NEAS:DEA/EIA /0000428/2011
DEA:12/12/20/2375
Amended Environmental Management Programme for the Rehabilitation of National Route (N11) Section 13 in Mokopane a Distance of Approximately 24km, Including Borrow-Pits and a Hard Rock Quarry Along the Route.
October 2012 A Report for: SANRAL
Tel: +27 (011) 798 6000 Building No 5, Country Club Estate, 21 Woodlands Drive, Woodmead, 2191
DOCUMENT DESCRIPTION
Client : SANRAL
Report Name : Amended Environmental Management Programme for the Rehabilitation of National Route (N11) Section 13 in Mokopane a Distance of Approximately 24km, Including Borrow-Pits and a Hard Rock Quarry Along the Route.
SSI Environmental Reference Number : E02.JNB.000973
Authority Reference : NEAS:DEA/EIA/0000428/2011 DEA:12/12/20/2375
Compiled by : Sibongile Gumbi
Date : October 2012
Reviewer: Ntseketsi Lerotholi
Approval: Malcolm Roods
© SSI Environmental All rights reserved
No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without the written permission from SSI Environmental.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 PROJECT DESCRIPTION 1 1.1. PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES OF THE EMP R 5
2 MANAGEMENT AND MONITORING PROCEDURES 6 2.1. ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 6 2.2. TRAINING AND ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS 7 2.3. MONITORING 8 2.4. CHECKING AND CORRECTIVE ACTION 8 2.5. CONTRACTOR MANAGEMENT 8 2.6. REPORTING PROCEDURES 8 2.6.1. DOCUMENTATION 8 2.6.2. ENVIRONMENTAL INCIDENTS REGISTER 9 2.6.3. INTERESTED AND AFFECTED PARTIES COMPLAINTS REGISTER 9 2.7. EMP R 9 2.8. LAYOUT THE EMP R 10 2.9. CONSTRUCTION MATERIAL REQUIREMENTS 10 2.10. METHOD STATEMENTS 10
3 LEGAL REQUIREMENTS 11
4 GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT 14 4.1. VEGETATION UNDERLYING THE STUDY AREA 14 4.2. VEGETATION OF CONSERVATION 16 4.3. PRELIMINARY FAUNAL SURVEY 16 4.3.1. AMPHIBIANS 17 4.3.2. REPTILES 17 4.3.3. AVIFAUNA/BIRDS 17 4.3.4. MAMMAL SURVEY 17 4.3.5. SENSITIVE HABITATS 18 4.4. AQUATIC FEATURES 19 4.5. WETLAND DELINEATION 20 4.5.1. WETLAND HEALTH AND HABITAT INTEGRITY 20 4.6. HERITAGE 21 4.6.1. ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES 22 4.6.2. CEMETERIES 22 4.6.3. PUBLIC MONUMENTS 22 4.6.4. INFRASTRUCTURE AND INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE 23 4.7. NOISE 24 4.8. TRAFFIC 32 4.9. SOCIAL 43
5 PROJECT SCHEDULE 48 5.1. SITE ESTABLISHMENT 48 5.2. SITE CLEARANCE 49
6 OPERATIONAL PHASE 76
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Table of Figures FIGURE 1: BRIDGES 1 & 2 AND BORROW PITS 1, 2, 3 & 3A 2 FIGURE 2: BORROW PIT 4, HARDROCK QUARRY & BRIDGE 3 3 FIGURE 3: BORROW PIT 5 AND BRIDGE 4 4 FIGURE 4: NATIONAL BIODIVERSITY MAP OF THE STUDY AREA 15 FIGURE 5: MAP OF AQUATIC FEATURES IN THE STUDY AREA 19 FIGURE 6: WETLAND AND DRAINAGE LINE MAP 21 FIGURE 7: TOOLS DATING TO THE MSA 22 FIGURE 8: LOCAL CEMETERIES 22 FIGURE 9: MONUMENTS IN TOWN AND IN THE RURAL AREA 23 FIGURE 10: FOUR BRIDGES OF THE STUDY AREA 24 FIGURE 11: NOISE SENSITIVE AREAS ALONG THE N11 26 FIGURE 12: NOISE MEASURING POINTS 28 FIGURE 13: TRAFFIC COUNTING SURVEYS 33 FIGURE 14: DIRECTIONAL TRAFFIC FLOW PROFILE ON N11/13 34 FIGURE 15: CLASSIFIED TRAFFIC FLOW PROFILE ON N11/13 34 FIGURE 16: VEHICLE CLASSIFICATION IN THE SOUTHERN SECTION (5.35KM) 36 FIGURE 17: VEHICLE CLASSIFICATION IN THE NORTHERN SECTION (14.4KM) 36 FIGURE 18: CURRENT PEAK HOUR TRAFFIC 2012 38 FIGURE 19: ADJUSTED TRAFFIC FLOW 2012 39 FIGURE 20: ADJUSTED TRAFFIC FLOW 2017 40 FIGURE 21: ADJUSTED TRAFFIC FLOW 2022 41 FIGURE 22: PEDESTRIAN MOVEMENT IN SOUTHERN SECTION AT 5.35KM 42 FIGURE 23: PEDESTRIAN MOVEMENT IN SOUTHERN SECTION AT 14.4KM 42 FIGURE 24: VILLAGES OF THE STUDY AREA 45 FIGURE 25: SEMIFORMAL/FORMAL HOUSES 45 FIGURE 26: SEMIFORMAL/FORMAL BUSSINESSES 46 FIGURE 26: ROAD USERS 47
List of Tables TABLE 1:R OLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES 6 TABLE 2:L EGAL REQUIREMENTS 11 TABLE 3:GENERAL NOISE LEVELS A PERSON IS EXPOSED TO ON A DAILY BASIS. 25 TABLE 4:RECOMMENDED AMBIENT NOISE LEVELS BY THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION 25 TABLE 5:ESTIMATED GROUP RESPONSE SHOULD THE AMBIENT NOISE LEVEL BE EXCEEDED 26 TABLE 6:TYPICAL RATING LEVELS FOR AMBIENT NOISE IN DISTRICTS 29 TABLE 7:RESULTS OF THE NOISE MEASUREMENTS 29 TABLE 8:NOISE LEVELS AT NOISE SENSITIVE AREAS . 30 TABLE 9:PROJECTED TRAFFIC VOLUMES ALONG THE PROJECT ROUTE 31 TABLE 10:TRAFFIC GROWTH RATES 35 TABLE 11:E80 STATISTICS FROM AXLE LOAD SURVEYS, APRIL 2012 43 TABLE 12:D ESIGN AND PLANNING 50 TABLE 13:E NVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING 51 TABLE 14:SITE CAMP 52 TABLE 15:C ONSTRUCTION TRAFFIC AND ACCESS 54
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TABLE 16:S OILS 55 TABLE 17:A IR QUALITY 57 TABLE 18:G ROUND AND SURFACE WATER POLLUTION 58 TABLE 19: WETLANDS 60 TABLE 20:F LORA 61 TABLE 21:F AUNA 62 TABLE 22:N OISE 63 TABLE 23:W ASTE MANAGEMENT 64 TABLE 24:H EALTH AND SAFETY 66 TABLE 25:S OCIAL ENVIRONMENT 68 TABLE 26:C ULTURAL AND HERITAGE ARTIFACTS 70 TABLE 27:REHABILITATION 72 TABLE 28: DECOMMISSIONING 74 TABLE 29:O PERATIONAL PHASE 76
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DEFINITIONS
Environmental A detailed plan of action prepared to ensure that recommendations for enhancing or Management ensuring positive impacts and limiting or preventing negative environmental impacts Programme are implemented during the life-cycle of a project. This Environmental Management Programme should preferable form part of SANRAL’s Environmental Management System and ISO 14001 standard compliance system.
Environment In terms of the National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) (No 107 of 1998), “environment” means the surroundings within which humans exist and that are made up of: • The land, water and atmosphere of the earth; • Micro-organisms, plant and animal life, and • Any part or combination of (i) of (ii) and the interrelationships among and between them; and the physical, chemical, aesthetic and cultural properties and conditions of the foregoing that influence human health and wellbeing.
SANRAL Project The person appointed by SANRAL from time to time to act in the capacity and Manager notified, by name and in writing by SANRAL to the Contractor, to act as required in the contract.
Environmental Site An individual appointed by the Contractor to be present on site to act on behalf of the Agent contractor in matters concerning the implementation and day to day monitoring of the EMPr.
Environmental A person appointed by the Project Manager to monitor environmental compliance of Control Officer the contractor and produce monthly environmental compliance reports.
Contractor A person or company appointed by SANRAL to carry out stipulated activities
Rehabilitation Rehabilitation is defined as the return of a disturbed area to a state which approximates the state (where possible) which it was before disruption. Rehabilitation for the purposes of this specification is aimed at post-reinstatement re-vegetation of a disturbed area and the insurance of a stable land surface. Re-vegetation should aim to accelerate the natural succession processes so that the plant community develops in the desired way, i.e. promote rapid vegetation establishment.
Incident An undesired event which may result in significant environmental impacts but can be managed through internal response.
Impact A description of the potential effect or consequence of an aspect of the development on a specified component of the biophysical, social or economic environment within a defined time and space.
Environmental Impact A change to the environment, whether adverse or beneficial, wholly or partially resulting from an organisation’s activities, products or services.
Mitigation Measures designed to avoid, reduce or remedy adverse impacts.
Emergency An undesired event that does result in significant environmental impacts and requires the notification of relevant statutory body such as a local or provincial authority.
Waste disposal Waste disposal facility means any site or premise used for the accumulation of waste facility with the purpose of disposing of that waste at that site or on that premises.
Hazardous Waste A waste disposal site that is designed managed and permitted to allow for the
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Landfill Site disposal of hazardous waste.
Hazardous Waste Hazardous waste means any waste that contains organic or inorganic elements or compounds that may, owing to the inherent physical, chemical or toxicological characteristics of that waste have a detrimental impact on health and the environment.
Domestic Waste Domestic waste means waste, excluding hazardous waste, that emanates from premises that are used wholly or mainly for residential, educational, health care, sport or recreation purposes.
Building Waste Building and demolition waste means waste, excluding hazardous waste, produced during the construction, alteration, repair or demolition of any structure, and includes rubble, earth, rock and wood displaced during that construction, alteration, repair or demolition.
ACRONYMS
SANRAL South African National Road Agency
EMPr Environmental Management Programme
ECO Environmental Control Officer
DWA Department of Water Affairs
DEA Department of Environmental Affairs
DMR Department of Mineral Resources
IEM Integrated Environmental Management
I&AP Interested and Affected Party
PPE Personal Protective Equipment
ESA Environmental Site Agent
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Amended Environmental Management Programme for the Rehabilitation of National Route (N11) Section 13 in Mokopane
1 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The South African National Roads Agency Limited is proposing to rehabilitate section 13 of the National Route 11 (N11) which covers a distance of approximately 24 km in Mokopane, Limpopo Province. The detailed scope of work for the project is described as follows:
Road works
The road works will include amongst others the following:
Widening of the existing road to include surface shoulders which will be approximately 15 meters in total width; Provision of climbing lanes / overtaking lanes where required; Upgrading of existing and installation of new storm water culverts; Widening of major in-situ culverts; Vertical realignment of the road at several points along the route; Possible widening of the existing road reserve will also be necessary due to the narrow width of the existing road reserve; Upgrading of existing intersections; and Relocation of utility services affected by the upgrading of the road.
Bridges
Widening and rehabilitation of four existing bridges.
Borrow Pits / Quarry
Four natural gravel borrow pits and one hard rock quarry will be utilised in the rehabilitation of the project route.
It must be noted that this report has been amended as per the request of the Department of Environmental Affairs to include the Noise, Traffic and Social Studies. The findings of the studies are outlined below in this report.
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FIGURE 1: BRIDGES 1 & 2 AND BORROW PITS 1, 2, 3 & 3A
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FIGURE 2: BORROW PIT 4, HARDROCK QUARRY & BRIDGE 3 E02.JNB.000973 Page 3 SSI Environmental Amended Environmental Management Programme for the Rehabilitation of National Route (N11) Section 13 in Mokopane
FIGURE 3: BORROW PIT 5 AND BRIDGE 4
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1.1. Purpose and Objectives of the EMPr
The Environmental Management Programme (EMPr) has been compiled to provide recommendations and guidelines according to which compliance monitoring can be done during the construction of the roads and bridges as well as to ensure that all relevant factors are considered to ensure for environmentally responsible development.
This EMPr informs all relevant parties including the Contractor, the Environmental Control Officer (ECO) and all other staff employed by SANRAL on site as to their duties in the fulfilment of the legal requirements for the construction of this road and bridges with particular reference to the prevention and mitigation of anticipated potential environmental impacts. All parties should note that obligations imposed by the EMPr are legally binding.
The objectives of the EMPr are to:
Identify a range of mitigation measures which could reduce and mitigate the potential impacts to minimal or insignificant levels; Detail specific actions deemed necessary to assist in mitigating the environmental impact of the project; To identify measures that could optimize beneficial impacts; To create management structures that addresses the concerns and complaints of I&APs with regards to the development; To establish a method of monitoring and auditing environmental management practices during all phases of the activity; Ensure that the construction and operational phases of the project continues within the principles of Integrated Environmental Management (IEM); Ensure that safety recommendations are complied with; and Specify time periods within which the measures contemplated in the final environmental management programme shall be implemented where appropriate.
The emphasis of the EMPr is to:
Avoiding impacts by not performing certain actions; Minimising impacts by limiting aspects of an action; Rectifying impacts through construction, restoration, etc of the affected environment; Compensating for impacts by providing substitute resources or environments; Minimising impacts by optimising processes, structural elements and other design features; and Provide ongoing monitoring and management of environmental impacts of a development and documenting of any digressions /good performances.
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2 MANAGEMENT AND MONITORING PROCEDURES
2.1. Roles and Responsibilities
Several professionals will form part of the project team and their responsibilities are outlined in Table 1 below.
TABLE 1: Role and Responsibilities Roles Responsibilities
Project Manager The Project Manager is responsible for overall management of project and EMPr implementation. The following tasks will fall within his / her responsibilities: Be familiar with the recommendations and mitigation measures of this EMPr, and implement these measures; Monitor site activities on a daily basis for compliance; Conduct internal audits of the construction site against the EMPr; Confine the construction site to the demarcated area; and Rectify transgressions through the implementation of corrective action. Environmental The Environmental Control Officer (ECO) will: Control Officer Monitor the implementation of the EMPr during the construction phase of the road and bridges; Be familiar with the recommendations and mitigation measures of the associated EMPr for the project; Ensure site protection measures are implemented on site; Monitor all site activities on a monthly basis for compliance; Conduct monthly audits of the site according to the EMPr, and report findings to the Project manager/Contractor; Recommend corrective action for any environmental non-compliance noted on site; Compile a monthly report highlighting any non-compliance issues as well as progress and compliance with the EMPr prescriptions. These monthly reports are to be submitted to the Client and the contractor; and Conduct once-off training with the Contractor on the EMPr and general environmental awareness. It must be noted that the responsibility of the ECO is to monitor compliance and give advice on the implementation of the EMPr and not to enforce compliance. Ensuring compliance is the responsibility of the Environmental Site Agent appointed by the contractor. Contractor The Contractor is responsible for the overall execution of the activities envisioned in the construction phase including the implementation and compliance with recommendations and conditions of the EMPr. The Contractor shall therefore ensure compliance with the EMPr at all times during construction activities and maintain an environmental register which keeps a record of all environmental incidents which occur on the site during construction of the roads. These incidents may include: Public involvement / complaints; Health and safety incidents; Incidents involving Hazardous materials stored on site; and Non compliance incidents. The Contractor is also responsible for the implementation of corrective actions issued by the ECO and Project Manager within a reasonable or agreed period of time.
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Environmental The Environmental Site Agent (ESA) should: Site Agent Be fully conversant with the content of the Environmental Management Programme; Be fully conversant with all relevant environmental legislation applicable to the project, and ensure compliance with them; Compile the Method Statements together with the Contractor that will specify how potential environmental impacts in line with the requirements of the EMPr will be managed and how they will practically ensure that the objectives of the EMPr are achieved; Convey the contents of this EMPr to the construction site staff and discuss the contents in detail with the Contractor; Undertake regular and comprehensive inspection of the site and surrounding areas in order to monitor compliance with the EMPr; Take appropriate action if the specifications contained in the EMPr are not followed; Monitor and verify that environmental impacts are kept to a minimum, as far as possible; Order the removal from the construction site of any person(s) and/or equipment in contravention of the specifications of the EMPr; Ensuring that the list of transgressions issued by the ECO is available on request; Maintain the following documents on site: o EMPr; o Method Statements; o A site diary; o Resident’s complaints register; o Environmental incidents register; and o Update Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS).
2.2. Training and Environmental Awareness
It is important to ensure that the Contractor has the appropriate level of environmental awareness and competence to ensure continued environmental due diligence and ongoing minimisation of environmental harm. Training needs should be identified based on the available and existing capacity of site personnel (including the Contractors and Sub-contractors) to undertake the required EMPr management actions and monitoring activities. It is vital that all personnel are adequately trained to perform their designated tasks to an acceptable standard.
The environmental training is aimed at:
Promoting environmental awareness; Informing the Contractor of all environmental procedures, policies and programmes applicable; Providing generic training on the implementation of environmental management specifications; and Providing job-specific environmental training in order to understand the key environmental features of the construction site and the surrounding environment.
In addition to training, general environmental awareness must be fostered among the project’s workforce to encourage the implementation of environmentally sound practices throughout its duration. This ensures that environmental accidents are minimised and environmental compliance maximized.
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2.3. Monitoring
A monitoring programme should be in place not only to ensure compliance with the EMPr through the contract/work instruction specifications, but also to monitor any environmental issues and impacts which have not been accounted for in the EMPr that are, or could result in significant environmental impacts for which corrective action is required. A monitoring programme should be implemented for the duration of the construction phase of the project. This programme must include:
Monthly site audits that will be conducted by the Environmental Control Officer for the duration of the construction phase. Compilation of a monthly audit report which will document findings and recommend corrective action to be taken. Subsequent reports will provide feedback on whether previous non conformance raised has been resolved, thereby ensuring continual improvement of the site’s environmental performance; and Daily site visits will be conducted by the Environmental Site Agent to ensure daily implementation of the EMPr conditions and provide corrective actions.
2.4. Checking and Corrective Action
Checking and corrective action form part of the environmental management function and is aimed at ensuring that the necessary environmental management activities are being implemented and that the desired outcomes are achieved.
2.5. Contractor Management
During the procurement process, an environmental briefing is required that alerts the contractor to the environmental management expectation during the project. A copy of the EMPr must be provided
2.6. Reporting Procedures
2.6.1. Documentation
The following documentation must be kept on site in order to record compliance with the EMPr: EMPr; I&AP Complaints register; Environmental incidents register; Non-conformance Reports; Method Statements; Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS); Written Corrective Action Instructions; Safe disposal certificate for all types of waste disposed of; Environmental Training Records;
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Notification of Emergencies and Incidents.
2.6.2. Environmental Incidents Register
The ESA should put in place an Environmental Register. The ESA must ensure that the following information is recorded for all environmental incidents: Nature of incident; Causes of incident; Party/parties responsible for causing incident; Immediate actions undertaken to stop/reduce/contain the causes of the incident; Additional corrective or remedial action taken and/or to be taken to address and to prevent reoccurrence of the incident; Timeframes and the parties responsible for the implementation of the corrective or remedial actions; and Copies of all correspondence received regarding incidents.
2.6.3. Interested and Affected parties Complaints Register
The ESA shall further maintain the I&AP complaints register that will: Contain environmental complaints and correspondence received from the public to the Contractor or the ECO. Nature of complaint; Cause of complaint; Party/parties in responsible for complaint; Immediate actions undertaken to stop/reduce/contain the causes of the complaint; Additional corrective or remedial action taken and/or to be taken to address and to prevent reoccurrence of the complaint; Timeframes and the parties responsible for the implementation of the corrective or remedial actions.
The above records should form an integral part of the Contractors’ Records. These records should be kept with the EMPr and will be made available for scrutiny if so requested by the ECO.
2.7. EMPr
A copy of the EMPr shall be kept on site at all times during the construction period. The EMPr will be binding on all contractors operating on the site. It should be noted that in terms of the National Environmental Management Act No 107 of 1998 (Section 28) those responsible for environmental damage shall pay the repair costs both to the environment and human health and the preventative measures to reduce or prevent further pollution and/or environmental damage (The ‘polluter pays’ principle).
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2.8. Layout the EMPr
The EMP is divided into two phases of development. Each phase has specific issues unique to that period of the construction and operation of the roads and associated infrastructure. The impacts are identified and given a brief description. The two phases of the development are described as below:
• Construction Phase
This section of the EMPr provides management principles for the construction phase of the project. Environmental actions, procedures and responsibilities as required during the construction phase are specified. These specifications will form part of the contract documentation and therefore the Contractor will be required to comply with these specifications to the satisfactory of the Project Manager and Environmental Control Officer.
• Operational Phase
This section of the EMPr provides management principles for the operational phase of the project. Environmental actions, procedures and responsibilities as required from SANRAL during the operational phase are specified.
2.9. Construction Material Requirements
Prior arrangement is to be made with the landowner / occupants to use any material or property belonging to the Landowner / Occupants. Any arrangement between the Landowner / Occupant, SANRAL or the Contractor shall be in writing. No construction material is to be sourced from the site without prior consultation with the ECO.
2.10. Method Statements
A method statement is a document that is compiled by the contractor in consultation with his/her ESA on request from the ECO. The Method statement document must provide instructions on how to perform a specific work related task.
Method statements should at minimum include the following: A detailed description of where the activity will be undertaken; What the activity entail; Material and machinery to be used; Timeframe of the activity; and Person/persons involved in the activity.
The method statement must also detail which control measures will be implemented to ensure sound environmental management. All Method statements must be submitted to the ECO for approval and input prior to the commencement of a certain activity.
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3 LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
TABLE 2: LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
Legislation Sections Relates To
The Constitution Republic of Chapter 2 Bill of Rights. South Africa (Act No 108 of Section 24 Environmental Right 1996) Defines the strategic environmental management goals and objectives of the government. Applies throughout Chapter 2 the Republic and to the actions of all organs of state that may significantly affect the environment. National Environmental Integrated Environmental Management Management Act (No 107 of Chapter 5 1998) as amended in 2004 and Section 24(a) Listed activities and Regulations 2008 &(d) &24(5) Chapter 7 Compliance Enforcement and Protection The developer has a general duty to care for the Section 28 environment and to institute such measures as may be needed to demonstrate such care. Section 2 General policy. Defines the national waste management strategy, norms and standards. It emphasises the role of the provincial Chapter 2 organ of the state in the implementation of the waste National Environmental management. The developer or manufacture has a general duty to Management: Waste Act 59 of Chapter 4 avoid generation of waste and if not avoided minimise 2008 and manage it accordingly. It is the responsibility of the person/organisation Section 16 generating the waste to ensure that the waste is treated and disposed of in an environmentally sound manner. Section 27 Provision of containers for waste management. Implementation of control measures for alien and Section 6 invasive plant species. The Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (No 43 of 1983) Prevention of littering by employees and sub-contractors Section 19 during construction and the maintenance phases of the proposed project. Section 34 No person may alter or demolish any structure or part of a structure which is older than 60 years without a permit
issued by the relevant provincial heritage resources authority. National Heritage Resources Act Section 35 No person may, without a permit issued by the (No 25 of 1999) and regulations responsible heritage resources authority destroy,
damage, excavate, alter, deface or otherwise disturb any archaeological or paleontological site. Section 36 No person may, without a permit issued by the South African Heritage Resource Agency (SAHRA) or a E02.JNB.000973 Page 11 SSI Environmental Amended Environmental Management Programme for the Rehabilitation of National Route (N11) Section 13 in Mokopane
Legislation Sections Relates To
provincial heritage resources authority destroy, damage, alter, exhume, remove from its original position or
otherwise disturb any grave or burial ground older than 60 years which is situated outside a formal cemetery administered by a local authority. "Grave" is widely defined in the Act to include the contents, headstone or other marker of such a place, and any other structure on or associated with such place. Section 38 This section provides for Heritage Impact Assessments (HIAs), which are not already covered under the ECA.
Where they are covered under the ECA the provincial heritage resources authorities must be notified of a proposed project and must be consulted during the HIA
process. The Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) will be approved by the authorising body of the provincial directorate of environmental affairs, which is required to take the provincial heritage resources authorities' comments into account prior to making a decision on the HIA. Sections 26-27 Control of fuels. National Environmental Section 32 Control of dust. Management: Air Quality Act Section 34 Control of noise. (No 39 of 2004) Section 35 Control of odours Provides Principles that govern the distribution, use and Section 4 management of water resources in the Republic South Africa. Section 19 Prevention and remedying the effects of pollution National Water Act (36 of 1998) Section 20 Control of emergency incidents Section 21 Control of Water Use Section 22 Permissible Water Use Hazardous Substances Act (No Provides for the definition, classification, use, operation, 15 of 1973) and regulations modification, disposal or dumping of hazardous substance. Provides management and conservation of South Africa’s National Environmental biodiversity within the framework of the National Management: Biodiversity Act ( Environmental Management Act107 of 1998; the protection 10 of 2004) of species and ecosystems that warrant national protection and the sustainable use of indigenous biological resources. National Road Traffic Act (No 93 Road safety of 1996) Minerals and Petroleum Section 39 Environmental Management Plan for entering borrows pits. Development Act (28 of 2002) Section 41 Finalise provision for construction. Section 8 General duties of employers to their employees. Occupational Health and Safety Section 9 General duties of employers and self employed persons to Act (No 85 of 1993) persons other than their employees. Fertilisers, Farm Feeds, Sections 3-10 Control of the use of registered pesticides, herbicides
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Legislation Sections Relates To
Agricultural Remedies and (weed killers) and fertilisers. Special precautions shall be Stock Remedies Act (No 36 of taken to prevent workers from being exposed to chemical 1947) substances in this regard.
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4 GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT
The following sections are extractions from the Basic Assessment Report which provides a backdrop to the environment of the study area.
4.1. Vegetation Underlying the Study Area
The vegetation within the current N11 road reserve is completely transformed and dominated by weedy plant and grass species. A few large Marula (Sclerocarya birrea subsp. caffra*) remain within the current road reserve. The vegetation immediately adjacent to the N11 is also dominated by transformed or degraded habitats. These areas are utilised in various ways ranging from houses to ploughed lands, kraals to secondary grassland used for grazing purposes. As a result the natural vegetation has become degraded and is mostly transformed. The grassland areas used for grazing purposes are grazed to approximately 0.5- 1m above ground level and are dominated by the anthropogenic grasses Aristida stipitata subsp. gracilifora, Aristida canescens, Cynodon dactylon, Digitaria eriantha, Panicum maximum, Cymbopogon caesius, Urochloa mosambicensis, Eragrostis curvula, Imperata cylindrica, Hyparrhenia hirta, Imperata cylindrical and Melinis repens. The grasses cover approximately 20-30% of the area and the forbs 5-10% (mainly alien invasive species). Large barren areas remain within the road reserve. Forbs were dominated by pioneer weedy plant species such as Tall Fleabane (Conyza albida), Flax-Leaf Fleabane (Conyza bonariensis), Common Black jack (Bidens pilosa), Tall Khaki weed (Tagetes minuta) Mexican Poppy (Argemone ochroleuca), Verbena bonariensis as well as pioneer grass species such as Rhodes Grass (Chloris gayana), Crab finger-Grass (Digitaria sanguinalis) Weeping Love Grass (Eragrostis curvula), Common Thatching Grass (Hyparrhenia hirta), Common Buffalo Grass (Panicum maximum) and Couch Grass (Cynodon dactylon).
Dominant tree and shrub species recorded adjacent to the road reserve as well as borrow pits included: Acacaia karroo, Acacia ataxacantha, Acacia gerrardii, Acacia nigrescens, Acacia mearnsii, Acacia melifera, Acacia rehmanniana, Acacia tortilis, Acacia sieberana, Aloe marlothii, Boscia albitrunca*, Combretum apiculatum, Carissa edulis, Cussonia spicata, Dicrostachys cinerea, Diospyros lycioides, Dombeya rotundifolia, Ehretia rigida, Euclayptus grandis, Euphorbia ingens, Grewia flavescens, Grewia occidentalis, Gymosporia senegalensis, Jacaranda mimosifolia, Lippia javanica, Lantana camara, Melia azederach Peltophorum africanum, Senna septemrionalis, Schotia brachypetala, Sclerocarya birrea subsp. caffra, Searsia (Rhus) lancea, Searsia (Rhus) leptodictya, Searsia (Rhus) pyroides, Pinus sp., Ricinus communis, Solanum mauritianum, Sclerocarya birrea, Ziziphus mucronata, Terminalia sericea and Tecoma stans. *Species in bold are alien invasive species and must be removed.
Forb species recorded on the site included: Aloe greatheadii, Indigofera daleoides, Xerophyta retinervis, Datura stumarium, Kalanchoe rotundifolia, Kalanchoe paniculata, Kalanchoe thyrsiflora, Cotyledon orbiculatum, Bidens pilosa, Heliotropium ciliatum, Solanum sisymbriofolum, Senecio gerrardii, Pentzia pilufera, Cheilanthes hirta, Protasparagus setaceus, Hypoxis obtusa, Merremia tridentate, Dicerocaryum eriocarpum, Ceratotheca triloba, Ricinus communis, Asclepias fruticosa, Momordica balsami, Solanum panduriforme, Commelina africana, Commelina erecta, Sida cordifolia, Ipomoea sinensis, Ipomea crassipes, Agave Americana, Ageratum conyzoides, Arundo donax, Ipomoea indica, Ipomoea purpurea, Thevetia peruviana, Nerium oleander, Psidium
E02.JNB.000973 Page 14 SSI Environmental Amended Environmental Management Programme for the Rehabilitation of National Route (N11) Section 13 in Mokopane guajava, Hibiscus trionum, Schizoglossum cordifolium, Asclepias physocarpa, Turbina oblongata, Cassia comosa, Evolvulus alsinoides, Aptosimum procumbens, Pterodiscus speciosus, Harpagophytum procumbens, Ledebouria ovatifolia, Blepharis subvolubilis, Barleria sp, Cucumis zeyheri.
Cucumis metuliferus, Berkheya radula, Senecio coronatus, Senecio venosus, Senecio isatidioides, Vernonia hirsuta, Ageratum houstonianum, Helichrysum caespititium, Sonchus olaraceus,, Helichrysum umbraculigerum,Phragmites australis, Senecio latifolius, Stomatanthes africanus, Geigeria burkei, Indigofera sanguinea, Indigofera zeyheri, Tephrosia grandiflora, Pellaea viridise, Kalanchoe rotundifolia, Kalanchoe paniculata, Asparagus falcatus, Asparagus angusticladus, Bulbine abyssinica, Trachyandra saltii, Ledebouria floribunda, Anthericum longistylum, Chlorophytum bowkeri, Oxalis obliquifolia, Ornithogalum seineri, Ammocharis coranica. *Species in bold are alien invasive species and must be removed.
Graminoid or Grass species recorded on the site and an adjacent area included: Aristida stipitata subsp. gracilifora, Aristida canescens, Aristida congesta, Cymbopogon excavatus, Cynodon dactylon, Digitaria sp., Eragrostis curvula, Heteropogon contortus, Hyparrhenia hirta, Melinis nerviglumis, Panicum maximum, Setaria sphacelata, Melinis repens , Urochloa mosambicensis.
FIGURE 4: NATIONAL BIODIVERSITY MAP OF THE STUDY AREA
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4.2. Vegetation of conservation
Makhado Sweet Bushveld is classified as a vulnerable vegetation unit with only about 1% statutorily conserved, mainly in the Bellevue nature Reserve. Some 27% is transformed mainly by cultivation, with some urban sprawl and road building. Conservation target is 19% conserved (Mucina & Rutherford 2006). Given the nature of this veld type, it is prone to overgrazing and subsequent erosion and bush encroachment. The vegetation in the area is already disturbed by overgrazing and poor veld management practices such as land clearing for subsistence crop farming, over-grazing, collection of wood for fuel purposes, erosion, trampling, bush-encroachment etc.
No Red Data species were observed during the field survey. Given the disturbed nature of the area, it is unlikely that any Red Data species would occur at or in the vicinity of the proposed development. One protected tree species was observed within the road reserve with several large (>4m) Marula Sclerocarya birrea subsp. Caffra noted. Several small emerging Marula were observed around borrow pit 5. A single Shepherd’s Tree (Boscia albitrunca) was observed within borrow pit 5 site. A permit will be required from the Department of Forestry for the removal of any protected tree species.
4.3. Preliminary Faunal Survey
The preliminary faunal survey focused mainly on mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians of the study area. The survey focused on the current status of threatened animal species occurring, or likely to occur within the study area, describing the available and sensitive habitats, identifying potential impacts resulting from the development and providing mitigation measures for the identified impacts. Faunal data was obtained during a single site visit of the proposed development site carried out on foot on the 11th August 2011. All animals (mammals (larger), birds, reptiles and amphibians) seen or heard; were recorded. Use was also made of indirect evidence such as nests, feathers and animal tracks (footprints, droppings) to identify animals. Previous surveys, literature investigations; personal records and historic data supplemented the initial survey.
The majority of vegetation adjacent to the proposed road alignment as well as borrow pits consists of completely transformed Bushveld habitat with limited habitat diversity. The adjacent areas are utilised mainly for livestock grazing activities and suffers from extensive overgrazing, mostly from goats and cattle. Their grazing and trampling can encourage thicket growth by Dichrostachys cinerea by reducing grass cover. However, the opportunistic feeding patterns of goats can have a severe impact on both the composition and productivity of this ecoregion. In addition, goats are known to be more destructive than cattle at higher stocking densities (Skead 1988). High livestock densities also pose considerable threat to wildlife, since high numbers of domesticated animals generally cause a displacement of game, as there is less suitable habitat available. Furthermore, wild predators and scavengers such as the Black-backed Jackal, Caracal, Leopard and the Cape vulture have been eradicated by livestock farmers who see these animals as a threat to their livelihoods. Poisoned carcasses are often used for this purpose; this method is indiscriminate and therefore poses considerable threat to all predators and scavengers; especially the threatened Cape Vulture. Poaching and illegal hunting (dogs) are further reducing the remnant faunal populations.
Given the disturbed nature of the area, it is unlikely that the current road reserve or borrow pit sites will host a great variety of animal species or viable populations. The new as well as existing borrow pits are situated
E02.JNB.000973 Page 16 SSI Environmental Amended Environmental Management Programme for the Rehabilitation of National Route (N11) Section 13 in Mokopane between the agricultural and rural residential areas in transformed habitats and it is therefore unlikely that the area will support viable wildlife populations. Some Red Data species may occur in the area, but none were actually recorded (direct or indirect) within the road reserve or borrow pit sites and quarry during the survey. The bird species observed during the survey reflect common species of the area associated with human settlements. An adult Secretarybird was observed foraging on grasshoppers approximately 1km to the west of Borrow Pit 3A. As a result of the proximity of human settlements and habitat transformation and degradation of the environment, it is unlikely that animal distributions in the area reflect the original state.
4.3.1. Amphibians
The most suitable breeding habitats for remaining frog species occurs within the valley bottoms or rivers. Two frog species was recorded during the brief field survey namely a Guttural Toad (Amietophrynus gutturalis) and Common River Frog (Amietia angolensis). No natural pans or seasonally inundated depressions were observed adjacent to the N11 or borrow pit sites. An artificially created seasonally inundated pool was observed within the existing borrow pit 3A. The proposed widening of the N11 road as well as the four bridges and six borrow pits will most likely have a medium-low, short-long term impact on frog species remaining in the area.
4.3.2. Reptiles
Three reptile species were recorded during the survey, namely a Striped Skink Trachylepis (Mabuya) punctatissima, Variable Skink (Trachylepis varia) and Yellow-Throated Plated Lizard (Gerrhosaurus flavigularis). Low reptile diversity is expected from the actual N11 road footprint and immediate adjacent area.
4.3.3. Avifauna/Birds
A single Secretarybird (Sagittarius serpentarius) was observed foraging of grasshoppers approximately 1km west of borrow pit 3A. More intensive surveys conducted throughout the summer months will deliver more comprehensive species lists. The majority of birds were recorded in the remaining bushveld areas adjacent to the proposed borrow-pits. Only a few urban exploiting bird species were observed around the villages. The majority of raptors have been destroyed due to the presence of livestock such as chickens in the area. Several adults and children with catapults were observed hunting birds. The proposed widening of the N11 road will have a medium- low, short-long term impact on bird species occurring in the area.
4.3.4. Mammal Survey
Although the majority of habitat surrounding the borrow-pit sites is severely transformed the remaining bushveld habitat adjacent to the settlements offers favourable habitat for certain smaller mammal species. No larger mammals were observed during brief field survey. Evidence of Scrub Hares Lepus saxatilis and Slender Mongoose Galerella sanguinea were the only mammals observed during the brief survey. Several rodent burrows (possibly Bushveld Gerbil) were observed around the sandier sections adjacent to Borrow pit 5. The majority of larger mammals would have located suitable habitat away from the site, or have been destroyed by poaching and hunting. The presence of dogs and cats around the site has a detrimental effect of the smaller and larger mammal
E02.JNB.000973 Page 17 SSI Environmental Amended Environmental Management Programme for the Rehabilitation of National Route (N11) Section 13 in Mokopane populations (indiscriminate killing). It is highly unlikely that the effected road area and the existing and proposed borrow pits will form critical habitat for any threatened mammal species. The proposed widening of the N11 road will most-likely have a medium-low, short-long term impact on mammal species occurring in the area.
4.3.5. Sensitive Habitats
Indigenous Trees and Shrubs
All remaining large indigenous tree species (>4m) and shrubs (>2m) should be retained wherever possible and included in the proposed borrow pit areas. Trees form vital habitats for numerous faunal species adapted to their arboreal habitat as well as playing a vital role in erosion stabilisation. Impacts on the sloping areas such as the macro-channel banks of the Groot Sandsloot must be strictly regulated preventing possible further deterioration of the environment. The soils of the site are highly erodable; extensive erosion could result without a protective vegetative layer. Habitats such as the rock outcrops, trees, stumps, termitaria and leaf litter are all vital habitats for numerous animal species.
Granite Rocks
The low-lying granite outcrops and sheets occur around the proposed quarry site provide favourable refuges for certain rupiculous snake and lizard species. Reptile species recorded from under loosely embedded rocks on the low-lying rocky areas included Yellow-Throated Plated Lizard (Gerrhosaurus flavigularis), Montane Speckled Skink (Trachylepis (Mabuya) punctatissima), Variable Skink (Trachylepis (Mabuya) varia) Ground Agama (Agama aculeata) and Transvaal Thick-toed Gecko (Pachydactylus affinis). Scattered rocky outcrops are important habitats for numerous rupicolous animal species including scorpions, arachnids, geckos, skinks, snakes and smaller mammals.
Riparian Zone
The riparian zone comprises plant communities contiguous to and affected by surface and subsurface hydrological features of perennial or intermittent water bodies (rivers and streams). Riparian areas have one or both of the following characteristics: 1) distinctly different vegetative species than adjacent areas, and species similar to adjacent areas but exhibiting more rigorous or robust growth form. The vegetation is dependant on the river for a number of functions including growth, temperature control, seed dispersal and germination and nutrient enrichment (Kemper, 2000). The vegetation comprises a distinct composition of species, often different from that of the surrounding terrestrial vegetation. Tree species are positioned according to their dependence or affinity for water, with the more water loving (mesic species) being located closest to the river channel, often with their roots in the water, and the less water loving terrestrial species further away from the river (Kemper, 2000).
Certain sections along the Groot Sandsloot are more typical of the natural riparian vegetation, whilst others such as the Rooisloot have been severely altered due to riparian zone degradation. Impacts include the change in species composition due to:
Reed encroachment Exotic species encroachment (Melia azedarach, Lantana camara)
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Encroachment of terrestrial species Loss of indigenous trees and shrubs Flooding of terrestrial and riparian vegetation.
All rivers and their associated riparian vegetation are sensitive habitats and disturbances and anthropomorphic induced impacts, activities around the Dorps, Rooisloot, seasonal tributary, Groot Sandsloot rivers should be strictly limited. Activities such as washing, uncontrolled cattle drinking areas, uncontrolled hunting and poaching, removal of riparian tree species, gill nets should be prevented as they will eventually result in the collapse of the aquatic ecosystem on which the nearby and downstream communities are dependent on for water supply.
4.4. Aquatic Features
The study area forms a sub-catchment to the Limpopo River Water Management Area (WMA) and falls within secondary catchment A6, the Mogalakwena River. The Mogalakwena River is the primary catchment within the study area and includes a collection of tributaries such as the Dorp River, Rooisloot River and the Grootsandsloot River. Unfortunately, due to the low dam yield per surface area water use need, the study area is largely inadequately supplied by river water and is largely dependent on groundwater. This area is therefore considered a priority for water management due to the high mining related water uses and contamination risk as well as residential groundwater and commercial use needs.
FIGURE 5: MAP OF AQUATIC FEATURES IN THE STUDY AREA
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4.5. Wetland Delineation
DWA Wetland delineation techniques utilises a four wetland indicator processes to provide an estimate of the class, character and extent of a wetland. They are: landscape position (must be perched, flat or depressed), vegetation (must be hydrophilic), soil form (must compliment an existing wetland type) and soil wetness (water table must be within 50cm of soil profile and active mottling must be high). Sub-surface water movement through the study points (proposed bridge construction) is consistent with the wetland patterns discerned in the site investigation. Floodlines were mapped according to the proposed development routes and assessed in terms of type, current status and sensitivity for impact assessment considerations.
4.5.1. Wetland health and habitat integrity
In general, both systems (bridge crossing 3 & 4) are very important wetland features for the study area from a flooding and ecosystem goods and services perspective, as well as from a biotic perspective. Its low habitat integrity score is a testament to high water use needs and bad water use practice throughout the region and places a higher risk on the systems sensitivity and ultimately its sustainability in lieu of potential irreversible transformation.
The wetlands found in association with bridge crossing 3 (BC3) are ephemeral in nature and is significantly different to those found throughout the study area, in that: - It is more conducive to erosion. - It provides alternate drainage to the Grootsandsloot River, a tributary of the Mogalakwena River. - It is sensitive to change and represents the ingredients for a sensitive and unique biotic ecology. - It does not provide significant short and mid-term ecosystem services for human exploitation. The wetlands found in association with bridge crossing 4 (BC4) are perennial in nature and represents the irregular wetland depressions found throughout the study area, and is characterised by: - Direct human disturbance, bank stabilisation. - Are found within the greater Mogalakwena River Catchment (instream and off-channel) - It is less sensitive to change compared to the drier systems (due to wetland and alien vegetation stabilisation). However, it is regarded as moderately conducive to erosion. - Provides a corridor and habitat to wetland biota - Provides short and mid-term resource exploitation water uses
The instream habitat integrity of river tributaries understudy was largely harmogenous with the surrounding disturbance pressures from the road, industry and rural land-uses. Major impact pressures are indicated by water quality impairment, flow modification and bank erosion. In the case with bridge crossing 3 (BC3) seasonal/ephemeral drainage channel, the habitat integrity results may be pronounced more than what it should be, as a result of the lack of knowledge in dealing with these type of systems (often perceived as over-disturbed due to lack of flow).
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FIGURE 6: WETLAND AND DRAINAGE LINE MAP
4.6. Heritage
The study area is located in the area of the Northern Transvaal Ndebele, consisting of the tribes of Kekana, Langa, Letwaba, Maraba and Seleka. The Kekana, Langa and Seleka can all be found in the Mokerong magisterial district, whereas the others live not only in Mokerong, but also in the Seshego and Thabamoopo magisterial districts. The Transvaal Ndebele is usually divided into two groups, southern and northern, but claim a similar origin in the region of north western Natal. From here they moved, during the early 1600s, in two streams to the former Transvaal province. The first group, under chief Musi, settled in the vicinity of Pretoria, and over time subdivided into the Manala, Ndzundza, Hwaduba and Mathombeni. Of this latter group, one section eventually settled to the south west of Mokopane (Potgietersrust). A junior branch of this group came to be known as the Kekana of Mokopane and, in 1854, was responsible for the murder of a group of white Trekkers at Moorddrift. The punitive expedition against them had to dislodge them from the Makapansgat caves where they took refuge.
The second group, under the leadership of Masebe I, after following a long and circuitous route, eventually settled at Fothane Hill in the Mokerong district. Similar to the Southern Ndebele, some subdivision took place over time. The Seleka section first settled near Rustenburg and, after a sojourn in Botswana, moved back to the Mokerong district in 1899. The Langa is also known as the Mapela, after one of their leaders, who died c. 1826 and was buried at Fothane Hill. They are also referred to as the baga Mankopane, with reference to one of their earlier leaders, who was also in 1854 responsible for the death of a number white Trekkers at what was to become known as Moordkoppie. Later, as a result of a dispute over succession, the tribe broke into two, the Langa of Mapela and a more junior branch, the Langa of Bakenberg. The Letwaba and Maraba share similar histories, and after long wanderings, settled, as different smaller tribes, in the region of Mokopane. Some of the groups are the
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Mašašane, the Letwaba of Eland and the Nkidikitlana. The Maraba sections are the Sekgopetšana and the Mapangula.
4.6.1. Archaeological Sites
FIGURE 7: TOOLS DATING TO THE MSA
4.6.2. Cemeteries
Most of these cemeteries, irrespective of the fact that they are for land owner or farm labourers (with a few exceptions where they were integrated), are family orientated. They therefore serve as important ‘documents’ linking people directly by name to the land.
FIGURE 8: LOCAL CEMETERIES
4.6.3. Public Monuments
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Although most of these usually occur in urban areas, some also occur in rural areas where some event of significance took place.
FIGURE 9: MONUMENTS IN TOWN AND IN THE RURAL AREA
4.6.4. Infrastructure and Industrial Heritage
In many cases this aspect of heritage is left out of surveys, largely due to the fact that it is taken for granted. However, the land and its resources could not be accessed and exploited without the development of features such as roads, bridges, railway lines, electricity lines and telephone lines.
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FIGURE 10: FOUR BRIDGES OF THE STUDY AREA
4.7. Noise
The national route north of Mokopane Section 13 (km 1.31 – km 24.50) is an existing road with traffic that makes use of this route during the day and night time periods. There are noise sensitive areas (NSA’s) along this route and in some areas 20m from the edge of the road. People living in the immediate vicinity of this road are already exposed to higher noise levels. The road surface is currently uneven which create increased noise levels when trucks travel along this road. These noise levels decrease when the trucks are empty. The traffic noise is audible at all times along this road and at a distance from this road due to the traffic volumes. There are currently no acoustic screening measures in place along the N11 road and people are exposed to higher noise levels due to the stop-start flow of the traffic at traffic calming measures along the route. The proposed rehabilitation of the road will be the widening by adding an extra lane on both sides of the existing road. There are more NSA’s along the first part of the route up to the intersection at the Marken turn-off (R518) than the second part of the road up to the intersection to the mine.
Domestic type noise; Commercial activity noise; Traffic noise.
The ambient noise level is proportional to the type of activity i.e. traffic and commercial type noise far and near field, wind direction, inversion conditions, additional sounds i.e. frogs, animals, insects etc. present at the time in a specific area. The alleged noise impact on the environment and the residents living in the vicinity of the N11 road will be investigated.
The levels of noise emissions from road traffic as given in SANS 10210 for the prediction of road traffic noise are a function of: The number of vehicles passing in a time period (determined for each hour);
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The mean speed of the vehicles; The percentage heavy-duty vehicles; The road surface texture; The road gradient; The road worthiness of the vehicles. Distance between road and receiver; Intervening topography and structures that may shield the noise from the receiver; Meteorological effects.
The aspects such as road surface texture and the gradient of the road can be dealt with during the designing stage of the road. The other aspects such as number of vehicles, speed of the vehicles and meteorological effects are all variables that may change on a daily basis, which may have an influence on the noise levels and how the resultant noise is perceived. The predicted impact from the traffic noise is assessed in accordance with SANS 10103 of 2008, the measurement and rating of environmental noise with annoyance and to speech communication. The calculated traffic noise was evaluated in terms of Table 3 SANS 10103. Should the residential areas be exposed to levels higher than 55.0dBA special acoustic measures must be implemented to ensure compliance to the indoor recommended noise levels according to Table 4 SANS 10103 of 2008.
The noise survey was carried out on 9 and 10 July 2012 during the daytime and night time periods. The ambient noise level in the vicinity of the existing N11 Road is predominantly made up out off:
TABLE 3: GENERAL NOISE LEVELS A PERSON IS EXPOSED TO ON A DAILY BASIS . Type Activity dBA Communication Whisper 30 Communication Normal Conversation 55-65 Communication Normal Conversation 60 Communication Shouted Conversation 90 Communication Baby Crying 110 Communication Computer 37-45 Home/Office Refrigerator 40-43 Home/Office Radio playing in the background 45-50 Home/Office Background music 50 Home/Office Washing Machine 50-75 Home/Office Microwave 55-59 Home/Office Clothes dryer 56-58 Home/Office Alarm Clock 60-80 Home/Office Vacuum Cleaner 70 Home/Office TV Auditor 70 Home/Office Flush Toilet 75-85 Home/Office Ringing Telephone 80 Home/Office Hairdryer 80-95 Home/Office Vacuum Cleaner 84-89 Home/Office Maximum output of stereo 100-110
TABLE 4: RECOMMENDED AMBIENT NOISE LEVELS BY THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION Descriptor Limit Situation or Effect LAeq, 24 70 dBA Negligible risk of hearing impairment LAeq, 8 75 dBA Negligible
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LAeq 30 dBA Excellent speech intelligibility LAeq 55 dBA Fairly good speech intelligibility LAeq 30 dBA No sleep disturbance in a bedroom LAmax 45 dBA No sleep disturbance – peak inside bedroom
The proposed rehabilitation of the N11 road north of Mokopane up to km 24.50 will be an existing road which will be widened to a 2-lane road in both sides of the existing single lane road (km 1.31 to km 8.01). There are 4 bridges which will have to be upgraded to accommodate the two additional lanes. The noise survey was carried out during the day and night time periods in order to determine the prevailing ambient noise levels in the vicinity of the section of the road which will be rehabilitated. The noise sensitive areas along the route are indicated in Figure 11.
FIGURE 11: NOISE SENSITIVE AREAS ALONG THE N11
N11 is the main road to the Botswana border and a main feeder road to the Mokopane mine northeast of Mokopane. This road is used by heavy duty trucks and motor-vehicles on a daily basis. There is not a free flow traffic pattern along the first part of the existing N11 Road with the result that there is more engine noise, braking noise (air-brakes) and vibration type noises. In the case of free flow traffic there will be less engine, brake, and vibration noises as the trucks and or vehicles are in motion. The response by groups and/or individuals that can be expected should the ambient noise level be exceeded can be seen in Table 5, which is Table 5 in SANS 10103 of 2008. The local noise regulations make provision for the ambient noise level to be exceeded by 7.0dBA, before a noise disturbance is created.
TABLE 5: ESTIMATED GROUP RESPONSE SHOULD THE AMBIENT NOISE LEVEL BE EXCEEDED Increase above the prevailing Estimated Community/ Group Response ambient noise level Category Description 0 None No observed reaction
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0-10 Little Sporadic Complaints 5-15 Medium Widespread Complaints 10-20 Strong Threats of community /group action ≥15 Very Strong Vigorous community/group action
The above-mentioned reactions may differ from person to person and may depend on various factors such as where the noise is experienced i.e. inside a very quiet area and/or the distance from the source. The difference between the actual noise and the ambient noise level will determine how people will respond to sound. The following is of relevance to the ambient noise measurements: The LAeq was measured over a sampling period in excess of 10-minutes at each measuring point. The noise survey was carried out during the day and night-time period being 6h00 to 22h00 for the day time and 22h00 to 6h00 for the night time period.
4.7.1. Observation of the During the Survey
There is a constant flow of traffic along the existing N11 Road during the day up to 24h00 and limited traffic flow during the night time period; There is an increase in the noise level at all the traffic controlling points (traffic lights, stop streets, speed humps) especially from the heavy-duty trucks, along the route.; There are no acoustic screening measures in place due to the location of the road through a town and due to a shortage of space; There are prevailing winds, which blow at times and may give rise to a higher ambient noise level along the areas abutting the road; Vehicles travel at high speeds during off-peak and the night with the creation of a higher finite type noise at times; The ambient noise level in the residential areas is made up out of domestic type noise, traffic noise, amplified music, and animal and people noise. The prevailing ambient noise level along the proposed road differs depending on the type of activity such as residential, agricultural, industrial, existing roads; There is already a higher noise level at the residential areas along the N11 because of existing traffic noise. Ambient Noise Measuring Points
Ambient noise readings were carried out at 22 different measuring points in and around the study area along the N11 route, borrow-pits and at the quarry. The noise readings were done at the measuring points as indicated in Figure 12. Noise readings were also done at different road surfaces such as AC Medium Rolled in chips, Double seal 19,0mm and 9,5mm Aggregate, UTFC 13mm, UTFC 9.5mm, and Cape Seal.
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FIGURE 12: NOISE MEASURING POINTS
4.7.2. Noise Emission from Daytime and Night Time Activities within the study area
The following are noise sources in the vicinity of and the boundary of the study area: Traffic noise; Distant industrial activity noise up to Bridge 1; Mine activity noise along the section of the road up to Bridge 4; Domestic type noise; Wind and insect noise.
The above noise sources are in general and the intensity of the noise may change proportionally depending on the position of the receptor in terms of the noise source. The rehabilitation section of the road will be situated in an area with a combination of different noise sources and the people are already exposed to a certain extend to higher noise levels than expected in a residential type district.
4.7.3. Noise Impacts
The difference between the actual noise and the ambient noise level and the time of the day and the duration of the activity, will determine how people will respond to sound and what the noise impact will be. In order to evaluate such there must be uniform guidelines to evaluate each scenario. The World Health Organization has laid down sound pressure levels for specific districts and SANS 10103 of 2008 has provided the following continuous noise levels per district as indicated in Table 6.
The study area is situated in an area with a type (d) district with recommended noise levels of 60.0dBA during the daytime period and 50dBA during the night time period. This is based on the assumption that there will be no to limited traffic from 22h00 up to 6h00 in the morning. The reference time intervals can be specified to cover typical E02.JNB.000973 Page 28 SSI Environmental Amended Environmental Management Programme for the Rehabilitation of National Route (N11) Section 13 in Mokopane human activities and variations in the operation of noise sources and are for daytime between 6h00 to 22h00 and for night-time between 22h00 and 6h00. The response to noise can be classified as follows: An increase of 3dBA or less will cause no response from the affected community. For a person with normal hearing an increase of less than 3 dBA will not be noticeable An increase between 3dBA – 10 dBA will elicit little to sporadic response. When the difference is more than 5 dBA above the ambient noise level a person with normal hearing will start to hear the difference. An increase between 5dBA and 15 dBA will elicit medium response from the affected community. An increase between 10dBA and 20 dBA will elicit strong community reaction.
The overlapping categories are because there is no clear-cut transition from one community response to another and there are variables, which should be taken into consideration during the evaluation of a potential noise problem. There is therefore a mixture of activities and higher noise levels as per the above recommended continuous rating levels within i.e. residential, industrial and major roads in close proximity of each.
TABLE 6: TYPICAL RATING LEVELS FOR AMBIENT NOISE IN DISTRICTS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Type of district Equivalent continuous rating level L Req .T for ambient noise dBA Outdoor Indoors, with open windows Day - Daytime Night - Daynight Daytime Night - night LRd 1) time LRdn 2) LRn 1) time LRdn 2) LRn 1) LRn 1) (a) Rural Districts 45 45 35 35 35 25 (b) Urban District with little road 50 50 40 40 40 30 traffic (c) Urban District 55 55 45 45 45 35 (d) Urban districts with some 60 60 50 50 50 40 workshops, with business premises and with the main roads. (e) Central Business District 65 65 55 55 55 45 (f) Industrial Districts 70 70 60 60 60 50
TABLE 7: RESULTS OF THE NOISE MEASUREMENTS Daytime afternoon period Night time period Daytime morning period – – 9 July 2012 10 July 2012 Positi Leq – Lmax Lmin Leq – Lmax Lmin Leq - Lmax Lmin on dBA (Fast) – (Fast) – dBA (Fast) - (Fast) - dBA (Fast) - (Fast) - dBA dBA dBA dBA dBA dBA 1 61.6 78.1 42.5 2 56.9 74.9 41.0 3 48.6 74.1 33.6 56.3 74.5 34.8 4 61.8 79.0 40.2 60.5 80.9 40.8 62.4 77.0 43.6 5 59.9 74.6 36.4 57.2 76.8 37.7 58.9 75.1 39.2 6 45.7 59.4 33.8 49.1 72.7 36.0 46.6 63.4 36.1 6A 48.9 63.9 35.0 7 45.8 69.9 34.8 38.0 51.1 32.3 45.5 68.8 33.1
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8 66.2 83.3 40.1 60.3 75.1 31.3 63.1 78.8 37.9 9 57.8 74.3 32.8 54.7 75.1 34.5 61.0 76.5 39.3 10 42.0 64.5 29.9 43.1 58.3 24.1 41.7 58.5 28.1 11 38.4 55.8 22.5 12 52.6 71.6 25.2 13 39.3 53.6 20.0 14 45.6 61.7 35.1 15 33.8 57.5 26.1 16 37.0 59.1 24.3 17 40.1 62.9 26.2 18 63.5 75.2 38.3 56.0 72.2 29.2 56.4 71.2 36.3 19 61.7 79.4 31.4 58.9 81.8 22.2 58.1 77.3 28.1 20 59.8 76.5 31.0 36.3 56.4 24.3 51.0 69.1 27.7 21 53.8 61.8 35.8 22 64.0 78.8 43.9
The average noise level along the N11 Road during the morning period is 59.5dBA and during the afternoon period 61.8dBA at 30m from the edge of the road. Peak noise levels of 78.8dBA and 83.3dBA were recorded during the morning and afternoon periods respectively. The average noise level during the night time period is 56.6dBA with a maximum noise level of 81.8dBA. These noise levels are typical for noise levels along a busy road.
The following noise levels as illustrated in Table 12 are the prevailing ambient noise levels at different distances from the N11 in the vicinity of NSA’s.
TABLE 8: NOISE LEVELS AT NOISE SENSITIVE AREAS. Measuring Point Distance from N11 -m Noise Levels during the Noise levels during the Noise levels during night day time afternoon daytime morning period time period -dBA - dBA 6 100 45.7 46.6 49.1 6A 95 - 48.9 - 7 235 45.8 45.5 38.6 10 245 42.0 41.7 43.1 14 750 45.6 - -
The impact on the properties along the road will be different depending on the location of the residential property, the topography, physical vertical structures (house boundaries, houses, hills etc.). There are more of these houses that are in close proximity of the existing road and the new road and a study done at a distance from the road revealed that at 50m from the road (measuring point 3) the noise level was 56.3dBA during the daytime and 48.6dBA during the night time. This is in line with the recommended noise levels for a residential area. It was furthermore found that only a few of the houses in close proximity of the road have constructed boundary walls which could serve as a noise barrier. The majority of the houses have only fence-type boundaries.
4.7.4. Projected Traffic Volumes along the newly constructed Route
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The projected traffic volume as can be seen in Table 13 was based on the traffic survey which was done during March 2012 by BKS Engineering (PTY) Ltd (Contract no. NRA N.011-130-2010/1/TES). There are no night time traffic volumes available. The traffic volume figures were based on an escalation of 4.2% every 5 years. There is a clear split in the traffic volumes with the bulk of the traffic up to km 8.01 with a decrease in traffic volumes up to km 23.35 and a sharp decrease in the traffic volume from km 23.35 to km 24.50 which is the end of the project.
TABLE 9: PROJECTED TRAFFIC VOLUMES ALONG THE PROJECT ROUTE From km To km AADT Peak Peak Peak Peak Peak Peak Estimate Hour Hour Hour Hour Hour hour volume volume volume volume volume volume AM-2012 AM-2017 AM-2022 AM2012 PM-2017 PM-2022 1.31 3.48 7465 885 922 960 1060 1105 1151 3.48 4.78 7423 880 917 956 1050 1094 1140 4.78 6.98 8013 950 990 1032 1145 1193 1243 6.98 8.01 9447 1120 1167 1216 1250 1302 1357 8.01 12.16 5356 635 662 690 620 646 673 12.16 13.25 5609 665 693 722 610 636 663 13.25 14.87 5398 640 667 695 585 610 636 14.87 19.48 5019 595 620 646 565 589 614 19.48 23.35 5019 595 620 646 565 589 614 23.35 24.50 2699 320 333 347 405 422 440
4.7.5. Quarry Activities
During the construction phase of the project there will be blasting activities at the quarry north of Ga- Magongwa and east of Tshamahansi Villages respectively and the distance between the quarry and the respective villages will be 750m from Tshamahansi and 1 140m from Magongwa.
Human reaction to vibration will be in response to the resulting effects of both ground and airborne vibration and in particular the combined effects of such vibration. The blasting process is the biggest contributor to air blast and ground vibration. Wavelength differences associated with this frequency range mean that any effects of topography are likely to be pronounced for the audible component of air over pressure levels rather than the concussive component. A topographic barrier i.e. an earth-berm or rock face will play an important role in reducing the audible effect rather than the concussive effect. The shock waves have a relatively high dominant frequency and the energy contained in the shock wave will reduce rapidly as the resultant energy will be subjected to geometric and natural attenuation.
Meteorological conditions such as wind speed, direction, temperature, cloud cover and humidity will affect the intensity of the air over pressure levels perceived at a distance from the blasting area. A blast in a motionless atmosphere will reduce the air over pressure level by 6.0 dB as the distance from the source doubles.
The air over pressure levels at the source should be minimized in order for the energy to be within acceptable criteria at a distance. This could be achieved by proper blast design. In general, individual blasts should not exceed 25mm/s in the vicinity of properly constructed buildings and the average level should not exceed 10mms in the vicinity of poorly constructed buildings. These levels conform to the British Standards 6472 and the USA Bureau of Mine Standards, RU 8507.
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4.7.6. Borrowpit Activities
Fill will be transported from the different borrow-pits overland along existing gravel roads to the different sites. The gravel roads in some areas run in the vicinity of NSA’s and the gravel roads are not in a good condition.
4.8. Traffic
4.8.1. Electronic Traffic Counts
The Witvinger electronic traffic counting station (CTO 1367) was used to obtain electronic traffic counts for the proposed project. The station is located at 18.7 km (between the built-up areas surrounding Mokopane and Mokopane Platinum Mine) see Figure 15 below and it has provided comprehensive traffic study data since 2009. From the traffic flow profile for a typical week 12 to 18 March, it is evident that strong commuter peaks are present where the counting station is situated (see Figure 16 below) The strong northbound peak to the Mokopane Platinum Mine in the morning far exceeds the rural southbound peak that is still visible on the N11 north of the mine. The opposite peaking characteristic occurs in the afternoon. The duration of Friday afternoon peak periods are longer than for normal weekdays, but the maximum peak hour flows are similar. Heavy vehicles contributed 10.4 % of the total weekly traffic volumes, with the highest hourly flows of trucks occurring around midday. Approximately 29 % of heavy vehicles travelled at night (18:00 – 06:00) compared to only 23 % of night traffic for light vehicles.
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FIGURE 13: TRAFFIC COUNTING SURVEYS
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Figure 16: Directional Traffic Flow Profile on N11/13
FIGURE 14: DIRECTIONAL TRAFFIC FLOW PROFILE ON N11/13
Figure 16: Directional Traffic Flow Profile on N11/13
FFIGURE 15: CLASSIFIED TRAFFIC FLOW PROFILE ON N11/13
17: Classified Traffic Flow Profile on N11/13
The commuter peaks that reoccur every day overshadow any seasonal recreational peaks. The weekday peak hour traffic volumes observed on 16 March 2102 were therefore similar to the 30th highest hour volume (30HHV) on the road. The evaluation of the road link capacity was therefore based on the weekday peak hour volumes.
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4.8.2. Traffic Growth
Traffic growth rates were estimated based on the available history of traffic counts on the N11 as well as potential for further development along the corridor. Electronic traffic counts were available from the Witvinger station from January 2009 to date. Traffic growth between 2009 and 2012 occurred at average annual rates of 4.5 % for light vehicles and 3.9 % for heavy vehicles respectively. Almost 90% of vehicles passing the station were light vehicles. In consideration of the development potential of the area, growth rates in excess of 3 % are not believed to be sustainable over an extended period of time. The following traffic growth rates were therefore used to forecast traffic volumes on the N11 for the 10- year and 20-year horizons used in this study:
TABLE 10 : TRAFFIC GROWTH RATES Growth Scenario Light Vehicles Heavy Vehicles Low 2.0% 2.0% Medium 3.0& 3.0% High 5.0% 5.0%
For the evaluation of traffic operation at intersections, the traffic growth on crossroads intersecting with the N11 was assumed to be 2 %. The areas that are not already built up (i.e. that have low residual development potential) are low income areas with low vehicle ownership. The traffic growth on the side roads is thus expected to be lower than on the N11.
4.8.3. Manual Link Counts
The R518 (Marken) intersection at km 8.0 is one of the more significant intersections within the project area, and splits the study area into a southern and northern section. Manual link traffic counts were conducted at km 5.35 and km 14.37 on Friday, 16 March 2012. The primary objective was to determine the vehicle classification on the northern and southern sections of the project. The surveys were conducted on the Friday because of heavier congestion than on normal weekdays, particularly south of the Marken intersection.
Public transport vehicles (mostly minibus-taxis) contribute about 20 % to the traffic volume on the southern section and about 10 % to the northern section. This supports the need for public transport vehicle laybys and pedestrian facilities. Moderate heavy vehicle volumes are also present. It should be noted that the percentage heavy vehicles at night is higher than by day. The Witvinger electronic counting station recorded 10.4 % heavy vehicles for the 7-day period 12 to 18 March, compared to the 7.4 % (including buses) recorded on the northern section during the manual survey on 16 March over a period of 9 daylight hours. The 7-day average percentage of heavy vehicles on the southern section was thus estimated at 7.6% using the same ratios.
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Figure 18: Vehicle Classification in the Southern Section (5.35km)
FFIGURE 16: VEHICLE CLASSIFICATION IN THE SOUTHERN SECTION (5.35KM)
Figure 19: Vehicle Classification in the Northern Section (14.4km)
MA FIGURE 19: VEHICLE CLASSIFICATION IN THE NORTHERN SECTION (14.4KM) FFIGURE 17: VEHICLE CLASSIFICATION IN THE NORTHERN SECTION (14.4KM)
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4.8.4. Manual Intersection Counts
Manual traffic counts were conducted during the morning and afternoon peak periods on Friday, 16 March 2012 at 11 prominent intersections along the route. The locations where the surveys were conducted are shown on Figure 15 above and the current peak hour volumes are shown on Figure 18 below. Consolidation for some of the intersections in the study area to improve safety and traffic flow is planned. Figure 19 shows the adjusted traffic flows once the envisaged changes to intersections M3 and M5 have been implemented.
The traffic growth rates were applied to the observed traffic volumes to determine the expected demand at the intersections for a 5-year and 10-year horizon respectively. The estimated traffic volumes for 2017 are shown in Figure 20, and those for 2022 in Figure 21.
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FFIGURE 18: CURRENT PEAK HOUR TRAFFIC 2012 E02.JNB.000973 Page 38 SSI Environmental Amended Environmental Management Programme for the Rehabilitation of National Route (N11) Section 13 in Mokopane
FFIGURE 19: ADJUSTED TRAFFIC FLOW 2012
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FFIGURE 20: ADJUSTED TRAFFIC FLOW 2017
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FFIGURE 21: ADJUSTED TRAFFIC FLOW 2022
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4.8.5. Pedestrian Counts
Pedestrian counts were conducted at the same locations as the link counts, i.e. at km 5.35 and km 14.37. The counts were conducted at existing pedestrian crossings in areas with high levels of pedestrian activity. The surveys confirmed that: Pedestrian movements are moderate, but can be high at particular pedestrian trip generators such as places of education. Pedestrian movements parallel to the N11 are considerable. The provision of pedestrian walkways along the N11 is thus as important as providing crossing opportunities. Providing pedestrian walkways on only one side of the N11 is not sufficient. At the northern survey location (P2) where a pedestrian walkway is provided on the western side of the N11, a significant number of pedestrians were observed walking parallel to the N11 on the eastern side. The survey results are summarised graphically in figure 22 and 23 below:
FFIGURE 22: PEDESTRIAN MOVEMENT IN SOUTHERN SECTION AT 5.35KM
FFIGURE 23: PEDESTRIAN MOVEMENT IN SOUTHERN SECTION AT 14.4KM
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4.8.6. Load Surveys
Axle load surveys were conducted in both directions on Wednesday, 11 April 2012. As many trucks as possible were randomly selected from the traffic stream, and directed over temporary low-speed weigh-in-motion stations with the assistance from the local traffic police. The survey was set up on the N11 south of the Marken turn-off (R518) where the existing paved road surface lent itself to safe weighing of trucks on a flat surface. The individual axle loads and vehicle configuration were recorded for each vehicle, and the number equivalent standard axle loads per heavy vehicle (E80/HV) were calculated. The below summarises the E80 statistics from the survey.
TABLE 11 : E80 STATISTICS FROM AXLE LOAD SURVEYS, APRIL 2012
Truck Type E80/HV on N11 Northbound E80/HV on N11 Southbound Sample 15 th Mean 85 th Sample 15 th Mean 85 th Size percentile percentile Size percentile percentile 2-axle 29 0.01 0.19 0.47 39 0.01 0.64 0.23 3-axle 3 0.03 0.08 0.13 2 1.59 2.80 4.00 4-axle 0 - - - 2 2.10 5.41 8.73 5-axle 5 0.17 0.42 0.64 1 2.23 2.23 2.23 6-axle 7 1.05 1.44 1.83 8 0.42 2.71 3.02 7-axle 11 1.08 2.09 2.77 17 0.72 7.10 11.88 8-axle 2 1.19 1.33 1.48 1 9.95 9.95 9.95 All 57 0.01 0.77 1.79 70 0.01 2.80 10.17
It is clear from the statistics above that pavement loading in the southbound direction is significantly worse than in the northbound direction. The heavier loading was observed for all types of trucks.
4.9. Social
4.9.1. The Study Environment
District and Local Municipal Areas
The proposed development area lies within the jurisdiction of the Waterberg District Municipality (DM) and the Mogalakwena Local Municipality (LM). The Waterberg DM is one of five districts of Limpopo province of South Africa. The seat of Waterberg is Modimolle (formerly known as Nylstroom ). The majority of the population speak Northern Sotho (2001 Census). The estimated population in the DM in 2010, was 703 631 people, and 160 719 recorded households. The population density in the DM is 15.7 people per kilometre squared (km²).
The seat of Mogalakwena Local Municipality is Mokopane. Mogalakwena Local Municipality contains over 50% of the Waterberg DM’s total population that is estimated at approximately 557 896 in 2001 and 596 094 in 2007 respectively. This is an increase of about 38 198. However, estimates for Mogalakwena population size vary. Most recent estimates are based on the 2007 Community Survey by Statistics South Africa. According to these figures the total population of Mogalakwena Municipality adds up to 330 644 persons at 75 313 households. The average household is home to 4, 4 persons. Many households are home to more than ten persons.
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It should, however, be noted that the population size of the municipality could be more than the number of people indicated as many people live on farms throughout the area. The area population changes with the seasons, since many residents migrate to work elsewhere. The annual population growth rate is estimated at 1, 4%, which represents the average provincial population growth rate (Mogalakwena IDP 2011-2012 Draft).
Traditional Authority-Mokopane
Chief V Kekana is the present Chief of the Mokopane Traditional Authority, which has jurisdiction over the majority of all land within the area.
The Environmental Basic Assessment has evidence of engagement with the Chief, where the details of the project were explained and the Chief’s responses to the proposed development were recorded. This social assessment acknowledges the main concerns emanating from the consultation with the Chief (Minutes of Meeting, 10 February 2012), as: People will be sensitive to the existence of borrow pits. Their perception may be that borrow pits are ‘open cast mines;’ Fence off the borrow pit areas as it may be a danger to people and animals; Any relocation issues must be brought to the Chief’s attention, and a resolution found; The upgraded road may be assist in people and traffic movement; however it is likely to become more dangerous. Public must be made aware of what safety measures will be put in place – fencing between communities and the road, pedestrian (walk-over) bridges, etc.
4.9.2. Understanding Proximate Communities
The development area stretches from the outskirts of the town of Mokopane, northwards to a distance of approximately 24 kilometers. There are numerous villages that are found along the route, all of which rest within the jurisdiction of the Mogalakwena LM and Mokopane Traditional Authority. These include: Moshate (Ward 25), 4 villages (Ward 22), Madiba, Masehlaneng, Maruteng (Ward 23), Parkmore, Pholo park, Mitchel, Sekgakgapeng (Ward 29), Moshade, Seghaghapile (Ward 30), Tamahansi (Ward 21), Gamagongwa (Ward 20), and New informal settlement “7 miles” (Ward 20)
Visible verification of human living is shown in the photographs below. The type of living standards, judging by the housing structures, seems to be poor to average. There is a variety of residential buildings found along the proposed development route, a few made from clay and tin, while many are built from brick and block. For this reason, the housing type has been classified as ‘semi formal to formal. There is a spattering of tin shacks visible, although more so towards the northern portion of the development route, where the ‘7 miles’ informal settlement has settled, adjoining the N11.
There also seems to be a number of incomplete buildings, which may show evidence those residences, are constructed only when cash is available. The majority of housing structures do not seem to be located within the
E02.JNB.000973 Page 44 SSI Environmental Amended Environmental Management Programme for the Rehabilitation of National Route (N11) Section 13 in Mokopane road reserve. The Basic Assessment Report mentions encroachment of some houses onto the reserve. This report will recommend particular mitigation for homes found within the road reserve.
FFIGURE 24: VILLAGES OF THE STUDY AREA
FFIGURE 25: SEMIFORMAL/FORMAL HOUSES
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Businesses
There are a number of roadside and off-road businesses clearly visible from the N11. Many businesses are found within formal establishments, while other informal businesses (street vendors) are found at the busiest intersections. There are also tracks of vacant land along the N11. There is uncertainty regarding ownership of this land. Some land appears to serve as agricultural land; although no commercial farming activities were observed.
FFIGURE 26: SEMIFORMAL/FORMAL BUSSINESSES
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Service Provision
The formal homes and properties in the area seem to be fully serviced with electricity and running water and sanitation. However many of the semi formal homes do still make use of outside ventilated pit latrines. The informal settlement found further north is completely un-serviced.
There are four schools that service the entire are that is, two in Tamahansi and two in Gamagongwa. Health clinics are found in the communities of Sekgakgapeng, Tamahansi, Madiba, Masehlaneng and Masodi. People utilise mainly taxis as the main form of transportation. There are many that walk or use bicycles.
The major intersections (found at all points where the N11 branch off towards communities), have a very high volume of visible traffic, particularly at peak times. There are a number of both light and heavy vehicles that travel the road. Large trucks belonging to local mining companies regularly use the road. In addition to formal vehicle use, donkeys with trailers are also commonly seen traversing between vehicles and on the side of roads. Donkeys and trailers have been a traditional mode of transport and while the ‘horse and carriage’ is privately owned, it is very often leased out for business purposes.
FFIGURE 27: ROAD USERS
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5 PROJECT SCHEDULE
5.1. Site Establishment
The contractor shall establish his construction camps, offices, workshops and any other infrastructure as per the agreed site layout plan in a manner that does not adversely affect the environment. The contractor shall submit to the engineer for his approval, plans of the exact location, extent and construction details of these facilities and the impact mitigation measures the contractor proposes to put in place.
Site establishment shall take place in an orderly manner and all required amenities shall be installed at Camp sites before the main workforce move onto site. The Construction camp shall have the necessary ablution facilities with chemical toilets at commencement of construction activities to the satisfaction of the Project Manager. The Contractor shall inform all site staff to make use of supplied ablution facilities and under no circumstances shall indiscriminate sanitary activities be allowed other than in supplied facilities. The waste material generated from these facilities shall be serviced on a regular basis. The positioning of the chemical toilets shall be done in consultation with the engineer. The toilets shall also be placed outside areas susceptible to flooding. The contractor shall arrange for regular emptying of toilets and shall be entirely responsible for enforcing their use and for maintaining such latrines in a clean, orderly and sanitary condition to the satisfaction of the engineer. Safe drinking water for human consumption shall be available at the site offices and at other convenient locations on site. All water used on site shall be taken from a legal source and comply with the recognised standards for potable and other uses. All effluent water from the camp / office sites shall be disposed of in a properly designed and constructed system, situated so as not to adversely affect water sources (streams, rivers, pans dams etc). Only domestic type wastewater shall be allowed to enter this drain.
The contractor shall provide adequate facilities for his staff so that they are not encouraged to supplement their comforts on site by accessing what can be taken from the natural surroundings. No fires will be allowed outside of the construction camp. Activities which may pose a risk of fire shall be identified and suitable measures shall be put in place to prevent any possible damage by fire. Contractors shall inform the staff of the risk of fires and fire prevention and emergency procedures in the event of a fire. Fire fighting equipment shall be supplied by the Contractor at suitable locations.
The contractor shall ensure that energy sources are available at all times for construction and supervision personnel for heating and cooking purposes. The Contractor shall supply waste collection bins where such is not available and all solid waste collected shall be disposed of at a registered landfill site. A certificate of disposal shall be obtained by the Contractor and kept on file. Where a registered waste site is not available close to the construction site, the Contractor shall provide a method statement with regard to waste management. The disposal of waste shall be in accordance with the National Environmental Management: Waste Act 59 0f 2008. Under no circumstances may waste be burnt on site.
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5.2. Site Clearance
The contractor shall submit a method statement for site clearance for approval by the Project Manager in consultation with the Environmental Site Agent (ESA). Site clearing shall take place in phased manner, as and when required. Areas which are not to be affected by construction activities within two months of time shall be cleared, in order to reduce erosion risks. The area to be cleared shall be clearly demarcated and this footprint strictly maintained. Spoil that is removed from the site shall be removed to an approved spoil site or municipal licensed landfill site. Silt fences and erosion control measures shall be implemented in areas where these risks are more prevalent. These include wetlands and steep areas. Topsoil from the Right of Way shall be neatly stockpiled adjacent to the excavations ready for backfill when required.
The Contractor shall ensure that all work is undertaken in a manner which minimises the impact on vegetation outside the immediate area of the Works. No tree outside the area of the Works shall be felled, topped, cut or pruned until it has been clearly marked for this purpose by the Project Manager. The method of marking will be specified by the Project Manager, and the Contractor will be informed in writing; and no tree outside the area of the works shall be burned for any purpose. The contractor shall be responsible for the re-establishment of grass within the road reserve boundaries for all areas disturbed during road construction.
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TABLE 12: DESIGN AND PLANNING IMPACT DESIGN AND PLANNING RESPONSIBILITY FREQUENCY / (This section deals with the impacts in the design and planning phase) MONITORING REQUIREMENTS PHASE PLANNING AND DESIGNING SANRAL, CONTRACTOR MONTHLY & ESA MITIGATION Operational Analysis of the N11 Road Links STATEMENT 1. The speed limit was reduced to 60 km/h on various sections. The lowering of speed limits has a positive impact on traffic safety. 2. The addition of paved shoulders on the northern section is primarily aimed at road safety, but will also have a positive impact on traffic capacity since some slower moving vehicles may travel in the shoulder. Operational Analysis at Intersections
3. It is proposed that intersections M1, M2, M3b, M4 and M5 be upgraded to roundabouts as part of the initial upgrade. 4. Marken intersection (M5b) should be a 4-legged roundabout with two lanes per direction on the cross-roads, similar to the proposed roundabout at km 6.98 (intersection M4). 5. M3a will be changed to a marginal access (left-in, left-out) and the right-turning traffic to/from the west will be accommodated at the upgraded M3b intersection. The current T-junctions at M5a and M5b will be consolidated into a single 4-legged intersection Pedestrian and Public Transport Infrastructure
6. It is proposed that pedestrian crossings and laybys be provided in close proximity to intersections where motorists are more alert to conflicts and more aware of road signs. Laybys should be provided downstream from intersections. The construction of a dual carriageway up to km 8.0 will include the provision of kerbs that will restrict the loading and off-loading of passengers next to the road and help restrict taxis from stopping at undesirable locations. 7. It is also recommended that pedestrians walkways are provided on both sides of the N11 as follows: - from km 1.31 up to km 9.55 - from km 13.25 up to km 16.46. E02.JNB.000973 Page 50 SSI Environmental Amended Environmental Management Programme for the Rehabilitation of National Route (N11) Section 13 in Mokopane
Social 8. The local Chief and municipality must be engaged so that a resolution can be found which does not leave the affected party in a worse-off social or economic state.
TABLE 13: ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING IMPACT ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING RESPONSIBILITY FREQUENCY / (This section deals with the environmental training of employees) MONITORING REQUIREMENTS PHASE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTOR & ESA MONTHLY MITIGATION Environmental training STATEMENT 1. The ESA must ensure that all site personnel have a basic level of environmental awareness training. Topics covered should include; • What is meant by “Environment” • Why the environment needs to be protected and conserved • How construction activities can impact on the environment • What can be done to mitigate against such impacts • Awareness of emergency and spills response provisions • Social responsibility during the construction of the road 2. Environmental Training should be provided to the staff members through toolbox talks. These should be relevant a specific days work or activity. 3. Staff operating equipment (such as excavators, loaders, etc.) shall be adequately trained and sensitised to any potential hazards associated with their tasks. Proof of training to be kept on file. 4. The Environmental Site Agent must be conversant with all legislation pertaining to the environment applicable to this contract and must be appropriately trained in environmental management and must possess the skills necessary to impart environmental management skills to all personnel involved in the contract.
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TABLE 14: SITE CAMP IMPACT SITE CAMP RESPONSIBILITY FREQUENCY / (This section deals with the impacts relating to the site camp) MONITORING REQUIREMENTS PHASE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTOR, ECO & WEEKLY ESA MITIGATION 1. Site camp locations must be approved by the ECO. The location STATEMENT must take into account location of local residents and / or ecologically sensitive areas, including flood zones and slip / unstable zones. A site plan must be submitted to the ECO and project manager for approval. 2. The site camp may not be situated within the 1:20 year flood line or on slopes greater that 1:3. 3. If the Contractor chooses to locate the camp site on private land, he must get prior permission from both the project manager and the landowner. 4. The Contractor must attend to drainage of the camp site to avoid standing water and / or sheet erosion by installing diversion berms where needed. 5. Shade cloth must be used to conceal and minimise the visual impact of contractor camps, lay down and storage areas. 6. No development, or activity of any sort associated with camp, is allowed below the 1:100 year flood line of any water system.
Storage of materials (including hazardous materials)
7. Storage areas should be secure so as to minimize the risk of crime. They should also be safe from access by unauthorised persons. 8. Fire prevention facilities must be present at all storage facilities. 9. Hazardous Material Storage facilities (diesel & oil) should be sited away from drainage lines and have bund walls high walls high enough to contain 110% of stored volume. 10. These storage facilities (including any tanks) must be on an impermeable surface that is protected from the ingress of storm water from surrounding areas in order to ensure that accidental spillage does not pollute local soil or water resources. 11. Clear signage must be placed at all storage areas containing hazardous substances / materials.
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12. Staff dealing with these materials / substances must be aware of their potential impacts and follow the appropriate safety measures. 13. Oil spill kits must be kept at these storage facilities to treated and manage spills.
Drainage of construction camp 14. Run-off from the site camp must NOT discharge into neighbours’ properties or into adjacent wetlands, rivers or streams.
Batching Sites 15. Should the use of an asphalt plant be considered on site, the contractor shall be responsible to obtain the necessary permit from the Department of Environmental Affairs. 16. Crushing plants and concrete batching plants, whether sited inside or outside of defined quarry or borrow pit areas, shall be subject to the requirements of the Department of Minerals and Energy legislation as well as the applicable industrial legislation that governs gas and dust emissions into the atmosphere.
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TABLE 15: CONSTRUCTION TRAFFIC AND ACCESS IMPACT CONSTRUCTION TRAFFIC AND ACCESS RESPONSIBILITY FREQUENCY / (This section deals with the impacts on traffic and access roads) MONITORING REQUIREMENTS PHASE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTOR, ESA & DAILY ECO MITIGATION 1. Access of construction material delivery vehicles should be strictly STATEMENT controlled especially during wet weather to avoid compaction and damage to the topsoil structure 2. Planning of temporal access route to the site shall be discussed and agreed between the ECO Contractor and Project Manager. 3. The access routes on the private land shall be negotiated with the landowner in advance. 4. The condition of exiting access roads should be documented with photographs. 5. Temporary access roads that might be required shall be rehabilitated prior to the contractor leaving the site. 6. Strategic positioning of entry and exit points to ensure as little impact/ effect as possible on the traffic flow. 7. Unnecessary traversing of agricultural and natural open land is not permitted. 8. Where required, speed limits shall be indicated on the roads (30km). All speed limits shall be strictly adhered to at all time.
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TABLE 16: SOILS IMPACT SOILS MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY FREQUENCY / (This section deals with the impacts on soil) MONITORING REQUIREMENTS PHASE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTOR, ECO & DAILY ESA MITIGATION 1. Topsoil shall be removed from all areas where physical STATEMENT disturbance of the surface will occur and shall be stored and adequately protected. 2. The areas to be cleared of topsoil shall include the storage areas. 3. All topsoil stockpiles and windrows shall be maintained throughout the contract period in a weed-free condition. Weeds appearing on the stockpiled or windrowed topsoil shall be removed by hand. 4. The topsoil stockpiles shall be stored, shaped and sited in such a way that they do not interfere with the flow of water to cause damming or erosion, or itself be eroded by the action of water. 5. Stockpiles of topsoil shall not exceed a height of 2m. 6. The contractor shall ensure that no topsoil is lost due to erosion – either by wind or water. 7. Areas to be top-soiled and grassed shall be done so systematically to allow for quick cover and reduction in the chance of heavy topsoil losses due to unusual weather patterns. 8. The contractor’s responsibility shall also extend to the clearing of drainage or water systems within and beyond the boundaries of the road reserve that may have been affected by such negligence. 9. The subsoil is the layer of soil immediately beneath the topsoil. It shall be removed, to a depth instructed by the engineer, and stored separately from the topsoil if not used for road building. This soil shall be replaced in the excavation in the original order it was removed for construction purposes. 10. Topsoil shall be reused where possible to rehabilitate disturbed areas. 11. Care shall be taken not to mix topsoil and subsoil during stripping. 12. Polluted topsoil shall be disposed of at a licensed landfill site.
Soil Stripping 13. No soil stripping shall take place on areas within the site that the contractor does not require for works, or on areas of retained vegetation. E02.JNB.000973 Page 55 SSI Environmental Amended Environmental Management Programme for the Rehabilitation of National Route (N11) Section 13 in Mokopane
14. Subsoil and overburden should be stockpiled separately to be returned for backfilling in the correct soil horizon order. 15. Construction vehicles shall only be allowed to utilise existing tracks or pre-planned access routes.
Stockpiles 16. Stockpiles should not be situated such that they obstruct natural water pathways and drainage channels. 17. If stockpiles are exposed to windy conditions or heavy rain, they should be covered either by vegetation or cloth. Stockpiles may further be protected by the construction of berms or low brick walls around their bases. 18. Stockpiles should be kept clear of weeds and alien vegetation growth by regular weeding. 19. Measures should be taken to prevent soil contamination with oil spillages and other form of soil pollution. 20. Where soil is contaminated, oil spill kit should be utilised to clean the contaminated site and be disposed at a hazardous landfill site. 21. Topsoil and subsoil to be protected from contamination. 22. Fuel and material storage shall be away from stockpiles.
Earthworks 23. Soils compacted during construction work should be deeply ripped to loosened compacted layers and re-graded to even running levels and should be re-vegetated upon completion of construction activities.
Erosion Control 24. Wind screening and stormwater control should be undertaken to prevent soil loss from the site by the installation of diversion berms, sandbags and silt traps. 25. All erosion control mechanisms need to be regularly maintained. 26. Vegetation clearance should be phased to ensure that the minimum area of soil is exposed to potential erosion at any one time. 27. Re-vegetation of disturbed surfaces should occur immediately after the construction activities are completed. 28. No impediment to the natural water flow other than approved erosion control works is permitted.
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TABLE 17: AIR QUALITY IMPACT AIR POLLUTION RESPONSIBILITY FREQUENCY / (This section deals with the impacts on air pollution) MONITORING REQUIREMENTS PHASE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTOR ,ECO & DAILY ESA MITIGATION Dust control STATEMENT 1. Damping down of un-surfaced access roads, road shoulders and un-vegetated areas during dusty periods is required. 2. Excavations and other clearing activities shall only be done during agreed working times to avoid drifting of sand and dust into neighbouring areas. 3. The Contractor shall be responsible for dust control on site to ensure no nuisance is caused to the Landowner or neighbouring Communities. 4. A speed limit of 30km/h shall not be exceeded on dirt roads 5. Any complaints or claims emanating from the lack of dust control shall be attended to immediately by the Contractor.
Emissions control 6. Regular servicing of vehicles and machinery in order to limit gaseous emissions (to be done off-site).
Rehabilitation 7. The contractor should commence with rehabilitation of exposed soil surfaces as soon as practical after completion of earthworks.
Fire Prevention 8. The Contractor shall have operational fire-fighting equipment available on site at all times. The level of fire fighting equipment shall be assessed and evaluated thorough a typical risk assessment process. It may be required to increase the level of protection, especially during the winter months. 9. No open fires shall be allowed on site under any circumstance. All cooking shall be done in demarcated areas that are safe and cannot cause runaway fires. 10. No fires shall be allowed at active construction areas and stop and go stations.
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TABLE 18: GROUND AND SURFACE WATER POLLUTION IMPACT GROUNDWATER AND SURFACE WATER POLLUTION RESPONSIBILITY FREQUENCY / (This section deals with the impacts on ground and surface water MONITORING pollution) REQUIREMENTS PHASE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTOR, ECO & DAILY ESA MITIGATION Sanitation STATEMENT 1. Chemical toilet facilities shall be regularly serviced to reduce the risk of surface or groundwater pollution.
Hazardous materials 2. Use and /or storage of materials, fuels and chemicals which could potentially leak into the ground shall be controlled in a manner that prevents such occurrences. 3. All storage tanks containing hazardous materials shall be placed in bunded containment areas with sealed surfaces. 4. Any hazardous substances shall be stored at least 100m from any of the water bodies on site. The bund wall shall be high enough to contain 110% of the total volume of the stored hazardous material with an additional allocation for potential stormwater events. 5. Contaminated wastewater shall be managed by the Contractor to ensure existing water resources on the site are not contaminated. All wastewater from general activities in the camp shall be collected and removed from the site for appropriate disposal at a licensed commercial facility. 6. Temporary cut-off drains and berms may be required to capture storm water and promote infiltration. 7. Used oil must either be collect by a registered oil collector or disposed of to ROSE registered processing facility. Receipts must be kept on file.
Cement mixing 8. Cement contaminated water shall not be allowed enter the water system as this disturbs the natural acidity of the soil and affects plant growth.
Public Areas
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camp with adequate washing facilities and food refuse should be stored in sealed refuse bins which should be removed from site on a regular basis. 10. The contractor should take steps to ensure that littering by workers does not occur and no washing or servicing of vehicles on site. 11. Should the needed arise to wash machinery on site, a suitable area must be established and approved by the ECO.
Water resources 12. Site staff shall not be permitted to use any other open water body or natural water source adjacent to or within the designated site for the purposes of washing of clothing or for any construction or related activities. 13. Municipality water should instead be used for activities such as washing of equipments and dust suppression measures. 14. Any accidental spillages that occur on site or entering the water body must be reported to the ESA for remediation. 15. Repair and servicing of equipment should be performed 50m from the water body to prevent contamination of soil and run-off. 16. Stormwater runoff should be channelled through natural grass and sedges surrounding the borrow pits.
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TABLE 19: WETLANDS IMPACT WETLANDS RESPONSIBILITY FREQUENCY / (This section deals with the impacts on wetlands) MONITORING REQUIREMENTS PHASE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTOR, ECO & DAILY ESA MITIGATION 1. The wetland buffer zone and development setback should be STATEMENT established for all non-crucial development related activities as referenced in the identified mapped area, where dredging within 32m of wetland edges should be limited as far as possible. Limited disturbance should be allowed within the zone and as far as possible it should be rehabilitated with vegetation characteristic of the areas biodiversity. 2. If possible, the undertaking of construction should take place during the dry season when development activities are near the rivers and associated wetlands. 3. The rehabilitation and re-vegetation of disturbed areas must take place concurrently and/or pre- construction of the proposed development. Only appropriate indigenous riparian vegetation may be used for rehabilitation and re-vegetation within the study area and wetland buffer areas (preferably indigenous plants represented in the reserve to the north and those existing in the wetland areas). 4. Clearing or felling of all alien invasive trees should take place during construction 5. If clearing of woody debris and hard rubble on site and in the wetland buffer should be undertaken, it should be carried-out without significantly altering the condition and health of the associated water feature 6. The intensity of storm water run-off should be reduced where possible through encouraging paving and surfaces that allow for greater infiltration. 7. Any structure within the wetland buffer should as far as possible not disturb the aquatic habitat or alter the flow patterns in the stream. Approval should be obtained from the Department of Water Affairs for any such activities 8. Activities that lead to elevated levels of turbidity must be minimised. Bulldozing and the use of other mechanical machinery in the wetland buffer zone should also be prevented within the wetland
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zones as far as possible.
TABLE 20: FLORA IMPACT FLORA RESPONSIBILITY FREQUENCY / (This section deals with the impacts on flora) MONITORING REQUIREMENTS PHASE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTOR, ECO & DAILY ESA MITIGATION 1. All plants not interfering with the construction activities shall be left STATEMENT undisturbed. 2. Large aloes, geophytes and bulbous plants in affected areas should be removed and replanted in suitable habitat. 3. Where herbicides are used to clear vegetation, specimen-specific chemicals should be applied to individual plants only and general spraying should be prohibited. 4. All alien vegetation should be removed on site. 5. No dumping of any materials in undeveloped open areas and neighbouring properties. 6. Collection of firewood and traditional medicinal plants is strictly prohibited. 7. Vegetation clearance shall be limited within sensitive areas. 8. No damage to vegetation outside the road servitude. 9. Smaller vegetation can be flattened with a machine, but the blade should be kept above ground level to prevent scalping. 10. Only an 8m strip may be cleared flush with the ground to allow vehicular passage during construction. 11. Stumps shall be treated with herbicide.
Rehabilitation of Vegetation 12. Disturbed areas of natural vegetation as well as cut and fills shall be rehabilitated immediately to prevent soil erosion. 13. Where necessary a suitable mixture of grass seed shall be used to re-seed damaged areas. Badly damaged areas shall be fenced in to enhance construction.
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TABLE 21: FAUNA IMPACT FAUNA RESPONSIBILITY FREQUENCY / (This section deals with the impacts on fauna) MONITORING REQUIREMENTS PHASE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTOR, ECO & DAILY ESA MITIGATION 1. Close site supervision shall be maintained during construction. STATEMENT 2. Workers shall be limited to areas under construction and access to the undeveloped areas. 3. Firearms or any other hunting weapons shall be prohibited on site. 4. No animals should be intentionally killed or destroyed. Poaching and hunting should not be permitted on the site. 5. Interference with any wildlife without the applicable permits shall not be allowed.
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TABLE 22: NOISE IMPACT NOISE RESPONSIBILITY FREQUENCY / (This section deals with the impacts on noise) MONITORING REQUIREMENTS PHASE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTOR, ECO & DAILY ESA MITIGATION 1. The construction activities shall aim to adhere to the relevant STATEMENT noise regulations and limit noise to within standard working hours in order to reduce disturbance of residential areas in close proximity to the development. 2. Noise levels shall be kept within acceptable limits. All noise and sounds generated shall adhere to SABS 0103 specifications for maximum allowable noise levels for residential areas. No pure tone sirens or hooters may be utilised except where required in terms of SABS standards or in emergencies. 3. With regard to unavoidable very noisy activities in the vicinity of noise sensitive areas, the contractor and ESA should liaise with local residents on how best to minimise impact, and the local population should be kept informed of the nature and duration of intended activities. 4. Noisy activities to take place during allocated hours which 07H00- 17H00.
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TABLE 23: WASTE MANAGEMENT IMPACT WASTE RESPONSIBILITY FREQUENCY / (This section deals with the impacts on waste) MONITORING REQUIREMENTS PHASE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTOR, ECO & DAILY ESA MITIGATION Rubble STATEMENT 1. Rubble shall be disposed of in pre – agreed, demarcated spoil dumps that have been approved by the local Municipality.
Litter management 2. Sufficient waste bins shall be provided on site for different types of waste disposal and for recycling purposes. 3. Refuse bins shall be placed at strategic positions to ensure that litter does not accumulate on site. 4. The ESA shall monitor the neatness of the work sites as well as the Contractor campsite. 5. All waste shall be removed from the site and transported to a landfill site as approved by the Department of Water Affairs and Local Municipality. 6. Littering by the employees of the Contractor shall not be allowed under any circumstances. 7. Skip waste containers should be maintained on site. These should be kept covered and arrangements made for them to be collected weekly from the site by the local municipality.
Hazardous waste 8. All hazardous waste materials shall either be stored in a bunded or lined area or then disposed off at a licensed landfill site. Hazardous waste may not be stored on site in excess of a 90 calendar day period. 9. Contaminants are to be stored safely to avoid spillage. 10. Machinery shall be properly maintained to keep oil leaks in check. 11. Labelled containers shall be provided to store used oils, as well as hazardous waste containers for oily rags; oil filters etc. and shall be disposed of at a suitable approved register dumpsite.
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Sanitation 12. The Contractor shall install mobile chemical toilets on the site. 13. Staff shall be sensitised to the fact that they should use these facilities at all times. No indiscriminate sanitary activities on site shall be allowed. 14. Ablution facilities shall be within 100m from workplaces but not closer than 100m from any natural water bodies. 15. Toilets shall be serviced regularly and the ESA shall inspect toilets regularly.
Remedial actions 16. Depending on the nature and extent of the spill, contaminated soil shall be either excavated or treated on-site. 17. Spillages on site should be contained immediately. 18. Excavation of contaminated soil shall involve careful removal of soil using appropriate tools/machinery to storage containers until treated or disposed of at a licensed hazardous landfill site. 19. The ESA shall determine the precise method of treatment of polluted soil. This could involve the application of soil absorbent materials or oil-digestive powders to the contaminated soil. 20. If a spill occurs on an impermeable surface such as cement or concrete, the surface spill shall be contained using oil absorbent materials. 21. Contaminated remediation materials shall be carefully removed from the area of the spill so as to prevent further release of petrochemicals to the environment, and stored in adequate containers until appropriate disposal.
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TABLE 24: HEALTH AND SAFETY IMPACT HEALTH AND SAFETY RESPONSIBILITY FREQUENCY / (This section deals with the impacts on health and safety) MONITORING REQUIREMENTS PHASE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTOR, ECO & DAILY ESA MITIGATION Worker safety STATEMENT 1. Implementation of safety measures, work procedures and first aid shall be implemented on site. 2. A health and safety plan in terms of the Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act No. 85 of 1993) shall be drawn up to ensure worker safety. 3. Contractors shall ensure that all equipment is maintained in a safe operating condition. 4. A record of health and safety incidents shall be kept on site. 5. Any health and safety incidents shall be reported to the project manager immediately. 6. First aid facilities shall be available on site at all times. 7. Workers have the right to refuse work in unsafe conditions. 8. Material stockpiles or stacks shall be stable and well secured to avoid collapse and possible injury to site workers.
Protective gear 9. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) shall be made available to all workers and the wearing and use of PPE shall be compulsory. Hard hats and safety shoes shall be worn at all times and other PPE worn where necessary i.e. dust masks, ear plugs, hard hat, safety boots and overalls etc. 10. No person is to enter the site without the necessary PPE.
Site safety 11. The site shall remain fenced all the time. 12. Potentially hazardous areas such as trenches are to be demarcated and clearly marked. 13. Adequate warning signs of hazardous working areas shall be erected in suitable locations. 14. Uncovered manholes and excavations shall be clearly demarcated. 15. Emergency numbers for local police, fire department and the local E02.JNB.000973 Page 66 SSI Environmental Amended Environmental Management Programme for the Rehabilitation of National Route (N11) Section 13 in Mokopane
municipality shall be placed in a prominent area. 16. Fire fighting equipment shall be placed in prominent positions across the site where it is easily accessible. This includes fire extinguishers, a fire blanket as well as a water tank. 17. All flammable substances shall be stored in dry areas which do not pose an ignition risk to the said substances. 18. Smoking may only be conducted in demarcated areas as agreed upon by the ESA and the contractor. 19. A speed limit of 30km/h shall be adhered to by all vehicles and machinery.
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TABLE 25: SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT IMPACT SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT RESPONSIBILITY FREQUENCY / (This section deals with the impacts on social environment) MONITORING REQUIREMENTS PHASE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTOR, ECO & DAILY ESA MITIGATION 1. All contact with affected parties shall be courteous at all times. The STATEMENT rights of the affected parties shall be respected at all times. 2. A complaints register should be kept on site. Details of complaints should be incorporated into the audits as part of the monitoring process. This register is to be tabled during monthly site meetings. 3. No interruptions other than those negotiated shall be allowed to any essential services. Damage to infrastructure shall not be tolerated and any damage shall be rectified immediately by the Contractor. A record of all damage and remedial actions shall be kept on site. 4. Where possible unskilled job opportunities should be afforded to local community members. 5. Employment opportunities should be made known through a corporate communication function, and locally via the Local Council offices and Residents Forum. 6. A contractor Procurement policy must be maintained and marketing and advertising campaigns to be actively pursued in an effort to procure goods first from local producers/ suppliers. 7. At no point should the removal of graves be considered. 8. Care should be taken during construction to not interfere with the grave sites. It is recommended that the local community be consulted and the grave site be fenced off. 9. It is recommended that the Municipality put strategies in place to curb the expansion of informal settlements. 10. Establish safe user zones (particularly for pedestrians, cyclists, etc 11. Erect proper signage, preferably with light warnings indicating road works. 12. Construction Code of Conduct should be prepared and implemented among construction workers to enforce and monitor appropriate relationships between construction workers and community members. 13. It is recommended that the Contractors Code of Conduct include HIV/AIDS counselling and prevention measures E02.JNB.000973 Page 68 SSI Environmental Amended Environmental Management Programme for the Rehabilitation of National Route (N11) Section 13 in Mokopane
14. Contractors must develop and implement a Recruitment and employment policy, and a goods and services procurement policy that will promote fair access to jobs and procurement opportunities, through an objective and transparent process. 15. A proper security strategy must be put in place for site specific crimes. Community policing would need to be increased.
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TABLE 26: CULTURAL AND HERITAGE ARTIFACTS IMPACT SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT RESPONSIBILITY FREQUENCY / (This section deals with the impacts on cultural and heritage artefacts) MONITORING REQUIREMENTS PHASE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTOR, ECO & DAILY ESA MITIGATION 1. During the survey cemeteries were identified in the proximity of STATEMENT N11, care should be taken to avoid the cemetery site when construction takes place. 2. The four bridges which occur along section of N11 should be documented by the heritage specialist before the upgrade takes place because they date early 1950 and would soon be protected by the Heritage Act. 3. Prior to the construction activities a permit application needs to be lodged by SANRAL for the demolition of four bridges which occur along section 13 of N11. 4. Should any heritage artefacts be exposed during construction activities, the activities: • Shall cease immediately and the Environmental Control Officer shall be notified as soon as possible; • All discoveries shall be reported immediately to a museum, preferably one at which an archaeologist is available, so that an investigation and evaluation of the finds can be made. • Acting upon advice from these specialists, the Environmental Control Officer will advise the necessary actions to be taken; • Under no circumstances shall any artefacts be removed, destroyed or interfered with by anyone on the site. 5. Contractors and workers shall be advised of the penalties associated with the unlawful removal of cultural, historical, archaeological or palaeontological artefacts, as set out in the National Heritage Resources Act (Act No. 25 of 1999), Section 51. (1). The penalties are described below : • Fine or imprisonment for a period not exceeding five years or to both such fine and imprisonment • Fine or imprisonment for a period not exceeding three years or to both such fine and imprisonment • Fine or imprisonment for a period not exceeding two years or to both such fine and imprisonment.
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• Fine or imprisonment for a period not exceeding one year or to both such fine and imprisonment. • Fine or imprisonment for a period not exceeding six months or to both such fine and imprisonment. • Fine or imprisonment for a period not exceeding three months or to both such fine and imprisonment.
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TABLE 27: REHABILITATION IMPACT REHABILITATION RESPONSIBILITY FREQUENCY / (This section deals with the rehabilitation of construction sites) MONITORING REQUIREMENTS PHASE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACTOR, ECO & DAILY ESA MITIGATION 1. After the completion of construction activities all construction STATEMENT material must be removed by hand. 2. Topsoil that has been stockpiled during construction must be applied on the affected areas to undergo rehabilitation. 3. The exposed ground should be seeded with stabilising grass mix, suited to the conditions. The quantity of seed used will depend on the slope. For slopes: >15 o:25-50kg/ha >15 o:15-25kg/ha 4. The natural seed bank in the topsoil will implement the seed mix applied. The seed mix should consist of pioneer grass species of the area, and will also depend on what species are commercially available during the season required. A standard seed mix would consist of the following species (in decreasing order of proportion constituting the seed mix)
• Andropogon chinensis-( Hairy Blue Grass) • Aristida congesta- ( Tassel Three-awn) • Cynodon dactylon-( Couch grass) • Cymbopogon plurinodis-(Narrow-leaved Turpentine Grass) • Eragrostis racemosa-(Narrow Heart Love Grass) • Eragrostis gummiflua- (Gum Grass) • Themeda triandra- (Red grass) • Setaria spp.-(Golden Bristle Grass) • Imperata cylindrical-( Cottonwool Grass • Sporobolus africanus-( Ratsail Dropseed)
5. Sedges such as Schoenoplectus spp (and Juncus spp. should be used for the bridge crossings. 6. Areas which have been seeded must be regularly watered directly after seeding until grass cover becomes established. Watering is to be done in a manner which ensures that no erosion of the
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topsoil and seed mix takes place. 7. If the grass has not been established after two months after seeding, the areas should be applied prior to seeding. 8. Slope stabilisation measures may be necessary in places where grass has not been able to establish and where there is erosion risk. 9. All alien vegetation is to be appropriately removed and disposed of. The list of alien vegetation which were observed during the site inspection includes Syringa Melia azedarach, Brazilian Glory Pea or Red Sesbania Sesbania punicea, Castor-Oil Plant (Ricinus communis), Lantana (Lantana camara), Giant Reed (Arundo donax), Bugweed (Solanum mauritianum), Peanut Butter Cassia (Senna diymobotrya), Jacaranda Jacaranda mimosifolia*, Morning Glory (Ipomoea purpurea), Paraffin Bush (Chromolaena odorata), Yellow Oleander (Thevetia peruviana), Oleander (Nerium oleander), Montanoa (Montanoa hibiscifolia), Indian Shot (Canna indica), Ageratum conyzoides, Caesalpinia decapetala, Ipomoea indica, Psidium guajava.
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TABLE 28: DECOMMISSIONING IMPACT DECOMMISSIONING IMPACTS RESPONSIBILITY FREQUENCY / (This section deals with the impacts post construction activities) MONITORING REQUIREMENTS PHASE DECOMMISSIONING PHASE CONTRACTOR &SANRAL DAILY MITIGATION Removal of equipment STATEMENT 1. The construction camp is to be checked for spills of substances such as oil, paint, etc, and these shall be cleaned up. Temporary services 2. The Contractor must arrange the cancellation of all temporary services, e.g. chemical toilets. 3. A copy of all waste disposal certificates is to be presented to the ECO. 4. Temporary roads must be closed and access across these, blocked. 5. All areas where temporary services were installed are to be rehabilitated to the satisfaction of the ECO. 6. Associated infrastructure 7. Surfaces are to be checked for waste products from activities such as concreting or asphalting and cleared in a manner approved by the SANRAL. 8. All surfaces hardened due to construction activities are to be ripped and imported material thereon removed. 9. All rubble is to be removed from the site to an approved disposal site as approved by the ECO. Burying of rubble on site is prohibited. 10. The site is to be cleared of all litter. 11. The main contractor and site agent are to check that all watercourses are free from building rubble, spoil materials and waste materials. 12. Fences, barriers and demarcations associated with the construction are to be removed from the site. 13. 12. All residual stockpiles must be removed to spoil or spread on site. 14. All leftover building materials must be returned to the construction camp where they will be disposed of appropriately. 15. The Contractor must repair any damage that the construction works has caused to neighbouring properties, specifically, but not limited to, damage caused by poor storm water management. E02.JNB.000973 Page 74 SSI Environmental Amended Environmental Management Programme for the Rehabilitation of National Route (N11) Section 13 in Mokopane
Borrowpits 16. After the completion of mining and excavation activities the Borrowpits will act as reservoirs for surrounding runoff. 17. Erosion preventative mechanism and natural succession of vegetation must be implemented around Borrowpits. 18. Borrowpits acts as potential sediment traps reducing sedimentation in surrounding seasonal tributaries. 19. Indigenous tree species removed from the road reserve should be replaced. 20. Borrowpits must be appropriately rehabilitated and revegetated with indigenous plants after completion of mining activities.
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TABLE 29: OPERATIONAL PHASE IMPACT OPERATIONAL PHASE IMPACTS RESPONSIBILITY FREQUENCY / (This section deals with the impacts at operational phase) MONITORING REQUIREMENTS PHASE OPERATIONAL PHASE SANRAL DAILY MITIGATION Vegetation STATEMENT 1. The N11 road servitude must be regularly inspected during the operational phase and alien vegetation that re-emerges must be removed. Culverts and Bridges must be cleaned regularly to remove debris that might clog the culverts and bridges and prevent free flow of water.
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