MATRIX OF COMMENTS RECEIVED AND RESPONSES

Public Consultation Meeting on the Draft Terms of Reference (TOR) for Regional Environmental Assessment (REA) and Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) of Proposed Shuren Hydropower Plant and Flow Regulation of Orkhon River and Construction of Reservoir Complex Projects

Cultural Center, Kabansk village, Republic of Buryatia, March 23, 2017 MINIS, expert teams of the Ministry of Environment and Tourism and Ministry of Energy jointly organized a public consultation meeting on March 23, 2017 in the Cultural Center of the Kabansk village to discuss draft TOR for REA and ESIA of Shuren HPP and Flow Regulation of Orkhon River and Construction of Reservoir Complex Projects (Orkhon) as required by World Bank’s Operations Safeguard Policy 4.01 Environmental assessment. The World Bank representatives participated in the consultations as an observer.

Purpose of consultations: to seek feedback from stakeholders on the draft TOR for REA/ESIA of proposed Shuren HPP (Shuren HPP) and Flow Regulation of Orkhon River and Construction of Reservoir Complex (Orkhon) projects, respond to their questions and capture their concerns, inputs and recommendations to strengthen TOR. Approach to consideration of feedback in the ToRs: the aim of the response matrix is to demonstrate how comments and suggestions received on the ToRs are taken into consideration in the ToR drafting process. Not all comments or suggestions are agreed with and acted on, but every comment and suggestion is considered and alternative approaches are explained where the feedback is not accepted. In the absence of agreement with all consultation participants to disclose names and affiliations, all comments are reproduced in the response matrix without attribution in order to preserve anonymity and promote impartial review. Participants: representatives of the government of the Republic of Buryatia, Ministry of Natural Resources of the Republic of Buryatia, local administration, NGOs, local residents of Kabansk village and Kabanski district, the MINIS project management team, the Ministry of Environment and Tourism of Mongolia, the Ministry of Energy of Mongolia, developers of TOR for REA and ESIA, and the World Bank representatives. This response matrix includes questions and comments received during the public consultation in Kabansk and written feedback from residents of Kabanski district (Kabansk, Baikalo-Kudara, Vydrinskoe, Posolskoe, Kamenskoe, Tvorogovskoe, Sherginskoe, Bolsherechenskoe, Ranzhurovskoe, and Krasnoyarovskoe villages). Project Question/Comment MINIS Response Alternatives Shuren Has the client for proejcts considered construction of The REA will consider the regional and cumulative impacts of HPP alternative power sources (nuclear power plants, thermal power planned hydropower projects, as well as alternative options for energy stations working on natural gas)? (Baikalo-Kudara) generation and water supply schemes for Gobi. The scope of REA will Both Do you want to build a power plant running on gas? include the analysis of robust and reasonable alternatives including the projects Who will be responsible for conducting studies on the “without project” scenario which provide sustainable solutions and environmental impact and social consequences? (Kabansk) should be technically and economically possible and implementable 1

within the planning period. This analysis will involve comparison of the environmental and social impacts of the proposed projects with other broad strategic options for the region. Alternative technological options for energy generation will also be considered, including alternative renewable energy sources. Special attention will be given to power generation via solar and wind-based technologies, and their combination with energy storage e.g. as PSPs (pumped storage plants) A stand-alone REA will be conducted first. A consultant that will implement the REA consulting firm or a consortium experienced in performing work on projects similar in size and complexity. The firm or consortium should have strong experience in conducting strategic or regional environmental and social impact assessments of similar complex projects. The consultant will be required to engage local experts and academia in consultations to collect information and verify preliminary findings. General concerns about environmental impacts Both Are there any estimates of environmental accidents (Kabansk) At this time the studies on the regional and project-specific impacts projects are only being designed. This consultation process is part of the Both What adverse impacts can affect Baikal? (Baikalo-Kudara) process of finalizing the TOR, which in turn are the key document projects that drives and shapes the course of the studies. It is too early to make conclusions on particular anticipated impacts on Selenge River and Lake Baikal. It is precisely the purpose of the consultations to get the study design right to ensure all necessary data and information are collected and analyzed, and that risks and impacts are properly recognized and addressed, and management, mitigation and monitoring measures defined.

World Bank’s role Both What is the interest of the World Bank in the construction of a The World Bank finances technical and environmental studies and projects hydropower plant in Mongolia? (Kamensk) ensures compliance with international standards, independence and transparency of the assessment process. The World Bank agreed to play a more active role in monitoring assessments, including: selection of technical consultants for research, monitoring and review of studies, establishment of international expert groups that will review the results of the evaluation. The Bank's participation in the studies does not

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imply any financial commitment to support the planned construction of any of the proposed infrastructures that are being studied within the framework of the MINIS project. Both How the World Bank safeguard mechanism be reacting in the The World Bank has an operational policy on dam saety (OP4.37), projects event of an emergency? (Selenginsk) which applies to all large dams (>15 m crest height) and thus to both Orkhon and Shuren potential projects. This policy ensures that the fundamental studies and site investigations (e.g. geological, geotechnical, seismic, hydrological), the design, construction and operation of a dam are carried out in accordance with international best practice and make use of best available techniques. For complex projects as these potential investments, the World Bank requires the Borrower to contract a dam safety panel, which is composed of internationally recognized, independent, highly experienced experts.

This panel reviews every step of project development, including site investigations, studies, design, construction and operation, and provides advice to key issues, including dam safety, community health and safety, emergency prevention and response planning, operational risk management, and general environmental and social issues.

Before a WB-financed dam is commissioned and allowed to commence operations, the monitoring and early warning systems and coupled mechanisms to react to alert and emergency situations are checked, tested, and approved by the dam safety panel. In frequent cases the panel continues its oversight several years into the operational period.

Legal framework Both Will the regulations and legal acts of the Russian Federation The REA will review relevant domestic legislation, commitments projects and the Republic of Buryatia be taken into account when made under treaties, bilateral agreements, and international developing the REA and ESIA? (Tankhoi) conventions, as well as the requirements of applicable World Bank environmental and social safeguard policies. In addition to the World Bank Policy and Mongolian legislation, the REA should comply with relevant provisions of the Russian Federation laws with due regard to the transboundary impact on the Russian territory. The list of key Russian laws and regulations to be applied will be outlined in the REA 3

TOR.

Public consultations

Both How seriously the public opinion be taken? (Zakaltus) Public consultation on the REA are to be conducted according to projects applicable World Bank policy guidance on consultation and information disclosure as well as other internationally accepted practices for large-scale infrastructure projects. In response to comments received from consultations in Russia and Mongolia, it was decided to first implement a stand-alone REA that will cover the entire Selenge River basin and Lake Baikal. The TOR for REA, which was originally part of REA/ESIA TORs, is being revised based on comments received during the consultations process with participation of stakeholders from Mongolia and Russia. Next public consultations will take place to discuss preliminary findings of the REA. Written feedback received in February-April 2017. Both What is the responsibility of Mongolian government in the The Government of Mongolia is responsible for project projects issues of the project? (Kabansk) implementation in compliance with World Bank safeguards and fiduciary rules and requirements. Both Capacity Strengthening of Project Stakeholders. A special plan One of the objectives of the MINIS is to build local capacity to prepare projects shall be developed towards strengthening understanding of and transact infrastructure projects. MINIS activities under specialists of river basin administrators and providers of Component 3 were aimed at building the capacity of three river basin supplies. For construction of the HPP should have already pre- administrations. trained professionals. (Posolskoe) Project area Both Do not agree that an analysis and assessment of impacts of The study area under the REA will extend upstream and downstream projects proposed project for the construction of dams and reservoirs for over the entire Selenge River basin from the project site including forest areas takes place in Orkhon basin. (Posolskoe) Lake Baikal. The REA will assess potential cumulative negative Both Can a regional area be changed? Will the projects result in an environmental impacts of planned projects on Lake Baikal. projects environmental disaster of Lake Baikal? (Kamensk) Both Study of environment and ecosystem balance includes projects components only in ecosystem of river Orkhon and river Shuren without affecting the lower reaches of river Selenge and Lake Baikal. (Posolskoe) Both Study of environment and ecosystem balance includes 4 projects components only an ecosystem of the river Shuren without affecting lower reaches of river Selenge and Lake Baikal. (Posolskoe) 2 comments Both According to environmentalists, construction of large HPPs projects will have a negative impact on part of river Selenge and Lake Baikal in general. (Baikalo-Kudara) Social impacts Both Traditional water resources of nomads in the valley of Selenge Social assessment will be carried out as part of the REA to evaluate projects and its tributaries in both Mongolia and Buryatia will not be the project’s potential positive and adverse social effects. The REA available. (Kabansk) will identify social conditions including economic activities, land and Both Construction and operation of facilities will negatively affect water use, including agriculture and animal husbandry as well as projects the prey base of surrounding areas, and will cause the loss of seasonal economic activities, ethnic and cultural factors and review the arable land. Compensatory measures and development of whole potential social impacts including on Indigenous Peoples. The social lands, irrigation development which is not provided by the assessment will screen for the presence of indigenous peoples, and action plan for environmental and social protection will be assess the likely impacts of any proposed development on social, required (Kabansk) cultural, and political characteristics of the affected people, the land Both The area of land utilization will decrease not only in Mongolia and territories that they have traditionally owned or customarily used projects but also in Russia, hayfields and pastures, burial, burial sites for or occupied, and the natural resources on which they depend. An cattle will become unusable (Kabansk) environmental and social management plan will be developed at the Both I am strongly against of the construction of HPP as a river level stage of detailed ESIA if a decision is made to proceed with further projects of Selenge now catastrophically low. In many villages there is studies. Such a plan will incorporate measures to ensure that any no water in wells. In summer, not enough water,people drink affected indigenous peoples are adequately consulted and receive dirty stagnant water, so it will influence on sickness of cattle social and economic benefits that are culturally appropriate; and therefore, there arise problems for villagers (Shergino rural settlement) 18 comments Both Social issues. Do not agree with the construction of a HPP in projects Mongolia and project flow regulation of Orkhon river in connection with its adverse impact on an aquatic biological resources on Lake Baikal and Selenge River, because rural settlement “Posolskoe” is located in immediate proximity to Lake Baikal, we are residents of Posolskoe and Istok using fish as livelihoods. Other sources of revenue such as gas, oil, and other minerals do not exist in our settlement (Posolskoe) 2 comments Both How resettlements of an inhabitants of coastal areas will take The REA will provide preliminary estimates of potential impacts on projects place, for whose account and where? You need to make land and livelihoods, including identification of the type and scale of 5

calculations where and how many settlements specifically, any required resettlement. If decision is made to proceed to the residents will be subject to flooding or dehydration of land. detailed ESIA stage, this will include a more detailed social baseline (Kabansk) assessment, valuation of affected assets and description of compensation entitlements as part of a detailed Resettlement Action Plan. Both Relocation of residents of coastal villages in territory of the The REA will provide preliminary estimates of potential impacts on projects Russian Federation, at whose expense and where to relocate? land and livelihoods including identification of the type and scale of Previously have already relocated a lot of ulus and villages due any required resettlement., both in the immediate project area and in to change of river bed of river Selenge (Kabansk) the wider zone of potential impacts (Selenge Basin and Lake Baikal). Both Resettlement. Avoid involuntary resettlements and provide A detailed social assessment including household surveys and data projects conditions to receive benefit from the project (Posolskoe) 2 collection will be conducted as part of a Resettlement Action Plan comments during the detailed ESIA stage, if a decision is made to proceed to that stage. At this detailed stage, planning for involuntary resettlement will follow a mitigation hierarchy where such resettlement will be avoided where possible, and minimized and appropriately compensated for where necessary and unavoidable. Where resettlement is deemed to be necessary, the objective of the Resettlement Action Plan will be to ensure that affected stakeholders are actively involved in decision- making about options and alternatives, that all affected assets are compensated for in kind or in cash, at replacement cost; that the resettlement results in livelihood improvement (or restoration); and that vulnerable households are identified and provided with eligible support. If required, the plan will involve site selection (including environmental assessment of proposed sites), site preparation, and relocation; and replacement or restoration of public infrastructure and social services. The costs and budget for the resettlement should be identified as part of the plan, including all unit rates for compensation, and including contingencies for price escalation and unanticipated expenses; Identification of parties to finance the cost of implementation of a Resettlement Action Plan is the responsibility of the Government of Mongolia.

Citizen engagement Both TOR includes public consultation on draft version of report for Consultations materials which included draft REA/ESIA TORs for projects REA and ESIA. But reports are provided in English and both projects, technical and non-technical summaries of draft TORs, Mongolian languages, which complicates understanding of were available in Russian. MINIS PMU will provide REA TOR, 6

reports where two languages differ in the TOR. (Kabansk) public consultation reports (including response matrices) in Russian. The drafts and final reports will be prepared in both English and Mongolian. Executive summaries and main text shall also be translated into Russian language. In the event of discrepancy between three language versions, the English language prevails. A pre- feasibility report is not subject to disclosure but was made available in English and Mongolian. Both During winter and spring of 2015, due to shallowing of Lake Within the REA, current and future tendency of water demand, projects Baikal and when the peatlands began to emit smoke, people abstraction and distribution, water shortages, water quality and water were left without water. Water was brought to 13 villages in level will be identified and analyzed. The analysis will be Kabanski, Barguzinski and Pribaikalski districts, after people complimented by a projection of potential effects of developments in scraped for few days without success the bottom of wells. the Selenge River basin and around the Lake Baikal. All available Where it was possible, wells were deepened. Construction of relevant information on hydrology, hydrochemistry and water HPP will dry up all wells. The mechanism of complaints and its pollution will be collected, compiled, organized, reviewed and consideration is not clear. (Kabansk) assessed. Both Implement public awareness by all means, through media, MINIS Grievance Resolution Procedure is complaints mechanisms projects involve all levels of population, ensure the public has access to through which project affected people and communities may raise express opinion, comments and consider all other issues their concerns directly with MINIS PMU, when they believe that (Kabansk) MINIS - related project activities has caused or will cause them harm. The objective is to make the Bank more accessible for project affected communities and to help ensure faster and better resolution of project-related complaints. As a first step it is important to contact the MINIS Project Management Unit (PMU) in Mongolia.  Post: MINIS PMU, Suite-401, Arig Building, 1st Khoroo, Sukhbaatar District, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia.  Phone: 976 - 70112689  Email: [email protected] If the PMU is unable to resolve questions or concerns, a second point of contact is the World Bank Grievance Redress Service (GRS).  Email: [email protected]  Fax: +1-202-614-7313  Post: The World Bank, Grievance Redress Service (GRS), MSN MC 10-1018, 1818 H Street NW, Washington, DC 20433, USA Affected citizens and communities can also request an independent

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compliance review by the World Bank’s Inspection Panel if they believe they are or might be adversely affected by a World Bank- supported project: www.inspectionpanel.org. Both The study of initial data is required – it is necessary to attract Local affected people should be engaged during the conduct of the projects more indigenous people to consider activities of local studies to ensure that the data obtained adequately reflects their population along the river Selenge (Kabansk) interests. Both The governments that are planning to build HPPs and other The MINIS project is committed to engage citizens and inform projects hydraulic structures should inform potentially affected potentially affected stakeholders. The MINIS web-site www.minis.mn stakeholders (Kabansk) provides up-to-date information about subprojects and public Both To ensure and provide reporting materials on the project, if consultations. projects there is a positive conclusion for construction /expertise (Kabansk) Both It is necessary that the study of problems involves participation The consultant will be required to have relevant specialists in the team projects of biologists, zoologists, which can more specifically predict and involve local experts and academia where possible to verify data the behavior of birds and microorganisms, and all flora. during the studies. (Kabansk) Both Progress reports of performed work must be provided in Draft REA report will be translated into Russian and will be presented projects Russian language (Kabansk) to the public at the next public consultations. Both Who will be included in the project implementation team, A decision on whether to implement projects has not been made yet. projects which country? (Kabansk) Both Information should be open and accessible (Kamensk) The purpose of public consultations is to ensure that potentially projects affected stakeholders are informed about proposed projects. The Consultant will provide information on project objectives, potential impacts, and mitigation options to the public in an adequate and clear way to facilitate public consultations and communication and ensure the accuracy and consistency of information. The MINIS web-site www.minis.mn provides up-to-date information about subprojects and public consultations. Both Report should be available to all interested parties on the The REA Consultant will be required to provide information on projects project (Kamensk) project objectives, potential impacts, and mitigation options to the public in an adequate and clear way to facilitate public consultations and communication and ensure the accuracy and consistency of information. A draft REA report is to be made available on the website www.minis.mn. Both Why some reports are only available in English and The REA study has not started yet. Once preliminary findings are projects Mongolian? Residents of area in which, events is held must available, a draft REA report will be disclosed to the general public in

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know and see the results. (Kamensk) three languages. Both If human rights are violated in process of resettlement, how The resettlement planning process incorporates checks and balances projects will be solved this question? (Kamensk) designed to ensure that the rights of affected stakeholders are protected and that they are engaged in decision-making about options and alternatives. These include detailed consultations with affected stakeholders during the planning process to verify entitlements, access to a grievance redress mechanism specifically designed for the resettlement process, and participation of third party organizations to monitor and evaluate the resettlement process. The resettlement process is required to involve a 100 percent census identifying all affected persons, inventories of all lost land, structures and assets (including temporary impacts); a legal and institutional framework taking into consideration relevant national laws and international conventions; establishment of eligibility criteria for compensation and other forms of assistance; valuation of losses and compensation, in kind or in cash, at replacement cost; relocation site selection (including environmental assessment of proposed sites), site preparation, and relocation; replacement or restoration of public infrastructure and social services, if needed; livelihood improvement (or restoration); and identification of vulnerable households, and eligible support; consultation and participation arrangements, including mechanism for grievance redress; implementation schedule, corresponding as appropriate to the timetable for construction of civil works; costs and budget, identifying all unit rates for compensation, and including contingencies for price escalation and unanticipated expenses; and monitoring and evaluation, including external monitoring as considered necessary by the Bank. If at any time the checks and balances integrated into this process are considered to have failed, affected stakeholders can appeal to the World Bank Corporate Grievance Redress Service or the World Bank Inspection Panel. Both Low quality of information provided, where it is very difficult Non-technical summaries were developed for the public. We will take projects to understand the basics of the projects for non-specialist. Maps note of this and will ensure more visual materials are developed for the are missing. (Kabansk) general public. Both Consultant should prepare Russian language versions of both The consultant will be required to produce a REA report and prepare projects REA and ESIA, to be presented to Russian authorities and consultation materials in three languages. The ESIAs for the individual public. Therefore, they should be informed and consulted on projects will be launched once the REA will have been completed, results of assessment impacts and mitigation measures. consulted, and the findings used to (i) arrive at a decision of to proceed 9

(Posolskoe) with the ESIAs for Shuren and Orkhon projects; and (ii) to inform and update the TOR for the ESIAs. Both A map legend is in Latin, could not read it. (Posolskoe) 2 This will be taken into account for future consultation materials. projects comments Both You can endlessly collect thousands of negative comments The REA Consultant will be required to ensure that the concerns of projects from people living on shores of Lake Baikal in Buryatia, the affected communities about the cumulative impacts of a proposed Irkutsk region, regarding the construction of HPP in Mongolia. development are identified, documented, evaluated and addressed. For now, there is a need to call social organizations. Where are Special measures will need to be taken to ensure that the views of Greenpeace, UNESCO, where are the environmentalists and women and vulnerable social groups are properly obtained and taken conservationists? We are losing time, people make noise on TV into account. and online after stories about destruction of bears, tigers, whales. And then silence. There is a threat to huge natural giant Lake Baikal and a whole region probably, and there are public organizations in Mongolia for nature protection, do they have a link with this? We can resend one by one endlessly, no one can hear us. Let us unite the group of activists, individuals, and managers, to establish a headquarters for protection of Lake Baikal. (Posolskoe) Implementation of studies Both What is structure of the Consultants’ working group, what A consulting firm or a consortium experienced in performing work on projects criteria will be for selection process, country, experience, how projects similar in size and complexity. Consultants may associate will be done a selection of experts? (Kabansk) with other firms in the form of a joint venture or a sub-consultancy to enhance their qualifications. The minimum qualification requirements for the team leader and team members will be presented in the REA TOR. The team will include both international and local experts. Both Who will carry out an environmental impact assessment? What In response to comments received from consultations in Russia and projects is a participation in this question of the Russian Federation? Mongolia, it was decided to first implement a stand-alone REA that (Kabansk) will cover the entire Selenge River basin and Lake Baikal. The TOR for REA, which was originally part of REA/ESIA TORs, is being revised based on comments received during the consultations process with participation of stakeholders from Mongolia and Russia. A tender for selection of REA consultant will take place after the TOR are finalized. The consultant will be required to take into account specific requirements of the Russian regulatory framework regarding the process and substance of environmental and social assessments and studies. Russian experts, CSOs and academia could be involved by the 10

consultant to collect and verify data (e.g., hydrometeorological data from Russian monitoring stations, Red Books of Buryatia and Russian Federation, data on biodiversity, etc.). The local communities in Russia will be consulted to discuss preliminary findings of the REA are obtained. Both The study of all planned works should be held in close contact A consultant in charge of REA will have to involve local experts, projects with scientists, hydrologists, legislators and other interested academia and NGOs to assess social impacts and verify data collected. departments of the RF (Kabansk) Both Representatives of the Russian Federation should be involved Russian experts, CSOs and academia could be involved by the projects in questions related to the map of affected area (Kabansk) consultant to collect and verify data. Both When will assessment be conducted on the impacts on Lake In response to comments received from consultations in Russia and projects Baikal and wetlands of Selenge River? (Baikalo-Kudara) Mongolia, it was decided to first implement a stand-alone REA that will cover the entire Selenge River basin and Lake Baikal area. The TOR for REA, which was originally part of REA/ESIA TORs, is being revised based on comments received during the consultations process with participation of stakeholders from Mongolia and Russia. The bidding for implementing REA will tentatively be conducted in the fall 2017. The ESIAs for the individual projects will be launched once the REA will have been completed, consulted, and the findings used to (i) arrive at a decision of to proceed with the ESIAs for Shuren and Orkhon projects; and (ii) to inform and update the TOR for the ESIAs. Surface water and groundwater Orkhon Construction of a pipeline to supply water to 900 km is very The currently estimated abstraction of water from the Selenge River Gobi high cost and very large volume of water required resulting of Basin would be around 2m3/sec, which corresponds to less than 1% of reducing inflow water in river Selenge. (Kabansk) Selenge River’s mean discharge into Lake Baikal. The project will be exposed to a rigorous cost benefits analysis to ascertain that it is technically and economically feasible.

Both Is it realistic to irrigate the Gobi desert, because you will need The water would not be intended for irrigation purposes, but for projects huge amount of water? (Kabansk) targeted supply of communities and mines. The project’s technical feasibility will be carefully studied, and it will be exposed to a rigorous cost benefits analysis to ascertain that it is both technically and economically feasible. During the REA stage an analysis of alternative options will be undertaken to investigate if the existing water demand in the Gobi area can be met with other sources and mechanisms. 11

Both If you make a dam of water from Orkhon, river tributary of The water quality and water level will be analyzed as part of the projects Selenge, then naturally level of the latter will fall immediately, baseline assessment within the REA. All available relevant and hence a level in Lake Baikal. How will this be regulated? information on hydrology, hydrochemistry and water pollution will be (Kabansk) collected, compiled, organized, reviewed and assessed. The REA will Both The quality of the water. Project will significantly affect water assess the changes in flow regime, water quality, temperature changes projects quality of river Selenge, and thus same for water of Lake and their effect on flow modifications in the Selenge Basin; change of Baikal, there is a need for constant monitoring of water quality. average ambient temperature as well as water temperature of Selenge (Kabansk) River and other direct inflows, impacts on reservoir water chemistry, Both Detailed study on water quality should be conducted as part of fauna and flora will be assessed. The REA will also identify the main projects baseline assessment, and complimented by a projection of types of aquifers within the study area, including their hydrological Project’s potential effects on hydro chemical parameters and characteristics such as total volume, groundwater yield, hydro- water quality overall. (Posolskoe) 2 comments geological characteristics, recharge source and rates, links to surface Both At this moment in our wells is not enough water for household water bodies. Within the REA, current and future tendency of water projects needs /for watering garden, water for cows/. Level of river fell demand, abstraction and distribution, water shortages will be identified and some of them had already dried up. We do not have fish and analyzed. anymore in the Lake, we cannot allow a decrease of level of Lake Baikal. (Baikalo-Kudara) 2 comments At this time the studies on the regional and project-specific impacts Both It is essential to conduct more profound analysis and study the are only being designed. This consultation process is part of the projects impact of construction of HPP on river Selenge and Lake process of finalizing the TOR, which in turn are the key document Baikal, since a water level has a negative impact on the that drives and shapes the course of the studies. It is too early to make environment. There is an experience of several years of which conclusions on particular anticipated impacts on Selenge River and Mongolia is constraining level of river Selenge, which causes Lake Baikal. It is precisely the purpose of the consultations to get the disappearance of ducts and water level of Lake Baikal is study design right to ensure all necessary data and information are reduced in Buryatia. (Baikalo-Kudara) collected and analyzed, and that risks and impacts are properly Both Water quality. Do not allow deterioration of water quality in recognized and addressed, and management, mitigation and projects river Selenge. (Posolskoe) 3 comments monitoring measures defined. Both Detailed study on water quality should be conducted as part of projects baseline assessment, and complimented by a projection of Project’s potential effects on hydro chemical parameters and water quality overall. (Posolskoe) 2 comments Both Water quality. Do not allow a deterioration of water quality in projects river Selenge (Posolskoe) 2 comments Both How the monitoring will change a water quality for better side? The hydrological impacts of the operation of both projects projects Very large area of the territory will be under water, and what individually, as well as cumulatively, as well as with consideration of was in this area previously? (Kabansk) natural trends and forces will be considered in the REA. The ESIAs

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would develop the initial findings in more detail and specificity for the planned projects. They would also define the factors and constraints to be considered for operational plans and scenarios, and ensure that operational parameters are set to protect downstream environment, livelihoods, infrastructure and landscapes. Monitoring of water quality could help collect quantitative data and provide evidence for decision-making, control pollution levels, detect emerging issues in water level or quality, and identify trends over time, Both What is a water discharge in the winter season which may be The optimized operational parameters of the HPP will be analyzed projects large and where will the water source go? (Kabansk) during the FS, taking into account a variety of factors, including environmental, hydrological, and climatic. The REA will outline the basic parameters to be considered, and the ESIAs and FS would define the factors and constraints to be considered for operational plans and scenarios. Seismic risks Both Prolonged decline in level of lake will increase the risk of While the investigation and assessment of seismic risk, and taking it projects natural seismicity /earthquakes landslides etc/, construction of into account as key design parameter, would be part of the technical an HPP is potentially dangerous not only because it affects an feasibility study, the risk of natural seismicity (earthquakes) and amount of runoff of river Selenge but also because dams are induced seismicity (caused by increased seepage into the ground from planned to be built in a seismically risky area. (Kabansk) a reservoir) will be considered in the REA in terms of community Orkhon In case of desertification, dry climatic conditions, water health and safety. Also the ESIA would analyze downstream risks in Gobi scarcity water use should be prohibited for a certain period of case of dam failure scenarios, and develop an emergency response time in the river basin in order to restrict water consumption plan. and recover water and environment. The project affects only Threats and risks will be considered on a regional scale and will be interests of Mongolia but certainly not our interests. further elaborated in draft REA TOR. Construction of dam is main part of the project. What is guarantee that the dam will be safest building? Recent case of dam failure in California is a good example. (Kabansk) Both - Threats and risks incurred by construction of HPP on river projects Selenge and Lake Baikal as a whole have not been properly elaborated. - Not taken into account, high seismicity of an area where expected construction of hydropower plants. (Vydrinskoe) 3 comments Both I am against the construction of hydropower plants on the river 13 projects Shuren, selected area localization, in case of strong earthquakes will cause dam failure. The coastal area will be flooded. (Baikalo-Kudara) Alternatives Both What specifically can be offered as alternative options to The REA will consider the regional and cumulative impacts of projects replace the proposed projects and electricity from Russia? planned hydropower projects, as well as alternative options for energy (Kabansk) generation and water supply schemes for Gobi. The scope of REA will Both I am against the construction besides in Mongolia there are include the analysis of robust and reasonable alternatives including the projects alternatives such as wind-solar plant, nuclear, construction of “without project” scenario which provide sustainable solutions and HPP will affect the ecosystem of Lake Baikal, will lead to a should be technically and economically possible and implementable reduction in fish species. (Shergino rural settlement) 62 within the planning period. This analysis will involve comparison of comments the environmental and social impacts of the proposed projects with Both Does the Government of Mongolia, considering a construction other broad strategic options for the region. Alternative technological projects of nuclear power plant as an alternative to hydro power stations options for energy generation will also be considered, including on rivers Orkhon and Shuren? Believe that consideration of an alternative renewable energy sources. Special attention will be given issue of building HPP is no longer fall automatically (Baikalo- to power generation via solar and wind-based technologies, and their Kudara) combination with energy storage e.g. as PSPs (pumped storage plants). Both Public communications. No detailed information on alternative projects projects, including alternative energy sources (Posolskoe) Both The REA TOR does not specify smaller-scale versions of projects project that meet at least minimum needs of the Mongolia's electricity and water supply. (Posolskoe) 2 comments Both Analysis of alternatives of projects not considered such as projects sources of electric power /wind electric. station solar station/ on use of groundwater. (Posolskoe) 3 comments Both There is no detailed information on alternative projects, projects including alternative energy sources. (Posolskoe) Both A case of forest destruction is known if they fall into the flood The REA will identify and describe the vegetation in the area to be projects zone (Kabansk) flooded and removal requirements before flooding. Both Construction of HPP will result in changes to the shoreline of The hydrological impacts of the operation of both projects projects Selenge River not only in Mongolia but also in Russia. During individually, as well as cumulatively, as well as with consideration of the period of flooding, level will rise out of banks, landscape natural trends and forces will be considered in the REA. The ESIAs will change, settlements located near Selenge River will suffer would develop the initial findings in more detail and specificity for the (Kabansk) planned projects. They would also define the factors and constraints to be considered for operational plans and scenarios, and ensure that operational parameters are set to protect downstream environment, 14

livelihoods, infrastructure and landscapes. Orkhon Supply of water to the Gobi Desert will leave Buryatia without The REA will consider the regional and cumulative impacts of water, we will have the same desert here. You can't turn your planned hydropower projects, as well as alternative options for energy water to Gobi, otherwise we will have in Buryatia a second generation and water supply schemes for Gobi. Sahara desert. (Kabansk) Aquatic fauna Both Also it will adversely affect living species of fish in river The REA will identify the scope and species composition of aquatic projects Selenge and Lake Baikal, and pollution of water resources. fauna occurring in the study area, their distribution ranges, habitats (Kabansk) and movements. The REA will assess the extent of potential Both With change of environmental conditions, we have already deterioration of habitat conditions and reproduction of rheophilic projects problems of fish farming and the construction of HPP will (river) and semi-anadromous (living in the Baikal and spawning in the disrupt migratory routes of commercial fish which will have an Selenge) fish species, and decline in juvenile fish survival rates in the impact not only on environment but will also have social Selenge delta due to reduced river flow. The study will need to consequences. (Kabansk) determine which spawning migration routes will be blocked and Both Manipulation of water level during years in lower and upper propose low impact fishing techniques to reduce and partly projects stream of reservoir will lead to mass death of fish. Particularly compensate the stresses imposed by the potential projects. harmful for calf in case of water discharge in mid-May and Vulnerable and endangered species that exist in the study area will be early June, and for adult fish during winter (Kabansk) carefully considered. Endemic species will be identified and mapped. Both Water flow rates and river levels should be estimated to suit The current status of rare, endangered and critically endangered projects fish biology in order to maintain suitable conditions for fish species and habitats will be evaluated. movement, migration and breeding. (Posolskoe) 2 comments Both Against the construction of hydropower plants on river Shuren. projects As this can lead to decrease of water level of Selenge and disappearance of Selenge cisco population. (Baikalo-Kudara) Both If you build a hydropower plant on river Shuren, water level in projects lake drops, would dry up rivers. Spawning grounds of most fishes will be lost. I am against HPP on the river Shuren. (Baikalo-Kudara) Both How will you create fish habitats? (Kabansk) Fish habitats will be created in the areas that will be flooded for projects reservoirs. During the REA, habitats will be identified and mapped and gains and losses of habitats will be estimated. Climate change Both Micro climate change assessment. The impact of project on The impacts of the proposed projects will be required to be assessed in projects regional climate changes are not allowed. (Posolskoe) the context of climate change. Assessment of the impacts of the projects on the water balance of the Selenge River basin, causing

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changes in amount, type and seasonal/annual distribution of precipitation in the project area and the upstream/downstream watershed will be included in the REA. World Bank’s Operational Policy OP 7.50 Both Impacts on International Waterways. Orkhon is part of Selenge OP7.50 is not triggered. The policy applies to hydroelectric, irrigation, projects River Basin, which is a transboundary basin, shared by flood control, navigation, drainage, water and sewerage, industrial, and Mongolia and the Russian Federation. Thus this policy is similar projects that involve the use or potential pollution of triggered, even if Orkhon itself does not cross international international waterways. However, the policy would be triggered only boundaries. The ESIA should address relevant measures (such for detailed design and engineering studies of projects. The MINIS as due notification of riparian states) within the framework of project finances only technical assistance to the Government of World Bank OP 7.50, Projects on International Waterways, and Mongolia to undertake environmental, social and technical feasibility international agreements that Mongolia is bound. (Posolskoe) studies (which are not producing detailed designs or engineering studies) required to assess whether any of the proposed infrastructure projects may proceed to future development in a sustainable manner, If and when the project would proceed to detailed designs / detailed engineering studies, the policy would be triggered, and all riparians would be duly notified. Mitigation and monitoring Both Clear information on objectives of the projects and its possible The REA will analyze the baseline conditions and assess potential projects consequences and measures of mitigation is not provided. impacts of the proposed project on the ecosystem in the Selenge River (Posolskoe) 2 comments basin and Lake Baikal. Mitigation measures will be developed during the REA. Both Minimum amount of harm has to be done to environment The REA will assess measures for avoiding, minimizing and projects (Kamensk) mitigating regional impacts, including costs and benefits of development options and develop recommendations, plans and monitoring programs on measures to manage and mitigate cumulative impacts and their consequences. Both Clearing trees in reservoir area. What are alternative purposes? A detailed reservoir clearance plan including and environmental projects (Kamensk) management plan will be developed in the course of the ESIAs’ implementation. At the current stage forests are one of the key valued environmental components (VEC) that will be studied under the REA. Both For which alternative purposes will wood be used? (Kamensk) A detailed reservoir clearance plan including and environmental projects management plan will be developed in the course of the ESIAs’ implementation. This [plan will also provide considerations on the use of the salvaged wood from reservoir clearance activities. . Both Measures of impact mitigation and proposed methodology are The REA will identify impacts with the potential for offsetting 16 projects not specified (Kabansk) mitigation and make recommendations as to what mitigation measures should be considered in the ESIA and Feasibility Study. Particular attention should be given to potential mitigation measures that can only be implemented at a regional or national level. Both Environmental management plan. When estimating costs, costs These costs will be estimated during the REA. The REA will assess projects of measures aimed at preventing and minimizing impacts on measures for avoiding, minimizing and mitigating regional impacts, environment. We consider necessary to include costs aimed at including costs and benefits of development options. preventing and minimizing impacts of projects on environment. (Posolskoe) 3 comments Both Monitoring program. Monitoring program has to be developed The REA and ESIAs will develop recommendations, plans and projects at least for 15 years. (Posolskoe) 2 comments monitoring programs on measures to manage and mitigate cumulative impacts and their consequences. This may proceed well beyonf the commencement of operation dates of the projects.

Both It is necessary to offer a program of monitoring for a min of 10 The REA and ESIAs will develop recommendations, plans and projects years, which should include a measurement and justification of monitoring programs on measures to manage and mitigate cumulative indicators, planning of concrete actions and interventions. impacts and their consequences. This may proceed well beyonf the (Posolskoe) 3 comments commencement of operation dates of the projects.

General concerns about environmental impacts Both In case of any harm to environment, will this project be closed? A decision on implementation of the projects has not been made yet as projects (Kamensk) it is necessary to assess all costs including externalities and consider all feasible alternatives within the REA. The Mining Infrastructure Investment Support (MINIS) Project, financed by the World Bank, delivers studies and assessments aimed at facilitating investments in infrastructure to support mining-related activities and to build local capacity to prepare and transact infrastructure projects. The implementation of the REA study and consultations in Russia and Mongolia on the study outcomes would be conducted under the MINIS, subject to a project extension. Both Do not agree with the construction of a HPP in Mongolia in At this time the studies on the regional and project-specific impacts projects relation to adverse impacts on Lake Baikal and Selenge River. are only being designed. This consultation process is part of the (Posolskoe) 2 comments process of finalizing the TOR, which in turn are the key document Both The construction of a HPP is unacceptable due to negative that drives and shapes the course of the studies. It is too early to make projects consequences for Lake Baikal. (Krasny Yar rural settlement) 3 conclusions on particular anticipated impacts on Selenge River and comments Lake Baikal. It is precisely the purpose of the consultations to get the 17

Both Remember the year 2015, when there was a mass fish plague. study design right to ensure all necessary data and information are projects The biggest case was recorded in Kabanski district near collected and analyzed, and that risks and impacts are properly Posolskoe village, back then were killed thousands of young recognized and addressed, and management, mitigation and perch, roach and dace. Reason for that, experts called monitoring measures defined. anomalous shallowing of the Lake Baikal. In search of forage fish went to shore and in shallow waters died from lack of The study area under the REA will extend upstream and downstream oxygen and high water temperature. River Selenge is in basin over the entire Selenge River basin from the project site including of water abstraction of Lake Baikal, therefore, an Lake Baikal. Special emphasis will be put on Lake Baikal, with its implementation of Shuren HPP project will have a negative UNESCO natural heritage status and specific sensitivities. impact on the unique ecosystem of the lake. (Kabansk) Both - The potential risk Within the REA, current and future tendency of water demand, projects - Negative impact abstraction and distribution, water shortages, water quality and water - Social problems level will be identified and analyzed. The analysis will be - Reasonable goals REA complimented by a projection of potential effects of developments in - Valued environmental components that provide sustainability the Selenge River basin and around the Lake Baikal. The REA will and stability of the ecosystem. review, on regional scale, as part of baseline assessment the main - Greenhouse gas emissions (Krasny Yar rural settlement) ecosystems and ecosystem types along Selenge River, biodiversity, Both The shallowing of river will lead to disappearance of water, major habitats and critical habitats that may be affected, the range of projects water in wells will disappear, cisco, pike, will affect fish and conservation status of the main species groups that live in the breeding, grasslands, a river delta is a nesting place and food Selenge River area. The REA will assess the extent of potential supply for many birds. With decrease of river flow, Selenge deterioration of habitat conditions and reproduction of rheophilic water level in lake falls, it all leads to irreversible (river) and semi-anadromous (living in the Baikal and spawning in the environmental changes. (Tvorogovо rural settlement) 3 Selenge) fish species, and decline in juvenile fish survival rates in the comments Selenge Delta due to reduced river flow. Both Construction of HPP will lead to shallowing of river Selenge, projects no water in wells, disappear shallow rivers and tributaries, will The REA TOR will include a section on potential threats and risks to affect level of lake, fire peat, what will happen to population of valued environmental components. Greenhouse gas (GHG) emission rivers? Bolsherechensk rural settlement is concerned and data will be analyzed. The risk of natural seismicity (earthquakes) and against the construction of implementation of those projects induced seismicity (caused by increased seepage into the ground from (Bolsherechensk rural settlement) a reservoir) will be considered in the REA in terms of community Both Changes in the level of Selenge River due to construction of health and safety. projects dams Orkhon HPP will cause large changes in population of bio flora and fauna, especially fish and species of fish, birds, The REA will identify the current environmental and social conditions how it will be regulated? How will water level in Selenge will within the Selenge River Basin as well as the Lake Baikal area, be saved to its tributaries and Lake Baikal? (Kabansk) 2 focusing on the areas included in the UNESCO World Heritage site. comments

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Both Danger of shallowing of river Selenge, loss of fish, reduction of projects nesting birds, deterioration of drinking water quality, reducing level of lake, changing fish migrations, prey base, so no need to aggravate these issues with construction of the HPP. Against the construction of HPP (Ranjurovo rural settlement) 13 comments Both One of the most important criterion of project is an ecology. projects Relationship, populations of animal world, like in Russia and Mongolia, how it will change? This will have a tremendous harm to spawning fish-water balance temperature regime, water velocity, why study only on Orkhon river (Kabansk) Both - Will drop water level. When water level is low, trees like projects cedar, fir, spruce will be forced out of low-value small- leaved forest due to lack of moisture. Forest fires will significantly increase. - Will affect fauna, fish will lessen, which use the delta Selenge River as a place of feeding. - Sharp increase of dissolved nitrogen will pass through the turbines, increased presence of blue-green algae, many of which are toxic to aquatic fauna, is expected. - 300 thousand hectares of restored forest is also located in the area of expected flooding. Greenery may be under threat of destruction. - HPP is located in a high-risk seismic zone. A strong earthquake can cause dam failure and creation of dynamic wave. (Vydrinskoe) 2 comments Both In the field of construction of dam and reservoir and projects downstream rivers Orkhon and Selenge changes caused by project in hydrological conditions can affect a region and aquatic ecosystems. These include rivers, standing (still) water, meadows, coastal forests, under influence of river microclimate. Water level, water quality, temperature regime will adversely affect an ecosystem. In 2015 at Kabanski district there was a mass plague of fish. The biggest case was registered in Posolskoe village where tens of thousands of young specimens of perch, roach died. Experts considered that the reason was anomalous shallowing of Lake Baikal. In search 19

of a forage fish went to shore and in shallow water died from the lack of oxygen and high water temperature. Volume allocated in the Gobi water: During winter and spring in 2015 in Kabanski district, people were left without water due to shallowing of Lake Baikal, peatlands where settlements are located emitted smoke. Water was brought to villages. A similar situation existed in other areas of Buryatia. A similar situation was observed in Pribaikalski and Barguzinski districts, which were in several hundred km from Lake Baikal Our Republic for more than 14 years is in region of a water shortage. Wells lack water. Construction of HPP will only aggravate an existing situation with water shortage. Natural heritage: the Lake Baikal is referred by the decision of UNESCO to the world heritage, a variety of archaeological sites, religious buildings and hundreds of families might be flooded. Traditional water resources and pastures will become unavailable for nomads in the Selenge River valley and its tributaries in Mongolia and Buryatia. Selenge delta relates to wetlands and must be preserved. As regards diversion of water, a flow of river near the dam and river Orkhon will change. Therefore, changes in river can change a stability of banks, and this can lead to soil erosion, in recent years climate is changing. Torrential rains replace long dry periods. For example: In Kabanski district in recent years, drought does not allow to collect full yield of potatoes, which is one of main types of food, residents are not collecting sufficient amount of hay for their livestock, which is vital part. (Kabansk) Both With change of ecological situation, all spheres of activities of projects local population, changes in flora, fauna and forestry will immediately change. (Kabansk) Both Baikal is a sacred lake. Do not allow the water level decrease. projects (Baikalo-Kudara) Both Impact from water and infrastructure buildings and facilities. projects Do not agree with potential impacts of hydraulic infrastructure installations and facilities on environment in Kabanski district and in Buryatia in general. (Posolskoe) Both Do not agree with construction of hydropower plants on Shuren 20 projects river and flow regulation of Orkhon river. They will affect an environment at Kabanski district. Fish populations, Baikal’s cisco, will decrease due to water low level of Selenge River and decrease in water level in Lake Baikal. (Posolskoe) 4 comments Both Impact from water and infrastructure buildings and facilities. The REA will analyze the baseline conditions and assess potential projects Do not agree with potential impacts of hydraulic infrastructure impacts of the proposed project on the ecosystem in the Selenge River installations and facilities on environment in Kabanski district. basin and Lake Baikal. (Posolskoe) 2 comments Both Environmental management is very complex and costly The REA will help identify potential impacts of proposed and other projects process, which primarily affects human resources, nature and planned projects on a regional scale and inform decision makers about climate change. (Kabansk) the impacts, risks and environmental costs. Orkhon Flow regulation and partial flow withdrawal on region of basin The REA will assess the extent of potential deterioration of habitat of Orkhon/Selenge and an emergence of a new source of water conditions and reproduction of rheophilic (river) and semi-anadromous in semi-arid zone in the Southern Gobi. Manipulation of water (living in the Baikal and spawning in the Selenge) fish species, and level a year through in upper and lower reservoir levels will decline in juvenile fish survival rates in the Selenge delta due to lead to mass death of fish. Particularly harmful for calf descents reduced river flow. The study will need to determine which spawning in mid May and early June and for adult fish in winter. migration routes will be blocked and propose low impact fishing (Kabansk) techniques to reduce and partly compensate the stresses imposed by the potential projects.

Both - Identify concerns of affected communities and its evaluation. The REA Consultant will assess specific legal / regulatory provisions projects And work with them. that would govern the assessment and management of risks and - Manage reputational risk, reputation is a fragile thing itself. impacts, and identify and describe any gaps between Mongolian legal There is a risk of losing it, so project is “raw” and built on a and regulatory provisions and those of the World Bank environmental unilateral benefit. and social safeguard policies. The consultant shall also describe key - Differences in the legal documents of Mongolia and the elements of environmental and social legislation in the Russian World bank environmental and social safeguard policies. Federation, and the key provisions and requirements for the REA will offer measures on their elimination. (Krasny Yar environmental and social assessment process. REA will provide an rural settlement) analysis of differences and gaps between the systems, and suggest measures to resolve them. A consultation and communication program will be developed by the REA Consultant. The program will describe how substantive issues will be discussed in dialogue with stakeholders from multiple levels of government, residents of the project area of influence, applied research institutes, civil society organizations, non- governmental organizations and interested individuals and citizens. The REA Consultant will be required to ensure that the concerns of 21

affected communities about the cumulative impacts of a proposed development are identified, documented, evaluated and addressed. Special measures will need to be taken to ensure that the views of women and vulnerable social groups are properly obtained and taken into account. Both You should consider all consequences of construction of Special emphasis in the studies will be put on Lake Baikal, with its projects hydropower plants on prospect of 35-50-100 years ahead, what UNESCO natural heritage status and specific sensitivities. The REA will be following consequences and how it will affect peoples will identify any potential impacts of the proposed projects on the live? And most importantly, will still Lake Baikal exist, the outstanding universal value and integrity of Lake Baikal which world's 1/2 reserve of fresh water? (Kabansk) contains 20% of the world’s freshwater. The Consultant will consider Shuren An inexhaustible resource of fresh clean water of Lake Baikal current and known planned projects and consumers of water and HPP becomes finite. There is a great risk that project developers of power over a period spanning the next 20 years (depending on Shuren HPP may have not properly worked on threats and risks available strategic planning information) as a potential source of that arise for Lake Baikal due to construction of hydropower cumulative impacts. plants on river Selenge (Kabansk) Both - Information provided has a low quality, from which it is In response to comments received from consultations in Russia and projects difficult to understand the problem. Mongolia, it was decided to first implement a stand-alone REA that - Lack of cartographic materials and charts of the projects will cover the entire Selenge River basin and Lake Baikal. More visual - No plan for environmental and social activities. According to materials (maps, posters and charts) will be developed for next public documents, it is not clear how it will impact the ecosystem consultations when the REA preliminary findings are available. Draft of Lake Baikal. REA report will describe what cumulative environmental and social - The risks associated with high-risk seismic area are not impacts the proposed and other planned and ongoing projects will described. (Vydrinskoe) 2 comments have in the Selenge River Basin and on Lake Baikal. The risk of Both - Draft version of the presented TOR requirements for the natural seismicity (earthquakes) and induced seismicity (caused by projects discussion of REA and ESIA of projects are not finalized; it increased seepage into the ground from a reservoir) will be considered is difficult to make a conclusion and understand a problem. in the REA in terms of community health and safety. The REA will - No scheme maps. develop recommendations, plans and monitoring programs on - Potential adverse environmental and social impacts of measures to manage and mitigate cumulative impacts and their hydrotechnical and water facilities in the basin of Selenge consequences in the study area. River and on the unique system of Lake Baikal are not The REA will consider alternative options for energy generation and reflected in the project. water supply schemes for Gobi. Alternative technological options for - The risks, which are associated with the high-seismic area, energy generation will also be considered, including alternative where HPP will be built, are not considered. renewable energy sources. Special attention will be given to power - Alternative sources of power or a possible increase in power generation via solar and wind-based technologies, and their transmission lines Gusinoozyorsk-Darkhan or supplies combination with energy storage e.g. as PSPs (pumped storage plants). across the territory of Mongolia and Russian electricity to China are not represented. (Vydrinskoe) 4 comments 22

Both We believe that consequence of dumping mining wastes into The potential impacts of the planned projects on water pollution in projects the tributaries of Selenge River unpredictable and detrimental downstream water bodies in the Selenge and Baikal basins, including to ecosystem of entire Baikal region in particular and the planet accidental spill scenarios related to the planned projects, and other in general. (Baikalo-Kudara) identifiable risk factors (e.g. existing industrial plant, storage facilities for hazardous materials, waste facilities etc.) will be assessed within the REA. Both Fish populations downstream. A new model of river flow with Both groundwater and surface water will be carefully studied within projects a description of consequences for habitats at downstream will the REA. The REA will identify the main types of aquifers within the negatively affect populations of omul in Lake Baikal, entering study area, including their hydrological characteristics such as total river Selenge to spawn. Construction of hydropower plants on volume, groundwater yield, hydro-geological characteristics, recharge river Shuren will cause shallowing of river Selenge bay of SOR source and rates, links to surface water bodies. and SOR Cherkalovo in Kabanski district, there will be a Changes of hydrological parameters, notably flow rates and sediment lowering of groundwater level, which will adversely affect load and their seasonal / annual distribution will be assessed during the water supply of Kabanski district and Istok and Posolskoe hydrological studies in the REA. A hydrological model will be villages, Buryatia. Lowering of groundwater will affect developed for the Selenge River Basin as well as downstream draining of swamps and small rivers, which will affect of connected basins. The impact of altered flow patterns on downstream formation of peat bogs threatening formation of peat fires habitats will be described and modeled. which will affect human health. Also, decrease in the The REA Consultant will be required to assess and compare how groundwater level will affect agriculture yields of forage climate change driven physical/chemical changes may affect critical grasses and agricultural cultivation, which will affect level of habitats, vulnerable species and ecosystems. The REA will identify agriculture. social conditions including economic activities, land use, including Soil erosion. The impact of soil erosion will affect a stability of agriculture and animal husbandry as well as seasonal economic banks of Selenge River and Lake Baikal. An increase in level activities, ethnic and cultural factors and review the potential social of turbidity expected from the construction of HPP and its impacts including on Indigenous Peoples. operating instructions manual. While the investigation and assessment of seismic risk would be part Climate change. Analysis of past years shows that in 2015- of the technical feasibility study, the risk of natural seismicity 2016, happened dry summer period. In connection with fall of (earthquakes) and induced seismicity (caused by increased seepage Selenge River level, predicting and falling groundwater levels, into the ground from a reservoir) will be considered in the REA in which ultimately will have a negative impact on climate. terms of community health and safety. Seismicity. In connection with the construction of HPP and possible fall of groundwater level will aggravate seismic activity in Kabanski district. (Posolskoe) 2 comments

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