SUMMARY ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

AND

SUMMARY INITIAL ENVIRONMENTAL EXAMINATION

ECOTOURISM PROJECT

IN THE

KINGDOM OF NEPAL

August 2001

CURRENCY EQUIVALENTS(as of 31 July 2001)

Currency Unit – Nepalese Rupee/s (NRe/NRs)NRe1.00 = $0.0133$1.00 = NRs75

(i) The Nepalese rupee is pegged to the Indian rupee (Re) at NRs1.60 to Re1.00. It is fullyconvertible on all current account transactions.

(ii) For the calculations in this report, an exchange rate of NRs75 = $1.00 is used. This wasthe rate prevailing at the time of fact-finding for the proposed ensuing project.

ABBREVIATIONS

ADB – Asian Development BankDDC – District Development CommitteeDNPWC – Department of National Parks and Wildlife ConservationEIA – environment impact assessmentEIRR – economic internal rates of returnKCA – Kanchenjunga Conservation AreaMoCTCA – Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil AviationMUVC – multiple use visitor centerNGO – nongovernment organizationPCU – Project Coordination UnitVDC – village development committeeWWF – World Wildlife Fund

WEIGHTS AND MEASURES

ºC – degrees centigradeha – hectarekm – kilometerkm2 – square kilometerm – metermasl – meters above sea levelm3 – cubic metermm – millimeter

NOTE

In this report, “$” refers to US dollars.

CONTENTS

Page

MAP

I. INTRODUCTION 1

II. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT 1

A. Part A: Remote Area Development Program 1B. Part B: Tansen Environmental Improvements 2C. Part C: Lumbini Tourism Infrastructure Improvements 2D. Part D: Implementation Assistance, Institutional Strengthening,

and Training 3

III. SUMMARY ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT 3

A. Description of the Environment 3B. Alternatives 6C. Anticipated Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures 7D. Economic Assessment 12E. Institutional Requirements and Environmental Monitoring Program 13F. Public Involvement 13G. Conclusions 14

IV. SUMMARY INITIAL ENVIRONMENTAL EXAMINATION 15

A. Part B: Tansen Environmental Improvements 15B. Part C: Lumbini Tourism Infrastructure Improvements 17C. Institutional Requirements and Environmental Monitoring Program 19D. Findings and Recommendations 20E. Conclusion 20

APPENDIXES 21

I. INTRODUCTION

1. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is providing financial and technical assistance tothe Government of Nepal for the Ecotourism project (Project). Tourism is one of the country’s (i)primary source of foreign exchange earning potential; and (ii) best opportunities for enhancingefforts at poverty reduction and biodiversity conservation in rural, remote regions. The Projectwill have four parts, and all physical interventions are of small size and scope. Part A will includeactivities and improvements to enhance ecotourism in four protected areas and, in view of theecological sensitivity of protected areas in Nepal, this part has been determined to be in ADB'sEnvironment Category A, for which an environmental impact assessment (EIA) has beenprepared which is summarized herein. The remaining components present minimalenvironmental risk and are in Environment Category B and the initial environmental examination(IEE) is also summarized herein.

II. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT

A. Part A: Remote Area Development Program

2. The Remote Area Development Program will consist of two interrelated subcomponents,with these being ecotourism improvements to four remote areas in the west and east of thecountry, and associated airport improvements to support the development of the remote areas.Part A will include ecotourism assistance and improvements of related airports.

1. Ecotourism Improvements

3. This subcomponent will be implemented in the four areas of Dolpa, Kanchenjunga,Makalu Barun, and Simikot. It will be based on improvement programs developed by variousgovernment agencies, in association with international and domestic nongovernmentorganizations (NGOs) working within the areas, and will consist of (i) improving and upgradingapproximately 16 kilometers (kms) of domestic roads in town centers; (ii) constructing andinstalling 9-20 kilowatt microhydel plants, 25 kerosene depots, 130 solar power sets, and, 2biogas plants; (iii) developing and upgrading around 200 km of trails and pathways; (iv)constructing approximately 30 suspension and fixed-span pedestrian bridges; (v) constructing86 campsites and 12 lodges, all to be community-owned and -managed; (vi) providing 96garbage waste collection sites; (vii) installing satellite communication systems includingassessories; (viii) upgrading and renovating around 30 monasteries; (ix) constructing 8 smallmultipurpose visitor centers; (x) providing public toilets; (xi) constructing 2 child-care centers;and (xii) providing trail signage. Capacity building and tourism skills training programs amongthe local communities will be a key feature of this subcomponent, and will consist of training fortourist guides and porters, sanitation and waste management, food preparation and hygiene,language training, lodge and campsite management, handicrafts and microenterprisedevelopment, food production and preparation, and tourism conservation and awarenessprograms. In addition, the development of trail brochures, booklets, and trekking maps, onspecific local area tourism features and interests, will be an integral part of the subcomponent.

2. Airport Improvements

4. The upgrading of five remote area tourism-related domestic airports at Masina Chaur,Simikot, Surkhet, Taplejung, and Tumlingtar will include (i) realignment and extension ofrunways; (ii) regrading and surfacing of airstrips; (iii) expansion and paving of aircraft parkingaprons: (iv) runway and apron markings; (v) improved drainage facilities to improve airportground and surface conditions; (vi) security boundary fencing; (vii) construction and upgradingof passenger terminal buildings to improve passenger access and to enhance safety conditions;

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(viii) building and refurbishing of control towers; (ix) construction of cargo storage andmaintenance buildings; (x) provision of staff quarters; (xi) provision of fire-fighting and first-aidequipment; and (xii) provision of navigational aids, nondirectional radio beacons, andmeteorological and telecommunication equipment.

B. Part B: Tansen Environmental Improvements

5. Environmental improvements under Part B include

(i) enhancement of existing water supply systems through the provision of rainwaterharvesting tanks;

(ii) upgrading of existing sewerage and stormwater drainage systems through theprovision of approximately 5 km of new sewerage pipes and associatedhousehold connections, and the construction of around 2.6 km of open drainagechannels and rehabilitation and cleaning of existing drainage systems;

(iii) reconstruction, upgrading, and resurfacing of existing road networks and alleyswithin the central part of Tansen town, along with the upgrading of roadsidedrains, construction of a new bus parking area (including waiting sheds and toiletfacilities), and conversion of the existing bus parking area into a bus stop and taxistand;

(iv) the phased development of a new solid waste landfill and construction ofgraveled access road, improvement of the waste collection and transportationsystem, including the introduction of composting and recycling activities, andassociated community awareness programs;

(v) upgrading and reconstruction of specific cultural heritage sites and repair andprotection of traditional stone water spouts and resting places; and

(vi) construction, upgrading, and maintenance of approximately 3.5 km of stonepaving of the Ranighat Ecotourism Circuit, including widening, provision ofdrainage, earth protection works, rehabilitation of existing and construction ofnew bridges, upgrading of resting and viewing areas, and route signage.

C. Part C: Lumbini Tourism Infrastructure Improvements

6. Infrastructure improvements to be provided to the Lumbini Masterplan Area will include

(i) the upgrading, widening, and development of the 1.5 km central link area by (a)providing brick walkways and associated drainage canals, landscaping thecentral link, visitor sitting/resting areas, garbage collection facilities, and lightingfacilities; and (b) constructing a drainage link to the Telar River with sluice gatesto control water flows;

(ii) provision of (a) small on-site information facilities to provide area interpretationinformation for the entire site, and (b) fencing and associated signage throughoutthe area; and

(iii) the provision of upgraded water supply systems by (a) constructing two deeptube wells, (b) constructing an open water storage reservoir, (c) providing apumping station along with two submersible pumps and one centrifugal pump,

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(d) constructing a 450 (m3) elevated water storage tank, and (e) providingapproximately 13 km of water distribution pipelines.

D. Part D: Implementation Assistance, Institutional Strengthening, and Training

7. The implementation assistance and institutional strengthening component will provide acomprehensive program to support the various project management and implementation units inthe implementation of the project components, along with associated tourism and skills trainingprograms to be carried out among local communities. In addition, a comprehensive marketingprogram will be implemented to ensure adequate marketing of product development initiatedthrough the Project.

III. SUMMARY ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

A. Description of the Environment

8. Nepal is remarkable for its varied topography and diverse habitats. The middle hillsphysiographic zone covers some 30 percent of the country, mostly at 1,000 to 3,000 metersabove sea level (masl). The Terai is the lowland flat area, at 60-500 masl. The country iscovered by two biogeographical realms—the Indo-Malayan and Palaearctic. The middle hillsand Terai are within the Indo-Malayan Division. The Karnali, Kali Gandaki, and Sun Kosi riversact as significant biogeographic barriers for species distribution. The middle hills and Terai havedifferent flora and fauna.

9. The middle hills has highly diverse fauna species, including 110 of the 181 mammals,147 of the 416 bird species, and 557 of the 635 butterfly species recorded in Nepal. Nationalparks and wildlife reserves cover some 15 percent of Nepal. Despite the environmentalsignificance of the middle hills, and to a lesser extent, the Terai, both areas are degraded byexcessive human population pressure that is driving unsustainable demands on their naturalresource bases. Vegetation and wildlife are rapidly dwindling near human settlements, andmostly disappeared in the Terai. Only a number of opportunistic species are now found nearroad in the middle hills, including the Indian hare (Lepus nigricollis), rhesus macaque (Macacamulatta), and Hanuman langur (Semnopithecus entellus). The rhesus macaque is well adaptedto human settlements and frequents cultivations and gardens, mainly at lower elevations. Thespecies is listed in Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna andFlora, Appendix 2 (CITES-II). The golden jackal is commonly recorded in the Middle Hills, andmainly occurs in open country, but also frequents towns and villages.

10. The project areas under consideration encompass all three major ecological regions ofNepal—high mountain, middle hill, and Terai areas. Under Part A, the Remote AreaDevelopment Program component, three of four remote area components are within mountainareas and occupy part of designated national parks and conservation areas. They are pristineand rich in biodiversity, sparsely populated, and attract particularly high altitude adventurers.Tansen (Part B) is in the middle hills and is a commercial town connected to SiddharthaHighway linking to countrywide road network. Tansen presents a typical townscape surroundedby villages and settlements displaying livelihood diversities. The other project location is Lumbini(Part C), birthplace of Buddha, and it is in the Terai. With its masterplan envisaging anenvironment rich in both tranquility and biodiversity, its natural setting is becoming merged withother cultural monuments. It is also connected to the national road network through its roadconnection to Siddhartha Nagar (Bhairahawa). Poverty reduction through generation of localemployment opportunities and income-generating activities and sustainable use of naturalresources are the key focus of ecotourism development in these project areas.

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1. Humla

11. Humla is the northwesternmost district of the country. Its altitude varies from 1,200meters (m) to more than 7,200 m. Annual precipitation varies from 25 millimeters (mm) to 147mm. Thus it has a dry climate. The district in general has very limited agriculture productionpotential; however, it has a variety of medicinal herbs. Some important ones are Nardostachysgrandirlora, Delphinium himalayai Munz, Picrorhiza scrophulariiflora, Valeriana jatamansii,Morchella conica, Paris polyphylla, Rheum australe, Swertia racemosa, Dactylorhiza hatagirea,Acorus calamus, and cordyceps sinensis. Though about 300 varieties of aromatic plants arereported, but detailed investigation on the various species has yet to be made. Leopard, wildboar, musk deer, and ghoral, are some of the wildlife reported in Humla.

12. Deforestation along the Simikot-Hilsa trail, with illegal cutting of pine and juniper trees forexport across the border, has become alarming in recent years. Since 1965, almost half theforest area has already been denuded. Pasture in Nepal has remained unprotected, so thatherds of yaks from across the border are sent to encroach on unprotected pasture lands,resulting in over grazing. Movement from Tibet is monitored and the herders are charged forbringing in yaks. Plastics, glass, and tin litter is now becoming a common sight. Imports fromTibet, particularly of liquor, together with gradual increases in tourist traffic, have contributed tothis increase.

13. Bhotias, Chhetri and Thakuri are the major ethnic groups of this district. Bhotias inhabitin the higher altitude further north. Poverty incidence is generally high in all areas within Humla,and the poverty level increases on the more northern areas.

2. Dolpa

14. Dolpa is the country's largest district. Its elevation ranges from 1,525 m to 7,625 m.Being a rain shadow area, it has a relatively dry climate. Southwestern Dolpa has a monsoonalclimate, so its climate varies from Himalayan and alpine to subtemperate. Its average annualrainfall is estimated at 245 mm.

15. Shey Phoksundo National Park occupies a portion of both Dolpa and Mugu districts. Ithas an area of 3,555 square kilometers (km2). Most of the area is in a rain shadow and hencehas trans-Himalayan flora, fauna, and ecosystems. Silver birch and juniper trees are commonvegetation in the higher elevations. Blue pine, deodara, hemlock, and silver fir are found insomewhat lower altitudes. In the trans-Himalayan area, caragana and lonicera shrubs arecommon with sparse bushes of rhododendron and dwarf junipers. Within the park, some 205species of medicinal plants, including 50 endemic species, are reported. The park hasendangered species of wolf, snow leopard, and musk deer. At the lower altitude, langur, wildpig, Himalayan black bear, ghoral, serow, yellow-throated marten, and common leopard arefound. As a result of the use of wood for fuel, forests in the high altitude areas are beinggradually depleted. Litter is becoming common along the trails.

16. In this sparsely populated district, major ethnic groups are Chhetri in the lower Dolpaarea, and Gurungs and Bhotias in the upper Dolpa area. People are generally poor and theoccupational caste groups are even poorer. Seasonal migration of workers seeking part-timeemployment outside the area is common.

3. Makalu Barun

17. With 2,330 km2, Makalu Barun National Park and buffer zones forms a component ofgreater Mt. Everest ecosystem, which covers 1,148 km2 of Sagarmatha National Park and

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35,000 km2 of Qomolangma Nature Preserve in the Tibet Autonomous Region of the People'sRepublic of China. Altitude varies from 435 masl at the bottom of the Arun Valley to 8,463 maslat the peak of Makalu, within 40 km.

18. This area has incredibly steep topography and abundant monsoon rains of 1,000 mm to4,000 mm per year. The inaccessible lower Barun Valley is inundated by the glacier-fed SaldimaRiver, a tributary to the Arun River. It is the most pristine area in the park and has been declareda strict nature reserve. It is to be protected for scientific study, environmental monitoring,education, and the maintenance of genetic resources.

19. Makalu Barun is known for unusually diverse bioclimatic zones with a rich concentrationof medicinal and other useful plants. Alpine pastures above 4,000 m have dwarf rhododendronand juniper trees, aromatic herbs, and delicate wildflowers. There are fir, birch, andrhododendron in the subalpine forests. More than 3,000 species of flowering plants, hundreds oforchid varieties, 48 primroses, and 25 varieties of rhododendron exist here. Likewise, this areais inhabited by endangered red panda, musk deer, ghoral, Himalayan tahr, and leopard.

20. Evidence of degradation of forests is seen particularly in the upper Barun Valley, wheresignificant amounts of shrub juniper and dwarf rhododendron are being cut. These sites are athigh altitude, with pastures and camps near the overnight stops at Dobato, Jhar Kharka,Khongma, Nghe, Shersong, and Yangle Kharka, and in between these, traditional overnightstops where herders and trekkers camp. Degradation is worse near campsites at Mumbuk,Nghe, and Yangle, presumably caused by local herders and by trekkers. Local herders use thefuel wood for making a drink out of yak milk. Herdsmen spend 2-7 months each year in thesehigh altitude pastures. Rhododendron forest is reported to have thinned due to tea shops andother lodges along the trek routes toward Makalu Barun and Kanchenjunga from Dhankuta viaHile and Basantpur Tourism can be directed in these areas and communities so that suchpractices can be controlled through alternative income generating activities. Training programsneed to be an integral part of any development program.

21. About 34,000 people reside inside the national park and buffer zone. Rais, Shingsawas,Sherpas, and Bhotia peoples are the predominant ethnic groups at the higher altitudes. Gurung,Tamang, Newar, Brahmins, and Chhetris, and other occupational castes live in lower elevations—down to Khandbari and other villages leading to Tumlingtar. They mostly live in isolatedvillages. They depend upon subsistence slash-and-burn agriculture, livestock, and trade for theirlivelihood. Paper making and bamboo work are other activities. Though about 33 percent of thesubregion's people live below the poverty line, the percentage is significantly higher formountain areas at higher altitude. In the project areas, poverty incidence exceeds 60 percent.People migrate to other areas to supplement their income through trade and/or wage-earningactivities.

4. Kanchenjunga

22. Kanchenjunga, with 2,035 km2, is a part of the Kanchenjunga Complex. The other twoareas are Sikkim's Khangchendzonga National Park and Tibet's Qomolangma Nature Preserve.In the Kanchenjunga area, altitude ranges from 670 to 8,588 masl. The climate also varies withaltitude, from alpine to subtropical monsoonal.

23. Kanchenjunga is also rich in biodiversity. It has not less than 2,500 species of floweringplants, including 10 of Nepal's 20 indigenous gymnosperms, 15 of the country's endemicflowering plants, 24 of 30 rhododendron species, and 69 of 250 orchids. Flowering plants in thehigh altitude greenlands are followed by dense pine forests up to 3,000 masl. Various medicinalherbs are also reported. Kanchenjunga is a habitat for the endangered snow leopard, whose

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population in Nepal is estimated at 300-500. Other rare wildlife includes musk deer, Himalayanblack bear, and red panda. Blue sheep and rhesus macaque abound. Interesting birds includeimpheyan pheasant, red-billed blue magpie, and shy drongo.

24. Kanchenjunga Conservation Area (KCA) has about 5,000 people. Limbu and Sherpapredominate in the high altitude area while at the lower ends Brahmin, Chhetri, and Limbu arealso found. People depend upon subsistence slash-and-burn agriculture, wage earnings, andsome trade for their livelihood. About 70 percent of people live below the poverty line. Peoplemigrate to other areas to seek jobs.

B. Alternatives

25. Alternatives are assessed versus the no project option.

26. Poverty is widespread and severe in all the four remote project areas. About 70 percentof the people live below the poverty line. Gender discrimination is widespread and femaleliteracy is extremely low. Some early signs of environmental problems in land degradation,pollution, and deforestation are evident in most areas, and these are likely to increase asvolume and types of visitors’ change. The tourist flow is not currently high, but the number oftourists visiting project areas will increase, thereby increasing environmental problems ifimproved management systems are not in place. Without the project the issues of rural poverty,gender inequity, and conservation are likely to be exacerbated. Currently, Nepal’s trek productsand mountaineering trekking areas are limited. The concentration of trekking in a few localitiesis aggravating environmental problems.

27. The proposed Project is likely to have positive impacts by (i) addressing poverty andgender, (ii) addressing conservation issues, (iii) broadening Nepal's trek products, and (iv)relieving pressure on Nepal's existing mountain trekking areas.

28. The "no project alternative" means continuing degradation of the environment,continuing poverty in the four selected remote areas, and increasing pressure on the existingthree mountain trekking areas (Langtang, Sagarmatha [Everest] and the Annapurnas).

29. The Project components, identified during extensive consultation with local communitiesand World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Nepal, can be divided into two groups: (i) activities proposed formanaging the environment, and (ii) activities proposed for developing and improving tourisminfrastructure facilities and services. All these activities are basic to the development ofecotourism and have been planned and designed from the outset to generate maximumpotential benefits to the environment and community with minimum environmental impacts.Activities that have not met these criteria have been screened out in the project developmentprocess.

30. An alternative project component to be considered is the provision of alternative fuel andenergy through back boilers and kerosene depots. This provision is likely to reduce adverseimpacts on the local forest resources. Local traders and small-scale entrepreneurs are currentlyunwilling to use kerosene due to its high price. This is likely to continue. Therefore, in view ofthe high demand for fuel and energy for tourism activities, the further development of micro-hydropower plants is recommended to supplement the use of kerosene, at least in major touristdestinations that will not be served by the five micro-hydropower plants proposed by the Project.

31. Another alternative approach is to select different locations for project interventions. Theproject locations selected were ranked as having the highest potential for poverty reduction andimproved environmental/biodiversity conservation. Alternative locations for some specific project

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interventions, such as trail and bridge improvements, will be evaluated during projectimplementation to ensure maximum benefits with minimum negative impact.

C. Anticipated Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures

1. Ecotourism Improvements

32. The likely negative impacts of poorly planned and managed development in these areas,include the following.

33. Forest Degradation . Forest depletion is a critical problem. Trekkers are not allowed touse fuel wood and instead use kerosene, but the porters accompanying them make use of fuelwood quite heavily. Trees grow extremely slowly at high altitude, and may take 60-80 years toattain a diameter of 4 centimeters.

34. Solid Waste and Pollution . Tourism activities tend to increase the volume ofnonbiodegradable and other solid wastes. Plastics, bottles, cans, scattered toilet paper arefrequent sights. Toilets are often close to the water sources.

35. Fragile Vegetation and Rare Plants . An influx of people is likely to damage thevegetative cover, especially juniper harvested for fuel wood. Collectors may take rare plants.

36. Traditional Socioeconomic System . Price rises and changes in food supply are thetwo immediate consequences of tourism activities. Moreover, the involvement of local people intourism could place an excessive burden on already overburdened women. The other socialproblems are likely due to the exposure of local people to the material wealth, dress, andbehavior patterns of foreigners. In some areas where tourism is frequent, villagers' support tothe monasteries has declined.

37. The interface between the environment and tourist activity is summarized in Appendix 1.

38. The tourism destinations included in the project areas attract varied types of tourists.The mountain destinations attract explorers and adventurers, who are highly likely to besensitive to the fragile nature of the environment and follow the norms to conserve theenvironment. Cultures intermingled with nature and environment is one major attraction in themountain areas and hence the explorers are expected to respect and adapt to local socialnorms, though some education is always necessary. In the meantime, local people also willchange their social norms due to exposure to and contact with people from different cultures.The degree and speed of transformation will depend on the amount of exposure and contacts.Tourism has a host of positive impacts. It creates employment opportunities for the local people.It will have particularly favorable impact on the local environment where agriculture productivityis low and hardly sufficient to meet annual food need of most people. Employment of porters isthe most significant income-earning opportunity. Each trekker uses an average of 2.2 person-days of porter service. Other services that can be directly provided by the local people includeclearing garbage, managing solid waste, managing campsites, and providing other guideservices.

a. Impacts

39. The Project . Potential impacts of the Project’s components and subcomponents areassessed in this section. This assessment is made for impacts due to the development ofinfrastructure facilities and services, construction activities, operation processes, and increasedtourist flows.

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40. The number of tourists over the next 20 years in the Kanchanjunga area is projected tomore than double, from around 2,160 to 5,400 people as a result of the project. This 150percent increase is considered representative for the other protected areas.

41. Physical Environment . The increased flow of tourists and development of infrastructurefacilities in the protected areas are likely to have impacts on different components of thephysical environment. These include use and/or acquisition of land, slope instability, runoff,landscape, land use, and environmental pollution. About 10 hectares (ha) of land are requiredfor the development of infrastructure facilities in each protected area, most of which is publicland. About 80 percent of the total land required for different project components will be forimproving trails and 10 percent for micro-hydropower plants. Any private land required forwidening trails is traditionally considered to be a public contribution and no compensation isrequired.

42. The trail widening could initiate and/or activate old landslides, debris flow, and gully andsurface erosion as a result of clearing vegetative cover, cutting slopes, and diverting surfacerunoff. Compaction and exposure of soil and damage of vegetative cover resulting from theincreased tourist traffic along the trails, in campsites, and at major tourist villages could increaserunoff and soil erosion.

43. Waste materials resulting from the improvement of trekking trails and constructionactivities, if not properly disposed of and managed, are likely to degrade the visual quality oflandscape. If due respect is not paid to the local environment and architectural traditions, thedevelopment of campsites, lodges, and associated facilities is likely to degrade the visual qualityand the aesthetic value of the landscape. Careless disposal of wastes could also spoil thebeauty of the landscape.

44. The local land use pattern will change directly due to land taken for project components,e.g., small parcels of cultivated and vegetated land will be taken for other uses. The traditionalpattern of using cultivated and grazing land is likely to change due to the involvement of localpeople in tourism-related activities.

45. Without proper management, solid and liquid waste disposal will become a criticalproblem in campsites and major villages. If unmanaged, waste will pollute the land, air, andwater with associated negative effects on public health.

46. Biotic Ecological Resources . Most of the project activities will not be in areascultivated land, e.g., the trail improvement and campsite improvement will take place mostly onpublic land. Camp development activities take place in a small area where there will beunavoidable concentrated loss of plants. Similarly, localized activities of micro-hydropowerinstallation will exert pressure on local vegetation for a short period. The most sensitive areas ofvegetation are in the high altitude Alpine Zone. Seasonal yak hair/skin tent camps are beingproposed for these areas. The dwarf scrub vegetation of the Alpine Zone takes several decadesto grow. Very careful planning will be required so that the camps avoid destroying the scrubvegetation.

47. Small plots of forestland will be lost directly as a result of development of projectinfrastructure. Anticipated losses of forestland due to increase in the demand of fuelwood,timber, and fodder as the result of increasing flow of tourists are discussed below. While theprotected areas contain several species of threatened plants and a number of them are likely tobe affected by the project, most of the species are widespread. Some species, like theHimalayan larch (Larix griffithiana) have a very localized distribution in the Ghunsa, Gyabla, and

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Yamphudin areas. Cutting of these trees will be avoided.

48. Forests, trees, and firewood are renewable resources. The sustainable harvest of woodfrom community forestry and/or collection of wood from trees destroyed annually by snow,storms, landslides, and floods should also be viewed as options to support ecotourismdevelopment. The Alpine Zone, i.e., the treeless area, should be supported by the resources oflow altitudes. Harvesting of high altitude woody plants such as juniper and dwarf rhododendronwill be strictly prohibited to safeguard the ecology of the Alpine Zone. The reduction of forestcover due to trail improvement, micro-hydropower installation, campsite clearances, andestablishment of multiple use visitor centers (MUVCs) will contribute to very local loss of habitatfor wildlife. However, the overall impact on wildlife will be slight and localized.

49. Social, Cultural, and Economic Resources . The following are likely: (i) change ofdemographic structure due to population influx, (ii) increase of women’s responsibility, (iii)impacts on youth, (iv) impacts on settlements, (v) impacts on livestock farming, (vi) impacts onlivestock products, and (vii) impacts on health. The impacts may be adverse or beneficialdepending on the management of the Project in terms of distribution of benefits andopportunities. ADB’s ecotourism development activities in Annapurna demonstrate that theoverall benefits can be significant.

50. The Project is likely to have the following positive impacts on the local populations: (i)slope stabilization, (ii) control of landscape quality, (iii) pollution control, (iv) control ofdeforestation, (v) increased conservation awareness, (vi) enhanced role of women, (vii)increased cultural awareness, (viii) improved literacy rate, (ix) maintenance of archaeologicallysignificant sites, (x) improved public health, (xi) generation of employment, (xii) economicgrowth, and (xiii) poverty reduction.

51. Overall impact assessment for the Project in a representative protected area (KCA) is inAppendix 2.

b. Environmental Mitigation Measures

52. Simikot, Humla . The proposed programs for Simikot, Humla are (i) development of anMUVC at Simikot; (ii) physical infrastructure improvements to Simikot town, including paving oftrail, waste management, sanitation, and drainage; (iii) campsite development and productdevelopment at Kermi, Tumkot, and Yari; (iv) development of a new trek route to Limi Valley:trail construction, campsites, etc; (v) development of a plan for the road head at Hilsa: physicalinfrastructure, campsite, information center, waste management; (vi) training in small and micro-enterprise development, business planning, skill development, and tourism training for lodgeowners, village guides, and porters; and (vii) marketing and promotion.

53. Dolpa . The proposed programs for Dolpa are (i) development of an MUVC at Dunai andRingmo; (ii) development and upgrading of tourism attractions, and managed campsite andlodge facilities along Dolpa's main trekking trails, from Juphal to Lawan, Juphal to Shey Gompa,and Lawan to Dha, and improved access routes; (iii) development of the lower Dolpa circuit forindependent trekkers, addressing safety issues; (iv) development of a solid waste managementcollection system and alternative fuel system, including micro-hydro and biogas plants, in thepark and buffer zone, and along access routes; (v) a monastery renovation program, to buildpride in cultural heritage, involving local religious leaders and community groups; (vi) training insmall and micro-enterprise development, business planning, skill development, and tourism forlodge owners, village guides, and porters; and (vii) marketing and promotion.

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54. Makalu Barun . The proposed programs for Makalu Barun are (i) development of anMUVC at Khandbari; (ii) settlement enhancement in Khandbari: physical infrastructureimprovements, campsite development, improved drainage, and bus park improvements; (iii)development and upgrading of tourism attractions, and managed campsite and lodge facilitiesalong main trekking trails, including upgrading of the route from Tumlingtar to Hatiya; (iv)training in small and micro-enterprise development, business planning, skill development, andtourism for lodge owners, village guides, and porters; and (v) marketing and promotion

55. Kanchenjunga . The proposed programs for Kanchenjunga are (i) development of anetwork of MUVCs: central center at Suketar with small centers at Chirwa, Ghunsa, Lelep, andYamphudin; (ii) development and upgrading of tourism attractions, and managed campsite andlodge facilities, along main and new trekking trails; (iii) development of small-scale infrastructure(track improvement and monitoring, bridge maintenance and repair, along the circuit route fromTaplejung to Ghunsa, and monument restoration); (iv) waste management and alternative fuelsystems to manage impacts (solar water heaters, kerosene fuel depots, and micro-hydros); (v)sanitation improvement, waste management, and Pathibhara Management Zone program; (vi)training in small and micro-enterprise development, business planning, skill development, andtourism for lodge owners, village guides, and porters; and (vii) marketing and promotion.

56. Appendix 3 shows the details of the construction activities and their impacts, and theproposed mitigating measures to be adopted under the Project.

2. Airport Improvements

57. The upgrading of five remote airports, in Masina Chaur, Simikot, Surket, Taplejung, andTumlingtar is proposed under the Project. The extensions of the airports will involve earthworks,mainly levelling and grading, with disposal of waste being required. Most of the waste will beused to fill low points and extend taxiways. Land will have to be acquired for some of theairports, while some existing small buildings at the sides of the runways will be relocated. Adescription of each of the five airports, the proposed works, and the mitigation measures for thevarious environmental impacts follow.

a. Simikot Airstrip (Humla)

58. The upgrading program in this airstrip includes extending the airstrip by approximately160 m; expanding the terminal building; and providing an apron area, pavement works anddrainage, water supply system, and fire fighting and maintenance and navigation equipment.About 2 ha of barren private land needs to be acquired for extending the runway, while about0.35 ha of agriculture land is required for the apron. Sand is available from the Karnali River, 20km away, and a rock quarry site is available 5 km from the airstrip. When the detailed design isprepared, further investigation will be needed on the exact location of the quarry and itsenvironmental implications, particularly in respect to dust and dust settlement in and around thearea. Mitigation measures will be needed for any likely health hazards and possible damage toadjacent agricultural land. Spoils from the earthworks at the airport will be used to fill low areasinside the airport.

59. During construction, some private land will need to be rented for a labor camp andworkshop because space is limited within the airport area. About 150 workers will be involvedon the construction, with about 50 skilled workers recruited from outside the area and the restfrom local villages. The construction will provide employment for local people and win theirsupport for the program. Social implications of the migrant laborers have to be assessed inrelation to impacts on health facilities, market prices, and food supply. The contractor will have

11

to take adequate measures to control the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.

60. Fuel wood and kerosene will be used during construction. Coordination will be madewith the District Forest Office for the supply of firewood. Alternative sources of supply and use ofkerosene have to be encouraged.

b. Dolpa (Masina Chaur) Airstrip

61. For the Masina Chaur airstrip, blacktopping of the runway, pavement extensions, andexpansion of terminal building are proposed. To extend the airstrip, almost 2 ha of land will needto be acquired. A canal has to be diverted, and a school building with a 100 square meters ofbuilt-up area and 0.05 ha of compound, located at the side of the runway, will need to berelocated. No additional land is required for the terminal building. Navigational equipment will beinstalled and the water supply system will be strengthened.

62. Sand for the construction will be taken from the nearby Tripura River. A quarry site forrock is available nearby. More investigation is required to ascertain the environmentalimplications. Since a few dozen workers are likely to come for construction, the socioeconomicimplications have to be assessed. Use of firewood could harm local forests, while the supplyand use of kerosene have to be assured during construction.

63. Other impacts are the same as for the Simikot Airport (para. 59).

c. Surkhet Airstrip

64. The terminal building is to be extended in Surkhet. The runway will be blacktopped anddrainage improved. Navigational and fire-fighting equipment will be installed. The airport areawill be slightly expanded, for safety, by approximately 60 m, requiring around 0.5 ha of land.Surkhet is the regional headquarters of the Mid-Western Development Region, and has well-developed socioeconomic infrastructure. For the construction, most of the labor will come fromwithin the local area. Fuel wood is readily available, and since the area is well connected to theEast West Highway and to Nepalgunj, kerosene supply will not be a problem.

d. Tumlingtar Airstrip (Makalu Barun)

65. In Tumlingtar, the airstrip will be blacktopped, terminal building extended, control roomand cargo warehouse added. Drainage will be improved, and navigation equipment will beinstalled. For temporary labor camp and workshop, space is available within airport and outsideon a rent basis. About 0.1 ha of land is required for this purpose.

66. Employment opportunities will be available for approximately 150 people—50 skilled and100 unskilled workers. Fifty skilled labourers will be recruited from outside the area. This is likelyto have some socioeconomic impact, particularly on health conditions, especially with sexuallytransmitted diseases. The impact upon local prices and food supply will be negligible.

e. Suketar Airstrip Taplejung (Kanchenjunga)

67. New orientation of the airstrip at Suketar is proposed under the Project. This will permitlanding and take-off from both directions. Blacktopping of the airstrip will be accompanied bypaving, improving drainage, expanding the terminal building, and providing a taxiway apron. Inaddition, firefighting equipment will be installed and maintenance equipment provided.

12

68. Approximately 4.65 ha of barren privately owned land needs to be acquired for thereorientation of the runway. Six houses, each of about 60 square meters, within the proposedrunway area, will need to be acquired, with each house likely to cost about NRs500,000(approximately $7,000) based on the present market prices. For the construction camp, atemporary area of about 0.1 ha will be required and space for this is available within the airport .

69. The Tamor River, about 20 km from the site, will be the source of sand, while a quarrysite is located about 5 km from the site. The environmental implications from excavation areexpected to be minimal, and strict control will be maintained during excavations. The spoils fromearthwork will be totally used for filling up the lowland areas at the airport site. The use offirewood will be minimal as kerosene is available. As the area is connected by road, equipmentas well as other supplies are readily available.

70. Employment opportunities and impacts are the same as for the Tumlingtar Airstrip (para.66).

71. Appendix 4 shows the details of the various construction activities and their impacts, andthe proposed mitigating measures to be adopted under the Project.

D. Economic Assessment

72. The overall cost for the Ecotourism Project as a whole is estimated at $28.0 millionequivalent. Of this, Part B, the Ecotourism Development Program in Remote Areas, is estimatedat $16.9 million equivalent. The upgrading of airports related to these economic developments is$12.1 million, and is the largest single component. The economic assessment is summarized inthe table, which sets out the economic internal rates of return (EIRR) calculated for specificproject components and subcomponents. The EIRR for the main components ranges from 12.8percent to 27.2 percent. The Kanchanjunga Ecotourism Development Program may berepresentative of the protected area developments, generating an EIRR of 22.5 percent. Thesensitivity analysis carried out as part of the economic evaluation shows that the KanchanjungaEcotourism Development Program is robust to changes in the main economic parameters withthe EIRR of the program falling to 19.5 percent if project costs are increased by 10 percent andproject benefits are reduced by 10 percent.

73. In most cases, estimated costs of mitigation measures are built into the program design,as one project objective is environmental improvement and protection. Therefore, estimatedadditional mitigation costs amount to only $33,500 (in 2001 constant local prices) in eachprotected area. Similarly, though most of the monitoring activities do not require any additionalcosts, monitoring of some technical components involves some additional costs. The totaladditional mitigation and monitoring costs are estimated at $67,000, about 1.5 percent of thecost of the Kanchenjunga Ecotourism Development Program.

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Economic Internal Rates of Return of Project ComponentsComponent Base Case EIRR

Project 20.0Part A—Ecotourism Development Program 24.0

Humla Ecotourism Development Program 27.2Simikot Airfield Upgrading 15.8Dolpa Ecotourism Development Program 26.2Masina Chaur and Juphal Airfield Upgrading 16.0Surkhet Airport Upgrading 17.6Makalu Barun Ecotourism Development Program 20.9Tumlingtar Airfield Upgrading 13.8Kanchanjunga Ecotourism Development Program 22.5Taplejung Airfield Upgrading 12.8

Part B—Tansen Environmental and Infrastructure Enhancement Program 25.1Part C—Lumbini Tourism Infrastructure Program 24.8

E. Institutional Requirements and Environmental Monitoring Program

74. The Executing Agency for the Ecotourism Project is the Ministry of Culture, Tourism andCivil Aviation (MoCTCA) and the overall coordination of the Project will be undertaken by theProject Coordination Unit (PCU) within MoCTCA. The implementation and monitoring of theremote area development programs will be the responsibility of the district developmentcommittees (DDCs). The Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, and theEcotourism Unit within the Nepal Tourism Board, will provide to the PCU and DDCimplementation and monitoring assistance, which will extend to mitigation and environmentalmonitoring activities.

75. The Conservation Council and conservation committees will undertake conservationactivities in the conservation areas, as detailed under the recent Conservation ManagementRegulations (2000). These bodies are being established in the KCA. There will be at least oneconservation committee for each village development committee (VDC) of the KCA, and theConservation Council with representation from all the conservation committees of the KCA. Theconservator comprises the field-level personnel of the Department of National Parks and WildlifeConservation (DNPWC) responsible for managing the affairs of the conservation area. Thisbody will have a key role in reviewing the progress of the Program, interpreting the monitoringmaterial produced by the PCU, DDC, and technical support group, and disseminatinginformation on the process of project implementation over time.

76. To be of value, monitoring must be simple to carry out, undertaken on a regular basis,and the results compared and acted on where necessary. If monitoring indicates anunacceptable deterioration in environmental or other relevant conditions, appropriate action willbe taken to remedy the situation by a responsible organization, changing or even halting theactivity causing the problem. The proposed monitoring frameworks for the physical, biotic, andsociocultural and socioeconomic environment are presented in Appendix 5.

F. Public Involvement

77. The Project preparation, including undertaking the EIA and initial environmentalexamination studies, has given prime importance to public participation and consultation. Thepublic involvement has been carried out by ensuring involvement of concerned Governmentagencies, external funding agencies, international and national NGOs working in the projectarea, concerned experts, local bodies (DDCs and VDCs), local people likely to be affected bythe project activities, and interested groups and people. For example, in preparing the

14

Kanchanjunga EIA, intensive participatory rural appraisal discussions were held in 20 localities:13 in the area from Chhiruwa to Olangchungola and Ghunsa-Khanpachan, and 7 in the areafrom Yamphudin to Ramze. The number of people involved in the group discussions varied from25 in Ghunsa of the Lelep VDC to 2 in Andhaphedi of Yamphudin VDC. Focus groupdiscussions have also been conducted as a substitute for public hearings, which are required bythe Government's Environment Protection Regulations (1997). Focus group discussions havebeen conducted in six localities including four VDC headquarters in the project area. The focusgroup meetings have been organized under the chairmanship of the elected VDC personnel.

78. Public consultation has been made at three levels: central, district, and local. At thecentral level, the major consultation has been made with DNPWC, WWF Nepal, NetherlandsDevelopment Organization (SNV), and Remote Area Development Committee. Publicconsultation has also been made at district and local levels. At the district level, consultation hasbeen made with line agencies and international and national NGOs working in the district. Atthe local level, intensive consultation has been made with the field personnel of WWF andDNPWC. Consultation has also been made with the elected representatives of the DDCs andVDCs, NGOs, and line agencies working in the project area.

G. Conclusions

79. Part A: Remote Area Development Program for the protected areas has been developedto use ecotourism to address poverty, gender, and conservation issue. It covers conservationand development initiatives, which are integrated into the total development package. Theactivities for promoting ecotourism have been selected and designed to conserve environmentalresources and mitigation measures have been built in from the start. The EIA study shows thatthe adverse impacts of this environmental friendly and environment promoting programs arelikely to be minimal.

80. The overall negative impacts of the project are significantly low. Some adverse impactson slope stability and water quality are inevitable but can be mitigated effectively with theimplementation of the recommended simple mitigation measures. The increase in numbers oftourists and accompanying staff could generate problems of solid waste disposal. However, theproposed programs for managing waste appear to be effective in addressing this issue. Adverseimpacts on biotic resources include (i) the loss of small plots of vegetation cover, (ii) potentialdisplacement of a small area occupied by some threatened plant species that occur more widelyelsewhere, and (iii) likely disturbance to wildlife and birds. However, these impacts do not posea serious problem, and are manageable by implementing the recommended mitigationmeasures with active participation of the local communities.

81. Community involvement in mitigating any impacts is an integral part of the Project.Programs proposed for preserving local culture will be enhanced by the community awarenessprogram together with provisions of community participation in various activities. The mostobvious positive impact of the Project will be on employment generation. The proposedmicroenterprise development and tourism training is likely to promote employment generation intourism services such as lodge keeping, guiding, portering, and support services.

82. The proposed Project is, by and large, environment friendly and environment promoting.The environmental impacts of the project are not significant. The programs for promotingecotourism in the Makalu-Barun and buffer zone area and the Shey Phoksundo National Parkarea are designed to conserve and preserve environment resources. Adverse impacts of suchenvironmental friendly and environment promoting programs are likely to be minimal and theirmitigation measures have been built into the program design.

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IV. SUMMARY INITIAL ENVIRONMENTAL EXAMINATION

A. Part B: Tansen Environmental Improvements

83. Tansen is in an area of steep relief at between 1,200 and 1,400 masl on the southernslopes of Shreenagar Hill in the Mahabharat range in western Nepal. The range is composed ofmetamorphic rocks of pre-Cambrian to Upper Paleozoic age. The Kali Gandaki River gorge runseastward along the range around 10 km north of the town. The annual climatic cycle is of a dryseason from November to May and a wet season from June to October. The temperaturenormally varies between 4oC in winter to 35oC in summer. The average annual temperature is21oC. The rainfall varies considerably from month to month and year to year. Over the past 30years, the minimum annual rainfall in Tansen was 970 mm and the maximum was 2,220 mm,with an annual average rainfall of 1,600 mm. Most of the rainfall (about 90 percent) falls duringthe monsoon period of June, July, and August. The maximum monthly rainfall recorded in theperiod was 719 mm and the minimum was 0 mm.

84. As described earlier in this report, a number of projects relating to the improvement ofenvironmental and tourism infrastructure have been proposed for implementation in Tansen andthe surrounding area. These comprise (i) community training in aspects of tourism andenvironmental awareness; (ii) augmentation of the water supply system through rain harvestingmethods; (iii) extension of the existing sewerage and stormwater drainage systems; (iv)construction of three municipal level reed bed wastewater treatment works, one on each of thethree drainage lines; (v) implementation of an integrated solid waste management system,including construction and operation of a landfill with waste separation, recycling, andcomposting facilities; (vi) resurfacing of metalled roads with bitumen pavement (routes aroundTansen and to the United Mission Hospital) or with traditional stone paving in the historical corearea; (vii) conservation works for the Amar Narayan Temple, the Mul Dhoka, BhikshuAmaritananda’s house, traditional resting places, and stone water spouts; and (viii)improvement of the Ranighat ecotourism circuit.

85. The purpose of these projects is to improve the environment in Tansen for current andfuture residents and visitors. This section gives a brief overview of the potential impacts on theenvironment of the major infrastructure development projects that have been proposed.

1. Sewerage, Stormwater Drainage, and Wastewater Treatment

86. The drainage system in Tansen is a combination of natural and man-made systems.There are three independent natural drainage areas. The inadequate drainage and seweragesystem is one of the most visible problems in the Tansen: most of the system is outdated andrequires complete restructuring. The system in the core areas is ineffective due to lack offlushing velocity of the flow. Most of the streets lack any even the most basic side drains to carryaway storm water. The drains that are available carry storm water, sewage, and sullage(nonsewage domestic wastewater) and discharge directly into the nearest natural gully orwatercourse running through the town. Drains are often poorly maintained and blocked withsolid waste and building materials, which can lead to flooding of properties and erosion. Thereare no wastewater treatment facilities.

87. The existing and proposed sewerage and storm-water drainage systems should beimproved. The sewerage system does not currently include household connections: these willneed to be taken into account in the project design. Following completion of the improvements,construction of three municipal-level reed bed wastewater treatment works is recommended,one on each of the drainage lines. Reed bed treatment plants have been operated successfullyin Nepal for several years. Horizontal and vertical reed beds, otherwise know as constructed

16

wetlands, are a biological wastewater treatment process designed to mimic processes in naturalecosystems, where wetland plants, soils, and associated microbes are used to removecontaminants from wastewater. The reed beds provide a source of greenery and do notgenerate odor or provide breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Treated effluent is clean enough tobe disposed of into rivers or used for to irrigate gardens or agricultural fields without the need forany further treatment. Dried sludge is safe for use as compost. Installation and maintenancecosts are low.

88. The proposed works include (i) installing over 5 km of sewer pipes plus householdconnections, (ii) constructing over 2.6 km of open stormwater drains, (iii) installing associatedmanholes and rainwater inlet structures, and (iv) constructing three reed bed wastewatertreatment works.

89. No adverse social impacts are expected due to the proposed interventions. By the timethe reed bed wastewater treatment works are being designed and constructed, the plannedreed bed treatment facility at the United Mission Hospital will have been in operation for severalyears. Assuming that it is as successful as the similar works at Dhulikhel Hospital, itsdemonstration effects will help reduce any community resistance to the location of the three newworks.

2. Road Rehabilitation

90. Tansen’s roads comprise a series of smaller roads converging to the central core area.Most of the core area is characterized by a dense network of very steep and narrow roads,designed without any concept of motor vehicle movement and suitable only for one-way vehicletraffic. Traffic volume at present is minimal inside the core area. Few of the roads have roadsidedrains and those provided are clogged with building debris and other solid wastes. TansenMunicipality is responsible for maintaining roads within the core area. Most of the roads in thecore area require rehabilitation regardless of whether they are currently metalled, stone paved,or earthen. Tansen Municipality has proposed that metalled roads within the core area, whichwere traditionally stone paved, be repaved with stones. Stone paving is a low cost, appropriatetechnique that is easy to implement with unskilled labor. Stone paved roads are aestheticallypleasing and easy to repair. The main metalled road through the town and the road to theUnited Mission Hospital are in a particularly poor condition due to the steepness of the terrain,inadequate construction methods, and lack of maintenance. Both roads are to be reconstructedwith proper side and cross drains and resurfaced with a bitumen pavement.

91. The proposed works will involve rehabilitating and upgrading existing roads in the corearea. Resurfacing works will involve bitumen sealing or stone paving. All metalled and gravelledroads will be provided with suitably designed side and cross drains to divert storm water flowsand prevent erosion of the road surface and areas below the discharge points. All roads will bedesigned to drain without ponding.

3. Solid Waste

92. Tansen Municipality currently hires two tractors with trailers and 30 sweepers equippedwith brooms and baskets to collect solid waste from houses and other premises in the corearea. There is no landfill site: waste collected is currently dumped into three dry stream valleyson the road to Bhairabsthan-Riddhi Bazaar. The municipality recognizes this not beingsatisfactory from an environmental or health perspective because the waste is dumped above asource of drinking water and burning of waste is a nuisance to residents uphill from the dumpingarea. Several potential sites for disposal of solid waste have been identified by TansenMunicipality. Detailed geological investigations were carried out in 2000 for the proposed

17

Dharmpani site by the Department of Mines and Geology. The site is about 5 km southwest ofTansen.

93. The proposed solid waste management system will include (i) the phased developmentof a new landfill site, (ii) construction of approximately 4 km of new graveled access road, (iii)improvement of the waste collection and transportation system, (iv) improvement of wastecollection services including cleaning of streets and roadside drains, and (v) introduction ofcomposting and recycling activities for cost recovery and maintenance.

94. None of the project activities identified for environmental improvements in Tansen will (i)cause unwarranted losses of precious irreplaceable natural or other resources, (ii) acceleratethe use of scarce resources in favor of short-term over long-term economic needs, (iii) adverselydepreciate the national energy and foreign exchange situation to an unwarranted degree, (iv)result in unwarranted hazards to endangered species, (v) tend to intensify undesirable migrationfrom rural to urban sectors to an unwarranted degree, and (vi) tend to increase the income gapbetween the poor and affluent sectors.

95. Appendix 6 shows the details of the various construction activities and their impacts, andthe proposed mitigating measures to be adopted under the Project.

B. Part C: Lumbini Tourism Infrastructure Improvements

96. Lumbini is in an area of low relief in the central Terai region of Nepal. The geology of thearea is of recent alluvium. The area is crossed by three rivers, the Harahawa, Ghoraha, andTela, which flow in a mainly north-south direction. The rivers are seasonal and surface flows arenot present all year. However, during the rainy season, the area is subject to flooding. The areahas a subtropical monsoon climate with a warm wet season from mid-June to September, a cooldry season from October to February, and a hot dry season from March to mid-June. The meanannual rainfall is about 1,700 mm, of which 85 percent falls during the monsoon. Meantemperatures are around 9oC during December and January and can exceed 39oC during May.

97. As described earlier in this report, a number of projects relating to the improvement ofenvironmental and tourism infrastructure have been proposed for implementation in the LumbiniMasterplan Area. These comprise: (i) community training in aspects of tourism andenvironmental awareness; (ii) completion of the central link; (iii) a development planning studyfor on-site interpretation and participation of the local community in the operation of Lumbini; (iv)visitor parking facilities; and (v) construction of a water supply system including two deep tubewells for abstraction of groundwater, an open reservoir, an elevated tank with treatment facilitiesfor the supply of drinking water, and a distribution network.

98. The infrastructure-related works are based on the findings of the draft final report for theinfrastructure development project of Lumbini as prepared for Japan International CooperationAgency by Silt Consultants (P) Ltd in February 2001. The purpose is to improve theenvironment in the masterplan area for both existing and future residents and visitors. Thissection gives a brief overview of the potential impacts on the environment of the proposedinfrastructure projects.

1. Central Link

99. In the masterplan, the central link is to be a corridor between the Lumbini Centre andCultural Centre and the Peace Bridge over the Harhawa River and the Sacred Garden. The linkis to contain an ornamental canal. The walls and bed of the canal are to be lined with bricks.None of the waterbodies are to have protective railings around them, but the water nearest to

18

the pedestrian walkways will be shallow. The primary goal of the central link is to provide aphysical and psychological route for visitors to the site, between the entry point and the SacredGarden. No noise-generating forms of transport will be allowed along the link, so that an air oftranquillity is maintained. The main modes of transport will be walking or travelling by boat alongthe canal. The use of bicycles, rickshaws, and electric vehicles may also be considered astransportation. The canal may also be planted with lotus, to increase the overall aestheticappeal of the central link with its water, brick pathways, grassed lawns, and trees.

100. The central link is to be 64 m wide, 1.5 km long. The link is to contain a 1,464 m long, 16m wide, 1.25 m deep, brick-lined canal. On both sides of the canal will be a 16 m wide brickwalkway. An 8 m wide green lawn is to be provided between the pathway and areas of forest.The pedestrian walkway will be sloped toward the forest so that surface water runoff drainsaway from the canal. Trees are to be planted along the edge of the walkways at 16 m intervals,with groups of four brick-built benches, brick built litter bins, and lighting provided at an intervalof one to every five trees. Drinking water fountains will also be provided at regular intervals. Inaddition, an ornamental square with seating, to be known as Lumbini Square 1, is to beconstructed on the eastern side of the central link.

101. The central link has been partly completed. The brick-faced Peace Bridge has beenconstructed but there is no provision for pedestrian movement north of the bridge. Almost half ofthe earthworks for the central canal of the central link have been constructed. The walkwayeither side of the canal is intended to be paved with bricks. At present, a gravelled surface of4.5-6 m wide has been provided for about 400 m along the right bank, the remaining lengthbeing only 3-4 m wide. On the left bank, around 350 m has been provided with a gravel surfaceof about 3.5 m wide, the remaining section being earthen. Trees planted on either side of thecanal have grown to maturity. Lighting has also been installed.

102. The potential impacts of developing the central link are mostly minor and/or temporary.They maybe mitigated through careful planning of the works, and routine plant inspection andmaintenance (except for air pollution resulting from bricks production which will be unavoidablebut temporary).

2. Visitor Parking Area

103. Ten parking lots for the use of tourists and other visitors are also planned. Eight areintended for cars and light vehicles and two are for bus parking. The capacity of each car park is44 vehicles and of each bus park is 16 buses. Additional parking, mainly for service vehicles, isplanned for the proposed hotels, high school, central plaza, monastic zone, and Sacred Garden.The location of the parking lots has been designed to provide easy access to all components ofthe masterplan via pedestrian walkways. Construction of parking, shopping, and toilet facilitiesat the visitor entry point, in conjunction with completion of the central link canal and associatedwalkways, will encourage the circulation of visitors and pilgrims as originally intended in theLumbini Masterplan. Movement of the visitor arrival area will shift the economic activity awayfrom the existing temporary entrance near the Sacred Garden.

104. Private cars, taxis, jeeps, and buses park informally at the temporary entrance east ofthe Sacred Garden and to the south west of the Sacred Garden at Padariya Village. Noprogress has been made in constructing the bus-taxi park adjacent to the proposed touristinformation center.

105. Most of the activities for constructing the visitor parking area will have no significantimpacts. Temporary disturbances (e.g., traffic, noise, dust) can be mitigated by properconstruction techniques and planning of works. Impacts from operations and maintenance will

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not be significant.

3. Water Supply

106. Rivers in the masterplan area are not perennial and the quality of the water isinadequate for drinking. Shallow tube wells are currently used for local drinking water supplies.Water is supplied to the Sacred Garden area from one 153 m deep tube well adjacent to theAshoka pillar and distributed via a temporary pipe. Temples and monasteries in the monasteryzone have individually managed water supply systems of deep tube wells (140-180 m) andoverhead tanks. The existing individual systems are not regulated in terms of quality of watersupply. Some of the deep tube wells in the monasteries are reported to be located closer thanthe minimum noninterference distance required between adjacent wells. The drawdown of thegroundwater level is not monitored. Individual shallow tube wells could contaminate thegroundwater. The masterplan includes a reservoir and an overhead tank to supply drinkingwater to the Lumbini area and to the central canal and pond within the Sacred Garden. Waterfrom deep tube wells will be supplied to the reservoir from where the water will be pumped up tothe elevated tower. The water tower is to contain a control room, water treatment (chlorination)facilities, pumps, and other control equipment. Water for potable uses will be treated in thewater tower and distributed by gravity to temples, monasteries, and other buildings within themasterplan area.

107. The existing water supply and distribution system is inadequate to supply futurerequirements as envisaged in the masterplan. For the masterplan to be implemented, watersupply and distribution networks need substantial upgrading. The proposed upgrading includesconstruction of (i) two new deep tube wells (recommended drilling depth 170-190 m and casingdepth 160-180 m), (ii) an open reservoir of 4,500 m3 capacity and associated pumping facilities,(iii) an overhead tank of 450m3 capacity and treatment plant, and (iv) about 13.7 km ofdistribution pipelines.

108. The establishment of the water supply system may result in water contamination, but thiscan be prevented by suing nontoxic drilling fluids, and a proper network alignment and design.Potential noise, accidental spills, and pollution may be mitigated by limited operation hours, spillcontrol plans, and proper system design. To mitigate potential serious health hazards, safetyprovisions will be incorporated into the design and operating procedures.

109. None of the project activities identified for tourism infrastructure improvements inLumbini will (i) cause unwarranted losses in precious irreplaceable natural or other resources,(ii) make accelerated use of scarce resources in favor of short-term over long-term economicneeds, (iii) adversely depreciate the national energy or foreign exchange situation to anunwarranted degree, (iv) result in unwarranted hazards to endangered species, (v) tend tointensify undesirable migration from rural to urban sectors to an unwarranted degree, or (vi)tend to increase the income gap between the poor and affluent sectors.

110. Appendix 7 shows the details of the construction activities and their impacts, and theproposed mitigating measures to be adopted under the Project.

C. Institutional Requirements and Environmental Monitoring Program

111. The institutional requirements and environmental monitoring program will be the sameas those described under the summary EIA (see paragraphs 74 to 76).

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D. Findings and Recommendations

112. The proposed improvements in Lumbini and Tansen will not cause unwarranted lossesin precious resources or make short-term use of them for long-term economic needs. Nounwarranted hazards to endangered species are also expected. In addition, the projects will notadversely depreciate the national energy or foreign exchange situation or intensify rural to urbanmigration to unwarranted degrees. Hence, the income gap between the poor and affluentsectors will not be increased.

113. In general, the proposed improvements will only have a limited number of minor negativeenvironmental impacts, and these can be properly mitigated. No large construction activities willtake place. Therefore, a detailed EIA for the Project or further special studies are not warranted.

E. Conclusion

114. Since the proposed activities will involve environmental and tourism infrastructureimprovements in Lumbini (Part B) and Tansen (Part C) and small-scale construction of newfacilities, such activities will not cause significant environmental impacts. The screening processhas not identified any significant environmental impact. Mitigation measures have beenformulated and incorporated into project design, and will be implemented to ensure that theenvironmental impacts are within acceptable levels.

APPENDIXES

Number Title Page CITED ON(page,para.)

1 Interface Between Tourism and the Environment 22 37,7

2 Overall Impact Assessment for the KanchenjungaConservation Area

23 51,9

3 Summary Environmental Impacts and Mitigation MeasuresPart A: Ecotourism Improvements

24 53,10

4 Summary Environmental Impacts and Mitigation MeasuresPart A: Airport Improvements

71,12

5 Environmental Monitoring Plan 76,13

6 Summary Environmental Impacts and Mitigation MeasuresPart B: Tansen Environmental Improvements

95,17

7 Summary Environmental Impacts and Mitigation MeasuresPart C: Lumbini Tourism Infrastructure Improvements

110,19

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INTERFACE BETWEEN TOURISM AND THE ENVIRONMENT

Impacting GroupsImpacts Tourists Staff Local Community

Environmental FactorsDeforestation No impact due to kerosene

useNo impact if staff alsorequired to use kerosene onlyand develop alternativeenergy sources

Reduce the impact due totourism giving alternativeincome sources to livestockactivities

Pollution:sanitation andsewerage

No impact if solid wastemanagement and waterpollution control measures

No impact if solid wastemanagement and waterpollution control measures

Existing impact reduced bysolid waste measures

Biodiversity No impact No impact No impact

Highlandpastures

No impact No impact Existing impact reduced byalternative income sources intourism

Economic FactorsEconomicbenefits

Employment (guides, porters,food and lodging services,and market for local productsand services)

Employment (food andlodging services); market forlocal products and services

Increased income, wideninglocal market

Distribution ofbenefits

Part of entry and other feesgoing to local bodies;involvement of variousstakeholders in incomegenerating activities

Spending in small local teashops and eating places

Increased income, wideninglocal market

Localinvestment

Likely to increase in local teashops, small lodges, andcampsites

Likely to increase in teashops, eating places

Will promote small provisionshops

Gender impacts Employment (guides, foodand lodging services)

Employment (food andlodging services)

Migration Reduce migration Reduce migration Reduce migration

Structure oflocal economy

Increase in nonfarm sectors Increase in nonfarm sectors

Commercialdevelopmentand enterprisedevelopment

Will promote Will promote Will promote

Food supply Some negative impact Some negative impact

Sociocultural FactorsEnvironmentalawareness

Promote communityawareness through economicbenefits, advocacy, andinteraction programs andtraining

Not applicable Greater awareness due tocommunity involvement innatural resourcemanagement.

Culturalsensitivity

Will enhance culturalsensitivity through educationprograms

Culturalheritage

Support cultural preservation

Education andliteracy level

Will promote education andliteracy level

Will promote education andliteracy level

Health status Will improve Will improve

Appendix 122

OVERALL IMPACT ASSESSMENT FOR THE KANCHENJUNGA CONSERVATION AREA

Subject Magnitudeof Impact Duration of Impact Extent of

ImpactOverall

AssessmentBy SubjectPhysical EnvironmentSlope instability Medium to low Medium to long term Local MediumRun-off Low Short term Site specific LowLandscape Medium to low Medium to short

termSite specific Medium

Landuse, land cover Low Short term Site specific LowWaste disposal andpollution

Medium Long term Medium Medium

Biotic EnvironmentVegetation Medium Medium Site Specific MediumThreatened species Low Short term Site Specific LowWildlife Low Long term Site Specific LowBirds Low Long term Local LowFish Insignificant Long term Site Specific Insignificant

Sociocultural and Economic EnvironmentDemographic structure Low Long term Site Specific Medium to lowFamily structure Low Long term Local MediumRole of Women Low Long term Local MediumYouth Low Long term Local MediumReligion Low Long term Local Medium to LowCulture Low Long term Local Medium to lowFestivals Low Long term Site specific LowSettlements Medium Long term Site specific MediumAgriculture Low Long term Local LowForest resources Medium Long term Local MediumWater resources Low Short term Site specific LowRecreational resources Medium positive Long term Local Medium positiveTrade and Commerce Medium positive Long term Local Medium positiveEducation Low Long term Site specific LowHealth & Sanitation Medium positive Long term Local Medium positive

By AreaChhiruwa Medium to low Long term Site specific MediumHellok Medium Long term Site specific MediumGyabla and Phale Low Long term Site specific LowGhunsa Medium Long term Site specific MediumKhanpachen Medium Long term Local MediumOlangchungola Medium Long term Site specific Medium to lowYamma Low Long term Site specific LowYamphudin Medium Long term Site specific MediumTseram Low Long term Site specific LowLhonak and Pengpema Low Long term Site specific LowSelele Pokhari Low Long term Site specific LowRamze Low Long term Site specific Low

Appendix 223

SUMMARY ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURESPart A: ECOTOURISM IMPROVEMENTS

Activity Impacts Mitigation MeasuresSimikot, HumlaLand for visitor center Community land identification Appropriate land useTrail development and pavement Slope instability and spoils Careful alignment; filling the

lowlandsWaste management No impactDrainage and sanitation Spoils and landslides Careful planning and schedulingCampsite development Contamination of water

sources; littering and garbageManage water supply; developadequate waste disposalsystem

Training and micro enterprises No impactMarketing No impact

DolpaLand for visitor centers Permanent community-owned

landAppropriate land use

Trail development and pavement Slope instability and spoils Careful alignment; filling the lowlands

Monastery renovation program Greater outside influence;change in existing practices

Revenue generation helpingpreserve existing practices

Alternative energy sources–micro-hydroand biogas

Effects of water diversion formicrohydro

Careful planning andmanagement of existing watersources

Waste management No impactDrainage and sanitation Spoils and landslides Careful planning & schedulingCampsite development Contamination of water

sources, scattered littering andgarbage

Manage water supply; developadequate waste disposalsystem

Training and microenterprises No impactMarketing No impact

Makalu BarunLand for multiple use visitor center Permanent community land use Appropriate land useTrail development and pavement Slope instability and spoils Careful alignment; filling low

landsDrainage and sanitation Spoils and landslides Careful planning and schedulingCampsite development Contamination of water

sources, scattered littering andgarbage

Manage water supply; developadequate waste disposalsystem

Training and microenterprises No impactMarketing No impact

KanchenjungaLand for tourist centers Permanent community land use Appropriate land useTrail development and pavement Slope instability and spoils Careful alignment; filling the

lowlandsMonastery renovation program Greater outside influence;

change in existing practicesRevenue generation helpingpreserve existing practices

Alternative energy sources–micro-hydroand biogas

Effects of water diversion formicrohydro

Need further investigation

Drainage and sanitation Spoils and landslides Careful planning and schedulingCampsite development Contamination of water

sources, scattered littering andgarbage

Manage water supply; developadequate waste disposalsystem

Training and micro enterprises No impactMarketing No impact

Appendix 324

SUMMARY ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURESPART A: AIRPORT IMPROVEMENTS

No. Activity Impacts Mitigation MeasuresA. Simikot Airport, Humla

1. Land Acquisitiona. Agriculture land of 0.35 ha Barren land of about 2 ha

Land acquisition Land availableFair market price to be paid

b. 0.1 ha for labor camp and material yard

Temporary rental of private landor temporary occupation withinairport

Private land on rent at market rate;Within airport: no rent

c. Building acquisition none2. Labor Mobilization

a. 50 skilled laborers from outside Solid waste and sanitation;pressure on local wood fuelsupply; social disharmony

Awareness campaign; solid wastemanagement; kerosene supply

b. 100 unskilled local laborers Limited negative impact;employment opportunities forlocal people and local economystrengthened

c. Health and safety issues Sexually transmitted diseasesand health problem; risks ofinjury

Social awareness campaignFirst aid and health information

3. Upgrading of Air Strips, Cargo Sheds, Terminal Building Expansion, Water Supplya. Quarry sites Dust pollution Adequate management controlb. Bitumen Mix Pressure on fuel wood Mandatory use of kerosenec. Earthwork Earthworks spoil and waste Filling lowland at the airportd. Construction-related waste materials

Temporary impact Reuse and safe disposal

4. Installation of Equipment a. Navigation and fire fighting

equipmentNo impact

b. Genset for power supply Diesel contamination Safe disposal

B. Masina Chaur Airport, Dolpa1. Land Acquisition

a. 0.5 ha Land acquisition Land availableMarket price to be paid

b. 0.1 ha for labor camp and material yard

Temporary acquirement ofprivate land

Private land or rent at market rateWithin airport: no rent

c. Building acquisition none2. Labor Mobilization

a. 50 skilled laborers from outside Solid waste and sanitation;pressure upon local wood fuelssupply; social disharmony;

Social awareness campaign; solidwaste management; kerosenesupply

b. 100 unskilled local laborers limited negative impact;employment opportunities tolocal people and local economystrengthened

c. Health and safety issues Sexually transmitted diseasesand health problem; risks ofinjury

Social awareness campaignFirst aid and health information

3. Upgrading of Air Strips, Water Supply, Refurbishing of Buildinga. Quarry sites Dust pollution Adequate management controlb. Bitumen Mix Pressure upon fuel wood Mandatory use of kerosenec. Earthwork Spoils and muck Filling lowland at the airportd. Construction-related waste materials

Temporary impact Reuse and disposal at the end.

4. Installation of Equipmenta. Navigational No impactb. Genset for power supply Diesel contamination Safe disposal

Appendix 4, page 125

No. Activity Impacts Mitigation MeasuresC. Surkhet Airport

1. Land Acquisitiona. 0.5 ha Permanent land acquisition Land available. Fair market priceb. 0.1 ha for labor camp and material yard

Temporary rental of private land Space within airport: no rent

c. Building acquisition none2. Labor Mobilization

a.50 skilled laborers available in area

Solid waste and sanitation;pressure on local wood fuelsupply; social disharmony;

Social awareness campaign; solidwaste management; kerosenesupply;

b. 100 unskilled local laborers Limited negative impact;employment opportunities forlocal people and local economystrengthened

c. Health and safety issues Sexually transmitted diseasesand health problem; risks ofinjury

Social awareness campaignFirst aid and health information

3. Upgrading of Air Stripsa. Quarry sites Dust pollution Adequate management controlb. Bitumen mix Pressure on fuel wood Mandatory use of kerosenec. Earthwork Spoil and waste Filling low land at the airportd. Construction related waste materials

Temporary impact Reuse and disposal

4. Installation of Equipmenta. Navigational and firefighting No impactb. Genset for power supply Diesel contamination Safe disposal

D. Tumlingtar Airport, Sankhuwasawa1. Land Acquisition

a. Land None -b. 0.1 ha for labor camp and material yard

Temporary rental of private landor Temporary occupation withinairport

Private land on rent at market rateWithin airport: no rent

c. Building acquisition none2. Labor Mobilisation

a. 50 skilled laborers from outside Solid waste and sanitation;pressure upon local wood fuelsupply; social disharmony;

Social awareness campaign; solidwaste management; kerosenesupply

b. 100 unskilled local laborers Limited negative impact;employment opportunities forlocal people and local economystrengthened

c. Health and safety issues Sexually transmitted diseasesand health problemRisks of injury

Social awareness campaignFirst aid and health information

3. Upgrading of Air Stripsa. Quarry sites Dust pollution Adequate management controlb. Bitumen mix Pressure upon fuel wood Mandatory use of kerosenec. Earthwork Spoils and waste Filling low land at the airportd. Construction-related waste materials

Temporary impact Reuse and disposal

4. Installation of Equipmenta. Navigation No impactb. Genset for power supply Diesel contamination Safe disposal

Appendix 4, page 226

No. Activity Impacts Mitigation MeasuresE. Suketar Airport, Taplejung, Kanchenjunga

1. Land Acquisitiona. Barren land of 4.65 ha Permanent acquisition Fair market priceb. 0.1 ha for labor camp and material yard

Temporary rental of private landor temporary occupation withinairport

Private land on rent at market rateWithin airport: no rent

c. Building acquisition Six small houses to be acquired Payment of market prices

2. Labor Mobilizationa. 50 skilled laborers from outside Solid waste and sanitation;

pressure on local wood fuelsupply; social disharmony;

Social awareness campaign; solidwaste management; kerosenesupply;

b. 100 unskilled local laborers Not much negative impact;employment opportunities tolocal people and strengthenlocal economy

c. Health and safety issues Sexually transmitted diseasesand health problem; risks ofinjury

Social awareness campaign; Firstaid and health information

3. Upgrading of Air Strips and Building Expansiona. Quarry sites Dust pollution Inquiry required.b. Bitumen mix Pressure on fuel wood Mandatory use of kerosenec. Earthwork Spoils and muck Filling lowland at the airportd. Construction-related waste materials

Temporary impact Reuse and disposal at the end.

4. Installation of Equipmenta. Navigation No impactb. Genset for power supply Diesel contamination Safe disposal

ha = hectare.

Appendix 4, page 327

ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLANSubject Parameters Location Frequency Responsibility

Monitoring of Physical EnvironmentSlope Instability Major

landslides/erosion/debris flow spots

Various sites in DIZ Once inpreconstruction phase

PCU/DDC-PIU/DNPWC

At least twice a yearduring implementationOnce at the end of the6th year

Water Quality Turbidity and pH One site on eachriver/stream likely to beaffected by developmentof campsites andmicrohydroplants

One time monitoring inthe preconstructionphase

PCU/DDC-PIU/DNPWC

At least twice a yearduring implementationOnce at the end of the6th year

Land Quality Dissection andvegetation cover

Campsites and sites ofwaste managementprograms

Once in thepreconstruction phase

PCU/DDC-PIU/DNPWC

At least twice a yearduring implementationphaseOnce at the end of the6th year

Landscape Ugly scars due tospoil disposal/ newstructures in thecampsites and touristvillages

Construction site/Campsites/ major touristvillages in DIZ

At least twice a yearduring theimplementation phase

PCU/DDC-PIU/DNPWC

Construction site/managed campsite/major tourist villages inDIZ

Once at the end of the6th year

Air Quality Odor/dust particles Campsites and sites ofwaste managementprogram

Once in thepreconstruction phase

PCU/DDC-PIU/DNPWC

At least twice a yearduring implementationphaseOnce at the end of the6th year

Waste Disposal Waste managementprogram

Campsites and wastemanagement sites

At least twice a yearduring implementationphase

PCU/DDC-PIU/DNPWC

Once at the end of the6th year

PCU/DDC-PIU/DNPWC

Monitoring of Biotic EnvironmentVegetationForest

Extent of forestcover

Sites of traildevelopment,improvement, campsitesand micro-hydro plants

One time a yearduring theconstruction period

PCU/DDC-PIU/DNPWC

Once at the end ofthe 6th year

TerrestrialFauna andFlora

Forest succession DIZ Once duringimplementation andonce at the end ofthe 6th year

PCU/DDC-PIU/DNPWC

Birds Change in type ofbirds (canopy birdsto field crop birds)

Once duringimplementation andonce at the end ofthe 6th year

PCU/DDC-PIU/DNPWC

Appendix 5, page 128

Monitoring Socioculture and Economic EnvironmentPopulationInflux

Data updating atDIZ

Major DIZ settlements Once a year duringprojectimplementationphase

PCU/DDC-PIU

Rate of populationincrement trend

Once at the end ofthe 6th year

Women's RolesandResponsibility

Hellok, Tapethok, Phale,Ghunsa, Amjilesa,Gyabla, Thumbiya,Thungin, Olangchungola

Once a year duringprojectimplementation

PCU/DDC-PIU

Hellok, Tapethok, Phale,Ghunsa, Amjilesa,Gyabla, Thumbiya,Thungin, Olangchungola

Once at the end ofthe 6th year

Youths Youth activity profileInvolvement intourism

Major settlements in theDIZ

Once a year duringimplementation

PCU/DDC-PIU

Once at the endof the 6th yr.

Religion/Culture Data updating Major settlements in DIZ Once a yearduringimplementation

PCU/DDC-PIU

Once at the endof the 6th year

TraditionalFamily Structure

Type of family Major settlements in DIZ Once a yearduringimplementation

PCU/DDC-PIU

Once at the endof the 6th year

Gumbas andfestivals

Asset/inventory/upkeep level andquality ofparticipation infestivals

Phale, Olangchungola,Lelep, Ghunsa, Yanma

Once during thepreconstructionphase

PCU/DDC-PIU

Once a year duringimplementationOnce at the end ofthe 6th year

Tourist Traffic Traffic Trails Once a year duringimplementation

PCU/DDC-PIU

Once at the end ofthe 6th year

Campsites andlodging facilities

Number Trails Once a year duringimplementation

PCU/DDC-PIU

Once at the end ofthe 6th year

Livestockfarming

Number of livestock/transhumancegrazing routes

Northern part of theLelep VDC,Olangchungola area andYamphudin area in theDIZ

Once a year duringimplementation

PCU/DDC-PIU

Once at the end ofthe 6th year

Employment Number of peopleemployed

DIZ Once a year duringimplementation

PCU/DDC-PIU

Once at the end ofthe 6th year

DDC = District Development Committee, DNPWC = Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, PCU =Project Coordination Unit, PIU = Project Implementation Unit.

29Appendix 5, page 2

SUMMARY ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURESPART B: TANSEN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENTS

No. Activity Impacts Mitigation MeasuresA. Sewerage, Stormwater Drainage, and Wastewater Treatment1. Land Acquisitiona. Land acquisition (none anticipated) - -b. Resettlement (none anticipated) - -c. Location of treatment works Protests from local

communitySites are remote from residential,religious, cultural, and institutionalareas, land already belongs to LDT,ensure minimum 500 m buffer zonearound sites

2. Constructiona. Interference with other

utilities and traffic, blockingof access

Appropriate design and layout,careful planning of works,reinstatement of surfaces and accessas soon as possible

Erosion of open trenches,disruption of access

Careful design and planning of works,limit time that trenches are open,provide temporary access, properand prompt backfilling of trenches

Laying of sewer lines and openstormwater drains

Disturbance of streamchannels and habitats

Do not route sewer lines in streamchannels, ensure appropriate erosionand sedimentation control duringconstruction

b. Impairment of historical/cultural areas

Properly plan and manage works,reinstate surfaces after excavation

Excavation and construction works

Landslides, erosion, visualimpact

Properly plan and manage works,reinstate surfaces after excavation,landscaping/tree planting worksaround treatment works sites

c. Health and safety Worker accidents, e.g.,during trenching

Conduct safety awareness training,enforce adherence to safetyprocedures

3. Operation and Maintenancea. Discharges of effluent during normal

operationPublic health hazard Regular inspection and maintenance

of systemb. Degradation of area or

receiving water qualityPhase construction of collectorsystems and treatment works to avoidraw wastewater discharges, selectappropriate, reliable, and easilymaintained technology, propertraining and supervision of staff

Sewer overflows, treatment worksbypasses, or treatment works failure

Nuisance and health hazard Routinely inspect sewers for illegalconnections and obstructions, cleansewer as necessary, publicawareness to prevent disposal ofsolid waste in sewers

c. Faulty and leaking system ofconveyance and treatment

Contamination of land andsurface waters by toxicsubstances, pathogens, etc.

Site and design treatment works anddisposal on basis of adequate dataon wastewater characteristics, ensureadequate (daily) maintenance of reedbed systems, monitor quality ofdischarges and sludge

d. Treatment process Odor nuisance Aerobic treatment system is virtuallyodorless, ensure adequatemaintenance of reed bed and sludgedrying

Creation of favorable habitatfor insects, disease vectors

Treatment system does not involveany standing water, ensure adequatemaintenance of reed bed and sludgedrying

Appendix 6, page 130

No. Activity Impacts Mitigation Measurese. Inadequate operation and

maintenanceLeakage, pollution of watersupply, disruption of supply

Regular inspection of system,development of practicableoperations and maintenanceprocedures and schedule, ensureadequate financing, proper trainingand supervision of staff

B. Road Rehabilitation1. Land Acquisition and/or Resettlement (not required)2. Construction

a. Erosion of exposedsurfaces, increasedsedimentation in streams,dust

Timely planning and implementationof works in dry season, minimizingmovement of vehicles over exposedsurfaces, resurfacing of roads assoon as possible, settlement ofsediment laden water, and sprayingof exposed surfacing with water/oilwhere feasible

Road reconstruction and resurfacingworks

Soil and watercontamination by oil, grease,and fuel from spillage andasphalt plants

Contractors to maintain goodhousekeeping practices on site,training of staff, spill control plans

b. Operation of vehicles and equipment Noise, accidental spills andpollution

Limit hours of operation, spill controlplans, use of hand labor as far aspossible

c. Control of construction related wastematerials

Temporary impacts Contractors to maintain goodhousekeeping practices on site and toremove waste materials at the end ofthe contract

d. Road and pedestrian access Impaired access for vehiclesand pedestrians

Good planning and phasedimplementation of works,maintenance of appropriate access atall times, traffic safety measures

e. Health and safety issues Risk of injury, e.g., duringtrenching

Conduct safety awareness training,enforce adherence to safetyprocedures

3. Operations and MaintenanceInadequate operations andmaintenance

Damage to surfaces,blockage of drains, etc.

Regular inspection of roads anddrains, development of practicableoperations and maintenanceprocedures and schedule, ensureadequate financing, proper training,and supervision of staff

C. Landfill Site1. Land Acquisitiona. Purchase of 1.5 ha of land required

for landfillNo housing near site andwell protected by growth

Although initially agreed, landownermay not later sell, which may lead toredesign of system

b. Resettlement (none required) - -c. Location of landfill site Protests from local

communitySites are remote from residential,religious, cultural, and institutionalareas; ensure minimum 500 m bufferzone around sites

2. Constructiona. Excavation and construction works Landslides, erosion, visual

impactProperly plan and manage works,reinstate surfaces after excavation,landscaping/tree planting aroundtreatment works sites

Appendix 6, page 231

No. Activity Impacts Mitigation Measures

b. Access road construction Landslides, erosion Ensure proper design of roadincluding embankments, side andcross drains, etc.

c. Health and safety Worker accidents, e.g.during road construction

Conduct safety awareness training,enforce adherence to safetyprocedures

3. Operation and Maintenancea. Clogs open drains and

sewersProvide comprehensive solid wastecollection and disposal service

Aesthetic degradation Provide comprehensive solid wastecollection and disposal service

Uncollected solid waste, litter anduncontrolled dumping

Creation of favorable habitatfor insects, disease vectors

Provide comprehensive solid wastecollection and disposal service

b. Loading of solid waste fromcontainers

Dust and odors Minimize extra handling andmaximize containment of solid waste,regular collection of waste

c. Littering by collection vehicles Dust and litter along pathsand roads, etc.

Provide covers for open vehicles orenclosed refuse collection vehicles,daily litter collection from roads, pathsand surrounding areas

d. Unloading, spreading, andcompacting of waste at landfill site

Dust and odors Pave access roads, spray workingarea to suppress dust, cover wastedaily with soil, install gas vents

e. Composting facilities Odors Maintain aerobic conditions duringcomposting process

f. Leachate from landfill site Contamination of surfacewater

First phase of landfill construction andoperation will be on “attenuate anddisperse” principles, the design oflater phases of the site can beadapted in response to anyoperational problems identified

g. Landfill gas Loss of deep-rootedvegetation, e.g., trees

Provide gas vents in landfill

h. Incineration of hazardous wastes Air pollution Ensure any incinerators for medicalwaste have proper air filtrationsystem

i. Application of compost Contamination of soil andplants

Test soils to check chemicalconcentrations they can tolerate,determine which constituent is landlimiting, from concentration of thisconstituent in compost, determinetotal concentration that can beapplied before phytotoxic levelsreached, determine amount and typeof compost that can be applied

j. Worker accidents, e.g.,handling overweight bins

Design appropriate containers,provide lids so that rainwater doesnot add weight, conduct safetyawareness training

Health and safety

Handling of hazardouswastes

Separate collection and disposal ofhazardous waste (e.g., medicalwaste), conduct safety awarenesstraining, enforce safety procedures

k. Inadequate operations andmaintenance

Nuisance from litter, odor,leachate

Regular inspection of system,development of practicable operationand maintenance procedures andschedule, ensure adequate financing,proper training and supervision ofstaff

ha = hectare, LDT = Lumbini Development Trust, m = meter.

Appendix 6, page 332

33

SUMMARY ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURESPART C: LUMBINI TOURISM INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENTS

No. Activity Impacts Mitigation Measures Central Link1. Survey of Project (completed)2. Land Acquisition (completed)3. Resettlement (none required)4. Constructiona. Access roads either side of canal

(already partly constructed)- -

b. Artificial canal excavation and bundconstruction (already partlyconstructed)

Minor impacts Careful planning of work

c. Operation of vehicles and equipment Noise, accidental spills,and pollution

Limit hours of operation, spill controlplans, use of hand labor as far aspossible

d. Drainage of surface water in existingartificial canal

Minor impacts Careful planning of work

e. Production of bricks Use of natural resources,air pollution

Temporary impacts unavoidable,positive impact on income generationfor local factories

f. Transportation of constructionmaterials

Traffic congestionAccident risk

Transport at off-peak times, trafficcontrol as required, use localproduction facilities where possible

g. Paving of paths, construction of seats,litter bins, drinking water fountains

Temporary disruption ofaccess

Careful planning of work, maintainaccess on both sides of canal at alltimes

h. Diversion of nonpermanent surfacewater

Canal to be filled andflushed with groundwater

Occasional use of groundwatershould supplement existing non-permanent flows downstream of site,potential benefits to local agricultureof more reliable water supply

i. Impact of groundwater abstraction onlocal communities

None anticipated Careful siting of deep tube wells,monitoring of levels and quality ofwater in local deep and shallow wells

j. Control of construction related wastematerials

Temporary impacts Contractors to maintain goodhousekeeping practices on site and toremove waste materials at the end ofthe contract

k. Health and safety issues Accidents, e.g., risk ofdrowning when canal is re-filled

Conduct safety awareness training,enforce safety procedures

5. Postconstructiona. Water quality control Eutrophication of canal

waterRecharge of canal at certain intervals

b. Pumping operation (if applicable) Leaks, spills affecting waterquality

Routine plant inspection andmaintenance

c. Weed control in canal Reduced water quality,threat to aquatic life, etc.

Regular removal of weeds,particularly invasive species, usingphysical methods as far as possible

d. Weed control on land Damage to canal and brickconstructions

Regular removal of weeds,particularly invasive species, usingphysical methods as far as possible

e. Litter control in canal and on land Aesthetic degradation Daily collection and removal of litteras part of integrated solid wastemanagement system

Appendix 7, page 1

34

No. Activity Impacts Mitigation Measuresf. Health and safety issues Risk of drowning Install warning notices and safety

equipment (e.g., life belts) withinstructions for use in appropriatelanguages at regular intervals, trainboat operators in safety techniques,regular inspection to ensure safetyequipment is present and operable

Visitor Parking Area1. Preconstructiona. Access Tracks (existing) - -b. Land acquisition (completed) - -c. Resettlement (none required)2. Constructiona. Site clearance No significant impacts Proper planning of works, control of

any on-site burning to avoid spread offires

b. Construction of buildings, parking areaand services

Temporary disturbancese.g., traffic, noise, dust

Good construction techniques, properplanning of works

c. Operation of vehicles and equipment Noise, accidental spills,and pollution

Limit hours of operation, spill controlplans, use hand labor as far aspossible

d. Control of construction-related wastematerials

Temporary impacts Contractors to maintain goodhousekeeping practices on-site andto remove waste materials at the endof the contract

e. Health and safety issues Risk of injury, e.g., falling Conduct safety awareness training,enforce safety procedures

f. Visual impact No significant impacts Buildings to be designed andconstructed in style and materialscompatible with masterplanrequirements

3. Operations and Maintenancea. Building, parking area, and services

maintenanceNo significant impacts Regular maintenance of contents and

fabric of building, parking, andservices is required

b Solid waste management No significant impacts Integrated solid waste managementsystem to be operated in masterplanarea

c. Wastewater disposal No significant impacts Sewerage and wastewater treatmentto be installed and operated inmasterplan area

Water Supply1. Resource Assessmenta. Drilling test wells Groundwater contamination

by drilling fluidNoise

Use nontoxic drilling fluids

Limit hours of operationb. Test pumping Noise

Large water dischargeLimit hours of operationDischarge to nearby streams

2. Land Acquisition (completed) and Resettlement (none required)

3. Constructiona. Well drilling Groundwater contamination

by drilling fluidUse non-toxic drilling fluids

b. Construction of reservoir, water tank,etc.

Accidental damage toarchaeological sites,impairment of historical/cultural monuments/areas

Undertake excavations inconsultation with LDT archaeologicalteam, careful design and placing ofstructures so they do not conflict withbut complement such areas

Appendix 7, page 2

35

No. Activity Impacts Mitigation Measuresc. Laying of transmission lines Encroachment into ecology

of areaCareful design and placement tominimize conflict or disturbance withsuch areas

d. Distribution system nearby sewer lines Contamination of water Align 1m water supply and sewernetwork at minimum horizontal andvertical distance, use proper andreliable network design andinstallation with leak-proof joints

e. Providing connections to consumers Problems of road accessand drainage

Appropriate design, immediate repairand maintenance

f. Operation of vehicles and equipment Noise, accidental spills,and pollution

Limit hours of operation, spill controlplans, use hand labor as far aspossible

g. Control of construction related wastematerials

Temporary impacts Contractors to maintain goodhousekeeping practices on site and toremove waste materials at the end ofthe contract

h. Health and safety issues Risk of injury, e.g., falling Conduct safety awareness training,enforce safety procedures

4. Operations and Maintenancea. Operation of deep well pumps Noise and air pollution Appropriate design of the system,

limiting hours of operationb. Groundwater extraction at excessive

rateLand subsidence Avoid excessive pumping and set

recommended pumping rates afterdetailed investigation of rechargingrate of aquifer, pumping rate andcorresponding drawdown ofgroundwater table

c. Impact of ground water abstraction onlocal communities

Reduction in quantityand/or quality

Careful siting of deep tube wells,monitoring of levels and quality ofwater in local deep and shallow wells

Proliferation of aquaticweeds in reservoir anddownstream canals/waterbodies

Provide weed control measures,careful management of waterdischarges and levels

Siltation of reservoir anddownstream canals/waterbodies

Hydraulic removal of sediment byflushing, regular cleaning program(every two years) for canal and waterbodies

d. Filling of central link and other waterbodies

Creation of favorablehabitat for insects, diseasevectors

Vector control, disease prophylaxis,and treatment

e. Delivery of unsafe water to distributionsystem, unsatisfactory raw waterquality

Health hazard, increasednumber of waterbornediseases

Careful design, routine checking ofraw and treated water quality, layingof water supply pipes away fromsewer lines, training and operationalsupervision of staff

f. Discharge of water during cleaning ofreservoir

Contamination ofdownstream body

Released water will not contain anyhazardous chemicals or concentratedsediment, thus it is safe to discharge

g. Chlorine accidents Serious public/workerhealth hazard

Incorporate safety provisions intodesign, operating procedures, andtraining; prepare contingency plan foraccident response

h. Inadequate operations andmaintenance

Leakage, pollution of watersupply, disruption of supply

Regular inspection of system,development of practical operationand maintenance procedures, ensureadequate financing, proper trainingand supervision of staff.

Appendix 7, page 3