Public Disclosure Authorized Battir, Husan, Nahalin and Wadi Fukin Bethlehem Governorate
Environmental, Social and Cultural Heritage Impact
Assessment to Support Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Public Disclosure Authorized
Public Disclosure Authorized
Public Disclosure Authorized
14th May 2012
ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Table of Contents
0. Summary ...... 8 0.1 General ...... 8 0.2 Scoping ...... 8 0.3 Prediction and Evaluation of Impacts ...... 9 0.4 Required Mitigation Measures ...... 9 0.5 Monitoring Plan ...... 10 0.6 Recommendations ...... 11 1. Introduction ...... 13 1.1 Background ...... 13 1.2 ESCHIA Objectives ...... 13 3.1 Screening...... 14 1.4 Scoping Session ...... 15 1.5 Scoping on environmental assessment...... 16 1.5.1 World Bank environmental and social safeguard polices ...... 16 1.5.2 Scoping on environmental impacts ...... 18 1.5.3 Scoping on social impacts ...... 19 1.5.4 Scoping on Cultural and Natural Resources ...... 19 1.6 Monitoring Plan ...... 19 1.7 ESCHIA Methodology...... 21 1.7.1 Review and Data Collection ...... 21 1.7.2 Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment ...... 21 1.7.3 Socio-Economic Impact Assessment ...... 23 1.8 Public and Stakeholder Consultation ...... 23 2. Laws and Regulations Relating Environmental, social, and Cultural Heritage Considerations ...... 28 2.1 EIA System and Administration ...... 28 2.1.1 Palestinian Environmental Law ...... 28 2.1.2 Palestinian Environmental Assessment Policy ...... 29 2.1.3 Laws and Regulations relating to Resettlement, Land Expropriation and Involuntary Resettlement ...... 30 2.1.4 Laws and Regulations relating to Community Participation to Project Formulation ...... 31 2.1.5 Laws and Regulations relating to Preservation of Cultural or Historical Assets 31 2.1.5.1 Jordanian Antique Law No 51 for 1966 ...... 31 2.1.5.2 Law of Antiquities No. 51 for the year 1966 ...... 32 2.1.5.3 Charter on the Safeguarding of Palestinian Historic Towns and Urban Landscape ...... 33 2.1.5.4 General Rules for the Protection of Historic Areas ...... 33 2.1.5.5 The Inventory of Cultural and Natural Heritage Sites of Potential Outstanding Universal Value in Palestine ...... 34 2.1.5.6 Bethlehem area Conservation and Management Plan ...... 34 2.1.5.7 Battir Landscape Conservation and Management Plan ...... 34 2.1.5.8 The World Heritage Convention ...... 34 2.1.6 Laws and Regulations relating to Environmental Management ...... 35 2.2 Institutional Arrangements...... 36 3. Project description ...... 37
2 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
3.1 Origin of the Project...... 37 3.2 Project Area ...... 37 3.3 Water Supply ...... 39 3.4 Current Sanitation Condition ...... 40 3.5 Solid Waste Management ...... 40 4. Baseline Environmental Data ...... 42 4.1 Location and topography ...... 42 4.1.1 Battir ...... 42 4.1.2 Husan ...... 42 4.1.3 Nahhalin ...... 42 4.1.4 Wadi Fukin...... 43 4.2 Climate ...... 43 4.2.1 Temperature ...... 43 4.2.2 Humidity ...... 44 4.2.3 Rainfall ...... 44 4.2.4 Wind ...... 45 4.3 Soil ...... 45 4.3.1 Terra Rossa, Brown Rendzinas and Pale Rendzinas ...... 46 4.3.2 Brown Rendzinas and Pale Rendzinas ...... 47 4.4 Geology and Hydrology ...... 47 4.5 Groundwater Basins ...... 50 4.5.1 Eastern Aquifer Basin ...... 50 4.5.2 Western Aquifer Basin ...... 51 4.6 Groundwater Aquifers ...... 51 4.6.1 Cenomanian Aquifer ...... 52 4.6.2 The Lower Aquifer ...... 52 4.7 Springs ...... 52 4.7.1 Battir springs ...... 52 4.7.2 Wadi Fukin springs ...... 54 4.7.3 Nahhalin springs ...... 56 4.7.4 Husan springs ...... 56 4.8 Groundwater Quality ...... 57 4.9 Groundwater Vulnerability ...... 59 4.10 Surface water catchment ...... 59 4.11 Land use and road network ...... 60 4.12 Seismology ...... 62 5. Baseline Socio-Economic Data ...... 63 5.1 Population ...... 63 5.2 Refugee Status ...... 64 5.3 Education ...... 64 5.4 Labour Force and Economic Activities ...... 65 5.5 Sanitation and Public Health ...... 67 5.5.1 Water Sanitation...... 67 5.5.2 Access to Water Services ...... 68 5.5.3 Water Uses ...... 69 5.5.4 Wastewater ...... 70 5.5.5 Affordability to Pay Water Bills ...... 71 5.5.6 Hazardous Practices ...... 73 6. Baseline Cultural Heritage Data ...... 74 6.1 General ...... 74 6.2 Identification of Components of physical cultural heritage ...... 74 6.2.1 Old Urban Fabric ...... 74
3 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
6.2.2 Historic Buildings ...... 75 6.2.3 Archeological sites ...... 75 6.3 Cultural Landscape ...... 76 6.3.1 Historic Cultural Terraces ...... 77 6.3.2 Ancient water pools, aqueducts and rain water cisterns ...... 78 6.3.3 Cemeteries and Graveyards ...... 79 6.3.4 Caves ...... 80 6.4 Analysis of Cultural Heritage Data ...... 80 7. Project Impacts and Mitigation Measures ...... 93 7.1 Socio-economic impacts ...... 93 7.1.1 Construction Phase...... 93 7.1.2 Operation Period ...... 93 7.1.3 Land Acquisition and Resettlement ...... 94 7.2 Cultural Heritage Impacts ...... 95 7.2.1 Old Urban Fabric ...... 95 7.2.2 Historic Building ...... 96 7.2.3 Archeological sites ...... 96 7.2.4 Ancient water pools and aqueducts...... 97 7.2.5 Cemeteries and graveyards ...... 97 7.2.6 Caves ...... 98 7.2.7 Terraces ...... 98 7.3 Indigenous plants and land cover (Flora)...... 99 7.4 Further cultural heritage mitigation measures ...... 100 7.5 Project Alternatives ...... 101 8. Other Environmental, Social and Cultural Heritage Impacts ...... 103 8.1 During construction ...... 103 8.2 Noise connected to construction works ...... 104 8.3 During Operation ...... 105 9. Mitigation Measures ...... 106 10. Environmental, Social, and Cultural Heritage Management Plan ...... 109 11. Conclusions and Overall Assessment ...... 111 12. Annexes ...... 112 Annex IA: Environmental, Social, and Cultural Heritage Management Plan ...... 113 Annex IB: ESCH Management Plan, Mitigation Measures, Responsibility and Reporting ...... 122 Annex II: Social Safeguards Matrix ...... 131 Annex III: List of Local Community Organizations ...... 135 Annex IV: Conclusions and Recommendations of the Socio-Economic Baseline study for North West Jerusalem Villages ...... 137 Annex V: ESCHIA Scoping Statement ...... 142 Annex VI: Terms of Reference (TOR) ...... 183
4 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
List of Figures
Figure 1-1: Public consultation and discussion groups ...... 23 Figure 3-1: Satellite Image of the Project Area ...... 38 Figure 3-2: Built up area in the West Bethlehem ...... 38 Figure 3-3: Yatta dumpsite receiving SW from Hebron and Bethlehem LGUs ...... 41 Figure 4-1: Topographic Map of the Study Area...... 43 Figure 4-2: Rainfall Map of the project area ...... 45 Figure 4-3: Wind Rose for Bethlehem area ...... 46 Figure 4-4: Distribution of soil types over the study area ...... 46 Figure 4-5: Geological Map of the study area ...... 47 Figure 4-6: Geological Cross Section in the study area...... 48 Figure 4-7: Stratigraphical Section of the West Bank ...... 49 Figure 4-8: Groundwater Basin Map of the project Area ...... 50 Figure 4-9: Direction of groundwater flow in the in the project area ...... 51 Figure 4-10: Springs of the project area ...... 53 Figure 4-11: Ein Balad Spring in Battir ...... 53 Figure 4-12: Al Jame’ spring in Battir...... 54 Figure 4-13: Al Fawwar spring in Wadi Fukin...... 55 Figure 4-14: Al Balad spring in Wadi Fukin ...... 55 Figure 4-15: Wastewater leakage from Betar Israeli settlement ...... 55 Figure 4-16: Ein El Balad spring in Nahhalin ...... 56 Figure 4-17: AL Erq area springs in Husan...... 57 Figure 4-18: Chloride and Nitrate concentration of Al-Jame` spring in Battir village ...... 58 Figure 4-19: Chloride and Nitrate concentration of Ein El Balad spring Battir Village ...... 58 Figure 4-20: Vulnerability Map of the Project Area ...... 59 Figure 4-21: Surface Catchment of the project area ...... 60 Figure 4-22: Land use map of the project area ...... 61 Figure 4-23: Roads network in the project area ...... 61 Figure 4-24: Seismic Hazard Map and Seismic Zone Factor for Building Codes in the Palestinian Territories ...... 62 Figure 5-1: Household size categories in the surveyed communities, 2007 (PCBS) ...... 64 Figure 5-2: Agricultural Activities in the project area ...... 66 Figure 6-1: Battir Historic Village...... 74 Figure 6-2: Old House in Wadi Fukin ...... 75 Figure 6-3: Khirbet el-Yahoud: Archeological site in Battir ...... 76 Figure 6-4: Wadi Jami’ (Between Husan and Battir) ...... 77 Figure 6-5: Dry Stone Terraces in Battir ...... 78 Figure 6-6: Ancient aqueduct and pool in Battir ...... 79 Figure 6-7: Ancient Aqueduct in Battir and Ancient Irrigation Pool in Wadi Fukin ...... 79 Figure 6-8: Cave in the project area ...... 80 Figure 6-9: Battir Components of Cultural Heritage (Generic Scale) ...... 81 Figure 6-10: (a) Battir Components of Cultural Heritage (Detailed Scale) ...... 82 Figure 6-11: (b) Battir Components of Cultural Heritage (Detailed Scale) ...... 83 Figure 6-12: Wadi Fukin Components of Cultural Heritage (Generic Scale) ...... 84 Figure 6-13: (a) Wadi Fukin Components of Cultural Heritage (Detailed Scale) ...... 85 Figure 6-14: (b) Wadi Fukin Components of Cultural Heritage (Detailed Scale) ...... 86 Figure 6-15: Husan Components of Cultural Heritage (Generic Scale) ...... 87 Figure 6-16: (a) Husan Components of Cultural Heritage (Detailed Scale) ...... 88 Figure 6-17: (b) Husan Components of Cultural Heritage (Detailed Scale) ...... 89 Figure 6-18: Nahhalin Components of Cultural Heritage (Generic Scale) ...... 90
5 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Figure 6-19: (a) Nahhalin Components of Cultural Heritage (Detailed Scale) ...... 91 Figure 6-20: (b) Nahhalin Components of Cultural Heritage (Detailed Scale) ...... 92 Figure 7-1: Aljinan Terraces in Battir ...... 99 Figure 7-2: Ancient Olive Trees in Battir ...... 100
List of Tables
Table 1.1: World Bank Safeguard Policies and Core Requirements under each Policy ...... 17 Table 1.2: Necessary Items and the Implementation Time for Monitoring ...... 20 Table 3.1: Solid Waste Generation in the Study Area ...... 41 Table 4.1: Climatologically Data of the project area (Bethlehem area) ...... 44 Table 4.2: Annual discharge of Battir springs (2000-2009) ...... 54 Table 4.3: Annual discharge of Wadi Fukin springs (2000-2009) ...... 56 Table 4.4: Annual discharge of Nahhalin springs (2000-2009) ...... 56 Table 4.5: Annual discharge of Husan springs (2000-2009) ...... 57 Table 4.6: Water quality data of the springs in the study area ...... 57 Table 5.1: Population in the surveyed communities in 1997 and 2007, average annual population increase, and population estimates in 2012, 2016 and 2030 (PCBS) 63 Table 5.2: Population in the surveyed communities according to age groups (PCBS) ...... 63 Table 5.3: Surveyed communities’ population according to refugee status (PCBS) ...... 64 Table 5.4: Surveyed communities’ population according to educational status ...... 65 Table 5.5: Individuals in the age of 10 years and above according to relation with the labour market, 2007 ...... 65 Table 5.6: Establishments and workers in the surveyed communities, 2007 (PCBS) ...... 65 Table 5.7: Water quantity supplied to the surveyed communities and average per capital consumption ...... 69 Table 7.1: Comparison between Project Implementation and ‘do-nothing’ Alternative ..... 102 Table 8.1: Outdoor admissible noise levels as to the PSI (PS 840-2005) ...... 105 Table 8.2: Admissible time subject to noise levels (MoL No. (4) Year 2005) ...... 105
6 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
List of Abbreviations
ARIJ Applied Research Institute Jerusalem BACMP Bethlehem Area Conservation and Management Plan dB Dimension Decibel EA Environmental Assessment EIA Environmental Impact Assessment ESCH Environmental, Social, and Cultural Heritage ESCHIA Environmental, Social, and Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment ESCHMP Environmental, Social and Cultural Heritage Management Plan EQA Environmental Quality Authority HWE House for Water and Environment IEE Initial Environmental Evaluation JSCPD Joint Services Council for Planning, and Development MoA Ministry of Agriculture MoH Ministry of Health MoL Ministry of Labor MoLG Ministry of Local Government MoPWH Ministry of Public Works and Housing MoT Ministry of Transportation MoTA Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities WBVWSS West Bethlehem Villages Water Supply and Sanitation UG Universal Group for Engineering and Consulting PA Palestinian Authority PCBS Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics PEAP Palestinian Environmental and Assessment Policy PEL Palestinian Environmental Law PSI Palestinian Standards Institute PWA Palestinian Water Authority RAP Resettlement Action Plan RIWAQ Riwaq- Center for Architectural Conservation ToR Terms of Reference UG Universal Group for Engineering and Consulting WBWD West Bank Water Department WHO World Health Organization WSSA Water Supply and Sanitation Authority, Bethlehem WWU Wastewater Unit
7 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
0. SUMMARY
0.1 General
The project under consideration is a World Bank funded project that aims at developing the Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages (Battir, Husan, Nahalin and Wadi Fukin). These villages are facing severe environmental, social, and public health problems due to the pollution of springs by untreated wastewater, the deterioration of the existing water supply system, and the inadequate management of sanitation infrastructure. These villages are represented by the Joint Services Council for Planning and Development (JSCPD), which is the proponent for the project, whereas Palestinian Water Authority (PWA) is managing the project and is the client.
An old water supply system does exist, but not sufficiently serve the concerned villages; on the other hand no functional wastewater collection and treatment system currently exists in these villages. The majority of the households depend on thousands of cesspits and the local tradition of wastewater discharge into open wadis (valleys) and land, leading to continuous deterioration in environmental and basic hygiene life conditions.
A new Water supply and sanitation system proposes to serve the following objectives:
Improving the current water supply system, Improving health and hygienic conditions, Improve the socioeconomic prosperity and quality of life in the project area
Environmental, social and cultural heritage consequences for the West Bethlehem Villages Water Supply and Sanitation (WBVWSS) project are identified and considered. World Bank environmental safeguards, environmental compliance procedures and regulations are adopted, and established to study the reasonably foreseeable significant effects, both beneficial and adverse, of the proposed project on the four villages of West Bethlehem.
Environmental compliance involves conducting an Environmental, Social and Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment (ESCHIA). This ESCHIA is subject to the review and approval by several local and international agencies, such as the Palestinian Water Authority (PWA), Environmental Quality Authority (EQA) and World Bank in order to ensure environmental compliance prior to project commencement and during project implementation.
0.2 Scoping
Based on the scoping on environmental, social, and culture heritage impacts, negative impacts are estimated to be minor during construction works and system operation. However, impact mitigation measures shall be required for the following issues anticipated during water supply network installation and construction works:
Countermeasures for noise/vibration and traffic hazard during water network installation works. Preservation measures for cultural ruins and cultural heritage values and sites. Countermeasures for dust hazard during project installation works.
8 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
As generation of considerable amount of construction and solid waste is anticipated, solid waste management plan shall be prepared. Measures for enhancing public awareness and social cooperation as a direct impact of the water shortages and water distribution.
The followings are work items for Environmental, Social, and cultural Heritage Consideration covered by the ESCHIA:
Summarization of detailed current situation and future development in environmental and social conditions. Survey on cultural heritage baseline data and impact assessment. Survey in related social characteristics and public satisfaction. Monitoring scheme for environmental, social, and cultural heritage.
0.3 Prediction and Evaluation of Impacts
Based on the scoping of environmental and social impacts, there are some anticipated negative impacts during construction activities and system operation. Impact mitigation measures will be required for water supply system installation and construction activities, as well as during operation. The scoping (hearing) session that was held has raised several environmental, social, and cultural heritage aspects that has been tackled and assessed in this ESCHIA. A detailed discussion of these aspects has been presented in the ESCHIA Scoping Report, submitted as part of the ESCHIA consultancy assignments.
Anticipated impacts during construction include noise/vibration, dust and traffic hazard during pipes and water mains installation. Soil erosion and generation of solid waste are also anticipated during excavation and construction activities. Infrastructure services such as water and road access may be interrupted temporarily during this period, but any interruptions should be minimized by applying appropriate mitigation measures and best construction practices. Impacts on ecological, historical, and archeological resources are expected to be minor. If these resources are impacted during construction activities, they will be addressed by consultation with the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities (MoTA). Furthermore, potential impacts on every element was presented and followed by mitigation measures that prevent or reduce these predicted impacts.
0.4 Required Mitigation Measures
Potential negative impacts, although expected to be minor, may affect some environmental, cultural, and natural resources. Appropriate mitigation measures will be required to be implemented by the construction contractor, village councils, or relevant stakeholders in order to avoid or minimize these potential impacts during the construction and operational phases.
Mitigation measures during construction will address impacts caused by noise, dust, and machinery emissions, and traffic disruptions during installation of the water supply system. Activities involving heavy machinery will be restricted to normal working hours of 06:00 to 18:00, and citizens and businesses will be informed of the construction schedules in advance of any activities. Dust minimization will require use of best construction practices such as mechanical construction, wetting of excavated stockpiles and equipment routes, as well as utilization of well maintained and
9 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages monitored vehicles and machinery to minimize air emissions. The construction contractor will also be required to provide detours, temporary traffic control devices, proper signage, and appropriate safety measures.
In addition, proper storage and disposal of construction wastes and excavated material will be required to minimize environmental impacts. Construction waste and debris will be transported to an approved disposal site in coordination with the village councils. Appropriate storage away from drainage paths of surface water will minimize the formation of stagnant water bodies (during winter) that produce unpleasant odors and attract disease vectors.
High quality soils will be stored properly for future use in reclamation of agricultural lands under the direction of the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA). During the Design process, prior to implementation, storage site plans will be located, designed, and submitted for approval.
The safety and well-being of workers requires maximum compliance with procedures that minimize exposure of workers to heat, noise, dust, and solid and hazardous waste. Abiding by Palestinian employment and wage guidelines of the Palestinian Labor Law will also be a requirement.
Nuisance from noise emissions during the operation of the water supply facilities to the surrounding areas will require implementation of proper mitigation efforts such as proper location, sitting, and fences. Noise and other safety hazards will require implementation of occupational health and safety measures and proper training of workers and operators. Mitigation of noise pollution can proceed along two possible actions, either by changing the source of noise and/or changing the path of noise from the source to the receiver.
In order to minimize potential social, economic, or cultural heritage damage, it is to outline, submit, and implement a protection and safety plan to be prepared by the contactor considering the mitigation measures addressed in this ESCHIA. The plan shall utilize industry standard construction zone, safety practices, and equipment and shall include solid waste management plan. This has to be coordinated with the officials of the village councils and the JSCPD. The plan should also consider storing hazardous materials, if any, in special containment sites that are designed to confine these materials.
The mapping process applied in this ESCHIA study (Figure 6-9 to Figure 6-20) provides a spatial reference for cultural heritage elements to avoid any direct clash that may result from the project operations. Photographs of cultural heritage elements were provided to give a clear image of what kind of elements the study tackled.
0.5 Monitoring Plan
The Environmental, Social, and Cultural Heritage Management Plan (ESCHMP) identifies the feasible and cost-effective measures required for the monitoring of key environmental, social and cultural heritage aspects of the project during project implementation. The ESCHMP identifies monitoring objectives and specifies the types of monitoring with regard to the impacts assessed in the ESCHIA report. During monitoring, these mitigation methods will be continuously checked for improvements to be made where necessary.
10 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
The ESCHMP is presented in Annex I, where potential impacts against environmental, social and cultural heritage issues are listed. The ESCHMP also provides the required mitigation measures and the institutional and stakeholders responsibilities. In general, the responsible parties for environmental management during construction will be the construction contractor, the village councils, the JSCPD, Palestinian Water Authority (PWA), Ministry of Tourism and Antiquates (MoTA), Ministry of Agriculture (MoA), Ministry of Public Works and Housing (MoPWH), the Police and the Consultant, while the responsible parties during system operations will shift to the JSCPD and PWA. The Environment Quality Authority (EQA) is responsible for environmental approvals and environmental monitoring, inspection and auditing. EQA is to make sure that all the required mitigation measures are properly implemented. It is recommended that various institutions and stakeholders decide on and agree to the suggested frequency and execution of monitoring at all phases of the project.
An example of a management and monitoring action includes the incorporation of mitigation measures and environmental controls in the construction contractor’s bid documents, stipulating the implementation of environmental standards and regulations in terms of noise protection, dust reduction, and cultural heritage preservation. Moreover, public communication should be maintained and well documented over the construction and operation phases of the project in order to ensure proper community relations. Proper monitoring will also be required for the disposal of construction and solid wastes.
0.6 Recommendations
The proposed WBVWSS project is suitable from the technical and environmental perspectives. The project does not represent a significant threat to the environment provided that the proposed mitigation measures presented in this ESCHIA report are implemented in accordance with applicable regulations and guidelines, and that the ESCHMP is followed with care.
The long-term benefits of the water supply project include improved the living conditions for the four villages of West Bethlehem, namely the public health and socio-economic conditions; improvement of the natural and cultural heritage environment; improvement of social practices; and improvement of water supply scheme.
The ESCHIA concludes that the environmental, social, and cultural heritage impacts of the WBVWSS project can be maintained within acceptable levels, provided that the required mitigation measures are incorporated and that the environmental, social, cultural heritage and safety management of the project facilities are addressed as required.
The ESCHIA has also concluded that OP 4.12 is not triggered. It is not expected that the project managers would need to acquire land or resettle households. In respect of land, interviewed local officials and residents expect that the water pipes be installed on the road side. Accordingly, impacts on properties will be very limited. Land allocated for construction of the two water tanks and warehouse is already available. Together with the warehouse, a water tank will be constructed on governmental land in Battir. In Nahhalin, a local resident has donated a piece of land for construction of the other water tank.
11 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
It is recommended that this ESCHIA is approved and that the environmental approval for the construction of the proposed WBVWSS project is issued. The PWA, JSCPD and the village councils are committed to the standards and requirements for the protection of the environment and declare that they are committed to the required mitigation measures.
12 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background
The project under consideration is a World Bank funded project that aims at developing the Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages (Battir, Husan, Nahalin and Wadi Fukin). These villages are facing severe environmental, social, and public health problems due to the pollution of springs by untreated wastewater, the deterioration of the existing water supply system, and the inadequate management of sanitation infrastructure.
The Environmental, Social, and Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment (ESCHIA) study will be conducted for the rehabilitation and improvements of the existing water supply networks in the four villages (Battir, Husan, Nahalin and Wadi Fukin) as well as for the construction of two new reservoirs in Battir and Nahalin. The ESCHIA is includes an overview of the key environmental, social, and cultural heritage impacts associated with the construction and operation of the Water Supply and Sanitation system under consideration. It provides mitigation measures to be considered in the design and proposes an environmental management and monitoring plan.
West Bethlehem Villages Water Supply and Sanitation (WBVWSS) project objective is to contribute to the improvement of the life and health conditions of (Battir, Husan, Nahalin and Wadi Fukin) villages. More specifically, the main objective of the project is to contribute to the improvement of the overall health conditions in the project area and to improve access to drinking water as well as the reduction of the water losses and the improvement of sanitation conditions in the Project Area.
Prior to ESCHIA, it is important to determine the appropriate level of assessment and identify the issues and concerns. The scoping has consulted with interested and impacted agencies, stakeholders, and the public. The significant environmental and social issues that were identified during the Scoping Session are addressed in this ESCHIA report.
1.2 ESCHIA Objectives
The purpose of the ESCHIA is to ensure that environmental, social, cultural heritage impacts are identified, screened and classified (or categorized) right at the design stage of the phases and components of project so that mitigation measures and social and environmental management plans are well developed before irreversible or serious negative impacts affecting both the population and the environment are avoided or reduced to manageable levels. Among the specific objectives of this assignment of Consulting Services according to TOR include:
Conduct, prepare and provide (ESCHIA) in order to fully comply with Palestinian environmental law and World Bank safeguard policies, as well as to support the sustainability of the expected project outputs and outcomes. Identify the possible environmental, social and cultural heritage impacts of the infrastructure component (Phase 2, Component 4 – rehabilitation of the water supply network) of the project; Identify any potential temporary or permanent land acquisition requirements associated with civil works; Design and prepare an environmental, social and cultural heritage management
13 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
plan (ESCHMP) to manage, mitigate, and monitor any possible negative impacts during the construction and operation phases of the project Conduct a capacity assessment of the implementing party to implement the ESCHMP and provide recommendations for any capacity building needs.
1.3 Screening
The Palestinian Environmental Assessment Policy (PEAP) has listed proposed projects for which an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) must be conducted. Water Supply projects are not among these listed. The proposed projects are as follows:
1. Power plants (including gas turbines, substations and super tension lines) 2. Quarries and mines 3. Waste water treatment plants including main sewers 4. Cement plants 5. Solid waste disposal sites 6. Hazardous waste disposal sites 7. Plants producing, storing or using hazardous substances 8. Airports and landing strips 9. Seaports, jetties and harbors 10. Refineries 11. Industrial estates 12. Major dams and reservoirs 13. Major roads 14. Steel mills
For projects which are not listed, a determination of whether or not an Initial Environmental Examination IEE or EIA must be conducted will be based on screening criteria. The criterion will be based on whether the project is likely to:
1. Use a natural resource in a way that pre-empts other uses of that resource 2. Displace people or communities 3. Be located in or near environmentally sensitive areas such as natural reserves, wetlands, or registered archaeological and cultural sites 4. Generate unacceptable levels of environmental impact 5. Create a state of public concern, or 6. Require further related development activities that may cause significant environmental impacts.
The WBVWSS project is to use water as the natural resource in an area that is rich with natural springs. The water pipes are to be laid along the streets of the villages and will pass cultural sites and agricultural lands. The project area is well known with its cultural heritage and its specific location. The people of the four villages are very much concerned of the project as they are suffering the water shortages. The water supply project is a first phase of a sanitation project that is aiming at improving the hygienic and public health conditions of the people and the protection of the natural springs. These springs have been impacted by the pollution due to the raw sewage flowing from the cesspits used by the villagers and from the nearby Israeli settlements.
14 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Therefore and considering the above it is required to conduct a detailed assessment of the potential impacts that the project will on the environment, on the social structure and values, and on the cultural heritage and assets of the area.
1.4 Scoping Session
In context of this study a scoping session was held in Battir and has invited the four village councils. In addition to the project proponent and the consultant, several other individuals and institutions attended the session, including EQA and Bethlehem WSSA. The ESCHIA Scoping Report has been prepared and submitted. It has presented the significant environmental and social issues that were identified during the Scoping Session. The report has also addressed the concerns of the affected individuals along with the comments of the stakeholders. The scoping report is attached as Annex V.
Most of the subjects and issues raised and discussed in the scoping session were addressed and have been covered by the ToR of the ESCHIA study. Other issues have also been raised in the meeting with the different Environmental Assessment committee. The scoping session did achieve its public participation objectives and did inform the attendees of the project activities and tasks.
Insufficient water quality and quantity and poor sanitation and hygiene have a negative health impact and account for much of the infant and child morbidity and mortality in poor rural communities in developing countries such as Palestine. Therefore improving the water supply and sanitation in the project area will reduce the problems and enhance the hygienic conditions.
During the ESCHIA Scoping Session, the participants raised some of these problems as follows:
Pollution of supplied water due to the deteriorating condition of the water network pipes; this pollution is mainly from the infiltration of raw sewage through the existing cesspits to the water network. Social problems due to shortage of water especially during summer time; Some residents of elevated areas close the water valves to increase their water uptake which prevents water from being adequately received by households living in lower areas. This is causing disputes over water amongst neighboring households. During winter, the water is available at high pressure causing ruptures of valves and house connections and mainly to those living downstream. Hygienic problems due to shortage of water; this is because some people are forced to use the springs water during the summer season where these springs are polluted by cesspits. Some areas of the project region suffer from high water pressure which breaks the water network pipes and increases the water losses, while some areas suffer from low water head pressure. Need to raise the public awareness and capacity building in sanitation and water issues among workers and officials.
Limiting of these problems is considered as positive impacts for the project. These impacts can be summarized as improving the hygienic conditions, creating better social interrelations and improving the water distribution and supply.
15 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
1.5 Scoping on environmental assessment
Scoping is meant to identify the issues to be covered by the ESCHIA and to raise the concerns of the impacted societies and involved institutions. The TOR for the preparation of the ESCHIA has been issued by both PWA and EQA.
The TOR issued by the PWA and EQA states the general requirements and the scoping of the ESCHIA; which should cover environmental, social, culture heritage, and stakeholder consultation.
1.5.1 World Bank environmental and social safeguard polices
Under the World Bank’s operational policies, there are ten environmental and social policies referred to as the Bank’s “safeguard policies”. The Bank’s environmental assessment policy and procedures in light of these ten safeguard policies are described in OP/BP (Operational Policy/Bank Procedures) 4.01.
Table 1.1 outlines the core requirements under each policy. Based on the ESCHIA and the array of information that were made available in context of this study, it has been determined that all the other safeguards policies are not encountered and need not to be covered by the study. The ESCHIA study has covered the four policies OP 4.01 Environmental Assessment, OP 4.11 Physical Cultural Resources, OP/BP 4.36 Forests, and OP 4.12 Involuntary Resettlement.
The ESCHIA examined the potential negative and positive environmental performance of the water supply and sanitation project for West Bethlehem Villages. The examination and assessment were conducted in light of the World Bank’s environmental assessment policy and procedures OP/BP 4.01. Based on the information collected of the project, the assessment was addressed through:
1. Reviewing the ten safeguard policies and determining the OP 4.01 Environmental assessment and OP 4.11 Physical Cultural Resources are triggered by the project. Mitigating measures have been identified accordingly. 2. Describe the safeguard issues and impacts associated with the project. Identify and describe any potential large scale, significant and/or irreversible impacts. 3. Describe the potential indirect and/or long term impacts due to anticipated future activities in the project area. 4. Describe the measures taken to address safeguard policy issues. Provide an assessment of project proponent capacity to plan and implement the measures described. 5. Identify the key stakeholders and describe the mechanisms for consultation and disclosure on safeguard policies, with an emphasis on the potentially affected people.
There are other safeguards issues which were dealt with in this ESCHIA including community conflict over water, cultural heritage and natural springs, equitable distribution of water pre and post project etc.
16 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Table 1.1: World Bank Safeguard Policies and Core Requirements under each Policy Policy Summary of Core Requirements Public Consultation OP/BP 4.01 Screen early for potential impacts and Consult affected groups Environmental select appropriate instrument to and NGOs as early as Assessment assess, minimize, and mitigate possible. potentially adverse impacts. OP/BP 4.04 Do not finance projects that degrade Consult local people in Natural or convert critical habitats. Support planning, designing, and Habitats projects that affect non-critical monitoring projects. habitats only if no alternatives are available and if acceptable mitigation measures are in place. OP 4.09 Pest Support integrated approaches to pest Consult local people in Management management Identify pesticides that planning, designing, and may be financed under the project and monitoring projects. develop appropriate pest management plan to address risks. OP/BP 4.10 Screen to determine presence of Carry out free, prior, Indigenous Indigenous Peoples in project area. informed consultation and Peoples Policy triggered whether potential obtain broad community impacts are positive or negative. support. Design mitigation measures and benefits that reflect Indigenous People cultural preferences. OP/BP 4.11 Investigate and inventory cultural Consult appropriate Physical resources potentially affected, include agencies, NGOs, and Cultural mitigation measures when there are University departments. Resources adverse impacts on physical cultural resources. OP/BP 4.12 Assist displaced persons in their effort Consult resettles and host Involuntary to improve or at least restore their communities, incorporate Resettlement standards of living. Avoid expressed views in resettlement where feasible or resettlement plans. minimize. Displaced persons should share in project benefits. OP/BP 4.36 Support sustainable and conservation Consult local people, the Forests oriented forestry. Do not finance private sector, and interest projects that involve significant groups in forest area. conversion or degradation of critical forest areas. OP/BP 4.37 For large dams, technical review and No public consultations Safety of periodic safety inspections by Dams independent dam safety professionals. OP/BP 7.50 Ascertain whether riparian agreements No public consultations. Projects on are in place, and ensure that riparian Riparian notification International states informed of and do not object to required. Waterways project interventions OP/BP 7.60 Ensure that claimants to disputed No public consultations. Projects in areas have no objection to proposed Claimants informed. Disputed projects Areas
17 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Based on the analysis of the different safeguard policies and the information collected, all the safeguard policies other than OP 4.01 Environmental Assessment, OP 4.11 Physical Cultural Resources are not impacted by the project activities. The two land parcels allocated for the construction of the water reservoirs and ware house are available for the project; one is a public land owned by the local governments and the other is donated by the owner for free. Under section 7.1.3 the OP 4.12 Involuntary Resettlement is addressed. Annex II is the project safeguard matrix that summarized the overall social impact on the four villages due to the project construction.
1.5.2 Scoping on environmental impacts
Among other potential environmental impacts likely to occur during construction phase are (i) nuisance to people due to dust /noise /smoke generated by the movement of vehicles /machinery which will be mitigated by regular air testing, vehicle noise and smoke tests; (ii) pollution due to wastewater and construction wastes from the contractor’s camp which will be mitigated by providing adequate arrangement for the safe disposal of wastewater and wastes; (iii) health and safety of workers which will be mitigated by proper training of contractor’s crew about First Aid and Health & Safety procedures; (iv) risks of damaging chance-find antiquities and/or existing cultural resources which will be mitigated by stopping the excavations and immediate informing of the MoTA, and (iv) accident hazards for people, which will be mitigated regulating the procurement of material.
During operation phase, potential environment impacts are mainly limited to chance of accident at operation sites or health problem of operator staff and labor. To mitigate this impact, staff will be trained on the handling/storage of material and safety requirements. The awareness of the public should be raised as to their water rights and rights of the others as to enhance social cooperation and understandings.
The ESCHIA was carried out in compliance to the requirements of PEAP. According to this policy water networks are not listed among those that require detailed EIA and are not likely to have significant adverse environmental impacts that are sensitive and diverse. Nevertheless and considering the screening criteria and that the project area is facing severe environmental, social, and human health issues due to the pollution of springs by untreated wastewater, deterioration of the existing water supply system, possible impacts on existing cultural heritage and natural resources, a detailed ESCHIA study has been prepared.
The ESCHIA study covered, in addition to others, the following:
1. Provide comprehensive description of the project components including using maps at appropriate scales when necessary. 2. Generate baseline data on relevant environmental and social characteristics of the project components including description of physical environment, biological environment, and socio-economic and cultural constrains. 3. Outline and examine the pertinent regulations and standards governing environmental quality, health and safety, protection of sensitive areas and cultural heritage resources, protection of water resources and pollution control, and land use control at the national and local level. 4. Identify and determine the potential positive and negative impacts, direct and indirect impacts. The assessment of the potential impacts included pollution of groundwater aquifer and springs, landscape impacts of excavations and
18 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
construction, loss of nature features habitats and species, soil contamination impacts, noise pollution, and socio-economic and cultural heritage impacts. 5. Prepare and develop Environmental, Social and Cultural Heritage Management Plan (ESCHMP) to mitigate the negative impacts, recommend feasible and cost effective measures to prevent or reduce significant negative impacts to acceptable national level. 6. Propose a plan to monitor the implementation of the mitigation measures and the impacts of the project during the construction and operation phases.
1.5.3 Scoping on social impacts
The social impacts that are associated with the construction of the water network and water reservoirs include: 1. Impact on agricultural land and private properties. 2. Allocating temporary construction camps and waste disposal sites and the social impact of operating these facilities. 3. Impact on roads, accessibility to services and traffic disturbances 4. Traffic safety during construction and operation. 5. Job creation and labor safety. 6. Information disclosure to ensure maximum broad and convenient among residents 7. Public awareness and social understanding and corporation.
As the project main is the rehabilitation and improvement of the water supply and distribution among the people of the four villages of West Bethlehem, the social assessment concentrated other social aspects including community conflict over water, equitable distribution of water pre and post project etc. In this respect the ESCHIA has also considered the gender issue and did consult community members, including women and did make sure that women were adequately presented.
1.5.4 Scoping on Cultural and Natural Resources
The project area is rich in cultural, archeological, heritage and natural resources. The impacts of the project on these are considered and included: 1. Impact on natural springs. 2. Allocating construction camps and project facilities away from the natural and archeological resources. 3. Impact on cultural sites or structures and community-owned assets during construction and operation. 4. Protection and enhancement of the archeological resources as valuable assets.
1.6 Monitoring Plan
The West Bethlehem Villages Water Supply and Sanitation (WBVWSS) project will not require any transfer of people and/or an acquisition of private lands. Therefore a monitoring for progressing of local negotiation will not be required. After commencement of construction, monitoring for various issues will be required. The necessary items, contents and time are summarized in Table 1.2.
In the table, present environmental, social and cultural heritage situation is essential and these are carried out during the implementation of ESCHIA. In addition,
19 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
mitigation countermeasures for various negative impacts to environmental, social and cultural heritage condition are prepared and these shall be implemented including the Construction Plan prepared by the Contractor. As of monitoring, these mitigation methods shall be checked and modified if necessary.
Table 1.2: Necessary Items and the Implementation Time for Monitoring Division Items Contents Timing - Facilities required paying attention; such as ESCHIA* civic centers, schools, and private facilities Along the Water - Traffic density and noise by the time pipes - Situation of Traffic jam generation - Location and kinds of historical heritage - Condition of supply point Supplied - Groundwater quality (Wells and Springs) Water
Present Conditions Present - Water supply quality - Countermeasure for noise/vibration Formulation
- Traffic countermeasures including detour of Water Construction - Countermeasures to facilities required pipes Plan paying attention - Time schedule - Countermeasures to facilities required paying attention
Countermeasures Supplied - Consideration of water supply pressure
Check for Mitigation for Check Water - Consideration of water supply quantity - Consideration to landscape - Noise/vibration during construction (working During points and nearby facilities required paying Construction attention) Water - Generation of traffic jam by construction and pipes effect by countermeasures - Finding ruin/relic and prevention method if it was found. Protect existing cultural heritage.
- Nuisance by Noise/vibration and effluence to surrounding area Supplied - Generation of traffic jam by vehicles for Water construction facilities Monitoring - Generation condition of dust and effect of mitigation. method - Occurrence of erosion and clogging Operation Water Pipe - Generation of caving–in Phase - Regular analysis for Water Quality Supplied - Regular analysis for Water Quantity Water - Regular analysis for Water Pressure *Items essentially included in the ESCHIA
During construction, various items of monitoring shall be implemented according to the conditions before construction and mitigation methods. In operation stage, even
20 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages though serious environmental/social problems will not be considered, the monitoring shall be continuously implemented.
Annex I of the ESCHIA is the ESCHMP in which the potential impacts against each environmental element are listed. The ESCHMP lists also the required mitigation measures and the institutional responsibilities. The frequency and execution entities of monitoring are suggested and have to be agreed with the implementation agencies.
1.7 ESCHIA Methodology
In order to carry out the ESCHIA study for WBVWSS project and to achieve the expected outcomes, the following methodology was considered:
1.7.1 Review and Data Collection
An iterative process of information gathering, alternative development, and impact forecasting was conducted. The available reports were reviewed. The relevant Palestinian governmental agencies were contacted and informed of the project. Their cooperation and any other information including the potential issues deemed important and other concerns or desires related to the project were obtained.
All available relevant documents and materials were reviewed. Thereafter, site visits, field surveys, and interviews were carried out. This enabled the description of the existing baseline conditions of WBVWSS project with a depiction of the project activities.
Collected data mainly elements of cultural heritage existing in the study area were represented on digitized maps using ArcGIS. A set of thematic maps in different scales was produced and help to provide a good reading of the four sites of the study area.
The ESCHIA study was conducted based on the data collected. The study includes baseline assessment, prediction of the potential environmental, social and cultural heritage impacts, proposing mitigation measures and the design of an Environmental, Social, and Cultural Heritage Management Plan (ESCHMP).
1.7.2 Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment
A full cultural heritage survey was conducted within the context of preparing the ESCHIA for the project area of (Battir, Husan, Nahalin and Wad-Fukin).That process depended on the identification of these elements of cultural heritage and conducted a qualitative field surveys, then reflecting the collected pieces of information in a new developed cartography that was used later as a baseline document in preparing the mitigation plan. Mapping represented a crucial tool in the identification of cultural heritage components to illustrate the possible physical impacts and deign especial mitigation measures.
Achieving this objective was by adopting a comprehensive study process that depended on the identification of these elements of cultural heritage and conducted a qualitative field surveys, then reflecting the collected pieces of information in a new developed cartography that was used later as a baseline document in preparing the mitigation plan. Mapping represented a crucial tool in the identification of cultural
21 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages heritage components to illustrate the possible physical impacts and deign the mitigation measures.
The methodology of this study is based on desk research and field survey. Literature on the conservation of cultural heritage components was extensively reviewed and combined with a qualitative field survey that aimed at locating and documenting cultural heritage elements within the study area.
The classification of cultural heritage components was derived from international definitions of cultural heritage and cultural landscape (world heritage convention). The list of cultural heritage elements was tested in the field and modified to suit all the elements that bear special cultural, spiritual and architectural values.
Field survey was conducted after delineating a study area, in which most of the units and elements of cultural heritage are included. Data was collected and registered on an aerial photo that was brought especially to guide the survey and unfold matrices of cultural heritage elements.
Maps, photographs and direct observations helped in analyzing the sites in order to determine the most vulnerable locations and locations with a conglomeration of cultural heritage elements. The tools of analysis also provided the needed information that helped in drawing the main outline of the potential impact and mitigation measures of the water and sanitary enhancing project. The potential impact was envisioned relying on direct physical interventions that may damage or harm cultural heritage significant elements.
Finally, accomplishing this methodology depended on the leadership of experts in the field of cultural heritage in Palestine. They were broadly involved in the Battir Landscape Conservation and Management Plan implemented by UNESCO in terms of developing a proper methodology that contributes to the safeguarding of Palestinian heritage and in conducting a multiple-layered survey that provides a comprehensive knowledge about the site. The experts have been part of several cultural heritage projects implemented by UNESCO and other specialist institutions; the acquired experience in this field is emphasized through several projects starting from Bethlehem area conservation and management plan, Battir Landscape and management plan and the integrated planning for the safeguarding of the cultural landscape of Sabastiya. The working methodology which was developed in the three projects was tested and adapted to be used for the context of western Bethlehem villages. In particular it is worth mentioning that the surveys which were held through the ESCHIA depended on the experience of UNESCO survey in Battir which was used as a baseline in producing survey for the other three villages since they were not part of UNESCO study area. This assures that the standards that were used in the ESCHIA report cope with the UNESCO and international standards in conservation and cultural heritage as much as assuring meeting the MoTA requirements for dealing with archeological sites and antiquities (MoTA gives higher priority to Archeological site).
It is to acknowledge here that the survey used some existing sources that documented elements of cultural heritage in the area such as Riwaq registry of historical buildings, Battir landscape conservation and management plan and ARIJ institute profiles of villages. These resources helped in orienting the field survey and in highlighting places of cultural heritage significance.
22 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
1.7.3 Socio-Economic Impact Assessment
A rapid socio-economic assessment was conducted. A series of interviews were held with respective village councils, key figures, households, women, farmers, craftsmen and managers of various economic businesses, also a field research conducted by the research team, using a participatory rapid assessment approach. Two central focus groups, including one for males and one for females, were also organized.
Various civil society organizations contribute to developing and improving public service delivery in the surveyed residential locales. A joint service council primarily supervises solid waste collection. Village councils in these areas provide basic services, including water supply, fees collection, and network maintenance. In addition to rural development associations, local community institutions, including sports clubs and charitable societies, operate in most of the surveyed localities. Besides women centers that carry out empowerment activities, external nongovernmental organizations also operate in these communities, especially in water and wastewater management and agriculture sectors. These include ARIJ and Palestinian Farmers Union. All these organizations were consulted as part of the socioeconomic survey and assessment. Annex III lists the local community organizations, other institutions, individuals, focus groups, and the names of those who were interviewed.
Figure 1-1: Public consultation and discussion groups
1.8 Public and Stakeholder Consultation
Stakeholder consultation has important benefits both as means and as an end in itself. The World Bank’s main interest in consulting stakeholders stems from the need to ensure that Bank-supported policies and projects perform well. Evidence shows that this phase is an important “means” whereby the quality, impact and sustainability of development policies, projects or programs can be enhanced.
The objective of the consultation was to consult with a variety of stakeholders who will assist PWA in coordinating ESCHIA-specific consultations with relevant stakeholders likely to be affected both positively and negatively by the project. The consultation was structured in such a way that participants conducted their own consultation after listening to an opening meeting from Palestinian ministries and authorities.
Several consultative interviews were conducted with the Palestinian Ministries and Authorities such as (Ministry of Local Government (MoLG), Ministry of Tourism and
23 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Antiquities (MoTA), Palestinian Water Authority (PWA), Environmental Quality Authority (EQA)) and Joint Services Council for Planning and Development (JSCPD). Other meetings have been conducted with local communities and civil institutions in context of the social survey and analysis.
In the meetings the WBVWSS project was briefly described to the consulted parties, whom they were requested for any comments or concerns to be addressed in the ESCHIA. The main outcome of some of these meetings is listed below:
1. Environment Quality Authority (EQA)
EQA is heading the environmental assessment committee and are in charge of the environmental approvals. The environmental application for the project was prepared and was submitted to EQA by JSCPD. EQA will later conclude whether to issue the environmental approval for the project or not. EQA still need some time to learn more about the project and are glad to comment the ESCHIA report upon receive.
In principle water supply projects as project that has no sever inverse impacts. The consulted officers of EQA (Mr. Mahmoud Abu Shanab, Mr. Amjad Kharaz, and Mr. Yaser Abu Shanab) who are in charge of EA studies and approvals showed their initial support for the project as it will improve the living conditions in the project area.
2. Palestinian Water Authority (PWA)
PWA is the client and is concerned that the project is implemented and that the four West Bethlehem villages are enjoying safe and potable water supply system. As Ms. Majedah Alawneh, the Director of the Laboratories who is the representative of the PWA in the EA committee was on leave; Mr. Adel Yassin (The Director of Wastewater department in PWA) was consulted instead. He indicated the following:
PWA requested the World Bank for financing the project. PWA discussed the need of the project in regard to the current situation in the project clusters. The project has many benefits related to the clusters. Regarding to the capacity of the reservoirs and the warehouse, PWA has no objection, since it was resulted through a design process. PWA said that the project has no negative results since these clusters suffer from a high percentage of water loss, and large quantities of leakage. So developing the project will decrease the percentage of loss and leakage. PWA will support the council by staff, equipment, software, etc. The project is a n introduction for the sewerage project. The location of the reservoirs will not affect the citizen since they are away from the houses. The location is somehow far away from built up areas. After the completion of the project, there will not be a problem in gaining because there is cooperation between the councils and the JSCPD. PWA and JSCPD will lead the operating of the equipment. The councils are cooperated with each other to make the project successful.
24 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
PWA and JSCPD will apply safety requirements due the process of constructing. It will not be easy since the network will be rehabilitated and expanded. the construction and operation of the project must conserve the cultural facilities and private properties and should consider the social dimensions of the water supply
3. Ministry of Local Government (MoLG)
Mr. Imad Abul Haj and Mr. Suleiman Mefreh from the Directorate of the JSCs in the MoLG were interviewed and the followings were discussed with them:
MoLG supports the project and has no problem regarding the project. MoLG will follow up the project during execution. MoLG welcomes the process of installing pre-paid water meters. MoLG will support PWA and JSCPD in collecting the permits for the location of the reservoirs. MoLG is ready to support the implementation of the project if needed.
4. Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities (MoTA)
The meeting was held with engineer Awni Shawamreh and Mohammad Ghayyda (Manager of Tourism Directorate-Bethlehem) from the MoTA-Ramallah. They welcomed the project especially in these villages of West Bethlehem because they suffer from lack of water. In Nahaleen, Mr. Shawamrah told us that the location of the reservoir is safe and far from any archaeological sites. But in Battir, he asked us to consult Mr. Mohammad Ghayyada at MoTA Bethlehem.
Later we consulted Mr. Ghayyada regarding to the location of the reservoirs, he said that “the location is free from any archaeological assets and he supported the execution of the project as soon as possible”; he welcomed the project and he told us that these localities are in need for this project. The necessity to inform MoTA directly in case ruin and archeological values are encountered during construction and or implementation of the project was stressed in the meeting.
5. Ministry of Agriculture (MoA)
Mr. Thaer Al-Rabi represents the MoA in the EA national committee. The position of the MoA includes the following:
The MoA supports the construction of water supply projects. The project should consider proper and fair distribution of the water among the four villages. The study should consider the impacts on agriculture lands, which include nature and soil and the effect on plants and productive agricultural areas. Farmers' interests should be considered. Commitment with the Palestinian Specification and standards.
25 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
6. Ministry of Labor (MoL)
Ms. Iyham Nsoor represents the MoL in the EA national committee. He normally stresses the following:
The Project would participate effectively in the job creation at different levels through construction and later during operation. The project should comply with the Palestinian Labor Law No. 7 adopted in 2000. For example and not limited to; workers' health and safety measures for eyes, head, hands, feet and safe health work conditions. Life insurance, accidents insurances, working hours and their wages. Safety measures should be provided. Full medical and emergency services in the workplace should be provided.
7. Ministry of Transport
Engineer Thafer Jaber represents the Ministry of Transport (MoT) in the EA national committee. The following are the concerns of the MoT:
The study should consider the resulted air and noise pollution from the project construction (heavy vehicles and machines emissions) and during operation. The project is anticipated to scattered large quantities of dust; therefore, mitigation measures should be considered. Traffic signs and directions should be considered during the project construction and operation. The construction works should be performed in assigned and limited times to avoid the nuisance to the nearby neighborhoods. The project is anticipated to have a large traffic generation during the construction phase and therefore, measures should consider the capacity of the existing streets, the entrance and the exit ways of vehicles from or to the project.
8. Joint Services Council for Planning and Development
JSCPD is the project proponent. They are very much concerned as the project will solve the environmental, social and cultural heritage problems that are associated with the WBVWSS project. The four West Bethlehem villages are suffering water supply and sanitation problems and have no sewage collection system or wastewater treatment facilities. Therefore JSCPD are very much for the project. This has been clearly stated by the heads of the village councils and the director of the JSCPD, Eng. Ra’ed Samara.
JSCPD plays the important role regarding this project. JSCPD prepared the idea, and the proposal of the project. JSCPD has its qualified staff to lead this project. Mr. Samara said that the project is very important for the four villages especially there is a big loss in the water network. Mr. Samara divided the project into two phases, the first for the water supply system and the other phase for the sewage network. Mr. Samara discussed the role of JSCPD to cooperate with PWA regarding performing the project; he said that JSCPD had a qualified and trained engineers who are able to share their experience for this project.
26 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Mr. Samara said that there is no problem regarding the ownership of the land parcels for the construction of the water reservoirs and that the issue was solved with the local people and the authorities. Mr. Samara was able to support the project technically. Mr. Samara said that he wants the project to start ASAP.
27 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
2. LAWS AND REGULATIONS RELATING ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL, AND CULTURAL HERITAGE CONSIDERATIONS 2.1 EIA System and Administration 2.1.1 Palestinian Environmental Law
The Palestinian environmental legal and administrative framework has taken major strides towards protecting environmental resources and institutionalizing their sustainable management. The Palestinian Environment Law (PEL) is comprehensive, covering the main issues relevant to environmental protection and law enforcement. Among the objectives of the PEL are:
Protecting the environment from all sorts and types of pollution Protecting public health and social welfare Incorporating environmental resources protection in all social and economic development plans and promote sustainable development to protect the rights of future generations; Conserving ecologically sensitive areas, protecting biodiversity, and rehabilitating environmentally damaged areas; Setting inter-ministerial cooperation regulations and standards various environmental protection areas and jurisdictions; Promoting environmental information collection and publication, public awareness, education and training.
The PEL addresses various environmental issues including:
Management and protection of various resources. Issues covered are related to land environment, air environment, water resources and aquatic environment, and natural, archeological, and historical heritage protection. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and auditing, permitting of development projects, monitoring of environmental resources and their parameters. Penalties to be applied in case of violation of any article presented under the law. Other issues addressed by the legislation include emergency preparedness, public participation, research training and public education.
The PEL of 1999 has stated in article 45, “The Ministry (EQA), in coordination with the competent agencies, shall set standards to determine which projects and fields shall be subject to the environmental impact assessment studies. It shall also prepare lists of these projects and set the rules and procedures of the environmental impact assessment”.
Article 47 of the PEL states that: “The Ministry (EQA), in coordination with the competent agencies, shall determine the activities and projects that have to obtain an environmental approval before being licensed. This includes the projects that are allowed to be established in the restricted areas”.
In relation to water and wastewater disposal, article 29 of the PEL (Aquatic Environment) state that: “The Ministry (EQA) shall formulate, in coordination with the competent authorities, the standards and criteria of dispose of the wastewater and rain water in a sound manner which is consistent with the preservation of the environment and public health”.
28 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
2.1.2 Palestinian Environmental Assessment Policy
The Palestinian Ministerial Council approves the Palestinian Environmental Assessment Policy (PEAP), through resolution No: 27-23/4/2000. This Policy shall be interpreted and implemented to support the sustainable economic and social development of the Palestinian people through assisting in meeting the following goals:
1. Ensuring an adequate standard of life in all its aspects, and not negatively affecting the basic needs, and the social, cultural and historical values of people as a result of development activities. 2. Preserving the capacity of the natural environment to clean and sustain it. 3. Conserving biodiversity, landscapes and the sustainable use of natural resources. 4. Avoiding irreversible environmental damage, and minimizing reversible environmental damage, from development activities.
According to the PEAP, there are three documents that represent sequential stages in the project life cycle and the Environmental Approval (EA) review process: an Application for Environmental Approval; an Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE); and An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). The EQA shall provide guidance on the content and preparation of these documents.
The IEE is for projects where significant environmental impacts are uncertain, or where compliance with environmental regulations must be ensured; whereas EIA is required for projects, which are likely to have significant environmental impacts. An EIA may be carried out as a result of an IEE.
Based on the Application for Environmental Approval, screening criteria are used to determine whether IEE or EIA is required for a project. Water supply systems are not listed among the major development projects for which an EIA shall be conducted.
For project types that are not listed, a determination of whether or not an IEE or an EIA must be conducted will be based on a screening criterion. The IEE and/or the EIA are to define the environmental impacts of the project and the measures to mitigate the adverse impacts or capture potential environmental benefits.
The project proponent must first obtain initial approval from the appropriate Ministry or Local Planning Committee. The proponent then submits an Application for Environmental Approval to the EQA. The EQA will notify the appropriate permitting authorities that an Application for Environmental Approval has been received and that an EIA is required.
The proponent submits the Application for Environmental Approval to the appropriate permitting authorities as part of his overall application package for initial approval. These authorities then refer the project to the EQA. The EQA may ask the proponent for further information to ensure the Application is sufficient for consideration under the PEAP. In consultation with these authorities and others through the EA Committee as required, the EQA then applies the screening guidelines and determines whether IEE or EIA is required. If neither IEE nor EIA are required, the EQA will determine, in coordination with the relevant permitting authorities or the EA Committee as required, whether or not Environmental Approval will be granted and, if so, under what conditions.
29 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Once the EQA considers that an Application for Environmental Approval is complete, it has a maximum of 14 business days to determine the need for an IEE or an EIA, or to determine whether Environmental Approval will be granted based on the Application alone. If this deadline is not met, the proponent has the right to submit a written complaint to the Head of the EQA, who must respond in writing within a week from receipt of the complaint.
The screening process will be based on requirements of relevant land use plans, and on whether the project is likely to:
1. Use a natural resource in a way that pre-empts other uses of that resource, 2. Displace people or communities, 3. Be located in or near environmentally sensitive areas such as natural reserves, wetlands, or registered archeological and cultural sites, 4. Generate unacceptable levels of environmental impact, 5. Create a state of public concern, or 6. Require further, related development activities that may cause significant environmental impacts.
Without limiting its content, an Environmental Approval may specify:
Required measures to mitigate adverse environmental impacts or capture potential environmental benefits, including a compliance schedule, Measures that the proponent must implement in order to comply with relevant standards and requirements; and Monitoring and reporting duties of the proponent.
2.1.3 Laws and Regulations relating to Resettlement, Land Expropriation and Involuntary Resettlement
The Jordanian Expropriation Law No. 2 for 1953 which is applied in the West Bank/Palestine covers the process of expropriating private lands for public use and the compensation should be paid.
The process of expropriating private lands for public use is defined as follows:
1) The project proponent has to publish an announcement in the official newspapers (Gazette) for 15 days; declaring his willingness to request a resolution from the Cabinet in order to expropriate a private land, defined in the announcement, for public use. 2) After the expiry of the announcement, the project proponent has to submit an application to the Cabinet attached with a map for the land he is willing to expropriate, and a proof of his financial capacity that he is capable to implement the project. 3) When the Cabinet makes sure of the proponent’s financial capacity and the public benefits of the project; the Cabinet has the right to decide:
o The absolute expropriation of the land. o Dispossession of the land for a limited period of time. o Dispossession of any easement right, or any other rights related to the land.
30 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
4) The Cabinet’s resolution should be approved by the President of Palestine, and then published in the official Gazette. 5) The Proponent, then, has to inform the Land Registrar in the area where the land exists, who subsequently informs the owners with the Cabinet Resolution. 6) After informing the land owner of the resolution, the project proponent has to negotiate the expropriation, disposition or the limited use of the land with the land owner or with anyone has a right in it. 7) If the project proponent and the land owner didn't agree upon the amount of the compensation, any of them can submit a request to the court to estimate the compensation. 8) After paying the compensation to the land owner or to the court, the Land Registrar then registers the land under the name of the proponent.
The abovementioned process applies for lands in zones A, B and C as to Oslo agreement classification. However, in zone C, approval from the Israeli side must be obtained before the expropriation.
2.1.4 Laws and Regulations relating to Community Participation to Project Formulation
The PEAP has referred to the stakeholder (any person in his natural or legal capacity with an interest in or affected by a development activity) consultation in two stages:
1) The Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) Report; where the policy stated that the stakeholder consultation is optional when undertaking an IEE. In consultation with the proponent and the EA Committee as required, the EQA determines whether stakeholder consultation is required and, if so, what the minimum requirements should be. It may be required during scoping and terms-of-reference preparation, and during the conduct of the IEE. 2) The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Report; where the policy stated that the stakeholder consultation is mandatory when undertaking an EIA. In consultation with the proponent and the EA Committee, the EQA determines what the minimum requirements for stakeholder consultation should be. It may be required during scoping and terms-of-reference preparation, and during the conduct of the EIA. At the minimum, the proponent must meet with the principal stakeholders to inform them about the proposed project and to solicit their views about it. More problematic projects should involve more extensive consultations. The methods and results of these consultations must be documented in the EIA Report.
2.1.5 Laws and Regulations relating to Preservation of Cultural or Historical Assets 2.1.5.1 Jordanian Antique Law No 51 for 1966
The Jordanian Antique Law No 51 for 1966 which is applied in Palestine / West Bank has considered the antiques as states’ assets. The Ministry of Antiques is responsible for managing and supervision of the antiques and it is its duty to publish a report in the official gazette with the names of antique places and to add on it from time to time.
31 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
The Law has prohibited doing anything in the antique places without permission from the minister. It also has obliged anyone who finds antique places to record the place to the government within three days.
In spite of the crucial need, legislations and laws concerning the conservation of cultural and traditional heritage in Palestine are still immature; however there are some initiatives that contribute to the design of by-laws and regulations that underwent many debates on several levels but have not got the legitimate status yet.
Nevertheless, this review will shed the light on the only law that directly covers part of the cultural heritage; that is the law of Antiquities for the year 1966, besides the Bethlehem charter “Charter on the Safeguarding of Palestinian Historic Towns and Urban Landscape” signed in 2009 which addresses cultural heritage protection and by-laws that points directly to the cultural heritage such the decision no 54 of march/2006 of the higher council of planning regarding the General Rules for the Protection of Historic Areas and Historic Individual Buildings and considered as an annex to the Building and Planning Regulations for the Local Authorities of 1996, in addition to the law of Building and planning for local authorities of 2011,also the Palestinian national spatial plan that is being prepared and expected to be approved by 2012.
2.1.5.2 Law of Antiquities No. 51 for the year 1966
The law of antiquities deals with the movable and immovable antiquities which are deemed part of the cultural heritage. The second article of the law defines the antiquities as “any historical movable or immovable iniquities made, or composed or carved (inscribed) or built or explored or produced or modified by a human being before the year 1700 A.D including any part added to the antiquities or reconstructed after that date” article 2.A.
Also falls under this definition according to article 2.C “any movable or immovable antiquities that dates after the year 1700 A.D that is proclaimed by the minister through an ordinance he issues and states that it is a historical remain”.
Antiquities included in the above-mentioned definition shall be listed according to article 9.A and announced in the official newspaper: “the director publishes in the official news paper a table approved by the minister that includes historical buildings and sites. He is allowed from time to time to add to this table and modify it.”
Titled as the prohibited acts, article 10 of the law of antiquities states that any person either is not allowed without permission from the minister to:
a. Excavate any historical site that is inscribed in the declared list or was mentioned in any later amendment to the list, or b. Start a process of excavation or construct a building, or open quarries, or establishing irrigation actions or lime burning or a like in the historical build- ings and sites or beside them or putting soil or dumping them or converting them into cemeteries. Or c. Destroy any antiquities, or demolish part of it or move it, or d. Introducing transformations to any antiquities or adding to it or restoring it, or e. Constructing buildings or walls that encroaches any artifact or being adjacent to it.
32 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Paragraphs d and e are not applied to historical buildings designated for religious purposes or owned by a religious body.
Sanctions are determined in Article 46. In paragraph 5 everyone who distorts, or destroys, or obliterate, or remove or block any historical artifact shall be punished by imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years or a fine of 20 dinars to 200 dinars. The year of approval is this law is 1966.
2.1.5.3 Charter on the Safeguarding of Palestinian Historic Towns and Urban Landscape
This charter which was signed and endorsed by the minister of local government, the minister of tourism and antiquities, mayors of Bethlehem, Beit Jala, and Beit Sahour in 2009 calls upon the signatory parties to pursue principles of cultural heritage protection such as:
• The safeguarding of cultural and natural heritage relies on principles and rules aimed at ensuring the protection of the cultural and natural resources and their rational use as well as enhancing the environmental, cultural, architectural and social assets of the historic towns and the urban landscapes.
• It is essential to identify the elements of the cultural heritage to be preserved and those of the natural environment to be protected; all those elements that the local community and culture consider “invariable”.
• it is necessary to gradually draw the attention of both decision makers and the society towards the historic town, addressing urban rehabilitation and planning as indispensable tools, looking at buildings and spaces that can be re-used within the monumental areas, the ordinary fabric, the buffer zones and along the edge of a territory that is continuously transformed; where the phenomena of occupation and irreversible exploitation of land are tangible and therefore ad-hoc rules and interventions are necessary.
2.1.5.4 General Rules for the Protection of Historic Areas
In March 2006 one an advanced step in the field of cultural heritage protection was achieved. A legal protection for historic areas and individual historic buildings was provided for the first time by the decision no 54 of the higher council of planning:
“The Higher Council of Planning decided in its meeting no 4/2006 on 11 March 2006 according to the decision no. 54 to approve the General Rules for the protection of historic areas and individual historic buildings. These rules are considered part of the Building and Planning Regulations for the Local Authorities approved with a decision of the Higher Council of Planning no. 30 on 24 August 1996”
This amendment to the building and planning regulations for the local authorities was vital because it prevents demolish or remove any historic buildings or demolish or distort any element of that forming the root of the historic town (the traditional urban fabric) such as paths, alleys, open spaces, covered passages and portals.
However, the law of building and planning for the local authorities of the year 2011 has not broadly mentioned the above mentioned amendment. On the contrary, it only
33 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages points that historic towns are mandated to the special committee responsible of building and planning in local authorities.
2.1.5.5 The Inventory of Cultural and Natural Heritage Sites of Potential Out- standing Universal Value in Palestine
This Inventory was published in 2005 and was prepared by the MoTA with a technical assistance of UNESCO world heritage center and UNESCO Ramallah-Office. It contains 20 sites of cultural and natural potential universal value. The cultural heritage components of Battir are classified under the site: “Palestine, the Lands of Olives and Vines”. The sites incorporated in this inventory can be nominated to be inscribed on the world heritage list.
2.1.5.6 Bethlehem area Conservation and Management Plan
Bethlehem Area Conservation and Management Plan” (BACMP), a project implemented by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization - UNESCO / Ramallah Office, in cooperation with the Centre for Cultural Heritage Preservation - CCHP / Bethlehem. It aimed at conserving and managing cultural heritage in Bethlehem area by providing safeguarding guidelines and development schemes of the target area. The project considered a methodological contribution to the efforts of preserving the cultural, historical and environmental assets within the large Bethlehem area including the system of wadies in west Bethlehem especially Battir village.
2.1.5.7 Battir Landscape Conservation and Management Plan
This is a project implemented by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization - UNESCO / Ramallah Office, and aimed at conserving the cultural and natural heritage around Battir village. This plan analyzed cultural heritage assets and developed a preliminary nomination file for Battir area to be inscribed on the World Heritage List.
2.1.5.8 The World Heritage Convention
The decisive step towards cultural and natural heritage protection at an international level was taken during the 17th UNESCO general conference held in Paris 1972, during which the “The Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage” was approved. The preoccupation of this convention was that human heritage is increasingly and visibly threatened by destruction, not only due to conventional decay, but also because of the change in social and economic circumstances. Therefore, at least the cultural and natural heritage sites of special and universal significance should be listed and preserved as the world heritage of all of mankind which led to the birth of the “World Heritage List.”
Efforts to protect cultural heritage in the Palestinian context are continuously increasing. The vulnerability of cultural heritage assets entails preparing an assessment of adverse affects before the inception of any development project undertaken for the enhancement of the quality of life. This ESCHIA project is an example were measures to evaluate impact of large projects on environmental, cultural and social aspects are being implemented in the light of lacking Palestinian laws that may require such measures.
34 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
2.1.6 Laws and Regulations relating to Environmental Management
The Public Health Law No 20 for 2004 has articulated that it is part of the Ministry of Health’s tasks and authorities is to license the establishments specialized in waste collections, method of waste treatment, and disposal.
It also states that it is under the ministry of health’s authority in cooperation with the competent authorities to specify the rules and conditions of transferring, saving, treatment or disposal of the hazardous waste. No one is allowed to do what is stated here above unless it is in accordance with the conditions and rules.
The PEL No. 7 for 1999, under the third chapter, required from the EQA to follow up the implementation of decisions which are issued concerning the environmental impact through cooperation with the competent authorities. The EQA shall, in coordination with the competent authorities, control the various corporations, projects and activities in order to ascertain the extent of its compliance with the approved specifications, standards and instructions for the protection of environment and vital resources formulated by them according to the provisions of this law.
For the above purposes the law entitles the EQA inspectors and other inspectors who are appointed in the Ministries and other authorities who have the capacity of judicial police as per the law may impound the environmental violations and crimes that take place in violation with this law. The EQA inspectors shall also have, in cooperation with the competent departments and authorities; the right of entry into the installations for the purpose of inspecting them, taking samples, carries out the measurements and ascertains the application of the standards and conditions of the environment protection and prevention of pollution. The owners of projects and other activities should enable the EQA inspectors and competent authorities to carry out their functions and provide them with the information and particulars which they deem necessary to obtain in implementation of the provisions of the Law.
Owner of Projects should also carry out self supervision operations according to the standards and conditions formulated by the EQA in coordination with the competent authorities and submission of reports according to the instructions of the EQA.
The competent authority shall have the right, with respect to every installation or project which has violated the environmental conditions necessary for granting the license, to cancel the license or withdraw same before the competent court.
The law has entitled the competent authorities to cancel or withdraw the license of any violating project. Should the project not remove the violation, the competent authority shall remove same at the project’s own account.
The Minister may decide to stop the work in any project or prohibit the use of any machine or material in part or in whole if the continuation of work in the project or use of the machine or article involves a serious hazard to the environment. The stoppage or prohibition shall be for a period not exceeding two weeks and may not be extended except by a judicial order from the competent court. Whoever was harmed from the stoppage or prohibition order may take exception towards it before the competent court.
35 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
2.2 Institutional Arrangements
JSCPD and PWA are the client and the proponent of the project. The project is to serve the four villages located in West Bethlehem. The four village councils are members in the JSCPD and are regulated by the MoLG. For the time being, JSCPD is the potential entity to manage the project, but the area is within the jurisdiction of WSSA. According to the Water Law 2002, PWA is the water regulating body.
It is expected that at the end of the project, a newly established Water and Wastewater Unit (WWU) in the JSCPD will be built to carry out the operation and maintenance of the Water Supply and Sanitation system after its completion. The project involves capacity building for the WWU in the JSCPD. Later on technical assistance should be provided to the JSCPD in case it is to operate the project. JSCPD should coordinate with WSSA and PWA in this regard.
It is important here to assess the capacity and role of the environmental units involved in the project implementation to implement the ESCHMP. JSCPD require capacity building in terms of increasing its knowledge about environment and the measure for environmental and cultural heritage protection. As was addressed in the scoping session a capacity building program is required for those who are to be responsible for the management of the water network.
The PWA has the capacity to manage the project and supervise its implementation. The EQA has the capacity and experience in environmental management and in impact assessment, but they require further enforcement in terms of monitoring and environmental inspection and auditing. The WSSA has the capacity to manage and implement water supply projects, but require further training in terms of environmental management and protection. The MoTA is to make sure the cultural heritage assets are conserved and is required to be present during project implementation. They have the technical experience and capacity to do that. Coordination among the different authorities and units is essential for the success of the project.
The capacity building program should include a water tariff policy. In this regard, the conclusions from the socio-economic baseline study for North West Jerusalem Villages are annexed to this ESCHIA (Annex IV). These have been annexed as to the request of PWA. These can be used as guidelines for later implementation requirements of the water supply system for West Bethlehem villages assuming that there is similarity in the social and economic features between the two areas.
36 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
3. PROJECT DESCRIPTION
3.1 Origin of the Project
The western villages in Bethlehem district (Battir, Husan, Nahalin and Wadi Fukin) are facing severe environmental, social, and health problems due to the lack of water supply, inefficient water distribution system and pollution of springs by infiltrating raw sewage from cesspits. Water supply for these villages comes from a combination of piped supply, rainwater harvesting, tanker trucks, and few unreliable natural springs.
The existing water supply systems encounter serious problems; the internal water networks were built in the 1970s, and were partially rehabilitated in the 1990s. Unaccounted for water now averages about 40%. The main source of water is from the Israeli bulk water supply company Mekorot that is provided through the Palestinian West Bank Water Department (WBWD). Serious hygienic and social problems are occurring among the people and households due to water shortage during summer and due to high water pressure variations in the water supply network during winter. Because of the intermittent nature of supply the majority of households have underground cisterns in which they can store water up to several months.
The WBVWSS project will focus on development and rehabilitation of the water systems that include the transmission mains; the reservoirs and the distribution networks in the 4 villages. The project will be implemented in two phases; the first phase includes the feasibility study, design and assessment of the water supply system and project management; while the second is for the construction of civil works (rehabilitation and improvement of the drinking water supply network. Later, a wastewater project that will include wastewater collection and treatment will be launched. The objectives for the WBVWSS project are, according to the Terms of Reference:
To contribute to the improvement of the overall health and hygienic conditions in the project area. To improve water supply and sanitation for the four villages.
The expected output of the project is water distribution networks for the four villages in the project area and two reservoirs, with performance allowing reducing the percentage of unaccounted for water and to access drinking water for all people in the villages. In addition and at later stages of the project, it is to design for wastewater management infrastructure and effluent reuse covering the four villages.
3.2 Project Area
The project will cover four villages (Battir, Husan, Nahalin and Wadi Fukin) located in the west of Bethlehem as shown in Figure 3-1.
The project area is well known of its springs and high valuable agricultural land. Most of the people in the project area work in agricultural sector. These villages represent the source of fruits and vegetables for Bethlehem District. There are many kinds of vegetables such as battery eggplant, which is well-known in all over the country and the region. In addition to other kinds of fruits such as olives and almond that is grown in the area.
37 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Figure 3-1: Satellite Image of the Project Area
Figure 3-2 presents the buildup areas in West Bethlehem, where the four villages are. These build up areas are in zone B as to the Oslo agreement, but are surrounded by areas in zone C. The villages are located at the southern boundaries of Jerusalem west of Bethlehem, adjacent to the green line separating the West Bank from Israel.
Figure 3-2: Built up area in the West Bethlehem
According to the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS), the total population of the four villages in 2011 is around 19,300 capita; Nahalin (7500 inhabitants) is considered the largest village while Wadi fukin (1300 inhabitants) is the smallest one. Hussan has 6100 and Batir has 4400 inhabitants.
38 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
3.3 Water Supply
There are two main water sources in Bethlehem Governorate which are: local resources from the groundwater wells and purchased resources from Israel Water Company, Mekorot. In the project area (Battir, Husan, Nahhalin, and Wadi Fukin); the purchased water from the Mekorot is considered the main source of drinking water. The villages are provided with water by the West Bank Water Department (WBWD) through deteriorated and old internal water networks that were built in 1970s and were rehabilitated partially in the 1990s. The collection rate was generally low in the villages due to hard economic conditions.
Most of the populations in the four villages are connected with internal water distribution system, but these systems are considered old as it was built in 1970 -1980 and it suffers from serious problems; it is deteriorated and the percentage of unaccounted water is considered high.
In Battir village; water is distributed through an internal network that was established in 1980s. This network serves most of citizens with water where 96.8% of the houses are connected to the network. Few houses are supplied with springs, and 3.1 % of houses are supplied with tankers.
In 2010; Battir village receives around 164229 m3 of fresh water from Mekorot. The total amount of water consumed by the citizens of Battir is around 106108 m3. There are high percentages of losses up to 35% due to the losses happen at the main source, major transport lines, distribution network, and at the household level.
In Battir the average per capita water consumption in 2010 is approximately 65.5 l/day. The price of water is 5 NIS per m3 and payment is assessed by water utility bills. The total number of water house connections in Battir is 650.
In Wadi Fukin village; water is distributed through an internal network that was established in 1982. This network serves most of the citizens where 98.6% of the houses are connected to the network while 1.4% are supplied with tankers.
In Nahhalin village; water is distributed through an internal network that was established in 1979 and was rehabilitated partially in the 2004. This network serves most of citizens with water where 99.7% of the houses are connected to the network and 0.3% are supplied with tankers. Nahhalin water network was designed randomly; so it suffers from serious problems such as high pressure, high percentage of losses, deterioration of the pipes, the absence of water meters in many households, adding to that, the illegal connections.
In Husan village; water is distributed through an internal network that was constructed in 1983. This network serves most of the citizens with water where 98.7% of the houses are connected to the network while 1.3% are supplied with tankers.
In 2011; Husan village receives around 132081 m3 of fresh water from Mekorot. With the total amount of water that is consumed by the citizens registered at around 119962 m3. There are high percentages of losses in the main source, major transport lines, distribution network, and at the household level.
39 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
The average per capita water consumption in Husan in 2011 is approximately 53 l/day. The price of water is 5 NIS per m3 and payment is assessed by water utility bills. The total number of house connections in Husan is 900.
3.4 Current Sanitation Condition
In general, as elsewhere in the West Bank, the western Bethlehem villages suffer from the lack of public sewage networks. Most of the private residences depend on cesspits emptying for traditional means of wastewater disposal. There are thousands of cesspits and few septic tanks connected to households and are designed to serve single or multiple dwellings, according to PCBS's Environmental household survey 2009; 41.7% is the percentage of one household using the same cesspit, 54.6% is the percentage of 2-4 of the households using the same cesspit, and 3.7% is the percentage of more than five households using the same cesspit. The cesspits vary in size, depending on the availability of land and construction costs. The cesspits are constructed without concrete floors or lining, allowing seepage into the ground and groundwater.
Moreover, when the surrounding soil becomes saturated, cesspits require emptying using expensive private vacuum trucks. Vacuum truck operators who empty the cesspits often do not follow rules and regulations, and discharge the collected waste in agricultural areas and open fields (nearby valleys). In winter; most of the citizens opened the cesspits and discharged wastewater directly to the surrounding areas to mix with rainwater and flows to nearby valleys. In this case; unpleasant odors permeate the region, which results in complaints from neighbors. Most people prefer to construct cesspits in permeable soils to avoid the problem of emptying. This practice is extremely harmful to the environment.
Many educational and outreach efforts are needed to improve sanitation service in the villages, through a centralized wastewater collection system and wastewater treatment plant to protect the environment and conserve water resources.
3.5 Solid Waste Management
The Joint Service Council for the Western Country side is responsible for the collection of solid waste in the study area. Collected waste is transferred to the dumpsite east of Yatta. The Yatta dumpsite is owned by the Hebron Municipality and is managed by the Joint Service Council for Solid Waste Management for Hebron & Bethlehem Governorates (JSC-H&B) and is operated by private contractors. Most of residents in the West Bethlehem villages are served, and fees for solid waste disposal are collected by adding it to the water bills. The village councils are charged NIS 100 per ton of Solid waste by the JSC-H&B.
The study area generates approximately 225 tons of solid waste per month (Table 3.1). The solid waste is collected from the containers two days a week and transported to Yatta dumpsite.
40 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Table 3.1: Solid Waste Generation in the Study Area Solid waste Generation Locality Population (ton/month) Battir 4400 60 Nahhalin 7500 80 Husan 6100 70 Wadi Fukin 1300 15 Total 19300 225
Yatta dumpsite is located south of Hebron near Yatta town. The site is used since 1994 for dumping SW by Hebron and Yatta municipalities and other villages in the south. After that, Yatta dumpsite started gradually to receive SW from other LGUs in Hebron governorate and later from Bethlehem governorate. Yatta is now receiving about 80% of the SW from the two governorates. Figure 3-3 shows photos of Yatta landfill site receiving SW from most of Hebron and Bethlehem LGUs.
Figure 3-3: Yatta dumpsite receiving SW from Hebron and Bethlehem LGUs
41 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
4. BASELINE ENVIRONMENTAL DATA
4.1 Location and topography
Bethlehem Governorate is located in the southern part of the West Bank, south of Jerusalem. It has an area of 608 km2 and 176235 Palestinian inhabitants (PCBS, 2007). It consists of 10 municipalities, 3 refugee camps, and 58 rural districts. Its principal city and district capital is Bethlehem.
Bethlehem Governorate is characterized by great variation in its topography and altitude. It is dominated by the Mountain Belt on the western side of the Jordan Rift Valley. Its elevation varies between 400 m below sea level in the southeast to 997 m above sea level toward the west.
The project area includes four of the western Bethlehem villages which are: Battir, Husan, Nahhalin, and Wadi Fukin. According to the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS, 2011); Nahhalin is considered the largest village, it consists of 7500 inhabitant while Wadi fukin is the smallest. It consists of 1300 inhabitants. The topographic map of the project area and the four villages is show by Figure 4-1.
4.1.1 Battir
Battir is situated 11 km southwest to Jerusalem and 6.4 km north-west of Bethlehem city. It is bordered by Beit Jala town and Al Walaja village to the east, Husan village to the south, and the 1949 Armistice Line (the Green Line) to the north.
The total area of the Battir is 6795 dunums, including 6435 dunum as agricultural land and 159 dunums as residential land. Battir is located approximately 761 m above mean sea level and is well known in all over the region with its agricultural crops.
4.1.2 Husan
Husan is 6.5 km west of Bethlehem city. It is bordered by Al Khader town to the east, Battir village to the north, Nahhalin Village to the south, and the 1949 Armistice Line (the Green Line) and Wadi Fukin village to the west.
The total area of Husan is 7361 dunums, where most of the land is primarily classified as agricultural. Husan is located approximately 804 m above mean sea level and has diverse topography and altitude.
4.1.3 Nahhalin
Nahhalin is located 8 km south-west Bethlehem city. It is bordered by Israeli settlement from three sides; Neve Daniyyel settlement to the east, Beitar Illit settlement and Geva’ot Camp to the west, and Etzion settlement to the south.
Nahhalin lies on a total area of about 12,126 dunums of which 10,130 dunums are classified as agricultural, and 234 dunums are built up areas. Nahhalin is located at an approximate altitude of 682 m above sea level.
42 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
4.1.4 Wadi Fukin
Wadi Fukin is located 9.4 km west of Bethlehem city. Wadi Fukin is bordered by Husan village to the east, the 1949 Armistice Line (the Green Line) to the north and west, and Beitar Settlement to the south-east.
Wadi Fukin has a total area of 3817 dunums, and an average altitude of 643 m above sea level. Wadi Fukin is agricultural village where most of its land is arable except 5% of the village land that is classified as built up area.
Figure 4-1: Topographic Map of the Study Area.
4.2 Climate
The prevailing climate in West Bank is considered Mediterranean, characterized by long, hot, dry summers and short, cool, and rainy winters. Bethlehem Governorate is located in the southern part of the West Bank, its climate ranges from semi-arid to arid with an increase in aridity levels towards the Jerusalem desert to the south and south- eastern direction. The mean annual rainfall in the governorate is 508 mm. The western villages in the governorate enjoy greater amount of rainfall compared with the rest of Bethlehem villages.
The climate in the study area (Battir, Husan, Nahhalin, and Wadi Fukin) is classified as moderate, where the mean annual rainfall ranges 650 – 700 mm. Most of the rainfalls occur during November through February, although there may be rain from mid-October to the end of April. The average annual temperature is 16 C, and the average annual humidity is about 61 %.
4.2.1 Temperature
In general, the temperatures range from 7 degrees Celsius (oC) in the winter to 22oC in the summer, with an average annual temperature of 16.57 oC. However, Bethlehem meteorological station is newly installed and data is available for the last two years
43 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
(2009, 2010). In this period; the average temperature in the hottest months (from June to August) is approximately 18.9 oC and the average maximum temperature is 24.68 oC. The average temperature during December to March is 12.5 oC.
Table 4.1 lists the 2010 mean monthly, mean maximum, and mean minimum temperatures in addition to other climatologically data as recorded by Bethlehem meteorological station.
Table 4.1: Climatologically Data of the project area (Bethlehem area) Mean Mean Total Mean Relative Wind Max Min Monthly Month Temp Humidity Speed Temp Temp Rainfall (oC) (%) (km/hr) (oC) (oC) (mm) January 12.7 17.1 9.4 62 4.2 104.7 February 12.8 17.3 8.9 58 4.4 204.4 March 15.5 20.7 11.3 52 4.4 39.4 April 17.6 24.3 12.3 50 3.4 1.2 May 20.8 27.3 15.6 45 3.4 2.7 June 24.2 30.6 18.7 46 3.8 0.0 July 24.6 31.5 19.5 55 3.8 0.0 August 27.7 34.6 22.6 49 3.2 0.0 September 24.2 31.1 19.7 58 3.2 0.0 October 23.1 29.0 18.6 49 3.0 3.2 November 19.5 25.3 15.0 39 2.2 0.0 December 13.4 18.0 9.5 48 7.4 11.1 Average 19.7 25.6 15.1 51 3.9
4.2.2 Humidity
The mean annual relative humidity in the project area is approximately 61%. In the year 2010; the mean monthly relative humidity is 51%. The lowest monthly relative humidity is in November 39% while the highest monthly relative humidity is in January 62%.
4.2.3 Rainfall
The quantity of rainfall in the project area varies from year to year. Winds from the west direction, saturated with moisture from the Mediterranean Sea, bring rains to the project area. The mean annual rainfall in Bethlehem Governorate is approximately 508 mm. Rainfall starts in October and continues till May. Most of the rainfalls occur between November and March.
Figure 4-2 is the rainfall map of the project area. It shows that the four villages of the project enjoy greater amount of rainfall which ranges between 550 – 600 mm.
44 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Figure 4-2: Rainfall Map of the project area
4.2.4 Wind
The prevailing wind directions over the project area are southwest and northwest. In the summer months, winds are primarily northeast and southeast. Wind speeds can reach up to 28 km/hr with an average monthly speed of 3.9 km/hr. In the winter, winds are most frequently northwest. The Sirocco (Khamasin) winds blow at the beginning of summer time, mainly during April to June. These winds blow from the Arabian Desert and are full of sand and dust, causing a rise in temperature and a drop in humidity. The mean monthly wind speed during 2010 year is illustrated in Table 4.1. The highest winds occur during December.
Figure 4-3 shows the wind rose (a graphic tool used by meteorologists to give a succinct view of how wind speed and direction are typically distributed at a particular location) for Bethlehem Governorate published by the Palestinian Meteorological Department of the Palestinian Authority.
4.3 Soil
The soil in the study area is classified as agriculture with thickness varies between the flat areas and hilly areas, where its thickness increases in flat area and decreases in hilly areas.
The dominating soils in the study area are “Terra Rossa, Brown Rendzinas and Pale Rendzinas”, and “Brown Rendzinas and Pale Rendzinas”. Figure 4 -4 shows the distribution of soil types over the study area. The major soil types found in the study area are described in further detail in the following sections.
45 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Figure 4-3: Wind Rose for Bethlehem area
Figure 4-4: Distribution of soil types over the study area
4.3.1 Terra Rossa, Brown Rendzinas and Pale Rendzinas
This type of soil is a characteristic of the hilltop; 30-50% of this soil type is rock outcrops. Different soil slopes are permanent in this type of soil according to various topography and elevation. Accordingly, soil depths ranging from 0.5-2 m are found in different areas of this type of soil. The parent materials, from which this soil originally was initiated, are mainly dolomite and hard limestone. In general, this soil has a pH range of 7.5-8.1 with clay-to-clay loam soil texture. This type of soil covers Nahhalin, Wadi Fukin and Husan villages.
46 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
4.3.2 Brown Rendzinas and Pale Rendzinas
Brown Rendzinas and Pale Rendzinas soil covers Battir village. 30-50% of this soil type is rock outcrops and its depths vary accordingly, starting from 0.5 m at the mountainous areas up to 2 m at the hilltops. Parent materials are mostly hard and soft chalk. The pH of this soil is mainly neutral to slightly basic (7.5-8).
4.4 Geology and Hydrology
The expected outcropping and encountered rock formations at the project area range in age from Cretaceous to Recent. Cretaceous and Tertiary rock formations are characterized by marine carbonate sediments such as limestone, dolomite, chalk and marl, frequently interspersed with chert nodules. Recent rocks are mainly wadi fill and Nari deposits.
Figure 4-5 is a geological/hydrogeological map of the project area and Figure 4-6 is a cross section of the area. The four villages are located within the Cenomanian and lower Cenomanian aquifer and rock formation. The Albian formation outcrop the Cenomanian at the water divide between the western aquifer basin and the eastern aquifer basin mainly near the village of Nahhalin.
The lithostratigraphical descriptions of various formations are summarized according to their time sequences are presented in Figure 4-7.
Figure 4-5: Geological Map of the study area
47 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Figure 4-6: Geological Cross Section in the study area.
48 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Figure 4-7: Stratigraphical Section of the West Bank
49 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
4.5 Groundwater Basins
The three main aquifer basins in the West Bank are Eastern, Northeastern and Western basins. The West Bethlehem villages lie over two basins, which are the Eastern and the Western basins (Figure 4-8). The four villages are underlined by the western aquifer and are slightly to the west at the divide line between the two aquifers. This indicates that the area is vulnerable to groundwater contamination and should be protected.
Figure 4-8: Groundwater Basin Map of the project Area
4.5.1 Eastern Aquifer Basin
The Eastern Aquifer has a surface area of 3,079 km2 with an annual recharge of 172 million cubic meters (mcm). There are 95 Palestinian wells within this basin, with an abstraction rate of approximately 25 mcm/year, while the Israelis utilize approximately 34 mcm/year from wells inside the West Bank.
The recharge to the Eastern Aquifer Basin is predominantly from the mountainous regions of the West Bank where most of the rain falls. The eastward dip of the eastern flank of the West Bank anticlinorium conducts most of the infiltrating water down towards the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea by gravity. Part of the groundwater emerges as springs. The highest amount of well pumpage occurs by Israeli settlement wells near the main fault in the Jordan Rift Valley. The average water levels lie at elevations as high as +440 m above mean sea lvel adjacent to the groundwater divide in the western part of the basin, and decrease eastwards to elevations as low as the Dead Sea in the east, where mixing with saline and hypersaline water occurs in the Dead Sea springs. The direction of groundwater flow in the eastern part of the project area is shown in Figure 4-9.
50 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Figure 4-9: Direction of groundwater flow in the in the project area
4.5.2 Western Aquifer Basin
The Western Aquifer Basin extends from the western part of the West Bank Mountains towards the coastal areas of the Mediterranean. The area of the Western basin is about 11,398 square kilometers (km2) that is shared between West Bank and Israel; it is the largest of the three basins. The total long-term average recharge of the Western Aquifer is from rainfall that reaches the groundwater body and is estimated at approximately 400-440 mcm/yr. Approximately 70% of this recharge is from the West Bank Mountains. The groundwater flows westward from its recharge areas in the mountains through a system of two superimposed calcareous aquifers, the Upper Aquifer (Cenomanian-Turonian) and the Lower Aquifer (Albian). The direction of groundwater flow in the western part of the project area is west, southwest and northwest (Figure 4-9).
4.6 Groundwater Aquifers
The most important aquifer in the project area is the Upper Aquifer. Turonian (Jerusalem) and Cenomanian (Bethlehem and Hebron) formations build the Upper Aquifer. In some places, the Turonian and Cenomanian act as separated aquifers, in other places they are tapped and used together as one aquifer.
The most important aquifers in the project area are the Upper and Lower Aquifers. Cenomanian (Bethlehem and Hebron) formations build the Upper Aquifer, while Albian formations (Upper and Lower Beit Kahil and Lower Yatta) build the Lower Aquifer.
51 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
4.6.1 Cenomanian Aquifer
The formations of this aquifer are usually considered to be only the Bethlehem and Hebron formations, often in connection with the Turonian as Upper Aquifer. The aquifer is an important regional source of water supply for domestic use. The Cenomanian Aquifer has high recharge values. The aquifer is located at variable depths, according to its geological setting. The well depths are usually less than 400 m with some exceptions. The depth to water is rarely more than 200 m below ground surface. Its water quality is generally good with values of 30-150 mg/L of chlorides.
At places the Upper Aquifer can include the middle part of Yatta formation (Beit Meir, where calcareous and where the top Yatta yellow Moza marls are thin), such as in Ein Samia well field. There, even the uppermost part of Upper Beit Kahil (Kesalon) formation a thin series of reefal limestone belong to the Upper Aquifer, while the Lower Aquifer only consists of Lower Beit Kahil formation.
4.6.2 The Lower Aquifer
The Albian (Lower Beit Kahil Formation) and the Albian (Upper Beit Kahil Formation) and sometimes the lower part of Yatta Formation form the Lower Aquifer, which is a deep confined aquifer across most of the West Bank. It is a regional source of drinking water. Individual well yields across the West Bank range from 150-450 m3/hr. Well depths vary from 500 to 950 m. The high water bearing capacity and productivity is owed to the great thickness of dolomitic limestone and limestone. Water Quality in the in the Lower Aquifer is generally good.
4.7 Springs
Springs in the project area are considered significant water resources. They are located in the Western Basin of the West Bank Aquifer system (Figure 4-10). Battir and the surrounding villages (Husan, Nahhalin and Wadi Fukin) are well known of their springs and high valuable agricultural lands that depend mainly on the springs as the main source of water for agricultural purposes. For many ages, the springs have been flowing all over the year (perennial springs) and used for many purposes. Nowadays, because of the occupation and restrictions imposed by the Israeli government, the agricultural lands in the villages and the springs have been hit badly when many farmers had to leave their lands and work as workers in the Israeli market.
4.7.1 Battir springs
Battir village is rich with the historical springs. There are four water springs in the village which are Ein Balad, Ein Jame’, Ein Al Baseen, and Ein ‘Amdan springs. In the past; Ein Balad and Ein Jame’ were considered the main springs in the village where the citizens primarily depend on them as the main source of water for domestic and agricultural uses. The other two springs are used for agricultural purposes only as they are located in the agricultural areas away from the households. In the last period; these springs were hit badly by the Israeli practices, bad situation of agricultural sector and contamination by the wastewater which is leaking from cesspits into the groundwater basin. Therefore, the use of these springs has become limited to agricultural purposes only.
52 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Figure 4-10: Springs of the project area
Figure 4-11 presents Ein Balad spring which is one of the historical roman springs that flows in stone roman channels then the water is conveyed through channels and pipes into an ancient roman pond. The water is divided in a very distinctive way which has been in existence for more than 2000 years. Water is carried to the farmers through plastic pipes that are inserted inside the channels to reduce the amount of the water loss. The area of the lands that could be irrigated by the spring of Ein Al-Balad accounts for 480 donums owned by the people of Battir.
Figure 4-11: Ein Balad Spring in Battir
The discharge of Ein Balad spring reaches about 600 m3 per day with an average of 25 m3 per hour. In summer, the discharge average is about 4 m3 as a minimum while in winter it reaches about 100 m3 per hour as a maximum.
Al Jame’ spring (Figure 4-12) is another historical spring that irrigates more than 200 donums. It also irrigates some of the land parcels inside the Green line. The discharge of this spring is around 300 m3/day on average varying from 65 m3/day during drought seasons to 1000 m3/day during a good rainy season.
53 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Table 4.2 gives the annual discharge of Ein Balad and Al Jame' springs during the period 2000-2009. These springs need some rehabilitation especially the pipes and channels that transfer the water to the agricultural areas to reduce the high percentage of water losses.
Figure 4-12: Al Jame’ spring in Battir
Table 4.2: Annual discharge of Battir springs (2000-2009) Annual Discharge of springs ( m3/day) Spring 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 Ein Balad 51600 38910 157515 136944 106109 93409 112154 98986 47738 48818 AL Jame’ 24326 22008 67196 55680 56857 54976 55837 50259 23228 35699
4.7.2 Wadi Fukin springs
There are eight springs in this village which are (Al Balad, Al Fawwar, Al Magharah, Al Jurah, Sadeeq, Ein Suba, Al Teen, and Um AL Deek). All these springs are used for agricultural purposes. There is a pond near each spring where the water is collected and conveyed to the agricultural areas by plastic pipes.
Recently, the discharge of these springs were reduced and even three of them (Al Teen, Suba, and Um Al Deek) dried up. Many projects have been implemented for the rehabilitation for these springs and development of the irrigation system for the farmers especially in Al Fawwar area which is the most fertile agricultural area in the village.
Figure 4-13 is Al-Fawwar spring in Wadi Fukin, whereas Figure 4-14 presents Al Balad spring that irrigates more than 300 dunums of the agricultural lands. The water from these springs is collected in a pond and carried to the agricultural lands by open channels and plastic pipes.
The springs of Wadi Fukin are negatively impacted due to the bad condition of the agricultural sectors and the climate change that leads to less rainfall, and thus reducing recharge to the springs. Moreover, the springs become polluted due to the wastewater that in leaking into groundwater aquifers from the existing cesspits in the village and from the wastewater treatment plant of the Betar Israeli settlement (Figure 4-15). All of
54 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages these factors lead to deteriorate the springs in the village. Table 4.3 lists the discharge of Wadi Fukin springs.
Figure 4-13: Al Fawwar spring in Wadi Fukin.
` Figure 4-14: Al Balad spring in Wadi Fukin
Figure 4-15: Wastewater leakage from Betar Israeli settlement
55 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Table 4.3: Annual discharge of Wadi Fukin springs (2000-2009) Annual Discharge of springs ( m3/day) Spring 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 Al Balad 4253 4016 30184 21078 22421 19424 20974 19011 8482 18480 Al Magharah 20832 15632 47725 34151 31151 32164 32489 31668 14749 1892 Al Jurah 3796 2991 13588 11714 10240 9633 10529 9113 4296 Sadeeq 20221 12661 33380 30443 18225 23677 24115 21986 11083 22023 AL Fawwar 757176 28604 52925 392890 45365 129946 189400 64210 99631 47178
4.7.3 Nahhalin springs
There are two water springs in Nahhalin village which are (Ein El Balad and Ein Faris). These springs as the other springs in the project area are used for agricultural purposes. According to Nahhalin Village Council; the annual average flow of the two springs is 11638 m3 and 27072 m3, respectively. The quality of these springs is negatively impacted due to the wastewater seepage from the existing cesspits and due to the wastewater discharged from the neighboring Israeli settlements. Figure 4-16 shows Ein El Balad spring in Nahhalin that is connected with a channel to carry water to the agricultural lands and Table 4.4 lists the discharge of these springs.
Figure 4-16: Ein El Balad spring in Nahhalin
Table 4.4: Annual discharge of Nahhalin springs (2000-2009) Annual Discharge of springs ( m3/day) Spring 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 Al Balad 3299 4114 17546 15126 16328 13200 14884 12797 5838 13245 Fares 11305 9024 43719 37689 29978 30102 32589 28206 13357 34753
4.7.4 Husan springs
There are six springs in Husan village which are (Al 'Amud, Al Skhunah, 'Udah, Berkat El Orof, Al Kareesah, Al Namus). These springs are also used for agricultural purposes. The springs suffer from pollution due to the wastewater leakage from the existing cesspits that are located upstream the springs which is called (AL Erq area) where more
56 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
than four springs are located (Figure 4-17). Table 4.5 lists the annual discharge of Husan springs during the period (2000-2009).
Figure 4-17: AL Erq area springs in Husan.
Table 4.5: Annual discharge of Husan springs (2000-2009) Annual Discharge of springs ( m3/day) Spring 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 Al’Amud 22428 15172 20463 18800 12535 7581 12972 13938 7433 16903 Al Skhunah 2847 1790 4868 4197 3883 3425.5 3835.167 3492 1700 3154 Al Namus 3777 2695 7819 6741 4883 1417 4347 4204 2153 8641
4.8 Groundwater Quality
The water quality of the existing springs in the study area is tested in august 2010. The test results are shown in Table 4.6. The table shows that NO3 levels are high (up to 253 mg/l. which is much greater than World Health Organization (WHO) standards of 50 mg/l) in all springs.
Table 4.6: Water quality data of the springs in the study area Parameter
Village Spring EC HCO3 CL So4 No3 (ms/cm) (mg/l) (mg/l) (mg/l) (mg/l) Battir 869 268 80 70 123 Battir Al Jame' 762 268 60 45 92 Al 'Amud 1257 387 130 45 225 Husan Al Namus 897 327 50 70 101 Al Balad 1153 327 110 42 253 Nahhalin Fares 1085 321 100 89 158 Al Balad 944 375 64 91 153 Al Wadi Fukin 709 351 50 63 66 Magharah Al Teen 822 309 70 64 99
57 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
This deterioration in the groundwater quality of the springs is due to cesspits and other sources of raw sewage (Israeli Settlements). However, the historical tests for most of these springs such as Aljame’and Ein Al Balad springs in Battir shows that it is considered as fresh water as the chloride and the nitrate ranges 33-65 mg/l and 30-49 mg/l respectively are lower than the WHO limit, Figure 4-18 and Figure 4-19.
With time, the springs were hit badly by the Israeli practices, the use of agricultural pesticides, and contamination by the wastewater which is leaking from cesspits into the groundwater aquifers. These factors affected the quality of the springs and limit its use for agricultural purposes only.
Figure 4-18: Chloride and Nitrate concentration of Al-Jame` spring in Battir village
Figure 4-19: Chloride and Nitrate concentration of Ein El Balad spring Battir Village
58 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
4.9 Groundwater Vulnerability
Vulnerability of the study area to groundwater pollution is evaluated based on the potential of geological formation to infiltrate pollution. The valuation method of vulnerability is based on three classes of significance: low, medium and high. High vulnerability means that there is a high potential for groundwater pollution if there is a pollution source on the ground surface.
A vulnerability map was developed for the study area (Figure 4-20). The map shows no “low vulnerability” zone and that the study area locates on either “high vulnerability” or “moderate vulnerability” zone. This leads to an important conclusion that any source of pollution should not be allowed to be disposed in any part or location of the study area. This project is about water supply and all construction activities should be monitored so that no source of pollution is allowed during construction.
The above leads to an important recommendation and that it is a must to implement the sewerage project in the study area as to stop the potential percolation of the wastewater from the currently used cesspits to the groundwater and the springs.
Figure 4-20: Vulnerability Map of the Project Area
4.10 Surface water catchment
The project area lies on two surface catchment areas: Soreq-Al Sarar and Lakhish-Saint (Figure 4-21). These catchments are part of the Mediterranean catchment system. The Soreq catchment drains to the northwest while Lakhish-Saint catchment drains to the southwest. Both of these catchments drain finally to the western areas toward the Mediterranean Sea.
59 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Figure 4-21: Surface Catchment of the project area
4.11 Land use and road network
The project area consists of four rural villages that are surrounded by agricultural and natural forests that are mainly planted with olive trees and orchards. Filed crops are also cultivated in the area. Figure 4-22 is the land use map of the project area and Figure 4-23 is the roads map. The four villages are connected with local roads and a main road connects the area with Jerusalem and Bethlehem cities.
The existing two water reservoirs that are used to serve the four villages are shown in the two figures of the land use map and the traffic map. One is upstream of Husan supplying both Husan and Battir. The other reservoir is uphill from Nahhalin. The locations of the two reservoirs allow Husan and Nahhalin to limit the supply to the other two villages downstream especially during summer and water shortages.
60 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Figure 4-22: Land use map of the project area
Figure 4-23: Roads network in the project area
61 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
4.12 Seismology
The West Bank is considered, from a seismic point of view, as relatively active. Several earthquakes have been recorded during the 20th Century. Several mitigation measures, monitoring, and management activities are recommended for seismic loads in the design and the construction of the project.
West Bank is located in what is described as a moderate active seismic zone with a Peak Ground Acceleration Factor (PGA) of Z = 0.075 to Z = 0.3 on rocks. Figure 4-24 shows the four different seismic zones in the West Bank ranging from the relatively weak Zone I in the southwest to the relatively strong zone of 6.5-7 on the Richter scale in the east. These figures have been estimated using the seismic gravitational acceleration, the Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) scale, and the distance to the Epicenter (E).
The project area is located within Zone 2A, which has a PGA factor of Z = 0.15 according to the Uniform Building Code (UBC), which is considered relatively low.
Figure 4-24: Seismic Hazard Map and Seismic Zone Factor for Building Codes in the Palestinian Territories (Earth Sciences and Seismic Engineering Center – An Najah National University)
62 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
5. BASELINE SOCIO-ECONOMIC DATA
5.1 Population
According to the PCBS 2007 Population Census, the surveyed communities housed 17,292 residents, marking an annual rise of 3.3% in comparison to the 1997 Census results. In line with the PCBS estimates, the number of population in these communities stands at 19,822. It is anticipated that the population will increase to around 30,000 in 2030 (Table 5.1). Sex ratio shows 107.3 males to every 100 females.
Table 5.1: Population in the surveyed communities in 1997 and 2007, average annual population increase, and population estimates in 2012, 2016 and 2030 (PCBS) Population Annual Community 2012 2016 2030 1997 2007 increase estimates estimates estimates 1997-2007 Battir 3054 1133 2.5 9914 9111 6050 Husan 4131 1943 3.0 3841 3143 8995 Nahhalin 4638 3393 4.2 3383 4118 12938 Wadi Fukin 869 3311 3.0 3188 3934 1892 Total 12692 33818 3.3 31488 88493 29734
In relation to age structure, the population in the surveyed communities is mostly young. 40.4% of the populations are 15 years of age or below. However, this percentage varies from one community to another; it marks 53.2% in Battir and 44.3% in Nahhalin. On the other hand, residents in the working age (15-64 age categories) comprise 56.3%. The elderly account for 3.3% of the overall population in the surveyed locales.
Table 5.2: Population in the surveyed communities according to age groups (PCBS) Below 15 Locality 15-64 years 65+ years years Battir 1358 2296 172 Husan 2136 3051 166 Nahhalin 2917 3503 165 Wadi Fukin 409 660 57 Total 6820 9509 560 Percentage 40.4 56.3 3.3
With a household size of 5.4, residents of the surveyed communities were distributed to 3,131 households in 2007. In contrast to 5.7 household members in Nahhalin, the household size comprised 5 members in Battir. According to Figure 5-1 below, large and medium households are dominant in the surveyed communities.
63 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
1421
997
597 116
7+ 4-6 2-3 1
Figure 5-1: Household size categories in the surveyed communities, 2007 (PCBS)
5.2 Refugee Status
The overwhelming majority of residents in the surveyed communities are non-refugees. A total of 66.5% of the population are indigenous. The remaining one third are refugees, including 33.1% registered and 0.4% unregistered refugees (Table 5.3).
Marking a peculiar indicator in rural communities, most residents of the surveyed localities lost all or most of their land in the aftermath of the 1948 war. Following 1967, Israel has maintained control, through incessant settlement activity, over the remaining land in this area. Furthermore, the Wall has isolated more land belonging to the surveyed Palestinian villages.
Table 5.3: Surveyed communities’ population according to refugee status (PCBS) Registered Unregistered Non- Locality Total refugees refugees refugees Battir 80.2 0.9 18.9 100 Husan 97.4 0.7 1.9 100 Wadi Fukin 19.7 0.2 80.1 100 Nahhalin 5.8 0.2 94.0 100 Total 33.1 0.4 66.5 100
5.3 Education
In the surveyed communities, 5.3% of the populations who are 10 years of age or above have completed a BA degree or a higher degree of education. This category ranges from 3% in Husan to 7.9% in Battir. Table 5.4 below shows a large discrepancy in terms of the educational status between the surveyed locales. The figures in the table are the percentages of population among the different education status in the four villages.
Some communities, including Battir and Nahhalin, indicate a proportionately high number of educated persons (persons with an educational level above high school – Tawjihi). On the other hand, Husan shows a lower percentage of educated persons. Educated individuals may provide a significant human and social capital, enhancing the quality of life in the surveyed communities.
64 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Table 5.4: Surveyed communities’ population according to educational status Illiterate Can Elementary Preparatory Secondary Associate BA read Diploma and and more write Battir 3.9 9.8 19.7 30.5 18.7 6.8 10.5 Husan 5.3 11.0 25.3 37.0 14.9 2.2 4.2 Wadi Fukin 4.4 11.0 21.1 32.6 17.2 5.7 7.9 Nahhalin 5.0 12.8 22.4 30.5 17.0 4.4 7.9 Total 4.8 11.4 22.6 32.7 16.8 4.4 7.3
5.4 Labour Force and Economic Activities
Available data shows that participation of women in the labour force is very limited. Only 10.1% of women in the age of 10 years and above participate in the labour force.
In contrast, males in the same age group comprise 55.7% of the labour force (Table 5.5). 21.7% of the population in the surveyed communities, including 21.4% males and 23.7% females, are unemployed.
In this context, focus groups and interviewed key personalities in the surveyed communities highlighted a correlation between rising unemployment and the Israeli occupation. Due to restricted access permits, unemployment rates have increased significantly in these localities.
Table 5.5: Individuals in the age of 10 years and above according to relation with the labour market, 2007 Economically active Unemployed Unemployed Economically Sex Total Employed Employed Never inactive Ever Worked Worked Male 55.7 78.6 14.5 6.9 44.3 Female 10.1 76.4 4.9 18.8 89.9 Total 33.6 78.3 13.1 8.6 66.4
Table 5.6: Establishments and workers in the surveyed communities, 2007 (PCBS) No. of No. of persons engaged establishments Female Male Total Battir 85 42 146 188 Husan 168 57 253 310 Wadi Fukin 12 9 16 25 Nahhalin 182 118 212 330 Total 447 226 627 853
Table 5.6 list the establishments and workers in the four villages of the project area. Establishments operating in the surveyed communities provide employment opportunities to almost one fifth of the labour force. According to the PCBS 2007
65 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Population, Housing and Establishment Census, 447 establishments were in operation in these localities. The overwhelming majority of establishments include commercial agencies and service providers.
The agricultural activity provides a significant source of employment in these communities. Notably, 60% of the labour force in Wadi Fukin works in the agriculture sector. In contrast, 15% work in this sector in Nahhalin, 10% in Battir, and 5% in Husan.
Largely depending on water extracted from springs, irrigated agriculture covers approximately 480 dunums of land. Installed on almost 20 dunums, greenhouses mainly rely on spring water, and sometimes on the public water supply network (ARIJ, 2010). Respondents, including members of village councils, focus groups, key personalities and household members, emphasized the significance of agricultural activities in the life of their communities.
In particular, half of the households in the Wadi Fukin village depend almost completely on the agricultural activity as a source of income. To meet food needs, village councils and focus groups stated that the majority of households cultivate vegetables, mainly using spring water and, occasionally, public network-supplied water.
Most households in the surveyed communities raise livestock. Official statistics indicate that these localities accommodate more than 4,300 sheep and goats, 180 mules and horses, around 33,000 chickens, and 1,600 beehives. Half of the beehives are located in the Battir village (ARIJ, 2010).
Figure 5-2: Agricultural Activities in the project area
Certain industrial establishments and service activities consume relatively large quantities of water. These include car wash businesses (including 6 in Husan), a stone processing factory, and a public park.
Current activities, particularly a large-scale agricultural activity, highlight the importance of water in the life of households in the surveyed areas. Unpolluted water should be provided to agricultural activity (including vegetable cultivation) or domestic use (including dishwashing, laundry and house floor cleaning).
66 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
5.5 Sanitation and Public Health 5.5.1 Water Sanitation
Official statistics indicate that the majority of houses in the surveyed residential localities have been connected to a public water supply network since early 1980s (Nahhalin in 1979 and other villages in 1982-83). Official data show that a very limited number of housing units are not connected to the public water supply network. Usually, these houses are either remote or newly constructed in areas with no access to the network. The West Bank Water Department Water (WBWD) provides water through a joint transmission pipeline that supplies all the four villages.
Despite a large number of springs (11 in Wadi Fukin, 4 in Battir, 8 in Husan, and 2 in Nahhalin), extracted water is contaminated and unfit for human consumption. All interviewees coincided that water generated by these springs is unusable. According to a female participant in the women’s focus group, dirty wash water sometimes leaks into spring water. All respondents further confirmed that spring water is completely contaminated by cesspits and wastewater flowing from adjacent Israeli settlements. Only one spring that is distant from the surveyed residential localities is unpolluted. These springs are subject to regular tests by the Palestinian Ministry of Health (MoH). Relevant reports show a high level of contamination in these springs, notably with fecal coliform bacteria. For example, these bacteria measured 230 colonies per 100 ml/liter in a sample taken from the Al Balad water spring – the main spring in Battir. The number of bacterial colonies was so high in another sample that MoH staff could not count them (ARIJ, 2010). Despite the fact that it is polluted, spring water is used in vegetable crop irrigation and car wash. Some households use it for domestic purposes (including dishwashing, laundry, and house floor cleaning). However, this pattern of behavior reflects low public health awareness; using contaminated water in these activities causes various diseases.
Cisterns are widespread throughout the surveyed communities. According to interviewed key figures, around two thirds of households have cisterns in their houses. Also confirmed by official statistics, more than 500 cisterns are available in Nahhalin and Husan each (ARIJ, 2010).
In the summertime, houses in remote or elevated areas with no access to water supply rely on water delivery by a tank truck belonging to local councils. In fact, water is one of major problems residents of the surveyed villages highlight. The public water supply network is outdated and damaged. In particular, the village of Battir suffers from an acutely short water supply in the summer; water is delivered only after water valves are locked in Husan. In other words, water is supplied to Husan during the day and to Battir at night. In light of the improper design of the public water supply network, the Battir village council has developed a programme to supply water the village quarters on a regular basis.
Local councils reported that water leakage is considerable, ranging from 39% in Battir and Nahhalin to 11% in Husan. The Husan village council ascribes the low leakage to extensive network maintenance works, which cost a large financial amount (ILS 30,000 per month).
67 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
As confirmed by interviewees in the villages of Nahhalin, Battir and Husan, wastewater, soil and sand flow into the old, corroded public water supply network. Furthermore, the Nahhalin village council stressed that medical reports issued by the local clinic support this conclusion. The Husan village council and local residents reported that meningitis is widespread in the area. Medical reports confirm that the main reason of this disease is contaminated water.
The Husan village council asserted the need to upgrade and expand the public water supply network so that it covers remote houses. Members of the Battir village council stated that a water tank should be constructed and the public water supply network be redesigned and renovated so that it supplies elevated areas, especially during the summertime. As they are contaminated with wastewater flowing from cesspits, rehabilitation of water springs is a major priority throughout the surveyed communities.
According to interviewed village council officials, residents and focus groups, water- related problems which the surveyed localities suffer from are as follows:
- Outdated, damaged and polluted public water supply network: Respondents reported clear indicators. When water is recharged after cut-offs, water is red in colour and contains soil. Pipelines are so worn-out that they cannot be repaired. - In Nahhalin, the majority of subscribers do not have water meters. Water consumption is measured by estimation. Currently, the Nahhalin village council is implementing a campaign to install water meters. So far, the campaign has scored major successes. - Weak fees collection systems have (partly) caused a considerable debt due by local councils for the WBWD. - Houses located on elevated areas in certain localities, especially in Battir, do not have access to the public water supply network. - As it is contaminated, water extracted from these springs is used for agricultural purposes. Poor households use it for domestic purposes. - Disputes arise between neighbours because some households close water valves on pipelines that supply others. - Unfair water share allocation between all four surveyed communities.
5.5.2 Access to Water Services
Based on local council estimates, water consumption per capita varies from one locality to another. Field research results show that, in line with the last issued water bill, the average monthly water consumption in the surveyed communities is around 100 litres per capita per day (LCD). This quantity includes water wastage and water used for agricultural purposes, including greenhouses, animal shelters, poultry farms, service facilities and industrial establishments. In this vein, Wadi Fukin farmers run a total of 25 greenhouses. 15 water meters were temporarily suspended last month (Table 5.7).
68 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Table 5.7: Water quantity supplied to the surveyed communities and average per capital consumption Annual water quantity Per capita consumption average Community (cubic meters per year) (LCD) – without wastage Battir 393184 31 Husan 33144 13 Wadi Fukin 19913 44 Nahhalin 333144 94 - ARIJ, 2010, Battir Village Profile, Bethlehem, Palestine - ARIJ, 2010, Nahhalin Village Profile, Bethlehem, Palestine - ARIJ, 2010, Wadi Fukin Village Profile, Bethlehem, Palestine - ARIJ, 2010, Husan Village Profile, Bethlehem, Palestine
In this context, focus group discussants and interviewed household members indicated varied water consumption among. Especially in houses located on elevated places, water consumption declines in the summertime due to inadequate access to water. According to a household member in Battir, water is supplied every 5-6 days in the summer and only at night. Therefore, the household is forced to rationalise water use during the summertime and rely on the cistern.
Women’s focus group confirmed that women and children are responsible for providing water in households, particularly poor ones, with inadequate access to water. In participation with children, women transport water from springs. Some women asserted that they use spring water for some domestic purposes as a mechanism to reduce the household’s water consumption bill.
Participants in focus groups highlighted that inadequate design of the public water supply network, which does not take account of the mountainous nature of the surveyed communities, cause social disputes between households with no access to water supply. Special arrangements should, therefore, be taken to supply households with no access to water due to closed valves.
Qualitative research conducted throughout the targeted communities (focus groups and interviews) shows that residents in elevated places do not have water access during the summer. Several ladies, who participated in the focus group, confirmed that they have no access to water for extended periods during the summer. Remote areas are also not connected to a water supply service. Furthermore, residential areas, which a water transmission pipeline reaches after it crosses other communities, suffer more than others from disrupted and inadequate water supply services. Respondents attributed this irregularity to the outdated and damaged water supply network and low water pressure.
In this context, focus group discussions, which involved ladies, demonstrated that the poor mostly resort to cheap or free of charge water sources when network-supplied water is interrupted. These sources include cisterns belonging to relatives or neighbours or water springs, including contaminated ones.
5.5.3 Water Uses
Public water supply network is mainly used for domestic purposes as well as for irrigation of house gardens. In addition to watering livestock and providing various
69 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages projects, some farmers use this water source to irrigate greenhouse crops or open-space vegetable farming in the summer. In spite of the complaint of high prices, farmers find themselves obliged to use the public network-supplied water. However, they demand that water supply prices be reduced and that agricultural institutions help them operate effective, modern irrigation techniques.
As mentioned above, a large number of water springs are available in the surveyed communities. To ensure a fair distribution, residents have inherited special arrangements to allocate spring water shares to households. Although water extracted from springs is contaminated, it is used for all purposes with the exception of drinking. According to a female participant in the women’s focus group:
Spring water is unfit for consumption. Sometimes, it is contaminated with dirty wash water. When the settlers discharge wastewater, the spring water overflows; therefore, we do not use it for drinking. My father cultivates our land and irrigates with water from this spring. To secure our food needs, my father distributes the crops to my brothers and sisters and me. Oftentimes, we bring water from this spring to clean the house floor or wash the laundry.
In contrast, a participant in another focus group said that spring water is useful for car wash only. He reported certain common habits:
Some people have used to wash their hands and face with the pool water in the summer, especially when they come back from their workplaces and they are tired and thirsty.”
Residents in the surveyed communities keep cisterns as a reserve, using them in case the public network-supplied water is cut off. Some rich households purchase mineral water to cover short potable water supply in the summer. In contrast, poor households use cisterns for drinking. In case a household does not have one, they would use cisterns belonging to their neighbours or relatives. In general, residents in the surveyed communities rely on the public network as a major water supply source. Other sources are used as alternatives in the event network-supplied water is disrupted or as a mechanism to reduce the water bill by the poor households.
5.5.4 Wastewater
Cesspits are the common method households use to dispose of produced wastewater. Interviewees described cesspits as small-sized and are overfilled out quickly. Usually, wastewater leaks out to the house garden, streets, or to the neighbours’ land. Oftentimes, wastewater flows to and contaminates the worn-out public water supply network. Wastewater also causes groundwater contamination. Respondents stated that residents always complain of malodorous smell produced by cesspits, especially when wastewater flows out, as well as from the areas to which wastewater is transported and discharged. Furthermore, residents suffer from widespread mosquitoes and insects. To save cesspit emptying cost, some households isolate grey water, especially dirty wash water, and discharge it through a separate pipe on adjacent streets. Participants in focus groups reported incidents of negative impacts generated by cesspits on the environment, public health and social relations between residents. Respondents explained that leaking wastewater dehydrates trees and prevents neighbours from
70 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages tending their own land. “If water were not so vital for our lives, sewerage networks would have been a foremost priority in our communities,” participants in focus group discussions coincided.
Cesspits are emptied by septic trucks at high prices (ILS 70-100) per tank. Some households are forced to pay a higher price to empty their cesspits, which are drilled in rocky mountain regions, because they are forced to empty them more than once a month (Some households empty theirs once a week). Septic trucks discharge emptied wastewater in areas near residential communities, producing foul smell and creating swamps of wastewater in several spots around residential localities. Wastewater discharged as such gravely impacts on farmland and contaminates springs, groundwater and the environment in general.
Some civil society organizations have implemented specific programmes, providing small grey water treatment units (10 units per community). According to an interviewee who has one, grey water treatment units are costly. A household would be connected to a unit in partnership with adjacent neighbours, requiring electricity to run for extended periods. He also stated that because it produced malodorous smell, he had to readjust the design in order to prevent that smell.
The overwhelming majority of houses in the surveyed communities include a kitchen, bathroom and toilet connected to the water supply network. In a limited number of houses, these facilities are either unconnected to a water supply or not available at all, thereby increasing the quantities of wastewater produced in these communities. According to ARIJ estimates, the surveyed locales produce approximately 200,000 cubic meters of wastewater per year.
5.5.5 Affordability to Pay Water Bills
An overall reluctance to pay due water consumption bills in the surveyed communities has resulted in the accumulation of significant debts by village councils (especially during the past 10 years). Owed by the surveyed localities, the debt due for the Palestinian Water Authority (PWA) is near to ILS 7 million. A similar amount is owed by subscribers for village councils. While the Battir and Husan village councils’ debts outweigh those due for the WBWD, debts of the Wadi Fukin and Nahhalin village councils are considerably less than those debts due for the WBWD. This is because water meters are not installed in Nahhalin in particular. The former administration (the dissolved Nahhalin Water Association) used to estimate household water consumption, instead of reading the water meters.
Although the economic factor was cited as a major reason for non-payment by 20% of households (those classified as poor households), village councils highlight that a large number of households who did not satisfy due water consumption charges had a relatively high income. These usually consume larger water quantities. This is further supported by statistics provided by local councils, showing an accumulated significant debt on just a few “major water consumers”, who enjoy a high income. According to a fee collector:
Someone [name of the person] has a jeep and each one of his sons has a car, but he refuses to pay. We send notices to him and visit him at home to convince
71 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
him to pay, but he ignores us. In contrast, another man [name of a poor man] borrowed NIS 300 from the village council chairman. From this, he paid his due water bill.
These results confirm that some people do not pay because they do not want to. Interviewees and participants in focus group discussions confirmed that the weak fess collection mechanism was the main reason of general abstention from the payment of water bills. “The fee collector is not serious; he simply leaves the water bills with a grocer or with an acquaintance.” A participant explained. In addition to weak law enforcement, a common ‘culture of non-payment’ entails that households have the right to not pay due water bills for various reasons, including inadequate service delivery, equality with residents of refugee camps, or rumours reporting that bills are paid by certain agencies. Providing a different explanation, respondents stated that family relations impede the fees collection activity. As fee collectors come from the same community, they cannot insist or oblige households to pay their due bills. This situation has resulted in accumulated debts due by local councils.
Village councils have set plans to solve the problem of accumulated debts, including a debt rescheduling programme with the WBWD. The plan provides for activating fees collection, changing fee collectors, following up on their functions, and launching a direct contact with indebted persons. In the respective locality, village council members and notable personality would visit households and offer facilities to reschedule debts. The relevant mosque imam would also urge subscribers to pay their due bills. Still, village councils highlight weak law enforcement and unserious efforts made by competent authorities.
The majority of respondents reported that water prices were proportionate. The total amount of a water bills ranges from ILS 40-200 per month. However, households with a low income reported that water prices were expensive, posing a further financial burden. In the surveyed communities, water is sold to consumers at ILS 4 per cubic metre in Battir and Nahhalin and at ILS 5 in Husan and Wadi Fukin. Recently, the price was raised in coordination with the PWA. Heads of village councils reported that they did not receive public challenges against the new price. According to a village council chairman, “service provision is what matters people most.” It should be noted that purchase price (from the WBWD) is NIS 2 per m3, with the difference covering collection and network maintenance expenses. On the other hand, subscription fees are mediocre. Usually, a subscriber purchases and installs a water meter. Currently, the Nahhalin village council is working towards installing water meters for all subscribers (The council received meters from the WBWD six months ago). According to the plan it has set, the village council will be in direct contact with residents, encouraging them to install water meters. A large estimation will be imposed on households that do not install meters and the mosque imam will urge residents to install ones. Additionally, fee collectors’ functions will be rejuvenated. Village councils estimate that the campaign will score major successes as the number of meters will steadily increase.
Since certain households, particularly poor ones, complain of expensive water consumption prices, the research team recommends that a water tariff system be operated. The system would observe residents’ capability of affording due water bill payment and encourage rational water consumption. Accordingly, water prices will be divided into categories (to be identified later) in terms of water consumption quantities
72 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages and taking account of the number of household members. In other words, the tariff will be calculated as per individual, not household, water consumption average. This will avoid negative impacts on poor households of a large number of members in the surveyed communities.
Officials and respondents in the surveyed residential locales confirmed that wastewater disposal costs were high (ILS 70-100 per septic tank). They are forced to empty cesspits on several occasions every month. As some women put it: “To access water, we have to pay twice: to use it and to dispose of it. We pay a higher price to get rid of it.”. Interviewees welcomed the idea of connecting their houses to a public sewage network and expressed their willingness to pay for this service. However, water consumption-related accumulated debt is still in place. Respondents and participants in focus group discussions reiterated the need for public awareness campaigns as well as for rejuvenating fees collection and invigorating law enforcement.
5.5.6 Hazardous Practices
According to interviews and focus group discussions, the current water crisis has generated several hazardous patterns of behavior:
- Certain households take up more water at the expense of others. They either pump network-supplied water into domestic wells designated for rainwater collection or overuse water to irrigate house gardens. Certain non-poor individuals install a water pump, depriving others from accessing water supply. - To cope with water scarcity and high prices, especially tankered water, as well as exorbitant cesspit emptying costs, many households have adopted patterns of behavior that may be dangerous to public health. Examples particularly highlighted by female participants include use of contaminated spring water for domestic or agricultural purposes. - Cesspits are emptied in an unhealthy manner (they are either discharged on adjacent streets or wastewater overflow is neglected), especially in areas which septic trucks cannot access due to narrow roads. Wastewater is often disposed of overnight and in the wintertime, usually generating disputes between neighbours. A lady stated that her neighbours refused to empty his cesspit because of the high emptying cost. Another participant said the septic truck could not reach his house. To solve the problem, he disposes of the wastewater on adjacent land, especially in the winter. A third participant said that rainwater filled out his cesspit on the next day he had emptied it. Therefore, he let it flow out to the street. - Female participants in the women’s focus group, as well as interviewed village council members and key personalities, coincided that skin diseases were widespread, particularly among children. These included skin rash and poisoning resulting from mosquitoes. In particular, residents of the village of Husan suffered from widespread meningitis.
73 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
6. BASELINE CULTURAL HERITAGE DATA
6.1 General
The project area of Battir, Husan, Nahalin and Wad-Fukin is crucial due to the significance of the historic and cultural elements there, especially the ones recognized in Battir village. Battir is listed on the Palestinian National Authority inventory list for UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The uniqueness of structure, morphology and cultural landscapes of this village put it besides Jerusalem, Bethlehem and Hebron in the proposed cultural heritage inventory. Figure 6-1 is the Battir historic village.
This significance of elements of cultural heritage was also recognized in the other three villages targeted by the project; this fact reflects the urgent priority of preparing a holistic study for the physical potential impacts on these components of cultural heritage.
Figure 6-1: Battir Historic Village
6.2 Identification of Components of physical cultural heritage
There are different physical elements of cultural heritage in the four villages of study area (Battir, Husan, Nahalin, and Wad-Fukin). Thus elements defined in the paragraphs below represent the key categories of the field survey maps, where a deeper and detailed illustration has taken place.
6.2.1 Old Urban Fabric
The general morphology of the Palestinian village depends on the core grouping of buildings that compose the seed of the village. This unique urban tissue represents the core of the village which is usually overlooking the village gardens and planting yards.
This fabric is mainly composed by buildings, stairs, walkways, and public open spaces, were village activities used to take place. This urban tissue (village old core) represents
74 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages a very important component of cultural heritage where special rules and measures are clarified to illustrate the proper interventions within these areas when needed.
The survey maps of this study highlight these tissues due to their cultural, functional and historic value. These areas were clear in Battir and Husan, however in the other two villages old cores almost disappeared due to old houses demolishing and unorganized urban sprawl.
6.2.2 Historic Buildings
This category represents the old houses that were built before the year 1948, and spread all over the four villages, typologies of these houses vary from being simple peasants’ houses, Court Yard houses, Complex and multi floor houses; Also their condition varies from being preserved in a very good condition, abandoned, and partially demolished. Figure 6-2 shows an old house in Wadi Fukin village.
Figure 6-2: Old House in Wadi Fukin
6.2.3 Archeological sites
One of the important anthropogenic components of cultural heritage which is defined – as mentioned in the above section- as the movable or immovable site that dates after 1700 AD.
The presence of archeological heritage is obvious at Battir rather than the other three villages where archaeological ruins and remains of different periods (Canaanite, Roman, Byzantian, Mamluk, Ottoman) attests of a long history and of the presence of different layers of civilizations and of different phases of domestication of the local landscape, the relevance and state of conservation of the archaeological heritage of the property is high. It includes significant sites such as the ruins of a fortress called Khirbet el-Yahoud (Figure 6-3). In Nahalin an important archeological site was rec-
75 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages ognized, it is known as “Al-Bad” (ancient olive press) whose erection goes back to roman ages.
Figure 6-3: Khirbet el-Yahoud: Archeological site in Battir
6.3 Cultural Landscape
Cultural landscapes represent an important component of cultural heritage; it is usually defined as the combined works of man and nature, categorized into: “a landscape designed and created intentionally by man” and an “organically evolved landscape”.
Thus in the study area of the four villages of Battir, Husan, Nahalin and Wad-Fukin, it was possible to recognize two types and components of cultural landscapes:
1. Ecological Landscape
The geographical location of those four villages toping hills and occupying the valley, was the main generator of the ecological components of cultural landscape. This location was responsible for the recognition of the ecological components of cultural landscape such as: water sheds, streams, natural water cisterns, natural lands cliffs, exposed land layers, distinguished terra rosa soil cover and arid plants cover. Figure 6-4 is the ecological landscape between Husan and Battir.
2. Anthropogenic Landscape
This represents the human contributed landscape; this category represents a very important part of cultural landscape, since it reflects space influence of human existence thus reflecting way of life, identity and culture.
In the study area it was possible to identify a number of elements that are categorized under the anthropogenic components such as: historic cultural terraces, caves, cemeteries, ancient irrigation water pools, aqueducts, water cisterns and ancient land
76 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages cover of indigenous plants vegetation. The following sections elaborate a brief description of these elements.
Figure 6-4: Wadi Jami’ (Between Husan and Battir)
6.3.1 Historic Cultural Terraces
Terraced terrains represented an image and identity of West Bethlehem villages surrounding landscape; they were mainly produced as water collecting system depending on people traditional ecological knowledge that was acquired through generations.
Their obvious existence generated a unique land typology for Western Bethlehem villages giving them a distinctive cultural identity. Thus the existence of terraced landscape reflect a real image and identity of those villages and a strong element of resistance to the transformation of them since it is not easy to modify such a strong confrontation, sediment in time in layers, also in terms of land plots division and property. In other words, the value of these terraces is due to their vital function and historic existence through centuries that gives identity and uniqueness to the space.
In this study a comprehensive survey was conducted to the four villages of the study area to identify the significance of this important component of cultural heritage. The field survey illustrated the existing historic dry stone historic terraces where any intervention to these areas should be of a high care. Figure 6-5 shows the dry stone terraces in Battir.
The nominated property of the Terraced Areas of Battir covers the natural and cultural landscape of the village and its surrounds; the urban area is looked at as a buffer zone to the nominated property except for the historic center which bears special value as a core of the traditional settlement. Assuming that the project target site will be the urban area, It is proposed to follow the ESCHIA report about the potential impact and
77 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages mitigation measures to know how to properly deal with cultural heritage components as specified in the site survey maps.
Figure 6-5: Dry Stone Terraces in Battir
6.3.2 Ancient water pools, aqueducts and rain water cisterns
The field survey illustrated a number of ancient water pools and aqueducts especially in Battir and Wad-Fukin (Figure 6-6 and Figure 6-7). Unfortunately the ancient aqueduct system in Wad-Fukin has faced serious deformation due to replacing the ancient aqueduct system with new PVC pipes. Moreover rain water cisterns are one of the important anthropogenic elements that were recognized in the study area, two main types of those ancient rain water cisterns were identified in the study area:
(1) El Khiema (tent shaped) or Ghorfah: room shaped. The form into which this type of well is dug in the rock is a rectangular geometry. (2) Enjasah (pear shaped): this other traditional typology of well presents an interior shaped in the form of a pear.
78 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Figure 6-6: Ancient aqueduct and pool in Battir
Figure 6-7: Ancient Aqueduct in Battir and Ancient Irrigation Pool in Wadi Fukin
6.3.3 Cemeteries and Graveyards
Their ancient existence religious and spiritual value makes them part of the components of cultural heritage in the four villages of study area to elaborate their importance and value.
79 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
6.3.4 Caves
These elements were not frequently noticed at the study area, however a number of caves were recognized at villages far edging borders, especially in Wad-Fukin were some cave are still inhabited by local peasants, in Battir they are scattered as rock- hewn tombs (generally dating back to Roman and Byzantine periods). Figure 6-8 is a cave in Wadi Fukin.
Figure 6-8: Cave in the project area
6.4 Analysis of Cultural Heritage Data
This part of the study addresses the cultural heritage components in the project area and represents most of their locations on digitized maps. Every village among the targeted villages is represented in one map that locates cultural heritage element within borders of study area. However, the thematic map of the cultural heritage components is represented in different scales; a generic scale covering most of each village surface area that shows places of cultural heritage significance. And a zoomed scaled that clarifies specially the consolidated built up areas where the activity of the project will mainly take place. The goal of the zoomed map is to highlight cultural heritage elements within cores of built up areas.
Data collected from field survey and other resources and studies revealed the richness of Battir cultural heritage among the other villages.
The Awdiya (Valleys) around Battir village are very distinctive and bear high significant value. Wadi Almakhroor to the north east, Wadi Battir to the North and Wadi Jami’ to the west are stark examples of the combination of anthropogenic activities and natural environment. These Awdiya besides Wadi Fukin village are still witnessing agricultural activities that depend mainly on spring’s water transported via ancient channels and pools.
The 12 figures from Figure 6-9 to Figure 6-20 present the components of cultural heritage in generic and detailed scales for the four villages of Battir, Wadi Fukin, Husan and Nahhalin respectively.
80 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Figure 6-9: Battir Components of Cultural Heritage (Generic Scale)
81 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Figure 6-10: (a) Battir Components of Cultural Heritage (Detailed Scale)
82 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Figure 6-11: (b) Battir Components of Cultural Heritage (Detailed Scale)
83 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Figure 6-12: Wadi Fukin Components of Cultural Heritage (Generic Scale)
84 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Figure 6-13: (a) Wadi Fukin Components of Cultural Heritage (Detailed Scale)
85 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Figure 6-14: (b) Wadi Fukin Components of Cultural Heritage (Detailed Scale)
86 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Figure 6-15: Husan Components of Cultural Heritage (Generic Scale)
87 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Figure 6-16: (a) Husan Components of Cultural Heritage (Detailed Scale)
88 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Figure 6-17: (b) Husan Components of Cultural Heritage (Detailed Scale)
89 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Figure 6-18: Nahhalin Components of Cultural Heritage (Generic Scale)
90 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Figure 6-19: (a) Nahhalin Components of Cultural Heritage (Detailed Scale)
91 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Figure 6-20: (b) Nahhalin Components of Cultural Heritage (Detailed Scale)
92 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
7. PROJECT IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
7.1 Socio-economic impacts 7.1.1 Construction Phase
During the construction phase, socioeconomic impacts generated by the project will be temporary and expire with terminated implementation. To alleviate potential negative consequences during the construction phase, necessary measures should be taken in advance.
Officials in the surveyed communities highlighted that they enjoyed extensive experience in implementing such projects in their villages (e.g., road construction). They also stressed the need to provide technical details of the project before implementation in order to take pre-emptive measures and help them cope with problems might arising during implementation. Officials further confirmed that potential problems are very limited. Special plans have already been in place.
Before the project implementation is commenced, a public sensitization campaign is required to be launched in cooperation with leading figures in respective villages. Additionally, mosques will be utilized to raise public awareness through arrangement with imams. To mitigate their reactions, field visits will be made to certain households whose properties might be affected during the construction phase. According to a notable personality, “each man has his own key”; i.e. each person in the village will have another to influence and convince him. Therefore, officials are not worried that implementation is impeded in case the project crosses private property. In some villages, committees of notable personalities are being established in order to contact local residents. On the other hand, a plan of implementation needs be devised. Accordingly, the village would be divided into quarters, whereby the project would be implemented in each quarter over phases. The plan will ensure alternative roads for the movement of persons and vehicles and mitigate problems resulting from potential dust and noise in construction works.
As interviewees anticipated, potential socioeconomic impacts during the construction phase might include the provision of some employment opportunities to residents of the surveyed communities. Residents expect that companies or contractors, who will implement the project, may need workers. Therefore, they will employ a number of residents of these communities to work in the project. Furthermore, external workers may improve sales of commercial premises in the surveyed locales, including restaurants, groceries, etc.
7.1.2 Operation Period
In general, improved water and sanitation management services in any residential locality will exert long-term positive socioeconomic impacts. In the case of the surveyed areas, anticipated results of the project implementation can be summed up as follows:
• Enhance water quality, reduce wastage, increase water quantity supplied to residents, expand water service to include currently unconnected areas, and
93 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
dispose of invalid or illegal networks. This means a more efficient water consumption and reduced water bill for both individuals and communities as a whole. • Allocate water shares on a fair basis between communities and between neighbourhoods within the same community, ensuring fair distribution and equitable shares for residents. To design a public network that is conducive to the mountainous nature of these villages and construct water tanks will safeguard a fairer water allocation. Significant differences in heights generate several problems, including irregular supply to higher places and accumulated sediments in pipelines in lower areas. • Public health consequences: Houses will be supplied with clean water and instances of wastewater leaking into the public water supply network will be minimized. Certainly, a large-scale enhancement of the environmental situation in the surveyed communities requires a solution of the wastewater problem. A substantial solution can be effected by construction of a public sewerage network, that reduces potential wastewater leakage into spring water or onto streets. It might be useful to contemplate expedited measures to cope with increasing risks posed by wastewater on the environment and public health by installing central wastewater treatment units. Also, local authorities can provide a cesspit emptying service (e.g., septic trucks) to reduce costs. Alleviated contamination of groundwater will positively impact on the water quantity available to the surveyed communities. Accordingly, spring water will be rehabilitated and purified of pollution, whereby it can be fit for consumption in various purposes. • Resolved problems of water and wastewater will alleviate social disputes between households, including those generated by unfair competition over access to water sources or by cesspit contamination of the environment or damage caused by wastewater to neighbours and their properties. • Enhanced service delivery may well promote public commitment to paying water bills. With proper law enforcement, all households will be connected to the public supply network through water meters. Households that share a single meter will separate. Combining all four surveyed communities, a joint water undertaking will manage the water and wastewater management sector and collect water consumption fees. • The project will partly contribute to minimizing unemployment in the surveyed residential locales through creating sustainable employment opportunities, especially in the agriculture sector. This is so significant for a considerable number of residents in these localities, who rely on the agricultural activity as a major source of income. • This project will mitigate burden on women and children in providing alternatives when the public network-supplied water is disrupted, particularly in poor households, who usually search for free alternatives for the network water when it is cut off. Usually, these alternatives are of low quality or contaminated.
7.1.3 Land Acquisition and Resettlement
It is not expected that the project managers would need to acquire land or resettle households. In respect of land, interviewed local officials and residents expect that the water pipes be installed on the road side. Accordingly, impacts on properties will
94 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages be limited. Land allocated for construction of the two water tanks and warehouse is already available. Together with the warehouse, a water tank will be constructed on governmental land in Battir. In Nahhalin, a local resident has donated a piece of land for construction of the other water tank. Therefore, land acquisition is out of question and is irrelevant for the project designed to serve the surveyed villages.
The name of the land owner in Nahhalin is Mohammad Taha Ullian Ghaiathah, his mobile phone is 0522375252 and 0568375252. He is a school teacher in Nahhalin. We have contacted him. He confirmed that he is giving his land parcel of about 500 m2 out of his owned land of area 3000 m2. The land is 500 m from the nearest house in Nahhalin and is located at a relatively high elevation at 920 m above sea level. He is not asking for any compensation. The land cost there is estimated at 6-7 JD per m2. The village council of Nahhalin confirmed that the construction of the reservoir and the access road will improve the area and will provide water and electricity services which will result in increasing the value of the land and the price for the rest of the owner's land. This is an indirect compensation. The owner stated that he is ready to complete the procedure for land registry for the construction of the reservoir and change the ownership to Nahhalin village council. An agreement in this regard is to be signed.
This confirms that the OP 4.12 is not triggered. It is not expected that the project managers would need to acquire land or resettle households. In respect of land, interviewed local officials and residents expect that the water pipes be installed on the road side. Accordingly, impacts on properties will be very limited.
7.2 Cultural Heritage Impacts 7.2.1 Old Urban Fabric
The potential physical impact of WBVWSS project on old cores and historical urban tissue varies from the effect of visual quality of fabric to destruction of old core tissue. Physical potential impact can be summarized by:
• Demolishing public spaces: stairs, plazas and pathways which are important elements that notably exist at Battir; project activities may damage those important elements, thus as mitigation for the potential impact detailed pre- construction drawings shall be prepared pre-excavation or construction works. Upon the completion of networks preparation, natural local coherent stone shall be used to fix all damage, in addition to using same material for new integrated elements such as manholes and inspection chambers covers. • Impacts on the traditional visual appearance: this could occur due to the unburied networks; elevations demolishing, etc. the mitigation measures are by not exposing networks and surrounding them with special material when burring underground becomes not possible. • Transformation and demolishing of historic fabric: this is a very critical impact that can be mitigated by avoid the using of heavy machinery within old core and deploy manual and light equipment. • Discovery of buried archeological of cultural heritage components: when this situation occurs, work shall be paused directly and special authorities and experts shall be consulted, in addition to the detailed recorded using photographs.
95 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
• Damage to elements of hard landscaping: treatment shall include the use of tradition homogenous material
Prior to construction, it is required that the detail design of the project will be checked to make sure that none of the water supply project components and facilities will have any negative impacts on the urban fabrics.
7.2.2 Historic Building
Historic buildings are usually part of the urban fabric, however historic buildings can be recognized as standalone buildings, physical potential impact on historic buildings are applicable on old urban fabric as well, and they can be summarized into:
• Failure or impairing of foundations: this could occur due to excavation using heavy equipment, or to building general weakness; mitigation of this impact could be obtained by applying special structural consolidation and sup- porting neighboring environment. Also before construction works it is required to maintain a buffer zone of at least 9 m between the edge of the construction zone and the edge of the site. Fencing, earthen berms, or other permanent barriers can be used to ensure avoidance in conjunction with a buffer zone. • Demolishing of architectural openings; those are considered as the weakest point of a historical building, thus as a mitigation those opening should be recorded and tested before construction. • Downfall of historical elevation, elevations shall be recorded using pre construction drawings, and any failure in elevation shall be treated using same stone material.
7.2.3 Archeological sites
Potential impact of the project on archeological sites is mainly caused by Physical interventions such as excavations in or around archeological site which may have irreversible consequences on the physical conditions of the site. Excavation works in close vicinity to foundations of archeological buildings lead to structural instability which in turn leads to demolish the building. The structural instability is caused either by direct threat to the foundations or indirectly by the machineries used in excavation works. The continuous vibrations cause cracks in the foundations body, walls and other elements of the structural system.
Traces of significant historic elements might be subject to wipe out if excavations wastes and debris are dumped nearby or into archeological sites.
If any archeological remains were found during the process of excavation, it is essential to call the antiquities police and the related authorities mainly the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities (MoTA).
Knowing that archeological sites are protected by the law of antiquities for the year 1966 according to article no 10. The first way is Avoidance; it is crucial to avoid any
96 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages adverse effects to the site, thus works are better to operated far from the archeological site.
However, if constrains of topography or the feasibility of avoiding the site is of serious burden, then preemptive actions should be taken when dealing with archeological site:
• Consolidate the structure of the archeological element using means of framework. • Great attention must be paid to all elements of the archeological site, and call for archeologists to supervise the process of consolidation. • Utilities orientation should be in the opposite side of streets where archeo- logical sites are located. • Prevent any attempt to dump or bury archeological elements in the process of excavation. • Using the lightest methods and instruments in excavation and installing pipes. • Take all the possible measures to prevent any leakage that may impact the archeological site or any of its elements. • Avoid storing any kind of materials or instruments in archeological sites.
7.2.4 Ancient water pools and aqueducts
Water pools and aqueducts are part of the water system in the western villages of Bethlehem. In Battir and Wadi Fukin in particular they are genuine components of the irrigation system that is still used today. However, in wadi Fukin most of the ancient aqueducts were replaced by concrete and PVC ones which is considered a major loss. Thus protecting the remaining aqueduct as cultural elements of landscape is of high priority especially in Battir.
Digging in and around the area where ancient water pools and aqueducts are located will lead to their fracture and destruction. Using heavy machineries in such places will also contribute to dismantling the entire system of irrigation. Moreover, the danger of dumping aqueducts and losing their traces is a possible impact of excavation works.
• Excavation works in close vicinity to Battir Ancient pools and aqueducts on both sites of Albalad Spring and Ein Jame’ spring is strictly prohibited. • Planning sanitary and water networks must give extra attention to the paths of pipes that provide the old town and houses close to the system of aqueducts with the services of water and sanitary. • Considering Sanitation network as a vital requirement to enhance the quality of springs’ water, it is essential to highlight the vulnerability of ancient aqueducts system for heavy human interventions.
7.2.5 Cemeteries and graveyards
In the four villages, cemeteries and grave yards especially old ones are part of the cultural landscape and are significant for their spiritual value. It is essential to look at these open spaces as special places that bear no intervention inside.
97 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Cemeteries and grave yards are possible to be subjected to misuse by dedicating their spaces for storing instruments, pipes or building materials. Moreover, they could be used as places for machines parking.
Another adverse impact could be digging inside cemeteries to pass a pipeline or so. This may destroy graves and tombstones besides cutting vegetation and trees and destroying pathways inside cemeteries.
It is to emphasize that the spiritual value of cemeteries must not be undermined underground or on surface. Thus no excavation or storing of instruments should be allowed in these spaces.
7.2.6 Caves
Potential impacts of water and sanitation project on caves represent in digging on top of ancient caves and remove their traces. Moreover the move of heavy machines on in areas of caves and cavities expose on human being’s life to danger on the one side and lead to the damage of caves on the other.
There is high possibility of finding caves scattered in the target area; if caves are historic they should be preserved. If not interventions are allowed.
7.2.7 Terraces
Terraces are a set of platforms marked on the lands to improve agricultural production and considered a traditional feature of Palestinian heritage. The potential impact on terraces is confined to demolishing the intact sets and the remaining parts. Many terraces are in a state of decay due to neglect and because dry stone walls that form terraces are considered a fragile system.
Terraces represent are fundamental to the Palestinian landscape, and must thus be preserved and maintained. If some of them were affected, they should be repaired in accordance with compatible techniques and materials. It is necessary to rebuild demolished terraces and avoid heavy intervention.
Terraces are composed of dry stone retaining walls, vegetation and soil (Figure 7-1). It is necessary that all these components are recovered when any intervention takes place.
98 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Figure 7-1: Aljinan Terraces in Battir
7.3 Indigenous plants and land cover (Flora)
Those elements of soft landscaping took their cultural value due to the enriching - they created -to people’s way of life in the Palestinian village; whom extensive use of various kinds of plants was reflected in growing indigenous types of herbs and trees within their living space context; and were used as food, for medical remedies as much as being used for their decorative and aromatic value.
Highlighting those elements in the context of this study is due to the understanding of their high cultural importance, especially in the villages of the study area where cultural vegetation faces real threats of dissolving.
In this study it was not possible to provide a full survey of the vegetation but the old olive groves are highlighted, since they are identified as by local population as a defining element of the natural and historical arrangement of the territory, the specific and characterizing rural and cultural identity of the place is rather locally perceived and represented as defined by the presence of springs and abundant water resources, and by the cultivation of high quality fresh vegetables. This fact is also revealed by the recurrence of topics, themes and element related to water and to the cultivation of irrigated vegetables in the traditional oral narratives, such as songs and folkloric tales about the local history.
The presence of monumental olive trees in the proximity of important archaeological sites attests of the antiquity of this type of plantation. The olive landscape of the study are, especially in Battir, is inserted in a context of high agro-diversity, where the cultivation of irrigated crops, in particular fresh vegetables, represents the characterizing element of the local agrarian system. Despite detaining an important role in the agricultural system and economy of the place, the production of olive oil is mostly finalized to self-consumption and small-scale marketing. Figure 7-2 shows ancient olive trees in Battir area.
99 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Figure 7-2: Ancient Olive Trees in Battir
An important part of flora is the olive groves that represent a monumental and significant element of cultural heritage. The potential impact that may affect this component during the implementation of the WBVWSS project can be summarized in ripping of olive trees and herbs during excavation works. The mitigation measures for dealing with this situation can be summarized by:
• Routing excavation and utility lines at the furthest point of growth of plants, to reduce the number of effected element. • Proper scientific transplantation of olive trees is a must when changing excavation routs is not valid, thus all watering and equipment to accomplish process should be always available. • To reinforce the thickness of the ground, within the olive terraced areas, through the creation of systems of stabilization of the vegetal grounds. • The propagation of any herbs and shrubs that can be effected during excavation works. • Depend on community traditional ecological knowledge in the implementation of propagation and transplantation practices. • Promote trees planting during before and during project implementation period.
7.4 Further cultural heritage mitigation measures
In order to avoid any loss in any of the cultural heritage components during the implementation of the project, it is essential to avoid any conflict in coordination between related stakeholders. Providing clear orientation and information for contractors and workers helps to reduce any adverse impact that may occur.
Coordination with local authorities, MoTA and UNESCO office in Ramallah concerning the protection of cultural heritage will also contribute to minimize potential impacts. Discovery of new elements of cultural heritage during project
100 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages operations is of high possibility. Thus, good management and full coordination will help to take the suitable measures to protect these sites.
To achieve the above mentioned points it is recommended to implement the monitoring and coordination in an institutional level measure, Thus ESCHIA recommends that MoAT are to be informed immediately in case of any cultural assets are found during the project implementation. It is recommend that MoAT to be present during the project and to be continuously consulted. It is suggested also to require that the contract pays a cultural heritage specialist to work with JSCPD and to be full time available during the project construction as to be responsible for direct consultation with MoTA in this regard. He is then to be responsible for doing the right thing if physical assets are found. This measure is to make sure that the borrower has the capacity to implement the provisions of OP 4.11.
Moreover, coordination between the two branches of the project (Sanitary and water) in terms of protecting cultural heritage elements is also important to avoid conflict that may have irreversible consequences and results.
On the other hand, it is vital to coordinate public sessions to encourage local communities to engage in reducing or mitigating possible impact. Locals are the real experts of their environment in terms of depicting an image of what was existed and what they see is better for their quality of life.
7.5 Project Alternatives
In accordance with the World Bank Policy and best practice, this section basically presents the two alternatives that were considered for the project; the ‘do-nothing’ and ‘implementing the project’. One of the key objectives in an EA report is to analyze the environmental and social implications of each viable option and then compare the options to evaluate their environmental performance, which feeds into overall project design.
The ‘do-nothing’ alternative provides a scenario where no rehabilitation of water supply networks will be developed and no water reservoirs will be constructed in the project area. The existing water supply system is inefficient and unreliable, often intermittent supplies occur. High quantities of water will continue to be lost due to the deteriorated conditions of the existing networks. This option is considered the worst-case scenario.
In the absence of this project, there will be no land allocation for the water reservoirs and warehouse; these lands will presumably continue as rain-fed agricultural land. There will be no noise or traffic effects from construction activities. Lack of construction will not affect site flora or fauna as the proposed sites contain no sensitive habitats or rare or endangered species.
Table 7.1 is a comparison between the impact of the project and the future conditions without the project implementation; ‘do-nothing’ alternative.
101 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Table 7.1: Comparison between Project Implementation and ‘do-nothing’ Alternative Future Conditions Under Item Project Implementation ‘do-nothing’ Alternative Water reservoirs and warehouse are Existing land uses and located on lands of relatively good Land Use ownership would remain quality agricultural lands. Land would unchanged. be lost by implementing the project. Soil will be disturbed during Soil at the water reservoirs Soil construction of the project facilities sites is assumed to remain and will potentially increase erosion. unchanged. Air Quality Dust will be emitted temporarily Existing air quality in the area and Odor during construction. would remain unchanged. Construction noise will temporarily affect sensitive receptors during Noise installation of water supply pipelines Not affected. and during the construction of the water reservoirs and warehouse. Construction activities will temporarily disrupt traffic patterns in Continued intermittent water the vicinity of the proposed project. supply service associated Infrastructure with the existing problems in Temporary service interruptions may and Public the construction and design of occur during construction, such as Services the water network will water supply interruptions. worsen the existing infrastructure. Water supply services will be much enhanced and regulated. Construction will create a significant number of new jobs in the area, and Socio- Employment in the area will few permanent jobs will be created at Economic remain unchanged. the water reservoirs and warehouse when operational. The project will significantly reduce an existing and future health hazard Health hazard created by Public and created by seepage of raw sewage to seepage of raw sewage from Occupational the existing deteriorated water pipes. cesspits will decrease. Health Also the project will ensure higher water quantities available for the households. Cultural heritage features such as dry Leakage from cesspools will stone walls, pathways of historic keep threatening the quality towns and vegetation will be of springs as natural and temporarily influenced from project Historical and cultural elements. activities. Cultural Heritage Not affected by construction The improvement of the water supply activities and Cultural services will encourage the visits to Heritage elements would the cultural heritage sites and enhance remain intact. tourism.
102 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
8. OTHER ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL AND CULTURAL HERITAGE IMPACTS
8.1 During construction
For further considerations regarding possible adverse environmental effects during construction and during operation of the WBVWSS project, it is necessary to define a geographical reference point from which the spatial preconditions and the combined effects (i.e. emissions of dust and noise to adjacent areas) will be calculated.
During the construction of the WBVWSS project, a set of negative, although temporary, impacts have to be expected. However, they do not exceed the normal range of impacts accompanied with construction activities.
The technical construction and installation activities which will follow as soon as the proposed WBVWSS project is completed do not encompass any extraordinary negative impact, which needs to be explicitly addressed. In contrary the accompanied negative impacts are restricted to the site area and are of temporary character, since they will end with the finalization of the construction works.
A. Water Pipes Installation
During the construction of the water network and water mains, there will be impacts that have to be addressed, among these are:
- Noise/vibration and dust generation: will cause nuisances to surrounding areas by excavation and excavated soil transportation for pipe installation. These are transitory problems and can be mitigated by the proper selection of construction ways and restriction of working time. - Traffic jam: during construction the excavated soils and materials are to be transported. This is also transitory problems and can be mitigated by the proper selection and indication of the detours and assignment of the traffic warden. - Harmful side effects: these might be caused along the excavation roads. However these problems will not occur because the ground of the project area is strong and the groundwater level, which causes the collapse of ground, is relatively low. - Historical ruin: when the water pipes are installed in the streets of the four villages, many ruins may be found and especially in Battir. In this case, the ruins shall be preserved and the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquates (MoTA) shall be informed and consulted, then the Consultant and/or the Contractor will cope with some preserving methods including changing the pipe routes.
The construction activities for the pipes and water mains will be widespread. These activities will be of temporary character and the related negative impacts connected are of inferior importance. These construction activities will mainly generate noise on a low level and will possibly trigger traffic jams, which will then just lead to the nuisance of people living nearby or those passing by in cars. The constructions of the water pipes will cross several kilometers through populated streets and areas.
103 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Mitigation measures should take into account the safety and comfort of the inhabitants.
B. Construction of water reservoirs
During the construction of the water reservoirs, there will be also impacts that have to be addressed. These include:
- The issues of noise and vibration will be considered limited but dust problems will be caused by running of vehicles because of the dried weather and clayish soil. In order to cope with this environmental problem, pavement of the road and operation of vehicles can be adapted. - Traffic jam, noise/vibration and generated dust caused by the heavy vehicles transporting huge amounts of materials and disposed soil will be considered. These issues can be prevented by a proper selection of access route and a restriction of the time for transportation. - Huge amounts of construction wastes, such as excavation soils and domestic wastes of the employees and labors. In order to cope with these wastes, a Solid Waste Management Plan shall be formulated and implemented. The reuse of materials, which include packages, construction waste, metals, plastic, cardboard, and timber, which are easily reused, shall be adopted. Since the problem of proper management of domestic waste that are disposed of by concentrated labor force is rather serious than above issues, these wastes shall be properly included in the waste treatment cycle of JSC-H&B. - Since there is reserved and protected areas and valuable historical heritage in the project area, issues to prevent these should be considered and are required to take place. - In addition, the landscape and aesthetics, which are distinguished features of the project area, need to be reserved and improved. Replanting of trees and transport and protection of endangered species should be considered. This will enhance the view and landscape.
As a mitigation measure, the transportation trucks should be covered during transportation and should be checked and maintained from time to time to control the dust and gases emissions. The access road to the construction sites should be built in a way reducing dust emissions by asphalting it right from the beginning, or by installing a gravel layer.
The construction activities such as the excavations at the site may produce huge amounts of soils that may affect the nearby areas of the site. Protection and safety measures during construction are obligatory measures to be implemented by the contractors.
8.2 Noise connected to construction works
Noise is unwanted and undesirable sound that has an adverse effect on human beings and their environment, noise can disturb natural wildlife and ecological systems. Two types of noise emissions are of concern; Impulse noise that is, noise of short duration and high density such as explosions and sonic booms; and Continuous noise such as the compressors at the streets and pumps during operation.
104 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Factors which are important in determining noise levels that will potentially impact the population include; distance from the noise source; natural or man-made barriers between the source and the impacted population, weather conditions which could potentially absorb, reflect; and the type of construction phase. For general calculations and measurement of noise level, the dimension Decibel (dB) is taken. Table 8.1 lists the admissible outdoor noise levels as to the PSI (PS 840-2005), while Table 8.2 gives the admissible time that workers should be subject to noise levels from 85dB to 115dB as to the Ministry of Labor (MoL) Instructions No. (4) Year 2005 (Occupational Health).
Noise levels should be controlled; noise barriers are recommended; occupational health measures should be enforced; Regular health tests and checks should be done for the staff. All these are among the recommended mitigation measures.
Table 8.1: Outdoor admissible noise levels as to the PSI (PS 840-2005) Maximum (dB) Minimum (dB) Outdoor Conditions 7:00 am – 8:00 pm 8:00 pm – 7:00 am Rural Residential, Recreational, Schools, 40 30 Hospitals Residential Areas in Urban Centers 50 40 Residential in Commercial Centers and 55 45 Public Roads Commercial Areas 65 50 Industrial Areas 75 65 Public Parties and Conventions 85 75
Table 8.2: Admissible time subject to noise levels (MoL No. (4) Year 2005) Noise level (dB) 85 90 95 100 105 110 115 Time per day (hr) 8 4 2 1 0.5 0.25 0.125
8.3 During Operation
The pipelines and water mains will not cause serious environmental and social impacts during operation other than the routine operation and maintenance activities. During the operation of the water reservoirs and pumps, issues of noise/vibration, nuisance by vehicles transporting materials are of concern. On the other hand traffic and noise/vibration impacts on surrounding areas will not be a serious problem because the number of vehicles carrying in and out for these purposes is limited.
The diffusion of sound waves in the atmosphere is not homogenous but in contrary depends on, among others, the topography of the area (vegetation, buildings, morphology) as well as on climate conditions (wind speed, wind direction, air temperature, humidity). The character of the source of noise, too, will impact on the diffusion patterns, especially when the sound waves leave a point source in only one direction. Larger technical installations, however, are considered to be spatial sound sources generating complex sound waves mixed from various point sources.
105 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
9. MITIGATION MEASURES
This section summarizes the mitigation measures that are required for possible monitoring of the significant impacts as a result of the implementation of the WBVWSS project. It also presents information about what agency or group is responsible for implementation and continued management. Potential Contractors shall include in their Bid Documents illustrative plans that comply with these measures.
Most Impacts occurring throughout construction are primarily associated with land preparation, earth works, material transportation and movement of heavy machinery. Such impacts are mostly short term, local, and caused by the contractor’s activities in the area. These concerns are usually minor and can be easily addressed using appropriate mitigation measures in the works contracts and can therefore be mitigated through proper co-ordination with the contractor and concerned governmental parties. The most important issues include:
Construction and demolition wastes. Risk of damage to archaeological or historical sites. Risks of damage of the surrounded environment such as the agricultural lands.
Increase in noise levels due to traffic sources in comparison to current ambient noise levels can be minimized through the use of well-serviced and maintained vehicles, in addition to the traffic reduction measures.
Mitigation of noise pollution can proceed along two possible actions, either by changing the source of noise and/or changing the path of noise from the source to the receiver. Appropriate measures should be taken to reduce the impacts of noise generated from the construction works, not allowing levels to exceed the standards. The installation instructions of the different technical equipments to be installed should be strictly applied as to reduce the noise emissions from the water facilities and the emissions should be controlled and minimized. Technical measures to reduce high noise levels include the use of noise insulating materials.
The following are the required measures to be implemented in order to mitigate the potential impacts expected to affect the different environmental, social, cultural, and natural resources.
Store excess cut materials in areas that minimize environmental damage. Some of the excess aggregate materials may be used to aid in agricultural lands reclamation activities. Separately store all high quality soils and use them to reclaim agricultural lands under the direction of the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA). During the Design process, prior to implementation, it is to locate, design and submit final storage site plans. Compliance with this directive will be ensured during the design-build process and inspection during construction. Remove valuable trees in such a way that they can be transplanted in other suitable locations as guided by the MoA. The uprooted trees shall be stored in accordance with the MoA and MoPWH instructions. The trees to be transplanted
106 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
will be tagged prior to clearing and grubbing activities. Compliance with this directive will be verified during continuous construction inspection. Comply with the Palestinian employment and wage guidelines. This measure is intended to maximize the employment benefits of construction. Compliance with this directive will be verified during random inspections and interviews throughout the construction process. In order to minimize potential health hazards, it is to utilize procedures that maximize worker safety and welfare. This includes exposure to heat, noise, dust, and solid and hazardous waste. These procedures will be established during negotiations with the contractors working on the site. They can be modified during the coordination meetings. In order to minimize the potential for loss or damage to priceless or irreplaceable cultural resources, it is to alert and educate the workers about the possibility of unearthing archaeological artifacts. Workers shall be required to stop all potentially damaging activities, notify JSCPD and village councils and alert the MoTA if they suspect cultural resources are being damaged. Compliance with this measure will be conducted continuously during construction. Consult the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities (MoTA) to give investigation preference to the recreational sites and to plan for enhancing the recreational, picnic, and tourism activities. In order to minimize soil erosion, the precursor to water quality deterioration and blown dust, during and after construction, it is to progressively vegetate the exposed areas caused by construction activities with native plant species as appropriate for the location. This re-vegetation of all impacted areas shall begin as soon as possible after work at a site is completed. This program will be monitored continuously during construction and monthly until the vegetation is stable. In order to avoid contaminating wadies or other areas during construction, it is to discharge wastewaters into proper constructed sealed septic tanks. In order to avoid contaminating wadies or other areas, it is to transport the construction waste to an approved construction materials waste area. It is suggested to allocate a nearby abounded quarry and landfill it with the construction waste and demolition. In order to prevent the possibility of surface or groundwater contamination, it is to ensure that liquid wastes are properly collected, stored, and disposed. In order to minimize environmental impacts, the workers camps will be located away from environmentally sensitive areas. The potential locations of these camps will be submitted to JSCPD and PWA for approval prior to camp construction. Compliance with this requirement will be monitored during camp location. In order to minimize pollutant emissions that could contaminate the air, surface, or groundwater, it is to use well-maintained construction vehicles and machinery. In order to minimize the potential for a hazardous materials spill, it is to use non- hazardous materials during construction if possible and practical. In order to minimize potential social, economic or environmental damage, it is to develop and utilize a spill response plan and educate appropriate staff as to the proper procedures included in the plan. This plan will be submitted to the PWA and EQA for approval prior to hazardous materials being transported for the project. Compliance to this plan will be monitored during construction.
107 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Establish a set of procedures for dealing with the accidental spill of hazardous materials. These procedures would include methods for cleaning fuel, battery acids or radiator fluids that leak during an accident. These procedures should ensure that the materials do not enter the environment. In order to minimize noise impacts, it is not to operate heavy or noisy machinery between the hours of 22:00 and 05:00. Compliance will be monitored by MoL continuously during construction and/or operation. Minimize the social, economic and environmental impacts associated with dust emissions; utilize a dust palative such as calcium carbonate or other suitable dust control means during earthwork activities in cleared or erodible areas. Continuous visual inspections during construction will verify compliance with/need for additional compliance measures. As generation of considerable amount of solid waste is anticipated, solid waste management plan shall be prepared. This has to be coordinated with the officials of JSC-H&B. In order to minimize air quality and health impacts, it is not to burn waste materials of any type. Compliance with this requirement will be monitored continuously during construction. Abide by local laws concerning maximum weight and speeds of vehicles transporting construction materials. The purpose of this measure is to minimize potential safety or environmental hazards such as traffic accidents, pavement damage, or excess dust generation. Compliance with this measure will be verified during continuous construction inspection. Utilize industry standard construction zone safety practices and equipment. This includes detours, warning signs, and temporary traffic control devices. These shall be inspected daily during construction of the project. In order to minimize damage from seismic forces or other landslide events, it is to design and construct the water facilities, reservoirs, slopes, and any other structures to resist reasonably expected levels of activity. Compliance to this will be monitored in the design and continuously during construction. In order to monitor safety performance, accident reporting guidelines and an accident database for all accidents occurring is to be established. In order to avoid impacting the availability of transportation services, it is to provide transportation for workers to and from the construction site.
Best engineering practices shall be employed during installation of the water pipes and distribution mains under the requirements of PA construction regulations and material standards in order to avoid possibility of underground undetectable leakage.
The construction contractor will be required to develop a Health and Safety Plan and Emergency Response Plan. These plans will include provisions to safeguard the health and safety of workers and explain procedures for response in case of workplace accidents/incidents. The locations of hospitals and clinics nearest to the construction sites will be identified. Also, first aid equipment will be provided at the construction sites.
108 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
10. ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL, AND CULTURAL HERITAGE MANAGEMENT PLAN
The Environmental, Social, and Cultural Heritage Management Plan (ESCHMP) identify feasible and cost-effective measures required for the environmental monitoring of key environmental aspects of the project during project implementation. The ESCHMP also identifies monitoring objectives, specifies the type of monitoring, and stipulates mitigation measures to address impacts as identified by the ESCHIA study.
The ESCHMP is designed to monitor the effectiveness of the management actions. A component of the plan is to establish monitoring programs to evaluate the performance of the project against the goals of sustainable development: economic growth, social equity, and ecological integrity. Appropriate, measurable, defined, and valid indicators shall be identified, developed, and agreed upon by stakeholders. The ESCHMP will include regular auditing and reporting, and lead to the refinement of targets and indicators. Monitoring results will be made publicly available.
The main objectives of the ESCHMP are to:
1. Implement all recommendations and mitigation measures shown in the ESCHIA report, and any future needs that might arise. 2. Implement and enhance all laws and regulations related to labor affairs and benefits. 3. Inform workers regarding onsite job risks. 4. Enforce equal opportunity employment for equal qualifications. 5. Implement all environmental laws and regulations of the Palestinian Authority. 6. Supervise all activities that might affect the environment aspects of the community. 7. Establish a monitoring policy and an inspection program to cover environmental contaminants or those that might adversely affect the environment of the area. 8. Implement immediate mitigation measures wherever appropriate. Emphasis should be on the protection and conserving valued environmental components. Workshops and training sessions should be held regularly on various fields related to project activities. 9. Inspect and supervise environmental conditions at the project area. 10. Take corrective steps to mitigate environmental impacts.
In addition, the ESCHMP will:
1. Assess effectiveness of the proposed mitigation measures in the ESCHIA. 2. Detect environmental contamination as early as possible, to ensure the implementation of the management plan by the project operators. 3. Ensure compliance with this ESCHIA and regulatory authorities. 4. Prepare periodic reports on the environmental status of the project and the community, including activities or actions taken during the year and analysis and evaluation of results and present recommendations, to improve or develop better approach.
The ESCHMP provided in Annex I list expected impacts of the proposed project. Mitigations measures to be implemented during the construction and operational phases are listed. Environmental mitigation and monitoring actions are presented in
109 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages a matrix format. The matrix includes an identification of the issues, mitigation measures, and responsibility for executing the mitigation measures. The ESCHMP is a tool for environmental auditing and compliance, and if properly applied, will ensure the success and sustainability of the project.
110 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
11. CONCLUSIONS AND OVERALL ASSESSMENT
This ESCHIA report summarizes the results of the impact assessment for the construction of the WBVWSS project. It includes an overview of the key environmental, social and cultural heritage impacts associated with the construction and post development of the water supply system at the four villages of West Bethlehem.
The ESCHIA has investigated and assessed the significance of the predicted positive and negative impacts associated with the proposed WBVWSS project. These impacts, along with the wider environmental issues will need to be weighed up in the decision- making process. No negative impacts of high significance were identified, provided that all mitigation measures are applied effectively.
No significant negative cumulative impact is expected to be caused by the development of the WBVWSS project. The construction of the water supply system is by itself a positive cumulative impact as it will improve the distribution of water among the four villages and will enhance the social practice of water supply and will develop a focused and properly operated system.
The ESCHIA concluded that providing the recommended mitigation measures are incorporated and the environmental, social, health and safety management of the facilities are addressed in the ways described within this report, then associated environmental, social and health impacts can be maintained within acceptable levels.
In order to ensure effective application of the management actions and monitoring proposed in this ESCHIA, a comprehensive ESCHMP is prepared and annexed to this report. Recommendations are provided for the best practicable environmental option, mitigation and management actions, as well as suggested monitoring during construction and post development of the WBVWSS project.
It is recommended that this ESCHIA is approved and that the environmental approval for the construction of the proposed WBVWSS project is issued. The PWA, JSCPD and the village councils are committed to the standards and requirements for the protection of the environment and declare that they are committed to the required mitigation measures addressed in this ESCHIA.
111 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
12. ANNEXES
Annex IA: Environmental, Social, and Cultural Heritage Management Plan
Annex IB: ESCH Management Plan Mitigation Measures, Responsibility, and Reporting
Annex II: Social Safeguards Matrix
Annex III: Conclusions and Recommendations of the Socio-Economic Baseline study for North West Jerusalem Villages.
Annex IV: List of Local Community Organizations
Annex III: ESCHIA Scoping Report
Annex IV: Terms of Reference (TOR)
112 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
ANNEX IA: ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL, AND CULTURAL HERITAGE MANAGEMENT PLAN (+: positive, -: negative, 0: neutral) During Construction Phase Environmental, Potential Residual Social, and Significance Proposed Mitigation Nr. Environmental Monitoring impact/ Cultural (+, 0, -) Measures Impacts comments Heritage 1. Vehicles and construction machinery should be required to be properly maintained and to Air pollution caused by - medium comply with relevant emission standards. emissions and exhaust Spoil piles shall be transported daily in covered from vehicles and trucks construction machinery. The vehicles, in particular, the trucks should not be over loaded to minimize exhausts emissions Water spray of the construction site and the Ensure that stockpiles of the excess cut materials to mitigation measures Dust plumes from the minimize dust are incorporated - medium Air Quality and excavation and into bid documents. negligible Controlling the speed of the transporting Dust finishing activities. vehicles, selecting transportation routes to minimize dust impact on sensitive receivers, Contractor shall and washing trucks tires before leaving the implement air construction site. quality mitigation Proper scheduling and monitor of any risky measures activities such as excavation and backfilling. Mechanical excavation should be used where Limited odors maybe possible and best construction practices will be generated during - medium employed. construction out of
construction vehicles. Cease earth-moving activities on days when wind gusts exceed 40 km per hour Assure the use of well maintained mechanical construction equipment
113 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
During Construction Phase Environmental, Potential Residual Social, and Significance Proposed Mitigation Nr. Environmental Monitoring impact/ Cultural (+, 0, -) Measures Impacts comments Heritage 2. Construction activities should be scheduled Noise due to heavy carefully to minimize the impact of noise from construction machinery - medium construction machinery. Night-time construction using heavy machinery and vehicular . such as pile drivers and concrete vibrators Ensure that movement, potentially mitigation measures should be prohibited all night hours. Noise affecting the residents. are incorporated Good maintenance and proper operation of negligible (construction into bid documents. construction machinery to minimize noise and traffic Construction noise generation. noise) Contractor shall exceeding a noise level Selection of transport routes for large vehicles implement noise of 70 dB has significant - high to avoid residential areas. reduction measures impact on surrounding . Scheduling of the working hours and days. sensitive receptors Complying with the noise limits during within 50 meters of the construction activities. construction sites. 3. Soil erosion (and dust) should be minimized Review of bid at construction sites by covering spoil and fill documents to ensure piles, in addition to applying other mitigation that applicable measures. This requirement should be codes and Soil will be disturbed incorporated into project plans and regulations are during construction of specifications. incorporated, Soil the project facilities and - high inspection during will potentially increase construction to minor erosion. Suitable disposal sites should be identified for excess material from excavating water ensure that measures pipelines and site grading of the water are implemented. reservoirs. Contractor shall present written
114 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
During Construction Phase Environmental, Potential Residual Social, and Significance Proposed Mitigation Nr. Environmental Monitoring impact/ Cultural (+, 0, -) Measures Impacts comments Heritage description of proposed debris and soil disposal site for review and approval. 4. Stagnant water bodies may be formed as a Ensure that result of accumulation Continuous clearance of wadis and storm mitigation measures Surface Water of excavation material - medium water courses. are incorporated minor on storm water courses into bid documents. and surface water drainage areas. 5. Spillage of raw sewage Continuous cleaning of the construction site. If not strictly and oil from the Construction of temporary septic tank when Ensure that implemented, construction camp and - high needed. mitigation measures Groundwater it will impact construction equipment are incorporated Emptying of septic tank when full and the springs. to the groundwater into bid documents. dumping it at an official nearby treatment systems and springs. facility. 6. The construction camps Disposal of the generated solid waste should could be sources of be timely cleaned up and stored in closed Cleanness of solid waste, debris, and - medium containers. Ensure that the waste oil from Disposed materials should be properly mitigation measures Construction machinery. compacted and stabilized. are incorporated Site and Solid Construction spoils and rocky materials into bid documents. Wastewater from the Wastes could be used by local people on a ’take for camps could create new - high free’ basis. pollution sources. Sewage and other wastewater from negligible
115 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
During Construction Phase Environmental, Potential Residual Social, and Significance Proposed Mitigation Nr. Environmental Monitoring impact/ Cultural (+, 0, -) Measures Impacts comments Heritage construction camps should be collected by Construction spoils and septic tank or closed container. rocky materials will be - medium Burning of wastes should be prohibited. generated. Construction waste should be promptly removed from the construction sites. Excavated materials generated by The waste transportation vehicles should not - medium construction and be overloaded and should be covered. demolition activities. 7. Implementing a resettlement plan for the trees. negligible Affecting trees, rare or Ensure that Ecology and Uprooting and replanting the trees. endangered species mitigation measures Natural - low Bird, wolf, and fox presence should be living within the are incorporated Resources monitored. Hunting is highly restricted and all construction area. migratory birds, wolves and foxes are into bid documents. protected.
8. Traffic plans should be prepared before construction in conjunction with relevant Traffic congestion authority. Ensure that caused by increased Regulating traffic at the road crossings and Roads and mitigation measures construction traffic in - high improve existing roads to accommodate negligible Traffic are incorporated the areas, altering increased heavy traffic. into bid documents public safety. Select transport routes to reduce disturbance to regular traffic. Divert traffic at peak traffic hours.
116 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
During Construction Phase Environmental, Potential Residual Social, and Significance Proposed Mitigation Nr. Environmental Monitoring impact/ Cultural (+, 0, -) Measures Impacts comments Heritage 9. Water pipes will be The PWA and JSCPD shall obtain change of Contractor must buried in the public land use permits or easements from agencies provide written roads; land use where having jurisdiction over the facility locations. documentation of water pipes will be laid - low The JSCPD has to appreciate the donation of permissions from all minor will only be affected the land parcel in Nahhlin and complete the affected agencies Land Use and temporarily. land registry from the present owners. and property Planning During construction, identify all affected owners.
The water reservoir of property owners, and compensate, if any. The land in Battir is on a public Owners must be Nahhalin is land, while in Nahhalin - medium consulted. donated. is on a donated private agricultural land. 10. Problems related to Contractors should be required to take safety public and workers measures at the construction sites, and - high safety due to the works warning signs should be provided to alert of in the project. potential safety hazards at and around the construction sites. Contractors and construction supervision Public and should be introduced to the environmental Periodic inspections Traffic accidents - medium minor Workers Safety protection measures. by MoL and
and protection Environmental protection measures in MoPWH connection with construction operations are required as integral parts of the engineering Risks and seismic contracts. - low activities. Provide traffic regulation signs. Complying with seismic loads in design, exit, and emergency.
117 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
During Construction Phase Environmental, Potential Residual Social, and Significance Proposed Mitigation Nr. Environmental Monitoring impact/ Cultural (+, 0, -) Measures Impacts comments Heritage 11. Conduct a survey of all known existing cultural properties and make a registry of these, their conditions and status. Construction should be immediately
suspended if any archaeological or other Damaging of heritage If not strictly Heritage and cultural properties are found. and archaeological sites Periodic inspections implemented, cultural - medium MoTA and other relevant cultural authority within the construction by MoTA it will impact properties area and the project management office should be the cultural notified promptly and only after a thorough assets. investigation will construction resume. Reinstate any damages whatsoever that may occur (should be avoided as possible) to the cultural properties. 12. Commitment with the Palestinian Law of Labor Occupational health and safety measures Construction workers should be taken at the construction sites. negligible Occupational might be exposed to or Periodic inspections - high First aid kits and units should be available at Health injured by different by MoL the site. occupational hazards. Appoint an environmental and safety officer Workers should consult the appointed safety officer of the site regularly. 13. Control machinery and vehicle access. Periodic inspections negligible Damage to agriculture Agriculture - low by MoPWH and land Reinstate all affected areas MoA
118 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
During Construction Phase Environmental, Potential Residual Social, and Significance Proposed Mitigation Nr. Environmental Monitoring impact/ Cultural (+, 0, -) Measures Impacts comments Heritage 14. Efficient sanitation must be maintained and Improve Job creation and works monitored, with provision of health services. living + medium opportunities standards The contractor should afford save and Workforce might be healthy environment for the workforce. from outside the Periodic inspections Socio-economic immediate Provide recreational and social activities at by MoL, MoH, and neighborhood living in - medium construction camp during non-working MoLG minor temporary quarters hours. subject to disease, noise and dust. Conduct Safety awareness campaign, focusing on schools and children. Awareness Community safety - high campaign 15. Loss of tourism and Effective Solid Waste Management Plan. Further recreational value if the Commitment to noise, dust and emissions Periodic inspections Tourism and follow up aesthetic, noise, air - medium standards by JSCPD and recreation post pollution and services MoTA Traffic management and maintain water and construction not well maintained. electricity supply 16. Leveling and site preparation should be monitored; no wastes should be spilled. Change in landscape Maintain the green areas MoLG, JSCPD, Aesthetic character from site 0 low Planting trees and improving the landscape. Minor Village Councils construction Maintain structures, observe good housekeeping procedures keep facilities and sites clean and well cared for.
119 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Annex IA (continue) (+: positive, -: negative, 0: neutral) Post Development Phase Environmental, Potential Residual Social, and Significance Proposed Mitigation Environmental Monitoring impact/ Cultural (+, 0, -) Measures Impacts comments Heritage 1. The project will affect Coordinate training and public awareness for several entities such as new workers and JCSPD. village councils, + high Implement regular environmental checks; authorities and public awareness campaigns; regular checks of Public and ministries. vehicles; maintenance activities; etc. Follow up by Institutional water services Coordinate with PWA and WSSA for the MoLG, PWA, MoA implementation and operation of the water will improve. It will also affect the supply system. + medium public and the farmers Support farmers cooperative and farmers' family businesses. 2. Water is supplied to consumers fairly. Continuous control of water quality. Reduction of social Public awareness campaigns. conflicts on water Improve of PWA ,WSSA, and public health Socio-economic + high WBWD and hygienic conditions. Improve of public health
120 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Post Development Phase Environmental, Potential Residual Social, and Significance Proposed Mitigation Environmental Monitoring impact/ Cultural (+, 0, -) Measures Impacts comments Heritage 3. The location of cesspits should be Water network pipes considered during the design and the
installed beside or near implementation phase of the project. Ensure that Significant the cesspits; potential Install the water network pipes at a suitable mitigation measures if measures Water Quality infiltration of raw - high distance away from the cesspits. are incorporated are not sewage will reach the Protect the water network by special into bid documents. carefully water pipes and pollute materials if they are near cesspits. implemented the supplied water. Well design and installation of the water supply network. 4. The design and the implementation should Increase in the water Water comply with the local and international codes. Follow up by the demand and Impact on Resources and 0 low Water storage reservoir to meet the demand PWA, WSSA and Minor the water resources. Water supply for several days. WBWD Supply the project with water. 5. Traffic management and maintain water and Beneficial for electricity supply. community Tourism and Enhancement of tourism + high Maintain and reserve cultural heritage assets. Follow up by MoTA and social recreation and recreational value. Enhance tourism and visits to the Heritage and welfare. cultural properties.
121 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
ANNEX IB: ESCH MANAGEMENT PLAN, MITIGATION MEASURES, RESPONSIBILITY AND REPORTING
During Construction Proposed Mitigation Implementation Monitoring Timing and Cost Monitoring Reporting ESCH Measures Responsibility Responsibility Frequency (US$) Vehicles and construction machinery Tender Construction should be properly maintained and to Contractor documents Site Supervision All the time machinery comply with relevant emission standards. Inspection inspection Tender Spoil piles shall be transported daily in Supervision Daily Contractor documents Site Every time covered trucks. Police submittals Inspection The vehicles, in particular, the trucks Tender Supervision Daily should not be over loaded to minimize Contractor documents Every time Police submittals exhausts emissions. Inspection
Water spray of the construction site and the Tender Windy days Progress stockpiles of the excess cut materials to Contractor documents Supervision and summer reports minimize dust. Site Inspection time Controlling the speed of the transporting Contractor; for Daily vehicles, selecting transportation routes to Tender Supervision 10,000 transportation Submittals; minimize dust impact on sensitive documents JSCPD Every time routes consult Transportation receivers, and washing trucks tires before Inspection Police Quality and Dust JSCPD plan leaving the construction site.
Air Air Proper scheduling and monitor of any risky Tender Progress activities such as excavation and Contractor Supervision Every time documents reports backfilling. Mechanical excavation should be used Tender During Progress where possible and best construction Contractor Supervision documents Construction reports practices will be employed. Cease earth-moving activities on days Tender Progress Contractor Supervision Every time when wind gusts exceed 40 km per hour documents report Assure the use of well maintained Tender Supervision Progress Contractor All the time mechanical construction equipment. documents JSCPD Reports
122 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
During Construction Proposed Mitigation Implementation Monitoring Timing and Cost Monitoring Reporting ESCH Measures Responsibility Responsibility Frequency (US$) Construction activities should be scheduled Consultant; Tender documents At project Design report carefully to minimize the impact of noise JSCPD
Contractor Shop drawings start Work plan from construction machinery. Night-time construction using heavy Supervision machinery such as pile drivers and concrete Progress Contractor Tender documents JSCPD Every night vibrators should be prohibited all night report MoPWH hours. Good maintenance and proper operation of Daily construction machinery to minimize noise Contractor Tender documents Supervision All the time submittals - generation. Selection of transport routes for large Contractor; Supervision; Transportation Tender documents Every time vehicles to avoid residential areas. JSCPD Police plan work plan; Supervision;
(construction and traffic noise) traffic (construction and
Scheduling of the working hours and days. Contractor Work plan All the time daily MoL submittals
Noise All the time Complying with the noise limits during Tender documents Supervision; Inspection Contractor Every construction activities. Inspection MoL; EQA Reports activity Soil erosion (and dust) should be Project plans; minimized at construction sites by covering All the time; Progress spoil and fill piles, in addition to applying Contractor; Tender documents Supervision; In the project reports; other mitigation measures. This Consultant Site Inspection JSCPD
plans Daily requirement should be incorporated into submittals -
Soil project plans and specifications. Suitable disposal sites should be identified Excavation At start of for excess material from excavating water Contractor; Tender documents Supervision; plan report; project; pipelines and site grading of the water JSCPD Excavation plan MoPWH Daily every time reservoirs. submittals
123 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
During Construction Proposed Mitigation Implementation Monitoring Timing and Cost Monitoring Reporting ESCH Measures Responsibility Responsibility Frequency (US$)
Supervision; Occasional; Continuous clearance of wadis and storm Progress Contractor Tender documents JSCPD; at least 12,000 water courses. report
Water MoPWH weekly
Surface Surface
Occasional; Continuous cleaning of the construction Supervision; Progress Contractor Tender documents at least site. JSCPD report monthly Construction of temporary septic tank when Once at Mobilization Contractor Tender documents Supervision 12,000 needed. project start report Emptying of septic tank when full and Tender documents Every time it Progress Groundwater dumping it at an official nearby treatment Contractor and site Supervision is full report facility. instructions (monthly) Disposal of the generated solid waste Tender documents Supervision; Daily
should be timely cleaned up and stored in Contractor and site All the time JSCPD submittals closed containers. instructions
astes Tender documents
W Disposed materials should be properly Contractor Supervision; Progress and site Every time 6,000 compacted and stabilized. JECPD report instructions Construction spoils and rocky materials Announce to the Progress could be used by local people on a ’take for Contractor public; JSCPD Occasional report free’ basis. Announcements Sewage and other wastewater from Waste As construction camps should be collected by Contractor Tender documents Supervision All the time Management above septic tank or closed container. Plan Supervision; Never Burning of wastes should be prohibited. Contractor Site instructions - - JSCPD; EQA allowed
Construction Site and Site Construction Solid Construction waste should be promptly Supervision; Daily Contractor Tender documents Daily - removed from the construction sites. JSCPD submittals
124 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
During Construction Proposed Mitigation Implementation Monitoring Timing and Cost Monitoring Reporting ESCH Measures Responsibility Responsibility Frequency (US$) Waste The waste transportation vehicles should Tender documents JSCPD; Contractor Every time Management - not be overloaded and should be covered. Instructions Police Plan
Implementing a resettlement plan for the Contractor; Resettlement Special Plan MoA Once trees. JSCPD Plan Consultant; During Resettlement Uprooting and replanting the trees. Contractor MoA JSCPD construction Plan 20,000 Bird, wolf, and fox presence should be monitored. Hunting is highly restricted and Tender documents
Ecology andEcology JSCPD MoTA All the time Special Report all migratory birds, wolves and foxes are Special Plan Natural Resources Natural protected.
Traffic plans should be prepared before MoT; At project construction in conjunction with relevant Contractor Tender documents Traffic Plan Police start authority. Regulating traffic at the road crossings and Tender documents JSCPD; At project 20,000 improve existing roads to accommodate Contractor Traffic Plan Traffic Plan MoPWH start increased heavy traffic. Select transport routes to reduce Contractor, MoPWH, At project
Roads and Traffic Traffic Plan Traffic Plan disturbance to regular traffic. JSCPD MoT; Police start The PWA and JSCPD shall obtain change Higher of land use permits or easements from Project documents planning Prior project PWA, JSCPD Special Report - agencies having jurisdiction over the and land use plan council; MoP; start
Planning facility locations. MoPWH The JSCPD has to appreciate the donation Project
and Project registration Before of the land parcel in Nahhlin and complete JSCPD PWA registration - documents project start the land registry from the present owners. documents During construction, identify all affected Owners must be During JSCPD PWA Special Report N/A property owners, and compensate, if any. consulted construction
Land Use
125 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
During Construction Proposed Mitigation Implementation Monitoring Timing and Cost Monitoring Reporting ESCH Measures Responsibility Responsibility Frequency (US$)
Contractors should be required to take Supervision; safety measures at the construction sites, JSCPD; During Progress and warning signs should be provided to Contractor Tender documents MoPWH; construction Report alert of potential safety hazards at and MoL around the construction sites. Contractors and construction supervision Prior project Environmental should be introduced to the environmental JSCPD ESCHIA report EQA; PWA start Auditing protection measures. Environmental protection measures in 2,000 connection with construction operations are Contractor Life time of Environmental ESCHIA report EQA; PWA required as integral parts of the engineering JSCDP the project Auditing contracts. At project Progress Provide traffic regulation signs. Contractor Tender documents JSCPD start report Complying with seismic loads in design, Consultant; In the project Tender documents PWA; JSCPD Design report
Public and Workers Safety and protection Public Safety and Workers exit, and emergency. Contractor plans Conduct a survey of all existing cultural Consultant, Consultancy Prior project properties and make a registry of these, PWA; MoTA Special report JSCPD agreements start their conditions and status. Construction should be immediately Contractor; JSCPD; Progress suspended if any archaeological or other Tender documents Every time Consultant MoTA report cultural properties are found. 30,000 MoTA and other relevant cultural authority and the project management office should
properties be notified promptly if any archaeological JSCPD; Progress Contractor Tender documents Every time or other cultural properties are found and MoTA report
Heritage and cultural Heritage only after a thorough investigation will construction resume.
126 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
During Construction Proposed Mitigation Implementation Monitoring Timing and Cost Monitoring Reporting ESCH Measures Responsibility Responsibility Frequency (US$) Reinstate any damages whatsoever that JSCPD; Progress may occur (should be avoided as possible) Contractor Tender documents Every time MoTA report to the cultural properties. Commitment with the Palestinian Law of MoPWH; Progress Contractor Tender documents All the time Labor. MoL report Consultant Occupational health and safety measures Progress Contractor Tender documents MoPWH; All the time should be taken at the construction sites. report MoL Consultant First aid kits and units should be available Progress - Contractor Tender documents MoPWH; All the time at the site. report MoL Appoint an environmental and safety Contractor; Once during Project Tender documents PWA; EQA
Occupational Health officer. JSCPD the project documents Workers should consult the appointed Workers; Consultant; Weekly and Progress Tender documents safety officer of the site regularly. contractor MoL as needed report
e Consultant; Progress Control machinery and vehicle access. Contractor Tender documents All the time JSCPD report 36,000 Consultant; Progress Reinstate all affected areas. Contractor Tender documents Every time Agricultur JSCPD; MoA report Efficient sanitation must be maintained and
Consultant; Progress monitored, with provision of health Contractor Tender documents All the time - MoL report services. The contractor should afford save and Consultant; Progress Contractor Tender documents All the time - economic healthy environment for the workforce. MoL report
- Provide recreational and social activities at Consultant; Progress
Socio construction camp during non-working Contractor Tender documents MoL; All the time 24,000 report hours. MoPWH
127 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
During Construction Proposed Mitigation Implementation Monitoring Timing and Cost Monitoring Reporting ESCH Measures Responsibility Responsibility Frequency (US$) Conduct Safety awareness campaign, Project Agreement Once before Awareness JSCPD PWA, MoLG 10,000 focusing on schools and children. Announcements project start report Waste Contractor; Once before As
Effective Solid Waste Management Plan. Tender documents EQA; MoTA Management JSCPD project start above Plan Commitment to noise, dust and emissions Consultant; Design and Tender documents JSCPD; EQA All the time - standards. Contractor progress report
recreation Traffic management and maintain water JSCPD; Progress Tourism and Contractor Tender documents All the time - and electricity supply. MoPWH report Leveling and site preparation should be JSCPD; Progress Contractor Tender documents All the time monitored; no wastes should be spilled. MoPWH report
Progress Maintain the green areas. Contractor Tender documents JSCPD; EQA All the time report Progress 10,000 Planting trees and improving the landscape. Contractor Tender documents JSCPD; MoA Occasional report Aesthetic Maintain structures, observe good JSCPD; Progress housekeeping procedures keep facilities and Contractor Tender documents All the time MoPWH report sites clean and well cared for.
128 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Annex IB (Continue)
Post Development Phase Proposed Mitigation Implementation Monitoring Timing and Cost Monitoring Reporting ESCH Measures Responsibility Responsibility Frequency (US$) Contract Coordinate training and public awareness Once at Awareness JSCPD; MoLG agreements; PWA; EQA for new workers and JCSPD. project start report Announcements Implement regular environmental checks; Contract Monthly public awareness campaigns; regular checks JSCPD; EQA agreement; MoLG, EQA Occasional Reports of vehicles; maintenance activities; etc. Announcements 28,000 Coordinate with PWA and WSSA for the Contract Monthly
Institutional implementation and operation of the water JSCPD PWA As required Agreement Reports supply system. Support farmers cooperative and farmers' Contract Monthly JSCPD MoLG; MoA All the time family businesses. Agreement Reports Water is supplied to consumers fairly. Contract Monthly
JSCPD, WSSA PWA All the time - Agreement Reports - Continuous control of water quality. Contract Monthly JSCPD, WSSA PWA All the time - Agreement Reports
Socio
economic Awareness Public awareness campaigns. JSCPD Announcements PWA; MoLG Occasional N/A report The location of cesspits should be Consultant; Consultancy PWA; MoLG; Monthly
considered during the design and the Every time JSCPD agreements MoPWH Reports implementation phase of the project. Install the water network pipes at a suitable Consultant; PWA; MoLG; Monthly Tender documents Every time distance away from the cesspits. JSCPD MoPWH Reports -
Protect the water network by special Consultant; PWA; MoLG; Monthly Water Quality Water Tender documents Every time materials if they are near cesspits. JSCPD MoPWH Reports
129 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Post Development Phase Proposed Mitigation Implementation Monitoring Timing and Cost Monitoring Reporting ESCH Measures Responsibility Responsibility Frequency (US$) Once; design Well design and installation of the water Consultant; PWA; JDCPD Tender documents and supply network. JSCPD MoPWH Reports construction The design and the implementation should Consultancy Once; during Design comply with the local and international Consultant JSCPD, PWA
upply agreement design report
S codes. Water storage reservoir to meet the demand Consultancy Once; during Design - Consultant JSCPD, PWA for several days. agreement design report
ater Resources Resources ater WSSA; Water Supply JDCPD Supply the project with water. PWA All the time
W
and Water and Water WBWDS; PWA Agreement Reports Traffic management and maintain water and
MoLG All the time electricity supply. and JSCPD; Local Maintain and reserve cultural heritage JSCPD documents JDCPD offices of MoTA All the time - assets. and obligations Reports MoTA
recreation Enhance tourism and visits to the Heritage
Tourism MoTA All the time and cultural properties.
Notes: - It has been estimated that the project construction duration is one year. - The costs above are rough estimates and require further justification during project implementation. - The total of the US$ 220,000 will be partly covered by the contractor's offer and costs; the rest (awareness campaigns, institutional, survey of culture resources, etc.) is recommended to be covered by an Accompany Measures project.
130 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
ANNEX II: SOCIAL SAFEGUARDS MATRIX Permanent Land Acquisition Temporary Land Acquisition (during construction) Detailed list of impacts Total Total Total # of Total Total Total HH # of amount of HH HH/persons businesses amount of HH displaced businesses land affected displaced affected land affected affected Component 4: Civil Works
Husan Village Civil works Water supply Improve living conditions for None; pipes None None None Construction None None Only during network 6283 inhabitants, increase will be laid Camp. construction replacement available water quantity underneath the and through reducing wastage, streets. In case temporarily. enhance water quality, crossing improve public health, private lands it mitigate burden on women will be at land and children, ensuring fair borders away distribution and equitable from private shares of water, decrees facilities. social disputes on water. Ware house for Provide Operation and The land for None None Agricultural Construction None None None pipe fittings and Maintenance facilities and the ware house activities. Camp Hussan Water tools. and a reservoir Land use of reservoir. Increase available water is made the land is to quantity and account for available by be changed water consumptions patterns. the to water government facilities. (public land) Nahhalin Village Civil works Water supply Improve living conditions for None; pipes None None None Construction None None Only during network 7721 inhabitants, increase will be laid Camp construction replacement available water quantity underneath the and through reducing wastage, streets. In case temporarily.
131 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Permanent Land Acquisition Temporary Land Acquisition (during construction) Detailed list of impacts Total Total Total # of Total Total Total HH # of amount of HH HH/persons businesses amount of HH displaced businesses land affected displaced affected land affected affected enhance water quality, to cross improve public health, private lands it mitigate burden on women will be at land and children, ensuring fair borders away distribution and equitable from private shares of water, decrees facilities. social disputes on water. Water supply Increase available water The land for None None Agricultural Construction None None None reservoir quantity and account for Nahhalin activities. Camp water consumptions patterns. reservoir is Land use of donated for the land is to free by the be changed owner. Rest of to water his land is facilities. agricultural. Battir Village Civil Works Water supply Improve living conditions for None; pipes None None None Construction None None Only during network 4490 inhabitants, increase will be laid Camp. construction replacement available water quantity underneath the and through reducing wastage, streets. In case temporarily. enhance water quality, crossing improve public health, private lands it mitigate burden on women will be at land and children, ensuring fair borders away distribution and equitable from private shares of water, decrees facilities. social disputes on water
132 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Permanent Land Acquisition Temporary Land Acquisition (during construction) Detailed list of impacts Total Total Total # of Total Total Total HH # of amount of HH HH/persons businesses amount of HH displaced businesses land affected displaced affected land affected affected Wadi Fukin Village Civil Works Water supply Improve living conditions for None; pipes None None None Construction None None Only during network 1322 inhabitants, increase will be laid Camp. construction replacement available water quantity underneath the and through reducing wastage, streets. In case temporarily. enhance water quality, crossing improve public health, private lands it mitigate burden on women will be at land and children, ensuring fair borders away distribution and equitable from private shares of water, decrees facilities. social disputes on water. Enterprises Market During Construction, N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A market activities will be impacted by the dust, noise and by the traffic congestion. This is only temporary. After the project implementation, the improvement of the water services will enhance the market. Schools During Construction, N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A traffic congestion, dust and noise will impact the school activities, but temporarily.
133 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Permanent Land Acquisition Temporary Land Acquisition (during construction) Detailed list of impacts Total Total Total # of Total Total Total HH # of amount of HH HH/persons businesses amount of HH displaced businesses land affected displaced affected land affected affected Other Same as above. N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A enterprises Private Shops Implementation of the N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A project is to enhance private shops and market as it will improve the jobs and the touristic activities to the area. Note: “# of businesses affected” must include formal and informal businesses such as vendors, stall owners etc. N/A: Not applicable
134 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
ANNEX III: LIST OF LOCAL COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS
Battir Sports Club Husan Sports Club Nahhalin Sports Club Battir Charitable Society Husan Charitable Society Battir Women’s Club Husan Women’s Club Wadi Fukin Women’s Club Nahhalin Women’s Association Association of Women and Children Health Work Committees (a joint clinic with the Ministry of Health) Youth Development Association Husan Agriculture Development Association Nahhalin Water Association (this was in charge of water supply in Husan, but was dissolved lately) Nahhalin Agricultural Association Palestinian Women’s Association Youth Development Association – Wadi Fukin Wadi Fukin Sports Club Wadi Fukin Agricultural Association Other civil society organisations, including ARIJ, Palestinian Farmers Union, Palestinian Agricultural Relief Committees, and Agricultural Work Committees implemented programmes in the surveyed communities, particularly in water, wastewater and agriculture sectors.
List of interviewees: Chairmen of village councils Usamah Shakarneh, Chairman of the Nahhalin Village Council Engineer Hasan ‘Uweinah, Chairman of the Battir Village Council Ahmed Sukkar, Chairman of the Wadi Fukin Village Council Jamal as Sabatin, Chairman of the Husan Village Council Fee collectors at the Nahhalin, Husan, Battir Village Council
Persons from surveyed communities Ahmed al Aqra’, member on the Wadi Fukin Village Council Ata Manassrah, Wadi Fukin Village Council Abu Mohammed, farmer, Wadi Fukin Abdul Karim, employee, Wadi Fukin Rami Hamamreh, Secretary of the Husan Village Council Abdul Fattah Sabatin, Accountant at the Husan Village Council Sameer Nassr, Accountant at the Husan Village Council Sameer Nassar, restaurant manager, Husan Khaled ‘Ilayyan, mechanic, Husan Abu Sa’id, retired employee, Husan Bakr an Najjar, Battir ‘Abir an Najjar, Battir Halimah an Najjar, Battir Hajj Abu al Abed, farmer, Battir
135 ESCHIA For Water Supply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages
Mr. Hilmi ‘Adwan, member on the Battir Village Council Accountant Mahir al Harbouk, Battir Mohammed Shakarneh, Nahhalin
Focus group in Nahhalin (5 men) Abdul Karim Najajreh, university student Ahmed Abu Ghayyadah, worker Mousa Shakarneh, retired teacher Hussin Najajreh, merchant Hasan Abu Mustafa, worker
Focus group in Husan (4 women) Eman Zu’oul Nada Hamamreh Hiba Sabatin Sujoud Hamamreh
136 Socioeconomic baseline study for Northwest Jerusalem Villages
ANNEX IV: CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC BASELINE STUDY FOR NORTH WEST JERUSALEM VILLAGES
Many focus group participants believed that water management should be transferred from local councils to a specialised body, which will be tasked with managing water throughout the surveyed localities. That would contribute to improving water service delivery, ensure equitable distribution, reduce costs, and alleviate problems generated by accumulated debts. Family relations prevent effective pressure exercised by local councils on local communities to pay due water consumption fees.
Water provision
Water consumption in Palestinian households is limited to available water quantities and does not reflect their real water needs. As it has been described earlier in this report water has been and is the major concern in the villages. The problem is caused by deteriorated networks and inadequate supply, especially during the summertime.
The total amount of water available for the increasing number of population is not increasing rapidly; vice versa. The amount of bulk water available for the eight villages is restricted by Mekorot. Other water sources are scarce, since there is only one usable spring left for the villagers. Rain harvesting into cisterns is not only dependable on the weather conditions but also demands investments and proper location for the cisterns. Ground cisterns should be used separately for water harvesting. There are no rivers water of which could be used by the households. Water delivered by trucks is expensive, thus cannot provide the primary source. The increasing water scarcity in the surveyed localities has generated conflicts between households. The situation is also complicated by inequitable water share allocation between localities as well as within the single locality itself. There is no practice of drilling wells; it is expensive and it is strictly regulated.
All in all, the households depend very much on network supplied water. The survey results indicate that water consumption by the poor is less than that of the non-poor. Equally, the poor’s water consumption from various water sources is less than the non-poor’s, with the exception of cheap or free of charge water extracted from wells and springs. The Project aims at securing more reliable supply of piped water in the eight villages. Water demand and sizing of the facilities (pumping, transmission / principal mains, storage and networks) are proven to be much higher than envisaged in the project document. This means bigger investments, and wider coverage areas for the future service areas. Also, the design parameter of 35 l/c/d has been increased already at this stage of the Project to 66-88 l/c/d. The survey showed households willingness to consume even bigger than these amounts.
The respondents were very concerned about leaks and illegal connections; they were keen to be connected into network which is reliable, effective and secure. Certain households’ selfish pattern of behaviour, including water theft and overuse, further exasperate the problem. Also, there are security concerns about the quality of the supplied water. Current water leaks may occur at saddles or house connection level, or even in the main transfer pipelines or at the current reservoirs level. Source from Mekorot at Har Adar is in principle disinfected. If contamination by soils occurs in
137 Socioeconomic baseline study for Northwest Jerusalem Villages the current pipeline at network level, on-line chlorination can be proposed. However, source of leakages from the new network can hardly occur if standard of works under current contracts are respected. If wastewater flowing from cesspits into the connection chamber etc. appears now, it should be rectified. Leakages of cesspits into water cisterns have been seen before and must be avoided at all cost in the new system.
The Project should support the allocation of water shares on a fair basis between villages and between neighborhoods within the same locality. The new water share agreement and standard operating procedures to be adopted within the new management structures have to adequately adjust the bulk supply to the demand for each village. Each village demands its own attention in the further design of the Project supported activities and later those of the WWD.
Water pricing
The majority of respondents (approximately two thirds) think that water prices are expensive. Interviewed chairmen of local councils emphasised that the water fees that the councils collect do not cover the price of water they purchase from the Israeli Mekorot Company (NIS 3 per m3). Furthermore, collected fees do not cover maintenance costs or sewage. Local council chairmen hope that the Finnish supported project would minimise water loss, whereby the current water price could also be reduced. Here it can be stated that this wish is somewhat unrealistic, on the contrary according to the calculations made by the Project the tariff needs to be increased (ca. to 6 NIS/m3) along with the collection efficiency and the 95% connection ratio that is the target. To improve the sustainability of water supply the Project aims at bringing new management practice and tools (billing and accounting) along with improved technical management of the system (O&M training) that should help in minimizing the Non-Revenue Water (technical and administrative losses).
But, the major problem appears to be very low willingness to pay due bills. It is somewhat contradictory that households pay higher prices to tank trucks (NIS 25 or more per m3), but they refrain from satisfying due water bills (NIS 4.5-5 per m3).
When water is priced the sustainability of the water supply is to be taken as the starting point. The price level hoped for by the majority of the respondents is not sufficient. The survey results revealed a distribution of respondents into categories in relation to their affordability to pay their highest water consumption price. Approximately two thirds of the respondents stated that the highest price they could afford was 2.5 or less per NIS/m3 whereas 38% said they could pay 3 NIS/m3. 30% of the surveyed persons reported they could afford 4-5 NIS/m3 (including 26% were willing to pay 4 NIS/m3; and 4% were ready to pay 5 NIS/m3).
Domestic water subscription should be separated from agricultural, industrial and commercial subscriptions. To be linked to a certain limit, a special tariff will be designated to each water subscription. A graded tariff will be applicable to non- domestic uses. Furthermore, prescribed limits will be linked to the size of economic establishments, ensuring that the graded tariff does not inhibit investment.
138 Socioeconomic baseline study for Northwest Jerusalem Villages
To address inequitable water supply distribution, a graded tariff system could take into account the poor households. The price of consumed water would be calculated in line with consumption volume, the survey shows that poor consume less than the better off households. The price of a cubic meter could be doubled as consumption oversteps a certain limit (Limits can be set by, for example, 20, 40, 60 or more m3 per month). Consequently, those who use more or overuse water will be forced to pay for the supply accordingly. In this context, each household should have its own water meter.
The WWD should present a pricing scale with the first 20m3 for a fixed price of e.g. 3 NIS/m3, the next 20 cubic meters for price of 4 NIS/m3 and so forth setting the price per cubic meter in various categories in such a manner that when assessing the total supply and its distribution, the price scale and the total WWD invoicing would cover the raw water; operation & maintenance costs as well as administrative costs and reservations for the required future investments.
Taking account of poor households’ economic conditions, a certain deduction in favour of the poor can be included in the fees calculation system. To be in line with clear rules associated with a higher limit of water consumption, this deduction will not be applicable to non-poor households. Since income-related data in the survey are not accurate (less than real terms), official categories can be used based on the following distribution: The first category receives regular aid from the Ministry of Social Affairs or from the UNRWA The second category includes households registered at the Ministry of Social Affairs and UNRWA as poor households. The third category features households with a householder who has been unemployed for a period of over three months. Unemployment should be registered at the National Employment Office.
The survey data showed that only 25.7% of the surveyed households are supporting the pre-paid water meters. Households that didn’t pay any of their water bills during the last 12 months are less supportive to prepaid meters at 20.5%, while households that didn’t have water debits during the last 12 months are more supportive of it at 29.6%. Data also showed that poor households are less supportive at 21.4% comparing to non-poor households at 29.9%, which might reflect the worries of poor households of water cuts if they have to pre pay the water bills, while they can go in debit with regular water meters instead of water cut.
Accumulated debts
To make water supply and the WWD sustainable the old debts must be collected. The debts have accumulated over the times; and they are distributed unequally and for various reasons between the households. Interviewees and participants in focus groups confirmed that the ‘culture of non-payment’ is mainly a result of ineffective fees collection system and inefficient law enforcement.
Out of the largest debtors 40% have higher incomes; the majority (of the non-poor meaning nearly 50% who live above the poverty level) can afford water from expensive sources but yet are still not willing to pay their accumulated water debts.
139 Socioeconomic baseline study for Northwest Jerusalem Villages
The survey proved that low willingness to pay water bills is too dominant culture among the better off households.
To solve the problem of accumulated debts, a debt rescheduling programme should be designed. The rescheduling programme categorises the households which have debts into two main groups, i.e.: 1. Those households whose income is under the official poverty line and are registered either by the Ministry of Social Affairs or UNRWA as social hardship cases or are regarded as unemployed householders with a proof from National Employment Offices. 2. The rest of households.
The debts accumulated for the group number 1 should be written off. The amount of such debts must be calculated upon official numbers. The capital needed for this write off is to be requested in early 20121 from the Ministry of Social Affairs by the WWD with the support from the PWA and JSCs.
The debts accumulated for the group number 2 should be re-scheduled to be paid within 2012.
If there are new unpaid bills from category 1 or debts are not managed by the group 2 in due time; the applicable households will be disconnected from the public network with a month’s notice.
The WWD has already collected the information on the indebted households.
Wastewater
A sanitation study was commissioned by the Project; the report of July 2011 proposes the possible arrangements for wastewater treatment in the Project area. The report strongly recommends that wastewater should be treated and not to be allowed to be disposed using cesspits or discharged in any manner which would endanger the quality of groundwater. The technical solutions are presented as a part of that study. This study revealed a number of problems related with the cesspits, their discharging related problems both environmental and financial ones. This study also collected information on the costs carried by the households in relation to their waste water management. The amounts spent on septic trucks for emptying cesspits are very high when compared money spent on water.
The same sanitation study recommended also conserving the existing springs, which is a recommendation this study supports due to the recorded need for additional water sources, especially for the poorer households. (Palestinian Water Authority, Projects Management Unit, Sanitation Study for Northwest Jerusalem Villages, Conceptual Report, July 2011).
1 Timelines here are given assuming that the WWD is operational and water meters available for all households already in the beginning of 2012.
140 Socioeconomic baseline study for Northwest Jerusalem Villages
Campaigns and awareness raising
It is important to educate consumers about the pricing procedures and principles. The awareness rising in this respect needs extensive and comprehensible brochures and public meetings. Also, the bills have to be presented clearly and transparently. The key for the future success of the WWD lies with the real pricing of the network supplied water; it is important that the consumers are made fully aware of the pricing structure, importance of timely payment of bills and necessity to clear the accumulated debts. The consumer education requires also increased ownership of the water issues. Water should be seen more as a common commodity not as a issue over which there are arguments and accusing. This far water has occasionally been the issue which has caused separation between the villages and among households within villages since the water supply has not been seen to be equal to all households.
The rumors that are only air that is pumped through water meters, counting the water supplied to households wrongly needs to straighten when the consumers are educated.
The second awareness rising campaign is recommended to cover health and sanitation related issues; understanding importance of clean water; promotion of proper treatment of wastewater; and mitigation wastewater hazards on the environment and public health.
Both recommended campaigns are proposed to be managed by the WWD with support from the Project. There is need for printed material and radio programmes; the educational level in the surveyed area supports the use of printed material. Also, focus group discussions and teaching in schools should be organized. We recommend that a local public relations specialist with excellent writing and communication skills and WASH related experience should be contracted for a period of approximately of 4 – 6 weeks for this task. The Project unallocated funds should be used for this purpose.
Household survey to be repeated
The collected information serves two purposes; by learning the present situation the WWD can manage the water supply and its pricing in a sustainable manner and by providing the baseline information the achievements of the Project can be measured at the end of the Project and if necessary to be followed from there on. Since it is rather a big effort both time wise and financially to repeat a similar household level survey, it is proposed that the similar HH survey would be conducted only as a part of the final evaluation of the Project.
141 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING STATEMENT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 INTRODUCTION ...... 145 1.1 BACKGROUND ...... 145 1.2 PALESTINIAN ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT POLICY ...... 145 1.3 SUMMARY OF THE SCOPING SESSION ...... 147 1.4 PURPOSE OF THE SCOPING STATEMENT ...... 147
2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION ...... 148 2.1 ORIGIN OF THE PROJECT ...... 148 2.2 PROJECT AREA ...... 148 2.3 PROJECT SCOPE AND EXPECTED OUTPUT ...... 149
3 SIGNIFICANT AND NON-SIGNIFICANT ISSUES ...... 151 3.1 IMPROVING THE CURRENT WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM...... 151 3.2 IMPROVING THE HYGIENIC CONDITIONS ...... 153 3.3 CESSPITS EFFECT ON THE WATER NETWORK ...... 153 3.4 NEED FOR PUBLIC AWARENESS AND CAPACITY BUILDING ...... 153 3.5 IMPACTS DURING CONSTRUCTION ...... 153 3.6 DESTROYING OF AGRICULTURAL LANDS ...... 154 3.7 IMPACT ON CULTURAL AND NATURAL RESOURCES ...... 154 3.8 SIGNIFICANT ISSUES ...... 155
4 SCOPING ON ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT ...... 156 4.1 WORLD BANK ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL SAFEGUARD POLICIES ...... 156 4.2 SCOPING ON ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ...... 158 4.3 SCOPING ON SOCIAL IMPACTS ...... 159 4.4 SCOPING ON CULTURAL AND NATURAL RESOURCES ...... 159
5 ESCHIA APPROACH ...... 169 5.1 APPROACH ...... 169 5.2 ANALYTICAL METHODS ...... 169 5.3 ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL, AND CULTURAL HERITAGE MANAGEMENT PLAN ...... 170 5.4 STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT ...... 170
142 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING STATEMENT
LIST OF FIGURES
FIGURE 1: SATELLITE IMAGE OF THE PROJECT AREA ...... 149 FIGURE 2: BUILT UP AREA IN THE VILLAGES ...... 150 FIGURE 3: GROUNDWATER BASIN IN THE PROJECT AREA ...... 150
LIST OF TABLES
TABLE 1: STATISTICS OF SUBJECTS AND ISSUES OF THE ESCHIA SCOPING SESSION ...... 152 TABLE 2: POSSIBLE IMPACT EFFECTS DURING CONSTRUCTION OF THE PROJECT ...... 154 TABLE 3:WORLD BANK SAFEGUARD POLICIES AND CORE REQUIREMENTS UNDER EACH POLICY ...... 157 TABLE 4: SCOPING TABLE ON ENVIRONMENTAL ITEMS AS PER EA GUIDELINES AND STAKEHOLDER CONSIDERATIONS ...... 161
ANNEXES
ANNEX A SCOPING SESSION'S HANDOUTS
ANNEX B LIST OF PARTICIPANTS IN SCOPING SESSION
ANNEX C ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING SESSION PARTICIPANTS' COMMENTS
143 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING STATEMENT
ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS
CBO Community Based Organization EA Environmental Assessment EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EQA Environmental Quality Authority EMSP Environmental Management and Social Plan ESCHIA Environmental, Social, and Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment. ESCHMP Environmental, Social, and Cultural Heritage Management Plan HWE House of Water and Environment IEE Initial Environmental Examination JSCPD Joint Services Council for Planning and Development MoA Ministry of Agricultural MoL Ministry of Labor MoLG Ministry of Local Government MoTA Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities PCBS Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics PEAP Palestinian Environmental Assessment Policy PWA Palestinian Water Authority UG Universal Group for Engineering and Consulting WBV West Bethlehem Villages WSSA Water Supply and Sanitation Authority, Bethlehem WBWD West Bank Water Department WWU Waste Water Unit
144 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING STATEMENT
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND
The project under consideration is a World Bank funded project that aims at developing the WaterSupply and Sanitation for West Bethlehem Villages (Battir, Husan, Nahalin and WadiFukin).These villages are facing severe environmental, social, and public health problems due to the pollution of springs by untreated wastewater, the deterioration of the existing water supply system, and the inadequate management of sanitation infrastructure.
The Environmental, Social, and Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment (ESCHIA) study will be conducted for the rehabilitation and improvements of the existing water supply networks in the four villages (Battir, Husan, Nahalin and WadiFukin) as well as for the construction of two new reservoirs in Battir and Nahalin. The preparation of the ESCHIA is required to ensure that the environmental and social consequences of the project are identified and considered, and that appropriate environmental and social safeguards are adopted.
As part of the ESCHIA preparation process, aScoping Session was conducted in Battir. TheScoping Session allowed the team of ESCHIA consultants, the head of the villages' councils, representatives of various Ministries, donor agencies, local residents, and other individuals and stakeholders to interact, and pinpoint the concerns of those who are directly involved in or affected by the project. During the Scoping Session, handouts containing the session agenda, a list of the members of the ESCHIA Team, project description, and a brief description of the ESCHIA process was distributed to all participants. A copy of the Scoping Session handout is enclosed as Annex A. A list of attendees at the ESCHIA Scoping Session is enclosed as Annex B.
Prior to ESCHIA, it is important to determine the appropriate level of assessment and identify the issues and concerns. Scoping is an early coordination with interested and impacted agencies, stakeholders, and the public. The scoping meetings provide area residents, governmental agencies, and stakeholders with their first opportunity to present their willingness and concerns towards the project impacts.
The significant environmental and social issues thatwere identified during the Scoping Session are addressed in this ESCHIA Scoping Statement, and will also be addressed in the ESCHIA report. Input from affected individuals and concerns along with comments of the stakeholders from the Scoping Session are enclosed as Annex C.
1.2 PALESTINIAN ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT POLICY
The Palestinian Ministerial Council approves the Palestinian Environmental Assessment Policy (PEAP), through resolution No: 27-23/4/2000. This Policy shall be interpreted and implemented to support the sustainable economic and social development of the Palestinian people through assisting in meeting the following goals:
1. Ensuring an adequate standard of life in all its aspects, and not negatively affecting the basic needs, and the social, cultural and historical values of the people as a result of development activities.
145 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING STATEMENT
2. Preserving the capacity of the natural environment to clean and sustain it. 3. Conserving biodiversity, landscapes and the sustainable use of natural resources. 4. Avoiding irreversible environmental damage, and minimizing reversible environmental damage, from development activities.
For the purpose of considering Environmental Approval of projects, the Policy has identified two main types of Environmental Assessment (EA) studies that may be required, which are as follows: a) An Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) for projects where significant environmental impacts are uncertain, or where compliance with environmental regulations must be ensured. b) An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for projects which are likely to have significant environmental impacts. An EIA may be carried out as a result of an IEE.
The PEAP has listed proposed projects for which an EIA must be conducted. The proposed projects are as follows:
1. Power plants (including gas turbines, substations and supper tension lines) 2. Quarries and mines 3. Wastewater treatment plants including main sewers 4. Cement plants 5. Solid waste disposal sites 6. Hazardous waste disposal sites 7. Plants producing, storing or using hazardous substances 8. Airports and landing strips 9. Seaports, jetties and harbors 10. Refineries 11. Industrial estates 12. Major dams and reservoirs 13. Major roads 14. Steel mills
For projects which are not listed in the above-mentioned list, a determination of whether or not an IEE or EIA must be conducted will be based on screening criteria. The criterion will be based on whether the project is likely to:
1. Use a natural resource in a way that pre-empts other uses of that resource 2. Displace people or communities 3. Be located in or near environmentally sensitive areas such as natural reserves, wetlands, or registered archaeological and cultural sites 4. Generate unacceptable levels of environmental impact 5. Create a state of public concern, or 6. Require further related development activities that may cause significant environmental impacts
For the WaterSupply and Sanitation project for the West Bethlehem Villages, the project includesBattir villages, which is known for its archeological and cultural sites. In addition to this, criteria 5 and 6 of the above apply to the project as it will require further sanitation development activities in relation to wastewater collection and treatment facilities. The project area is facing severe environmental, social, and human health issues due to the pollution of springs by untreated wastewater, deterioration of the existing water supply system, and inadequate management of sanitation infrastructure. Therefore it has been decided to
146 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING STATEMENT
conduct detailed ESCHIA. The ESCHIA is to include in addition to the environmental assessment, the assessment of the social and cultural heritage. The area is known for its cultural and social values, agricultural features, and geographic location.
1.3 SUMMARY OF THE SCOPING SESSION
The ESCHIA Scoping Session was conducted in Battir and was attended by 23persons of both genders. The session began with welcome addresses by Eng. Raed Samara, the Executive Director of the Joint Services Council for Planning and Development (JSCPD) for West Bethlehem Villages, Eng. AkramBader, the Head of Battir Village Council, and the Consultant.
Following the welcome addresses, an introductory speech about the project was given byfollowed by an overview presentation of the project, (the objectives and the challenges of the project, the main components of the project, and description of the existing environment and social conditions in the project area).
This was followed by a presentation that emphasized the significance of the ESCHIA scoping exercise, the important aspects and activities that will be included in the ESCHIA analysis, and how these activities will contribute to the development and modification of the proposed project and its design.
The session was then opened to participants for discussions (in Arabic) of the various opinions and concerns regarding the project. The presentations and discussions were held in Arabic. A summary and evaluation of the significant issues identified during the discussions are provided in Section 3.0 of this ESCHIA Scoping Statement.
1.4 PURPOSE OF THE SCOPING STATEMENT
The purpose of this ESCHIA Scoping Statement is to:
Identify the significant environmental, social and cultural issues that will be addressed in the ESCHIA study; Identify and eliminate from the ESCHIA study those issues that are determined to be non‐significant; Describe the methodology of the analysis of the significant issues; Describe the preparation of the ESCHIA report, including the staffing requirements and the schedule of completion of the ESCHIA; and Address subjects that will be covered by the ESCHIA report such as the Environmental, Social, and Cultural Heritage Management Plan (ESCHMP).
These items are provided in further detail in the following sections of this document.
147 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING STATEMENT
2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
2.1 ORIGIN OF THE PROJECT
The western villages in Bethlehem district (Battir, Husan, Nahalin and WadiFukin) are facing severe Environmental, Social, and Health issues due to the lack of water supply, inefficient water distribution system and pollution of springs by infiltrating raw sewage from cesspits.
Water supply for these villages comes from a combination of piped supply, rainwater harvesting, tanker trucks, and few unreliable natural springs. Because of the intermittent nature of supply the majority of households have underground cisterns in which they can store water up to several months.
The existing water supply systems encounter serious problems; the internal water networks were built in the 1970s, and were partially rehabilitated in the 1990s. Unaccounted for water now averages about 40%. The main source of water is from the Israeli bulk water supply company Mekorotthat is provided through the Palestinian West Bank Water Department (WBWD). Serious hygienic and social problems are occurring among the people and households due to water shortage during summer and due to high water pressure variations in the water supply network during winter.
The water supply and sanitation project for West Bethlehem Villages (WBV) will focus on development and rehabilitation of the water systems that include the transmission mains; the reservoirs and the distribution networks in the 4 villages. The project will be implemented in two phases; the first phase includes the feasibility study, design and assessment of the water supply system and project management; while the second is for the construction of civil works (rehabilitation and improvement of the drinking water supply network. Later, a wastewater project that will include wastewater collection and treatment will be launched. The project involves also capacity building for the newly established water and wastewater unit (WWU) in the JSCPD of WBV.
2.2 PROJECT AREA
The project will cover four villages (Battir, Husan, Nahalin and WadiFukin) located in the west of Bethlehem as shown in Figure 1.
The project area is well known of its springs and high valuable agricultural land. Most of the people in the project area work in agricultural sector. These villages represent the source of fruits and vegetables for Bethlehem District. There are many kinds of vegetables such as battery eggplant, which is well-known in all over the country and the region. In addition to other kinds of fruits such asolives and almond that is grown in the area.
Most of the populations in WBV are connected with internal water distribution system, but these systems are considered old as it was built in 1970 and it suffers from serious problems; it is deteriorated and the percentage of unaccounted water is considered high.
According to the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics (PCBS), the total population of the four villages in 2011 is around 19,300 capita; Nahalin (7500 inhabitants) is considered the largest village while Wadifukin (1300 inhabitants) is the smallest one. Hussan has 6100 and Batir has 4400 inhabitants.
148 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING STATEMENT
FIGURE 1: SATELLITE IMAGE OF THEPROJECT AREA
Figure 2presents the buildup areas in the WBV. These build up areas are in zone B as to the Oslo agreement, but are surrounded by areas in zoneC. The villages are located at the southern boundaries of Jerusalem west of Bethlehem, adjacent to the green line separating the West Bank from Israel.
The project area is underlain by the Western Aquifer Basin at its boundary with the Eastern Aquifer Basin as shown in Figure 3. This indicates that the area is vulnerable to groundwater contamination and should be protected.
2.3 PROJECT SCOPE AND EXPECTED OUTPUT
The objectives for the water supply and sanitation project for WBV are, according to the Terms of Reference:
To contribute to the improvement of the overall health and hygienic conditions in the project area. To improve water supply and sanitation for WBV.
The expected output of the project is water distribution networks for the four villages in the project area and two reservoirs, with performance allowing reducing the percentage of unaccounted for water and to access drinking water for all people in the villages. In addition and at later stages of the project, it is to design for wastewater management infrastructure and effluent reuse covering the villages. It is also expected that at the end of the project, a newly established Water and Wastewater Unit (WWU) in the JSCPD for WBV will be built to carry out the operation and maintenance of the Water Supply and Sanitation system after its completion.
149 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING STATEMENT
FIGURE 2: BUILT UP AREA IN THE VILLAGES
FIGURE 3: GROUNDWATER BASIN IN THE PROJECT AREA
150 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING STATEMENT
3 SIGNIFICANT AND NON-SIGNIFICANT ISSUES
During the discussion in the ESCHIA Scoping Session, a number of issues were identified by participants as being potentially significant. The concerns and comments of participants were recorded (Annex C). Many issues were raised during the discussion which is presented in the following sections.Table 1lists the statistics of the subjects and issues that were raised in the Scoping Session.
3.1 IMPROVING THE CURRENT WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM
Insufficient water quality and quantity and poor sanitation and hygiene have a negative health impact and account for much of the infant and child morbidity and mortality in poor rural communities in developing countries such as Palestine. Therefore improving the water supply and sanitation in the project area will reduce the problems and enhance the hygienic conditions.
During the ESCHIA Scoping Session, the participants raised some of these problems as follows:
Pollution of supplied water due to the deteriorating condition of the water network pipes; this pollution is mainly from the infiltration of raw sewage through the existing cesspits to the water network.
Social problems due to shortage of water especially during summer time; Some residents of elevated areas close the water valves to increase their water uptake which preventswater from being adequately received by households livingin lower areas. This is causing disputes over water amongst neighboring households.
During winter, the water is available at high pressure causing ruptures of valves and house connections and mainly to those living downstream.
Hygienic problems due to shortage of water; this is because some people are forced to use the springs water during the summer season where these springs are polluted by cesspits.
Some areas of the project region suffer from high water pressure which breaks the water network pipes and increases the water losses, while some areas suffer from low water head pressure.
Need to raise the public awareness and capacity building in sanitation and water issues among workers and officials.
Limiting of these problems is considered as positive impacts for the project. These impacts can be summarized as improving the hygienic conditions, creating better social interrelations and improving the water distribution and supply.
151 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING STATEMENT
Table 1:Statistics of Subjects and Issues of the ESCHIA Scoping Session
Improving Destroying Subjects Improving Improving the Cesspits Need for Impacts living of Impacts on hygienic Current Water Effect on the public during conditions and agricultural Cultural conditions supply System water awareness construction creating better lands. Heritage Institutions network and capacity social
building atmosphere
JSCPD X X X X
Battir village council. XX XX X
Husan village council. X X
Nahalin village council. XX X X X
WadiFukin village council. X
EQA X Residents X
WSSA- Bethlehem X X
The Consultant X
152 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING STATEMENT
3.2 IMPROVING THE HYGIENIC CONDITIONS
Hygiene improvement is a comprehensive approach to reduce water borndiseases by promoting good hygiene practices, improving access to safe water and adequate sanitation, and enabling environment. Water in WBV is piped but often irregular and with limited quantities. All households have sanitation facilities but the common drainage systems are the unlined soak-away pits. These pits are potential source of contamination of cisterns and groundwater. Households with limited amounts of water available are more likely to ration its use for hygienic purposes which may impact children’s health.
The implementation of the water supply project is to improve the hygienic and health conditions of the people in WBV.
3.3 CESSPITS EFFECT ON THE WATER NETWORK
The primary method of wastewater disposal in the projects area is using cesspits. Since many of the cesspits were constructed in or in the shoulder of the public streets, the new water network pipes could be installed beside the cesspits. Infiltration of raw sewage and reaching the water supply network pipes will pollute the supplied water. The location of cesspits should be considered during the design and the implementation phase of the project.
There are considerable risks of contaminating drinking water with fecal matters associated with sanitation infrastructure and maintenance. This argues in favor to start immediately with the studies and design and then seek funding for the implementation of adequate sewage collection system and treatment that serves WBV.
3.4 NEED FOR PUBLIC AWARENESS AND CAPACITY BUILDING
The local communities should be aware about the project and the local councils of the project area should play an important role in the awareness campaign. Capacity building programs are required for the responsible of the project operation; the program should include subjects about project operation and management and tariff policy.
The education levels at WBV are relatively high; but it is recommended here to improve the awareness of the risks of inadequate water quality and sanitation and personal hygiene. It is also recommended to give more information at the household level about the family health and the adequate way to prevent contamination to the drinking water from the cesspits and make sure that the pits are evacuated in an adequate method that does not cause any contamination to the nearby yards and the cisterns or drinking water facilities.
3.5 IMPACTS DURING CONSTRUCTION
During the construction phase of the project, several negative impacts are anticipated. During the ESCHIA Scoping Session, some concerns were raised towards the construction activities, these concerns are remediation of the destroyed facilities, traffic embedment, noise and the disposal of construction wastes.Table 2 lists some of the possible impacts during construction of the project.
153 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING STATEMENT
Table 2: Possible Impact Effects during Construction of the Project
Significant Cause Impact
CONSTRUCTION PHASE Resulting from construction activities and Short term Noise and dust trucks traffic Short term Resulting from construction activities Construction wastes Damages to cultural Excavations, heavy trucks, vibrations, Long term heritage, springs and demolition of wastes, etc. other sites. land reclamation and construction activities Impact on biodiversity and Long term leading to the destruction of the natural the natural ecosystem at ecosystems at the facility site the facility site
IMPACT ON AGRICULTURAL AND NATURAL RESOURCES
Construction works Habitat loss or destruction
Soil compaction, erosion Altered abiotic/site factors
Destruction of vegetation Mortality of individuals
Due to construction noise, traffic, presence of people, etc. Disturbance
3.6 DESTROYING OF AGRICULTURAL LANDS
The project area is mainly agricultural. Nahalin village council has raised the issue of destroying agricultural lands during the construction phase and when main pipes are to cross private lands. Pipe network running through parts of the agricultural lands may also destroy plants.
At this stage and as the design of the water network is not available; it is not possible to estimate the extent of this impact and how many households will be affected. The ESCHIA has to specify when these effects on private landsare consideredtemporary and when permanent for each site including how many households will be affected.
Therefore and if the water network pipes pass through the agricultural lands, farmers should be compensated. The design should take into consideration the minimal impact on the agricultural lands and to avoid as possible permanent impacts on private lands.
3.7 IMPACT ON CULTURAL AND NATURAL RESOURCES
Among the other issues that the ESCHIA will tackle is the impact of the project on the cultural,archeological and heritage resources in the project area. Knowing that the WBV are known for some remarkable heritage places like those existing in Battir village, mitigation measures are to be defined for the protection of these resources from the possible causes during construction and other project activities including excavations, heavy trucks, vibrations, demolition of wastes, etc.
154 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING STATEMENT
Such construction activities and mainly wastes may also impact the natural springs that exist in the project area. These springs are mainly used for agricultural purposes and have been subject to deterioration due to raw sewage of the cesspits. These need also to be considered in the ESCHIA and need to be protected from impacts due to the project activities.
3.8 SIGNIFICANT ISSUES
Out of the issues identified above, five issues were determined to be most significant and will be addressed in detail in the ESCHIA report. These issues are as follows in their order of magnitude:
Improving the hygienic and water supply conditions. Enhancing socialconditions and interrelations atmosphere among the people. Protection of cultural heritage and natural resources. Need for public awareness and capacity building. Cesspits effect on the water network.
There are other issues that were not highlighted in the discussions; however, based on the expertise of the ESCHIA team, these issues are considered significant and will be included and discussed in detail in the ESCHIA report. The impact on agricultural lands and traffic impacts during construction is also to be considered and will be given further attention in the ESCHIA.
The other social issue that needs to be addressed is the land acquisition and compensation procedure for the land parcels to be expropriated for the purpose of the construction of the water reservoirs and other water facilities.
155 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING STATEMENT
4 SCOPING ON ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
4.1 WORLD BANK ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL SAFEGUARD POLICIES
Under the World Bank’s operational policies, there are ten environmental and social policies referred to as the Bank’s “safeguard policies”. The Bank’s environmental assessment policy and procedures in light of these ten safeguard policies are described in OP/BP (Operational Policy/Bank Procedures) 4.01.
Table 3 outlines the core requirements under each policy. Based on the ESCHIA and other array of information, it can be determined whether any of these safeguards policies are triggered or not. At this stage and based on the Scoping Session, it can be stated that the ESCHIA study will cover OP 4.01 Environmental assessment, OP 4.11 Physical Cultural Resources, and OP 4.12 Involuntary Resettlement.
The ESCHIA shall aim at examining the potential negative and positive environmental performance of the water supply and sanitation project for West Bethlehem Villages.
The examination and assessment are required to be conducted in light of the World Bank’s environmental assessment policy and procedures OP/BP 4.01. Based on the information to be collected of the project, the assessment is addressed through:
1. Reviewing the ten safeguard policies and determining which ones are triggered (if any) by the project. Mitigating measures for each applicable safeguard policy are identified. 2. Describe any safeguard issues and impacts associated with the project. Identify and describe any potential large scale, significant and/or irreversible impacts. 3. Describe any potential indirect and/or long term impacts due to anticipated future activities in the project area. 4. Describe measures taken to address safeguard policy issues. Provide an assessment of project proponent capacity to plan and implement the measures described. 5. Identify the key stakeholders and describe the mechanisms for consultation and disclosure on safeguard policies, with an emphasis on potentially affected people.
There are other non social safeguards issues which will be dealt with in the ESCHIA including community conflict over water, equitable distribution of water pre and post project etc.
156 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING STATEMENT
Table 3:World Bank Safeguard Policies and Core Requirements under each Policy
Policy Summary of Core Requirements Public Consultation
OP/BP 4.01 Screen early for potential impacts and select Consult affected groups Environmental appropriate instrument to assess, minimize, and NGOs as early as Assessment and mitigate potentially adverse impacts. possible. OP/BP 4.04 Do not finance projects that degrade or Natural convert critical habitats. Support projects that Consult local people in Habitats affect non-critical habitats only if no planning, designing, and alternatives are available and if acceptable monitoring projects. mitigation measures are in place. OP 4.09 Pest Support integrated approaches to pest Management management Identify pesticides that may be Consult local people in financed under the project and develop planning, designing, and appropriate pest management plan to address monitoring projects. risks. OP/BP 4.10 Screen to determine presence of Indigenous Indigenous Peoples in project area. Policy triggered Carry out free, prior, Peoples whether potential impacts are positive or informed consultation and negative. Design mitigation measures and obtain broad community benefits that reflect Indigenous People cultural support. preferences. OP/BP Investigate and inventory cultural resources Consult appropriate 4.11Physical potentially affected, include mitigation agencies, NGOs, and Cultural measures when there are adverse impacts on University departments. Resources physical cultural resources. OP/BP 4.12 Assist displaced persons in their effort to Consult resettles and host Involuntary improve or at least restore their standards of communities, incorporate Resettlement living. Avoid resettlement where feasible or expressed views in minimize. Displaced persons should share in resettlement plans. project benefits. OP/BP 4.36 Support sustainable and conservation oriented Consult local people, the Forests forestry. Do not finance projects that involve private sector, and interest significant conversion or degradation of critical groups in forest area. forest areas. OP/BP For large dams, technical review and periodic 4.37Safety of safety inspections by independent dam safety No public consultations. Dams professionals. OP/BP 7.50Projects Ascertain whether riparian agreements are in No public consultations. on place, and ensure that riparian states informed Riparian notification International of and do not object to project interventions. required. Waterways
OP/BP 7.60 Ensure that claimants to disputed areas have No public consultations. Projects in no objection to proposed projects Claimants informed. Disputed
157 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING STATEMENT
Areas
4.2 SCOPING ON ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
Among other potential environmental impacts likely to occur during construction phase are (i) nuisance to people due to dust /noise /smoke generated by the movement of vehicles /machinery which will be mitigated by regular air testing, vehicle noise and smoke tests; (ii) pollution due to wastewater and construction wastes from the contractor’s camp which will be mitigated by providing adequate arrangement for the safe disposal of wastewater and wastes; (iii) health and safety of workers which will be mitigated by proper training of contractor’s crew about First Aid and Health & Safety procedures; (iv) risks of damaging chance-find antiquities and/or existing cultural resources which will be mitigated by stopping the excavations and immediate informing of the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities (MoTA), and (iv) accident hazards for people, which will be mitigated regulating the procurement of material.
During operation phase, potential environment impacts are mainly limited to chance of accident at operation sites or health problem of operator staff and labor. To mitigate this impact, staff will be trained on the handling/storage of material and safety requirements. The awareness of the public should be raised as to their water rights and rights of the others as to enhance social cooperation and understandings.
The ESCHIAshould be carried out in compliance to the requirements of PEAP. According to this policy water networks are not listed among those that require detailed EIA and are not likely to have significant adverse environmental impacts that are sensitive and diverse.
Nevertheless and considering the screening criteria and that the project area is facing severe environmental, social, and human health issues due to the pollution of springs by untreated wastewater, deterioration of the existing water supply system, possible impacts on existing cultural heritage and natural resources, it has been decided that a detailed ESCHIA study shall be prepared.
The ESCHIAstudy should cover, but not limited to, the following:
1. Provide comprehensive description of the project components including using maps at appropriate scales when necessary. 2. Generate baseline data on relevant environmental and social characteristics of the project components including description of physical environment, biological environment, and socio-economic and cultural constrains. 3. Outline and examine the pertinent regulations and standards governing environmental quality, health and safety, protection of sensitive areas, protection of water resources and pollution control, and land use control at the national and local level. 4. Identify and determine the potential positive and negative impacts, direct and indirect impacts, and immediate and long-term impacts. The assessment of the potential impacts shall include, but not limited to, pollution of groundwater aquifer and springs, landscape impacts of excavations and construction, loss of nature features habitats and species, soil contamination impacts, noise pollution, and socio-economic and cultural impacts.
158 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING STATEMENT
5. Prepare and develop Environmental, Social and Cultural Heritage Management Plan (ESCHMP) to mitigate the negative impacts, recommend feasible and cost effective measures to prevent or reduce significant negative impacts to acceptable national level. 6. Prepare a detailed plan to monitor the implementation of the mitigation measures and the impacts of the project during the construction and operation phases.
Table 4presents, the most important Environmental and social items that are related to the construction of the Water Supply and Sanitation project in the four villages of West Bethlehem.
4.3 SCOPING ON SOCIAL IMPACTS
The social impacts that are associated with the construction of the water network and water reservoirs include:
1. Impact on agricultural land and private properties. 2. Allocating temporary construction camps and waste disposal sites and the social impact of operating these facilities. 3. Impact on roads, accessibility to services and traffic disturbances 4. Traffic safety during construction and operation. 5. Job creation and labor safety. 6. Information disclosure to ensure maximum broad and convenient among residents 7. Public awareness and social understanding and corporation.
As the project main is the rehabilitation and improvement of the water supply and distribution among the people of the four villages of WBV, then the social assessment shall concentrate other social aspects including community conflict over water, equitable distribution of water pre and post project etc.
In this respect the ESCHIA is to consider the gender issue and is to consult community members, including women, properly and to make sure that women are adequately represented.
4.4 SCOPING ON CULTURAL AND NATURAL RESOURCES
The project area is rich in cultural, archeological, heritage and natural resources.The impacts of the project on these are to be considered and are to include:
1. Impact on natural springs. 2. Allocating construction campsand project facilities away from the natural and archeological resources. 3. Impact on cultural sites or structures and community-owned assets during construction and operation. 4. Protection and enhancement of the archeological resources as valuable assets.
159 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING STATEMENT
160 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING STATEMENT
Table 4:Scoping Table on Environmental Items as per EAGuidelines and Stakeholder Considerations
Environmental Confirmation of Environmental Considerations Category Main Check Items as per EA Guidelines Item (Stakeholders Recommendations and Reasons) According to the PEAP, Water Supply projects are not listed among categories for a fully detailed impact assessment. Nevertheless and considering the (a) Have EIA reports been already prepared in screening criteria and that the project area is facing official process? severe environmental, social, and human health issues, (b) Have EIA reports been approved by it has been decided that a detailed ESCHIA study shall authorities of the host country's government?
be prepared and is to include the assessment of the (c) Have EIA reports been unconditionally EIA and social and cultural heritage. approved? If conditions are imposed on the Environmental approval of EIA reports, are the conditions Permits The EQA representative emphasized the need of
Explanation satisfied? detailed consideration and study of environmental (d) In addition to the above approvals, have aspects. A number of these aspects were other required environmental permits been recommended and are included in this list. obtained from the appropriate regulatory Permits and and Permits authorities? These recommendations do not substitute the official TOR and procedures of EA and application for approval of a development. Explanation to the (a) Have contents of the project and the The following stakeholders have been represented Local potential impacts been adequately explained to during the scoping session: EQA, PWA and MoLG in Stakeholders the Local stakeholders based on appropriate addition to JSCPD and the villages' councils.
161 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING STATEMENT
procedures, including information disclosure? Is understanding obtained from the Local MoLG highly recommended considering the allocation stakeholders? of the two reservoirs away from Area C. Alternative sites (b) Have the comment from the stakeholders need to be included. Continuous involvement of the (such as local residents) been reflected to the relevant local councils is preferable when projects are of project design? such major scale.
It was highly recommended consulting and getting the approval of the land owners and farmers before project commencement, especially if the water pipes are to be lined through their lands. Alternative sites need to be included for reservoirs by recommendation of the majority of stakeholders' representatives.
EQA stated that the study should include presentation Have alternative plans of the project been Examination of of location alternatives and clear explanation of reasons examined with social and environmental Alternatives to choose the proposed sites for the reservoirs. considerations?
Since the project includes rehabilitation of the water network systems of the 4 villages, no alternatives will be considered unless there will installation of major pipelines.
162 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING STATEMENT
Do air pollutants, such as sulfur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and soot and dust, and No major air pollution sources will be associated with dioxins emitted from various sources, such as the proposed project. However, considerations for air Air Quality incinerators, and vehicles used for waste pollution need to be addressed in the ESCHIA as collection and transportation comply with the recommended by the EQA representative in respect to country’s emission standards and ambient air construction vehicles and dust emissions. quality standards? Lessons learnt from the current situation needs to be considered in the proposed project. The citizens of the 4 Do pollutants contained in effluents discharged villages have the basic right to clean water and that Water Pollution by the facility operations comply with the shall be maintained. The detailed ESCHIA shall include country's effluent standards? means recommendation that would insure compliance with the standards for water supply for citizens including.
Pollution Control Pollution Since there will be no considerable waste generated due to the nature of the proposed project, most of the concerns about waste are to be covered within the Are wastes, such as sludge generated by the construction phase, that is connected to removal of facility operations properly treated and disposed Wastes earth and construction material. in accordance with the country's regulations?
Relevant stakeholders recommended the adoption of appropriate engineering practices and handling of construction wastes in the detailed ESCHIA.
163 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING STATEMENT
Not a major impact from the project, except for the noise Do noise and vibrations generated from the from construction vehicles and machinery, which could Noise and facilities comply with the country's standards? be mitigated by continuous maintenance. The majority Vibration of stakeholders emphasized on carefully mitigating this impact and choosing appropriate working hours. Is the project site located in protected areas Highly recommended to consider by stakeholders. designated by the country’s laws or international MoTA, MoA, and EQA shall be consulted for provision Protected Areas treaties and conventions? Is there a possibility of information and distances of designated areas, if any that the project will affect the protected areas to the proposed locations (particularly speaking of the and/or historical and archeological sites? water reservoirs and main pipes). (a) Does the project site encompass primeval forests, tropical rain forests, ecologically No major concern was presented by stakeholders valuable habitats (e.g., coral reefs, mangroves, regarding wildlife and biodiversity, since the or tidal flats)? rehabilitation of the water network is within an already (b) Does the project site encompass the constructed area boundary. protected habitats of endangered species Ecosystem designated by the country’s laws or international The proposed reservoirs may require study of impact on treaties and conventions? habitat if they are located in areas that may interfere in (c) If significant ecological impacts are the harmony and balance between natural resources anticipated, are adequate protection measures and wildlife existence, including both flora and fauna. taken to reduce the impacts on the ecosystem? (d) Is there a possibility that the project will adversely affect aquatic organisms? If impacts
164 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING STATEMENT
are anticipated, are adequate measures taken to reduce the impacts on aquatic organisms? (e) Is there a possibility that the project will adversely affect vegetation and wildlife? If impacts are anticipated, are adequate measures taken to reduce the impacts on vegetation and wildlife? (a) Is there a possibility that the amount of water Water is supplied to the area by the Israeli water used (e.g., surface water, groundwater) by the company Mekorot through the WBWD. The project will Hydrology project will adversely affect surface water and improve the water supply and reduce the unaccounted groundwater flows? for water and water losses. (a) Is there a possibility that the project will adversely affect the living conditions of inhabitants? Are adequate measures considered to reduce the impacts, if necessary? Given the prevailing social problems due to shortage of (b) Are considerations given to the existing water, the project is expected to minimize disputes over Living and recovery systems, including waste pickers? water amongst neighboring households in the four Livelihood (c) Is there a possibility that waste villages. The ESCHIA shall explain the mechanism for
Natural Environment Natural transportation will adversely affect the regional fair water distribution. traffic? (d) Is there a possibility that effluents from the project and leachates form the waste disposal sites will adversely affect fisheries and other
165 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING STATEMENT
water uses by local inhabitants (especially drinking water)? (e) Is there a possibility that pathologic insects or other disease vectors will breed as a result of the project? MoTA shall be consulted for the map of designated cultural and historical sites. MoTA recommends the Is there a possibility that the project will damage provision of the network plan that is to provide the local archeological, historical, cultural, and information about any particular significant sites. MoTA Heritage religious heritage? Are adequate measures demands immediate contact about the existing historical considered to protect these sites in accordance or archeological sites should any are revealed during with the country’s laws? digging and installation of network pipes. This statement shall be addressed in the detailed ESCHIA.
Is there a possibility that the project will Landscaping and intrinsic value of the area shall be adversely affect the local landscape? Are considered during the design and construction. Green Landscape necessary measures taken? belts are recommended surrounding the proposed sites for the reservoir and other facilities. (a) Is the project proponent not violating any Ministry of Labor (MoL) recommends binding to laws and ordinances associated with the Palestinian Labor Law. Safe working environment Working working conditions of the country which the during construction and operation shall be maintained. Conditions project proponent should observe in the
Social Social Environment project? A safety and health plan shall be prepared and (b) Are tangible safety considerations in place implemented as part of the tender documents.
166 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING STATEMENT
for individuals involved in the project, such as the installation of safety equipment which First Aid and safety equipments shall be provided at site prevents industrial accidents, and management during construction. of hazardous materials? (c) Are intangible measures being planned and . implemented for individuals involved in the project, such as the establishment of a safety and health program, and safety training (including traffic safety and public health) for workers etc.? (d) Are appropriate measures taken to ensure that security guards involved in the project not to violate safety of other individuals involved, or local residents? Public awareness program shall be recommended to enhance social understanding and cooperation among the households and families in the four villages. Public awareness Are the public aware of the project and its and Capacity The project involves also capacity building for the newly requirements? Building established water and wastewater unit (WWU) in the JSCPD of WBV.Capacity building is recommended as to operate the water and sanitation system.
167 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING STATEMENT
(a) Are adequate measures considered to reduce impacts during construction (e.g., noise, vibrations, turbid water, dust, and wastes)? (b) If construction activities adversely affect the Impacts during natural environment (ecosystem), are adequate To be clarified within a comprehensive ESCHMP as Construction measures considered to reduce impacts? recommended by majority of stakeholders (c) If construction activities adversely affect the social environment, are adequate measures considered to reduce impacts? (a) Does the proponent develop and implement
monitoring program for the environmental items that are considered to have potential impacts?
ESCHMP (b) What are the items, methods and frequencies of the monitoring program? (c) Does the proponent establish an adequate To be clarified within a comprehensive ESCHMP as Monitoring monitoring framework (organization, personnel, recommended by majority of stakeholders equipment, and adequate budget to sustain the monitoring framework)? (d) Are any regulatory requirements pertaining to the monitoring report system identified, such as the format and frequency of reports from the proponent to the regulatory authorities?
168 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING REPORT
5 ESCHIA APPROACH
TheESCHIA will be a systematic, interdisciplinary evaluation of the potential adverse impacts and positive benefits of the project on Battir, Husan, Nahalin andWadiFukin. It will follow the requirements and guidelines of the existing PEAP and the assessmentprocedures. The World Bank safeguard policies are to be considered. The ESCHIA will provide the design team and stakeholders with information in order to incorporate any modifications and improvements at an early stage of the project, as well as providing information for decision‐makers before final approval of the project.
5.1 APPROACH
A detailed ESCHIA will be conductedwith the results incorporated into a report that will describe and evaluate the associatedenvironmental and social impacts (negative and positive).
The approach will primarily consist of conducting appropriate desk studies. Literature will be obtained from the targeted village councils, local organizations, and relevant stakeholders of the project. Site visitsconducted by the ESCHIA Team will establish baseline data by focusing on the current status of the existingphysical environment and socioeconomic settings in the area of the proposed project. Interviews withthe landowners and businesses owners, in addition to tests for particular naturalparameters, will be conducted where needed.
The collected baseline data will allow the comparison between current status and potential future statusafter the execution of the project. For example, existing data such as the water sources, the per capita consumption and projected water demand as well as the usage,will be compared to the projected water supply and consumption. Projections for expected increase of tariffs inreturn of the service will also be discussed in relation to the socio‐economic conditions of the area.
5.2 ANALYTICAL METHODS
The potentially significant/non-significant issues as identified in the ESCHIA Scoping will be addressed by developing appropriate mitigation measures to assure that the natural environment and social conditions will be protected during construction and/or during operation of the project.
Study and analysis of the significant issues as listed in Chapter 3.0 will consist of an evaluation of existing environmental and socioeconomic conditions;groundwater aquifers, springs, and surface water systems;agricultural and land use data; etc. The potential impacts of environmental and social factors will be represented in terms of their reversibility, duration (long-term/short-term), direct/indirect effects, and magnitude. The predictions and determination of significance will be based on the judgment of the experienced ESCHIA core team members.
Rapid appraisal method is to be applied for the social assessment and social acceptance of the project. The potential social impacts of the project will be assessed and criteria for measuring the severity of the social impacts will be identified. These are then to be tackled through the social management plan as part of the ESCHMP.
169 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING REPORT
5.3 ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL, AND CULTURAL HERITAGE MANAGEMENT PLAN
A comprehensive management plan is to be prepared as to address the impacts on the environmental, social, and cultural resources. The ESCHMP is to identify the feasible and cost-effective measures required for the environmental monitoring of the key environmental, social and cultural heritage aspects of the project during project implementation and the effectiveness of these mitigation measures. The plan is also to identify the monitoring objectives and to provide tools for the environmental, social and cultural heritage auditing.
A well-structured ESCHMP in a matrix format is to be prepared and is to define regular auditing and reporting. The matrix is to include identifying the issues, mitigation measures, and responsibilities for carrying out the mitigation measures. It is to document the identities and actions needed to implement the ESCHIA recommendations
5.4 STAKEHOLDERENGAGEMENT
Stakeholders’ engagement is one of the most important activities that should be conducted in order to have a successful sustainable project. This project needs the stakeholder engagement to be addressed from the beginning. The scoping session that was held in Battir is one of the activities conducted to involve the different stakeholders in the decision making and to open the floor for their comments, concerns and questions to be raised.
The main stakeholders related to the project are:
The EIA committee members: This is a national committee that receives the EIA study and gives the approval on it. This committee consists mainly of the following: 1- Environment Quality Authority. 2- Palestinian Water Authority. 3- Ministry of Agriculture. 4- Ministry of Local Government. 5- Ministry of Transportation. 6- Ministry of Health. 7- Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities. 8- Ministry of Planning. 9- Ministry of Public Works and Housing. 10- National Economy. 11- Ministry of Labor. 12- Civil Defense.
Joint Services Council for Planning and Development (JSCPD) for West Bethlehem. Universities and research centers. Palestine Standards Institute. Farmers. Local CBOs, charities and associations. Battir village council. Husan village council. Nahalin village council. WadiFukinvillage council.
The list of stakeholders participated in the scoping session is provided in annex B.
170 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING REPORT
ANNEX A
SCOPING SESSION'S HANDOUTS
171 ورشة دراسة المجال البيئي – بتير، حوسان، نحالين، وادي فوكين المعلومات وجدول األعمال
قائمة المحتويات
وصف البرنامج ...... 371 األنشطة المقترحة ...... 371 االلتزام بالنواحي البيئي ...... 371
الغرض من عقد ورشة دراسة المجال البيئي...... 371
التقييم البيئي ...... 371
القضايا التي سيتطرق لها التقييم البيئي ...... 371
171 ورشة دراسة المجال البيئي – بتير، حوسان، نحالين، وادي فوكين المعلومات وجدول األعمال
ورشةدراسة المجال البيئي بتير، نحالين، حوسان، وادي فوكين
جدول األعمال
التاريخ 52كانون ثاني 5025
الساعة: ::220 صباحاً - 3000 بعد الظهر
المكان: قاعة البدر- بتير
التسجيل لورشة العمل 33:11-33:11 كلمة ترحيب: مجلس الخدمات المشترك للتخطيط والتطوير غرب بيت لحم ب1، 33:11-33:11 سلطة المياه الفلسطينية، البنك الدولي تقديم وصف المشروع وللنواحي البيئية وتوضيحها – االستشاري 33:11-33:11 استفسارات ونقاشات 33:11-3:11
172 ورشة دراسة المجال البيئي – بتير، حوسان، نحالين، وادي فوكين المعلومات وجدول األعمال
وصف المشروع
الخلفية
تواجه قرى غرب بيت لحم )بتير، حوسان، نحالين، وادي فوكين( مشكلة حادة تجاه البيئةوالوضع الصحي نتيجة لتلوث العيون الموجودة من المياه العادمة. اعتبرت بعض التقارير أن تلوث مياه الينابيع الناتج عن المياه العادمة يؤثر على اإلنتاج الزراعي الموجود في المنطقة والذي يعتمد عليه كثير من سكان المنطقة.
أما بالنسبة لوضع المياه فتعتبر شبكة المياه الموجودة في الخمس قرى شبكة قديمة ومهترئة، حيث تم إنشاؤها في السبعينات وتم تأهيل الشبكة بشكل جزئي في عام 2990، وتصل نسبة الفاقد إلى حوالي 00%. مصدر المياه الرئيسي هو شركة مكروت اإلسرائيلية من خالل دائرة مياه الضفة الغربية.
ستقوم المجموعة العالمية للهندسية واالستشارات )معالم( بالشراكة مع مؤسسة دار المياه والبيئة بصفتهما االستشاري للمشروع لدى سلطة المياه الفلسطينية بعمل دراسة لتقييم األثر البيئي واالجتماعي والتاريخي الثقافي لمشروع تحسين وتأهيل شبكة تزويد مياه الشرب في قرى غرب بيت لحم )بتير، حوسان، نحالين، وادي فوكين(.
تأتي هذه الدراسة ضمن مشروع ممول من البنك الدولي لتحسين تزويد المياه والتخطيط لتحسين قطاع الصرف الصحي في منطقة الدراسة علما بأن المسؤول عن تنفيذ أعمال المشروع بشكل عام هو سلطة المياه الفلسطينية ومجلس الخدمات المشترك لقرى غرب بيت لحم.
سيتم تنفيذ المشروع على مرحلتين0
2- دراسة جدوى وتصميم وتقييم وتشمل ما يلي0 أ- دراسة جدوى لمشروع شبكة الصرف الصحي. ب- تصميم شبكة تزويد المياه. ج- إدارة المشروع.
5- مرحلة تنفيذ األعمال وتشمل ما يلي0 أ- تأهيل وتحسين وضع تزويد المياه وتشمل تبديل شبكة المياه في القرى األربع، إنشاء مخزن لتجميع قطع ووصالت المياه بمساحة 500 مWarehouse( 5(، وإنشاء خزانين للمياه بحجم 2000م3 في كل من قريتي نحالين وبتير. ب- بناء قدرات وإعداد برامج تدريبية.
بنا ًء على االلتزام بالسياسات البيئيةالفلسطينية وسياسات البنك الدولي الالزمة لدعم استدامة المشروع سيقوم االستشاري بتعريف اآلثار البيئية واالجتماعية والتاريخية والثقافية المتوقعة وتأهيل وتحسين نظام تزويد المياه.
األنشطة المقترحة
قد ينجم عن األعمال اإلنشائيةإلعادة تأهيل شبكات المياه وإنشاء خزانين المياهتأثيراتمؤقتةعلى النواحي والموجوداتالبيئية والطبيعيةفيالمنطقةإال أن المشروع سيوفر ما يتطلبه التصميم من جوانب من شأنها أن تقللو/أوتلطفهذهاآلثار، بما في ذلك الحد مناالضطراباتالمحتملةعلىالمناظر الطبيعية، الحيوانات والنباتات، الموارد المائية، والموارد األثرية والثقافية أينما أمكن، حيثيطرح التصميمإعادة المواردالتي تم اإلخالل بها خالل العمل إلى وضعها السابقإلىأقصى حد ممكن وبما توفر من الوسائل المجدية من الناحية العملية.
ستبذل كافة الجهود لتنسيق األنشطة المقترحةعلى األراضي العامةوالخاصة، وستراعى كافةالضوابط الهندسية وذلك من أجل التقليل من اآلثار الضارة ألعمال البناء على البيئةالمحيطة؛ إضافة لما سبق، ستأخذ بعين االعتبار شروطالسالمة العامةمن خاللتنفيذتدابيرالصحة والسالمة الالزمة.
173 ورشة دراسة المجال البيئي – بتير، حوسان، نحالين، وادي فوكين المعلومات وجدول األعمال
اإللتزام بالنواحي البيئية
قبل اتخاذ قرار نهائي للمضي قدما ً بالمشروع، فإنه من الضروري ضمان تحديد اآلثار البيئية واالجتماعية لمشروع تأهيل وتحسين وضع تزويد المياه المقترح والنظر فيها، وأن يتم اعتماد الضمانات البيئية المناسبة. تحقيقا ً لهذه الغاية، سيمتثل الفريق االستشاريللمشروع لإلجراءات واألنظمة المعمول بها لدراسة اآلثارالمتوقعة ذات األهمية الضارة منها والنافعة على منطقة الدراسة. تنطوي عملية االمتثال للنواحي البيئية على إجراء ورشة لدراسة المجال البيئي، وعلى إعداد تقرير التقييم البيئي بعد ذلك. ستتطرق األقسام التالية من هذه النشرة للمزيد من التفاصيل عن كال النشاطين.
الغرض من عقد ورشة دراسة المجال البيئي
سيتم من خالل عقد ورشة دراسة المجال البيئي)52كانون ثاني5025(تحديد القضايا البيئية الهامة التي سيتطرق لها تقرير التقييم البيئي. تهدف هذه الورشة إلى جمع مسؤولي البلديات/ المجالس القروية، ممثلي مختلف الوزارات، الجهة المانحة والمستشارين البيئيين والمؤسسات غير الحكومية، إضافة إلى السكان المحليين وأصحاب المصلحة اآلخرين؛ على أن يناقش هؤالء مشروع أعادة تأهيل وتحسين شبكات مياه الشرب وآثاره البيئية المحتملة )اإليجابية و/أو السلبية( على منطقة المشروع.
تتطلب ورشة دراسة المجال البيئي تفاعالً بين المهنيين العاملين على إعداد إجراء تقييم البيئي واألفراد المنخرطين أو المتأثرين بشكل مباشر بهذا المشروع، وستتيح هذه الورشة فرصة لطرح تساؤالت وتعليقات أصحاب المصلحة على أن ينظر فيها ليتم معالجتها خالل عملية التقييم البيئي. سيضمالفريق االستشاريللمشروع نتائج هذه الورشة في تقرير التقييم البيئي.
التقييم البيئي
سوف تأخذ عملية التقييم البيئي إجراءات البنك الدولي واألنظمة الفلسطينيةبعين االعتبار، على أن تكون هذه العملية منتظمة، ممنهجة وشاملة للتخصصات المتعددة للنظرفي اآلثار الضارة والمزايا اإليجابيةالمحتملة للمشروع على المناحي الفيزيائية، البيولوجية، األثرية والثقافية، والظروف االجتماعية واالقتصادية في منطقة الدراسة. سيجري هذه الدراسة فريق التقييم البيئي من ذويالدراية والخبرةالواسعة في الضفة الغربية.
إن الغرض من التقييم البيئي لمشروعأعادة تأهيل وتحسين شبكات مياه الشربالمقترح في )بتير، حوسان، نحلين،وادي فوقين( هو ضمان تجنب اآلثار البيئية السلبية على المدى القريب والبعيد للمشروع أو الحد منها. وبهدف تحقيق هذا الغرض، سيتم إجراء التقييم البيئي بالتزامن مع إعداد التصاميماألولية المشروع، وذلك من أجل ضمان التطرقللقضايا البيئية وغيرها. ستضمن هذه العملية أن يتم تحديد اآلراء الجماهيرية في المراحل المتقدمة من المشروع، بحيث يتم تفادي الحاجة إلى مراجعة التصاميم ونطاق المشروع في مراحل الحقة.
ستشمل األنشطة المتصلة بالتقييمالبيئي بحوثا ً واسعة لجمع المعلومات المتوفرة ذات الصلة باستخدامات األراضي الحالية، والجيولوجيا، والتضاريس والتربة والمناخ والمياه السطحية والمياه الجوفية، والتنمية االجتماعية واالقتصادية والبنية التحتية والمواقع التاريخية واألثرية. باإلضافة إلى ذلك، سيتم إجراء زيارات ميدانية متعددة للتحقق من المعلومات وتقييمها على أرض الواقع. وسيتم تقييم اآلثار الضارة المحتملة والمزايا اإليجابية لمشروعإعادة تأهيل وتحسين شبكات المياه خالل مرحلة اإلنشاء والمرحلة التشغيلية الالحقة. ستدرج جميع المعلومات التي جمعت خالل مراحل الدراسة والبحث، باإلضافة لما انبثق عنالزيارات الميدانية في تقرير التقييم البيئي واالجتماعي، والذي سيطرح بالتالي مجموعة من االستنتاجات والتوصيات.
سيزود تقرير التقييم البيئي صنَاع القرار بالمعلومات الالزمة عن اآلثار البيئية للمشروع بهدف الحصول في نهاية المطاف على موافقة إنشاء المشروع في الوقت المناسب.
174 ورشة دراسة المجال البيئي – بتير، حوسان، نحالين، وادي فوكين المعلومات وجدول األعمال
القضايا التي سيتطرق لها التقييم البيئي
سوفيتضمن محتوى تقريرالتقييم البيئي واالجتماعي على المواضيع التالية، ولن يقتصر عليها0 الملخص التنفيذي المقدمة o المنهجية o منطقة الدراسة o اإلعداداتالجررافية
اإلعداداتالبيئة o االستخدام الحالي لألراضيوالتضاريس، o الديموغرافية، o الجيولوجياوالتربة o المناخ، o نوعية الهواء والضجيج، o المياه السطحية، o المياه الجوفية، o الهيدروجيولوجيا، o العوامل االجتماعية واالقتصادية، o النقل، o الطاقةوالبنية التحتية، o المناحيالتاريخية واألثرية، o الترفيه
اآلثار البيئية واالجتماعية مقارنة اإلجراءات البديلة لألعمااللمقترحة o ال إجراء o اإلجراءالمقترح o اإلجراءات البديلة
إجراءات التخفيف، اإلدارة، ورصد اآلثارالبيئي خطة اإلدارةالبيئية واالجتماعية االستنتاجاتوالتوصيات اإليضاحات o الخرائط o األشكال o الصور الجوية
175 ورشة دراسة المجال البيئي – بتير، حوسان، نحالين، وادي فوكين المعلومات وجدول األعمال
176 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING REPORT
ANNEX B LIST OF PARTICIPANTS IN THE SCOPING SESSION
177 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING REPORT
178 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING REPORT
179 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING REPORT
ANNEX C
ENVIRONMENTAL SCOPING SESSION PARTICIPANTS' COMMENTS
180 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING REPORT
Participants'Comments
Etidal Muammar (Battir Council): She asked if the preliminary information about the existing water network is ready or not, and whether the project will include the main lines or just the internal network pipes. Eng. Raed Samara (JSCPD): He said that the design of the water network will be in the next stage. He added that the project will include the internal network and may include also the house connections. Eng. NaeemFannon (Nahhalin Council): He stated that there are about 5000 houses in the four villages (Battir, Husan, Nahhalin and WadiFukin) exist within an area of 4 km2, each house has a cesspit, and some of the cesspits are constructed in the public streets. He said that these cesspits will affect the new water network and may pollute the water. Mohammad Shakarneh (Nahhalin Council): He stated that the average distance between the houses and their cesspits is 5 meter, and he said that constructing of water network pipes beside cesspits is a dangerous issue. Eng. HasanOweinah (Battir Council): He said that the master plan should be considered during the design of the water network. Eng. Akram Bader (Head of Battir Council): He stated that there are many springs in the area and these springs are polluted by cesspits. He asked if there is a possibility to limit the cesspits effect on the springs and the water network. Dr. Hafez Shaheen (UG): He answered that in order to limit the effect of cesspits on water network; the contractor should investigate the locations of cesspits to construct the water network lines in a suitable distance from cesspits. Eng. TalalAtalla (Water Authority- Bethlehem): He asked a question about the feasibility of improving the springs in the area. Ali Hamamra (Husan Council): He said that the existing cesspits will affect the water network. He added that the highest mortality due to the pollution is in the western rural areas. Ahmad Sokar (Head of WadiFukin Council): He stated that there are no As-built drawings for the existing water network. He said also that the local communities should be aware of the project, and a capacity building program is required for those who are to be responsible of the water network management. Mohammad Qattosh (Battir Council): He said that the residents are interested in the project due to water shortage problem that exists in the area. Eng. Raed Samara (JSCPD): He stated that Nahhalin Village is suffering from the high water head pressure that cause breaking in the water network pipes and increase the water losses, while in Battir the water head pressure is low. NemehKanan (EQA): She said that the proponent of the project should submit an “Application for Environmental Approval” by EQA. Dr. Hafez Shaheen (UG): He answered that the EQA is informed of the project and that a copy of the ESCHIA will be provided to them. The TOR for the environmental study for this project is determined by the PWA. Etidal Muammar (Battir Council): She asked a question about the role of the village councils in supporting the project.
181 ESCHIA DRAFT SCOPING REPORT
Eng. HasanOweinah (Battir Council): He stated that Battir water network had pressure reducing valves in the past but the residents or irresponsible people removed them. Eng. Raed Samara (JSCPD): He stated that the life style and water consumption in the project area is equivalent to the urban areas. Etidal Muammar (Battir Council): She said that there are serious social problems in the summer season due to water shortage; this is because some people close the water valves on other in order to get water. She said also that water shortage problem forced some people to use springs water which are polluted from cesspits. And she said that there is a problem of breaking the water network pipes in the winter season. Ali Hamamra (Husan Council): He asked if the water tariff will reduce after the water project. Dr. Hafez Shaheen (UG): He said that the capacity building program should include the tariff policy for water supply. Osama Shakarnah (Head of Nahhalin Council): He said that there are many social problems due to water shortage; and this is because some people close the water valve on other in order to get water. Eng. Akram Bader (Head of Battir Council): He said that the village councils should be involved during the design of the water network to avoid overlapping with the electricity lines and the water lines will cross the private lands. He said also that the project will destroy some facilities during construction. Eng. Raed Samara (JSCPD): He said that there will be suitable conditions during construction to assure the quality of construction and maintenance works. He added that performance bond and special guarantee will be submitted to the village council to assure the maintenance of destroyed facilities by the contractor. Dr. Hafez Shaheen (UG): He said that the contractor work plan should include the maintenance works, and he should coordinate with the police and village councils during construction especially in the sensitive areas, villages' centers, places near schools and the heritage places. Mohammad Shakarneh (Nahhalin Council): He asked about how to deal with the construction wastes. Eng. TalalAtalla (WSSA, Bethlehem): He said that the contractor should provide an approved traffic control plan. NemehKanan (EQA): She asked about the noise effects during construction and if the study will include a risk management plan for the project. Mohammad Shakarneh (Nahhalin Council): He asked if the farmers in the area will be compensated if the project destroys their lands.
Some other discussions took place during the ESCHIA Scoping Session and are reflected in this Scoping Report. .
182
ANNEX VI: TERMS OF REFERENCE (TOR)
Terms of Reference (TOR) for an Environmental, Social, and Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment (ESCHIA) to support Water Supply and Sanitation (WS&S) for West Bethlehem Villages
1. Introduction
The World Bank, through its State and Peace-building Fund, intends to provide US$3.65 million for a project to improve water supplies and plan for sanitation improvements in parts of the West Bethlehem region. A condition for signing the grant agreement for the project is the completion of an Environmental, Social, and Cultural Heritage Impact Assessment (ESCHIA) for the civil works for water supply improvements to be undertaken by the Project that is acceptable to the World Bank and conforms to the requirements of the Palestinian Environment Law. The implementing agencies for the project are the Palestinian Water Authority (PWA) and the Joint Services Council for Planning and Development (JSCPD) for West Bethlehem. PWA will be the World Bank’s technical counterpart and will be responsible for implementing the project through its Project Management Unit (PMU). The PMU will identify and prepare contract packages in close coordination with the JSCPD and will contract consulting services in accordance with the World Bank’s procurement guidelines. For supervision, the PMU will coordinate closely with the JSCPD. PWA is now seeking a qualified consulting firm to conduct an ESCHIA for this project as part of fulfillment of the requirements of the Palestinian Environmental law and of World Bank safeguards policies. These terms of reference describe the background, scope, activities and outputs to be produced.
2. Background In the western rural areas of Bethlehem district, five villages, representing a population of around 25,000 people (Battir, Husan, Nahhalin, Wadi Fukin, and Walajeh) are facing severe environmental and human health issues due to the pollution of springs by untreated wastewater. Recent media reports have identified spring water polluted by human waste as the source of contamination of agricultural products grown in the area, threatening the major source of livelihood of the villages. More broadly, studies have indicated that 50% of water pollution loadings in the West Bank can be traced to rural communities with inadequate wastewater management infrastructure. The water system in the five villages has also deteriorated. The internal networks were built in the 1970s, and were rehabilitated partially in the 1990s. Unaccounted for water now averages about 40%. The main source of water is from the Israeli bulk water supply company Mekorot provided through the Palestinian West Bank Water Department. In response to these issues, the project will provide financing to (i) determine, through a comprehensive feasibility and design study the optimal solution for sustainably managing the wastewater and wastewater reuse in the five Palestinian communities, (ii) finance the replacement of piped water supply networks in four
183
communities2 and construction of new reservoirs to improve the water supply for two of these communities3, and (iii) develop the capacity of local institutions (the Joint Services Council for Planning and Development (JSCPD) and Village Councils) within the project area to plan and manage improved water supply and sanitation infrastructure, including safe reuse of treated wastewater for agricultural purposes. The project will be implemented in two phases: Phase 1: Feasibility study, design and assessment. Component 1: Feasibility study for the wastewater networks. Activities will include consulting services to prepare a feasibility study to evaluate and recommend appropriate wastewater management alternatives and to prepare conceptual engineering designs for wastewater management infrastructure and effluent reuse covering the communities of Husan, Nahhalin, Battir, Al-Walaja, and Wadi Fukin. Component 2: Detailed Design of the Water Supply System. Estimated cost: Consulting services will be financed to prepare a detailed design of the infrastructure for the water supply system, preparation of an ESCHIA and an Environmental, Social, and Cultural Heritage Management Plan (ESCHMP), and assessment of the needs for building the capacity of the JSCPD. Component 3: Project Management. The Palestinian Water Authority (PWA) through its project management Unit (PMU) will manage and implement the project, and liaise with Israeli authorities to secure all permits that may be required for project activities. This sub-component will cover PMU incremental costs and the cost of two site engineers to be employed by the JSCPD in supervising the work at site. Their assignments will continue within the JSCPD after the project is completed. The PWA will hire an auditing firm to prepare the financial audited reports, as well as a monitoring and evaluation consultant who will prepare two evaluation reports at the midterm and the completion of the project. Phase 2: Construction of Civil Works Phase two will be carried out contingent on the completion of Phase One design activities to the satisfaction of the JSCPD, the PWA and the World Bank, and securing of all permits and clearances required from Israeli and Palestinian agencies to execute the civil works. Component 4: Rehabilitation and improvement of the drinking water supply networks. Activities will include replacement of the water supply networks within the villages of Husan, Nahhalin, Battir, and Wadi Fukin, construction of a small (200m2)
2 Walajeh village is served by the Water Supply and Sanitation Association of Bethlehem (WSSA) and its water network to be improved by the WSSA with financingby the EU. 3 The two villages are Battir and Nahhalin . Each community requires a 1000m3 reservoir.
184
warehouse for pipe fittings and other materials, and construction of two small (1000m3) water supply reservoirs to serve the communities of Battir and Nahhalin4. Component 5: Capacity Building. This component will build the capacity of the newly established water and wastewater unit (WWU) in the JSCPD to carry out the operation and maintenance of the WSS system after has been completed. Based on the results of the assessment of JSCPD capacity to be done under component 3 during phase 1, activities will include, but not limited to, providing training for the JSCPD staff to be able to operate and maintain the new facilities in an efficient manner. This will also include supplying the JSCPD with maintenance equipment and tools, and software (GIS and accounting and billing systems). The PMU in the PWA will be assisted in operating a GIS system and training under this component too, to allow for knowledge transfer to other JSCPDs. Capacity building activities will also be closely coordinated with the PWA capacity-building program that is supported under the Water Sector Capacity-Building Project to ensure complementarily and efficient use of resources.
3. Objectives of the assignment In order to fully comply with Palestinian environmental law and World Bank safeguard policies, as well as to support the sustainability of the expected project outputs and outcomes, the following are to be delivered in this consultancy: (i) identification of the possible environmental, social and cultural heritage impacts of the infrastructure component (Phase 2, Component 4 – rehabilitation of the water supply network) of the project; (ii) identification of any potential temporary or permanent land acquisition requirements associated with civil works5; (iii) If the Bank’s Operations Policy 4.12 (see below) is determined to apply due to land acquisition requirements, preparation of draft terms of reference to formulate a Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) to manage, mitigate, and monitor the impacts of the acquisitions; (iv) an environmental, social and cultural heritage management plan (ESCHMP) to manage, mitigate, and monitor any possible negative impacts during the construction and operation phases of the project; (v) a capacity assessment of the implementing party to implement the ESCHMP
4 The network rehabilitation will be limited to the portions within each village that are managed by the JSCPD and/or the Village Councils. It will not include the portions of the network (trunk feeder lines) managed by the West Bank Water Department. 5 This ESCHIA will assist in the determination of whether the Bank’s Operational Policy OP 4.12 is applicable or not. This Operational Policy applies whenever in a Bank financed project, land is acquired involuntarily or access is restricted to legally designated parks and protected areas. The coverage of the policy includes “direct economic and social impacts that both result from Bank assisted investment projects, and are caused by the involuntary taking of land resulting in: i) relocation or loss of shelter; ii) loss of assets or access to assets; or iii) loss of income sources or means of livelihood, whether or not the affected persons must move to another location.
185
and recommendations for any capacity building needs.
4. ESCHIA Requirements Initial screening for applicable World Bank social and environmental safeguards policies indicate these policies would be/might be triggered:
OP/BP 4.01- Environmental Assessment. According to World Bank screening, this project is classified as category “B” project which requires an environmental assessment. The scope of assessment will include determination of any expected environmental and social impacts and preparation of an environmental management plan for managing, mitigating and monitoring risks and negative impacts.
OP/BP 4.11- Cultural and Physical Resources. One of the West Bethlehem cities, Battir, is under consideration to be a protected UNESCO cultural site due to the presence of 4000 year old agricultural terraces and other features. The environmental assessment will examine if the replacement of the water supply networks will impact the cultural resources and devise – if necessary -- a mitigation, management, and monitoring plan.
OP/BP 4.12- Involuntary Resettlement. Project activities are expected to require minimal land acquisition for the construction of two water reservoirs and/or for the rehabilitation and/or expansion of the water supply networks. Preliminary inquiries indicate that one water reservoir and the warehouse is on public land and the second reservoir is proposed to be on private land voluntarily donated to the Joint Services Council (JSC). While the Bank’s Operational Policy on Involuntary Land Acquisition and Resettlement (OP 4.12 does not apply in cases of public lands acquisition or in circumstances of voluntary donation by private individuals, this ESCHIA will consider the totality of temporary and permanent land requirement for this project to ascertain if any lands will be involuntarily acquired through the principal of eminent domain. It will also clarify the nature of land ownership for each site (waqf, public, or private). These set of assessments will determine the applicability of OP 4.12 and hence the requirements to prepare safeguards instruments, if any.
BP 17.50- Disclosure of Operational Information. The proposed project is subject to the Bank access to information policy concerning the disclosure of project information including the environmental and social impact assessments.
The ESCHIA is expected to examine these policies closely, and when warranted, prepare an ESCHMP and RAP, and other necessary instruments to comply with the Bank safeguards policies and Palestinian law.
5. Scope of Work
Task 1. Description of the Proposed Project. Provide a full description of the project: location; general layout; unit process description and diagram for rehabilitation/new components; population served, present and projected; number and types of connected households; water supply characteristics, adjacent facilities, natural, or cultural facilities close to project site; existing/new road or other supportive infrastructure.
186
Task 2. Description of the Environment. Assemble, evaluate and present relevant baseline data on the environmental characteristics of the study area.
(a) Physical environment: geology (general description for overall study area and details for land application sites); topography; soils (general description for overall study area and details for land application sites); monthly average temperatures, rainfall and runoff characteristics; description of waters bodies (identity of streams, springs, wadis, groundwater, water quality; existing discharges or withdrawals).
(b)Biological environment: identify and describe any terrestrial communities, rare or endangered species; sensitive habitats, including parks or reserves, significant natural habitats, in areas affected by construction, facility sitting, land application or disposal;
(c) Socio-cultural environment: present and projected population; present land use/ownership; planned development activities; community structure; public health as it relates to water use; tourism; cultural properties.
Task 3. Legislative and Regulatory Considerations. Describe pertinent Palestinian, municipal, and local laws, regulations and standards governing environmental quality, pollutant discharges to surface waters and land, industrial discharges to public sewers, water reclamation and reuse, agricultural and landscape use of sludge, health and safety, protection of sensitive areas and endangered species, sitting, land use control, etc.
Task 4. Determination of the Potential Impacts of the Proposed Project. In this analysis, distinguish between significant positive and negative impacts, direct and indirect impacts, and immediate and long-term impacts. Identify impacts that are unavoidable or irreversible. Wherever possible, describe impacts quantitatively, in terms of environmental and/or social costs and benefits. The environmental and social impacts should be classified for both the construction and operational phases of the project. Although not exhaustive, the main impacts to be investigated are:
(i) Impacts on water supply and water quality;
(ii) Impacts on vehicle, donkey, foot traffic, and commerce in the pipe rehabilitation areas during the construction period;
(iii) Construction-related impacts (noise, dust, debris, increased accidents) during the construction phase;
(iv) Physical cultural resources, most notably in Battir;
(v) Impacts related to installation of two new reservoirs and the warehouse;
(vi) Public health benefits anticipated.
(vii) Impacts to land ownership, land use, or access to properties
Task 5. Clarify the project social impacts including on issues related to involuntary resettlement.
187
Briefly describe who are the affected communities;
Summarize positive and adverse social impacts that will be accrued by community members;
Clarify what the permanent and temporary land requirements of the project are with specific attention to land ownership, land use, access to properties, or livelihood as it relates to access to properties, most notably in and around the path of the construction6;
For each project intervention (rehabilitation and improvement of drinking water supply networks specifically for Husan, Nahhalin, Battir and Wadi Fukin villages; and the construction of water supply reservoirs for Battir and Nahhalin) clarify all direct economic and social impacts caused by the involuntary taking of land (if any) resulting in: relocation or loss of shelter; loss of assets or access to assets; loss of income sources or means of livelihoods (regardless of whether the affected persons must move to a new location)
Summarize Palestinian legislation on the acquisition of land through eminent domain principle.
Conduct a rapid assessment of community’s willingness and ability to pay for services, with special attention to more vulnerable households (poorer families, widows, disabled persons). Specifically, this would include detailing the social impacts of the water meter installation, subsequent tariff collection, and system efficiency
Task 6. Development of an Environmental, Social, and Cultural Heritage Management Plan (ESCHMP). Prepare a detailed plan to monitor the implementation of each mitigating measure which corresponds to a negative impact of the project during rehabilitation/construction as well as operation. Include in the plan an estimate of capital and operating costs and a description of other inputs (such as training and institutional strengthening) needed to implement the plan. Review the authority and capability of institutions at local, provincial/regional, and national levels and recommend steps to strengthen or expand them so that the EMP may be effectively implemented. Assess compensation to affected parties for impacts that cannot be mitigated.
The ESCHMP should include (but not limited to):
Construction spoils management mitigation, to manage the disposal of construction spoils generated in an environmentally-friendly manner. Likewise, ‘lifecycle management’ recommendations for materials being replaced should be included, as West Bank has a serious solid waste management problem;
If asbestos materials are generated due to replacement of old networks, an asbestos management plan should be prepared to facilitate the replacement and safe
6 The matrix in Attachment 1 may be helpful for presenting the land acquisition issues.
188
disposal of asbestos materials.
A fugitive dust control mitigation plan should be prepared to control fugitive dust emissions during construction activities;
A noise control mitigation plan to control noise impacts on the surrounding communities during construction activities;
Traffic control mitigation plan to minimize the disruption of daytime traffic flows along important access roads;
Cultural resources mitigation plan to manage any archeological or cultural impacts that might be encountered during the construction phase;
In sum, the ESCHMP should include the following: a proposed work program, budget estimates, schedules, staffing and training requirements, and other necessary support services to implement the mitigating measures, as well as a detailed monitoring plan. This monitoring plan will include for each mitigation measure the responsible party for mitigating the impact, how often the mitigating measure should be assessed, as well as a monitoring indicator and parameters. The monitoring plan may be split with one for use during rehabilitation/construction and a second for the length of project operation for ease of use.
The ESCHMP should identify one or two ‘key indicators’ from the monitoring plan that may be used as overall ‘safeguard indicators’ in the project-level Results Framework as a measure of general environmental and social safeguards performance.
An outline of the contents of the ESCHMP to be included in the project’s Operational Manual should be provided along with environmental/social protection clauses for contracts and specifications.
Task 7. Assist in conducting Stakeholder Consultations. Following the identification of key project stakeholders (affected communities, the JSCPD, relevant NGOs among others), the consulting firm will assist PWA in coordinating ESCHIA- specific consultations with relevant stakeholders likely to be affected, both positively and negatively, by the proposed project. As this project has been assessed as a World Bank environmental category B, these stakeholders should be consulted once a draft ESCHIA has been prepared and a executive summary of the ESCHIA will be publicized both prior to and after these consultations. The draft ESCHIA should also be available in a public place accessible to affected groups and local NGOs.
Relevant materials will be provided to affected groups in a timely manner prior to consultation and in a form and language that is understandable and accessible to the groups being consulted. The Consultant should maintain a record of the public consultation and the records should indicate: means other than consultations) e.g. surveys used to seek the views of affected stakeholders; the date and location of the consultation meetings, a list of the attendees and their affiliation and contact address; and summary minutes.
189
Task 8. Development of draft terms of reference for preparing a Resettlement Action Plan (RAP), if required. If the firm’s analysis of the temporary or permanent land acquisition that is anticipated to occur determines that OP/BP 4.12 is triggered, the firm will develop and provide draft terms of reference for preparing a RAP.
6. Delivery7.
The consultant are required to submit the following reports
Environmental Scoping Statement (draft and final) (One hard copy and one electronic copy)
Identification and determination of the significant issues relating to the proposed water supply facilities and scope of issues to be addressed in the environmental Assessment report
organization of one public consultation session with relevant stakeholders
Final Environmental Assessment (EA) Report (draft and final) (Two hard copies and One electronic copies)
Reports provided in electronics copy will be in both MS Word (.doc) and Acrobat (.pdf) format.
The Environmental Assessment report should be concise and limited to significant environmental issues. The main text should focus on findings, conclusions and recommended actions, supported by summaries of the data collected and citations for any references used in interpreting those data. Detailed or uninterrupted data are not appropriate in the main text and should be presented in appendices or a separate volume. Unpublished documents used in the assessment may not be readily available and should also be assembled in an appendix. Organize the environmental assessment report according to the outline below:
Executive Summary (both Arabic and English) Policy, Legal and Administrative Framework Description of the Proposed Project Description of the Environment in terms of: - Land use (topography, regional setting) - Demography - Physical environment - climate, - Geology and soil (soil types, faults, seismic activities, formation, lithology, maps, etc.
7 A follow-up deliverable which may arise depending on the results of the social impact portion of this study is the requirement to develop a Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF) or a Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) as per Bank social safeguard policy requirement. If required, a detailed Resettlement TOR will be prepared and submitted to the consulting firm.
190
- Hydrogeology - Surface water(drainage flow pathways, flooding, wadis, springs, rain water harvesting (cisterns), surface water quality) - Groundwater aquifer (recharge area, cesspits, groundwater wells if any, depth to groundwater, quality) - Biology (flora, fauna, wildlife) including field work survey - Historic/cultural resources including field survey - Economic/socio-economic - Noise - Transportation Significant Environmental consequences (Impacts) Discuss direct environmental impact and effects of each proposed action on each of the items mentioned above Analysis of Alternatives for each proposed action Environmental Management Plan, incl. mitigation, monitoring, capacity development and training and implementation schedule and costs; include environmental protection clauses for incorporation in contract agreements. Inter-Agency and Public/NGO Consultation List of References Appendices: . List of Environmental Assessment Preparers; . Records of Inter-Agency and Public/NGO Communications; . Data and Unpublished Reference Documents:
General Requirements - The Consultant shall prepare all results, reports and recommendations in metric units and in English - all detailed maps indicating the information requested in this scope of work shall be plotted with respect to Palestinian grid. - all information shall include technical citations and references, as appropriate. - where possible, original copies of data and information shall be provided in its original format/content, as incorporated into Consultant’s reports.
191