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Environmental Impact Assessment for the Proposed 400 kV Transmission Line from Omatando to Oshivelo (Portion 2) Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report

2014

i

COPYRIGHT © NAMPOWER, 2014. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

PROJECT NAME

Environmental Impact Assessment for the Proposed 400 kV

Transmission Line from Omatando Substation to Oshivelo

Substation (Portion 2)

STAGE OF REPORT Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report for Public Review

CLIENT

NamPower

Enquiries: Horst Mutschler

Tel: (061) 205-2735

E-Mail:

[email protected]

LEAD CONSULTANT

Enviro Dynamics

Enquiries: Norman van Zyl

Tel: (061) 223-336

E-Mail: [email protected]

DATE OF RELEASE October 2014

CONTRIBUTORS TO THE REPORT

Sheldon Husselmann, Norman van Zyl, Ernst Simon, Iani de Kock,

Eddy Kuliwoye, Eloise Carstens

Internal Review: Norman van Zyl

mailto:[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

ii

EIA for the Proposed 400 kV Transmission Line From Omatando to Oshivelo (Portion 2)

Draft EIA Report for Client Review

September 2014

Declaration

I hereby declare that I:

have knowledge of and experience in conducting assessments, including

knowledge of the Environmental Management Act (7 of 2007), its

regulations and guidelines that have relevance to the proposed activity;

have performed the work relating to the application in an objective

manner, regardless of whether or not the views and findings were

favourable to the applicant;

have complied with the Act, and its regulations, guidelines and other

applicable laws.

I also declare that there is, to my knowledge, no information in my possession that

reasonably has or may have the potential of influencing –

any decision to be taken with respect to the application in terms of the Act

and its regulations; or

the objectivity of this report, plan or document prepared in terms of the Act

and its regulations.

Norman van Zyl

Environmental Assessment Practitioner (EAP)

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September 2014

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

INTRODUCTION

In order to address the growing power demand in Namibia as well as the need to

ensure security of supply for future growth, NamPower intends to construct a new

400 kV transmission line from Kunene Substation (near Ruacana) to Oshivelo

Substation via Omatando Substation (near Ongwediva).

NamPower has appointed Enviro Dynamics CC to conduct an EIA and compile a

Specific Environmental Management Plan (EMP) for the proposed transmission line

route.

The terms of reference for this Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process are as

follows:

Assessment of the proposed route; and

Compilation of an EIA Report (which includes the compilation of an

Environmental Management Plan);

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

As highlighted in the Transmission Master Plan the two main reasons why this

transmission line is needed are:

1. The growing demand for electricity in the north of Namibia; and

2. The need to strengthen the northern section of NamPower's transmission grid

to ensure security of supply.

NamPower initially planned the route to avoid as far as practicably possible densely

populated areas (see map below) and hence reduce the need to relocate local

residents. However due to the proximity of certain sections of the initial route

alternative to the Etaka River and Lake Oponono, a Ramsar site and home to a

small group of critically endangered Blue Cranes, the proposed route was realigned

northward to reduce the risk of Blue Crane fatalities.

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September 2014

The proposed transmission line (TX) route for Portion 2 (174 km in total) is as follows:

Section 1: Single circuit TX line (mostly a monopole or compact lattice

structure, but where possible a guyed V-structure) approximately 68 km, from

the Omatando SS (near Ongwediva) eastward to the Okatope SS located

near Okatope;

Section 2: Single circuit TX line (guyed V-structure) approximately 106 km long,

from Okatope SS to Oshivelo SS located near Oshivelo;

The servitudes will be 50 m wide for Section 1, which runs through densely populated

areas and 80 m for Section 2, which runs through sparsely populated areas. For the

entire line an estimated 12 m width needs to be totally cleared of vegetation and

obstacles to create a service road and ensure the line has sufficient clearance to

vegetation. The entire footprint of each V-structure (70 m X 50 m) will also be

cleared of vegetation.

The total estimated cost for of the project is has yet to be determined.

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September 2014

LEGISLATION AND RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT

Given the nature of some of the foreseeable impacts (resettlement and

compensation, potential loss of important bird and plant species and impacts on

heritage resources), the most important provisions of the applicable legislation are

those highlighted from the Compensation Policy Guidelines for Communal Land; the

Ramsar Convention, the Convention on Biodiversity, the Nature Conservation

Ordinance, the Forestry Act and the National Heritage Act.

A concise description of the baseline conditions pertaining to specific environmental

features has been provided, as informed by specialists’ studies. These environmental

features were identified during the Scoping Stage as those which required further

investigation. Key potential impacts relating to birds, vegetation, archaeology and

socio-economic concerns are identified.

A summary of all the issues identified for both the biophysical and social

environment is presented in the table below.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

Public participation was carried out during the Scoping Stage of this EIA process in

accordance with the EIA Regulations. Various stakeholders at national, regional

and local level were identified and their input solicited. Particular effort was exerted

to involve stakeholders at a local level – those living in and around the project area.

Public meetings during the public consultation period were held as follows:

DATE LOCATION

10 March 2014 Ruacana: Eha Lodge

10 March 2014 Outapi: Outapi Town Lodge

11 March 2014 Okahao: Ongozi Lodge

11 March 2014 Ongwediva: Hotel Destiny

12 March 2014 Onyaanya: Uukule Senior Secondary School

12 March 2014 Omuthiya: Roadhouse Guesthouse

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September 2014

The Draft Scoping Report was circulated to all Interested and Affected Parties

(I&APs) for them to review and a comments period from the 13th to the 27th of June

2014 was provided. No comments were received during this period.

The Draft Environmental Impact Assessment Report will be circulated to all I&APs for

review and a comments period of two weeks provided.

IMPACT ASSESSMENT

The impacts, identified during the Scoping Stage of this EIA process, which required

further investigation are assessed using a range of assessment criteria. The

application of these criteria uses a balanced consideration of duration, extent, and

intensity, modified by probability, cumulative effects, and confidence in order to

determine significance. Mitigation and monitoring measures are prescribed and

these are addressed in the General and Specific EMP.

RECOMMENDATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS

The following should be noted about the key impacts:

Impact on vegetation: Several high use value tree species and a few range

restricted plant species occur within the project area. The mitigation

measures prescribed in this report and the EMP are sufficient to address these

potential impacts.

Impact on birds: The wider project area supports a relatively high diversity of

bird species (approximately 200 species). The main impact on birds

associated with the proposed transmission line is related to potential collisions

once the line is operational. The mitigation measures prescribed in this report

and the EMP are sufficient to address these potential impacts.

THEME ISSUE

SAFETY

Houses should be located at least 20 m from the line.

Safety measures during construction should be in place (including clearing of

landmines).

EMPLOYMENT Local labour should be used to the extent possible.

BIODIVERSITY Loss of important bird and plant species owing to habitat disturbance and

destruction.

SOCIO-

ECONOMIC

Compensation for various housing structures as well as trees, e.g. fruit trees,

should be identified.

HIV/AIDS infection rates and marriage instability

Short term economic boom due to construction workers supporting local

shops.

HERITAGE Disturbance and destruction of heritage resources.

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September 2014

Socio-economic impacts: The proposed route goes through densely

populated areas. A total of 43 households will be affected by the proposed

route and relocation will need to take place in several instances. A total of

165 fruit-bearing trees will need to be removed. The mitigation measures

prescribed in this report and the EMP are sufficient to address these potential

impacts.

Impact on archaeology: One potentially sensitive archaeological site in the

form of a floodplain covering an area of 4 ha, is located north of Ondangwa.

The mitigation measures prescribed in this report and the EMP are sufficient to

address these potential impacts.

It is the opinion of Enviro Dynamics that sufficient information is available to address

all impacts identified and assessed during this Environmental Impact Assessment

process through the recommended mitigation measures laid out in this report and

the General and Specific EMP.

It is therefore recommended that the proposed project receive Environmental

Clearance, provided that both the General and Specific EMPs are implemented.

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September 2014

TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .............................................................................................................. iii

TABLES AND FIGURES ............................................................................................................... x

ABBREVIATIONS ....................................................................................................................... xi

APPENDICES ............................................................................................................................ xii

1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................. 1

1.1 BACKGROUND .......................................................................................................... 1

1.2 TERMS OF REFERENCE ............................................................................................... 2

1.3 WORK PLAN FOR STUDY............................................................................................ 3

2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION .................................................................................................... 4

2.1 NEED FOR THE DEVELOPMENT ................................................................................. 4

2.2 ROUTE ALTERNATIVES AND SELECTION ................................................................... 4

2.3 THE PROPOSED NEW TRANSMISSION LINES ............................................................ 6

2.4 STRUCTURAL AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS OF THE LINE .................................... 8

2.5 CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES ...................................................................................... 9

2.6 PROJECT COST AND TIMELINE ............................................................................... 10

2.7 CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS AND PROCESS ........................................................ 10

2.8 WASTE MATERIALS ................................................................................................... 10

2.9 EMPLOYMENT CREATION ....................................................................................... 11

2.10 DECOMMISSIONING ............................................................................................... 11

3 LEGISLATION AND POLICIES .......................................................................................... 12

4 RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT ............................................................................................ 15

4.1 BIOPHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT ................................................................................. 15

4.1.1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT OF PORTION 1 ................. 15

4.1.2 VEGETATION ..................................................................................................... 16

4.1.3 BIRDS .................................................................................................................. 19

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September 2014

4.2 SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT ........................................................................................... 21

4.2.1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................. 21

4.2.2 GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT OF PORTION 2 ... 21

4.2.3 ARCHAEOLOGY ............................................................................................... 22

5 PUBLIC CONSULTATION .................................................................................................. 24

5.1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................ 24

5.2 THE MEETINGS TO DATE ........................................................................................... 24

5.3 PUBLIC CONCERN ................................................................................................... 26

5.4 PUBLIC FEEDBACK ................................................................................................... 27

6 IMPACT ASSESSMENT ...................................................................................................... 28

6.1 THE ‘NO-GO’ ALTERNATIVE .................................................................................... 28

6.2 IDENTIFICATION OF KEY ISSUES ............................................................................... 28

6.3 METHODOLOGY EMPLOYED FOR THE IMPACT ASSESSMENT ............................. 31

6.4 ASSESSMENT OF IMPACTS ....................................................................................... 32

6.4.1 IMPACT ON VEGETATION ................................................................................ 32

6.4.2 IMPACT ON BIRDS ............................................................................................ 35

6.4.3 IMPACT ON THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT .................................. 40

6.4.4 DESTRUCTION OR DAMAGE TO ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES ......................... 44

6.4.5 ASSESSMENT OF CUMULATIVE IMPACTS ........................................................ 46

7 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ................................................................ 47

7.1 CONCLUSIONS......................................................................................................... 47

7.2 RECOMMENDATIONS.............................................................................................. 48

8 REFERENCES ..................................................................................................................... 49

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September 2014

TABLES AND FIGURES

Table 1: Vegetation related sensitivities ......................................................................... 16

Table 2: Bird related sensitivities ....................................................................................... 20

Table 3: Socio-economic related sensitivities ................................................................ 23

Table 4: Summary of the meetings conducted ............................................................. 25

Table 5: Summary of issues ............................................................................................... 26

Table 6: Identification of key impacts during the various phases of the project. ..... 30

Table 7: Definitions of each of the criteria used to determine the significance of

impacts ............................................................................................................. 31

Table 8: Definitions of the various significance ratings ................................................. 32

Table 9: Summary of vegetation impact assessment ................................................... 34

Table 10: Summary of bird impact assessment ............................................................ 38

Table 11: Summary of the potential impacts of the proposed power line project

on the surrounding socio-economic environment ..................................... 43

Table 12: Summary of archaeology impact assessment ............................................ 45

Figure 1: Diagrammatic summary of work plan ............................................................ 3

Figure 2: Route alternative considered. ......................................................................... 5

Figure 3: Proposed transmission line route from Omatando SS to Oshivelo SS. ........ 7

Figure 4: Example of tower design for single circuit line in densely populated

areas .................................................................................................................... 8

Figure 5: Example of structure for single circuit line in sparsely populated areas .... 8

Figure 6: Servitude details for the proposed transmission line ..................................... 9

Figure 7: Vegetation sensitivities and bird movement and distribution ................... 18

Figure 8: Screening process to determine key issues ................................................. 29

Figure 9: Location of areas of concern for vegetation and birds ............................ 33

Figure 10: Sections along Portion 2 sensitive to bird collisions ..................................... 37

Figure 11: Archaeological site of concern .................................................................... 44

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September 2014

ABBREVIATIONS

kV Kilo Volt

EIA Environmental Impact Assessment

GIS Geographic Information System

EMP Environmental Management Plan

ToR Terms of Reference

I&AP Interested and Affected Party

SS Substation

TX Transmission

GN Government Notice

ECB Electricity Control Board

GG GG

NHC National Heritage Council

MSL Mean Sea Level

AD Anno Domini/ In the year of our Lord

NORED Northern Regional Electricity Distributor

BID Background Information Document

HIV Human Immunodeficiency Virus

AIDS Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome

km kilometre

m metre

m3 Cubic metre

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September 2014

APPENDICES

Appendix A Curriculum Vitae

Appendix B1 General EMP

Appendix B2 Specific EMP

Appendix C Vegetation Impact Assessment Report

Appendix D Bird Impact Assessment Report

Appendix E Social Impact Assessment Report

Appendix F Archaeology Impact Assessment Report

1

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND

Namibia at present is a net importer of electricity, relying on neighbouring nations to

supply current shortfall. The demand for electricity nationally has been increasing

especially in the northern regions of Namibia. The recently approved NamPower

Transmission Master Plan has recognised this increase in demand and hence the

urgency to find a solution. In order to address this demand as well as that of

ensuring security of supply for future growth, NamPower intends to construct a new

400 kV transmission line from Kunene Substation (near Ruacana) to Oshivelo via

Ongwediva (see Figure 3).

NamPower has appointed Enviro Dynamics CC, assisted by Urban Dynamics, to

conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the proposed transmission

line route in accordance with the Environmental Management Act of 2007 and its

Regulations (2012).

The Scoping Stage of this EIA process was concluded in May 2014. The Scoping

Report was circulated to all registered Interested and Affected Parties (I&APs) for

review before being submitted to the Directorate of Environmental Affairs (DEA) for

review and comment. During the Scoping Stage impacts were identified and public

consultation carried out for a 380 km proposed transmission line route.

In order to streamline the applications for Environmental Clearance the proposed

380 km transmission line route has been divided into two portions, namely Portion 1

and Portion 2. NamPower intends to construct Portion 1 first as a matter of urgency.

Separate Environmental Impact Assessment Reports (EIARs) have hence been

produced for each portion. This report is the culmination of the detailed

investigation and assessment stage of an EIA for Portion 2. This report provides a

detailed assessment of impacts identified during the Scoping Stage, as informed by

the detailed specialist studies conducted for this EIA.

Norman van Zyl, who is a qualified and recognised Environmental Assessment

Practitioner (see Appendix A for CV) led the assessment.

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September 2014

1.2 TERMS OF REFERENCE

The Terms of Reference (ToR) for the assessment of the proposed project is based on

the requirements set out by the Environmental Management Act (2007) and its

Regulations (February 2012). The process covered the following steps, which are

reported on in this document as follows:

Provide a detailed description of the proposed activity, including a

description of the need and desirability of the proposed project and a

presentation of alternatives considered (Chapter 2);

Identify all legislation, policies and guidelines that are applicable to the

proposed project (Chapter 3);

Identify existing environmental (both ecological and socio-economic)

features and/or conditions of the receiving environment in order to determine

how these may be affected by the proposed project (Chapter 4); and

Inform I&APs and relevant authorities of the details of the proposed

development and provide them with a reasonable opportunity to participate

during the process (Chapter 5);

Assess the agreed upon route’s socio-economic and bio-physical impacts

expected during construction and operation of the route (Chapter 6).

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September 2014

1.3 WORK PLAN FOR STUDY

In order to meet the requirements of the Terms of Reference for this EIA, the study

consists of four phases as indicated in Figure 1 below. The purpose of this document

is to assess the impacts identified in the previous stage of this EIA process.

Figure 1: Diagrammatic summary of work plan

Stage 3: EMP Revision

Review NamPower’s EMP to include site specific issues

Stage 4: Reporting

Submit Draft Reports to the Client and I&AP’s

Receive and incorporate comments from Client.

Submit final EIA Report and EMP

Comment on

draft document

and feedback

Stage 2: Detailed Investigation

Specialist Investigations

Final route selection

IMPACT ASSESSMENT

Wide Public

Consultation

Stage I: Route and substation site evaluation

Introductions with Client

Meetings with technical staff of NamPower about

possible alternatives

Site Visit

Map proposed route and consider any obvious

conflict areas, using GIS.

Public consultation (including meetings)

Issue identification and risk assessment

Final scope and tor of study

This Report

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September 2014

2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The need for the proposed new transmission line and an evaluation of route

alternatives are provided in this chapter as well as the technical specifications of the

infrastructure to be constructed. This chapter highlights aspects of this project,

which are likely to interact significantly with the socio-ecological environment.

2.1 NEED FOR THE DEVELOPMENT

The recently approved NamPower Transmission Master Plan outlines Namibia’s future

transmission needs up to 2050.

As highlighted in the Master Plan the two main reasons why this transmission line is

needed are:

1. The growing demand for electricity in the north of Namibia; and

2. The need to strengthen the northern section of NamPower's transmission grid

to ensure security of supply.

2.2 ROUTE ALTERNATIVES AND SELECTION

NamPower planned the original route via less densely populated areas (Figure 2).

During the route alternatives selection process and physical route evaluation, the

following opportunities and constraints were raised:

1. The route was very close to the northern boundary of the Etosha Pan and

Lake Oponono, which are sensitive areas to water bird life, especially the

critically endangered Blue Crane. Therefore the entire section from the

Makalani Substation to a point just short of the Oshivelo Substation were

located in or very near the breeding grounds of the Blue Crane. This element

of the route could lead to unacceptable Blue Crane fatalities, as this species

is prone to power line collisions.

2. Moving the section from the proposed site for the Makalani Substation to the

Oshivelo Substation merely further north (away from the water courses and

pans mentioned) on a new alignment would cause severe socio-economic

disruption with excessive compensation costs, making the project not viable.

3. The route of the existing 132 kV line from Omatando to Okatope could be

successfully widened to accommodate the new 400 kV line with limited

compensation costs and socio-economic impacts.

5

Figure 2: Route alternative considered.

6

4. The route of the existing 132 kV line from Okatope to Oshivelo Substation is

subject to the following limitations: limited space owing to existing rail, road

and power line servitudes and densely populated with major villages and

large homesteads. Using the existing route in this section will cause excessive

social disruption and compensation costs will be excessive.

5. A new route was set out north of the railway line from near Okatope to

Oshivelo substation via a more direct but less populous area. The result is that

the socio-economic effect and compensation requirement are lowered

significantly.

The revised route is shown in Figure 3.

2.3 THE PROPOSED NEW TRANSMISSION LINES

As discussed in the scoping report of this EIA, the project comprises two portions. This

report’s focus is on Portion 2, which includes the following components:

Section 1: Single circuit TX line (possibly the structure displayed in Figure 4)

approximately 68 km, from Omatando SS eastward, running along the existing

132 kV TX line to the vicinity of Okatope SS; and

Section 2: Single circuit TX line (structure in Figure 5) approximately 106 km, on

a new alignment (deviating from 132 kV line), from the vicinity of Okatope SS

to Oshivelo SS.

Sections 1 and 2 will be referred to collectively as Portion 2.

7

Figure 3: Proposed transmission line route from Omatando SS to Oshivelo SS.

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September 2014

2.4 STRUCTURAL AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS OF THE LINE

In terms of structural design alternatives for the proposed project, the guyed V-structure

is structurally the most efficient design for 400 kV single circuit transmission lines, and can

be up to four times cheaper than self-supporting monopole structures. Additionally,

conductors are arranged in a perfect delta configuration (conductors arranged in

triangular formation) which reduces surge-impedance loading. This has a positive

impact on its electrical efficiency. Its utilisation must therefore be maximised wherever

possible. Monopole structures are more compact in terms of their footprint and hence

better suited for areas where servitude widths are limited and are also better suited for

manoeuvrability (i.e. creation of bend points). These considerations guide structure

design selection.

The length of the proposed transmission lines for Portion 2 is estimated to be

approximately 174 km long. Section 1 will be supported mostly by a self-supporting

galvanised steel mono-pole structure (see Figure 4) or a compact lattice structure and

where possible a steel guyed V-structure. Section 2 will be supported by a galvanised

steel guyed V-structure (see Figure 5). The approximate height of these structures will

be 45 m.

The servitude will be 50 m wide for Section 1, which runs through densely populated

areas and 80 m for Section 2, which runs through sparsely populated areas. For the

entire line an estimated 12 m width needs to be totally cleared of vegetation and

obstacles to create a service road, to provide access (during construction and

Figure 4: Example of tower design for single

circuit line in densely populated areas

Figure 5: Example of structure for single circuit line in

sparsely populated areas

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September 2014

maintenance) to the line throughout its lifespan of 30 years. This clearing is also required

to ensure the conductors clear taller vegetation such as trees. Owing to its larger

footprint, the area about the centre of each V-structure to be cleared of vegetation

will cover an area of approximately 70 m X 50 m. The EIA team however, assessed a

corridor of 500 m wide (250 m on either side of the proposed line).

For safety and technical reasons, no other permanent structures are allowed within the

servitude. Grazing and subsistence cultivation of fields with associated subsistence

farming activities may be accommodated within this area, except for the 12 m strip,

which is needed during construction and operation.

2.5 CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES

All the components for power line construction (concrete, pylons, conductors, and

insulators etc.) will be transported to site by road on low-bed trailers. The main access

roads to the line are the C46 (closer to Omatando SS) and the B1 (between Ondangwa

and Oshivelo) which will most probably be used to transport materials to and from the

transmission line. From here materials will be transported along the line via the existing

single track gravel road servicing the existing transmission line. No significant impacts

associated with traffic interruption are expected along the main roads. Even though

the traffic will increase, this will be for a short period. The maintenance road and all

connecting access roads addressed in the General EMP (see Appendix B1). Basic

traffic management pertaining to main roads will be addressed within the Specific EMP

(see Appendix B2).

Steel structures will either be erected by using a crane to place the pre-assembled

tower onto the concrete foundation or by building up the tower from its concrete

foundation section by section. The conductors will be strung using heavy-duty

mechanical winches.

Concrete for the pylon foundations will be mixed and poured on site or at a batching

plant in close proximity. Hence, all the concrete constituents (crushed stone, cement,

water and sand) will be transported to the project area. No borrow pits (existing or

Total 80 m servitude

to be clear of

settlement in sparsely

populated areas and

50 m in densely

populated areas

40 m servitude on

either side of the line

in sparsely populated

areas and 25 m in

densely populated

areas

12 m to be

cleared of

vegetation

Figure 6: Servitude details for the proposed transmission line

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September 2014

new) will be utilised for the proposed project. All building supplies will be supplied by

existing commercial suppliers.

Most often, construction camps accommodating construction labour force are located

close to the work area.

2.6 PROJECT COST AND TIMELINE

The project will be internally financed by NamPower. Cost estimates and estimated

time for construction have yet to be determined.

2.7 CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS AND PROCESS

The proposed project will require the following approximate volumes of materials per

km of transmission line:

Approximately 12 m3 water from boreholes for concrete.

Approximately 50 m3 sand and stone for concrete, sourced locally.

Approximately 12 tons galvanised steel, sourced internationally.

Conductor, optical fibre, Insulators and associated hardware will be sourced

internationally.

The project will be sourced from a base camp as well as a satellite camp for every 40

km of line. The construction process will use three separate teams that will be

responsible for:

Clearing the line, digging and casting of foundations;

Constructing(assembly and erection) of towers (specially trained team); and

Stringing and clamping the cabling (specially trained team).

2.8 WASTE MATERIALS

Besides some left-over concrete and various other residual building material, normal

domestic waste such as plastic bags, tins, bottles, paper, and packaging waste will also

be generated. Waste generation is an obvious impact of any project and needs to be

managed in an appropriate manner in order to minimise the proposed project’s

ecological footprint. Waste management is addressed in the General EMP (see

Appendix B1) for this project.

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September 2014

2.9 EMPLOYMENT CREATION

Employment opportunities on this project are limited. The construction of transmission

lines is a specialised operation, which will be managed by a local or foreign contractor

who will bring specialist foreign and Namibian staff from areas outside the project area.

The only activities for which the contractors most likely use local unskilled labour is for

the debushing of the site (debushing will be done mostly with machines, but may be

supplemented with manual labour) and for the digging of the foundations.

About 200 people will be employed during construction of a section of line, of which

approximately 30 people will be of management and supervisory capacity. The

remainder will be artisan and skilled labour, with a smaller component of unskilled

labour.

The maintenance of the new transmission line is likely to be done by existing NamPower

staff, therefore, no employment creation is expected during operation. If an

agreement can be reached between NamPower and the local authorities, the

maintenance of the cleared portion of the servitude could serve as an employment

opportunity.

2.10 DECOMMISSIONING

It is envisaged that the proposed project will continue as long as the demand for

electricity exists, hence decommissioning is not expected. However, in the event that

the proposed project needs to be decommissioned, relevant provisions have been

outlined with the Specific EMP (Appendix B2) to guide such activity. The activity

associated with decommissioning is similar to that of construction and as such most of

the provisions outlined within the Specific EMP will make reference to the applicable

construction-related provisions within NamPower’s General EMP (Appendix B1).

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September 2014

3 LEGISLATION AND POLICIES

The pursuit of sustainability, with respect to any project, is guided by a sound legislative

and policy framework. This section provides a review of applicable and relevant

legislation and policies, both international and national. This review serves to inform the

developer of the requirements and expectations, as laid out in terms of these

instruments, to be fulfilled before the proposed project may commence. The findings of

the above mentioned review are summarised below.

LEGISLATION/ POLICY/

GUIDELINE

RELEVANT PROVISIONS IMPLICATIONS FOR THIS

PROJECT

INTERNATIONAL

Ramsar Convention on

Wetlands of International

Importance (1971)

Article 2(1) provides for the inclusion of

wetlands in a “List of Wetlands of

International Importance” “especially

where these have importance as

waterfowl habitat”.

Article 2(6) provides for the exercising of

international responsibilities with respect

to these wetlands.

Article 4 provides for the promotion of

conservation of wetlands and waterfowl.

Namibia is a signatory to this

convention.

Etosha Pan, Lake Oponono and

the Cuvelai Drainage are all

included in the “List of Wetlands

of International Importance”

and their conservation has the

support of national government.

NamPower therefore has a

responsibility to ensure that steps

are taken to conserve water

birds.

Convention on

Biological Diversity (1992)

Article 6 (b) provides for the explicit

consideration of “the conservation and

sustainable use of biological diversity into

relevant… plans, programmes and policies”

In keeping with national

strategies, NamPower needs to

ensure that biodiversity is not

compromised as a result of this

project.

World Bank OP and BP

4.11 guidelines in respect

of “Physical Cultural

Resources”

Provides guidelines pertaining to physical

cultural resources with respect to project

screening, baseline surveys and mitigation.

The archaeological Impact

Assessment should adhere to

these guidelines.

NATIONAL

Namibian Constitution

First Amendment Act 34

of 1998

Chapter 11 Article 95: Promotion of the

Welfare of the People

Ecological sustainability should

inform and guide these projects.

Compensation Policy

Guidelines for

Explains situations that may give rise to

compensation e.g. where land is taken This document should inform and

guide the resettlement plan to

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September 2014


GUIDELINE


PROJECT

Communal Land

(applied with effect from

April 2008)

for township expansion or other public

service sector developments;

Gives direction on how compensation

shall be determined;

Helps affected land owners to choose an

option they consider fair; and

Is applicable in cases where an

occupant of land within a proclaimed

local authority boundary has been

occupying the affected land in

accordance with customary laws of the

area.

be compiled for this project.

Environmental

Management Act EMA

(No 7 of 2007)

Requires that projects with significant

environmental impact are subject to an

environmental assessment process

(Section 27).

Details principles which are to guide all

EIAs.

The EMA and its regulations

should inform and guide this EIA

process.

EIA Regulations GN No

28-30 (GG No 4878)

Details requirements for public

consultation within a given

environmental assessment process (GN

No 30 S21).

Details the requirements for what should

be included in a Scoping Report (GN No

30 S8) and an EIA report (GN No 30 S15).

Electricity Act 4 of 2007 The Electricity Control Board (ECB) with

regards to achieving its objectives must

make recommendations to the Minister

regarding the issue and renewing of

licences (S 3(2)(a)).

A licence needs to be obtained from the

ECB for the transmission of electricity (S

17(1)(c)).

The Minister or ECB may request that an

EIA accompany applications for licences

(S 21(2)(a)(i)).

Restoration of land and rehabilitation

measures may be stipulated as a

condition of a licence (S 24(2)(b)).

NamPower should adhere to

the recommendations made

by the ECB.

NamPower requires a licence

for the transmission of

electricity.

NamPower should adhere to

any restoration or

rehabilitation measures

stipulated in the conditions of

approval laid out by the ECB.

Forestry Act 12 of 2001

Nature Conservation

Ordinance 4 of 1975

Tree species and any vegetation within

100 m from a watercourse may not be

removed without a permit (Forestry Act

S22(1)).

Prohibits the removal of and transport of

various protected plant species.

The clearing of vegetation is

prohibited 100 m either side of a

river. Certain tree species

occurring in the area are

protected under this Act and

14



September 2014


GUIDELINE


PROJECT

require a permit from the

Directorate of Forestry for

removal.

Labour Act 11 of 2007 Details requirements regarding minimum

wage and working conditions (S39-47).

NamPower should ensure that all

contractors involved in the

construction of the services

infrastructure for this project

comply with the provisions of

these legal instruments.

Furthermore Contractors are to

keep dust and noise nuisances

to a minimum.

Health and Safety

Regulations GN 156/1997

(GG 1617)

Details various requirements regarding

health and safety of labourers.

Public Health Act 36 of

1919

Section 119 states that “no person shall

cause a nuisance or shall suffer to exist on

any land or premises owned or occupied

by him or of which he is in charge any

nuisance or other condition liable to be

injurious or dangerous to health.”

National Heritage Act 27

of 2004

Section 46 prohibits the disturbance in

any form of heritage resources declared

as protected.

Section 48 (1) states that “A person may

apply to the [National Heritage] Council

for a permit to carry out works or

activities in relation to a protected place

or protected object”

All protected heritage resources

(e.g. human remains etc.)

discovered, need to be reported

immediately to the National

Heritage Council (NHC) and

require a permit from the NHC

before they may be relocated.

The provisions most important, in terms of guiding this EIA process from those listed

above are those pertaining to the conservation of biodiversity, particularly bird and

plant species (Ramsar Convention, Convention on Biodiversity, Nature Conservation

Ordinance and Forestry Act) those pertaining to resettlement and compensation of

local residents (Compensation Policy Guidelines for Communal Land) and finally those

pertaining to heritage resources (National Heritage Act).

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September 2014

4 RECEIVING ENVIRONMENT

This chapter focuses primarily on the features for which the information was insufficient

or that needed further investigation at the end of the scoping phase. The findings of

the specialist investigations form part of the descriptions, specifying sensitive areas

along the proposed route where human disturbance should be avoided or managed.

Proposed mitigation measures emanating from the assessment of the impacts are

discussed in Chapter 6.

4.1 BIOPHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

4.1.1 GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT OF PORTION 1

From west to east the proposed route starts in the Cuvelai landscape (Omatando SS) at

approximately 1100 m above MSL and enters Kalahari sandveld before moving through

western Karstveld, a short transition zone, before terminating in the Kalahari woodland.

The Karstveld is represented by a few low dolomite koppies/ridges. Gentle slopes and

wide flat expanses are two of the main distinctive features of the Cuvelai landscape.

Within the Cuvelai landscape the proposed route is underlain by sediments of silt and

clay, particularly within/along drainage channels (Mendelsohn, et al., 2000). Average

annual rainfall varies from 350 (western section) to approximately 500 mm (eastern

section) (Mendelsohn, et al., 2009). The Cuvelai drainage (see Figure 3) can be

described as a large inland delta of winding and interconnected ephemeral drainage

channels. The gentle slopes of the north central regions results in slow flow velocities

and hence slow rate of drainage, however the porous nature of the soil (and in some

areas only sand) mitigates against these slow drainage rates. The headwaters of the

Cuvelai are located in southern Angola between those of the Okavango and the

Kunene. Seasonal flash floods are a characteristic feature of the Cuvelai and these

vary considerably providing water further southwards with increasing intensity.

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September 2014

4.1.2 VEGETATION

The baseline description below pertaining to vegetation affected by Portion 2 has been

summarised from the report (see Appendix C) drafted by Mannheimer (2014).

The transmission line (from west to east) in terms of major vegetation zones starts in the

Cuvelai Drainage, then crosses into eastern Kalahari Woodlands.

In terms of minor vegetation zones Section 1 and at least the western half of Section 2

(see Figure 7) traverses the Oshana-Kalahari mosaic and palms and pans mosaic,

which includes high use value tree species such as the Jackal-berry (Diospyros

mespiliformis), Baobab (Adansonia digitata), Bird plum (Berchemia discolor), Strangler

fig (Ficus petersii), Sycamore fig (Ficus sycomorus), Manketti (Schinziophyton rautanenii)

and Marula (Sclerocarya birrea). The Leadwood tree (Combretum imberbe) has

widespread occurrence throughout the project area and is also a high use value tree.

The eastern half of Sections 2 (see Figure 7) traverses the Mixed Acacia Kalahari

woodlands, which includes high use value tree species such as Terminalia prunioides

woodland on deep Kalahari sands and the following woody species Acacia erioloba

(protected), Philenoptera nelsii (protected) and Terminalia sericea.

Plant diversity in the north central regions varies to a large extent (between 50 and 400

species). Diversity is at its highest in the extreme eastern end of the line. The diversity

then drops significantly with increasing distance to the west reaching lowest species

diversity in the pan area of the Cuvelai (less than 50 species).

The sensitivity of vegetation in the defined vegetation types are described in Table 1

below. The sensitive sections along the proposed route are further discussed in Chapter

7.

Table 1: Vegetation related sensitivities

ENVIRONMENTAL

FEATURE

DESCRIPTION SENSITIVITY POTENTIAL

IMPACTS

Range-restricted

and endemic flora

The following tree species, which are likely to

occur along the proposed transmission line

route, are restricted in range:

Entandrophragma spicatum (Owambo

wooden-banana, Omataku);

These species only

occur within a limited

geographic area

Loss in plant

species

biodiversity.

Regrowth and

coppice control

Some tree species (Dichrostachys cinerea)

are known to coppice strongly. General

vegetation regrowth will take place.

Service roads and

access to these

roads might become

overgrown

Impaired

ability to

maintain line.

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September 2014

ENVIRONMENTAL

FEATURE


IMPACTS

Clearing of

vegetation

Herbicides might be used to clear the

proposed route of vegetation during

construction and operation.

Invasive species will

encroach extensively

in areas disturbed by

herbicides.

Loss in plant

species

biodiversity.

High use value

plant species

The following tree species, which are likely to

occur along the proposed transmission line

route, are a few of those that have high use

value to local people and animals:

Adansonia digitata (Baobab); Berchemia

discolor (Bird plum); Combretum imberbe

(Leadwood); Diospyros mespiliformis

(Jackal-berry); Ficus petersii (Strangler fig);

Ficus sycomorus (Sycamore fig);

Schinziophyton rautanenii (Manketti);

Acacia erioloba, A. mellifera, Philenoptera

nelsii, Terminalia sericea, Croton gratissimus,

Dichrostachys cinerea and Catophractes

alexandri.

Plant species are

useful to local

residents and may in

some cases form part

of their livelihoods.

Economic

losses to

local

residents

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September 2014

Figure 7: Vegetation sensitivities and bird movement and distribution

19



September 2014

4.1.3 BIRDS

The baseline description below pertaining to birds species affected by Portion 2 has

been summarised from the report (see Appendix D) drafted by Pallett (2014).

The proposed transmission line route traverses areas adjacent to the Etosha Pan, Lake

Oponono and the Cuvelai Drainage, which are all included in the List of Wetlands of

International Importance (Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, 2012). Namibia is a

signatory to this convention and as such the conservation of these Ramsar sites and

their associated water birds are a national concern.

The broader area traversed by the proposed transmission line route include habitats,

which collectively are frequented, to various degrees, by approximately 200 bird

species. Of these 29 species are conservation priorities by virtue of declining

populations or endemicity.

One species of particular concern is the blue crane. The blue crane has the smallest

range of all crane species. The total global population of blue cranes is approximately

25 000, but the Namibian contingent comprises 20 individuals. These birds are

concentrated in the eastern parts of Etosha National Park and in the grasslands centred

on the Omadhiya lakes, which is located due north of the national park. The numbers

of these cranes are in decline owing to habitat loss due to expanding human

populations, trapping and snaring, poisoning, and their high vulnerability to collisions

with power lines. The blue cranes are expected to fly north-west and north-east from

the area where most individuals are concentrated – the Etosha Pan and Omadhiya

Lakes area.

Portion 2 can be divided into two habitats:

Section d: Medium-settled areas with scattered homesteads, fields and open

grazing land. Occasional oshanas (shallow channels and pans provide

conditions conducive for feeding, shelter and breeding) – the entire length of

Section 1 from Okatope SS to Oshivelo SS (see Figure 7); and

Section e: Medium-to-sparsely-settled areas with occasional oshanas, grading

into the eastern Kalahari woodlands in the south (Medium density woodland with

open grassy patches provide conditions conducive for feeding, shelter and

breeding)– the entire length of Section 2 from the the Omatando SS to the

Okatope SS (see Figure 7).

Section d traverses the habitats, which most notably support the following Red-listed

species; Cape Vulture (critically endangered), Tawny eagle, martial eagle, bateleur,

20



September 2014

Ludwig’s bustard, violet woodhoopoe and yellow-billed oxpecker, all of which are

endangered.

Section e traverses the habitats, which most notably support the following Red-listed

bird species, Blue and Wattled Crane and Cape Vulture (all critically endangered),

Grey Crowned Crane, Saddlebilled Stork saddle-billed stork, Tawny eagle, martial

eagle, bateleur, Ludwig’s bustard, violet woodhoopoe and yellow-billed oxpecker (all

endangered).

Please see Pallett (2014) (Appendix D) for a comprehensive list of affected bird species.

Table 2: Bird related sensitivities

ENVIRONMENTAL

FEATURE


IMPACTS

Bird collisions Various species of

predominantly large

birds are prone to

colliding with power

lines.

Collision mortalities are a significant

threat to many Red Data bird

species, e.g. Blue and Wattled

Crane. A full description of the red

data species expected on this

portion is provided in Pallet (2014).

Often this cause of mortality

combines with other threats such as

dwindling habitat and food

resources, and human disturbance.

Bird mortalities (of

red data species in

some instances)

owing to collisions

with powerlines.

Electrocution of

birds by power

lines

Large birds that perch,

such as eagles and

vultures, depending on

the tower design, can

get electrocuted on

powerlines when they

open their wings and

breach two conductors.

It is mainly large raptors such as

martial eagles and white-backed

vultures that are prone to

electrocution in Namibia.

Bird mortalities (of

red data species in

some instances)

owing to

electrocution

Disturbance of

breeding birds

Birds may be disturbed

at their nesting sites

either intentionally or by

accident.

Intentional disturbance, such as

collecting young parrots or trapping

birds for the muti trade, makes

certain species such as parrots and

vultures vulnerable.

Breeding birds may

lose that clutch of

young, resulting in

less recruitment into

the population.

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September 2014

4.2 SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT

4.2.1 INTRODUCTION

This section of the report attempts to broadly describe the social receiving environment

in which the project is set to occur based on the specialist report by Simon (2014). The

specialist report mainly draws on the 2001 and 2011 Namibia Population and Housing

Censuses. The aim of the section is to highlight trends that can be used as a basis for

anticipating any potential social impacts that could derive from the proposed project.

4.2.2 GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT OF PORTION 2

Portion 2 passes through two regions, namely the Oshana and Oshikoto regions. The

Oshana Region, which is the smaller of the two regions (covers 1% of Namibia’s surface

area), is also the most densely populated. According to Simon (2014) population

density varies along the line from the Omatando to Oshivelo Substations. The

population density is highest near the Omatando Substation and decreases as one

moves east towards Ongwediva and Oshivelo, meaning that is generally more difficult

to route the transmission line through the western section of Portion 2.

The area that will be traversed by the line in both regions is inhabited by communal

farmers with homesteads located inside their crop fields. According to Simon (2014)

wages and salaries are becoming increasingly important on both a national and

regional level with income generated through farming activities becoming less

prevalent. This may be due to the increase in urbanisation occurring in the area

(Oshana Region has seen a rate of urbanisation of 14% from 2001 to 2011, compared

with a 4% increase in the Oshikoto Region) or simply due to a loss of interest in farming.

Nonetheless, farming remains an important source of income with their main activities

seasonal cropping, livestock rearing and the harvesting of naturally occurring fruits and

vegetables.

The construction of the transmission line is likely to cause relocations of at least some

households, especially in the more densely populated areas.

Linked with a high level of dependence on subsistence farming as a main source of

livelihood, and on natural resources, it is understandable that many people are

concerned about land take for other purposes which would cause relocation of

people into an already overcrowded commons area. It would however be possible for

all homesteads affected to remain within the confines of their current fields should they

need to relocate. Furthermore it is understandable that for some householders, their

fruit trees are regarded as a very important livelihood source from which they make

22



September 2014

alcoholic drinks to sell for a cash income or use it for own consumption. During difficult

times it also becomes an important source of food.

Apart from the Oshana region, which saw a reduction of 1% in the proportion of

extremely poor residents, unemployment and consequently poverty remains high with

too few employment opportunities in both of the affected regions. Despite the

appearance of overall economic progress, the proportion of the population

considered to be extremely poor has increased nationally and in all the regions. It is

therefore understandable that people are eager to take up any opportunity to gain

employment in an area where educational levels are low and unemployment levels

high.

Access to services, such as potable water and adequate sanitation, has improved

nationally and in both the affected regions (Simon, 2014). There is a clear tendency of

having access to and using electricity for lighting. Many distribution lines were observed

during the fieldwork conducted by Simon (2014). However, it seems that many people

still use wood or charcoal for cooking, especially in the Oshikoto Region. The regional

councils are in the process of improving sanitation in the rural areas and pit latrines

have been deployed to many homesteads in both regions. While health indicators,

such as infant mortality rates and staff-patient ratios, are not yet available for 2011,

there appears to be fewer hospital beds available both nationally and regionally,

which indicate a possible decrease in the quality of health provision. HIV prevalence

rates, however, are very well documented at various sites throughout Namibia, many of

which fall within the affected regions for this project and there appears to be a trend

towards decreasing HIV prevalence rates overall.

4.2.3 ARCHAEOLOGY

The baseline description below pertaining to archaeology affected by Portion 2 has

been summarised from the report (see Appendix F) drafted by the archaeologist

Kinahan (2014).

The northern regions of Namibia to be traversed by the transmission line project are not

well known archaeologically. Traditional methods of millet and sorghum cultivation, has

been combined with small scale stock farming to form a secure subsistence lifestyle

that has persevered in the north-central regions of Namibia for approximately one

thousand years.

The proposed transmission line runs through a floodplain north of Ondangwa. An early

Oshindonga settlement is suspected to be located within this floodplain. The site is

marked by a grove of large Ficus sycomorus (Sycamore Fig) trees, and associated

23



September 2014

surface scatter of pottery. The site covers an area of approximately 4 ha which

contains about eight Sycamore Fig trees, most of which have a trunk thickness of 2 – 3

m. Fragments of pottery were found beneath several of the trees. The site is located

less than 50 m from the existing 132 kV transmission line.

Table 3: Socio-economic related sensitivities

ENVIRONMENTAL

FEATURE


IMPACTS

Unemployment The unemployment rate

throughout the project area is

significant.

The local community are in

need of employment

opportunities

Positive impact:

Limited job

opportunities

(mostly unskilled)

Economic Construction workers will settle

temporarily adjacent to the

proposed route.

Informal traders operating in

areas adjacent to the

proposed line can trade.

Positive: informal

economic

benefits.

The construction of the

proposed transmission line will

ensure the security of power

supply to the northern areas of

Namibia.

Lack of power supply security

for the northern regions of

Namibia.

Positive: security

of power supply

Resettlement and

relocation

The proposed transmission line

route runs through the property

(including trees) of some local

residents.

Residents whose property lies

within the servitude of the

transmission line may be

affected and in some cases

may need to be relocated.

Economic and

livelihood losses

for local

residents

Health impacts The transmission lines, which

run past some homesteads,

generate electromagnetic

fields.

Potential health risks

associated with exposure to

electromagnetic fields

generated by the line

Health impacts

HIV/AIDS prevalence in the

region is high. The project

area will experience an influx

of migrant workers during the

construction phase.

Potential increase in HIV/AIDS

infection rate owing to risky

sexual behaviour during

construction phase in the

event of an influx of migrant

labour.

Increased

HIV/AIDS

transmission

during

construction.

Heritage

resources.

Remains of an early village

settlement may be found near

a grove of Sycamore Fig trees

located near the proposed

transmission route.

Unearthed archaeological

remains are prone to

damage if not dealt with

carefully.

Disturbance

and/or

destruction of

heritage

resources.

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September 2014

5 PUBLIC CONSULTATION

5.1 INTRODUCTION

Public participation forms an important component of an Environmental Impact

Assessment (EIA) as it provides potential interested and affected parties (I&APs) with a

platform whereby they can raise any issues or concerns relevant to the proposed

project. In addition, it also warrants them with an opportunity to comment on all the

documents produced.

The consultation process followed during this EIA process included consultation

meetings in Ruacana, Outapi, Okahao, Ongwediva, Onyaanya and Omuthiya with the

relevant authorities and the public. Thereafter a scoping report containing the issues

identified during the scoping process was circulated to registered I&APs. Hard copies

of the report were sent to the Omusati, Oshana and Oshikoto Regional Council offices

to ensure that those without internet access could access and review the report. The

availability of the report at these locations was then announced over the radio. Lastly

meetings arranged by Urban Dynamics in collaboration with relevant constituency

councillors were held to consult with the people settled along, or adjacent to the

proposed route.

More details on the public participation process and its findings can be viewed in the

Scoping Report for this project.

5.2 THE MEETINGS TO DATE

Meetings were held at Ruacana, Outapi, Okahao, Ongwediva, Onyaanya and

Omuthiya. An overview of these meetings is provided in Table 4 below.

25



September 2014

Table 4: Summary of the meetings conducted

THE MEETING MAIN ISSUES RAISED

Ruacana: The meeting was held on Monday

morning, 10 March 2014 at the Eha Lodge.

No one attended the meeting.

No one attended the meeting, so no issues were discussed.

Outapi: The meeting was held at the Outapi

Town Lodge on the 10 March 2014 in the

afternoon. The representatives included a

teacher, a representative from the Omusati

Regional Council and a warden from the

Ministry of Environment and Tourism.

Soil disturbance was mentioned. The collapse of power

lines due to theft of the members were discussed, which will

require education, by parents, but also from the councillors

to the people. Top-down communications were

emphasised. Impacts on the sense of place were also

mentioned, as well as the potential risk of landmines in the

area. Reliable quantification to accurately measure the

impacts of the project were listed as a concern.

Okahao: the meeting took place at the

Ongozi Lodge on 11 March 2014 in the

morning. It was attended by a

representative from the Otamanzi

Constituency, as well members from the

Okahao Town Council.

The potential impact of the power line on power failures in

town was discussed, including potential power shortages

during construction. The Compensation Policy and fair

compensation was also spoken about, as well as the

potential dangers of living or working near or under the

power line. Comments were made regarding the early

submission date for comments on the 20th of March. The

conservation of trees was mentioned. Another comment

made was that neither the people being affected nor the

Councillors that represent them were present at the

meeting. Again, Top-down communications from the

councillors to traditional authorities were emphasised, as

well as the importance of presenting an apolitical front

when working in the field.

Ongwediva: the public consultation meeting

was held at Hotel Destiny on 11 March 2014

in the afternoon and was attended by

members of the public, students from UNAM

and members of the Oshana Regional

Council.

The length and starting date of the project was discussed,

followed by a discussion on fair compensation and the

correct channels of the dissemination of information. The

ownership of land at Omatando and the consequential

responsibility for compensation was raised as an issue by

members of the public and the Oshana Regional Council.

The use of local labour and local employment creation was

also mentioned. The location of the line, as well as its

impact on the power supply at the north was then

discussed. The impact of migrant workers on HIV/AIDS rates,

as well as marriage stability was furthermore listed as a

concern. Presenting an apolitical front when working in the

field was again emphasised by the NamPower consultant.

Onyaanya: the public consultation meeting

was held at Uukule Senior Secondary School

The impact of the line for power in the North, its location

and the impact on public safety of the line was discussed,

along with the Cabinet’s Compensation Policy and any

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September 2014

THE MEETING MAIN ISSUES RAISED

on 12 March 2014 in the morning. Only

members from the Ministry of Education

were in attendance.

resultant short term economic boom.

Omuthiya: The final public consultation

meeting was held the afternoon of the 12th

of March as was attended by a

representative of the Omuthiya Town

Council and a representative from the Kind

Nehale Community Conservancy.

Fair compensation for any loss of land, structures or other

assets was again discussed, as well as the inability of rural

households to directly connect to the line. Following the

correct channels of communication was emphasised, as

well as the need to remain apolitical when working in the

field.

5.3 PUBLIC CONCERN

From the comments received during the consultation meetings, a number of key issues.

The key issues identified are listed below in Table 5.

Table 5: Summary of issues

THEME ISSUE

POWER SUPPLY The ability of the line to provide for the future power needs of the northern

regions.

COMPENSATION Compensation for various housing structures as well as trees, e.g. fruit trees,

should be identified.

COMMUNICATION Communication should follow the proper channels from the Councillors to the

Traditional Authorities.

REPRESENTATION All the Interested and Affected Parties, as well as their Representatives need to

be in attendance during consultation.

SAFETY Houses should be located at least 20 m from the line.

Safety measures during construction should be in place.

EMPLOYMENT Local labour should be used to the extent possible.

VEGETATION Loss of vegetation and destruction of natural habitat.

FAMILY HIV/AIDS infection rates and marriage instability

ECONOMY Short term economic boom due to construction workers supporting local

shops.

POLITICS Especially in an election year, remaining apolitical in the field is important.

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September 2014

5.4 PUBLIC FEEDBACK

The Draft Scoping Report has been circulated to all I&APs for their comment. A two

week commentary period was provided from the 13th to the 27th of June 2014. Hard

copies of the report were sent to the Omusati, Oshana and Oshikoto Regional Council

offices to ensure that community members without internet access could access and

review the report. The availability of the report at these locations was then announced

over the radio by the respective constituency councillors. No comments on the report

were received.

The same process will be followed for the draft Environmental Impact Assessment

Report (EIAR) for Portion 2. The EIAR will be made available for public review for two

weeks. Any comments on the report will be addressed in an Issues and Responses Trail.

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September 2014

6 IMPACT ASSESSMENT

6.1 THE ‘NO-GO’ ALTERNATIVE

This alternative predicts the future scenario of the site, which would exist in the absence

of any project. This prediction is based on the status quo, as described in the baseline

description (Chapter 4). Should the proposed project not receive Environmental

Clearance from the DEA, the ‘no-go’ alternative will persist.

The current land use in the area consists primarily of communal farming. Communal

farmers are highly dependent on the land for their main livelihoods, which is

subsistence-type crop farming, livestock rearing and the harvesting of wild foods and

fruits. The ‘no-go’ alternative will result in the continuation of these land use activities.

Agriculture provides direct benefits to those who engage in it (farmers receive

payments for selling their livestock and harvest).

If the proposed project is denied Environmental Clearance, the demand for electricity

in the north of Namibia will continue to grow at the current rate. NamPower however,

will be without the means to meet this demand in a secure manner and further strain

would be placed on Nampower’s transmission grid.

In light of these consequences, the ‘no-go’ alternative is not considered desirable.

6.2 IDENTIFICATION OF KEY ISSUES

During the Scoping Stage of this project a screening process was applied whereby all

potentially significant impacts were identified based on an understanding of existing

environmental sensitivities, legal requirements as well as the concerns raised by I&APs.

The process explained in Figure 8 was then followed to screen the various potential

impacts. Two groups of issues were identified:

Issues that could be addressed in the Generic or Specific EMP (see Appendix B1

and B2) i.e. issues for which mitigation and management measures could

already be identified during the Scoping Stage of this EIA process and issues that

do not fall within the scope of this study; and

Issues that needed further specialist investigation i.e. issues for which sufficient

information was not available to propose mitigation measures or assess the

potential impact.

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September 2014

Based on the screening process outlined above, four areas were identified as those

which required further investigation in order to address the potential impacts.

Specialists were therefore tasked to further investigate these areas:

Impacts on vegetation (Coleen Mannheimer)

Collision of birds with the power lines (John Pallett)

Impacts archaeological sites (John Kinahan)

Socio-economic and visual impact (Ernst Simon)

The findings from these investigations are summarised in Table 6 and form the focus of

the rest of this chapter.

Figure 8: Screening process to determine key issues

Does the issue fall within the scope of the project and the

responsibility of NamPower?

30



September 2014

Table 6: Identification of key impacts during the various phases of the project.

SPECIALIST

STUDY

POTENTIAL IMPACTS OF THE PROJECT

CONSTRUCTION OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE DECOMMISSIONING

Vegetation Damage to vegetation due to vehicle

activity, construction of pylons and

construction laydown.

Damage to vegetation due to vehicle

activity.

Management of vegetation regrowth

Disturbance or destruction of vegetation

Birds Disturbance from road construction and

traffic and habitat destruction

Collisions with power line and stay wires Disturbance from traffic and noise

Archaeology Disturbance or destruction of existing

archaeological sites

Destruction or damage to new

archaeological sites exposed during

construction work.

Disturbance or destruction of existing

archaeological sites

Disturbance or destruction of existing or

new archaeological sites

Socio-

Economic and

Visual impact

Conflict with existing land uses.

Visual impact.

Meeting increased electricity demand

(positive impact).

Conflict with existing land uses.

Visual impact.

Reduction in the availability of electricity

in the northern regions

31



September 2014

6.3 METHODOLOGY EMPLOYED FOR THE IMPACT ASSESSMENT

Each of the identified impacts listed above were assessed with the aim of determining

their significance. The criteria used to describe the significance of a given potential

impact on a particular environmental feature (i.e. vegetation, biodiversity, birds,

archaeology and socio-economic environment) are contained in the Table 7 below:

Table 7: Definitions of each of the criteria used to determine the significance of impacts

DESCRIPTION

Nature Reviews the type of effect that the proposed activity will have on the relevant

component of the environment and includes “what will be affected and how?”

Extent Geographic area. Indicates whether the impact will be within a limited area

(on site where construction is to take place); local (limited to within 15km of the

area); regional (limited to ~100km radius); national (limited to the borders of

Namibia); or international (extending beyond Namibia’s borders).

Duration Whether the impact will be temporary (during construction only), short term (1-5

years), medium term (5-10 years), long term (longer than 10 years, but will cease

after operation) or permanent.

Intensity Establishes whether the magnitude of the impact is destructive or innocuous

and whether or not it exceeds set standards, and is described as none (no

impact); low (where natural/ social environmental functions and processes are

negligibly affected); medium (where the environment continues to function but

in a noticeably modified manner); or high (where environmental functions and

processes are altered such that they temporarily or permanently cease and/or

exceed legal standards/requirements).

Probability Considers the likelihood of the impact occurring and is described as uncertain,

improbable (low likelihood), probable (distinct possibility), highly probable (most

likely) or definite (impact will occur regardless of prevention measures).

Significance Significance is given before and after mitigation. Low if the impact will not have

an influence on the decision or require to be significantly accommodated in

the project design, Medium if the impact could have an influence on the

environment which will require modification of the project design or alternative

mitigation (the route can be used, but with deviations or mitigation) High where

it could have a “no-go” implication regardless of any possible mitigation (an

alternative route should be used).

Status of the impact A statement of whether the impact is positive (a benefit), negative (a cost), or

neutral. Indicate in each case who is likely to benefit and who is likely to bear

the costs of each impact.

Degree of Confidence in

Predictions

Is based on the availability of specialist knowledge and other information.

32



September 2014

Table 8: Definitions of the various significance ratings

SIGNIFICANCE RATING CRITERIA

Low Where the impact will have a negligible influence on the environment and no

modifications or mitigations are necessary for the given development

description. This would be allocated to impacts of any intensity, if at a local

scale/ extent and of temporary duration/time.

Medium Where the impact could have an influence on the environment, which will

require modification of the development design and/or alternative mitigation.

This would be allocated to impacts of medium intensity, locally to regionally,

and in the short term.

High Where the impact could have a significant influence on the environment and,

in the event of a negative impact the activity(ies) causing it, should not be

permitted (i.e. there could be a ‘no-go’ implication for the development,

regardless of any possible mitigation). This would be allocated to impacts of

high intensity, locally for longer than a month, and/or of high magnitude

regionally and beyond.

6.4 ASSESSMENT OF IMPACTS

6.4.1 IMPACT ON VEGETATION

DESCRIPTION

According Mannheimer (2014) several endemic, protected and high use-value tree

species occur along the proposed route. The highest recorded concentrations of the

fruit and fodder trees are located along Section 1 (Figure 9) near the Omatando

Substation. Tree species, which are used for timber and fuel are common along most of

the proposed route and in recent years have been experiencing high levels of loss,

particularly in the densely populated areas, hence cumulative losses are of concern. It

is unlikely that the proposed project will pose a significant threat to endemic and range

restricted tree species.

However, despite the presence of these species the overall impact of the project on

vegetation could be low if sufficient care is taken to prevent unnecessary collateral

damage. This is due to the fact that affected species are sparsely distributed along

most of the proposed route, which has already been adjusted to avoid most significant

clusters of vegetation.

33



September 2014

MITIGATION

The following mitigation measures are recommended:

The layout of substations should avoid trees of high concern and other large

trees where technically possible;

The movement of construction vehicles should be controlled;

Arboricides that may be spread by water to non-target areas should not be

used; and

Large fruit trees should be conserved as far possible regardless of whether

consent is obtained from local people.

MONITORING

The following monitoring measures are recommended:

Individual trees of high concern species close to the route that can be spared

should be mapped, clearly marked and pointed out to construction crews; and

Regular inspection of compliance should be undertaken during construction.

Figure 9: Location of areas of concern for vegetation and birds



September 2014

Table 9: Summary of vegetation impact assessment

POTENTIAL IMPACT STATUS/ NATURE EXTENT DURATION INTENSITY PROBABILITY DEGREE OF

CONFIDENCE

SIGNIFICANCE

PRE-MITIGATION POST-MITIGATION

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Destruction of

important fruit trees

due to construction

activities

Negative, local populace likely to

lose trees offering high value nutrition

and cash crops, also foods that can

be stored for the dry season.

Local Permanent Medium Probable High Medium Low

Destruction of

important and

protected wood,

timber , fuel and

fodder trees due to

construction activities

Negative, Local populace likely to

lose some of these resources.

However, electrification will also

reduce the pressure on wood for fuel.

Local Long-term Low Definite High Low Low

Destruction of

endemic and range-

restricted plant species

Negative Local/

National

Long-term Low Improbable High Low Low

OPERATION PHASE

Destruction of

important fruit trees

due to operation and

maintenance activities

Negative. Local populace likely to

lose trees offering high value nutrition

and cash crops, also foods that can

be stored for the dry season.

Local Permanent Medium Improbable High Low Low

Destruction of wood,

timber and fuel trees

due to operation and

maintenance activities

Negative. Local populace likely to

lose some of these resources.

However, electrification will also

reduce the pressure on wood for fuel.

Local Long-term Low Improbable High Low Low

6.4.2 IMPACT ON BIRDS

The proposed study area has a relatively high conservation status and biodiversity

value, which is reflected in the approximately 200 bird species that have been

recorded in the overall study area (Pallett, 2014).

The impact on birds relates to bird-powerline interactions (collisions, electrocutions

and nesting) and the disturbance of birds during construction. Electrocutions are

unlikely owing to the design of the V-structure pylons, which are not conducive for

perching and the fact that the monopole structures are located in densely

populated areas rarely frequented by vulnerable bird species. During construction

bird breeding and nesting sites are likely to be disturbed resulting in potential

breeding failure. The impact of greatest concern however, is that of bird collisions

with powerlines.

The intensity of the threat differs from species to species, depending on their present

population and range, and their vulnerability to collisions. Factors influencing the

vulnerability of bird species is the proximity of the powerline to their habitat and

intersections with migratory paths. The blue and wattled cranes are expected to

move north-west and north-east centred on their areas of highest concentration –

the Etosha Pan and Omadhiya Lakes area (Figure 9). Red Data species most likely

to be affected are:

Tawny eagle, bateleur eagle;

Cape vulture, White-backed vulture, lappet-faced vulture, white-headed

vulture;

Secretary bird, marabou stork, saddle-billed stork;

Greater flamingo, lesser flamingo, great white pelican;

Blue crane, wattled crane; and

Kori bustard, Ludwig’s bustard.



September 2014

MITIGATION

The yellow section ‘d–65km’ in Figure 10 carries a moderate risk of collisions

with Red Data birds such as saddle-billed stork, marabou stork and raptors,

with a low possibility of cranes due to the area being moderately settled by

people, and the fact that the power line corridor along part of its length is

close to the B1 road which carries much traffic. However, parts of section ‘d–

65km’ might warrant marking with Double Loop Bird Flight Diverters commonly

referred to as ‘spirals’, for a short distance, such as where the line traverses

oshanas or a clump of relatively tall trees. These segments will be identified

by Mr John Pallett during the construction phase, and BFDs will be installed on

those sections;

The green section in Figure 10 (‘e-120 km’) should be marked with spirals

owing to potential intersection of blue or wattled crane flight paths;

A 10 m interval between devices on any one wire is recommended, with the

devices being staggered so that an oncoming bird is faced with a spiral every

5 m;

Spirals should be coloured either black or white, and the two colours should

alternate along the earth wires; and

A member from the NamPower SHE Section should be actively involved, as

often as practically possible, at the work sites which will help to keep levels of

intentional and accidental disturbance to nesting birds and to other terrestrial

wildlife low.

MONITORING

During standard maintenance operations, any bird mortalities should be

reported to the relevant NamPower staff member and to the coordinators of

the Environmental Information Service (www.the-eis.com) so that the

information is captured and available for future reference;

The condition of the devices should be recorded over time so that any

deterioration is noted;

The environmental officer(s) and any security staff should be briefed to be

alert and take note and record any suspicious activities;

Records should be kept by the relevant staff on how many nests are removed

from which towers, and of what kind of birds (if they can be identified). This

data should be forwarded to the relevant Environmental Officer in

NamPower, as well as to the coordinators of the Environmental Information

Service so the information becomes accessible to the public

http://www.the-eis.com/

Figure 10: Sections along Portion 2 sensitive to bird collisions



September 2014

Table 10: Summary of bird impact assessment

POTENTIAL

IMPACT

STATUS/ NATURE EXTENT DURATION INTENSITY PROBABILITY DEGREE OF

CONFIDENCE

SIGNIFICANCE


CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Disturbance to

birds, habitat

modification/

destruction and

poaching.

Red-listed species are disturbed in their

feeding/ roosting/ breeding areas – even

though the habitat has been man-

modified. Poaching of birds. This may

result in a loss in biodiversity.

Local/

National

Temporary Low Probable Medium Low Low

OPERATION PHASE

Mortality of birds

due to collisions

with power line.

Loss of Birds (some of which are Red Data

Species) due to collisions with power line.

This may result in a loss in biodiversity.

Local/

National

Long-term/

Permanent

High Certain High High Medium

Mortality of birds

due to

electrocutions

Loss of Birds (some of which are Red Data

Species) due to electrocutions when

perched on towers. This may result in a loss

in biodiversity.

Local/

National

Permanent Low Improbable Medium Low Low

Removal of bird

nests on towers

Negative Local Long-term Low Definite High Low Low

IMPACT SIGNIFICANCE

Trade-offs pertaining to environmental opportunities and constraints are an

inevitable consequence of many development activities. The impact pertaining to

the mortality of birds due to collisions with power lines is unavoidable. Significant

time and effort has been exerted in terms of devising and choosing the best

practicable route alternatives. Mitigation measures have been devised and put in

place to further reduce the impact significance. However, despite these efforts the

post-mitigation impact significance will only be reduced (from high) to medium (not

low). This is owing to the fact that the proposed route intersects the flight paths of

critically endangered bird species and a high risk that collisions will occur (even if the

rate of collisions is unknown). The implementation of the proposed project, given

the significance of this impact, is only justified in light of the significant need to

increase the capacity of NamPower to supply electricity to the northern regions of

Namibia. The rate of increase in the demand for electricity has been faster in recent

years in keeping with the rate of urbanisation in the northern regions of Namibia.

Failure to implement the proposed project would have significant consequences for

future development in the north of Namibia and increased electricity demands

would destabilise sections of the national grid.



September 2014

6.4.3 IMPACT ON THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT

DESCRIPTION

According to Simon (2014) the proposed 400 kV transmission line from Omatando

Substation to Oshivelo Substation will partly be routed through a densely populated

communal farming area, resulting in the need to relocate some homesteads to the

outside of the servitude. A total of 43 households will be affected (Simon, 2014). The

main impacts of this line will therefore be on the communal farmers who are highly

dependent on the land for their main livelihoods, which are crop farming, livestock

rearing and the harvesting of wild foods and fruits.

The proposed route runs through 254 seasonally cultivated fields over a distance of

174 km. It is likely that a total of 165 fruit-bearing trees will need to be cut down in

preparation for constructing the transmission line. These trees are used as food, and

the making of traditional juice and alcoholic drinks. The fruit from these trees

become particularly important during harsh conditions when it supplements the

meagre food sources of some local households. Fields are generally rudimentarily

fenced and sometimes fenced with stock fences. Construction equipment will need

to pass through a total of 50 fences (Simon, 2014) and through crop fields. Provision

for access needs to be made for the maintenance of the line. Construction

equipment in the fields could result in soil compaction in the fields. During operation,

farming activities like ploughing and harvesting can be affected by the towers and

guy ropes.

Haul vehicles, earthmoving equipment, cranes, stringing equipment and chain saws

used during construction and operations produce noise and dust that may impact

adjacent land owners. Although the construction of a transmission line is a fairly

specialised operation, there are some tasks that require largely unskilled manual

labour such as the digging of foundation pits. This could bring some much needed

employment to the local community.

During the construction phase of the project, large construction machinery will move

and operate close to homesteads. This presents a safety risk for residents, especially

children who may venture too close in an attempt to observe these large machines

operate. During operation, risks are related to the collapse of towers or lines which

may cause electrocution or damage to farm infrastructure.

With construction workers moving into the area from elsewhere, it is likely that risky

sexual behaviour along the proposed route will increase during the construction

period. This could increase the spread of the HIV/AIDS.



September 2014

MITIGATION/ENHANCEMENT

The social impact will be mitigated through compensation as per the

Compensation Policy Guidelines for Communal Land (2008) of the Namibian

Government. According to this policy, farmers must be compensated fairly

for the huts/buildings to be moved as well as for fences, kraals and other farm

infrastructure. This is to enable farmers to re-create their homestead outside

the servitude, but still in the same field. The Policy also makes provision for the

compensation for the loss of trees which are mainly used for making juice and

traditional alcoholic drinks but also for food in times of adversity or as pleasant

tasting fruits. Although compensation cannot replace the loss of these trees,

it does compensate people for the loss they would suffer as a result of the loss

of such trees. The impact will be mitigated through compensation, which will

be calculated and assessed in accordance with the Compensation Policy

Guidelines for Communal land (see Relocation and Compensation Plan as

Appendix to the Specific EMP (Appendix B2).

The placement of pylons should be planned in such a way that they fall

outside or along the edge of existing crop fields. This would lessen the impact

on farming operations during the operation phase of the line as well as limit

the impact of excavations on farming operations during the construction

phase. Excess soil from excavations should not be placed on crop fields, but

should rather be dispersed within and adjacent to the pylon footprint after

backfilling is completed.

A total of 50 fences, most built of poles and branches and some of poles and

strained wire must be crossed for the construction road. To mitigate this

impact, it is important that the survey team establish contact with each of

these farmers to determine the most suitable method of dealing with this

issue. In the cases where proper pole and strained wire fences exist, proper

gates must be installed as is normally done in the commercial farming areas.

In the case of pole and branch fences, it may be possible to open these

fences and leave it open for the duration of the construction period and then

to close it again after construction. But this will only be practical if

construction takes place outside the farming season. This needs to be

negotiated with the affected households. It is therefore very important that

construction is completed before the ploughing season is to commence.

Construction vehicles will need to move across the fields during the erection

of the towers and the stringing of the lines. To mitigate the compaction of soil

it is suggested that these movements be limited and that alternative existing

roads be used to reach the pylons. The area is traversed by a number of

tracks and it is possible to utilise these tracks to reach the tower sites rather

than to drive through the fields.



September 2014

Although little can be done to force the contractor to make use of local

labour, it is suggested that the contractor be sensitised about this issue and

requested to utilise local labour where possible and as and when required.

This should be made clear at the first site meeting after appointment. Local

leaders could help with recruitment and the senior headman should be

approached from the outset of the project to work out a methodology

according to which the contractor can carry out recruitment. If local people

are recruited, a key principle must be to make this as inclusive as possible and

recruit people living along the line equally as they are available.

To curb the potential impact of increased HIV infections, the matter should be

addressed at two levels. Firstly, all construction workers should be

encouraged to participate in an HIV/AIDS prevention programme and be

made aware of the dangers of unprotected sexual relations with the local

population. All staff should be subjected to the training prior to the

commencement of construction and once a month thereafter. The risks of

multiple and concurrent sexual partnerships should be included in the

prevention programme. Lastly, the traditional leaders of the area should also

be sensitised about these risks and also encouraged to take part in the

prevention programme. They would then be required to share this with the

local community.

Summary

The information from the social impact assessment is summarised in the Table 11

below.

Table 11: Summary of the potential impacts of the proposed power line project on the surrounding socio-economic environment

POTENTIAL IMPACT STATUS/ NATURE EXTENT DURATION INTENSITY PROBABILITY DEGREE OF

CONFIDENCE

SIGNIFICANCE


CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Impact on farming

operations

Negative Local Medium

term

Low Highly

probable

High Low Low

Dust and noise

impacts

Negative Local Long-term Low Highly

probable

High Low Low

Relocation of

homesteads

Negative Local Permanent Medium Definite High Medium Low

Loss of fruit-bearing

trees and associated

livelihood impact

Negative Local Permanent Medium Definite High Medium Low

Employment creation Positive Local Short term Low Probable High Low Low

Safety during

construction

Negative Local Short term Medium Probable High Medium Low

Spread of HIV/AIDS Negative Local Medium

term

Medium Highly

probable

High High Medium

OPERATION PHASE

Impact on farming

operations

Negative Local Long-term Low Highly

probable

High Medium Low

6.4.4 DESTRUCTION OR DAMAGE TO ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES

According to Kinahan (2014) there is a possibility that part of the proposed route

traverses an area suspected to be the site of an early Oshindonga village settlement

(see Figure 11). Based on the presence of a large clump of potentially very old

Sycamore fig trees as well as some pottery in the topsoil this settlement, it is

suspected that a royal homestead was located within this site. Early historical

accounts mention these homesteads but none have been found so far. The site is

represented by a floodplain north of Ondangwa, which covers an area of

approximately 4 ha, which contains about eight Sycamore Fig trees, most of which

have a trunk width of 2 – 3 m. Hence there is a possibility that archaeological

remains might be disturbed or destroyed during the construction of the transmission

line near this site.

MITIGATION

The abovementioned site should be avoided as far as practicably possible in

terms of laydown areas and vehicular traffic. In addition, the archaeological

heritage data presented in the Archaeology Impact Study (see Appendix F)

should be integrated with the Specific EMP (Appendix B2) and follow-up

regarding this data should be carried out during the construction phase.

Figure 11: Archaeological site of concern

Table 12: Summary of archaeology impact assessment

POTENTIAL

IMPACT

STATUS/ NATURE EXTENT DURATION INTENSITY PROBABILITY DEGREE OF

CONFIDENCE

SIGNIFICANCE


CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Disturbance and/or

destruction of

heritage resources.

Remains of an early

Oshindonga settlement are

located along the proposed

route.

Local and

landscape

level

Permanent Low-High (Based

on proximity to

sites)

Possible Medium Medium Low

OPERATION PHASE

Disturbance and/or

destruction of

heritage resources.

Remains of an early



route.

Local and

landscape

level


on proximity to

sites)


DECOMMISSIONING PHASE

Disturbance and/or

destruction of

heritage resources.

Remains of an early



route.

Local and

landscape

level


on proximity to

sites)


6.4.5 ASSESSMENT OF CUMULATIVE IMPACTS

Cumulative impacts are impacts that result from the incremental impact of a

proposed activity on a common resource when added to the impacts of other past,

present or reasonably foreseeable future activities. Cumulative impacts can occur

from the collective impacts of individual minor actions over a period of time and

can include both direct and indirect impacts.

Power lines existing in the area include many lengths of 33kV and 132kV lines running

between Oshivelo and Ruacana, and northwards from Oshakati to Oshikango, and

a 66kV line running between Oshivelo and Oshakati. The addition of another power

line in an area that is frequented by a number of sensitive bird species may

cumulatively add to the existing impact that power lines have, particularly in terms

of collisions. It must also be remembered that all of the Red Data species affected

by the proposed line are also threatened by other factors such as human

disturbance, declining food and habitat availability. The cumulative effect of the

power line is thus significant for all of the Red Data birds.

Another area of potential concern is the cumulative effect associated with the

removal of tree species. Overharvesting due to population pressure for building

materials and other resources, such as palm wine, has already caused large scale

losses of palm trees and trees used for wooden tools and utensils, fuel and timber.

Large fruit trees, in the northern regions of Namibia, are of such high value that they

have often been retained, even within cultivated fields, but they are species that

are by nature sparsely distributed. The fact that wood for houses, fences, utensils,

tools and fuel often comes from species that are common, but not formally

protected (such as Colophospermeum mopane, Combretum collinum, Terminalia

sericea, T. prunioides, among others) means that their destruction should also be

minimised as far as possible, particularly the larger varieties.

MITIGATION

Bird mortalities due to collisions with powerlines are a major concern globally

and nationally. To reduce the additional threat posed by this power line on

Red Data species, such as the blue and wattled crane, the mitigation

measures prescribed in this report should strictly be adhered to. Furthermore,

it is important that members of the construction and maintenance teams are

made aware of the risks posed to birds by powerlines and that an overall

conscientiousness for the protection of wildlife is encouraged.

It will not be possible to avoid damage to tree species, some of which will be

common along the route. However, because there is already a high level of

loss, particularly in the densely populated areas, cumulative losses are of

concern so unnecessary collateral damage should be avoided and large

specimens of all tree species should be conserved as far as possible.



September 2014

7 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

7.1 CONCLUSIONS

The four key biophysical and socio-economic impacts related to the proposed

construction and operation of a new transmission line from the Omatando

Substation to the Oshivelo Substation can be summarised as follows:

Impact on vegetation: Several high use value (fruit, fodder, fuel and timber)

tree species as well as a few endemic and range restricted plant species

occur within the project area. Overall, vegetation losses are expected to be

low and hence the significance of the impact as well, owing to adjustments

to the transmission line route, which avoid significant clusters of vegetation.

Impact on birds: The project area supports a relatively high diversity of

species. The main impact pertaining to birds associated with the construction

and operation of the power line in this area is related to potential collisions

once the line is operational. The transmission line route has been adjusted to

move as far away from the areas supporting a relatively high diversity of bird

species, as possible. Mitigation measures (including fitting the proposed

transmission line with Bird Flight Diverters among others) have been included

in the Specific EMP to address bird-powerline interactions. Despite these

measures the significance of these impacts, overall, has only been reduced

to a medium level. However, the significance of the direct and indirect

economic benefits of the proposed project justifies the medium risk posed to

critically endangered species (specifically the blue and wattled crane).

Socio-economic impacts: The proposed route goes through densely

populated areas. In order to avoid impacts on people and their property the

transmission line route was adjusted to avoid as many properties as possible.

A total of 43 households will however still be affected by the proposed route.

Relocation will need to take place and property (homesteads and trees) will

be affected. A total of 165 fruit-baring trees will need to be removed.

However, compensation for the loss of trees, and other immovable property

will be carried out in accordance with a Relocation and Compensation Plan

drafted in line with the Compensation Policy Guidelines for Communal Land.

As a result the significance of these socio-economic impacts has been

reduced to a low level.

Impact on archaeology: One potentially sensitive archaeological site, a

floodplain covering an area of 4 ha, is located north of Ondangwa. This site is

to be avoided as far as practicably possible. A “chance find” procedure is

set out in EMP for use during the construction phase, to cater for the discovery



September 2014

of new sites and hence the significance of this impact has been reduced to a

low level.

7.2 RECOMMENDATIONS

In light of what can be concluded regarding the potential impacts associated with

the proposed transmission line, NamPower will be able to reduce the significance of

most of these to acceptable levels if they implement the mitigation measures

outlined in both the General and Specific EMP (which includes the Relocation and

Compensation Plan). It is therefore important the EMP is audited to ensure

compliance and that monitoring takes place as outlined therein otherwise the

impacts identified will remain unacceptable.

It is therefore recommended that the proposed project receive Environmental

Clearance, provided that the generic EMP and the specific EMP are

implemented.



September 2014

8 REFERENCES

Mendelsohn, J., el Obeid, S. & Roberts, C., 2000. A Profile of North-Central Namibia.

Windhoek: Gamsberg Macmillan Publishers.

Mendelsohn, J., Jarvis, A., Roberts, C. & Robertson, T., 2009. Atlas of Namibia. 3rd ed.

Cape Town: Sunbird Publishers.

Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, 2012. The Annotated Ramsar List: Namibia.

[Online]

Available at: http://www.ramsar.org/cda/en/ramsar-pubs-notes-anno-list-

16497/main/ramsar/1-30-168%5E16497_4000_0__

[Accessed 25 March 2014].

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