WATER SECTOR DEVELOPMENT AND INSTITUTIONAL IMPROVEMENTS PIU Public Disclosure Authorized
Environmental Management Plan
Public Disclosure Authorized Rehabilitation of Primary Canals of Arzni- Shamiram Irrigation Scheme: Arzni-Shamiram stage 1 canal, DM105+35 – DM281-50 Arzni-Shamiram stage 2 canal, DM179+60 – DM447-91 Arzni branch canal, DM20+00 – DM124+00
Public Disclosure Authorized Right-side Kassakh canal, DM9-14 – DM35+27 Left-side Kassakh canal, DM34-09 – DM65+00
30 September 2008 Revised – 9 August 2011
Public Disclosure Authorized
WSDII PIU 75/44 Baghramyan Street Yerevan 033, Armenia Tel +374 10 277943 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
CONTENTS
Executive Summary ...... 1
1 Introduction ...... 4
1 Introduction ...... 4
2 Project Description ...... 4
3 Description of Existing Conditions ...... 6
4 Environmental and Social Impacts ...... 11
5 Mitigation and Enhancement Measures ...... 12
6 Institutional Responsibilities, Reporting and Budget ...... 14
6.1 Institutional Responsibilities ...... 14
6.2 Reporting Format and Schedule ...... 15
6.3 Budget ...... 15
7 Public Consultations ...... 16
8 Environmentally Sound Clauses for Civil Works Contracts ...... 17
9 Main Findings ...... 18
Annexes ...... 19
Annex A: Environmental Management Plan: Mitigation Measures ...... 19
Annex B: Monitoring Plan ...... 25
Annex C: Incident Report Form ...... 27
Annex D: Check List of Potential Environmental and Social Impacts ...... 28
Annex E: Environmental Clauses for Contracts ...... 41
Annex F. Minutes of Public Consultation Meetings Held in Communities and WUAs ...... 48
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Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
Glossary
AMD Armenian Dram ARD Armenian Road Directorate DM Distance Marker (or “Picket Number”) EA Environmental Assessment EIA Environmental Impact Assessment ESIA Environmental and Social Impact Assessment EMP Environmental Management Plan Environmental Expertise State Environmental Expertise SNCO of the MNP ESAOC Environmental and Social Assessment and Oversight Consultant ESIO Environmental and Social Impact Officer, MCA-Armenia FS/FD Consultant Feasibility Study/Final Design Consultant GIS Geographic Information System GoA Government of Armenia ICID International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage ICOLD International Commission on Large Dams Irrigation PIU Water Sector Development and Institutional Improvements PIU IREP Irrigation Rehabilitation Emergency Project MCC Millennium Challenge Corporation MCA-Armenia Millennium Challenge Account - Armenia State SNCO MNP Ministry of Nature Protection of the Republic of Armenia NGO Non-Governmental Organization RAP Resettlement Action Plan RA Republic of Armenia RPF Resettlement Policy Framework SCWS State Committee on Water Systems USD United States of America Dollars WB World Bank WSA Water Supply Agency WUA Water User Association
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Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
Executive Summary
Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme is envisaged under the Additional Financing for the Irrigation Rehabilitation Emergency Project (AF IREP). The rehabilitation of Arzni-Shamiram main canal was planned under the MCA- Armenia program. For this purposes Environmental Management Plan (EMP) was prepared under the MCA-Armenia, however because of the limited time and resources these rehabilitation works were not carried out under the MCA-Armenia program.
This Environmental Management Plan (EMP) has been developed for the rehabilitation of the following primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme:
• Arzni-Shamiram stage 1 canal; • Arzni-Shamiram stage 2 canal; • Arzni branch canal; • Kassakh right side canal; and • Kassakh left side canal.
The rehabilitation works are expected to start in winter 2011 and end in early spring 2013 covering two off-irrigation seasons.
The overall objective of the EMP is to bring the project into compliance with the environmental and social requirements set by the legislation of the Republic of Armenia and World Bank’s environmental and social policies. The EMP links the mitigation measures into a comprehensive implementation scheme, designed to ensure action. It describes institutional responsibilities, compliance monitoring and reporting requirements, and cost for implementing the EMP, all in order to answer the “who?”, “how?” and “how much?” questions.
The Arzni-Shamiram main canal is one of the major irrigation systems of Armenia. The feasibility study and final design for the Arzni-Shamiram Primary canals was prepared by “Hayjrnakhagits” CJSC under the contract IA-06/003 for Design and Construction Supervision for Rehabilitation of Six Primary canals. The project proposed under AF IREP is expected to cover the rehabilitation of nearly 23,7 km of degraded canal structures out of a total canal length of about 107 km. Rehabilitation will include monolithic concrete lining 12 cm thick, off-takes, other minor components of rehabilitation, including the construction of monitoring sites.
About 110,000 people live within the Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme’s overall command area and about one quarter of these are directly benefiting from irrigation water deliveries, comprising 38 beneficiary communities whose lands are located within the sections of canals subject to rehabilitation. In addition, numerous small farmers located adjacent to the canal but not part of the irrigation system use the canal water for household gardens, including both subsistence farmers as well as those engaged in growing fruits and crops for the market. The primary canals are operated and
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Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme maintained by Sevan-Hrazdan Water Supply Agency (WSA) and the secondary and tertiary canals – by Kassakh, Ashtarak, Parpi, Shamiram, and Yegvard WUAs.
The overall objective of the rehabilitation is to improve the technical state of the primary canals in order to reduce seepage losses, restore the reliability of water command and delivery to irrigated lands, restore under-utilized or unutilized irrigated lands and, where feasible and if water supplies are available, to expand irrigated lands. It is expected that the results of the canal rehabilitation program will be an increase in crop yield and in the incomes of the water users.
The proposed rehabilitation works will have insignificant, short-term and localized environmental impacts during implementation of rehabilitation works and further operation and maintenance of the canal systems. The impacts during the construction period are expected to be mainly caused by the need for removal of degraded concrete slabs lining canals under rehabilitation; removal of outtake fixtures and piping prior to replacement; extensive dredging of canals under rehabilitation; upgrading of service roads; and earthworks as required. All debris, spillage and construction waste, including silt taken from canals must be properly removed and disposed of at approved landfills/dump sites that do not encroach upon areas inhabited by local residents. Contractors shall agree with the relevant local/regional authorities the sites for disposal of excavated materials and construction wastes. Earth borrowing and mining of local aggregates and spoils disposal sites will have a temporary negative impact on the environment. Clearing of vegetation and excavations may also take place for some parts of the access roads. Base camps with storage of oil, chemicals and other pollutants will be removed. Following rehabilitation, canal embankments will be planted with ground cover and steep slopes strengthened with vegetation, grass and plants or gabions. Dust and smoke arising from construction machines can have negative impact on the ambient air quality. Such effects are expected to be minimal and transient. During operation, negative environmental impacts will be less apparent but might result from inadequate attention to removal of silt debris and waste from canal beds during routine maintenance. Leakage from canals will be monitored to prevent excess soil saturation and water logging.
Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme will bring positive changes to delivery of irrigation water, and water users will more easily obtain the required quantity of irrigation water in a timely manner. Greater water use efficiency can lead to increased levels of agricultural productivity, including more water for landholders at the end of the canal delivery system. Rehabilitation can lead to the adoption of higher value cropping patterns, as well as the extension of irrigated land holdings thereby increasing food security.
Site investigations suggest that there are some areas where rural inhabitants have encroached on lands adjacent to the canals. Where construction or operation of the project result in a loss of assets or access to assets (temporarily or permanently), the project affected people will be compensated in accordance with the World Bank’s Operational Policy on Involuntary Resettlement (OP 4.12). A Resettlement Action Plan will be developed consistent with the Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF) and will be implemented prior to construction in the affected areas to ensure proper compensation to the affected people.
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Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
This EMP provides for a list of measures designed to mitigate the likely negative environmental and social impacts, as well as enhancement measures to strengthen the positive impacts. These measures were designed with due consideration of public concerns that were obtained in the process of informal and formal consultations with the public that may be affected by the project. A set of environmentally and socially sound clauses for civil works contracts is incorporated in the Technical Specifications for Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme and are included in Annex E.
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Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
1 Introduction
Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme is envisaged under the Additional Financing for the Irrigation Rehabilitation Emergency Project (AF IREP). The rehabilitation of Arzni-Shamiram main canal was planned under the MCA- Armenia program. For this purposes Environmental Management Plan (EMP) was prepared under the MCA-Armenia program, however because of the limited time and resources these rehabilitation works were not carried out under the MCA-Armenia program.
Currently the WB considers AF IREP to address rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme canals. Taking into account that EMP prepared under the MCA-Armenia program for Arzni-Shamiram main canal fully covers the primary canals proposed for rehabilitation under AF IREP, the EMP is applicable for rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme.
2 Project Description
This chapter was developed by using the baseline environmental and social data collected and provided by the FS/FD Consultant.
The Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme is located in the Aragatsotn and Kotayk Marzes of the Republic of Armenia. The water source is the Hrazdan River and the water is taken from the headworks constructed on the river. The scheme consists of a 35.1 km long Stage 1 canal; a 44.8 km Stage 2 Canal, Arzni branch canal of 15.2 km length, which is an off-take from the primary canals, 6.5 km long Kassakh left-side canal and a 5.4 km long Kassakh right-side canal. A map of the Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme system is shown below (see Figure 1).
The water intake of the canal is located on the Hrazdan River about 75 km downstream from its head.
In addition, the system gets water from the Kassakh river, Lake Sevan and Aparan Reservoir during the irrigation season. The irrigation network covers the southern and the south-eastern foothills of mountain Aragats. The command area of the scheme is large, covering about 17,000 ha of which only 11,000 ha are actually irrigated.
Five primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme are proposed for rehabilitation under AF IREP.
Arzni-Shamiram stage 1 canal at DM105+35 – DM281-50; total length of rehabilitation - 3,560 m. Arzni-Shamiram stage 2 canal at DM179+60 – DM447-91; total length of rehabilitation – 5,472 m. Arzni branch canal at DM20+00 – DM124+00; total length of rehabilitation - 9,174 m.
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Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
Right-side Kassakh canal at DM9-14 – DM35+27; total length of rehabilitation - 2,481 m. Left-side Kassakh canal at DM34-09 – DM65+00; total length of rehabilitation - 3,073 m.
Rehabilitation works will include: soil excavation; soil backfill; demolition of broken r/c slabs; demolition of eroded concrete layer; cleaning of existing concrete surface of bottom and slopes; patching of cavities on the existing concrete lining of bottom and slopes by monolithic concrete; lining of bottom and slopes by 12 cm thick monolithic concrete; arrangement of joints.
Most of the canals proposed for rehabilitation are lined with cast-in-situ concrete or pre- cast concrete slabs. Operation of the Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme began in 1957 and it operates from April through October during the normal planting season.
As a result of long-term operation, the influence of climatic factors, fluid erosion, and the effect of anthropogenic factors, there has been serious deterioration of the concrete structures. Some stretches have lost their vertical position, reducing the discharge capacity of canals and causing significant seepage losses. To address the issue of deterioration, the World Bank initiated an irrigation rehabilitation project and some sections of the Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme were rehabilitated in 1996-2007. A summary of the rehabilitation works proposed under AF IREP is provided in Table 1.
Table 1. Overview of canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme to be rehabilitated under AF IREP
Canal name Total Proposed for Number of Actually length of rehabilitation beneficiary irrigated canal (m) (m) communities area (ha) Arzni-Shamiram stage 1 canal 35095 3560 7 4400 Arzni-Shamiram stage 2 canal 44791 5472 21 5330 Arzni branch canal 15000 9174 5 3800 Right-side Kassakh canal, 5400 2481 3 2019 Left-side Kassakh canal, 6500 3073 2 1100 Total 106786 23760 38 16649
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Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
Figure 1: Map of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
3 Description of Existing Conditions
Climate
The climate of the region in general is arid, typically continental. The summer is hot and long. The maximum temperature is +40oC. The winter is cold with minimum temperatures of -24 to -26°C. Annual precipitation does not exceed 300 mm. The area is also characterized by permanent winds, especially in summer.
Relief and Geomorphology
Topographically the Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme system’s command area encompasses Mt. Ara (2,577 m) extending over the area from east-southeast; Mt. Aragats (4,090 m) extending from west north- west, and in the south pre-mountain effusive volcanic formations.
The tuff rocks are brick-red on the surface and become grayish-black at lower depth.
They are distributed within the left-side area of the canal. The tuff rocks usually are fissured and weathered to various extents. The overall thickness of tuff lava strata is up to 25 – 26 m, sometimes 28 – 30 m.
Along its entire length and its branches, the Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme crosses the catchment areas of Hamberd River and Kassakh River. The gorge of Kassakh River
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Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme serves as the main water intake for the entire catchment area where all surface water and groundwater is drained.
Geological-engineering conditions
According to geological-engineering zoning of the Caucasian region, the Arzni- Shamiram irrigation scheme system area is located within the Armenian-Akhalkalaki volcanic shield. The area is described as not having very favourable hydro-geological parameters. In this respect the grading, suffosion (sub-surface wash-out of soil particles) and other parameters of mentioned soils become very important from an engineering- hydraulic stability point of view. Given the non-uniform nature of soil cover, existence of suffosion depressions and terrain irregularities, the stability characteristics of engineering structures acquire great importance.
The areas with occurrence of dusty-clayey sediments referred to as “rock flour” are especially susceptible to negative leakage-suffosion processes. These are the sites where specific rehabilitation measures shall be developed and applied.
As a result of review of available materials and topographic and field geophysical surveys made by the FS/FD Consultant for assessing of geological-engineering characteristics of the Arzni-Shamiram primary canals, eight engineering geological elements (layers) can be distinguished.
The summary of these layers description is the following:
№1 (dlQIV) - sandy loam soil with up to 15% inclusion of rock debris, thickness - 0.1-0.3 m, soil workability category – 9v/8v;
№2 (alQIV) - pebbly-gravel soil of alluvial origin with up to 25% sand matrix; thickness up to 2.0-4.0; soil workability category – 6g/9g;
№3 (dlQIV) - loam soil of diluvial origin with up to 20-25% inclusion of small rock debris, thickness - 1.5-3.0 m, soil workability category 33g/33g;
№3a (dlQIV) - sandy loam soil with up to 15% small rock debris, thickness - 2.0-3.0 m, soil workability category – 34v/34v;
№4 (dlQIV) - rock debris – coarse sand soil of diluvial origin with up to 30-40% loam matrix, thickness - 3.0-5.0 m, soil workability category – 13/14;
№5 (el-dlQIV) - large rock debris of eluvial origin with up to 30% matrix of sandy loam, thickness 2.0-4.0 m, soil workability category– 12/13;
№6 (βQI) - weakly fissured and weathered tuff of lower Quaternary age, thickness 5.0-15.0 m, soil workability category 37/37;
№7 (βQI) - intensively fissured and weathered andesite basalt of lower Quaternary age. Thickness 50-100 m; soil workability category 19/20a.
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Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
Seismicity
The seismicity of the regions is estimated as 9-strong earthquake and is composed of several lava covers erupted from the volcanic mountain massifs of Ara and Aragats in the form of several lava flows and tongues. The lava flows disguise the lower folded complex of rock series represented by sandy-clayey layers of Sarmat age and older (upper and middle Tertiary age). The geological structure of the region is stipulated mainly by the activity of volcanic apparatus stated above.
Eruptions of those apparatus resulted in development of thick covers of mainly basalt and andesitebasalt lava. The basalt and andesite-basalt lava flows are alternated by eruptions of slagged-ashpyroclastic material.
Hydrology
The mean annual flow of the Hrazdan River is comprised of snow melt (25%), rainfall (12%), and groundwater sources (63%), amounting to an annual average flow of 728.4 millions m3 according to the 50-year-old observations of RA’s Hydro-Meteorological Department. The minimum flows are observed during the months of January-February and August-December that, on average, make only 5.8 m3/sec in the estuary.
The Hrazdan River is the left-side tributary of the Araks River. It starts from Lake Sevan, its length is 141 km and the drainage area of the basin is 2,560 km2. It flows from northeast to southwest mainly in a deep canyon. After Yerevan City it enters the Ararat Valley and flows in the Araks approximately in the ranges of 820 m unit.
In the river section of the water intake point of the Arzni-Shamiram Canal the length of the river is 66 km and the drainage area of the basin is 1,270 km2.
The flow of the Hrazdan River is regulated through water releases from Lake Sevan. There are many hydraulic structures located on the river such as reservoirs, diversion canals of hydro-power plants, head structures of canals, including the head intake structure of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme.
The groundwater in this area is formed in mountain massifs, where precipitation percolate through weathered lava flows and fissures to the deeper levels until the ceiling of watertight rock layer. The clay layer of Sarmat age serves as a stable watertight layer for this region. This layer is located at the depth of 300 - 400 m. The groundwater drains mainly in the direction of Araks and Kassakh Rivers.
The groundwater levels along canal route are at the depth of over 5 m.
Biological diversity
Flora Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme is located in semi-arid zone which is specified by wormwood and ephemeral plant cover: Artemisia fragrans Willd.; Kochia prostrate (L.), Schrad.; Capparis spinoza Willd.; Ceratoides paposa Botsch. et Ikonn.; Atropaxis spinosa L.; Rhamnus pallasii Fisch.et Mey.; Tanacetum argyrophyllum (C. Koch)
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Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
Tzvel.; Poa bulbosa L.Bromus; Aegilops; Eremopyrum; Alyssum; Aeluropus littoralis (Gouan) Parl.
The most of the landscape of this area was transformed into the agricultural landscape of heatloving crops. This type of vegetation often is called “vegetation of skeleton mountains” and it feels the impact of Iranian deserts. The most common plant variety of semi-arid area is the fragrant sagebrush (Artemisia fragrans) or similar species in some places (e.g. Artemisia araxina). The area is covered by ephemeral vegetation in spring (Ceratocephala falcata, Anisantha tectorum and others).
Among plant species of semi-desert zone it is worth to note the capers (Capparis spinosa), bean caper (Zygophyllum fabago) and others.
The following species of useful wild growing flora also occur within the area: Armenian everlasting (Helichrysum armenium); water pepper (Polygonum hydropiper); red hawthorn and other species or hawthorn (Crataegus astrosanguinea); macrosepalous primrose (Primula macrocalyx); heart-like motherwort (Leonorus cardiaca); red snakeweed (Polygonum cameum).
Among plants registered in the Armenian Red Book and IUNC Red Book the following species are met in this area: setwall (Linaria pyramidata), Tigran elder (Sambucus tigranii). There are no endemic plants in this region.
Fauna
Each vertical vegetation zone including the semi-arid zone has its specific fauna. Meanwhile some animal species are met almost in all landscape zones due to their ecological plasticity.
The amphibians and the reptiles are represented by toads, tree frogs, frogs, fresh-water turtle, typical tortoise, geckos, agamas, lizards, blind snakes, boas, grass snakes. The most common species among birds are the fowl-like birds, cranes, pigeon birds, perching birds. The most common species among mammals are hedgehogs, shrews, horseshoe bats, porcupines, nutrias, typical squirrels, rabbits, mice, martens, hyenas, canines, cats, pigs.
The animals prevailing in semi-arid zone are specific mainly to vertebrates of Iranian Highland and partially of Middle Asia. Among other mammals its worth to mention field mouse (Microtus arvalis), martens (Martes martes), foxes (Vulpes vulpes), Erinaceus auritus, brown bats (Nyctalus noctula), Vespertilio ognevi, Plecotus auritus, etc.
According to data of National Atlas of Armenia, Yerevan, 2007, the hare and lebetina viper are among the vertebrates that occur within the project implementation area - Arzni-Shamiram irrigation system. The hare is the hunting animal of this region.
The black gryphon (Aegypius monachus L.) and the Tetrao mlakosiewiczi Taczan are of this area are included into Armenian Red Book and IUNC Red Book.
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Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
There are no endemic plants in this region. (National Atlas of Armenia, Yerevan, 2007.)
Soil Properties and Salinization
Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme passes through lands within the area of Aragatsotn Marz represented by brown soil with rock debris, occasionally with typical carbonate cement, and light brown soil.
Within the area of Kotayk Marz, the canals pass through brown soil with rock debris, occasionally with typical carbonate cement, and light brown soil with rock debris, occasionally with typical carbonate cement.
The area of Aragatsotn Marz is located within semi-desert, arid steppe, steppe, forest and mountain meadow soil zones. These zones are specified by semi-arid brown, irrigated meadow-brown, paleohydromorph, combined saline-alkaline, brown, black, and meadow black types of soil.
Semi-desert brown soils cover the lower hilly plains of pre-mountain area of Mt. Aragats located at the elevation of 850-1,250 m. They are specified by a limited thickness of the humus layer (25-40 cm) and low humus content (up to 2%), presence of rock debris, skeleton structure and considerable content of carbonate. Beneath are the gypsiferous layers. Salinization of soil is observed in some locations. This type of soil has an average alkaline reaction (pH 7.7 - 8.2), low absorption properties (20 – 30 mg/eq), insufficient water-physical properties and is saturated by alkaline-earth alkalies. A 15-30 cm thick alluvial-carbonate layer has developed on gentle sloping plains and hill slopes.
Brown soils are distributed within the Aragats Depression Valley. They are specified by a average humus content (2-4%), presence of rock debris, development of clearly expressed alluvial-carbonate layer which is partially cemented. This type of soil has a weak alkaline reaction (pH 7.4 - 8.5) and low absorption properties (30 – 35 mg/eq), is saturated by alkaline-earth alkalies and in general has unfavorable water-physical properties.
Black soils have developed within the Aragats Depression Valley and gentle hill slopes at the elevation of 1,300 – 2,450 m. They are specified by various humus content (3.5 - 12%), higher than average absorption properties (35 – 55 mg/eq), mainly neutral and sometimes weak alkaline or weak acid reaction (pH 6,8 - 8,2) and have the best properties with regards to composition and water-physical properties.
Meadow-black soils have developed in the steppe zone within the areas of occurrence of black soils under condition of moistening by surface water or groundwater. They are very close to decarbonated black soil. However the specific hydro-geological conditions promote considerable increase in humus content (10 - 13%) and gleization of lower layers. They have weak alkaline reaction. The content of absorbed cations in 100 g of soil is up to 57mg/eq.
No soil salinization processes were observed during long operation history of the canal.
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Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
Erosion and Sedimentation
No significant soil erosion is observed within the project impacted area. As the impacted area is one of the active economic regions of Armenia, erosion processes occur mainly during construction of roads and other industrial objects.
Considering that Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme gets water mainly from a reservoir and lake, sedimentation processes are relatively weakly expressed.
Some amount of sediments is accumulated during canal operation but these are cleaned before commencement of the vegetation season.
The quantity of drifts and sediments accumulated in main and secondary canals is within standard tolerances, and they are cleaned mechanically (not hydraulically) before commencement of the vegetation season. Therefore, the intake structures, pumping stations and other structures located downstream are not damaged.
Social conditions
According to the social surveys conducted by the FS/FD Consultant at the preliminary design phase, 62 communities in total get water from the Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme system. However, the population of 38 communities is considered direct beneficiaries as they are located within the rehabilitation areas.
The permanent population of the 38 communities was about 109,000 according to data of 2007 and current population is about 101,000. 51.8% of the current population is female. About 4,000 households within the project area live in poor social conditions with about 900 households living in shelters and caravans and 3,000 households getting social welfare assistance from the state. The population in this area is involved mainly in production of grapes, fruits, vegetables and wheat.
The Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme is operated by Vorogum-Jrar WSA. The responsibility for operation and maintenance of on-farm irrigation and water distribution is charged to “Kassakh”, “Ashtarak”, “Parpi”, “Shamiram” and “Yegvard” WUAs.
4 Environmental and Social Impacts
Only rehabilitation works on existing canals are to be carried out. Due to its rehabilitation nature the proposed project is not likely to cause significant negative environmental and/or social impacts.
Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme will bring positive changes to delivery of irrigation water, and water users will more easily obtain the required quantity of irrigation water in a timely manner. This should promote both increases in food security and incomes from agriculture, thereby reducing the number of poor population and mitigating out-migration in the area. These outcomes will be especially remarkable in the communities located at the tail-end sections of the
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Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme irrigation system as their lands will become fully irrigable. Overall positive impacts from the rehabilitation effort are long-term and cumulative in their nature, ultimately contributing to the increased social benefits of the communities affected.
Short-term social adverse impacts may occur only in cases when cutting plants and/or demolishment of light structures appearing within the alienation zone of the primary canals cannot be avoided. It is expected that within the proposed project such adverse impact will be avoided through application of appropriate construction techniques. However, if conduct of construction works is not possible without cleaning of the alienation zone from cultivated plants and/or structures Resettlement Action Plan must be developed in accordance with the Word Bank’s operational Policy on Involuntary Resettlement (OP 4.12). A Resettlement Action Plan will be developed on a basis of the Resettlement Policy Framework (RFP) prepared under the MCA-Armenia Program. The likely negative environmental and social impacts of the construction phase are expected to be localized and short-term. As a result of timely and proper implementation of this Environmental Management Plan with practical implementation of mitigation measures presented in Annex A to this report, all identified potential negative impacts can be prevented and minimized. In addition to this, regular monitoring over the civil works, in accordance with the Monitoring Plan, will ensure effective implementation of mitigation measures included in EMP. A possible negative environmental impact of the operation phase may be an increased use of agrochemicals in the areas of the project coverage, provided that with improved access to irrigation, farmers opt to increase volume of high value crops grown in their fields and apply increased amount of pesticides. This will be mitigated by carrying out a public information campaign on the optimal use of pesticides and extending some elements of the integrated pest management (IPM) relevant in the current country context.
5 Mitigation and Enhancement Measures
The mitigation measures are proposed for the design, construction and operation phases of the rehabilitation of the primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme that shall be undertaken by executing agencies to prevent and/or minimize the likely adverse impacts listed above. Design phase
Environmental mitigation requirements shall be incorporated into final design, technical specifications and bidding documents, to be implemented by the construction contractor to avoid, prevent, minimize, or rehabilitate the potential impacts.
The final design documents package shall include a list of approved borrow pits and agreed spoil disposal sites; permits, agreements obtained from the relevant local/regional authorities for use of borrow pits and sites for disposal of wastes as appropriate; list of construction preparation temporary sites such as access roads, construction camps, transport and machinery sites, storage facilities, etc.
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Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
The final design documents shall also provide, to the extent possible, such technical approaches and solutions to the rehabilitation of separate stretches of the main canals where encroachments of the alienation zone are observed that do not require demolition of temporary and permanent private properties (structures, fences, poles, fruit trees, etc). In case the demolition (including tree cutting) or dislocation of private/state holdings is required for the rehabilitation works, a resettlement action plan (RAP) shall be prepared based on the existing RPF and in agreement with the guiding principles of the WB OP 4.12. Compensation will then be provided to the affected population according to RAP.
Construction Phase Measures to prevent and/or minimize the degradation of landscapes and soil erosion, pollution of surface and groundwater resources and soils by construction run-off should be implemented by the contractor during the construction phase. Measures to prevent and/or minimize the degradation of landscapes and soil erosion, pollution of surface and groundwater resources and soils by construction run-off should be implemented by the contractor during the construction phase. This may include, but may not be limited to: the use of already existing quarries and disposal sites, according to the requirements set in the appropriate permits and agreements obtained at the design phase; zones of preliminary accumulation of wastes that will cause no damage to the vegetation cover and other components of the environment should be maintained by the contractor; all vegetative cover should be restored to its original condition; sites for storage of oil and chemicals should be properly equipped to minimize the risks of polluting soils and waters; dust and noise from the construction site should be minimized, especially in resident areas, public places, near schools, etc. If historical and/or cultural monuments or artefacts are unexpectedly found during earthworks, the construction contractors must cease the works and provide relevant information to the State Agency for Protection of Historical and Cultural Monuments which, after due consideration of the findings, shall recommend whether the works can be continued or the design must be revised. Operational Phase During operation it is essential that canal beds be periodically maintained to ensure proper conveyance, to avoid stagnation, to prevent flooding and damages caused by frost. The detailed mitigation measures to be undertaken by the executing agencies are presented in Annex A to this document. The following enhancement measures are proposed to strengthen the positive impacts expected as a result of rehabilitation of the Mkhchyan and Dvin Canals: Involve the local population in project related activities (e.g. work force during construction phase, etc.) Increase local water users’ knowledge on more efficient water management through providing training and practice, on-farm water management, higher value agricultural production, etc.
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Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
Raise awareness of integrated pest management and sound application of pesticides among water users; Build capacity of local water users through provision of credits; Support the institutional strengthening of the water supply and delivery organizations (Water Supply Agencies and Water Users Associations).
6 Institutional Responsibilities, Reporting and Budget
6.1 Institutional Responsibilities
Institutional responsibility for implementation of the proposed mitigation measures will be shared amongst the following agencies: Executing Agencies are responsible for executing the measures of the EMP. During the design phase, the executing agency, FS/FD Consultant (“Hayjrnakhagits Institute” CJSC) shall ensure that all the necessary permits and agreements (e.g. permits for the disposal of excavated materials, wastes, and demolition debris, etc.) are obtained from relevant state and local authorities before the construction works are tendered out. Executing agencies during construction phase (Construction contractors) shall take the responsibility for physical implementation of mitigation measures provided under the EMP, as well as for obtaining all permits and agreements related to construction activities (e.g. agreement with Historic and Cultural Monuments Protection Agency if any new historical/cultural/archaeological monument or artifacts are unexpectedly found during civil works) in accordance with the WB Environmental Policies and applicable environmental and social legislation of the Republic of Armenia. WUAs will be responsible for conducting awareness campaign among their members on integrated pest management and sound application of pesticides, using printed material and other training aids provided by PIU.
Supervising agencies
Supervising Agencies are responsible for supervising the executing agencies to ensure that they execute the mitigation measures as planned. The Construction Supervision Company hired by PIU for daily supervision over the implementation of civil works will be responsible for supervising the timely, proper and reliable implementation of works and measures as provided by the EMP (including oversight over the environmental and social aspects of all activities implemented under the project in order to ensure that mitigation measures are designed and implemented properly to prevent and minimize likely adverse environmental and social impacts).
The supervising agencies will also ensure that all necessary agreements and permits are obtained by the appropriate contractors from relevant state and local authorities before the construction works are tendered out. The WB may request to check if such permits
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Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme are issued and valid (e.g., not expired) as well as if the EMP mitigation and monitoring aspects are implemented on the ground during the canal rehabilitation phases according to the WB Environmental Policies and applicable Armenian environmental and social legislation.
Monitoring agencies
Monitoring agencies are in charge of monitoring the extent of implementation and the effectiveness of the mitigation and enhancement measures and of adjusting the program if needed. Monitoring agencies will be responsible for covering all measures requiring some sort of monitoring by PIU/WB.
The government entities, in particular the Ministry of Nature Protection and its affiliated agencies (State Environmental Inspectorate etc.), the Ministry of Health (State Hygienic Anti-Epidemiologic Inspectorate) and the Ministry of Culture (Historic and Cultural Monuments Protection Agency) may also be involved in the monitoring activities, as a part of their mandate.
6.2 Reporting Format and Schedule The Construction Supervision Company, working in cooperation with the Construction Contractor, will be responsible for reporting to PIU on the implementation of the mitigation measures included in Annex A and according to the monitoring plan presented in Annex B. The Incident Report Form shall be completed and submitted to PIU if any major environmental and social occurrences are observed (such as spills, explosions, etc.). The Incident form is presented in Annex C.
6.3 Budget
The budget for civil works contracts includes costs allocated for implementation of environmental and social mitigation measures. Appropriate mitigation measures to be fulfilled by the construction contractor are presented in Annex A.
The rates of EMP measures are estimated mainly on the basis of quantities of dismantling/removing of r/c slabs and cleaning/removing of canal sediments provided in BOQs. The distance of removal is agreed with local authorities. The difference in rates comes from the quantity of r/c slabs and sediments and the removal distance.
The canals of Arnzi-Shamiram irrigation scheme (Arzni-Shamiram stage 1 canal, Arzni- Shamiram stage 2 canal, Arzni branch canal, Kassakh right side canal, Kassakh left side canal) are mainly lined by r/c slabs that have to be dismantled and removed, therefore EMP measures constitute relatively high rate of total contract price - 1,39%.
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Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
7 Public Consultations
According to FS/FD Consultant’s report, 38 communities will be affected in total as a result of rehabilitation of primary canals Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme. They are distributed as follows:
Arzni-Shamiram stage 1 canal: 7 communities (Getamej, Mrgashen, Kanakeravan, Zovuni, Zoravan, Kassakh, Eghvard, Nor-Erznka);
Arzni-Shamiram stage 2 canal: 21 communities (Ohanavan, Partizak, Nor-Amanos, Oshakan, Voskevaz, Mughni, Voskehat, Agarak, Parbi, Bazmaberd, Ghazaravan, Aghtsk, Ujan, Aragatsotn, Kosh, Shamiram, Aruch, Darevank, Noe- Yedesia, Bazmaghbiur, Byurakan).
Arzni branch canal: 5 communities (Proshyan, Zoravan, Ashtarak, Sasunik, Aray);
Kassakh right-side canal: 3 communities (Ushi, Artashavan, Saghmosavan);
Kassakh left-side canal: 2 communities (Karbi, Ohanavan).
Only three communities may be negatively impacted by rehabilitation works: Arzni- Shamiram stage 1 canal – one community (Mrgashen); Arzni-Shamiram stage 2 canal – two communities (Kosh, Aghtsk); Arzni branch canal. There are no such communities in Arzni branch canal, Kassakh right side canal and Kassakh left side canal as their alignment goes far from settlements.
However it should be mentioned that those three communities which are exposed to possible adverse impacts in any case will benefit from project implementation like other 35 communities.
Two communities (Mrgashen and Aghtsk) were selected with possible adverse impacts and six communities with no adverse impacts (Yegvard, Voskevaz, Agarak, Proshyan, Ushi, and Karbi) for public consultation.
Present EMP was disclosed in-country through the web page of MCC and through the administrations of WUAs servicing all of the 38 affected communities. Public consultations were held with above eight villages in June, 2011. The consultations involved representatives from WSDII PIU: H. Harutunyan – PIU Irrigation Officer, N. Atayan - Environmental and Social Impact Officer, V. Movsisyan – Institutional Improvements Officer, representatives of Yegvard”, Parpi, Kassakh WUAs, leaders of all affected communities and water users.
A record was kept of the participants through a signature on an attendance paper. The list of participants is attached in the Minutes of Meetings of Public Consultations.
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Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
The consultations aimed at discussing environmental and social issues related to the rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme. The meetings were organized with the presentation and the discussion of the overall description of the activities to be implemented within the scope of the AF IREP Project, the details of the proposed rehabilitation activities, potential negative impacts, envisaged mitigation measures, importance of the project activities for the local people, the expected outcomes and other issues.
Participants of all the communities stated the significance of the proposed project for the improvement of technical state of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme and its importance in the development of irrigated agriculture. The participants asked to implement rehabilitation activities within non-vegetative season in order not to hinder irrigation works.
The quality of the rehabilitation works was another issue that worried water users. They asked to perform all the works with the highest quality standards to ensure long-term reliable operation of the system. Sometimes people were concerned that contractors may not carry out mitigation measures.
The participants took an interest in finding out all the details about the works, namely, what will be the solutions to reduce leakages and water losses, what measures and activities will be carried out in case of alienation zone encroachments.
The participants in all the communities also took the opportunity and raised the issues of the poor state of on-farm irrigation networks and high irrigation water fees
Participants were also interested whether local population might be involved in the civil works to ease their social problems. Farming is the only employment for most local people so they will be available for rehabilitation works which will be implemented during off-irrigation season.
The questions presented received exhaustive answers by the PIU representatives, who explained that this Project is also aimed on reduction of poverty in rural regions and improving the social conditions by involvement of local population in construction works implemented in the scope of this Project.
The environmental and social issues presented by the people concerned and the mitigation measures relating to those issues have been included in Environmental Management Plans.
8 Environmentally Sound Clauses for Civil Works Contracts
Most construction phase impacts will be mitigated by including appropriate clauses into the civil works contracts. These clauses are included in Annex E.
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Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
9 Main Findings
The rehabilitation of the Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme is aimed at improving the deteriorated stretches of the system, which will reduce large water losses within the system and allow reliable irrigation of more lands. This will increase the agricultural production in rural areas of the Republic of Armenia and contribute to increased food security and reduced poverty.
No new construction will be implemented under the Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme. The project mostly envisages rehabilitation of existing structures, which will have minor, short-term and localized environmental impacts during the construction phase. This EMP elaborates a list of measures (see Annex A) to be undertaken to mitigate likely environmental and social impacts that can occur during the various phases of the Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme rehabilitation – design, construction and further maintenance. The implementation of these measures will be monitored by the appropriate agencies and in accordance with the monitoring plan included in Annex B.
The positive socio-economic and environmental effects of the project outweigh the likely environmental risks associated with its implementation. The rehabilitation of the Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme will ensure greater water use efficiency, leading to increased levels of agricultural productivity, including more water for landholders at the end of the canal delivery system. This can also lead to the adoption of higher value cropping patterns, as well as the extension of irrigated land holdings thereby increasing food security.
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Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
Annexes
Annex A: Environmental Management Plan: Mitigation Measures
POTENTIAL NEGATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL EXECUTING SUPERVISING COST (To be quantified where TIMING IMPACT MITIGATION OR MONITORING MEASURES AGENCY AGENCY possible)
Design Phase Pollution of water and soil, Obtain appropriate permits and/or agreements FS/FD PIU Part of the contract with During design degradation of landscapes as for disposal of excavated materials and Consultant the FS/FD Consultant a result of improper disposal construction wastes, use of water resource and of excavated materials and water systems, etc. construction wastes Develop a list and specifications for construction FS/FD PIU Part of the contract with During design temporary sites such as access roads, Consultant the FS/FD Consultant construction camps, transport and machinery maintenance sites, storage facilities, etc.
Temporary air pollution Develop the traffic management plan on canal FS/FD PIU Part of the contract with During design (dust) related to the service roads to ensure smooth traffic flow and Consultant the FS/FD Consultant transportation of safety both for workers, local traffic and population construction materials and truck traffic Landscape degradation and Develop measures to strengthen the steep slopes FS/FD PIU Part of the contract with During design soil erosion with vegetation, grass and plants or gabions. Consultant the FS/FD Consultant Consider the use of plant species characteristic for the landscape in the course of restoration of the vegetation cover.
19 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
POTENTIAL NEGATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL EXECUTING SUPERVISING COST (To be quantified where TIMING IMPACT MITIGATION OR MONITORING MEASURES AGENCY AGENCY possible) Develop efficient methods for disposal or FS/FD PIU Part of the contract with During design backfilling of extracted soils. Sites without Consultant the FS/FD Consultant vegetative cover and within the alienation zone or specifically designated by local areas shall be used for storing the excavated soils.
Temporary or permanent Develop such technical approaches and solutions FS/FD PIU Part of the contract with During design taking of property or to the construction of the system, which, to the Consultant the FS/FD Consultant productive assets, including extent possible, allow implementation of peoples’ access to such construction works without demolition and assets that appear within the dislocation of private and community properties. alienation zone that hinder Any taking of property, permanent or temporary, construction works will be in compliance with WB OP4.12, the RPF and a RAP.
If dislocation and/or demolition or temporary or FS/FD PIU Part of the contract with During design permanent use of the assets is required for Consultant the FS/FD Consultant implementation of the works, the compensation shall be envisaged for the affected people in compliance with WB OP4.12, the RPF and a RAP.
Servitudes must be ensured for the temporary FS/FD PIU Part of the contract with During design, before and permanent use of community and private Consultant the FS/FD Consultant construction works lands (if applicable). start
20 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
POTENTIAL NEGATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL EXECUTING SUPERVISING COST (To be quantified where TIMING IMPACT MITIGATION OR MONITORING MEASURES AGENCY AGENCY possible) Construction Phase
Pollution of water and soil, Removal of old cement linings and accumulated Construction PIU through Part of the contract with During construction degradation of landscapes as a silt. Contractor Construction Construction Contractor works result of improper disposal of Supervisor excavated materials and Maintain zones of preliminary accumulation of Construction PIU through Part of the contract with During construction construction wastes wastes that will cause no damage to the Contractor Construction Construction Contractor works
vegetation cover and other components of the Supervisor environment.
Arrange transport and disposal of wastes Construction PIU through Part of the contract with After obtaining of according to the established traffic management Contractor Construction Construction Contractor permit, during plan, procedure and in the approved dump sites Supervisor construction works designated for the specific purpose.
Maintain appropriate operating rules for the Construction PIU through Part of the contract with During construction camps in identified suitable sites, including safe Contractor Construction Construction Contractor works handling of control of access, adequate drainage, Supervisor etc. Spillage of oil or toxic Implement the measures to control spillage of toxic Construction PIU through Part of the contract with During construction substances substances that will be included in construction Contractor Construction Construction Contractor works contracts, including: guidelines for the proper Supervisor storage and sitting of hazardous material such as oil, grease, fuel, asphalt, or ignitable and corrosive materials; lubricants will be collected in clearly marked containers and reused if possible, or disposed of at properly regulated offsite locations; water samples will be taken and tested for oil when there is a risk of spills or leakages to canal waters, surface waters, or groundwater.
21 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
POTENTIAL NEGATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL EXECUTING SUPERVISING COST (To be quantified where TIMING IMPACT MITIGATION OR MONITORING MEASURES AGENCY AGENCY possible) Temporary air pollution Use closed/covered trucks for transportation of Construction PIU through Part of the contract with During construction (dust) related to the construction materials and wastes. Depending on Contractor Construction Construction Contractor works transportation of season, wash truck tires as appropriate at the Supervisor construction materials and specially designed car washing sites to control truck traffic tracking mud and dust onto paved roads. noise and. vibration disturbances Clean the surrounding area from dust by water Construction PIU through Part of the contract with During construction sprinkling (except in Winter), remove excess Contractor Construction Construction Contractor works materials and clean the sites upon completion of Supervisor activities
Provide workers that deal with hazardous materials Construction PIU through Part of the contract with During construction or exposed to dust with necessary protection gear, Contractor Construction Construction Contractor works and follow applicable regulations and procedures Supervisor as established by GoA authorities.
Terminate the works at the established time (e.g. Construction PIU through Part of the contract with During construction work in daylight time) and avoid increase of noise Contractor Construction Construction Contractor works and number of peak hours. Consult with local Supervisor authorities
Impacts on safety of personnel Workers during cement pouring and while using Construction PIU through Part of the contract with During construction heavy equipment shall have and use safety Contractor Construction Construction Contractor works equipment. Supervisor
Impacts on historic-cultural Cease the works as soon as historical and cultural Construction PIU through GoA funding if urgent During construction monuments or artifacts monuments or artifacts are encountered and Contractor Construction excavations are required works immediately provide relevant information to the Supervisor State Agency for Historical and Cultural Monuments Protection
22 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
POTENTIAL NEGATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL EXECUTING SUPERVISING COST (To be quantified where TIMING IMPACT MITIGATION OR MONITORING MEASURES AGENCY AGENCY possible) Landscape degradation and Arable land shall not be used as earth borrowing. If Construction PIU through Part of the contract with During construction soil erosion unavoidable the topsoil (about 30 cm) shall be Contractor Construction Construction Contractor works removed, kept at specifically designated sites and Supervisor refilled.
Dump excavated soils and substances only within Construction PIU through Part of the contract with During construction the areas designated for that purpose. Contractor Construction Construction Contractor works Supervisor Restore landscape to quasi-original vegetation Construction PIU through Part of the contract with During construction cover after completion of rehabilitation works. Contractor Construction Construction Contractor works Supervisor Biodiversity conservation In the project areas adjacent to specially protected Construction PIU through Part of the contract with During construction areas and characterized as the habitat for endemic Contractor Construction Construction Contractor works species, no machinery shall go beyond the defined Supervisor alienation zone. There will be no waste accumulations and waste disposal sites in the same areas. There will be no use and storage of explosives and toxic and chemical substances beyond the specified sites.
Temporary or permanent If it is required to develop and implement the GoA through PIU GoA funding Before construction taking of property or Resettlement Action Plan, and/or obtain servitude, relevant entity works start in the productive assets, including the construction works will start after the particular section peoples’ access to such assets, compensations are paid to the project affected (including tree cutting) that persons (PAPs) and servitudes acquired. These appear within the alienation must be guided by the Armenian legislation and zone that hinder construction WB guidelines. works If demolition and/or dislocation is required, the GoA through PIU GoA funding Before construction project affected persons will be compensated in relevant entity works start in the accordance with WB OP4.12 before the particular section construction starts.
23 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
POTENTIAL NEGATIVE ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL EXECUTING SUPERVISING COST (To be quantified where TIMING IMPACT MITIGATION OR MONITORING MEASURES AGENCY AGENCY possible) Operation Phase Hydrological issues of Maintain the water conduit and hydro-technical WSA, WUA SCWS Regular Operation and During operation flooding, low flow and water structures to minimize the risk for water stagnation Maintenance cost stagnation and accidents.
Operate the water intakes in such a way that the WSA, WUA SCWS Regular Operation and During operation water withdrawal is properly controlled to avoid Maintenance cost withdrawing more water than allowed.
Maintain the canal beds and hydraulic structures to WSA, WUA SCWS Regular Operation and During operation avoid water stagnation. Maintenance cost
Regularly clean slit from the canals bed and WSA, WUA SCWS Regular Operation and During operation dispose the removed slit in the approved waste Maintenance cost disposal sites. The removed slit can be also applied in the farm-fields as a fertilizer.
Pollution of soil and water as Conduct of public awareness campaign and PIU through SCWS Included in the project Although this impact a result of increased use of extension of applicable IPM technologies to water procurement plan as is expected during pest pesticides in the areas with users procurement of consulting operation, the improved irrigation management services mitigation measure is consultant, proactive and will be WSA, WUA applied during operation Siltation in canals Training of WSA staff on proper operation and PIU/WSA SCWS Regular operation and During operation maintenance maintenance
24 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
Annex B: Monitoring Plan This monitoring plan will be used to determine compliance with the Environmental Management Plan (Annex A). How is the parameter to be When is the parameter to be What parameter is to be Where is the parameter Phase monitored?/ type of monitored? (frequency of Cost Reporting Agency monitored? to be monitored? monitoring equipment measurement or continuous) Design Material borrows and dumps At the design Perspective borrows and During the design Minimal additional PIU consultant dumps identified design cost
Road accessibility to the At the design Inspection During the design Minimal additional PIU structures consultant design cost
Construction Soil erosion In new cutting areas Inspections at site and During and after Minimal additional PIU through and slopes soils mechanical construction work, when construction cost Construction information deemed necessary Supervisor
Water pollution In water bodies Inspection During construction Minimal additional PIU through works construction cost Construction Supervisor
Air pollution/dust At working site Visual inspection During earth works, when Minimal additional PIU through deemed necessary construction cost Construction Supervisor
Noise At working site Inspection of During earth works and Minimal additional PIU through noise levels (dB) blast, when deemed construction cost Construction necessary and on Supervisor complaint Conservation of vegetation At working site Inspection When cutting and Minimal additional PIU through resources restoring used areas construction cost Construction Supervisor
25 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme How is the parameter to be When is the parameter to be What parameter is to be Where is the parameter Phase monitored?/ type of monitored? (frequency of Cost Reporting Agency monitored? to be monitored? monitoring equipment measurement or continuous) Staff safety At work site Inspection Unannounced inspections Minimal additional PIU through (protective equipment) during work construction cost Construction Supervisor Overall workers’ camp site On the camp site Inspection According to the existing Minimal additional PIU through conditions during construction regulations construction cost Construction activities Supervisor Conduct of campaign for WUA offices and Inspection After formal launch of the Minimal additional PIU rising awareness of IPM and water user Survey campaign cost to operational sound use of pesticides communities budget of PIU Operation Maintenance of the On site Inspection Continuous – full scale Routine operation WSA, WUA irrigation delivery desiltation required yearly and maintenance cost Maintenance of irrigation On site Inspection When needed Routine operation WSA, WUA off-takes and other and maintenance structures cost
26 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
Annex C: Incident Report Form
REHABILITATION OF PRIMARY CANALS OF ARZNI-SHAMIRAM IRRIGATION SCHEME 1 Date: 2 Canal Section: 3 Location: 4 Construction Contractor: 5 Marz (Region): 6 Water Supply Agency/WUA 7 Incident Type: 8 Severity: � High � Medium � Low 10 Reported By: 11 Description of Incident Root Cause: 12 Corrective Action Taken: 13 Corrective Action to be Taken: 14 Action Taken to Prevent Recurrence: 15 Corrective Action Carried Out By: 16 Close Out By: 17 Close Out Date: 18 Person Involved: 19 Machine Involved: 20 Contractor/Sub Contractor Involved: 21 Third Party Involvement: 22 Photo Reference – Attached: The photos with appropriate descriptions should be presented as an Attachment to the Incident Report
For PIU use only Date Received by: Decision/Action made:
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Annex D: Check List of Potential Environmental and Social Impacts Project Name/location: Primary Canals of Arzni-Shamiram Irrigation Scheme Assessor’s name/position: FS/FD Consultant (“Hayjrnakhagits Institute” CJSC) FS/FD Team Date(s) of Assessment: May-June 2011
Comments
N/A = Environmental effect is Not
Applicable in this case likely
For each environmental effect likely For detailed explanation refer to the
present
possible possible
place a cross (X) in one or two possible at correspondingly numbered sections
No judgement
Positive impact Positive impact
Negative impact Negative impact of the columns No impact likely following this table
A B C D E F
1-1 Low flow regime X
1-2 Flood regime X 1-3 Operation of dams X N/A 1-4 Fall of water table Hydrology X 1-5 Rise of water table X 2-1 Solute dispersion X 2-2 Toxic substances X 2-3 Organic pollution X
Pollution 2-4 Anaerobic effects X N/A 2-5 Gas emissions X 3-1 Soil salinity X
3-2 Soil properties X
3-3 Saline groundwater X Soils 3-4 Saline drainage X 3-5 Saline intrusion X 4-1 Local erosion X
4-2 Hinterland effect X
4-3 River morphology X N/A
4-4 Channel regime X Sediments 4-5 Sedimentation X 4-6 Estuary erosion X N/A
5-1 Project lands X X Positive and negative impacts possible
5-2 Water bodies X
5-3 Surrounding area X Positive and negative impacts possible. Ecology 5-4 Valleys & shores X N/A
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Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
Comments
N/A = Environmental effect is Not
Applicable in this case likely
For each environmental effect likely For detailed explanation refer to the
present
possible possible
place a cross (X) in one or two possible at correspondingly numbered sections
No judgement
Positive impact Positive impact
Negative impact Negative impact of the columns No impact likely following this table
A B C D E F
5-5 Wetlands & plains X N/A 5-6 Rare species X 5-7 Animal migration X 5-8 Natural industry X 6-1 Population change X 6-2 Income & amenity X 6-3 Human migration X
6-4 Resettlement X See below.
6-5 Women’s role X economic - 6-6 Minority groups X 6-7 Sites of value Socio X 6-8 Regional effects X 6-9 User involvement X 6-10 Recreation X 7-1 Water & sanitation X 7-2 Habitation X 7-3 Health services X
7-4 Nutrition X
7-5 Relocation effect X Health 7-6 Disease ecology X 7-7 Disease hosts X
7-8 Disease control X 7-9 Other hazards X 8-1 Pests & weeds X
8-2 Animal diseases X 8-3 Aquatic weeds X
Imbalances 8-4 Structural damage X 8-5 Animal imbalances X
Number of crosses 6 4 34 5 3 3 Total possible = 53 (Unless positive & negative impacts)
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Annotated Questions from the Check List of Potential Environmental and Social Impacts
1. Hydrological changes
1.1 Low flow regime
Is the flow regime of the river substantially changed by the Project and its dams (by more than +/- 20% in low flow periods)? If so, does this change benefit or impair aquatic ecosystems, existing or potential downstream abstractions, hydropower, navigation or recreational uses?
Reconstruction of the primary canals will significantly improve the overall efficiency of the Arzni- Shamiram primary canals. Water for the system comes from two rivers, the Hrazdan and the Kassakh.
The Hrazdan River originates from Lake Sevan, flowing south-westerly through Yerevan, eventually passing through the project area. The system’s headworks is about 75 km upstream from the Hrazdan’s confluence with the Araks River. The Kassakh River flows southward through the project area from the Aparan Reservoir. All intakes and headworks structures are in good technical shape and make precise control of the water regime possible. The FS/FD Consultant’s report provides flow information and concludes that sufficient water discharge is left for Artashat, the Lower Hrazdan Primary canals, and other water users downstream.
1.2 Flood regime
Is the flood regime of the river (peak discharge and stage, speed of flood waves, flood super- position with joining rivers, duration or extent of floodplain inundations downstream) substantially changed by the Project as a result of changes in abstractions, retention storage, reservoir releases, flood protection works, new road/rail routes, river training or surface drainage works? If so, does this change benefit or impair aquatic and flood-affected ecosystems, lead to an increase or decrease in flood damage or change land use restrictions outside the Project?
There will be no impact on the flood regime of the Hrazdan River. The headworks structures effectively control the water regime. Therefore there is no risk of exceeding the allowed water level in the canals. The only danger is that of potential failure of a flow control structure at any point in the system, which can lead to flooding of the nearby area. Regular maintenance and monitoring by WUA’s should prevent this problem.
1.3 Operation of dams
Can modifications to the operation of any storage or flood retention reservoir(s) compensate for any adverse impacts associated with changes in flow regime, whiles minimizing the losses to the Project and other users?
Possible modifications affecting water quality downstream, saline intrusion, the sediment regime of channels, the ecology of affected areas, amenity values, disease transmission or aquatic weed growth should be considered (A separate environmental assessment of large reservoir(s) may be required.) Not applicable.
30 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
1.4 Fall of water table
Does the Project cause a fall of the water table (from groundwater abstractions, reduced infiltration due to river training, drainage or flood protection works)? If so, does this fall lead to increased potential for groundwater recharge (from seasonal rainfall) and improved conditions for land use; or lead to depletion of the groundwater system, affecting wells, springs, river flows and wetlands?
The FS/FD Report states that groundwater along the canal route is at a depth of 5-25 m under the soil surface, well below the bottom of the canals. Thus the canals will not drain groundwater.
1.5 Rise of water table
Does the Project cause a rise of the water table (from increased infiltration or seepage from irrigation, seepage from reservoirs and canals, or increased floodplain inundation)? If so, does this rise lead to improved yield of wells and springs and improved capillary rise into the root zone; or lead to water logging of agricultural or other land in the Project area or vicinity?
The project area is semi-arid. Current irrigation practices show no sign of causing water logging of agricultural or other land. Rehabilitation of the Primary canals of the Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme and its laterals will improve their physical condition, eliminating a number of points where presently there is leakage.
2. Organic and inorganic pollution
2.1 Solute dispersion
Are the Project and its dams leading to changes in the concentrations of organic or inorganic solutes in the surface water due to changes to the pattern of water abstraction and reuse in the basin or flow regulation? If so, do the changes benefit or impair biological communities or domestic, agricultural or industrial water users in the basin?
The project will not cause changes I the pattern of water abstraction or flow regulation.
2.2 Toxic substances
Are significant levels of toxic substance accumulating or being introduced, mobilized and transmitted due to the construction and operation of the Project and its dams, or are levels being reduced? Substances such as pesticides, herbicides, hydrogen sulphide, oil derivatives, boron, selenium and heavy metals in irrigation supplies or surface, draining and ground waters should be considered.
Increased or increasingly intensive cultivation of irrigated lands may lead to increased use of pesticides. Safe use of pesticides is addressed in farmer training under the WTM program.
31 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
2.3 Organic Pollution
Are nutrients, organic compounds and pathogens being reduced or introduced and concentrated, due to the Project, its dams and its associated domestic settlements? If so, does the change result in a reduction or increase in environmental and water use problems in the Project area or downstream (in rivers, canals, reservoirs, and lakes, evaporation wet lands, depressions, deltas, estuary regions) or in the groundwater?
At several points where livestock pens or dwellings are adjacent to a canal’s right of way, wastewaters drain into the canal. Proper maintenance and monitoring of the canals and their rights of way should significantly reduce these current sources. While such organic loads are unlikely to be a problem for agricultural usage, the canals are also used occasionally by local people for bathing, swimming, or consumption.
Increased or increasingly intensive cultivation of irrigated lands may lead to increased use of fertilizers. But fertilizer use is currently at very modest levels and, given the rising cost of fossil fuel inputs, is unlikely to increase significantly.
2.4 Anaerobic effects
Is the Project reducing or creating anaerobic conditions or eutrophication in any impoundments, natural lakes, pools or wetlands due to changed input or accumulation of fertilizers, other nutrients and organic matter or due to changed water quality resulting from dams, river abstractions and drainage flows?
No.
2.5 Gas emissions
Is the Project, either directly or through associated industrial processing, causing decreased or increased gas emissions which contribute to air pollution (O3, SO3, H2S, NOx, NH4, etc) or the greenhouse effect (CO2, CH4, NOx, etc)?
Insofar as increased irrigation increases fodder supplies or through improved income generation stimulates production of cattle and sheep, emissions of methane would increase accordingly. These amounts would be very modest in the context of Armenia’s total livestock production. Increased agricultural activity will also establish a greater vegetative biomass, entrapping carbon.
3. Soil properties and salinity effects
3.1 Soil salinity
Is the Project leading to progressive accumulation of salts in the soils of the project area or the vicinity because of prevailing high salt content in the soil, the groundwater, or the surface water; or can a progressive leaching effect be expected?
The FS/FD Report cites the Armenian Anti-Desertification Action Program, Yerevan, 2002 to confirm its own observation that no soil salinization has been observed in the area during the long operation history of the canal.
32 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
3.2 Soil properties
Is the Project leading to changes in soil characteristics within the Project area or the vicinity due to such activities as irrigation, the application of fertilizers or other chemicals, cultivation practices or dewatering through drainage?
Changes which can improve or impair soil structure, workability, permeability, fertility association with nutrient changes, humus content, pH, acid sulphate or hard pan formation or available water capacity should be considered.
The canals will supply water for irrigated cultivation of high-value crops. Most if not all of the areas irrigated from the Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme are currently irrigated or have been irrigated previously. Proper irrigations practices, such as those currently practiced by the WUAs and to be improved upon through the WTM and Institutional Strengthening components of the project, will improve soil structure, workability, and fertility of the cultivated soils.
3.3 Saline groundwater
Are changes to the rates of seepage, percolation or leaching from the Project and its dams increasing or decreasing the concentrations of chlorides, nitrates or other salts in the groundwater?
There is no report or evidence of saline groundwater in the project area.
3.4 Saline drainage
Are changes to the concentrations of chlorides, nitrates or other salts in the runoff or drainage water from the Project area in danger of affecting biological communities or existing or potential downstream users (particularly during low flow conditions)?
There are no drainage systems in the project area, and no reports of saline runoff.
3.5 Saline Intrusion
Are the Project and its dams leading to changes in saline water (sea water) intrusion into the estuary or into groundwater due to changes in low flow, groundwater use, dredging or river training? If so, are the changes likely to affect biological communities and water users in the Project vicinity and other areas?
No.
4. Erosion and sedimentation
4.1 Local erosion
Is increased or decreased soil loss or gully erosion being caused within or close to the Project area by changes in land gradient and vegetative cover, by irrigation and cultivation practice, from banks of canals, roads and dams, from areas of cut and fill or due to storm drainage provision?
33 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
Erosion in the project area is mainly due to construction roads and industrial activity. No soil erosion processes directly related to canal operations irrigation activities.
4.2 Hinterland effect
Are the Project and its dams leading to changes in natural vegetation, land productivity and erosion through changes in population density, animal husbandry, dry land farming practices, forest cover, soil conservation measures, in the region?
In previously irrigated and in newly irrigated areas, higher value crops will be cultivated. As farmers prosper because of successful cultivation of irrigated crops, they may expand their cultivation of currently un-irrigated areas, e.g. by raising more livestock. This expansion of agricultural activity improves land productivity, and should have no significant affect on natural vegetation or erosion.
4.3 River morphology
Is the regime of the river(s) changed by the Project and its dams through changes in the quantity or seasonal distribution of flows and flood peaks in the river(s), the abstraction of clear water, changes in sediment yield (caused by 4.1 and 4.2), the trapping of sediments in reservoirs or the flushing of sediment control structures?
If so, do these changes benefit or impair aquatic ecosystems or existing or potential users downstream? No.
4.4 Channel structures
Is scouring, aggradation, or bank erosion in the river(s),endangering the Project’s river headworks, off take structures, weir or pump inlets, its canal network, drainage or flood protection works, the free flow of its drainage system or structures and developments downstream? Consider effects associated with changes noted in 4.3 as well as those caused by other existing and planned upstream developments.
The canal network is the target beneficiary of this component.
4.5 Sedimentation
Are the changes noted in 4.1 – 4.4 causing increased or decreased sediment deposition in irrigation or drainage canals, hydraulic structures, storage reservoirs or on cultivated land, either via the irrigation systems or the river(s)? If so, do these changes benefit or impair soil fertility, Project operation, land cultivation or the capacity and operation of reservoirs?
There are sediment traps at the water intake. These function well, so severe sedimentation problems in the canals are not expected. Rehabilitation of the canal will reduce sedimentation.
During rehabilitation, a properly raised lip will be established along the edge of the canal, so that sediments to do not wash in. Also, it is likely that a significant portion of the sediments now in the canal are derived from un-renovated sections of the canal. That is, the water flowing through the canal is scouring those sections pass through earth and rock rather than being properly cemented.
This source would be eliminated by the rehabilitation of these sections.
34 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
4.6 Estuary erosion
Are the Project and its dams leading to changes in the hydrological or sediment regimes of the river which can affect delta formation or estuary and coastal erosion? If so, do these changes benefit or impair aquatic ecosystems (estuarine or marine), local habitation, navigation or other uses of the estuary?
No.
5. Biological and ecological changes
Is the Project, its dams or its associated infrastructure causing substantial and permanent changes (positive or negative) within the habitats listed in 5.1 – 5.5?
• natural ecology (habitat, vegetation, terrestrial animals, birds, fish and other aquatic animals and plants), • areas of special scientific interest • biological diversity
Include the likely ecological benefit of any new or modified habitats created and of any protective or mitigation measures adopted (such as nature reserves and compensatory forests).
5.1 Project lands
No significant changes are anticipated in the habitats or wildlife populations of the canals and their alienation zones.
5.2 Water bodies
Aside from the canals themselves and isolated, mostly seasonal, ponds, there are no other water bodies within the Arzni-Shamiram project area.
5.3 Surrounding area
The FS/FD Report estimates that the increased water availability through the rehabilitated canals will allow an additional 5,442 ha to come under irrigation. Neither the FS/FD Consultant nor our own field investigations have examined the targeted expansion area sites. It is assumed that these will be similar in nature to those already under irrigated cultivation.
5.4 Valleys & shores River and canal banks, lake, reservoir and sea shores and the offshore marine environment.
Not applicable.
5.5 Wetlands & plains
Floodplains or permanent wetlands including deltas and coastal swamps.
Not applicable.
35 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
5.6 Rare species
Is the existence of any rare, endangered or protected species in the region enhanced or threatened by the changes noted in 5.1-5.5?
The Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme is more than 50 years old. Although there are several species of rare plants and animals in the general area of western Armenia, there are no reserves within or adjacent to the project area, and there is no indication that current and anticipated irrigation activities would affect them.
5.7 Animal migration
Does the Project, its dams or new road/rail routes affect the migration patterns of wild animals, birds or fish? Make allowance for the compensatory effect of any additional provision within the Project (canal crossings, fish passes, spawning locations, resting or watering places, shade, considerate operation).
No; the canal system does not significantly inhibit the movement of local wildlife.
The FS/FD Report does not mention fish or fish management, but during final design and maintenance, it should be ensured that effective fish screens are in place at the off take points on the Hrazdan and Kassakh rivers.
5.8 Natural industry
Are commercial or subsistence activities depending on the natural terrestrial and aquatic environment benefited or adversely affected by the Project through ecological changes or changes in human access? Changes affecting such activities as fisheries, harvesting from natural vegetation, timber, game hunting or viewing and honey production should be considered.
Expanded cultivation of fruit trees would increase bee habitat and potential honey production.
Increased horticulture will also yield wood for fuel.
6 Socio-Economic impacts
6.1 Population change
Is the Project causing significant demographic changes in the Project area or vicinity which may affect social harmony? Changes in population size/density and demographic/ethnic composition should be considered.
No significant changes in socio-demographic or population impacts are anticipated.
6.2 Income and amenity
Is the Project introducing significant economic/political changes which can increase or decrease social harmony and individual well-being? Changes in the general levels of employment and income, in the provisions of local infrastructure and amenities, in the relative distribution of income, property values and Project benefits (including access to irrigation water) and in the
36 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme demand for labour and skills (particularly in relation to family/political hierarchy and different sexes and social groups) should be considered.
It is anticipated that income from farming activities will increase due to increased availability and reliability of irrigation water supply and the capacity to adopt higher yielding varieties of crops. In areas where new lands are brought under irrigated cultivation there may be significant changes in income and property values. These changes will require monitoring during project implementation to ensure equitable distribution of benefits.
6.3 Human migration
Has adequate provision been made for any temporary or migratory population influx to avoid social deprivation, hardship or conflicts within these groups or between the permanent and temporary groups? Human migration arising both from the demand for skills/labour during construction and from the requirements for seasonal agricultural labour should be considered.
Population movements leading to social deprivation, hardship or conflicts are not anticipated under the project.
6.4 Resettlement
Has adequate provision been made for the resettlement, livelihood and integration of any people displaced by the Project and its dams or losing land, grazing or other means of income due to the Project? Also, has adequate provision been made for the subsistence farming needs of people settled on or associated with the Project?
Since the canal rehabilitation may have a temporary impact on terrace walls, walkways and access to some farm holdings, public consultation with regard to local adjustments might be required.
6.5 Women’s role
Does the Project change the status and role of women (positively or negatively) in relation to social standing, work load, access to income and heritage and marital rights?
In view of the nature of the proposed works (rehabilitation of sections of an already existing main irrigation canal), no impact is expected on the status and role of women.
6.6 Minority groups
Are the Project and its dams causing changes to the lifestyle, livelihoods or habitation of any social groups (particularly minority groups) leading to major conflicts with, or changes to their traditional behavior, social organization or cultural and religious practices?
In view of the nature of the proposed works (rehabilitation of sections of an existing main irrigation canal), no impact is expected on minority groups.
6.7 Sites of Value
Is access improved or hampered to places of aesthetic and scenic beauty, sites of historical and religious significance or mineral and paleontological resources? Also, are any such sites being destroyed by the Project?
37 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
In view of the nature of the proposed works and the existence of designated service areas (“alienation zones”) along the canals that will be utilized for these works, no impact is expected as there are no known sites of value within the restricted area of the canal. However, if and when this occurs, the works will be stopped and relevant information should be immediately provided to the State Agency for Historical and Cultural Monuments Protection.
6.8 Regional Effects
Are the economic, infrastructural, social and demographic changes associated with the Project likely to enhance, restrict or lead to unbalanced regional development? Also, has adequate provision been made for new transport, marketing and processing needs associated with the Project?
Increased efficiency and utilization of irrigation facilities should lead to higher levels of farm productivity. Minor positive regional impacts are expected, principally comprising a greater level of farm production available in local and regional markets. Farmers noted that the source of farm inputs such as fertilizer is from Georgia, and that prices are becoming prohibitive for small farmers.
As a consequence there may be some shift from crops to livestock to adjust to significant price fluctuations in the sector.
6.9 User Involvement
Has there been adequate user and public participation in project planning, implementation and operation to ensure Project success and reduce future conflicts?
The potential for incorporating within the Project existing systems of land tenure, traditional irrigation, and existing organizational and sociological structures and for the provision of new or extended facilities for credit, marketing, agricultural extension and training should be considered.
Public consultations will be held with farmers and the local WUA heads responsible for each of the canals and canal sections that are to be rehabilitated.
6.10 Recreation
Are the Project and its dams creating new recreational possibilities (fishing, hunting, sailing, canoeing, swimming, scenic walks, etc) and are existing facilities impaired, preserved or improved?
The proposed project activities will have no impact on recreational activities in the area.
7. Health
Consider each of the items 7.1-7.9 in relation to the local population, the labor force during construction and their camp followers, the resettled and newly resettled populations and migratory labor groups.
38 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
The rehabilitation study of Arzni-Shamiram Primary canals proposes to improve several sections of the canal to increase the efficiency of the system as a whole. These rehabilitation works are not assumed to have any immediate negative or positive health effect on the population in its vicinity, apart perhaps during the period of actual construction work when increased vehicular movement may be causing some disturbance and additional emissions in the area. These potential and temporary effects are duly described in the EMP to reduce those to the extent possible and desirable.
In some areas water logging is observed that may be due to a lack of maintenance of the canals and that may well disappear after the rehabilitation of the canals. As elsewhere in the Ararat Valley and its vicinity, malaria is under control. Reduction of areas with standing water will help to assure that the area remains malaria-free.
In the longer term it is assumed that increased production and income resulting from the project should contribute to the local population’s health.
8 Ecological Imbalances
8.1 Pests & weeds:
Are crop pests or weeds likely to increase or decrease (particularly those favored by irrigation/drainage/flood control) affecting yields, cultivation and requirements for pesticides or herbicides?
Some increase in weeds and pests may be expected as irrigated agriculture expands, but overall, the improved efficiency and reliability of the system should enable farmers to manage their cropped fields more effectively. Fertilizer and pesticide use, even in currently irrigated areas, is at a low level.
Rising costs of these imported inputs will inhibit any significant increase in their used, and there appears to be a trend toward increased shift from crops to livestock.
8.2 Animal diseases:
Are domestic animals in the Project or vicinity more or less exposed to hazard diseases and parasites as a result of the Project and its dams?
No.
8.3 Aquatic weeds
Are reservoirs, rivers or irrigation and drainage canals likely to support aquatic vegetation or algae? If so, can these plants be harvested or controlled, or will they reduce the storage/conveyance capacity, interfere with the operation of hydraulic structures or lead to oxygen-oversaturated or anaerobic water bodies?
Rehabilitation of the canal system will reduce further what is already – except in a few currently neglected spots -- a low incidence of aquatic weeds in the Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme.
39 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
8.4 Structural damage:
Is there a danger of significant damage being caused to dams, embankments, canal banks or other components of the irrigation/drainage/flood control works through the action of plants and animals (including rodents and termites) favored by the Project?
The rehabilitation works, properly constructed and maintained, will eliminate current damages, and prevent potential structural damage in the future.
8.5 Animal imbalances
Does the Project cause zoological imbalances (insects, rodents, birds and other wild animals) through habitat modification, additional food supply and shelter, extermination of predators, reduced competition or increased diseases?
No. Any negative changes would be marginal, and should be largely prevented or offset by improved water and agricultural management.
40 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
Annex E: Environmental Clauses for Contracts
The Environmental Management Plan (EMP) provides general and specific guidance on protection and mitigation of potential environmental damage. The EMP is attached to these Technical Specifications, and shall be considered as binding on the Contractor. All necessary measures on protection of environment shall be carried out by the Contractor in accordance with the order of competent authorities, the EMP, and instructions of the Engineer.
1. Obligations of the Contractor
The general environmental and social obligations of the Contractor within this Contract, without prejudice to other official provisions in force, include the following:
The Contractor shall respect the environmental regulatory provisions in force in the Republic of Armenia (including those announced during the execution of the works if imposed by the Engineer), the contractual provisions of this Contract as well as the conditions fixed by the various required authorizations or approvals;
The Contractor shall fully assume responsibility for the consequences of his choices and actions; in particular, and without prejudice to the regulatory provisions in force, he guarantees, if necessary, the repair at his cost and according to the most appropriate technologies and deadlines, notably with regard to the level of sensitivity of the site concerned, of damage caused to the environment and residents by failure to respect regulatory and/or administrative provisions and/or the applicable technical specifications, as well as the payment of fines, damages or other penalties which may be incumbent upon him;
Contractor shall agree with the Engineer the technical approaches and solutions to the rehabilitation of stretches of the Main Canal where encroachments of the alienation zone are observed. Preference should be given to the technical solutions that do not require taking or demolition of temporary and permanent private properties. In case the taking or demolition of property cannot be avoided the Contractor shall notify the Engineer and ESIO and cease the works in that particular section of the Main Canal. Construction activities may only proceed with approval of the Engineer.
The Contractor shall take all measures to ensure the environmental quality of operations which are the subject of this contract, and not disrupt the quality of life of the adjacent villages, in particular by applying the applicable specifications and provisions. The Contractor shall consider the execution of works or the implementation of environmental and social provisions as an integral part of the operations relating to the general construction program of the works; and
Appropriate information and training for Contractor personnel, including management staff, with regard to the security and/or quality of operations;
The Contractor shall inform the local authorities (village mayor, council of elders) and the affected population on planned construction activities, sites and schedule at least 2 weeks in advance of any planned construction activities;
The Contractor shall hold information meetings at least 2 weeks before entering any village area for planned construction activities, to inform the villagers of the nature of the
41 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme forthcoming works, their duration, and all effects such as dust, smoke, or noise that will be felt in the village, whether such effects are to be mitigated or not;
The Contractor shall refrain from destroying, removing or clearing trees, timber, scrub, crops and other flora to any extent greater than is approved by the Engineer as being necessary for the execution of this Contract and shall take such measures as may be necessary to prevent his employees from hunting, disturbing, capturing or destroying stock, crops and such flora as may be protected by relevant statutes;
Borrow pits or other similar excavations as well as waste accumulation and disposal sites shall be in locations approved by the Engineer;
Controlling pollution, noise and nuisances generated by the works;
The re-use of materials available on the existing site each time the technical and financial conditions allow for this in a satisfactory manner from the point of view of the Engineer. Recycling and reuse of wastes (e.g. lubricants, plastic bottles, paper) is encouraged where appropriate. Strictly banning the use of fire for clearing and grubbing and cleaning sites, except for the treatment of organic waste as approved by the Engineer;
The maximum preservation of natural resources and the minimization of the use of space, soil and vegetation, in particular by the minimizing of cleared and stripped surfaces, by the passage of blades at a high level (5 cm above the natural ground level) each time that a simple clearing or a provisional storage of material is required, by controlling logging, including any tree alignments, by the appropriate management of the topsoil, by driving and working the machines perpendicular to the slope, by the maintenance on the sites of naturally grassed areas, and by the control of site erosion;
As appropriate the systematic stripping of topsoil of all work sites unless (with prior consent of the Engineer) the soil structure of the surface, predominantly organic matter ("topsoil" or mud), does not exist or has a thickness less than the working height adjustment of the blade of the excavator or machine used, taking into account the state of the terrain (eroded soil, gravel, soil with rocks that prevent the passage of the machine, etc.);
The Contractor shall respect, for the whole of his site (including borrow sites and disposal areas, quarries and installations) the zones, areas, elements and periods which are environmentally sensitive, including, but not limited to locations and areas identified in the EMP. In the project areas adjacent to specially protected areas, machinery shall not go beyond the alienation zone; there shall be no waste accumulations and waste disposal sites in the same areas; and there shall be no use and storage of explosives and toxic and chemical substances;
Any discharge or disposal of used water, mud, grout, bituminous products, pollutants of any kind, etc. into wells, boreholes, surface water or groundwater, water courses, natural streams, drains, ditches, etc. is strictly forbidden;
It is forbidden to create a dam or alter a permanent or temporary watercourse for the requirements of the site (unless otherwise specified in the Design), without authorisation of the Engineer;
All construction vehicles shall travel at slow speed (as specified in Armenian legislation) within 100 m on either side of any areas around villages where children are present;
42 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
The control of health risks relating to the works and personnel of the Contractor, in particular the adoption of minimum hygiene rules at the work sites and camps and for the benefit of residents, the control of dust emissions in populated areas and the control of stagnant waters as specified in the EMP;
Contractor shall exercise every reasonable precaution to protect from injury persons or property. The Contractor shall erect and maintain all necessary temporary fencing, barricades, barriers, signs and lights and provide fire alarm, fire extinguishing and fire fighting services at strategic points on the Site. The Contractor shall also be responsible for erecting and maintaining structures for storage and containment of hazardous materials or liquids. The Contractor shall adopt and enforce such rules and regulations as may be necessary, desirable or proper to safeguard the public, all persons engaged in the work and its supervision. The Contractor shall be responsible for the flagging and control of traffic and he shall comply with the requirements of the Engineer and competent authority in these matters. Contractor shall keep clear and in good working order all temporary access road structures, bridges, culverts, drains and other waterways necessary for the execution of the works during the term of the Contract;
The Contractor shall ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare at work of his personnel including those of his subcontractors and of all other persons on the Site or crossing the site. The Contractor shall provide protective clothing and equipment to workers that are appropriate to the workers’ tasks. The Contractor shall be fully responsible for ensuring necessary first aid services to his staff and workmen, including transport for injured personnel to hospital or other appropriate accommodation as and when required. The organization of the construction sites and work places, and the Contractor’s approach to the aspects listed below, shall be included in the ESHSP, details of which are included in Clause 2.21.2, to be prepared by the Contractor and approved by the Engineer.
The cleaning, restoration and then, if necessary, the appropriate rehabilitation or redevelopment of work sites, camps, quarries and borrow pits released by the Contractor as the work progresses. This obligation, which includes possible drainage of stagnant water and the completion of compensatory tree plantations (if envisaged by the Design), is a condition of the acceptance of the works;
Taking appropriate sanctions against personnel violating the applicable specifications and provisions on environmental and social matters;
Checking, by regular inspection, that all stipulated environmental and social provisions are being adhered to;
Systematically and in timely manner informing PIU and Technical Supervision Consultant of each incident or accident, damage or degradation caused to the environment, workers or residents or their assets, in the course of the works. Contractor shall also take appropriate measures, as approved by the Engineer, to address the incident or accident in timely fashion; and
Environmental and social monitoring of the works by the ESO (as defined in Clause 2.21.2., Sub-clause 2.21.2.2(ii)), and the writing of corresponding monthly reports.
43 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
2. Environmental, Social, Health and Safety Plan
The Contractor shall establish an Environmental, Social, Health and Safety Plan (ESHSP) in order to meet his obligations concerning this matter; the ESHSP particularly shall include the following:
1. Management Acknowledgements
2. Organization & Staffing
3. Communications and Reporting
4. Environmental, Health and Safety Management Provisions
The Contractor shall prepare and submit for the Engineer’s approval an ESHSP within 30 days of the commencement date. The Engineer may require periodic reviews, including updating of the ESHSP during the Works.
2.1 Management Acknowledgement
(i) Certification and Commitment
The ESHSP submitted by the Contractor shall provide a signed statement from the Contractor’s Managing Director(s) attesting to a commitment that all environmental protection, safety, and occupational health aspects of the Contract will be given highest priority in the discharge of contractual obligations and certifying a commitment to the provisions in the EMP, and ESHSP as approved by the Engineer.
(ii) Statutory Understanding and Compliance
The Plan shall provide a statement attesting the firm’s understanding of, and means of ensuring due compliance with, the statutory regulations relating to construction work in the Republic of Armenia, specifically in regard to compliance with:
(a) All safety and occupational health legislation including, without limitation, the Rules
and Regulations of the Republic of Armenia and the authorities having jurisdiction.
(b) All current environmental laws and regulations, including both national and local regulations, related to the following, but not limited to: - Noise; - Vibration; - Air pollution; - Water contamination;
44 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme - Solid and hazardous waste disposal; - Liquid waste disposal; - Sanitary conditions (water supply, sewerage, etc.); - Use of explosives; and - Protection of public traffic, - Historical, cultural and archaeological monuments/sites, - Resettlement, land acquisition, servitude, temporary use of land and compensation, etc.
(iii) Availability of Documents
The Plan shall state where copies of safety and occupational health regulations and documents will be available on the construction site and verify that all regulations and documents have been or will be available.
(iv) Management of Subcontractors
The requirements of this and related sections and obligations therein shall include for execution of parts of the Works by the approved subcontractors whilst the Contractor shall:
(a) Provide subcontractors with copies of the ESHSP whilst incorporating such provisions into all sub-contracts and ensure compliance with such plan under the Contract.
(b) Require all subcontractors to appoint a safety representative who shall be available on the site throughout the operational period of the respective sub-contract and ensure as far as is practically possible that staff and employees of subcontractors are conversant with appropriate parts of the ESHSP and the statutory regulations.
2.2 Organization and Staffing
(i) Organization Chart
The Plan shall include an organization chart identifying (by job title and by the name of the individual) the personnel to be engaged solely for environmental protection, safety and traffic control. The chart and the supporting text shall identify participants and their areas of responsibility and contact details.
(ii) Appointment of Environmental Safety Officer (ESO)
The Contractor shall submit for approval the name and details (full CV) of his proposal for an ESO to the Engineer within 14 days of the commencement date. The ESO shall be responsible for day-to-day issues of environmental management for the duration of the Contract. The Contractor shall obtain approval of such person being appointed, who shall be in position to carry out his duties prior to Works activities commencing on site except as may be agreed in exceptional circumstances in writing with the Engineer. The ESO will not be removed from the site without the express written permission of the Engineer. Within fourteen (14) days of any such removal or notice of intent of removal, a replacement ESO will be nominated for approval by the Engineer.
45 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme The ESO shall be empowered to instruct employees of the Contractor and Subcontractors to cease operations and shall take the appropriate action as is necessary and within his limits of delegation by informing others as may be appropriate to prevent unsafe working practices or other infringements of the Plan or the statutory regulations. The ESO shall maintain a daily site diary comprehensively recording all relevant matters concerning site environmental management, safety and traffic control, inspections and audits, related incidents and the like. The site diary shall be available at all times for inspection by the Engineer and his staff.
2.3 Communication and Reporting
The Contractor shall prepare and submit to the Engineer for his approval monthly progress reports on compliance with implementation of EMP and ESHSP. It is expected that these reports will include information on:
Environmental, social, health, and safety management actions/measures taken, including approvals sought from local or national authorities;
Problems encountered in relation to environmental, social, health, and safety aspects (incidents, including delays, cost consequences, etc. as a result thereof);
Lack of compliance with contract requirements on the part of the Contractor;
Changes of assumptions, conditions, measures, designs and actual works in relation to environmental, social, health, and safety aspects;
Observations, concerns raised and/or decisions taken with regard to environmental, social, health, and safety management during site meetings;
Chance historical, cultural and archaeological finds;
Follow-up on the status and efficacy of remedial measures and/or corrective actions identified in Incident Reporting Forms included in EMPs or otherwise; and
Follow-up, including remedial measures, status of measures and their efficacy, related to lack of compliance with contract requirements.
2.4 Environmental, Health and Safety Management Provisions
ESHSP should include at minimum the methodology and resources to meet the requirements of these Technical Specifications including but not limited to the following:
Stakeholder communication and information dissemination;
Relevant staff training;
Maintaining farmers’ access to irrigation water if the Works are implemented during the irrigation season;
Maintaining vehicle access to the communities;
Pollution control (including spill prevention, dust abatement, noise, etc.);
46 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
Provision of potable water and washing/toilet facilities to workers;
Provision of lodging and insecticide-treated mosquito nets to workers as appropriate;
Provision of health care to workers and treatment for injuries and infections; and providing workers with access to condoms;
Assessing importance of, and reporting and investigating, chance historical, cultural and archaeological finds;
Inspection and monitoring.
47 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme Annex F. Minutes of Public Consultation Meetings Held in Communities and WUAs Date: 07.06.2011 Community: Karbi
Participants:
H.Harutyunyan PIU Irrigation Officer N.Atayan PIU Environmental and Social Impact Officer V.Movsisyan Institutional Improvements Officer H.Hayrapetyn Director of Kassakh WUA
F.Nazaretyan Governor of Karbi community Water users of Karbi community
Agenda
To carry out public discussions of environmental and social impacts and other issues related to rehabilitation of deteriorated stretches of Left-side branch of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme.
V. Movsisyan presented in details the proposed project and the nature of anticipated activities.
N.Atayan presented environmental and social aspects of the anticipated works.
The Governor of Karbi community F.Nazaretyan raised the issue of the rehabilitation of on-farm irrigation networks.
V. Movsisyan clarified that the rehabilitation of on-farm irrigation networks included in the project will be implemented on the condition of 15% co-financing by water users.
WUA Director reminded that the community first has approach with that issue to the Administrative Council of WUA. The Council will discuss the request of community and apply to PIU specialists, if required. In case of positive opinion of PIU, the on-farm irrigation system will be included into the Project.
Water user L.Harutyunyan raised the issue of involvement of local population in construction works.
PIU specialists clarified that one of the Project’s objectives is to involve in civil works as much local population as possible to increase local employment. Local people will be hired if they posses required construction skills.
The list of water users having participated in public consultations is attached.
Governor of Karbi Community F.Nazaretyan /signature/
Secretary E.Grigoryan /signature/
/SEAL/
48 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
List of Participants of the Public Consultations
Kassakh WUA
Date 07.06.2011 Community: Karbi
Participant’s Name Participant’s position and Signature occupation Eghiazaryan Razmik Water User /signature/ Poghosyan Hovik Water User /signature/ Shahbazyan Emin Water User /signature/ Tadevosyan Gagik Water User /signature/ Grigoryan Artur Water User /signature/ Harutunyan Ludvig Water User /signature/ Grigoryan Aghasi Water User /signature/ Sahakyan Smbat Water User /signature/ Sahakyan Razmik Water User /signature/ Simonyan Lyova Water User /signature/ Vardanyan Artsvik Water User /signature/ Sahakyan Zohrab Water User /signature/ Poghosyan Samvel Water User /signature/ Tumasyan Armen Water User /signature/ Grigoryan Hamlet Water User /signature/ Hovhannisyan Ararat Water User /signature/ Hovhannisyan Tatul Water User /signature/ Grigoryan Jorik Water User /signature/ Hayrapetyan Tornik Water User /signature/ Baghdasayan Arshak Water User /signature/ Mailyan Vaghinak Water User /signature/ Mailyan Gagik Water User /signature/ Tadevosyan Mesrop Water User /signature/ Nazaretyan Khachik Water User /signature/ Nazaretyan Albert Water User /signature/
Governor of Karbi Community F.Nazaretyasn /signature/
49 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
Date: 07.06.2011 Community: Ushi
Participants:
H.Harutyunyan PIU Irrigation Officer
N.Atayan PIU Environmental and Social Impact Officer,
V.Movsisyan Institutional Improvements Officer
H.Hayrapetyan Director of Kassakh WUA
H.Atoyan Governor of Ushi community
Water users of Ushi community
Agenda
To carry out public discussions of environmental and social impacts and other issues related to rehabilitation of deteriorated stretches of Kassakh right-side canal of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme.
V. Movsisyan presented in details the proposed project and the nature of anticipated activities.
N.Atayan presented environmental and social aspects of the anticipated works.
The Governor of Ushi community H.Atoyan noted that their community is located at the end-tail section of the system, so rehabilitation will improve irrigation water supply and make it more reliable.
V.Movsisyan clarified that one of major objectives of the project is reduction of irrigation water losses and provision of ensured irrigation water to farms.
Water user A.Simonyan raised the issue of involvement of local population in construction works.
PIU specialists clarified that one of the Project’s objectives is to involve in civil works as much local population as possible to increase local employment. Local people will be hired if they posses required construction skills.
The list of water users having participated in public consultations is attached.
Governor of Ushi Community H.Atoyan /signature/
Secretary S.Shabazyan /signature/
/SEAL/
50 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
List of Participants of the Public Consultations
Kassakh WUA
Date 07.06.2011 Community Ushi
Participant’s Name Participant’s position Signature and occupation Atoyan Vrej Water User /signature/ Gharibyan Tatos Water User /signature/ Markosyan Hrachik Water User /signature/ Markosyan Abraham Water User /signature/ Davtyan Samvel Water User /signature/ Karapetyan Artak Water User /signature/ Atoyan Armen Water User /signature/ Nahapetyan Lernik Water User /signature/ Khachatryan Arsen Water User /signature/ Gharibyan Liparit Water User /signature/ Gharibyan Ashot Water User /signature/ Grigoryan Rubik Water User /signature/ Simonyan Armen Water User /signature/ harutunyan Mikael Water User /signature/ Atoyan Armen Water User /signature/ Sargsyan Gagik Water User /signature/ Petrosyan Samvel Water User /signature/ Sargsyan Gnel Water User /signature/ Martirosyan Igit Water User /signature/ Sargsyan Aghasi Water User /signature/ Gharibyab Miasnik Water User /signature/ Abrahamyan Andranik Water User /signature/ Karapetyan Derenik Water User /signature/ Saroyan Vram Water User /signature/
Governor of Ushi Community H.Atoyan /signature/
51 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
Date: 13.06.2011 Community: Voskehat
Participants:
H.Harutyunyan PIU Irrigation Officer N.Atayan PIU Environmental and Social Impact Officer, V.Movsisyan Institutional Improvements Officer H.Gevorkyan Director of Parpi WUA G.Sarkissyan Governor of Voskehat community Water users of Voskehat community
Agenda
To carry out public discussions of environmental and social impacts and other issues related to rehabilitation of deteriorated stretches of Stage 2 canal of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme.
V. Movsisyan presented in details the proposed project and the nature of anticipated activities.
N.Atayan presented environmental and social aspects of the anticipated works.
The Governor of Voskehat community G.Sarkissyan raised the issue of the rehabilitation of on- farm irrigation networks.
V. Movsisyan clarified that the rehabilitation of on-farm irrigation networks included in the project will be implemented on the condition of 15% co-financing by water users.
WUA Director H.Gevorkyan reminded that the community first has approach with that issue to the Administrative Council of WUA. The Council will discuss the request of community and apply to PIU specialists, if required. In case of positive opinion of PIU, the on-farm irrigation system will be included into the Project.
Water user G.Setikyan raised the issue of involvement of local population in construction works.
PIU specialists clarified that one of the Project’s objectives is to involve in civil works as much local population as possible to increase local employment. Local people will be hired if they posses required construction skills.
The list of water users having participated in public consultations is attached.
Governor of Voskehat Community G.Sarkissyan /signature/
Secretary H.Margaryan /signature/
/SEAL/
52 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
List of Participants of the Public Consultations
Parpi WUA
Date 13.06.2011 Community Voskehat
Participant’s Name Participant’s position Signature and occupation Vardanyan Andranik Farmer /signature/ Davtyan Telman Farmer /signature/ Eghiazaryan Hakob Farmer /signature/ Setikyan Gagik Farmer /signature/ Harutunyan Gagik Farmer /signature/ Azizyan Melik Farmer /signature/ Mkrtchyan Kamo Farmer /signature/ Eghiazaryan Minas Farmer /signature/ Davtyan Grisha Farmer /signature/ Gasparyan Gaspar Farmer /signature/ Karoyan Hakob Farmer /signature/ Zakaryan Never Farmer /signature/ Khachatryan Hovhannes Farmer /signature/ Vardanyan Misak Farmer /signature/ Hovhannisyan Ararat Farmer /signature/ Zakaryan Samvel Farmer /signature/ Djanoyan Mesrop Farmer /signature/ Asatryan Astur Accountant /signature/ Manukyan Arayik Constructor /signature/ Nasoyan Azat Driver /signature/ Asatryan Garegin Governor of Community /signature/
Governor of Voskehat Community G.Sarkissyan /signature/
53 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
Date: 13.06.2011 Community: Voskevaz
Participants:
H.Harutyunyan PIU Irrigation Officer
N.Atayan PIU Environmental and Social Impact Officer,
V.Movsisyan Institutional Improvements Officer
H.Gevorkyan Director of Parpi WUA
H.Hovhannissyan Governor of Voskevaz community
Water users of Voskevaz community
Agenda
To carry out public discussions of environmental and social impacts and other issues related to rehabilitation of deteriorated stretches of Stage 2 canal of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme.
V. Movsisyan presented in details the proposed project and the nature of anticipated activities.
N.Atayan presented environmental and social aspects of the anticipated works.
The Governor of Voskevaz community H.Hovhannissyan first thanked for inclusion of their community into the propsed works and presented water users the importance oncoming rehabilitation works.
V.Movsisyan clarified that one of major objectives of the project is reduction of irrigation water losses and provision of ensured irrigation water to farms.
Water user H.Grigoryan proposed to involve local population in rehabilitation works as most of people have no job and will be glad to have temporary employment.
PIU specialists clarified that one of the Project’s objectives is to involve in civil works as much local population as possible to increase local employment. Local people will be hired if they posses required construction skills.
The list of water users having participated in public consultations is attached.
Governor of Voskevaz Community H.Hovhannissyan /signature/
Secretary S.Mkrtchyan /signature/
/SEAL/
54 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
List of Participants of the Public Consultations
Parbi WUA Date 13.06.2011 Community: Voskevaz
Participant’s Name Participant’s position and Signature occupation Indjighulyan Margar Farmer /signature/ Laloyan vardan Machine-Operator /signature/ Khachatryan Souren Farmer /signature/ Karapetyan Rostom Farmer /signature/ Avagyan Artur Driver /signature/ Hakobyab Vardan Farmer /signature/ Muradyan Misak Businessman /signature/ Mejlumyan Armen Farmer /signature/ Harutunyan Vardan Farmer /signature/ Avetisyan Jora Farmer /signature/ Abrahamyan Arshaluys Farmer /signature/ Grigoryan Avetis Constructor /signature/ Mkrtchyan Tigran Site Manager /signature/ Hovakimyan Ashot Farmer /signature/ Khachatryan Khachatur Farmer /signature/ Ghambaryan Gevorg Farmer /signature/ Muradyan Andrush Farmer /signature/ Hakobyan Donat Farmer /signature/ Babloyan Grisha Farmer /signature/ Barseghyan Atom Farmer /signature/ Gevorgyan Lyova Farmer /signature/ Mkrtchyan Vazgen Farmer /signature/ Aharonyan Henzel Farmer /signature/
Governor of Voskevaz Community H.Hovhannisyan /signature/
55 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
Date: 13.06.2011 Community: Agtsk Participants:
H.Harutyunyan PIU Irrigation Officer N.Atayan PIU Environmental and Social Impact Officer, V.Movsisyan Institutional Improvements Officer H.Gevorkyan Director of Parpi WUA A.Avdalyan Governor of Agtsk community Water users of Agtsk community Agenda
To carry out public discussions of environmental and social impacts and other issues related to rehabilitation of deteriorated stretches of Stage 2 canal of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme.
V. Movsisyan presented in details the proposed project and the nature of anticipated activities.
N.Atayan presented environmental and social aspects of the anticipated works.
The Governor of Agtsk community first thanked for inclusion of their community into the proposed works and presented water users the importance oncoming rehabilitation works on Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme. According to Governor, the project will first of all benefit right their community.
Water users S.Barsegyan raised the issue of the rehabilitation of on-farm irrigation networks.
V. Movsisyan clarified that the rehabilitation of on-farm irrigation networks included in the project will be implemented on the condition of 15% co-financing by water users.
WUA Director H.Gevorkyan reminded that the community first has approach with that issue to the Administrative Council of WUA. The Council will discuss the request of community and apply to PIU specialists, if required. In case of positive opinion of PIU, the on-farm irrigation system will be included into the Project.
Water user V.Petrosyan raised the issue of involvement of local population in construction works.
PIU specialists clarified that one of the Project’s objectives is to involve in civil works as much local population as possible to increase local employment. Local people will be hired if they posses required construction skills.
The list of water users having participated in public consultations is attached.
Governor of Agtsk Community A.Avdalyan /signature/
Secretary G.Ghazaryan /signature/
/SEAL/
56 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
List of Participants of the Public Consultations
Parbi WUA
Date 13.06.2011 Community Aghtsk
Participant’s Name Participant’s position and Signature occupation Muradyan Gagik Farmer /signature/ Simonyan Harut Farmer /signature/ Melkonyan Ashot Farmer /signature/ Petrosyan Armen Constructor /signature/ Barseghyanb Serob Farmer /signature/ Soghomonyan Kamo Machine-Operator /signature/ Petrosyan Mushegh Farmer /signature/ Manukyan Armen Farmer /signature/ Hakobyab Khachik Farmer /signature/ Mirakyan Levon Businessman /signature/ Gevorgyan Samson Farmer /signature/ Hakobyab Rubik Farmer /signature/ Avetisyan Razmik Farmer /signature/ Martirosyan Grisha Farmer /signature/ Muradyan David Farmer /signature/ Ghazaryan Ghazar Farmer /signature/ Aslanyan Garegin Farmer /signature/ Arevshatyan Grisha Farmer /signature/ Rostomyan Serob Farmer /signature/ Grigoryan Hamlet Farmer /signature/ Soghomonyan Gabriel Farmer /signature/
Governor of Aghtsk Community A.Avdalyan /signature/
57 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
Date: 6.06.2011 Community: Agarak
Participants:
H.Harutyunyan PIU Irrigation Officer
N.Atayan PIU Environmental and Social Impact Officer,
V.Movsisyan Institutional Improvements Officer
H.Gevorkyan Director of Parpi WUA
V.Khachatryan Governor of Agarak community
Water users of Agarak community
Agenda
To carry out public discussions of environmental and social impacts and other issues related to rehabilitation of deteriorated stretches of Stage 2 canal of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme.
V. Movsisyan presented in details the proposed project and the nature of anticipated activities.
N.Atayan presented environmental and social aspects of the anticipated works.
The Governor of Agarak community V.Khachatryan stressed the importance of rehabilitation of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme for ensuring reliable water delivery to farmers.
V.Movsisyan clarified that one of major objectives of the project is reduction of irrigation water losses and provision of ensured irrigation water to farms.
Water user S.Hovhannissyan first thanked for inclusion of their community into the project and raised the issue of involvement of local population in construction works.
PIU specialists clarified that one of the Project’s objectives is to involve in civil works as much local population as possible to increase local employment. Local people will be hired if they posses required construction skills.
The list of water users having participated in public consultations is attached.
Governor of Agarak Community V.Khahatryan /signature/
Secretary V.Muradyan /signature/
/SEAL/
58 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
List of Participants of the Public Consultations
Parbi WUA
Date 06.06.2011 Community: Agarak
Participant’s Name Participant’s position and Signature occupation Grigoryan Arshak WUAs Expert /signature/ Muradyan Vazgen Producer of building materials /signature/ Grigoryan Vasil Farmer /signature/ Stepanyan Onik Farmer /signature/ Khachatryan Shahen Farmer /signature/ Sargsyan Zarzand Farmer /signature/ Rshtunyan Haykaz Farmer /signature/ Muradyan David Farmer /signature/ Mailyan Varuj Farmer /signature/ Harutunyan Jon Farmer /signature/ Tovmasyan Telman Farmer /signature/ Eritsyan Gor Farmer /signature/ Barseghyan Hakob Farmer /signature/ Azikyan Tigran Farmer /signature/ Davtyan Ludvig Farmer /signature/ Eritsyan Alvard Veterinary /signature/ Grigoryan Eghish Veterinary /signature/ Darmanyan Gagik Farmer /signature/ Torosyan Avetis Driver /signature/ Karapetyan Armen Businessman /signature/ Hovhannesyan Robert Farmer /signature/
Governor of Agarak Community L.Khachatryan /signature/
59 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
Date: 06.06.2011 Community: Mrgashen Participants:
H.Harutyunyan PIU Irrigation Officer
N.Atayan PIU Environmental and Social Impact Officer,
V.Movsisyan Institutional Improvements Officer
M.Hovhannissyan Director of Yegvard WUA
A.Aramyan Governor of Yegvard community
Water users of Yegvard community
Agenda
To carry out public discussions of environmental and social impacts and other issues related to rehabilitation of deteriorated stretches of Stage 1 canal of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme.
V. Movsisyan presented in details the proposed project and the nature of anticipated activities.
N.Atayan presented environmental and social aspects of the anticipated works.
The Governor of Mrgashen community A.Aramyan raised the issue of the rehabilitation of on- farm irrigation networks.
V. Movsisyan clarified that the rehabilitation of on-farm irrigation networks included in the project will be implemented on the condition of 15% co-financing by water users.
WUA Director reminded that the community first has approach with that issue to the Administrative Council of WUA. The Council will discuss the request of community and apply to PIU specialists, if required. In case of positive opinion of PIU, the on-farm irrigation system will be included into the Project.
Water user S.Sayadyan raised the issue of involvement of local population in construction works.
PIU specialists clarified that one of the Project’s objectives is to involve in civil works as much local population as possible to increase local employment. Local people will be hired if they posses required construction skills.
The list of water users having participated in public consultations is attached.
Governor of Mrgashen Community A.Aramyan /signature/
Secretary L.Martirosyan /signature/
/SEAL/
60 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
Yegvard WUA
Date 06.06.2011 Community: Mrgashen
Participant’s Name Participant’s position and Signature occupation Asatryan Arshavir Water User /signature/ Vardyan Levon Water User /signature/ Harutunyan Levon Water User /signature/ Hmayakyan Gumberd Water User /signature/ Sahadyan Hrach Water User /signature/ Sayadyan Sayat Water User /signature/ Nikoghosyan Ishkhan Water User /signature/ Gevorgyan Smbat Water User /signature/ Tamaryan Mkrtich Water User /signature/ Hovhannisyan Araik Water User /signature/ Baghdasaryan marat Water User /signature/ Baghdasaryan Tariel Water User /signature/ Sargsyan Surik Water User /signature/ Sargsyan Ladik Water User /signature/ Hovakimyan Varazdat Water User /signature/ Ladikyan Rubik Water User /signature/ Khachatryan Martik Water User /signature/ Khachatryan Garnik Water User /signature/ Mamiklonyan Mamikon Water User /signature/ Muradyan Manvel Water User /signature/ Muradyan Gagik Water User /signature/ Simonyan Zaven Water User /signature/ Muradyan Sanar Water User /signature/ Muradyan Aram Water User /signature/ Harutunyan Aramais Water User /signature/ Harutunyan Jorik Water User /signature/ Vardanyan Vardkez Water User /signature/
Governor of Mrgashen Community A.Aramyan /signature/
61 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
Date: 03.06.2011 Community: Proshyan Participants:
H.Harutyunyan PIU Irrigation Officer N.Atayan PIU Environmental and Social Impact Officer, V.Movsisyan Institutional Improvements Officer M.Hovhannissyan Yegvard WUA H.Muradyan Governor of Proshyan community Water users of Proshyan community
Agenda
To carry out public discussions of environmental and social impacts and other issues related to rehabilitation of deteriorated stretches of Arzni branch canal of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme.
V. Movsisyan presented in details the proposed project and the nature of anticipated activities.
N.Atayan presented environmental and social aspects of the anticipated works.
The Governor of Proshyan community H.Muradyan raised the issue of the rehabilitation of on- farm irrigation networks.
V. Movsisyan clarified that the rehabilitation of on-farm irrigation networks included in the project will be implemented on the condition of 15% co-financing by water users.
The director of Yegvard WUA reminded that the community first has approach with that issue to the Administrative Council of WUA. The Council will discuss the request of community and apply to PIU specialists, if required. In case of positive opinion of PIU, the on-farm irrigation system will be included into the Project.
Water user B.Tonoyan raised the issue of involvement of local population in construction works.
PIU specialists clarified that one of the Project’s objectives is to involve in civil works as much local population as possible to increase local employment. Local people will be hired if they posses required construction skills.
The list of water users having participated in public consultations is attached.
Governor of Proshyan Community H.Muradyan /signature/
Secretary H.Gasparyan /signature/
/SEAL/
62 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
List of Participants of the Public Consultations
Yegvard WUA
Date 03.06.2011 Community: Proshyan
Participant’s Name Participant’s position and Signature occupation Muradyan Khachik Water User /signature/ Khudoyan Mahmaz Water User /signature/ Nersisyan Voskan Water User /signature/ Davtyan Benik Water User /signature/ Pogosyan Poghos Water User /signature/ Muradyan Rafik Water User /signature/ Genzoyan Gabriel Water User /signature/ namoyan Gyalash Water User /signature/ Muradyan Gabriel Water User /signature/ Muradyan Hayk Water User /signature/ Davtyan Yura Water User /signature/ Tonoyan Boris Water User /signature/ Khachatryan Yurik Water User /signature/ Tadevosyan Vormizdukht Water User /signature/ Gasparyan Hovhannes Water User /signature/ Davtyan Yura Water User /signature/ Gevorgyan Norayr Water User /signature/ Karapetyan Parg Water User /signature/ Muradyan Aram Water User /signature/ Muradyan Hamayak Water User /signature/ Sargsyan Arshaluys Water User /signature/ Ghazaryan Saribed Water User /signature/ Abrahamyan Gegham Water User /signature/ Galstyan Hamlet Water User /signature/ Hovhannisyan Arakel Water User /signature/ Petrosyan Hayk Water User /signature/ Ghazaryan Saribek Water User /signature/
Governor of Proshyan Community H.Muradyan /signature/
63 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
Date: 13.06.2011 Community: Yegvard
Participants:
H.Harutyunyan PIU Irrigation Officer
N.Atayan PIU Environmental and Social Impact Officer,
V.Movsisyan Institutional Improvements Officer
M.Hovhannissyan Director of Yegvard WUA
N.Sarkissyan Governor of Yegvard community
Water users of Yegvard community
Agenda
To carry out public discussions of environmental and social impacts and other issues related to rehabilitation of deteriorated stretches of Stage 1 canal of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme.
V. Movsisyan presented in details the proposed project and the nature of anticipated activities.
N.Atayan presented environmental and social aspects of the anticipated works.
The Governor of Yegvard community N.Sarkissyan presented information on the irrigation system of their community and stressed the importance of Arzni-Shamiram stage 1 canal’s rehabilitation for reliable irrigation water delivery to community lands.
V.Movsisyan clarified that one of major objectives of the project is reduction of irrigation water losses and provision of ensured irrigation water to farms.
Water user V.Vardanyan first thanked for inclusion of their community into the project and raised the issue of involvement of local population in construction works.
PIU specialists clarified that one of the Project’s objectives is to involve in civil works as much local population as possible to increase local employment. Local people will be hired if they posses required construction skills.
The list of water users having participated in public consultations is attached.
Governor of Yegvard Community N.Sarkissyan /signature/
Secretary A.Matevosyan /signature/
/SEAL/
64 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
List of Participants of the Public Consultations
Yegvard WUA
Date 06.06.2011 Community: Yegvard
Participant’s Name Participant’s position Signature and occupation Abrahamyan Zaven Water User /signature/ Danielyan Vazgen Water User /signature/ Hovhannisyan Gor Water User /signature/ Ghukasyan Surik Water User /signature/ Zohrabyan Mher Water User /signature/ Danielyan Albert Water User /signature/ Tadevosyan Benik Water User /signature/ Hovhannisyan Volodya Water User /signature/ Hovakimyan Vardges Water User /signature/ Abrahamyan Abraham Water User /signature/ Hovhannisyan Sargis Water User /signature/ Harutunyan Karen Water User /signature/ Kyureghyan Armen Water User /signature/ Harutunyan Manvel Water User /signature/ Vardanyan Sos Water User /signature/ Mkrtchyan Gevorg Water User /signature/ Matevosyan Artur Water User /signature/ Kondyan Volodya Water User /signature/ Hakobyan Misak Water User /signature/ Khachatryan Nikol Water User /signature/ Mkrtchyan Karen Water User /signature/ Mikaelyan Gurgen Water User /signature/ Hovakimyan Shirvan Water User /signature/ Martirosyan Armenak Water User /signature/ Ghukasyan Aramais Water User /signature/ Grigoryan Kadjik Water User /signature/ Hovhannisyan Nver Water User /signature/
Governor of Yegvard Community N.Sargsyan /signature/
65 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
“Yegvard” WUA, Arzni-Shamiram Irrigation Scheme, Arzni-Shamiram Stage 1 canal
Date: 14.09.2011 Participants:
H.Harutyunyan PIU Irrigation Officer
N.Atayan PIU Environmental and Social Impact Officer,
V.Movsisyan Institutional Improvements Officer
M.Hovhannisyan executive Director of Yegvard WUA
A.Muradyan Governor of Getamech community
A.Aramyan Governor of Mrgashen community
J.Kamalyan Governor of Kanakeravan community
A.Avetisyan Governor of Zovuni community
M.Mktrchyan Governor of Kassakh community
N.Sarkissyan Governor of Yegvard community
Agenda To carry out public discussions of environmental and social impacts and other issues related to rehabilitation of deteriorated stretches Arzni-Shamiram stage 1 canal of Arsni-Shamiram irrigation scheme located within the service area of Yegvard WUA. H.Harutyunyan presented in details the proposed project and the nature of anticipated activities. N.Atayan presented environmental and social aspects of the anticipated works. The Executive Director of Yegvard WUA M.Hovhannisyan explained participants how water delivery process within the under-command lands of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme, and particularly of Arzni- Shamiram stage 1 canal is organized. He confirmed that the rehabilitation of deteriorated stretches of canals will improve water delivery efficiency and significantly reduce water loses. The Governors of communities participating in the consultations first thanked for inclusion of Arzni- Shamiram stage 1 canal into the rehabilitation project. Meantime they asked to include as much labor force as possible from local population in anticipated civil works. Institutional Specialists V.Movsisyan clarified that one of the Project’s objectives is to involve in civil works as much local population as possible to increase local employment. Local people will be hired if they posses required construction skills. The list of participants is attached.
Executive Director of Yegvard WUA [SIGNATURE] M.Hovhannisyan
66 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
Yegvard WUA Arzni-Shamiram Irrigation Scheme. Arzni-Shamiram 1st Stage Canal
Date: 14.09.2011
No. Name of community Participant’s name Signature Position
1. Getamech A.Muradyan [Signature] Governor of the community
2. Mrgashen A.Aramyan [Signature] Governor of the community
3. Kanakeravan J.Kamalyan [Signature] Governor of the community
4. Zovuni A.Avetisyan [Signature] Governor of the community
5. Kassakh M.Mktrchyan [Signature] Governor of the community
6. Yegvard N.Sarkissyan [Signature] Governor of the community
Executive Director of “Yegvard” WUA M.Hovhannisyan/
67 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
“Parpi” WUA, Arzni-Shamiram Irrigation Scheme, Arzni-Shamiram Stage 2 canal
Date: 14.09.2011 Participants:
H.Harutyunyan PIU Irrigation Officer
N.Atayan PIU Environmental and Social Impact Officer,
V.Movsisyan Institutional Improvements Officer
H.Gevorkyan Executive Director of Parpi WUA
H.Hovhannisyan Governor of Voskevaz community
G.Sargsyan Governor of Voskehat community
V.Khachatryan Governor of Agarak community
Kh.Arakelyan Governor of Parpi community
H.Asatryan Governor of Gazaravan community
A.Avdalyan Governor of Agtsk community
A.Haroyan Governor of Ujan community
Kh.Harutunyan Governor of Bazmaberd community
H.Avagyan Governor of Byurakan community
Agenda To carry out public discussions of environmental and social impacts and other issues related to rehabilitation of deteriorated stretches Arzni-Shamiram stage 2 canal of Arsni-Shamiram irrigation scheme located within the service area of Parpi WUA. H.Harutyunyan presented in details the proposed project and the nature of anticipated activities. N.Atayan presented environmental and social aspects of the anticipated works. The Executive Director of Parpi WUA M.Hovhannisyan explained participants how water delivery process within the under-command lands of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme, and particularly of Arzni- Shamiram stage 2 canal is organized. He confirmed that the rehabilitation of deteriorated stretches of canals will improve water delivery efficiency and significantly reduce water loses. The Governors of communities participating in the consultations first thanked for inclusion of Arzni- Shamiram stage 2 canal into the rehabilitation project. Meantime they asked to include as much labor force as possible from local population in anticipated civil works. Institutional Specialists V.Movsisyan clarified that one of the Project’s objectives is to involve in civil works as much local population as possible to increase local employment. Local people will be hired if they posses required construction skills. The list of participants is attached. Executive Director of “Parbi” WUA [Signature] H.Gevorgyan
68 Rehabilitation of primary canals of Arzni-Shamiram irrigation scheme
List of participants of the Public Consultations “Parpi” WUA, Irrigation Scheme. Arzni-Shamiram 2nd Stage Canal Date: 14.09.2011
Name of No. Participant’s name Signature Position community
1. Voskevaz H.Hovhannisyan [Signature] Head of the community
2. Voskehat G.Sargsyan [Signature] Head of the community
3. Agarak V.Khachatryan [Signature] Head of the community
4. Parpi Kh.Arakelyan [Signature] Head of the community
5. Ghazaravan H.Asatryan [Signature] Head of the community
6. Aghtsk A.Avdalyan [Signature] Head of the community
7. Ujan A.Haroyan [Signature] Head of the community
8. Bazmaberd Kh.Harutunyan [Signature] Head of the community
9. Byurakan H.Avagyan [Signature] Head of the community
Executive Director of “Parbi” WUA [Signature] H.Gevorgyan
69