Initial Environmental Examination
March 2013 (Updated 23 March 2016)
Lao People’s Democratic Republic: Greater Mekong Subregion East-West Economic Corridor Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project
Vapy Neua Subproject
Prepared by Fraser Thomas Partners Ltd. for the Asian Development Bank. (Updated in February 2016 by Armando Balloffet, PhD, and Somvang THAMMAVONGSA, ADB Consultants)
NOTE(s): i. The fiscal year (FY) of the Government of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic ends on 30 September. FY before a calendar year denotes the year in which the fiscal year ends, e.g., FY2016 ends on 30 September 2016. ii. In this report, "$" refers to US dollars unless otherwise stated.
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ACRONYMS
ADB - Asian Development Bank AISP - Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project ASEAN - Association of South East Asian Nations Cumec - cubic meters per second DAFO - District Agriculture and Forestry Office DCO - District Coordination Office DOI - Department of Irrigation DOWR - Department of Water Resources E&M - Electrical and Mechanical EA - Executing Agency EDL - Electricité du Laos EMP - Environmental Management Plan EIA - Environmental Impact Assessment EMP - Environmental Management Plan EPL - Environmental Protection Law FWUGs - farmer water user groups GMS-EWEC-AISP - Greater Mekong Sub-region East West Economic Corridor Agricultural Infrastructure Sector Project IA - Implementing Agency IEE - Initial Environmental Examination IFAD - International Fund for Agricultural Development GoL - Government of Lao PDR IMT - Irrigation Management and Transfer IWRM - Integrated Water Resources Management JICA - Japanese International Cooperation Agency MASL - meters above mean sea level MoNRE - Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment NGO - Non-Government Organization NPMO - National Project Management Office NSEDP - National Social and Economic Development Plan NT2 - Nam Theun 2 (Hydropower Project) NTFPs - Non-Timber Forest Products O&M - Operation and Maintenance PAFO - Provincial Department of Agriculture and Forestry PoNRE - Provincial Office of Natural Resources and Environment PPMO - Provincial National Project Management Office PPTA - Project Preparation Technical Assistance RC - reinforced concrete SEDP - Socio-economic Development Plan 2010-2015 USD - United States Dollars UXO - Unexploded Ordnance WUG - Water User Group
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1. The Greater Mekong Sub-region East West Economic Corridor Agricultural Infrastructure Sector Project (GMS-EWEC-AISP, or AISP in this document) will comprise improvements to productive rural infrastructure (PRI) and provide technical and advisory support to beneficiary communities in formation and strengthening of water user groups, technical support and capacity building for extension services and support in post-harvest handling, product storage and marketing. It will provide project management support and capacity building for provincial and district level offices which will take a lead role in project implementation, in accordance with the Government’s decentralization policy of 2000. It is a sector project, and specific subprojects for the improvement of productive rural infrastructure in the two project provinces will be prepared and implemented.
2. This document is the Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) and Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for the Vapy Neua productive rural infrastructure subproject (the Project), which involves irrigation scheme rehabilitation and agricultural access road improvement. It was selected as one of three representative subprojects under the project preparatory technical assistance (PPTA). The IEE is prepared according to the ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement of June 2009 and the EIA decree of April 2010. This IEE document was updated in February 2016.
3. The Project is located in Vapy District of Saravane Province (see Figure 1 in main text) and was originally constructed in 1997/98. It is a pumped scheme served by a station operating from a moored pontoon located on the Sedone River, a perennial river with regular fluctuations in water level throughout the year. The potential demand has been estimated at 10 million m3 per year. The total existing irrigable area (command area) is in the order of 220ha. Improvements are to include an extension of 50 ha. The improved scheme is designed to have a command area of 270ha, yielding both a wet and a dry season crop, and serving 101 families.
4. The existing Scheme has deteriorated and suffers from inadequate Operation and Maintenance (O&M). The Scheme is laid out in a ‘herringbone’ formation with a central main canal running along the spine serving a series of secondary canals. Water is delivered via a conventional electrically powered pumping plant using a pair of centrifugal pumps mounted on a floating pontoon, a technique commonly used. The overall Scheme is shown in Figure 2 of the main text. Water is pumped into a stilling basin from where it discharges by gravity into the lined main canal. Flow is then distributed by gravity through a set of secondary canals to discrete field blocks. The estimated total length of main, secondary and tertiary canals is 1,036m, 1,930m, and 370m respectively. Flows in the canals are unregulated and the scheme is free-running apart from where temporary measures are used to route flows into specific farm units from some secondary canals. As a consequence, scheme efficiency is low and therefore would incur a higher pumping cost per hectare than necessary. There is a natural collector stream which takes flows from one of the main canals and this serves as the scheme drain. The drain is about 1,990 m long and is likely to have to be relocated as part of the improvement works.
5. The 8th National Social and Economic Development Plan (8th NSEDP) emphasizes raising agricultural productivity as a development priority since the majority of the Lao workforce is currently engaged in agriculture. One of the biggest challenges that Lao PDR faces is the proper management and protection of the environment and natural resources (land, water resources, forests, minerals, biodiversity). Without adequate and sustainable planning and management of natural resources, the development actions proposed in the 8th NSEDP will cause serious ecological and socio-economic problems, lead to irreversible damage to the environment, and exacerbate poverty. To address this issue, the Ministry of Natural Resource and Environment (MoNRE) has developed the 10-year Natural Resources and Environmental Strategy, 2016-2025 based on national directions
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 i and policies (National Social and Economic Development Plan, the National Strategies for Economic Development and Poverty Reduction, the IX Government Resolution and sectoral strategies) as well as on regional and global orientations and policies (Millennium Development Goals, climate change, and Multilateral Environmental Agreements).
6. Investment projects are categorized according to a schedule in the EIA decree into category 1 – small scale, requiring an IEE or category 2-large scale, requiring an environmental impact assessment (EIA). For irrigation projects, those with a command area of between 100 and 2000 ha are in category 1, and those with a command area greater than 2,000 ha are in category 2. The corresponding category to Lao Category 1 in the ADB’s classification system is B, which, similarly, requires an IEE and EMP.
7. According to the Regulation on Environmental Assessment in the Lao PDR, the IEE of the Project is required to be submitted to the Ministry of Nature Resources and Environment at the provincial level (PoNRE) for approval through the issuance of an environmental certificate prior to the project commencement (no civil work is allowed prior to the approval).
8. The command area at Ban Vapy Neua lies on the northern side of a large bend in the Sedone River, the major river in Saravane Province. The area is generally flat along the broader river margins where the irrigation scheme is located and rises to higher ground to the north. The elevation at Ban Vapy Neua is around 130MASL. As is common to the lowland areas adjoining the Mekong River in Southern Laos, underlying rock is mostly recently-deposited mudstone, underlain by older sandstone bedrock. Soils on the command area are mostly derived from alluvial deposits and are classified as alisols, which are strongly acidic, have good water holding capacity and have clays in the subsoil. They are suitable for shallow rooting crops, such as rice, and intensively irrigated and rain fed agriculture. Yields can be significantly improved through the application of mineral fertilizer.
9. Lao PDR has a tropical monsoon climate which features a dry season (November to February) and a wet season (May to October). The dry season is generally cooler, though temperatures rise significantly in March and April prior to the onset of the rains. The Sedone River is a tributary of the Mekong, having a total length of 1,475km. It has its origin in the north-eastern side of Bolaven Plateau near Thateng District at 800MASL. The catchment area is 6,170 km², and has an annual discharge is 5,065 million-m³. There are 15 other irrigation projects on the Sedone River that withdraw around 68,000 m 3/day.
10. Two National Protected Areas (NPAs) are within 20km of the Subproject site. The Phu Xiang Thong NPA lies 15km to the west between Road 13 and the Mekong River. It is thought that Asiatic black bear, banteng, clouded leopard, Douc langur, elephant, gibbon, guar, Siamese crocodile and tiger inhabit this area. The Xe Bang Nouan NPA lies some 12km to the north of the Sedone River and straddles the border of Savannakhet and Saravane Provinces.
11. There are no known items of historical or archaeological significance, as confirmed in community consultations in 2012 and 2016.
12. Villagers’ incomes are based on rice plantation or lowland farming, animal raising, fishery, and cash crop cultivation (corn, cassava, and vegetables such as chilies, eggplants and cucumbers). Rice accounted for the majority of household incomes in 2009 and 2010 but this dropped dramatically in 2011 due to severe flooding that occurred that year, illustrating the risks associated with rice based livelihoods. The second largest source of income is employment in industry. Around 10% of households live below the poverty line. School enrolment is around 73%. Literacy is 68% and shows a strong disparity between men and women. Very few families are landless and the average farm size is more than 1ha.
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 ii
13. The land use in the Project area is predominantly irrigated and rain fed rice agriculture though other cash crops are also grown. Much of the surrounding area is not under regular cultivation, while the land to the south of the river is generally wooded.
14. The 2016 update of this IEE determined that there is a 250 pound unexploded bomb in the Sedone River about 40-50m from the existing Vapy pump station (See Annex 2, UXO). The UXO office in Saravane confirmed its existence and indicated that it will be removed by them when the river levels subside (river levels are already at a low level as of February 2016). They are awaiting an official letter from the Project to carry out this work. Meanwhile, local villagers are aware of the UXO but there are no warning signs posted. Children were observed swimming directly across the river from the location of the unexploded bomb and fishing continues. No construction will be allowed on the pump station, canals, or roads until UXO Lao has officially cleared the site.
15. In this IEE, potential impacts were assessed by means of site visits, discussions with local authorities and beneficiaries and the use of secondary sources of information such as similar projects elsewhere. The 2016 update used similar methods, and added rankings for the severity of impacts and effectiveness of mitigation measures (see figures on the next page and details in Annex 2). Potential environmental impacts and required mitigation are incorporated into the EMP, which should be part of all construction contracts, and in agreements formed with water user groups. The IEE also now includes a detailed Environmental Monitoring Plan (Annex 4).
16. Construction of agricultural access roads and irrigation canals will result in the removal of topsoil and other material containing vegetative matter that is not suitable for re-use on the road but can be utilized locally for house construction and other common community uses within or near the village. Villagers confirm there is a substantial demand for this material. Environmental impacts related to construction will be temporary, and can in most cases be mitigated before and during the construction period. Mitigation of any risks of sediment runoff will be achieved by Contract requirements. Surplus spoil should be used as fill, for example backfilling of culvert walls, wherever possible. Construction operations may involve the temporary closure of the irrigation systems. Ensuring that local farmers are aware of the construction schedule will help mitigate the effects of temporary closure. However it is unlikely to be feasible to maintain full irrigation flows while the works are taking place.
17. Excavation works will result in localized concentrations of airborne particulate matter, which may pose a significant dust nuisance where it occurs in proximity to villages or dwellings. Where excavation operations carried out during dry and windy conditions are within 50m of an occupied dwelling, excavated sites should be sprayed with water to control dust release. Contractor equipment is expected to be well-maintained and meet minimum emission standards, such as Euro 2. Truck idling for over 15 minutes will not be allowed in populated areas. Similarly, as most construction will involve hand labor or small plant, noise nuisance is not expected to be significant. However, contractors will be prevented from working between the hours of 19:00 and 06:00 in populated areas, or near schools and hospitals. For temporary use of land owners will receive compensation in the form of rents payable during scheme construction period and land will be re-instated to pre-construction levels. Contractors are to protect sensitive urban, agricultural and natural areas during construction.
18. While the Contractor will be encouraged to engage local people for the works, some skilled workers and possibly supplementary labor will need to be brought to the site from elsewhere in Lao PDR or outside the country. Interactions with local residents can potentially lead to the spread of communicable diseases, or incidences of disharmony. Numerous mitigation measures are specified in the EMP, and the Contractor will develop and implement an appropriate Contractor’s Environmental Management Plan (CEMP), approved by the supervisory engineer, to address these and other public health issues. The contents of the
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CEMP and the Contractors’ responsibilities with respect to environmental and social issues are specified in Annex 3. Some construction activities will pose a small safety risk to workers and to local people. The CEMP will include an effective Health and Safety Plan and an appropriate Hydrocarbon and Hazardous Materials Management Plan.
Summary Matrix of Environmental Impacts
Activities and Project Impacts Table Vapy Neau Irrigation Project
Output/Activity Air UXO Noise Ethnic Safety Health Income Climate Cultural Land Use Education Land/soils Minorities Solid Waste Solid Biodiversity TotalImpact Water Supply Waste-Water Resettlement Average Impact Average Pre-Construction Pump Station + Headworks 0 0 0 -5 0 0 0 -5 0 0 0 0 -5 10 0 -10 -5 -20-1.25 Main/secondary canals 0 0 0 -5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -5 10 0 -10 -5 -15-0.94 Access / village roads -5 0 0 -5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -5 10 0 0 -5 -10-0.63 Canal service roads -5 0 0 -5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -5 10 0 -10 -5 -20-1.25 Drainage channels 0 0 0 -5 -5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -5 10 0 -10 -5 -20-1.25 Construction Pump Station + Headworks -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 0 -5 0 -5 -5 0 0 -10 0 -65-4.06 Main/secondary canals -5 -5 0 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 0 -5 0 -5 -5 0 0 -10 0 -60-3.75 Access / village roads -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 0 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 0 0 0 -65-4.06 Canal service roads -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 0 -5 0 -5 -5 0 0 -10 0 -65-4.06 Drainage channels 0 -5 0 -5 -5 -5 0 -5 0 -5 0 -5 -5 0 0 -10 0 -50-3.13 Operation Pump Station + Headworks 0 0 5 -5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -5 -5 10 0 0 -5 -5-0.31 Main/secondary canals 0 0 5 0 0 -5 0 0 0 -5 0 -5 -5 10 0 0 -5 -10-0.63 Access / village roads 0 0 0 0 0 -5 0 0 0 5 5 -5 -5 10 0 0 0 50.31 Canal service roads -5 0 0 -5 0 -5 0 0 0 -5 0 -5 -5 10 0 0 0 -20-1.25 Drainage channels 0 0 5 -5 -5 -5 0 0 0 -5 0 -5 -5 10 0 0 0 -15-0.94
Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact Average total Impact 5 Pre-Construction -1.02 0 No significant impact Construction -3.98 -5 Operation -0.47 -10 Very negative impact
Summary Matrix of Environmental Impacts After Mitigation
Project Impacts Table - With Recommended Mitigation Measures Vapy Neau Irrigation Project
Output/Activity Air UXO Noise Ethnic Safety Health Income Climate Cultural Land Use Education Land/soils Minorities Solid Waste Solid Biodiversity Total Impact Water Supply Waste-Water Resettlement Average Impact Average Pre-Construction Pump Station + Headworks 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 100 0 -5 50.31 Main/secondary canals 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 100 0 -5 50.31 Access / village roads 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 100 0 -5 50.31 Canal service roads 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 100 0 -5 50.31 Drainage channels 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 100 0 -5 50.31 Construction Pump Station + Headworks 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 00.00 Main/secondary canals 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 00.00 Access / village roads 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 50.31 Canal service roads 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 00.00 Drainage channels 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 00.00 Operation Pump Station + Headworks 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 0 0 0 150.94 Main/secondary canals 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 0 0 0 150.94 Access / village roads 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 5 0 0 10 0 0 0 201.25 Canal service roads 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 0 0 0 100.63 Drainage channels 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 0 0 0 150.94
19. Advice to farmers, including emphatic discouragement of the use of persistent pesticides should continue through DAFO. The expansion of the command area will increase the irrigated area of paddy fields that are seasonally inhabited by fish, mollusks, crustaceans and aquatic insects. The project will improve the seasonal aquatic ecosystem in the agricultural land and have only minor impact on the river at the pumped intake location.
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20. Excessive extraction of water during the dry season could prevent sufficient downstream flows to maintain aquatic and riparian ecosystems. An analysis in the IEE shows that there are available environmental flows well in excess of the minimum flow required for maintaining aquatic and riparian ecosystems. In common with all irrigation schemes, an increase in soil salinity may occur as a result of the accumulation of salts that are dissolved in the irrigation water, and upward transport of salt deposits in lower soil horizons in the case of over- irrigation. These risks are low for the scheme, as any salt not taken up by growing plants will be subject to natural flushing by rainwater in the wet season.
21. Some studies indicate that paddy rice fields contribute approximately 9-13 percent of the global emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG), especially methane and nitrous oxide. The total CO 2e emissions from the AISP will be well below the ADB’s significance threshold. However, it is recommended that the Project contact researchers in Thailand or others who are working on this issue to see if it would be feasible to have them come to the project areas to train farmers and the DAFOs in techniques that will reduce GHG emissions. Also, the Project has numerous features that are designed to withstand the effects of climate change events, such as concrete structures built to survive periodic inundations.
22. The controlled use of irrigation water and the use of potentially harmful chemicals in pest control are, to some extent, transboundary issues. Risks of the use of harmful substances or excessive use of less harmful substances in irrigated agriculture are heightened by ready availability from neighboring countries. These risks can be reduced by improved information on agrichemicals available on the local market, and dissemination on their proper use.
23. There are 15 other irrigation schemes in the district that rely on the Sedone River. The cumulative withdrawals from the project and these other schemes will not reduce flows in the Sedone below the necessary environmental flows required to maintain the aquatic ecosystems. The “no project” alternative, while feasible, would simply mean the substitution of the Vapy Neua irrigation scheme and access road with an alternative subproject, likely to be based on a different irrigation scheme within Savannakhet or Saravane provinces.
24. The detailed design consultants will be tasked with identifying all abstractions both upstream and downstream to ensure that there are no impacts, and to develop a fair water allocation program to be implemented by the PAFO. Consultations were conducted during visits to Vapy and nearby Khonexai villages on 3 November 2012 which included a focus group discussion during which the Project was disclosed to community representatives and environmental and other issues discussed. Further consultations were held on February 22 and 23, 2016 during the IEE Update process (see Annex 1). The overall consensus is that the Project is needed and people want it to start as soon as possible. The Grievance Redress Mechanism has been implemented: persons affected by the project activities, or concerned about environmental impacts are entitled to lodge complaints regarding any aspect of it. Local stakeholders were asked during the 2016 update field whether they were aware of the Grievance Redress Procedures and if there had been any grievances to date. Generally, people are aware of the procedure and there have not been any reported grievances to date.
25. The IEE process has found that the Vapy Project will not cause significant negative environmental impacts. Potential negative impacts relate mainly to the construction phase and can be managed and brought to acceptable levels through the implementation of the Environmental Management and Monitoring Plans. Of particular importance is that the recently-discovered UXO in the Sedone River near the pump station be cleared before construction begins, and that the alignments for canals and roads be certified by UXO Lao to be safe for construction. This will require the Project to formally request the UXO Lao to carry out this clearance and certification as soon as possible.
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26. No further environmental assessment is therefore required, as verified as part of the 2016 update. The Project is therefore confirmed as Category B according to the ADB’s classification system.
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Contents Executive Summary ...... i 1 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 2 DESCRIPTION OF THE Sub-PROJECT ...... 1 2.1 Subproject Scope ...... 1 2.2 Present Condition and Characteristics of the Scheme ...... 1 2.3 Improvements ...... 5 3 POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK ...... 7 3.1 Environmental Policy ...... 7 3.2 Relevant Laws ...... 8 3.3 Decrees, Regulations and International Conventions ...... 9 3.4 Government’s Requirement on IEE/EIA approved in Lao PDR ...... 10 4 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT ...... 11 4.1 Physical Resources ...... 11 4.1.1 Location and Topography ...... 11 4.1.2 Geology and Soils...... 11 4.1.3 Climate ...... 11 4.1.4 Water Resources ...... 12 4.1.5 Ecological Resources ...... 13 4.1.6 Items of Historical and Archaeological Significance ...... 13 4.1.7 Human and Economic Development ...... 13 5 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES ...... 14 5.1 Method of Assessment ...... 14 5.2 Environmental Impacts Related to Location and Design ...... 15 5.3 Environmental Impacts Related to Construction ...... 15 5.4 Environmental Impacts Related to Operation ...... 17 5.5 Safety ...... 19 5.6 Climate Change ...... 22 5.6.1 Project’s Emissions of Greenhouse Gases ...... 22 5.6.2 Impact of Climate Change and Project Adaptation Measures ...... 24 5.7 Global, Transboundary and Cumulative Impacts ...... 24 6 ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES ...... 25 7 INFORMATION DISCLOSURE, CONSULTATION AND PARTICIPATION ...... 25 8 GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM ...... 26 9 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN ...... 29 9.1 Responsibilities for Environmental Management ...... 29 9.2 Approach to Environmental Monitoring ...... 33 10 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION ...... 36
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 vii
Annex 1: Information gathered During the February 2016 field visit ...... 37 Annex 2: Details of the Impact Assessment and Summary of Mitigation Measures ...... 40 Annex 3: Environmental and Social Clauses for Civil Works Contracts ...... 70 Annex 4: Environmental and Social Monitoring Process ...... 76 Annex 5: REA and Climate CHange Checklists (2016) ...... 85
SCHEDULE OF TABLES
Table 1: Pump Station Details ...... 3 Table 2: Current Estimated Canal Flow Capacity ...... 5 Table 3: Meteorological data supplied by the Department of Hydrology (Rainfall) and World Meteorology Organisation Station No 48947(Evaporation)...... 11 Table 4: GWP for the AISP Sub-Projects ...... 23 Table 5: Project Climate Change Adaptation Measures ...... Error! Bookmark not defined. Table 6: Project Main Steps of Grievance Mechanisms ...... 28 Table 7: Environmental Management Plan Summary ...... 30 Table 8: Environmental Monitoring Plan ...... 34
SCHEDULE OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Location of the Subproject in Southern Lao PDR ...... 2 Figure 2: Scheme Layout ...... 3 Figure 3: Existing stilling basin and drop-off into canal at Vapy ...... 4 Figure 4: Agricultural Access Road Layout showing tracks to be upgraded (in blue) ...... 6 Figure 5: Saravane mean monthly precipitation data - 2004 ...... 12 Figure 6: National Protected Areas Near the Subproject ...... 13 Figure 7: Summary Matrix of Environmental Impacts ...... 20 Figure 8: Summary Matrix of Environmental Impacts After Mitigation ...... 21 Figure 9: Safety Concerns for the Irrigation System ...... 22 Figure 10: Proposed Water Quality Testing Sites ...... 33
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1 INTRODUCTION
1. The Greater Mekong Sub-region East West Economic Corridor Agricultural Infrastructure Sector Project (GMS-EWEC-AISP, or AISP in this document) will comprise improvements to productive rural infrastructure (PRI) and provide technical and advisory support to beneficiary communities in formation and strengthening of water user groups, technical support and capacity building for extension services and support in post-harvest handling, product storage, and marketing. It will provide project management support and capacity building for provincial and district level offices which will take a lead role in project implementation, in accordance with the Government’s decentralization policy of 2000. It is a sector project, and specific subprojects for the improvement of PRI in the two project provinces, Savannakhet and Saravane, will be prepared and implemented.
2. This document provides an Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) of the Vapy Neua PRI subproject (the Project), a subproject under the GMS-EWEC-AISP involving irrigation scheme rehabilitation and agricultural access road improvement that has been selected as one of three representative subprojects under the project preparatory technical assistance (PPTA). Full subproject preparation, including feasibility study and safeguards assessment and planning, is included to demonstrate subproject preparation requirements. The IEE is prepared according to the ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement of June 2009 and the EIA decree of April 2010. This IEE document was updated in February 2016.
2 DESCRIPTION OF THE SUB-PROJECT
2.1 Subproject Scope
3. The Vapy Neua irrigation scheme is located in Vapy District (see Figure 1) and was originally constructed in 1997/98 through a joint initiative between the Department of Irrigation (DOI), and the local Water Users Group (WUG). Like a considerable number of irrigation developments in Saravane Province, it is a pumped scheme served by a station operating from a moored pontoon located on the Sedone River. The total existing irrigable area (command area) is in the order of 220ha and dry season irrigated rice is currently grown on about 20ha1. Improvements are to enable dry season cropping in the remaining 200ha and to include an extension of 50 ha. The improved scheme is to have a command area of 270ha, yielding both a wet and a dry season crop, and serving 101 families. 2
4. The Scheme water source is the Sedone River which is a perennial river with regular fluctuations in water level throughout the year. The water source is assured and the potential demand has been estimated at 10million-m3 per year. At some juncture a forthcoming river basin management plan (BMP) will be available for the river as demanded by the IWRM principles, and currently being developed by the DOWR3. River level data to hand shows a fluctuation of only 0.3m over the annual cycle.
2.2 Present Condition and Characteristics of the Scheme
5. The Scheme has deteriorated and suffers from poor Operation and Maintenance (O&M). Some of the secondary assets have virtually been abandoned and few operable structures exist on the main canal. No structures were installed by the farmers when they constructed the secondary network and what control exists is through temporary earth and
1 Information from the WUG director, February 2016 2 Number of beneficiary families per the WUG representatives, February 2016 3 The BMP was not available as of February 2016, and the DAFO were not aware of its existence.
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 1 brush wood checks. Rehabilitation of the Scheme has been planned on the basis of a command area of 220ha plus a northern extension of approximately another 50ha.
Figure 1: Location of the Subproject in Southern Lao PDR
Vapy District Sub- Project Area
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 2 6. The Scheme is laid out in a ‘herringbone’ formation with a central main canal running along the spine serving a series of secondary canals. Water is delivered via a conventional electrically powered pumping plant using a pair of centrifugal pumps mounted on a floating pontoon, a technique commonly used. The overall Scheme is shown in Figure 2. Water is pumped into a stilling basin from where it discharges by gravity into the lined main canal. Flow is then distributed by gravity through a set of secondary canals to discrete field blocks. Figure 2: Scheme Layout
7. The Scheme is served by a pump station operating from a moored pontoon located on the Sedone River which delivers water through twin 250 mm diameter welded steel rising mains. Pumping is via centrifugal units driven by electric motors powered off the national grid. Scheme pump station details are set down in Table 1. Table 1: Pump Station Details Description Detail Pump (No) 2 Capacity (l/sec per pump) 270 Motor (No) 2 Motor (Kw per motor) 75 Theo ret ical pu mp head (m) 15 -20 Actu al mea sured pu mp he ad (m)4 14
8. Condition surveys undertaken by the PPTA team confirmed that the overall condition of the E&M equipment is clearly deficient. It was not been possible to start the pumps and carry out any testing during the 2012 visits. During the 2016 update visit the pumps were not operating but there was water in the stilling basin and the local canals, indicating that they had operated recently (see Figure 3).
9. The Scheme’s current command area (220ha) is very unlikely to have been fully irrigated 5. The lined sections are narrow trapezoidal sections and the unlined sections
4 Measured during the field asset condition surveys
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 3 were previously wider trapezoidal sections. Almost all of the unlined canals have lost their shape with eroded side slopes, and heavily silted-up inverts. The lined main canal has seen little use and there is an apparent defect, in that there is a step of around 1m at the start of the scheme (see Figure 3). This compromises the operation of the scheme with insufficient remaining head to delivery water to the tail of the scheme. The rehabilitated design will make use of the available head and grade to service the extreme areas of the scheme. Figure 3: Existing stilling basin and drop-off into canal at Vapy
10. The estimated total length of main, secondary and tertiary canals is 1,036 m, 1,930 m, and 370 m respectively, some canals are in cut and others are in fill. In general, the former applies to the main canals and the latter to the secondary and some tertiary canals. Flows in the canals are unregulated and the Scheme is free running apart from at some secondary canals where temporary measures are used to route flows into specific farm units. As a consequence, scheme efficiency is low and therefore would incur a higher pumping cost per hectare than necessary. As expected the canal dimensions vary widely and using typical dimensions and assuming a canal slope of 1:500, and an appropriate water depth, indicative discharges for each are given in Table 2.
11. Where existing, on-farm canals are open channels served by offtakes from the secondary canals. Offtakes usually simply discharge water into a bunded farm plot through an RC pipe which controls inflow with a plug of earth in a plastic bag. The pipes vary in size (200 mm to 400 mm typically) and are set in the canal embankment where farmers need water. Some old diversion structures and off takes still exist but few are gated or in an acceptable state of repair. There is evidence that regulating gates had been installed on some structures but these are no longer in place. No functional drainage network remains and water is simply routed through and around the farm blocks via the natural drainage
5 The 2016 Update Team was informed that the pump is operating daily from 8:00 to 16:00 continuously as there is only one pump that is still functioning. The irrigated areas cover 20 ha, serving 57 families. There is a Village Water Users Group just recently established (late February 2016) by the project to manage the use of water and pump.
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 4 system. There is a natural collector stream which takes flows from one of the main canals and this serves as the scheme drain. The drain is about 1,990m long and is likely to have to be relocated as part of the improvement works. Table 2: Current Estimated Canal Flow Capacity Brea dth Invert width Water depth Flow Canal Depth (m) (m) (m ) (m)+ (cumec)* Main lined 2.4 1.2 0.7 0.5 1.20 Main unlined 2.6 1.4 0.5 0.5 0.85 Seconda ry lined 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.4 0.20 Secondary unlined 1.6 0.6 0.5 0.3 0.29 Tertiary 0.6 0.3 0.2 0.1 0.07 + assumed *Theoretical maximum
2.3 Improvements
12. Scheme rehabilitation will follow the original irrigation canal layout constructed by the PAFO (main) and farmers (secondary and tertiary canals). The rehabilitation plan is aimed at improving the whole of the existing irrigation and drainage network (220ha) and extending the network northwards with an extension of the main canal bringing an additional area (50ha) into production. The improvements include the construction of a new permanent pump station, the construction of a new lined canal, and the cleaning and desilting of all the secondary canals and drainage collectors. Existing structures will be repaired and where this is not possible, or they need relocating, new ones will be built.
13. The pump station will be rehabilitated, and at this time is designed to be located at a mid-point on the river bank or higher, well above flood levels. 6 The number, type and capacities of new pumps are yet to be determined. It is also possible that the pumps will be placed on new pontoons, securely moored to withstand high water events. The pump sets will be driven by electric motors powered from the national grid.
14. Canal rehabilitation will comprise 736m of lined main canal, 400m of unlined main canal, 484m of lined secondary canal, 2,446m of unlined secondary canal and some minor rehabilitation of tertiary canals (370m). Lining will be in reinforced concrete (RC). The main canals will have 150mm wide paved invert levels at 500m intervals to preserve and assist future O&M desilting operations. Reinforced concrete marker posts will be installed along the top of the embankment (out of the way of transport vehicles) next to the paved inverts to enable the sections to be located.
15. Existing structures will be repaired and new structures constructed with reinforced and mass concrete. The maximum use possible will be made of existing structures but it is expected that most are beyond repair and/or are located in the wrong places. Steel gates will be installed on off takes and canal regulators to enable water to be managed effectively. In addition, measuring weirs will be introduced at key locations to enable the WUG to apportion flows, quantify losses, and monitor usage.
16. Broad-crested weirs will be included to enable flow measurement at critical locations, such on the main canal. The adopted design would typically have a sloping face of 1:3 upstream and 1:6 downstream.
6 The 2016 Update Team was informed by local villagers that the 2011 flood rose nearly to the bottom of the houses on top of the embankment above the pump station.
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 5 17. Rehabilitation of the 3,550m of drains will take place, comprising re-sectioning of the main collectors and possible extending them further down the flood plain to improve overall scheme drainage.
18. Essential river protection improvements will be carried out around the pump station, consisting of RC revetments (concrete open block work panels) combined with the use of bioengineering measures to protect the stations from debris and prevent scour. Figure 4: Agricultural Access Road Layout showing tracks to be upgraded (in blue)
19. The agricultural access road upgrading will consist of construction of a narrow, but adequate width concrete pavement and improved drainage over 4.8km of existing track. No realignment will take place and widening will be minimal, maintaining a 2.5m carriageway width but extending to a 4.5m to accommodate shoulders where this can be done without land acquisition. Road lengths to be improved are shown in blue in Figure 4. Scheme rehabilitation and farm access road improvements will be based on designs and documentation prepared by the implementation consultants and construction carried out by a contractor, appointed by public tender in accordance with ADB procurement rules. Supervision of construction should be carried out by the design consultants or other engineering consultants as appointed by the NPMO and approved by ADB. The base cost of the works has been estimated at USD890,316. Detailed design, procurement and construction supervision and physical and financial contingencies incorporated into the COSTAB assessment of the investment are also additional to these base construction costs. Capacity building and training of the WUG and the PAFO, PPMO and DAFO, DCO staff, are also additional and will form part of the capacity building and training provisions of the GMS-EWEC-AISP investment project.
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 6 3 POLICY, LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK
3.1 Environmental Policy
20. The 8th National Social and Economic Development Plan (8th NSEDP) emphasizes raising agricultural productivity as a development priority since the majority of the workforce is currently engaged in agriculture. One of the biggest challenges that Lao PDR faces is the proper management and protection of the environment and natural resources (land, water resources, forests, minerals, biodiversity). Without adequate and sustainable planning and management of natural resource, the development actions proposed in the 8th NSEDP will cause serious ecological and socio-economic problems and lead to irreversible damage to the environment and exacerbate poverty.
21. The Ministry of Natural Resource and Environment (MoNRE) has developed the “10- year Natural Resources and Environmental Strategy, 2016-2025” based on national directions and policies (National Social and Economic Development Plan, the National Strategies for Economic Development and Poverty Reduction, the IX Government Resolution and sectoral strategies) as well as on regional and global orientations and policies (Millennium Development Goals, climate change and Multilateral Environmental Agreements). 7
22. The formation of MoNRE in June 2011 out of the Water Resources and Environment Administration (WREA), the National Land Management Authority, the Geology Department and some divisions of the Department of Forestry was a move to strengthen environmental protection and management within government. Specific policy for environmental management of investment projects is stated in the objectives for the Decree on Environmental Impact Assessment, April 2010 which states that all investment projects that may create adverse environmental and social impacts, are to be designed with the correct and appropriate environmental and social impact prevention and mitigation measures or environmental management and monitoring plans (EMMP) and social management and monitoring plans (SMMP) (Article 1).
23. The law governing the protection of the environment, including the assessment and management of projects, is the Environmental Protection Law (EPL), (1999, revised in 2012) which is further elaborated on by the Decree on the Implementation of the EPL, of 2002. Responsibilities and procedures for Environmental Assessment, together with requirements for environmental monitoring of projects, have been revised and are set out in the EPL, the Environment and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) Decree dated 16 February 2010 and Ministerial Instruction on ESIA dated 17 December 2013.
24. The decree sets out the principal institutional arrangements, assigning primary responsibility for undertaking environmental assessment of projects to the project developer, which may be an individual or private sector entity as well as a Government Department. In the case of development projects, the relevant line Ministry is responsible to review and assess draft environmental assessments and issue its own approval before submission to MoNRE and local administrations, as appropriate. The MoNRE is responsible for review and approval of environmental assessment reports, co-ordination of monitoring and evaluation, and issuance of compliance certificates, acting through the head office in Vientiane or through its provincial departments in the case of IEEs. The public is consulted in most environmental issues as required under the EPL and decrees. The ESIA Decree and subsequent Ministerial Instruction introduced an inclusive mechanism for public consultation and broader civil society participation in project design and implementation; while the instruction further elaborates the roles and responsibilities of key agencies and the timing of consultations
25. Key organizations and agencies involved in the EIA process include: the Government of Lao PDR (GoL); the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO); MoNRE [previously the Water Resources
7 MoNRE, Natural Resources and Environmental Strategy, 2016-2025 Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 7 and Environment Administration (WREA), and before that the Science Technology and Environment Agency (STEA)]; the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF); the Water Resources Committee; the Ministry of Energy and Mines (MEM); the Ministry of Finance; the Department of National Land-use and Planning; the Ministry of Education and Culture; and the Provincial and District Governor(s) of the project locations.
26. Investment projects are categorized according to a schedule in the EIA decree into category 1 – small scale, requiring an initial environmental examination (IEE) or category 2- large scale, requiring an environmental impact assessment (EIA). Where a project is of a type that is not listed, an investment application is submitted to MoNRE for screening. For irrigation projects, those with a command area of between 100 and 2000ha are in category 1 (such as this Project), and those with a command area greater than 2,000ha are in category 2. The corresponding category in the ADB’s classification system is B, which, similarly, requires an IEE and EMP.
3.2 Relevant Laws
27. The following Lao laws are pertinent to the AISP:
1. The Lao PDR Constitution (1991) acknowledges the need for natural forests as well as environmental protection in Lao PDR and requires that Environmental Assessment give particular attention to the assessment of potential positive and negative socio- economic impacts of project development and to prevention and/or mitigation of harmful impacts.
2. The Environmental Protection Law No.02/99/NA, (1999, revised 2012) assigns to the Science, Technology and Environmental Agency (now MoNRE) the rights and primary responsibilities for protection, mitigation and restoration of the environment in Lao PDR. The law defines the environmental conservation responsibilities of other GOL agencies such as the Department of Electricity, Department of Forestry, etc. It directs that environmental management and monitoring units (EMMUs) be established at all levels of government, with responsibilities to include such things as: establishing and enforcing sector environmental plans; taking action to mitigate environmental damage; issuing orders to adjust, suspend, remove or close down activities that cause negative impacts. The overriding principles promulgated by the law are that: • Environmental conservation comes before mitigation and restoration • Those who generate an environmental impact are responsible for the resulting damage caused
3. The Water and Water Resources Law (1997) classifies all catchment areas for various uses and promotes protection and rehabilitation of forests, fishery resources and the environment. It suggests that EIA should be carried out on large-scale water development projects, and requires that funds be provided for protecting and enhancing catchment area resources, and for resettlement compensation.
4. The Amended Forestry Law , No 06/NA (Dec. 2007): determines basic principles, regulations and measures on sustainable management, preservation, development, utilization and inspection of forest resources and Forestland, promotion of regeneration and tree planting, and increase of forest resources in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic aiming for maintaining the balance of nature, making forest and Forestland a stable source of living and use by the people, ensuring sustainable preservation of water sources, prevention of soil erosion and maintenance of soil quality, conserving plant and tree species, wildlife species as well as environment and contributing to the national socio-economic development.
5. The Wildlife and Aquatics Law , No 07/NA (Dec. 2007) determines principles, regulations and measures on wildlife and aquatic life, promotes husbandry and
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 8 breeding; specifies utilization of wildlife and aquatic life in sustainable manner, without harmful impact to natural resources and habitats; restricts the decrease and extinction of wildlife and aquatic life; encourages people to understand and recognize the value and significance of wildlife. The law requires the management, monitoring, conservation, protection, and utilization of wildlife and aquatics in sustainable manner to ensure a rich and vibrant ecosystem while improving livelihoods of the ethnic population and developing the national economy.
6. Land Law (1997) Land within Lao PDR is the property of the national community, and individuals are charged with the effective use and stewardship of the land. The law sets out the rights of those who have been allocated land, including the right to transfer that land, are protected by the State.
7. Road Law (1999) Environmental protection is required during road activities. National and provincial authorities of the Ministry of Communications, Transport, Post and Construction are responsible for environmental protection on road projects. Reasonable compensation must be paid to individuals whose land is expropriated for road rights-of-way, relocation of replacement structures, and loss of trees and crops.
8. Law on National Heritage (2005) The Law on National Heritage determines the principles, regulations and measures for the administration, use, protection, conservation, restoration, [and] rehabilitation of the national heritage, and also determines the rights and duties of the State, social organizations and individuals to preserve the value of the national cultural, historical and natural heritage, with the aims of educating citizens with a conscious love for their nation and fine national traditions that is deeply embedded in their hearts and of assuring the elements for prosper sustainability of the nation
3.3 Decrees, Regulations and International Conventions
28. The following are relevant to the AISP:
1. Prime Minister’s Decree No. 164/1993 established eighteen protected areas and required that the government develop management plans for each area. Two additional protected areas, referred to as National Biodiversity Conservation Areas (NBCAs), have since been added and now one more additional NBCA as Nam Kane NBCA has been established making the total 21 NBCAs nationwide. The current area totals 3.4 million hectares or 14.3% of the country’s area. In addition, provinces and districts have also designated their own conservation areas and protection forests bringing the overall national total to 5.3 million hectares or 22.6% of the total land area. NBCAs are now known as National Protected Areas (NPAs).
2. Decree on the Preservation of Cultural, Historical and Natural Heritage requires that in order to prevent exploitation of relics and antiquities, any person who discovers archaeological relics or a cultural site must inform the provincial and district offices within three days.
3. PM Decree No. 192/PM on the Compensation and Resettlement (2005) The decree comprises six sections and nineteen articles. • Section I sets out the objective and fundamental principle for compensation, and relocation of project affected people. It also provides instructions and measurement procedure for mitigation and compensation for all potential negative socio-economic impacts and the livelihood of the affected people within or in the vicinity of the project areas. It defines and classifies affected groups e.g. the vulnerable and ethnic groups of affected people. • Section II states and defines the right of project affected person in receiving compensation.
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 9 • Section III states and defines the compensation requirement and procedures, as well as assistance to be provided during the relocation, settlement and livelihood development. • Section IV defines resettlement and compensation components which states and emphasizes the significance of local culture and tradition, community participation in the process, grievance measure and budgetary consideration. • Section V refers to enforcement procedures and • Section VI sets out the implementation procedure as well as the institutional frame work and responsibility of all parties.
4. MAF Regulation Nº 0360/MAF.2003, on Management of National Biodiversity Conservation Areas, Aquatic Animals and Wildlife provides guidelines on NBCA establishment and zoning and also on restricted activities and development fund establishment and the rights and duties of state agencies in NBCA management.
5. Regulation on Environmental Impact Assessment of Road Projects in Lao PDR (2004) Guidance for environmental assessment requirements and procedures, regulation for assessing a project, in road sector.
29. Lao PDR is signatory to the following international environmental agreements: • ASEAN Agreement on the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources • Convention for the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage • United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification • United Nations Framework Convention for Climate Change • Convention on Biological Diversity • Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer • Vienna Convention for the protection of the Protocol of the Ozone Layer • Ozone Layer and the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer • Millennium Declaration • Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora • Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants • Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar Convention) • Agreement on the Cooperation for Sustainable Development of Mekong River Basin
3.4 Government’s Requirement on IEE/EIA approved in Lao PDR
30. According to the Regulation on Environmental Assessment in the Lao PDR, the IEE of the Project is required to be submitted to the Ministry of Nature Resources and Environment at the provincial level (PoNRE) for approval through the issuance of an environmental certificate prior to the project commencement (no civil work is allowed prior to the approval). Therefore the Project Developer, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) is required to consider the conditions and timing on the approval.
31. The project proponent (MAF) after reviewing the IEE document will submit it to the Environmental Impact Assessment Division (EIA) of PoNRE for its review and for its decision. Within 40 days of completing the IEE report or receiving from the project owner (MAF) (which in this case is also the Development Project Responsible Agency (DPRA)) must give to PoNRE a written record for its decision concerning its review of the IEE report. Within 10 days of receiving the DPRA’s record of decision, PoNRE will either issue an environmental compliance certificate for the project with or without conditions for the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) measures and implementation (all conditions attached to the environmental compliance certificate will be the legal obligation of the project owner).
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 10 4 DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT
4.1 Physical Resources
4.1.1 Location and Topography
32. The command area at Ban Vapy Neua lies on the northern side of a large bend in the Sedone River, the major river in Saravane Province. The area is generally flat along the broader river margins where the irrigation scheme is located and rises to higher ground to the north. The elevation at Ban Vapy Neua is around 130MASL.
4.1.2 Geology and Soils
33. As is common to the lowland areas adjoining the Mekong River in Southern Laos, underlying rock is mostly recently deposited mudstone, underlain by older sandstone bedrock.
34. Soils on the command area are mostly derived from alluvial deposits and are classified as alisols, which are strongly acidic, have good water holding capacity and have high activity clays in the subsoil and generally lack nitrogen (N) and potassium (K), as well as phosphorus (P) to a lesser degree. They are suitable to shallow rooting crops such as rice, and intensive irrigated and rain fed agriculture. Yields can be significantly improved through the application of mineral fertilizer.
4.1.3 Climate
35. Lao PDR has a tropical monsoon climate which features a dry season (November to February) and a wet season (May to October). The dry season is generally cooler, though temperatures rise significantly in March and April prior to the onset of the rains.
36. The average annual precipitation in Saravane is around 1,800mm, although this is highly variable from year to year. The peak period of rain occurs between May to September. However the dry season is particularly pronounced, with rainfall in December and January almost insignificant, while evaporation rates are at their highest. The monthly distribution is illustrated in Figure 5 below, while average rainfall levels in the Project area and evaporation rates for neighboring Savannakhet province are shown in Table 3. Table 3: Meteorological data supplied by the Department of Hydrology (Rainfall) and World Meteorology Organisation Station No 48947(Evaporation)
37. Temperature averages 27 oC over the year, with lowest temperatures of around 16 oC occurring in December and January and February, and reaching 35oC in April. Monthly maximum temperatures are above 30 oC for most of the year.
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 11 Figure 5: Saravane mean monthly precipitation data - 2004
38. Likely due to the effects of climate change, Lao PDR has been increasingly affected by natural hazards such as floods, droughts, and severe storms, leading to landslides, fires, outbreaks of animal diseases and mortality, damage to infrastructure, and increased food insecurity. Saravane is one of three provinces in Lao PDR identified in 2006 8 to have over 40% of households at risk of drought, as seen at right.
4.1.4 Water Resources
39. The Sedone River is a tributary of the Mekong, having a total length of 1,475km. It has its origin in the north-eastern side of Bolaven Plateau near Thateng District at 800MASL. The catchment area is 6,170km², and has an annual discharge is 5,064.7million- m³.9 Several gauging stations are installed on the river, the one nearest to the scheme at Khongsedone. Data from the station provided The Department of Meteorology and Hydrology within the PAFO in Saravane relating to the period 2000 to 2011 show a mean average water level of around 1.4m, varying only between 1.3m and 1.6m and showing little fluctuation over the year.
40. There are 15 other irrigation projects on the Sedone River that withdraw around 68,000m 3/day 10 .
8 Source: WFP Lao PDR, CFSVA Community Survey, 2006 9 http://www.wepa-db.net/policies/state/laos/river.htm (accessed 27 February 2016) 10 Information provided to the 2016 Update Team by the District Coordination Office.
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 12
4.1.5 Ecological Resources
41. Two National Biodiversity Conservation Areas (now termed National Protected Areas, NPAs), being part of 21 different areas covering in total around 3 million hectares in Lao PDR, are located within close proximity to the Project area. These NBCAs were established in 1993 in order to promote biodiversity conservation and ensure the sustainability of natural scenery, ecotourism, education, and scientific research sites.
42. Two NPAs lie within 20km of the Subproject site. The Phu Xiang Thong NPA, comprising some 100,000 ha of semi-dry evergreen forest and extensive areas of bamboo, lies 15 km to the west of Ban Vapy Neua between Road 13 and the Mekong River. It is thought that Asiatic black bear, banteng, clouded leopard, Douc langur, elephant, gibbon, guar, Siamese crocodile and tiger and inhabit this area. The Xe Bang Nouan NPA (126,000 ha) lies some 12km to the north of the Sedone River and straddles the border of Savannakhet and Saravane Provinces. An extensive area of highly modified secondary forest lies to the east and south of the Sedone River at Ban Vapy Neua. Figure 6: National Protected Areas Near the Subproject
Vapy District Sub- Project Area
Source: ICEM http://www.mekong-protected-areas.org/lao_pdr/pa-map.htm
4.1.6 Items of Historical and Archaeological Significance
43. There are no known items of historical or archaeological significance, as confirmed in community consultations in 2012 and 2016.
4.1.7 Human and Economic Development 4.1.7.1 Local Economy
44. A socio-economic survey undertaken during the PPTA found that villagers’ incomes are based on rice plantation or lowland farming, animal raising, fishery, and cash crop cultivation (corn, cassava, and vegetables such as chilies, eggplants and cucumbers). Villagers stand to benefit significantly from the irrigation and market access improvements. Rice accounted for over the majority of household incomes in 2009 and 2010 but this dropped dramatically in 2011 due to severe flooding that occurred that year, illustrating the risks associated with rice based livelihoods. The second largest source of income is employment in industry.
4.1.7.2 Land Use
45. The land use in the Project area is predominantly irrigated and rain fed rice agriculture though other cash crops are also grown. Much of the surrounding area immediately outside the stream is not under regular cultivation, while the land to the south of the river is generally wooded. The pump station is located near Vapy village
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 13
4.1.7.3 Quality of Life
46. Communities in the Project area are generally poor, and have a relatively limited economic base from which to develop, dominated by growing and distributing rice. Sales are made at the farm gate and at the time of the survey, prices being paid for rice were considered adequate. School enrolment is around 73%. Literacy is 68% and shows a strong disparity between men and women. Very few families are landless and the average farm size is more than 1ha. Around 22% of the households live below the poverty line. Improved roads and increased foreign direct investment in commercial activities around the province as well as Saravane town may herald improved economic prospects, though the ability of the communities to benefit from these is limited by agricultural road access and the ability to improve agriculture based incomes through increased production, greater diversity, improved quality and improved understanding of and information about market conditions.
4.1.7.4 Unexploded Ordnance.
47. Data on bombs dropped by US forces between 1965 and 1973 is available from the National Regulatory Authority for UXO/Mine Action and has been reviewed. Records on any ordnance arising from ground fighting or from bombings by Southern Vietnamese, Lao or Thai air forces, are not available. These records do not show the locations of cluster bomb munitions. While Saravane was intensively bombed, especially to the east of the province, maps showing records of US forces bomb drops focused on largely forested land to the south of the Sedone river and not in the lowland agricultural area where the Project is situated.
48. However, the 2016 update of this IEE determined that there is a 250 pound unexploded bomb in the Sedone River about 40-50 m from the Vapy pump station (See Annex 2, UXO). It was discovered by a local fisherman when it became snagged in his net. The UXO office in Saravane confirmed its existence and indicated that it will be removed by them when the river levels subside (river levels are already at a low level as of February 2016). They are awaiting an official letter from the Project to carry out this work. Meanwhile, local villagers are aware of the UXO but there are no warning signs posted. Children were observed swimming directly across the river from the location of the unexploded bomb.
5 ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
5.1 Method of Assessment
49. Potential impacts have been assessed by means of site visits, discussions with local authorities and beneficiaries and the use of secondary sources of information such as similar projects elsewhere. This section summarizes the potential environmental impacts and required mitigation, which is incorporated into the Environmental Management Plan prepared for this Project. The 2016 update used similar methods, and added rankings for the severity of impacts and effectiveness of mitigation measures (see Figure 7, Figure 8, and details in Annex 2). In addition, the 2016 update provides more detail on mitigation,
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 14 responsibilities of the contractor(s) (Annex 3), and guidance on environmental monitoring (Annex 4).
5.2 Environmental Impacts Related to Location and Design
50. Construction of agricultural access roads and irrigation canals will result in the removal of topsoil and other material containing vegetative matter that is not suitable for re-use on the road but can be utilized locally for house construction and other common community uses within or near the village. Villagers confirm there is a substantial demand for this material.
51. A minor local increase in greenhouse gas emissions (methane and nitrous oxide) can be expected from increased rice cultivation in the area.
52. The 2016 update team was informed that a large unexploded bomb is in the Sedone River less than 50m from the current location of the pump station. UXO Lao has indicated that they will remove the UXO pending the lowering of river depths and the receipt of an official letter from the Project requesting this work to be done.
5.3 Environmental Impacts Related to Construction
53. Environmental impacts related to construction will be temporary, and can in most cases be mitigated before and during the construction period. Mitigation measures are listed in Annex 2 and in the EMP which is to be included in the bidding documents for contractors, so that the cost of compliance with the mitigation can be included in the bid price. Detailed responsibilities and contract clauses for the contractors are found in Annex 3.
54. Excavation work associated with farm access road upgrading, the preparation of canals for the installation of lining, and borrows areas will result in the movement and deposition of silt away from the source, except when works are carried out during dry conditions. However if the works are well supervised and timing of works is controlled, quantities will be small, and will either be carried away by the irrigation water when the scheme is completed, or will settle on roads, paths and fields where it will not cause a problem. The use of silt fences may be required at spoil disposal and borrow sites if there is a risk of moderate erosion as a result of surface water flows. Each borrow or disposal site must be addressed individually to determine whether silt fences or other mitigation works are required. Silt fences will generally not be necessary for canal lining operations but careful placement of excavated material will be essential in order to reduce the likelihood of sediment movement into adjoining agricultural land.
55. Mitigation of any risks of sediment runoff will be achieved by (i) the Contractor site supervisor being on site for all excavation work, (ii) confining excavation operations to the dry season (iii) use of silt traps where warranted, according to instructions from the construction supervisors and supervising agency and (iv) disposal of spoil from excavation works at sites approved by the construction supervising agency. Surplus spoil should be used as fill, for example backfilling of culvert walls, wherever possible.
56. Construction operations occurring during the irrigation season may involve the temporary closure of the existing irrigation systems. This may have significant impact on the crop and livestock production and on local livelihoods for those currently having access to irrigation so it is critical that user communities be involved in scheme planning and construction. Ensuring that local farmers are aware of the construction schedule will further mitigate the effects of temporary closure. In some situations this can be mitigated by the use of temporary diversions, either in channels or by the use of flexible pipes and pumps where necessary. However it is unlikely to be feasible to maintain full irrigation flows while the works are taking place.
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 15 57. Excavation works will result in localized concentrations of airborne particulate matter, which may pose a significant dust nuisance where it occurs in proximity to villages, schools, or dwellings. Where excavation operations carried out during dry and windy conditions are within 50m of an occupied building, excavated sites should be sprayed with water to control dust release. The operation of plant is not expected to cause a significant increase in air pollution, as most construction tasks are likely to involve hand labor. Only light plant such as cement mixers and water pumps are likely to be used. Contractor equipment is expected to be well-maintained and meet minimum emission standards, such as Euro 2. Truck idling for over 15 minutes will not be allowed in populated areas.
58. Similarly, as most construction will involve hand labor or small plant, noise nuisance is not expected to be significant. However, contractors will not be permitted to work between the hours of 19:00 and 06:00 within 500m of populated areas, or near clinics or hospitals.
59. For temporary use of land, owners will receive compensation in the form of rents payable during scheme construction period, and land will be re-instated in accordance with the Resettlement Framework and the Project’s Resettlement Plan. Contractor is to protect sensitive urban, agricultural and natural areas during construction
60. While the Contractor will be encouraged to engage local people for the works, some skilled workers and possibly supplementary labor will need to be brought to the site from elsewhere in Lao PDR or from outside the country. These workers are likely to be accommodated in buildings rented by the Contractor, though temporary accommodation may also be built. Interactions with local residents can potentially lead to the spread of communicable diseases, or incidences of disharmony. Temporary toilet facilities can release raw sewage. These potential effects can be avoided or mitigated by (i) consultation with local people on acceptable areas for the siting of facilities, (ii) installation of suitable toilets such as pit latrines and grey water drainage facilities such as soakage pits (iii) arrangements for collection of solid waste, (iv) briefing of workers and awareness raising of the local population on dangers of communicable diseases and (v) assignment of responsibility for worker and local peoples’ welfare to a senior member of the Contractor’s staff. The Contractor will have and implement an appropriate Contractor’s Environmental Management Plan (CEMP), approved by the supervisory engineer, which will include an appropriate Camp Management Plan. The contents of the CEMP and the Contractors’ responsibilities with respect to environmental and social issues are specified in Annex 3.
61. Some construction activities, including excavations and use of plant and the use and handling of fuels or other hazardous materials, will pose a small safety risk to workers and to local people. These will be mitigated by the allocation of responsibility for site safety to the Contractor’s site supervisory staff who will ensure that all reasonable safety measures are taken, such as use of safety clothing and personal protective equipment and placing of hazard warnings and fencing, where appropriate. The Contractor will have an appropriate Health and Safety Plan (part of the CEMP) to address these issues, approved by the supervisory engineer.
62. Hydrocarbons and other hazardous materials may also cause soil contamination or pollution of waterways. These risks can be mitigated by having a clearly defined and lined storage site at least 20m from any watercourse that is surrounded by a compacted earth bund of a suitable size such that it is able to contain the total volume of fluids stored within. The use of commercial fuel providers operating in the area is another option for the management and storage of these materials on the construction site. All waste hydrocarbons, including fuel and oil filters, will be deposited in sealed containers and removed from the site for recycling or safe disposal as appropriate.
63. Newly-discovered UXO in Sedone River and the potential for UXO along the new canal and service road alignments is a significant potential impact for construction. No construction
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 16 will be allowed on the pump station, canals, or roads until UXO Lao has officially cleared the site or declared it to be safe with respect to UXO. UXO clearance will be covered under the Government budget or the ongoing operational budget of UXO Lao. It will be done as soon as possible after UXO Lao receives an official request from the Project or the PAFO.
5.4 Environmental Impacts Related to Operation
64. Agriculture practiced by beneficiary farmers will intensify in areas beyond the current effective command area. This will bring significant long term benefit to users. Users who are not currently using water pumps to obtain irrigation water will begin to practice irrigated agriculture, or to resume irrigated agriculture if they were in areas where irrigation water was formerly available. The potential for increased use of pesticides has been addressed by extension activity in the area, supported by the ADB Sustainable Natural Resources and Productivity Enhancement Project (SNRMPEP). This has included the introduction of the use of organic pest repellents prepared from locally available plant sources, encouragement of traditional methods such as use of moist pits to trap snails, and appropriate use of chemicals when necessary. Advice to farmers, including emphatic discouragement of the use of persistent pesticides should continue through DAFO.
65. The expansion of the command area will increase the irrigated area of paddy fields that are seasonally inhabited by fish, mollusks, crustaceans and aquatic insects. The project will improve the seasonal aquatic ecosystem in the agricultural land and have only minor impact on the river at the pumped intake location.
66. While the intensification of agriculture often leads to greater use of inorganic fertilizers, extension activity in the area, supported by the SNRMPEP, has raised awareness of risks of excessive use of inorganic fertilizers and provided training on appropriate application rates. Risks associated with the use of inorganic fertilizers such as raising the nutrient status of the water released at the outflow of the system, increasing the chemical oxygen demand of the water, are therefore not considered significant.
67. The incidence of waterborne diseases in local communities is significant. Irrigation water is used as a supplementary source for domestic purposes (see picture at right of clothes washing in the canal), and this practice will increase after construction when more water may be flowing through the system. Risks will come both from waterborne pathogens, and from any increase in ponding that may result from wastages, as ponds provide a habitat for insect vectors of disease. These risks can be mitigated by (i) promoting improved operation and maintenance of the schemes as part of the training and support provided to water user groups so that canal blockages or failures of the canal walls that can result in ponding of water are rapidly repaired, and (ii) raising awareness, during training and support to water user groups, on the hazards posed by poor sanitation, water logging and use of untreated irrigation water for drinking or bathing.
68. The Project provides supplementary irrigation during the wet season, and almost all crop water requirements during the dry season. Excessive extraction of water during the dry season prevents sufficient downstream flows to maintain aquatic and riparian ecosystems. A guideline of 0.1m3/sec/100km 2 of catchment area for maintenance the aquatic and riparian
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 17 ecosystems, recommended in a previous ADB study 11 is used to estimate the minimum riparian environmental flow. Data provided by the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology at the PAFO in Savannakhet gives average river height and dry season level, which shows very little variation between average and dry season flow. Using these values an assumed river cross section and values for roughness coefficients, a dry season flow in the order of 140 to 150m 3/sec is estimated. Based on the guideline requirement of 0.1m3/sec/100 km 2 of catchment area, a minimum environmental flow of 5.7m3/sec is needed. From the engineering feasibility study report, a peak demand of 1.5m3/sec is estimated. As mentioned in section 4.1.4, there are 15 other projects on the Sedone whose total demand amounts to about 0.8 m3/sec, bringing the total demand for irrigation to 2.3 m3/sec. The remaining flow (140 – 2.3m 3/sec = 137.7m 3/sec) is therefore well in excess of the minimum flow required (5.7m 3/sec) for maintaining aquatic and riparian ecosystems.
69. Competition with other water uses, population growth and increasing incomes will place increasing demands for domestic water supply, as well as for irrigation. At present, the water for domestic use is obtained from a variety of sources including open wells and from streams. Water from the irrigation canals is used for washing and in some cases, drinking and cooking. Also with increasing population and use of irrigated agriculture, the demand for irrigation water will grow and potentially lead to conflict among users. A Basin Development Plan has been under development by the Department of Water Resources but it is not yet available. There are no water allocation plans at the district or provincial level. At the project level the WUGs are responsible for water allocation plans. This potential conflict can be substantially reduced by collaborative action among users to optimize the use of irrigation water and to ensure that allocations to all users, including those situated at the periphery of the network, are fair. The detailed design consultants will be tasked with identifying all abstractions both upstream and downstream and determine cumulative impacts to downstream users and to the Project, as well as a fair and workable water allocation plan among these users. It will be the responsibility of the PAFO to ensure that this plan is implemented so as to reduce or eliminate negative impacts downstream.
70. In common with all irrigation schemes, an increase in soil salinity may occur as a result of the accumulation of salts that are dissolved in the irrigation water, and upward transport of salt deposits in lower soil horizons in the case of over-irrigation. These risks are low for the scheme, as any salt not taken up by growing plants will be subject to natural flushing by rainwater in the wet season. Over-irrigation is prevented both by the relative shortage of irrigation water towards the edges of the command area, and by water regulation for areas closer to the primary canal. While salt build-up may occur in these areas, risks of widespread soil salinity over irrigated fields are low.
71. Risks of increasing erosion and scour are minimal. Land either side of the canal alignment is gently sloping and not readily prone to erosion. There may be some risk to water flows by the deposition of material excavated for house building or other construction purposes, or from dumping of solid waste into the system. The road alignment follows flat terrain. Some minor erosion may occur on embankments, which is mitigated by inclusion of planting as a bioengineering measure, in the road improvement design.
72. Figure 7 and Figure 8 present a summary of environmental impacts before and after mitigation measures are applied for the Pre-Construction, Construction, and Operation stages. Details of the analysis and additional information are found in Annex 2.
11 ADB (2009): TA 6456-REG: Preparing the Greater Mekong Sub region Flood and Drought Risk Management and Mitigation Project.
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 18 5.5 Safety
73. The existing and proposed irrigation improvements can pose safety concerns both to the workers during construction and to the nearby communities during construction and operation (see Figure 9). These impacts include:
• Potential impacts from work-place accidents to workers, local community. • Possible increase in vehicular accidents on service, access and village roads due to increased speeds. • Potential minor impacts from accidents in the vicinity of pump stations due to poor control of access to the sites or to their electrical equipment. • Possible increase in accidental drownings of children or animals.
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 19 Figure 7: Summary Matrix of Environmental Impacts
Activities and Project Impacts Table Vapy Neau Irrigation Project
Output/Activity Air UXO Noise Ethnic Safety Health Income Climate Cultural Land Use Education Minorities Land/soils Solid Waste Solid Biodiversity TotalImpact Resettlement Water Supply Waste-Water Average Impact Average Pre-Construction Pump Station + Headworks 0 0 0 -5 0 0 0 -5 0 0 0 0 -5 10 0 -10 -5 -20-1.25 Main/secondary canals 0 0 0 -5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -5 10 0 -10 -5 -15-0.94 Access / village roads -5 0 0 -5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -5 10 0 0 -5 -10-0.63 Canal service roads -5 0 0 -5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -5 10 0 -10 -5 -20-1.25 Drainage channels 0 0 0 -5 -5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -5 10 0 -10 -5 -20-1.25 Construction Pump Station + Headworks -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 0 -5 0 -5 -5 0 0 -10 0 -65-4.06 Main/secondary canals -5 -5 0 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 0 -5 0 -5 -5 0 0 -10 0 -60-3.75 Access / village roads -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 0 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 0 0 0 -65-4.06 Canal service roads -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 0 -5 0 -5 -5 0 0 -10 0 -65-4.06 Drainage channels 0 -5 0 -5 -5 -5 0 -5 0 -5 0 -5 -5 0 0 -10 0 -50-3.13 Operation Pump Station + Headworks 0 0 5 -5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 -5 -5 10 0 0 -5 -5-0.31 Main/secondary canals 0 0 5 0 0 -5 0 0 0 -5 0 -5 -5 10 0 0 -5 -10-0.63 Access / village roads 0 0 0 0 0 -5 0 0 0 5 5 -5 -5 10 0 0 0 50.31 Canal service roads -5 0 0 -5 0 -5 0 0 0 -5 0 -5 -5 10 0 0 0 -20-1.25 Drainage channels 0 0 5 -5 -5 -5 0 0 0 -5 0 -5 -5 10 0 0 0 -15-0.94
Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact Average total Impact 5 Pre-Construction -1.02 0 No significant impact Construction -3.98 -5 Operation -0.47 -10 Very negative impact
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 20 Figure 8: Summary Matrix of Environmental Impacts After Mitigation
Project Impacts Table - With Recommended Mitigation Measures Vapy Neau Irrigation Project
Output/Activity Air UXO Noise Ethnic Safety Health Income Climate Cultural Land Use Education Minorities Land/soils Solid Waste Solid Biodiversity TotalImpact Resettlement Water Supply Waste-Water Average Impact Average Pre-Construction Pump Station + Headworks 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 0 0 -5 50.31 Main/secondary canals 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 0 0 -5 50.31 Access / village roads 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 0 0 -5 50.31 Canal service roads 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 0 0 -5 50.31 Drainage channels 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 0 0 -5 50.31 Construction Pump Station + Headworks 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 00.00 Main/secondary canals 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 00.00 Access / village roads 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 50.31 Canal service roads 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 00.00 Drainage channels 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 00.00 Operation Pump Station + Headworks 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 0 0 0 150.94 Main/secondary canals 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 0 0 0 150.94 Access / village roads 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 5 0 0 10 0 0 0 201.25 Canal service roads 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 0 0 0 100.63 Drainage channels 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 0 0 0 150.94
Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact Average total Impact 5 Pre-Construction 0.31 0 No significant impact Construction 0.08 -5 Operation 0.94 -10 Very negative impact
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 21 Figure 9: Safety Concerns for the Irrigation System
Child playing in a stilling basin Typical pump electrical equipment in poor condition and accessible to children and unauthorized adults
74. Mitigation measures for this during construction to be taken by the Contractors as part of their required CEMP Health and Safety Plan will include:
• Training and awareness-raising for workers on occupational health & safety. • Provision of adequate personal protective equipment to workers. • Adequate signage, lighting, and control of construction sites. • Traffic control measures to ensure public safety. • Establishment of efficient emergency/ contingency plans, adequate facilities & equipment & trained staff for handling emergencies.
75. During the scheme operation, PAFO will be responsible for:
• Carrying out training and awareness-raising for community on dangers of the pump stations and canals. • Adequate signage and fencing to keep people and animals away from stilling basins and other potentially dangerous structures.
5.6 Climate Change
76. There are two considerations in the climate change impact analysis: first, how much greenhouse gases are emitted by the project and, second, what is the likely impact of climate change on the project, and what adaptation mechanisms and resiliency are built into the project design.
5.6.1 Project’s Emissions of Greenhouse Gases
77. Paddy rice fields are thought to contribute approximately 9-13 percent of the global emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG) 12 . Methane and nitrous oxide are the dominant GHG
12 “Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Options from Rice Field” Sirintornthep Towprayoon, The Joint Graduate School of Energy and Environment, King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi Bangmod, Bangkok, Thailand 10140
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 22 emissions largely from flooded paddy fields and the energy needed to pump water. Rice emits, for example, between 3 and 8 times the emissions of wheat. 13
78. Numerous studies have provided mechanisms for calculating yearly emission levels of the principal GHG related to paddy rice cultivation, methane (CH 4), carbon dioxide (CO 2), 14 and nitrous oxide (N 2O). For this project the following factors are used :
CH 4 66 kg/ha
CO 2 690 kg/ha
N2O 1.93 kg/ha
79. Global Warming Potential (GWP) is expressed in terms of equivalent levels of CO 2 using the following formula:
Global warming potential (GWP) = CO 2 emissions + CH 4 emissions*21 + N 2O emissions*310 Table 4: GWP for the AISP Sub-Projects
Increase in Rice CH 4 emissions CO 2 emissions N2O emissions GWP Paddy area (ha) (kg/yr) (kg/yr) (kg/yr) (tons/yr CO 2e ) Vapy Neua 270 17,820 186,300 521 722 Phanomxay 250 16,500 172,500 483 669 Bung Xe 420 27,720 289,800 811 1,123 Total 2,514
80. Table 4 Shows the GWP for the three AISP subprojects. The total GWP for the sub- projects is approximately 2,500 tons CO 2e/year, which is very much less than ADB’s 15 significance threshold value of 100,000 tons CO 2e/year, and therefore no further monitoring is required.
81. Encouraging farmers to grow other crops that produce less GHG may help reduce GHG emissions, but rice agriculture will predominate and is, after all, the main purpose of this Project. Many different mechanisms for controlling methane emissions have been proposed, including varietal choice and fertilizer use, but water management and modifying quantities of organic amendment are the most important according to the available literature. 16 It is recommended that the Project contact the researchers in Thailand or others who are working on this to see if it would be feasible to have them come to the project areas to train farmers and the DAFOs in techniques that will reduce GHG emissions. Training on climate- friendly agricultural methods will be built into the Project's overall capacity-building program which includes bringing experts to the Project locations as well as appropriate study tours to nearby countries. Further, the ADB is considering a follow-on program to the AISP dealing
13 “Greenhouse gas emissions from rice”, RGTW Working Paper Number 3 , 2013, Alfred Gathorne- Hardy 14 “Initial Environmental Examination, Cambodia: Uplands Irrigation and Water Resources Management Sector Project” prepared for ADB, July 2015 15 Projects emitting more than the threshold are required to carry out an annual quantification of GHG emissions in accordance with internationally recognized methodologies, and evaluate technically and financially feasible and cost-effective options to reduce or offset project-related greenhouse gas emissions during project design and operation, and pursue appropriate options (SPS, 2009). 16 “Greenhouse gas emissions from rice”, RGTW Working Paper Number 3 , 2013, Alfred Gathorne- Hardy
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 23 with Climate-friendly Agribusiness methods to be applied to existing schemes including those in the Project.
5.6.2 Impact of Climate Change and Project Adaptation Measures
82. Lao PDR is among the most vulnerable locations with respect to climate change. Increases in temperature and precipitation are forecast for the next 20-30 years by most of the climate models. The Mekong River Commission estimates that the most likely effects of climate change in the region will include 17 : • “Basin-wide temperature increase of 0.79°C, with greater increases in colder catchment areas in the north • Annual precipitation increase of 200 mm (a 13.5% rise) • Increase in dry-season precipitation in northern catchments and decrease in southern catchments • Total annual runoff increase of 21% • Increase in flooding in all parts of the Basin with the greatest impact on downstream catchments of the Mekong River • Climate change is expected to affect natural ecosystems and agriculture throughout the Mekong River Basin, thereby exacerbating the challenges of meeting the increasing demand for resources from growing populations.”
83. Based on these and other potential impacts, the table “Summary Mitigation Measures- Pre-Construction Phase” shows adaptation measures that have been built into the Project and will be implemented before construction works.
5.7 Global, Transboundary and Cumulative Impacts
84. The controlled use of irrigation water and the use of potentially harmful chemicals in pest control are, to some extent, transboundary issues. Risks of the use of harmful substances or excessive use of less harmful substances in irrigated agriculture are heightened by ready availability from neighboring countries. These risks can be reduced by improved information collection on agrichemicals available on the local market, and dissemination on their proper use.
85. Irrigation schemes always cause some reduction in downstream water flows as a result of water being pumped out of the river. For a small scheme such as this one at Vapy Neua scheme, the transboundary impact is minimal but any successful promotion of efficient use of irrigation water will both minimize wastage in the scheme itself and also provide a source of knowledge for adoption by practitioners of irrigated agriculture in the neighboring area.
86. As discussed in section 5.4, there are 15 other irrigation schemes in the district that rely on the Sedone River. The cumulative withdrawals from the project and these other schemes will not reduce flows in the Sedone below the necessary environmental flows required to maintain the aquatic ecosystems. However, the detailed design consultants will be tasked with identifying all abstractions both upstream and downstream to ensure that there are no impacts, and to develop a fair water allocation program to be implemented by the PAFO.
87. Similarly, any improvements in managing irrigation systems, use of agrichemicals and in group capacities for co-operative action will have a potentially cumulative impact in the area, by contributing to a build-up of knowledge and skills among communities who interact with neighboring communities.
17 http://www.mrcmekong.org/mekong-basin/climate/
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 24 6 ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES
88. The Vapy Neua scheme is one of a number of candidate subprojects selected for the GMS-EWEC-AISP. Alternative subprojects that meet the agreed selection criteria are mainly irrigation schemes with agricultural access road improvement. Other rural infrastructure improvement subprojects could comprise any of a combination of irrigation, agricultural access road and rural market improvement. The Vapy Neua irrigation scheme and farm road improvements has been identified by the Saravane PAFO and selected through a screening process that included site visits and consultations with principal stakeholders to other candidate subproject sites.
89. The existing irrigation system, including pumping equipment, control structures, main canals and secondary and tertiary canal network requires rehabilitation to improve efficiency and overcome difficulties with distribution of water due to seepage losses and failed control structures. The Sedone River is the only viable water source for the scheme. While groundwater is used in some towns in western Saravane province, for water supplies, it is generally unreliable in the dry season and there are no indications from geological information that any substantial groundwater reserves exist in the area. The proposed scheme makes use of existing infrastructure, is relatively simple to construct and inexpensive to operate.
90. The “no project” alternative would, in this case, simply mean the substitution of the Vapy Neua irrigation scheme and access roads with an alternative subproject, likely to be based on a different irrigation scheme within Savannakhet or Saravane provinces.
7 INFORMATION DISCLOSURE, CONSULTATION AND PARTICIPATION
91. Consultations were conducted during visits Vapy and nearby Khonexai on 3 November 2012 which included a focus group discussion during which the Project was disclosed to community representatives and environmental and other issues discussed. Further consultations were held on February 22 and 23, 2016 during the IEE Update process (see Annex 1).
92. Farmers have been receiving some technical assistance from the DAFO in the use of improved rice varieties, and around 50% of farmers participate. The rice crop is very vulnerable to flooding. The operation and maintenance is managed by the WUG, and while the WUG is able to collect around 80% of charges, there is no reliable system of reporting, and management of maintenance is only partially effective. The newly-established WUG will need to deal with these issues.
93. Outbreaks of stink bugs ( Leptocorisa oratorius ) are a constant problem. A product from Thailand is used, with mixed success, there are no clear instructions for its use. Recently, an alternative method using tobacco and leaves from custard apple trees has been promoted but has proven ineffective in killing the insects.
94. Some villagers expressed concern about the quality of construction work, as the quality of the existing scheme is obviously inadequate. In 2012, villagers suggest that they should be involved in construction supervision, and two qualified engineers live in the village. Assistance with scheme operation and correct use of pesticides and fertilizer was called for.
95. There was a concern that some farmers apply herbicide heavily in their paddy fields. This trend seems likely to increase in the future when the new irrigation system has been implemented. In 2016, others said that the Sedone River tends to flow very low this year (lower than previous years). The low water level usually takes place from April to May, but
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 25 appears to be at low level now. No one is aware of any basin development planning or IWRM for the Sedone.
96. WUG support will continue for at least ten years during the operation phase. The PAFO and the WUGs will develop agreements whereby the PAFO will be responsible for repairs for catastrophic events and specify the responsibilities of the WUG. The implementation consultant will estimate O&M costs for the schemes and recommend irrigation service fees, as well as the percentages of budgets to be allocated to Government and to the users. The PAFO will be responsible for monitoring the O&M activities of the WUGs.
97. The original draft IEE was presented to commune officials and the public, to district administrations and to the PAFO and provincial MoNRE in Saravane. Copies were left for review for a period of 30 days.
98. During construction and operation, communities in and around the Project area will kept informed of construction activities that are likely to cause noise and dust nuisance, or disruption to irrigation flows or roads and pathways.
8 GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM
99. The Grievance Redress Mechanism has been developed to provide a redress mechanism for grievances that may arise over effects on private property and the environment. Persons affected by the project activities, or concerned about environmental impacts are entitled to lodge complaints regarding any aspect of it.
100. The objective of the grievance redress mechanism is to resolve complaints as quickly as possible and at the local level through a process of conciliation; and, if that is not possible, to provide clear and transparent procedures for appeal.
101. A well-defined grievance redress and resolution mechanism was established to resolve grievances and complaints in a timely and satisfactory manner. All affected persons will be made fully aware of their rights, and the detailed grievance redress procedures will be publicized through an effective public information campaign.
102. The grievance redress process includes five steps, as illustrated in Table . Complaints will ideally pass through only four stages before they are elevated to a court of law as a last resort. However, complainants are entitled to lodge complaints regarding any aspect of the preparation and implementation of the resettlement plan or of other project activities without prejudice to their right to file complaints with the court of law at any point in the process.
103. It is recognized that, in many cases, complainants do not have the writing skills or being able to express their grievances verbally, however, complainants are encouraged to seek assistance from the independent monitor, the nominated local NGOs or other family members, village heads or community chiefs to have their grievances recorded in writing and to have access to the project documentation, to ensure that where disputes do occur all the details have been recorded accurately enabling all parties to be treated fairly.
104. The NPMO will shoulder all administrative costs incurred in the resolution of grievances and complaints within the project-level grievance redress mechanism. If the complainant seeks grievance redress through country-level judicial and administrative mechanisms, the requirements and procedures applicable to the relevant jurisdiction shall apply. All complaints and resolutions will be properly documented by the concerned resettlement committee and be available for the public and review for monitoring purposes.
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 26 105. Safeguard monitoring reports will include the following aspects pertaining to progress on grievances: (a) number of cases registered with the Grievance Redress Committee (GRC), level of jurisdiction (first, second, and third tiers), number of hearings held, decisions made, and the status of pending cases; and (b) lists of cases in process and already decided upon may be prepared with details such as name, ID with unique serial number, date of notice, date of application, date of hearing, decisions, remarks, actions taken to resolve issues, and status of grievance (i.e. open ,closed, pending). ADB’s Accountability Mechanism will also be explained to people from households that will be affected by the project.
106. Local stakeholders were asked during the 2016 update field whether they were aware of the Grievance Redress Procedures and if there had been any grievances to date. Generally, people are aware of the procedure and there have not been any grievances to date.
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 27 Table 5: Project Main Steps of Grievance Mechanisms Steps, Actions and Levels of Intervention Time ▼ V I L L A G E
1.1 Complainant explains problem/issue verbally. 1.2 In communities existing village mediation committees (VMCs) would be the first contact for
affected persons (APs), or complainants on environmental matters, to address their concerns. 1.3 VMC would be responsible for land acquisition and compensation (LAC) issues or the village 5 1 would establish a Project related village LAC committee. days 1.4 The committee aims at clarifications and solution within its village and with the complainant. 1.5 This mediation aims at a Project internal immediate solution. If the complaint cannot be solved at this stage, the next step is to apply. ▼ S U B – P R O J E C T If not solved before: 2.1 Complainant presents complaint/s or grievance/s verbally or in writing.
2.2 A Project grievance committee (SPGC) would be the second contact for Further complainants to address their concerns. 2 10 2.3 Registration of the complaint by SPGC. days 2.4 In collaboration with VMC and complainant this SPGC would elaborate on the complaint. 2.5 This mediation aims at a Project internal amicable solution. If the complaint cannot be solved at this stage, the next step is to apply. ▼ D I S T R I C T If not solved before: 3.1 APs would address their complaints to the Grievance Redress Committee (GRC). Further 3.2 Involvement of authorities and departments 3 10 3.3 Collaboration with complainants, SPGC and village committee. days 3.4 This mediation aims at a mutual arrangement to solve the complaint. If the complaint cannot be solved at this stage, the next step is to apply. ▼ P R O V I N C E If not solved before: 4.1 Complainants with or without support from CSO/NGO, but with assistance
from the Project would address their complaints to the provincial departments and possibly governor’s office. Further 4.2 Shall involve GRC. 4 10 4.3 Can involve independent, external advice on the issues of the complaint. days 4.4 At this level, a formal agreement would be the objective to agree upon. 4.5 Before applying step 5, provincial and district staff should make final efforts to find an agreement with the AP. If the complaint cannot be solved at this stage, the next step is to apply. ▼ C O U N T R Y If not solved before: Open, 5.1 Final step to solve land acquisition, boundary and/or compensation issue. but 5.2 Court will take note and register the case. 5 further 5.3 Court to provide final juristic decision. 20 5.4 In case of required actions the complainant and/or Project proponent days have to follow.
Notes N-1: Concerning step 1 the village should decide about its internal approach and time required N-2: The shown approach is in line with the Technical Guidelines on Compensation and Resettlement of Affected People by Development Project, March 2010. N-3: The sho wn da ys per step sho uld be un derstoo d as a maximu m du ration. N-4: The grievance procedures are also applied for environment related complaints.
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 28 9 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
9.1 Responsibilities for Environmental Management
107. Table summarizes the mitigation measures required for design, construction and operation of the scheme, as well as the cost and responsibility allocation arrangements. Overall responsibility for implementing the Environmental Management Plan rests with PAFO, which during design and construction will be supported by the provincial project management office (PPMO) in Saravane province, and during operation will involve co-operation with the DAFO of Vapy District and through DAFO the scheme users. Responsibility for incorporating mitigation into scheme design rests with PAFO, supported by the project implementation consultants who will have appropriate specialists based at the national project management office (NPMO) in Vientiane.
108. Responsibility for ensuring that environmental mitigation of construction impacts is carried out again rests with the PAFO, as the agency responsible for construction supervision. However, the EMP should form part of the works contract documentation so that the contractor in each case incorporates the cost of mitigation into the bid price, including provision of staff and equipment n necessary to carry out all mitigation tasks in full. These plans must be approved and adhered to throughout construction and will be monitored with the assistance of the staff of the District Coordination Office (DCO) established within the Vapy DAFO under the supervision of the Safeguards Officer appointed to the Provincial Project Management Office (PPMO). Being closer to the construction site, the staff of the DCO will be the main point of contact for the PPMO with delegated responsibility for: (i) assisting with community development initiatives through the associated investments; (ii) coordination of resettlement activities; (iii) coordination of environment management activities; (iv) coordination of all other safeguard and gender activities; (v) assistance in the identification of associated investments; (vi) monitoring of implementation of the Project; and (vii) reporting on progress of implementation.
109. During scheme operation, responsibility for mitigation rests primarily with the scheme users (WUG), supported by PAFO.
110. A more detailed list of mitigation measures that are to be taken as part of this EMP is shown at the end of Annex 2. For the construction phase, Annex 3 presents all necessary measures on protection of the environment that shall be carried out by the Contractor including the contents of the “Contractor’s Environmental Management Plan” (CEMP), and environmental clauses that shall be part of the Contract.
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 29 Table 6: Environmental Management Plan Summary al Responsibility for Mitigation measure(s) Cost Allocation Implementation
Construction Contractor and Preparation of plans by the Contractor, allocating responsibilities for safety, health and Cost f welfare to senior staff; preparation of plans for first aid and emergency procedures; io ns preparation of plans for satisfactory accommodation of workers, and of information and instruction to be disseminated to workers regarding risks of communicable diseases. RF budget NPMO / pe rty Completion of land acquisition and compensation tasks as detailed in the Resettlement Consultants Framework for the sector project Design task PAFO / PPMO / of a Selection of the alignment of the access track to minimize extent of earthworks (negligible DCO necessary; securing of agreements with affected landowners cost)
Design task PAFO / PPMO / PPMO to formally request UXO-Lao to clear the UXO. No construction will be allowed on (negligible cos t). DCO discovered UXO near Pump the pump station, canals, or roads until UXO Lao has officially cleared the site. UXO clearance UXO-Lao comes from the UXO-Lao or PAFO budget on Note: Most Construction Issues will be covered in the CEMP and Contract clauses (see Annex 3) Construction Contractor he (i) re-use of excavated material to the extent practicable, (ii) obtaining materials from Cost licensed quarries and (iii) forming appropriate agreements with landowners for borrow sites, and landscaping works to used borrow sites, in accordance with the agreements mad e with la ndo wne rs. Construction Contractor (i) Adequate supervision of the works, (confining excavation works to the dry months, (iii) Cost discretionary use of silt traps where warranted and (iv) careful placing of excavated material Construction Contractor Use of temporary diversions using pipes and pumps where necessary; involvement of Cost scheme users in planning of the works Construction Contractor Wetting of excavation sites and stockpiled material during dry and windy weather, when Cost within 50m of an occupied dwelling Contractors will not be permitted to work between the hours of 19:00 and 06:00 within Construction Contractor 500m of populated areas, or near hospitals. Vehicles are to be well maintained with Cos t Potential Environmental Responsibility for Mitigation measure(s) Cost Allocation Impact Implementation Construction Contractor Use of land for storage and as Compensation to landowners according to the LARP and restoration of land to former Cost works depots condition or better, according to agreements formed with landowners Construction Contractor Effects of construction of (i) careful supervision of earthworks to ensure minimal damage to farmland and Cost temporary vehicle access vegetation, (ii) reuse of surplus spoil, distribution to users in or near the Project area, or track disposal at a site approved by the PAFO / PPMO.
Construction Contractor Effects of temporary worker (i) consultation with local people on acceptable areas for siting of facilities, (ii) installation Cost populations of suitable toilets such as pit latrines and grey water drainage facilities such as soakage pits (iii) arrangements for collection of solid waste, (iv) briefing of workers and awareness raising of the local population on dangers of communicable diseases and (v) assignment of responsibility for worker and local peoples’ welfare to a senior member of the Contractor’s staff.
Construction Contractor Safety hazards to workers and Allocation of responsibility for site safety to the Contractor’s site supervisors staff, who Cost local people will ensure that all reasonable safety measures, such as use of safety clothing and equipment and placing of hazard warnings are taken.
Impacts from Operation Included in Contractor / PAFO Erosion and scour Grass planting on embankment slopes as a bioengineering measure. project design Included in PAFO Obstruction of water flows in Support to water user groups so that users discourage or prevent any placing of material project design the canals from sediment or or solid waste in the canals. other deposits
Included in PAFO Extraction of water during the Monitoring of river flows and extraction levels, ensuring that an adequate riparian flow is project design dry season maintained.
Included in PAFO Competition for use of Reliable collection of information on water levels in the reservoir and canal system, to project design irrigation water and with other enable sound planning of further water use development plans water uses
Included in PAFO Collapse of canals Routine and periodic maintenance, according to a well designed and adequately project design resourced maintenance program
Included in PAFO Leaching of nutrients Promotion of sustainable irrigated agriculture and soil management methods project design Included in PAFO Occurrence of water related (i) promoting improved operation and maintenance of the irrigation scheme and road project design diseases through water user groups (ii) raising awareness on hazards posed by poor sanitation, water logging and use of untreated irrigation water for drinking.
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 31 Potential Environmental Responsibility for Mitigation measure(s) Cost Allocation Impact Implementation Included in NPMO Risks of increasing road Awareness-raising among roadside and road user populations on road traffic hazards project design accidents resulting from and their avoidance. increased traffic
Conflicts arising from Detailed design consultants will be tasked with identifying all abstractions both Included in NPMO and PAFO competition or complaints upstream and downstream to ensure that there are no impacts, and to develop a fair project design from downstream water water allocation program to be implemented by the PAFO. users due to the Project’s abstraction of too much water
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 32 9.2 Approach to Environmental Monitoring
111. Environmental monitoring will cover (i) compliance monitoring, to ensure that mitigation specified in the EMP is carried out to an adequate standard, (ii) community feedback to obtain views and information on relevant environmental parameters and (iii) water quality testing. Guidance on monitoring procedures and sample checklists are found in Annex 4.
112. Water quality testing is necessary to detect any deterioration of water quality and it is inevitable that some scheme users will use the water in the irrigation system as a supplementary source of domestic water supply, to ensure that it is not dangerous for that purpose. Testing against drinking water quality standards is therefore not warranted. In order to determine the safety of the water, it should be tested for levels of coliform bacteria, chemical and biological oxygen demand. The following parameters and limits are recommended:
Parameters Maximum Value pH 5.5 - 9 Fecal Coliforms <1,000 per 100 ml Biological Oxygen Demand (20oC) <25 mg/l Chemical Oxygen Demand <35 mg/l
113. Samples should be taken prior to, during and after construction (beginning and end of irrigation season) and taken to an appropriate certified laboratory for analysis. For the Vapy Neau Project it is recommended that sampling take place at the beginning of the irrigation scheme (for example at the stilling basin receiving water from the pumps) and at the end (at or near the end of the drainage channel). Figure 10: Proposed Water Quality Testing Sites
WQ Sampling at Vapy Stilling Basin (existing WQ Sampling near the end of the Drainage or proposed location) Channel (N15 o 40’ 12.6”, E105 o 54’ 14.9”)
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 33 Table 7: Environmental Monitoring Plan
Impact to be Monitored Parameters Location Measurements Frequency Responsibilitie s
Design and Preconstruction Phase
Selected sample sites pH; Fecal Coliform; in the command area Collection of Quarterly, Level of pathogens in Biological Oxygen (near the start of the sample and approximately 12 water for irrigation / Demand (20oC) and scheme, such as the PAFO laboratory months prior to domestic use Chemical Oxygen stilling basin, and at analysis construction Demand the end of the scheme drain. See Figure 10)
Health and safety and All work sites / welfare of workers and the Compliance with EMP worker Compliance Once PAFO / PPMO public accommodation
Construction Phase
Changes as perceived To be decided by by irrigation scheme Participating villages Consultations PAFO / PPMO at the PAFO / PPMO users start of the works
Prevention of accumulation of excessive pathogens in Selected sample sites pH; Fecal Coliform; in the command area water for irrigation / Collection of Biological Oxygen (near the start of the domestic use o sample and Demand (20 C) and scheme, such as the Twice yearly PAFO / DAFO laboratory Chemical Oxygen stilling basin, and at analysis Demand the end of the scheme drain. See Figure 10)
Adequacy of and effectiveness To be decided by of the scheme: quantity of Opinions of users Participating villages Consultations PAFO / PPMO at the PAFO / DAFO water; increases in crop yields; start of the works occurrence of disputes
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 34
Impact to be Monitored Parameters Location Measurements Frequency Responsibilitie s
Implementation of To be decided by Compliance with the EMP construction mitigation All work sites Consultations PAFO / PPMO at the PAFO / DAFO and CEMP measures detailed above start of the works
Operation Phase
To be decided by PAFO / Changes as perceived by Participating villages Consultations PPMO at the start of the PAFO irrigation scheme users works
Prevention of accumulation of Selected sample sites in excessive pathogens in water for pH; Fecal Coliform; the command area (near
irrigation / domestic use the start of the scheme, Collection of sample Semi-annually (before and Biological Oxygen Demand PAFO / WUG / o such as the stilling basin, and laboratory at the end of irrigation (20 C) and Chemical WUA Oxygen Demand and at the end of the analysis season) scheme drain. See Figure 10)
To be decided by PAFO / Opinions of users Participating villages Consultations PPMO at the start of the WUG / WUA works
Adequacy of and effectiveness of the scheme: quantity of water; PAFO / DAFO / Water flow monitoring Weir outflow Measurements Monthly increases in crop yields; WUG occurrence of disputes
Presence of water ponding PAFO / DAFO / from leaks or canal Throughout the scheme Observations Monthly WUG collapses
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 35
10 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
114. The IEE process has found that the Project will not cause significant negative environmental impacts given proper mitigation. Potential negative impacts relate mainly to the construction phase and can be managed and brought to acceptable levels through the implementation of the Environmental Management Plan. Of particular importance is that the recently-discovered UXO in the Sedone River near the pump station be cleared before construction begins, and that the alignments for canals and roads be certified by UXO Lao to be safe for construction. This will require the Project to formally request the UXO Lao to carry out this clearance and certification as soon as possible.
115. No further environmental assessment is therefore required. This was verified as part of the 2016 update. The Project is therefore confirmed as Category B according to the ADB’s classification system. This refers to projects that are judged to have some adverse environmental impacts, but of lesser degree or significance than those for Category A projects.
116. It is recommended that the Environmental Management Plan and the contents of Annex 3 be included in contract documentation for works contracts, and that the EMP and monitoring plan be included in agreements formed with water user groups. Emphasis should be placed on regular monitoring of stream water flows.
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 36 ANNEX 1: INFORMATION GATHERED DURING THE FEBRUARY 2016 FIELD VISIT
Vapy Neau Environment Questions and Stakeholder Answers:
Please describe the current pump operations. Is there a legal Water Users Association (WUA) or a Water Users Group (WUG). Yes, there is a pump head still operating in Vapy Neau. The pump is operating daily from 8:00 to 16:00 continuously as there is only one pump that is still functioning. The irrigated areas cover 20 ha. There is a Village Water Users Group just recently established (last week) by the project to manage the use of water and pump.
Is the Grievance Redress mechanism used during the land acquisition process operational now? What are the roles (coordination, reporting, etc.)? Are there any unresolved grievances about the land acquisition? Any other issues such as traffic, environment, noise, etc.? Yes, there is the Grievance Redress mechanism starting from the village level which chairs by head of the village or Head of Koum Ban. Any complaints will be settled at the village level first, if not solved then the complaints will be sent to the higher levels such as to the District and Province respectively. So far, there have been no complaints from any villagers as they are very happy and fully willing to participate in the project. They are eager to get the project started as soon as possible.
What are main environmental issues or concerns here? Some farmers apply heavily herbicide in their paddy fields. This trend seems likely to increase in the future when the new irrigation system has been implemented.
Are there any important cultural features in Vapy district that might be affected by the project? No, all the important cultural features such as protected areas, temple and village cemetery are far from the construction area and will not be affected.
Is there a hospital in Vapy? Is it on a road that might be improved by the Project? There is a dispensary in Vapy but no hospital.
Has water quality been tested locally (in canals, river, ponds, and/or drains)? When and how often? How about groundwater testing (by MoH or others)? Where do people get their water for drinking, cooking, bathing, clothes washing, animals, gardens? Do people spray water on local dirt roads to reduce dust in the dry season? The water quality either surface or ground water has never been tested locally. Local people usually use the water from the canal to wash clothes, gardening, animal and bathing particularly children who are always playing with the water in the canal. The drinking water source is from bottled water produced locally. Some families used to drink water from deep wells but right now due to the drought and health issues all families in the village consume bottled water.
How much do people use the Phu Xiang Thong National Protected Area? (farming, hunting, NTFP, recreation, other?) Is there good access into the NPA from Vapy? Do people cross the NPA to get to the Mekong for fishing or other purposes? Are there other NPAs nearby, including provincial? How are these used? Phu Xiang Thong is very far from the village (around 10-15 km), hence only some people go to the area for NTFP and collect wood for housing.
What ethnic groups/minorities live in Vapy? What about nearby villages that may benefit from the project (Khongsedone district)? The area is 100% Lao ethnicity. There are no minority settlements in the project area.
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 37
The project will extend the irrigated area by 50 ha. Is this expanded area already being farmed or is there some other land use there? The entire project area is being farmed, but most of it produces only one rice crop per year.
How much chemical fertilizers and pesticides are being used for rice? Is this likely to remain the same after project is implemented? The use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides for rice is not significant as it increases the production cost. Therefore, it has been used but not following requirements specified by manufacturers.
Where is the rice grown in the Vapy project area marketed? Do the buyers come to the farm gate? On average, how long does it take farmers to get from their farms to the place where rice is marketed? Normally the buyers come to the farm gate, but some people take their crops to market.
What capacity building programs are going on now? Are there extension services from PAFO or DAFO on use of pesticides, herbicides, fertilizer? Any other training, particularly related to environment? There is a regularly scheduled training/visit (almost every month) in the area by DAFO on the use of pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizer.
Is there any fish farming in the area? Does it use water from the canals? Yes, there is fish farming that uses water from the canals but only for household/small scale, not for commercialization.
Is there livestock production in the Project area (pigs, cattle)? If so, where is the water for this obtained? Where does drainage go? Where do solid wastes go? How and where are animals taken to market? There is livestock production but only for household consumption hence the animal wastes are directly being applied for the paddy fields.
The Sedone River is a major perennial river: does it ever dry up or flow very low? What are the lowest river elevations recorded? What time of year? When was the last time? There has been a recent Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) study of the Sedone River basin by WREA (Phousavanh Fongkhamdeng, Sinthong Phanthamala, and Sengsoulivan Inthachak, EAS Congress, November 2015). Are people aware of this study locally, and if so, is it in use? Is this available? Does it take into consideration the new irrigation water demands? The Sedone River tends to flow very low this year (lower than previous years). The low water level usually takes place from April to May. So far there is no IWRM by any parties in the area.
What other projects are on the Sedone River? Irrigation schemes (how much do they withdraw)? Hydropower? There are other 15 projects that withdraw around 68,000 m 3/day on the Sedone River.
Is Vapy District subject to periodic flooding? When was the last major flood (lasting more than a few days and causing damage to buildings, roads, etc.)? No, there is no periodic flooding here. The last major flooding was in 2011 and lasting only few days but did not cause major destruction.
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 38 Have there been any UXO incidents in Vapy District or the general project area? Is there any UXO program going on now in or near Vapy? Yes, there is a big bomb recently found by a fisherman in the Sedone River about 40m downstream from the existing pump house. UXO Lao is aware of it and they expect to remove it when the river flow is lower. UXO Lao in Saravane indicated that they will need a formal request from the Project to carry out this work. Any other issues or concerns? No.
Pictures from the 2016 IEE Update Mission
Kick-off meeting in Saravane Meetings with DCO and WUG members in the field (near Vapy stilling basin)
Meeting at UXO Lao office in Saravane End of the existing main canal
Persons Met in Saravane Province Contact No. Name and Surname Organization Position number 1 Mr. Anoulak Champakham PPMO Dep. Project 55949445 Director 2 Mr. Phetsavanh PPMO Coordinator 55532979 3 Mr. Khamphan PPMO Environment 55749953 4 Mr. Phonesavanh DCO, Vapy District Environment 22412550 5 Mr. Theva Vapy Village Dep. Head-Water 28339355 Users Group 6 Mr. Phouvieng Vapy Village Head of Water 23721574 Users Group
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 39 ANNEX 2: DETAILS OF THE IMPACT ASSESSMENT AND SUMMARY OF MITIGATION MEASURES
Air Quality (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Vapy Neau Irrigation Project
Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Anticipated Mitigation Measures Rating mitigation Rating with with Rating
Pre-Construction Pump Station + Headworks None; pumps are electric and power comes from None required 0 0 the national grid which is primarily hydropower. Main/secondary canals None 0 None required 0 Access / village roads Increased air pollution in villages Design traffic measures to reduce emissions. -5 0 Pave roads to reduce dust in dry seaason Canal service roads Increased dust from unpaved roads -5 Design gravel roads to minimize dust 0 Drainage channels None 0 None required 0 Construction Pump Station + Headworks Minor air quality impacts from construction Construction vehicles to meet Euro 2 emission vehicles (emissions). standards. Contractors to control dust during construction through regular watering of exposed areas; -5 0 Cover all trucks carrying dispersible materials to or from the site; Ensure all construction vehicles and equipment are well-maintained; Main/secondary canals Minor air quality impacts from construction Construction vehicles to meet Euro 2 emission vehicles (emissions) and dust in dry season standards. Contractors to control dust during construction through regular watering of exposed areas; -5 0 Cover all trucks carrying dispersible materials to or from the site; Ensure all construction vehicles and equipment are well-maintained; Access / village roads Minor air quality impacts from construction Construction vehicles to meet Euro 2 emission vehicles (emissions) and dust in dry season standards. Contractors to control dust during construction through regular watering of exposed areas; -5 0 Cover all trucks carrying dispersible materials to or from the site; Ensure all construction vehicles and equipment are well-maintained; Canal service roads Minor air quality impacts from construction Construction vehicles to meet Euro 2 emission vehicles (emissions) and dust in dry season standards. Contractors to control dust during construction through regular watering of exposed areas; -5 0 Cover all trucks carrying dispersible materials to or from the site; Ensure all construction vehicles and equipment are well-maintained; Drainage channels None 0 None required 0 Operation Pump Station + Headworks None 0 None required 0 Main/secondary canals None 0 None required 0 Access / village roads None 0 None required 0 Canal service roads Increased dust from unpaved roads PAFO and WUG to Control use of the service -5 roads to authorized vehicles only to reduce 0 damage to road and dust in dry season. Drainage channels None 0 None required 0
Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 40 Noise (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Vapy Neau Irrigation Project
Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Anticipated Mitigation Measures Rating mitigation Rating with Pre-Construction Pump Station + Headworks None 0 None required 0 Main/secondary canals None 0 None required 0 Access / village roads None 0 None required 0 Canal service roads None 0 None required 0 Drainage channels None 0 None required 0 Construction Nuisance noise from equipment and vehicles No construction between 21:00 and 06:00 near accessing the site. residential or other sensitive areas. Pump Station + Headworks -5 0 Trucks to be maintained and have aappropriate mufflers. Nuisance noise from equipment and vehicles No construction between 21:00 and 06:00 near accessing the site. residential or other sensitive areas. Main/secondary canals -5 0 Trucks to be maintained and have aappropriate mufflers. Nuisance noise from equipment and vehicles No construction between 21:00 and 06:00 near accessing the site. residential or other sensitive areas. Access / village roads -5 0 Trucks to be maintained and have aappropriate mufflers. Nuisance noise from equipment and vehicles No construction between 21:00 and 06:00 near accessing the site. residential or other sensitive areas. Canal service roads -5 0 Trucks to be maintained and have aappropriate mufflers. Nuisance noise from equipment and vehicles No construction between 21:00 and 06:00 near accessing the site. residential or other sensitive areas. Drainage channels -5 0 Trucks to be maintained and have aappropriate mufflers. Operation Pump Station + Headworks None 0 None required 0 Main/secondary canals None 0 None required 0 Access / village roads None 0 None required 0 Canal service roads None 0 None required 0 Drainage channels None 0 None required 0
Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 41 Water Supply (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Vapy Neau Irrigation Project
Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating mitigation Rating with Rating
Pre-Construction Pump Station + Headworks None 0 None required 0 Main/secondary canals None 0 None required 0 Access / village roads None 0 None required 0 Canal service roads None 0 None required 0 Drainage channels None 0 None required 0 Construction Minor amounts needed for construction and dust Contractors to acquire water from available Pump Station + Headworks control acquired from village sources could cause -5 nearby surface water sources as approved by 0 local shortages in dry season local authorities Main/secondary canals None 0 None required 0 Minor amounts needed for construction and dust Contractors to acquire water from available Access / village roads control acquired from village sources could cause -5 nearby surface water sources as approved by 0 local shortages in dry season local authorities Minor amounts needed for construction and dust Contractors to acquire water from available Canal service roads control acquired from village sources could cause -5 nearby surface water sources as approved by 0 local shortages in dry season local authorities Drainage channels None 0 None required 0 Operation Minor positive impact from additional (non-potable) None required Pump Station + Headworks 5 5 water available near canals during dry season. Minor positive impact from additional (non-potable) None required Main/secondary canals 5 5 water available near canals during dry season. Access / village roads None 0 None required 0 Canal service roads None 0 None required 0 Minor positive impact from additional (non-potable) None required Drainage channels water available near drainage channels during dry 5 5 season.
Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 42 Land/soils (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Vapy Neau Irrigation Project
Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating mitigation Rating with Rating Pre-Construction Poor design of bank protection leading to Careful design of headworks to avoid bank Pump Station + Headworks -5 0 riverside erosion erosion Improper siting of canals and access roads to Careful design of canals to avoid erosion Main/secondary canals -5 0 them leading to erosion Improper siting/design of roads leading to Careful siting and design of access roads to Access / village roads -5 0 erosion avoid erosion Improper siting/design of unpaved service roads Careful design of canals and their service Canal service roads -5 0 leading to erosion roads to avoid erosion Improper siting/design of drainage channels Careful design of drainage to avoid erosion Drainage channels -5 0 leading to erosion Construction Impacts to soils from erosion increases due to Contractors to provide adequate erosion inadequate construction procedures and control during construction. For construction improper management of borrow pits. materials such as sand, stone, and fill dirt, Pump Station + Headworks -5 contractor should choose legal service 0 providers who have exploitation licenses and environmental protection commitment issued by local authorities. Same as above Contractors to provide adequate erosion control during construction. For construction materials such as sand, stone, and fill dirt, Main/secondary canals -5 contractor should choose legal service 0 providers who have exploitation licenses and environmental protection commitment issued by local authorities. Same as above Contractors to provide adequate erosion control during construction. For construction materials such as sand, stone, and fill dirt, Access / village roads -5 contractor should choose legal service 0 providers who have exploitation licenses and environmental protection commitment issued by local authorities. Same as above Contractors to provide adequate erosion control during construction. For construction materials such as sand, stone, and fill dirt, Canal service roads -5 contractor should choose legal service 0 providers who have exploitation licenses and environmental protection commitment issued by local authorities. Impacts to soils from erosion increases due to Contractors to provide adequate erosion inadequate construction procedures control during construction. For construction materials such as sand, stone, and fill dirt, Drainage channels -5 contractor should choose legal service 0 providers who have exploitation licenses and environmental protection commitment issued by local authorities. Operation Inadequate maintenance of headworks leading Adequate maintenance and care of Pump Station + Headworks -5 0 to bank erosion landscaping of riverbanks Main/secondary canals none 0 none required 0 Access / village roads none 0 none required 0 Inadequate maintenance of gravel roads leading Adequate maintenance and care of service Canal service roads -5 0 to erosion roads Inadequate maintenance of drainage leading to Adequate maintenance and care of drainage Drainage channels -5 0 erosion
Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 43 Waste Water (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Vapy Neau Irrigation Project
Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating mitigation Rating with Rating Pre-Construction Pump Station + Headworks Minor to None 0 None required 0 Main/secondary canals same as above 0 None required 0 Access / village roads same as above 0 None required 0 Canal service roads same as above 0 None required 0 Drainage from irrigated fields in which large Design should require PAFO to instruct people amounts of fertilizers and pesticides have been not to use drainage water without testing for Drainage channels used could include contaminated water which -5 contaminants 0 might be used downstream by other farmers or even for domestic use. Construction Minor increase in wastewater from construction Contractors to manage wastewater discharges camps, including petroleum/chemical pollution. at construction camps. Contamination of surface water. Site camps so as to avoid impacts to surface and groundwater. Monitor surface and groundwater quality at Pump Station + Headworks -5 or near camps. 0 Use temporary diversion drains & bunds, temporary silt traps and ponds to prevent contamination of surface water. Stockpile spoils in flat areas away from drainage routes Main/secondary canals same as above -5 same as above 0 Access / village roads same as above -5 same as above 0 Canal service roads same as above -5 same as above 0 Drainage channels same as above -5 same as above 0 Operation Pump Station + Headworks None 0 None required 0 Main/secondary canals same as above 0 None required 0 Access / village roads same as above 0 None required 0 Canal service roads same as above 0 None required 0 Drainage from irrigated fields in which large PAFO to develop an on-going capacity- amounts of fertilizers and pesticides have been building program to instruct people not to used could include contaminated water which use drainage water without testing for might be used downstream by other farmers or contaminants. even for domestic use. PAFO to train farmers in methods for reducing Drainage channels -5 the use of chemicals. 0 Coordinate with Agriculture Extension Centre to ensure that farmers are trained in correct use and storage of fertilizer, pesticides, and other potentially hazardous substances
Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 44 Solid Waste (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Vapy Neau Irrigation Project
Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating mitigation Rating with Rating Pre-Construction Pump Station + Headworks none 0 none required 0 Main/secondary canals none 0 none required 0 Access / village roads none 0 none required 0 Canal service roads none 0 none required 0 Drainage channels none 0 none required 0 Construction Minor local impacts from improper disposal of Contractors to use best practice with respect solid waste from construction activities or to waste management at the camps and Pump Station + Headworks workers -5 construction sites, including proper disposal 0 of solid waste at locations approved by local authorities Main/secondary canals same as above -5 same as above 0 Access / village roads same as above -5 same as above 0 Canal service roads same as above -5 same as above 0 Drainage channels same as above -5 same as above 0 Operation Pump Station + Headworks none 0 none required 0 impacts to canals from improper PAFO to develop an on-going capacity- disposal/dumping of solid wastes in canals building program to instruct people not to dump waste in the canals. Coordinate with Agriculture Extension Centre Main/secondary canals -5 0 to ensure that farmers are trained in correct methds for storage of fertilizer, pesticides, and other potentially hazardous substances
impacts to roads from improper PAFO to develop an on-going awareness- Access / village roads disposal/dumping of solid wastes on and along -5 raising program against littering 0 roads impacts to roads from improper PAFO to develop an on-going awareness- Canal service roads disposal/dumping of solid wastes on and along -5 raising program against littering 0 roads impacts to drainage channels from improper PAFO to develop an on-going capacity- Drainage channels disposal/dumping of solid wastes which could -5 building program to instruct people not to 0 lead to reduced efficiency of the drains dump waste in the drainage channels.
Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 45 Land Use (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Vapy Neau Irrigation Project
Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating mitigation Rating with Rating Pre-Construction No effect on land use since headworks will not none required Pump Station + Headworks 0 0 require land acquisition. No effect on land use since irrigated areas are none required Main/secondary canals 0 0 already being farmed. Access / village roads same as above 0 none required 0 Canal service roads same as above 0 none required 0 Drainage channels same as above 0 none required 0 Construction Minor impacts to local land uses during Contractor to protect sensitive urban, construction agricultural and natural areas during Pump Station + Headworks -5 construction, pay for any temporary use of 0 land, and restore to original condition any land used temporarily Main/secondary canals same as above -5 same as above 0 Access / village roads same as above -5 same as above 0 Canal service roads same as above -5 same as above 0 Drainage channels none 0 none required 0 Operation Pump Station + Headworks none 0 none required 0 Main/secondary canals none 0 none required 0 Access / village roads none 0 none required 0 Canal service roads none 0 none required 0 Drainage channels none 0 none required 0
Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 46 Biodiversity (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Vapy Neau Irrigation Project
Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating mitigation Rating with Rating Pre-Construction Potential minor impact to aquatic ecology at the Design the the pump and headworks to Pump Station + Headworks -5 0 headworks and pump station protect aquatic life. Main/secondary canals Minoor to none 0 none required 0 Access / village roads Minoor to none 0 none required 0 Canal service roads Minoor to none 0 none required 0 Drainage channels Minoor to none 0 none required 0 Construction Minor / temporary negative impacts during Contractors to protect sensitive natural areas Pump Station + Headworks construction at the River, construction camps and -5 during the Project construction 0 nearby water courses Same as above Contractors to protect sensitive natural areas Main/secondary canals -5 0 during the Project construction Access / village roads Same as above -5 Same as above 0 Canal service roads Same as above -5 Same as above 0 Drainage channels Same as above -5 Same as above 0 Operation Pump Station + Headworks Minor to none 0 none required 0 Main/secondary canals Minor to none 0 none required 0 Access / village roads Minor to none 0 none required 0 Canal service roads Minor to none 0 none required 0 Drainage channels Minor to none 0 none required 0
Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 47 Cultural Resources (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Vapy Neau Irrigation Project
Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating mitigation Rating with with Rating Pre-Construction Pump Station + Headworks Minor to None 0 None required 0 Main/secondary canals Minor to None 0 None required 0 Access / village roads Minor to None 0 None required 0 Canal service roads Minor to None 0 None required 0 Drainage channels Minor to None 0 None required 0 Construction Pump Station + Headworks Minor to None 0 None required 0 Main/secondary canals Minor to None 0 None required 0 Access / village roads Minor to None 0 None required 0 Canal service roads Minor to None 0 None required 0 Drainage channels Minor to None 0 None required 0 Operation Pump Station + Headworks Minor to None 0 None required 0 Main/secondary canals Minor to None 0 None required 0 Access / village roads Minor to None 0 None required 0 Canal service roads Minor to None 0 None required 0 Drainage channels Minor to None 0 None required 0
Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact
Education (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Vapy Neau Irrigation Project
Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating mitigation Rating with Rating Pre-Construction Pump Station + Headworks Minor to None 0 None required 0 Main/secondary canals Minor to None 0 None required 0 Access / village roads Minor to None 0 None required 0 Canal service roads Minor to None 0 None required 0 Drainage channels Minor to None 0 None required 0 Construction Pump Station + Headworks Minor to None 0 None required 0 Main/secondary canals Minor to None 0 None required 0 Minor negative impacts from possible impaired Contractor required to maintain safe access Access / village roads -5 0 access to schools during construction to education facilities at all times. Canal service roads Minor to None 0 None required 0 Drainage channels Minor to None 0 None required 0 Operation Pump Station + Headworks Minor to None 0 None required 0 Main/secondary canals Minor to None 0 None required 0 Minor positive impacts from improved access to None required Access / village roads 5 5 education facilities Canal service roads Minor to None 0 None required 0 Drainage channels Minor to None 0 None required 0
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 48 Human Health (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Vapy Neau Irrigation Project
Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating mitigation Rating with with Rating Pre-Construction Pump Station + Headworks Minor to None 0 None required 0 Main/secondary canals Minor to None 0 None required 0 Access / village roads Minor to None 0 None required 0 Canal service roads Minor to None 0 None required 0 Drainage channels Minor to None 0 None required 0 Construction Possible increase in STDs or other diseases from Contractors to screen and educate workers for construction workers interacting with local HIV and other STDs, implement malaria control at Pump Station + Headworks -5 0 population work sites and camps, and provide adequate toilet facilities and clean water for workers. same as above Contractors to screen and educate workers for HIV and other STDs, implement malaria control at Main/secondary canals -5 0 work sites and camps, and provide adequate toilet facilities and clean water for workers. Potential minor and temporary negative health Contractors to provide adequate access to health impacts from reduced access to health facilities in facilties at all times. Contractors to screen and villages. educate workers for HIV and other STDs, Access / village roads -5 0 Possible increase in STDs from construction workers implement malaria control at work sites and interacting with local population camps. Provide adequate toilet facilities and clean water for workers. Canal service roads same as above -5 same as above 0 same as above Contractors to screen and educate workers for HIV and other STDs, implement malaria control at Drainage channels -5 0 work sites and camps, and provide adequate toilet facilities and clean water for workers. Operation Pump Station + Headworks Minor to None 0 None required 0 Potential minor negative impact from the provision of Farmers to be instructed in the control of additional open surface water that can lead to mosquito and water borne disease control by increased incidence of mosquitos and water-borne PAFO. Main/secondary canals -5 0 diseases. Water flow in canals should not be impeded, and stagnant ponding from overflows should be avoided. Improvement in health from paving and reducing dust None required Access / village roads from village roads, and from improved access to 5 5 health facilities Minor negative impact from increased dust from Service roads to be maintained and surfaced with Canal service roads unpaved roads during dry season. -5 non-dust-producing materials in villages, or 0 watered during dry season Potential for increase in waterborne diseases if PAFO should have an ongoing program to instruct drainage channels are allowed to stagnate or are farmers and other residents in the control of purposefully ponded. mosquito and water borne diseases. Possible negative health impacts from the use of Water flow in drainage channels should not be contaminated drainage water for domestic purposes. impeded, and stagnant ponding should be Drainage channels -5 0 avoided. Residents should be instructed to avoid using drainage water for domestic purposes due to possibility of contamination from fertiizers and pesticides.
Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 49 Safety (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Vapy Neau Irrigation Project
Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating mitigation Rating with Rating Pre-Construction Pump Station + Headworks Minor to none 0 Not required 0 Main/secondary canals Minor to none 0 Not required 0 Access / village roads Minor to none 0 Not required 0 Canal service roads Minor to none 0 Not required 0 Drainage channels Minor to none 0 Not required 0 Construction Potential impacts from work-place accidents to Training and awareness raising for workers on workers, local community, or vehicles. occupational health & safety. Contractor to provide adequate personal protective equipment to workers. Adequate signage, lighting, and control of construction sites. Pump Station + Headworks Traffic control measures to ensure public safety. Contractor to establish efficient emergency/ contingency plans, adequate facilities & equipment & trained staff for handling -5 emergencies. 0 Main/secondary canals same as above -5 same as above 0 Potential impacts from work-place accidents to same as above workers, local community. Access / village roads Possible increase in vehicular accidents on access and village roads. -5 0 Canal service roads same as above -5 same as above 0 Drainage channels same as for canals and pump stations, above -5 same as above 0 Operation Potential minor impacts from accidents in the PAFO to carry out training and awareness vicinity of pump stations due to poor control of raising for community on dangers of the access to the sites. pump operations. Pump Station + Headworks Adequate signage and fencing to keep people and animals away from the pump stations. -5 0 Possible increase in accidental drownings of PAFO to carry out training and awareness children or animals raising for community on dangers of the canals. Main/secondary canals -5 0 Adequate signage and fencing to keep people and animals away from stilling basins and other potentially dangerous structures. Possible increase in vehicular accidents due to Local authorities to control traffic speeds in Access / village roads increased speeds on paved roads -5 villages, possibly with speed-reduction 0 methods such as speed humps. Possible increase in accidents from improper use PAFO and local authorities to control traffic Canal service roads -5 0 or damage to the unpaved roads use on service roads. Possible increase in accidental drownings of PAFO to carry out training and awareness children or animals raising for community on dangers of the Drainage channels -5 drainage channels. 0 Adequate signage and fencing to keep people and animals away.
Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 50 Resettlement (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Vapy Neau Irrigation Project
Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating mitigation Rating with with Rating Pre-Construction Minor land acquisition may be required for the Resettlement Plan has been prepared to define headworks. compensation, following ADB Safeguards Policy and the Lao Resettlement Decree regarding resettlement. Compensation to be completed Pump Station + Headworks -5 0 prior to construction. In some cases, local authorities have carried out a land exchange program to provide affected people with suitable alternative land nearby. Minor acquisition of land, trees, or fences may be Resettlement Plan has been prepared to define required. compensation, following ADB Safeguards Policy and the Lao Resettlement Decree regarding resettlement. Compensation to be completed Main/secondary canals -5 0 prior to construction. In some cases, local authorities have carried out a land exchange program to provide affected people with suitable alternative land nearby. Access / village roads same as above -5 same as above 0 Canal service roads same as above -5 same as above 0 Drainage channels same as above -5 same as above 0 Construction Potential for temporary impacts due to - Contractor to pay rent for temporary use of contractors' use of land land. - Only vacant land to be used Pump Station + Headworks - use of land will not disturb businesses - land temporarily used will be restored or -5 improved to pre-project condition 0 Main/secondary canals same as above -5 same as above 0 Access / village roads same as above -5 same as above 0 Canal service roads same as above -5 same as above 0 Drainage channels same as above -5 same as above 0 Operation Possible on-going disputes or grievances Establish and fully implement the Grievance Pump Station + Headworks -5 Resolution Process to be in force for the life of 0 the project Main/secondary canals same as above -5 same as above 0 Access / village roads same as above -5 same as above 0 Canal service roads same as above -5 same as above 0 Drainage channels same as above -5 same as above 0
Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 51 Income (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Vapy Neau Irrigation Project
Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating mitigation Rating with Rating Pre-Construction Project is designed to provide significant income none required Pump Station + Headworks improvements from allowing two rice crops per year to the beneficiaries. 10 10 Main/secondary canals same as above 10 none required 10 Access / village roads same as above 10 none required 10 Canal service roads same as above 10 none required 10 Drainage channels same as above 10 none required 10 Construction Pump Station + Headworks Minor to none 0 none required 0 Main/secondary canals same as above 0 none required 0 Posible minor negative impact to income for Contractors to provide access to shops / shops due to lack of access during construction businesses / homes at all times. Access / village roads Contractors to hire local people to the extent -5 possible. 5 Canal service roads Minor to none 0 none required 0 Drainage channels same as above 0 none required 0 Operation Significant income improvements from allowing Can also promote aquaculture development Pump Station + Headworks two or more rice crops per year to the due to sustainable water supply. beneficiaries. 10 10 Main/secondary canals same as above 10 none required 10 Access / village roads same as above 10 none required 10 Canal service roads same as above 10 none required 10 Drainage channels same as above 10 none required 10
Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 52 Ethnic Minorities (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Vapy Neau Irrigation Project
Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating mitigation Rating with Rating Pre-Construction Project is designed to provide significant income none required improvements from irrigated agriculture, Pump Station + Headworks including to ethnic monrities. However, there are no identified ethnic minority villages in the project area. 0 0 Main/secondary canals same as above 0 none required 0 Access / village roads same as above 0 none required 0 Canal service roads same as above 0 none required 0 Drainage channels same as above 0 none required 0 Construction None anticipated since there are no ethnic none required Pump Station + Headworks minority villages 0 0 Main/secondary canals same as above 0 same as above 0 Access / village roads same as above 0 same as above 0 Canal service roads same as above 0 same as above 0 Drainage channels same as above 0 none required 0 Operation Project is designed to provide significant income none required improvements from irrigated agriculture, Pump Station + Headworks including to ethnic monrities. However, there are no identified ethnic minority villages in the project area. 0 0 Main/secondary canals same as above 0 none required 0 Access / village roads same as above 0 none required 0 Canal service roads same as above 0 none required 0 Drainage channels same as above 0 none required 0
Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 53 UXO (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Vapy Neau Irrigation Project
Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating mitigation Rating with Rating Pre-Construction 250 lb unexploded bomb in river approximately PAFO PPMO to formally request UXO Lao to 30 m from existing pump station. UXO Lao has it remove the bomb and clear the irrigation Pump Station + Headworks on their workplan for clearing, but are waiting for areas, especially where new canals are to be the Sedone River to be lower. -10 installed. 0 Potential UXO in new canal alignments should be PAFO PPMO to formally request UXO Lao to Main/secondary canals cleared by UXO Lao clear the irrigation areas, especially where -10 new canals are to be installed. 0 Access / village roads None, since these are existing roads 0 None required 0 Potential UXO in new canal alignments should be PAFO PPMO to formally request UXO Lao to Canal service roads cleared by UXO Lao clear the irrigation areas, especially where -10 new canals are to be installed. 0 Potential UXO in new drainage channels should PAFO PPMO to formally request UXO Lao to be cleared by UXO Lao clear the irrigation areas, especially where Drainage channels new canals and drainage channels are to be -10 installed. 0 Construction 250 lb unexploded bomb in river approximately No construction on the pump station until Pump Station + Headworks 30 m from existing pump station could be bomb is cleared significant impact to construction. -10 0 Potential UXO in new canal alignments is No construction on the canals until UXO Lao Main/secondary canals potential impact for construction -10 has cleared the site 0 None, since these are existing roads None required on the roads, but any use of Access / village roads land outside the existing roads should be 0 cleared by UXO Lao prior to use. 0 Potential UXO in new canal and service road No construction on the canals until UXO Lao Canal service roads alignments is potential impact for construction -10 has cleared the site 0 Potential UXO in new drainage channel No construction on the canals until UXO Lao Drainage channels alignments is potential impact for construction -10 has cleared the site 0 Operation Pump Station + Headworks None 0 None required 0 Main/secondary canals None 0 None required 0 Access / village roads None 0 None required 0 Canal service roads None 0 None required 0 Drainage channels None 0 None required 0
Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 54 Location of potential UXO near the Vapy Pump Station
Pump Station
Approximate location of UXO
Pump Station
UXO Lao personnel in Saravane indicated that the UXO is an unexploded 250 pound bomb, likely an American MK81. It was snagged by a local fisherman in his net.
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 55 Climate (ratings are based on expected Project effects, based on current design and proposed mitigation) Impacts and Mitigation Measures Vapy Neau Irrigation Project
Output/Activity Principal Potential Impacts Mitigation Measures Rating mitigation Rating with Rating Pre-Construction Minor local increase in greenhouse gas emissions none likely practical or feasible at project (methane) from increased rice cultivation design level. However, farmer training on Pump Station + Headworks methods developed in Thailand to reduce GHG from paddy rice should be investigated -5 and applied -5 Main/secondary canals same as above -5 same as above -5 Access / village roads same as above -5 same as above -5 Canal service roads same as above -5 same as above -5 Drainage channels same as above -5 same as above -5 Construction Minor or None, assuming proper waste See "Air" section for lower emission vehicles Pump Station + Headworks management and lower emission vehicles 0 recommendation 0 Main/secondary canals same as above 0 same as above 0 Access / village roads same as above 0 same as above 0 Canal service roads same as above 0 same as above 0 Drainage channels same as above 0 same as above 0 Operation Minor local increase in greenhouse gas emissions PAFO to provide awareness-raising for local from increased rice cultivation population of the increased emissions of methane from rice cultivation and Pump Station + Headworks encouragement to change methods or raise other crops. Possibly invite researchers from Thailand who have developed paddy rice -5 methods that reduce GHG 0 Main/secondary canals same as above -5 same as above 0 Access / village roads Minor to none 0 none required 0 Canal service roads Minor to none 0 none required 0 Drainage channels Minor to none 0 none required 0
Impact Ratings: 10 Highly positive impact 5 0 No significant impact -5 -10 Very negative impact
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 56 GMS: East-West Economic Corridor Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Vapy Neau Irrigation Project Summary of Mitigation Measures - Pre -Construction Phase Note: These actions will be the responsibility of the PAFO -PPMO Environmental Pump Station + Headworks Main/secondary canals Access / village roads Canal service roads Drainage channels Resource Air None required Same as for Pumps Design traffic measures to Design gravel roads to Same as for Pumps reduce emissions. Pave minimize dust roads to reduce dust in dry season Noise None required Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Water Supply None required Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Land/soils Careful design of headworks Careful design of canals to Careful siting and design of Careful design of canals and Careful design of drainage to avoid bank erosion avoid erosion access roads to avoid their service roads to avoid to avoid erosion erosion erosion Waste -Water None required Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Design should require PAFO to instruct people not to use drainage water without testing for contaminants Solid Waste none required Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Land Use none required Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Biodiversity Design the pump and none required none required none required none required headworks to protect aquatic life, for example with a screened submerged intake structure or other effective design Cultural None required Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Health None required Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Education None required Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Safety Not required Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 57 GMS: East-West Economic Corridor Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Vapy Neau Irrigation Project Summary of Mitigation Measures - Pre -Construction Phase Note: These actions will be the responsibility of the PAFO -PPMO Environmental Pump Station + Headworks Main/secondary canals Access / village roads Canal service roads Drainage channels Resource Resettlement Resettlement Plan has been Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps prepared to define compensation, following ADB Safeguards Policy and the Lao Resettlement Decree regarding resettlement. Compensation to be completed prior to construction. In some cases, local authorities have carried out a land exchange program to provide affected people with suitable alternative land nearby. Income none required Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps UXO PAFO PPMO to formally PAFO PPMO to formally None required PAFO PPMO to formally PAFO PPMO to formally request UXO Lao to remove request UXO Lao to clear the request UXO Lao to clear the request UXO Lao to clear the the bomb and clear the irrigation areas, especially irrigation areas, especially irrigation areas, especially irrigation areas, especially where new canals are to be where new canals are to be where new canals and where new canals are to be installed. installed. drainage channels are to be installed. installed.
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 58 GMS: East-West Economic Corridor Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Vapy Neau Irrigation Project Summary of Mitigation Measures - Pre -Construction Phase Note: These actions will be the responsibility of the PAFO -PPMO Environmental Pump Station + Headworks Main/secondary canals Access / village roads Canal service roads Drainage channels Resource Climate Farmer training on methods Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps developed in Thailand to reduce GHG from paddy rice should be investigated and applied if feasible Project Climate c hange effect 1. Likely temperature increase of up to 1°C Project adaptation measures: Project capacity building to include adaptation measures to enable the rice plant to perform optimally under adverse climatic Climate 18 Change conditions through suitable cultural and genetic strategies. Training of farmers will also include mitigation measures to reduce GHG emissions, such as cultivating crops other than rice that may emit less GHG, or employing better water management for rice. Adaptation Measures Climate change effect 2. Likely increases in annual precipitation Project adaptation measures: Project implementation to include careful monitoring of water sources to strive for optimal use of the resource. This will need to be incorporated into Basin Management or Water Allocation Plans developed and implemented by PAFO, based on the recommendations of the detailed design engineers for managing water in the source streams.
Climate change effect 3. Increases in flooding Project adaptation measures: Flooding of the Project areas is a concern particularly for the Vapy Neau and Bung Xe sub-projects. Measures built into the project include: • Installation of the pump stations on the embankments above flood levels or strongly moored if they are on pontoons • Lining of main and secondary canals with concrete to reduce damage during periodic inundations • Paving all Project access roads with concrete and paving parts of the service roads where potential flood damage (or dust) makes this necessary • Providing bioengineering or gabion bank protection at pump stations, and providing sodded dirt backfill for concrete canals to reduce flood damage
Climate change effect 4. Increases in occurrences and severity of droughts Project adaptation measures: The Project is designed to help farmers in the area during droughts by providing irrigation water during the dry season and supplementary water if necessary during the wet season. Water allocation among users at the provincial level will be the responsibility of the PAFO.
18 http://www.esciencecentral.org/journals/strategies-for-boosting-rice-yield-in-the-face-of-climate-change-in-india-jrr.1000105.php?aid=18969
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 59
GMS: East-West Economic Corridor Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Vapy Neau Irrigation Project Summary of Mitigation Measures - Construction Phase Note: Contractors Required to develop and implement a "Contractor's Environmental Management Plan" as described in Annex 3 to address these issues.
Environmental Pump Station + Headworks Main/secondary canals Access / village roads Canal service roads Drainage channels Resource Air Construction vehicles to Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps meet Euro 2 emission standards. Contractors to control dust during construction through regular watering of exposed areas; Cover all trucks carrying dispersible materials to or from the site; Ensure all construction vehicles and equipment are well-maintained; Noise No construction between Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps 19:00 and 06:00 near residential or other sensitive areas. Trucks to be maintained and have appropriate mufflers. Water Supply Contractors to acquire water None required Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps None required from available nearby surface water sources as approved by local authorities
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 60 GMS: East-West Economic Corridor Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Vapy Neau Irrigation Project Summary of Mitigation Measures - Construction Phase Note: Contractors Required to develop and implement a "Contractor's Environmental Management Plan" as described in Annex 3 to address these issues.
Environmental Pump Station + Headworks Main/secondary canals Access / village roads Canal service roads Drainage channels Resource Land/soils Contractors to provide Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps adequate erosion control during construction. For construction materials such as sand, stone, and fill dirt, contractor should choose legal service providers who have exploitation licenses and environmental protection commitment issued by local authorities. Waste -Water Contractors to manage Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps wastewater discharges at construction camps. Site camps so as to avoid impacts to surface and groundwater. Monitor surface and groundwater quality at or near camps. Use temporary diversion drains & bunds, temporary silt traps and ponds to prevent contamination of surface water. Stockpile spoils in flat areas
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 61 GMS: East-West Economic Corridor Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Vapy Neau Irrigation Project Summary of Mitigation Measures - Construction Phase Note: Contractors Required to develop and implement a "Contractor's Environmental Management Plan" as described in Annex 3 to address these issues.
Environmental Pump Station + Headworks Main/secondary canals Access / village roads Canal service roads Drainage channels Resource away from drainage routes
Solid Waste Contractors to use best Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pu mps practice with respect to waste management at the camps and construction sites, including proper disposal of solid waste at locations approved by local authorities Land Use Contractor to protect Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps none required sensitive urban, agricultural and natural areas during construction, pay for any temporary use of land, and restore to original condition any land used temporarily Biodiversity Contractors to protect Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps sensitive natural areas during the Project construction Cultural None required Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 62 GMS: East-West Economic Corridor Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Vapy Neau Irrigation Project Summary of Mitigation Measures - Construction Phase Note: Contractors Required to develop and implement a "Contractor's Environmental Management Plan" as described in Annex 3 to address these issues.
Environmental Pump Station + Headworks Main/secondary canals Access / village roads Canal service roads Drainage channels Resource Health Contractor to implement a Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pump s CEMP, approved by Engineer Contractors to screen and educate workers for HIV and other STDs, implement malaria control at work sites and camps, and provide adequate toilet facilities and clean water for workers. Education None required Same as for Pumps Contractor required to Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps maintain safe access to education facilities at all times.
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 63 GMS: East-West Economic Corridor Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Vapy Neau Irrigation Project Summary of Mitigation Measures - Construction Phase Note: Contractors Required to develop and implement a "Contractor's Environmental Management Plan" as described in Annex 3 to address these issues.
Environmental Pump Station + Headworks Main/secondary canals Access / village roads Canal service roads Drainage channels Resource Safety Contractor to implement a Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps CEMP approved by Engineer Training and awareness- raising for workers on occupational health & safety. Contractor to provide adequate personal protective equipment to workers. Adequate signage, lighting, and control of construction sites. Traffic control measures to ensure public safety. Contractor to establish efficient emergency/ contingency plans, adequate facilities & equipment & trained staff for handling emergencies.
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 64 GMS: East-West Economic Corridor Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Vapy Neau Irrigation Project Summary of Mitigation Measures - Construction Phase Note: Contractors Required to develop and implement a "Contractor's Environmental Management Plan" as described in Annex 3 to address these issues.
Environmental Pump Station + Headworks Main/secondary canals Access / village roads Canal service roads Drainage channels Resource Resettlement - Contra ctor to pay rent for Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps temporary use of land. - Only vacant land to be used - use of land will not disturb businesses - land temporarily used will be restored or improved to pre-project condition Income none required Same as for Pumps Contractors to provide Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps access to shops / businesses / homes at all times. Contractors to hire local people to the extent possible. UXO No construction on the No construction on the None required on the roads, No construction on the canal No construction on the pump station until 250 lb canals until UXO Lao has but any use of land outside service roads until UXO Lao drainage channel until UXO unexploded bomb is cleared cleared the site the existing roads should be has cleared the site Lao has cleared the site, cleared by UXO Lao prior to especially if re-alignment is use. required Climate See "Air" section for lower Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps emission vehicles recommendation
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 65 GMS: East-West Economic Corridor Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Vapy Neau Irrigation Project Summary of Mitigation Measures - Operation Phase Note: These actions will be the responsibility of the PAFO and the WUGs Environmental Pump Station + Headworks Main/secondary canals Access / village roads Canal service roads Drainage channels Resource Air None required Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps PAFO and WUG to Control Same as for Pumps use of the service roads to authorized vehicles only to reduce damage to road and dust in dry season. Noise None required Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Water Supply None required Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Land/soils Adequate maintenance and none required none required Adequate maintenance and Adequate maintenance and care of landscaping of care of service roads care of drainage riverbanks Waste -Water None required Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps PAFO to develop an on - going capacity-building program to instruct people not to use drainage water without testing for contaminants. PAFO to train farmers in methods for reducing the use of chemicals. Coordinate with Agriculture Extension Centre to ensure that farmers are trained in correct use and storage of fertilizer, pesticides, and other potentially hazardous substances
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 66 GMS: East-West Economic Corridor Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Vapy Neau Irrigation Project Summary of Mitigation Measures - Operation Phase Note: These actions will be the responsibility of the PAFO and the WUGs Environmental Pump Station + Headworks Main/secondary canals Access / village roads Canal service roads Drainage channels Resource Solid Waste none required PAFO to develop an on - PAFO to develop an on - PAFO to develop an on - PAFO to develop an on - going capacity-building going awareness-raising going awareness-raising going capacity-building program to instruct people program against littering program against littering program to instruct people not to dump waste in the not to dump waste in the canals. drainage channels. Coordinate with Agriculture Extension Centre to ensure that farmers are trained in correct methods for storage of fertilizer, pesticides, and other potentially hazardous substances Land Use none required Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Biodiversity none required Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Cultural None required Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 67 GMS: East-West Economic Corridor Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Vapy Neau Irrigation Project Summary of Mitigation Measures - Operation Phase Note: These actions will be the responsibility of the PAFO and the WUGs Environmental Pump Station + Headworks Main/secondary canals Access / village roads Canal service roads Drainage channels Resource Health None required Farmers to be instructed in Same as for Pumps Service roads to be PAFO should have an the control of mosquito and maintained and surfaced ongoing program to instruct water borne disease control with non-dust-producing farmers and other residents by PAFO. materials in villages, or in the control of mosquito Water flow in canals should watered during dry season and water borne diseases. not be impeded, and Water flow in drainage stagnant ponding from channels should not be overflows should be impeded, and stagnant avoided. ponding should be avoided. Residents should be instructed to avoid using drainage water for domestic purposes due to possibility of contamination from fertilizers and pesticides. Education None required Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Safety PAFO to carry out training PAFO to carry out training Local authorities to control PAFO and local authorities PAFO to carry out training and awareness-raising for and awareness raising for traffic speeds in villages, to control traffic use on and awareness raising for community on dangers of community on dangers of possibly with speed- service roads. community on dangers of the pump operations. the canals. reduction methods such as the drainage channels. Adequate signage and Adequate signage and speed humps. Adequate signage and fencing to keep people and fencing to keep people and fencing to keep people and animals away from the animals away from stilling animals away. pump stations. basins and other potentially dangerous structures.
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 68 GMS: East-West Economic Corridor Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Vapy Neau Irrigation Project Summary of Mitigation Measures - Operation Phase Note: These actions will be the responsibility of the PAFO and the WUGs Environmental Pump Station + Headworks Main/secondary canals Access / village roads Canal service roads Drainage channels Resource Resettlement Establish and fully Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps implement the Grievance Resolution Process to be in force for the life of the project Income Can also promote none required none required none required none required aquaculture development due to sustainable water supply. UXO None required Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Same as for Pumps Climate PAFO to provide awareness - Same as for Pumps none required none required none required raising for local population of the increased emissions of methane from rice cultivation and encouragement to change methods or raise other crops. Possibly invite researchers from Thailand who have developed paddy rice methods that reduce GHG
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 69 ANNEX 3: ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL CLAUSES FOR CIVIL WORKS CONTRACTS
The Mitigation Measures of the IEE and EMP provide general and specific guidance on protection and mitigation of potential environmental damage. The EMP is attached to the Technical Specifications and shall be considered as binding on the Contractor. All necessary measures on protection of the environment shall be carried out by the Contractor in accordance with the order of competent authorities, the EMP, and instructions of the Engineer (Supervision Engineer as appointed by the NPMO).
1. Obligations of the Contractor The general environmental and social obligations of the Contractor within this Contract, without prejudice to other official provisions in force, include the following: ° Respecting and abiding by the environmental, health, safety and labor regulatory provisions in force in Lao PDR (including those announced during the execution of the works if imposed by the Engineer), the contractual provisions of this Contract as well as the conditions fixed by the various authorizations or approvals required; ° Respecting and abiding by national and international labor codes, including the ILO Conventions ratified by Lao PDR and ensure that it and its sub-contractors make available employment opportunities for both men and women and ensuring a gender- sensitive work environment, and employment opportunities for local villagers; ° Assuming full responsibility for the consequences of its choices and actions; in particular, and without prejudice to the regulatory provisions in force, it guarantees, if necessary, the repair at its cost and according to the most appropriate technologies and deadlines, notably with regard to the level of sensitivity of the site concerned, of damage caused to the environment and residents by failure to respect regulatory and/or administrative provisions and/or the applicable technical specifications, as well as the payment of fines, damages or other penalties which may be incumbent upon it; ° Agreeing with the Engineer and implementing technical approaches and solutions to the design of the Vapy Neau Irrigation Scheme (the Project) where the Project will encroach on private or communal lands. Preference shall be given to the technical solutions that do not require taking or demolition of temporary and permanent properties. In case the taking or demolition of property cannot be avoided the Contractor shall notify the Engineer and cease the works in that particular section of the Project. Construction activities may only proceed with approval of the Engineer. ° Taking all measures to ensure the environmental quality of operations which are the subject of this contract and not disrupt the quality of life of the adjacent villages, in particular by applying the applicable specifications and provisions. The Contractor shall consider the execution of works or the implementation of environmental and social provisions as an integral part of the operations relating to the general construction program of the works; ° Providing appropriate information and training for Contractor personnel, including management staff, with regard to the environmental and social quality of operations; ° Informing the local authorities (village heads, district governor) and the affected population on planned construction activities, sites and schedule at least 2 weeks in advance of any planned construction activities (including signage); ° Holding information meetings at least 2 weeks before entering any village area for planned construction activities, to inform and consult with the villagers regarding the nature of the forthcoming works, their duration and all effects such as dust, smoke, interruption of irrigation water, or noise that will be felt in the village, the mitigation measures that will be applied, and provide villagers with opportunities to ask questions and express concerns;
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 70 ° Providing a medium for ongoing communication with villagers, including a point of contact/ liaison to address any potential issues during construction with the physical works or with subcontractors, and provide a plan for mediation of any problems that arise in relation to the works under this Contract and documenting concerns and resolution of these. ° Refraining from destroying, removing or clearing trees, timber, scrub, crops and other flora to any extent greater than is approved by the Engineer as being necessary for the execution of this Contract and shall take such measures as may be necessary to prevent its employees from hunting, fishing, disturbing, capturing or destroying stock, crops and such flora as may be protected by relevant statutes; ° Siting borrow pits or other similar excavations as well as waste accumulation and disposal sites only in locations approved by the Engineer; ° Controlling pollution, noise and nuisances generated by the works. No construction to be carried out between 19:00 and 06:00 near (minimum 500m) residential, hospital, or other sensitive areas; ° Re-using materials available on the existing site each time the technical and financial conditions allow for this in a satisfactory manner from the point of view of the Engineer. Recycling and reuse of wastes (e.g. lubricants, plastic bottles, paper) is encouraged where appropriate. Strictly banning the use of fire for clearing and grubbing and cleaning sites, except for the treatment of organic waste as approved by the Engineer; ° Preserving to the maximum extent possible natural resources and the minimizing the use of space, soil and vegetation, in particular by minimizing cleared and stripped surfaces, by the passage of blades at a high level (5 cm above the natural ground level) each time that a simple clearing or a provisional storage of material is required, by controlling logging, including any tree removals, by the appropriate management of the topsoil, by driving and working the machines perpendicular to the slope, by the maintenance on the sites of naturally grassed areas, and by the control of site erosion; ° As appropriate, systematically stripping topsoil of all work sites unless (with prior consent of the Engineer) the soil structure of the surface, predominantly organic matter ("topsoil" or mud), does not exist or has a thickness less than the working height adjustment of the blade of the excavator or machine used, taking into account the state of the terrain (eroded soil, gravel, soil with rocks that prevent the passage of the machine, etc.); ° Respecting, for the whole of its site (including borrow sites and disposal areas, quarries and installations) the zones, areas, elements and periods which are environmentally sensitive, including, but not limited to locations and areas identified in the EMP. In the project areas adjacent to specially protected areas, machinery shall not go beyond the work zone as approved by the Engineer; there shall be no waste accumulations and waste disposal sites in the same areas; and there shall be no use and storage of explosives and toxic and chemical substances. ° Discharging or disposal of used water, mud, grout, bituminous products, pollutants of any kind, etc. into wells, boreholes, surface water or groundwater, water courses, natural streams, drains, ditches, etc. is strictly forbidden; ° Not creating a dam or altering a permanent or temporary watercourse for the requirements of the site (unless otherwise specified in the Design), without authorization of the Engineer; ° Ensuring that all construction vehicles shall travel at low speed (as specified in Lao PDR regulations) within 100m on either side of any areas around villages where children are present;
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 71 ° Ensuring that all construction vehicles are well-maintained, and meet basic emission standards such as Euro 2, and that idling of trucks shall not exceed 15 minutes when in populated areas within 100m on either side of any areas around villages; ° Controlling health risks relating to the works and personnel of the Contractor, in particular the adoption of minimum hygiene rules at the work sites and camps and for the benefit of residents in the affected communities, the control of dust emissions in populated areas and the control of stagnant waters as specified in the EMP; ° Exercising every reasonable precaution to protect persons or property from injury. The Contractor shall erect and maintain all necessary temporary fencing, barricades, barriers, signs and lights and provide fire alarm, fire extinguishing and firefighting services at strategic points on the Site. The Contractor shall also be responsible for erecting and maintaining structures for storage and containment of hazardous materials or liquids. The Contractor shall adopt and enforce such rules and regulations as may be necessary, desirable or proper to safeguard the public, all persons engaged in the work and its supervision. The Contractor shall be responsible for the flagging and control of traffic and he shall comply with the requirements of the Engineer and competent authority in these matters. The Contractor shall keep clear and in good working order all temporary access road structures, bridges, culverts, drains and other waterways necessary for the execution of the works during the term of the Contract; ° Ensuring, in as far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare at work of its personnel including those of its subcontractors and of all other persons on the Site or crossing the site. The Contractor shall provide protective clothing and equipment to workers that are appropriate to the workers’ tasks. The Contractor shall be fully responsible for ensuring necessary first aid services to its staff and workers, including transport for injured personnel to hospital or other appropriate accommodation as and when required. The organization of the construction sites and work places, and the Contractor’s approach to the aspects listed below, shall be included in the Contractor’s Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) to be prepared by the Contractor and approved by the Engineer. ° Cleaning, restoring and then, if necessary, providing for the appropriate rehabilitation or redevelopment of work sites, camps, quarries and borrow pits released by the Contractor as the work progresses. This obligation, which includes possible drainage of stagnant water and the completion of compensatory tree plantations (if envisaged by the Design), is a condition of the acceptance of the works; ° Taking appropriate sanctions against personnel violating the applicable specifications and provisions on environmental and social matters; ° Checking, by regular inspection, that all stipulated environmental and social provisions are being adhered to; ° Systematically and in a timely manner informing the Engineer of each incident or accident, damage or degradation caused to the environment, workers or residents or their assets, in the course of the works. Contractor shall also take appropriate measures, as approved by the Engineer, to address the incident or accident in timely fashion; and ° Providing environmental and social monitoring of the works and the writing of corresponding monthly reports.
2. Contractor’s Environmental Management Plan
The Contractor shall establish a Contractor’s Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) in order to meet his obligations concerning this matter; the CEMP shall include in particular the following: 1. Management Acknowledgements
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 72 2. Organization & Staffing 3. Communications and Reporting 4. Environmental, Health and Safety Management Provisions
The Contractor shall prepare and submit for the Engineer’s approval a CEMP within 30 days of the commencement date. The Engineer may require periodic reviews, including updating of the CEMP during the Works.
2.1 Management Acknowledgement
(i) Certification and Commitment
The CEMP submitted by the Contractor shall provide a signed statement from the Contractor’s Managing Director(s) attesting to a commitment that all environmental protection, safety, and occupational health aspects of the Contract will be given highest priority in the discharge of contractual obligations and certifying a commitment to the provisions in the EMP and CEMP as approved by the Engineer.
(ii) Statutory Understanding and Compliance
The Plan shall provide a statement attesting the firm’s understanding of, and means of ensuring due compliance with, the statutory regulations relating to construction work in Lao PDR, specifically in regard to compliance with:
(a) All safety and occupational health legislation including, without limitation, the Rules and Regulations of Lao PDR and the authorities having jurisdiction. (b) All current environmental laws and regulations, including both national and local regulations, related to the following, but not limited to: ° Noise; ° Vibration; ° Air pollution; ° Water contamination; ° Solid and hazardous waste disposal; ° Liquid waste disposal; ° Sanitary conditions (water supply, sewerage, etc.); ° Use of explosives; ° Protection of public traffic; ° Protection of the environment, and of historical, cultural and archaeological monuments/sites, ° Resettlement, land acquisition, servitude, temporary use of land and compensation, etc.
(iii) Availability of Documents
The Plan shall state where copies of safety and occupational health regulations and documents will be available on the construction site and verify that all regulations and documents have been or will be available.
(iv) Management of Subcontractors
The requirements of this and related sections and obligations therein shall be required for execution of parts of the Works by the approved subcontractors while the Contractor shall:
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 73 (a) Provide subcontractors with copies of the CEMP, incorporate such provisions into all sub- contracts, and ensure compliance with such plan under the Contract.
(b) Require all subcontractors to appoint a safety representative who shall be available on the site throughout the operational period of the respective sub-contract and ensure as far as is practically possible that staff and employees of subcontractors are conversant with appropriate parts of the CEMP and the statutory regulations.
2.2 Organization and Staffing
(i) Organization Chart
The Plan shall include an organization chart identifying (by job title and by the name and contact information of the individual) the personnel to be engaged solely for environmental protection, health, safety and traffic control. The chart and the supporting text shall identify participants and their areas of responsibility and contact details.
(ii) Appointment of Environmental Safety Officer (ESO)
The Contractor shall submit for approval the name and details (full CV) of its proposal for an ESO to the Engineer within 14 days of the commencement date. The ESO shall be responsible for day-to-day issues of environmental management for the duration of the Contract. The Contractor shall obtain approval of such person being appointed, who shall be in position to carry out his duties prior to Works activities commencing on site except as may be agreed in exceptional circumstances in writing with the Engineer. The ESO will not be removed from the site without the express written permission of the Engineer. Within fourteen (14) days of any such removal or notice of intent of removal, a replacement ESO will be nominated for approval by the Engineer.
The ESO shall be empowered to instruct employees of the Contractor and Subcontractors to cease operations and shall take the appropriate action as is necessary and within his limits of delegation by informing others as may be appropriate to prevent unsafe working practices or other infringements of the Plan or the statutory regulations. The ESO shall maintain a daily site diary comprehensively recording all relevant matters concerning site environmental management, safety and traffic control, inspections and audits, related incidents and the like. The site diary shall be available at all times for inspection by the Engineer and his staff.
2.3 Communication and Reporting
The Contractor shall prepare and submit to the Engineer for his approval monthly progress reports on compliance with implementation of EMP and CEMP. It is expected that these reports will include information on: ° Environmental, social, health, and safety management actions/measures taken, including approvals sought from local or national authorities; ° Problems encountered in relation to environmental, social, health, and safety aspects (incidents, including delays, cost consequences, etc. as a result thereof); ° Lack of compliance with contract requirements on the part of the Contractor; ° Changes of assumptions, conditions, measures, designs and actual works in relation to environmental, social, health, and safety aspects; ° Observations, concerns raised and/or decisions taken with regard to environmental, social, health, and safety management during site meetings; ° Chance historical, cultural and archaeological finds;
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 74 ° Follow-up on the status and efficacy of remedial measures and/or corrective actions identified in Incident Reporting Forms included in EMPs or otherwise; and ° Follow-up, including remedial measures, status of measures and their efficacy, related to lack of compliance with contract requirements.
2.4 Environmental, Health and Safety Management Provisions
The CEMP should include, as a minimum, the methodology and resources to meet the requirements of these Technical Specifications including but not limited to the following: ° Stakeholder communication (including nearby affected residents) and mechanism for documenting public concerns in relation to the works under this Contract and resolution of these. ° Relevant staff training; ° To the extent possible, maintaining farmers’ access to irrigation water if the works are implemented during the irrigation season; ° Maintaining vehicle access to the communities; ° Pollution control (including spill prevention, dust abatement, noise, etc.); Hazardous Materials and Waste Management Plan; ° Provision of potable water and washing/toilet facilities to workers; ° Provision of lodging and insecticide-treated mosquito nets to workers as appropriate; ° Provision of health care to workers and treatment for injuries and infections; and providing workers with access to condoms; ° Assessing importance of, and reporting and investigating, chance historical, cultural and archaeological finds; ° Immediately ceasing work and notifying the Engineer in any part of the Project Site where UXO is discovered or suspected to be present, marking the location and controlling access to it; ° Inspection and monitoring.
2.5 HIV-AIDS provisions
The Contractor shall: ° Require its personnel to attend the HIV Awareness Program provided by the UNAIDS and/or the National Committee for the Control of AIDS (NCCA) which is developing the new National Strategic and Action Plan on HIV/AIDS/STI 2016-2020. Attendance shall be in the course of their employment and during their normal working hours or any period of overtime provided for in the relevant employment contracts and uses all reasonable endeavors to ensure this instruction is followed; ° Deliver to all employees an HIV/AIDS leaflets available through UNAIDS and/or the NCCA. ° Give all reasonable cooperation to the UNAIDS and/or the NCCA office on providing the HIV Awareness Program. if any planned, by providing suitable space for delivery of the Program and do nothing to dissuade the personnel from attending the Program; ° Encourage voluntary HIV/STD testing.
The Contractor shall not be required to undertake or pay for treatment or medication for personnel found to be suffering from HIV/AIDS. Such personnel shall not be discriminated against however (including discrimination in employment opportunities, employment retention, treatment, etc.)
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 75 ANNEX 4: ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MONITORING PROCESS
Environmental monitoring will take place on a quarterly basis during construction and semi- annually during operation of the Project. The Environmental Monitoring Process for the Vapy Neau Irrigation Subproject is as follows: a) Establish the Monitoring Team (suggestions: the PAFO-PPMO and/or DAFO representative, M&E officer, supervision engineer, specialized consultants as needed, and an officer from DONRE who will act as a technical reference but may not participate in the field work unless there are significant environmental problems) b) Select the Team Leader (TL). This person will be responsible for convening the team and scheduling monitoring sessions at least once per quarter. The TL will also ensure that appropriate resources are needed for the monitoring process, such as transport. c) Carry out the field monitoring every three months: 1 Visit the site . Visually inspect those aspects that can cause impacts, as specified in the EMP. Use the attached site visit visual inspection checklists to record EMP and CEMP compliance with the stated mitigations measures. 2 Water Testing (for irrigation schemes) : Water is to be tested: (i) for monitoring of quality in schemes where canals pass through or near to built- up areas, (ii) to identify changes of the presence of surplus fertilizer compounds in tertiary canals, as a means of monitoring improvements in proper use of fertilizers, and (iii) to detect traces of hazardous pesticide, herbicide or fungicide substances, as a means of monitoring improvements in proper use of these chemicals. The following parameters and limits are recommended for this purpose: Parameters Range/Maximum Value pH 5.5 - 9 Fecal Coliforms <1,000 per 100 ml Biological Oxygen Demand (20oC) <25 mg/l Chemical Oxygen Demand <35 mg/l Samples should be taken twice, at six-monthly intervals during the twelve months prior to construction, quarterly during construction and at appropriate intervals during operation, and taken to a certified laboratory for analysis. Samples shall be taken from a point midstream in one of the canals at each site. A single sample is sufficient. The cost of one set of tests, including packaging, courier costs and laboratory fees is approximately $250. 3 Interview the farmers or other beneficiaries to ensure that they are following the requirements of the EMP. Use the attached interview checklist on the next page. 4 Interview neighbors (2 or 3, or more if there have been complaints) to determine if there are any complaints or grievances that have not been resolved. 5 Ensure that mitigation measures are being implemented by the Contractor. Suggest and document additional mitigation measures to address unforeseen problems. d) On the basis of the visual inspection, water testing, and interviews determine if there are significant environmental problems that need to be addressed. If so, contact the PONRE or DONRE representative for advice and action. e) Within 30 days week of the end of the field mission, the TL (or his designee) writes the Monitoring Report as outlined in this template document f) TL submits Monitoring Report to the NPCO headquarters, local authorities, and ADB, and addresses any comments or questions. Checklists to be used for the monitoring during the construction and operational stages are on the following pages. One checklist is to be completed for each Project component.
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 76 Sample Questions to be Posed to Beneficiaries and Persons Involved in Monitoring
1. What is your name, contact details (phone or email) and responsibility? (such as contractor, IA, beneficiary, affected person, etc.)
2. What are your primary concerns regarding the project and the monitoring process?
3. From your observations, is project IEE and EMP monitoring for environmental and safeguards compliance being carried out by responsible parties (contractor, sub-contractor, IA, other government agency, local community members, NGOs, etc.)?
4. Were any suggestions or directives given to the project implementers regarding environmental or social issues?
5. How often was monitoring done? When was the last monitoring?
6. What equipment was used for monitoring?
7. Were there sufficient resources, such as transport, to do the monitoring?
8. What are your primary concerns regarding the project and the monitoring process?
9. Where were the monitoring locations?
10. What parameters or indicators were addressed, such as water quality, air, noise, biodiversity, etc.? Was a checklist used?
11. Were there any concerns, complaints, or grievances expressed by you or anyone affected by the project? If so, how were these addressed?
12. Have you seen the IEEs, EMMPs, all the monitoring reports/notes? Can copies be made available?
13. Discussion of other topics or questions raised by the interviewed persons.
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 77 Lao People’s Democratic Republic: Greater Mekong Subregion East-West Economic Corridor Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project -- Vapy Neua Subproject EMP COMPLIANCE MONITORING CHECKLIST (Construction) Sub -Project: Vapy Neua Subproject Date: Location: Name of Contact person : Contractor:
Name, designation Contact information : Monitoring TL: Monitoring team members
Persons Met during the monitoring: Name, designation Contact Information
Observed Compliance with EMP, Potential Impacts EMP Mitigation Measures CEMP or other Mitigation Measures Air Quality • Construction vehicles to meet Euro 2 Minor air quality impacts emission standards, or better. from construction • Contractors to control dust during vehicles along canals. construction through regular watering of • Dust from construction exposed areas; operations • Cover all trucks carrying dispersible • Vehicle emissions materials to or from the site; • Ensure all construction vehicles and equipment are well-maintained • Disallow diesel engine idling for prolonged periods (>15 minutes) in residential areas. Noise • Ensure all construction vehicles and • Nuisance noise from equipment are well-maintained equipment and • Avoid use of air brakes and loud horns in vehicles accessing the populated areas site. • No construction between 19:00 and 06:00 near (minimum 0.5 Km) residential, hospital, or other sensitive areas.
Water resources and • Contractors to acquire water from available quality nearby surface water sources as approved • Minor amounts by local authorities needed for • Contractors to manage wastewater construction and dust discharges at construction camps. Siting control acquired from camps so as to avoid impacts to surface and village sources could groundwater. cause local shortages • Monitor surface and groundwater quality at in dry season or near camps, and in canals as discussed in • Minor increase in the EMP wastewater from • Use temporary diversion drains & bunds, construction camps, temporary silt traps and ponds to prevent including contamination of surface water. petroleum/chemical • Stockpile spoils in flat areas away from pollution. drainage routes • Contamination of • Contractor should coordinate with PPMO surface and and cultivation households reach agreement groundwater on water supply in case of the construction is • Changed not completed in due time drainage/irrigation • Contractors to notify farmers of possible affecting farmers (due temporary disruptions to irrigation and strive to blocking flows for Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 78 Observed Compliance with EMP, Potential Impacts EMP Mitigation Measures CEMP or other Mitigation Measures construction of to minimize these disruptions. headworks)
Solid wastes • Identify suitable waste dumping sites and • Minor local impacts obtain approval from local authorities. from improper • Collect solid wastes and temporarily store at disposal of solid waste a safe place before transporting to approved from construction disposal sites activities or workers • Establish regulations on ensuring sanitation, stipulated dumping yard and waste treatment methods and disseminate those regulations to workers
Siltation/erosion • Install diversion drains & bunds, temporary • Impacts to soils from silt traps/pond as required erosion increases due • Stockpiling of spoil in flat areas & far from to inadequate drainage routes construction • Contractors to provide adequate erosion procedures and control during construction. For construction improper materials such as sand, stone, and fill dirt, management of contractor should choose legal service borrow pits. providers who have exploitation licenses and environmental protection commitment issued by local authorities.
Land Use • Contractor to protect sensitive urban, • Minor impacts to local agricultural and natural areas during land uses during construction, and pay for any temporary use construction of land
Human Health • Contractors to provide adequate access to • Potential minor and health facilities at all times. temporary negative • Contractors to screen and educate workers health impacts from for HIV and other STDs. reduced access to • Establish malaria control at work sites and health facilities. camps. • Increase in STDs from • Provide adequate toilet facilities and clean construction workers water for workers. interacting with local population • Increases in water- borne diseases from improper sanitation at work camps and vicinity Safety • Training and awareness-raising for workers • Potential impacts from on occupational health & safety. work-place accidents • Contractor to provide appropriate personal to workers, local protective equipment (PPE) to workers, community, or including eye and ear protection, gloves, vehicles reflective vests, and steel-toed boots. • Increase in traffic • Adequate signage, lighting, and control of accidents due to construction sites. construction traffic • Traffic control measures to ensure public safety, including appropriate use of flag- persons and signage. • Contractor to establish efficient emergency/ contingency plans, adequate facilities & equipment & trained staff for handling emergencies .
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 79 Observed Compliance with EMP, Potential Impacts EMP Mitigation Measures CEMP or other Mitigation Measures Resettlement • Contractor to pay rent for temporary use of • Potential for land as agreed with owner. temporary impacts • Only vacant land to be used due to contractors' • Use of land will not disturb businesses use of land • Land temporarily used will be restored or improved to pre-project condition
Community Income • Contractors to notify farmers of possible temporary disruptions to irrigation and strive • Possible disruption on to minimize these disruptions. existing irrigation • Contractors to provide access to shops / • Possible minor businesses / homes at all times. negative impact to income for shops due • Contractors to hire local people to the extent to lack of access possible. during construction • Contractor workers not allowed to fish in project area, unless they are local people.
UXO • UXO-Lao to remove unexploded bomb from the Sedone River and provide the PPMO • Danger from with a certification that the rest of the Project Recently-discovered area is safe from UXO. UXO near Pump Station • No construction will be allowed on the pump station, canals, or roads until UXO Lao has officially cleared the site.
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 80 Notes/Photos:
Recommendations to Water User Group:
Follow-up requirement (e.g., with PONRE or other officials) and any need to re-monitor:
Approximate date of next monitoring:
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 81 Lao People’s Democratic Republic: Greater Mekong Subregion East-West Economic Corridor Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project -- Vapy Neua Subproject EMP COMPLIANCE MONITORING CHECKLIST (Operation) Sub -Project: Vapy Neua Subproject Date: Location: Name of Water Contact: User Group:
Name, designation Contact information : Monitoring TL: Monitoring team members
Persons Met during the monitoring: Name, designation Contact Information
Potential Impacts EMP Mitigation Measures Observed Compliance with EMP or other Mitigation Measures Increased dust from unpaved • PAFO and WUG to Control use service roads of the service roads to authorized vehicles only to reduce damage to road and dust in dry season.
Inadequate maintenance of • Adequate maintenance and headworks, service roads, or care of landscaping of drainage leading to bank erosion riverbanks, service roads and drainage channels
Drainage from irrigated fields in • PAFO to develop an on-going which large amounts of fertilizers capacity-building program to and pesticides have been used instruct people not to use could include contaminated water drainage water without testing which might be used downstream for contaminants. by other farmers or even for • PAFO to train farmers in domestic use. methods for reducing the use of chemicals. • Coordinate with Agriculture Extension Centre to ensure that farmers are trained in correct use and storage of fertilizer, Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 82 Potential Impacts EMP Mitigation Measures Observed Compliance with EMP or other Mitigation Measures pesticides, and other potentially hazardous substances • Monitor water quality in the canals by sampling as discussed in the EMP.
Obstruction of water flows in the • Discouragement and/or canals from sediment or other prevention on disposal of deposits from improper disposal materials and any solid waste in of solid waste the canals, drainage channel, or roads will be disseminated by DAFO/PAFO to WUGs • Enforcement by WUGs’ management committee
Potential minor negative impact • Farmers to be instructed in the from the provision of additional control of mosquito and water open surface water that can lead borne disease control by to increased incidence of DAFO/PAFO. mosquitos and water-borne • Water flow in canals should not diseases. be impeded, and stagnant ponding from overflows should be avoided.
Potential minor impacts from • PAFO and WUG to carry out accidents in the vicinity of pump training and awareness raising stations or canal structures due for community on dangers of the to poor control of access to the pumps, canals, and drainage sites. channels. • Adequate signage and fencing to keep people and animals away.
Possible on-going disputes or • PAFO and WUG to establish grievances and fully implement the Grievance Resolution Mechanism to be in force for the life of the project
Minor local increase in • PAFO to provide awareness- greenhouse gas emissions from raising for local population of the increased rice cultivation increased emissions of methane from rice cultivation and encouragement to change methods or raise other crops. Possibly invite researchers from Thailand who have developed paddy rice methods that reduce GHG
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 83 Notes/Photos:
Recommendations to Water User Group:
Follow-up requirement (e.g., with PONRE or other officials) and any need to re-monitor:
Approximate date of next monitoring:
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 84
ANNEX 5: REA AND CLIMATE CHANGE CHECKLISTS (2016)
Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) Checklist Instructions:
(i) The project team completes this checklist to support the environmental classification of a project. It is to be attached to the environmental categorization form and submitted to the Environment and Safeguards Division (RSES) for endorsement by the Director, RSES and for approval by the Chief Compliance Officer.
(ii) This checklist focuses on environmental issues and concerns. To ensure that social dimensions are adequately considered, refer also to ADB's (a) checklists on involuntary resettlement and Indigenous Peoples; (b) poverty reduction handbook; (c) staff guide to consultation and participation; and (d) gender checklists.
(iii) Answer the questions assuming the “without mitigation” case. The purpose is to identify potential impacts. Use the “remarks” section to discuss any anticipated mitigation measures.
Country/Project Title: LAO - Gr ea ter Me kong Subr egion E ast-We st Economic Corrid or Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project – Vapy Neua Subproject
Sector Division: SEER
Screening Questions Yes No Remarks A. Project Siting No impacts anticipated Is the Project area adjacent to or within any of the following environmentally sensitive areas?
° Protected Area X ° Wetland X ° Mangrove X ° Estuarine X ° Buffer zone of protected area X ° Special area for protecting biodiversity X B. Potential Environmental Impacts All impacts will be mitigated to Will the Project cause less-than-significant levels
° loss of precious ecological values (e.g. result of encroachment into forests/swamplands or historical/cultural buildings/areas, disruption of hydrology of natural waterways, regional flooding, and drainage X hazards)?
° conflicts in water supply rights and related social conflicts? X
° impediments to movements of people and animals? X ° potential ecological problems due to increased soil erosion and siltation, leading to decreased stream capacity? X
° Insufficient drainage leading to salinity intrusion? X ° over pumping of groundwater, leading to salinization and ground subsidence? X
° impairment of downstream water quality and therefore, impairment of downstream beneficial uses of water? X
° dislocation or involuntary resettlement of people? X
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 85
Screening Questions Yes No Remarks ° disproportionate impacts on the poor, women and children, Indigenous Peoples or other vulnerable groups? X
° potential social conflicts arising from land tenure and land use issues? X
° soil erosion before compaction and lining of canals? Erosion is possible in old canals, especially secondary and X tertiaries. Erosion control measures are proposed throughout the Project ° noise from construction equipment? Mostly from trucks in residential X areas. Work will be suspended between 19:00 and 06:00 ° dust during construction? Dry season road dust is common X until access roads are paved ° waterlogging and soil salinization due to inadequate drainage and farm management? X
° leaching of soil nutrients and changes in soil characteristics due to excessive application of irrigation water? X
° reduction of downstream water supply during peak Minor reductions possible. A basin seasons? management and water allocation X plan is proposed to be implemented by PAFO ° soil pollution, polluted farm runoff and groundwater, and public health risks due to excessive application of fertilizers and pesticides? X
° soil erosion (furrow, surface)? X ° scouring of canals? X ° clogging of canals by sediments? X ° clogging of canals by weeds? X ° seawater intrusion into downstream freshwater systems? X ° introduction of increase in incidence of waterborne or Ponding around leaks could water related diseases? X encourage disease vectors
° dangers to a safe and healthy working environment due to Minor impacts from hazardous physical, chemical and biological hazards during project materials and wastes (mostly construction and operation? X petroleum products) will need to be mitigated ° large population influx during project construction and operation that causes increased burden on social infrastructure and services (such as water supply and X sanitation systems)?
° social conflicts if workers from other regions or countries Contractor encouraged to hire are hired? X locals, but workers from elsewhere will probably be involved ° risks to community health and safety due to the transport, Contractor will be required to storage, and use and/or disposal of materials such as properly use and store fuels and explosives, fuel and other chemicals during construction X other hazardous materials. and operation ? ° community safety risks due to both accidental and natural Current electrical consoles for the hazards, especially where the structural elements or pumps are exposed to the weather components of the project (e.g., irrigation dams) are and accessible to anyone. They accessible to members of the affected community or X will be enclosed in a building. where their failure could result in injury to the community throughout project construction, operation and decommissioning?
Vapy Neua Subproject IEE – 23 March 2016 86
A Checklist for Preliminary Climate Risk Screening
Country/Project Title: LAO: GMS EWEC - Agriculture Infrastructure Sector Project Sector : Subsector: Division/Department:
Screening Questions Score Remarks 19
Location and Design Is siting and/or routing of the project (or its The canals will be concrete- of project components) likely to be affected by climate conditions lined to protect them from including extreme weather related events such as anticipated floods. Pump floods, droughts, storms, landslides? stations will be built to be above flood levels. Roads will 0 be paved. Irrigation scheduling will be done based crop water requirements and a water allocation plan to be implemented by PAFO, especially during droughts. Would the project design (e.g. the clearance for bridges) Design for culverts and canals need to consider any hydro-meteorological parameters will be done taking into 0 (e.g., sea-level, peak river flow, reliable water level, peak consideration flood events. wind speed etc)? Materials and Would weather, current and likely future climate Maintenance conditions (e.g. prevailing humidity level, temperature contrast between hot summer days and cold winter days, exposure to wind and humidity hydro- 0 meteorological parameters likely affect the selection of project inputs over the life of project outputs (e.g. construction material)? Would weather, current and likely future climate Flood conditions may affect conditions, and related extreme events likely affect the canal and possibly pump maintenance (scheduling and cost) of project output(s) ? 0 O&M by WUGs. However PAFO will be responsible for catastrophic repairs. Performance of Would weather/climate conditions, and related extreme Weather conditions will not project outputs events likely affect the performance (e.g. annual power affect the Project production) of project output(s) (e.g. hydro-power 0 performance. The Project is generation facilities) throughout their design life time? designed to support farmers during droughts. Options for answers and corresponding score are provided below: Response Score Not Likely 0 Likely 1 Very Likely 2 Responses when added that provide a score of 0 will be considered low risk project. If adding all responses will result to a score of 1-4 and that no score of 2 was given to any single response, the project will be assigned a medium risk category. A total score of 5 or more (which include providing a score of 1 in all responses) or a 2 in any single response, will be categorized as high risk project. Result of Initial Screening (Low, Medium, High):__Low______
Other Comments :______
19 If possible, provide details on the sensitivity of project components to climate conditions, such as how climate parameters are considered in design standards for infrastructure components, how changes in key climate parameters and sea level might affect the siting/routing of project, the selection of construction material and/or scheduling, performances and/or the maintenance cost/scheduling of project outputs.
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