Framework Initial Environmental Examination Report
Project No: P45299 Date: January 2012
Republic of Armenia - Water Supply and Sanitation Improvement in the Settlements of Republic of Armenia – Phase 2
The Framework Initial Environmental Examination is a document of the borrower. The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of ADB‟s Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature. Your attention is directed to the "Terms of Use" section of the ADB website.
CONTENTS
I. POLICY LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK 1 A. ADB Safeguards Policy Statement 2009 1 B. Legal Setting 1 C. International Conventions 6 D. Institutional Setting 6 II. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT 8 A. Project context 8 B. Type of Project 10 C. Description of the works 10 D. Locations 12 E. Temporary and Enabling Works 14 F. Temporal Context. 14 III. DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT 14 A. Physical Environment 14 B. Ecological Resources 16 C. Social and Cultural context 16 IV. ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES 17 A. Source Approach to Impact Identification 18 B. Physical and Biological Impacts – Target approach 19 C. Socioeconomic Impacts 21 D. Mitigation Measures 22 V. ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES 25 VI. INFORMATION DISCLOSURE, CONSULTATION AND PARTICIPATION 26 VII. GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM 26 VIII. FRAMEWORK ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 28 A. Mitigation 28 B. Monitoring 8 C. Implementation Arrangements 9 D. Performance Indicators. 12 IX. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION 12
Appendix A Breakdown of works proposed per sub-project
Appendix B EMP Framework Checklist
Appendix C Inspection Checklist
Attachment I Scoping Document (Available upon request)
Attachment II Minutes of Public Consultation (Available upon request)
GLOSSARY
ADB Asian Development Bank ACM Asbestos Containing Material ASWC Armenia Water and Sewage Company COP Code of Practice DRR Daily Regulating Reservoir EIA Environmental Impact Assessment (according to RA state and ADB specification) EMP Environmental Management Plan (at Project level) FDI Foreign Direct Investment HDPE High Density Poly Ethylene IEE Initial Environmental Examination IFI International Finance Institution MoNP Ministry for Nature Protection PDSC Project Design and Supervision Consultant PIU Project Implementation Unit PMU Project Management Unit within the ASWC RA Republic of Armenia SCWE State Committee for Water Economy SPS ADB Safeguards Policy Statement (2009) TA Technical Assistance USD United States Dollars
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1. The proposed phase 2 of the Water Supply project in Armenia will be implemented within a framework of state supervising bodies and the water supply company. The Implementing Agency operates under the supervision of a state authority, and will engage consultants for detailed design, supervision and for Environmental Risk Management for each of the ten sub-projects. The Design Consultants will determine the implementation of the framework of measures for environmental protection as appropriate for each of the sub projects reflecting local conditions and risks.
2. The phase 2 of the Water supply improvement project in Armenia is an essential project to remediate collapsed networks and supply equipment in 92 rural villages and to realize the potential benefits of the phase 1 projects. The project is 50 million USD, and is made up of 10 separate scopes of work, and will be implemented by small teams of construction contractors. The works are to repair and extend existing facilities and exclude sewage system improvements or any permanent resettlement.
3. The Armenian environment is mountainous with a strong contribution from agricultural activity in the valleys. Armenian Heritage and Environmental resources include many archeological and nature protected resources. Soviet period heavy industry has generally ceased to operate, however reforms by the administration are favoring IFI and FDI interest.
4. The proposed measures are not likely to have any long term impact and each measure will be separately implemented by small construction teams – working in parallel in separate villages. No new lands acquisition will be required as all the scope is in repair upgrading or replacing of existing facilities. The implementation of the Framework Environmental Management Plan will be tailored to the specific sub-projects using a checklist provided as Appendix B, based on this SSEMPs will be developed and their implementation will be monitored in the field. The implementing Agency will provide training to construction Contractors to support implementation of the works in the framework of the EMP and the ADB Safeguards Policy Statement 2009.
5. The project utilizes well established solutions appropriate to the operating socioeconomic environment.
6. Preliminary public consultations were held in 10 towns in November 2011 by the PMU to ADB Guidelines and under TA supervision. Public anxieties are few and those raised can readily be addressed.
7. Due to the limited scope of works and the diffuse nature of the sub projects, no EIA is warranted under ADB guidelines in this case.
8. The presently proposed arrangements for identification and mitigation of impacts are adequate in the context of this project to meet the Environmental Safeguards requirements of the ADB
I. POLICY LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK
A. ADB Safeguards Policy Statement 2009
1. ADB is committed to assisting Developing Member Countries to pursue environmentally sustainable and inclusive economic growth and is committed to social and environmental sustainability in projects it supports. Environmental, Social and Involuntary Settlement safeguards are set out in the Bank‟s Safeguard Policy Statement 2009 (SPS) which was approved by the ADB‟s Board of Directors in July 2009. The preparation of this IEE and the implementation of the resulting Environmental management program are part of the means by which the Environmental Safeguards Policy Statement 2009 is applied to this project.
2. The SPS builds upon the three previous safeguard policies on the environment, involuntary resettlement, and Indigenous Peoples, and brings them into a single policy that enhances effectiveness and relevance. The objectives of the SPS are to avoid, or when avoidance is not possible, to minimize and mitigate adverse project impacts on the environment and affected people, and to help borrowers to strengthen their safeguard systems and develop the capacity to manage environmental and social risks. The safeguards Policy addresses risks to Environment, risks from the need for Involuntary Resettlement and risks to indigenous peoples.
3. A proposed project is assigned to one of the following categories, depending on the significance of the potential environmental impacts:
4. Category A. A proposed project is classified as category A if it is likely to have significant adverse environmental impacts that are irreversible, diverse, or unprecedented. These impacts may affect an area larger than the sites or facilities subject to physical works. An environmental impact assessment (EIA), including an environmental management plan (EMP), is required.
5. Category B. A proposed project is classified as category B if its potential adverse environmental impacts are less adverse than those of category A projects. These impacts are site-specific, few if any of them are irreversible, and in most cases mitigation measures can be designed more readily than for category A projects. An initial environmental examination (IEE), including an EMP, is required.
6. Category C. A proposed project is classified as category C if it is likely to have minimal or no adverse environmental impacts. An EIA or IEE is not required, although environmental implications need to be reviewed.
7. Category FI. A proposed project is classified as category FI if it involves the investment of ADB funds to, or through, a financial intermediary. The financial intermediary must apply and maintain an environmental and social management system, unless all of the financial intermediary's business activities have minimal or no environmental impacts or risks.
8. A project's environment category is determined by the category of its most environmentally sensitive component, including direct, indirect, induced, and cumulative impacts. Each proposed project is scrutinized as to its type, location, scale, sensitivity and the magnitude of its potential environmental impacts. The level of detail and comprehensiveness of the EIA and IEE are commensurate with the significance of the potential impacts and risks. This IEE is based on the scoping document and identifies the project as a Category B project
B. Armenian Laws Governing Environmental Management and Assessment
9. RA laws affecting water and wastewater infrastructure and enforced by the environmental ministries include:
RA Law on the Principles of Environmental Protection (1991); RA Water Code (2002); RA Land Code (2001) RA Law on Environmental Impact Assessment (1995); RA Law on Ensuring Sanitary-epidemiological Safety of the RA Population (1992) RA Law on the Protection and Use of Fixed Cultural and Historic Monuments and Historic Environment (1998)
10. RA Law on the Principles of Environmental Protection (1991). The Law on the Principles of Environmental Protection (1991) outlines the environmental protection policy of Armenia. Its purpose is to ensure state regulation of environmental protection and use within the territory of Armenia. It provides a legal basis for the development of environmental legislation regulating the protection and use of minerals, forest, water, flora and fauna, and the atmosphere.
11. RA Water Code (2002). This code provides for: Establishment of appropriate water resources management mechanisms; Conservation and protection of water resources, including mitigation of pollution, maintenance and supervision of water standards and water level of the national water reserve; Prevention of waters harmful impact; Ensuring water resources assessment; Ensuring water supply to population and economy in necessary quantity and quality by regulated tariffs; Safe and smooth work of water supply and wastewater systems provision of normal conditions for their use and maintenance and supervision; Organization of management, protection, and development of water systems.
12. The RA Land Code, regulates the requirements for the establishment and the regime of sanitary protection zones.
13. The RA Law on Environmental Impact Assessment (1995) mandates an Environmental Assessment for water and wastewater infrastructure projects. The law tries to minimize the actions affecting human health, environment, economic and social development including those related to construction and operation of reservoirs, embankments, dams, canals, pump stations and other hydro-structures as well as actions related to extraction of underground waters, works of reconstruction and construction of wastewater treatment plants.
14. The RA Law on Provision of the Sanitary-Hygienic Safety for the RA Population, Articles 16 and 23: The main requirements regarding water supply and water use are set forth in Article 16 of the Law. Article 23 of this law serves a basis for mandatory implementation of sanitary-hygienic expertise particularly chemical and biological discharges and effluents into the environment.
15. Water Quality Standards (2002): State Standards for Drinking Water in terms of water supply and water use include:
N2-III-22-2 which establishes sanitary protection zones for water pipelines and water supply sources of drinking water value. N2-III-22-1 on quality control which establishes hygienic requirements for drinking water quality as well as rules for control over the quality of drinking water produced and supplied to residential areas through water supply systems.
16. The RA Ministry of Nature Protection (MNP) is the principal national environmental administrative authority. Within it are several agencies or directorates administering various aspects of the Laws on Environmental Protection, EIA and Protected Natural Areas. See the MNP organization chart in Chart 1.
17. Of importance to EIA and IEE are the two state non-commercial organizations (SNCOs): a) Nature Protection Expertise (NPE) responsible for administering the EIA process, and b) the State Environmental Inspectorate (SEI) responsible for overseeing compliance with environmental laws and regulations
18. The EIA process and the SEI power to inspect are the principal tools used by the MNP to achieve compliance with environmental management principles. As well as the MNP, other ministries and agencies have responsibilities to administer natural resources and environmental matters (e.g., Ministries of Agriculture and Health, the State Committee for Water Economy, etc.).
Chart 1: Ministry of Nature Protection Organization Chart
19. The RA environmental clearance procedures are set out in Chart 2. ADB and AWSC will review the IEE Report and pass it to the MNP. The Report will then be made public by the NPE which invites public and government comment on the IEE and the Project before clearing it for implementation by the AWSC.
Chart 2: RA Environmental Clearance Procedure – Flow Diagram
20. The RA environmental clearance procedures are set out in Chart 2 and 3. The ADB and AWSC will review the IEE Report and pass it to the MNP. The Report will then be made public by the NPE which invites public and government comment on the IEE and the Project before clearing it for implementation by the AWSC.
Chart 3: RA Environmental Clearance Procedure – Schedule
21. RA Public Service Regulatory Commission Degree - of Minimum Drinking Water Supply Rates for Population: Two times per year (April, October) PSRC (Public Service Regulatory Commission) of RA sign the Degree for the percentage of customers with the minimum of water supply service per day. That minimum is 4 hours per day. Based on the last Degree of PSRC AWSC is obliged to have 96% of customers with the daily service 4 and more hours, that means the final target is to have all customers with the service not less than 4 hours per day, of course there are obligations for the number of customers with the daily service of 6 hours,8 hours, 10 etc.
22. The Law on the Protection and Use of Fixed Cultural and Historic Monuments and Historic Environment (1998). Provides the legal and policy basis for the protection and use of such monuments in Armenia and regulates the relations among protection and use activities.
Article 15 of the Law describes procedures for, among other things, the discovery and state registration of monuments, the assessment of protection zones around them, and the creation of historic-cultural reserves. Article 22 requires the approval of the authorized body (Department of Historic and Cultural Monuments Preservation) before land can be allocated for construction, agricultural and other types of activities in areas containing monuments.
C. International Conventions
23. In addition, Armenia has signed or ratified several other international environmental conventions, including: Convention on Environmental Impact Assessment in the Trans-Boundary Context (Espo, 1991); Dublin Convention on Water and Sustainable Development (1992); Convention on the Protection of World Cultural and Natural Heritage (1993); Convention on Access to Information, Public Participation in Decision-making and Access to Justice in Environmental Matters (Aarhus, Denmark. 1998);
D. Institutional Setting
24. In Armenia, SCWE is the primary agency in charge of water management, whereas the MoNP has overall responsibility for water resources and environmental protection and management, including hazardous waste management. Water Resources Management Agency (WRMA) under the MoNP is responsible for the allocation and use permitting of water resources in Armenia. In addition, the Ministry of Health (MoH) plays the lead role in controlling the spread of malaria and other water-borne diseases. Local and regional authorities assume responsibility for natural resource use and protection within their jurisdiction.
25. State Committee for Water Economy. The Government decided to establish a State Committee of Water Economy under the Government (RA Government Decision #95, dated 9 February, 2001) in order to rehabilitate companies engaged in water economy financially; to improve their services to consumers; to improve the tariff policy and to implement economic reforms in this sphere.
26. According to RA Government Decision #633, dated 15 May 2005, SCWE was included in the structure of the RA Ministry of Territorial Administration.
27. Within the structure of SCWE, AWSC is responsible for operation and maintenance of the water supply and sewerage system under its service area
28. The State Committee for Water Economy performs the following functions: participates in the policy development related to Water National Plan and water resources protection and use; submits to the Government annual reports on water utilization by a breakdown of sources and user companies; executes authorized management of state stocks in companies engaged in commercial activities like building of hydro-technical constructions, technical operation, water supply and sewerage services in the area of irrigation, drinking water, sewerage as well as in state entities which implement investment projects in natural and artificial water basins in the mentioned areas at the expense of foreign funding.
29. Ministry of Nature Protection (MoNP). The MoNP is responsible for the protection, sustainable use, and regeneration of natural resources as well as the improvement of the environment in the Republic of Armenia. In those areas, the MoNP's authority includes overseeing national policy development, developing environmental standards and guidelines, and enforcement. The MoNP discharges those functions through the following departments: Environmental strategic program and monitoring Underground resources and land protection policy Hazardous Substances and Waste Policy Water Policy Biodiversity policy Atmospheric Air Policy Legal Public Relations, others
30. The MoNP also undertakes several functions through its structural subdivisions: WRMA Bio resources management Agency The Agency of Waste and Atmosphere Emissions Management State Environmental Inspectorate
31. WRMA under MoNP is the key institution responsible for the water resources management: development of National Water Policy and National Water Plan; classification of water resources by their purpose usage; participation in water standards development and supervise their application, issue water use permits, etc.
32. State Environmental Inspectorate (SEI) responsible for overseeing compliance with environmental laws and regulations
33. The following SNCOs are in the structure of MoNP Info & Analytical Center National Park SNCOs State Reserve SNCOs Environmental Expertise Environmental Impacts Monitoring Centre (collects water quality data from 131 sampling points); Waste Research Centre Hydro-geological Monitoring Center
34. Ministry of Health (MoH). State Hygienic and Anti-epidemic Survey of the MoH of RA responsible for the following: participating in sanitary norms and drinking water quality standards development; coordination of all issues related to health and supervision of implementation of sanitary norms, hygienic and epidemiological measures implementation by organizations and citizens.
35. The Government will continue to implement relevant institutional and legislative reforms to assist AWSC in its on-going efforts in enhancing management capacity and operational efficiency.
II. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT
A. Project context
36. Water supply infrastructure in Armenia dates back to the Soviet era and has suffered from lack of investment since the collapse of the Soviet Union. The systems were constructed using cast iron and steel components and are now well past their normal life. Corrosion of pipelines result in water losses of up to 90% in some cases, e.g. Vayq, with the result that water supplies have to be turned off for extensive parts of the day. This in turn can compromise the quality of the water within the distribution system. Such massive losses mean that there is no supply to consumers at the end of a distribution line, and that leaking water can compromise the ground stability in the built environment. (See Figure 1 Pipe corrosion Ecmiatsin).
37. Water is extracted from some sources that cannot provide the required quantities year round. Abstraction from new or supplementary sources is required to provide year-round water supply.
Figure 1 Pipe corrosion Ecmiatsin
38. Within many reasonably sized towns the citizens collect water from stand pipes or from bulk tankers as water supply does not reach their homes. This labor normally falls to the women of the households and can require carrying of water in containers for some distance. (See Figure 2 Collecting water for the home).
39. A Phase 1 program of works has already been implemented with ADB funding, along with parallel projects under the auspices of other IFIs. These projects were limited by the capacity for implementing the works, and hence in many cases the Phase 1 works form the foundation for Phase 2 and future works that will realize the benefits in the context of the overall program.
40. The objective of the project is improved public health and environment for households and other consumers in 18 towns and 92 small villages through safe and reliable water supply. The means of achieving this objective is to replace the water supply infrastructure that has collapsed and increase the number of consumers that are provided with metered water supply at their homes.
41. The Project‟s outcome is improved access to safe, reliable and sustainable water supply services operated under commercial principles and environmentally sound practices.
Figure 2 Collecting water for the home
B. Type of Project
42. This project is a continuation of an overall plan made up of water supply improvement projects in the Republic of Armenia. The project in this scope includes repair of some existing water delivery components and installation of certain new components in the water sector. The loan project will be co-financed by the Armenian Government and will provide or restore metered drinking water to citizens.
43. The project falls into Category B of the ADB categorization of projects. The project falls entirely within the examples “Urban water supply and sanitation”, and “Rural water supply and sanitation” given in the Table 2 of the Environmental Categorization Guidelines. No sewage infrastructure is included in the current project scope.
C. Description of the works
1. Project Components
44. A breakdown of the project components by sub-project is provided in Appendix A. The project is a follow up on Phase I as funded by the ADB and also related to parallel work funded by the World Bank and other IFIs, such as waste water treatment around Lake Sevan. The main technical activities of the project are:
194 km of Mains Water Pipe to be laid to various villages; 496 km Distribution Pipe within villages and connections with meters to be installed; 35 Daily Regulating Reservoirs to be repaired and 11 new ones to be built; Zoning in 11 systems; Pressure Breakers in 4 systems;
18 Catchments renovated and 2 new ones provided; 6 new or renovated Sanitary Zones to be created, provided with fencing and security; 2 Chlorination Plants renovated and 6 new ones constructed and 4 new or renovated pumping stations to be provided.
45. Laying of mains pipe involves the digging out of existing cast iron or steel pipe along the existing pipe run. Where the existing pipe is asbestos, the new line will be laid adjacent to it. The trench is lined with sand and HDP pipe is laid on the sand. The trench is then backfilled and the soil compressed. The line is then rinsed and sanitized with Chlorine solution.
Figure 3 Laying distribution pipe
46. Distribution pipe installation involves trenching in the towns and villages and the installation of water meters at the users‟ connection points. The user is responsible for the connection from the meter to their point of use – be it in the dwelling or a stand pipe on the property. Distribution networks re sanitized. Distribution pipe installation is where most risk of disturbance to property or the population is likely to arise. Installation of pipes can involve a construction crew moving along the system installing section by section. (See Figure 3 Laying distribution pipe) The pipe laying will be mostly by replacement of corroded pipe using existing way leaves with a small proportion of rerouting into new trenches.
47. Renovation or construction of DRRs involves the excavation and creation of foundations on the territory on which the DRR is to sit and the construction or repair of a reinforced concrete tank. DRRs shall have sanitary Zones. Where new DRR construction is to take place the construction crew will be located at that one site for a number of weeks.
48. Zoning involves the reconfiguration of distribution pipes by addition of lines and valves to enable different parts of a network to be isolated or pressurized for maintenance reasons. Zoning may require additional interconnections and access from road level to the isolation valves.
49. Installation of a pressure breaker can be by installation of an Air Break or by a Vacuum Break. An Air Break involves either a pressure reducing valve device or the construction of a tank with mechanical or electronic level control so that the weight of water from a high level source does not cause overpressure at the delivery points at the users located at a low level.
Vacuum Pressure Breakers are a valve type device installed where vacuum can be created by the weight of water below a point and cause a risk of unclean water being drawn into the system due to formation of a siphon.
50. Renovation of catchments involves repair of lines, flumes and screens at natural surface water sources. Catchments shall be provided with sanitary zones with attendant fences and security.
51. Sanitary Zones are areas surrounding infrastructure such as catchments or pump houses to ensure that water is protected from animal pollution sources or interference by humans. Sanitary zones are protected by fencing and may be guarded.
52. Chlorination plants consist of chlorine supply (usually as a hypochlorite solution or chlorination tablets), flow meters and chemical injection dosing pumps within a building. This equipment is housed within a sanitary zone. (See Figure 4 Pumping and Chlorination)
53. Pumping stations usually consist of a number of electrically driven pumps controlled by level switches in receiving DRRs or by backpressure from the receiving distribution network.
Figure 4 Pumping and Chlorination Facility
Abstraction, pumping and chlorination station in Berd Town Water Treatment (Chlorination) Plant Malishka (After the Implementation of Phase 1) (After the Implementation of Phase 1)
D. Locations
54. The proposed Project will be implemented in 18 towns and 92 villages throughout Armenia, distributed through the territory, excluding Yeravan Gyumri and Vanadzor Cities. The project is grouped into ten sub-projects, clustered around these following towns: Vedi & Ararat; Ecmiatsin; Artik; Alaverdi, Tashir & Stepanavan; Gavar & Martuni; Noyemberan & Berd; Kapan & Meghri; Veyq & Jermuk; Talin; Hrazdan & Tsahkadzor. The location of these named centers is shown in Figure 6 Distribution of sub-projects. For a detailed breakdown of the activities and works see Appendix A.
Figure 5 Typical small village near Vedi with gardens and external latrines
55. The project scope does not involve the acquisition of any new territory, and mostly involved work on already existing infrastructure. Nor does the project include any sewage collection or treatment measures.
Figure 6 Distribution of sub-projects
E. Temporary and Enabling Works
56. Access. The works do not require acquisition of any new lands therefore access roadways and new utility supplies are not planned. Some access across farms and into gardens will be required and this will involve agreement with property owners.
57. Construction Sites. The overall project scope will most likely involve more than 40 separate civil works contracts. The works are distributed amongst many villages and laying of pipes can be carried out by small local teams of an excavator crew, approximately three general workers and transport support. In this phase of the overall water supply improvement program the largest structures are some of the DRRs or pumping stations– involving a construction team of five construction workers supported by supply services, commissioning personnel from suppliers of machinery and craftsmen. Construction sites will be required in order to store fuel, equipment and construction materials, and for management and co-ordination of the construction activities. These sites were mostly provided by the municipalities during phase I and a similar arrangement is foreseen for this phase. Local AWSC offices and yards exist throughout the works locations and these yards can also be utilized to support the construction work.
F. Temporal Context
58. Preparatory work has been carried out to identify the priority work scope and to progress the definition of the scope of works to be included. Feasibility studies for six of the subprojects have been completed. Technical summary documents describing the present situation and proposed scope of works for all ten subprojects have been drawn up.
59. The project is proposed according to the following implementation milestones:
Loan Approval February 2012, Design & Supervision Contracts March 2012 Detailed Design & tender preparation May 2014 Construction Commencement December 2014 Completion Early 2017
60. The time taken to complete the civil works in any particular contract scope of will normally range from 3 months to 9 months, depending on the planning of the works and on the detailed scope. Some activities will be carried out in parallel in different locations by different teams and other activities will involve teams moving from location to location.
61. The time taken to complete the civil works in any particular contract scope of will normally range from 3 months to 9 months, depending on the planning of the works and on the detailed scope. Some activities will be carried out in parallel in different locations by different teams and other activities will involve teams moving from location to location.
III. DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
A. Physical Environment
62. The environment in which the project will be implemented consists of the populated areas of Armenia excluding the main cities of Yerevan and Gumri. In this section we describe
the main features of the environment in the locations where works will be carried out- covering typical conditions in most of Armenia.
63. Armenia is located in Southern Transcaucasia, the region southwest of Russia between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea. The Lesser Caucasus range extends through northern Armenia, runs southeast between Lake Sevan and Azerbaijan, then passes roughly along the Armenian-Azerbaijani border to Iran. Geological turmoil continues in the form of devastating earthquakes, which have plagued Armenia.
64. About half of Armenia's area of approximately 29,800 square kilometers has an elevation of at least 2,000 meters, and only 3 percent of the country lies below 650 meters. The lowest points are in the valleys of the Aras River and the Debet River in the far north, which have elevations of 380 and 430 meters, respectively. Lake Sevan, 30 kilometers across at its widest point and 72 kilometers long, is by far the largest lake. It lies 2,070 meters above sea level on the plateau. The valleys of Armenia are fertile and a cultivated for a wide range of fruit and vegetables, and vineyards.
Figure 7 From Gori Temple - Mountain Figure 8 From Khor Virap Monastry – Gorge and nature park (fertile plain and site of discovery traces of prehistoric man)
65. The particular villages wherein works are to be implemented range from groups of one- family houses with small gardens to agglomerations with multistory apartment blocks. The condition of the built environment may have surfaced or dirt roads with or without pavements. The main environmental aspect to be affected by the pipe laying works will be the roads and gardens in the towns and villages.
Figure 9 Kapan Town – Apartment Blocks Figure 10 Tashir town – single family dwellings
66. Water quality varies from system to system and will be evaluated by analysis prior to the works being implemented.
B. Ecological Resources
67. Approximately 12% of Armenian territory is within National parks – the largest being Lake Sevan NP. The state also protects archeological sites and some special habitats such as at Jrarat south of Ecmiatsin which is habitat of the Vordam Karmir beetles. Armenia has registered three RAMSAR sites – Lake Sevan, Arpi lake and most recently Khor Virap Marsh. Lake Sevan is the main aquatic biological resource and the dropping level due to irrigation has been reversed by diversion of additional river water by construction of a tunnel. The Sevan Trout and the Barbus are both listed in the Armenian Red Book of endangered species and their reduction in numbers is attributed to the past loss of water level in the lake. The Red Book also lists 18 mammals 41 birds 11 reptiles and 2 amphibians as endangered. Some of these species listed as endangered are not endangered outside Armenia – e.g. the Common Cormorant and the White Egret.
68. Forests have been impacted by tree felling for fuel after the independence of Armenia due to the blockade of fuel supplies, and deforestation has continued due to logging. Present estimate is that forestry covers about 7% of the territory, and there are few trees left in the open land and roadsides near the villages.
69. Direct abstraction of water can be impacted by high ground water level and salination is an issue in some valleys. Also, on higher ground river flows can be seasonal due to freezing or due to dry periods – and many small catchments have been constructed for irrigation purposes.
C. Social and Cultural context
70. Culture. Armenia has a strong Christian history being the first sovereign state to adopt Christianity. The Armenian Christian Church is now active again after the ending of Soviet controls. There are many monasteries and also due to the strategic position between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea, history has ensured that there are many castles and fortresses. There are also some important prehistoric sites.
71. Socio-economic conditions. Many of the industrial activities of the Soviet Era are now longer functioning and, in the rural areas especially, this has created great difficulty for the people remaining in the settlements as the support for infrastructure and management of the economy on a large scale, collapsed after the breakup of the Soviet Union. The rural society has reverted to subsistence living supported by small farms pending the development of new economic activity in the regions.
Figure 11 Closed Industrial facility (Near Figure 12 Cathedral at Ecmiatsin Talin)
72. The Armenian economy shrank by 14% in 2009 as an expatriate-financed construction boom contracted along with the world economy. With a mediocre growth forecast for the next few years, this landlocked former Soviet republic, dependent upon Russia and Iran for virtually all of its energy supplies, is struggling to keep up with the rest of the world. Per-capita GDP of less than $3,000 in 2009, and inflation was running at 8.2%. On top of that, Russia cut back on supplies of raw diamonds, hurting Armenia‟s once-thriving diamond-processing industry. Armenian production is mainly from agriculture with some chemical and mineral production. Trade and transit restrictions with neighboring Azerbaijan and Turkey make Armenia reliant on transit through Georgia or Iran for external trade.
73. Reforms introduced by the government make Armenia attractive to foreign investment and IFIs and are helping to stabilize the economy. Tourism is on the increase and due to the extensive Armenian Diaspora can be expected to become a strong element in the economy.
IV. ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
74. Source-pathway–Target view of impact identification. Environmental impacts require three elements to occur; there must be a source such as an emission; a „Target‟ such as a vulnerable receptor e.g. a river or school; and a „pathway‟ whereby the cause or source can have an impact on the target.
A. Source Approach to Impact Identification
75. A scoping exercise was undertaken preparatory to this IEE. Please refer to Annex I. This scoping exercise took into account the wide distribution of sub projects and the limited scope of each sub project as far as new facilities versus renewal of existing facilities is concerned.
Table 1 Potential negative Impacts
Cause Impact
Excavation work & Noise Construction work Dust exhaust emissions Vibration Spoil Traffic disruption Disruption of gardens/farms/cemeteries Soil stability Uncovering of buried items Exposure of asbestos cement pipes Construction waste Risk of Leakage of oils/lubricants and fuels Risk of Leakage of chlorine during commissioning Resource usage by construction teams Construction site waste Temporary works Construction Camps
Sanitary Zone designation Restriction on occupation Restriction on activity Restriction on access and transit
Operation phases New structures – impact on landscape Residual construction impacts Impact on water table Risks from handling and use of chlorine Consequence of increased water consumption on wastewater disposal capacity
76. These impacts have been identified in the scoping process and are supplemented by the comments received during the public consultation during the preliminary project phase.
77. No long term negative residual impacts are foreseen arising from the project implementation, based on the „source‟ approach.
78. Information on the condition of environmental media in the scope of impact of the project is adequate to determine the necessary mitigation measures to be implemented. No further analysis of the present environmental status is needed for impact identification within this project scope.
79. No Global, transboundary nor cumulative environmental impacts are foreseen within the scope of the project.
B. Physical and Biological Impacts – Target approach
1. Impacts on soil and groundwater
80. Present leakage rates and overuse of water for irrigation may have the effect of raising the water table above the naturally occurring level in certain locations. The impact of the project will be the neutralization of an artificial consequence of leakage into the ground, and will constitute of a return to a natural condition being a positive impact.
81. New boreholes may cause local water table depression in uncontrolled circumstances. The geological data available has been taken into account in selecting sites for boreholes, meaning the risk is insignificant.
2. Impacts on Air Quality
82. The emissions generated from common construction activities normally include:
(i) Exhaust emissions of particulate matter (PM) and of nitrogen oxides (NOx) from fuel combustion for mobile heavy-duty diesel- and gasoline-powered equipment, portable auxiliary equipment, material delivery trucks, and worker commute trips, (ii) Fugitive PM dust from soil disturbance and demolition activity, (iii) Evaporative emissions of reactive organic compounds from paving activity. (iv) Air quality will be affected by fugitive dust and emissions from construction machinery, concrete/asphalt works, and vehicular traffic during the construction phase. Emissions may be carried over long distances, depending on wind speed and direction, the temperature of the surrounding air, and atmospheric stability.
83. The works are to be carried out mainly in the countryside and small villages – the largest towns involved are too small to accumulate significant smog or other air pollution problems – hence the risk from the impact of exhaust emissions is insignificant and from dust emissions to be medium due to dirt roads.
84. There are some existing asbestos cement pipes which will be replaced. Disturbance of these pipes can cause emissions of dangerous dusts. The safeguard is to lay new pipes in a run adjacent to the asbestos pipe and leave the asbestos undisturbed, as asbestos dust is released from asbestos cement only if it is sawn or abraded. This impact is assessed as potentially medium and will be avoided by leaving pipes buried and identified as asbestos and by proper disposal in double HDPE sealed bags of any asbestos components accidentally disturbed that cannot be safely left buried. (See next section)
3. Impacts on Surface Waters
85. The construction work can impact on surface waters due to runoff of silt from trench opening and soil handling especially in the event of rainstorms. This low impact will be transient.
86. Drainage channels may become blocked with construction debris or with soil washed off machinery, in certain cases backup in the drains may cause an effect assessed as Low impact. Potential runoff of harmful substances can arise from the storage and handling of Fuels, lubricants and Chlorine solutions. Such spills could cause local impacts assessed as medium risk.
87. Abstraction of surface water from seasonally low flow rivers will be substituted by new boreholes, creating a positive impact on those surface water sources. Impacts from Noise and Vibration
88. Noise and vibration impacts will be relevant in the built environment. In general the type of works involved, being earthworks and traffic, can normally give rise to noise levels up to 89 dBA. This medium impact will be transient and will be planned in terms of scheduling of the specific activities.
89. Noise from pump houses will normally be associated with new equipment in place of old, so a reduction of noise can be foreseen. Where new equipment is to be installed noise limits can be specified. Pump noise impacts are expected to be insignificant.
90. Vibrations can arise due to excavation works – however these are in the line of previous pipe runs, therefore no rock breaking is foreseen, adjacent to homes or working places. Some rock breaking can be required at the location of DRRs and other objects. Tamping after backfilling will be a source of vibration and could also reach nuisance levels, resulting in medium impact. These will normally be remote from the villages.
4. Impacts on Flora and Fauna
91. Reviewing the list of endangered species and taking account of the nature protected areas there is low likelihood of any impacts on vulnerable receptors in this environmental media. Vulnerable habitats are identified in the national register of nature parks. Any construction activity will be implemented under the direction of the Parks authorities. This impact is assessed as low risk.
92. Disturbance of normal habitats due to excavation or construction will be temporary and not persistent, being an insignificant impact. Waste
93. Construction waste will arise from the demolition of existing worn out components. The scrap cast iron piping will be recyclable by the construction contractors. Spoil and topsoil from excavations will result in disruption and will require storage until returned to the original location. Road surface fragments and other construction waste that is not reusable will require suitable disposal arrangements. The waste impact from the construction activity is assessed as low risk.
5. Temporary works
94. The contractor(s) will require land for
(i) Contractors' camps and facilities, i.e., storage, equipment parking and washing areas (ii) Storage of pipes and sand, (iii) Access roads for haulage (iv) Disposal sites and procedures for the safe disposal of surplus construction and waste material.
95. Temporary impacts, which will be generated during the preparation of the construction contractors‟ camps and facilities are:
(i) Excavation activities, (ii) Trenching and construction of water pipelines for connecting the water to the facilities, (iii) Erection of the site buildings, (iv) Construction of fuel facility, (v) Connections of the electrical conduits and cabling, (vi) Perimeter fencing (vii) Waste and sewage emissions (viii) Camps are expected to be dispersed and short-lived with insignificant impact
6. Landscape
96. Mains laying, DRR, Pumping Stations, Chlorination plant works and works at catchments will occur outside the villages, and will result in potential impacts on the landscape. As almost all works will be on territory already used for the water supply systems and impacts are expected to be temporary.
C. Socioeconomic Impacts
97. The project will improve the water supply to 92 villages within every province of Armenia. The scope of work is for a total budget of 50 million USD, and is part of an overall five year development plan of 600 million USD. Whereas the totality of the project is significant in terms of investment and people benefited, it is made up of over 90 separate improvement measures. The main connection between the individual measures in the towns and villages is that they are being financed in the scope of the current proposed loan, so in terms of management of impact we are dealing with a 92 measures within 10 geographical groupings, to form 10 projects varying from US$800,000 to US$ 7 million.
98. Some villages receive water delivered by tanker and collected by the citizens, which is more expensive than the water to be provided as a result of project implementation.
99. The Project will provide a much needed funding to help support the on-going efforts of the Government, through SCWE and AWSC together with its private sector partner, SAUR, to improve the operational efficiency and management of the water systems and also help improve the health and environment of the people in those targeted subprojects.
100. The project will involve additional metering which will reduce consumption due to overuse for irrigation, other commercial uses and wastage.
101. All above consequences are assessed as positive impact.
102. Traffic disruption will arise and will be mitigated by consultation and development of traffic management plans. Traffic plans will be prepared taking into account the public consultation findings and will reflect the normal traffic variations and provide for emergency access at the works locations. Prompt restoration of works sites will aid to minimize traffic impact.
103. Traffic impact will be at low level.
104. Trenches in the villages will constitute a hazard for pedestrian traffic as well as vehicle traffic which will be mitigated by fencing off the works and by prompt backfilling of the trenches after pipe laying. This impact is assessed as medium impact.
105. Some disturbance of gardens may arise from the pipe laying works. The losses will be mitigated by informing the effected public in advance of planting time and by the conservation or replacement of fruit trees temporarily dislocated. This is assessed as low impact
106. Risk of injury to workers or members of the public due to use of Chlorine will be mitigated by training in sanitization of the new works and in the use and handling of the chlorine solutions used in sanitization and in the water chlorination plants is a significant risk.
107. Introduction of a labor force into the villages will be mitigated by deployment of small teams and utilization of local labor where appropriate. The arrival of new customers will have a small and short term commercial positive impact to traders in the villages.
108. Implementation of the project will be of particular benefit to women as in the villages women are seen carrying water from the bulk water delivery unit or the central stand pipes. Drinking water supply to the homes further benefits all women involved in traditional domestic duties. The project has thus a positive gender impact (See Figure 2 Collecting water for the home.)
D. Mitigation Measures
1. Air Quality Protection Measures
109. The following measures will be implemented to mitigate the impact of construction works on ambient air quality, however, heavy equipment and machines to be used within the construction phase should be mainly new and comply with all national and International standards.
(i) Water spray will be used to minimise dust in the vicinity of vulnerable receptors such as dwellings, and workplaces. (ii) The emissions standards applicable to gaseous emissions generated by construction vehicles, equipment, and machinery, will be enforced during construction works. (iii) Heavy construction vehicles should be used in accordance with their operating instructions.
(iv) Regular check of technical condition of all vehicles should be prepared and carried out regularly by the contractor‟s safety manager. (v) 30 km/h speed limit should be set for movement of heavy construction vehicles on the dirt and service roads. (vi) All dust generating works should be stopped when wind speed exceeds 12 m/s. (vii) Dusty loads shall be covered during transportation. (viii) No work will be carried out during the night (21.00hrs to 07.00hrs). (ix) If works give rise to complaints over dust, the contractor shall investigate the cause and review and propose alternative mitigation measures before works recommence. (x) Fuel-efficient and well-maintained haulage trucks will be employed to minimize exhaust emissions. Smoke belching vehicles and equipment will not be allowed and will be removed from the project. (xi) All diesel heavy construction equipment shall not remain running idle for more than five minutes. (xii) Use of alternative fuelled equipment when feasible (such as biodiesel and electric). (xiii) All diesel-fuelled engines used for on- and offsite construction activities shall be fuelled only with low sulphur diesel, which contains no more than 15 ppm sulfur. (xiv) No waste shall be disposed of by burning (xv) Ground which has been opened shall be promptly backfilled and tamped. (xvi) Existing asbestos containing pipes shall be left in place underground. If accidentally disturbed asbestos cement components shall be double bagged, labelled and buried in a controlled site. No sawing or abrading of asbestos material shall occur
110. As a general approach, it is recommended that if works are within 15 m of any sensitive receivers, the contractor should install segregation between the works at the edge and the sensitive receivers. The segregation should be a proper and easily erectable sheet in 2.5 m high, and designed to retain dust and provide a temporary visual barrier to the works. Where dust is the major consideration the barrier can take the form of tarpaulins strung between two poles mounted on a concrete base.
2. Water Protection Measures
111. Measures to mitigate impacts on surface water adjacent to the locations of project activity shall include:
(i) Where mains works are in progress on sloping ground, erosion control and sedimentation facilities including sediment traps and straw bale barriers or combinations thereof will remain in place and be maintained throughout the works to protect local water resources. (ii) Lubricants, fuels and other hydrocarbons will be stored at least 100m away from water bodies, on an impervious surface. (iii) Topsoil stripped material shall not be stored where natural drainage will be disrupted. (iv) Solid wastes will be disposed of properly (not dumped in streams). (v) Solid Construction material and spoil stockpiles will be covered to reduce material loss and run-off and stockpiles will not be nearer than 100m to water bodies. (vi) Borrow sites will not be close to sources of drinking water in case of runoff.
(vii) If complaints are received, the incidents will be investigated by the contractor and reported to the PIU. (viii) Water samples will be taken at completion and analyzed based on the baseline monitoring results obtained in the preconstruction stage. (ix) Waters shall be protected from contamination during chlorine solution handing and disposal. (x) The contractors will be required to maintain close liaison with the local community to ensure that any potential conflicts are resolved quickly. (xi) Guidelines will be established to minimize the wastage of water during construction operations and at campsites. (xii) The water ways and drainage streams en-route of the project should not be impeded by the works and the scale of the works does not warrant hydrological monitoring. (xiii) Rock material to be used in river / stream crossings per owner/engineer‟s recommendations to prevent natural soil erosion. (xiv) Proper installation of temporary drainage and erosion control before works within 50m of water bodies should be done. (xv) Borrow sites (if required) should not be close to sources of drinking water.
3. Noise and Vibration Mitigation
112. Impacts of noise and vibration shall be mitigated as follows: (i) Identification of the noise or vibration sensitive receptors; (ii) Avoid noise causing activity near offices and schools and night time noise near dwellings or hospitals; (iii) Utilise barriers as appropriate; (iv) Locate running machinery reflecting the source-pathway target model and (v) Equipment shall be appropriately maintained
4. Flora and Fauna
113. Prior to execution of construction works the local parks authority will be consulted as regards any risk to vulnerable habitats or special protected areas in order to mitigated the risk of unforeseen impacts on controlled habitats.
5. Waste management
114. Impacts of waste shall be mitigated by:
(i) Securing scrap from thieves and pickers; (ii) Storing waste in designated areas; (iii) Covering of waste in transit; (iv) Rinsing and rendering unusable waste chlorine solution containers; (v) Spill control and use of spill kits; (vi) Storing and segregation of recyclables in suitable locations and (vii) Controlled disposal of chlorine, thinners, solvent and lubricant residues.
6. Temporary Works
115. Temporary construction camps will be secured by fencing and shall be provided with facilities for: (i) Storage of harmful substances and fuels with ground protection; (ii) Wastewater management; (iii) Adequate storage for construction materials and (iv) Lodgement of complaints (displayed instructions; Complaints register)
7. Community and Worker Safety
116. The management of the construction activities will include ongoing consultation to mitigate impacts on the citizens. Interruption to free access to resources shall be notified well in advance and objections or comments recorded and addressed.
117. Disruption of traffic shall be minimized by announcement of a traffic plan, duly prepared to minimize impact risk.
118. Works in public areas shall be adequately fenced and lit and have warning notices displayed. The PIU will issue a safety code of practice to address worker safety and health issues, which will be implemented by the construction contractors.
119. All trenches in soil that are more than 1.3 meters deep shall be supported by props or have equivalent protection from collapse. Spoil from trenching shall be stockpiled clear of the trench to avoid risk of collapse. Trenches shall be promptly backfilled. Warning signs shall be posted at trenches and any other works that may be a hazard
120. Adequate protective clothing and equipment shall be provided to construction personnel to protect them from injuries foreseeable in the scope of work.
8. Training
121. The mitigation measures above will be strengthened and supported by the delivery of compulsory training for successful Construction Contract bidders. This training has been prepared to educate the Contractors‟ Personnel on the implementation of the mitigation measures of the EMP and on relevant good construction practices.
V. ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES
122. Alternatives are examined in the context of the project intended scope as being the improvement of drinking water supply in Armenia.
123. “Do Nothing“ option: The project will be delivered in 92 villages and towns with a total population of 775,000 citizens. The importance of water supply is confirmed the state guarantee of continuous water supply to a target percentage of the population. Supply of clean water is the top priority in this sector.
124. Lining in place: The damage to pipes is very extensive and most of the distribution pipes are small bore with many branch off points. Lining in situ will not provide a system that
will accept new connections and is therefore not a suitable solution for the supply of drinking water to public customers.
125. Alternative location: The project is being implemented in those locations that will bring the maximum cost/benefit effect, as evaluated by the population numbers receiving a reliable supply as a result of the works compared with the cost and feasibility of the measure proposed.
126. Alternative technology: Alternatives for water sanitization such as UV/Ozone, or sterile filtration are not cost effective and are not sustainable in the villages due to technological complexity. Alternative techniques such as rainwater capture and bulk delivery will not provide the constant and consistent water supply required. The designs selected are in accordance with well established norms and good practice. Alternative techniques do not offer any environmental benefit over current project proposals.
VI. INFORMATION DISCLOSURE, CONSULTATION AND PARTICIPATION
127. Public Consultation according to the ADB SPS of 2009 requirements has been implemented. The intention to carry out a second phase of works was informed to effected citizens at public consultation events with ADB representation at Vedi, Artashat, Ecmiatsin, and Talin. Public consultations in accordance with ADB Environmental safeguards requirement were also held in Gavar Kapan & Goris; Vayq; Hrzdan; Stepanovan & Tashir; Berd & Novemberyan and Artik thereby providing preliminary consultation in all ten sub – projects in the Phase 2 scope. In all, public consultations were held at 10 towns where clusters from adjoining villages were invited to discuss the project.
128. The minutes of the consultation events are provided as Attachment II.
129. The citizens had very few concerns over impacts, being mainly concerned to have improvements made to their water supply. The citizens had previous knowledge of the impact and their questions and contributions were with regard to the scope of the works in their area, the specific arrangements around water meter connections.
130. Specific issues raised at the meetings, which are to be included in the EMPs are (i) Avoidance of interference with tourist access to stone crosses; (ii) Disposal and control of Construction waste and spoil; (iii) Final restoration of works area and (iv) Interruption of supply in summer due to works
131. The representatives of the AWSC assured that these concerns will be taken into account during the preparation of contracts and supervision of the works. It was pointed out that measures to mitigate impacts during Phase I had been satisfactory to the citizens.
VII. GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM
132. PIU of AWSC has overall responsibility for project implementation and overall responsibility for environmental compliance. The Ministry of Nature Protection (MONP) is the responsible administrative body from the protection of environmental and natural resources.
133. The affected population and stakeholders may send their grievances, related to the project induced environmental impacts and nuisance in the first instance to the Construction
Contractor, and may appeal in turn to the local AWSC offices, to the PIU and directly to the MoNP. These arrangements provide a facility for complaint and three levels of appeal within the Project scope.
134. Contractors will inform citizens of the time and place of any supply interruptions and any works. They will provide contact information at their proposed works locations and during the works. Contractors will provide information to the public at the point of works, on how to make a complaint or make an enquiry, and shall respond as promptly as possible to any such contact. Every request for information or for redress shall be recorded by the Contractor in a Complaints Register available to the citizens for inspection. The supervision consultant shall control the Grievance and Public Information Management carried out by the Contractor.
135. There are well established communication routes between the citizens and the Implementing agency whereby there is a 24 hour seven day contact number for citizens to make complaints and request information. In addition the public information and consultation program is well established and in course of implementation. In the event of the issue not being resolved by the Contractor, any citizen may approach the local or regional AWSC office as a second level of complaint.
136. The AWSC is obligated to respond to the grievances, which have been received from the population or other interested parties and not resolved locally. However, the PIU will facilitate the response through implementing the following grievance redress mechanism. During the ongoing public consultation process, the PIU will inform the stakeholders and the public that a PIU within AWSC will be responsible for environmental compliance and grievance redress. PIU will continuously provide information on the public consultation meetings and post on the media (i.e. wall posters and or newspapers) the contact details of the persons responsible for grievance collection and response.
137. Upon receiving the grievance (in written or oral form) the PIU will carry out the following actions:
(i) send its representatives to check the claims and monitor the situation; (ii) involve local sector office of AWSC and MoNP when and where appropriate, receive expert‟s conclusion (from PIU personnel, consultant experts or MoNP experts); (iii) submit an instruction on corrective measures to the construction company and the operators within 10 days after receiving the grievance; (iv) inform the affected person or persons about the experts‟ decision and corrective measures applied; (v) If the affected person is not satisfied by the decision, they may present further information in support of new case. The subsequent decision of the PIU/MoNP is considered final; (vi) In case the affected stakeholder or person is not satisfied with the response, the grievance maybe the directed to the court.
VIII. FRAMEWORK ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
A. Mitigation
138. The EMP has been developed to reflect the identified potential environmental and social risks arising from the construction phase of the project.
139. Armenian norms and regulations will apply as appropriate to the protection of environmental assets, Worker Safety, Public protection and drinking water quality.
140. An environmental specialist will be appointed as part of the Construction Supervision Consultancy scope of work. The Consultant‟s Environmental Specialist will develop and guide the environmental assessment process at individual civil works contract level, under the control of the AWSC environmental group. This environmental specialist will ensure the measures of the Framework EMP are implemented in each sub-project taking into account the criteria in the checklist provided in Appendix B. Based on the Checklist the Environmental Specialist will develop Site Specific EMPs (SSEMPs) for each site which would be specific to the environmental parameters identified at each site. The SSEMPs will be reviewed by the Environment Spcialist at AWSC and the SC will carry out inspections of the Construction
141. Activity and will ensure that impacts are mitigated by the Contractor and that complaints are addressed and recorded. The Consultants‟ Environmental Specialist will provide training to the Contractors‟ personnel will evaluate the Contractors‟ work for residual impacts on completion.
TABLE 2: FRAMEWORK ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
Contractor’s Responsibility Environmental Impact Mitigation Measures Cost 1 Implement Supervise Pre-construction Phase Disturbance of Flora and Fauna Consult with the MoNP and parks authorities PDSC PIU especially in protected areas. regarding the planned scope of work, identifying protected or vulnerable assets. None
Disturbance of land use due to works Farms and gardens that are to be disturbed Construction PDSC shall be informed to the owners well in Contractor advanced and trees and vegetation shall be conserved where possible. Written notice of the extent of excavation or disturbance will be Not a specific provided to owners of land. cost
Noise and Vibration from pump Select equipment for operating plants that will Not a specific Construction PDSC houses and operating equipment not result in noise nuisance. cost Contractor
Exposure to Asbestos Dust Review records held by AWSC and determine PDSC PIU pipelines and locations where Asbestos is likely to occur. Allow for avoidance measures in the detailed design. None
All impacts Provision of training in good construction AWSC PIU practice and the practical implementation of Environmental the ADB Safeguards policy in field of $1000 for Specialist construction. participation
1 Cost refers to an obligation upon the construction contractor to allow a sum in the bid to cover the implementation of the measure. Sums suggested are typical estimates for a civil contract within the project
Contractor’s Responsibility Environmental Impact Mitigation Measures Cost 1 Implement Supervise Impacts mentioned in Appendix B Apply the checklist provided in Appendix B to None PDSC PIU the detailed design and amend the design if appropriate. Apply contract conditions with respect to the checklist in Appendix B
Construction Phase Dust emissions from trenching and Water spray will be used to minimize dust in Not a Construction PDSC traffic. the vicinity of vulnerable receptors such as specific cost Contractor dwellings, and workplaces, as required depending on the weather and the construction activity.
Emissions from vehicles and plant. Heavy construction vehicles and machinery Not a Construction PDSC should be used and maintained in accordance specific cost Contractor with their operating instructions to avoid pollution or any risk of injury.
Dust emissions noise and vibration 30 km/h speed limit should be set for $500 for Construction PDSC movement of heavy construction vehicles on signage Contractor the dirt roads and service roads. Signage is the responsibility of the Contractor.
Dust emissions from trenching and All dust generating works should be stopped in Construction PDSC traffic the towns and villages when wind speed Contractor causes nuisance of dust spread or exceeds 12 Not a m/s. specific cost
Dust emissions from material Dusty loads shall be covered during Not a Construction PDSC handling transportation. specific cost Contractor
Noise, vibration emissions due to No work will be carried out as may cause Construction PDSC works nuisance during the night (21.00hrs to Not a Contractor 07.00hrs). specific cost
Contractor’s Responsibility Environmental Impact Mitigation Measures Cost 1 Implement Supervise Noise emissions due to works If works give rise to complaints over dust, the Not a Construction PDSC contractor shall investigate the cause and specific cost Contractor review and propose alternative mitigation measures before works recommence. The Grievance Resolution mechanism shall be respected.
Noise emissions due to works Any diesel heavy construction equipment shall Construction PDSC not remain running idle for more than five Not a Contractor minutes. specific cost
Emissions from construction plant All diesel-fuelled engines used for onsite and Not a Construction PDSC offsite construction activities shall be fueled specific cost Contractor only with low sulfur diesel, which contains no more than 15 ppm sulfur or alternative clean fuels.
Dust Emissions from works Provide dust barrier in the case where the $500 - Construction PDSC works are within 15m of a sensitive receptor. $2000 Contractor
Smoke emissions No waste shall be disposed of by burning. Not a Construction PDSC specific cost Contractor
Soil erosion, and soil stability Ground which has been opened shall be Not a Construction PDSC promptly backfilled and tamped specific cost Contractor
Emissions of asbestos dust. To avoid threats related to handling and Not a Construction PDSC disposal of asbestos containing Material specific cost Contractor (ACM),
the sections of water supply schemes laid with asbestos pipes will be
Contractor’s Responsibility Environmental Impact Mitigation Measures Cost 1 Implement Supervise replaced with new piping without unearthing of the decommissioned asbestos pipes
New trenches will be excavated in parallel with the existing pipes to place new pipes.
Location of the existing pipes will be accurately marked prior to commencement of excavation, so that they are not encountered accidentally.
In case excavation works still get in contact with the asbestos pipes, the excavation will be immediately closed and marked with warning tape and the placement of new pipes re-aligned.
ACMs that cannot be left buried shall be double bagged in HDPE sealed bags and clearly labelled.
Persons involved in handling ACM shall wear protective clothing including a dust filter mask and eye protection.
Silt pollution of surface water Provision of silt traps on runoff streams to $1000 Construction PDSC ensure silt pollution is avoided. Contractor
Pollution of water by oils or harmful Isolation and secondary containment of oils Construction PDSC substances and harmful substances, and control of storage Contractor and handling of waste. $2000
Contractor’s Responsibility Environmental Impact Mitigation Measures Cost 1 Implement Supervise Silt pollution of surface water Covering of stockpiles of construction material $500 Construction PDSC and spoils that may contribute to runoff. Contractor
Resource consumption Guidelines to be issued and implemented for none Construction PDSC minimization of water wastage. Contractor
Local flooding - Soil stability, ground Drainage route shall be protected to avoid Not a Construction PDSC condition blockages. specific cost Contractor
Noise and Vibration impact on Identify vulnerable receptors as indicated in the $2000 to Construction PDSC hospitals schools and other Framework Checklist in Appendix B. Prepare allow for Contractor receptors. specific measures for PDSC approval hand work
Noise and Vibration due to works Utilize noise abatement measures (barriers, $2000 Construction PDSC siting) or perform the works using low noise Contractor techniques (e.g. manually)
Disposal of waste arising from works Provide adequate secure and segregated $1500 Construction PDSC storage for waste. Waste shall be protected as Contractor appropriate from rodents, thieves, and from rain.
Handling of waste or harmful Provide spill containment and cleanup kits and Construction PDSC substances dust control measures such as covers during $2000; see Contractor handling and transport. above
Disposal of chemical, oil or harmful Control hazardous waste including oil and $1500 Construction PDSC residues in containers chemical residues including cleaning of Contractor packaging and rendering containers safe. Hazardous waste shall be kept secure especially from children or animals.
Water emissions from camps and $2000 Construction PDSC Provide for management of waste and
Contractor’s Responsibility Environmental Impact Mitigation Measures Cost 1 Implement Supervise enabling works wastewater from construction camps, including Contractor canteen waste, sewage and land runoff.
Impacts on daily lives of the citizens Provide for ongoing consultation and $300 Construction PDSC arising from the works. information of the citizens. Notices shall be Contractor posted at work sites and at recognized public notice boards. Press notices shall be issued where appropriate.
Risks to community and worker Issue a safety code of practice (COP) to None PIU PDSC safety address worker safety and health issues and implement this COP during works as appropriate.
Community and worker safety Adequate protective clothing and equipment Not a Construction PDSC shall be provided to construction workers. specific cost Contractor
Community and worker safety Trenches shall be adequately stabilized, Not a Construction PDSC fenced and lit. The contractor shall install specific cost Contractor horizontal protection walls in the trenched with 1m 30 cm depth equal to 2/3 of depth the trench or by sloping the trench wall. The comprising parts of the protection walls (wood, iron) should be relevantly connected to resist pressure.
Operating Phase
Water Quality Verification of water quality after project None PIU completion by analysis of sample as to the requirements and parameters s laid out in the AR regulations on Drinking Water Quality.
Contractor’s Responsibility Environmental Impact Mitigation Measures Cost 1 Implement Supervise Environmental reporting Report on environmental aspects and residual PIU impact biannually None
Handling of Chlorine Solutions giving Commissioning and operating staff will be None AWSC PIU rise to pollution or injury trained on avoidance of pollution or accidents operations with Chlorine solution and they will be provided with suitable protective clothing
B. Monitoring
1. Baseline Monitoring
142. No new baseline monitoring is required.
2. Monitoring in the Construction Phase
143. The local environmental conditions will be recorded by photography in the areas impacted by the ongoing works.
144. As part of the environmental management, the procedures for: (i) workers‟ and public health and safety; and (ii) waste disposal and chemical handling for construction wastes will be included in the construction contracts.
145. Monitoring during Construction shall include noise and vibration measurement based on the risk assessment that determines the final SSEMP or on the basis of any complaint. Implementation of the SSEMP will be monitored by inspection on and ongoing basis by the PDSC and audited by the PIY Environmental Specialist. A typical inspection checklist is provided as Appendix C. 3. Operating Phase
146. Monitoring during the operating phase - A water quality sampling will be conducted four times a year (each season) at time of discharge, commencing at least 12 months before construction to establish a baseline. The PMU assisted by the environment specialist will be responsible for conducting periodic monitoring. During operation, a water quality monitoring plan shall be implemented and include: (i) water quality monitoring (chlorine level and raw water quality) at the source and locations throughout the network distribution system; and (ii) monthly water quality monitoring in the distribution system (including foremost the furthest point from the source). A full range of physical, chemical, and bacteriological tests will be conducted at the source seasonally. All samples must adhere to the Ministry of Health‟s water quality guidelines.
147. Additional monitoring may need to be conducted in accordance with the proposed Law of Drinking Water.
148. Pump houses and any other operating equipment will be assessed after commissioning to demonstrate that noise impacts from such equipment are within acceptable limits – Audible at no more than 5dB(A) above baseline noise levels.
149. Reporting during the operating phase - An environmental monitoring report will be prepared by the environmental group within the PMU and submitted at least twice a year to the ADB for the life of the loan, during the implementation phase. The ADB will disclose it to the public on receipt.
150. The monitoring report will include the following: (i) compliance with ADB loan covenants and government regulations, (ii) significant issues or changes in scope, (iii) summary of monitoring report findings, (iv) required follow-up actions and (v) conclusions
C. Implementation Arrangements
1. Framework of Responsibilities
151. The Project EMP intentions will be achieved within an already established framework of responsibilities as set out below:
152. AWSC / PMU‟s Environmental specialist:
Establishing environmental classifications & review against the Framework Checklist (Appendix B); Reviewing and comment upon the SSEMP prepared by the DSC (and any EIA applicable under RA regulations) prepared by Consultant; Submission of any EIA to MoNP (if applicable under RA regulations); Ensuring contract document including all environmental documentation & conditions and ensuring ADB gets copies of these documents; Ensuring of implementation environmental mitigation and monitoring measures; Informing affected people and community focus groups before or during consultation in the early stage of IEE preparation and conducting continuing consultation during implementation in accordance with ADB and government requirements; Ensuring the Contractors personnel are adequately trained to implement the protection and mitigation measures; Undertaking remedial action when unexpected environmental impacts occur during implementation; Submission of quarterly and annual reports to ADB; Performing water quality monitoring and reporting to MoNP and local governments and Undertake monitoring of operation and prepare monitoring reports every year for 4 years after construction
153. PDSC Environmental specialist
Assisting the PMU in assessing the Sub project with reference to Appendix B – Framework Checklist; Conducting information disclosure and public consultations; Controlling and supporting the implementation of the SSEMP; Obtaining IEE clearance (development consent approval) from MoNP; Incorporating environmental requirements in civil work contracts; Updating and implementing environmental mitigation & monitoring measures; Providing environmental training to construction personnel; Ensuring the Contractors have access to and understand the Framework IEE reports; Supporting and participating in the Contractor training implementation; Ensuring that Contractors have fully implemented the SSEMP and Preparing quarterly reports on implementing SSEMPs to ADB as described above.
154. PCU – SCWE is responsible for overall coordination with government entities and supervision responsibilities.
155. Inter-agency Project Governing Council; SCWE and Representatives shall Review of environmental clearance of physical investments and Provide guidance for upholding environmental policy requirements
156. ADB Social and Environmental Sector Specialists will be responsible for Reviewing first IEE and all IEEs of contract work scopes over $2 million; Disclosing reports over ADB‟s website; Reviewing all statutory environmental clearance granted by MoNP; Reviewing quarterly reports & taking necessary actions and Monitoring EMP implementation and due diligence
2. Coordination
157. Environmental and Social Safeguards will be developed at the level of each sub-project taking into account this IEE and the findings and recommendations of the EMP prepared for the Phase I project. SSEMP implementation will be reviewed by the Environmental Specialist in the Project Implementing Agency (AWSC) and will be delivered as part of the construction contract in local language.
158. The EMP Life cycle is described in Figure 13 Summary of EMP. Elements of the EMP at Project level are shown as yellow colored shapes and elements at the sub project level are shown by blue shapes.
Figure 13 Summary of EMP EMP at Sub-Project Level
Phase I Project EMP Feasibility Study
EMP
Public PDSC Contract Consultation
Detailed Design
Framework Checklist PMU Reviewt
Construction Contract Public Consultation
Contractor training
Public Mobilisation and Consultation construction
Reports
Inspections
Completion & Final Audit report Project final report Demobilisation Final Inspection
Approved? Yes
Ongoing reporting
Final Project level payment
Sub Project level
3. Cost
159. Taking into account the risks as identified in the Impact Assessment there are no specific significant costs that are likely to be incurred over and above the costs of good construction practice. Ongoing costs of environmental protection are within the normal day to day operating scope of responsibility.
4. Penalties
160. The Construction contracts shall include the following penalty clause:
(i) The Contractor should strictly follow the environmental mitigation measures prescribed in the EMP as well as the measures aimed at ensuring health and safety of the population. The costs foreseen for the implementation of all the measures prescribed in the EMP are included the total value of the Contract. (ii) Failure to implement each of the measures recorded by the Technical Supervision or the Client would be send to the Contractor in written as a “Notice to Correct”. (iii) After the Notice to Correct, the next recorded violation would be bind to the liquidated damages amounting at 0.1 % of the total value of the Contract. The liquidated damages do not relieve the Contractor from remedying the violation. The recorded violation should be remedied in two working days period. Liquidated damages would be retained from the next Performance Certificate and after the completion of the construction activities the liquidated damages for the recorded violation will be retained from the Retention Money. (iv) In case of three liquidated damages the Contract could be terminated unilaterally.
D. Performance Indicators.
161. The key performance indicators for the for the implementation of the EMP shall be as follows:
Key Indicator Acceptance Criteria Issuance of notice of liquidated damages No occurrence Complaints from public All complaints resolved to satisfaction of PIU Condition of roads and pavements As of pre project condition or better Water Supply Water supply to users to be available and of quality to meet Health Guidelines. Long term impact None identified in works completion audit
IX. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
162. The Initial Environmental Examination has found that the nature of the intended works in terms of scope and locations is such that neither EIA nor further study is required to identify risk assessment impacts and mitigation measures. The categorization of the project as Category B is confirmed.
163. The scope of the works proposed within the project does not pose any significant risk to the citizens or to any Ecological resource. The updating provisions and review of risks at regular stages during the project life cycle will provide the necessary safeguards against negative impact. This IEE and the Environmental management plans to be implemented during the project will provide adequate safeguards against significant negative impact.
Appendix A Breakdown of works proposed per sub-project
Distribution Pipe km Distribution
Pressure Breakers Pressure
Chlorination Plant Chlorination
Chlorination Plant Plant Chlorination
Pumping Station Station Pumping
Catchment New Catchment
Mains Pipe km Mains
Total Population Total
(NA where not not (NA where
Sanitary Zone Sanitary
DRR
determined)
Sub Project Sub
Renovation
Catchment Catchment
DRR
Boreholes
Zoning
Repair
New
-
Rep -
Location New
air
1 Ararat 21800 >6 1 1 Vedi 14800 1.5 6 1 1 Ararat, Aygezard, Verin Artashat, Mrganush, Shahumyan, Azatavan, Baghramyan, Byuravan, 1 Burastan, Dalar, Dimitrov, Nshavan,Vosketap 43985 2 30 1 Aygavan, Sayat-Nova, Nizami, Sis, Hovtashat 14538 Further Study required 2 Ecmiatsin 58500 4 30 1 Amberd, Aygeshat, Dasht, Doghs, Lernamerdz, 2 Haytagh, Musaler, Shahumyan 14961 3.8 25 +/- 2 Hushakert 1040 Further Study required 3 Artik 21845 NA 1 1 3 Anushavan 2232 3.5 1 3 Getap 843 3 1 3 Vovtashen 356 1.5 1 3 Horom 1524 3.5 3 Meghrashen 1960 9 1 3 Nor Kyank 786 3 1 3 Vardakar 3209 5 1 3 Panik 2170 11 1 3 Mets Mantash 2554 9 1 3 Pokr Mantash 2896 7 3 Arevshat 2100 5.6 1 3 Geghanist 1280 2 3 Sarnaghbjur 3300 8.5 1 4 Alaverdi town, Odzun, Shnogh 127597 0.6 10 4 1 1 1 4 Tashir 12300 2.4 4 4 8 1 1 Arevatsag, Dzjunashogh, Mikhajlovka, 4 Dashtadem, Metsavan 9992 9 12 1 1 1 4 Stepanavan 16600 9 5 2 2 2 6 Archis, Teghut, Chochkan, Sarchapet, 4 Novoseltsovo 7903 Further Study required
Distribution Pipe km Distribution
Pressure Breakers Pressure
Chlorination Plant Chlorination
Chlorination Plant Plant Chlorination
Pumping Station Station Pumping
Catchment New Catchment
Mains Pipe km Mains
Total Population Total
(NA where not not (NA where
Sanitary Zone Sanitary
DRR
determined)
Sub Project Sub
Renovation
Catchment Catchment
DRR
Boreholes
Zoning
Repair
New
-
Rep -
Location New
air
5 Gavar 23300 30 2 5 Ganzak 4237 21 1 5 Sarukhan, Karmir Gjugh 13138 63 3 2 5 Noratus, Chkalovka. Norashen, Lchashen 12186 7 39 2 1 5 Martuni 12000 25 3 1 5 Shatavan, Dmashen 3431 Further Study required 6 Noyemberyan 5504 8 NA 6 1 6 Berd 8453 1 6 1 6 Artsvaberd 3445 7 NA 2 1 7 Kapan 46750 4 23 3 5 7 Khaladx Syunik 1184 y 8.5 7 Meghri 5000 30.5 14 1 Khot, Halidzor, Shinuhayr, Spandaryan 7 Ishkhanasar 4841 0.5 7.5 1 8 Vayq 6024 31 5.5 1 1 Zaritap, Aznaberd, Barstruni, Saravan, Artavan, 8 Zedea, Goghtanik 3235 Further Study required 8 Jermuk 6150 5.2 10 2 1 1 1 9 Talin 7540 4.8 6 4 1 2 9 Areg, Barozh, Sorik, Gjalto, Hako 1266 13 NA 2 1 9 Aruch, Partizak, Nor Amanos 1962 27.6 6 Y 1 9 Dashtadem, Bjurakan, Katnaghbjur, Aragatsavan 6272 Further Study required 10 Hrazdan 53000 22 10 Tsakhadzor 1600 8.5 2 1 10 Hatsavan, Geghadir 1212 3.5 10 2 Y 1 1 10 Artavaz 971 Design in progress 10 Akunk 1914 10 4 1 1 3
Appendix B – EMP Framework Checklist for implementation
Sub-project …………………………… Measure (Village)………………………………………..
Check Yes No Are there Special Nature protected areas in the scope of impact?
Are there Noise or Vibrations vulnerable Receptors?
Is the risk of uncovering asbestos identified, assessed and minimized? Are there Heritage objects or cemeteries in the scope of impacts?
Have arrangements for disposal of waste been determined?
Is there risk of uncovering any sewer?
Is there risk of silt runoff or erosion due to sloping ground?
Are there surface water bodies that are vulnerable?
Are locations for safe storage and management of the works determined? Will any garden or farm be disturbed?
Will any Sanitary Zone require change of access routes?
Will there be any risk due to change is water table?
Will traffic management be required for the works to be implemented?
Has public information and consultation been implemented and taken into account?
Appendix C Field visits checklist
General information D/M/Y
Subproject
Location
Construction contractor
Marz
Design
Required permissions Yes No N/A EIA
Yes No N/A written consent on land allotment
Yes No N/A assessment of impact on cultural heritage
Constriction
Required permissions Yes No N/A written consent on disposal of construction waste
written consent in case of sudden discovery of Yes No N/A cultural heritage
Public awareness
Yes No N/A awareness of population regarding construction works according to the project design
Yes No N/A community's participation in construction works according to the project design
Safety
Safety of workers availability of safety uniforms /earflaps/mask Yes No N/A
regular study of equipment used for construction Yes No N/A for safety matter
Safety of population Installation of road signs or fences, organization of Yes No N/A a bypass during interrupted or limited traffic
Management measures during construction
Operation on area/construction regular watering of the area/construction site Yes No N/A site availability of safe place at the construction site Yes No N/A for vehicles
availability of storage for oils and lubricants at the Yes No N/A appropriate part of the construction site
Temporary air pollution/dust
use of cover for the vehicle transporting Yes No N/A construction waste
regular watering of the area/construction site Yes No N/A
Soil erosion soil erosion prevention measures at the slope Yes No N/A places according to the project design timely coverage of holes by soil Yes No N/A restoration of construction site after completion of Yes No N/A construction works
Water pollution water pollution caused by fuel and lubricants Yes No N/A
Noise close to settlements implementation of the works during working Yes No N/A hours, otherwise in projected manner
Construction waste disposal transportation and disposal of construction and Yes No N/A consumer waste in appropriate community landfill