment of detailed ecological conditions in and around the project site;

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. Identification, prediction, quantification and evaluation of potential aspects and impacts of the proposed project on the environment; . Formulation of environmental management plan and specific mitigation plans for identified impacts; . Mitigation measures and monitoring plan for effective implementation of mitigation measures of the project; . Formulation of public and stakeholder consultation for the proposed project; and . Preparation of the EIA report for obtaining ECC from the DoE, Bangladesh.

Approach and Methodology of The EIA Study

The EIA has been undertaken following a systematic process that predicts and evaluates impacts the Project could have on aspects of the physical, biological, social/socio-economic and cultural environment. Further, identifies measures that the Project will take to avoid, minimize/reduce, mitigate, offset or compensate for adverse impacts; and to enhance positive impacts where practicable. The EIA methodology follows the overall impact assessment approach illustrated in Figure 1-2.

Data of all facts of the environment and social (physical, biological and socio-economic) was collected from the study area. The EIA of the proposed bridge project was followed the following systematic process of:

. Screening Study: The proposed project falls under item “RED” category as per Schedule–1 of the Environment Conservation Rules (ECR), 1997 for “Construction/reconstruction/ expansion of road would require ECC from the DoE, Bangladesh (Annex-C); . Scoping of the likely potential significant impacts and the geographical temporal scope of these impacts and sets out the appropriate methodology for the EIA to assess these impacts; . Environmental and Social Baseline conditions against which the assessment is undertaken; . Consultation with stakeholders and local community to integrate their views into the project design and selection of mitigation measures; . Systematically predict and evaluate the positive and negative changes in these baseline conditions; . Identify the mitigation measures that the proposed SMVT projects will take to avoid, reduce, remedy offset or compensate for adverse impacts and to provide or enhance benefits from the project; . Develop an Environmental Management Plan (EMP); and

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. The timeframe for the EIA discussed and agreed with RHD subsequent to the initiation of the work.

Figure 1-2: Approach to the EIA study

Source: EQMS Methodology for the EIA study

In order to attain the earlier mentioned scope of work, the EIA study will be done based on collected primary and secondary baseline data, impact assessment and delineation of EMP. The methodology followed to complete the EIA study for SMVT is divided into the following tasks as presented in Table 1-2 and elaborated in subsequent sections.

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Table 1-2: Tasks Undertaken for the EIA Study Task Number Task Task-1 Kick-off Meeting and Study Team Mobilization Task-2 Screening of the study Task-3 Scoping for EIA Study Task-4 Analysis of alternatives Task-5 Environmental and Social Baseline Conditions Task-6 Impact Assessment Task-7 Impact evaluation including developing mitigation measures to minimize adverse impacts/risks Task-8 Development of EMP Task-9 Preparation of Draft EIA Report Task-10 Preparation of Final EIA Report

1.11.1.1 Task-1: Kick-off Meeting and Team Mobilization Immediately following the completion of the contract signing on 2nd October 2018, the Team Leader, together with the Project Director, EQMS completed all logistical arrangements. In accordance with the EQMS quality requirements, the team leader formalized team briefing notes outlining the scope of work and outputs required from each of the team members. EQMS team mobilized the EIA study team during November 2018, for the baseline data collection from the field. During the site visit, discussion was held with the officials of the RHD to understand the site details, project description, activities, current status, project milestones, legal requirements and scope etc.

1.11.1.2 Task-2: Screening of the study EQMS conducted a screening of the project according to the guidelines of ADB Screening Checklist. According to the ADB’s Screening Checklist for Environmental Classification the proposed roads have been categorized under Category B of ADB’s environmental classification system. The detail of the screening is described in the following ANNEX-B.

1.11.1.3 Task-3: Scoping for EIA Study EQMS submitted a request for information (RFI) to the client (SMVT Project, SASEC) and upon receiving of the information EQMS reviewed it for scoping of the EIA study. The review of project related information was followed by assessment of environment related regulatory requirements for the project. Any gaps in the project information which is essential for determining impacts/risks and also a requirement to comply with the applicable environment related regulations would be sought from the client. Relevant project related information that was collected from the client includes the following: . Geographical co-ordinates of the project site;

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. Feasibility Report/DPP; . Brief project component description - their location, layout plan; and . Other project related information, including project cost, land details, utility, and other pollution control measures.

1.1.1.1 Task-4: Analysis of Alternatives An analysis of alternatives, including benefits due to the proposed project versus no project scenario was considered, as it is required under the DoE guidance. This requires close liaison with client contract personnel to understand the alternatives and decision making processes considered to date.

1.1.1.2 Task-5: Environmental and Social Baseline Conditions An expert team from EQMS Consulting Limited were engaged to carry out environmental and social baseline data collection during October and November 2018. Socio-economic data collection and consultations with the local community and other government departments were conducted at the same time. Secondary data were collected from different government departments, local bodies and through literature review etc. All the data were compiled and compared with applicable standards where relevant and was presented in EIA report. Environmental baselines study the following:

. Meteorological data at the project site; . Ambient Air Quality; . Ambient Noise Level; . Water Resources and Quality - both surface and groundwater; . Sediment Quality; . Ecology - covering terrestrial and aquatic flora and fauna, habitats and ecologically sensitive spots within the project site and surrounding areas; . Road network and Traffic factor; . Prevailing land use; and . Socio-economics, Health and Aesthetics.

1.11.1.3.1 Primary Baseline Data Collection

With the assistance of the client, EQMS identified an accredited environmental laboratory which was engaged in analysis of the collected environmental quality samples on ambient air quality, surface water quality, ground water quality, ambient noise level and sediment quality as per aspects detailed in the following Table 1-3.

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Table 1-3: Primary Baseline Data for the EIA Study No. of SL# Environmental Attribute Frequency Remarks Locations Ambient Air Quality AAQ monitoring at 1 4 8 hours (PM10, PM2.5, NOx, SO2, CO) project site Surface & Ground Water Quality Ground Once during pH, Temperature, DO, Surface water from water 8, the EIA 2 Conductivity & TSS, TDS, Turag and Pungli Surface Baseline Alkalinity, Hardness, BOD, river water 4 survey COD, CI, SO4, Ca, and TC According to noise Once during pollution (control) Ambient Noise Quality the EIA rules 2006 (Silent, 3 12 Leq Baseline Residential, Mixed, survey Commercial, and Industrial Zone Once during Soil Quality the EIA Soil sample from 4 (Physical and chemical 2 Baseline the project site parameters of soil) survey Ecological survey Once during will be undertaken 6 Flora and Fauna 3 the Baseline to assess the survey biodiversity aspects Mostly assessed One-time through FGDs and 7 Socio-Economic Condition - survey available secondary information 1.11.1.3.2 Stakeholder Consultation

Extensive consultations were conducted with key stakeholders, including the local community, government departments/agencies, school teachers during the field visit. Stakeholder consultation was completed with the intention of collecting baseline information on the environmental and social conditions and sensitivities, developing a better understanding of the potential impacts, informing the public of the proposed project, identifying their suggestions/objections and to gain an understanding of the perspectives/concerns of the stakeholders. A summary of the stakeholder engagement process and the profile of the groups and their opinions have been given in Chapter-10 in the EIA report.

1.11.1.3.3 Secondary Baseline Data Collection

Secondary data were collected from the following organizations like Roads and Highways Department (RHD), Local Government Engineering Department (LGED), Bangladesh

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Meteorological Department (BMD), Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS), Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC), Geological survey of Bangladesh (GSB), International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Space Research and Remote Sensing Organization (SPARRSO), Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB), Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) and published Journals & Books for the following aspects. The most relevant information collected along with sources is listed in Table 1-4. Table 1-4: Collected Information and Sources

Collected Information Sources Information Implementation Project information, ROW RHD project document, Project description and details, project objectives, RHD impact assessment road maps, existing & HQs & RHD Regional proposed alignments Offices Flora and fauna details, Forest Department (FD), Project description, baseline habitats, land Department of Environment information, impact classification/types, (DoE), Department of assessment, suggestive ecological zones Fisheries (DoF), IUCN, mitigation measures classification within project Department of Social area, land use Forestry, Satellite Imagery Engineering details Design Team, SASEC Project description, baseline Connectivity Project, Roads information, impact and Highways. assessment, suggestive mitigation measures Present status of the project RHD, EQMS Project description, baseline area and issues related to information, impact development and assessment, suggestive environment mitigation measures Existing quality of the Department of Environment, Project description, baseline environment, land use, Forest Department, Landsat information, impact meteorological data, satellite images, assessment, suggestive Department of Fisheries possible mitigation measures (DOF), Meteorological impacts because of the Department, project and proposed action plans, identification of ecologically sensitive locations, polluted areas, regulatory applicability

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Collected Information Sources Information Implementation Noise level, water quality, air quality and soil quality data was collected primarily.

1.11.1.4 Task-6: Impact Assessment The EIA evaluated potential impacts using a methodology based on the evaluation of the “significance” of identified issues and impacts on baseline parameters. Analysis of the baseline results and the incremental impacts of the project were assessed in accordance with the national guidelines for air, water and noise; standards mentioned in the ECR, 1997 and amendments. The impact assessment covered the full project lifecycle, including pre-construction, construction and operations activities. The impact assessment was involved the prediction, evaluation and mitigation of impacts and report on impacts including residual impacts and cumulative impacts. Impact prediction was taking into account control measures that are part of the project design. Additional mitigation measures aimed at further reducing predicted impacts is proposed where necessary or appropriate. The process of impact assessment is illustrated in the following Figure 1-3.

Figure 1-3: Impact Assessment Process for the EIA Study

1.11.1.5 Task-7: Impact Evaluation Including Developing Mitigation Measures to Minimize Adverse Impacts/Risks The impacts were identified and quantified in accordance to their intensity using matrix techniques and evaluated as major, medium, minor or insignificant impacts on the environment and communities in the study area. Aspects which were considered in the impact assessment, for the pre-construction, construction and operation phase of the project, include land acquisition/requisition, land use, indigenous population, water quality (surface and ground), noise, ecology, waste, landscape and visual, traffic, flood and other natural disaster risk, socio-economic, occupational and community health and safety etc.

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The principal aim of this task was to identify and assess potential impacts on various environmental and social components due to the proposed SMVT project. Based on baseline data collected from study area, EQMS EIA team has identified and predicted potential impacts due to the proposed project on the surrounding environment during pre-construction, construction and operation stages of the project.

Methods of Impacts Assessment

A description of the nature of the impact, any specific legal requirements and the stage is given. The following criteria were used to evaluate Significance. A. Nature of Impacts This is an assessment of the type of effect the activity is likely to have on the surrounding affected environment. The description includes what is being affected and its magnitude. The nature of the impact will be classified as positive or negative and direct, indirect and induced.

Potential/ possible Impacts will be generated directly from the project activities and its associated facilities, which are directly linked with the Direct project. (e.g. Discharges from refining or effluent from the ETP into a nearby water bodies may lead to a decline in water quality)

Potential/ possible Impacts will be generated from secondary sources which are induced by the project activities. (e.g. impacts of air emissions such as

Indirect CO2 on climate change, NOx may lead to acid rains, VOC may lead to low level atmospheric ozone when combined with NOx in the presence of sunlight)

Potential/possible Impacts will be generated (which are not part of the Project) due to the effect/consequence/outcome of the Project (e.g. excess Induced growth may be induced in the zone of influence around a project area and in the process causing additional effects on air, water and other natural ecosystem)

B. Extent and Location of Impacts This indicates the spatial area that may be affected by the proposed project activities or its associated facilities (Table-A).

Table-A: Geographical extent of Impacts Extent Description

Potential/possible impacts’ area only at or within the project site/ project Project Site boundary

Potential/possible impacts’ area is not only limited to the site, but also its Local immediate surrounding areas/receptors.

Potential/possible impacts’ area extends to the immediate surrounding Regional areas along with adjacent areas

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Extent Description

National Potential/possible impacts’ area considered of national level.  Impact considered of not only within national level but also neighboring Trans country. boundary  Impact considered global level. C. Duration of impacts This measures the lifetime/existence/continuation of the impact (Table-B). Table-B: Duration of impacts Duration Description

Potential/possible impact duration is very limited time or length of Short term construction/ decommissioning period Potential/possible impact duration will continue after construction Medium term period, but stop/ discontinue/cease within a tenure of 10 years Potential/possible impact duration will continue more than 10 years, or Long term the entire operational life of the project

Permanent – Potential/possible impact will remain after operational life of project but Mitigated appropriate mitigation measures reduce the impact  Potential/ possible impact will remain after operational life of Permanent – project. no mitigation  No mitigation measures will reduce the impact after implementation. D. Intensity/severity of impacts This is the degree to which the project affects or changes the environment; it includes a measure of the reversibility of impacts (Table-C). Table-C: Intensity of impacts Intensity Description

Changes due to Potential/possible impact are minor, not visible/ noticeable, Insignificant natural functioning of the environment not affected.  Natural functioning of environment is minimally affected. Low  Natural, cultural and social functions and processes can be reversed to their original state if mitigation measure taken.  Environment remarkably distorted/ disturbed/ impacted, still functions, Medium if in modified way.  Negative impacts cannot be fully reversed.  Cultural and social functions and processes distorted/ disturbed/ impacted. High  Potentially ceasing to Environmental function temporarily.  Negative impacts cannot be fully reversed.

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Intensity Description  Natural, cultural and social functions and processes permanently cease, and valued, important, sensitive or vulnerable systems or Very High communities are substantially affected.  Negative impacts cannot be reversed.

E. Potential for irreplaceable loss of resources This is the degree to which the project will cause loss of resources that are irreplaceable (Table-D). Table-D: Potential for irreplaceable loss of resources Potential for irreplaceable loss of Description resources Low No irreplaceable/ unique resources will be impacted. Irreplaceable/ unique resources can be replaced, with Medium mitigation measure/ effort and will be replaced after certain period of time. Potential/ possible Impact replaces a particular/ vulnerable High resource. . Probability: This is the likelihood or the chances that the impacts will occur (Table-E). Table-E: Probability of impacts Probability Description

Unlikely Under normal conditions, no potential/possible Impact expected

The probability of the impact to occur is low due to its design or historic Low experience

Medium There is a distinct probability of the impact occurring

High It is most likely that the impact will occur

Definite The impact will occur regardless of any prevention measures

. Magnitude: This is calculated as extent + duration + intensity + potential impact on irreplaceable resources. Magnitude essentially describes the intensity of the change that has the potential to occur in the resource/receptor as a result of the potential impact. The magnitude designations themselves are universally consistent, but the definitions for these designations vary depending on the resource/ receptor. The universal magnitude designations are: i) Positive, ii) Insignificant, iii) Low, iv) Medium-low, v) Medium – high, vi) High and vii) Very High.

In the case of a potential positive impact, no magnitude designation (aside from ‘positive’) is assigned. It is considered sufficient for the purpose of the EIA to indicate that the project has

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. Significance: The significance will be rated by combining the consequence of the impact and the probability of occurrence (i.e. Magnitude probability = significance). Table-F: Probability of impacts Probability of Impact

Unlikely Low Medium High Definite

Very Very Insignificant Very Low Low Low Low Low Very Very Medium- Low Low Low Low Low Low Very Medium- Medium- Medium – Low Low Low Low Low high Medium – Very Medium- Medium- Low High High Low Low high

Magnitude of Impact Impact of Magnitude Medium- High Low Medium High High high Very High Low Medium High High Very High

Table-G: Significance of issues (based on Environmental Parameters) Significance Description Positive Potential/possible impacts that have a beneficial impact to affected media Impact Very low No action required. . Impacts are within the acceptable range. Low . Potential/ possible impacts such as localized or short-term effects on habitat, species, or environmental media. . Impacts are within the acceptable range but should be mitigated to lower significance levels wherever possible. Medium-Low . Potential/ possible impacts such as localized, long-term degradation of sensitive habitat or widespread, short-term impacts to habitat, species, or environmental media. . Potential/ possible impacts are significant and require attention; . mitigation is required to reduce the negative impacts to acceptable levels; Medium-High . Potential/ possible impacts such as localized but irreversible habitat loss or widespread, long-term effects on habitat, species, or environmental media. High . Impacts are of great importance, mitigation is crucial.

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Significance Description . Potential impacts such as significant, widespread, and persistent changes in habitat, species, or environmental media. . Potential impacts such as persistent reduction in ecosystem function on a landscape scale or significant disruption of a sensitive species. . Impacts are unacceptable. . Potential impacts such as loss of a significant portion of a valued Very High species or loss of effective ecosystem function on a landscape scale.

Potential social impacts are inherently variable because community response to a potential impact, perceptions of existing and changing conditions, and the degrees of vulnerability are all heavily dependent on local conditions and the human factor. The significance designations for potential social impacts take into consideration social science expertise and previous experience in Bangladesh regarding the relationships between individuals, communities, government agencies, NGOs and special interest groups, and different industry.

Table-H: Potential Social Impact Significance Significance Definition Potential/ possible impacts that have a beneficial impact to affected Positive Impact stakeholders. Potential/ possible impacts that are practically indistinguishable from Very low the social baseline, with little to no potential impacts to or concerns from affected external stakeholders. Potential/ possible impacts that are short-term nuisance or Low inconvenience; potentially affected external stakeholders concerned but likely able to adapt with relative ease. Potential/ possible impacts such as localized or short term effects; Medium-Low potentially affected stakeholders concerned but likely able to adapt with relative ease. Potential/ possible impacts such as local-to-regional (sub-national) or medium term effects; potentially affected stakeholders concerned and Medium-high raise the issue as a high priority, but may be able to adapt with some targeted support or assistance. Potential/ possible impacts such as local-to-national or long term effects; potentially affected stakeholders concerned and raised as a High high priority; may not be able to adapt without targeted support or assistance in order to maintain pre-impact livelihood. Potential/ possible impacts such as local-to-global or irreversible long term effects; potentially affected stakeholders concerned raise the Very High issue as a high priority and are likely not able to adapt without targeted support or assistance.

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To determine potential public health impacts, the assessment team considers the public which has the potential to be exposed to various aspects and potential impacts of the project, whether it is a permanent resident with continuous exposure or a periodic exposure to a fisherman transiting through the project area. The significance determinations for potential public health impacts take into consideration local and regional public health expertise and previous experience in Bangladesh regarding the relationships between individuals, communities, health care providers, government agencies, NGOs, and different industry.

Table-I: Potential Public Health Impact Significance Significance Definition Potential/ possible impacts that have a beneficial impact to affected Positive Impact stakeholder. Very low No impact to the public Potential/ possible illness or adverse effect with limited or no impacts Low on ability to function and medical treatment is limited or not necessary. Potential/ possible illness or adverse effects with mild to moderate Medium-Low functional impairment requiring medical treatment or management. Potential/ possible serious illness or severe adverse health effect Medium-high requiring a high level of medical treatment or management. Potential/ possible serious illness or chronic exposure of a few resulting High in life shortening effects. Potential/ possible serious illness or chronic exposure of many Very High resulting in life shortening effects.

1.12.1.1 Task-8: Development of EMP Requirement and details of the mitigation measures for minimizing identified negative impacts and enhancement measures for increasing the benefit of positive impacts is suggested in the EMP for implementation by the client during pre-construction, construction and operation phases of the project. The EMP is comprised of the following aspects based on the impacts assessed for the project:

. Introduction to the purpose of the EMP; . Institutional mechanism - roles and responsibilities for EMP implementation; . Tentative cost for the implementation of the EMP; . Summary of significant adverse impacts and potential hazards; . Mitigation measures and control technologies, safeguards etc. to minimize adverse impacts on air, water, noise, sediment, biological and socio-economic environment, measures to minimize associated hazards and control emergency situation; and . Project monitoring program for effective implementation of the mitigation measures and ascertain efficacy of the environmental management and hazard control systems in place.

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This sets out the mitigation and management measures required during project implementation to avoid or reduce the environmental and/or social impacts, including developing the action plan in accordance with DoE requirements. A monitoring plan included here, covering the type of monitoring to be done, responsible parties, schedule, standards to be used, resources and tentative cost. Plans that can be developed at a later stage (e.g. construction waste management plan, emergency response plan, traffic management plan etc.) identified and provided as initial documents which will be updated prior to start of construction activities by the contractor.

1.12.1.2 Tasks-9 and 10: Reporting - Draft and Final EIA Report Draft EIA report was prepared upon completion of the above tasks as per the prescribed ToR given by the DoE and submitted to the client/LGED for providing their comment and suggestions.

Based on one set of consolidated comments of client, Draft EIA was finalized for submission to the DoE, Bangladesh to get Environmental Clearance Certificate (ECC).

Resources/Receptors and Impacts considered in scoping

Scoping was undertaken to identify the potential Area of Influence for the (AOI) Project (and thus the appropriate Study Area), to identify potential interactions between the Project and resources/receptors in the AOI and the impacts that could result from these interactions, and to prioritize these impacts in terms of their likely significance. Table 1-5 presents the resources/receptors considered in the scoping stage, together with the changes that could/might indicate a Project-related impact.

Table 1-5: Resources/Receptors and Impacts Considered in Scoping

Resources/ Receptors Impact Environmental Land Forms/Profile Change in . Geology . Geomorphology . Topography Soil Quality Change in . Physical and chemical properties . Soil ecology . Erosion Land use Changes in . Landuse/land cover profile

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Resources/ Receptors Impact . Logistics Air Quality Emission of . Gaseous pollutants (e.g. NOx, SOx, etc.);

. Particulate matter (e.g. PM10 and PM2.5) Drainage Pattern Changes in . Drainage pattern, . Submergence, . Floods etc. Surface water quality and quantity Changes to . Physical, chemical or biological quality of Turag River, Bonghai River . Changes in surface water quantity . Changes in habitat quality, abundance, diversity; . Effluent discharge. Ground water Quality . Contamination of shallow or deep groundwater resources, . Change in ground water resource. Social/Socio-Economic Demographics (i.e. Change in Displacement) . Population, total population, gender ratio, age distribution. . Physical displacement from residence as a result of Project land take, or activities Economy and livelihood Change in . Local economy, . Employment, . Standard of living, . Occupation Community Health and Safety . Changes in the incidence and /or prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases and the factors that contribute to this (external workforce, transport routes etc. Changes in the incidence and or prevalence of vector borne diseases, the density of these vectors and their breeding grounds.

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Resources/ Receptors Impact . Changes in availability of and access to health care, nutritional status, food security etc.

EIA Team EQMS is a specialized consultancy firm appointed by the RHD to conduct the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study for the proposed “Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) & Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for Slow-moving Vehicles Transport (SMVT) Route” project. Before conducting the study, it is very important to set up an expert team at the right time in order to assess the significant impacts of the project on the environment. EQMS formed a professional team consist of qualified and experienced from various discipline in order to address the critical aspects. The composition of the EIA team is shown in Table 1-6.

Table 1-6: EIA Team Composition

SL# Name Designation/Competence 1 Dr. Kazi Farhed Iqubal EIA Expert 2 Mirza Shamim Ahsan Habib Sr. Ecologist 3 Md. Zahidul Islam Sr. Environmentalist

4 Md. Wahidur Rahman Khan Environmental Expert

5 Ishrat Jahan Jr Environmental Expert 6 Abdul Halim Sr. Social Expert 7 Abu Mohammad Nasiruddin Social Expert 8 Zohir Omor GIS Specialist 9 Farah Mahmud Jr. GIS Specialist 10 Ahmed Zakaria Field Enumerator Limitation of The Study Time constrain was one of the biggest limitations of the study. Due to limited time allocation for this study, seasonal aspects could not be covered in the present study. However, DoE regulations also kept provision that in case of priority projects and emergency of work.

Inadequacy of required secondary information for accomplishing EIA study is found as another limitation. During report preparation different secondary sources were used. However, attempts were made to overcome these limitations.

The project requires a lot of land acquisition for implementation of the project. However, according to the Revised Development Project Proposal (DPP) the project requires acquisition of around acquisition of 85.311 acres of land which is likely to have impact on project affected

1-23 SASEC Road Connectivity Project www.eqms.com.bd Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project people. A reputed consultancy firm was appointed by the proponent to prepare Supplementary Resettlement Plan (SRP). Different data was collected from SRP to prepare the EIA report.

The data provided in the RDPP and SRP is considered as correct without any further verification and field survey. Similarly, all the data (design, land requirement, project cost etc.) provided by proponent is considered to be correct as well. EQMS disclaim any responsibility of incorrect data provided by the proponent in preparation of the report.

The report is based on certain scientific principles and professional judgment to certain facts with resultant subjective interpretation. Professional judgment expressed herein is based on the available data and information. If information to the contrary is discovered, the findings in this EIA will need to be modified accordingly

Structure of The Report

The EIA report has been prepared to meet the requirement of national policies to approve from DoE. The report is divided into two chapters that follow the activities stipulated in the approved ToR of the EIA study. The outline of the present EIA is as under:

1. Executive Summary: The executive summary provides an overview of the EIA report.

2. Introduction: The chapter describes the background of the study, brief description, scope of the study, approach and methodology, limitation and EIA team combination of the study.

3. Environmental Policy, Legal and Administrative Framework: This chapter covers all the legal provisions, including environmental and social laws, applicable to the project. The chapter also covers the all the national standards applicable to the project. 4. Description of the Project: This chapter provides detailed description of the proposed project comprising project justification, location, layout and project components.

5. Description of the Environemnt: This chapter covers the environmental baseline parameters on physical environment (geology, topography, physiography, geomorphology, soil, land use, meteorology, river system and hydrology and agro- ecology), environmental quality (air, surface water, groundwater, noise, sediment) and biological environment within the study area.

6. Socio-Economic Environemnt: This chapter covers the social baseline conditions like populations, settlement and housing, traffic and transport, public utilities, economy and employment within the study area. it also describes the number of affected households, gender distribution of households, population by religion and ethnicity number of trees etc.

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7. Identification, Prediction and Evaluation of Potential Impacts: This chapter covers the detailed impact of the proposed SMVT project on different environmental components during pre-construction, construction and operation phase of the project.

8. Environemnt and Social Management Plan: The chapter covers a comprehensive EMP including recommendations for its implementation during pre-construction, construction and operation phase of the project. The EMP consists of the set of mitigation, management, monitoring and institutional measures to be taken during the implementation of the proposed project to eliminate adverse environmental impacts, offset them or reduce them to acceptable limits.

9. Institutional Settings, Implementation Arrangements and Grievance Redress Mechanism: This chapter presents the Information disclosure, consultation and participation, comprises public consultations and disclosures conducted at the study area. 10. Emergency Response Plan: This chapter discusses about management plan for both manmade and natural disaster, emergency response procedure, hazardous control measure etc. 11. Institutional Settings, Implementation Arrangements and Grievance Redress Mechanism: this chapter provides a guideline about Implementation Arrangements and Grievance Redress Mechanism which is in alignment with the mechanism prescribed in Supplementary Resettlement Plan.

12. Conclusions and Recommendations: This chapter presents the conclusions and recommendations of the report.

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CHAPTER TWO: ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK Environmental Policy, Legal And Administrative Framework Introduction

All proposed activities of the proposed project should be undertaken in full compliance with the existing GoB regulatory and legislative framework. As such, this section of the EIA report provides a review of the GoB statutory requirements most relevant to the proposed project. Environmental issues in Bangladesh are legislated by different sectoral policies and law, such as those relating to land use, water and air pollution, noise, solid wastes, wildlife protection, forest conservation, environmental health and sanitation and industry. The sectoral laws dealing with different environmental issues in Bangladesh were enacted at different periods, with many now being outdated and not able to control and manage present development needs. Moreover, the environmental concerns and priorities of the country have changed considerably in recent years. For environmental management in particular, the need for updating of legislative requirements has been identified and is currently being undertaken by the DoE. The activity of proposed SMVT project falls under the “RED” category according to the schedule-1 of the ECR, 1997 and therefore, need to conduct EIA study to obtain environmental clearance from the DoE, Bangladesh.

Environment-Related Policies in Bangladesh The GoB has developed a policy framework that requires environmental issues to be incorporated into economic development planning. The key tenets of the various applicable policies are detailed in the following subsections.

2.1.1.1 National Environmental Policy, 1992 The Bangladesh National Environmental Policy, approved in May 1992, sets out the basic framework for environmental action together with a set of broad sectoral action guidelines. The main objectives of the Environmental policy are as follows:

. To ensure ecological balance; . To protect against natural disaster; . To control activities polluting environment; . To ensure environmentally sound development in all sectors; . To ensure sustainable use of natural resources; and . To associate with global community and implementation of international agreements.

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The policy also states that EIA’s should be conducted before projects are undertaken and the Department of Environment (DOE) is directed to review and approve all Environmental Impact Assessments.

2.1.1.2 Other Policies relevant to Environment Other important policies in Bangladesh and their key features and applicability to the subject Project are detailed in Table 2-1

Table 2-1: Policies relevant to Environment

Policy Key Features Applicability

National . All sector shall be subject to an . Applicable as the project is a road construction Conservation EIA; . Adoption of pollution project Strategy, 1992 prevention/control technologies shall be enforced; . Hazardous or toxic materials/wastes shall not be imported as raw materials; . Import of appropriate and environmentally-sound technology; . Dependence on imported technology and machinery would gradually be reduced in favor of sustainable local skills and resources. The National . Afforestation of 20% land . Applicable when considering global Forest Policy, . Bio-diversity of the existing warming and protection of 1994 degraded forests . Strengthening of the agricultural forests and also in view of sector the fact that the Project . Control of Global warming, will involve felling of road desertification side trees. . Control of trade in wild birds and animals . Prevention of illegal occupation of the . forested land, tree felling and hunting of wild animals National Land . All new roads and major . Applicable as the project is a road construction Transport improvements will be subjected to an EIA project Policy, 2004 . Funding will be provided for mitigation measures . The Government will publish environmental standards for new

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Policy Key Features Applicability roads and new design standards addressing environmental issues National . The policy is draft stage and yet to . Applicable for the project Environmental be published officially. Policy, 2018 . Objectives of policy includes but not limited to - Environmental conservation and sustainable management, - Encouraging low carbon emission technology - Introduction of Public-Private- Partnership - Ensuring Environmental Impact Assessment and Strategic Environmental Assessment where necessary . The policy set outline of Land Resource Management, Water Resources Management, Air Pollution Control, Agriculture, Accommodation, Housing and Urbanization, Biodiversity, Ecosystem Conservation and Biosafety, Ecotourism etc. . The policy also prohibited burning of coal pitch by open firing. It also suggested to control particulate pollution by planation of grass or shrub in the unpaved area alongside. The National . Protection, restoration and . Applicable for the preservation of water Water Policy, enhancement of water resources . Protection of water quality, quality 1999 including strengthening regulations concerning agrochemicals and industrial effluent . Sanitation and potable water . Protection of Fish and fisheries . Participation of local communities in all water sector development in environmental development . National Land . Deals with several land uses . Applicable as land use will be changed for road use Policy, including: construction 2001

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Policy Key Features Applicability . Agriculture (crop production, fishery and livestock), housing, forestry, industrialization, railways and roads, tea and rubber . Identifies land use constraints in all these sectors Draft Wetland . Establishment of principles for the . Not directly applicable, however, may be Policy, 1998 sustainable use of wetland resources applicable . Maintenance of the existing level once the draft policy is of biological diversity finalized. However, the . Maintenance of the functions and spirit would be used while values of wetlands carrying out the design of . Promotion and recognition of the the corridor. value of wetland functions in resource management and economic development National . Preservation, management and . Applicable as fishing activities are carried out in Fisheries exploitation of fisheries resources certain water bodies Policy, in inland open water . Fish cultivation and management located alongside the 1998 in inland closed water. Project Road. . Prawn and fish cultivation in coastal areas . Preservation, management and exploitation of sea fishery resources National . The Policy deals with the . Applicable as the project area covers agricultural Agriculture programs related to make the nation self-sufficient in food area. Policy, 1999 through increasing production of all crops, including cereals, and ensure a dependable food security system for all Industrial . Deals with industrial development, . Not applicable Policy, 1999 direct foreign investments, investment by public and private sector, introduction of new appropriate technology, women’s participation, infrastructure development and environmentally sound industrial development

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Environment and social Related Legislations in Bangladesh

The main Acts and Regulations guiding environmental protection and conservation in Bangladesh are outlined in the following subsections and Table 2-2.

The Environment Conservation Act, 1995 (as amended in 2000, 2002 & 2010) The provisions of the Act authorize the Director General of Department of Environment (DOE) to undertake any activity that is deemed fit and necessary to conserve and enhance the quality of environment and to control, prevent and mitigate pollution. The main highlights of the act are:

. Declaration of Ecologically Critical Areas (ECAs); . Obtaining Environmental Clearance Certificate; . Promulgation of standards for quality of air, water, noise, and soils for different areas and for different purposes; . Promulgation of acceptable limits for discharging and emitting waste; and . Formulation of environmental guidelines relating to control and . Mitigation of environmental pollution, conservation and improvement of environment.

Environment Conservation Rules (ECR), 1997 (as amended in 2002 & 2003) The Environment Conservation Rules, 1997 are the first set of rules promulgated under the Environment Conservation Act, 1995. These Rules provide for, inter-alia, the following:

. The National Environmental Quality Standards (EQS) for ambient air, surface water, groundwater, drinking water, industrial effluents, emissions, noise and vehicular exhaust; . Categorization of industries, development projects and other activities on the basis of actual (for existing industries/development projects/activities) and anticipated (for propose industries/development projects/activities) pollution load; . Procedure for obtaining Environmental Clearance Certificate; . Requirements for undertaking IEE and EIA’s as well as formulating EMP according to categories of industries/development projects/activities; and . Procedure for damage-claim by persons affected or likely to be affected due to polluting activities or activities causing hindrance to normal civic life.

The Acquisition and Requisition of Immovable Property Act, 2017 Brief summary of steps in relation to land acquisition under this act are as follows:

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. Whenever it appears to the Deputy Commissioner that any property in any locality is needed or is likely to be needed for any public purpose or in the public interest, he shall cause a notice to be published at convenient places on or near the property in the prescribed form and manner stating that the property is proposed to be acquired (S.4). . Prior to issuing the notice mentioned above, the Deputy Commissioner shall be required to provide the description of the immovable property to be acquired and of any infrastructure, crops, trees on the said property by means of video and pictures or any other technology (S.4(3)). . After issuing the notice, a list is required to be prepared jointly by the Deputy Commissioner along with the party requiring the acquisition and the interested parties 1. The said list is required to be put up on the notice board of the local land office and at a convenient place near the project site (S.4 (3), (6)). . Any interested person may, within 15 working days after the publication of the notice under Section 4, submit an objection to the acquisition of the property with the Deputy Commissioner (S.5(1)). . The Deputy Commissioner shall, after hearing all such objections and after making such further inquiry, if any, as he thinks necessary, prepare a report within 30 working days following the expiry of the period specified under Section 5(1) above, containing his opinion in relation to the objection (S.5(2)). . The Deputy Commissioner shall  if the property exceeds fifty bigha (16.50 acre) of land, submit documents including the report containing his opinion, to the Ministry of Land for its decision;  if the property does not exceed fifty bigha (16.50 acre) of land, submit documents including the report containing his opinion, for the decision of the Divisional Commissioner (S.5(3)).

When the Government, the Divisional Commissioner or the Deputy Commissioner, as the case may be, has made a decision for acquisition of any property as described above, the Deputy Commissioner shall cause a general notice to be given in the prescribed manner, on or near the property and in a visible place, stating the intention to acquire the said property (S.7) (1)).

The said notice shall have to specify that the interested parties or their authorized representatives, are required to be present before the Deputy Commissioner within 15 working dates of the issue of the said notice and that they will have to describe their claim in relation to the said property and the compensation required (S.7(2)).

The law also requires for a notice to be issued (in a similar manner and in a prescribed form) to every interested person (S 7(3)).

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Key features of the Acquisition and Requisition of Immovable Property Act, 2017

According to the Act: - If the Government acquires land then the affected person will get compensation three times higher than its market price.

- If any private organization acquires land in public interest then the affected person will get compensation four times higher than its market rate.

- Market price of the acquired land will be calculated on average selling price of the land of the area for one year.

- Provision for acquiring the land of any worship place like mosque, temple, pagoda, graveyard, crematorium in case of any indispensable public interest

Framework for Leasing of Government (Khas) Agricultural Land The rules for managing and leasing Government-owned (khas) land are notified through two Bangladesh Gazette notifications i.e.:

(1) Notification: Bhumo/Sha-8/Kha-jo-bo/46/84/261, Bangladesh Gazette Extra Edition dated May 12, 1997, pp 1527-1536; and

(2) Notification: Shuno/Sha-4/Kri-kha-jo--bo-1/98-264, Bangladesh Gazette, September 15, 1998.

Under these regulations, the Government leases cultivable agricultural land in the rural areas to landless farming households. The allotments cannot be more than one acre, except in the southern districts where up to 1.5 acres of char land can be allotted.

The regulation further defines the structure and responsibilities for the management and leasing of Khas Lands at the National, District, and Thana levels.

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Table 2-2: National Legal Instruments Relevant to the Project

Enforcement Agency/ Applicability to the Act/Rule/Law/Ordinance Key Features Ministry/Authority project The Environment Conservation Department of Environment, . Define applicability of environmental Applicable Act, 1995 and subsequent Ministry of Environment and clearance amendments in 2000 and 2002 Forests . Regulation of development activities from environmental perspective . Framing applicable limits for emissions and effluents . Framing of standards for air, water and noise quality . Formulation of guidelines relating to control and mitigation of environmental pollution, conservation and improvement of environment . Declaration of Ecologically critical areas Environmental Conservation Department of Environment . Declaration of Ecologically critical areas Applicable Rules, 1997 and subsequent Ministry of Environment and . Requirement of environmental clearance Projects falls under amendments in 2002 and 2003 Forests certificate for various categories of projects Red Category and . Requirement of IEE/EIA as per category requires EIA . Renewal of the environmental clearance approval and certificate within 30 days after the expiry Environmental . Provides standards for quality of air, water Clearance from DOE and sound and acceptable limits for emissions/discharges from vehicles and other sources

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Enforcement Agency/ Applicability to the Act/Rule/Law/Ordinance Key Features Ministry/Authority project Environment Court Act, 2000 Ministry of Environment . Highest priority accorded to environment Applicable for and subsequent amendments in Forests and climate change, pollution completing 2002 and Judiciary . Completion of environment related legal environmental legal proceedings effectively requirements effectively Environment Court Act, 2010 Ministry of Environment . enacted to resolve the disputes and Forests and climate change, establishing justice over environmental and and Judiciary social damage raised due to any development activities. . Empowers the government to take necessary legal action against any parties who creates environmental hazards/ damage to environmentally sensitive areas as well as human society. . According to this act, government can take legal actions if any environmental problem occurs due to River Management Improvement Program interventions. The Vehicle Act, 1927; Bangladesh Road Transport . Exhaust emissions Applicable for The Motor Vehicles Authority . Vehicular air and noise pollution proposed Project in Ordinance, 1983; and . Road/traffic safety relation to road The Bengal Motor Vehicle . Vehicle Licensing and Registration transport Rules, 1940 . Fitness of Motor Vehicles . Parking by-laws.

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Enforcement Agency/ Applicability to the Act/Rule/Law/Ordinance Key Features Ministry/Authority project Water Supply and Sanitation Ministry of Local . Management and Control of water supply Not directly Act, 1996 Government, Rural and sanitation in urban areas. applicable, however, Development and indirectly applicable Cooperatives when considering water usage management and sanitation facilities

National Biodiversity Strategy Ministry of Environment and . Conserve, and restore the biodiversity of the Applicable for and Action Plan (2004) Forest, country conservation of bio- Bangladesh Wild Life . Maintain and improve environmental stability diversity Advisory Board for ecosystems . Guarantee the safe passage and conservation of globally endangered migratory species, especially birds and mammals in the country National Water Bodies Town development . The characterization of water bodies as Applicable due to the Protection Act, 2000 authority/Municipalities rivers, canals, tanks or flood plains identified proximity to in the master plans formulated under the surface water bodies laws establishing municipalities in division and district towns shall not be changed without approval of concerned ministry

Antiquities Act, 1968 Ministry of Cultural Affairs . This legislation governs preservation of the Not applicable as the national cultural heritage, protects and study area does not controls ancient monuments, regulates have any likely antiquities as well as the maintenance, cultural heritage or conservation and restoration of protected ancient monuments

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Enforcement Agency/ Applicability to the Act/Rule/Law/Ordinance Key Features Ministry/Authority project sites and monuments, controls planning, of national or exploration and excavation of archaeological international sites significance. However in case, any such evidence of archaeological findings arise, the Project will act in consonance to the Act National Land transport policy, Planning commission, Roads . Objectives of the policy includes safe and 2004 and Highways Department, dependable transport service, maintain an Local Government and economic and environmental balance, Engineering Department maximum utilization of government funds, introduction of integrated transportation system etc. . This policy also encourages to create public awareness, proper utilization of transport resources, Increased access to transport and services in rural areas. . Responsibilities of roads and highways includes but not limited to:  construct and maintenance of roads under their jurisdiction;  future road design basis on traffic demand  all organization shall follow national design standard

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Enforcement Agency/ Applicability to the Act/Rule/Law/Ordinance Key Features Ministry/Authority project  develop a long-term master plan (20 years) Geometric Design Standard of Planning Commission and . the design standard outlined design types RHD Roads Roads and Highways and standards of RHD roads. Department . The document proposed to classify the roads based on wholly traffic volume rather than conventional classification proposed in 1980’s. . Road cross-section standard was also proposed under this standard. . Typical design speed along with speed related design parameters were also proposed under this standard. . It also proposed to consider three main types of sight distance in design standard - Stopping Sight Distance (SSD) - Overtaking Sight Distance (OSD) - Intermediate Sight Distance (ISD)

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Administrative Setup Related to Environment in Bangladesh The Ministry of Environment & Forest (MoEF) is the nodal agency in the administrative structure of the GOB, for overseeing all environmental matters relating to national environmental policy and regulatory issues in the country. The MoEF oversees the activities of the following technical/implementing agencies:

. Department of Environment (DoE); . Forest Department (FD); . Bangladesh Forest Industries Development Corporation (BFIDC); . Bangladesh Forest Research Institute (BFRI); and . Bangladesh National Herbarium (BNH).

Other Related Organizations Other organizations that would also govern social and environmental functions related to the proposed Project include:

. Ministry of Land: Land Reform and Land Acquisition Directorate; . Ministry of Water Resources: Bangladesh Water Development Board; and . Local Government Engineering Department (LGED).

Department of Environment (DoE)

The DOE has been placed under the MoEF as its technical wing and is statutorily responsible for the implementation of the Environment Conservation Act, 1995. The principal activities of the DOE are:

. Defining EIA procedures and issuing environmental clearance permits the latter being the legal requirement before the proposed Project can be implemented; . Providing advice or taking direct action to prevent degradation of the environment; . Pollution control, including the monitoring of effluent sources and ensuring mitigation of environmental pollution; . Setting the Quality Standards for environmental parameters; . Declaring Ecologically Critical Areas (ECAs), where the ecosystem has been degraded to a critical state; and . Review and evaluation of Initial Environmental Examinations (IEEs) and EIAs prepared for projects in Bangladesh.

Environmental Clearance Process

The ECR 1997 has classified projects to be assessed by the DOE in four categories based on the severity of impacts on important environmental components (IECs):

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. Green: nil; . Orange A: minor; . Orange B: medium; and . Red: severe.

The applicability of environmental clearance and the process in Bangladesh is described in Figure 2-1 The EIA process consists of three stages, screening, IEE, and detailed EIA:

. Projects categorized as Green and Orange-A requires no IEE or EIA for environmental clearance; however, the proponent has to submit an application in a prescribed format along with specified documents; . Projects categorized as Orange-B require an IEE to be submitted to the DOE along with an application in a prescribed format and other specified documents; and . Red category projects require both IEE and EIA. An IEE is required for the location clearance and an EIA is required for the environmental clearance.

As per the ECR 1997, the subject Project falls under the Red category as it falls within the following:

Item 67: Construction/reconstruction/expansion of road (regional, national & international).

The process for obtaining an Environmental Clearance Certificate (ECC) for the proposed Project is outlined in Figure 2-2.

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Figure 2-1: DoE Environmental Clearance Applicability and Procedure

Source: DoE

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Figure 2-2: Flow chart of EIA process applicable to the proposed project

Source: DoE

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Institutional Arrangements Related to Land Acquisition in Bangladesh The administrative set up for land acquisition has two tiers under the Ministry of Land Administration. At the Division level, there is an Additional Commissioner is responsible for land administration under the Commissioner. At the district level, there is an Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) is in charge of land administration. Under him, there is at least one Land Acquisition Officer and several Assistant Land Acquisition Officers. The number of officers depends on the size of the District. Non-gazette officers in the land administration include Kanungos and surveyors.

To initiate the process of land, acquisition the Deputy Commissioner issue a public notice under Section 3 of the Land Acquisition/Requisition Act. The Deputy Commissioner allows 15 days to invite objections on the notice for land acquisition/requisition. If no objection is raised within the specified period, the Deputy Commissioner makes a decision within 10 days of the expiry of the notice period. If objections are received by Deputy Commissioner, then the records of the objection raised along with the inquiry conducted by him. The report of the findings is the submitted to the Divisional Commissioner if property does not exceed 50 standard bighas. In case of properties exceeding 50 bighas the report is submitted to the Government of Republic of Bangladesh. The decision of the Government or Divisional Commissioner as the case may be, is final provided the decision by Divisional Commissioner is made within 15 days and the decision made by Government of Bangladesh is done within 90 days. The decision by the Government or Divisional commissioner shall be conclusive evidence that the property is needed for a public interest.

Thereafter, the Deputy Commissioner serves the notice of acquisition of the property under section-6 requiring the all persons interested in the property to state the nature of their respective interests in the property and particulars of their claims to compensation for such interests not being earlier than fifteen days after the date of publication of the notice. After examining all the claims/ statements received from all interested parties shall make an award stating the compensation and any apportionment of the said compensation. Deputy Commissioner shall give notice of his award to the persons interested and send the estimate of the award of compensation to the requiring person within 7 days from the date of making award of compensation.

Section 10 makes the payment of the compensation before taking the possession of the property. If the persons entitled do not consent to receive it, or any dispute over the apportionment then the amount of the compensation is deposited in the Public Account of the Republic which is considered as deemed payment for the purpose of taking over possession.

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Any person interested who has not accepted any award made by the Deputy Commissioner within 45 days of the service of the award, make an application to the arbitrator for revision of the award. Section-30 restricts the scope of the enquiry by the Arbitrator to a consideration of interests of the persons affected by the objection. Arbitrator shall be guided by the provisions of the sections 8, 9 or 20 provided that the compensation determined by the Arbitrator shall not exceed more than 10 per centum of the award of the Deputy Commissioner.

An appeal shall lie to the Arbitration Appellate Tribunal against the award of the Arbitrator and the decision of the Tribunal shall be final.

Project Relevant International Treaties and Conventions

Bangladesh is party to a number of international environmental convention, treaties and agreements. The Project relevant international treaties and conventions relevant to the project signed, ratified and in the process of ratification by Bangladesh are detailed in Table 2.3.

Table 2-3: Project Relevant International Treaties and Conventions

SL Environment related International convention and Status Treaties 1 International Plant Protection Convention (Rome, 1951.) 01.09.78 (ratified)

2 International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution of 28.12.81 (entry into the Sea by Oil (London, 1954 (as amended on 11 April force) 1962 and 21 October 1969.) 3 Plant Protection Agreement for the South East Asia and 04.12.74 (accessed) Pacific Region (as amended) (Rome, 1956.) (entry into force) 4 International Convention Relating to Intervention on the 04.02.82 (entry into High Seas in Cases of Oil Pollution Casualties (Brussels, force) 1969.) 5 Convention on Wetlands of International Importance 20.04.92 (ratified) especially as Waterfowl Habitat (Ramsar, 1971) ("Ramsar Convention"). 6 Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural 03.08.83 (accepted) and natural Heritage (Paris, 1972.) 03.11.83 (ratified) 7 Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species 18.02.82 (ratified) of Wild Fauna and flora (Washington, 1973.) (CITES Convention) 8 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea 10.12.82 (ratified) (Montego

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SL Environment related International convention and Status Treaties Bay, 1982.) 9 Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer 02.08.90 (accessed) (Vienna, 1985.) 31.10.90 (entry into force) 10 Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone 02.08.90 Layer (Montreal 1987.) 31.10.90 (accessed 11 Copenhagen Amendment to the Montreal protocol on 27.11.2000 Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, Copenhagen, (accepted) 1992 26.2.2001 (entry into force) 12 Montreal Amendment of the Montreal Protocol on 27.7.2001 (accepted) Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, Montreal, 1997 26.10.2001 (entry into force) 13 Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary 01.04.93 (accessed) Movements of Hazardous Wastes and Disposal (Basel, 1989.) 14 International Convention on Oil Pollution Preparedness, 30.11.90 (signed) Response and Cooperation (London, 1990.) In the process of ratification 15 International Convention to Combat Desertification, (Paris 14.10.94 (signed) 1994.) 26.01.1996 (ratification) 16 Convention on persistent Organic Pollutants, Stockholm 23.5.2001 (signed) 12.03.2007 (ratified) 17 Kyoto protocol to the United Nations Framework 21.8.2001 (accessed) Convention on Climate Change

ADB Safeguard policy statement, 2009 In July 2009, ADB's Board of Directors approved the new Safeguard Policy Statement (SPS) governing the environmental and social safeguards of ADB's operations. The SPS builds upon ADB's previous safeguard policies on the Environment, Involuntary Resettlement, and Indigenous Peoples, and brings them into one consolidated policy framework with enhanced consistency and coherence, and more comprehensively addresses environmental and social impacts and risks. The SPS also provides a platform for participation by affected people and other stakeholders in the project design and implementation.

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The SPS applies to all ADB-financed and/or ADB-administered projects and their components, regardless of the source of financing, including investment projects funded by a loan; and/or a grant; and/or other means, such as equity and/or guarantees. ADB works with borrowers and clients to put into practice the requirements of SPS.

The objectives of ADB’s safeguards are to: . avoid adverse impacts of projects on the environment and affected people, where possible; . minimize, mitigate, and/or compensate for adverse project impacts on the environment and affected people when avoidance is not possible; and . assist borrowers and clients to strengthen their safeguard systems and develop the capacity to manage environmental and social risks.

ADB’s SPS sets out the policy objectives, scope and triggers, and principles for three key safeguard areas:

. Environmental safeguards; . Involuntary Resettlement safeguards; and . Indigenous Peoples safeguards.

To help borrowers and clients and their projects achieve the desired outcomes, ADB adopts a set of specific safeguard requirements that borrowers and clients are required to meet in addressing environmental and social impacts and risks. These safeguard requirements are as follows:

. Safeguard Requirements 1: Environment (Appendix 1 of SPS); . Safeguard Requirements 2: Involuntary Resettlement (Appendix 2 of SPS); . Safeguard Requirements 3: Indigenous Peoples (Appendix 3 of SPS); and . Safeguard Requirements 4: Special Requirements for Different Finance Modalities (Appendix 4 of SPS).

In addition, ADB does not finance activities on the prohibited investment activities list (Appendix 5 of SPS). Furthermore, ADB does not finance projects that do not comply with its safeguard policy statement, nor does it finance projects that do not comply with the host country’s social and environmental laws and regulations, including those laws implementing host country obligations under international law.

Applicable EHS Standards The Project has to comply with Bangladesh environmental, health and safety laws and Lender Guidelines with special attention to comply with the Bangladesh (GOB Environmental Conservation Rule 1997) and World Bank Group EHS requirements.

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Therefore, the EHS standards as stipulated in ECR 1997 for air quality, surface and ground water quality, ambient noise levels, emissions and effluent discharge will be applicable.

The ADB SPS policy Statement 2009 (SPS) also states, "During the design, construction, and operation of the project the borrower/client will apply pollution prevention and control technologies and practices consistent with international good practice, as reflected in internationally recognized standards such as the World Bank Group’s Environment, Health and Safety Guidelines. These standards contain performance levels and measures that are normally acceptable and applicable to projects." For this purpose, IFC EHS guidelines are recommended. The Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) General Guidelines (April 30, 2007) will be applicable for this Project.

The relevant environmental standards (national as well as international) applicable to this project are indicated in Annex 2.

It is evident from Annex 2 that except noise level standards, the WB/IFC guidelines are more stringent than the local standards. The Project needs to comply with the Bangladesh environmental, health and safety laws and World Bank Group Guidelines. Hence, it is mandatory for the Project to meet the stringent standards, as per applicability.

Categorization of The Project

Project Classification as per DOE, Ministry of Environment and Forest, Bangladesh Depending upon location, size and severity of pollution loads, projects/ activities have been classified in the ECR, 1997 into four categories: Green, Orange A, Orange B and Red, respectively, to nil, minor, medium and severe impacts on important environmental components (IECs).

As per the Schedule-1 of the ECR-1997, corresponding category related to construction/expansion of road (regional, national & international), fall under Red Category for the following components:

. Item 67: Construction/reconstruction/expansion of road (regional, national & international). The present EIA study has been prepared based on approved ToR (refer to Annex 1) by the proponent to take EIA approval prior to start of any construction activity.

Project Classification as per ADB Safeguard Policy Statement Categorization for the proposed Project was undertaken by using ADB’s Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA), Involuntary Resettlement (IR) and Indigenous People (IP) Assessment

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Table 2-4: Project categorization asper ADB Safeguard

SL Relevance Remarks Category 1. Environmental Categorization Environmental issues and Irreversible impacts due to the Project Based on impacts of the Project are include: irreversible anticipated during the . Increase noise and vibration impacts, it during the road, bridge and culvert should be construction and operation construction and operation of access control road categorized as . Change in air quality due to ‘B’. proposed road construction . Occupational health and safety; . Increase in traffic density . Community health and safety; . Associated development in the area. 2. Involuntary Resettlement Social impacts and The project road already exists and is Based on resettlement going for an upgradation. This will likelihood of due to Project help in reducing traffic congestion and significant smooth traffic flow between involuntary Joydebpur to Elenga. resettlement, it No protected area falls within the is categorized project corridor and in the surrounding as “A” areas. It is envisaged that the SMVT Project can be categorized as A for involuntary resettlement (IR) given its significant resettlement impacts. The project will require approximately 85.311 acres of land (as per RDPP, February 2018) and potentially impact significant number of structures 3. Indigenous People Categorization (a) presence Existence of Indigenous people No foreseen adverse (b) Impact Impact on indigenous/ ethnic/ impact, project scheduled tribes can be categorized as ‘C’.

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CHAPTER THREE: DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT Description of the project

The Project

Due to the geographic location of Bangladesh, it can serve as vital link between neighboring countries Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and India. The Transport Working Group (TWG) of the South Asia Sub-Regional Economic Cooperation (SASEC) has also identified four of the six corridors passing through Bangladesh. JCTE portion, lying on the way to connecting Chattogram port has become very important as it is the only road connecting the north-western part of Bangladesh through Bangabandhu Bridge. For better regional connectivity and to avail trade facilities with INDIA, NEPAL and BHUTAN a huge amount of traffic to be accommodated on this road portion, being the only major road. Therefore, the existing two lane JCTE road is being improved to four-lane under the project “SASEC Road Connectivity Project- Improvement of Joydevpur-Chandra-Tangail-Elenga Road (N4) to a 4 Lane Highway”. And under this project the SMVT on the right side JCTE road is being constructed.

According to ARC (Accident Research Center) the traffic is going to be excessive for existing two-lane road and as a lot of accidents occur presently due to presence of non-motorized vehicles. So, in the context of accommodating increased traffics as well as improving road safety by segregating, the Joydevpur-Chandra-Tangail-Elenga portion has become very potential to upgrade in 4- lane and provide extra lane for slow-moving vehicles and other traffic measures for the safety of vulnerable road users, and access control.

In SASEC RCP, 51.1 km of road compromising of contract WP-02, WP-03 & WP-04 has already accommodated SMVT lane on one side only with provision of separate SMVT bridge. However, in a one side SMVT lane scenario, the slow-moving vehicles still need to cross the road to get into the SMVT lane which may still threat to road safety. On the other hand, government has banned slow-moving vehicles for using the national highway in 2015. Considering this fact, this is essential to construct both sides SMVT along JCTE road. So, SMVT on other side of the road has been proposed in the revised DPP. Moreover, in contract WP-01 having a length of 18.9 km, SMVT lane are provided on both side of the road. However, at three bridge locations, namely Kodda-1 at Ch. 3+594, Kodda-2 at Ch. 4+174 and Bymail at Ch. 5+272 SMVT bridge under WP-01 has been provided in one side of the road. In order to make SMVT lane effectively workable three separate SMVT bridges are essentially required on other side at Kodda-1, Kodda-2 and Bymail bridge locations. It may be mentioned here that there is provision of both sides SMVT for full length of SASEC Road Connectivity Project: II: Improvement of Elenga- Hatikamrul-Bogra-Rangpur road which is useful for connectivity of 16 districts with Dhaka. The portion from Joydevpur to Elenga

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Road, on the other hand is being used by vehicles for connecting more than 20 district and characterized by slower moving vehicles. So, there is much worth having SMVT on both side for JCTE road.

Objectives of the project The main component of the Project is to . Upgrade the Joydevpur-Chandra-Tangail-Elenga Road (JCTE) to a 4-Lane Highway with safety features including separate Lanes for Slow-moving Vehicular Traffic (SMVT). The existing road, which is a two-lane highway having no divider between two opposite direction traffic and no separate lane for slow-moving vehicles, often gets severely congested also poses significant threats to road safety. . Given that the capacity of this 2-lane Highway is constrained due to rapid traffic growth, the upgrading of this Highway to a 4-lane Highway having continuous median, flyover at busy s intersections, underpasses and both side separate SMVT lanes will significantly increase the capacity and safety of this important Highway section.

Project Area The project area is located in the division of Dhaka passing through Gazipur and Tangail district with total length of 70 km shown in Table 3-1. Table 3-1: Proposed SMVT lane along with administrative unit

Road Improvement SL# Division District Administrative Unit Length

1 Gazipur Joydevpur, Kaliakoir Gazipur: 25 km

Dhaka Mirzapur, Delduar, 2 Tangail Basail, Tangail Sadar, Tangail: 45 km Kalihati Source: Revised Development Project Proposal (RDPP), February 2018 Project Location The JCTE road located north of Dhaka city will start at Vogra Bazaar Junction (N 23°58'39" and E 90°22'51") at an intersection 2.7 km south of Joydevpur roundabout where the N-3 Dhaka – Mymensingh road meets the N-105 Dhaka Eastern Bypass, joining the N4 Joydevpur – Chandra – Tangail - Elenga road at project Chainage 2.900 at a point 2.38 km west of Joydevpur (N 23° 59' 22" and E 90° 21' 30"). The route then follows the N4, including the Kaliakor, Mirzapur and Tangail bypasses (south end: N 24° 14' 33" and E 89° 56' 27", north end: N 24° 16' 03" and E 89° 56' 15") to Elenga (N 24° 20' 22" and E 89° 55' 28"). The total length is 70 km (RDPP, 2018).

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Integration of SMVT lane along with proposed new 2 lane roads

This component is envisaged to upgrade and widen the 70 km, 2 lane carriageways from Joydevpur-Chandra-Tangail-Elenga into four lane carriageways (2*2 lane carriageways, each 7.3-meter-wide, with a 1.5-meter-wide paved shoulder in each direction and a 1.2-meter-wide lane divider) where 3.6 to 4.2-meter-wide slow-moving vehicular traffic (SMVT) lane on both sides of the carriageways will be constructed, with a 1 m soft shoulder and an approximately 3-meter separation from the main carriageway. This SMVT lanes pavement is designed to accommodate both non-motorized traffic and motorized 2 and 3 wheelers. The project components and design standards are defined in the following Table 3-2.

Table 3-2: Component and Design Standard for SMVT Lane Project Components Length ≈70 km Alignment Follow the existing road alignment (JCTE Highway) along with separate SMVT bridges along the alignment of the SMVT road including Kodda-1, Kodda-2 and Bymail Bridges is proposed on right side of the rode Underpass 5 SMVT Underpass (location may vary depending on need and constructability) Major Bridges 23 SMVT Bridges Culverts 29 both side SMVT culverts Crest Width Inclusion of SMVT on the right side of the road will be increased crest width 29.8 m to around 35 m. Embankment Design New embankments having 1m free board above HFL. Land Acquisition Total Land for Right Side SMVT Lane: 85.311 acres Cost SMVT Lane Cost: 44300.45 lac Resettlement Cost: 5854.96 lac Structural Design Roads and Highways Department (RHD) Bridge Design Standard Standard 2004; American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Standards Specification Source: Revised Development Project Proposal (RDPP), February 2018 Existing and Proposed Cross Drainage Structures

Three major bridges are proposed to be constructed over defined perennial waterways (over Turag River). These bridges are listed in Table 3-3 which will be constructed mostly downstream at all the bridge location where river training structures are used in the upstream.

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Kodda Bridge-1: The Kodda Bridge-1 Bridge is located over the river Bongshai under the Jamuna Access Road Project (JARP) at 3+556 Km. The river appears to be gradually drying up due to encroachment and the lack of adequate rainwater discharge from the upstream area. A new bridge will be constructed for the SMVT lane.

Kodda Bridge-2: The Kodda Bridge-2 is located at the chainage of km 4+109. Tough following Kodda bridge 1 was improved under Jamuna Access Road Project (JARP), it was not included in the project. A new bridge, catering for the four traffic lanes plus a SMVT lane required for the upgrading to four-lane standard, is proposed at this location.

Bymail Bridge: The Bymail Bridge was also built under the Jamuna Access Road Project (JARP) at Km 5+208. This 121.20 m long bridge is also in good condition. Another additional bridges are proposed to be built at this location for SMVT lane.

Table 3-3: List of New Major Bridges along with SMVT

SL# Name Chainage Length (Along Span no Channel Type the Road) m

1 Kodda Bridge-1 3+556 69.85 2 Small River

2 Kodda Bridge-2 4+109 121.2 5 Turag River-1

3 Baimail Bridge 5+208 121.2 5 Turag River-2

SMVT Crossing Schedule Regardless of the provision for SMVT on one side or both side of highway JCTE corridor, there is need to provide road crossing facilities. In absence of sufficient crossing facilities, the SMVT shall have to enter the main road for crossing the road which may trigger road crash and may reduce operational efficiency of the main highway. Provision of 5 road crossing facilities for SMVT and 8 road crossing channels instead of foot over bridges have been proposed at different suitable locations in the form of underpass may be included in the project scope. The following Table 3-4 shows SMVT underpass along with JCTE road.

Table 3-4: Inclusion of underpass along with JCTE Road

Sl. Chainage Location Type of Underpass

01 Ch. 21+460 Kaliakoir Bypass SMVT Underpass

02 Ch. 34+355 Mirzapur Bypass SMVT Underpass

03 Ch. 49+400 Baoikhola SMVT Underpass

04 Ch. 56+060 Basail Tea Junction SMVT Underpass

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Sl. Chainage Location Type of Underpass

05 Ch. 60+780 Tangail Bypass Gharinda SMVT Underpass

Source: Revised Development Project Proposal (RDPP), February 2018 Guardrail between the SMVT and Carriageway

SMVT level to be raised to match carriageway level in the locations specified in the Table 3-5. This is to suit localized site conditions. SMVT lane guardrail will be extended symmetrically on either side of the culvert centerline. For Guardrails details, between SMVT and Carriageway where top level of culverts is less than 600 mm below carriageway level.

Table 3-5: Schedule for guardrail between the SMVT and carriageway

SL# Left Side Between SMVT and Carriageway, Length In (M) Start End

Contract Package No. JCTERP - WP -02, Chainage - Km 18+900 to km 36+900 1 20+700 20+900 200 2 22+540 22+980 440 3 24+800 25+400 600 4 26+100 28+480 2380 5 34+000 34+140 140 Total 3760 Contract Package No. JCTERP - WP -03, Chainage - Km 36+900 to km 59+300 6 43+880 44+020 140 Total 140 Contract Package No. JCTERP - WP -04, Chainage - Km 59+300 to km 69+300 7 66+440 66+580 140 8 66+900 67+100 200 9 68+700 69+300 600 Total 940 Source: Revised Development Project Proposal (RDPP), February 2018 Integration of the existing road along with SMVT Lane

In the proposed JCTE 4-lane Highway, horizontal profile has been set following the available ROW The Finished Road Levels (FRL) of the proposed 4- lane carriageway including the SMVT have been finalized and duly approved. To integrate the old road within the New 4- lane highway with SMVT the final road level (FRL) was designed taking into considerations of required overlay thickness on existing road plus leveling courses needed for correction of adverse cross slopes and also keeping the new embankments having 1m free board above highest flood level.

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The proposed centerline of the new road is passing through either on the left side or on the right of the existing road and in few places at the road center. In contracts WP-02, W P-03, W P-04, the SMVT road is provided in one side of 4-lane carriageway only. However, in contract WP-O1, SMVT is provided on both sides. The existing road crest width is 12 m, whereas the proposed 4 lane road crest width is 29.8 m in general.

Therefore, adverse slope of one side has to be leveled up to match with the new road cross slopes. In the original design, this leveling operation is proposed to be done by using asphalt leveling courses over Geo-Fabric Reinforced Seal (GRS). The depth of such leveling course is required to be too high ranging from 200mm to 400mm, above which further two asphalt courses viz. B.C and W.C (total 195 mm) are to be laid resulting in about 400 mm to 600 mm thickness of sole asphalt material.

Alignment and ROW

This project is envisaged to upgrade and widen the 70 km, 2 lane carriageways from Joydevpur-Chandra-Tangail-Elenga into four lane carriageways where 3.6 to 4.2-meter-wide slow-moving vehicular traffic (SMVT) lane on both sides of the carriageways will be constructed, with a 1 m soft shoulder and an approximately 3-meter separation from the main carriageway. This SMVT lanes pavement is designed to accommodate both non-motorized traffic and motorized 2 and 3 wheelers.

It is mentionable that, in all Bazaar areas, built up areas and for access to the filling station the level of SMVT surface shall be same as that of main carriageway. As the vehicles from the main carriageway are expected to run frequently over those upgraded SMVT areas, the bituminous pavement is required to be strengthened to sustain the normal traffic load of the main carriageway. It is therefore proposed to provide additional 70 mm of Binder Courses Wearing Course in the SMVT lane in the designated areas.

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Figure 3-1: Typical Cross Section

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Source: RDPP, February 2018

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Incorporation Project Feature

Road safety aspects Road safety is one of the major issues considered in the designing of the project. It is believed that, the SMVT lane itself would play a major role in the road safety. Moreover, Different safety features were included in the planning for instance underpass (13 NOs), flyover (11 NOs), guard rail, jersey road safety barrier, road marking, proper lightening where required, footpath, adequate number of “controlled U Turn (5 NOs)” facility are included in the design. It can also be mentioned here that, approach length to the feeling station with 3.50m width has been recommended for the project to be extended for at least 100 meters towards the approaching end only to avoid parking of vehicles in the main carriageway and thus would not create obstruction to main traffic flow. The safety features incorporated in the project is enlisted in Table 3-6.

Table 3-6: Road Safety Features

Chainage Type Name Remarks 3+000 Flyover Naojur 6+543 to 8+188 Flyover Konabari 12+500 Flyover Shafipur 17+000 Flyover Chandra Loop 16+744 to 17+032 Flyover Chandra 18+800 Flyover Kalikoir 19+441 to 19+898 Flyover Latifpur 26+500 Flyover Gorai 29+906 to 30+235 Flyover Shohagpur Flyover-1 29+906 to 30+235 Flyover Shohagpur Flyover-2 63+640 Flyover Rabna Flyover 21+460 Underpass Kaliakoir Bypass SMVT 28+240 Underpass Voteghor Bazar Pedestrian 31+840 Underpass Dewhata Bazar Pedestrian 34+355 Underpass Mirzapur Bypass SMVT 37+860 Underpass Kurni Bazar Pedestrian 40+490 Underpass Kodim Dholla Bazar Pedestrian 44+000 Underpass Jamoki Pedestrian 46+910 Underpass Nataipara Bazar Pedestrian 49+400 Underpass Baoikhola Bazar SMVT 54+250 Underpass Korotia hut Bypass Pedestrian 56+060 Underpass Basail tea Junction SMVT 57+130 Underpass Tarutia School Pedestrian 60+780 Underpass Gharinda SMVT 25+080 U-Turn 27+850 U-Turn 33+500 U-Turn

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Chainage Type Name Remarks 40+025 U-Turn 46+270 U-Turn Source: Project Office Disability access At the first stage of planning, foot over bridges were proposed for the project. Considering different aspects of the project including point of view +of disability access, omission of foot over bridges is recommended lastly. In total 05 SMVT underpass has been proposed, however the locations may very depend on need and constructability which was enlisted in Table 3-4.

Climate resiliency Climate resilience is one of the major issues considered in the planning. Therefore, embankments have been designed having 1m free board above HFL of that area. Moreover, 23 bridges and 76 culverts have been proposed. List of culverts to be constructed is enlisted in Annex-E.

Bus Bays Total 26 bus bays have been proposed under this project. Location of the bus bays with their chainage is enlisted in the following Table 3-7. Table 3-7: Proposed Bus Bays SL. Chainage Type Remarks 1. 0+270 to 0+440 Bus Bay Left Side 2. 0+300 to 0+470 Bus Bay Right Side 3. 6+600 to 6+800 Bus Bay Right Side 4. 8+000 to 8+200 Bus Bay Right Side 5. 10+540 to 10+710 Bus Bay Left Side 6. 14+540 to 14+710 Bus Bay Right Side 7. 16+800 to 16+900 Bus Bay Both Side 8. 21+260 Bus Bay Right Side 9. 21+650 Bus Bay Left Side 10. 24+300 Bus Bay Both Side 11. 27+300 Bus Bay Left Side 12. 31+830 Bus Bay Left Side 13. 34+200 Bus Bay Both Side 14. 37+735 Bus Bay Right Side 15. 37+835 Bus Bay Left Side 16. 40+270 Bus Bay Left Side 17. 40+425 Bus Bay Right Side

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SL. Chainage Type Remarks 18. 43+765 Bus Bay Right Side 19. 43+795 Bus Bay Left Side 20. 46+580 Bus Bay Right Side 21. 46+610 Bus Bay Left Side 22. 54+055 Bus Bay Both Side 23. 57+695 Bus Bay Right Side 24. 58+045 Bus Bay Left Side 25. 63+420 to 63+530 Bus Bay Right Side 26. 63+830 to 63+930 Bus Bay Left Side Source: Project office Toilets and locker facilities Toilet and locker facility are proposed at 30 locations with passenger waiting shade (Source: Project office).

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CHAPTER FOUR: DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT

Description of the Environment Introduction

Before starting the assessment of the proposed SMVT project, it is desirable to measure the levels of the appropriate environmental and social parameters which could be affected as a result of the implementation of the project. This chapter describes the existing environmental baseline setting of the study area. The baseline data were collected through field investigations and collection of available secondary data, review of existing documents/publications pertaining to the study area.

The baseline data collection for different environmental and biological components like meteorology, ambient air quality, noise environment, ground water quality, surface water quality, sediment quality, land use, ecology (terrestrial and aquatic), fisheries, hydrology, geology, physiography, agro-ecology was carried out by EQMS through a well-developed field studies covering data collection during November 2018 and January 2019 from primary as well as secondary sources.

According to the existing environmental and social scenario, potential impacts of SMVT lane construction will be identified and accordingly management plan will be proposed in upcoming sections. The baseline environmental conditions will help to compare and monitor the predicted negative and positive impacts resulting from the project during preconstruction, construction and operation phases.

Significant action depicts direct adverse changes caused by the action and its effect on the health of the biota including flora, fauna and human being, socio-economic conditions, current use of land and resources, climate change aspects, physical and cultural heritage properties and biophysical surroundings.

Baseline data generation of the following environmental attributes is essential in EIA studies. The purposes of describing the environmental settings of the study area are:

. To understand the project needs and environmental characteristics of the area; and . To assess the quality of the existing environment, as well as the environmental impacts of the future developments being studied.

The baseline environment for the EIA was studied through primary survey, information collected from secondary sources and discussion with local stakeholders.

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Study Area A 400 m (200 m both side) buffer zone on both sides of the centerline of the project road has been considered to ascertain presence of sensitivities/ sensitive receptors in this region. Figure 4.1 shows the study area map. Figure 4-1: Map of the Study area

Source: RHD, Prepared by EQMS

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Physical Environment Geology Bangladesh is situated to the east of the Indian sub-continental plate. Nearly 85% of Bangladesh is underlain by deltaic and alluvial deposits of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna river systems. According to the Geological Survey of Bangladesh (GSB), the proposed project area falls under three geological units namely- “Madhupur Clay and residuum, Alluvial silt and clay, and Alluvial silt”. A brief description of the physical environment is described below.

Madhupur Clay and residuum: Light yellowish- grey, orange, light to brick-red, and greyish- white, micaceous silty clay to sandy clay; plastic and abundantly mottled in upper 8 m:' contains small clusters of organic matter. Sand fraction dominantly quartz; minor feldspar (orthoclase greater than plagioclase) and mica; sand content increases with depth. Dominant clay minerals are kaolinite and illite. Iron manganese oxide nodules concentrated in zones; calcium carbonate nodules rare. Locally, a cohesive, 35-cm-thick iron oxide zone is preserved near the surface of residuum. Unoxidized clay coatings occur along root tubes, burrows, vugs, cavities, and fracture planes. Gradational contact with underlying sand. Density of incised streams is greater and drainage networks more complex than on Barind surface.

Alluvial silt and clay Medium to dark-grey silt to clay; colour is darker as amount of organic material increases. Map unit is a combination of alluvial and paludal deposits; includes flood- basin silt, back swamp silty clay, and Organic-rich clay in Sag ponds and large depressions. Some depressions contain peat. Large areas underlain by this unit are dry only a few months of the year; the deeper part of depressions and bils (bhils) contain water throughout the year.

Alluvial silt—Light- to medium-grey, fine sandy to clayey silt. Commonly poorly stratified; average grain size decreases away from main channels. Chiefly deposited in flood basins and interstream areas. Unit includes small back swamp deposits and varying amounts of thin, interstratified sand deposited during episodic or unusually large floods. Illite is the most abundant clay mineral. Most areas are flooded annually. Included in this unit are thin veneers of sand spread by episodic large floods over flood-plain silts. Historic pot- tery, artefacts, and charcoal (radiocarbon dated 500-6,000 yrs B.p.) found in upper 4 m.

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Figure 4-2: Geology of the Study Area

Source: GSB, 1991

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Topology of the project area Topography configuration of a land surface including its relief and contours, the distribution of mountains and valleys, the patterns of rivers, and all other features, natural and artificial, that produce the landscape. The topography of the project area is determined by Digital Elevation Modeling using ASTER data. From data it is evident that, topography of the project area of Gazipur is likely to be governed by the river network of Turag. However, the depth of the river network ranges between -4.9 to -5.53 m. The following Figure 4-2 also indicates that, elevation on the north side of the project area is comparatively higher (above 18.77 m) to than other parts of the project area as Madhupur Sal forest lies on that area.

Land Use and Land Cover Land uses of the project road and its surrounding area (200 m on either side of the centerline of the road) have been studied using high resolution satellite imagery (dated January 2019) and through subsequent ground truthing exercise conducted during the site reconnaissance surveys. A major part of the study is built-up and falls under Agricultural land, which approximately covers 33.65% of the study area. The remaining predominant land use-land cover of the study area includes Settlements with Homestead Vegetation (25.85%), which is enlisted in Table 4-1 and illustrated Figure 4-4. Table 4-1: Land use Pattern of the Project Area

Land Use Land Cover Covered Area (Acres) Percentage Agricultural Land 2341.25 33.65 Bare Land 72.85 1.05 Brick Field 93.37 1.34 Forest 55.19 0.79 Industrial Area 1022.77 14.70 Kaliakoir Hi-Tech Park 17.22 0.25 Lake 34.34 0.49 Pond 142.23 2.04 Railway 28.57 0.41 River 69.50 1.00 Roads and Highway 706.87 10.16 Settlement with Homestead Vegetation 1798.47 25.85 Shal Forest 60.95 0.88 Urban Area 505.15 7.26 Vegetation 9.65 0.14 TOTAL 6958.38 100.00 Source: GIS mapping and interpretation of satellite imagery by EQMS, 2018

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Figure 4-3: Topography of the Project Area

Source: USGS Earth Explorer, Dec-2018.

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Figure 4-4: Land Use and Land Cover

Source: GIS mapping and interpretation of satellite imagery by EQMS (Feb-2018)

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Physiography Physiography of any region describes the physical nature (form, arrangements, shape) of the object. Physiographic region/unit refers to a region of which all parts are similar in terms of physical characteristics and which have consequently had a uniform geomorphic history, and whose pattern of topographical features or landforms differs significantly from that of adjacent regions. Bangladesh, in the context of the physiography, can be divided into three braod categories namely-

I. Floodplain II. Terrace III. Hills The most recent study was undertaken by the Soil Resource Development Institute (SRDI) who further refined the previous classifications into 26 Physiographic Units (20 primary units and 6 sub-units) based on an assessment of more recent and detailed data (SRDI, 1997).

The project area falls mostly under the central part of the country which is influenced and depends on the freshwater supply from Jamuna river. The project area is characterized by sal forests in the Pleistocene terrace that is Bhawal-Madhupur Tracts in Gazipur, Tangail and Mymensingh District, and by the floodplains of Jamuna (about 70% of the total area) in Tangail District. The entire road alignment runs through the following three physiographic units 4, 3, 16b (Figure 4.6).

Madhupur Tract (16b): one of the Pleistocene upland blocks in the Bengal Basin is located in the central part of Bangladesh comprising greater Dhaka and Mymensingh districts, between the courses of the Old Brahmaputra and the Jamuna rivers, which is known as Madhupur tract. Towards the south, this physiographic sub-region extends to as far as Dhaka, the capital of the country. Madhupur Tract measures about 4,105 sq km. Comparable to the Barind Tract, the area belongs to a Pleistocene terrace consisting mainly of red colored and mottled clays. It is characterized by plateau-like hillocks varying in height from 9 to 18.5m, and a dendritic drainage pattern, typical of all Pleistocene terraces in Bangladesh. The valleys, mostly flat, are cultivated. The Madhupur jungle contains Shal trees (Shorea robusta), the hardwood which is second to teak in value.

Old Brahmaputra floodplain (4): In 1787, a remarkable change in the course of the Brahmaputra took place. In that year, the river shifted from a course around the eastern edge to the western side of the Madhupur Tract. This new portion of the Brahmaputra is named Jamuna. The old course (old brahmaputra) between Bahadurabad and Bhairab shrank through silting into a small seasonal channel only two kilometers wide. The old river had

4-8 SASEC Road Connectivity Project www.eqms.com.bd Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project already built up fairly high levees on either side over which the present river rarely spills. The Old Brahmaputra floodplain stretching from the southwestern corner of the Garo Hills along the eastern rim of the Madhupur Tract down to the Meghna exhibits a gentle morphology composed of broad ridges and depressions. The latter are usually flooded to a depth of more than one meter, whereas the ridges are subject to shallow flooding only in the monsoon season.

Jamuna (Young Brahmaputra) floodplain (3): A dual name is used for the mighty Brahmaputra, because the Jamuna channel is comparatively new and this course must be clearly distinguished from that of the older Brahmaputra. Before 1787, the Brahmaputra's course swung east to follow the course of the present Old Brahmaputra. In that year, apparently, a severe flood had the effect of turning the course southwards along the Jenai and Konai rivers to form the broad, braided Jamuna channel. The change in course seems to have been completed by 1830. Due to the upliftment of the two large Pleistocene blocks of Barind and Madhupur, the zone of subsidence between those turned to a rift valley and became the new course of the Brahmaputra and came to be known as the great Jamuna. Both the left and right banks of the river are included in this sub-region. The Brahmaputra-Jamuna floodplain can again be subdivided into the Bangali-Karatoya floodplain, Jamuna-Dhaleshwari floodplain, and diyaras and chars.

The right-bank of the Jamuna - once a part of the Tista floodplain is part of the bigger floodplain. Several distributaries of the Jamuna flow through the left-bank floodplain, of which the dhaleshwari is by far the largest and sub-classed, namely, the Jamuna-Dhaleshwari floodplain. The southern part of this sub-region was once a part of the Ganges floodplain. Along the Brahmaputra-Jamuna, as along the Ganges, there are many diyaras and chars. In fact, there are more of them along this channel than in any other river in Bangladesh. There is a continuous line of chars from where this river enters Bangladesh to the off-take point of Dhaleshwari river. Both banks are punctuated by a profusion of diyaras. The soil and topography of chars and diyaras vary considerably. Some of the largest ones have point bars and swales. The elevation between the lowest and highest points of these accretions may be as much as 5m. The difference between them and the higher levees on either bank can be up to 6m. Some of the ridges are shallowly flooded but most of the ridges and all the basins of this floodplain region are flooded more than 0.91 m deep for about four months (mid-June to mid-October) during the monsoon.

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Figure 4-5: Physiography map of the Project Area

Source: SRDI, 1997; Rashid 1991,

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Geomorphology Geomorphology is the scientific study to identify the origin and evaluation of topographic and bathymetric features of a specific geographic region. Since the early Pleistocene age, the river systems have delivered a huge amount of sediment now constituting 80 % of the landmass. However, the project area falls under two major geomorphological area of Bangladesh namely –i) Pleistocene Uplands and ii) Flood plain which is illustrated in the following Figure 4-6.

4.3.5.1 Pleistocene Uplands During Pleistocene era (25,000 years ago), many regions of the world raised and formed uplands. These regions are called Pleistocene uplands. The area includes the Madhupur Gorh, Barind Tracts and Lalmai hills. In the northernmost strip of the Rajshahi division, the Pleistocene upland merges with the piedmont of the Himalayas and in the district of Mymensingh slopes down to the alluvial plains. Pleistocene terraces cover an area of about 8% of the total land surface of Bangladesh with an average elevation of more than 15m above mean sea level. The environmental characteristics and flora and fauna of these regions are almost similar. But the large area of “Shaal Bon” is noticeable.

4.3.5.1.1 The Barind Tract

The Barind Tract is located in the west of the Brahmaputra River. It falls in the central part of north Bangladesh and covers an area of 7,680 sq. km in the Rajshahi division, including Chapainowabganj, Rajshahi, Nowgaon, Jaipurhat and part of Dinajpur. The area comprises of six north-south elongated and isolated exposures of reddish brown deposits. The Barind Tract is the product of vertical movements of Pleistocene period and reaches maximum height of 20 m above modern flood plains. In some area of this region the soil is terraced in steps.

4.3.5.1.2 The Madhupur Tract

Madhupur Tract a large upland area in the central part of Bangladesh. The southern part of this tract is known in Bangla as Bhawal Garh and the northern part as Madhupur Garh. Geologically it is a terrace from one to ten meters above the adjacent floodplains. Though in its present form it is of Pleistocene age its origin may be in the late Miocene, when the Bengal basin was being filled in rapidly. The total extent of this Tract is 4,244 sq km. Unlike the barind tract it is largely in one piece, with seven small outliers. The main section stretches from just south of Jamalpur in the north, to Fatullah of Narayanganj, in the south. Most of Dhaka City is on this Tract. Of the seven outliers four are in the east and three in the north. All of them seem to have been separated atleast superficially, by faults. This part of Bangladesh has been uplifted several times, resulting in numerous longitudinal faults. The most prominent of these are along the western side, where they can be clearly seen at Mirpur (Dhaka City) and near Ghatail and Madhupur further north. Long fault traces are also

4-11 SASEC Road Connectivity Project www.eqms.com.bd Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project extant on the eastern side. The climate of the Tract varies slightly from north to south, the northern reaches being much cooler in winter. Average temperatures vary from 28°C to 32°C in summer, falling to 20°C in winter, with extreme lows of 10°C. Rainfall ranges between 1,000 mm and 1,500 mm annually. Severe storms are unusual but tornadoes have struck the southern areas.

4.3.5.2 Flood plains The flood plains of the Ganges, the Atrai, the Brahmaputra-Jamuna, the Old Brahmaputra, and the Meghna rivers cover approximately 40% of Bangladesh. The elevation of the major part of the flood plain ranges from 3 to 5 meters. The flood plain covers the central, north and northeastern part of the country. The Brahmapura-Jamuna Flood Plain is located between the Barind and Madhupur Tracts. Elevation of this surface is 29 m in the north and about 6 m in the south. In 1887, a remarkable change in the course of the Brahmaputra took place. In that year, the river shifted from a course around the eastern edge to the western side of the Madhupur Tract and changed from a meandering river to a braided river. The Old Brahmaputra degenerated into a small seasonal channel and rarely spills over the previously built up levees. The Ganges Flood Plain extends from the western border of the country, south of the Barind Tract, as far east where it merges with the Jamuna Flood Plain. The Meghna Flood Plain merges with the southern part of the Old Brahmaputra Flood Plain in the northwest and with the Sylhet Depression in the north. Landform of the flood plain is characterized by natural levees distributed in a mottled pattern which forms shallow depressions and small ridges. The maximum height of the levees is 30 m above the sea level. There are numerous small depressions (beels/haors) in the flood plain. The levee of the rivers gently slopes towards these depressions. Silty clay, clay, sandy silt with local peat beds are the major constituents of the flood plain area.

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Figure 4-6: Geomorphology of the Study Area

Source: Ahmed et al., 2004

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Soil type of the project area Major parts of Bangladesh are on the delta formed by the three major rovers Brahmaputra, Ganges and Meghna. The system drains a basin of some 1.76 million sq. km and carry not only snowmelt water from the Himalayas but also runoff water from some of the highest rainfall areas of the world. Therefore, the soil formation process differs significantly in floodplain, hills and uplifted terraces. However, different types of soils are found in the project area which is described below and is illustrated in the following Figure 4-7.

4.3.6.1 Shallow Red-Brown Terrace Soils These are red and brown upland soils in which a compact clay substratum occurs within about 90 cm from the surface. These soils occupy rolling to almost level relief in some closely dissected areas of the Madhupur Tract. They occupy only small areas on the Barind Tract and on low hillocks at the foot of the Northern and Eastern Hills in Comilla region. They range from imperfectly to moderately well drained. Most soils occur under degraded sal forest, but some red soils have been cleared for cultivation, and some very shallow brown soils occur under grassland.

Under forest, there is a surface layer, 2-3cm thick, which comprises grey to brown, silty material with platy structure and slightly to strongly acid reaction. Under cultivation, the topsoil is 5-10cm thick and comprises brown to strong brown, strongly or very strongly acid, clay loam or clay. This layer can be thinner or absent in eroded soils.

The subsoil usually is only 30-60 cm thick. Moderately well drained soils, which generally occupy rolling or gently undulating relief, have strong brown to reddish yellow, blocky clay in this layer, sometimes with thin red coatings (which may be argillans). Imperfectly drained soils, found on almost level sites which lie less than 1 cm above the shallow valleys dissecting the landscape, are yellow-brown, sometimes finely mottled red, and are loamy, porous and friable. In both kinds of soil, the subsoil is very strongly acid throughout. The substratum comprises recognizable Madhupur Clay on the Madhupur and Barind Tracts; possibly it is the same or a similar clay bed which is present on the piedmont hill- ocks in Comilla region. This layer comprises heavy clay which has strong blocky structure and is plastic when wet and hard when dry. It is dominantly grey, mottled with red or brown to varying degrees. The substratum is very strongly acid to at least 120 cm but sometimes becomes less acid below that depth.

Shallow Red-Brown Terrace Soils mainly are poor soils. They' have a lower potential for both field crops and tree crops (including forest) than most Deep Red-Brown Terrace Soils, Limitations include:

. low moisture-holding capacity; . Impeded internal drainage, making subsoils wet in the rainy season;

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. low natural fertility; . susceptibility to erosion; and . broken relief which provides difficulties for making irrigation layouts and roads. (The soils could be terraced for paddy cultivation, though this would be expensive to Provide and maintain, and might be most economic where small-scale irrigation from tube-wells could be provided at the same time).

4.3.6.2 Deep Red-Brown Terrace Soils This general soil type comprises red and brown soils developed over a red-mottled substratum, they mainly occur on level to rolling relief on the Madhupur Tract, in the nofth-east of the Barind Tract and on the Akhaura Terrace; Most of the soils are cultivated, but some remain under forest.

Under forest, there is a thin dark brown or dark greyish brown topsoil containing many broken worm casts, but it is sometimes platy at the surface. Under cultivation, the topsoil is 7.5-12,5cm thick and comprises brown or yellow-brown, loam to clay loam, Sometimes with rusty stains along root channels. In most soils, this layer is very strongly acid in reaction, but topsoils on the Barind Tract generally are less acid, and the thin platy surface layer found in forested soils varies from slightly acid to strongly acid.

The subsoil usually is 60-120 cm thick. It varies from dark red on well drained terrace edges through yellowish red and strong brown to yellow-brown on interior terrace sites that are moderately well drained. The reddest soils usually show faint darker red or black mottles, and the yellowest soils have some faint brown or red mottles, but the layer is not dominantly mottled (as are the subsoils of Brown Mottled Terrace Soils into which the soils sometimes grade). The texture usually is clay, but can be clay loam in the upper part. The material is rather plastic when wet but is friable when moist. It is porous and breaks down to an irregular medium or fine blocky structure. In the reddest soils, argillans are prominently developed on coarse ped faces, but they are rarely seen in the browner soils. This layer generally is very strongly acid in reaction, but some Barind Tract soils are medium or strongly acid.

The agricultural potential of Deep Red-Brown Terrace Soils is mainly moderate or low for rained field crops, but moderate or high for irrigated field crops and for adapted tree crops (including forest). The soils are better suited for dryland crops (including tree crops) than they are for paddy cultivation. Limitations include:

. Low natural fertility, aggravated by phosphate fixation and rapid leaching of nitrogen; . Rapid permeability and low moisture-holding capacity;

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. Waterlogging of topsoil in brown and yellow members, and of subsurface layers in red soils, during periods of prolonged heavy monsoon rainfall (which can damage or prevent the cultivation of kharif dryland crops and sensitive tree crops); low structural stability of topsoil under cultivation (causing soil capping and ponding of rainwater on the surface); . Erodibility of soils on terrace edges and sloping sites; and broken relief in some areas, providing difficulties for road-making and for irrigation layouts; (the plasticity of the subsoil clay also provides difficulties for road-making).

4.3.6.3 Shallow Grey Terrace These are poorly drained, grey, silty soils which overlie grey, heavy, little-altered, Madhupur Clay at a shallow depth (generally <60 cm). They are similar in the topsoil and subsoil to Deep Grey Terrace Soils and Grey Valley Soils, but differ from them in having a heavy clay substratum. They occur extensively on the Barind Tract, but occur more locally on the Madhupur Tract (often on the highest, level, relief position between radiating shallow valleys). Most soils are shallowly flooded by rainwater within field bunds or by the raised groundwater- table in the rainy season, but areas adjoining the Lower Atrai Basin are more deeply flooded by rainwater ponded on the land when drainage is impeded by high flood levels in the latter unit. Except where irrigated, the soils become very dry during the dry season.

The topsoil, 10-15cm thick, is grey and very silty, with yellow-brown to strong brown mottles along cracks and root channels. The cultivated layer is puddled and reduced in the monsoon season and under irrigated boro paddy in the dry season, but it becomes white and powdery when dry. It is underlain by a dense ploughpan. The reaction is strongly or very strongly acid when dry, but the surface layer becomes neutral in the reduced condition.

The subsoil varies in thickness between zero and about 50cm, sometimes within lateral distances of 5-10m. Immediately below the ploughpan, there commonly is a friable, porous, silty layer up to 10cm thick which is brightly oxidized brownish yellow or yellow- brown, but white (when dry) along pores. This overlies grey or light grey, highly porous, silt loam to silty clay loam which is finely mottled yellow-brown, strong brown and/or reddish brown. The reaction is medium or strongly acid throughout.

The agricultural potential of Shallow Grey Terrace Soils is mainly moderate. The soils are well suited for transplanted paddy, especially with irrigation, but they are poorly suited for dryland crops and for tree crops, (with or without irrigation).

Limitations include:

. low moisture-holding capacity;

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. low structural stability of the topsoil and presence of a strong ploughpan (beneficial for transplanted paddy, but providing severe limitations for dryland crops); . seasonal wetness or flooding which make them unsuitable for kharif dryland crops and for tree crops (without the building of cultivation mounds to improve soil drainage); . periodic damaging floods in depressions and alongside some river floodplains (mainly on the Barind Tract); . on the Barind Tract, occurrence in the driest part of the country, with attendant risks of rainfall deficiencies in the pre-monsoon, mid-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons; low natural fertility (including zinc and sulphur deficiencies); and . in parts of the Barind Tract, remoteness from urban markets and from government and commercial services

4.3.6.4 Non Calcareous Grey Floodplain Soils These are the most extensive soils in the country. They comprise seasonally flooded soils developed in floodplain alluvium which has been homogenized to below 25cm from the ground surface, is either dominantly grey in the subsoil or has grey coatings (gleyans) on the faces of subsoil cracks and pores, and is non-calcareous to at least 125cm below the surface. These soils occupy most of the Teesta, Jamuna, Karatoya-Bangali, Eastern Surma- Kusiyara and Middle Meghna river floodplains and the Ganges Tidal Floodplain, as well as parts of the Old Brahmaputra Floodplain, Old Meghna Estuarine Floodplain, Sylhet Basin and the Chittagong Coastal Plain.

Small areas of deeply decalcified soils on the Ganges River Floodplain are included in this soil type. The topsoil usually has been cultivated. Typically, it consists of a surface layer 5-10 cm thick which is ploughed each year, overlying a ploughpan about 5cm thick. These layers are grey or olive-grey when dry, but may appear darker when wet and reduced in the monsoon season. Yellow-brown to strong brown mottles occur along root channels and cracks. These layers are medium to very strongly acid in reaction when dry, but are neutral in the reduced condition. The substratum is stratified. Usually, it is sandier than the overlying soil, but it can be more clayey where it represents a buried former basin soil. In the Gopalganj-Khulna Beels, peat layers generally occur in the substratum, most commonly, the substratum is grey mottled brown in the upper part, becoming uniformly grey and reduced in the permanently saturated zone below. The latter zone generally occurs at between 125-200cm, but may be as shallow as 30-60cm in very young soils and in basin centers.

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In general, they are well suited for both dryland crops and paddy cultivation, with and without irrigation. Crop choice and rotations are determined mainly by the depth and duration of seasonal flooding, moisture-holding capacity and availability of irrigation Various limitations exist in different areas:

. uncertain timing, depth and duration of seasonal flooding; . deep flooding and slow drainage of soils in basin centres; . low moisture-holding capacity of ridge soils overlying sand at a shallow depth; . the puddled topsoil and strong ploughpan in silty ridge soils used for transplanted aman (which makes such soils poorly suited for a following dryland rabi crop); . susceptibility to soil capping in the prevalent silty topsoils, whether puddled or not, (which can impede seedling emergence and cause temporary flooding of fields by heavy rainfall, detrimental to both dryland crops and broadcast paddy seedlings); . exposure to the risk of tropical cyclones and storm surges in soils near the coast; and . dry season salinity in some areas near coast.

4.3.6.5 Deep Grey Terrace Soils In the topsoil and subsoil, these soils resemble Shallow Grey Terrace Soils and Grey Valley Soils. They differ from these soils in having a red-mottled clay substratum. They occur in some central and western parts of the Barind Tract, usually intermixed with Shallow Grey Terrace Soils; locally on interior terrace sites on the Madhupur Tract and in the north-east of the Barind Tract, usually in association with Brown Mottled Terrace Soils on the higher margins; and on part of the piedmont plain in the north of Mymensingh region. The soils are waterlogged or shallowly flooded with rainwater or the raised groundwater-table in the monsoon season. They become very dry in the dry season.

The topsoil generally is a grey silt loam or silty clay loam which becomes almost white and powdery in the dry season, but it is dark grey under natural grassland and around homesteads where household refuse and ash have been applied to the soils. There are yellow-brown or strong brown mottles along root channels and cracks, and cultivated soils generally have a dense ploughpan at the base. The reaction is medium to strongly acid when moist or dry, but neutral when the soils are submerged.

At the top of the subsoil in cultivated soils, there generally is a brightly oxidized. silty layer 5- 10 cm thick. This grades into 10-50 cm of grey, mottled yellow-brown, red and sometimes black, friable and highly porous, silty clay loam to silty clay. In some soils, the red and black mottles have become weakly indurated. This layer varies from slightly acid to strongly acid in reaction in different soils.

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The transition to the substratum is marked by an increase in the proportion of red mottles and often by a somewhat heavier consistence. The red mottles become dominant below about 50- 90cm, and they are never indurated at this depth. Generally, the substratum is a friable, porous clay which is only weakly structured, but some soils in the interior of the Barind Tract have a more strongly structured, plastic clav and are transitional to adjoining Shallow Grey Terrace Soils. The reaction varies from slightly acid to strongly acid.

In some soils, thick grey coatings (gleyans) are visible on ped faces and in pores in the lower part of the subsoil and in the substratum. Clay skins (argillans) have not been seen in the field, but thin section studies show them to be present in small amounts, mainly in the interior of oxidized mottles.

Deep Grey Terrace Soils generally have a lower agricultural potential than their shallow equivalents. Like the latter soils, they are better suited for paddy cultivation than for dryland crops or for tree crops, but the greater subsoil permeability of the deep soils makes them less well suited for irrigated paddy production. Other limitations are similar to those of the shallow soils-

. Seasonal wetness or submergence; . Deep flooding and risk of flash floods are additional limitations on some sites; . Rapid permeability of subsurface layers (which can cause excessive water losses from unlined irrigation channels); . Low moisture-holding capacity; . Low soil fertility; . Unstable topsoil structure and the presence of a strong ploughpan; and . The poor quality of the soil material for making roads, embankments and irrigation

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Figure 4-7: Soil types of the Project Area

Source: GSB, 1991

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Agro ecological zone Agro-ecological zones (AEZ) define by the soil composition, landform and climatic condition. The Parameters of AEZs are the basic climatic and edaphic requirements of crops. There are 30 AEZs in Bangladesh. However, the project area falls under two AEZ namely Madhupur Tract and Young Brahmaputra and Jamuna Floodplain. A brief description of the AEZ is given below and agro ecological zones of the project area is illustrated in the following Figure 4-8.

4.3.7.1 Madhupur Tract Madhupur Tract (4,244 sq km) this is a region of complex relief and soils developed over the Madhupur Clay. The landscape comprises level upland, closely or broadly dissected terraces associated with either shallow or broad, deep valleys. Eleven general soil types exist in the area of which deep red brown terrace, shallow red brown terrace soils and acid basin clays are the major ones. Soils in the valleys are dark grey heavy clays. They are strongly acidic in reaction with low status of organic matter, low moisture holding capacity and low fertility level.

High land (land which is above the normal flood level) is the dominant land type covering around 56% of the total area. It is followed by others land (26%) and rest (18%) of the area is medium high (land which is normally flooded between 90 cm and 180 cm during the flood season). Fertility of the land is low. Therefore, suitable crops are Boro Aus, T. Aman, Jute, Sugarcane, Green masures. The following table shows the major soils type and nutrient status of the agro ecological zone.

Major Nutrient Status Soil pH Soil OM Land type* N P K S Ca Mg Zn B Mo High land 4.1-6.2 L VL-L L L L L-M L-M L-M L-M L-M (56%) Medium highland 4.4-6.5 L VL-L L L L L-M L-M L-M L-M L-M (18%) Low Land 4.1-6.3 L VL-L L L L L-M L-M L-M L-M L-M (26%) *High land- land which is above the normal flood level, Medium high land- land which is flooded up to 90 cm during flood season, Medium low land- land which normally flooded between 90 cm and 180 cm during the flood season Source: Agro Ecological Regions of Bangladesh, FAO/UNDP, 1988 4.3.7.2 Young Brahmaputra and Jamuna Floodplain The region comprises the area of Brahmaputra sediments. It has a complex relief of broad and narrow ridges, inter-ridge depressions, partially in filled cut-off channels and basins. This area is occupied by permeable silt loam to silty clay loam soils on the ridges and impermeable clays in the basins; neutral to slightly acid in reaction.

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Figure 4-8: Agro-ecological Zone of the Project Area

Source: BARC 2007

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General Soil Types include predominantly Grey Floodplain soils. Organic matter content is low in ridges and moderate in basins. Soils are deficient in N, P and S but the status of K and Zn is medium.

Medium high land is the dominant land type covering around 42% of the total area. It is followed by medium low land (19%) and high land (18%). Organic matter content in this AEZ is low to medium and fertility level is low. Suitable crops are Boro Aus, T. Aman, Jute, Green manures, fox tail millet, wheat, potato, tobacco, mustard etc. The following table shows the major soils type and nutrient status of the agro ecological zone.

The following table shows the major soils type and nutrient status of the agro ecological zone

Major Land Nutrient Status Soil pH OM Type* N P K S Ca Mg Zn B Mo Highland 5.6-7.5 VL-L VL-L L M L M M L-M L-M M (18%) Medium highland 5.4-7.5 VL-L VL-L L M L M M L-M L-M M (42%) Medium lowland 5.4-7.5 L L L M L M M L-M L-M M (19%) *High land- land which is above the normal flood level, Medium high land- land which is flooded up to 90 cm during flood season, Medium low land- land which normally flooded between 90 cm and 180 cm during the flood season Source: Agro Ecological Regions of Bangladesh, FAO/UNDP, 1988 Bio ecological zone Bio-geographically, Bangladeshi is situated in the “Oriental Region”, lying in the transitional point between the Indo-Himalayan and Indo-Chinese sub-regions of the orient. Within the 14570 sq. km national boundary Bangladesh enjoys a number of diverse ecosystems and their associated richness of plants and animals. Bangladesh has been divided into 25 bio ecological zones. The project area falls under Madhupur sal tract and Brahmaputra-Jamuna Floodplain bio-ecological zones which is illustrated in the following Figure 4-9.

4.3.8.1 Madhupur Sal Tract The Madhupur Sal tract extends across the districts of Gazipur, Tangail and Mymenshing. The boundaries between this region and the adjoining regions are generally sharp and well defined. However, they are they are transitional in the southwest and in parts of the southwest, where floodplain sediments have buried the deselected edges of the Madhupur tract, leaving small hillocks of red soils surrounded by floodplain soils. Undulating red soil sal forest is the

4-23 SASEC Road Connectivity Project www.eqms.com.bd Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project main ecological feature of this zone. Madhupur, Bhawal, Ghatail, Basail, Kalihati, Gazipur and Savar constitute this zone.

This zone is enriched with high floral diversity. Unfortunately, over 70% of the Sal forest is either degraded or encroached. Nonetheless, the important timber species include; the Sal (Shore robusta), Banyan (Ficus bengalensis), Tamarind (Tamarindus indica), Sada koroi (Albizia proccrea), Simul (Bombax ceiba). The prominent fruit bearing tree species of the zone are the mango (Magnifira indeca), Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyssus), Litchi (Litchi chinensis), Guava (Psidium guajava), wood apple (Aegle marmelos) and various kinds of palm which still grow in abundance in the wild.

Records show that the Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris) and one-horned rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) both of which have become extinct from the zone was had healthy number of population in the past. The samber (Cervus unicolor), swamp deer (C. duvauceli), Hog deer (Axis porcinus), Rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta) and wild boar (Sus scrofa) were also found in abundance. Among the smaller animal mangooses, eivet cats, foxes, jackals, can be seen in the open areas as well.

The Bengal monitor and other common lizards inhibit in scattered patches of jungle throughout this zone. Among snakes, Madhupur Sal tract is a suitable for Cobras. In terms of diversity of bird species, this zone is still relatively rich. However, the common peafowl (Pavo cristatus), which used to live in a permanent colony in the Madhupur jungle has now become extinct. Quails occour in small numbers in man scattered parts of this zone. The blue-breasted quail (Coturmix chinensis) and common quail (c. coturnmix) are sometimes seen in patches of grass jungle, searching for feed in recently cut paddy fields.

4.3.8.2 Brahmaputra-Jamuna Floodplain The mighty Brahmaputra river which is interchangeably known also as the Jamuna since the latter's channel is comparatively and its course can be Clearly distinguishable from that of the Older Brahmaputra. The Brahmaputra floodplain (situated in greater Mymensingh and Dhaka districts) comprises the active channel of the Brahmaputra river and the adjoining areas of the 'young' floodplain lands formed, since about 1780, when the river shifted to its present Course (i.e. the Jamuna river) to the south of Dewanganj in Jamalpur district. The main river course is strongly braided. It consists of several interconnecting Channels. which erode and form new lands on a large during each flooding Season (B rammer, 1996).

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Figure 4-9: Bio Ecological zones of the Study Area

Source: IUCN, 2009 The Brahmaputra-Jamuna floodplain possess a unique variety of plants, medicinal herbs, fruit bearing trees, hundreds of jungle shrubs, creepers and climbers, flowering trees, etc. many of which yield valuable products. oi the floral species, which are valued as timber producers are:

4-25 SASEC Road Connectivity Project www.eqms.com.bd Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project the Banyan (Ficus bengalensis), Tamarind (Tamarindus indica), Sada koroi (Albizia proccrea), Simul (Bombax ceiba) and Ashwat (Ficus religiosa). This zone is similarly enriched with orchids. The Rasna (Vanda roxburghii) is commonly found in this zone.

Like the floral diversity, this zone equally enjoys richness of faunal variety. According to the precious records of hunters leopards were frequently sighted in this zone. A few species of deer, such as Samber (Cervus unicolor), Hog deer (Axis porcinus) were also once found in abundance everywhere in the forests of this zone. Among the bird species small game birds such as the common peafowl (Pavo cristatus), Red junglefowl (Gallus gallus) partridges, amd several verities of pheasants were commonly found. The Bengal florican (Haubaropsis bengalansis) and snipes are plentiful in the sanbanks and chars of this zone. On the other hand, the most common poisonous snake is the banded krait (Bungrus fasciatus) which could easily be identified by its broad black and yellow bands.

Meteorology Although less than half of Bangladesh lies within the tropics, the presence of the Himalaya mountain range has created a tropical macroclimate across most of the east Bengal land mass (Rashid, 1991). Brammer (1996) has identified four distinct seasons resulting from this weather pattern, namely: 1. Pre-Monsoon Hot Season (March to May): Characterized by the highest temperatures of the year – up to 36°C. Certain rainfalls may occur, with tropical cyclones occasionally affecting coastal areas; 2. Rainy Monsoon Season (June to September): Period of highest rainfall (up to 80% of the annual rainfall), humidity and cloud cover. Increased rain and cloud cover generally causes a small reduction in mean daily temperatures; 3. Post-Monsoon Season (October to November): Temperature remains hot and humid, though cloud cover decreases in this season. Limited tropical thunderstorms may still, particularly in coastal areas; and 4. Cool Dry Winter Season (December to February): Coolest time of the year with mean minimum temperatures falling below 10°C in some areas. Reduced humidity and cloud cover. Rainfall is scarce.

Despite the general predictability of the seasons in Bangladesh, local conditions may still vary widely across the country. As such, Bangladesh can be divided into seven climactic sub-zones based on differences in a range of factors including rainfall, temperature, evapotranspiration and local seasonality (Rashid, 1991).

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Figure 4-10: Climatic sub-regions of Bangladesh

Source: Data from Rashid (1991) and map prepared by EQMS From the above Figure 4-10 it is evident that, the study area falls in the south central climatic sub zone of Banglades. This sub climatic zone experiences abundant rainfall (more than 1900 mm) and moderate temperature. 80% of the rain falls during the monsoon season. Hails storms and nor westers are also observed in this area. However, in order to investigate the

4-27 SASEC Road Connectivity Project www.eqms.com.bd Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project climatic condition of the study area, data from different secondary sources were collected and analyzed which is described briefly in the following section.

4.3.7.1 Temperature Temperature data was collected from Dhaka and Tangail weather station of Bangladesh Meteorological Department to analyze meteorological condition of the project area. The lowest average temperature recorded in the past 18 years was in January 2013 (08.0°C) in Tangail weather station. On the other hand, the highest temperature reached 40.2°C in April 2014. Throughout the year the highest temperatures are generally recorded from March to October, and the lowest temperatures from December to January. The maximum, minimum and average temperatures recorded at the Dhaka weather station is illustrated in the following Figure 4-11.

Figure 4-11: Temperature variation of the project area (2000-2018)

Temperature of the project area

45 40

C) 35 30 25 20

15 Temperature(° 10 5 0

Dhaka Tangail Max Min average

Source: Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD, 2018) 4.3.7.2 Rainfall About 80% of the rainfall occurs during six monsoon months (May to October) while June and July gets the maximum average rains for both Dhaka and Tangail weather station. Minimum rain is reported during the months of November to February whereas highest rainfalls during June and July. Statistical data of 2000 to 2018 shows that both stations experience more than 300 mm rainfall in June and July months during monsoon.

The meteorological data analysis of last 18 years of the project area shows that the annual average rainfall is around 1994.6 mm/year and 1860.6 mm/y for Dhaka and Tangail respectively. The monthly maximum, minimum and average rainfall of the last 18 years (2000- 2018) of the project area is illustrated in the following Figure 4-12.

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Figure 4-12: Monthly Average Rainfall at Project site (2000-2018)

Average Monthly Rainfall in mm

350

300

250

200

150

Rainfall (mm) Rainfall 100

50

0

Month Tangail Dhaka

Source: Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD, 2018) 4.3.7.3 Humidity Due to the heavy rainfall and high air temperature, the humidity levels in the Bangladesh remains high. Analyzing meteorological data, we found that, during pre-monsoon period humidity level remained the lowest. In our study area, February is the driest month with minimum average of around 49% humidity. However, humidity increases to maximum in monsoon period. Average maximum humidity ranges from 94% to 97%, whereas minimum average ranges from 31% to 64%. The monthly maximum, maximum average and minimum, minimum average of the last 18 years (2000-2018) of the project site is shown in the Figure 4-13.

Figure 4-13: Monthly Average Relative Humidity of the project site (2000-2018)

Relative Humidity of the project area 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 Relative Humidity(%) Relative 10 0

Month Dhaka Tangail

Source: Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD,2018)

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Natural Hazards In a broad sense hazards can be divided into two broad categories namely manmade hazard and natural hazard. The risk is likelihood of harmful effect big or small due to hazard, together with severity of harm suffered. Risk also depends on number of people exposed to hazard. Risk analysis provides severity of harm from particular type of hazard.

Earthquake Bangladesh has continually been one of the seismically active regions of the world and has experienced numerous large earthquakes during the past 200 years. Here is where three major plates meet (the Indian Plate, the Tibet Sub-Plate, and the Burmese Sub-Plate). The project area is located over the Indian Plate, which is moving north. Many of seismic tectonic studies have been undertaken on the area comprising the Indo-Burman ranges and their western extension and in the northern India.

A seismic zoning map of Bangladesh has been proposed in 1979 by Geological Survey of Bangladesh (GSB) dividing the country into three seismic zone which was accompanied by and outline of a code for earthquake resistant design. Later, a new updated seismic zoning map and detailed seismic design provisions have been incorporated in Bangladesh National Building Code (BNBC, 1993). Bangladesh has been classified into three seismic zones with Zone-1 is the most, Zone-2 is moderate and Zone-3 is the least vulnerable to seismic risks (Figure 4-14). The proposed project area falls under Seismic Zone-2, which means it has moderate level vulnerable to seismic risks. Yet it is to mention that, there is no evidence of major earthquakes in the project areas in the past.

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Figure 4-14: Earthquake Zone of Bangladesh

Source: Data from GSB and map prepared by EQMS

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Flood Floods are annual phenomena in Bangladesh. Normally, the most severe flood occurs in Bangladesh during the months of July and August. Regular river floods (during monsoon season) affect 20% of the country which may increase up to 67% in extreme years like the 1998 flood. The most disastrous floods take place in 1988, 1998 and 2004. There are four types of flood in Bangladesh:

. Monsoon floods along major rivers during the monsoon rains (June-September); . Flash floods caused by overflowing of hilly rivers of eastern and northern Bangladesh (Normally during April-May and September-November); . Rain floods caused by drainage congestion during heavy rains; and . Coastal floods caused by storm surges.

The project area falls under two different flood prone regions namely- not flood prone and low river flooding region. From the Digital Elevation Model (DEM) it is evident that, there is a big water shade network (Figure 4-3) in the first part of the road (0 -22 km). Therefore, the first portion of the SMVT lane is located in located at not flood prone zone. Whereas the topography of portion of the Mirzapur and Tangail Upazila is comparatively lower and reported to be submerged after heavy rainfall.

It is also mentionable that, during the flood of 1988 the area was reported to be submerged up to 2 to 3 meters underwater. However, the road elevation is designed to be 1 m above the highest flood level measured in the project area. Moreover, numerous bridge and culverts are likely to be constructed (enlisted in Table 3-3) in the project so that, the natural water flow does not get affected. However, water level data was collected from Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) during preparation of the EIA report of 4-lane highways to understand the flooding level which is enlisted in the following Table 4-2. The analysis indicates that, there is minor possibility of flooding in the project area.

Table 4-2: Flood Levels of JCTE Section

River Station Station ID Duration Water Level Name Name Max Min Mean

Turag Kaliakoir SW301 1985- 2011 10.5 6.3 8.23 Bangshi Mirzapur SW14 1985- 2011 11.54 3.17 8.49

Source: EIA Report, JCTE Road 2014

The proposed study area is prone to severe river flooding. The map of the flood prone area is shown in following Figure 4-15.

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Figure 4-15: Flood prone areas of Bangladesh

Source: BARC 2006, Prepared by EQMS For detail flood risk assessment, a threat to flood risk modeling was also done. For the modeling purpose, water level data was collected from BWDB. Then, an integration modeling was carried out between flood and elevation and ground elevation (Neal et al., 2011) to generate an index of generate flood threat map. From modeling it was evident that, the Mirzapur area has the highest threat of flood exposure among in the project area. Whereas Vogra and Elenga is mid to low chance of exposure to flood. The flood threat is illustrated in the following Figure 4-16.

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Figure 4-16: Exposure to flood threat map of the project area

Source: BWDB, GTOPO 30 Global DEM, (Feb 2018)

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Cyclone and Storm Surges Bangladesh coast is one of the most cyclone prone areas of the world due to its geographical location and funnel shaped coast of the Bay of Bengal. Most of the damage occurs in the coastal regions of Khulna, Patuakhali, Barishal, Noakhali and Chittagong and the offshore islands of Bhola, Hatiya, Sandwip, Manpura, Kutubdia, Maheshkhali, Nijhum Dwip, Urir Char and other newly formed islands. The proposed project area is located far from coast and poses no threat of cyclone and storm surge which is illustrated in the following Figure 4-17. Figure 4-17: Cyclone and Storm Surges areas of Bangladesh

Source: SPARRSO 2005 Prepared by EQMS

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Environmental Quality Ambient Air Quality The objective of the ambient air quality monitoring program was to establish the baseline ambient air quality in the study area. The profile of the study area is both urban and rural in nature. Generally, air pollution sources in the project area consists of road dust, dust from road construction, brick field, industrial sources, black smoke from diesel engine vehicles, and domestic heating and cooking.

As SMVT lane will be around 70 km in length, the sampling statins were selected in such a way that it covers various sections of the project corridor. Currently the upgradation work of the existing two-lane highway to four-lane is done under four package namely WP-1, WP-2, WP-3 and WP-4. Air samples were collected from each package which is being illustrated in the following Figure 4-19.

The principal sources of air pollution due to road projects are hot mix plants and machinery used during construction phase and the vehicles that ply over it during the operation phase. The major pollutants of significance to roadside air quality, on account of vehicular emissions, are Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM), Sulphur dioxide (SO2), Nitrogen Oxides (NOx), Hydro-Carbons (HC), Carbon-monoxide (CO), Total Volatile Organic Carbon (TVOC).

It can be mentioned here that, there are significant number of small and big factories/industries are located alongside the project areas; therefore, air pollution is comparatively higher than other areas of Bangladesh.

4.5.1.1 Methodology of Air Quality Monitoring The existing ambient air quality of the study area was monitored at four locations during the monitoring period (November 2018). The following ambient air quality parameters were monitored, such as: Particulate Matter (PM10, PM2.5), Sulphur Dioxide (SO2), Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx) and Carbon Monoxide (CO). All the parameters were monitored for 8 hours during the duration of the study.

4.5.1.2 Selection of Sampling Locations The baseline status of the ambient air quality has been established through a scientifically designed ambient air quality monitoring network. The ambient air quality monitoring locations (Figure 4-19) were based on the following aspects covered in field survey plan developed prior to the field work:

 AAQ monitoring at the project site;  Meteorological conditions of the area based on information of BMD observatory;  Topography of the study area; and  Location of sensitive receptors such as major settlements.

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The particulate and gaseous samples collected during the monitoring have been analyzed as per the procedures specified in Table 4-3. Details of the monitoring locations are presented in Table 4-4 and map of the air quality monitoring locations are shown in Figure 4-19. The photographs of ambient air quality monitoring are presented in Figure 4-18. It is also mentionable that, air smokes were collected for eight hours and the concentration was then converted in to 24 hrs. using stablished equation to comply with the guidelines of Bangladesh.

Table 4-3: Methodology for analysis of Ambient Air Quality SL# Parameter Analysis Procedure

1 PM10 Gravimetric method

2 PM2.5 Gravimetric method

3 SO2 Colorimetric method at 560 nm using spectrophotometer (West-Gaeke method)

4 NOx Colorimetric method at 540 nm using spectrophotometer (Jacob and Hochheiser method) 5 CO Digital CO meter Table 4-4: Air Quality Monitoring Locations Monitoring Geographical Distance Code Sampling Locations Direction Date Location (m) Intersection of N-04 and 23°59'21.78"N Project AAQ-1 10/11/2018 15 N-105 90°21'30.85"E site In front of Turag CNG 24°03'36.81"N Project AAQ-2 10/11/2018 5 Filling Station 90°13'28.57"E site Mirzapur Bypass Bus 24°06'21.67"N Project AAQ-3 11/11/2018 5 Stand 90°05'40.53"E site Between Hazi Filling 24°17'41.65"N Project AAQ-4 Station and Four Brothers 11/11/2018 5 89°55'07.27"E site Filling Station Source: Field Survey by EQMS Team, November 2018 Figure 4-18: Photographs of Ambient Air Quality Monitoring

AAQ-1 AAQ-2:

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AAQ-3 AAQ-4 Source: Field Survey by EQMS Team, November 2018 Figure 4-19: Air Quality and Noise Level Monitoring Location

Source: Field Survey by EQMS Team, November 2018

4.5.1.3 Analysis and Discussion of Results

A. Concentration of Particulate Matter (PM2.5) 3 The concentrations of PM2.5 in the study area varied from 27.3-56.8 μg/m . When the results are compared with the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) values for PM2.5. It can be interpreted that, as AAQ-1 was closely located to intersection of two roads the PM2.5 was comparatively higher than other stations.

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B. Concentration of Particulate Matter (PM10) The concentrations of PM10 in the study area varied from 62.3-102.7 μg/m3. When the results are compared with the NAAQS values for PM10, it was noted that the average values for PM10 does not exceed the standard mentioned in the guideline of Bangladesh.

C. Concentration of SPM The average concentrations of SPM at the monitoring locations varied from 134.2-189.8 μg/m3. The SPM concentrations were in compliance to the NAAQS for all the locations.

B. Concentration of SO2 3 The concentrations of SO2 in the study area varied from 11.3-25.2 μg/m . The average SO2 concentrations were found to be in compliance to NAAQS guideline values for SO2.

Summary of the ambient air quality results are presented in Table 4-5.

Table 4-5: Summary of Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Results

Sl. Sampling location Ambient air pollution concentration in µg/m3 CO*

PM2.5 PM10 SPM SO2 NOx ppm 1. AQ1 56.8 98.4 189.8 25.2 33.1 <2 2. AQ2 53.7 88.7 146.5 19.6 14.9 <1 3. AQ3 52.1 102.7 181.6 17.2 22.1 <2 4. AQ4 27.3 62.3 134.2 11.3 15.2 <1 Duration (hours) 8 8 8 8 8 8 Weather Condition Sunny Bangladesh Standard* 65 150 200 365 100 9 (according to Environmental Conservation Rules’ 1997 and subsequent amendment in 2005) Method of analysis

tube tube

West- West-

Geake Geake

Indicator Indicator

Jacob and Jacob and

Hochheiser Hochheiser

Gravimetric Gravimetric Gravimetric Gravimetric Source: EQMS field measurement and laboratory analysis, November 2018 Due to limited time tenure the air sampling was limited to one season. However, EQMS monitors air quality of the project site for contractors as environmental specialist. Air quality monitoring report is added in Annexure-G.

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Ambient Noise Level Noise level monitoring was conducted at twelve locations within the study area during baseline survey in November 2018. The purpose of ambient noise level monitoring was to determine the sound intensity at the monitoring locations. These locations are chosen in such a way that it represents the noise level of the whole study area which is illustrated in Figure 4-20.

Figure 4-20: Noise Monitoring location of the project

In accordance with the noise pollution control rule 2006, noise level was measured at five locations (each side) covering project site/camp, silent zone, residential zone, commercial zone, and mixed zone. Noise monitoring location are presented in Table 4-6 whereas few selected photographs of noise monitoring are presented in Figure 4-21. However, The summary of the noise level in the study area is given in Table 4-7.

Table 4-6: Ambient Noise Monitoring Locations

Sl# Code Sampling Location Geographic Monitoring Category of Location Date Area/Receptor 1 ANL-1 Elenga 24°20'5.68"N 3/11/2018 Mixed Area 89°55'30.31"E 2 ANL-2 Mosque 24° 0'38.36"N 3/11/2018 Silent Area 90°19'24.24"E

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Sl# Code Sampling Location Geographic Monitoring Category of Location Date Area/Receptor 3 ANL-3 Shohagpur Intersection 24° 5'47.44"N 3/11/2018 Mixed Area 90° 9'4.66"E 4 ANL-4 Korotia 24°13'1.02"N 4/11/2018 Residential 89°58'20.54"E Area 5 ANL-5 Pakulla 24° 8'31.24"N 4/11/2018 Silent Area 90° 1'14.62"E 6 ANL-6 1 Km towards Mirzapur 24° 6'28.20"N 4/11/2018 Residential 90° 5'6.75"E Area 7 ANL-7 Satrapur Govt. Primary 24° 5'17.89"N 5/11/2018 Silent Area School 90°11'51.20"E 8 ANL-8 Chandra 24° 3'3.69"N 5/11/2018 Commercial 90°14'5.78"E Area 9 ANL-9 Safipur 24° 1'33.96"N 5/11/2018 Commercial 90°16'34.89"E Area 10 ANL- Vogra Mor 23°58'38.62"N 6/11/2018 Mixed Area 10 90°22'50.02"E 11 ANL- Tangail Bypass 24°14'26.92"N 6/11/2018 Commercial 11 89°56'44.00"E Area 12 ANL- Rosalpur 24°17'59.10"N 6/11/2018 Residential 12 89°55'10.36"E Area Source: Field Survey by EQMS Team, November 2018 Figure 4-21: Photographs of Noise Level Quality Monitoring

ANL-1: Elenga (Mixed Area) ANL-2: Mosque (Silent Area)

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ANL-3: Shohagpur Intersection (Mixed ANL-4: Korortia (Residential Area) Area)

ANL-5: Pakulla (Silent Area) ANL-9: Safipur (Commercial Area)

ANL-11: Tangail Bypass (Commercial ANL-12: Rasalpur (Residential Area) Area) Source: Field Survey by EQMS Team, November 2018

4.5.2.1 Result Analysis The statistical analysis is done for measured noise levels at ten locations during the baseline study. The parameters are analyzed for Leqday, Lmax and Lmin. These results are tabulated in the following Table 4-7.

Table 4-7: Noise level in the study area

Noise Pollution Category of Leq SL# Code day L L (Control) Rules 2006* Area/Receptor dB(A) max min Day dB(A) 1 ANL-1 Mixed 60.47 71.3 56.1 60

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Noise Pollution Category of Leq SL# Code day L L (Control) Rules 2006* Area/Receptor dB(A) max min Day dB(A) 2 ANL-2 Silent 57.32 60.6 49.2 50 3 ANL-3 Mixed 61.1 70.4 53.4 60 4 ANL-4 Residential 66.75 60.1 52.2 55 5 ANL-5 Silent 53.3 62.1 49.1 50 6 ANL-6 Residential 48.75 60.1 52.2 55 7 ANL-7 Silent 53.32 60.6 49.2 50 8 ANL-8 Commercial 66.75 79.0 56.4 70 9 ANL-9 Commercial 66.75 74.0 56.4 70 10 ANL-10 Mixed 59.2 0 70.5 56.8 60 11 ANL-11 Commercial 52.00 61.0 47.00 70 12 ANL-12 Residential 48.75 60.1 52.2 55 Source: Field Survey by EQMS Team, November 2018

Day time Noise Levels (Leqday): The day time noise levels at all the locations were ranged in between 48.75 dB(A) to 66.75 dB(A). The maximum value 79 dB(A) was recorded at the commercial area (ANL- 8). Among these noise level monitoring area ANL-2, 5 and 10 (silent zone l) exceed the national ambient noise level standard of Bangladesh, due to the movement of heavy loaded vehicles.

Surface Water Quality Surface water quality sample was collected from five locations in the proposed project site. Water sampling and analysis was undertaken to understand the overall baseline water quality characteristics of the surface in the study area. The surface water sampling was based on the identification of major surface water bodies. Water samples were collected following standard sampling procedure and were preserved carefully. After collection of the samples, it was immediately transported to the lab for further analysis. Details of the sampling location are presented in Table 4-8 and the surface water sampling photograph is shown in Figure 4-22.

Table 4-8: Surface Water sampling location SL. Sampling Location Sampling Date Geographic Code Location 1 Bongshi River SWQ-1 8/11/2018 23°59'46.70"N 90°20'51.37"E 2 Latifpur Canal SWQ-2 8/11/2018 24° 3'56.44"N 90°12'51.15"E

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SL. Sampling Location Sampling Date Geographic Code Location 3 Pond near Pakulla Bus Stand SWQ-3 9/11/2018 24° 08'18.66"N 90° 01'14.10"E 4 River near Korotia SWQ-4 9/11/2018 24°13'27.03"N 89°57'53.50"E 5 Small Pond near Pouli Bazar SWQ-5 9/11/2018 24°19'12.55"N 89°55'28.01"E Source: Field Survey by EQMS Team, November 2018 Figure 4-22: Surface Water Sampling Location

Figure 4-23: Photographs of Surface Water Collection

Source: Field Survey by EQMS Team, November 2018

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4.5.3.1 Result Analysis The analyzed results for surface water were compared to Bangladesh Standards (ECR, 1997). Results of inland surface water analysis are presented in Table 4-9. pH- The pH of the surface water was 6.7-7.8. The pH was in compliance to the Bangladesh Standards (ECR, 1997) for the surface water of the study area.

Dissolved Oxygen (DO) - The concentration of DO of the surface water was 1.72-3.6 mg/L. The concentration of DO was did not comply with national standard due to pollution of the surface water.

EC- The EC of the surface water was 52.42 -720 µS/cm.

TDS- The concentration of Total Dissolve Solids (TDS) of the surface water was 319 to 562 ppm. Details of the surface water quality is enlisted in the following Table 4-9.

Table 4-9: Surface Water Analysis Result

Parameters Unit Sampling Location Bangladesh Standard*

SWQ-1 SWQ-2 SWQ-3 SWQ-4 SWQ-5 afterdisinfecting forsupply only drinking water Source of fisheries Water usableby

pH - 6.76 6.62 7.32 7.1 7.8 6.5-8.5 6.5-8.5 DO mg/l 1.72 1.82 2.4 3.1 3.6 6 or above 5 or more EC µS/cm 52.42 168 144 480 720 ------TDS ppm 319.92 445 484 562 530 ------Alkalinity mg/l 268 260 264 255 275 ------Total ppm 124.0 123 176 140 172 ------Hardness BOD mg/l 1.14 1.14 1.32 1.8 1.9 2 or less 6 or less TSS mg/l 265 261 234 221 261 ------Source: Laboratory Analysis EQMS laboratory, November, 2018

Ground Water Quality Eight groundwater samples were collected from tube well in the study area. After collection the sample it was sent to the EQMS Laboratory at Dhaka for further examination of the groundwater parameters. The samples were analyzed for parameters covering physical, chemical and bacteriological characteristics. Parameters such as pH, DO, EC, Salinity and TDS were measured on site by the EQMS study team. Water samples were collected as grab water sample in pre-washed plastic bottles (1 L) and sterilized clean PET bottle (250 mL) for

4-45 SASEC Road Connectivity Project www.eqms.com.bd Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project complete physio-chemical and bacteriological tests respectively. The samples were analyzed as per standard procedure/method given in Standard Method for Examination of Water and Wastewater Edition 20, published by APHA.

Details of the sampling locations are presented in Table 4-10 and the ground water sampling location map are shown in Figure 4-24 and photograph of groundwater sample collection is shown in Figure 4-25.

Table 4-10: Ground Water sampling location Sampling Sampling Geographic Type of SL# Sampling location Code Date location Source 1 Pauli Bazar GW-1 8/11/2018 24°19'1.99"N Deep 89°55'27.35"E Tube-well 2 Near Halim Shopping Mall GW-2 8/11/2018 24°15'29.84"N Deep 89°56'16.48"E Tube-well 3 Near Hazi Filling Station GW-3 8/11/2018 24°11'29.32"N Deep 89°59'33.12"E Tube-well 4 Kurni Bazar GW-4 9/11/2018 24° 7'11.21"N Deep 90° 3'45.89"E Tube-well 5 Nazir para GW-5 9/11/2018 24° 5'50.95"N Deep 90° 9'33.23"E Tube-well 6 Opposite of CP Bangladesh GW-6 9/11/2018 24° 2'38.89"N Deep company Ltd. 90°14'40.93"E Tube-well 7 Near Afran Filling Station GW-7 9/11/2018 24° 0'9.56"N Deep 90°20'27.50"E Tube-well 8 Khan Super Market GW-8 9/11/2018 23°58'51.84"N Deep 90°22'6.90"E Tube-well Source: Field Survey by EQMS Team, November 2018

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Figure 4-24: Ground Water and Sediment Sampling location

Source: Field Survey by EQMS Team, November 2018 Figure 4-25: Photographs of Ground Water Sample Collection

Water sample collection from GW-1 Water sample collection from GW-2

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Water sample collection from GW-3 Water sample collection from GW-4

Water sample collection from GW-5 Water sample collection from GW-6

Water sample collection from GW-7 Water sample collection from GW-8

4.5.4.1 Result Analysis The analyzed results for ground water were compared to Bangladesh Standards (ECR, 1997). Results of ground water analysis are presented in Table 4-11. pH- The pH of the ground water range between 6.63 to 8.02 in the study area. The pH value was in compliance with the Bangladesh Standards (ECR, 1997).

DO- The concentration of Dissolve Oxygen (DO) of the ground water ranged between 4.0- 4.05 mg/l which complied the national standard of Bangladesh.

Chloride- The highest concentration of Chloride of the ground water was 2.3-3.1 mg/L which was higher than the Bangladesh Standards Limit (ECR, 1997).

Arsenic- The highest concentration of Arsenic in the ground water was recorded 0.2 mg/L which was higher than the Bangladesh Standards (ECR, 1997).

Iron- The Iron concentration of the ground water ranged between 0.21 and 0.81 mg/L. The concentration of Iron was lower than the Bangladesh Standards Limit.

Magnesium- The concentration of Magnesium was ranged around 0.09 mg/l.

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In summary the groundwater analysis reveal that all the parameters are mostly within the standard value of ECR, 1997 and it can be assumed that the groundwater quality is almost satisfactory for drinking in the study area.

Table 4-11: Ground Water Quality in the Project Area

Ground Water Quality ECR Parameters Unit GW-1 GW-2 GW-3 GW-4 GW-5 GW-6 GW-7 GW-8 1997 pH -- 8.02 7.08 6/84 6.67 6.54 6.46 6.63 6.67 6.5-8.5 DO mg/l 4.0 4.13 4.05 4.02 4.14 4.0 4.03 4.01 6 EC µS/cm 0.56 052 0.63 0.45 0.35 0.44 0.58 0.57 ------Chloride mg/l 2.7 2.8 2.5 3.1 2.6 2.4 2.7 2.3 150-600 Arsenic mg/l 0.2 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.010 <0.010 <0.010 0.05 0 0 0 0 Iron mg/l 0.21 0.45 0.56 0.81 0.54 0.72 0.53 0.34 0.3-1.0 Manganese mg/l --- 0.09 0.09 0.010 0.07 0.09 0.010 0.08 0.1 Source: Laboratory Analysis by DPHE and EQMS laboratory, November, 2018 Soil Quality Soil samples were collected from two locations for the analysis of physicochemical parameters. Two soil samples (one from Gazipur upazila and one from Tangail Upazila) were collected using a hand auger from the top soil surface. After collecting Soil samples, it was packed in plastic jars and sealed. The sealed samples were sent to the SRDI laboratory in Dhaka for analysis. A detail of the sampling locations is presented in Table 4-12 and sampling location map are shown in Figure 4-26 and quality of soil is given below in Table 4-13.

Table 4-12: Soil Sampling Location Soil sampling location Code Sampling Date Geographic Location Project site (Gazipur) SS1 15/11/2018 24°03'23.18"N 90°15'05.05"E Project site (Tangail) SS2 15/11/2018 24°15'25.19"N 89°57'09.35"E

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Figure 4-26: Map of soil sampling location

Source: EQMS Field Survey, 2018 Table 4-13: Soil quality of the project location Soil Quality SL# Parameter Unit SS1 SS2 1. pH - 6.90 6.04 2. EC mS/cm 633 802 3. Cu ppm 0.40 .99 4. Zn ppm 1.42 1.40 5. pb ppm 0.46 1.19 6. Fe ppm 350.38 365.21 7. Cd ppm 0.03 0.10 8. As ppm 0.91 0.99 Source: Laboratory analysis by SRDI, 2019

Biological Environment Introduction Ecology is the scientific study of the processes regulating the distribution and abundance of organisms and the interactions among them, and the study of how these organisms in turn mediate the transport and transformation of energy and matter in the biosphere (i.e., the study of the design of ecosystem structure and function). Ecosystem diversity deals with the

4-50 SASEC Road Connectivity Project www.eqms.com.bd Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project variations in ecosystems within a geographical location and its overall impact on human existence and the environment. Ecological diversity is a type of biodiversity. It is the variation in the ecosystems found in a region or the variation in ecosystems over the whole planet. Biological diversity means the variability among living organisms from all sources including, inter alia, terrestrial, marine and other aquatic ecosystems and the ecological complexes of which they are a part; this includes diversity within species, between species and of ecosystems. The biodiversity component of the study, focused on a few groups of biological components comprising of flora (tree, herbs, shrubs & climbers) and fauna (birds, reptiles, amphibians, mammals, butterflies, Fish) as well as the surrounding ecosystems.

EQMS team comprising of two (02) ecologist conducted five (05) days of survey at the project site from 18th November to 22nd November 2018. The study area for ecological survey includes a buffer area considering 400 m radius from the estimated center of the proposed SMVT lane. Land use of buffer area includes River, Agricultural land, Road side vegetation, Homestead vegetation. The climatic condition during the ecological survey was clear and sunny. The temperature ranged from maximum of 25°C to minimum of 14°C.

The proposed project area is under a modified habitat that contain a large proportion of plant and/ or animal species of non-native origin, and/or where human activity has substantially modified an area excludes habitats that has been converted in anticipation of the project. Modified habitats include areas managed for agriculture that was remarkable into the project site reclaimed project sites as well as wetlands. So there is no likely to be adverse effect on ecology.

Objectives The ecological survey of the projects site was surveyed from 18th November to 22nd November 2018 to assess the baseline ecological conditions in the project site and the likely impacts of project construction and operation activities on them. The study was undertaken with following objective:

i. Terrestrial Flora and Fauna Survey . Assess the status of major floral and faunal components of all the terrestrial habitats (Forest, grassland, fallow land, canal, agro-ecosystem and homestead plantation) present in the study area adopting different standard techniques;

. Collection and compilation of secondary information on the status of floral and faunal components and habitats from the concerned stakeholders – Forest department and others;

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. Identification and listing of floral and faunal species of conservation significant (rare, endangered and threatened – RET species and endemic species in accordance with International Union of Conservation for Nature - IUCN RED List/ MoEF) in the study area;

. Identification of areas of conservation significance (Protect Areas: Sanctuary, National Parks, Biosphere Reserve, Landscape and Sacred grows- pertaining to Floral diversity) areas in the vicinity of the (within 400 m Radius) study area.

ii. Habitat Survey . Identification of different habitat types (forest/vegetation types) of the Project AOI and provide information on forest types, species composition, terrain and topographical features. This will then allow for the identification of natural and modified habitat for a critical habitat assessment.

Bio-Ecological Zone of the Study Area IUCN has classified Bangladesh into 25 Bio-ecological Zones in the context of physiographic and biological diversity. The studied area falls under the Bio-ecological Zone of Bangladesh 4b: Ganges Floodplain. Detail on this bio ecological zone is presented in Table 4-14 and a map of Bio-ecological zone is given below in Figure 4-27.

Table 4-14 : Bio-ecological Zone: Madhupur Sal Tract Features Information Madupur Sal Tract Brahmaputra-Jamuna Floodplain Location 23050'-24050’ N and 89054’- 23037'-26038’N and 89037’-91000’ E 90050’ E Relevant Maymenshing, Tangail, Gazipur Sherpur, Jmalpur, Tangail, adm hq Maymenshingh, Kishorgonj Physiography Madhupur tract Old Brahmaputra floodplain and young brhmaputra floodplain Soil Deep red-brown terrace soils Non-calcareous gray floodplain soils; non-calcareous dark gray floodplain soil Rainfalls 2030-2290 mm 20130-3300 mm Temperature Maximum 340C, Minimum 110C Maximum 340C, Minimum 110C Flooding H H-MH, MH_H, MH-L. depth Land use Deciduous forest (14c) Rabi-Aus- T. Aman, Boro-Fallow-T. Boro-Fallow-Fallow Trees Trees Floral Sal (Shoera robusta), Ban Kanthal (Artocarpus heterophyllus) , diversity: Chalta (Dillenia pentagyva), Neul Aam (Magnifera indica) , Rendi Koroi/ (Bursera serrata), Ban Karpash Rain tree (Samanea saman)

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Features Information Madupur Sal Tract Brahmaputra-Jamuna Floodplain (Thespesia lampus), Bhela Herbs and Shurbs (Semicarpus anacardium) Danda Kalash (Leucas aspera) , Bhant Shrubs and Herbs (Clerodendrum viscosum) , Assam lata Kamela (Mallotus philippsis), (Mikania scandens) motkila Keura (Glochidion multiloculare), (Glycosmis arborea). assar (grewia micros) Mankanta Trees near water (Randia dumetorum), Pitali (Trewia mudiflora), Koroj Shamdalan (Elephantopous (pongamia pinmata), Jarul scaber) Shothi (Curcuma (Lagerstroemia speciose), Debdaru Zeodaria), Boreria hispida etc. (Polyalthia longifolia) Aquatic Plants Aquatic Plants Shada Shapla (Nymphea Kachuripana (Eichhornia crassipies), nouchali), Sigra (trapa Shada Shapla (Nymphea nouchali), bispinosa), Kachuripana keshor dam( Ludwigia adscendense) (Eichhornia crassipies), Panchuli (Nymphoides indicum) Geodenum densiflorum Mammals Mammals Capped langur (Trachypithecus Rhesus macaque (Macca mulatta), pileatus), wild boar (Sus scrofa), three stripped palm squirrel Asiatic brush tailed porcupine (Funambulus palmarum), Jackal (Atherurus macrourus), Jackal (Canis aureus), Hispid hare (Canis aureus), Jungle cat (Felis (Caprolagus hispidus), Small Indian chaus) civet (Civerricula indica) Birds Birds Indian pitta (Pitta brachyura), Jerdonos baza ( Aviceda jerdoni), Dollar bird (Eurystomus Vlack-necked stork (Ephippiorhynchus orientalis), dusky eagle owl asiaticus), Asian openbill (Anastomas (Bubo coromandus), green billed oscitans), River lapwing (Canellus Faunal malkoha (Phaenicophaeus duvaucelii), pheasant tailed jacana diversity: tristis), yellow footed green (Hydrophasianus chirurgus) pigeon (Treron phoenicoptera) . Reptiles Reptiles Yellow monitor (Varanis flavesences), Indian black turtle (Melanochelys Bengal monitor (Varanus trijuga), Monocolate cobra (naja bangalensis), Common vine snake kaouthia), Cantors kukri snake (Ahaetulla nasuta) (Oligodon cyclurus) etc. Amphibians Amphibians Tree frog (polypedates leucomytax), Kaloula frog (kalula pulchra), cricket frog (limnonectes ornate microhylid (Microhyla limmnocharis) ornate), taipeh frog (rana taipehensis), Ballon frog (uperodon globulosus) etc. Source: Atlas of Bio-ecological Zones of Bangladesh

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Figure 4-27: Bio-Ecological Zone of Bangladesh

Source: Bio-ecological zone of Bangladesh, IUCN 2015

Methodology for terrestrial flora survey The Primary data collection of different components of the project area conducted by using well established and accepted ecological methods in the different habitats. Quadrat sampling method has been used for the counting the vegetation structure in and around the project

4-54 SASEC Road Connectivity Project www.eqms.com.bd Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project area. A quadrat is a frame that is laid down to mark out a specific area of the community to be sampled. Within the quadrat frame, the occurrence of plants is recorded using an appropriate measure of abundance. The quadrat method can be used in virtually any vegetation type to quantify the plant community.

A total of three quadrates study has been carried out around the project area for different floral aspects. The ecology team has counted the different floral species in the study area. The Quadrates study sites have been provided in the Table 4-15.

Table 4-15: Quadrates study of floral species Area Quadrates GPS coordinates 50 m from the project location in Q1 (Tree) 24° 3'17.42"N 90°13'54.19"E the North direction 20 m from the project location in Q2 (Shrub) 24° 5'52.69"N 90° 9'31.15"E the North direction 25m from the project location in Q3 (Herb) 24° 9'15.92"N 89°59'17.75"E the North direction Source: Field Survey by EQMS Team, November-2018 The field data collection was mainly included on biodiversity assessment of different life of floral elements such as trees, shrubs, climbers, herbs and grasses. Some pictorial view of quadrate sampling is given in Figure 4-28.

Figure 4-28: Pictorial view Quadrates study of Flora

Q1 Q2 Q3 Source: Field Survey by EQMS Team, November-2018

Terrestrial Floral Analysis In the proposed project area, the terrestrial flora covers most of the vegetation. The adjoining area’s (study area) terrestrial floral ecosystems were divided into two categories. List of floral species are given attached in Annex-C and also a graph is given in Figure 4-29.

a. Roadside Vegetation b. Homestead Plantation a. Roadside Vegetation

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A total of 29 species under 16 families of trees were enumerated during the field survey which is enlisted in Annex-C. Major tree species observed in and around the roadside of the project area were Syzygium cumini (Java Palm), Ficus religiosa (Ashwath), Barringtonia acutangula (Hijol Tree), Swietenia mahagoni (Mahaguni), Mangifera indica (Aam), Areca catechu (Supari) etc. b. Homestead Vegetation

A total 16 species under 9 families of trees were enumerated during the field study. Major tree species observed in and around the homestead side of the project area were Artocarpus heterophyllus (Jack-fruit), Syzygium cumini (Java Palm), Mangifera indica (Aam), etc.

Figure 4-29: Comparison of Number of Species (family)

Number of Species in a Family 4

3

2 Count

1

0

Family

Among all floral species of the study site, it has been found that 17 species are used as a source of fruit, both timbers and medicinal tree are found 6 in number, and 4 are shrub species. Only 2 of the plants are used as vegetable. Comparison of plants according to their uses are given in Figure 4-30.

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Figure 4-30: Comparison plants according to use

20

16

12

8

4

0 Fruit Grain Medicinal Shrub Tree Vegetable

Floral diversity Index of study area A diversity index is a mathematical measure of species diversity in a community. Diversity indices provide more information about community composition than simply species richness (i.e., the number of species present); they also take the relative abundances of different species into account. Diversity indices provide important information about rarity and commonness of species in a community. The ability to quantify diversity in this way is an important tool for biologists trying to understand community structure.

Shannon Diversity index: The Shannon diversity index (H) is an index that is commonly used to characterize species diversity in a community. Shannon's index accounts for both abundance and evenness of the species present. The proportion of species i relative to the total number of species (pi) is calculated, and then multiplied by the natural logarithm of this proportion (lnpi). The resulting product is summed across species, and multiplied by -1:

�

∑ ���� Shannon's equitability (EH) can be calculated�=1 by dividing H by Hmax (here H/H )

Equitability assumes a value between 0 and 1 with 1 being complete evenness.�� = �/�

H/H

On the diversity scale, biologically realistic�� H’ values = �/� range from 0 (only one species presents with no uncertainty as to what species each individual will be) to about 4.5 (high uncertainty as species are relatively evenly distributed). In theory, the H’ value can be much higher than 4.5, although most real world estimates of H’ range from 1.5 to 3.5. Table 4-16 shown Biodiversity index of floral species at project area.

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Table 4-16: Biodiversity index of floral species at project area Homestead Plantation Block(03) study

Parameter Quadrat 1 (Q1) Quadrat 2 (Q2) Quadrat 3 (Q3)

Shannon-Wiener Diversity 1.5922140 1.58785693 1.540973 Index(H) Evenness (E) 0.888632 0.986591 0.978042 Species Richness (S) 6 5 5 Total Abundance 21 36 14 Source: Field Survey by EQMS Team, November-2018

Aquatic Flora During the survey time different water bodies were found around the project area. The aquatic vegetation survey been conducted by visual observation and FGD with local people as well as secondary information sources. Figure 4-31 shows some significant aquatic vegetation of the project area. Within the study area it covers different water bodies like channel, river and ponds. Direct counting method by visual observation has been applied for the aquatic vegetation survey of this area.

Figure 4-31: Aquatic Vegetation found in the study site

Eichornia crassipes Azolla sp.

Nymphaea sp. Colocasia esculenta Source: Field Survey by EQMS Team, November-2018

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A total number of ten aquatic plant species belonging to eight families have found at the study area. Among them Convolvulaceae family have found maximum two times. But the population of common water hyacinth was highest in and out aquatic bodies of the study site. The checklist aquatic vegetation has been shown in the Table 4-17 below.

Table 4-17: Aquatic flora counted in the study area SI# Scientific Name Family Common name Local status

1. Azolla sp. Salviniaceae Mosquito fern C

2. Calocasia Araceae Taro VC esculenta

3. Eichornia crassipes Pontederiaceae Common water hyacinth VC 4. Enhydra fluctuans Asteraceae Marsh herb C

5. Hydrilla verticillata Hydrocharitaceae Esthwaite waterweed C

6. Ipomea alba Convolvulaceae Tropical white morning R glory 7. Ipomoea aquatica Convolvulaceae River spinach C

8. Marselia sp. Marsileaceae Four-leaf clover R

9. Nymphea sp. Nymphaeaceae Starflower C

10. Oxalis corniculata Oxalidaceae Procumbent yellow-sorrel C Specification of C= Common; VC= Very Common; R=Rear;

Biodiversity of fauna Total faunal biodiversity of the study area basically divided into four major classed such as:

. Avifauna . Amphibians and Reptiles . Mammals . Fisheries 4.6.7.1 Avifauna The basic methods have been chosen based on setting up a single line at each site called a “transect”. The birds were identified visually by hearing their calls. This method involves identifying all the birds; it has been seen or heard while standing at a series of points along with transect (Straight line through the site). Bird’s counts were conducted at the early in the morning. It is also time of maximum bird movement as birds through the bush to begin feeding. A systematic search in the project impact area (over a fixed area and/ or for a fixed time) such as the method specified here has been the added advantage of providing an index of the abundance of individuals and species. Nesting was also considered during the survey tenure in order identified the taxon. The reliability of the abundance index can be reduced by either overestimates or underestimates of bird numbers. To reduce overestimates, particularly when

4-59 SASEC Road Connectivity Project www.eqms.com.bd Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project a member is observing, try to ensure that each individual bird is recorded only once. Hence, ensure that a least one member of the team was watching at all times. Focus Group Discussion (FGD) with local people helps us to get information of the local species available in the project area. A checklist in Table 4-18 Shows the avifaunal species found in project area.

Table 4-18: Check List of Avifaunal species found in project area IUCN Sl# Common Name Local Name Scientific Name Family Status 1. Black kite Bhubon chil Milvus migrans govinda Accipitridae LC 2. Brahminy Kite Shonkho Chil Haliastur indus Accipitridae LC 3. Common Iora Fotikjol Aegithina tiphia Aegithinidae LC White-throated Dhola gola 4. Halcyon smyrnensis Alcedinidae LC kingfisher Machranga Common King 5. Maachranga Alcedo atthis Alcedinidae LC fisher 6. House swift Ababil Apus affinis Apodidae LC Ashio 7. Asian palm swift Cypsiurus balasiensis Apodidea LC Talbatashi 8. House Swift Ghor Batashi Apus affinis Apodidea LC Deshi Phalacrocorax 9. Indian Cormorant Ardeidae LC Pankouri fuscicollis 10. Cattle egret Gobak Bubulcus ibis Ardeidae LC 11. Yellow bittern Holud bok Ixobrychus sinensis Ardeidae 12. Intermediate Egret Majhari Bok Ardea intermedia Ardeidae LC 13. Indian pond heron Kani Bok Ardeola grayii Ardidae LC Red Wattled 14. Hot Titi Vanellus indicus Charadriidae LC Lapwing Chestnut Tailed Sturnia 15. Sturnia malabarica Ciconiidae LC Starling malabarica 16. Blue Rock pigeon Gola Paira Columba livia Columbidae LC 17. Rock pigeon Jalali kobutar Columba livia Columbidae LC 18. Spotted dove Tila Ghughu Streptopelia chinensis Columbidae LC 19. Crow/Jungle Crow Dar kak Corvus macrorhynchos Corvidae LC 20. Rufous Treepie Harichacha, Dendrocitta vagabunda Corvidae LC 21. House Crow Patikak Corvus splendens Corvidae LC Eudynamys 22. Asian Koel Kokil, koel Cuculidae LC scolopacea 23. Greater Coucal Kuo Pakhi Centropus sinensis Cuculidae LC Eudynamys 24. Asian cuckoo Kokil Cuculidae LC scolopacea 25. Black Drongo Kala Fingey Dicrurus macrocercus Dicruridiae LC

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IUCN Sl# Common Name Local Name Scientific Name Family Status

26. Common Krestrel Pati Krestrel Falco tinnunculus Falconidae LC 27. Long-tailed Shrike Lenja Latora Lanius schach Laniidae LC Badami Matha Chroicocephalus 28. Brown Headed Gull Laridae LC Gangchill brunnicephalus 29. River Tern Nodia Panchil Sterna aurantia Laridae NT 30. Green bee-eater Suichora Merops orientalis Meropidae LC Asian paradise Eshio 31. Terpsiphone paradisi Monarchidae LC flycatcher Shabulbuli 32. Oriental magpie Doel Copsychus saularis Muscicapidae LC 33. Black hooded Oriole Halde Pakhi Oriolus xanthornus Oriolidae LC 34. House sparrow Charui Passer domesticus Passeridae LC 35. House sparrow Pati choroi Passer domesticus Passeridae LC 36. White Wagtail Dhola Khonjon Motacilla alba Passeride LC 37. Little Cormorant Choto Microcarbo niger Phalacrocoracidae LC Pankowri Black-rumped Sonali 38. Dinopium benghalense Picidae LC Flameback kaththokra Rose-ringed 39. Tia Psittacula krameri Psittaculidae LC parakeet 40. Red-vented Bulbul Bangla bulbul Pycnonotus cafer Ptcnonotidae LC White Breasted Amaurornis 41. Dahuk Rallidae LC Water Hen phoenicurus Common Red 42. Kada Khocha Tringa totanus Scolopacidae LC Shank 43. Common Sandpiper Pati Batan Actitis hypoleucos Scolopacidae LC 44. Spotted owlet Khurley pecha Athene brama indica Srtigidae LC 45. Asian Pied Starling Gobrey shalik Sturnus contra Sturnidae LC 46. Common myna Salik/BhatSalik Acridotheres tristis Sturnidae LC Acridotheres 47. Bank Myna Shalik Sturnidae LC ginginianus 48. Common Tailor Bird Tuntuni Orthotomus sutorius Sylviidae LC Kalo Matha Threskiornis 49. Black headed Ibis Threskiornithidae LC Kastechora melanocephalus 50. Barn Owl Lokkhi pecha Tyto alba Tytonidae LC Specification of LC= Least Concern; NT= Nearly Threatened The highest number of birds dominated in the study area belonging to the family Ardeidae. Picture of some significant avifaunal species are shown in Annex-C. However, the birds belong to the family, Cuculidae, Corvidae, and Columbidae has been found as second dominated family among all. Homestead forest, grassland and bush, and some aquatic habitat of this

4-61 SASEC Road Connectivity Project www.eqms.com.bd Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project area have supported the wild birds for feeding and roosting ground. All of the bird species found in this are least concern (LC), both locally and globally according to IUCN Red List 2015 except for River Tern which is enlisted as Nearly Threatened (NT).

Figure 4-32: Number of avifaunal species found in project area (family wise)

Comparison of avifaunal family 5

4

3

2 Count 1

0

Family

4.6.7.2 Amphibians & Reptiles (Herpetofauna) Amphibians and reptilian’s groups are known as herpetofauna. These are assessed on an opportunistic basis by the team. For this inventory, it has been used a combination of diurnal and nocturnal time-recorded visual encounter surveys ("general surveys"), road driving with capturing digital image from the spot. Interviews were held with local people and Focus Group Discussion (FGD) with local people help us to get information of the local species available in the study area. During field investigation, 13 species of reptiles and 5 species of amphibians were recorded in the project area. Only one Data Deficient (DD) species -Two Striped grass frog (Hylarana taipehensis)} found at the study area among four amphibians. Table 4-19 showing list of herpeto-faunal species recorded in the project area and Figure 4-33 showing some significant herpeto-fauna within the project area.

Table 4-19: List of Herpeto-faunal species recorded in the project area

Herpetro-faunal SL. Common Name Local Name Scientific Name Local Status Reptiles 1. Bengal Monitor Lizard Gui shap Varanus bengalensis NT 2. Ring lizard klao gui Varanus salvator LC 3. House gecko Tiktiki Hemidactylus frenatus LC 4. Garden lizard Roktochosa Calotes versicolor LC 5. Keeled grass skink Angina Eutropis carinata LC

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Herpetro-faunal SL. Common Name Local Name Scientific Name Local Status 6. Checkered keel back Dora shaap Xenochrophis piscator LC 7. Common vine snake Laudoga, Ahaetulla nasuta LC sutanoli 8. Common Water Snake Painna Shap Enhydris enhydris LC 9. Indian Rat snake Daraj shaap Ptyas mucosus LC 10. Indian Roofed turtle Kori kaitta Pangshura tecta LC 11. Spotted Flapshell turtle Sundhi Kachim Lissemys punctata LC 12. Indian roofed turtle Kori kaitta Kachuga tecta LC 13. Monocellate cobra Gokhra shap Naja kaouthia VU Amphibian SL. Common Name Local Name Scientific Name *Status 1. Asian Common Toad Kuno bang Duttaphrynus LC melanostictus 2. Indian Bull Frog Sona bang Hoplobatrachus tigerinus LC

3. Skipper Frog Kotkoti bang Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis LC

4. Skipper frog Katkati bang, Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis LC 5. Two Striped grass frog Gecho Bang Hylarana taipehensis DD *NT= Nearly threatened, DD=Data Deficient, LC=Least Concern DD=Data Deficient

Figure 4-33: Herpeto-faunal species recorded in the project area

Xenochrophis piscator Varanus bengalensis

Duttaphrynus melanostictus Hoplobatrachus tigerinus

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Mammals For mammal's inventory, it is generally huge challenging, time consuming as well as costly. During the inventory of this project area with the stipulated short time, it has been followed "Observational methods" including imaging record by digital camera, identification of dung or feces, foot print, tracks and others signs, night walks. Nocturnal survey also conducted to know the status of living mammals. Focus Group Discussion (FGD) with local people also consider during this inventory of the project area.

Five mammal species belonging five families in the project area which are shown in Table 4-20. Mammals that were found in the project area are Common mongoose (Herpestes edwardsii), Common Indian field mouse (Mus booduga), Indian Fruit Bat (Pteropus giganteus) etc.

Table 4-20: Check List of Mammal Species Found in Project Area

Mammals IUCN Red list Sl. Common Name Local Name Scientific Name Status 1. Common mongoose Boro Beji Herpestes edwardsii Least Concern Hoary-bellied Callosciurus 2. Irrawaddy Squirrel Least Concern Himalayan Squirrel pygerythrus Common Indian Field 3. Metho Idur Mus boodug Least Concern Mouse 4. Ganges River Dolphin Shushuk Platanista gangetica Vulnerable 5. Indian Fruit Bat Badur Pteropus giganteus Least Concern 6. Great false vampire Badur Megaderma lyra Least concern 7. Bengal fox Khek shial Vulpes bengalensis least concern 8. Jungle cat Ban biral Felis chaus Endangered

Fishes Fish survey has been conducted based on direct observation of fish market, Focused Group Discussion (FGD) with the Fishermen and fish market, local people and secondary information for fish species in the project area. It has been considered different water body in the project area.

The fisheries in the project area comprises of ponds, beels, rivers, flood lands, Burrow pits, and Khals. A total of 43 fish species under 24 families have been reported. Species were recorded and photographed from local fish market, fisherman boats of adjacent area and local people followed by FGD. Fishermen observation also considered during the data collection process. Among them, Cyprinidae family possessed highest number of species (ten) ten times in the project area. Table 4-21 showing the checklist of Fishes species found in project area which is illustrated in the Annex C.

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Table 4-21: Checklist of Fish species found in project area

IUCN Local SL. Local Name Scientific Name Family Status 1. Ailla Rastrelliger kanagurta Scombridae DD 2. Bacha Eutropiichthys vacha Schilbeidae LC 3. Baila Glossogobius giuris Gobiidae LC 4. Bara Powa Otolithoides biauritus Sciaenidae NL 5. Bata Labeo bata Cyprinidae LC 6. Bata Chelon parsia Mugilidae NL 7. Boal Wallago attu Siluridae LC 8. Batasi Neotropius atherinoides Schilbeidae LC 9. Katla Catla catla Cyprinidae LC 10. Chapila Gudisia chapra Clupeidae VU 11. Chitol Chitala chitala Notopteridae NL 12. Chanda Parambasis ranga Ambassidae LC Chotta 13. Amblyceps mangois Amblycipitidae LC Shinghi 14. Faisha Setipinna phasha Engraulidae LC 15. Foli Notopterus notopterus Notopteridae VU 16. Gajar Channa marulius Channidae EN 17. Kachki Corica soborna Clupeidae NL 18. Kaikka Xenentodon cancila Belonidae LC 19. Kalbasu Labeo calbasu Cyprinidae LC 20. Kalo Poa Protonibea diacanthus Sciaenidae NL 21. Koi Anabas testudineus Anabantidae LC 22. Koi Puti Lobotes surinamensis Lobotidae LC 23. Koral Lates calcarifer Latidae NL 24. Korat Xiphias gladius Xiphiidae LC 25. Kukurer Jib Cynoglossus macrolepidotus Cynoglossidae NL 26. Khorsula, Rhinomugil corsula Mugilidae LC 27. Mola Amblypharyngodon mola Cyprinidae NL 28. Mohashol Tor tor Cyprinidae CR 29. Neftani Ctenops nobilis Osphronemidae LC

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IUCN Local SL. Local Name Scientific Name Family Status 30. Pabda Ompok pabda Siluridae EN 31. Pangas Pangasius pangasius Pangasiidae EN 32. Parshe Liza parmata Mugilidae NL 33. Puti Puntius ticto Cyprinidae LC 34. Rui Labeo Rohita Cyprinidae LC 35. Rani Botia dayi Cobitidae EN 36. Rita Rita Rita Bagridae EN 37. Silver Carp Hypopohthalmicthys molistrics Cyprinidae NL 38. Shil Baila Awaous guamensis Gobiidae LC 39. Shol Channa striatas Channidae LC 40. Tak Chanda Leiognathus decorus Leiognathidae NL 41. Tangra Mystus vittatus Bagridae LC 42. Telo Taki Channa orientalis Channidae LC 43. Tengra Mystus gulio Bagridae LC

Data Source: IUCN Bangladesh. 2015. Red List of Bangladesh Volume 5: Freshwater Fishes. IUCN,International Union for Conservation of Nature, LC= Least Concern, EN=Endangered, NT= Near Threatened, NL= Not Listed DD= Data Deficient.

The wetlands of this region also support large populations of the commercially important prawn such as Macrobrachium rosenbergii (Golda Chingri), M. malcomsoni (Chatka chingri) and Leander sp. (Gura chingri). Fresh water Crab is a common aquatic arthropod observed in most of wetlands. Fresh water Crab is a common aquatic arthropod observed in most of wetlands. No aquatic mammal like Dolphin was observed in the Rivers (Turag, Bangshi and Pungli) along the project road.

Protected areas Protected areas or conservation areas are locations which receive protection because of their recognized natural, ecological or cultural values. There are several kinds of protected areas, which vary by level of protection depending on the enabling laws of each country or the regulations of the international organizations involved.

According to the Wildlife (Conservation and Security) Act 2012, types of protected areas are national park, sanctuary, eco-park, botanical garden, community conservation area, safari park, Kunjaban etc. According to the Bangladesh Forest Department list of the protected areas, the closest protected area (Madhupur National Park) is located within at around 5.34 km buffer of the project area. Description about the Bhawal and Modhupur National Park is

4-66 SASEC Road Connectivity Project www.eqms.com.bd Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project given in the subsequent section. The following Table 4-22 shows the protected areas of Bangladesh and the Figure 4-34 map showing the distance between protected areas and project boundary.

Table 4-22: Protected areas of Bangladesh

Date of SL Protected Areas Location Area (Ha) declaration A. National Parks (NP) 1 Bhawal NP Gazipur 5022.29 11/05/1982 Tangail & 2 Modhupur NP 8436.13 24/02/1982 Mymensingh 3 Ramsagar NP Dinajpur 27.75 30/04/2001 4 Himchari NP Cox’s Bazar 1729.00 15/02/1980 5 Lawachara NP Maulavibazar 1250.00 07/07/1996 6 Kaptai NP Rangamati 5464.78 09/09/1999 7 Nijhum Dweep NP Noakhali 16352.23 08/04/2001 8 Medha Kachapia NP Cox’s Bazar 395.92 04/04/2004 9 Satchari NP Habiganj 242.91 10/10/2005 10 Khadim Nagar NP Sylhet 678.80 13/04/2006 11 Baraiyadhala NP Chittagong 2933.61 06/04/2010 12 Kuakata NP Patuakhali 1613.00 24/10/2010 13 Nababganj NP Dinajpur 517.61 24/10/2010 14 Shingra NP Dinajpur 305.69 24/10/2010 15 Kadigarh NP Mymensingh 344.13 24/10/2010 16 Altadighi NP Naogaon 264.12 14/12/2011 17 Birganj NP Dinajpur 168.56 14/12/2011 B. Wildlife Sanctuary (WS) 1 Rema Kalenga WS Habiganj 1795.54 07/07/1996 2 Char kukri mukri WS Bhola 40.00 19/12/1981 3 Sundarban East WS Bagerhat 122920.90 19/06/2017 4 Sundarban West WS Satkhira 119718.88 29/06/2017 5 Sundarban South WS Khulna 75310.30 29/06/2017 6 Pablakhali WS Hill tracts 42069.37 20/09/1983 7 Chunti WS Chittagong 7763.97 18/03/1986 8 Fasiakhali WS Cox’s Bazar 1302.42 11/04/2007 9 Dudpukur-Dhopachari WS Chittagong 4716.57 06/04/2010 10 Hajarikhil WS Chittagong 1177.53 06/04/2010 11 Sangu WS Bandarban 2331.98 06/04/2010 12 Teknaf WS Cox’s Bazar 11614.57 09/12/2009 13 Tengragiri WS Barguna 4048.58 24/10/2010

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Date of SL Protected Areas Location Area (Ha) declaration 14 Dudmukhi WS Bagerhat 170.00 29/01/2012 15 Chandpai WS Bagerhat 560.00 29/01/2012 16 Dhongmari WS Bagerhat 340.00 29/01/2012 17 Sonarchar WS Patuakhali 2026.48 24/12/2011 18 Najirganj Dolphin Sanctuary Pabna 146.00 01/12/2013 Silonda Nagdemra Dolphin 19 Pabna 24.17 01/12/2013 Sanctuary Nagarbari-Mohanganj Dolphin 20 Pabna 408.11 01/12/2013 Sanctuary 21 Swatch of No Ground South Bay of Bengal 173800 27/10/2014 C. Special Wildlife Sanctuary 1 Ratargul Special WS Sylhet 204.25 - 2 Altadighi Special WS Naogaon 17.34 - D. Safari Park Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Safari 1 900.00 - park Cox’s Bazar Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Safari 2 Gazipur 1390.00 - park E. Eco-park (EP) 1 Sitakundu EP Chittagong 808.00 1998 2 Modhutila EP Sherpur 100 1999 3 Madhabkundu EP Moulavibazar 265.68 2001 4 Banshkhali EP Chittagong 1200 2003 5 Kuakata EP Patuakhali 5661 2005 6 Tilagorh EP Sylhet 45.34 2006 7 Barsijora EP Moulavibazar 326.07 2006 8 Jamuna bridge West side EP Pabna 50.02 2008 9 Pirojpur Riverview EP Pirojpur 2.54 2010 10 Sheikh Rasel Aviary and eco-park Chittagong 210.00 - Madhupur National Park Madhupur National Park (MNP) is situated on Dhaka-Mymenshing Road, 125 km North of Dhaka. MNP was established in 1982 following the Wildlife Act of 1974 and was declared a National Park (NP) in 1982. It covers an area of 8436 ha. The Bongshai River that flows through MNP on the southern side of the forest is a part of the old Brahmaputra channel. The area also includes connecting canals, streams, and rivers and is intensively fished with a variety of fishing-gear.

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The Park is deciduous with a slight mixture of evergreen forest, interspersed with hillocks. Topographically the landscape comprises mainly of plain lands and forest patches, which was once a largely dense forest area. Now the land masses surrounding the site and a few patches within the forest are also intensively cropped. 4 Rubber plantations also surround the site, collectively containing a total of 7,314 acres of land with an estimated 1462,800 Rubber trees. The main plant species of the Park is Shal (Shorea robusta). The total number of identified plant species in MNP is 176. Identified fauna species include 4 amphibians, 7 reptiles, 11 mammals like the Barking Deer Muntiacus muntjak, and 38 bird species including the Stork- Billed Kingfisher Pelargopsis capensis, Zitting Cisticola Cisticola juncidis and Brown Wood Owl Strix leptogrammica amongst them.

Figure 4-34: Protected Areas of Bangladesh

Source: DoE, 2011, Prepared by EQMS

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Bhawal National Park The Bhawal National Park covers an area of some 5022.89 ha. This area is home to an incredibly diverse array of flora and fauna. The area was once covered by a lush forest canopy created by Sal (Shorea robusta) trees. Unfortunately, illegal deforestation has stripped the area of much of this natural vegetation – in fact only 600 km2 remains of what was once a magnificent forest. New trees and woodlands have been planted in an effort to help the forest recover, but it will most likely take many years before they are mature enough to support the incredible animal diversity that was once so common in this area. The coppice sal forest that remains is unique and it would be a truly magnificent thing if it was to once again spread out and reclaim the land.

In times gone by the Bhawal National Park was renowned for housing a wonderfully exotic variety of creatures, such as leopard, elephant, clouded leopard, black panthers, tigers, peacocks and sambar deer. Unfortunately, many of these animals have disappeared completely and only a few species still remain in this small strip of protected vegetation. Nevertheless, the park is home to 220 plant species, 13 mammal species, 9 reptile species, 5 amphibian species and 5 bird species. The Forest Department has already attempted to reintroduce several animal species to the area, including peacock, deer, cat fish and python.

Ecological Critical Areas (ECA)

In 1995 after the enactment of the ECA, 1995 the Government is empowered to declare an area which is enriched with unique biodiversity and environmentally significant and shall need protection or conservation from destructive activities as ECA. In this regard the GoB after considering the human habitat, ancient monument, archaeological site, forest sanctuary, national park, game reserve, wild animals' habitat, wetland, mangrove, forest area, biodiversity and other relevant factors of the area can declare as ECA. As per the legal mandate the MoEF till now declared 12 areas as ECA. There is no ECAs within 400 m buffer of study area. However, the nearest ECA is Turag River which is located around 8.01 km away from the project area. The ECA area nearest the project site is illustrated in Figure 4-35 below.

Turag River The Turag River has been declared as ecologically critical area (ECA) by the Department of Environment on September 2009. In September 2009, the four rivers -- Buriganga, Sitalakhaya, Turag and Balu -- have been declared by the Department of Environment as ECAsThe Turag River is the upper tributary of the Buriganga.

The Turag originates from the Bangshi River. The Turag flows through Gazipur district and joins the Buriganga at Mirpur in Dhaka district. The Tongi Khal links the Turag with the Balu River (Choudhury and Choudhury, 2004). The entire regime of the Turag is almost a semi-

4-70 SASEC Road Connectivity Project www.eqms.com.bd Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project funnel shaped basin and its catchment is located on the central and southern part of the Madhupur tract and flows from north to south within the basin and its length is about 40 miles and 15 miles in wide to the maximum. The average width and depth of the river are about 218m and 13.5m, respectively. It has a total area of 386 square

Figure 4-35: Ecological Critical Area of Bangladesh

Source: DoE, 2009, Prepared by EQMS.

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The Turag gasps with wastewater from hundreds of the textile factories located along its bank. The booming textile industry dumps huge amount of effluent into the rivers. The increasing use of polythene bags, plastic bottle is also a big concern. Therefore, the four rivers around Dhaka- Buriganga, Turag, Balu and Shitalakhya as ECA it means it means that the very existence of the area is under threat. The river is around away from the project location and expected not to have any impact on the river.

Hydrological and Drainage Scenario Like other areas in Bangladesh, there is no structured drainage and sewerage facilities in the project area and as a result, during heavy rainfall drainage congestion and flooding is occurring in this area. The storm water runoff process is influenced by the undulated highland characteristic of the project area. Storm water from highlands quickly accumulates in the adjoining ditches and gradually drains through low lying areas (Environmental Impact Assessment Joydevpur – Chandra – Tangail – Elenga Road Subproject Sub-Regional Transport Project Preparatory Facility (Road Component: Package-1)). The drainage system in the project area is illustrated in the below Figure 4-36.

Figure 4-36: Existing Drainage System along with the Proposed Road Side

Drainage structure at Chandra Drainage structure at Mirzapur (previous EIA report) Existing Traffic and Forecast According to EIA report of Sub-regional Transport Project Preparatory Facility (Road Component: Package-1), the type of traffic considered for traffic assessment and forecast includes (i) normal traffic which is using the existing corridor, and (ii) generated traffic likely to arise from reduced transport costs. It is mentionable here that, as the width of the road will be between 3.6 to 4.2-meter-wide it is expected that, the forecast done for the previous study will remain almost the same. The existing weighted average Annual Average Daily Traffic (AADT) as per the traffic studies carried out for 2011 including two- and three-wheelers and forecast traffic are given in Table 4-23.

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Table 4-23: Existing and traffic forecast for JCTE Road Traffic Assessment Year Traffic in AADT (Maximum of any section of the road)

2011 19,366 2012 20,777 2013 22,291 2015 25,662 2016 27,535 2020 38,489 2025 51 ,507 2030 68,127 2035 90,242 Source: Environmental Impact Assessment, Sub-regional Transport Project Preparatory Facility (Road Component: Package-1)

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CHAPTER FIVE: SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT

Socio-Economic Environemnt The present socio-economic conditions of the people of the project area will provide sound reference and assess probable socio-economic impact of the proposed interventions. This will help to compare the changes and impacts of the project interventions in future. The socio- economic baseline scenario describes the socio-economic characteristics of project area on the basis secondary data from Supplementary Resettlement Plan (SRP) and census of Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS). The socio-economic characteristics include administrative area, demographic, household size, education, occupation, housing, employment opportunity, access to water and sanitation status etc.

Administrative area and location The proposed project is located in Gazipur and Tangail districts. Table 5-1 shows the study area of the project across Union, Upazila and District. The socio-economic features of the study area are discussed in the following section.

Table 5-1: Composition of the study area

District Name Upazila Union Basan Gazipur Sadar Konabari Mouchak Gazipur Sreefaltali Kaliakair Sutrapur Kaliakair Paurashava Basail Habla Delduar Dubail Kalihati Elenga Bhatgram Fatehpur Gorai Mirzapur Tangail Jamurki Mahera Mirzapur Paurashava Gala Gharinda Tangail Sadar Karatia Tangail Paurashava Source: Supplementary Resettlement Plan, 2018.

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Project Area The proposed construction of new SMVT lane and project structures will affect settlements and business hubs in 17 mouzas in Gazipur and 53 in Tangail district. A total of 6,883 people (male 3,855 and female 3028) including land owns, residential and commercial structure owners, vendors, etc. will be affected, of which 1,726 households will be physically displaced including 401 residential households. About 712 households will suffer economic displacement including landowners and common property resources (CPRs). The summary of land acquisition and resettlement impacts (displacements and other impacts) is enlisted in the following Table 5-2.

Table 5-2: Summary of the project affected area No. Loss Type Work Package (WP) Total WP-01 WP-02 WP-03 WP-04

1 Total length of alignment 18.900 18.00 22.400 10.00 69.300 2 Total No. of Physically displaced 53 427 494 59 1,033 house holds 3 Total No. Pf Financially displaced 21 123 344 205 693 households 4 Total quantity of land (ha) affected 2.37 8.24 18.03 5.92 34.57 5 Total Residential Households 15 123 232 31 401 6 Total Commerce and Business 36 296 255 26 613 Enterprises (CBEs) affected 7 Total Common Property 2 8 7 2 19 Resources (CPR) affected 8 Total quantity of residential 27370 241822 218002 26531 513725 structure affected (in sq. ft.) 9 Total quantity of commercial 113324 491039 243397 23831 871591 structure affected (in sq. ft.) 10 Total quantity of Common 2195 33094 12971 200 48460 Property Structure (in sq. ft.) 11 Others type of structure (in no.) 56 195 165 39 455 12 Total no. of toilets affected 24 44 79 22 169 13 Total no. of tube wells affected 14 37 115 19 185 14 Total no. of trees on private land 160 1,258 7,391 3,465 12,274 15 Number of women headed HHs 1 24 33 3 61 affected 16 Number of Wage Labors 260 1,095 870 47 2,272 17 Number of Tenants 95 471 320 27 913 18 Total Disconnection of Utilities 87 7 10 1 105 Source: Supplementary Resettlement Plan, 2018

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Demographic Profile of Affected Population A total of 1,707 households (HHs) are affected by the project’s ROW and the total affected population is 6,883. The average house hold size in the project area is 4.03 which is lower than the national average of 4.4 (BBS 2011). Among the four contract packages, WP-03 has the largest number of households (831) or 49% of the total affected HHs. It is followed by WP- 02 and WP-03 with 544 (32%) and 262(15%) affected HHs, respectively. WP-01 has the least affected population with only 70(4%) HHs.

Gender Distribution of Household Heads Of the 1,707 affected HHs, 1,646 (96.43%) is male headed and the remaining 61 (3.57%) is female headed HHs in four contract/ work packages. Most of the female headed HHs are living in areas covered by WP-02 and WP03 with 24 and 33 female headed HHs, respectively. WP- 04 has female headed HHs. For the affected population (6,883), 56.01% is male and 43.99% is female.

Project Impact on Gender According to the Supplementary Resettlement Plan (SRP), about 128 vulnerable HHs will be affected by the proposed new project scope, of which 64.06% of the vulnerable HHs are female headed and 35.94% are hard-core poor living in the project’s right of way (ROW) which accounts for about 7.50% of the total HHs.

Table 5-3: Total Number of Vulnerable Households Affected by the Project Sl. Vulnerable WP-wise Vulnerable Affected Total AHs Households (AHs) Category WP-01 WP-02 WP-03 WP-04 No. %

1 Female Headed HH 2 41 35 4 82 64.06 2 Disabled HH 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 Hard-core Poor HH 27 14 5 46 35.94

Total 2 68 49 9 128 100%

Source: Supplementary Resettlement Plan, 2018 Age Distribution of Affected Population According to the supplementary resettlement plan, the number of affected populations by age group and location (contract package). About 40% of the 6,883 affected population in the project area belongs to age group 30-45 years old, followed by those who belong to age group 15-30 years old which constitutes about one-fourth of the total affected population. Only 7% belongs to age bracket 45 to 60 years old and 28% for the 15 years old and below. The data in the table below shows that the majority of the affected population are in their productive age. A significant size of affected area on the additional ROW of the JCTE 4-Lane Highway is

5-3 SASEC Road Connectivity Project www.eqms.com.bd Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project used for commercial purposes. Number of affected populaiton by age group and location is enlisted in the following Table 5-4.

Table 5-4: Total Number of Affected Population by Age Group and Location

Age Group (Yrs.) WP -01 WP -02 WP -03 WP -04 Total (N &%)

up to 8 years 11 75 437 47 570 (8%)

7-15 33 283 921 134 1,371 (20%)

15-30 21 637 697 361 1,716 (25%)

30-45 117 913 1219 497 2,746 (40%) 45-60 48 104 216 112 480 (7%)

Total 230 2,012 3,490 1,151 6,883 (3.3%) (29.2%) (50.7%) (16.8%) (100%)

Source: Supplementary Resettlement Plan, 2018 Population by religion and Ethnicity The majority (80.26%) of the affected population in the project area professes Muslim (Islam) as their religion. The remaining 19.74% of the affected population is Hindu. Based on FGD and census conducted in the project area, there was no known indigenous peoples (IPs) in the project area. Over 80% of the population in the project areas is Muslim and less than 20% belongs to Hindu ethnic origin. (Source: Supplementary Resettlement Plan, 2018)

Primary Occupation of Affected Households According to the findings of Socioeconomic Survey, the primary occupations of the affected HHs, where almost 41% are engaged in business (Table 5-5). This is followed by the affected HHs who are engaged in service/ working in garment factories which constitute almost 33%. Other primary occupations of the affected HHs include working as laborers (10%), agriculture/ farming (8.4%) and other jobs (4.9%). Of the 1,707 affected HHs, 56 (3.3%) claimed that they are housewives and have no job or regular source of income. They receive assistance from their children and other people, at least for daily subsistence. Most of the women affected by the project are working in garment factories and it is significant to note that the number of females engaged in business/selling is also high (Source: Supplementary Resettlement Plan, 2018). Table 5-5: Primary Occupation of Affected HHs Primary Occupation WP - 01 WP - 02 WP - 03 WP - 04 Total Total No. % Agriculture 12 28 91 13 144 8.4 Housewife 1 24 28 3 56 3.3

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Primary Occupation WP - 01 WP - 02 WP - 03 WP - 04 Total Total No. % Business 35 159 358 147 699 40.9 Day Laborers 6 57 86 24 173 10.0 Service/Garments 15 245 239 58 557 32.5 Others 1 31 29 17 78 4.9 Total 70 544 831 262 1,707 100% Source: Supplementary Resettlement Plan, 2018 Affected Non- Land Assets In addition to land acquisition, the proposed new SMVT lane and structures in the JCTE road will cause displace men to residential and commercial households and CPRs, cutting of trees, loss of livelihood, etc. The physical structures are mostly found on the private land and are made of concrete materials /bricks and tin sheds.

Land Acquisition The Project component, will be carried out mainly using available previously acquired land. However, additional land will be required in some areas or sections, where the existing road reserve is not adequate to accommodate the new SMVT and other structures. It would require about 34.57-hectare (ha) of private lands, of which the largest area is rom Tangail district (30.19 ha) and the remaining 4.38 ha is covered by Gazipur district. As per IOL conducted (June to August 2018) and LAP, about 34.57 ha of land will be acquired from 1,562 TH households. The following Table 5-6 indicates the land that will be required for the project’s new scope of work district wise.

Table 5-6: Land Requirement by Area Land Districts Percentage Acres Hectares

Gazipur 10.8321 4.38 12.67% Tangail 74.5579 30.19 87.33%

Total 85.3900 34.57 100%

Source: Supplementary Resettlement Plan, 2018 Out of the total proposed land to be acquired for the JCTE4-Lane Highway, 18.03 ha is under WP-03); 8.24 ha in WP-02 and 5.92 ha in WP-04. The remaining 2.37 ha of land will be acquired in WP-01. As per census and IOL survey conducted, there were seven categories of land within the project ROW. The homestead land category tops the list with 64.16%, followed by agricultural used land which accounts for 34.53% for combined high and low crop land. The remaining 1.31% of land belongs to other land categories (Table 5-7).

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Table 5-7: Category of land by Work Package Category of Land Quantity of land in acre No. WP-01 WP-02 WP-03 WP-04 Total % 1 Homestead/Viti 5.50 16.66 26.78 5.85 54.79 64.16 2 Kanda (Crop Land- high) 0 2.43 13.65 8.66 24.74 28.96 3 Nama/Nal (Crop Land–low) 0 1.03 3.60 0.12 4.75 5.57 4 Wet Land/Ditch (Doba) 0.26 0 0.09 0 0.35 0.41 5 Pond 0.10 0.24 0.40 0 0.74 0.86 6 Fallow Land (Khal) 0 0 0.01 0 0.01 0.02 7 Commercial used(shop) 0 0 0.01 0 0.01 0.02 Mouza Total (acre) 5.86 20.36 44.54 14.63 85.39 100

Total in Hectare 2.37 8.24 18.03 5.92 34.57 Source: Supplementary Resettlement Plan, 2018 Impaction on Structures by Section Following Table 5-8 presents the affected structures under the four contract packages (WPs) by quantity of structure (in square feet). Among the four WPs, WP-02 is the most affected and the impact gradually decreases for WP-01 to WP-04. A total of 1,033 HHs are losing structures by the project ROW. About 60.79% of the affected structures are commercial. There will be 19 community structures that will be affected which constitutes about 3.38% of the structural impact. Table 5-8: Impacts of Quantity of Structure by Work Package No. Work Package (WP) Total Loss type (in sq. feet) WP-01 WP-02 WP-03 WP-04 (in sq. ft)

1 Total quantity of structure affected 142889 765955 474370 50562 1433776 affected (sq. ft) 2 Total quantity of residential 27370 241822 218002 26531 513725 Structure affected (sq. ft) 3 Total quantity of commercial 113324 491039 243397 23831 871591 Structure affected ( sq. ft) 4 Total quantity of CPRs 2195 33094 12971 200 48460 (in sq. ft) Source: Supplementary Resettlement Plan, 2018 Impaction on Common Property Resources (CPRs A total of 19 CPRs have been primarily identified within the proposed ROW. Consultation with the communities suggested that some of the facilities like schools, mosques, graveyard and temples are used by the local people very often. The 19 CPRs will lose structures and land due to the new SMVT lane and structures in the JCTE road. Out of 19 structure-losing CPRs, 2 found are located in WP-01,8CPRs are located in WP-02, there will be 7 CPRs in WP-03

5-6 SASEC Road Connectivity Project www.eqms.com.bd Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project and 2 CPRs are situated in WP-04. The number of CPRs affected due to the new project is shown in Table 5-9.

Table 5-9: Total Number of Affected CPRs by Type and Contract Package Sl. Type of CPRs Affected WP-01 WP-02 WP-03 WP-04 Total No. No. No. No. No. 1 Mosque 1 3 2 0 6 2 NGO Office/Society Office 1 1 0 0 2 3 Temple 0 0 1 0 1 4 Madrasa 0 0 1 0 1 5 Moha Soshan (Graveyard 0 0 1 2 3 & Cremation Ground) 6 School 0 4 2 0 6 Total 2 8 7 2 19 Grave under Moha Soshan and 2 23 96 15 136 Private Land Owners Source: Supplementary Resettlement Plan, 2018 Affected Trees A total of 12,274 trees of different categories located on private land will be affected or need to be cut due to the project. Out of the total affected trees, the highest number 6,932 (56.48%) belong to large category followed by 2,855 (23.26%) medium, 1,740 (14.18%) small and 747 (6.08%) sapling/plant. For the age or size of the trees, the following definitions were used by the survey team that conducted the census and the IOL surveys, as follows: (i) Large - More than 20 years; (ii) Medium - above 5 years to 20 years; (iii) Small - 1 to 5 years; and (iv) Sapling - less than 1 year. The details of the trees affected on private land in 4 contract packages (WPs) are shown in Table 5-10 below.

Table 5-10: Number of Trees Affected in RTW by Work Package and Size Type of WP- 01 WP - 02 WP - 03 WP - 04 Total Tree No. % No. % No. % No. % No. % Large 101 63.13 770 61.21 3903 52.80 2158 62.28 6,932 56.48 Medium 16 10 325 25.83 1,831 24.77 683 19.71 2,855 23.26 Small 43 26.87 94 7.47 1,217 16.47 386 11.14 1,740 14.18 Sapling 0 0 69 5.49 440 5.96 238 6.87 747 6.08 Total 160 100 1,258 100 7,391 100 3,465 100 12,274 100 Total % by 1.30% 10.25% 60.22% 28.23% 100% section Source: Supplementary Resettlement Plan, 2018

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5.4.4.1 Location Wise Types of Affected Trees The results of the census/IOL have shown that about 12,274 different species of trees including fruit trees (5,959) and timber trees (6,315) on private land will be affected due to the project. Most of the fruit bearing trees include mangoes, jackfruit, guava, coconuts, beetle nuts, etc. There are also bananas that will be affected by the proposed new SMVT lane and other structures. Kinds of timber that will be affected are eucalyptus trees, mahogany and acacia. Along the JCTE road, some bamboos will be affected by the additional scope of work proposed for the project (see Table 5-11).

Table 5-11: Number of Trees Affected in Private Land by Type, Size & Work Package

Location Type of Tree Large (No) Medium (No) Small (No) Saplings (No)

WP-01 Fruit Bearing 65 12 23 0 Timber 36 4 20 0 WP-02 Fruit Bearing 283 99 48 17 Timber 487 226 46 52 WP-03 Fruit Bearing 1,896 677 527 306 Timber 2,007 1,154 690 134 WP-04 Fruit Bearing 1,284 310 229 183 Timber 874 373 157 55 Total Fruit Bearing 3,528 1,098 827 506 (N) Trees Timber 3,404 1,757 913 241

Source: Supplementary Resettlement Plan, 2018 Loss of ponds Due to the construction activities, numerous ponds will be affected. A total of 74 decimal ponds will be affected. Highest number of ponds will be affected in WP-3. The loss of pond is illustrated in following Figure 5-1.

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Figure 5-1: Loss of pond due to construction of the project

Loss of Pond

10 ha , (14%)

40 ha, (54%) 24 ha , 32%

WP-01 WP-02

WP-03 WP-04

Source: Supplementary Resettlement Plan, 2018 5.1.1 Education Based on the SES conducted (June to August 2018), a total 205 people were found to have in formal education with 223 people have basic literacy only. There were 617 people who obtained secondary level of education and 205 in primary level. In all education levels, the number of female populations is lower than the male population.

Figure 5-2: Literacy of the Study Area

Literacy of the project area

16% 17%

18%

49% Formal Education Basic Literacy Secondary Education Primary Education Source: Supplementary Resettlement Plan, 2018 5.1.2 Settlement and Housing According to the population and housing census (2011), the predominant structure of this study area is Kutcha (68.2%) followed by Pucka (7.8%), Semi-pucka and Jhupri (23%) and (1.2%). Housing tenancy of the study area is owned by (74.9%), rented (23.1%) and rent free (1.9%). The following Table 5-12 shows the type of structure and housing tenancy in the project study area.

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Table 5-12: Types of structure and Housing Tenancy in the Study Area

District Number of Type of Structure (%) Housing Tenancy (%) Upazila Union Name HHs Pucka Semi-pucka Kutcha Jhupri Owned Rented Rent free Basan 30866 13.7 64.6 20.4 1.3 29.2 68.9 1.9 Gazipur Sadar Konabari 43287 10.2 71.5 13.7 4.6 16.9 81.7 1.3

Gazipur Mouchak 22247 11.3 50.5 37.4 0.8 41.8 56.4 1.8 Sreefaltali 4576 5.7 19.6 72.4 2.3 87.9 9.2 3 Kaliakair Sutrapur 5392 5.2 14.6 79.7 0.5 86 11.9 2.1 Kaliakair Paurashava 40901 10.4 64.8 24.5 0.2 14.1 84.1 1.8 Basail Habla 7468 3.3 7.3 88.1 1.4 98 0.6 1.4 Delduar Dubail 5677 2.7 9.4 87.6 0.4 97.4 2 0.6 Kalihati Elenga 9467 2.4 7.8 88.7 1.1 90 7.6 2.4 Bhatgram 5099 2.5 11.5 85.3 0.8 98.8 0.4 0.8 Fatehpur 4861 2.1 6.1 90.9 0.8 98 0.8 1.2 Gorai 14174 6.5 19.9 73.1 0.6 63.4 34.9 1.7 Mirzapur Tangail Jamurki 7787 3.5 19.5 75 1.9 95.3 2.8 1.9 Mahera 5770 2.3 7.3 88.5 1.9 96.9 1.3 1.7 Mirzapur Paurashava 3124 20.8 19.1 59.15 0.98 73.1 23.7 3.2 Gala 6453 1.7 3.3 94.9 0.1 96.8 1.6 1.6 Gharinda 7491 1.7 3.2 94.8 0.3 96.4 1.5 2.1 Tangail Sadar Karatia 10115 6.9 12 79.5 1.6 88.3 9.3 2.4 Tangail Paurashava 9305 32.125 24.825 42.725 0.325 55.6 40.55 3.825 Total Study Area 244060 7.6 23.0 68.2 1.2 74.9 23.1 1.9

Source: Population and Housing Census, BBS 2011.

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Public Utilities Water Supply At the project study area, the major source of drinking water is tube-well where about 83.2% population use tube-wells water. Around 15% people have access to tap water. Other 1.7% people have access neither tube-well nor tap water. An overview is depicted in Table 5-13 below. Table 5-13: Sources of Drinking Water in the Study Area

District Number Source of Drinking Water (%) Upazila Union Name of HHs Tap Tube-well Other Basan 30866 61.7 36.8 1.5 Gazipur Sadar Konabari 43287 76.6 22.9 0.4 Mouchak 22247 32.1 65.8 2.1 Gazipur Sreefaltali 4576 2.5 93.1 4.4 Kaliakair Sutrapur 5392 6.8 91.9 1.3 Kaliakair Paurashava 40901 32.6 66.7 0.7 Basail Habla 7468 0.2 99.3 0.4 Delduar Dubail 5677 0.7 98.7 0.5 Kalihati Elenga 9467 1.1 97 1.9 Bhatgram 5099 2 96.8 1.2 Fatehpur 4861 0.8 94.6 4.6 Gorai 14174 9 88.7 2.3 Mirzapur Tangail Jamurki 7787 1.5 96.6 1.9 Mahera 5770 1.4 95.6 3.1 Mirzapur Paurashava 3124 22.4 76.3 1.3 Gala 6453 0.9 98 1.1 Gharinda 7491 0.4 98.1 1.5 Tangail Sadar Karatia 10115 1.7 96.5 1.7 Tangail Paurashava 9305 31.375 68.075 0.55 Total Study Area 244060 15.0 83.2 1.7 Source: Population and Housing Census, BBS, 2011 Electricity Electricity is an important indicator for measuring the quality of life in the Study area. In the study area, almost 80.3% of the households have grid electricity connection. The following Figure 5-3 shows the detail electricity connection situation by union. However, households, mostly use the electricity for lighting and farming purposes.

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Figure 5-3: Electricity connection of the Study Area Electricity Conncetion

100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30

Household (%) Household 20 10 0

Gazipur Tangail

Source: Population and Housing Census, BBS, 2011 Sanitation In the study area, about 31% and 46.1% of households use water sealed and non-water- sealed sanitary latrine facility, respectively, whereas about 20.2% households use non- sanitary facilities 2.6% households defecate in open places with no access to hygienic latrine facilities. The following Figure 5-4 shows sanitation facility of the project area.

Figure 5-4: Sanitation facility in the Study Area

Sanitation Facilities

50 46.1 45 40

35 31 30 25 20.2 20

Household (%) Household 15 10 5 2.6 0 Sanitary (water- Sanitary (non water- Non-sanitary None sealed) sealed)

Source: Population and Housing Census, BBS, 2011

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Health Care Facility The selected seven Upazila are lie under the study area. There are total 485 numbers of MBBS and FCPS has been found. In the study area there are seven govt. health complex and 156 privet hospitals with 106 diagnostic centers has been found.

Solid Waste Uncontrolled waste generation coupled with inadequate collection and disposal systems have the potentiality to give rise to pollution and environmental degradation as well as disease. While no specific data on local waste management was collected from the study area, it is likely that – as with many other parts of rural Bangladesh – the villages within the study area have no formal waste management facilities, and that in general people dispose of their waste in landfills or in fallow land.

Economy and Employment According to the Population and Housing Census (2011), agriculture including crops cultivation, fishing, direct farming, sharecropping, agricultural laborers etc. is the dominant source of employment in the study area. Approximately, 29,544 male and 880 females are involved in agricultural activities. Moreover, significant numbers of the population; 25,811 male and 5253 female, of the study area are employed in services. Agriculture (crops cultivation and agricultural labor) is the primary income source in the study area. The following Table 5-14 shows the employment status of the project area.

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Table 5-14: Employment status of the Study Area

Population Aged 7+, not attending school but Field of Activity District Upazila Name Union employed Agriculture Industry Service Name Total Male Female Male Female Male Female Male Female Basan 16361 10501 5860 1855 158 5556 5103 3090 599 Gazipur Sadar Konabari 22234 13485 8749 694 79 9210 7222 3581 1448 Mouchak 13933 8586 5347 1897 64 5130 4814 1559 469 Gazipur Sreefaltali 2450 2159 291 1014 26 347 155 798 110 Kaliakair Sutrapur 3214 2811 403 1783 24 474 252 554 127 Kaliakair Paurashava 3214 11054 8053 1113 194 7258 7008 2683 851 Basail Habla 2976 2888 88 2013 26 135 11 740 51 Delduar Dubail 2235 2179 56 1583 21 161 20 435 15 Kalihati Elenga 5441 5145 296 2785 24 514 81 1846 191 Bhatgram 2241 2130 111 1507 14 130 23 493 74 Fatehpur 2298 2251 47 1808 29 404 10 39 8 Gorai 6975 4994 1981 2113 45 1581 1689 1300 247 Mirzapur Tangail Jamurki 3276 3113 163 1773 9 218 24 1122 130 Mahera 2435 2399 36 1757 8 414 12 228 16 Mirzapur Paurashava 1074 945 129 274 3 37 14 634 112 Gala 3750 3547 203 1330 32 141 8 2076 163 Gharinda 4210 4001 209 2253 53 492 90 1256 66 Tangail Sadar Karatia 5293 4814 479 1381 45 981 102 2452 332 Tangail Paurashava 2429 2087 342 611 26 551 72 925 244 Total 106039 89089 32843 29544 880 33734 26710 25811 5253 Source: Population and Housing Census, BBS, 2011

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Traffic and Transport According to the District Statistics (2011) Upazila total metaled road is respectively 1441.98 km and semi metalled is 339.91km road. In these Upazilla total unmetalled (kacha) road is respectively 3660.35km. There are 71 km railways (all broad gage, meter gage and duel gage) in the study area and 19 bus stoppage. Moreover, 346 km water way in monsoon (river + canal) and 71 km water way round the year (river + canal) are available in the study area.

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Alternative Analysis Alternative analysis helps in finalization of the best option considering different factors among available potential options. Generally, in the alternative analysis process different criteria like . Techno-economic Feasibility . Environmental Consideration . Ecological Aspects . Social Aspects . Community Safety Aspects are considered. It is important to mention here that, the existing two lane Joydevpur-Chandra-Tangail- Elenga (JCTE) road is being upgraded to four-lane under SASEC road connectivity project. The SMVT will be constructed along right side of the upgraded road. As SMVT is a part of the main structure of the road, there is no other alternative for site selection for the project. As per the project will be based on the upgraded four-lane Joydevpur-Chandra-Tangail-Elenga Road, alternative route alignment for SMVT construction was not considered in the design stage. Moreover, as there is no alternative option of road alignment selection, Environmental, Ecological and social aspect was not considered in the alternative analysis as well.

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CHAPTER SEVEN: IDENTIFICATION PREDICTION AND EVALUATION OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS Identification Prediction and Evaluation of Potential Impacts This chapter identifies the possible impacts of different environmental and social parameters due to the construction and operation activities of the proposed project. The environmental impacts can be categorized as primary and secondary. Primary impacts are those, which are attributed directly to the project and secondary impacts are those, which are indirectly induced and typically include the associated investment and changes pattern of social and economic activities by the proposed project. The impacts have been identified for the project assuming that the pollution due to the existing activities has already been covered under baseline environmental monitoring and is expected to continue to remain same till the operation of the project. The Project activities can be divided into three distinct stages of the Project life cycle: (a) Preconstruction stage, (b) construction of the SMVT lane, bridge and culverts (Construction Phase) and (b) operation and maintenance of the SMVT lane, bridge and culverts (Operation Phase). Scope of the Assessment The scope of the assessment captures the understanding of the envisaged risks and impacts assessed during the scoping exercise of this impact assessment study as well as the risks identified during subsequent physical baseline assessment and impact evaluation process. The key environmental and social issues and risks identified are further elaborated in the following sections.

Assessment Methodology Impact identification and assessment starts with scoping and continues through the remainder of the IA Process. The principal IA steps are comprised of: . Impact prediction: to determine what could potentially happen to resources/receptors as a consequence of the Project and its associated activities. . Impact evaluation: to evaluate the significance of the predicted impacts by considering their magnitude and likelihood of occurrence, and the sensitivity, value and/or importance of the affected resource/receptor. . Mitigation and enhancement: to identify appropriate and justified measures to mitigate negative impacts and enhance positive impacts. The detail of the methodology has been described in the previous Chapter 1.9.

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Table 7-1: Impact Identification Matrix for the Proposed Project Potential Environmental, Ecological and Social Component Impacts/Risks Activity

Aesthetic & Visual Impact Impact Visual & Aesthetic Landscape Land use Soil quality Sediment Quality Quality Surface Water Quantity Surface Water Quality Ground Water Quantity Ground Water Air Quality GHG Emission Noise Level level Vibration Pattern Drainage River) & Traffic (Road Ecology Terrestrial Ecology Aquatic safety & Health Occupational and Livelihood Economy Employment Displacement Population Structure and Cultural Social Services & Infrastructure Safety & Community Health Social Conflict Pre-Construction Phase

Land Acquisition     Tree Cutting       Site cleaning/ Site            Preparation Construction Phase Establishment of labor camp and             influx of workers Transportation of construction          materials by road Transportation of personnel by road      

Temporary sites       used for storage of

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Potential Environmental, Ecological and Social Component Impacts/Risks Activity

Aesthetic & Visual Impact Impact Visual & Aesthetic Landscape Land use Soil quality Sediment Quality Quality Surface Water Quantity Surface Water Quality Ground Water Quantity Ground Water Air Quality GHG Emission Noise Level level Vibration Pattern Drainage River) & Traffic (Road Ecology Terrestrial Ecology Aquatic safety & Health Occupational and Livelihood Economy Employment Displacement Population Structure and Cultural Social Services & Infrastructure Safety & Community Health Social Conflict bulk construction materials Operation of heavy instrument and           machineries Maintenance and replacement of       vehicles and equipment Excavation and          backfilling Concreting works          Abstraction of ground and surface    water Generation, storage and       disposal of construction waste

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Potential Environmental, Ecological and Social Component Impacts/Risks Activity

Aesthetic & Visual Impact Impact Visual & Aesthetic Landscape Land use Soil quality Sediment Quality Quality Surface Water Quantity Surface Water Quality Ground Water Quantity Ground Water Air Quality GHG Emission Noise Level level Vibration Pattern Drainage River) & Traffic (Road Ecology Terrestrial Ecology Aquatic safety & Health Occupational and Livelihood Economy Employment Displacement Population Structure and Cultural Social Services & Infrastructure Safety & Community Health Social Conflict Generation of solid and liquid waste          from labor camp and disposal Influx of construction     workers Employment generation    Operation Phase Movement of        vehicles Transportation of    products Employment generation   

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Impacts during Pre-Construction Phase

Land Acquisition The proposed SMVT road connectivity project will be constructed on the right side of JCTE road. Currently, the existing road is being upgraded to four lane highway. Land acquisition is one of the major project related impacts which will cause disturbance to the effected residence of the project. However, to construct the SMVT lane, land acquisition will be required. It is proposed in the revised Development Project Proposal to acquire additional 85.311 acre of land for additional SMVT lane. According to the consultation with responsible authority it was found that highest land will be acquired in Mirzapur upazila. The project affected people will get compensation according to the national law and policy. The affected people upon submission of the required legal papers, the local people are getting compensation for land acquisition. As a lot of people are likely to be affected by land acquisition, therefore the significance is considered as high.

Impact Land Acquisition Impact Nature Direct Indirect Induced Impact Scale Within Project Area

Frequency Limited to pre-construction Phase Extent and Trans Project Site Local Regional National location boundary Medium Permanent Permanent Impact Duration Short Term Long-term – Term – Mitigated no mitigation Impact Intensity/ Insignificant Low Medium High Very High severity Potential for irreplaceable Low Medium High loss of resources

Medium - Magnitude Insignificant Low Medium-low High Very High high

Probability of Unlikely Low Medium High Definite Impact

Impact Very low Low Medium-Low Medium-high High Very High Significance Significance of impact consider high

Loss of Trees/Vegetation During pre-construction phase it will require trees and vegetation removal for land preparation of the project. During consultation with local Forest Department it was found that, they have

7-5 SASEC Road Connectivity Project www.eqms.com.bd Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project prepared an inventory of the trees to be affected. Moreover, appointed consultants also prepared list of trees to be affected by the project (Table 5-10 and Table 5-11).

However, form consultation it was also evident that, most of the trees which will be affected are common in the project area/ locality. It is important to mention here that, no Red listed tree according to IUCN Red Data book 2011, will be required to cut down during site preparation or road construction. Rather all the tree species are locally common and are of Least Concern category. Trees are of timber value, fruit bearing and medicinal in nature. The nearest protected area (Bhawal National Park) is located around 8.99 km away from the project site. Therefore, the impact of loss of trees is considered as medium high-which indicates high number of trees rather the species diversity to be affected by the project.

Impact Impact due to loss of trees Impact Nature Direct Indirect Induced Impact Scale Within Road Alignment

Frequency Limited to pre-construction phase Extent and Trans Project Site Local Regional National location boundary Medium Permanent Permanent Impact Duration Short Term Long-term – Term – Mitigated no mitigation Impact Intensity/ Insignificant Low Medium High Very High severity Potential for irreplaceable loss Low Medium High of resources

Medium- Medium Magnitude Insignificant Low High Very High low high

Probability of Unlikely Low Medium High Definite Impact

Medium- Medium- Very low Low High Very High Impact Low high Significance Significance of impact consider medium high Impacts on Archaeological/Historical/ Sites There is no archaeological/historical site very close with the proposed project. Therefore, no impact is expected.

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Public utility Due to the proposed project, public utilities will be affected creating disruption of public services and inconvenience to the local residents. This impact is temporary and may be considered as moderately negative in nature.

Impacts during Construction Phase Environmental effects of the construction phase are generally temporary in nature and can be mitigated with proper mitigation measures. The mitigation measures are described in the following Environmental Management Plan (EMP) section of the report.

Setting up Labor Camp It would be required to set up a labor camp for the proposed SMVT project. Improper site selection for labor camp may affect environment of the site. Improper management of solid and liquid waste from the labor camp can pollute the environment in the project area. During the construction stage for the site cleaning and other purposes employment opportunities will be created. On the other hand, influx of workers and setting up labor camp in a settlement area can create social conflict. The impact of the labor camp establishment is assessed to be Low.

Impact Establishment of labour camp Impact Nature Direct Indirect Induced

Impact Scale Within labour camp and its surrounding

Frequency Limited to construction Phase Trans Extent and location Project Site Local Regional National boundary Permanent Medium Permanent Impact Duration Short Term Long-term no Term Mitigated – – mitigation Impact Intensity/ Insignificant Low Medium High Very High severity Potential for irreplaceable loss Low Medium High of resources

Medium- Medium Very Magnitude Insignificant Low High low - high High

Probability of Unlikely Low Medium High Definite Impact

Impact Significance Very low Low High

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Medium- Medium- Very Low high High Significance of impact consider low

Air Pollution The potential impacts on air quality are expected during the construction phase primarily from (i) transport, storage and handling of construction materials, (ii) operation of vehicle and machineries and (iii) operation of DG sets and iv) fugitive emissions during the construction of pavement. During the operation phase, emissions will be primarily from the increased vehicular emissions, as the access controlled road will attract more traffic on the project road with better speed and lesser congestion.

Fugitive Emission Fugitive dust emissions due to the proposed project will be associated with particulate emissions during the construction of pavement and during the transportation of the construction material. The dust generated would be primarily from handling and transportation of fill material and re-entrainment of dust during movement of the vehicles on unpaved roads. However, generation of such fugitive dust is likely to be governed by micrometeorological conditions (wind speed and direction). Effects of dust emissions are heightened by dry weather and high wind speeds and effectively reduces when soils and/or ambient conditions are wet. However, the dust generated from site development and construction activities will generally settles down in adjacent areas (i.e. < 500 m from the source) within a short period due to its larger particle size.

Emissions from Vehicles / Equipment The construction materials will be transported via road ways using heavy vehicles. Settlements lying in route will be impacted by vehicular emissions. However, since this is a linear project the transportation activity will not be concentrated at any particular location.

Operation of Plant and Machinery During construction activities, the following point sources of emission would be present in the construction camp/laydown areas:

• DG sets for backup power supply arrangements at work sites;

• Hot mix Plant for preparation of bituminous mix;

• Batching Plant for preparation of concrete.

Combustion of fuel in these plants and machineries typically happens at high temperatures resulting in generation of considerable amounts of NOx. The SO2 concentration in the gaseous emissions depends on the Sulphur content of the fuel being used while the particulate

7-8 SASEC Road Connectivity Project www.eqms.com.bd Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project matter principally comprises of unburnt Carbon particles. The hot mix plant would be provided with adequate pollution control devices e.g. cyclones to ensure that the dust generated by the plants is arrested. The emissions from these plants will be discharged into the atmosphere through a stack of height of at least 10 m from ground level to ensure proper dispersal of the pollutants in the surrounding air shed.

Impact Significance

A. Dust Generation Most of the construction activities mentioned above have the potential to generate dust. The extent of impacts from dust will depend on the exact location of these activities and on the weather conditions; stronger winds and dry conditions will enhance the transfer of dust, while damp or wet condition will reduce this impact. Construction dust dispersion is expected to be localized due to the relatively high mass of the dust particles which will tend to confine the most significant dust impacts to the area within 250-350 m of the source. The potential for dust emissions during the wet season will be small, due to the moistening of any dust by rainfall. During the dry season, dust suppression techniques will be used and stockpiles will be covered to minimize fugitive dust emissions from spoil storage. As the dust is expected to settle within 100 m and dust suppression techniques practiced, the main receptors would be workers on site and neighboring settlement.

On the basis of the above factors, the magnitude of the impact associated with the emission of dust during construction activities is predicted to be medium and the significance of the impacts is assessed to be low.

Impact Air Quality Degradation due to dust generation Impact Nature Direct Indirect Induced Impact Scale Construction site Frequency Limited to construction Phase Trans Extent and location Project Site Local Regional National boundary Medium Long- Permanent Permanent Impact Duration Short Term – Term term – Mitigated no mitigation Impact Intensity/ Insignificant Low Medium High Very High severity Potential for irreplaceable loss of Low Medium High resources

Medium Medium Very Magnitude Insignificant Low High low high High

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Probability of Impact Unlikely Low Medium High Definite

Medium- Medium- Very Very low Low High Impact Significance Low high High

Significance of impact consider low B. Exhaust Emissions Heavy equipment such as cranes, and compactors will be used onsite. Emissions from these equipment and diesel generator sets used to generate power will cause impacts to ambient air quality. Transportation of construction material using heavy trucks will also contribute to exhaust emissions.

The implementation of the good site practices, such as the regular maintenance of vehicles and equipment, using cleaner fuels and switching off vehicles when not in use will reduce exhaust emissions from the operation of the diesel-powered construction equipment and therefore minimize adverse air quality impacts. The air quality impacts associated with the vehicular and equipment emissions during construction activities are assessed to be low potential significance.

Impact Air Quality Degradation due to exhaust emission Impact Nature Direct Indirect Induced Impact Scale Construction site Frequency Limited to construction Phase Trans Extent and location Project Site Local Regional National boundary Permanent Medium Long- Permanent – Impact Duration Short Term – no Term term Mitigated mitigation Impact Intensity/ Insignificant Low Medium High Very High severity Potential for irreplaceable loss Low Medium High of resources

Medium- Very Magnitude Insignificant Low Medium-low High high High

Probability of Unlikely Low Medium High Definite Impact

Impact Medium- Medium- Very Very low Low High Significance Low high High

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Significance of impact consider low

Noise Pollution and vibration During the construction phase of the proposed project, noise level and vibration could be increased as a result of

I. Operation of machineries and equipment II. Operation of transportation vehicle

Operation of Construction Machinery/Equipment

Operation of heavy machinery and equipment and vehicular movement during construction period may result in the generation of increased noise levels. The noise related disturbance is likely to be experienced by communities residing in proximity to the Project Road. However, construction activities at a particular location would be intermittent in nature and thus the impacts are assessed to be of medium scale.

Noise and vibration from Vehicular Traffic

Vehicles procuring goods, material and manpower to the site will pass through settlements adjoining the Project Road and also use approach roads to the work sites / construction camps. This will result in additional traffic on the Project Road. Resultantly an increase in noise levels in the settlements within the study area is expected. The impact will be more significant for residents living adjacent to the road where houses have been noticed to be located immediately adjacent to the RoW. The noise pressure level caused by movement of a heavy vehicles (say a truck, at a distance of about 5 m from the road), has been measured to be as high as 75- 80 dB(A) though it gets averaged out when expressed in Leq terms. However, the daily count of construction vehicles will be lower in number in comparison to the regular number of vehicle that ply on the existing road. Overall there will be an increase in incremental noise levels at settlements near the Project Road during the period of construction activity and the impacts are expected to be of medium scale.

Assessment of Impact The extent of the impact on the noise quality will be local, duration will be for short term (spread across the working months over the entire construction period) and the scale will be medium. The receptor sensitivity will be high as there are stretches along the corridor which are heavily buildup and have noise sensitive receptors immediately adjacent to the Project Road. On the other hand, Vibrations will be generated by movements of heavy construction equipment, pile driving operations, operation of crushing, ballasting and aggregating plants will disturb the local residents unless operation times are fixed by discussing with local representatives. The vibration caused by some of the construction activities such as the roller compaction of the

7-11 SASEC Road Connectivity Project www.eqms.com.bd Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project embankment, movement of heavy material transport vehicles, driving of piles may be detrimental to the neighboring structures. Overall the impact significance is assessed to be Medium-Low.

Impact Impact on Noise Level and Vibration Impact Nature Direct Indirect Induced Impact Scale Within the project location Frequency Limited to construction Phase Extent and Trans Project Site Local Regional National location boundary Medium Permanent Permanent Impact Duration Short Term Long-term – Term – Mitigated no mitigation Impact Intensity/ Insignificant Low Medium High Very High severity Potential for irreplaceable loss Low Medium High of resources

Medium- Magnitude Insignificant Low Medium-low High Very High high

Probability of Unlikely Low Medium High Definite Impact

Impact Medium- Very low Low Medium-Low High Very High Significance high

Impact on Surface Water Bodies Sources

. Construction of the bridges within the wetted area of the Kodda 1, Kodda 2 and Bymail . Construction of the small culverts in alignment with SMVT lane

Construction of Bridges As per the revised project proposal, the alignment of the SMVT will pass through surface water bodies. Bridges at three locations namely Kodda 1 at chainage 3+556, Kodda 2 at chainage 4+109 and Baimail at chainage 5+208 has been proposed in order to make SMVT lane effectively workable. It is notable that, Kodda 1 bridge will have only 2 span and Kodda 2 and Baimail bridge will have 5 span. The construction of the piers of the bridges is likely to obstruct the flow of the river.

Construction of small culverts

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It is also mentionable here that, there are numerous ponds and borrow pits alongside the ROW which are likely to be affected. However, most of these ponds are seasonal in nature and go dry during dry (December- April). Most of these ponds are used for non-commercial fishing purpose. To minimize the impact on surface water body and drainage pattern, a total of 47 culvert has been proposed to construct. Hence, no significant impact is anticipated on these water bodies during this phase.

Assessment of Impact The extent of the impact on surface water will be local, duration will be short term and scale will be limited to construction phase. Surface water might get contaminated due to the disposal of construction waste generated due to the project activity. Uncontrolled dumping of wastes, sewage, dredge materials, and accidental spillage of fuels and chemicals into the water bodies may greatly pollute them. Disposal of sewage and wastes from the construction camps to surface water bodies without treatment will deteriorate the water quality. The seasonal beels and ponds are unlikely to be affected from construction activities. This contamination will not only endanger the aquatic life but will also result in jeopardizing the health of natives that use this water for meeting domestic requirement. Considering all these things, the impact is considered as Low.

Impact Impact on Surface Water bodies Impact Nature Direct Indirect Induced Impact Scale Construction site Frequency Limited to construction Phase Extent and Trans Project Site Local Regional National location boundary Permanent Medium Permanent Impact Duration Short Term Long-term no Term Mitigated – – mitigation Impact Intensity/ Insignificant Low Medium High Very High severity Potential for irreplaceable Low Medium High loss of resources

Medium- Medium - Magnitude Insignificant Low High Very High low high

Probability of Unlikely Low Medium High Definite Impact Impact Medium- Medium- Very low Low High Very High Significance Low high

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Impact of Surface Water Quality Sources of Impact The impact on the surface water quality can arise due to: . Runoff from the embankment . Runoff from the Construction camp

Runoff from Embankment

Impact on surface water quality of natural drainage channels and community water bodies may arise from discharge of sediment laden surface run-off during the construction of the embankment. The sediments carried by the runoff can increase the turbidity of the water courses and result in potential determination of water quality.

Runoff from Construction Yard

As the construction material would be stored in the construction yard the runoff from the construction yard is also likely to contain huge quantities of sediments. In addition, the oil and grease is expected in the run off from the maintenance areas. However, mitigation measures e.g. garland drain, oil water separator and sedimentation chamber has already been planned so the magnitude of impact from the runoff water is expected to be low.

Impact Impact on Surface Water Quality Impact Nature Direct Indirect Induced Impact Scale Construction site Frequency Limited to construction Phase Extent and Trans Project Site Local Regional National location boundary Permanent Medium Permanent Impact Duration Short Term Long-term no Term Mitigated – – mitigation Impact Intensity/ Insignificant Low Medium High Very High severity Potential for irreplaceable Low Medium High loss of resources

Medium- Medium - Very Magnitude Insignificant Low High low high High

Probability of Unlikely Low Medium High Definite Impact Impact Medium- Medium- Very Very low Low High Significance Low high High

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Groundwater Contamination During the construction phase, increased demand of groundwater is expected due to the construction activity and domestic purpose at the constriction camp. Groundwater is likely to be contaminated during the construction phase by unplanned events such as leaks and spills of oil, lubricants, fuel from heavy equipment, improper handling of sewage or chemical/fuel storage.

Moreover, Uncontrolled extraction of water may also affect availability of waters to locals. In addition to that, construction waste, if left unattended will result in forming leachate which will percolate through the soil strata and will reach underground water table and hence, will end up contaminating it. Therefore, the impact on ground water quality is considered as Low.

Impact Ground Water Quality Impact Nature Direct Indirect Induced Impact Scale Construction site Frequency Limited to construction Phase Extent and Project Local Regional National Trans boundary location Site Mediu Long- Permanent Permanent no Impact Duration Short Term m – term Mitigated mitigation Term – Impact Intensity/ Insignifican Low Medium High Very High severity t Potential for irreplaceable loss Low Medium High of resources Insignifican Medium- Medium Magnitude Low High Very High t low high

Medium- Medium- Very low Low High Very High Impact Low high Significance Significance of impact consider low

Soil Compaction and Pollution The soil at the proposed SMVT lane and adjacent can be polluted due to improper storage of construction wastes, such as metal cutting, debris, packaging materials which may contaminate soil at the site of construction. It can also be polluted from accidental oil spillage from construction vehicles and public vehicles, liquid and solid waste from construction camp and improper disposal. Accidental spillage or inappropriate management of fuels, engine oil and hazardous chemicals during the maintenance and replacement of vehicles and equipment’s can pollute the surface soil.

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During transportation of machine and materials, the cultivable lands beyond the proposed ROW may get compacted due to movement of vehicle and construction equipment, setting up construction camps, resulting in reduction in agriculture yield. Potential sources of impacts to soil quality due to the construction phase activities include:

. Site clearing at project site and adjacent areas, . Civil work activities; . Transportation of construction material, equipment and personnel; . Storage of construction materials; Impact Assessment

The extent of the impact on soil resource will be local, duration will be short term and sensitivity will be low. The soil of the project area has been tested to understand quality of the soil in terms of selected parameter. At the same time literature was also reviewed to get preliminary idea about the soil quality at the project site and adjacent area. The quality suggested that that soil quality in the project area are mainly sandy loam to silty clay loam. The soil does not support any Soil samples were found to be slightly alkaline in nature (i.e. pH between 7.31 and 7.8). The project area from Joydebpur to Mirzapur is mostly buildup area and does not support agricultural activates. On the other hand, from Mirzapur to Elenga the surrounding area is yet not buildup. Agricultural areas can be seen on the right side of the right side of the project site. The amount of land required for construction of the road compared to the total agricultural land is very insignificant. Considering above mentioned criteria, the impact on soil is considered as low

Impact Soil Pollution Impact Nature Direct Indirect Induced Impact Scale Construction site Frequency Limited to construction Phase Extent and Trans Project Site Local Regional National location boundary Medium Permanent Permanent Impact Duration Short Term Long-term – Term – Mitigated no mitigation Impact Intensity/ Insignificant Low Medium High Very High severity Potential for irreplaceable loss Low Medium High of resources

Medium Magnitude Insignificant Low Medium low High Very High high

Probability of Unlikely Low Medium High Definite Impact

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Medium- Medium Very low Low High Very High Impact Low high Significance Significance of impact consider very low Soil Contamination from Waste Handling Soil may become contaminated due to improper handling and storage of waste. The majority of the generated wastes will be non-hazardous. General construction waste will comprise of surplus or off-specification materials such as concrete, steel cuttings/filings, wooden planks, packaging paper or plastic, wood, plastic pipes, metals, etc. During the construction phase of the Project, solid waste generation will mainly be concrete waste. Domestic wastes consisting of food waste, plastic, glass, aluminum cans and waste packages will also be generated by the construction workforce.

A small proportion of the waste generated during construction will be hazardous and may include: . Spent batteries or spent acid/alkali from the maintenance of machinery on site . Used paint, engine oils, hydraulic fluids and waste fuel . Spent mineral oils and cleaning fluids from mechanical machinery; and . Spent solvents from equipment cleaning activities If improperly managed, hazardous waste could create impacts not only to land but also to local air quality, water quality, and human health. The construction contractor will handle, store and dispose of waste in accordance with applicable GOB guidelines. It is to mention that. there is a potential for direct, long-term negative impacts to soil quality from improper waste handling. however, the impacts to soil quality are assessed to be low.

Impact Soil contamination from Waste Handling Impact Nature Direct Indirect Induced Impact Scale Construction site Frequency Limited to construction Phase Trans Extent and location Project Site Local Regional National boundary Medium Long- Permanent Permanent Impact Duration Short Term – – Term term Mitigated no mitigation Impact Intensity/ Insignificant Low Medium High Very High severity Potential for irreplaceable loss of Low Medium High resources Magnitude Insignificant Low High Very High

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Medium- Medium low high

Probability of Impact Unlikely Low Medium High Definite

Medium- Medium- Very low Low High Very High Impact Significance Low high

Significance of impact consider very low Waste Pollution During the construction work of the proposed SMVT lane, different types of solid waste will be generated from construction activities and construction camp. Organic waste like remaining foods, leafs, papers, straw etc. and inorganic waste like plastic, polythene etc. from the construction camp and constructions waste like piece of rod, tin, bamboo, stone, wood etc. will be generated. The construction waste will also include wastewater, oil spillage from machinery and solid waste etc. Improper collection, storage and disposal of solid waste will be impact on the land, water, aesthetics and visual impacts, ecosystem, community and occupational health and safety etc. This will result in unhygienic conditions, health risk to work force and general public at the camp site. The impact significance is assessed as follows.

Impact Waste Pollution Impact Nature Direct Indirect Induced Impact Scale Construction site Frequency Limited to construction Phase Trans Extent and location Project Site Local Regional National boundary Medium Long- Permanent Permanent Impact Duration Short Term – – Term term Mitigated no mitigation Impact Intensity/ Insignificant Low Medium High Very High severity Potential for irreplaceable loss of Low Medium High resources

Medium Magnitude Insignificant Low Medium-low High Very High high

Probability of Impact Unlikely Low Medium High Definite

Medium- Very low Low Medium Low High Very High Impact Significance high

Significance of impact consider Medium low

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Substantial quantity of waste materials which include both organic and inorganic and are unsuitable for pavement works were dumped in the working areas by the Gazipur City Corporation, Kaliakoir

Pouroshova and other various local bodies, industries and markets at different chainages in the contract area (Lot no.WP-01and some part of WP-02). For upgrading JCTE Highway from 2 lanes to 4 lanes it has become imperative to remove the dumped garbage materials from the limit lines of pavement development works. The issue had been brought up in the meeting of the Project Implementation Committee on 17 October 2016 for discussion and decision. The meeting decided that the dumped materials should be quantified following pre-work and post-work methods. A committee was formed headed by the Addl. Project Director (SE, RHD, SASEC), and other members being Deputy Team Leader, Environmental Specialist and Quantity Surveyor of Project Implementation Consultant (PIC), Deputy Project Manager (SDE, RHD) of Lot No. WP-OI (SASEC) and Contractor's Project.

It may be mentioned that the assessed quantities were derived at field by recording average dumped waste materials after excavation at selected sections without completely removing dumped waste materials from the work areas. During execution of removing waste materials unsuitable for pavement works these quantities may vary as per field conditions. The PIC recommended that the Contractor for WP- 01 shall be instructed to remove the sludge and contractor may be paid by making necessary variation of the contract (Source: RDPP, February 2018.

Drainage Congestion Potential impact on drainage and topography viz. alteration of micro-drainage pattern and water logging is generally not anticipated within the study area as adequate cross drainage structures will be developed along the Project Road. However, three new bridges will be constructed under the SMVT lane project. Additionally, 68766 new culverts will be constructed to minimize the impact of drainage congestion due to implementation of this project. The details of culverts to be constructed within the project road listed in Annex- E. As construction of culverts or minor bridges may necessitate for flow diversions at work locations, appropriate construction practices will be adopted to ensure that the flow of the channel is not impeded in any manner. Considering all the above mentioned factors, the significance of impact is considered as Low.

Assessment of Impact

The extension of the impact is local, duration will be short term and sensitivity will be low. Accordingly, the impact magnitude is assessed to be low. The sensitivity will be medium

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(considering the sensitivities of water bodies to change in water quality or physical disturbance) and the overall impact significance is assessed to be Very Low.

Impact Drainage Congestion Impact Nature Direct Indirect Induced Impact Scale Construction site Frequency Limited to construction Phase Extent and Trans Project Site Local Regional National location boundary Permanent Medium Permanent Impact Duration Short Term Long-term no Term Mitigated – – mitigation Impact Intensity/ Insignificant Low Medium High Very High severity Potential for irreplaceable Low Medium High loss of resources

Medium- Medium Magnitude Insignificant Low High Very High low - high

Probability of Unlikely Low Medium High Definite Impact

Medium- Medium- Very low Low High Very High Impact Low high Significance Significance of impact consider very low Impact on Biological Environment Sources

The impact on the ecology and biodiversity can arise due to: . Felling of trees along the proposed road alignment; . Generation of noise, vibration and illumination; . Partial filling up of surface water bodies . Surface runoff from construction site.

Assessment of Impact

The species composition of the avenue plantation shows that species are mostly planted and are available in the study area. Felling of such trees may not affect the species composition within the study area. The vegetation alongside the road provide habitat for small mammals, common birds and reptiles. The ecological baseline study reveals that, there are no threatened and endangered animal species alongside the SMVT lane and its study area. The felling of trees may result in disturbance to certain faunal species; they are likely to move away to other

7-20 SASEC Road Connectivity Project www.eqms.com.bd Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project suitable habitats, within the study area. The faunal species reported from the study area are quite adapted to an urban environment. The generation of noise and vibration and illumination due to construction activities may cause disturbance to such fauna and species are most likely to move away from the disturbed are to suitable habitats.

Aquatic Habitat, Aquatic Flora & Fauna The ecological health of the drainage channels is poor; however, water bodies like certain ponds used for noncommercial fish production along the SMVT lane support aquatic ecosystem especially cultured fishes. It has been established during baseline studies, that there are fishing activities in such waterbodies. As mentioned above the construction activities may result in partial filing of some water bodies. Surface runoff from the construction site, if directly discharged into the surface water bodies, may affect the water quality especially in terms of turbidity and dissolved oxygen content (increase of suspended solid, dissolved solid and organic matter), which ultimately deteriorates the ecological primary productivity of the aquatic ecosystem.

Assessment of Impact Significance Establishment of contractor’s camps and warehouses for storage of equipment, material etc. shall involve clearing of vegetation from the area causing a negative impact. During the entire construction period, dust laden polluted air will form a dust film on the leaves, thus blocking sunshine and stomata, thereby hindering photosynthesis process and cause quaintly causing detrimental effect on the plant health. The scale of impact will be medium low, as modified habitat will be disturbed due proposed construction activity. The duration of the impact will be short term and extent will be local. The resource sensitivity will be medium and thus the impact significance is assessed to be Medium High. Impact Impact on Biological Environment Impact Nature Direct Indirect Induced Impact Scale Construction site Frequency Limited to construction Phase Extent and Trans Project Site Local Regional National location boundary Permanent Medium Permanent Impact Duration Short Term Long-term no Term Mitigated – – mitigation Impact Intensity/ Insignificant Low Medium High Very High severity Potential for irreplaceable Low Medium High loss of resources

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Medium- Medium Magnitude Insignificant Low High Very High low - high

Probability of Unlikely Low Medium High Definite Impact

Medium- Medium- Very low Low High Very High Impact Low high Significance Significance of impact consider Medium High

Occupational Health and Safety During the construction of the proposed SMVT lane, health and safety of the workers is a major concern. The workers can face occupational health hazards such as minor or major injuries namely i) overexertion ii) Slip, trip and fall iii) working at heights iv) Struck by objects and moving machinery, etc. due to lack of general safety requirements and precautions applicable for the proposed SMVT lane construction. During earthwork, due to movement of construction vehicles and operation of heavy equipment noise, air and dust pollution will be occurred which poses potential occupational health and safety threat to the workers working in the project. Longtime exposure with the high noise level is hazardous for the construction workers. In case of absence of quality drinking water, sanitation, accommodation, transport facility etc. in the construction camps worker’s health and safety will be affected.

Assessment of Impact Significance

The impact duration will be short term and limited to the actual duration of the construction activities; the extents of impacts will be local. So the magnitude of impacts of the construction activities on Occupational Health and Safety will be medium. The receptor sensitivity is high and the impact significance is assessed to be Medium Low.

Impact Impact on Occupational Health and Safety Impact Nature Direct Indirect Induced Impact Scale Construction site Frequency Limited to construction Phase Extent and Trans Project Site Local Regional National location boundary Permanent Medium Permanent Impact Duration Short Term Long-term no Term Mitigated – – mitigation Impact Intensity/ Insignificant Low Medium High Very High severity Potential for irreplaceable Low Medium High loss of resources

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Medium- Medium Magnitude Insignificant Low High Very High low - high

Probability of Unlikely Low Medium High Definite Impact

Medium- Medium- Very low Low High Very High Impact Low high Significance Significance of impact consider Medium Low Community Health and Safety The local community near the construction site will also be impacted due to the construction activities. Due to the movement of construction vehicles for the transportation of construction materials at the project site the number of vehicles will be increased and traffic congestions may occur. In addition, road accidents may happen due to movement of construction vehicles with construction materials and equipment, on the roads and diversions and operation of machineries and equipment’s during construction stage. Specially the school going children are the victim of accidents in the approach road. Noise and dust pollution is likely to have impact on the local community. Communicable diseases can spread among the local community from the influx of the construction workers and improper management of construction camp. However, project site is away from local community so the impacts on the community health and safety can be assessed as Medium Low.

Assessment of Impact Significance

The impact duration will be short term and limited to the construction period. So the magnitude of impacts on Community Health and Safety will be low. The receptor sensitivity is high and the impact significance is assessed to be Medium Low.

Impact Impact on Community Health and Safety Impact Nature Direct Indirect Induced Impact Scale Construction site Frequency Limited to construction Phase Extent and Trans Project Site Local Regional National location boundary Permanent Medium Permanent Impact Duration Short Term Long-term no Term Mitigated – – mitigation Impact Intensity/ Insignificant Low Medium High Very High severity Potential for irreplaceable Low Medium High loss of resources

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Medium- Medium Magnitude Insignificant Low High Very High low - high

Probability of Unlikely Low Medium High Definite Impact

Medium- Medium- Very low Low High Very High Impact Low high Significance Significance of impact consider Medium Low Influx of Construction Workers and Prevalence of Diseases During the construction phase of the proposed project, a large number of workers will be engaged and influx of construction workers will impact on the local environment. It will create extra pressure on the local available resources like housing, water resource etc. On the other hand, workers can be hired from the local community and surrounding districts. The influx of workers to the community may cause impacts to community health and safety, especially an increase in prevalence of diseases and social conflict. The main anxiety for the community is food and waterborne diseases, fecal elements contamination into water. There is possibility to increase sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV/AIDS because of influx of the workers. The impact to public health and safety is evaluated to be of Low significance.

Impact Influx of Construction Workers and Prevalence of Diseases Impact Nature Direct Indirect Induced Impact Scale Construction site Frequency Limited to construction Phase Extent and Trans Project Site Local Regional National location boundary Permanent Medium Permanent Impact Duration Short Term Long-term no Term Mitigated – – mitigation Impact Intensity/ Insignificant Low Medium High Very High severity Potential for irreplaceable Low Medium High loss of resources

Medium- Medium Magnitude Insignificant Low High Very High low - high

Probability of Unlikely Low Medium High Definite Impact

Medium- Medium- Very low Low High Very High Impact Low high Significance Significance of impact consider Low

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Employment Generation and Benefit to Local Business The construction phase activities will facilitate intermixing of local and migrant workforce (skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled). Also, the transfer of knowledge will not only be limited at the level of the workforce but also at the level of the contractors and sub-contractors who would benefit from it. Furthermore, local community also will be benefited by the different types of local business. The local enterprises, particularly involved in production and sale of construction materials are potential benefactors of the civil works involved in the project.

Impacts during Operation Phase

Air Pollution After completion of the proposed project, it will be open for all. Due to the improved condition of the road, it is expected that the traffic level will be increased which will impact on the air quality (dust, particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, lead) affecting the immediate vicinity of the SMVT lane. Sources

With the operation of the new SMVT lane there will be an increase in the traffic volume. Both motorized and non-motorized slow-moving vehicle will be plying over the SMVT lane. Tough non-motorized vehicles will not have any impact on the air quality, increased number of motorized vehicle likely to result an increase in air pollution levels in the areas adjoining the project site.

Assessment of impact

In the existing scenario, due to lesser carriageway, movement of motorized and non-motorized vehicles on the road, presence of commercial and residential areas along the road with some industrial activity, the average vehicle speed is slow, which results in more tail pipe emissions. In the post project scenario, improved road conditions and congestion free traffic movement will reduce emissions. Overall, even with the increased traffic density, the impact on air quality will increase only marginally due to the vehicular emissions. Therefore, the impact on air quality is assessed as Medium Low.

Impact Impact on Air Quality Impact Nature Direct Indirect Induced Frequency Limited to operation phase Extent and Trans Project Site Local Regional National location boundary Permanent Medium Permanent Impact Duration Short Term Long-term no Term Mitigated – – mitigation

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Impact Intensity/ Insignificant Low Medium High Very High severity Potential for irreplaceable Low Medium High loss of resources

Medium- Medium Magnitude Insignificant Low High Very High low - high

Probability of Unlikely Low Medium High Definite Impact

Medium- Medium- Very low Low High Very High Impact Low high Significance Significance of impact consider Medium Low Noise Pollution The noise pollution during the operations stage will be primarily due to the operation of the vehicles. Since there will be an increase in the number of vehicle plying on the Project Road, the noise levels are expected to increase. There are a number of sensitive receptors which are close to the Project Road especially in areas.

Assessment of Impact The upgradation of road will also result in reduced roughness. However, since the sensitive receptors are present very close to the project road, the magnitude of impact will remain medium and the receptor sensitivity will also be medium. Therefore, the impact significance will be Low.

Impact Impact on Noise Level Impact Nature Direct Indirect Induced Frequency Limited to operation phase Extent and Trans Project Site Local Regional National location boundary Permanent Medium Permanent Impact Duration Short Term Long-term – no Term Mitigated – mitigation Impact Intensity/ Insignificant Low Medium High Very High severity Potential for irreplaceable Low Medium High loss of resources

Medium- Medium Magnitude Insignificant Low High Very High low - high

Probability of Unlikely Low Medium High Definite Impact

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Medium- Medium- Very low Low High Very High Impact Low high Significance Significance of impact consider Low Impact on Community Health and Safety The development of the new SMVT lane would improve the geometrics of the alignment smooth the regional transport between northern part of Bangladesh with other areas of Bangladesh. As a very large number of fast moving vehicle including truck, bus, covered van, micro bus etc. ply on this road, it is one of the busiest highways of Bangladesh. Sometimes, fast and slow-moving vehicles on the same track conflicts seriously and results in fatal accidents, which has become a common phenomenon here. On the other hand, government has banned slow-moving vehicle for using in the national highway in 2015. It is expected that, the SMVT will resolve this problem and play and important role in the improvement of community health and safety.

Impacts on Socioeconomic Environment Based on the current understanding of the proposed SMVT lane as well as the effective implementation of resettlement action plan will finally off set the potential negative social impacts during the construction stage. Additionally, during the operation stage, the proposed project is likely to have some positive impacts at local and regional level. These positive impacts will include but not be limited to: . Boost in the local economy though effective transport of goods and services . Improved connectivity with between northern region and other areas of Bangladesh. . Creation of more direct and indirect employment and livelihood opportunity especially in transport sector. . Enhanced real estate market . Community development through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

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CHAPTER EIGHT: ENVIRONEMNT MANAGEMENT PLAN

Environment and Social Management Plan The Project specific Environment Management Plan (EMP) has been developed with an aim to avoid, reduce, mitigate, or compensate for adverse environmental and social impacts/risks and to propose enhancement measures. Since, the project is comprised of development of SMVT lane on the right side of the existing JCTE road, which has both positive and negative environmental impacts at the pre-construction, construction and operational period. Potential negative impacts of the project have been assessed in previous Chapter Six. It is, therefore, necessary to manage the environmental issues timely with proper manner with the help of Environmental Management Plan (EMP) in compliance with Environment (DoE) environmental guidelines.

Objective of EMP

The EMP is essential as it will manage the environment by offsetting the negative impacts with possible mitigation measures and enhancing the positive impacts within the allocated fund from the project. Thus, the main objectives of the EMP includes

. Mitigation of potentially adverse impacts which has been assessed in Environmental Impact Assessment Chapter; . Facilitate the implementation of the mitigation measures and proposing an implementation schedule of the proposed mitigation measures; . Develop a monitoring mechanism and identification of monitoring parameters to ensure that all proposed mitigation measures are effectively implemented . Compliance to statuary requirements . Providing a cost estimate for all proposed EMP actions.

On the basis of identification of the environmental impacts linked with the SMVT project activities, an EMP has been prepared which will be followed at the pre-construction, construction and operation stages. While preparing the EMP, Low, Moderately Low, Moderately High, and High impacts are taken into consideration to recommend possible mitigation measures. A mitigation measure will be considered as successful when it complies with the Environmental Quality Standards (EQS), policies, legal requirements set by ADB SPS, 2009 and DoE environmental guidelines and other relevant GoB legal requirements. In absence of DoE’s own EQS, other relevant international or other recognized organization’s quality standard will be applied.

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Table 8-1: Mitigation Measures during Pre- Construction and Construction Phase

Potential Environmental Responsibility Estimated Issues/Activities Proposed Mitigation/Enhancement Measures Impacts Implementation Supervision Cost (BDT) Pre-Construction Period - Before finalization of alignment, all efforts shall District DC Project be ensured to reduce productive land Commissioner Cost requirement. office - Careful alignment shall be ensured at the design stage to minimize resettlement requirement. - Marginal and small land owners or any vulnerable family owning land, while fixing alignment, are to be avoided as much as . Resettlement of Affected possible. Persons Land Acquisition - A separate resettlement plan including . Land use change livelihood restoration component study shall be

done by experienced organization. - Proper compensation shall be provided to the affected people - Preferences to be given in employment opportunity for land loosers during project construction period - Implementation of Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) to be undertaken to address concerns and grievance of the land losers. . Land use change - Minimize the tree cutting as much as possible. Forest Department / RHD Project . Loss of biodiversity - Trees shall be planted at the ration of 1(cut): 3 NGO engagement Cost Loss of tree . Loss of terrestrial habitat (plantation). . Impact on ambient air - The plants shall be taken care for at least 1 year quality after plantation with 100% survival rate.

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Potential Environmental Responsibility Estimated Issues/Activities Proposed Mitigation/Enhancement Measures Impacts Implementation Supervision Cost (BDT) - Local nursery shall be given priority for plant collection. - Indigenous tree species are most likely to be chosen for the tree plantation. - Tree plantation shall be initiated in collaboration with Local Forest Department along and NGOs - A community engagement plan shall be developed in collaboration with local people for tree plantation program. - If any tree enlisted in Red Data Bokk is found growing within the ROW and is required to be removed, it will not be felled but uprooted and transplanted in close consultation with the Forest Department . Land encroachment; - Provide proper layout of construction camp; Contractor RHD Project . Solid and liquid waste - clearly mark work area to prevent unnecessary Cost from the labor camp; or careless clearing; . Social conflict. - Optimum utilization of the site and existing infrastructures; - Construction of additional temporary infrastructures should be minimum; Setting up labor - Minimize soils movement; camp - Labor camp should be constructed at a distance from the water body; - Avoid productive land and away from the settlement during the selection of land for the setup of labor camp; - No solid and liquid waste shall be discharged into the water bodies;

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Potential Environmental Responsibility Estimated Issues/Activities Proposed Mitigation/Enhancement Measures Impacts Implementation Supervision Cost (BDT) - There shall be enough toilet facility in the construction camp. - Instruct workers to avoid creation of noise nuisance; - Instruct workers to maintain clean environment in the camps and its surrounding area. - Keep camps in good order

Construction Period . Ambient Air quality will be - Fit vehicles with appropriate exhaust systems Contractor RHD 20,00,000 affected by vehicle and and emission control devices; equipment exhaust - Machinery emitting visible smoke to be banned emissions and from construction sites; combustion of fuels; - Transportation of material with covered truck . Dust generation from - Covering of stockpile earth excavation, - Maintain vehicles and construction equipment transportation of in good working condition including regular construction materials by servicing; trucks, windblown dust, - Operate the vehicles in a fuel-efficient manner; Air Pollution earth and sand stockpiles - Impose speed limits at 20 km/hour on vehicle during dry period. movement at the worksite to reduce dust emissions; - Construction equipment causing excess pollution (e.g. visible smoke) will be banned from construction sites immediately prior to usage; - Equipping asphalt hot mix and batching plants with fabric filters or wet scrubbers to reduce dust emissions

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Potential Environmental Responsibility Estimated Issues/Activities Proposed Mitigation/Enhancement Measures Impacts Implementation Supervision Cost (BDT) - Water spray to the dry earth/material stockpiles, access roads and bare soils as and when required to minimize the potential for environmental nuisance due to dust; - Increase the watering frequency during periods of high risk (eg. high winds); - Locate asphalt and crushing plants sufficiently away from residential areas and social infrastructure such as mosques, schools and madrasas. Where possible such plants shall be located at least 1000m from nearest habitation. - Dust masks to be provided to workers where dust hazards exist. - Air quality monitoring to be carried out as per the schedule in the environmental monitoring plan. - Stored materials such as: excavated earth, dredged soil, gravel and sand shall be covered and confined to avoid their wind drifted; - Restore disturbed areas as soon as possible by vegetation; - Establish adequate locations for storage, mixing and loading of construction materials, in a way that dust dispersion is prevented because of such operations; - The Air quality monitoring should be carried out by the contractor following the National Air Quality Standard (Schedule-2: Standards for Air Quality, ECR, 1997 and amendment in 2005).

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Potential Environmental Responsibility Estimated Issues/Activities Proposed Mitigation/Enhancement Measures Impacts Implementation Supervision Cost (BDT) - Normal working hours of the contractor will be Contractor RHD 10,00,000 between 08:00 and 20:00 hours from Sunday to Saturday. If work needs to be undertaken outside these hours, it should be limited to activities that do not lead to exceedance of the noise criteria at nearby sensitive receptors - Regular maintenance of equipment including lubricating moving parts, tightening loose parts and replacing worn out components should be . Construction vehicular conducted traffic: Noise quality will - Avoid night work be deteriorated due to - Avoid sensitive receptor vehicular traffic; - The number of equipment operation . Construction equipment: simultaneously should be reduced as far as Noise Pollution Noise and vibration will practicable and Vibration have an impact on - Create noise barrier and consider the minimum adjacent residents; noise levels at sensitive receptor sites (e.g. . Construction activity: dense residential area, schools, mosques, Noise will have an temples, health centers etc.); impact on adjacent - Stone breaking machine, Diesel Generator sets residents. should be confined within a temporary shed so that noise pollution could be kept minimum; - Protection devices (ear plugs or ear muffs) shall be provided to the workers operating in the vicinity of high noise generating machines during construction; - Construction equipment and vehicles shall be fitted with silencers and maintained properly; - Instruction to the drivers to avoid unnecessary horn;

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Potential Environmental Responsibility Estimated Issues/Activities Proposed Mitigation/Enhancement Measures Impacts Implementation Supervision Cost (BDT) - The Noise level monitoring should be carried out by the contractor following the National Noise Quality Standard (Schedule-4: Standards for Sound, ECR, 1997 and Noise Pollution (control) rules 2006); - Vibration monitoring should be carried out by the contractor. . Contamination of - Vehicle servicing areas, vehicle wash bays and Contractor RHD 15,00,000 groundwater due to lack lubrication bays will, as far as practical, be of septic tanks or mobile located within roofed and cemented areas. The toilets; drainage in these covered areas will be . Accidental spillage of connected to sewers via oil/water interceptors; hazardous liquid from the - Any oil leakage or spillage will be contained and construction camps. cleaned up immediately. Waste oil will be Ground Water collected and stored for recycling or disposal; Pollution - Any surplus wastewater from the concrete batching plant will be treated to comply with discharge standards before discharged. - Arrangements for safe drinking water to be made prior to start of work. - Train workers on the need for judicious use of freshwater resources. . Construction & general - Contractor should prepare Waste Management Contractor RHD 15,00,000 wastes from the Plan and follow it properly during the construction sites; construction period; Surface Water . Accidental oil spill from - For construction of surface drainage, avoid Pollution the construction vehicles discharge point to sensitive environment and and construction camp avoid any disruption of surface runoff can affect on fishes and - Maximum extent possible to avoid problems from runoff.

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Potential Environmental Responsibility Estimated Issues/Activities Proposed Mitigation/Enhancement Measures Impacts Implementation Supervision Cost (BDT) aquatic wildlife (such as - Take all precautions to prevent entering of snakes, frogs etc.). wastewater into streams, watercourses, - Any wastes should not be thrown into the river water other than dump site into the designated waste dumping area; - Prevent construction debris from entering drainage or irrigation canals - Construction work close to ponds or other water bodies to be minimized especially during monsoon season - Store oil and petroleum product in a separate location on a secondary plate covered by a concrete structure so that it does not flow to the surface water bodies; - Handling of hazardous liquid should be done carefully by the designated experienced person; - Wastes to be collected, stored and taken to approve disposal sites. - Monitoring of surface water quality of according to the determined sampling schedule following the National Water Quality Standard (Schedule- 3: Standards for Water, ECR, 1997). . Soil Erosion - Soil shall be collected from fallow land for Contractor RHD 10,00,000 . Soil Pollution earthwork in approach road or by dredge soil from river bed; Soil Pollution - Avoid encroachment to productive land, agricultural land, archaeological sites, protected area, natural forest area, natural habitat etc.;

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Potential Environmental Responsibility Estimated Issues/Activities Proposed Mitigation/Enhancement Measures Impacts Implementation Supervision Cost (BDT) - Construction vehicles, machinery, and equipment to be stationed in the designated ROW to avoid compaction - Fuel storage and filling to be undertaken in areas with concrete surfacing, bunds and interceptor traps - Oil and grease spill and oil-soaked materials shall be sold off to authorized recyclers. - Re-vegetation shall be done in exposed area as early as possible to reduce the soil erosion; - Limit equipment and vehicular movements to within the approved construction zone. - Locate topsoil stockpiles outside drainage lines and protect stockpiles from erosion. - The stockpile top surface slope to be no steeper than 2 (H):1 (V) to reduce surface runoff and enhance percolation through the mass of stored soil. . Unhealthy condition, - Few designated “Waste collection point” shall Contractor RHD 8,00,000 potential health risk to be declared and solid waste shall be collected workforce and from different sources and then gathered in the waste collection point; - Maintain landscape, aesthetic appeal - Prepare a Debris Disposal Plan Solid Waste - Remove all construction and demolition wastes on a daily basis, - Manage solid waste according to 3R policy, Reduce Reuse, and Recycling, - Contractors should ensure proper disposal of waste.

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Potential Environmental Responsibility Estimated Issues/Activities Proposed Mitigation/Enhancement Measures Impacts Implementation Supervision Cost (BDT) - Provide a garbage disposal service such that no garbage and food waste is dumped in the contractor’s yard or work camp at any time. There should be no litter or food scraps dumped anywhere but in appropriate bins that are collected and cleaned at least weekly. - Any wastes shall not be thrown away into the river other than waste collection point; - Organic waste should be managed by composting method and converted into fertilizer and will be used by the farmers; - Inorganic waste should be given to the authorized vendor for free of cost for recycling; - Make sure all containers, drums and tanks that are used for storage are in good condition; - Solid waste monitoring should be carried out by the contractor daily basis. . Improper storage and - Any liquid wastes should not be thrown into the Contractor RHD 1,00,000 handling of liquid and river; hazardous waste such as - Handling of hazardous liquid should be done fuels, lubricants, carefully by the designated experienced person; chemicals and hazardous - Provide appropriate PPE to the construction Liquid and liquid onsite and potential personnel for handling of construction Hazardous Waste spills from these liquid materials; materials may harm the - Sanitary wastes generating from staff and labor environment and health camps to be disposed of in an environmentally of construction workers. friendly manner, i.e. provision of septic tank etc. for toilet wastes;

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Potential Environmental Responsibility Estimated Issues/Activities Proposed Mitigation/Enhancement Measures Impacts Implementation Supervision Cost (BDT) - Take all precautionary measures when handling and storing fuels and lubricants, avoiding environmental pollution; . Dust will be generated - Land clearing to be kept to a minimum to the Contractor RHD 5,00,000 during earthwork and extent practicable for construction of the Project deposited on the leafs of Road nearby trees, this will - Topsoil of the site should be preserved for later abduct the growth of use in reinstatement activities; trees; - Labor shall be made aware not to cut trees . Construction activities will down intentionally for their fuel and timber use. increase sediment - Awareness among the workers shall be raised loading of streams and not to kill, hunt, capture or haunting of wildlife. changes in turbidity will - Contractor’s personnel to be directed not to impact adversely upon damage any vegetation such as trees or Flora and Fauna fishes and aquatic bushes. animals; - Gas cylinders to be used for fuel at the camps . Noise generation from for cooking purposes. Cutting of trees/bushes the construction vehicles for fuel not to be allowed. and equipment’s can - Barren lands rather than forested or agricultural create disturbance for the land shall be used for construction of camp site birds and wildlife; and asphalt sites. . Noise from pile driving - Borrow pits to be fenced to protect animals activities, aquatic animals - Construction work shall not be carried out at including fishes will be night time. affected . Both solid and liquid - Proper spill control measures viz. spill kits to Contractor RHD No Cost waste can pollute surface be made available on site so that it does not Fisheries water which will affect the mix with surface water body; aquatic animals. - Construction work along the riverbanks are likely to be avoided during the monsoon (July

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Potential Environmental Responsibility Estimated Issues/Activities Proposed Mitigation/Enhancement Measures Impacts Implementation Supervision Cost (BDT) . Spillage of oil can pollute to September) season when fishes are likely to water and aquatic breed. environemnt. - Waste and other debris shall not be thrown into the surrounding water bodies at any cost. - Avoid construction activities during breeding/spawning season . Campsites for - No child labor shall be engaged in the Contractor RHD 15,00,000 construction workers are construction work. the important locations - Enforcement of Local labor law shall be that have significant ensured. impacts such as health - Construction workers camp shall be located at and safety hazards on least 500m away from the nearest habitation in local resources and order to avoid social conflicts; infrastructure of nearby - Proper workers camp with adequate amenities communities; - Cleanup litters and other wastes regularly . Pressure on the local - Properties safety on site services and generate - Adequate housing for all workers should be substandard living provided avoiding over crowing; Occupational standards and health - Safe and reliable water supply shall be Health and Safety hazards; ensured in the labor camp; . There will be a potential - Hygienic sanitary facilities and sewerage for diseases to be system. transmitted including - Ensure proper collection and disposal of solid malaria, exacerbated by wastes within the construction camps; inadequate health and - Locate the garbage pit/waste disposal site safety practices; minimum 500m away from the resident area so . There will be an that people are not disturbed with the odor increased risk of work likely to be produced from anaerobic crews spreading sexually decomposition of wastes at the waste dumping transmitted infections and places HIV/AIDS;

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Potential Environmental Responsibility Estimated Issues/Activities Proposed Mitigation/Enhancement Measures Impacts Implementation Supervision Cost (BDT) . Construction work may - Insist waste separation by source; organic pose health and safety wastes in one container and inorganic wastes risks to the construction in another container at sources; workers and site visitors - Dispose organic wastes in a designated safe leading to severe injuries place on daily basis; and deaths. - Train all construction workers in basic . Lack of first aid facilities sanitation and health care issues and safety and health care facilities matters and on the specific hazards of their in the immediate vicinity work; will aggravate the health - Provide HIV awareness programming, conditions of the victim. including STI (sexually transmitted infections) and HIV information, education and communication for all workers on regular basis; - Provide appropriate PPE for workers, such as safety boots, helmets, masks, gloves, protective clothing, goggles, full-face eye shields and ear protection; - Appoint an environment, health and safety manager to look after the health and safety of the workers; - Document and report occupational accidents, diseases, and incidents and actions taken; - Provide basic medical training to specified work staff and basic medical services to the workers; - Provide awareness to the construction drivers to strictly follow the driving rules; - Provide adequate lighting in the construction area and along the roads in the construction site.

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Potential Environmental Responsibility Estimated Issues/Activities Proposed Mitigation/Enhancement Measures Impacts Implementation Supervision Cost (BDT) . Accidents on the - Prior to start the construction activities Contractor RHD 1,50,000 approach road and contractor will be informed the local community; construction site; - Provide emergency program in the locality for . Noise and dust pollution; events such as accidents, spillage of hazardous . Communicable diseases materials on road etc. can spread among the - Adequate provision of drainage and local community. maintenance - Avoid road paving activities during monsoon; - Locations of hot-mix plants, batching plants and crushers shall be located at least 100 m away from the nearest dwelling preferably in the downwind direction. - Traffic management systems in road and at level crossings, level crossings upgradation, Community Health provision of round the clock manned barriers, and Safety and installation of warning signs at all unauthorized crossings indicating the danger involved. - Ensure Flag Man during transport, loading and unloading - Close consultation with local communities to identify optimal solutions for diversions to maintain community integrity and social links; - Appoint drivers with legal driving license and keep a visible copy of license while driving - Instruct the drivers and limit the speed (20km/hour) of the vehicles near the settlement area; - Ban the use of mobile phones and talking during driving in the approach road;

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Potential Environmental Responsibility Estimated Issues/Activities Proposed Mitigation/Enhancement Measures Impacts Implementation Supervision Cost (BDT) - Proper lighting at the project site during the night time; - Avoid unnecessary noise pollution; - Spraying water in the dry surface to reduce the dust pollution. . Employment - Proper compensation should be given to the Contractor RHD No cost opportunities for the PAPs; unskilled, semi-skilled - The Project Affected people shall be given and skilled persons; priority in employment opportunity Employment . Increase the income and - Local labor should be engaged by the contractor generation and new business in the proposed SMVT construction activities; benefit to local opportunities. - No child and/or forced labor will be employed by business the contractor; - Working conditions and terms of employment will be fully compliant to the Bangladesh labor laws. . Improper traffic - Before the construction work. The contractor Contractor RHD No cost movement will prepare a Traffic Management Plan (TMP) Traffic . Potential for traffic and take approval RHD/ADB/Contractor Management Plan congestion and/or traffic Engineer. accident Total 99,00,000 During Operation Phase The possible environmental impacts during operation phase from the operational activities have been already identified and assessed in Chapter- 6 in this EIA report. For mitigating the possible environmental impacts mitigation measures for operation phase is proposed in the following Table 8-2.

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Table 8-2: Mitigation Measures during Operation Phase

Responsibility Estimated Potential Environmental Issues/Activities Proposed Mitigation/Enhancement Measures Cost Impacts Implementation Supervision (BDT) Air Pollution . Dust emission from the - Ambient air quality monitoring shall be carried out RHD RHD No cost increasing number of during operation phase; vehicles in the SMVT lane; - Regular maintenance of road to ensure good road . Vehicular emission from surface condition; burning fuels. - Increase number of plantations by planting local species of trees in appropriate locations after consultation with the concern authority. - Enforcement and penalties against traffic rules violators. Noise Pollution . Due to the improved - Strictly follow the BRTA rules and regulations; RHD RHD No cost and Vibration condition of the road - Addition of sound barrier in form of Tree/vegetation network number as well as plantation at necessary locations beside the SMVT noise level and vibration lane; will be increased; - Signs for sensitive zones (health centers/ . Faulty engine and hydraulic educational institutions etc.) to disallow the use of horn may increase the pressure horns; noise level. - Enforcement and penalties against traffic rules violators Water Quality . Contamination of water bodies from runoff from the - There shall be provision of rapid removal of storm- roads containing oils and water/road runoff grease; - Prior to operation, an emergency response plan for . Groundwater may get spills of hazardous materials and oil will be polluted due to prepared. contaminated road runoff - Groundwater quality monitoring will be carried out on earthen shoulders and as per schedule suggested in the Environmental embankments planted with Monitoring Plan. grasses.

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Responsibility Estimated Potential Environmental Issues/Activities Proposed Mitigation/Enhancement Measures Cost Impacts Implementation Supervision (BDT) Soil . Soil erosion - If in any case, soil erosion takes place, remedial . Soil contamination due to measures shall be taken immediately to stop accidental spillage from further impacts caused by soil erosion. vehicular movement - Contingency plan to be in place to clean the spills of oil, toxic chemicals etc. as early as possible. Road Traffic and . Number of vehicles - Establish speed breaker and road safety sign to RHD RHD No cost Accidents movement will be warn road users about speed limits, sharp bends, increased in the area; etc.; . Encourage drivers to - A proper traffic management plan to be introduced higher the vehicle speed and strictly follow of BRTA rules shall be ensured; and road accidents may - Keep provision of adequate lighting facilities in the increase. SMVT lane; - Different caution message shall be introduced regarding safe driving. Note: The Environmental Management Plan (EMP) as stated above would form the basis for management of environmental and social impacts of the SMVT Project. The EMP would also be used as a guiding framework for RHD, the Concessionaire and contractors / subcontractors engaged by them for management of environmental and social issues on site. As stated earlier the Concessionaire will develop a site specific EMP and seek approval of Independent Engineer (IE) and PIC of RHD on the same before the initiation of construction activities. In addition to the EMP, the concessionaire will develop specific Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for proper management of environmental issues.

Environmental Monitoring Plan The effectiveness of various mitigation measures is described will be monitored through a well-defined environmental monitoring program. This will be done by direct measurement of parameters related to environmental quality, emissions, discharges etc. An environmental monitoring program is important as it provides useful information on the following aspects:

 It helps to verify the predictions on environmental impacts presented in this study.  It helps to indicate warnings of the development of any alarming environmental situations, and thus, provides opportunities for adopting appropriate control measures.

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The monitoring program in different areas of environment, outlined in the next few sections, has been based on the findings of the impact assessment studies, described earlier.

During Construction Phase The proposed environmental monitoring program during construction phase of the project is given in following Table 8-3.

Table 8-3: Monitoring Plan During and Construction Phase/Year

Responsibility Estimated Environmental Monitoring Means of Applicable Parameters/Units Frequency Implementa Cost Indicators Location Monitoring Standards Supervision tion (BDT)/Year Dust emission Dust emission Monitoring Daily Visual inspection Contractor RHD No cost site at the construction area and approach road

Air Quality SPM, PM10, PM2.5, 5 locations Field Monthly National Air Quality Contractor RHD 20,00,000 SO2, NOx, CO (labor camp, measureme Standard construction nt and (Schedule-2: site, in front of laboratory Standards for Air school, buildup analysis Quality, ECR 1997 area, bazar and amendment in area,) 2005) Noise Level dB(A) 5 locations Field Monthly National Noise Contractor RHD 10,00,000 (Labor Camp, measureme Quality Standard Construction nt (Schedule-4: site, mixed, Standards for residential, Sound, ECR, 1997 silent area ) and Noise Pollution (control) rules 2006)

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Responsibility Estimated Environmental Monitoring Means of Applicable Parameters/Units Frequency Implementa Cost Indicators Location Monitoring Standards Supervision tion (BDT)/Year Ground Water pH, TDS, TSS, 10 sample from Laboratory Monthly National Water Contractor RHD 15,00,000 Pollution BOD, COD, EC, the nearest analysis Quality Standard Total Hardness, Na, Tube well water (Schedule-3: Fe, Mn, As, Pb, Zn, at the SMVT Standards for Salinity etc. lane/ Water, ECR, construction 1997). camp Surface Water pH, EC, Total 5 sample from Laboratory Monthly National Water Contractor RHD 15,00,000 Pollution Hardness, Na, Fe, rivers and analysis Quality Standard Mn, As, Pb, Zn, nearest surface (Schedule-3: Salinity, Total water bodies Standards for Coliform, Fecal Water, ECR, 1997) Coliform etc. Soil Pollution Heavy metal 4 sample from Laboratory Monthly - Contractor RHD 10,00,000 the construction analysis site Solid Waste Collection, Construction Monitoring Daily Visual inspection Contractor RHD 8,00,000 transportation and Yard, and labor disposal of solid camp waste Liquid and Collection, storage, Construction Monitoring Daily Visual inspection Contractor RHD 1,00,000 Hazardous transportation and site and labor Waste disposal of liquid camp waste Flora and Fauna . Death, cut, RoW along the Monitoring Daily Visual inspection Contractor RHD 8,00,000 disturbance of alignment flora and fauna

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Responsibility Estimated Environmental Monitoring Means of Applicable Parameters/Units Frequency Implementa Cost Indicators Location Monitoring Standards Supervision tion (BDT)/Year Occupational . Monitoring of Construction Monitoring Daily Visual inspection Contractor RHD 15,00,000 Health and health and safety site and labor and record Safety of workers and camp keeping number of accidents . Check of personal protective equipment (PPE) for worker at the sites Community Accidents, Construction Monitoring Daily Visual inspection Contractor RHD 1,50,000 Health and incidents, diseases, yard and record Safety dangerous keeping occurrence

During Operation Phase The proposed environmental monitoring program during operation phase of the project is given in following Table 8-4.

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Table 8-4: Monitoring Plan during Operation Phase

Environmental Parameters/Unit Monitoring Means of Applicable Responsibility Estimated Frequency Indicators s Location Monitoring Standards Implementation Supervision Cost (BDT)

Air Pollution SPM, PM10, 5 locations Field Once/Year National Air RHD RHD 4,50,000 PM2.5, SO2, measurement (3 years) Quality NOx, CO and laboratory Standard analysis (Schedule-2: Standards for Air Quality, ECR 1997 and amendment in 2005) Noise Pollution dB(A) 5 locations Field Once/Year National RHD RHD 1,50,000 (Major road measurement (3 years) Noise intersections, Quality resettlement, Standard commercial, (Schedule-4: silent, mixed Standards area) for Sound, ECR, 1997 and Noise Pollution (control) rules 2006) Water Quality Ground Water: 4 Ground Water Field Once/Year National 6,00,000 pH, BOD,COD and Surface measurement (3 years) Water Quality EC, TDS, TSS, water and laboratory Standard Total Hardness, analysis (Schedule-3: Na, Fe, Mn, As, Standards for Pb, Zn, Salinity etc.

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Environmental Parameters/Unit Monitoring Means of Applicable Responsibility Estimated Frequency Indicators s Location Monitoring Standards Implementation Supervision Cost (BDT) Surface water: Water, ECR, pH, EC, Total 1997). Hardness, Na, Fe, Mn, As, Pb, Zn, Salinity, Total Coliform, Fecal Coliform etc. Tree Nursing Nursing of the Along RoW of Visual Once/Mont - 5,00,000 planted tree the road Observation h (1 Year) Road Traffic Monitoring of SMVT lane Monitoring Once Visual RHD RHD 1,00,000 and Accidents traffic inspection Total 18,00,000

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Institutional Setting and Implementation Arrangement

The EMP Implementation would be primarily with the Concessionaire. The EMP would be part of the concession agreement and he would be contractually liable to implement the same during the process of implementation. Even though the concessionaire would be free to decide on the number of personnel required to implement the EMP it would be ideal to have a dedicated Environment Officer along with additional Environment Personnel linked to his construction teams.

In addition to the Concessionaire RHD would employ the services of an Independent Engineer (IE) to supervise the implementation of the construction activities. The IE would also be responsible for supervision of the implementation of the Environment Management Plan. In order to ensure effective compliance to ADB’s loan requirement, RHD through the Concessionaire and the Independent Engineer will carry out the following activities for implementation of EMP:

. Develop adequate staffing at the ground level and also at other level for effective implementation and supervision of the Environmental Management Plan; . Organize orientation and awareness building workshops for all the staff including the RHD staff to be involved in process of construction and brief them about the environmental safeguards planned; . Develop a system for reporting and evaluating the environmental performance. RHD’s Involvement in EMP Implementation RHD would be responsible for protecting the environment as per the local covenant with ADB. Though the Concessionaire and the Independent Engineer would be responsible for EMP implementation, the PIU and the field offices of RHD has to maintain a level of oversight of the construction process including the EMP Implementation. The Field Offices would vet the report provided by the Independent Engineer and would also carry out joint inspection of the construction sites to ascertain the implementation of the EMP. Any deviations which are noticed would be communicated to the PIU for further action through the Concessionaire

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Chapter Nine: Institutional Settings, Implementation Arrangements And Grievance Redress Mechanism

Institutional Settings, Implementation Arrangements and Grievance Redress Mechanism Institutional Settings, Implementation Arrangements Roads and Highways Department (RHD) under the Ministry of Road Transport and Bridges (MoRTB) is representing the Government of Bangladesh as the Executing Agency (EA) for the proposed Project. Some of the key departments and other stakeholders responsible for project implementation are mentioned below.

Institution Implementation Arrangements

Roads and Highways RHD will be responsible for undertaking studies, design, and Department (RHD) monitoring of this project.

Project A Project Implementation Unit (PIU) will be established within the Implementation RHD for the SMVT Project. A full time Project Director (PD) for this PIU will be appointed from RHD. In addition, relevant officers Unit (PIU) from both the Environment and Resettlement Division of the RHD will also chair important positions in the PIU. The PIU in addition to including technical personnel from the RHD will also include specific Environment & Safety positions like the EHS Manager, Chief Resettlement Officers (CRO), Resettlement Officer, etc.

Detailed Design The detail design consultant (DDC) will assist RHD in detail Consultant (DDC) engineering design, preparation bid documents, selection and deployment of construction Supervision consultant and NGOs and other agencies for the implementation of Resettlement Plan (RP).

Supervision Consultant The proposed framework for implementation of the project shall utilize consultancy services from both international and national companies for the overall management and supervision of construction work and for preparation of the EA documents.

E&S Consultant The detailed EMP and the Resettlement Plan would be prepared by the E&S Consultant based on the final designs prepared by the DDC. The E&S clauses of the bidding document would be prepared by the E&S Consultant and would be part of the Bidding

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Institution Implementation Arrangements

document of the Concessionaire. Similarly, the Resettlement Plan including the Micro Plan identifying the entitlements would be prepared by the E&S Consultant and would be handed over to an NGO for necessary implementation.

Deputy The land acquisition will be carried out by the Deputy Commissioners Commissioners (DCs) of project affected districts and accordingly land will be handed over to RHD for construction of (DCs) the proposed road.

Contractors The construction of the project would be national/international competitive bidding contractors. The contractor shall take all reasonable steps to protect the environment and avoid damage and nuisance arising because of his operations. The contractor shall also comply with all statutes and regulations concerning the execution of works as mentioned in DoE and RHD environmental guidelines. It can be mentioned here that; the contractor shall be responsible for the provision of adequate sanitary facilities for the construction workforce (including those employed under subcontracts) at all construction and camp sites.

DoE The designated institution for overseeing environmental management in Bangladesh is the Department of Environment (DoE). The DoE is responsible for ensuring that EA is carried out following the requirements of the Environmental Conservation Act (1995) and Rules (1997). It thus falls to each of the government line agencies to ensure that their work abides by the environmental laws, rules and procedures, with overall direction given by the DoE

Forest Department To compensate the loss caused due to felling of trees, RHD (FD) needs to replant trees in according to the prescription of Forest Department (FD) e.g., minimum two tree seedlings to be planted for each tree felled during monsoon period (June to August). The compensatory plantation programme will be executed by NGOs and supervised by the Forest Department who will acts as

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Institution Implementation Arrangements

external monitors and periodically review the progress of the program

Institutional Arrangement for EMP Implementation The EMP Implementation would be primarily with the Concessionaire. The EMP and the E&S Clauses would be part of the concession agreement and he would be contractually liable to implement the same during the process of implementation. Even though the concessionaire would be free to decide on the number of personnel required to implement the EMP it would be ideal to have a dedicated Environment Officer along with additional Environment Personnel linked to his construction teams.

In addition to the Concessionaire RHD would employ the services of an Independent Engineer (IE) to supervise the implementation of the construction activities. The IE would also be responsible for supervision of the implementation of the Environment Management Plan. In order to ensure effective compliance to ADB’s loan requirement, RHD through the Concessionaire and the Independent Engineer will carry out the following activities for implementation of EMP:

. Develop adequate staffing at the ground level and also at other level for effective implementation and supervision of the Environmental Management Plan; . Organize orientation and awareness building workshops for all the staff including the RHD staff to be involved in process of construction and brief them about the environmental safeguards planned; . Develop a system for reporting and evaluating the environmental performance.

RHD’s Involvement in EMP Implementation RHD would be responsible for protecting the environment as per the local covenant with ADB. Though the Concessionaire and the Independent Engineer would be responsible for EMP implementation, the PIU and the field offices of RHD has to maintain a level of oversight of the construction process including the EMP Implementation. The Field Offices would vet the report provided by the Independent Engineer and would also carry out joint inspection of the construction sites to ascertain the implementation of the EMP. Any deviations which are noticed would be communicated to the PIU for further action through the Concessionaire.

Training Requirements Tough in Bangladesh, the environmental assessment process is quite established, but environmental awareness and capability for implementation of EMP in infrastructure projects

SMVT 9-3 www.eqms.com.bd SASEC Road Connectivity Project Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project are still in development stage. The project implementation unit (PIU) of RHD had few officers in the Environment Division and Resettlement Division who are delegated environmental duties. Therefore, Training Program of EMP implementation team and the external agencies identified for the implementation the plans will be a crucial component of the implementation programme. The project will, from time to time assess the adequacy and capacity of the EMP implementation team members in terms of their understanding of the plan purposes, policies and principles as well as the implementation process, including the Environmental Monitoring Plan, Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) and Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) put in place for the project. Provisions for refresher trainings will be put in place.

Furthermore, due to the fact that a number of implementing agencies (Concessionaire, Sub- Contractors, NGOs, etc.) will be involved in the project at various stages of its development, it will be critical to ensure that the agencies abide by the principles established as part of the EMP. Relevant conditions will be inserted into the contracts, wherever possible, including the right of the PIU to investigate reported incidents and levy penalties for non-compliance. Also it will be ensured that vetted and agreed Codes of Conduct are developed and shared with the relevant contractor employees. The detailed training plan is provided at Table 9-1.

Table 9-1: Training Program Schedule for the Project

Target Group Subjects Method Time Frame Implementation of EMPs: Workshops Before the Supervision Basic features of EMP, and Seminars construction Consultant, E&S Planning, designing and begins Consultant, execution of environmental contractors mitigation and enhancement measures, monitoring and evaluation of environmental conditions Environmental Friendly Seminars, Before the Supervision Construction Practices: Lectures and Site construction Consultant, E& S Waste management and visits Consultant, minimization in construction, contractors pollution control, Environmental monitoring during construction Occupational Safety and Workshops and During initial Contractor’s Health: seminars phases of staff, construction construction Monitoring consultants/ laborers organizations specializing in occupational, health and

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Target Group Subjects Method Time Frame safety issues can provide training on this issue Workshops During initial Construction Waste handling and and signage phases of sanitation at construction laborers construction sites/construction camps

Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) This section describes the need of establishment of a Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) to receive and facilitate resolution of complainants, concerns and grievances regarding the project’s performance in the constructional, operational or production phases. The mechanism should be able to address the aggrieved parties concerns and complaints promptly by using an understandable and transparent grievance addressing process which is readily accessible by all segments of the population including workers in a workplace environment.

The GRM has been developed with an intention of it being an effective tool for early identification, assessment and resolution of complaints during project entire life cycle. It is a means through which acceptance, assessment and resolution of community and worker’s complaints concerning the performance or behavior of the project proponent are ascertained and addressed.

There can be range of issues arising during a project phase. Some of these issues could be related to . Failure to fulfill commitments, . Poor management of construction activities, . Accidents due to inappropriate planning of vehicle movement, . Cultural conflicts between migrant workers and local communities, . Disturbance due to excessive noise or other nuisance during construction or operation/production, . Unfair treatment of workers or unsafe working conditions, . Any environmental risk or hazard incurred as the consequence of the project activities.

Hence, a robust GRM is required that is gender responsive, culturally appropriate and readily accessible to the affected persons at no costs and without retribution.

Grievance Mechanism Development and its Requiring Steps The Project Authority while developing the Grievance Mechanism is required to adhere to the following steps:

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9.2.1.1 Development of Procedures The Project Authority shall ensure that procedures for lodging and registering of grievances are in place before the plan is implemented at the site level. The procedures of Grievance Mechanism should comprise of identifying the personnel (Grievance Officer at Site level) who will be responsible for receiving and addressing the grievances at the site level and handle the cases at the escalation level. The procedures to be developed should include assessment procedures, procedure to determine the appropriate resolution process, procedures for making decisions on proposed settlements, appropriate time frames for each step in the grievance resolution process and notification procedure to the complainant about eligibility, assessment results, proposed settlements and the like.

9.2.1.2 Develop Resolution Options and Response Once Project Authority develops procedures, formal and informal resolution options should also be developed along with preparation of formulating a response. General approaches to grievance resolution many include proposing a solution, reaching a resolution through discussion or negotiation, using a third party to either informally or formally resolve the matter through mediation and through traditional and customary practices.

9.2.1.3 Publicize the Grievance Mechanism Once the procedures for Grievance Mechanism have been developed by the developers/EPC, it has to be publicized through various stakeholder engagement activities as detailed out in the Stakeholder Engagement Plan and should be disseminated to the developer(s) as well. The Project Authority should inform the local community in the first instance and then on remind them of this mechanism on a regular basis during the project construction and operation phases. Various communicative methods can be adopted in disseminating the information like printed materials, displays, face to face meetings and updating website. The grievances redress mechanism (GRM) shall be documented in English and Bangla and copies shall be kept at the project site office and corporate office. The GRM is also to be displayed at notice board at the project site office and training on the GRM shall also be provided during orientation. Developer(s) is to ensure that the contractor would keep the workers informed about the grievance mechanism at the time of recruitment and make it easily accessible to them. All the relevant contact numbers to be made available to them.

9.2.1.4 Training/ Workshops on Grievance Redress Mechanism A separate training/ workshop should be undertaken by the Project Authority at the community and worker level to discuss the process of how a grievance gets registered, the local contact person’s/grievance officer details of receiving grievances, the significance of grievance boxes,

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These trainings should be held every yearly and feedback/suggestions from the community should be acknowledged and changes to the GRM should accordingly be undertaken to make it more user friendly.

9.2.1.5 Recording of Grievances Once the stakeholders are aware of the mechanism and access it to raise grievances, developer(s) is required to acknowledge the same and keep the complainant’s identity anonymous. Consequently, developer(s) is required to collect grievances by checking the grievance boxes once every fifteen days, record and register the grievances that have come in as per the identified formats and track them throughout the redressal process to reflect on their status and important details. A Grievance Log or database emphasizing the records and status of the grievance is to be maintained by the identified Grievance Officer at the site level. The Grievance Log can be used to analyze information about grievance and conflict trends, community issues and project operations to anticipate the kinds of conflicts that the project proponents might expect in the future both to ensure that the grievance mechanism is set up to handle such issues and to propose organizational or operational changes.

9.2.1.6 Appeal If the grievance redressal solution is not acceptable or agreed by the complainant, the complainant should be offered to an appeal process. Circumstance revolving around when an appeal can be made should be set by the Project Authority so that accountability and transparency is promoted by them in every step.

9.2.1.7 Resolve and Follow Up Once the corrective action has been agreed upon, a good practice is to collect proof of those actions in terms of taking photographs, documentary evidence, getting confirmation from the complainant and filing the same within the case documentation. In addition, monitoring and follow up on the resolution agreed upon should be conducted once to close the case accordingly. Project Authority are required to generate regular (yearly) reports to keep the track of complaints received, resolved, not resolved. In addition, the funding agency also needs to be constantly apprised of the yearly reports in order to support identification of developing risks.

Proposed Grievance Redress Mechanism for SMVT Project The Grievance Redress Mechanism outlines the process for lodging of grievances, steps to be taken for subsequent action and the time limit within which the issue would be resolved to the satisfaction of the complainant (community members and workers). All complaints shall be

SMVT 9-7 www.eqms.com.bd SASEC Road Connectivity Project Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project recorded and addressed in a uniform and consistent manner. The GRM for the proposed project is presented below with time bound schedules and specific persons to address grievances.

9.2.2.1 Grievance Redress Committee A site level approach is proposed to be developed for redressing of all cases of grievances. All grievances are to be redressed at this stage. The representatives proposed for the grievance committee is provided below,

. Site Supervisor . Admin Officer . EHS Manager and . Grievance Officer/Community Relation officer

The functions of GRC are as follows:

. To provide support to affected communities on problems arising from environmental or social impacts; . To record grievances of the affected community by categorizing and prioritizing them, and provide solutions within a stipulated time period; and . To report to the aggrieved parties, developments regarding their grievances and decisions of the GRC.

The steps of grievance redressal for Developer have been provided below:

9.2.2.2 Receive and Register a Complaint The Project Authority in order to implement the Grievance Redress Mechanism is required to nominate a Grievance Officer for registering the grievances, initiating the process of registering and action taken thereon for the resolution of the grievance and the timeline required in each step. The contact details of the Grievance Officer shall be maintained and updated in the following Table 9-2 format displayed at prominent places available to public and the project area.

Table 9-2: Contact Details of Grievance Officers Sl. No Name of the Grievance Officer Telephone No.

. Any stakeholder such as worker, person from local community or any other stakeholder, with concerns pertaining to onsite work such as community health and safety, local employment, community risk, migrant labor or any issues etc., may

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register their complaint in writing to the nominated person/grievance officer at site level.; . Secured grievance boxes shall be placed at the entrance of the site office; . If any stakeholder or community member wishes to remain anonymous, he/she can write down the grievances and drop in the available complaint box; and . Once a complaint has been received it shall be recorded in the grievance log register or data system. Details of grievance received shall be maintained by the Grievance Officer in a register as per the following format Table 9-3.

Table 9-3: Records of Grievance Received Sl Particulars of Complainant Particulars of Grievance #

Brief Brief

ment/ ment/

Office Office

Name Name

Date of of Date of Date

redress redress

Address Address

Whether

Grievance Grievance

Date of Receipt Receipt of Date

Contact No Contact No Description

acknowledge acknowledge

ment given at given ment

Subject of the the ofSubject

time of receipt time receipt of 1.

2.

9.2.2.3 Assessment and Addressal of Complaint . The Grievance Officer will open the grievance boxes once every week and register the grievance in the Grievance Log Register as per the format provided above; . The Grievance Officer will then forward the grievances after registration to the Site Supervisor for further action; . The grievance will be assessed by the Site Supervisor within two (2) working days to determine if the issues raised by the complaint fall within the mandate of the grievance mechanism or not; . During the assessment of complaints, the GRC team (Site Supervisor, EHS Manager and Admin Officer) will gather information about the key issues and concerns and helps determine whether and how the complaint might be resolved; . The grievances will be redressed at the Site Level by the GRC within seven (7) working days; . If the grievance fails to be addressed at this level the complainant will have the option to approach the appropriate court of laws for redress; and . The complainant will have the opportunity to be present at the committee meetings and discuss the grievance faced by him/her.

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The Grievance Mechanism proposed for Developer to consider and implement has been provided in Figure 9-1 below.

Figure 9-1: Proposed Grievance Mechanism for the Proposed Project at Construction phase

Source: SRP, 2018 GRM During O&M Stage Once the construction stage is over (which includes the land acquisition process and RP implementation), the function of PIU will be limited to monitoring the O&M of the proposed road by the concessionaire. The different committees formed for the project will be dissolved and consultants including NGO will be demobilized from the project. However, to resolve the potential grievances during O&M stage, Project is required to have functional grievance readdress mechanism for road users and affected community.

Experiences suggest that during O&M stage most of the grievances will be related to toll operations, user fee, road maintenance and amenities. Flow chart of GRM during O&M stage is given below in following figure below.

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Complaint Received at Grievance Box

Recorded and Acknowledged

Resolved Forwarded to PIC/PD

Resolved Rejected

Figure: RM During O&M Stage 9.2.2.4 Documentation  The Grievance Redress Mechanism will be documented in English and Bangla and copies will be kept at the project site office;  The GRM will also be displayed at notice board at the project site office and labor camp sites and will be included in worker documentation;  The Project Authority should inform the local community and workers about Grievance Redress Mechanism during the project construction and operation phases. Various communicative methods can be adopted in disseminating the information like printed materials, displays and face to face meetings;  Admin Officer will inform the workers about the grievance mechanism at the time of recruitment or induction training and make it easily accessible to them;  The Grievance Officer’s contact number will be made available to them. The project office phone number will be posted in public areas within the project area;  The mechanism will address concerns promptly, using an understandable and transparent process and provide timely feedback to the concerned stakeholder;  Verifiable records of implementation of corrective action like dated photographs, documentary evidence, getting confirmation from the complainant and filing the same within the case documentation should be kept;  A Grievance Log or database emphasizing the records and status of the grievance shall be maintained by the Grievance Officer at the site level.

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Resources Required for Grievance Mechanism Implementation A Grievance Mechanism becomes successful if adequate resources are assigned in its implementation. Adequate resources here refer to people, systems and processes and associated financial resources. In order to incorporate the responsibility of designing, implementing and monitoring the grievance mechanism, the senior management of the Project Authority at the corporate level should be involved in executing the various tasks. For a grievance mechanism to function effectively, it is important to establish a governance structure and assign responsibilities for the mechanism’s implementation. The following roles and responsibilities have been identified for grievance mechanism implementation:

Nominated Grievance Officer Community relation officer based at the Site Level is to be nominated as the Grievance Officer. The incumbent is to work in tandem with the Site Supervisor, Admin officer and EHS Manager. They cumulatively form the Grievance Committee at the site level.

Engagement of Third Party To maintain ultimate transparency and accountability for the grievance mechanism process, third parties such as local governments (Chairman, ward members), local community (trust worthy local influential person) etc. can at times be involved in the grievance redress process. These parties can serve as process organizers, places to bring a complaint to be passed on to the Authority or as facilitators, witnesses, advisors or mediators. Third parties can assist in enhancing the trust level from communities as well as overcome limitations of project-level mechanism.

Through the involvement of third parties as facilitators, the community’s confidence in project level grievance mechanism can be increased and the project proponent can gain a better reputation with and greater trust from stakeholders. In addition, cost-efficiency and supplement of internal resources can also be achieved if this step is contemplated upon.

Monitoring and Reporting Monitoring and reporting are requisite tools of measuring the effectiveness of the grievance mechanism, the efficient use of resources, determining broad trends and acknowledging recurring problems so that they can be resolved before they reach a higher level of contention. They also create a base level of information that can be used by the project proponent to report back to the stakeholders.

Monitoring Depending on the extent of project impacts and the volume of grievances, monitoring measures like internal (by identified Corporate level staff) and external audits (third party

SMVT 9-12 www.eqms.com.bd SASEC Road Connectivity Project Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project consultants) every once in a year based on the complexity of the nature of grievances can be adopted by the Project Authority. Grievance records maintained should provide the background information for these regular monitoring exercises. Through the review of each grievance and analysis of its effectiveness and efficiency, Project Authority can draw on the complaints to evaluate systematic deficiencies. In addition, monitoring of the grievance mechanism helps to ensure that the design and implementation of the mechanism is adequately responding to stakeholder’s comments in a cost effective manner.

Reporting All grievances registered have to be recorded and regularly updated. The site management or Grievance Officer is responsible to discharging this responsibility and he should be able to produce this document whenever any audits take place. All minutes of meetings with stakeholders, complainants and Grievance Committee are to be recorded and documented regularly for reference purposes. In addition, through the process of monitoring and the reports produced thereafter, assurance of continual improvement of the Authority’s operations is guaranteed. The Authority can also use these monitoring reports to report back to the community on its implementation of the mechanism and the modification/ changes proposed to make it more user-friendl

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CHAPTER TEN: INFORMATION DISCLOSURE, CONSULTATION AND PARTICIPATION

INFORMATION DISCLOSURE, CONSULTATION AND PARTICIPATION Introduction

Participation is a process, through which stakeholders influence and share control over development initiatives, the decisions and the resources, which affects them. The effectiveness of environment and social management plan is directly related to the degree of continuing involvement of stakeholders in the project development process. Participation of stakeholders in the projects is also a primary requirement in developing an appropriate EMP that addresses project’s requirement and suited to the needs of the stakeholders. Stakeholder’s involvement is also vastly increases the probability of successful implementation of management plan. In order to make consultation and disclosure process effective and fruitful, comprehensive planning is required to assure that local government, host population and project staff interacts regularly and purposefully, throughout all stages of the project and contribute toward a common goal.

Approach and Methodology for Consultation

The approach undertaken for information disclosure and consultation involved the following key processes. . Mapping and Identification of key stakeholders such as primary (direct project influence) and secondary (indirect project influence) stakeholders; . Undertaking expert consultations, interviews and focus group discussions (FGD) with the respective stakeholders; . Undertaking structured on field consultations, interviews and focus group discussions (FGD) with the respective stakeholders; . Assessing the influence and impact of the project on these stakeholder groups; . Summarizing of key findings and observations from the consultations; and . Preparing a future stakeholder engagement strategy consultation plan for a more detailed assessment at a microscopic level taking into account the various project lifecycle phases and their implications on the stakeholder.

Stakeholder Assessment A stakeholder is defined as “a person, group, or organization that has direct or indirect stake in a project/organization because it can affect or be affected by the Project or its Proponent’s actions, objectives, and policies”. Stakeholders vary in terms of degree of interest, influence

SMVT 10-1 www.eqms.com.bd SASEC Road Connectivity Project Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project and control they have over the Project or the proponent. In the present study, all the stakeholders have been primarily categorized into two categories that have been identified as:

. Primary Stakeholders: include people, groups, institutions that either have a direct influence on the project or are directly impacted (positively or adversely) by the project and its activities; and . Secondary stakeholders: are those that have a bearing on the project and its activities by the virtue of their being closely linked or associated with the primary stakeholders and due to the influence they have on the primary stakeholder groups. . Apart from categorization, the stakeholders have also been classified in accordance with the level of influence they have over the project as well as their priority to the project proponent in terms of importance. . The influence and priority have both been primarily rates as:  High Influence/Priority (Manage Closely): People who have high power and interest are grouped in this category. They always must be managed closely. This implies a high degree of influence of the stakeholder on the project in terms of participation and decision making or high priority for project proponent to engage that stakeholder.  Medium Influence/Priority (Keep Satisfied/ keep informed): People who have high power but low interest as well as who have high interest but low power should be kept satisfied or informed. This implies a moderate level of influence and participation of the stakeholder in the project as well as a priority level for project proponent to engage the stakeholder who are neither highly critical nor are insignificant in terms of influence.  Low Influence/Priority (Monitor with minimum effort): This implies a low degree of influence or interest of the stakeholder on the project in terms of participation and decision making or low priority for project proponent to engage that stakeholder.

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Power/Interest Grid for Stakeholder Prioritization How they are likely to feel about and react to the project, how best to engage them in the project and how best to communicate with them, are measured by getting answers of following questions;

 What financial or emotional interest do they have in the outcome of your work? Is it positive or negative?  What motivates them most of all?  What information do they want from the project?  How do they want to receive information? What is the best way of communicating?  What is their current opinion? Is it based on good information?  Who influences their opinions generally?  If they are not likely to be positive, what will win them around to support the project?  What should be done to manage stakeholders’ opposition?  Who else might be influenced by stakeholders’ opinions?

Stakeholders were talked directly and asked their opinions in building a successful relationship with them.

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Table 10-1: Stakeholder Mapping for the Project Stakeholders Category of Brief profile Overall Basis of Influence Rating stakeholder influence on the project Project Management Roads and Highways Primary . RHD is the primary High . Primary project proponents. Department (RHD) project proponent who . Primary financial beneficiaries. own a controlling stake . Responsible for all the project risks of the project and impact liabilities. . Responsible for establishment and operation of this project. Donor Organization Primary . Development partner of High . Key participants in the decision project namely ADB, making process. OFID and ADFD. . Compliance to funding agencies’ safeguards/operation policies and

other policies.

Worker and Labor Primary . Labors and workers Medium . Responsible for undertaking mostly inside, outside of skill and unskilled based work during Gazipur and Tangail construction phase. district for participating . Highest interest with low influence. in pre-construction and construction activities

Community Local Community Primary . Primarily includes Medium . Receptor of potential air, water community residing pollution and other environmental adjacent to the project risks. site including land . Potential beneficiaries of the sellers, women and infrastructural and other development vulnerable households. activities.

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Stakeholders Category of Brief profile Overall Basis of Influence Rating stakeholder influence on the project . Potential beneficiaries of business and job opportunities. . High interest with low influence. Land sellers and Primary . Primarily includes land Low . Land will be acquired according to the farmers owners and farmers Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) sold their land to the prepared for the project. project company. . The project affected people will get proper compensation in accordance to the “Acquisition and Requisition of Immovable property ordinance, 1982 (ordinance II of 1982 including amendments up to 1994) and subsequent amendment” . No major livelihood standard deterioration of land sellers is expected after selling of lands. . Low interest with low influence. Women Primary . Include women residing Low . No major direct impacts on women villages around the community except the potential air, project site water and other environmental impacts. . Expect to be the beneficiaries work opportunities. . Low interest with low influence Regulatory/Administrative Authorities & Agencies Dept. of Environment, Primary . The Department of High . Government Regulatory agency to Bangladesh, DoE Environment is the provide Environmental Clearance primary government (EC) to the project based on regulatory authority for evaluation and approval of

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Stakeholders Category of Brief profile Overall Basis of Influence Rating stakeholder influence on the project Environmental Environmental Impact Assessment protection in (EIA) study Bangladesh. . Responsible for monitoring project’s Environmental compliance throughout the project lifecycle. . High influence and high interest Department of Secondary . Local governmental Low . Very meager impact on total Upazilas’ Agriculture agency responsible for agriculture land and agricultural implementation of production. governmental . No major potential impact is agricultural activities. envisaged on rest of the agricultural land and production activities. . Interest level is low with low Influence level.

Department of Secondary . Local governmental Medium . During construction, hazardous waste Fisheries agency responsible for may pollute or block the adjacent implementation of canal. governmental fisheries . During production period, high chance activities. of water pollution by the disposal of waste water. . Along with the water pollution, fisheries of the water bodies linked with that canal will be affected. . Interest level is high with low influence. Department of Public Secondary . Local governmental Medium . Accidental spillage during Health Engineering agency responsible for construction period may pollute soil as implementation of well as ground water that may cause public health vulnerable.

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Stakeholders Category of Brief profile Overall Basis of Influence Rating stakeholder influence on the project governmental public . Ground water intake may decline the heath activities. existing ground water table. . Interest high with low influence Upazila Bit/Range Secondary . Local government . No major impacts have been Office of Forest agency responsible for envisaged the protection and . Interest low with low influence maintenance of forests and wildlife Department of Social Secondary . Local governmental Low . No major influence on project related Welfare (DSW) agency responsible for activities implementation of . However participation level and governmental social influence may increase when project welfare schemes and proponent wants to implement activities community welfare activities in coordination with this agency. Political Administration Union leaders & local Secondary . Elected representative Medium . Plays important role in providing representatives at ward level i.e. public opinion and sentiment on the village level for a fixed project tenure . Empowered to provide consent and authorization for establishment of project on behalf of the community . Low interest with high influence

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Information disclosure and consultation Numerous consultation exercises were conducted during this phase of EIA preparation. The stakeholders consulted include local people, community in the vicinity of project area, local elected representatives and other external stakeholders such as government officials. The details of consultations held with issues raised or discussed and suggestions provided by the respective stakeholders are presented in following sections.

A combination of mixed methods of information disclosure and consultation process was adopted at this stage of EIA preparation. The method selected for consultation was basically designed keeping in mind the profile of the stakeholders, type of information desired and level of engagement required. In each consultation session the consultant introduced themselves, introduced the project and the purpose of engagement with the respective stakeholder. The primary methods followed in the consultation process are:

. Key Informant Interview; . Focus group discussion; and . Public Consultation Key Informant Interview (KII) Key informant interviews are qualitative in-depth interviews with people who know what is going on in the community. The purpose of key informant interviews is to collect information from a wide range of people—including community leaders, professionals, or residents—who have firsthand knowledge about the community. These community experts, with their particular knowledge and understanding, can provide insight on the nature of problems and give recommendations for solutions. The main purpose of the KII was to understand the potential impacts of the project to the environment and local community. The also expressed their opinion regarding the project and suggested how to mitigate the pollution. The following Table 10-2 contains details of the key informant interview.

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Table 10-2: Key Informant Interview

Stakeholder Details of Participants Issues Discussed/Raised Response/Suggestions Made Details Md. Sultan Mahmud, . Primary fishing . No Fish sanctuary is located near (within Assistant Fisheries point/location/ports/sanctuary 5 km) the project area. Officer, Tangail Sadar located in and around the project . The fishing practice mostly involves pond Upazila, Tangail site; cultivations and some open water body . Type of fishing activities or type of where the most common species found Md. Fosiur Rahman, fishing available in the project site. are Rohu, Yellowtail catfish, Tilapia etc. . Fishing is seen with different traditional Assistant Fisheries . The available fish species in the gears such as cast net, Shallow fishing Officer, Mirzapur Upazila, project area. nets, etc. . Status of any critical/endangered . The number of fishermen in the Tangail species; Department of sadar upazila 1373 and annual fisheries Mosleuddin Ahmed, Field . Annual fish production. Fisheries production is around 8872.52 metric ton. Assisstant, Kaliakoir . Number of Fisherman or fishing . Due to construction, sedimentation may Upazila, Gazipur community around the area affect the migratory route of fishes. . Any envisaged impacts on the Therefore, sedimentation shall be aquatic pollution due to the unclogged regularly. construction of roads in the SMVT . The natural waterways are often project. disrupted by construction work and usually are not restored to the initial stage after completion of work. This contractor shall be aware about it and resolve the problem. Ashish Kumar Kor, . Understanding and overview of the . Land is intensively used for agriculture, Department of Upazila Agriculture agriculture sector in the study area; especially under Mirzapur upazila. Major Agriculture Officer, Kalialkar Upzilla

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Stakeholder Details of Participants Issues Discussed/Raised Response/Suggestions Made Details Dewan Ali, Upazila . Information on the crops grown in crops cultivated in this area is rice, wheat Agriculture Officer, the area and agricultural practices; and green vegetables. Mirzapur Upzilla . Information about cropping patterns . The major cropping patters are Aush- . Information about the agricultural Boro in the Mirzapur regions and Boro in schemes under implementation from Kaliakar region of Gazipur. the local government; . Within the whole study area, Mirzapur has the most vulnerability in terms of losing . Sharecropping practices in the agricultural land due to this project. project area. . The agricultural practices in the region . Beneficial of the proposed SMVT Md. Mosiur Rahman, are a mix of both cultivating one’s own lane for the agriculture sector. Upazila Agriculture land as well as sharecropping. . The road construction shall avoid Officer, Kalialkar Upzilla agricultural land as much as possible.

. After the completion of the road, the communication and transportation facilities will be improved. Farmer will be able to transport their crops to other areas at a very short time and more safely. It is expected that it will be able to reduce the

transportation cost and time.

Md. Muzahidul Islam,  Effective Measures during . The department of Environemnt of Tangail is Assistant Director, construction and operation well aware about the project. Department of Tangail  Importance of the SMVT lane . Attention regarding designs of the SMVT lane Environment  Road side tree plantation should be similar like other roads and  Navigability of canals highways.

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Stakeholder Details of Participants Issues Discussed/Raised Response/Suggestions Made Details . The number of trees cut down for this should be replaced according to the rules of forest dept. . The canals near the project location should not be blocked or filled up by the construction’s garbage. . Proper safety measures shall be taken to ensure good working environment for the worker. . Agricultural and wet land shall be avoided as much as possible and proper compensation to project affected people shall be ensured as well. . Contractor shall follow the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) strictly. Md. Sajjadujjaman, . Tree loss due to the construction of . The District Forest office, Tangail is well District Forest office, the SMVT lane aware about the project. They had made an Tangail. . If any endangered trees will be inventory list of the trees need to cut down. required to be cut down . No endangered tree species will be cut down. . Beneficial of the proposed SMVT Most of the species are planted under Social Department of project Forestry project including- Raintree, Hijal, Forest Babla, Akashmoni, Chambol tree etc.

. Social Forestry is one the most successful Mohammad Monjurul Islam, Forest range projects of the Govt. of Bangladesh over the Office, Chandra, Gazipur years. Therefore, after the completion of the project, it is expected to plant trees under

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Stakeholder Details of Participants Issues Discussed/Raised Response/Suggestions Made Details Social Forestry rather than Road Side Planation. . The local people shall be engaged in the tree plantation project and shall be consulted to select the tree species. . It is preferable to plant ornamental trees in the divider and plant local Tiber, Medicinal or fruit plants in the embankment or shoulder of the road. But it is also necessary to prepare a detail tree plantation plan first before start of tree plantation program. . In the Gazipur upazila the forest is tough is dominated by Sal tree, there are some other trees. . In this region of Kalahari, the most common tree is Akashmoni and Gajar. . The contractor shall make every precaution measure to protect the forest area. Md. Aminu Islam, AGM, . Familiarity with the project . Pollibidut Somiti is well aware about the Electricity Supply Pollibidut Somiti project. . Familiarity with the project . Gas Transmission Company Limited is well aware about the project. Md. Abdul Basar, Gas Gas Transmission . The project design will not affect the gas Transmission Company Company Limited Limited, Tangail distribution network. GTCL is always aware if the project is likely to affect the gas distribution system.

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Stakeholder Details of Participants Issues Discussed/Raised Response/Suggestions Made Details . In coordination with other related concern it can be implemented appropriately. Md. Sofiz Uddin, Sub . Concern about the project . They were not concerned about the project. Telecommunication Divisional Engineer, BTCL, Tangail.

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Figure 10-1: Selected Photos of Key Informant Interview (KII) With Different Stakeholders

Md. Sultan Mahmud, Assistant Fisheries Md. Muzahidul Islam, Assistant Director, Officer, Tangail Sadar Upazila, Tangail Department of Environment, Tangail

Md. Sajjadujjaman, District Forest office, Md. Fosiur Rahman, Assistant Fisheries Tangail Officer, Mirzapur Upazila.

Mosleuddin Ahmed, Field Assisstant, Thakur Das, Mirzapur Forest Upazila, Tangail Kaliakoir, Gazipur

Mohammad Monjurul Islam, Forest range Ashish Kumar Kor, Upazila Agriculture Officer, Officer, Chandra, Gazipur Kalialkar Upzilla

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Md. Aminu Islam Alim, Assistant General Md. Sofiz Uddin, Sub Divisional Engineer, Manager, Tangail Pollibidut Somiti. Bangladesh Telecommunication Company Limited

Md. Abdul Basar, Gas Transmission Company Limited, Tangail Focus Group Discussion A focus group is a group of individuals selected and assembled by the environmental specialists to discuss and comment on, from personal experience. Central to successful group discussion was capturing a wide range of opinions about the impact and mitigation because of the road project. The groups consisted of more than five people and they were discussed for approximately half an hour to gather information and opinion they have. Altogether 5 FGDs were held starting from 22th January to 28th January 2019. Approximately 70 participants from different locations have taken part in those consolations. The schedules, venues and the participant’s lists are given in Appendix C. The local people attended the focused group discussion meeting included, Farmer, Businessman, School Teacher etc. The summary of focused group discussion (FGD) is shown in Table 10-3 and pictures are illustrated in the following Table 10-2. During the consultation, the participants spontaneously expressed their feelings about the importance of developing the road. They told that the project will remove current stress on road traffic and will ease their turmoil and reduce their commuting time. Moreover, business sectors will be greatly benefitted due to the improvement of communication system.

Most of the people told that the local air quality has been degraded from the emission of brickfields, industries and other man-made sources. The participants expressed that the

SMVT 10-15 www.eqms.com.bd SASEC Road Connectivity Project Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project dredging materials should not be collected from the agricultural land since people are cultivating there. They told that there will be no major environmental impacts due to the project except a temporary impact of noise and dust from the engine of the construction transport and materials. Most of the people argued that they are willing to endure the temporary negative impact for the sake of the improvement of communication system which will improve their livelihood. Finally, they answered that all of them are in favor of the project.

Table 10-3: Summary of Focus Group Discussion

Issues discussed Participant’s Opinion, Response to comments and Suggestions Questions/Action Point General perception  Most of the participants  Accepted the project about the project and are in favor of the project the awareness about and have been made the proposed project. aware of the proposed project Support of local people  Almost everybody  The Consultants informed for the proposed showed positive attitude that during the study, the project regarding the project and design and layout of all asked the Consultants to infrastructures have take precautionary considered the anticipated measures to protect the adverse impacts. environment from various  EMP covers specific pollution. measures to follow during the construction process regarding the conservation of all natural resources including water bodies. Will the proposed  People of the project area  Impact of the project upon project create any site were quite aware of ambient air, noise quality, problem with ambient this problem. water quality has been air, noise quality or assessed during draft EIA water quality? report. Land acquisition and  Land acquisition and  Land acquisition is required Resettlement resettlement will be a and concerned authority has major issue. is well aware of it. The  According to the Project Implementation participants, this can be Consultant will take proper mitigated through proper measures so that project compensation and affected people get proper assistance to the affected compensation. They are also persons likely to prepare a Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) accordingly.  Compensation will be given as a result; overall impact on

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Issues discussed Participant’s Opinion, Response to comments and Suggestions Questions/Action Point the community will be minimized. Any critical issue or  Respondents suggested to  Important Environmental concern by the local important environmental Features (IEFs) will be people regarding the features (IEFs) like- avoided as much as project? school, health complex, possible. However, as the Or Any criteria you mosque, temple, SMVT has to be constructed would like to see graveyard etc. should be alongside the ROW of road considered during avoided during project some structure is likely to be project design, design. affected. They will be construction and avoided as much as operation stage? possible. Protected areas  The proposed area does  The nearest ECA is Turag (national parks not include any protected river is located around 8.1 protected forest, or ecological critical area. Km away from the project religiously sensitive site and is likely to have no sites, historical or advarce impact on the river. archaeological sites), if any

Employment Status  Employment is expected  Employment opportunity to increase in the project will increase during the area construction of the project and promote job sector. In the construction and  The participants  Consultants mentioned that operational phase expressed their concern the impact is temporary and noise and dust will be about air quality can be mitigated with generated. Are there degradation. proper mitigation any other issues about  Participants did not measures. construction, including mention any other  Contractor is expected to noise and dust that problems which might use modern construction might worry you? bother them other than instrument to reduce following basic safety environmental impact and rules. use safety measures to reduce the impact.

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Figure 10-2: Selected photographs of Focused Group Discussion

Focused Group Discussion with School Teacher Focused Group Discussion with Business Man at Jamurki, Tangail at Kortotia Bazar

Focused Group Discussion with at Mirzapur Focused Group Discussion with Business Man Bypass Bus Stand at Pakulla Bazar

FGD with local Farmer Community FGD with local Community, Kaliakoir, Gazipur

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Public Consultation The stakeholder consultation meeting was held on 18th and 19th January 2019, at the premises of the club room, near to the Korotia Road, under Korotia Union of Tangail Sadar Upazila, and Kaliakor sadar Upazila under Gazipur which is located about 600 m away from the Project site respectively. In both of the case, the proceedings started sharply at 11:00 AM.

A total of 63 people attended the meeting, which included government officials, elected representatives of Korotia and Kaliakor Union, senior citizen, businessmen, farmer, fishermen, local school teachers, students and local mosque imams. The list of participants from these groups has been provided as Annex-C.

Mr. Wahidur Rahman Khan (EQMS Consulting Limited), described the potential environmental impacts of the project and possible outcome of the project. He also described how the project will help to improve the communication system and socio-economic condition of the project area. following him, Ms. Israt Jahan, briefed the local people about social aspects of the projects and potential impacts as well.

At the end of this session, Mr. Md. Wahidur Rahman opened the floor for the public questions and suggestions from the attendance. The suggestions and queries were noted down carefully and repose for different key points was given by the consultants which is enlisted in the Table 10-4. At the end of the session, concluding speech was given to wrap up the proceedings.

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Table 10-4: Details of Public Consultations of the Project

Stakeholder Details of Date Issues discussed/raised Response/ Suggestions Details participants 14/10/ 2017 Business man Md. Delwar  Welcomed the project in the  The affected people will be Hossain locality compensated accordingly. The  Compensate the affected process has already been started. person/household according to Following national policy, the their degree of loss. affected people will get decent compensation upon submission of required legal document. 14/10/ 2017 School Md. Nur  A lot of trees will be cut down due  Trees will be replanted after Teacher Mohammad to the construction of the road. completion of the project. Therefore, plantation program shall According to the KII with Forest be initiated after completion of Department, there is provision of construction of the SMVT lane tree planation at least twice the number of plants to be cut down. Forest department already has an inventory of plants to be cut down. It is expected to do tree plantation under Social Forestry Program. However, the concern authority will decide whether it will be done under social forestry or road side plantation program. 14/10/ 2017 School Md. Habibur  This is a very busy road. Students  Public safety is very important. If Teacher Rahman come from different areas crossing there is any provision of the main road. Often they face construction of foot over bridge accident to cross the road. under this project it will be Therefore, constitution of foot over implemented accordingly. bridge is very important for student and public safety.

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Stakeholder Details of Date Issues discussed/raised Response/ Suggestions Details participants 14/10/ 2017 Businessman Arif Hossen  Local employment need to be  The project is expected to created during construction phase generate a good job opportunity to of the project. both skilled and non-skilled workers. However, it is already recommended to engage the local people and give priority to the project affected people in the construction work.

14/10/ 2017 Student Md. Hasibul  There are many religious sensitive  In design of the project, this issue places like mosque, temple, will be kept under consideration. graveyard etc. which will be However, the SMVT shall be affected by the project. constructed alongside the upgraded four lane road. So few religious structures might be affected. But the religious structure will be avoided as much as possible. 14/10/ 2017 Member, Hasina Begum  Welcome the project the locality.  During construction of the project, Kaliakoir  Employment opportunity will be a good number of job opportunity Gazipur increased in construction and will be created. The local people operation period of the project. will get preferences in the job  Priority of the project affected sector. But the job opportunity in people in job sector. the operational phase is very limited.  According to the skills and qualification, the project affected and local people will get jobs in the project.

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Stakeholder Details of Date Issues discussed/raised Response/ Suggestions Details participants Advocate Manik Ratan  The construction work generates a  Dust and noise pollution can be lot of noise and dust which causes mitigated if proper measures are health problem. Proper mitigation taken appropriately. For example, measures shall be ensured. dust can be mitigated by sprinkling of water and noise can be mitigated by installation of noise barrier, use of modern instrument and proper monitoring etc. Regular monitoring shall be ensured by the concern authority.

Service Tinu Tiddque  From our experience, we have  Contractors shall be made aware Holder seen that the drainage pattern is about the issue by representative disturbed by the construction work. authority. Development of Drainage system should be drainage system will be kept developed alongside the SMVT under consideration. lane. Business man Saidur Rahman  There are many commercial  They will be given notice with structure alongside the road. They appropriate time to remove their will be affected due to construction commercial goods. Detail of the of the road. They shall be compensation mechanism will be compensated properly described in the RAP study. It is expected that, PAP’s will get compensation appropriately.

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Figure 10-3: Selected Figures of Public Consultation Meeting

Introductory speech by the EQMS study Participants in the public consultation team meeting

Part of the participants Comments and suggestions from the participants

Participants of the PCM Comments and suggestions from the participants

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Comments and suggestions from the participants Ending speech from Member, Kaliakor Upazila

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CHAPTER ELEVEN: EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN

Emergency Response Plan & Disaster Impact Assessment Introduction

Disaster or emergency can be defined as any condition, man-made or natural, which results in a significant disruption to human life and materials. The on-set of most disasters is considered to be very rapid, allowing a minimum of time for preparation. The scale of a "disaster" is determined by the loss of life, damage to facilities and the amount of external resources for the place of occurrence to return to its normal activities.

Emergency prevention through good design, operation, maintenance and inspection are essential to reduce the probability of occurrence and consequential effect of such eventualities. However, it is not possible to totally eliminate such eventualities and random failures of equipment or human errors, omissions and unsafe acts cannot be ruled out. An essential part of major hazard control has therefore, to be concerned with mitigating the effects of such emergency and restoration of normalcy at the earliest. To overcome such eventualities, an emergency response plan and an emergency response team is required to be formulated.

Objective of Emergency Response Plan The overall objective of an emergency response plan is to make use of the combined resources at the proposed project site and outside services to achieve the following:

1. To localize the emergency and if possible eliminates it; 2. To minimize the effects of the accident on people, environment and property; 3. Controlling the incident, removing the hazard, preventing escalation; 4. Effect the rescue and medical treatment of casualties; 5. Safeguard other people; 6. Evacuate people to safe areas; 7. Informing and collaborating with statutory authorities; 8. Initially contain and ultimately bring the incident control; 9. Preserve relevant records and equipment for the subsequent enquiry into the cause and circumstances of the emergency; and 10. Investigate and take steps to prevent reoccurrence.

Elements of an Emergency Response Plan The main elements of an emergency response plan are as like as follows:

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. Leadership and Administration; . Role and Responsibilities of Key Personnel; . Emergency action; . Emergency Light and Power; . Source of energy control; . Protective and rescue equipment; . Communication; . Medical care/First Aid; . Public relation; . Protection of vital records; . Training; and . Periodical revision of plan.

Hazards Associated with the proposed project Main hazards and causes of frequent accidents identified for the project include: . Fire/explosion in the construction site, labor camp and fuel storage area; . Accidents from construction activities; . Lack of appropriate PPE in the construction site, good housekeeping practices and safety sign; . Structure failure; . Personnel falling from height; . Work in waterbodies or drowning of construction worker; . Handling heavy objects; . Electricity (electrocution); . Sharp objects; . Slipping on wet surface; . Snake bites; . Operation and maintenance of heavy equipment and machineries; . Mechanical failure; . Accidental spillage or leakage of fuels or hazardous chemicals; . Not proper bounding of chemical storage area; and . Improper chemical storage (e.g. Faulty/leaky containers, improper sealing of containers etc.).

The Natural Hazards/Calamities: . Earthquake; . Flood;

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. Cyclone and Storm Surges; . Riverbank Erosion; . Salinity Intrusion; . Drought; and . Landslide.

On-site emergency response and preparedness plan of construction contractor Scope of the onsite emergency response and preparedness plan is as follows: . The on site emergency preparedness plan is applicable to all the construction activities

carried ‐out at project site for both day and night time operation and also for operations during weekend, off days. It is also applicable to the movement of project personnel to and from the identified locations, on the way to and from the duty assignment. . These also apply to all employees, all contractors, sub contractors & their employees

and visitor at proposed project site/office. ‐ . The emergency preparedness plan is designed to link all the emergency scenarios that are identified as possibly occurring in our project during construction.

Emergency Response Procedure

Identification of Emergency It is necessary to determine what circumstances or set of circumstances constitute an emerging emergency, which would in turn cause the activation of the emergency response team.

Emergency Action Plan at project site The action plan should consist of the following: . Emergency Control Centre; and . Key Personnel. 11.6.2.1 Establishment of an Emergency Control Centre It is very important to establish an emergency control center at the project site for managing any kind of emergency. This center will be the main center from where the operations handle the emergency will be directed and coordinated. The project manager office of the contractor can be used as an emergency control center. After establishing the control center, the following facilities to be made available in the emergency control center:

a. Internal and external communication system; b. Computer and other essential records; c. Daily attendance of workers employed in the project site; d. Records of the storage of fuel and hazardous material;

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e. Pollution records; f. Walky-talky; g. Note Book, Pad and Pencil; and h. List of key personnel with addresses, telephone number etc.

Assembly Points A safe place far away from the proposed SMVT construction site should be pre-determined as an assembly point where in case of emergency personnel evacuated from the affected areas are to be assembled. The construction workers, contract workers and visitors should assemble at assembly point in case of emergency and the time office clerk should take their attendance so as to assess the missing persons during an emergency.

The Key Personnel for Emergency in the project The following key personnel will be played a vital role during the emergency situation in the proposed project site. Their roles and responsibilities for the emergency management are also given below:

A. Works Main Controller; B. Works Incident Controller; C. Other Key Officers.

Designated Duties/Activities person Main Controller  Assess the magnitude of the situation and decide whether the The Site Engineer evacuation of staff from the project is needed; of the construction  Exercise and direct operational control over areas other than those contractor should affected; act as main  Maintain a continuous review of possible development and assess controller in consultation with work incident controller and other key personnel;  Liaison with Police, Fire Service, Medical Services, Factory Inspectorate and other Government Agencies;  Direct and control rehabilitation of affected area after emergency; and  Ensure that evidence is preserved for enquiries to be conducted by statutory authorities.

Incident  Assess the situation and considering the magnitude of emergency Controller he will take decision and inform Communication Officer to The EHS officer of communicate the news of emergency to different agencies; the construction  Give direction to stop all operations within the affected area; contractor can  Take the charge of the main controller till the main controller arrives;  Order for shutdown and evacuation of workers and staffs from affected area;

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Designated Duties/Activities person work as incident  Inform all Key Personnel and all outside agencies for help; controller  Inform security and fire officers and Fire Services;  Ensure that all non-essential workers/staff are evacuated to the assembly point and areas searched for casualties;  Report all significant development to Communication Officer; and  Advise to preserve evidence of emergency into the cause of the emergency.

Other Key  He will proceed to the control center and communicate to work Personnel incident controller; Communication  He will collect information from the emergency affected area and Officer send the correct message to work main controller for a declaration of emergency;  He will maintain a log book of incident;  He will contact all essential departments;  He will communicate all information as directed by works main controller.

Security and Fire  He will reach the incident area with fire and security staff; Office  He will inform through telephone or walky-talky to the communication officer;  He will inform to the work incident controller about the situation and requirement of outside help like Fire Service and other mutual aid members;  At the site, the entire fire squad member will respond to the advice and information given by the works incident controller; and  The security will control the visitors and the vehicle entry.

Administrative  To ensure that casualties receive adequate attention to arrange Officer additional help if required and inform relatives;  To control traffic movement into the factory and ensure that alternative transport is available when needed;  When the emergency is prolonged, arrange for the relief of personnel and organize refreshment and catering facilities;  Arrange for finance for the expenditure to handle the emergency.

Alarm System Alarm system varies and will depend on the size of the work area - simple fire bell, hand operated siren break open type, fire alarm, etc.

Communication System Communication is a key component to control an emergency. The following communication system may be provided in the proposed project: Walky-Talky, Telephone (internal and external), Cell Phone, Intercom, and Runners (verbal or written messages).

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Siren for Emergency Siren for emergency should be different from the normal siren. The emergency siren should be audible for a distance of 1 KM radius. The emergency siren should be used only in case of emergency.

Counting of Personnel All personnel working in the plant should be counted. Time office persons should collect the details of personnel arriving at the assembly point. These should be checked with the attendances of regular workers, contract workers present at the site on the day of the emergency. The accident control should be informed and arrangement should be made for searching missing persons in the emergency affected area. The employees’ address, contact number of next to kin should be maintained in the time office so that during emergency relatives of those affected due to emergency may be informed accordingly. Information in respect of emergency should be given to the media and other agency.

All Clear Signal After control of emergency the work incident controller will communicate to the works main controller about the cessation of the emergency. The main controller can declare all clear by instructing the time office to sound “All Clear Sirens”.

Emergency Facilities The following facilities should be provided in the project site to tackle any emergency at any time:

1. Fire protection and firefighting facilities; 2. Emergency lighting and standby power; 3. Emergency equipment and rescue equipment: breathing apparatus with compressed air cylinder; fire proximity suit; resuscitator; water gel blanket; low temperature suit; first aid kit; stretchers; torches and ladders; and 4. Safety equipment: respirators; gum boots; safety helmets; asbestos rubber hand gloves; goggles and face shield; toxic gas measuring instruments; explosive meter; oxygen measuring instruments and wind direction indicator.

Hazardous Control Measures

Fire To prevent fire mishaps and to manage the emergency situation during fire in the proposed project the following activities and precautions are proposed.

. Automated fire detection alarm system in the labor camp and construction site;

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. Proper marking to be made for identification of locations of fuel and lubricating oil storages; . Periodic training or regular mock drills will be carried out to create awareness on procedures to be followed by the work force at the project site to handle any emergency situation; . Signboards including emergency phone numbers and ‘no smoking’ signs should be installed at all appropriate locations; . It will be advised to keep oxygen cylinders, medical kits and masks to prevent smoke inhalation especially for those with respiratory disorders for whom smoke inhalation can be very dangerous; . The proposed project will be provided with sufficient firefighting gadgets (sand bucket, water, fire extinguisher etc.). . Co-ordination with local authorities such as fire, police, ambulance, district administration and nearby industries should be ensured to manage/control, meet any eventuality; and . The staff shall be trained for first aid and firefighting procedures.

Simple steps to be followed during emergency are as follows. A. Call the fire rescue department: During fire in the project site, leave the premises by nearest available exit. Call fire department and do not assume anyone else has called the fire department. If your cloth catches fire, do not get panic or run, stop, drop and roll. B. Cover your nose and mouth with a wet clean cloth: Stay calm cover your nose and mouth with a wet, clean cloth to prevent smoke inhalation injury and choking. Never jump off or attempt to climb down the side of tall structures, as it will mean certain death. C. Do not run: During a fire, smoke containing poisonous gases such as CO tends to rise up. When you run in a smoke filled room, you tend to inhale the smoke faster. CO dulls the senses and prevents clear thinking, leading to panic. To prevent being asphyxiated, dip tissues or cloth in water and cover your noise with it. D. Head-count of the occupants: During an emergency, make good use of the evacuation procedure and help each other to reach out of plant/building safely. Ensure nobody is left behind by doing a head-count of occupants. Visitors should read and understand the evacuation plan before going into the project area and ensure their safety.

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Natural Disasters Natural disasters occur without notice. Most disasters are natural such as earthquake, floods, cyclones and storm surges, riverbank erosion, salinity intrusion, drought and landslides. We have no way of stopping them, but we can learn to deal with the difficult situations that arise due to them. During disasters like floods, fire, cyclone, earthquake, landslides, rescue beings at site. Even before external help arrives, people affected by the disasters help each other. The government and many voluntary organizations send teams of workers trained in rescue operations to disaster-affected areas. These teams join hands with the local community helpers such as doctors, nurses, social workers and police officers.

Electrical Accidents Electrical hazards can cause burns, shocks, and electrocution, which can lead to serious injury and even death. When dealing with potentially serious electrical hazards stop and think, Instead of taking a chance and risking your personal safety, call trained professionals to handle problems. Many times people prefer to take electrical matters into their own hands. Other small aspects of electrical repair in a business setting may be taken care of without needing professional service technicians. If you do decide to take matters into your own hands, safety precautions can avoid injuries and other losses.

Prevention of Electrical Accidents Flexible cords connected to appliance should be wired to confirm to the international Color code. Color of the insulation on the wire is Brown represents live wire, Blue represents neutral wire and Green/yellow stripes represent earth wire.

What you should look for when selecting an electrical appliance is given below:

A. The appliance should be suitable for operation on local electrical supply of 240 volts AC and frequency of 50 Hz. B. The appliance should preferably be tested and certified by a national or reputed standards testing authority C. Look for certified plugs on the flexible cords connected to the appliances. If the appliance is double insulated and has a 2-pin plug, then it should be fitted with a suitable certified plug. D. An essential formality when buying any appliances is a duly completed guarantee card with the dealers/retailer's official stamp and details of the appliance (serial number, etc.).

Safety precautions to be taken when using electrical appliances A. Avoid using handheld appliances when your hand and/or body is wet. B. Do not use or leave appliances where liquid can splash on to them.

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C. Flexible cords connecting the appliance and the plug should be in good condition, if the cord is frayed, chaffed, cut or melted, have the entire cord replaced by a competent person. D. Check accessories such as plugs attached to appliances for cracks and burnt marks and have them replaced. If undue overheating occurs or burnt marks appear in any electrical appliance, have it checked.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) In certain circumstances, personal protection of the individual maybe required as a supplement to other preventive action. It should not be regarded as a substitute for other control measures and must only be used in conjunction with substitution and elimination measures. PPEs must be appropriately selected individually fitted and workers trained in their correct use and maintenance. PPEs must be regularly checked and maintained to ensure by the contractor that the worker is being protected.

First Aid All medical facilities construction camp and work sites will be sufficient for the type of work being performed and the number of personnel at each work location. First Aid kits shall be supplied and maintained current and complete of content by the Contractor and will:

. Be immediately accessible to all personnel; . Have emergency contact numbers (phone and/or radio) located in the vicinity of the kits along with a content list, treatment log and pen.

Be clearly marked and numbered for identification and the contents inspected once every month for acceptability and completeness.

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CHAPTER TWELVE: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

Conclusion and Recommendation Conclusion

Based on the harmonized environmental safeguard requirements of the co-financiers and the Government of Bangladesh adopted for the SMVT construction under SASEC Road Connectivity Project, all environmental assessment documentations have been prepared. The EIA reveals that there will be both negative and positive impacts due to the construction of SMVT lane.

The negative environmental impacts of the Project include land acquisition, cut down of trees; changes in land use; impact on health hygiene and sanitation of construction workers and public. The other negative impacts of the Project are noise and air pollution due to construction, and soil erosion etc.

The significant positive environmental impacts of the Project in terms of environmental enhancements and compensation measures are new plantations alongside the road; regional development through connection between Dhaka and northern areas of Bangladesh; and huge potential for employment during construction and O/M stages as well as from induced economic growth and activities. Hopefully it will reduce the traffic pressure on the main road and make the transport system more effective and smooth.

An EMP has been formulated to mitigate the negative impacts during various phases (preconstruction, construction and O&M) of the Project to acceptable levels. To ensure that measures are implemented correctly and negative impacts avoided, the environmental monitoring plan along with adequate budget is included in Environmental Management Plan. A successful tool for the EMP is the environmental monitoring during various stages of the Project, which has been provided as a part of the EMP. The main monitoring parameters include environmental quality monitoring (air, noise, surface water, ground water) etc.

Recommendation The following recommendations are made on the basis of EIA study that should be considered for achieving the goal of optimum minimum environmental impact and optimum benefits: . Findings and suggestion of EIA study shall be included in project planning, design and operation of the projcet; . All activities during pre-construction, construction and operation stage should be implemented following the guidelines according to EMP;

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. Environmental monitoring is essential to ensure that potential impacts are minimum. It is recommended that environmental monitoring to be carried out by the contractor during the project implementation accordingly; . Tree plantation program shall be initiated after completion of the project and during implementation of the project, coordination shall be ensured between Forest Department, Department of Environment, Local NGOs. Trees shall be taken care of for 1 year and 100% survival rate shall be ensured. . Contractor’s environmental experts have to prepare Site Specific Environmental Management Plan (SEMP) and submit the same to the PMU of EA for approval at least 30 days before entering to the project sites. Contractors would be allowed to take over the sites only after having approved SEMP. . Establishing Institutional arrangement with proper logistic and training for Environment, Health and Safety during pre-construction, construction and operation phases of the project; and . The present EIA report finds that, though there are certain adverse environmental impacts associated with the project implementation, those are however manageable. In light of the above, the project proponent may be allowed to go ahead with the implementation of the Project.

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ANNEX-A: Contract Agreement

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Annex-B: Rapid Environmental Assessment Checklist

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Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

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Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

Annex-C: ECR- Schedule-1

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List 1: Red Category Project: Schedule 1, Environment Conservation Rules 1997

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Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

ANNEX-D: Checklists & Attendance Sheet of PCM & FGD

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Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

Annex D-2: Attendance of the Public Consultation Meeting

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Annex D-3: Attendance of the Focus Group Discussion

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Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

Annex E-: Applicable Standard for the Project

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Ambient Air Quality Standard in Bangladesh

Bangladesh Standard Air pollutant Average time (µg/m3) 10,000 (9 ppm) 8 hour Carbon Monoxide (CO) 40,000 (35 ppm) 1 hour Lead (Pb) 0.5 Annual Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) 100 (0.053 ppm) Annual Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) 200 8 hour 50 Annual Coarse Particulates (PM10) 150 24 hour 15 Annual Fine Particulates (PM2.5) 65 24 hour 235 (0.12 ppm) 1 hour Ozone (O3) 157 (0.08 ppm) 8 hour 80 (0.03 ppm) Annual Sulphur Dioxide (SO2) 365 (0.14 ppm) 24 hour Source: The Environmental Conservation Rules 1997 and amendment 2005 (Schedule-2)

Annex F-2: Standards for Water Quality in Bangladesh

(A) Standards for Inland Surface Water

Parameter Total Best Practice based classification BOD pH DO mg/L Coliform mg/L number/100 Source of drinking water for supply a. 6.5-8.5 2 or less 6 or above 50 or less only after disinfecting: Water usable for recreational b. 6.5 – 8.5 3 or less 5 of more 200 or less activity : Source of drinking water for supply c. 6.5 – 8.5 6 of less 6 or more 5000 or less after conventional treatment : d. Water usable by fisheries: 6.5 – 8.5 6 of less 5 or more --- Water usable by various process e. 6.5 – 8.5 10 or less 5 or more 5000 or less and cooling industries : f. Water usable for irrigation: 6.5 – 8.5 10 or less 5 or more 1000 or less Source: The Environmental Conservation Rules 1997 (Schedule-3)

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(B) Standards for Drinking Water Sl. # Parameter Unit Standards 1. Aluminum mg/L 0.2 2. Ammonia (NH3) ,, 0.5 3. Arsenic ,, 0.05 4. Balium ,, 0.01 5. Benzene ,, 0.01

6. BOD5 20C ,, 0.2 7. Boron ,, 1.0 8. Cadmium ,, 0.005 9. Calcium ,, 75 10. Chloride ,, 150 – 600* Chlorinated alkanes carbontetrachloride ,, 0.01 1.1 dichloroethylene ,, 0.001 11. 1.2 dichloroethylene ,, 0.03 tetrachloroethylene ,, 0.03 trichloroethylene ,, 0.09

Chlorinated phenols 12. - pentachlorophenol mg/L 0.03 - 2.4.6 trichlorophenol ,, 0.03 13. Chlorine (residual) ,, 0.2 14. Chloroform ,, 0.09 15. Chromium (hexavalent) ,, 0.05 16. Chromium (total) ,, 0.05 17. COD ,, 4 18. Coliform (fecal) n/100 ml 0 19. Coliform (total) n/100 ml 0 20. Color Hazen unit 15 21. Copper mg/L 1 22. Cyanide ,, 0.1 23. Detergents ,, 0.2 24. DO ,, 6 25. Fluoride ,, 1 26. Hardness (as CaCO3) ,, 200 – 500 27. Iron ,, 0.3 – 1.0 28. Kjeldhl Nitrogen (total) ,, 1 29. Lead ,, 0.05 30. Magnesium ,, 30 – 35

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Sl. # Parameter Unit Standards 31. Manganese ,, 0.1 32. Mercury ,, 0.001 33. Nickel ,, 0.1 34. Nitrate ,, 10 35. Nitrite ,, 1 36. Odor ,, Odorless 37. Oil and grease ,, 0.01 38. pH ,, 6.5 – 8.5 39. Phenolic compounds ,, 0.002 40. Phosphate ,, 6 41. Phosphorus ,, 0 42. Potassium ,, 12 43. Radioactive materials (gross alpha activity) Bq/l 0.01 44. Radioactive materials (gross beta activity) Bq/l 0.1 45. Selenium mg/L 0.01 46. Silver ,, 0.02 47. Sodium ,, 200 48. Suspended particulate matters ,, 10 49. Sufide ,, 0 50. Sulfate ,, 400 51. Total dissolved solids ,, 1000 52. Temperature 0C 20-30 53. Tin mg/L 2 54. Turbidity JTU 10 55. Zinc mg/L 5 Source: The Environmental Conservation Rules 1997 (Schedule-3)

Annex E-3: Standards for Sound in Bangladesh

Limit in dB(A) Leq* Sl. # Category of Area/Zone Day Time Night Time a. Silent Zone 50 40 b. Residential area 55 45 c. Mixed area 60 50 d. Commercial area 70 60 e. Industrial area 75 70 Source: Noise Pollution (control) Rules, 2005

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Annex E-4: Standards for Odor in Bangladesh

Parameter Unit Standard Limit Acetaldehyde ppm 0.5 – 5 Ammonia ,, 1 – 5 Hydrogen Sulfide ,, 0.02 – 0.2 Methyl Disulfide ,, 0.009 – 0.1 Methyl Sulfide ,, 0.01 – 0.2 Styrene ,, 0.4 – 2.0 Trim ethylamine ,, 0.005 – 0.07 Source: The Environmental Conservation Rules 1997 (Schedule-8)

Annex E-5: Standards for Sewage Discharge

Parameter Unit Standard Limit BOD milligram/l 40 Nitrate ,, 250 Phosphate ,, 35 Suspended Solids (SS) ,, 100 Temperature Degree Centigrade 30 Coliform number per 100 ml 1000 Source: The Environmental Conservation Rules 1997 (Schedule-9)

AnnexE-6: Standards for Waste from Industrial Units or Projects Waste

Places for determination of standards

Public Sewerage Inland Sl. # Parameter Unit system connected Irrigated Surface to treatment at Land Water second stage Ammonical Nitrogen(as 1 mg/L 50 75 75 elementary N) 2 Ammonia (as free ammonia) ,, 5 5 15 3 Arsenic (as) ,, 0.2 0.05 0.2

o 4 BOD5 at 20 C ,, 50 250 100 5 Boron ,, 2 2 2 6 Cadmium (as CD) ,, 0.50 0.05 0.05 7 Chloride ,, 600 600 600 8 Chromium (as total Cr) ,, 0.5 1.0 1.0 9 COD ,, 200 400 400 10 Chromium (as hexavalent Cr) ,, 0.1 1.0 1.0 11 Copper (as Cu) ,, 0.5 3.0 3.0

Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

Places for determination of standards

Public Sewerage Inland Sl. # Parameter Unit system connected Irrigated Surface to treatment at Land Water second stage 12 Dissolved Oxygen (DO) ,, 4.5 – 8 4.5 – 8 4.5 – 8 13 Electro-conductivity (EC) micromho/ cm 1200 1200 1200 14 Total Dissolved Solids ,, 2100 2100 2100 15 Fluoride (as F) ,, 2 15 10 16 Sulfide (as S) ,, 1 2 2 17 Iran (as Fe) ,, 2 2 2 18 Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (as N) ,, 100 100 100 19 Lead (as Pb) ,, 0.1 1.0 0.1 20 Manganese (as Mn) ,, 5 5 5 21 Mercury (as Hg) ,, 0.01 0.01 0.01 22 Nickel (as Ni) ,, 1.0 2.0 1.0 23 Nitrate (as elementary N) mg/L 10.0 Not yet Fixed 10 24 Oil and Grease ,, 10 20 10

25 Phenolic Compounds(as C6H5OH) ,, 1.0 5 1 26 Dissolved Phosphorus (as P) ,, 8 8 15 27 Radioactive substance To be specified by Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission 28 pH 6 – 9 6 – 9 6 – 9 29 Selenium (as Se) mg/L 0.05 0.05 0.05 30 Zinc (as Zn) Degree 5 10 10 31 Total Dissolved Solids ,, 2,100 2,100 2,100 40 40 40- Summer 32 Temperature Centigrade 45 45 45-Winter 33 Suspended Solids (SS) mg/L 150 500 200 34 Cyanide (as Cn) ,, 0.1 2.0 0.2 Source: The Environmental Conservation Rules 1997 (Schedule-10)

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ANNEX F: List of Bridge and Culverts

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Table F-1: List of Proposed Bridge

SL. Bridge name Chainage Length Span No Lane Comments (m) No 1. SMVT Kodda 3+556 70 2 1 Proposed for new Bridge 1 SMVT lane 2. SMVT Kodda 4+109 121 5 1 Proposed for new Bridge 2 SMVT lane 3. SMVT Bymail 5+208 121 5 1 Proposed for new Bridge SMVT lane 4. SMVT Lotifour 20+232 60 2 1 Proposed for new Bridge SMVT lane 5. SMVT North 22+079 50 2 1 Proposed for new Hijoltoli Bridge SMVT lane 6. SMVT 28+551 72.9 3 1 Proposed for new Shohagpur SMVT lane Bridge 7. SMVT Dewhata- 31+345 48.6 2 1 Proposed for new 2 Bridge SMVT lane 8. SMVT Post- 34+944 30 1 1 Proposed for new Kumari Bridge SMVT lane 9. Dewhata-3 32+189 50 2 1 Proposed for new Bridge SMVT lane 10. SMVT Subolla 38+389 31.9 1 1 Proposed for new Bridge RHS SMVT lane 11. SMVT Aklimtola 41+878 42.85 2 1 Proposed for new Bridge RHS SMVT lane 12. SMVT Jamorki 44+371 49.450 2 1 Proposed for new Bridge RHS SMVT lane 13. SMVT Amlapara 47+284 16.5 1 1 Proposed for new Bridge RHS SMVT lane 14. SMVT Kobotabai 52+736 21.400 1 1 Proposed for new Bridge RHS SMVT lane 15. SMVT 53+683 45.850 2 1 Proposed for new Madordhoni SMVT lane Bridge RHS 16. SMVT Kharjana 54+704 61.450 2 1 Proposed for new Bridge RHS SMVT lane 17. SMVT Ampur 56+476 20.00 1 1 Proposed for new Bridge RHS SMVT lane 18. Kandila New 61+921 21 1 1 Proposed for new SMVT Bridge SMVT lane RHS 19. Shibpur New 62+999 21 1 1 Proposed for new SMVT bridge SMVT lane RHS 20. Bikromhati New 64+551 104.05 4 1 Proposed for new SMVT-I LHS SMVT lane

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SL. Bridge name Chainage Length Span No Lane Comments (m) No 21. Bikromhati New 65+200 52 2 1 Proposed for new SMVT-II LHS SMVT lane 22. Rosulpur New 66+020 42 2 1 Proposed for new SMVT Bridge SMVT lane LHS 23. Palu New SMVT 68+697 57 3 1 Proposed for new Bridge LHS SMVT lane

Table F-2: List of culverts to be constructed

SL. Chainage Length along the road Vent No 1. 00+246 3.00 1 2. 00+543 3.00 1 3. 00+940 3.00 1 4. 01+632 3.00 1 5. 02+223 3.100 1 6. 03+266 1.500 1 7. 08+905 4.500 2 8. 13+002 1.500 1 9. 13+239 5.000 2 10. 14+099 2.000 1 11. 14+404 3.400 1 12. 14+730 1.500 1 13. 15+148 2.000 1 14. 16+657 4.000 1 15. 17+272 5.500 1 16. 18+211 1.500 1 17. 21+577 1.500 1 18. 22+646 5.490 1 19. 23+307 11.321 2 20. 24+060 7.000 1 21. 25+604 5.92 1 22. 26+027 5.47 1 23. 26+986 2.5 1 24. 27+683 6.42 1 25. 28+904 29.724 3 26. 29+288 5.470 1

Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

27. 29+859 20.20 4 28. 30+303 20.1 4 29. 30+656 6.478 1

Table F3: List of culverts to be constructed

SL. Chainage Length along the road Vent No 1. 37+454 19.80 3 2. 38+912 10.05 2 3. 39+573 5.30 1 4. 40+374 5.40 1 5. 43+504 5.30 1 6. 44+721 10.20 2 7. 45+498 5.30 1 8. 46+066 11.20 2 9. 47+842 5.30 1 10. 48+726 10,05 2 11. 49+210 2.80 1 12. 50+211 10.05 2 13. 51+317 10,05 2 14. 53+917 2.40 1 15. 55+196 6.10 1 16. 56+679 3.37 1 17. 57+896 4.82 1 18. 58+272 13.10 2 19. 58+731 2.30 1 20. 59+433 9.25 2 21. 59+963 9.25 2 22. 60+333 5.30 1 23. 61+184 5.90 1 24. 63+060 2.70 1 25. 62+694 2.70 1 26. 64+056 13.55 4 27. 66+460 10.30 3 28. 68+449 10.30 3 29. 69+148 9.25 2

Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

Annexure G: Air Quality Monitoring

Supplementary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for additional work scope under SASEC Road Connectivity Project

Ambient Air Quality of the Project site

Chainage Sl# Sampling Station Station Code GPS Coordinate (Km+m) 1. Construction Camp Yard AQ1 23+000 N24°05´9.9"E90°11´59.3" 2. Dullamari road area AQ2 36+900 N24°06´46.6"E90°11´21.7"

Ambient air pollution concentration in µg/m3 CO* Sl. Sampling location PM2.5 PM10 SPM SO2 NOx ppm 1. AQ1 33.1 54.6 122.4 21.1 28.6 <2 2. AQ2 36.9 79.7 118.6 16.3 22.6 <2 Duration (hours) 24 24 8 24 24 8 Weather Condition Sunny Bangladesh Standard* (according to Environmental 65 150 200 365 100 9 Conservation Rules’ 1997 and subsequent amendment in 2005)

Method of analysis

tube tube

West-

Geake Geake

Indicator Indicator

Jacob and Jacob

Hochheiser Hochheiser

Gravimetric Gravimetric Gravimetric Gravimetric Source: Air quality analysis done by EQMS Consulting Limited, 2019 Date of analysis: 18th to 20th February, 2019, Weather Condition: Sunny Note: * SPM & CO concentrations and standards are 8-hourly only. ** The Bangladesh National Ambient Air Quality Standards have been taken from the Environmental Conservation Rules, 1997 which was amended on 19th July 2005 vide S.R.O. No. 220-Law/2005.