initial environmental examination...aez agro-ecological zone ais air insulated switchgear bbs...
TRANSCRIPT
Initial Environmental Examination
Document Stage: Draft Project Number: P49423-005(BAN) September 2016
Bangladesh: Bangladesh Power System
Enhancement and Efficiency Improvement Project
(Component 1: Transmission system development
in Southern Bangladesh)
Prepared by Power Grid Company of Bangladesh Ltd. (PGCB), Government of Bangladesh
for the Asian Development Bank.
CURRENCY EQUIVALENTS
(as of 22 September 2016)
Currency unit – Taka (Tk)
Tk.1.00 = USD0.01276
USD1.00 = Tk. 78.325
This initial environmental examination is a document of the borrower. The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of ADB's Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature. Your attention is directed to the “terms of use” section on ADB’s website.
In preparing any country program or strategy, financing any project, or by making any
designation of or reference to a particular territory or geographic area in this document, the
Asian Development Bank does not intend to make any judgments as to the legal or other
status of any territory or area.
i
Abbreviations
ADB Asian Development Bank
AEZ Agro-ecological Zone
AIS Air Insulated Switchgear
BBS Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics
BEZ Bio-ecological Zone
BMD Bangladesh Meteorological Department
BOD Biochemical Oxygen Demand
BREB Bangladesh Rural Electrification Board
BWDB Bangladesh Water Development Board
CEGIS Center for Environmental and Geographic Information Services
CITES Convention on International Trade in endangered species
COD Chemical Oxygen Demand
DAE Department of Agricultural Extension
DC Deputy Commissioner
DEPC Department of Environmental Pollution Control
DESCO Dhaka Electric Supply Company
DG Director General
DIA Direct Impact Area
DO Dissolved Oxygen
DoE Department of Environment
DoF Department of Fisheries
DoL Department of Livestock
EA Executing Agency
EC Electrical Conductivity
ECA Environment Conservation Act
ECR Environment Conservation Rules
ii
EIA Environmental Impact Assessment
EMP Environmental Management Plan
EQS Environment Quality Standards
FAO Food and Agriculture Organization
FD Forest Department
FGD Focused Group Discussion
FIDC Forest Industries Development Corporation
FRSS Fisheries Resources Survey System
GIA General Impact Area
GIS Geographic Information Systems
GRC Grievance Redress Committee
GRM Grievance Redress Mechanism
GS Grid Substation
GoB Government of Bangladesh
HES Health Environment and Safety
HH/HHs Households
HYV High Yielding Variety
IA Implementing Agency
IEE Initial Environmental Examination
IESC Important Environmental and Social Component
INGO Implementing NGO Agency
IUCN International Union for Conservation for Nature
LGRC Local Level Grievous Redress Committee
JICA Japan International Cooperation Agency
MDG Millennium Development Goal
MoEF Ministry of Environment and Forest
MoU Memorandum of Understanding
iii
MPEMR Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources
NCA Net Cultivated Area
NCS National Conservation Strategy
NEMAP National Environment Management Action Plan
NG3 National Grid 3
NGO Non-Governmental Organization
NoC No Objection Certificate
OMS Operation Management System
PAPs Project Affected People (s)
PBS Palli Bidyut Samiti
PCM People’s Consultation Meeting
PMU Project Management Unit
PGCB Power Grid Company of Bangladesh Ltd.
PGRC Project Level Grievous Redress Committee
PPE Personal Protection Equipment
PWD Public Works Department
RP Resettlement Plan
RCC Reinforced Cement Concrete
RoW Right of Way
RRA Rapid Rural Appraisal
RS Remote Sensing
SCADA Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition
SPM Suspended Particulate Matter
SPS Safeguard Policy Statement
SRDI Soil Resources Development Institute
STW Shallow Tube Well
ToR Terms of Reference
iv
TL Transmission Line
TSP Triple Super Phosphate
UP Union Prishad
UNCED United Nations Conference on Environment and Development
UNDP United Nations Development Programme
WB World Bank
v
Weights and Measures
oC - degree Celsius
dB(A) - decibel acoustic
ha - hectare
km - kilometer
km/h - kilometer per hour
kg kilogram
kV kilo Volt
m - meter
m3 - cubic meter
m3/hr - cubic meters per hour
mg/l - milligrams per liter
mm milimeter
m/s - meters per second
MT metric ton
MW - megawatt
ppm - parts per million
ppt - parts per thousand
sq/km - Square kilometer
Tk - Taka
μg/m3 - microgram per cubic meter
vi
Glossary
Adverse Impact: An impact that is considered undesirable.
Ambient Air: Surrounding air.
Aquatic: Growing or living in or near water.
Bangla: Bengali language.
Baseline (or existing) Conditions: The ‘baseline’ essentially comprises the factual
understanding and interpretation of existing environmental, social and health conditions of
where the business activity is proposed. Understanding the baseline shall also include those
trends present within it, and especially how changes could occur regardless of the presence
of the Project, i.e. the ‘No-development Option’.
Bazar: Market.
Beel: A ‘back swamp’ or depression can be either perennial or seasonal.
Beneficial Impacts: Impacts, which are considered to be desirable and useful.
Biological Diversity: The variety of life forms, the different plants, animals and micro
organisms, genes they contain and the ecosystems they form. It is usually considered at
three levels: genetic diversity, species diversity and ecological diversity.
Char: Newly accreted land: Land, sometimes islands, within main river channels and nearby
mainland or in the estuary, subject to erosion and accretion.
Ecosystem: A dynamic complex of plant, animal, fungal and microorganism communities
and associated non-living environment interacting as an ecological unit.
vii
Emission: The total amount of solid, liquid or gaseous pollutant emitted into the atmosphere
from a given source within a given time, as indicated, for e.g., in grams per cubic meter of
gas or by a relative measure, upon discharge from the source.
Endangered Species: Species in danger of extinction and whose survival is unlikely if the
existing conditions continue to operate. Included among those are species whose numbers
have been reduced to a critical level or whose habitats have been so drastically reduced
that they are deemed to suffer from immediate danger of extinction.
Environmental Effects: The measurable changes, in the natural system of productivity and
environmental quality, resulting from a development activity
Environmental Impact: An estimate or judgment of the significance and value of
environmental effects for natural, socio-economic and human receptors.
Environment Management Plan (EMP): A plan to undertake an array of follow-up activities
which provide for the sound environmental management of a project/ intervention so that
adverse environmental impacts are minimized and mitigated; beneficial environmental
effects are maximized; and sustainable development is ensured.
Environmental Management: Managing the productive use of natural resources without
reducing their productivity and quality.
Erosion: Process in which wind and water removes materials from their original place; for
instance, soil washed away from an agricultural field.
Evaluation: The process of looking back at what has been really done or accomplished.
Fauna: A collective term denoting the animals occurring in a particular region or period.
Field Reconnaissance: A field activity that confirms the information gathered through
secondary sources. This field study is essentially a rapid appraisal.
Flora: All of the plants found in a given area.
viii
Habitat: The natural home or environment for a plant or animal.
Household: A household is identified as a dwelling unit where one or more persons live and
eat together with common cooking arrangement. Persons living in the same dwelling unit
having separate cooking arrangements constitute separate households.
Important Environmental Component (IEC): These are environmental components of
biophysical or socio-economic importance to one or more interested parties. The use of
important environmental components helps to focus the environmental assessment.
Khal: Small channel, canal.
Land Use: Types include agriculture, horticulture, settlement, pisciculture and industries
Mauza: A Bangla word for the smallest government administrative area corresponding to
village revenue unit.
Mitigation: An action, which may prevent or minimize adverse impacts and enhance
beneficial impacts.
Negative Impact: Negative change from the existing situation due to the Project.
Project: The Project includes all work related to; (i) construction of 174 km long Aminbazar-
Maowa-Mongla 400 kV double circuit transmission line, and (ii) augmentation of the
Aminbazaar grid substation with 3 x 520 MVA transformers to receive power from the
Aminbazar-Maowa-Mongla transmission line.
Public Involvement / Public Consultation: A range of techniques that can be used to
inform, consult or interact with stakeholders affected / to be affected by a proposal.
Reversible Impact: An environmental impact that recovers either through natural process
or with human assistance (e.g. cutting off fish migration by an embankment might be
reversible at a later stage if a proper regulator is built).
ix
Stakeholders: Those who may be potentially affected by a proposal, e.g. local people, the
proponent, government agencies, NGOs, donors and others, all parties who may be
affected by the Project or to take an interest in it.
Taka: Unit of Bangladeshi currency.
Terrestrial: Living on land.
Thana: Sub-district level of government administration, comprising several unions under
district.
Union: Smallest unit of local self government comprising several villages.
Upazila: Sub-district name. Upozila introduced in 1982.
Zila: Bengali word for district.
NOTE
(i) In this report, "USD" refers to US dollars.
x
Table of Contents
Weights and Measures ................................................................................. v
Glossary ..................................................................................................... vi
Table of Contents ........................................................................................ x
List of Tables ............................................................................................ xv
List of Figures .......................................................................................... xvi
List of Maps ............................................................................................. xvii
List of Appendix ..................................................................................... xviii
Executive Summary .................................................................................. xix
Chapter 1 Introduction and Methodology ...................................................... 1
1.1 Background of the Study ..................................................................................... 1
1.2 Project Activities .................................................................................................. 2
1.3 Objectives of the Project ...................................................................................... 4
1.4 Scope of Work ..................................................................................................... 5
1.5 Objectives of the IEE study ................................................................................. 5
1.6 Study Area .......................................................................................................... 6
1.7 Methodology ........................................................................................................ 8
1.8 Structure of the Report ........................................................................................ 9
Chapter 2 Policy and Legislations .............................................................. 11
2.1 Overview ........................................................................................................... 11
2.2 Organization Related with Enforcement of Environmental Standards ................ 14
2.2.1 Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF) ............................................. 14
2.2.2 Department of Environment (DoE) ........................................................... 14
2.2.3 Forest Department ................................................................................... 15
2.2.4 Related Other Organizations .................................................................... 15
2.3 National Policies and Legislation Relevant to Environment ................................... 15
2.4 Other Relevant Acts Related to Environment ...................................................... 15
xi
2.4.1 The Bangladesh Wildlife Preservation Order (1973; amended to Act in 1974)
................................................................................................................ 15
2.4.2 The National Forest Policy (1994) ............................................................ 15
2.5 Policy Related with Energy Development ............................................................. 16
2.5.1 The Electricity Act, 1910 and Electricity Rules 1937 ................................. 16
2.5.2 The Telegraph Act (1885) ........................................................................ 16
2.5.3 The Power Policy, 1995 ........................................................................... 16
2.5.4 The Energy Policy (1996 updated 2004) ................................................... 16
2.5.5 The Industrial Policy (1999) ...................................................................... 17
2.6 Compliance with International Requirements ..................................................... 17
2.6.1 Rio Declaration ........................................................................................ 17
2.6.2 Convention on Biological Diversity, (1992) ............................................... 17
2.6.3 Wetlands of International Importance as Waterfowl Habitat, (1971) ......... 17
2.6.4 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) .. 18
2.6.5 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, Montego Bay, (1982) .................. 18
2.6.6 Others (Conventions and Agreements) .................................................... 18
2.7 Compliance with ADB Safeguard Policy Statement, 2009 ................................. 19
2.8 ADB’s Environment Safeguard Requirements- Policy Principles ....................... 19
2.9 Compliance with PGCB Health Environment and Safety (HES) Requirements .. 20
2.10 Building Construction (Amendment) Act, 1990 & Rules 1996 ............................ 21
2.11 Rules and Policies in Related Fields .................................................................. 22
Chapter 3 Description of the Project .......................................................... 24
3.1 Background of the Project ................................................................................. 24
3.2 Project Category ................................................................................................ 24
3.3 Project Location ................................................................................................. 25
3.4 Physical Features of the Transmission Line and Towers ................................... 25
3.5 The Aminbazar Grid Substation ......................................................................... 28
3.6 Components of Construction Works .................................................................. 30
3.7 Construction Equipment .................................................................................... 31
3.8 Civil Construction Works ................................................................................... 31
3.8.1 Back-filling of Grid Substation Sites ......................................................... 31
3.8.2 Earth Work in Foundations ....................................................................... 31
3.8.3 Foundation Treatment .............................................................................. 31
3.8.4 Back Filling with Local Sand .................................................................... 32
3.8.5 RCC Work................................................................................................ 32
3.8.6 Brick Work up to Plinth Level and Superstructure .................................... 32
3.8.7 Plastering and Finishing ........................................................................... 32
3.8.8 Wood Works/Aluminum, Windows and Glass Fittings .............................. 32
xii
3.8.9 Sanitary Works ........................................................................................ 32
3.8.10 Water Supply System ......................................................................... 32
3.8.11 Boundary Fencing with Concrete Pillar and Barbed Wire .................... 32
3.9 Electrical Works and Towers ............................................................................. 32
3.9.1 Erection of Tower ..................................................................................... 33
3.9.2 Drawing of Transmission Line .................................................................. 34
3.9.3 Testing and Commissioning of Equipment ............................................... 34
3.10 Work Schedule .................................................................................................. 34
Chapter 4 Environmental and Social Baseline Condition ............................ 35
4.1 Project Boundary ............................................................................................... 35
4.2 Physical Environment ........................................................................................ 35
4.2.1 Climate General ....................................................................................... 35
4.2.2 Rainfall ..................................................................................................... 35
4.2.3 Temperature ............................................................................................ 37
4.2.4 Humidity ................................................................................................... 37
4.2.5 Sunshine .................................................................................................. 37
4.2.6 Wind Speed ............................................................................................. 38
4.2.7 Seismicity ................................................................................................ 39
4.3 Noise Level ....................................................................................................... 40
4.4 Air Quality .......................................................................................................... 41
4.5 Water Resources ............................................................................................... 42
4.5.1 Water Systems and Water Quality ........................................................... 42
4.5.2 Water Sample Collection .......................................................................... 43
4.5.3 Water Levels and Flooding ...................................................................... 46
4.5.4 Erosion .................................................................................................... 47
4.5.5 Storms ..................................................................................................... 47
4.6 Land Resource .................................................................................................. 47
4.6.1 Agro-ecological zones .............................................................................. 47
4.6.2 Land use .................................................................................................. 49
4.6.3 Land type ................................................................................................. 52
4.7 Agriculture Resources ....................................................................................... 54
4.7.1 Cropping Pattern and Cropping Intensity of the Study Area ..................... 54
4.7.2 Cropped Area .......................................................................................... 56
4.7.3 Crop Yield and Production ....................................................................... 56
4.7.4 Agricultural Input ...................................................................................... 56
4.8 Fisheries Resource ........................................................................................... 57
4.8.1 Introduction .............................................................................................. 57
4.8.2 Habitat Description ................................................................................... 58
4.8.3 Fish Production Assessment .................................................................... 58
4.8.4 Fish Biodiversity ....................................................................................... 59
xiii
4.8.5 Threatened Fish Species ......................................................................... 60
4.9 Ecology ............................................................................................................. 61
4.9.1 Biological Environment............................................................................. 61
4.9.2 Bio-ecological Zoning ............................................................................... 61
4.9.3 Ecosystem Diversity ................................................................................. 62
4.9.4 Biodiversity .............................................................................................. 63
4.9.5 Existence of important habitat .................................................................. 68
4.10 Socio-economic Resources ............................................................................... 68
4.10.1 Introduction ......................................................................................... 68
4.10.2 Administrative Area ............................................................................. 68
4.10.3 Population and Households ................................................................ 69
4.10.4 Household Size ................................................................................... 69
4.10.5 Age Structure and Age Dependency ................................................... 70
4.10.6 Literacy ............................................................................................... 70
4.10.7 Access to Health Service .................................................................... 71
4.10.8 Disability ............................................................................................. 71
4.10.9 Prevalence of Diseases ...................................................................... 71
4.10.10 Occupations and Livelihoods .............................................................. 72
4.10.11 Housing Condition .............................................................................. 72
4.10.12 Sources of Drinking Water .................................................................. 73
4.10.13 Sanitation Facility ............................................................................... 74
4.10.14 Access to Electricity ........................................................................... 74
4.10.15 Availability of Labor and Wage Rate ................................................... 74
4.10.16 Land Price .......................................................................................... 74
4.10.17 Income and Expenditure .................................................................... 75
4.10.18 Self-assessed Subsistence Poverty ................................................... 76
4.10.19 Common Property Resources ............................................................ 76
Chapter 5 Anticipated Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures ...... 78
5.1 Impact Matrix ..................................................................................................... 78
5.2 Impacts and Mitigation ....................................................................................... 79
5.2.1 Water Quality and Waterbodies ............................................................... 79
5.2.2 Navigation ................................................................................................ 80
5.2.3 River Course ............................................................................................ 80
5.2.4 Irrigation Channels ................................................................................... 80
5.2.5 Interference with Road Crossing .............................................................. 80
5.2.6 Camps and Construction Work Force ...................................................... 81
5.2.7 Construction Waste .................................................................................. 81
5.2.8 Land Use and Loss of Land ..................................................................... 81
5.2.9 Loss of trees ............................................................................................ 81
5.2.1 Noise Level and Air Quality ...................................................................... 82
5.2.2 Soil Quality............................................................................................... 83
5.2.3 Crop Production ....................................................................................... 83
5.2.4 Fish Habitat .............................................................................................. 83
xiv
5.2.5 Terrestrial Vegetation ............................................................................... 84
5.2.6 Wildlife Habitat ......................................................................................... 84
5.2.7 Employment Opportunities and Income Generation ................................. 85
5.2.8 Land Price................................................................................................ 85
5.2.9 Human Safety .......................................................................................... 85
5.2.10 Objects of Cultural or Achaeological Importance ................................. 85
Chapter 6 Alternative Sites and Transmission Routes ................................ 86
Chapter 7 Information Disclosure Consultation & Participation .................. 88
Chapter 8 Grievance Redress Mechanism ................................................... 93
8.1 Objectives of Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) ........................................ 93
8.2 Guideline to Redress Grievances ...................................................................... 93
8.3 Composition of the Local GRC .......................................................................... 93
8.4 Terms of Reference for the LGRC ..................................................................... 94
8.5 Project Level GRC ............................................................................................. 94
8.6 ToR for Project level GRC ................................................................................. 95
8.7 Grievance Resolution Process .......................................................................... 95
Chapter 9 Environmental Management Plan ................................................ 96
9.1 Mitigation and Remediation ............................................................................... 96
9.2 Compensation Plan ........................................................................................... 98
9.3 Safety and Emergency Response ..................................................................... 99
9.3.1 Safety Measures ...................................................................................... 99
9.3.2 Emergency Response Plan for Towers in Padma River and on Padma Banks.
.............................................................................................................. 100
9.3.3 ERP Management Structure .................................................................. 101
9.3.4 The Emergency Response Team (ERT) ................................................ 101
9.3.5 EPR Organisation .................................................................................. 102
9.3.6 Resources and Equipment ..................................................................... 102
9.3.7 Reporting and Training .......................................................................... 102
9.4 Institutional Requirements and Monitoring Plan ............................................... 103
9.5 Budget for the Environmental Management Plan (EMP) .................................. 105
Chapter 10 Conclusions ............................................................................ 107
xv
List of Tables
Table 1.1 - Summary of Project Act ivi t ies ......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Table 2.1-ADB’s Environment Safeguard Requirement ......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Table 2.2-Environmental Laws, Regulat ions and Standards of Bangladesh .......... . . . . . . . . 22
Table 3.1 -Physical Features of Mongla to Aminbazar Transmission Line and Towers ... 26
Table 3.2 -Physical Features of AIS GS, Aminbazar ......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Table 3.4 -Phasing of Construct ion Activit ies ......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Table 4.1 -Standard Values for Noise (dBa) ......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Table 4.2 - Noise Level of Several Locations .......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Table 4.3 -Standards of Ambient Air Quali ty ......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Table 4.4 – Standards for Inland Surface W ater Quali ty ......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Table 4.5 - Results of Testing of Water Samples .......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Table 4.6- Water Level at Dif ferent Return Periods .......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Table 4.7 -AEZs and Soil Characterist ics Along the Transmission Line Route ......... . . . . . 49
Table 4.8 -Exist ing Land Use in the Study Area .......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Table 4.9 -Land Type of the Study Area .......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Table 4.10 - Detai led Existing Major Cropping Pattern in the Study Area .......... . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Table 4.11 - Crop Area, Yield and Annual Crop Product ion in the Study Area .......... . . . . 56
Table 4.12 - Detai led Information on Irr igated Area by Crop .......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Table 4.13 -Fish Habitat Status in the Study Area .......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Table 4.14 -Est imated Annual Fish Product ion in the Study Area .......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Table 4.16 - Area and Location of Biological Zones within the Study Area .......... . . . . . . . . . 61
Table 4.17 -Plants Species Growing Along the Proposed Transmission Line Route ...... 65
Table 4.18 - Administrative Areas That W ill be Affected by the Project ........ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
xvi
Table 4.19 -Demographic Characterist ics of the Study Area .......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Table 4.20 - Household Size in the Project Distr icts ......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Table 4.21 - Populat ion Distr ibut ions by Dif ferent Age Groups &Dependency Ratio ...... 70
Table 4.22 -Literacy Rates ......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Table 4.23 -Distr ibut ion of Population by Type of Disabil ity ........ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Table 4.24 - Common Diseases in the Study Area ........... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Table 4.25 -Type of Housing Structure ......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Table 4.26 -Sources of Drinking Water .......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Table 4.27 - Land Price per Acre in the Study Area .......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Table 5.1 - Impact Matrix for the Project ........ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Table 5.2 - Economic Trees Affected by the Project ........ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Table 7.1 -Consultat ion Details ......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Table 7.2 -Matr ix of Issues and Suggested Measures ........... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Table 9.1 -Environmental Management Plan .......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Table 9.2 Occupational hazard and safety analysis ......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Table 9.3 Safety and Emergency plan .......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Table 9.4 - Monitor ing Plan .......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Table 9.5 -Budget for the Environmental Management Plan .......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
List of Figures
Figure 1.1 -Steps of Init ial Environmental Examination (IEE) ......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Figure 2.1 -DoE Environmental Clearance Procedures .......... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Figure 4.1-Monthly Cumulative Rainfall at Dhaka BMD Station ......................... 36
Figure 4.2-Monthly Cumulative Rainfall at Madaripur BMD Station ................... 36
xvii
Figure 4.3 - Monthly Maximum and Minimum Temperatures at Dhaka BMD Station 37
Figure 4.4 -Monthly Average Sunshine Hours Per Day at Dhaka BMD Station ... 38
Figure 4.5 - Monthly Average Sunshine Hours Per Day at Madaripur BMD Station 38
Figure 4.6 - Variation of Monthly Average Wind Speed at Dhaka BMD Station ... 39
Figure 4.7 - Monthly Variation of Average Wind Speed at Madaripur BMD Station 39
Figure 4.8 - Flood Hydrograph Showing Monthly Average Water Level .............. 46
Figure 4.9 -Distribution of Households by Income and Expenditure .................. 76
Figure 6.1 - Grievance Redress Committee .................................................... 94
List of Maps
Map 1.1 - Base Map of the Proposed Project ........................................................ 8
Map 3.1 -Transmission Line Route and Road Access ................................................................................ 25
Map 3.2 -Padma River Bridge and Transmission Line Crossing ................................................................ 27
Map 3.3 - Site of Aminbazar 400kV Grid Substation .................................................................................. 29
Map 4.1 - Earthquake Zones of Bangladesh and the Proposed Project .................................................... 40
Map 4.2 - River Systems of Bangladesh ..................................................................................................... 42
Map 4.3 - Agro-ecological Zones in the Study Area ................................................................................... 48
Map 4.4 - Land Use Map of Bangladesh .................................................................................................... 51
Map 4.5 - Land Types in Bangladesh ......................................................................................................... 53
Map 4.6 - Bio-ecological Zones of Bangladesh and the Transmission Line Route .................................... 64
Map 6.1 - Alternative Mongla - Aminbazar Transmission Line Routes ....................................................... 87
List of Photos
Photo 3.1 - Tension Tower .......................................................................................................................... 27
Photo 3.2 - Suspension Towers .................................................................................................................. 28
Photo 3.3 -Disc Insulators for Transmission Line ....................................................................................... 28
Photo 3.4 - Existing 230 kV/132 kV Grid Substation at Aminbazar ............................................................ 30
Photo 3.5 - Tower Erection Work ................................................................................................................ 33
Photo 4.1 - Water Quality Test at Modhumoti River ................................................................................... 44
Photo 4.2 - Sample Collection from Padma River (Jazira, Shariatpur Ferryghat) ...................................... 44
Photo 4.3 – A Jute Field Within the Study Area .......................................................................................... 55
Photo 4.4–A Maize Field Within the Study Area ......................................................................................... 55
Photo 4.5 - Major Ecosystems of the Study Area ....................................................................................... 65
Photo 4.6 - Terrestrial Birds in the Study Area ........................................................................................... 67
Photo 4.7 - Educational Institutions in the Study Area ................................................................................ 71
Photo 4.8 – Examples of Semi Pucca and Kutcha Housing in the Study Area .......................................... 73
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Photo 4.9 - Sources of Drinking Water in the StudyArea ............................................................................ 74
Photo 4.10 – The Local Fish Market and a Mosque in the Study Area ...................................................... 77
List of Appendix
Appendix 1 List of Participants at FGD Meetings .................................................................... 109
Appendix 2. List of Officials Consulted .................................................................................... 116
Appendix 3 Finds Procedures in Case of Finds of Culturally Valuable Materials ..................... 122
Appendix 4 Seven Platforms Constructed in the Padma River - Associated Facility ................ 122
Appendix 5 Emergency Action Plan ........................................................................................ 135
Appendix 6 Template for Environmental Monitoring Report..................................................153
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Executive Summary
The Power Grid Company of Bangladesh Limited (PGCB) intends to construct a 174 km long
400 kV double circuit transmission line (TL) from Aminbazar to Mongla through Maowa,
construct a 9.4 km river crossing alongside Padma bridge for the TL and augment the grid
substation (GS) at Aminbazar to receive power through the TL. The proposed TL will primarily
be built to connect Khulna in south west Bangladesh to Aminbazar on the outskirts of Dhaka
city. PGCB and the Government of Bangladesh (GoB) will provide financial assistance for the
Project.
Asian Development Bank (ADB) are also considering loaning funds to the GoB for the Project
as part of a new program to assist in the enhancement and upgrading of power transmission
and distribution systems in the country. The Project will help provide additional electricity to
serve the needs of Dhaka city area and the country as a whole. The Project is, therefore, seen
as important to meet national goals for energy security in the country.
According to the Environment Conservation Act 1995 and Environment Conservation Rules
1997 of Bangladesh, all TLs and GSs are categorized as ‘red category’ projects which require an Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) for site clearance and an Environmental Impact
Assessment (EIA) for environment clearance. Therefore, in order to obtain ‘Site Clearance’ and ‘Environmental Clearance’ from the Department of Environment (DoE), PGCB conducted the necessary Route Survey, IEE and EIA studies with the help of consultants. The Project also
needs to comply with ADB safeguard requirements which include the need to undertake IEE for
the Project. This IEE document is intended to fulfill ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement 2009,
environmental assessment requirements. An IEE is carried out as the TL crosses no sensitive
areas and the towers crossing the major Padma River are erected on platforms constructed in
the river bed by the Bangladesh Bridge Authority (BBA).
The TL will have 581 transmission towers, and it will cross Padma, Modhumati and Dhaleshwari Rivers. At the Padma River seven towers will be erected on platforms provided by the BBA as part of the new Padma Multipurpose Bridge project. In the Padma River the towers are more than 100 m high and have spans of 828 m between towers. The tower platforms are more than 2 km downstream of the proposed bridge (2.1 km at the left bank anchor tower and 2.3 km at the right bank anchor tower). The seven towers across the river constitute an associated facility to the Project.
The Right of Way (RoW) of the TL and the land for the GS are on low lying ground. Human activity is widespread and the average density of population in the study area is more than 1,300 persons per square kilometer. The land along the TL is almost all farmed, at least in the dry season, and also has homestead activity. Of the approximate 1710 ha of land defined in the CEGIS report IEE study area, 1410 ha is cultivated, while most of the rest is classified as settlement land with timber and fruit trees. Only 12% of the cultivated land area is above the normal inundation level during the monsoon. Currently, rice based crops are grown mainly in the dry season along with potatoes, onions, jute and other vegetables.
During the construction phase of The Project there will be some environmental impacts with machinery and vehicle movement to construct tower footings and the erection of towers and stringing of conductors. Various activities will take place for towers and GS construction including storage of construction materials, activity of workers and movement of construction vehicles. Mitigation measures will be written into contracts to ensure good practice is observed with measures included in construction contracts and subcontract.
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Existing vegetation including any trees at proposed TL tower locations will need to be cut prior to the start of construction works and trees inside the 50 m project RoW as defined for resettlement and compensation purposes will be cut back. Secondary vegetation damage will occur during stringing of lines (the initial drawing of conductors) between and along new towers.
A small amount of land, about 23 ha directly under towers, will be effectively taken out of agricultural use. Augmentation of the Aminbazar GS does not require any land acquisition and will use land available within the GS premises. There will be some damage to standing crops in the field during the construction phase and a small amount of crop production will also be affected during the stringing process.
The RoW does not cross any protected areas or protected forests or sensitive areas and because of small area of land taken out of use permanently, there will be very limited impacts on terrestrial fauna and flora.
Despite the high population density in the study area, no one is severely affected by the Project. The Project will not lead to any physical displacement of people or property. The Resettlement Plan (RP) for the Project found that 18 houses are inside the 50 m corridor of the TL but the alignment will be adjusted to make sure that all these houses are not affected. Any required compensation will be paid prior to construction. Compensation for crops and trees affected by towers and lines will be provided at replacement value to the affected persons.
The transmission towers in the Padma River will be constructed on platforms provided by the Bangladesh Bridge Authority (BBA) under the Padma Multipurpose Infrastructure Project. The platforms for the TL are just 7 out of the major piling operations in the river for the bridge and associated infrastructure. Environment due diligence was undertaken for the platforms with examination of the project EIA which complies with ADB SPS 2009 and with visits to the site. The towers are to be assembled piece by piece by PGCB with the steel parts being barged to the platform sites over a short time. Erection in the river needs to be managed properly with the use of a barge/crane operation which will also assist in the stringing of lines between river towers and across the river. Measures will be in place for waste management and disposal. Special measures will also be undertaken for the safety of navigation during stringing.
Measures to mitigate impacts during the pre-construction and construction phases will be undertaken. Efforts will be made to avoid cutting of trees as much as possible. In areas where removal of trees is unavoidable tree planting will be undertaken. Most trees in the area are associated with homesteads i.e. they are fruit and rapid growing timber trees and these same species will be replaced. Planting of appropriate tree species will also take place. Proper compensation for all types of damages will be paid and the land will be brought back to its original state prior to handing back to owners/tenants.
There will be minor impact of noise for short periods during construction of foundations for the TL towers and as a result of temporary increase in traffic but work will take place during day time and residents close by will be warned of any foundation piling activity.
Any labor camps required for the Project will be provided with water supply and sanitation facilities. Proper procedures will be in place for storage, containment and correct disposal of building materials at all work sites during construction. The GS will be provided with necessary fire-fighting equipment, and, Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) and access to Emergency Rescue items such as first aid boxes etc.
High resolution Remotely Sensed (RS) images were used in determining the route of the TL. Three alternative routes were examined. The route selected passes through mostly plain area and is more accessibility than the other two alternatives and fewer road crossings are affected. The chosen route also avoids more urban areas at Aminbazar and Khulna that the other two
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routes are closer to. River spans on the chosen route are shorter than the other two alternatives.
Flexibility in both the route alignment and positioning of the individual towers has meant avoiding settlements and any ecologically sensitive areas. The TL route finally selected passes mostly through agricultural crop fields avoiding settlements and sensitive sites.
There were 12 consultation meetings undertaken in 2015 and 2016 with local people at various locations along the pipeline route at which 318 people attended. Local people were concerned with regard to receiving adequate and timely compensation for any losses of land, buildings or crops. Local people considered the Project would contribute significantly to national development by improving the supply of electricity and they looked forward to having employment opportunities during the pre-construction and construction phases. Although the TL will not supply electricity directly to the people immediately beneath the lines, the consultation meetings indicated that they are happy with the Project. It is seen as contributing to the national development and expanding the power distribution system from which they, along with others, will ultimately benefit.
The Environmental Management Plan (EMP) included in this IEE along with the monitoring plan, will assist in project implementation during the pre-construction, construction and post-construction phases and ensure corrective measures for the Project. Costing for environmental mitigation measures will be included in construction contracts. Tk 1.2 million and Tk 1.5 million are set aside for a tree planting programme and for environmental training of PGCB PMU staff. A further Tk 10.5 million is identified to be included in PGCB recurrent budget for monitoring of the implementation of the IEE and EMP.
A grievance redress mechanism will be established at local union level and there will be recourse to a project level redress system when required.
No protected areas are affected by the Project and there is very limited adverse impact on the natural environment.
PGCB will have recently set up a Project Management Unit (PMU) to handle other
internationally funded projects. This unit currently has only engineers; it will need to be
augmented with environmental engineers to implement the measures in the IEE and the EMP.
Funds referred to above are included in the Project cost for training of PGCB engineers. The
implementation of this IEE and the associated EMP will meet the ADB environmental safeguard
requirements for the Project.
1
Chapter 1 Introduction and Methodology
1.1 Background of the Study
1. In FY20151, the Bangladesh power generating system serving the national grid had an installed capacity of 10,939 MW, served a peak demand of 7,817 MW2, and delivered 43,7383 GWh to the Power Grid Company of Bangladesh (PGCB) transmission network. Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) as the single buyer, purchases generated electricity from all generating facilities comprising independent power producers, BPDB’s subsidiary generating companies, BPDB’s own power plants, and from India through the cross border transmission link4. Electricity is delivered to distribution utilities such as Dhaka Electric Supply Company (DESCO) and Dhaka Power Distribution Company (DPDC) in Dhaka, and to Bangladesh Rural Electrification Board (BREB) in rural areas for distribution. BPDB too serves as a distribution utility in urban areas of Bangladesh, except Dhaka.
2. Access to electricity was reported to be 72% by mid-June 2016. The Government of Bangladesh plans to provide electricity to all households by year 2021. The per capita electricity consumption including estimated consumption from captive generation with industries, was 371 kWh5 in FY2015, which is low compared with other countries in South Asia6, indicating that power generation, transmission and distribution facilities require significant capacity additions as Bangladesh grows into the middle income status. With the increasing customer base and through the increased demand from customers for household, commercial and industrial activities, the peak demand in Bangladesh is expected to continue increasing in the medium term as Bangladesh transitions to middle income country status. Several major power generation projects and regional cooperation projects are planned to add to generation capacity while PGCB is planning several 400 kV transmission lines to link various parts of the country including Dhaka and Khulna, two major load centres in the country. Potential introduction of 765 kV transmission line is also under consideration.
3. Sales by distribution utilities to end-use customers in FY2015 were 39,600 GWh,
indicating that the country’s transmission and distribution loss was about 13.02% of generation. The reported distribution loss was 10.82%, which indicates room for improvement. Furthermore,
the distribution system requires rehabilitation and upgrades to serve the growing demand in
existing service areas and to replace ageing assets.
1 The fiscal year (FY) of the Government ends on 30 June. FY before a calendar year denotes the year in which the fiscal year
ends, e.g., FY2014 ends on 30 June 2014.
2 Annual Report, Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB), FY2015
3 Energy input to the transmission network. When generation served directly into the networks of Palli Bidyuth Shamiti (PBS) is
included, the total generation was 45,836 GWh.
4 A few smaller power plants sell direct to BREB/PBSs.
5 Seventh five-year plan, FY2016-FY2020, Planning Commission, Government of Bangladesh. Electricity sales from the grid
was 251 kWh/person in FY2015, as stated in the Annual Report, Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB), FY2015
6 Per capita sales reported in 2015 by other countries in the region (in kWh per year) were Bhutan: 977, India: 760, Maldives:
530, and Sri Lanka: 572
2
1.2 Project Activities
4. A summary of project activities is provided in Error! Reference source not found..
Table 1.1 - Summary of Project Activities
Project Output and Description Length or capacity
Additional information
Component 1: PGCB’s transmission system development in Southern Bangladesh
1.1 Construction of the new 400 kV double circuit transmission line from Aminbazar to Mongla
174 km
The line will use quad-Finch
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conductor. Foundations for crossing Padma river will be constructed under ongoing Padma bridge project.
1.2 Augmentation and upgrade of the exiting 230 kV/132 kV substation at Aminbazar to 400 kV/ 230 kV/132 kV
3 x 520 MVA Three new 400 kV/230 kV transformers will be installed
Component 2: Service improvement in DESCO service areas
2.1 Establishment of a SCADA system in the DESCO service area
All 33/11 kV distribution substations will be monitored and remotely controlled
Component 3: Distribution system rehabilitation, upgrade, extension and rural electrification in BREB service areas
3.1 Rehabilitation and upgrading of 20,535 km of 33 kV,11 kV and 400 V distribution lines, and expansion of the distribution network by 6,465 km at 42 PBSs in Dhaka, Mymensingh, Chittagong and Sylhet Divisions
27,000 km The expanded distribution network will add 500,000 new customers, with a potential to serve a further 500,000 new customers
3.2 Rehabilitation and upgrading of 18,000 km of 33 kV, 11 kV and 400 V distribution lines, and expansion of the distribution network by 5,500 km at 35 PBSs in Rajshahi, Rangpur, Khulna and Barisal Divisions
23,500 km The expanded distribution network will add 450,000 new customers, , with a potential to serve a further 500,000 new customers
Component 4: Technical assistance for project development, regulatory initiatives, and capacity building
7 Four wires of type “Finch” bundled together to carry current.
3
Project Output and Description Length or capacity
Additional information
4.1 Feasibility studies and new business models for wind and solar parks
At least four renewable energy parks to be provided with feasibility studies and business models for development
4.2 Transmission planning, project preparatory support for PGCB, and renewable integration studies/protocol development
Preparation of a 10-year rolling transmission development and investment plan, feasibility and project preparatory studies for grid development, analysis of impacts of grid integration of intermittent-resource-based generation and development of protocols
4.3 GIS-based management system installed in ten PBSs
Design and implementation of a comprehensive GIS
8-based network planning and management
system for two PBSs (Phase I) and an additional eight PBSs (Phase 2) and operational
4.4 Pre-feasibility study on small scale LNG for industries/electricity production
Pre-feasibility study on the potential demand and delivery mechanisms for small scale LNG for industrial and power generation applications
4.5 Implementation of tariff methodology, energy auditing and efficiency improvement procedures for power plants
(i) Strengthening of tariff filing and determination process, introduction of regulatory accounting procedures and manual, tariff filing formats
(ii) Establishing an energy auditing and efficiency improvement procedure for power plants.
4.6 Analysis of transmission and distribution losses and establishing regulatory loss targets
Disaggregation of technical and commercial losses in each transmission and distribution entity, and establishing annual loss targets for 2017-2021.
4.7 Energy efficiency of buildings: establishment of a building energy efficiency rating system
Part 1: Capacity building and conducting rating assessments Part 2: implementation of solar PV integration to buildings
4.8 Promoting good governance in power sector to provide better service delivery
Sector reviews, project design and implementation support, support for sector planning and management
4.9 Capacity building in energy sector planning and management, to provide better service delivery
Capacity building on renewable energy development, grid integration, GIS development, LNG supply development and use
5. This IEE report is confined to Component 1: Transmission System Development in Southern Bangladesh. The executing agency (EA) will be PGCB. This investment includes three sub-components, (i) construction of 174 km long Aminbazar-Mongla 400 kV double circuit transmission line, and (ii) augmentation and upgrade of the Aminbazaar grid substation with 3 x 520 MVA transformers to receive power from the Aminbazar- Mongla transmission line. The Aminbazar-Mongla transmission line has the capacity to deliver 3000 MVA (equivalent to 2400 MW).
8 Geographic Information System
4
6. PGCB is the power transmission company in Bangladesh, and it is responsible for
operation, maintenance and development of the power transmission system at 132 kV and
above. PGCB has experience in development, operation and maintenance of 400 kV
transmission lines with two operational lines, namely (i) Meghnaghat-Aminbazar (Phase I,
designed to operate at 400 kV but presently operating at 230 kV) and (ii) Bheramara-
Baharampur, which provides the grid interconnection between Bangladesh and India. One
more 400 kV line, Bibiyana-Kaliakoir transmission line, is currently under construction. Similarly,
PGCB has experience with 400 kV air insulated substations (AIS) associated with 400 kV
transmission lines in operation and under construction.
7. For the river crossing of the transmission line, Bangladesh Bridge Authority (BBA) will
lay the foundations to place the footings of the seven transmission towers planned alongside the
bridge presently under construction across Padma River. These seven tower footings will be
located upstream of the bridge. BBA will build the foundations up to the transmission tower stub
level, and thereafter, the towers will be built and conductors strung, under the project.
8. At present, there is an existing 230 kV transmission interconnection over the Padma
river between the western zone and the eastern zone. There is no direct interconnection
between the south-western region (Khulna) and the eastern zone. The proposed Aminbazar-
Mongla transmission line will be the first 400 kV transmission interconnection between south-
western region (Khulna) and the eastern zone and support efficiency of power transfer as well
as reliability of electricity supply in the grid.
9. The proposed 400 kV Aminbazar-Mongla transmission line will connect to the Mongla-
Khulna 230 kV transmission line presently under construction. The transmission corridor will
connect load centers including Khulna, Gopalganj and Dhaka and facilitate power flows from
several projects including 800 MW thermal combined cycle powerplant at Khulna and later 1320
MW supercritical thermal power plants at Rampal and Patuakhali towards load centers. Power
Grid Corporation of India Limited (PGCIL) conducted the feasibility study for the Aminbazar-
Mongla transmission line for PGCB. Environment and social impact assessments were
subsequently undertaken and concluded by specialized firms. The development of a reliable
power transmission network in the Khulna region will also support the development of economic
corridors in southern Bangladesh.
9.
1.3 Objectives of the Project
10. The objective of the Project is to create a southern transmission corridor linking Khulna
in the south west to Aminbazar near Dhaka and improve the reliability of the national power grid
of Bangladesh.
9 The 400 kV line from Pyra will connect to the Aminbazar-Mongla line built under this project, at a new
substation to be built later at Gopalgang.
5
1.4 Scope of Work
11. The scope of work for the IEE study involves environmental assessment of 581
transmission towers (7 in the Padma River) in central and south-central regions of Bangladesh
(Dhaka, Faridpur, Gopalganj, Shariatpur, Munshiganj, Madaripur and Bagerhat Districts). The
Project also includes an extension and upgrade of the Aminbazar GS in the 4 ha already
available within its premises.
12. The IEE study provides information on the baseline environmental condition (physical,
biological, social and environment) of the study area, much of the information is based in turn on
the work undertaken by CEGIS.
13. Alternative route alignments were considered for the TL. The IEE identifies environmental
and social components likely to be affected by the Project and identifies potential
impacts. Public consultation was conducted to obtain the perception of potentially
affected people in the project area. An Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and
Environmental Monitoring Plan and institutional arrangements for future monitoring are
developed in the IEE.
14. The Project includes construction of 581 towers and 7 of these sit on the bed of the
Padma River. The latter 7 towers will be built on top of piles and platforms being
constructed by the Bangladesh Bridge Authority (BBA) as part of infrastructure
associated with the Padma Multipurpose Bridge Project. For the work on the new bridge
and work in the river, various environmental mitigation and enhancement measures are
being implemented by the BBA. Measures include mitigation to reduce impacts to
migrating hilsa fish and dolphin activity. A conservation plan establishes protected fish
and wildlife sanctuaries in up and down stream areas from the bridge, and a charland
visitor center will also be established. A panel of experts has been set up to monitor good
practices.
15. The scope of work for this IEE study, as regards the Padma River crossing, covers only
the work PGCB will be responsible for i.e. the erection of towers on already established
20 m x 20 m platforms in the Padma River.
1.5 Objectives of the IEE study
16. As already noted, according to the Environmental Conservation Act 1995 and
Environmental Rules 1997, construction, re-construction and extension of electricity
generation, transmission and distribution facilities fall under the red category. Red
category projects require EIAs to be preceded by IEEs. As this project falls under the
red category it is required to undertake an IEE which is a pre-condition for obtaining
environmental clearance from the DoE. See Chapter 2 Policy and Legislation for
details of the IEE/EIA process.
17. PGCB has, therefore, carried out an IEE employing an environmental impact
assessment consultant to fulfill DoE requirement. The objectives of the IEE study
were to;
• describe the existing environmental and social baseline of the area;
6
• identify important environmental and social components which may be affected by
the project;
• assess potential environmental and social impacts, including any residual impact of
the proposed project;
• identify mitigation measures to minimize impacts;
• prepare an Environmental Management and Monitoring Program; and
• prepare a ToR for an EIA study.
18. An EIA study was subsequently carried out to satisfy DoE approval requirements for
environmental clearance.
19. According to SPS 2009, the proposed project falls under Category B which needs
IEE and this document is intended to fulfill the ADB requirement for safeguard
assessment.
1.6 Study Area
20. The location of the proposed TL of the Project is shown in Map 1.1. The TL will be
constructed from Mongla upazila of Bagerhat District to Aminbazar in Dhaka District,
Bangladesh.
21. For a 400 kV TL alignment, the CEGIS IEE report considered a 100 m corridor. The 20 m
immediate path of the line is defined as the Direct Impact Area (DIA). For the baseline
information study CEGIS defined a 40 meter buffer impact zone on both sides of the 20m
corridor (40 m left + 20m DIA + 40 m right), and this 100 m corridor is considered to be
the study area along with the GS site at Aminbazar. The 20m DIA is regarded as the area
of direct impact below the lines and the additional width covers area which will be
impacted through such things as storage of materials, equipment, stringing of conductors.
7
8
Map 1.1 - Base Map of the Proposed Project
1.7 Methodology
22. IEE is an initial examination for estimating the potential environmental impacts of a
proposed project. IEE is undertaken within a relatively short period of time based on
preliminary information available at hand or on information which can be readily obtained
through an environmental reconnaissance. The IEE study undertaken for this project
specifically follows the steps described below.
Figure 1-1 -Steps of Initial Environmental Examination (IEE)
i. Analysis of Project Components
23. All aspects of the TL and GS construction works and activities have been examined
rigorously prior to developing a checklist to conduct reconnaissance surveys.
ii. Preparation of Checklist
24. A comprehensive checklist of potential environmental parameters has been prepared
based on various guidelines of different agencies such as DoE, World Bank, ADB and
JICA. The checklist has been used to conduct a reconnaissance survey.
iii. Initial Screening and Baseline Survey
9
25. The list of parameters identified in the previous step has been shortened to focus on
significant effects. In addition data has been collected from all possible secondary
sources. Environmental and socio-economic data from different sources (e.g.
Bangladesh Bureau of Statistic (BBS), DoE, Bangladesh Meteorological Department
(BMD), Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB), Agro- climatic survey of
Bangladesh and other IEE reports) have been collected to prepare the baseline
environmental and socio- economic profile of the study area. CEGIS’s multi-disciplinary
team of experts made reconnaissance visits to observe the condition of the project site
and its surroundings and to identify alternate sites for investigation.
26. Final checklists have been prepared and the environmental baseline survey has been
conducted with the relevant checklist in hand to identify and delineate the significant
effects of the Project.
iv. Scaling of Impacts
27. A short description of existing physical, social and environmental condition of project sites
has been prepared and the impacts of project intervention on the physical, environmental
and social components have been graded in order to identify important components.
v. Identification of Enhancement and Mitigating Measures
28. Enhancement and mitigating measures for beneficial and adverse effects respectively
have been defined.
vi. Preparation of IEE Report
29. Finally an IEE report has been prepared following standard chapter outlines.
1.8 Structure of the Report
30. The IEE report is structured as follows:
Chapter 1: Introduction and Methodology: The introduction chapter presents a brief
overview of the assignment along with its background, objectives, scope of work,
methodology etc.
Chapter 2: Policy and Legislation: Outlines the policy and legislation on environmental
issues.
Chapter 3: Description of the Project: Describes the proposed project interventions
including alternative options suggested for the project, background, project category, need
for the project, location, size and magnitude of operation.
Chapter 4: Environmental and Social Baseline Condition: Chapter Four presents a
description of the environmental baseline condition (socio-economic, physical and
biological) of the study area.
Chapter 5: Anticipated Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures: This chapter
deals with the environmental impacts of the proposed project and possible mitigation
measures.
10
Chapter 6: Alternative Sites and Transmission Routes: This chapter analyses different
alternatives of the transmission line routes.
Chapter 7: Public Consultations: This chapter describes the public consultation process undertaken to inform the people of the study area and to obtain their opinion and meaningful feed-back.
Chapter 8 Grievance Redress Mechanism: This chapter set out the time frame and mechanisms for resolving complaints about environmental performance.
Chapter 9 Environmental Management Plan: The chapter mainly defines the detailed
Environmental Management Plan for the project along with the monitoring program.
Chapter 10 Conclusions: This chapter presents the findings, conclusion,
and recommendations of the project .
11
Chapter 2 Policy and Legislations
2.1 Overview
31. Implementation of the Project by the PGCB requires strict compliance with laws, rules
and regulations pertinent to the environment. In Bangladesh, the DoE is responsible for
ensuring the application of environmental laws and issuance of necessary clearances.
32. The procedures and requirements for EIA for projects in the power sector are dictated by
the Environment Conservation Act of 1995, which introduced a requirement for any
proposed "industrial unit or project" to obtain prior approval from the DoE.
33. The Environment Conservation Act has classified projects to be assessed (by the DoE) in
four categories (green, amber A, amber B, and red). Power sector development projects
are allocated to the red category, which triggers an automatic requirement for an IEE
followed by a full EIA. Subject to a satisfactory review of the environmental assessment,
the DoE issues an authorization for the project to proceed. The authorization consists of
two parts: a "site clearance", which gives approval to the site proposed for the project and
"environmental clearance", which approves the content of the project.
34. The PGCB, as the project proponent, is responsible for carrying out an EIA study of the
proposed project. Therefore, it has the responsibility to administer the environment
assessment process with consultants, review the findings of consultants, and submit
documents to the DoE for their review.
35. A key requirement of the EIA for projects classified in the amber and red categories is an
Environment Management Plan (EMP). The function of the EMP is to enable the project
proponent (PGCB) to show the DoE how it will deliver the environmental performance
assessed in the EIA (for which DoE approval is sought). The EMP must describe in detail
the organization and management responsibilities, give details of how mitigation
measures identified in the EIA will be implemented and explain how monitoring will be
carried out.
36. Possession of a "clearance'' from the DoE does not relieve the developer of a project
from the requirement to comply with other environmental regulations. In particular, the
Bangladesh National Environment Quality Standards (EQS) for industrial effluent have
been set and compliance is mandatory. In addition, there are statutory instruments
applicable to power development projects, which are not primarily environmental in
nature, but, which influence environmental impacts. Compliance with such statutory
instruments is mandatory.
2.1. Procedure for Obtaining Site/Environmental Clearance
2.1.1 Requirement for IEE Reports
37. All industries and projects in the red category must conduct IEEs, which help in
understanding the potential extent of environmental changes as a result of the project.
12
The IEE finds ways to mitigate negative impacts by considering available information,
past experience or standard operating practices. The steps for conducting IEEs are as
follows:
Collection of baseline information in respect of a project and the environmental
setting of the project and its site.
Setting of boundaries of an IEE by identifying the significant issues.
Impact assessment suggesting mitigation measures, development of an EMP, and
discussion of alternative sites for the project or other project modifications.
In the event the IEE of the project or industry reveals that further investigation is
required to be carried out, the sponsors will have to conduct a detailed EIA.
2.1.2 Procedure
38. After completion of the IEE Report the project proponent should apply to the DoE in
the prescribed format for site/ environmental clearance. The application for
environmental clearance for the project classified in the red category should be
accompanied by the following documents:
Feasibility Study Report of the industry (project)
IEE report
A NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the local authorities concerned
Pollution minimization plan including emergency plan for mitigation of adverse
environmental impacts
Outline of relocation plans (where applicable)
Other information as deemed necessary
39. The Environment Conservation Rules give the Director General of the DoE the
discretion to issue environmental clearance directly without issuing any site clearance
to any industry or project if he (the Director General) finds an appropriate reason for
doing so.
40. As the proposed Project, augmentation of the Aminbazar GS and TL facilities falls under
the red category, all necessary requirements mentioned above have been adopted by
PGCB for the Project. Figure 2-1 shows the activities involved in
obtaining environmental clearance from the DoE.
13
Figure 2-1 -DoE Environmental Clearance Procedures
NOC = No Objection Certificate, usually obtained from local government.
Note: 1. these requirements vary from those of the DoE (1997) in requiring EMPs for proposed, as well as current, projects.
2. Procedure of obtaining Environmental Clearance: for Green Category Projects the gestation period for granting
Environmental Clearance has been fixed at within 15 days; for Orange A, Orange B and Red Category Projects at first
Location Clearance and thereafter Environmental Clearance will be granted. The gestation period for Location Clearance is
within 30days for Orange A, and within 60days for Orange B and Red Category Projects.
Source: Adapted from the Environmental Guidelines for Industry (DoE, 1997)
APPLICATION TO DoE
RED
The application should enclose:
- Feasibility Study Report (for proposed industry/
project);
- Initial Environmental Examination Report and
Environmental Impact Assessment Report;
- Environmental Management Plan;
- An NOC;
Obtaining Site Clearance
Applying for Environmental
Clearance
Obtaining EnvironmentalClearance
Clearance subject to annual
renewal
14
2.2 Organization Related with Enforcement of Environmental Standards
41. Roles and responsibilities of various Ministries and Departments involved in the
enforcement of environmental requirements are described below:
2.2.1 Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF)
42. The Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF) is the key government institution in
Bangladesh for all matters relating to national environmental policy and regulatory issues.
Realizing the ever-increasing importance of environmental issues, the MoEF was created by
replacing the Ministry of Agriculture and Forest in 1989 and is at present a permanent
member of the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council. This group is the
major decision-making body for economic policy issues and is also responsible for
approving all public investment projects. The MoEF oversees the activities of the following
technical/implementing agencies:
Department of Environment (DoE)
Forest Department (FD)
Forest Industries Development Corporation (FIDC)
2.2.2 Department of Environment (DoE)
43. In order to expand the scope of environmental management and to strengthen
implementation powers, the Government adopted the Environmental Pollution Control
Ordinance in 1977. The ordinance provided for the establishment of an Environmental
Pollution Control Board, which was assigned with the responsibility of formulating policies
and proposing measures for their implementation. In 1982, the Board was renamed as the
Department of Environmental Pollution Control (DEPC). Six divisional offices were
established in Dhaka, Chittagong, Khulna, Barisal, Sylhet and Rajshahi.
44. A special presidential order renamed the DEPC as the Department of Environment (DoE)
and placed it under the newly formed MoEF in 1989.
45. The DoE is a department of the MoEF and is headed by a Director General (DG). The
DG has complete control over the DoE. The power of the DG, as given under the Act, is
outlined as follows:
The DG has the power to close down activities considered harmful to human life or
the environment. The operator has the right to appeal and procedures are in place
for this. However, if the incident is considered an emergency, there is no opportunity
for appeal.
The DG has the power to declare an area affected by pollution as an ecologically
critical area. The DoE governs the type of work or process, which can take place in
such an area.
Before undertaking any new development project, the project proponent must take
an environmental clearance from the DoE. Clearance has been obtained dated
11/02/2016.
Failure to comply with any part of the Environment Conservation Act (ECA) 1995
may result in punishment by a maximum of 5 years imprisonment or a maximum fine
of Tk. 100,000, or both.
15
2.2.3 Forest Department
46. This Department under the MOEF is responsible for the protection and management of all
reserve forests in the country. Department personnel extend down to the union level in
areas where there are reserve forests. The Department has recently started some
agro forestry programs and its officers are also responsible for the protection of wildlife in
the forests.
2.2.4 Related Other Organizations
47. There are several other organizations, which have certain social and environmental
functions. These organizations include:
Ministry of Land: Land Reform and Land Acquisition Directorate
Ministry of Water Resources: BWDB
Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock: Directorate of Fisheries
2.3 National Policies and Legislation Relevant to Environment
48. National strategies, policies, acts and rules related with the environment include the following:
Environment Pollution Control Ordinance, 1977.
Environmental Quality Standards for Bangladesh, 1991
National Conservation Strategy (NCS) 1992
Environment Policy (1992)
National Environment Management Action Plan (NEMAP) 1995
Environment Conservation Act (1995)
Environment Conservation Rules (1997)
2.4 Other Relevant Acts Related to Environment
2.4.1 The Bangladesh Wildlife Preservation Order (1973; amended to Act in 1974)
49. The Bangladesh Wildlife (Preservation) Order 1973 and the amendment to the Act in 1974
provides for the preservation, conservation and management of wildlife in Bangladesh. The
earlier legislations on wildlife preservation, namely, the Elephant Preservation Act, 1879,
the Wild Bird and Animals Protection Act, 1912, and the Rhinoceros Preservation Act,
1932 have been repealed and their provisions have been suitably incorporated in this law.
2.4.2 The National Forest Policy (1994)
50. The National Forest Policy of 1994 is the amended and revised version of the National
Forest Policy of 1977 in the light of the National Forestry Master Plan. The main target of
the policy is to conserve existing forest areas and bring about 20% of the country's land
area under the forestation program and increase the reserve forest land by 10% by the
year 2015 through coordinated efforts of Government Organisations (GOs), Non-
Government Organisations (NGOs) and active participation of the people.
16
2.5 Policy Related with Energy Development
2.5.1 The Electricity Act, 1910 and Electricity Rules 1937
51. This Act amended the laws relating to the supply and use of electrical energy. Under the
Act, any person can obtain a license to supply energy and lay down or place electric
supply lines for the conveyance and transmission of energy. The licensee can open and
break up the soil and pavement of any street, railway or tramway and can lay down any
line or do other work near other utility services (gas, telecommunication, water, sewer,
etc.), provided prior permission is taken from the respective authority, as stated in
Section 12 – 18 of the Act.
52. According to Section 19 (1) of this Act, the licensee shall give full compensation for any
damage, detriment or inconvenience caused by him or by anyone employed by him.
53. Sub- section (1) of Section 51 of the Electricity Rules, 1937 advises that licensee should
take precautions in laying down electric supply lines near or where any metallic
substance or line crosses in order to avoid electrocution.
2.5.2 The Telegraph Act (1885)
54. Under Sections 10-19, Part III (Power to place Telegraph Lines and posts), the
government can build towers on public land without giving any land compensation.
2.5.3 The Power Policy, 1995
55. As with the Petroleum Policy, this is presently an integral part of the National Energy
Policy 1996. It has different policy statements on a whole range of issues including
demand forecast, long- term planning and project implementation, investment and
lending terms, fuels and technologies, power supply to the west zone, isolated and
remote load centers, tariff, captive and stand by generation, system loss reduction, load
management and conservation, reliability of supply, system stability, load dispatching,
institutional issues, private sector participation, human resource development,
regional/international cooperation, technology transfer and research program,
environment policy and legal issues.
56. As the proposed project is a Power Transmission Project, all necessary requirements
mentioned above will be adopted for the project.
2.5.4 The Energy Policy (1996 updated 2004)
57. The first National Energy Policy (NEP) of Bangladesh was formulated in 1996 by the
Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral resources to ensure proper exploration,
production, distribution and the rational use of energy resources to meet the growing
energy demands of different zones, consuming sectors and consumers groups on a
sustainable basis. With rapid change of the global as well as the domestic situation, the
policy was updated in 2004. The updated policy includes additional objectives namely to
ensure environmentally sound sustainable energy development programs causing
minimum damage to the environment, to encourage public and private sector
participation in the development and management of the energy sector and to bring the
17
entire country under electrification. The policy highlights the importance of protecting the
environment by requiring an EIA for any new energy development project, or introduction
of economically viable and environment friendly technology.
2.5.5 The Industrial Policy (1999)
58. The National Industrial Policy, 1999 aims to ensure a high rate of investment by public
and private sectors, a strong productive sector, direct foreign investment, development of
labor intensive industries, introduction of new appropriate technology, women's
participation, development of small and cottage industries, entrepreneurship
development, high growth of export, infrastructure development and environmentally
sound industrial development. WTO guidelines have been proposed to be followed in the
Industrial Policy.
2.6 Compliance with International Requirements
59. Bangladesh has acceded to, ratified or signed a number of major international treaties,
conventions and protocols related to environment protection and conservation of natural
resources.
2.6.1 Rio Declaration
60. The 1992 the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED)
adopted the global action Program for sustainable development called 'Rio Declaration'
and 'Agenda 21'. Principle 4 of The Rio Declaration, 1992, to which Bangladesh is a
signatory along with a total of 178 countries, states, "In order to achieve sustainable
development, environmental protection should constitute an integral part of the
development process and cannot be considered in isolation from it".
2.6.2 Convention on Biological Diversity, (1992)
61. The Convention on Biological Diversity, Rio de Janeiro, 1992 was adopted on 5th June
1992 and entered into force on 29th December 1993. Bangladesh ratified the
Convention on 20 thMarch, 1994. This is the overarching framework for bio-diversity
and the signatories are required to develop a National Bio-diversity Strategy and Action
Plan that incorporates the articles of the Convention into national law and statutes.
62. Obligation has been placed on state parties to provide for environmental impact
assessments of projects that are likely to have significant adverse effects on biological
diversity.
2.6.3 Wetlands of International Importance as Waterfowl Habitat, (1971)
63. Convention of Wetlands of International Importance as Waterfowl Habitat (1971) is also
known as the Ramsar Convention. It was adopted on 2nd February 1971 and entered
into force on 21st December 1975. Bangladesh ratified the Convention on 20th April
2002. This provides a framework for national action and international cooperation for the
conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resource. There are 127 Parties with
1085 wetland sites designated as 'Wetlands of International Importance'.
18
64. This is an intergovernmental treaty, which provides the framework for international
cooperation for the conservation of wetland habitats. Obligations for Contracting Parties
include the designation of wetlands to the "List of Wetlands of International Importance',
the provision of wetland considerations within their national land use planning, and the
creation of natural reserves.
65. Bangladesh has two Ramsar sites-Parts of the Sundarbans Reserved Forest (Southwest
of Bangladesh) and Tanguar Haor (Northeast of Bangladesh). The proposed project will
not have any effect on these two Ramsar sites.
2.6.4 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)
66. The Kyoto Protocol to the UNFCCC was adopted in 1997 and requires developed
countries and economies in transition listed in Annex B of the Protocol, to reduce their
GHG emissions by an average of 5.2% below 1990 levels. Article 12 of the Kyoto
Protocol provides for the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM). According to CDM,
projects are eligible to earn CERs (Certified Emission Reductions) if they lead to "real,
measurable, and long-term" GHG reductions, which are additional to any that would
occur in the absence of the CDM project.
2.6.5 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, Montego Bay, (1982)
67. This Convention was adopted on 10th December, 1982 at Montego Bay, Jamaica and
Bangladesh has ratified this Convention.
2.6.6 Others (Conventions and Agreements)
68. The following conventions and agreements include provisions which may be relevant for
environmental management, nature protection, and biodiversity conservation:
Convention relative to the Preservation of Fauna and Flora in their Natural State 1933;
International Convention for the Protection of Birds, Paris, 1950;
International Plant Protection Convention, Rome, 1951;
The Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage,
Paris, 1972 has been ratified by 175 states. This defines and conserves the world's
heritage by drawing up a list of natural and cultural sites whose outstanding values
should be preserved for all humanity. Of the 730 total sites, there are currently 144
natural, 23 mixed and 563 cultural sites that have been inscribed on the World Heritage
List (distributed in 125 State parties). These are the 'Jewels in the Crown' of
conservation;
Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora,
Washington, 1973 (Popularly known as CITES): This provides a framework for
addressing over harvesting and exploitation patterns which threaten plant and
animal species. Under CITES governments agree to prohibit or regulate trade in
species which are threatened by unsustainable use patterns; and
Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals, Bonn, 1979
(Amended 1988): This provides a framework for agreements between countries
important to the migration of species that are threatened.
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2.7 Compliance with ADB Safeguard Policy Statement, 2009
69. ADB's environmental and social safeguards form the cornerstone of its support to
inclusive economic growth and environmental sustainability in Asia and the Pacific. In
July 2009, ADB's Board of Directors approved the new Safeguard Policy Statement
(SPS) governing the environmental and social safeguards of ADB's operations. The
objectives of the SPS are to avoid, or when avoidance is not possible, to minimize and
mitigate adverse project impacts on the environment and affected people, and to help
borrowers strengthen their safeguard systems and develop the capacity to manage
environmental and social risks.
70. ADB environmental safeguards emphasis development and implementation of a
comprehensive environmental management plan (EMP). Key elements of EMPs are
mitigation measures, monitoring programs, cost estimates, budgets, and institutional
arrangements for implementation. In addition, the environmental assessment process
emphasizes public consultation, information disclosure, and consideration of alternatives.
71. The key safeguard areas which must be addressed are (i) environmental, (ii) involuntary
resettlement, and (iii) indigenous peoples.
72. ADB adopts a set of specific safeguard requirements that borrowers/clients are required
to meet in addressing environmental and social impacts and risks.
73. ADB will not finance projects that do not comply with its safeguard policy statement, nor
will it finance projects that do not comply with the host country’s social and environmental laws and regulations.
74. The safeguard policy statement applies to all ADB- financed and/or ADB- administered
sovereign and non- sovereign projects, and their components regardless of the source of
financing.
2.8 ADB’s Environment Safeguard Requirements- Policy Principles
75. Environmental assessment incorporate the following policy principles:
Projects are screened and assigned to one of the following categories as soon as
possible.
Table 2.1-ADB’s Environment Safeguard Requirement
Category Assessment Required
A A proposed project is classified as category A if it is likely to have significant adverse environmental impacts that are irreversible, diverse, or unprecedented. These impacts may affect an area larger than the sites or facilities subject to physical works. An environmental impact assessment is required.
B A proposed project is classified as category B if its potential adverse environmental impacts are less adverse than those of category A projects. These impacts are site-specific, few if any of them are irreversible, and in most cases mitigation measures can be designed more readily than for category A projects. An initial environmental
20
examination is required. C A proposed project is classified as category C if it is likely to have
minimal or no adverse environmental impacts. No environmental assessment is required although environmental implications need to be reviewed.
F1 A proposed project is classified as category F1 if it involves investment of ADB funds to or through a Financial Intermediary.
For projects deemed by ADB as highly complex and sensitive, use an independent advisory panel during project preparation and implementation.
Conduct an environmental assessment for each proposed project. Assess potential
trans-boundary and global impacts, including climate change.
Examine alternatives to the project’s location, design, technology, and components.
Avoid/minimize, mitigate, and/or offset adverse impacts. Prepare an EMP
Carry out meaningful consultation with affected people and facilitate their informed
participation.
Disclose a draft environmental assessment (including the EMP) in a timely manner,
before project appraisal, in an accessible place and in a form and language(s)
understandable to affected people and other stakeholders. Disclose the final
environmental assessment, and its updates if any, to affected people and other
stakeholders.
Implement the EMP and monitor its effectiveness. Document and disclose monitoring
results.
Do not implement project activities in areas of critical habitat, unless (i) there are no
measurable adverse impacts on the critical habitat that could impair its ability to function,
(ii) there is no reduction in the population of any recognized endangered or critically
endangered species, and (iii) any lesser impacts are mitigated. If a project is located
within a legally protected area, implement additional programs to promote and enhance
the conservation aims of the protected area.
Apply pollution prevention and control technologies and practices consistent with
international good practices such as the World Bank Group’s Environmental, Health and Safety Guidelines.
Provide workers with safe and healthy working conditions and prevent accidents,
injuries, and disease.
Conserve physical cultural resources and avoid destroying or damaging them by using
field- based surveys.
2.9 Compliance with PGCB Health Environment and Safety (HES) Requirements
76. The PGCB has its own policy and requirements for compliance relating to environment,
health and safety issues for its operations. The company is committed to managing its
operations in a safe, efficient and environmentally responsible manner. The PGCB's
21
HES manuals, guidelines, procedures and plans are important tools of their commitment.
HES manuals include:
Environmental Impact Assessment Module,
Guideline on Integrated Impact Assessment,
Health Impact Assessment Module, and
Social Impact Assessment Module.
77. In addition, requirement for impact assessment is affirmed in the PGCB's Statement of
General Business Principles. The PGCB is committed to:
Pursuing the goal of no harm to people,
Protecting the environment, and
Managing HES as any other critical business activity.
78. The mandatory company Operations Management System (OMS), Environmental Care
Element/ Standards, issued in March 1997, makes reference to Environmental
Assessment indicating that "Environmental Impact Assessment (including a consideration
of social impacts) shall be conducted prior to all new activities and facility developments, or
significant modifications of existing ones”.
2.10 Building Construction (Amendment) Act, 1990 & Rules 1996
79. The initial Building Construction (amendment) Act dates back to 1952. The earlier
Government Buildings Act, 1899, provided for the exemption from the operation of
municipal building laws of certain building and lands, which were the property or in the
occupation, of the GoB and situated within the limits of a municipality. The provision of
Municipal Building Laws to regulate the creation, recreation, construction, alteration or
maintenance of buildings within the limits of any municipality was superseded by the
1990 Act. The need to regulate the haphazard construction of buildings was addressed
by the East Bengal Legislative Assembly and the "Building Construction Act, 1952" was
promulgated on 21 March 1953 as the East Bengal Act II of 1953. The Act was framed to
allow streamlining of planned development and implement beautification programs of the
government.
80. An important modification to the 1953 Act was added through an Ordinance titled, "the
Building Construction (Amendment) Ordinance, 1986 (Ordi. No. LXXII of 1986)". Later in
1987, the ordinance was adopted for enactment as "The Building Construction
(Amendment) Act, 1987 (Act No. 12 of 1987)". The preamble of Building Construction
(Amendment) Act states that the objectives of the amendment reveals that "although the
trial court has the power to order removal of unauthorized construction after passing the
order of conviction under section 12, this power has been found to be insufficient, as a
criminal case cannot normally be finally disposed of quickly, besides even after disposal
of the criminal case by the trial court, the prosecution is lingered by way of appeals". In
order to take steps to prevent unauthorized construction or to remove such construction,
an authorized officer is empowered through this amendment so that he/she can take
necessary action in this respect without intervention of the court.
22
81. The Act was subjected to another amendment in 1990 allowing power to issue limited
sanction to cut down or raze any hill within the area to which this Act applies.
82. To support the implementation of the provisions laid down in the Building Construction
Act, 1952, the GoB made the Building Construction Rules, 1953. This was superseded by
the Imarat Nirman Bidhimalas, 1984. Later in 1996 GoB framed the Imarat Nirman
Bidhimala, 1996 (Building Construction Rules, 1996). The rules are more comprehensive
and more relevant to present day circumstances and issues of building construction and
other related development activities.
2.11 Rules and Policies in Related Fields
83. In addition to the policies, rules and regulations related to the environment and energy,
the following rules and regulations, listed in Table 2.2 are to be checked for
compliance for maintaining a sustainable environment.
Table 2.2-Environmental Laws, Regulations and Standards of Bangladesh
Year Title Objectives
1885 The Telegraph Act (Act XIII of 1885) Under the law sections 10- 19, GoB built transmission lines through the country.
1910 The Electricity Act (Act IX of 1910) Under the law section 51, GoB built transmission lines through the country.
1950 East Bengal Protection and Conservation of Fish Act
Protection and conservation of fish in Bangladesh.
1985 The Protection and Conservation of Fish Rules
Prevention of harming fisheries resource and fisheries habitat in coastal and inland waters.
1953 Town Improvement Act Improvement and development of Dhaka City.
1958 Antiquities Act Protection and preservation of archaeological and historical artifacts
1960, 1966
Port rules, shipping operation Control of discharges in ports; waterway rules.
1965 Factories Act Industrial workers' health and working conditions.
1971 Pesticide Ordinance Pesticide use, production, selection and importation.
1976 Antiquities (Amendment) Ordinance Protection and prohibition of export of archaeological artifacts.
1977 Municipal Ordinance Municipal activities in health, sanitation, water supply, drainage, etc. in the city.
1979 Factory Rules Disposal of wastes and effluents.
1980 Agricultural Pesticides (Amendment) Act
Selection, use and handling of pesticides in the agricultural sector.
1982 Municipal Act Drainage, sewerage, water supply and sanitation.
1982 Acquisition and Requisition of Immovable Property ordinance
The Acquisition of Immovable Property Rules, 1982 (No. S. R. O. 172- U82) The GoB adopted these rules in exercise of the powers conferred upon by section 46 of The Acquisition and Requisition of Immovable Property Ordinance, 1982 (Ordinance No. II of 1982).
23
Year Title Objectives
1983 Agricultural Pesticides (Amendment) Ordinance
Revised Agricultural Pesticides Ordinance.
1985 The Pesticide Rules Pesticide selling, use and safety measures.
1990 Bangladesh standard specification for drinking water.
Formulation and revision of national standards.
1860 The Penal Code This contains several articles related with environmental protection and pollution management.
1996 Building Construction (Amendment) Act and Building Construction Rules
The Rules are more comprehensive for taking care of the present day circumstances and issues of building.
24
Chapter 3 Description of the Project
3.1 Background of the Project
84. The Project consists of the three components i.e.
Construction of the new 400 kV double circuit transmission line from Aminbazar to
Mongla – 174 km,
A new 400 kV Grid substation with 3 x 520 MVA transformers at Aminbazar adjoining
the existing sub station
85. PGCB is the power transmission company in Bangladesh, and it is responsible for
operation, maintenance and development of the power transmission system at 132 kV
and above. PGCB has experience in development, operation and maintenance of 400 kV
TLs with two operational 400 kV lines, namely (i) Meghnaghat-Aminbazar (Phase I) and
(ii) Bheramara-Baharampur, which provides the grid interconnection between
Bangladesh and India. One more 400 kV line, Bibiyana-Kaliakoir TL, is currently under
construction. Similarly, PGCB has experience with 400 kV air insulated switchgear (AIS)
associated GSs connected with 400 kV TLs that are in operation and under construction.
86. Bangladesh Bridge Authority (BBA) will lay the foundations to place the footings and
platforms for the seven transmission towers planned alongside the proposed bridge
required to cross the Padma River. These seven tower footings will be downstream of the
bridge. BBA will build the foundations up to the stub level, and thereafter, the towers will
be built and conductors strung, under the Project. The seven towers for the TL are
regarded as an associated facility to the Project.
87. At present, there are two interconnections between the Western Zone and the Eastern
Zone of the PGCB transmission network, via the Northern Zone. However, there is no
interconnection between the Western Zone and Dhaka at present. The proposed
Aminbazar-Maowa-Mongla TL will be the first interconnection between the Western Zone
and Dhaka, improving the reliability of electricity supply to Dhaka.
88. The Power Grid Corporation of India Limited has carried out the feasibility study for the
Aminbazar-Maowa-Mongla TL for PGCB in which technical, financial and economic
viability has been assessed. However, this feasibility study did not include an
environmental and social impact assessment of the TL, which has been subsequently
conducted.
3.2 Project Category
89. Under the criteria of DoE, power TL and GS projects fall under the red category. As per
the EIA Guidelines of the DoE, it is mandatory to carry out an IEE for red category
projects prior to conducting a more detailed EIA. PGCB consultants CEGIS, prepared an
IEE report to meet DoE requirements; this was approved. Following the IEE report and
the preparation of TOR site clearance has been given to PGCB, CEGIS prepared an EIA
25
to fulfill the DoE requirement. The full Environmental (Environmental Clearance for the
Project was provided by DoE on 11/02/2016 – Ref Memo No:
DoE/Clearance/5503/2015/70)
90. For PGCB’s development partner ADB, the project has been classified as categorized “B” according to SPS 2009 and will require an IEE. This report is prepared to meet the
requirement for ADB environmental assessment.
3.3 Project Location
91. The project is located in the central and south-central regions of Bangladesh and the TL
is in Dhaka, Faridpur, Gopalganj, Shariatpur, Munshiganj, Madaripur, and Bagerhat
Districts of Bangladesh with augmentation of the GS at Aminbazar in Dhaka District.
Map 3.1 -Transmission Line Route and Road Access
3.4 Physical Features of the Transmission Line and Towers
92. The main physical features of the proposed 400 kV TL are given in Table 3.1. The TL will
be double circuit and conductor materials will be made of aluminum alloy. The standard
TL towers are steel and of two types – tension/angle towers and suspension towers.
Tension towers (Photo 3.1) are designed to take the tension of the load cable and are
also used at turning points in the TL route alignment when the line deviates more than 5
degrees. Suspension towers (Photo 3.2) carry only the weight of the conductors and are
26
used when the route alignment is straight. Much larger special towers are constructed at
location in longer spans for the Padma River crossing. Porcelain disc type insulators will
be used (see Photo 3.3) on the suspension towers.
Table 3.1 -Physical Features of Mongla to Aminbazar Transmission Line and Towers
Sl. No. Physical Features Attribute
1 Voltage rating 400 kV 2 Type of transmission line Double circuit
3 Width of TL RoW 50 meters for Resettlement Purposes
4 No of transmission towers 581 including 7 on platforms in the Padma River
5 Transmission towers heights Standard towers: 50-60m. Towers at river crossing:133m
6 Transmission line clearances 10 m for standard lines and 25 metres above the 50 year flood level in the case of the Padma River
7 Type of line support Steel 400 kV pole
8 Conductor material Aluminum alloy
9 Line insulator Disc type, porcelain
10 Type of connection GS at Aminbazar
11 Duration of project implementation
Approximately 36 months
Source: PD office, PGCB
93. There will be 581 transmission towers along the TL including seven which will be built on
raised platforms which are constructed in the Padma River. The standard tension and
suspension towers are 50-60 m high. There will be adequate clearances below the TL
with a minimum of 10 m clearance between the highest flood level and the lowest sag
levels of the TL over land; clearance margins can be increased if there is any chance of
interference with anything beneath. The transmission towers in the Padma River have
spans of 828 m between towers and will be over 130 m high. These 7 towers will be
erected on platforms of 20 m x 20 m which sit on columns raised nearly 20 m out of the
river and pile supported. The lowest sag point of the TL will have a safety clearance of at
least 10 m above vessels passing underneath at the highest flood level. Towers in the
Padma River will be built with stronger steel and the pile work and platforms are designed
to withstand ship impacts. The TL route is downstream of the new Padma Road Bridge
by 2.2 km on the left bank and 2.3 km on the right bank (
94.
95.
96. Map 3.2). Anchor towers will be built on either side of the river to accommodate the long
spans and will join the 400 kV line on the land at either side of the river. Due to the
structure heights, aircraft warning spheres will be installed on the earth wire. Piling and
platform structures for the river crossing are being supplied and constructed by the
Padma Bridge Multipurpose Project and work in the river began in October 2015. PGCB
is responsible only for the erection of the towers on these platforms in the river. PGCB
will be responsible for the towers on land and on the river banks including the river bank
anchor towers.
27
Map 3.2 -Padma River Bridge and Transmission Line Crossing
Photo 3.1 - Tension Tower
28
Photo 3.2 - Suspension Towers
Photo 3.3 -Disc Insulators for Transmission Line
3.5 The Aminbazar Grid Substation
97. The site for the GS extension at Aminbazar is 10 acres (4 ha) available within the existing
GS (see Map 3.3).
29
Map 3.3 - Site of Aminbazar 400kV Grid Substation
98. The proposed Air-insulated Switchgear (AIS) at Aminbazar has specifications as
indicated in Table 3.2.
Table 3.2 -Physical Features of AIS GS, Aminbazar
Source: PD’s office, PGCB
Features Specification
Type Proposed
Land ownership
10 acres (4 ha) land filled & acquired already
Scheme Main busbar scheme
Substation type AIS
Voltage 400 kV
Switchgear type Air-insulated
Insulation medium power circuit breaker SF6 GAS
Transformer Oil insulated
Protection system description Auto fighting water spray system
30
Photo 3.4 - Existing 230 kV/132 kV Grid Substation at Aminbazar
3.6 Components of Construction Works
99. The phasing of construction works for the TL and the two GSs are indicated in Table 3.4
below.
Table 3.4 -Phasing of Construction Activities
Components
Activities
Pre-construction
During Construction Post Construction/ Operation period
Transmission Line
Route survey Contractor and manpower recruitment
Clearing of RoW
Tender documents preparation
Establishment of construction camps for workers
Operation and maintenance (O&M)
Clearing of RoW Accidental hazard
Establishment of temporary access tracks
Transport of materials and equipment to tower sites
Civil work (foundation work, RCC, etc.)
Tower erection including work from barges in the Padma River
Conductor stringing
Accidental hazard
Grid Substation Topographical survey
Establishment of material storage areas and work sites
Operation and maintenance (O&M)
Establishment of construction camps for workers
Accidental hazard
Establishment of temporary access tracks
Transport of materials and equipment to site
31
Components
Activities
Pre-construction
During Construction Post Construction/ Operation period
Clearing site
Civil work (land filling, foundation, RCC work,
Equipment installation
Testing and commissioning
Accidental hazard
3.7 Construction Equipment
100. For this project all equipment to be installed will be procured from outside Bangladesh.
Construction materials such as bricks, sand, cement, reinforcing rods, etc. will be
sourced locally.
3.8 Civil Construction Works
3.8.1 Back-filling of Grid Substation Sites
101. Land allocated for augmenting Aminbazar GS, 4 ha available within Aminbazar GSS
premises, is at the same level as the rest of the GS, and hence no back filling is required.
3.8.2 Earth Work in Foundations
102. Construction of GS requires earthwork excavation for the foundation to the required
depth. For tower foundations, there will be a minimum of four concrete pads for each
tower and the tower footprint has a coverage of between 9 m2 and 11 m2. Top soil is
removed for the general area of the footprint. The area will be cleared and individual
foundation pads are constructed. The first layer of topsoil which is excavated should be
kept in designated areas. On completion of foundation work, back-filling of the excavated
area will be done with local soil and sand. In the case of TL towers the soil can be
replaced immediately beneath the tower structure.
3.8.3 Foundation Treatment
103. Geo-technical investigations will be conducted to assist in designing foundations of
structures. It will help to identify whether foundation treatment will be required or not. The
type of treatment like pre-cast RCC piling or in situ concrete piling, removal of peat or
loose soil will be suggested as per results of geo-technical investigation. Pilling depth will
vary with soil type and in the case of transmission towers depending on the location and
type of tower required. The foundation work for the transmission towers in the Padma
River has been undertaken by the Padma Bridge Authority as part of the bridge project
and this is underway.
32
3.8.4 Back Filling with Local Sand
104. Back filling of the excavated area of the foundation and floor of the GS buildings will be
undertaken with local sand.
3.8.5 RCC Work
105. RCC work will be required for roof, column, beam, and floors of GS buildings and
foundation for transformers, circuit breaker, steel structure and the TL towers.
3.8.6 Brick Work up to Plinth Level and Superstructure
106. Brickwork for constructing buildings will be with first class bricks and coarse sand and
cement up to roof level and shall have adequate plinth protection.
3.8.7 Plastering and Finishing
107. Concealed electric wiring of good quality and proper size is to be installed and bulbs and
switchboards are to be provided. Plastering of walls inside and outside as well as the roof
of the building will be undertaken with proper curing for at least three weeks. Distemper
or plastic painting will be applied to the walls and roof of the building
3.8.8 Wood Works/Aluminum, Windows and Glass Fittings
108. Wood/aluminum works are to be undertaken on door shutters and windows of buildings
along with glass fittings.
3.8.9 Sanitary Works
109. Sanitary works such as laying of sewerages (either PVC or RCC), installation, fittings
and fixing of toilet accessories will be included in building work.
3.8.10 Water Supply System
110. Water supply system will be connected for worker use with extension of the existing
supply for the existing Aminabazar GS. If necessary additional tube wells will be set up.
3.8.11 Boundary Fencing with Concrete Pillar and Barbed Wire
111. The project GS areas will be protected from any unauthorized entrance of the public by
fencing around the boundary with a six feet high wall with barbed wire fitted and concrete
pillars three (3) meters apart.
3.9 Electrical Works and Towers
112. For GSs, installation of equipment will include transformers, circuit breakers, isolators,
lightning arresters, panel boards, batteries and battery chargers etc.
113. All equipment will be installed at GSs (outdoor and indoor) as per design specification
and standard. For this project, all material will be procured from foreign countries. Use of
33
domestic materials will be minimal; local materials like bricks, sand, cement, and
reinforcing rods, will be used for the installation works.
114. Transformers are heavy equipment. Transportation of all such equipment and
construction material for augmentation work of the Aminbazar GS should, however, be
possible through the existing Aminbazar GS and its existing access road.
3.9.1 Erection of Tower
115. Transmission towers will be constructed to take the load of the tower, cables and
accessories, and are designed to meet specifications for wind load and earthquake load.
Towers in paddy fields will have proper clearance at maximum level of sag (lowest point
on line). At homesteads, if any, the sag can be adjusted higher to clear the canopy.
116. The towers will be erected by a team who are subcontracted for this activity. The parts
are brought to site in small sections and are stored temporarily at site. Tower legs will
have concrete piled foundations, and the towers will be assembled piece by piece as
indicated in Photo 3.5.
117. Special arrangements will be put in place for erection of the towers in the Padma River
with the use of cranes and barges which will be anchored against the 7 platforms
constructed in the river (3 in the deep navigable section) by the BBA. Bridge piles and
piles for platforms for towers are being constructed by the BBA, who will build them as
part of infrastructure associated with the Padma Multipurpose Bridge. Test piling began in
Oct 2105 and lasted for all that month. 12.53 km (right bank) and 2 km (left bank) of
revetment training works associated with the bridge project will protect and reinforce the
river embankments upstream of the point where the TL cross the Padma River. BBA will
secure the tower leg parts on the platforms and PGCB will then take over the
construction using a small crane and a gin pull to assemble the towers piece by piece.
Photo 3.5 - Tower Erection Work
34
3.9.2 Drawing of Transmission Line
118. The TL will be drawn into position using stringing equipment: winches, pullers,
tensioners and puller-tensioners especially designed for stringing operations. The lines
can be drawn from both sides and helicopters may also be used. The configuration of the
lines will ensure that the lowest design sag points are adhered to.
3.9.3 Testing and Commissioning of Equipment
119. Following installation of all equipment the GS will be tested as per specification and
standards and will be commissioned accordingly.
3.10 Work Schedule
120. The completion of works is proposed to take place in 36 months as indicated below in
Figure 3-1.
Figure 3-1 Project Implementation Schedule
35
Chapter 4 Environmental and Social Baseline Condition
4.1 Project Boundary
121. The Project is to be constructed in Central and South-Central regions in Dhaka and
Khulna Divisions covering 7 districts (Dhaka, Faridpur, Gopalganj, Shariatpur,
Munshiganj, Madaripur, and Bagerhat). Within these 7 districts there are 17 upazila and
53 union local administrative units. For the CEGIS base line IEE of the Project, the focus
of the study was limited to the area where physical impacts of the activity will be directly
felt i.e. a 20m corridor along the TL RoW, plus a 40m buffer along both sides of the
power TL (i.e. 40m+ 20+40m= 100m). The corridor consists of 20 m immediately below
the TL and an additional 40 m either side which is likely to be affected by project
construction activity. This 100 m RoW corridor is referred to as the study area in the IEE
and EIA reports prepared by CIGES for project approval.
122. The Project has wider geographic and social impacts during project pre-construction,
construction and post-construction and benefits will extend to the regional as well as
national scale.
4.2 Physical Environment
4.2.1 Climate General
123. The Project falls under the influence of the monsoon climate prevailing in the general
area which has three main seasons:
Pre-monsoon, summer- March to May
Monsoon, rainy season –June to October, and
Winter season – November to February.
124. The summer is hot and dry interrupted by some heavy rainfall. The monsoon is
characterized by hot and humid conditions when a substantial part of the annual rainfall
occurs. The winter is predominantly cool and dry.
125. Information on meteorological parameters i.e. rainfall, temperature, wind speed, and
sunshine hours have been collected from the BMD station at Dhaka which is close to
Aminbazar and has lengthy historic data, and for Madirapur on the TL route. The
following sections provide information on the meteorology in the area of the Project.
4.2.2 Rainfall
126. Rainfall data (1948-2013) at Dhaka BMD station show significant rainfall from May to
October with the driest period from November to March. The highest and lowest monthly
average rainfall have been experienced in the months of July (381mm) and January
(68mm) respectively. Maximum rainfall ever recorded in the data was 856 mm during one
event in the month of June.
36
Figure 4-1-Monthly Cumulative Rainfall at Dhaka BMD Station
127. Rainfall data at the Madaripur BMD station shows a similar seasonal pattern to Dhaka.
The wettest period stretches from May to September and the driest period is from
November to March. September has a maximum of 854 mm while during the months of
November to February rainfall maximums are small with only 41 mm in December. The
highest and lowest average cumulative monthly rainfall for the 41 year period of records
are 388.78 mm (July) and 5.46 mm (December) respectively.
Figure 4-2-Monthly Cumulative Rainfall at Madaripur BMD Station
37
4.2.3 Temperature
128. Temperature data for the last sixty-five years (1948-2013) from the BMD station in
Dhaka, see below, show monthly maximum temperatures range from 31 OC in December
to 42.2 OC in April. Minimum temperatures range from 5.6 OC (January) to 21.5 OC (July).
Figure 4-3 - Monthly Maximum and Minimum Temperatures at Dhaka BMD Station
4.2.4 Humidity
129. Relative humidity indicates the presence of moisture in air. Data (1948-2013) for
monthly maximum, average and minimum relative humidity for Dhaka station indicate
that the monthly average value of relative humidity is at its highest at 85% in July.
Humidity remains high during the monsoon period (June to October) at 80% or more, but
declines steadily to reach a low of 62% in March, before increasing again with the onset
of the monsoon.
130. Data from Madirapur station for relative humidity (1977-2013) show percentages that
vary from 68.84% to 86.47% from March (the end of the dry season) to July respectively.
From June to October (monsoon period) relative humidity is always high (around 80%)
due to higher rainfall intensity. Post monsoon relative humidity is lower – falling by more
than 10% with less rainfall.
4.2.5 Sunshine
131. Monthly sunshine hour data from the BMD station in Dhaka shows average sunshine
hours per day have ranged across the year from a low of 4.49 hours (July) to a high of
8.23 hours (March). The monsoon period has comparatively fewer sunshine hours due to
increased cloud cover.
38
Figure 4-4 -Monthly Average Sunshine Hours Per Day at Dhaka BMD Station
132. Monthly sunshine hour data from the BMD station in Madaripur are plotted in Figure 4-5,
and it displays less sunshine hours than Dhaka. Average sunshine hours per day have
ranged from 3.62 in July to 7.21 in April. The monsoon period, particularly between June
and September has comparatively fewer sunshine hours due to the increased cloud
cover and rainy days.
Figure 4-5 - Monthly Average Sunshine Hours Per Day at Madaripur BMD Station
4.2.6 Wind Speed
133. Data for Dhaka shows monthly average wind speeds gradually decrease from a high of
2.07 m/s in April to a low of 0.46 m/s in November.
39
Figure 4-6 - Variation of Monthly Average Wind Speed at Dhaka BMD Station
134. Figure 4-7 shows the variation of the monthly average wind speed measured at
Madaripur BMD station, on the TL route. Data shows a gradual decrease in wind speed
from April to November. Highest and lowest average wind speeds have been recorded in
April and November and are 97.8 km/day and 22.5 km/day respectively.
Figure 4-7 - Monthly Variation of Average Wind Speed at Madaripur BMD Station
4.2.7 Seismicity
135. Bangladesh has been classified into three seismic zones as indicated in the Map 4.1.
The TL between Khulna and Aminbazar is situated mainly in the safest zone (Zone 3)
with a seismic coefficient of 0.04 g. A small portion of the TL line and the Aminbazar GS
is in the moderate zone (Zone 2) with a seismic coefficient of 0.05 g. Foundations for the
40
GSs and TL towers will be designed accordingly with capacity to resist prevailing
earthquake forces.
Map 4.1 - Earthquake Zones of Bangladesh and the Proposed Project
136. Noise Level Table 4.1.
41
Table 4.1 -Standard Values for Noise (dBa)
Category
Zones
Standard Value (dBa)
Day Night
A Quiet places (hospitals, education institutions, etc.) 45 35
B Areas which are used mainly for residential purpose 50 40
C Areas which are used for residential and commercial purposes
60 50
D Commercial area 70 60
E Industry area 75 70 Source: Environmental Conservation Rules, 1997, DoE
137. IFC/ World Bank EHS Guideline 2007 and ADB SPS 2009 stipulate 55 dBa day time
and 45 dBa night time of residential/institutional/educational receptors and 70 (day and
night) for industrial and commercial receptors.
138. As the TL will cross some rural residential areas, the standard value for ambient noise
should not exceed 50 dBa i.e. Category “B” during day time (6 a.m. - 9 p.m.). Noise
levels in urban and rural areas are near or above these standards. Table 4.2 displays
noise levels of some locations inside the study area.
Table 4.2 - Noise Level of Several Locations
Sl. No. Date and Time Location GPS Coordinate Noise Level (dBA)
01 10-06-15 12:15 PM
Tekerhat Bridge, Rajoir, Madaripur
N 23013’38’’ E 89059’43’’
72
02 10-06-15 11:30 AM
Borni, Rampal, Bagerhat N 22037’48.2’’
E 89034’59.7’’
45
03 11-06-15 12:17 PM
Line crossing, Sirajdikhan N 23036’8’’ E 90019’12’’
48
04 12-06-15 12:30 PM
Bangchora, Pachor, Shibchar, Madaripur
N 23022’18’’ E 9009’36’’
52
05 12-06-15 2 :15 PM
Jazira, Shariatpur Ferry ghat N 23025’8.8’’
E 90013’11.9’’
78
06 13-06-15 12:30 PM
Dhaleshwari Bridge N 23038’23’’
E 90020’56’’
65
Source: IEE Study, CEGIS
4.3 Air Quality
139. The standard values for ambient air quality according to the Bangladesh Environmental
Conservation Rules for the area for different categories are shown in Table 4.3.
Table 4.3 -Standards of Ambient Air Quality
Area Categories Concentration Micrograms per Meter Cube
SPM SO2 CO2 NOx
A Industry 500 120 5000 100
B Commercial 400 100 5000 100
C Residential and rural area 200 80 2000 80
42
D Sensitive 100 30 1000 30
Source: Environmental Conservation Rules, DoE 1997
140. Suspended particulate matter (SPM) may be present during project construction with
dust from earth works at the GSs and tower foundation sites. However, earthworks will
take place on a small scale only. Other source of particulate matter emissions will be
from transportation of materials by vehicle.
4.4 Water Resources
4.4.1 Water Systems and Water Quality
141. There are several rivers that govern the hydrology of the study area. There are also
many lakes/ water bodies in the area. Map 4.2 shows the river systems and the TL route.
The Padma is by far and away the largest river in Bangladesh; it is the distributary of the
Ganges River and is joined by the Jamuna River (the name for the Brahamaputra in
Bangladesh). The Padma-Ganges is the central part of a deltaic river system with
hundreds of rivers and streams--some 2,100 km in length, flowing into the Padma and
eventually discharging into the Bay of Bengal. The Padma River is known for heavy bank
erosion, shifting channels, and sandbars that continually emerge in its course. The River
is a busy waterway.
142. Table 4.4 shows the surface water quality standards of Bangladesh.
Table 4.4 – Standards for Inland Surface Water Quality
Best Practice Based Classification
Parameters
pH BOD mg/L
DO mg/L
Total Coliform
number/100
a. Source of drinking water for supply only after disinfecting:
6.5-8.5
2 or less
6 or above 50 or less
b. Water usable for recreational activity : 6.5-8.5
3 or less
5 of more
200 or less
c. Source of drinking water for supply after
conventional treatment :
6.5-8.5
6 or less
6 of more
5000 or less
d. Water usable by fisheries: 6.5-8.5 6 or less 5 of more --
e. Water usable by various process and cooling industries :
6.5-8.5
10 or less
5 of more
5000 or less
f. Water usable for irrigation: 6.5-8.5
10 or less
5 of more
1000 or less
BOD – Biochemical Oxygen Demand DO – Dissolved Oxygen
Source: Schedule 3 (A) Environmental Conservation Rules 1997, Bangladesh
Map 4.2 - River Systems of Bangladesh
43
4.4.2 Water Sample Collection
143. CEGIS took water samples in June 2015 from rivers and khals in the Study area and
various parameters including total dissolved solids (TDS), pH, electrical conductivity
44
(EC), dissolved oxygen (DO) were measured. In maximum cases, pH value is around 7.5
indicating the surface water of the Project is almost neutral. TDS values measured are
over 100 ppm on average. Samples have been collected in sunny days so that
temperatures are moderate (around 30 0C). EC has been found to be between 0.11-0.23
mS/cm. Quantity of DO has fluctuated from place to place due to pollution of surface
water. Lowest DO (3.5 mg/L) has been found at Dhaleshwari River. Maximum (4.6 mg/L)
DO has been recorded at Padma River. The DO levels comply with Environmental
Conservation Rules (ECR) 1997 for inland waters. The high level of salinity at the first
location at Rampal is assumed to be because of sea water influence in tidal river.
Collective data for several parameters are given Table 4.5.
Photo 4.1 - Water Quality Test at Modhumoti River
Photo 4.2 - Sample Collection from Padma River (Jazira, Shariatpur Ferryghat)
45
Table 4.5 - Results of Testing of Water Samples
TDS = Total Dissolved Solids, DO = Dissolved Oxygen and EC = Electrical Conductivity
Source: IEE Study, CEGIS and Laboratory Test (DPHE)
46
4.4.3 Water Levels and Flooding
144. Most of the land along the TL is low lying and many sections of the route are under
water during the wet season for eight months. To analyze the flooding propensity,
information from two surface water level measuring stations at Maowa and Mongla are
presented. Figure gives monthly water level data from BMD station in Maowa (on the TL
route) and Mongla. There is a significant annual variation in water levels recorded with a
maximum average level in the month of August (5.68 m above mean sea level) and a
minimum average level in February (1.46 m above mean sea level).
Figure 4-8 - Flood Hydrograph Showing Monthly Average Water Level
Source: BWDB
145. Table 4.6 shows the flood frequency analysis of the same two locations (BWDB stations)
for different return periods.
Table 4.6- Water Level at Different Return Periods
Source: IEE Study, BWDB, CEGIS
Return Period Years
Water Level (m+ mean sea level)
Maowa
Water Level (m+ mean sea level) Mongla
2.33 3.31 1.77
5 3.71 2.06
10 4.04 2.29
20 4.36 2.52
50 4.77 2.81
100 5.07 3.03
47
146. Although it is low lying and there is a lot of standing water during the monsoon season,
most of the TL route is not in flood prone areas and there is no risk from flood hazard.
The proposed GS sites will be raised well above the surrounding land (10 m in the case
of Aminbazar) in order to minimize the flood risk. The foundations of the GS sites and TL
towers are designed taking the potential flood risks into consideration.
4.4.4 Erosion
147. The banks of Padma River have suffered from erosion problems annually, mostly in the
monsoon and post monsoon periods. This is in the process of being stabilized with
extensive embankment work undertaken on both sides of the river in conjunction with the
construction of the new Padma Multipurpose Bridge crossing.
4.4.5 Storms
148. Seasonal storms, popularly known as nor ’westers (Kalbaishakhi) occur in the study
area. Tornadoes can be associated with severe nor ‘westers. The frequency of nor
‘westers is greatest in April and they most often occur in late afternoons.
4.5 Land Resource
4.5.1 Agro-ecological zones
149. There are 30 agro-ecological zones (AEZ) and 88 sub zones have also been identified
in Bangladesh. An AEZ is a zone or region with a unique combination of physiographic
(land forms and parent materials), soil properties, soil salinity, depth and duration of
seasonal flooding, agro-climatology (FAO/UNDP, 1988, BARC, 2012).
150. The study area falls in seven of the AEZs and these zones are shown in Map 4.3 in
conjunction with TL alignment. Detailed information on AEZs of the study area is
presented in Table 4.7 indicating the soil characteristics to be found in the study area
including soil texture and quality.
48
Map 4.3 - Agro-ecological Zones in the Study Area
49
Table 4.7 -AEZs and Soil Characteristics Along the Transmission Line Route
No. AEZs and No. Soil Characteristics
Organic Matter (%)
pH Soil Texture
Soil Quality
1 Young Brahmaputra and Jamuna Flood Plain(AEZ-8)
Low- Medium
4.5-7.2 Silt loam to silty clay loam
Soils are deficient in N, P and S but the status of K and Zn is low to medium.
2 Active Ganges Floodplain (AEZ-10)
Low- Medium
6.6-8.4 Sandy, silty and clayey alluvium
General fertility level is medium with high CEC and deficient in N, P, B and Zn contents.
3 High Ganges River Floodplain (AEZ-11)
Low- Medium
4.5-8.3 Silt loam and silty clay loam
General fertility level is low including N, P, S and B although CEC is medium. The K- bearing minerals are medium to high, but the Zn status is low to medium.
4 Low Ganges River Floodplain (AEZ-12)
Low- Medium
5.8-8.2 Silt loam and silty clay loam
General fertility level is low to medium, CEC and K status is medium to optimum and the Zn status is low to medium.
5 Ganges Tidal Floodplain (AEZ-13)
Low- Medium
4.5-8.4 Silty clay Very high CEC and K status. There are limitations of high exchangeable Na and low Ca/Mg ratio. The Zn status is low to medium and the B and S status is medium to optimum.
6 Arial Beels (AEZ-15)
Medium 4.7-6.8 Clayey Organic matter content generally exceeds 2% in the top and subsoil. Available moisture holding capacity is inherently low, having high CEC, and general fertility level is medium to high, N status is very low to low and B status is very low. Top soil pH
ranges from
slightly acidic to neutral.
7 Old Meghna Estuarine Floodplain(AEZ-19)
Low- Medium
4.5-7.8 Silty clay to clay
General fertility level is medium. Status of K is low to optimum. The level of P is very low to low, S is low to medium and B status ranges from low to optimum.
B- Boron, Ca- Calcium, CEC-Cation Exchange Capacity, K- Potasium, Mg- Magnesium, N- Nitrogen, Na- Sodium, P- Phosphorus, S- Sulphur and Zn- Zinc Sources: BARC, 2012 and information based on PGCB, 2015
4.5.2 Land use
151. Land use is dominated by human activity. Of the 1,713 ha of land which compromises
the total gross study area, the great majority is farmed land. The net cultivated area
(NCA) is calculated at 1,410 ha (82%); the rest is settlement land, rivers and water
bodies as per CEGIS assessment in June 2015 based on SOLARIS-SRDI-2006. This is
presented in Table 4.8 and the following Map 4.4. Much of the land categorized as NCA is
50
rice land which is in fact under water for more than half the year and cultivated in the dry
season only.
Table 4.8 -Existing Land Use in the Study Area
Land use Area(ha) % of Gross Area
NCA 1,410 82
Settlement 207 12
River 78 5
Water bodies 18 1
Total gross area 1,713 100
Sources: CEGIS Assessment in June 2015 based on SOLARIS-SRDI-2006
51
Map 4.4 - Land Use Map of Bangladesh
52
4.5.3 Land type
152. All the land in the study area is low lying and land type classifications are based on the
depth of inundation of agricultural land during the monsoon season due to normal
flooding. Four classes of land types are identified by the Soil Resources Development
Institute (SRDI). High land is regarded as land above the normal inundation level during
the monsoon and only 12% of land in the NCA falls into this category. The highest
coverage (59%) of land falls in the medium low land type (F2) followed by 24% in the
medium high land type (F1). Detailed information on land types is presented in Table 4.9
and the following map.
Table 4.9 -Land Type of the Study Area
Land Type Area (ha) % of NCA
F0 (high land) above inundation level 163 12
F1 (medium high land) above normal inundation level 331 24
F2 (medium low land) normally inundated 90-180 cm depth
800 59
F3 (low land) normally inundated 180-300 cm 59 4 Total 1,352 100
Sources: CEGIS Assessment in June 2015 based on SOLARIS-SRDI-2006
53
Map 4.5 - Land Types in Bangladesh
54
4.6 Agriculture Resources
4.6.1 Cropping Pattern and Cropping Intensity of the Study Area
153. Much of the land within the TL RoW is intensively used for agricultural crop production.
Cropping follows the pattern indicated in Table 4.10 with between one and three crops
being grown annually. The most prominent cropping pattern within the buffer area of
RoW is Fallow, followed by Lt. Aman rice followed by Fallow; this pattern is found in 20%
of the NCA. The next most popular pattern is Jute, Fallow and Onion and then Fallow, Lt.
Aman rice and High Yield Variety (HYV) Boro rice. Each of the latter two cropping
combinations are used in15% of the NCA.
154. Single, double and triple cropped areas are about 24%, 65% and 11% of the NCA
respectively and cropping intensity of the study area is about 187%.
Table 4.10 - Detailed Existing Major Cropping Pattern in the Study Area
Kharif-I (March-June)
Kharif-II (July-October)
Rabi (November-February)
Study Area
Area(ha) % of NCA
Jute Fallow Wheat 71 5
Jute Fallow Onion 212 15
Jute Fallow Garlic 141 10
Jute Fallow Potato 71 5
Jute Fallow Potato-HYV Boro 113 8
Fallow Lt. Aman Fallow 282 20
Maize Lt. Aman Fallow 71 5
Fallow Lt. Aman Mustard-HYV Boro 42 3
Fallow HYV T. Aman HYV Boro 141 10
Fallow Lt. Aman HYV Boro 212 15
Fallow Fallow HYV Boro 56 4
Total 1,410 100
Cropping intensity (%) 187
Source: CEGIS Assessment based on field information, June, 2015
55
Photo 4.3 – A Jute Field Within the Study Area
Photo 4.4–A Maize Field Within the Study Area
56
4.6.2 Cropped Area
155. Total cropped area of the NCA is 2,641 ha of which rice and non-rice cropped areas
amount to 1,312 ha and 1,329 ha respectively. Detailed information on cropped area is
presented in Table 4.11. Project impacted land is mainly agricultural and it is anticipated
that approximately 23 ha will be directly impacted due to construction of the 581 towers
along the RoW. Of this, about 5 ha are double cropped cultivated with rice (Lt. Aman and
HYV Boro varieties); about 15 ha is single cropped cultivated with HYV Boro rice and the
remaining 3 ha is single cropped and cultivated with Lt. Aman.
4.6.3 Crop Yield and Production
156. Crop yield rates were obtained during CEGIS field study in consultation with officials of
Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) and farmers. For the last three consecutive
years average yields (ton/ha.) have been calculated. It has been observed that there
had been no crop damage for the last three consecutive years. Therefore, crop
production was calculated on the basis of crop yield against crop area. The detailed
existing crop production of the study area is presented in Table 4.11
Table 4.11 - Crop Area, Yield and Annual Crop Production in the Study Area
Crop name Study Area
Crop Area (ha)
Yield (ton/ha)
Production (tons)
% Contribution
HYV Boro 564 3.6* 2,030 57
HYV T. Aman 141 3.4* 479 14
Lt. Aman 607 1.7* 1,032 29
Total Rice 1,312 0 3,542 100
Maize 71 5.5 391 2
Wheat 71 2.6 185 1
Potato 184 25 4,600 28
Mustard 42 1.2 50 0
Jute 608 3.5 2,128 13
Onion 212 30 6,360 38
Garlic 141 20 2,820 17
Total non-rice 1,329 0 16,534 100
Total 2,641 0 20,075 -
Source: CEGIS Assessment based on field information and DAE, June, 2015 * indicates cleaned rice
157. The total crop production in the study area has been estimated at 20,075 tons of which
rice production is 3,542 tons and non-rice is 16,534 tons making 18% and 82%
respectively.
4.6.4 Agricultural Input
158. About 50% of cultural practices for crop production are undertaken manually and
agricultural labor is an essential input for crop production.
57
159. Major fertilizers used in this area are urea, triple super phosphate (TSP) and muriatic of
potash (MP). Most of the farmers apply fertilizer in an unbalanced way. The use of
pesticides depends on the degree of pest infestation. Most common insects reported by
farmers to CEGIS during the IEE field survey in June 2015 have been stem borer, green
leaf hopper, grass hopper, rice bug, jute hairy caterpillar, cut worm and aphids. Local
farmers reported that they are using different types of pesticides such as Fighter, Virtako,
Darsban, Rifit, Sumithion and Mukti, etc. to prevent pest infestation in rice, wheat, potato,
jute, mustard, onion, garlic and maize cultivation. Liquid, granular and powder pesticides
are being used for pest control.
160. Irrigation coverage of the study area comprises 40% of the NCA during the dry season.
Irrigation is mainly for growing HYV Boro rice. Ground water is extracted with the use of
Shallow Tube Wells (STWs). Most of the khals are silted up and dried up from February
to April and irrigation is not provided in these areas. HYV, T. Aman and Lt. Aman rice are
cultivated under rain-fed condition. Supplementary irrigation is also provided to fields of
maize, wheat, potato and mustard cultivation. Detailed information is presented in Table
4.12.
Table 4.12 - Detailed Information on Irrigated Area by Crop
Crop name Irrigation (Ground water) Area (ha) % of NCA Charge (Tk/ha)
HYV Boro rice 564 40 9,500
Potato 184 13 6,500
Maize 71 5 5,500
Wheat 71 5 4,500
Mustard 42 3 4,000 Source: CEGIS Assessment based on IEE field survey, June, 2015
161. Local farmers reported that lack of irrigation water in the rabi season is the main
constraint on production. Siltation of rivers and different internal drainage channels is
another problem. Khals (as already mentioned) dry up in the dry season (February to
April). Farmers also said that irrigation with diesel operated devices is costly rather than
using electrical devices, and irrigation is being hampered because of this. Salinity also
restricts crop production to some extent in Khulna, Bagerhat and Gopalganj Districts.
4.7 Fisheries Resource
4.7.1 Introduction
162. The fisheries resource along the proposed 400 kV TL are both brackish and fresh water
in nature. The TL crosses various water features including rivers, khals (drainage
canals), Bagda gher (shrimp ponds) and other ponds which function as fish habitats both
seasonally and perennially. These habitats make substantial contribution to the local as
well as national fishery resources. They also function as migratory routes, breeding and
nursery grounds. Many people make their livelihood either catching, culturing or trading
fish. The TL can have some adverse impact on these fisheries. There will, however, be
58
only a small loss of habitat due to construction of towers and loss of land at the tower
pads.
163. The Padma River is famous for the species known as Hilsa. Besides Hilsa other fishes
such as carp, kata, mrigel, chapila, baila, boal are found. Hilsa and carp are considered
important species from economic and livelihood perspectives.
4.7.2 Habitat Description
164. Fisheries habitat in the study area can be categorized broadly as capture (mainly in the
brackish zones) and culture fishery resources (mainly in fresh water zones). The capture
fishery constitutes rivers, khals and floodplain whereas the culture fishery comprises of
Bagda gher and Golda gher (shrimp/prawn ponds) and aquaculture ponds. Some rivers
(e.g. the Pashur River Moiur River) and khals (Barani and Ramdia Khal) are tidal and
function as fish breeding, nursery and grazing ground for brackish water fish species.
165. Fresh water rivers such as the Padma, Madhumati, Berar Nadi and Kumor Nadi which
are perennial serve as the spawning migration route of some fish (Ilish, Rui, Catla,
Mrigel, Pangus, etc.) and fish breeding grounds. The char area about 10 km upstream of
the new Padma bridge acts as a nursery ground for fish such as carp, kata, mrigel,
kalibaush, etc., and the Padma is the migratory route for Hilsa (Ilish) particularly during
the months of March to May. The Bagda ghers situated adjoining tidal rivers or Khal
support shrimp cultivation along with certain white fish all year. The Golda ghers which
are seasonal practice prawn cultivation along with other white fish during the wet season.
Other ponds are brought under aquaculture practice by applying different culture
technologies like mono-, poly- and mix culture with major and exotic carp species.
166. The estimated fish habitat of the study area is about 1,025 hectare (ha). Capture fishery
contribute 86% of this and the rest is culture fisheries. The distribution of habitat is
floodplain 78%, followed by Bagda gher 11%, river and Khal 8%, Golda gher 3%, and
fishpond 0.5%. Fish habitat of the study area is shown in Table 4.13.
Table 4.13 -Fish Habitat Status in the Study Area
No. Fisheries Category Habitat Types Area (Ha)
1 Capture River and Khal 80
2 Floodplain 800
Sub-total 880
3 Culture Bagda Gher 110
4 Golda Gher 30
5 Fish Pond 5
Sub-total 155
Grand total 1,025 Source: CEGIS estimation using satellite imagery, 2014
4.7.3 Fish Production Assessment
167. The production of capture fishery resources in the study area is derived from river/Khal
and floodplain. The production of culture fishery resources is derived mainly from Bagda
59
gher, seasonal Golda gher in wet season and cultured pond (semi-intensive and
extensive ponds).
168. The annual fish production of the study area has been estimated to be 165 tons in 2012.
The yearly production from different fish habitats and the relative contribution of different
fish categories and habitat is presented in Table 4.14.
Table 4.14 -Estimated Annual Fish Production in the Study Area
No. Fisheries Category Habitat Types Production (Ton)
1 Capture River and Khal
7
2 Floodplain 100
Sub-total 107
3 Culture Bagda Gher 41
4 Golda Gher 8
5 Fish Pond 9
Sub-total 58 Grand total 165
Source: Production estimation based on Fisheries Resource Survey System, 2013-14
4.7.4 Fish Biodiversity
169. Fish diversity has declined over the years and this had been evident during
consultations held with local fishermen and elderly people at Bagerhat, Rampal,
Mollahat, Tongi, and Maowa (CEGIS 2015). It has been reported that in the past, fish
species like Ilish, Pungus, Boal, Rui, Catla, Chital, Ayre, Rita, etc were amply available in
the Madhumati, Berar, and Kumor rivers. Major factors believed to be responsible for this
reduction have been reported as: (i) reduction of riverine habitat (ii) fishing with use of
destructive gear; (iii) increased fishing pressure, (iv) obstruction of fish migration routes,
(v) expansion of application of fertilizer and pesticide in agriculture land; (vi) increasing
industrialization near the river bank and release of industrial waste into river, etc.
Indicative fish species in different habitats of the study area are presented below with
local and scientific names.
170. Riverine major brackish water fish species are: Hilsh or Ilish (Tenualosa ilisha), Boal
(Wallago attu), Poa (Johnius amblycephalus), Koral (Lates calcarifer), Dogri (Apocryptes
bato), Datni (Pomadasys argenteus), Guilla (Mystus gulio), Tengra (Mystus bleekeri),
Gura chigri (Leander styliferus), Bailla (Acentrogobius caninus), Bagda (Peneaus
monodon), Chewa (Taenioides anguillaris), Pathari (Abudefduf bengalensis), Tairu
(Platax teira), Chitri (Scatophagus argus), Khalla (Liza parsia), Kata (Plicofollis layardi)
and Olua (Coilia neglecta).
171. Riverine major fresh water fish species include: Rui (Labeo rohita), Catla (Catla catla),
Mrigel (Cirrhinus cirrhosus), Boal (Wallago attu), Ayre (Spetara aor), Foli (Notopterus
notopterus), Pabda (Ompok pabda), Baim (Mastacembelus armatus), Bata (Labeo bata),
Silong (Silonia silondia), Tengra (Mystus bleekeri), Gulsha (Mystus cavasius), Puti
(Puntius spp), Bele (Glossogobius giuris), Shol (Channa striatus), Taki (Channa
punctatus), Golda (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) and Kajuli (Ailia coila).
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172. Shrimp farm fish species include: Bagda (Peneaus monodon), Golda (Macrobrachium
rosenbergii), Koral (Lates calcarifer), Khalla (Rhinomugil corsula), Guilla (Mystus gulio),
Tilapia (Tilapia nilotica), Tailla/Surma (Polydactylus sextarius) and Bailla (Acentrogobius
caninus).
173. Culture fish species in ponds include: Rui (Labeo rohita), Katol (Catla catla), Mrigel
(Cirrhinus cirrhosus), Silver carp (Hypophthalmichthyes molitrix), Grass carp
(Ctenopharyngodon idela), Mirror carp (Cyprinus carpio), Thai pangus (Pangasius
sutchi), Tilapia (Tilapia mossambicus), Nilotica (Tilapia nilotica) and Sharpunti (Puntius
sarana).
4.7.5 Threatened Fish Species
174. The Padma River EIA (2010) indicated that the general degradation of the Padma River
and its tributaries for more than last 30 years has resulted in extinction of several species
of fishes. According to Flood Action Plan (FAP)-17, (Fisheries Studies and Pilot Project,
1993), 260 species of fishes were found in the north western region of the country of
which 143 belonged to small fishes. More than 41 species of small fishes are on the
verge of vulnerability now. These include: Shankha, Fansha, and four varieties of Puti,
Khayera, Pabda, Panikoi, Bancha, Milon, Yellow Tengra, Bele, Ganges Pangas fish,
Bheda fish and Bou fish. IUCN has made a list of vulnerable species of different areas of
Bangladesh. Based on the red list, 29 species of conservation significance in the Padma
is indicated in Table 4.15.
Table 4.15 Significant Fish Species and Their Status
Scientific name Local name Common name CE EN VU
Labio calbasu Calbaus Black Rui
Chitala chitala Citol Humped Feather back
Cirrhinus reba Bhangna Reba carp
Labio bata Bata Bata Labio
L.nandina Nandil Nandi Labeo
L. pangusia Ghora mass Pangusia Labio
P.sarana Sarputi Olive Barb
P.ticto Tit puti Ticto Barb
Raiamas bola Bol Indian trout
Rasbora rasbora Leuzza darkina Gangetic Scissortail Rasbora
Botia dario Beti Necktie Loach
Mystus aor Aor Long whishkeper Cat fish
M. seenghala Guizza Ayer Gaint river catfish
Mystus cavasius Golsa Tengra Gangatic Mystus
Ompok bimaculatus Kani pabda Indian Buutter Catfish
Ompok pabda Modhu pabda Pabdah Catfish
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Ompok pabo Pabda Pabo Catfish
Clupisoma garua Gharua Garua Bacha
Eutropiichthys vacha Bacha Batchwa bacha
Bagarius yarrellii Bagghair Gangetic Goonch
Chaca chaca Cheka Indian Chaka
Monopterus cuchia Kuicha Cuchia
Chanda nama Nama Chanda Elonget Glass-perchlet
Pseudambassis ranga
Ranga chanda Indian Glassy fish
Nandas nandas Meni Mud perch
Ctenops nobilis Neftani Indian paradise fish
Channa marulis Gajar Giant snakehead
Macrognathus aral Tara baim One –strip spinyeel
Mastacembalus armatus
Sal baim Tire-track Spinyeel
Note: CE= Critical Endangered, EN= Endangered, VU =Vulnerable
4.8 Ecology
4.8.1 Biological Environment
175. The study area falls in various terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems consisting of mainly
floodplain lands, peat lands and river terrain. With a variation of land forms, the area
once supported a natural abundance of wildlife and vegetation. The study area land use
today is much changed with homesteads and intensive agriculture, but many rivers,
beels, ponds, ditches and floodplain still support various species of flora and fauna.
4.8.2 Bio-ecological Zoning
176. IUCN-The World Conservation Union has identified 25 bio-ecological zones (2002)
based on physiography, climate, soil type, flooding depth and biodiversity. The proposed
TL route and GS locations fall within five of these defined bio-ecological zones, i.e.;
Gopalganj/ Khulna Peat Lands, the Brahmaputra-Jamuna Floodplain, the Saline Tidal
Floodplain, the Ganges Floodplain and Major Rivers. Table 4.16 gives the area of land in
the study area which is located in each of the five bio-ecological zones. Map 4.6 shows
the bio-ecological zones of Bangladesh in relation to the TL route.
Table 4.16 - Area and Location of Biological Zones within the Study Area
Bio-ecological Zone Area (ha) Percentage (%) District
Ganges Floodplain 749 44
Bagerhat, Gopalganj, Saline Tidal Floodplain 189 11
Gopalganj/Khulna Peat Lands 298 17
62
Brahmaputra-Jamuna Floodplain
198 12 Madaripur, Shariatpur, Munshiganj, Faridpur and Dhaka
Major Rivers 280 16 Total 1713 100
4.8.3 Ecosystem Diversity
177. The RoW of the proposed TL study area predominantly comprises paddy
land/floodplains followed by homesteads, terraces, canals in the order of significance.
Overall ecosystems in the study area can be divided into following categories:
178. Crop fields: This land is usually used for paddy cultivation once/twice/thrice in a year
and inundated during the monsoon period. In these areas there is least diversity of floral
communities but numerous indigenous fishes and birds find feeding habitat.
179. Settlements/Homesteads: This ecosystem comprises economic tall plants e.g. jute,
maize with undergrowth of wild flora. Homesteads are constructed at comparatively high
elevation, and settlement/homestead land exhibits mainly terrestrial ecology. Homestead
platforms and higher agricultural land is also used for commercial plantations of fruit and
timber yielding trees for furniture making and also to meet domestic fuel wood needs.
180. Canals and Rivers: Canals and rivers are the main sources of water in the general
study area for all ecological components both terrestrial and aquatic. The main rivers
(Padma, Dhaleshwari, Madaripur beel route, Madhumati and Pashur) are perennial
sources of water. Numerous canals also exist along the proposed TL route and these
support scattered hydrophytes in areas which retain water for at least a part of the year.
181. Ponds and Ditches: This is largely closed water wetland areas and is controlled to
meet human needs for domestic use and for irrigation purposes. Water levels fluctuate
widely with the seasons, and various smaller water dependent animals are supported in
this environment.
182. Roadside vegetation: Fast growing flora are planted to protect embankments and
roads from soil degradation and erosion. The lower land is occupied by marginal
vegetation, while along the road side the species indicated in are planted are found in
Table 4.17.
183. Mangrove ecosystem: This system is found at the Khulna South West end of the TL
route. Tidal flows in the area support many mangroves species. The ecotone or transition
zone between two ecosystems (tidal and freshwater) had abundant mangrove
vegetation. This is now much changed with river levees and canal banks inhibiting the
tidal flow to develop fish culture. There are, however, some mangrove forest patches
with the species Gala (Exocearia agallocha) and Kewra (Sonneratia apetalla) in
Raznager Union, Rampal Upazila, in Bagerhat District where the TL route begins in the
SW. Other mangrove species in the areaare Kankra (Bruguiera gymnorrhiza), Hargoza
(Acanthus illicifolius), Ora (Sonneratia caseolaris) and Golpata (Nipa fruticans). Kankra
and Tiger Fern grow vigorously in disturbed mangrove habitats.
63
4.8.4 Biodiversity
184. Terrestrial Flora: The study area contains a diversity of species in different ecosystems
described above. In and around homesteads species are planted according to their
potential for human use and consumption for timber, fuel and fruit purposes. Trees that
are to be found are Gagon Sirish (Albizia richardiana), Rendi Sirish (Albizia saman),
Sada Koroi (Albizia procera), Mahagoni (Swietenia mahogoni) and Eucalyptus
(Eucalyptus sp). For fruit demand (coconuts, banana, dates, mango etc) the following
species are grown Narikel (Cocos nucifera), Taal (Borassus flabellifer), Kola (Musa sp.),
Khejur (Phoenix sylvestris), and Aam (Mangifera indica) mainly around homesteads.
Bamboo is also grown widely in the study area. Commercially planted crops are to be
found in homesteads, along village roads and directly in crop land, and the following
three species predominate - Akashmoni (Acacia moniliformis), Mahagoni (Swietenia
mahagoni) and Taal (Borassus flabellifer) or the Asian sugar palm. See following table.
64
Map 4.6 - Bio-ecological Zones of Bangladesh and the Transmission Line Route
65
Photo 4.5 - Major Ecosystems of the Study Area
Photo 4.6 - Mangrove Vegetation Inside River and Canal Areas
Tiger or golden leather fern
(Acrostichum aureum)
Kankra or Black Mangrove
(Bruguiera gymnorrhiza)
Table 4.17 -Plants Species Growing Along the Proposed Transmission Line Route
Average Height (Meter)
Tree Species Family Usage Density
15-20 Narikel (Cocos nucifera) Palmae Fruit and fuel wood
H
10-15 Aam (Mangifera indica) Anacardiaceae Fruit and Timber H
20-25 Akashmoni (Acacia sp.) Mimosaceae Timber and fuel wood
H
15-20 Bansh (Bamboosa sp) Poaceae Thatching H
10-15 Mahagoni (Swietenia mahagoni)
Meliaceae Timber and medicine
H
20-25 Sirish (Albizia lebbeck) Leguminosae Timber and fuel wood
H
30-35 Chambul (Albizia richardiana) Leguminosae Timber H
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Average Height (Meter)
Tree Species Family Usage Density
25-30 Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus sp) Leguminosae Timber and fuel wood
M
25-30 Rendi Sirish (Albizia saman) Leguminosae Timber and fuel wood
M
15-20 Taal (Borassus flabellifer) Palmae Fruit and Timber M
9-12 Khajur (Phoenix dactylifera) Arecaceae Fruit and Fuel wood
M
5-7 Katbel (Limonia acidissima) Rutaceae Fruit and Timber L
8-10 Supari (Areca catechu) Palmae Timber and fuel wood
M
10-15 Tatul (Tamarindus indica) Leguminosae Fruit L
20-25 Silkoroi (Albizia procera) Leguminosae Timber and fuel wood
M
15-20 Sisso (Dalbergia sissoo) Fabaceae Timber and fuel wood
M
7-10 Gewa (Exocearia agallocha) Euphorbiaceae Timber and fuel wood
L
6-8 Kawra (Sonneratia apetala) Sonneratiaceae Fruit and fuel wood
L
5-8 Kanthal(Artocarpus heterophyllus)
Moraceae Fruit and Timber M
10-15 Kadom(Anthocephalus chinensis)
Rubiaceae Timber and fuel wood
L
3-5 Desi Gaeb (Diospyros peregrina)
Ebenaceae Fruit L
Source: CEGIS Field survey, 2015; Note: H = High M = Medium L = Low
185. While cultivated species predominate in the landscape, there are a variety of other
species of flora, both native and non-native, such as Digiteria spp (wild grass), Eclipta
alba (false daisy – a herb), Echinochola colonum (jungle rice), Hemarthrira sp
(herbaceous grass), Polygonum spp (knotweed family), Rumex aciculate (buckwheat
family), Alternanthera sessilis (aquatic plant), Dentella repense (creeping plant),
Cynodon dactylon (couch grass) and Cyperus spp (sedges) to be found on agricultural
lands.
186. Aquatic Flora: There is a great floral diversity of aquatic plant life in the river, canals
and seasonal floodplains and ditches inside agricultural lands. Among the free floating
species, Kochuripana (Eicchornia crassipes) is mostly found inside rivers and canals.
Shapla (Nymphaea spp.) and Chandmala (Nymphoides sp) grown in floodplains during
monsoon and comprise the common rooted floating plant. Also the species Hydrilla
versillata, and Hygrorhiza aristata are present along with the rarer Enhydra fluctuans and
Ludwigia species. None of these species will be affected by the low level of activity
generated during construction which will also take place out of the wet season.
Fauna
67
187. Terrestrial Fauna: Mammals species are few in number or have disappeared
completely from the study area owing to the lack of natural forest cover and the change
in habitat with loss of native plant species. Even small mammals which are present in
forest patch habitats and open grasslands elsewhere in Bangladesh such as fishing cat
(Falis viverrina), jungle cat (Falis chaus) and bengal fox (Vulp bengalensis) are absent in
the study area. Common mongoose (Herpestes edwardsi) and some bats are found.
Common lizards within the study area include the common skink (Mabuya carinata) and
the garden lizard (Calotes versicolor). Populations of grey monitor (Varanus bengalensis)
are healthy. Some snakes such as checkered keelback (Xenochrophis piscator) and the
smooth water snake (enhydris enhydris) are present in wetland areas.
188. Many birds are found with themajor terrestrial faunal groups in the area reliant on habitat
in crop fields, settlement vegetation and the floodplain area. Mynas, pied starling,
sparrow, bulbuls, cuckoo, crows, herons, egrets are common and various species of
raptors such as kites, buzzards and eagles are found in open areas of crop fields and
floodplains.
Photo 4.6 - Terrestrial Birds in the Study Area
Babui bird nest (Ploceus philippinus) Indian fruit bat(Pteropus giganteus)
189. Aquatic Fauna: There are many fish species present and seasonal floodplain and
water bodies support wide breeding and feeding habitat for indigenous fish. Common
amphibian species occurring in the area are common toad, skipper frog, cricket frog and
Indian bull frog. Turtles are quite rare, butspotted flapshell (Lissemyspunctate) and
Indian roofed turtles (pagashura tecta) do occur in undisturbed ditches and ponds. Water
dependent bird species are found along many rivers, floodplains, ditches e.g. little
cormorant, Indian pond heron, common kingfisher, stilts etc.
190. The unplanned development of shrimp culture activities has posed negative
environment impacts in terms of mangrove deforestation, biodiversity and specially
degradation of agricultural lands. Many local farmers have already converted their
agricultural land to shrimp farming at Rampal upazila in the South West of the study
area.
68
191. River gangetic dolphin (Platanista gangetica), are the only aquatic mammals in the
study area and they are now rare in Rupsa and Pashur River but can be found in the
Madhumati and Padma Rivers. Local people informed that loss of river depth due to
excessive siltation and change of river flow hamper their smooth migration for whole of
the year. Detailed mitigation measures are included in the Padma River Multipurpose
Bridge environmental/management plan and approval for work during piling for
construction of the platforms in the river. During operation of the TL will be no impacts.
4.8.5 Existence of important habitat
192. No important habitat exists along the RoW of the proposed TL as it crosses land where
agricultural practice dominates. The Padma River is a secondary habitat of 2
endangered species namely shushuk (dolphin) and gangetic gharial. For piling work in
the Padma River there are extensive mitigation measures that are being employed by
the BBA to ensure sound impacts and interference with dolphins are minimized with
exclusion zones defined when piling, while scaring tactics are used when dolphins are
present. Piling is also restricted in the deep channels during the hilsa migration season
which also coincides with the dolphin breeding season. The Project involves only the
erection of towers on platforms built by the BBA as a part of the Padma Multi Purpose
Project in the Padma River, and apart from transporting tower parts and lifting them by
crane onto the prebuilt platforms there is no Project activity in the river.
4.9 Socio-economic Resources
4.9.1 Introduction
193. Information on the baseline condition of social and economic resources of the study
area is provided below. A number of socio-economic indicators are analyzed based on
available data extracted from 2011 census information available for the 7 districts in
which the Project falls. Information is also available from CEGIS field survey work.
4.9.2 Administrative Area
194. The Project impacts two administrative divisions of Bangladesh, namely Dhaka and
Khulna. Of the 17 districts which comprise Dhaka Division, six are along the TL RoW,
while one district, Bagerhat, is in Khulna. Inside the 7 districts there are 17 upazilas
(second lowest tier of regional administration) and 53 union parishads (lowest tier of
regional administration) that will be affected (i.e. through which the TL will be constructed
- see Table 4.18). Table 4.18 - Administrative Areas That Will be Affected by the Project
Division District Upazila Union
Dhaka
Dhaka 3 5
Faridpur 1 2
Gopalganj 3 9
Madaripur 2 11
Shariatpur 1 2
Munshiganj 3 10
Khulna Bagerhat 4 14 Total Upazilas and unions 17 53
Source: GIS, Spatial analysis, CEGIS, 2015
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4.9.3 Population and Households
195. There are 249,900 households10 consisting of 1,138,410 people in the 53 unions in
which the Project falls including 571,540 (50.2%) males and 566,870 (49.8%) females.
The sex ratio of male and female of these unions is 99 females to 100 males. Population
density is high with an overall average of more than 1,300 persons per km2; Dhaka
District unions have higher population density at nearly 3,000 persons per km2 and a
significant higher proportion of males to females. More rural districts in Dhaka division
still have population densities around 1,000 persons per km2 and have more women than
men. Aminbazar and Tetuljhora unions have the highest sex ratio (119) of the unions in
the study area. Men tend to be more flexible and move from the rural areas to Dhaka for
employment opportunity and education leaving the women behind in the villages.
Table 4.19 -Demographic Characteristics of the Study Area
Districts Household Population Male Female Sex Ratio Persons per Sq/km
Dhaka 64,142 298,791 156,110 142,681 107 2,991
Faridpur 7,559 34,136 16,227 17,909 91 1,086
Gopalganj 29,322 139,480 68,893 70,587 98 958
Madaripur 44,250 206,489 102,158 104,331 96 1,062
Shariatpur 8,107 36,903 18,327 18,576 99 912
Munshiganj 36,479 165,905 80,903 85,002 95 1,388
Bagerhat 60,041 256,706 128,922 127,784 101 1,056
Tot. Districts 249,900 1,138,410 571,540 566,870 99 1,313
Source: Population Census, BBS 2011
4.9.4 Household Size
196. Household and population census 2011 of BBS shows that most households (HHs),
about 69% in study area, comprise four or more family members (see Table 4.20).
Average HH size in the study area is 5 members which is a little larger than the national
average at 4.44.
Table 4.20 - Household Size in the Project Districts
District Number of persons per HH & % in each HH Group Ave. size
of HHs 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8+
Dhaka 3 12 21 24 18 10 5 7 4
Faridpur 3 10 18 24 21 13 6 6 5
Gopalganj 2 8 17 23 21 14 8 8 5
Madaripur 2 9 16 23 21 14 7 7 5
Shariatpur 3 10 16 21 20 15 8 7 5
Munshiganj 3 10 19 24 19 11 6 7 5
Bagerhat 3 10 21 27 19 10 5 5 4 Total/Average 3 10 18 24 20 12 6 7 5
Source: Population Census, BBS- 2011
10 Population Census, BBS, 2011
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4.9.5 Age Structure and Age Dependency
197. Analysis of age structure shows that about 35% of total population are children (ages up
to 14 years) and 60% are of working age (15 to 59 years) regarded as the active
workforce. Bangladesh fertility rates have shown significant decline since 1970, but,
there are still enough children in the cohorts between the ages of 0 and 19 to see
population slowly increasing in the study area.
Table 4.21 - Population Distributions by Different Age Groups &Dependency Ratio
District Percentage of Population in the Age Group
0-4 5- 9 10-14 15-19 20-24 25-29 30-49 50-59 60-64 65+
Dhaka 10 11 10 9 11 11 25 6 3 5
Faridpur 10 13 13 9 8 8 23 8 4 6
Gopalganj 11 14 13 9 8 8 22 7 3 6
Madaripur 11 14 13 9 8 8 22 7 3 5
Shariatpur 12 15 14 9 7 8 21 6 3 5
Munshiganj 10 11 12 9 9 9 24 7 3 6
Bagerhat 9 11 12 9 8 9 26 7 3 6
Total/Average 10 13 12 9 9 9 23 7 3 5 Source: Population Census, BBS- 2011
198. The age dependency ratio i.e. the ratio of dependents (people younger than 15 or older
than 60) to the working-age population (those ages 15-59) is relatively low. Data are
shown as the proportion of dependents per 100 working-age population. For
Bangladesh, World Bank figures indicate that the dependency ratio has reduced
significantly since 1971. The dependency ratio in the study area is at 43 persons and is
indicative of improved social status with few children and more persons of working age in
the population.
4.9.6 Literacy
199. The literacy rate for the population 7 years and over in the study area is 53% and this is
better than the national literacy rate of 51.8%. The figures for the study area are skewed
somewhat with the Dhaka District alone recording relatively high rates at 73.4%; and the
more rural districts in Dhaka division show lower rates, slightly below the national
average rate. Female literacy rates in the study area, at 52%, fall only marginally below
the rate for males at 55%. The female literacy rate in the study area is in fact just
marginally better than the total population literacy rate for Bangladesh as a whole.
Table 4.22 -Literacy Rates
Source: Population Census, BBS, 2011
Study Area (%)
National (%)
Male 55 54.1
Female 52 49.4
Both Male & Female 53 51.7
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Photo 4.7 - Educational Institutions in the Study Area
4.9.7 Access to Health Service
200. Findings for the study area by CEGIS (fieldwork in 2015) on access to health services
indicate that only 30% of respondents attended trained physicians for health treatment,
while 38% used paramedic physicians, 29% used local healers and 3% reported they
have no access to medical facilities
4.9.8 Disability
201. Rates of disability provide an indicator of social condition and wellbeing. Table 4.23
shows that average disability rate in the study area Districts is 1.4% of which physical
disabilities contribute 0.5%.
Table 4.23 -Distribution of Population by Type of Disability
Districts All Speech Vision Hearing Physical Mental Autism
Dhaka 1.1 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.4 0.2 0.1
Faridpur 1.5 0.2 0.4 0.1 0.5 0.1 0.2
Gopalganj 1.3 0.2 0.3 0.1 0.5 0.1 0.1
Madaripur 1.2 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.4 0.2 0.1
Munshiganj 2.2 0.2 0.6 0.2 0.7 0.3 0.1
Madaripur 1.1 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.3 0.2 0.1
Bagerhat 1.6 0.2 0.3 0.1 0.7 0.2 0.1
Average 1.4 0.2 0.3 0.1 0.5 0.2 0.1
Source: Population Census, BBS, 2011
4.9.9 Prevalence of Diseases
202. The health profile of local people is presented in Table 4.24. According to the ranking by
local people, the incidence of influenza/common fever is the most prevalent ailment for
dry season whereas cough/cold, skin diseases are also common for winter season in the
study area. Diarrhea is commonly found in this area as people use surface water (river,
pond, and canal) for drinking.
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203. Health is universally regarded as an important index of human development and
constitutes one of the basic needs of the population. Access to health care facilities is a
basic right of all citizens.
Table 4.24 - Common Diseases in the Study Area
No Disease Ranking by Incidence of
Diseases in the Country**
Percentages of Population Suffered in
the Country**
Ranking by Incidence of
Diseases in the Study Area*
1 Gastric Ulcer 1 24 1
2 Diarrhoea - - 2
3 Rheumatic fever 2 14 -
4 High/low pressure 3 11 5
5 Asthma/respiratory 4 9 3
6 Chronic heart disease 5 7 6
7 Diabetic 6 5 4
8 Injury/disability 7 4 -
9 Chronic fever 8 3 -
10 Chronic fever 9 3 7
11 Eczema 10 2 8
12 Paralysis 11 2 -
13 Chronic Dysentery 12 2 - * Source: CEGIS fieldwork, 2015 ** Household income and expenditure survey in 2010
4.9.10 Occupations and Livelihoods
204. In the study area 41% of the population over 10 years of age are in recognized
employment (full or part time) according to the 2011 BBS census; this compares with a
rate of 47% for Bangladesh as a whole. 40% of the population in the study area are
classified as engaged in household work.
4.9.11 Housing Condition
205. According to the 2011 census, only a small percentage of population (6%) in the study
area live in pucka houses i.e. housing made fully of concrete, cement and iron. The
percentage living in semi-pucka houses (built with bamboo mats, timber, earth filled wall
and plinth in combination with a bricks and concrete foundation and bamboo and timber
roofing) is 17%. The majority of the population (75%) live in kutcha houses (having walls
of organic materials e.g. sticks, jute, straw, earth). Foundations of kutcha houses are
made of earth, bamboo/timber posts and roofs of thatched straw and grass with bamboo
framing. The situation in the study demonstrates poorer type housing compared to
Bangladesh, as a whole, indicating the rural and less wealthy nature of the study area.
Jhupri (very poor standard houses made of jute sticks, tree leaves, jute sacks etc)
constitute 2% of housing
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Table 4.25 -Type of Housing Structure
Photo 4.8 – Examples of Semi Pucca and Kutcha Housing in the Study Area
4.9.12 Sources of Drinking Water
206. Access to clean drinking water is an important indicator of social condition and
wellbeing. Data from the census indicates that only 2% of population in the study area
have reticulated tap water compared with over 10% nationally. 95% of population in the
districts where the Project is located can, however, collect drinking water from tube well
sources and only 3% are reliant on other sources.
Table 4.26 -Sources of Drinking Water
Type of House Study Area (%) National (%)
Jhupri 2 2.9
Kutcha 75 66.2
Semi Pucca 17 19.6
Pucca 6 13.3
Source: Population Census, BBS, 2011
Source Study Area (%) National (%)
Tap 2 10.3
Tube-well 95 83.9
Other 3 5.8
Source: Population Census, BBS, 2011
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Photo 4.9 - Sources of Drinking Water in the StudyArea
4.9.13 Sanitation Facility
207. The 2011 population census indicated that 84% of households in the study area had
access to sanitary toilet facilities of which 32% were water-sealed and the other 52%
were non water-sealed. 14% of households used non-sanitary toilet facilities, while 2% of
households had no access at all to sanitation facilities.
4.9.14 Access to Electricity
208. There is a big drive to provide electricity to all rural areas in Bangladesh, and
households served with electricity are increasing rapidly. According to the 2011
population census 65% households in the study area have reported they had access to
electricity. In terms of electricity coverage, the area is better than national coverage,
which is 56.1%.
4.9.15 Availability of Labor and Wage Rate
209. CEGIS field study findings (2015) indicated that the maximum male farming labor wage
rate was Tk 350 while the lowest wage rate was Tk 200. Female farming labor rates are
lower than that for a male. Farming laborers are mostly engaged in crops cultivation.
4.9.16 Land Price
210. Land prices have been attained from field surveys in four areas by CEGIS. These prices
are provided in Table 4.27. People of different areas, occupations, ages have provided
their views on this. Figures in Table 4.27 represent an average price. Land prices of
villages near to Dhaka District are much higher than those in the more rural areas.
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Table 4.27 - Land Price per Acre in the Study Area
Location of RRA Type of Lands Price per Acre
(million Tk.)
Village: Shaper Union: Sahapur Gopalganj sadar, Gopalganj
Homestead 25
Agricultural land 18
Commercial land 40
Village: Rakhalgachi Union: Rasulpur sadar, Bagerhat
Homestead 19
Agricultural land 15
Commercial land 32
Village: Minakandi Union: Naodoba Zanjira, Shariatpur
Homestead 35
Agricultural land 20
Commercial land 45
Village: Kaligaon Sreenagar, Munshiganj
Homestead 60
Agricultural land 35
Commercial land 80 Source: RRA, IEE Visit, CEGIS.
4.9.17 Income and Expenditure
211. Household income and expenditure provides an important indicator of the socio-
economic condition of people. In the study area, income and expenditure of most
households varies from Tk 5,000 to Tk 20,000/month. Levels of income and expenditure
are shown in Figure 4-9.
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Figure 4-9 -Distribution of Households by Income and Expenditure
Source: CEGIS fieldwork, 2015
4.9.18 Self-assessed Subsistence Poverty
212. A poverty profile has been prepared through a self-assessment exercise in the CEGIS RRA
survey exercise. The assessment was based on the year-round income along with the food
consumption of the inhabitants in three different categories. About 12% of households are
in the ‘deficit’ category, 20% are in the surplus category and the remaining 68% of
households are in a balanced situation.
4.9.19 Common Property Resources
213. Common property places/resources of the area include different social amenities e.g.
mosques, graveyards, temples, cremation grounds, playgrounds and Eidgahs (place for
offering Eid prayers). These are used frequently by the local people for purposes of
religious, social and cultural gathering. There are also some local bazaars. As per the
inventories compiled in preparation of the Resettlement Plan for the Project there are no
common property resources in the immediate corridor (50m) considered for compensation
purposes except for the portion close to the Padma River, where there is a Mosque and a
Graveyard. The final engineering design will, however, change the alignment of the TL to
avoid these two facilities.
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Photo 4.10 – The Local Fish Market and a Mosque in the Study Area
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Chapter 5 Anticipated Environmental Impacts and Mitigation
Measures
5.1 Impact Matrix
214. Environmental and social components likely to be affected by the project have been
considered and the Environmental and Social Components (IESCs) were identified and
screened for potential environmental impacts during pre-construction, construction as well
as post-construction and operation stages of the Project. Information is presented below in a
matrix form.
Table 5.1 - Impact Matrix for the Project
IESCs Baseline Condition Potential Impacts of Interventions
Water quality & water bodies
Normal Impacts to surface water during project preparation and construction.
Navigation Good Impacts during construction and operations particularly in the busy Padma River main shipping lane on the left bank of the river.
River courses Erosion prone particularly Padma River.
Impacts on river courses during construction and operations particularly of Padma River, and also of Madhumati and Dhaleshwari Rivers.
Irrigation canals and water channels
Few irrigation canals are available for dry season use. Water channels are ubiquitous in wet season and heavily used for agriculture.
Irrigation canals and water channels may be blocked or destroyed during construction of towers.
Interference with existing roads
Predominantly rural roads with village access
Temporary impact while stringing conductors between transmission towers.
Construction waste
Rural farming land Disturbance to the adjoining land, water and settlements.
Noise level Normal Noise levels are expected to increase during construction of tower foundations, erection of towers and augmentation of the GS.
Change of land use
Mainly low lying agricultural land much of which is under water in the wet season
About 23 ha agricultural land is required for construction of all the foundations to support transmission towers.
Soil quality Low to medium Limited impact in the construction phase when tower foundations are constructed.
Crop production loss in the RoW of the TL.
In the TL RoW Total crop production :20,075 tons Rice: 3,542 tons and non-rice:16,534 tons At Tower locations:
Partially impacted within the RoW during construction. Permanent loss of crop production in tower locations.
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5.2 Impacts and Mitigation
5.2.1 Water Quality and Waterbodies
215. Water quality may be affected both in the pre-construction and the construction phases.
Various construction activities at the GS and site preparation activities for the GS and tower
pads may impact adjacent water bodies. Oil may spill from transformers at the GS and
contaminate nearby water ways during the rainy season.
86 tons (Lt.Aman:14 tons and HYV Boro:72 tons)
Intercultural operation in the RoW
Traditional method of crop rotation and cropping
Partial impact within the RoW of the TL.
Fish habitat Total fish habitat area is 1,025 ha, capture 880 ha, culture 155 ha.
There will be small impact on fish resources. Just 18 ha of capture (floodplain) habitat is estimated to be lost. Tower foundations in low lying locations will function as a safe haven for fish during the operation phase. No important fish habitat will be adversely impacted.
Terrestrial vegetation
Moderate density of terrestrial vegetation with major types being crop field and fruit tree vegetation associated with settlements
During construction there will be loss of plants/ trees at proposed tower sites Additional damages to herbaceous plants for activities such as material storage and labor and construction vehicle movements. Tall homestead trees on the RoW will be cut. Vegetation temporary damage from wire stringing
Wildlife and wildlife habitat
Population and diversity is moderate. Major habitat type is homestead forest, road side vegetation, floodplains and crop fields
Small impact during construction with vegetation damage and habitat loss. Disturbance, noise, construction vehicles and workforce impacts. Increased risks for bats and bird movements during the operation of the transmission towers and lines.
Employment opportunities and income generation
Moderate
Positive impact with employment opportunities during construction and increased development of industry. Additional income as a result of employment creation and increase in power supply.
Land prices Moderate Decrease in land value closer to transmission towers and lines. Increase in land value due to improved availability of power and industrialization.
Industrial and economic development
Moderate Industrial development will be positively impacted during operations of the TL. Productivity will increase as well as GDP as additional reliable power supply helps develop the national economy.
Culturally valuable materials
Low Likely to discover objects or artifacts of cultural or archaeological significance during construction which may be destroyed.
Human safety
Good During construction activities impact to workers and public. Negative impacts will reduce in the operations phase.
Existing social structure
Predominantly rural low density farming communities
Worker’s camps and social impact of workers.
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216. Construction activities will be largely undertaken during the dry season. Sites for storage
and camps will be located away from low lying areas. Fuel and lubricant stored in drums or
tanks and placed on impermeable surfaces with bunding and other erosion protection
measures at vulnerable sites. Conditions to ensure these measures will be placed in
contracts for the project work.
217. Work on towers in deep water in the Padma River will be undertaken from barges alongside
existing platforms in the river – special procedures for working over water and for storage of
materials and waste will be put in place to avoid pollution of the river.
5.2.2 Navigation
218. The proposed TL will cross the Padma, Madhumati and Dhaleshwari River and is a
potential source of environmental impact. The seven suspension towers to be built in the
Padma River and the TL across the river may disrupt navigation of vessels on this busy
waterway during the construction and operation phases of the Project.
219. For stringing of conductors across the river as they are initially drawn into place and
suspended from the suspension towers or for any other operations a safety plan and
procedures will be in place for any brief partial closure of the main Padma navigation
channel.
220. The lowest sag point of the TL is designed to exceed the height of the road carriageway on
the new Padma Bridge 2 km upstream i.e. any vessel passing under the bridge will have
additional clearance under the downstream TL. This TL line clearance will also comply with
the safety clearance (25m above the 50 year flood) for 400 kV lines over river crossings.
The span between individual towers in the river is 828 m. Only 3 of the towers are in deeper
waters of the main navigation channel of the river, with only one being in the deepest water.
5.2.3 River Course
221. Transmission anchor tower platforms alongside Padma may be vulnerable to bank erosion.
Other rivers i.e. the Madhumati and Dhaleshwari Rivers are crossed in single spans and do
not carry the same conductor loading is experienced with the Padma crossing. Any erosion
activity in these and other rivers should be monitored in conjunction with BBA.
5.2.4 Irrigation Channels
222. The proposed TL has 581 towers, most of which will pass through areas of intensely used
agriculture land, with potential to cause disturbance of irrigation channels which are used in
the dry months to irrigate crops particularly rice using river or tube well water. Any
interference with irrigation and destruction/loss of crops will be identified and compensated
for in the RP.
5.2.5 Interference with Road Crossing
223. The TL crosses various major roads close to Dhaka and close to Mongla and there are
some minor roads to be crossed as well. The TL alignment chosen is never far from the
local road network and various roads and access tracks will be used during construction.
Some access roads and road crossing locations will be temporarily impacted during the
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process of accessing transmission tower locations for erection of towers and stringing
conductors between towers at the end of the construction phase.
224. Traffic management plans will be put in place with public awareness programs and warning
signs at designated sites. Scaffolding will be placed over road crossing points while stringing
of conductors takes place.
5.2.6 Camps and Construction Work Force
225. The work force for construction will be sourced locally as much as possible. Camps will not
be necessary for the TL construction but there may be a small camp at Aminbazar GS. The
latter site is away from any settlements; any small camps for laborers will be provided with
water supply and sanitation facilities.
5.2.7 Construction Waste
226. During the construction period, incorrectly managed construction waste may have impacts
to the surrounding land, settlements and communities. During the brief time that
transmission towers are erected on platforms in the Padma River there will also need to be
special arrangements in place for correct storage of materials and disposal of solid waste
from the barge operation and transmission platforms. Waste will be disposed of at existing
recognized disposal sites as per waste management plan.
5.2.8 Land Use and Loss of Land
227. With a 174 km TL crossing relatively densely occupied land there is potential for houses,
human infrastructure, crops and trees to be affected by the Project. An RP has been
undertaken in conjunction with the IEE to determine land ownership, any buildings,
economic trees, crops and associated users which are affected.
228. 18 HHs were originally identified within the chosen alignment and two common property
resources (a mosque and graveyard). Further adjustment to the TL alignment has been
made to ensure that none of these will be affected.
229. The Electricity Rule 1910 of the Power Division, Bangladesh does not provide provisions for
acquisition, nor compensation for the land required for the foundations and platforms for TL
towers. Compensation, however, is provided for any crop losses during construction
activities related to erection of the towers and for any crop losses along the RoW. During the
construction period, also, there will be crop compensation for any damage caused to
standing crops by the stringing of conductors between towers. Owners and tenants of land
in the RoW and tower locations will also be paid compensation for the loss and cutting of
trees. SPS 2009 requires compensation for loss of land at transmission tower sites. PGCB
won’t pay compensation for the land under the towers according to Electricity rules quoted
above and the RP provides compensates only land owners for the loss of crops and
standing trees.
5.2.9 Loss of trees
230. Impact on trees is identified through the RP. Preliminary information indicates that 4,848
economic trees are affected by the Project (see Table 5.1). A variety of trees are involved
but raintrees (Tk 12,000) and mahogany (Tk 10,000) are the most numerous. Raintrees
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grow in village areas and along roads and the species has multipurpose use as timber and
fuel and leaves are used as fodder for animals. Mahogani, also known as the sky fruit tree,
is used for high quality timber. These two trees amount to over ¾ of the Tk 27,537,300 set
aside in the Resettlement Plan for tree compensation.
Table 5.2 - Economic Trees Affected by the Project
Type of Affected
Trees
No. Affected Trees
Average Value of A Tree (Tk)
Estimated Compensation For Loss of Trees (Tk)
Betel Nut 418 500.00 209,000
Akashi 6 7,000.00 42,000
Apple 19 1,000.00 19,000
Bamboo 20 300.00 6,000
Banana 143 200.00 28,600
Boroi 358 300.00 107,400
Coconut 600 500.00 300,000
Guava 37 400.00 14,800
Jackfruit 572 5,000.00 2,860,000
Jam 7 4,000.00 28,000
Lombu 35 2,000.00 70,000
Mahagoni 1072 10,000.00 10,720,000
Mango 784 6,000.00 4,704,000
Orjun 25 2,500.00 62,500
Palm 37 5,000.00 185,000
Raintree 662 12,000.00 7,944,000
Safeda 18 1,500.00 27,000
Sherij 35 6,000.00 210,000
TOTAL 4848 Tk 27,537,300.00
USD 353,042.31
1 USD= Tk 78
Source Preliminary data from Resettlement Plan
231. As mitigation for loss of tree, a program to grow tree species and smaller
trees/bushes at selected sites will be implemented. Fruit trees such as mango, guava
& lemon to be favored in homestead areas. Trees will be planted at the Aminbazar
power station and homestead sites adjoining the TL route.
5.2.1 Noise Level and Air Quality
232. Noise will be generated during the preconstruction phase of the project with removal and/or
cutting of vegetation in the RoW and during the movement of trucks or other required
vehicles. Transmission tower foundations and pads are constructed using a standard drill rig
to bore to required depth depending on geology. If water is encountered, pumps will be used
to remove the water to either adjacent defined areas or to waiting tanker trucks for proper
disposal. After the construction is completed, the RoW is graded, agricultural soils are de-
83
compacted, and the RoW cleaned up. All these activities might create impacts as far as the
noise level is concerned.
233. A noise and dust control plan will be developed along with community and safety plans. All
vehicles will carry valid fitness certificates issued by BRTA and renewed annually under the
Motor Vehicles Ordinance 1983, Section 48, Chapter IV and the rules thereunder.
Construction activity (particularly piling for towers) will take place during sociable hours
(between 9 a.m to 5.00 p.m.). Residents will be informed in advance of any drilling activity
for tower foundations.
234. Water will be sprayed on roads, and temporary fencing will be used at construction sites,
and camps.
5.2.2 Soil Quality
235. Top and sub-soils will be affected when the land is disturbed to make foundations for the
GSs and transmission towers. Soil quality as well as soil characteristics may deteriorate due
to mishandling and disposing of waste during implementation.
236. During construction the contractor will carefully store topsoil removed from the tower site
locations. On completion of the foundation and tower structure, the topsoil will be replaced
and adequately compacted at the tower footings.
5.2.3 Crop Production
237. In the study area, the NCA area is about 1,410 ha. Currently, rice based crops are being
practiced in these land. Various activities such as construction of towers, GSs and stringing
of conductors would be performed during the construction phase. Standing crops in the field
during tower pad construction and stringing phases will be affected.
238. In the study area, most of the land is used for agricultural crop production. There will be a
small change in land use with 23 ha lost in the area immediately at the pads which support
the transmission towers. Of the 581 tower sites, nearly all are on private land; 15 are on
Government land in Mawa and Shariatpur. During construction activities will be phased to
allow farmers to harvest standing crops and for construction storage and vehicle activity
barren areas will be identified
5.2.4 Fish Habitat
239. During construction activities there will be some small impact on floodplain fish habitat
which predominates in the study area during the wet season. It is calculated that some total
of 18 ha of fish habitat will be lost during the construction of the TL tower platforms. In most
cases this loss will be only temporary and following erection of the towers, however, many
algae and sessile organisms should establish around tower pads and the towers will
function as a safe haven for fish with natural vegetation growth.
240. There will be potential impacts on hilsa fish migration and dolphin activity in the Padma
River caused by piling for the 7 platforms in the river. There will be noise impacts and
dredging and drilling will result in loss of water quality which will affect marine life. Disposal
of dredging materials on Charland areas will impact on marine life (see Appendix 4 for more
detail of impacts and mitigation). Construction of these platforms is the responsibility of the
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BBA and mitigation measures are included in the EIA for the Padma Bridge project. Various
studies including hilsa migration (with bathymetric surveys of the main channels in 2008 and
2009) have been undertaken. A wildlife survey (including the monitoring of dolphin activity)
is ongoing. The occurrence and prevalence of hilsa and dolphin in the area are now well
known – the dolphin breeding season and the hilsa migration coincide in the period March to
July.
241. Impacts on aquatic life include various measures are now employed during pile driving
operations in the river to minimize impacts of noise. Erection activities for the TL towers take
place out of the water on the 7 platforms and pose no noise problems to wildlife.
5.2.5 Terrestrial Vegetation
242. Existing vegetation at the locations of transmission towers and along the TL RoW will need
to be cut before starting the construction works. Although most of the transmission
alignment falls inside paddy fields/ floodplain areas, there will also be a need for tree felling
in settlement areas. Additional vegetation damage will occur at sites for storing construction
materials, for construction activities, for labour camps and construction vehicle movements.
243. Secondary vegetation damage will occur during the stringing of conductors. Trees will need
to be lopped inside the RoW and at any settlements farm areas falling inside the RoW and
existing crop field vegetation may be damaged during stringing activities.
244. After completing of construction works, all herbaceous plants are expected to re-generate
within few years. Existing vegetation patterns under the proposed TL RoW will change to
some extent as there will be a restriction for planting large trees in the RoW and regular
pruning of vegetation.
5.2.6 Wildlife Habitat
245. Existing wildlife (birds, reptiles, bats, small mammals and rodents) along the TL route will
be impacted to a small extent by vegetation clearance and the loss of small habitat locations
at tower sites. Construction activity with earth excavation, noise and construction movement
will cause disturbance to the surrounding wildlife.
246. The towers and conductors will be an additional hazard for bats and raptors (kites, eagles
and hawks in general) as well as bird movement along the Padma estuary. The activities of
the Padma bridge construction with dredging and drilling will affect wildfowl and wader
activity in the estuary.
247. Transmission towers and conductors may be supportive to local birds as resting, roosting
and look out locations and they will be positively impacted.
248. The Padma River is the secondary habitat of shushuk (dolphin) and gangetic gharial. The
erection of 7 towers by the Project on platforms previously constructed by the BBA in the
river will have minimal impact. BBA has developed a protected wild life sanctuary as offset
and mitigation with protected habitat caused by construction impacts to marine life (see
Appendix 4).
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5.2.7 Employment Opportunities and Income Generation
249. During the 36 month construction phase there will be a need for both skilled and non-skilled
labor to build the tower pads, erect towers, string conductors and augmentation work of the
GS. Employment opportunities will be created for people in the immediate area as well as in
the country as a whole. Contractors will be encouraged to provide opportunities to local
people.
250. Jobs in construction and supporting industries will result in increased productivity and
capital income of the people.
5.2.8 Land Price
251. The value of land may be affected by the proximity of overhead TLs. On the other hand
land values in the general area are likely to increase because of the availability of additional
power supply resulting in changes in land use from agriculture to commercial and industrial
use.
5.2.9 Human Safety
252. Risks on human safety during construction of the Project and operations are envisaged.
During construction, safety of workers, land owners and land users need to be protected.
Appropriate safety measures will be required during construction and operation activities.
Contractors and sub-contractors will be required to ensure safety for their works and
implementation of appropriate measures e.g. awareness programs, discussions, meeting,
signage, posters to be displayed at construction sites. First aid and ambulatory service will
be provide at work sites.
253. PGCB has emergency response measure in place and contractors will be obliged to
develop a safety plan with identified safety measures to include fire safety plan,
electrocution safety plan and medical emergency plan.
5.2.10 Objects of Cultural or Achaeological Importance
254. During construction, with many small construction sites along the TL route, there is
potential to unearth or discover objects of a cultural nature that will need to be protected.
While there is no evidence of particular sites within the study area, there are various tombs,
temples and other sites in the country. It is, therefore, prescient to have a procedure in place
to ensure there is a mechanism in place to handle this. See Appendix 3 for the relevant
procedure.
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Chapter 6 Alternative Sites and Transmission Routes
255. The Aminbazar GS is proposed to be augmented within land available within its premises to
handle electricity received through the proposed TL.
256. For the complete TL from Mongla to Aminbazar, three alternative routes have been
considered (referred to as Option-1, Option-2 and Option-3) see Table 3.1 and Map 3.1 &
3.2. Options have been selected through careful consultation with local stakeholders and the
analysis of maps and satellite images.
257. In order to minimize impacts, the following criteria have been considered for selecting the
alignment of the route:
The distance from connecting roads should as far as possible be within 1 km for ease of
access.
Avoidance of settlement and urban areas as much as possible.
Avoidance of river crossings and keep any crossing to minimum spans.
Avoidance of any sanctuaries, national parks and monuments of cultural or historic
importance in the area.
Avoidance of existing power transmission and distributing lines and any other infrastructure
and public utility services in the area e.g. schools.
Ensure route does not infringe areas of natural resources.
Table 6.1 -Alternative Options for Proposed Mongla-Aminbazar TL Route
Three alternative Routes Length (Km.) Final Preferred
Option Option-1 Option-2 Option-3
209 176 185 Option -2
Source: RS, CEGIS, 2015
258. Option 2 has been selected as the final route. The Option 2 alignment has been further
adjusted from the 176 km to just 174 km following final survey. It is the shortest route and
avoids existing semi urban areas both in Mongla in the south west and at Aminbazar GS at
the eastern end of the TL (see Map 6.1.). The route selected passes through mostly plain
area with easy accessibility and minimum road crossings being affected. River spans on the
chosen route are shorter than the other two alternatives.
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Map 6.1 - Alternative Mongla - Aminbazar Transmission Line Routes
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Chapter 7 Information Disclosure Consultation & Participation
A Introduction
259. Public Consultation is mandatory for the IEE study of any development project according to the IEE Guidelines of the DoE. ADB also require disclosure, consultation and participation (DCP) in project processing to ensure that adequate and timely information is made available to the beneficiaries and affected people. This process enables opportunity to voice opinions and concerns and participate in influencing decisions making and project processes. The Safeguard Policy Statement (SPS) 2009 of ADB stresses the significance of stakeholders DCP for ensuring formulation and execution of development projects compliance to environmental and social safeguards. The SPS requires that the executing agency will conduct meaningful consultation with displaced persons, their host communities, and civil society organizations. Consultation, to be carried out throughout the project cycle and timely disclosure of relevant and adequate information has to be undertaken. Both men and women have to be consulted and involved equitably in project design and implementation. All relevant views of affected people and other stakeholders need to be considered in decision making, such as project design, impact assessment, mitigation measures, the sharing of development benefits and opportunities, and implementation.
260. The information dissemination and consultation activities were undertaken for the project in order to: (i) share available project information with the affected people including the findings of the IEE and EMP; (ii) obtain information on the needs and priorities of the affected people including their feedback on proposed activities; (iii) involve the affected people and communities in project planning; and (iv) ensure transparency in all activities related to environmental and resettlement impacts, mitigation and compensation.
B Identification of Stakeholders
261. Stakeholders include all those affected by the Project. They can be groups of people, organizations, institutions and individuals. The primary stakeholders of the Project are those who will be directly affected i.e. those people residing within or in the immediate vicinity of the TL and the GS. They can include farmers, fishermen, business people as well as the households to be displaced and women groups. Primary stakeholders identified and consulted during the IEE include communities to benefit and/or affected by the Project, along with local leaders, community members and local representatives.
262. Secondary stakeholders are those who may not be directly affected but have interests in this Project i.e. PGCB, Department of Forests, other concerned government departments, and line agencies, NGOs and the general public at large.
C Approaches for Public Consultation
263. A participatory approach was followed for conducting stakeholder consultation meetings;
to provide key Project information including proposed TL route and scope of
resettlement impacts to create awareness among various stakeholders about project
intervention;
the consultants used a checklist to maintain uniformity and relevancy in discussion and
properly recorded the opinions and views of participants;
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socio-economic, agricultural, hydrological, fisheries, and ecological issues were
discussed in detail, including potential impacts of the interventions on the environmental
and social parameters; and
institutional issues were discussed and participants provided their opinions and
suggestions freely.
D Methodology
264. The consultant team has prepared a checklist for the consultation meetings. The issues of the overall project planning for intervention and probable impacts on the environment, socio-economy and institutions have been incorporated in that checklist. The issues of discussion have also been shared with the implementing authority for their information and suggestions. The meeting locations have been selected in consultation with PGCB officials and local knowledgeable persons especially representative of Union Parishads.
265. An Anthropologist of amulet-disciplinary consultant team has facilitated the consultations with different groups of local people and has collected/recorded their opinions and views. The other members of the multi-disciplinary consultant team have also attended and assisted as necessary. The consultants have used maps of the study area in establishing the baseline condition to identify proper interventions for the participants of the consultation meetings. The facilitators have explained all relevant points and issues in order to enable the participants to comprehend the proposed interventions/ activities properly and to respond accordingly.
E Public Consultation Meetings and Focus Group Discussions
266. A number of public consultation meetings (PCM) and focus group discussions (FGDs) have been conducted by the CEGIS IEE study team at different locations in the study area during June and later in October and November 2015. Two further meetings took place in January and June 2016. Locations and dates of these 12 meeting are shown below in Table 7.1.
Table 7.1 -Consultation Details
District Upazila Union Date
Bagerhat Bagerhat Sadar Rakhalgachi 10.06.2015
Gopalganj Muksudpur Raghdi 11.06.2015
Madaripur Shibchar, Panchhar, 12.06.2015
Munshiganj Zanjira Naodoba 13.06.2015
Bagerhat Mollarhat Gaula 31.10.2015
Gopalganj Gopalganj Sadar Sahapur 31.10.2015
Madaripur Rajoir Haridasdi-Mahendradi 01.11.2015
Madaripur Shibchar Kutubpur 02.11.2015
Munshiganj Sreenagar Atpara 03.11.2015
Keraniganj Keraniganj Taranagar 04.11.2015
Dhaka Savar Aminbazar 09.01.2016
Gopalganj Muksudpur Raghdi 06.06.2016
Source: IEE study, CEGIS and eGen in Jan and June 2016
F People’s perceptions and suggested measures
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267. CEGIS has conducted discussions with participants through FGDs and PCMs and shared the prepared IEE and EIA information.
268. The people of the study area were already aware of the Project from top officials of PGCB and the local administrator who frequently visited the area. People of the study area are aware about the Project and its impacts.
i. Major problems identified by local people
269. At the PCMs, local people identified that the Project may create several problems. Some farmers will not be able to cultivate their land because of the transmission tower supports. Some households will be disturbed during project construction and implementation.
270. The local people also expressed concern that it may become difficult and risky to cultivate under this high voltage TL, and particularly during the rainy season. There may also be problems for cattle rearing throughout the season. Local people say that the processes for compensation is very complicated, scare people and deter them from getting proper compensation.
ii. Suggested Solutions
271. It has been suggested that people who may lose their own land for the Project should be compensated with land and properly resettled, if possible. People who would lose their livelihoods such as sharecroppers and leaseholders will have to be compensated with cash.
ii. Suggestions
A full list of measures that have been suggested in these meetings is included in Table 7.2The following have been the main suggestions from the meetings:
- A list of affected people should be prepared.
- Real land owners and sharecroppers should be identified.
- All project affected people (PAPs) should be compensated.
- Proper compensation rate should be ensured for different crops.
- No work should be started for implementing the Project until proper compensation is paid to
the displaced people.
- Revetment work should be undertaken if transmission towers are placed on the bank of
rivers.
- Any people who would lose their livelihood should be engaged in alternative occupations
with proper training by the responsible agencies.
- A neutral monitoring agency should be engaged for monitoring the compensation activities.
- There should be an option for local people to be engaged in the construction activities to
create employment opportunity.
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Table 7.2 -Matrix of Issues and Suggested Measures
Issues Problems Suggested Measures
1
Water Resource
Construction waste may create disturbance to the surrounding land, water and settlements.
Make a plan for suitable waste disposal and recycling.
2
Water body might be adversely impacted due to accidental leakages of mineral oil from the transformers via water way.
Should follow proper way of transportation. Use effective motor vehicles that meet all criteria of transportation in water way.
3 River course might be adversely impacted.
Bank protection work should be planned in erosion prone area.
4 Irrigation channels may be impacted.
Span between towers and tower locations varied to avoid irrigation channels.
5
Noise level may be adversely impacted during construction period
Try to avoid noise pollution by proper use of materials. Adjustments of selected locations for construction of tower, labour shed, stock yard etc.
6
Agriculture
The cost of irrigation is higher due to diesel operated devices than that of electrical devices.
Khals re-excavation and connecting with the Rivers. Ensure the electricity facilities in village are reliable. Reduce load shading during the irrigation period in village level. 7
Salinity restricts the crop production to some extent in Khulna, Bagerhat and Gopalganj Districts.
8
Fishery resources
Increasing application of destructive gear like current jal, ber jal, etc.
Fishing monitoring should be carried out regularly; Provide Income Generating Activities (IGAs) training to professional fishers community
Increasing fishing pressure.
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Socio-economic
Insufficient electricity supply to the study area.
They urged to avoid homesteads. Local people should be engaged in the construction activities thus they can be employed. Compensate to any affected people who are losing their lands. Let the people know about the compensation process of PGCB.
10
Load shedding.
People don’t know about the compensation method of PGCB.
11
Transmission line may hamper future high rise buildings
Lack of employment opportunity.
12 Ecology
Terrestrial vegetation damage due to stockpiling of construction materials.
Limit vegetation loss during clearing sites for stockpiling for tower construction; Avoid wildlife habitats and passage during stockpiling for tower construction.
Wildlife species and their habitats will damage due to stockpiling of construction material and TL RoW.
272. Consultation will be continued throughout the project cycle. The effectiveness of
resettlement implementation is related to the continuous involvement of those to be
impacted by the project. Several additional rounds of consultations with PAPs will be
required during detailed design and IEE & RP implementation. Further consultations will
occur when compensation and assistance are provided and actual resettlement begins.
Information disclosure is pursued for effective implementation and timely execution of the
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IEE & RP. For the benefit of the community in general and DPs in particular, the RP will be
made available at PGCB local offices and at local Union and Upazila parishads. For
continued consultations, resettlement component of the project will be placed for public
display at the local level PGCB office and at local Union Parishad
273. The following steps are envisaged in project design and implementation:
• The Final IEE & RP will be uploaded in the ADB as well as PGCB websites; information should be referenced/mentioned in the brochure designed for PAPs.
• PGCB will organize public meetings and will apprise the communities about the
progress in the implementation of resettlement, and social activities.
• PGCB will organize public meetings to inform the community about the
compensation and assistance to be paid. Regular update of the progress of disbursement will be provided to ADB.
• All monitoring reports of the IEE and RP components of the project will be disclosed in the same manner as that of the IEE and RP.
• Key features of the IEE and RP particularly the entitlements and institutional
arrangements for grievance redress will be summarized in a booklet and provided
to PAPs.
• PGCB will conduct information dissemination sessions at major intersections and solicit the help of the local community leaders to encourage the participation of IEE and RP implementation.
• Attempts will be made to ensure that vulnerable groups understand the process
and to take their specific needs into account.
274. The IEE and RP may need to be revised based on the detailed engineering design and
results of the detailed measurement survey. The plan and its summary will be translated into
Bengali and will be made available to the affected people through the office of the district
and sub-district authorities. An information brochure will also be produced and distributed to
the affected people. The brochure will contain the following information: (i) project
description, (ii) implementation schedule, (iii) project impacts, (iv) compensation and
entitlements policy, (v) institutions responsible for payment, (vi) grievances and appeal
procedures, (vii) compensation rates for each types of impact and (viii) date of delivery of
entitlements.
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Chapter 8 Grievance Redress Mechanism
8.1 Objectives of Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM)
275. PGCB will ensure that local people have the opportunity to express their legitimate
grievance or file a complaint about the Project by establishing a process to address issues
raised. This can be achieved by careful implementation of the EMP, continuing consultation
and communication with stakeholders during implementation by PGCB, the Project
Management Unit (PMU) of PGCB, various contractor(s), and local government authorities.
Contact details of the PMU for filing complaints will be posted in villages in the Study Area.
276. The Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) is a locally based, project-specific extra-legal
way to deal with and resolve complaints and grievances faster and thus enhance project
performance standards in terms of environmental, social and resettlement management.
277. The fundamental objectives of the (GRM), implemented through a Grievance Redress
Committee (GRC) serving as a para-legal body, are to resolve any environmental and
resettlement related grievances in consultation with the aggrieved party in order to facilitate
smooth implementation of social and environmental plans and establish accountability of the
affected people.
8.2 Guideline to Redress Grievances
278. The Project Proponent will establish a procedure to deal with and resolve queries as well as
address complaints and grievances. A policy and/or guideline will be prepared and adopted
for assessing and mitigating potential social and environmental impacts through the GRM. A
GRC will be formed to receive and resolve complaints as well as grievances from aggrieved
persons from the local stakeholders including the Project-affected persons. Based on
consensus, the procedure will help t o resolve issues/conflicts amicably and quickly,
saving the aggrieved persons from having to resort to expensive, time-consuming legal
actions. The procedure will, however, not prevent a person’s right to go to the courts of law.
The GRCs will be established through a gazette notification from the Ministry of Power,
Energy and Mineral Resources (MPEMR); therefore, the GRC will be a legally constituted
body.
8.3 Composition of the Local GRC
279. The GRC will be established both locally at union/municipal level at Project sites and
centrally at the Project level to receive and settle grievances. Most grievances will be
resolved at local level GRC, but those cases which cannot be resolved at local level will be
forwarded to the project level. The local level GRC will be constituted with representation of
the local union Chairman and affected people ensuring women’s representation. The Project level GRC will be constituted with representation from the PMU, the implementing NGO
(INGO/IA) and one independent person from civil society having knowledge of
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environmental and land acquisition law of Bangladesh. The INGO is the agency to be
appointed by PGCB to administer all land resettlement issues for the project.
280. The follow GRC composition is proposed for the local level GRC (LGRC):
1. Executive Engineer, PGCB : Convener
2. Representative of INGO/IA : Member-Secretary
(non-voting)
3. Chairman of Union Parishad (UP) concerned : Member
4. Female member of ward of the UP concerned : Member
5. Retired teacher from the union concerned : Member
6. Representative of PAPs : Member
281. The Member-Secretary of LGRC will be available and accessible to affected persons to
address concerns and grievances. Post evaluation of some past projects including the
Jamuna Multipurpose Bridge Project and Padma Multipurpose Bridge Project indicate that
GRCs have worked well and were successful in resolving disputes in a participatory manner
ensuring fairness in the decision making process. Unresolved cases will be forwarded to the
Project-level GRC (PGRC). The LGRC is empowered to take a decision, which is binding to
the Project Proponent. But it requires the approval of the Project Director for implementation
of the decisions.
8.4 Terms of Reference for the LGRC
282. The scopes of work and the Terms of Reference (ToR) for LGRC are:
1. the LGRC shall review, consider and resolve grievances related to social/resettlement
and environmental mitigations during implementation of the Project,
2. any grievances presented should ideally be resolved on the first day of hearing or at
most within four weeks except for complicated issues requiring additional investigations.
3. LGRC decisions should ideally be arrived at through consensus, failing which resolution
will be based on majority vote.
4. LGRC will not deal with any matters pending in a court of law.
5. A minimum three (3) members (in addition to the Member Secretary) shall form the
quorum for the meeting of the LGRC to proceed.
8.5 Project Level GRC
283. The Project-level GRC will review all unresolved cases involving social and
environmental issues. The Project Director heads the Project-level GRC. The composition of
the PGRC will be as follows:
1. Project Director, PM 400 kV project PGCB : Chair Person,
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2. Team Leader of INGO/IA : Member Secretary,
3. Representative of Civil Society: Member.
8.6 ToR for Project level GRC
284. The scope of work and the Terms of Reference (ToR) for PGRC are:
1. Review, consider and settle unresolved grievances forwarded by LGRCs related to environmental and social/resettlement issues,
2. Any grievance presented to the PGRC should ideally be resolved within 5 weeks from the date of receipt of the complaint from LGRC,
3. In the case of complicated cases the PGRC Members can request additional information or carry out field level verifications,
4. Resolutions should be based on consensus among Members, failing which the
decision may be taken on majority vote,
5. The PGRC will not deal with any matters pending in a court of law,
6. Any three members are required to form a quorum for the meeting of PGRC.
8.7 Grievance Resolution Process
285. The implementing NGO will keep close liaison with affected people and discuss any types
of issues, observations, complaints at FGDs on a fortnightly basis. Most issues will hopefully
be settled in the FGD meeting. All complaints will be received at LGRC local (Union) level
and be resolved within a maximum of four weeks of lodgment of the complaint. The
grievance resolution process will be facilitated by the implementing NGO as Member
Secretary of the committee. The secretary will review and sort the cases in terms of the
nature of the grievance, urgency for resolution and schedule hearing in consultation with the
Convener.
286. If resolution at local level fails, the LGRC will refer the complaint with all details of the
hearing to the PGRC. The complaint with the minutes of the hearing will be sent to the PD
and PMU for further review. The PMU will review the minutes of hearings, make field visits
and consult LGRC Members and aggrieved persons as necessary. Cases are to be
resolved at PGRC within five weeks from date of receipt from LGRC. If a decision at this
level is found unacceptable, the aggrieved person(s) may seek satisfaction through the court
system.
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Chapter 9 Environmental Management Plan
9.1 Mitigation and Remediation
287. Table 9.1 below represents the mitigation and remediation measures to be adopted by
the Project with implementation costs where applicable and the responsible agency for
implementation and monitoring.
Table 9.1 -Environmental Management Plan
Project Activities & Potential Impacts
Mitigation/ Remediation Measures
Implementation & Cost
Responsible Agency
Monitoring Agency
Pre-construction and Design Phase
TL route survey and selection
Ground survey in combination with use of remotely sensed images used to avoid settlements and other structures, irrigation channels. Consultation with local people.
Included in project costs
PGCB design unit. Implementat-ion contractor
PD, PGCB
Construction
Impacts on air and noise quality at tower foundations, temporary access roads, GS augmentation etc
Develop noise and dust control plan along with community and safety plan. All vehicles to carry valid fitness certificates issued by BRTA and renewed annually under the Motor Vehicles Ordinance 1983, Section 48, Chapter IV and the rules thereunder.
Construction activity (particularly piling for towers) to take place during sociable hours (between 9 a.m to 5.00 p.m.). Residents to be informed in advance of any drilling activity for tower foundations.
Water to be sprayed on roads, and temporary fencing employed at construction sites, and camps.
Include in conditions in contracts
PGCB, Contractor and any sub-contractors
PD, PGCB and monitoring contractor
Construction affecting water quality and water bodies
Construction activities to be undertaken during dry season. Sites for storage and camps to be away from low lying areas. Fuel and lubricant stored in drums or tanks and placed on impermeable surfaces with bunding and other erosion protection measures at vulnerable sites.
Work on towers in deep water in the Padma River will be undertaken from barges alongside existing platforms in the river – special procedures for working over water and for storage of materials and waste to avoid pollution of river.
Conditions in project contracts
Construction Contractor
PD, PGCB and Monitoring Contractor
Construction affecting navigation and safety
Safety plan and procedures will be in place for a very brief partial closure of the main Padma navigation channel during stringing of TL conductors.
Costs included in contracts
Sub-contractors monitored by PGCB
PD, PGCB and Contractor
Construction Providing erosion preventing structures in Include PGCB and PD, PGCB,
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Project Activities & Potential Impacts
Mitigation/ Remediation Measures
Implementation & Cost
Responsible Agency
Monitoring Agency
impact on river courses
places where towers are constructed in vulnerable places and particularly for the towers immediately on the banks of the Padma river.
measures in construction contracts
Contractors Contractor and Consultant
Tower construction and stringing interference with road crossings
Traffic management plans to be in place with public awareness programs and warning signs at designated sites. Scaffolding will be placed over road crossing points while stringing conductors.
Included in contracts
Contractor PD, PGCB
Tower construction affecting soil quality
During construction the contractor will carefully store topsoil removed from the tower site locations. On completion of the foundation and tower structure, the topsoil will be replaced and adequately compacted at the tower footings.
Provisions in construction contracts
DC’s Office, Construct ion Contractor, Consultants and PGCB
PGCB and Monitoring Consultants
Loss of land, crops, trees and resettlement as a result of project construction and infrastructure
Determine land ownership, any buildings, economic trees, crops, associated users.
Compensation for loss of crops, economic trees during construction activities and for stringing of conductors to be paid to landowners and sharecroppers.
Construction activity phased to allow farmers to harvest standing crops.
Identify barren land for storing construction materials and vehicle activity.
Compensation at rates determined in the RP and budgeted for the period of construction.
Provisions in construction contracts
PGCB, DC Office
PD, PGCB Monitoring Consultants
Change of land use with loss of agricultural land, cutting and damage to vegetation at tower sites.
Top soil replaced at tower sites.
A program to grow tree species and smaller trees/bushes at sites will be implemented. Fruit trees such as mango, guava & lemon to be favored in homestead areas. Trees to be planted at the Aminbazar power station and homestead sites adjoining the TL route.
Conditions placed in contracts
Tk. 1.2 million included in the budget for tree planting
Subcont-ractors and PBCB
Monitoring Consultant, PGCB
Construction waste Garbage from civil works to be collected and sent to proper assigned places as per waste management plan. Follow World Bank’s Environment, Health and Safety Guidelines.
Costs in construction contracts
Subcontractors and PD
PGCB
Camps and construction work force
Work force for construction will be sourced locally as much as possible and any small camps for laborers will be provided with water supply and sanitation facilities.
Costs in construct ion contracts
Construct ion Contractor
PGCB and Monitoring Consult ant
Construction and limited loss of fish habitat
Construction activity to take place in dry season to reduce impacts to minimum.
Condition in construct ion contracts
PGCB and Contractor
PGCB
Wildlife impacts Color bands/flags to be attached to TL conductors to make birds aware of their presence. Towers crossing the Padma River to be painted for aircraft safety and for bird awareness.
Plant additional trees as indicated in planting program above.
Costs in construction contracts.
Provision of Tk. 1.2 million in budget for tree planting
PGCB and Contractor
PD and Monitoring Consultants
Archaeological finds
In the event of culturally valuable materials being found during construction, work is to stop, inform Department of Archeology and follow chance find procedures, with work only
Conditions and costs in construction contracts
Construction Contractor
Depart. of Archaeology, Ministry of Cultural
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Project Activities & Potential Impacts
Mitigation/ Remediation Measures
Implementation & Cost
Responsible Agency
Monitoring Agency
recommencing upon authorization of the relevant authorities.
Affairs GOB
Impacts on Human Safety
Awareness programs, discussions, meeting, signage, posters to be displayed at construction sites.
Workers to be provided with PPE and first aid facilities made available for the work force and ambulatory services to be in place
Training on Occupational health and safety procedures for workers,
Emergency response plan to be in place.
Follow World Bank’s Environment, Health and Safety Guidelines.
Conditions and costs in construction contracts
Construction Contractors
PD, PGCB
Operations
Towers in the Padma River and on the Padma riverbank pose a potential safety risk
Tower platforms designed to withstand ship impact.
Special measures undertaken to make the towers and the line in Padma River clearly visible to ships and air crafts. Reflectors fitted on optical fiber wires between tops of towers. Red ball reflectors used along the lines and the towers will be painted red and white with photo-chromatic colors. Ensure maintenance and effectiveness of measures for safety.
Cost included in design specification and contracts
Construction Contractor
PD, PGCB
Overhead distribution lines
Hazards such as electrocution, lightning strikes, fire and other natural hazards like earthquakes
Appropriate grounding and deactivation of live distribution lines during maintenance work
Design with protection system that opens circuits during power overload or other emergency situations and shut down power temporarily
Transmission line design to comply with the limits of electromagnetic interference from overhead power lines
Frequent and regular repair and maintenance to check sagging wires and tower stability, and avoid accidents in the future
Temporary shut-down of power in the event of fire, lightning strikes, and other natural hazards
Operations budget
PD.
PD, and Monitoring Consultants
9.2 Compensation Plan
288. Compensation to land owners and land users for any loss of crops and trees is
determined in the Resettlement Plan which is a separate document required for ADB
Safeguard purposes. The RP indicates that there is no physical displacement of people.
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9.3 Safety and Emergency Response
9.3.1 Safety Measures
289. For the Project, World Bank’s Environmental Health and Safety Guidelines will be complied with and that when national regulations differ from WB Guidelines, PGCB will
comply with the more stringent standards.
290. The TL and Aminbazar GS includes civil, mechanical and electrical works and there are
possibilities of hazardous accidents. The working environment of the 174 km TL route
and GS involves high voltage conductors and yards for storage and transportation of
associated materials which will impact on worker safety and in some cases public safety.
Safety measures will be adopted to deal with these potential hazards and shown in Table
9.2 below.
Table 9.2 Occupational hazard and safety analysis
Hazard Source Consequences Safety measures
Contact Injury Falling/moving pipe, tools/ debris dropped from higher location, vehicles, any rotator machinery or parts, turbine and its ancillary
Health injury, loss of life Fall protection, use of personal Protection Equipment (PPE)
Fire Cable gallery, power transformer, generator, turbine and its ancillary components, furnace, switchyard, switchyard control room fuel stockpile
Health injury and loss of life
Adoption of fire safety for each equipment and machinery subject to fire hazard, Use of PPE Consciousness during working
Falls Fall from higher areas, high heights,
Health injury, loss of life Fall protection, awareness, use of PPE
Electrocution Cutting and welding, switchyard, cable gallery,
Health injury and loss of life
Use of PPE, Proper training, awareness, keeping safe distance from hazardous points, maintaining safety of high switchyard, cable gallery and control room
Health
Lack of safe working condition, employee having contagious disease
Health injury, Electrocution, organ disease outbreak, loss of health, loss of life
Keeping all safety & precaution measure in order, maintaining first aid & well equipped primary health centre & training on awareness Monthly health inspection, provision of medical leave for labor
291. PGCB has developed a safety and emergency plan, include a fire safety plan, an
electrocution safety plan and a medical emergency plan for these facilities. The plan
including safety and emergency preparedness are presented in table 9.3. The detail
emergency action plan is presented in Appendix.
Table 9.3 Safety and Emergency plan
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Hazard Safety plan Responsible person
Emergency plan Responsible person
Fire Fire prevention, instruction and training of staff, fire protection systems and equipment, maintenance of fire safety register, provision of information to the workers,
Emergency Manager, Fire Officer, PGCB
Fire alarm system, fire extinguishing equipment
Fire safety Director
Electrocution Prevention measures, instruction and training of staff, maintenance of escape routes, proper training, awareness, control room, Boundary wall of safe height around the sub-station
Supervisor, Coordinator, PGCB
Prevention and precaution from electricity and avoid contact with overhead lines
Safety Officer
Medical Provision of health service center, Provision of on duty trained medical officers specializing in burn injury, orthopedics, electrocution, chemical toxicity or poisoning and shock treatment.
Civil Surgeon in District Level
First aid, ambulance services, transportation facilities
Rescue Officer
292. A safety training program will take place for construction workers and professional staff
of PGCB who will work in the field. Workers will be trained in general health and safety
matters, and on the specific hazards of their work. Training should consist of basic
hazard awareness, site specific hazards, safe work practices, and emergency procedures
for fire, evacuation, and natural disaster, as appropriate.
293. Emergency response for the towers in the Padma River and on the Padma
embankments are considered below.
9.3.2 Emergency Response Plan for Towers in Padma River and on Padma Banks.
294. An ERP for the towers in the Padma River and on the Padma river banks will be
developed and in place by the beginning of the operation phase of the project. Events
potentially requiring emergency response have been identified as:
major flooding events cutting off access to the Project infrastructure,
shipping collisions/contacts,
structural failure or embankment collapse,
civil disturbance/riot, and
terrorist event/threat.
295. BBA is developing an emergency response for the Multipurpose Bridge Project; the latter
includes the foundations for the TL project towers to be constructed in the river. The
tower foundations/ platform and the 7 project towers themselves are a joint responsibility
of BBA and PGCB and it would be effective and more efficient to combine resources and
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manpower and develop a joint response plan between BBA and PGCB to cover the
towers.
296. In case of failing cooperation between the two organisations, PGCB will develop its own
response. The objective of the ERP is to facilitate a rapid and effective emergency
response and recovery; provide assistance to emergency and security services;
implement an effective evacuation plan if required, and communicate vital information to
all relevant persons involved in the emergency (both internal personnel and external
agencies) with a minimum of delay.
297. The ERP for the towers will provide information, strategies and procedures relating to all
aspects of emergency management covering:
• Prevention of emergencies,
• Preparation for emergencies,
• Response to an emergency, and,
• Recovery following an emergency.
9.3.3 ERP Management Structure
298. To be able to effectively implement the ERP there will be a clear organizational structure
in place to oversee and coordinate all activities. An Emergency Response Team (ERT)
will oversee the functions of the Emergency Response. An Emergency Response Centre
(ERC) or a field unit is proposed that will respond to all emergency events in the field.
9.3.4 The Emergency Response Team (ERT)
299. The ERT will be the management committee with the responsibility for emergency
planning for project assets, ensuring the ERP is effectively implemented, overseeing the
operation of the ERC and establishing an operating budget for the ERC. The ERT will
provide the ERC with clear guidelines and procedures on responding to emergency
events.
300. The ERT will be chaired by PGCB and include high level representation from the
Bangladesh Army, Police Department, Fire Department, District Commissioner’s Office and the Disaster Management Bureau (DMB).
301. The ERT will meet quarterly to review the effectiveness of the ERC and update the ERP
if necessary. The ERT will also meet following the occurrence of an emergency event, as
well as if there is a credible threat (such as terrorist event or civil unrest) to project
assets.
302. The function of the ERT is to coordinate and oversee arrangements to ensure that the
ERC meets its emergency management obligations. The Project Director PGCB will be
the Chair of the ERT and will nominate an Emergency Response Coordinator to
coordinate with representatives from various agencies. The Deputy Director (Safeguard
Department-Environment) will be updated from time-to-time about progress and will join
meetings of the ERT and provide feedback to the team.
303. The ERT will attend to the following duties:
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• Ensure appropriate representation of agencies in the ERC; • Regular meetings of the ERT and meetings with ERC personnel; • Regularly review and update the Emergency Risk Register; • Arrange for and manage testing and exercising of the emergency plan particularly
specific plans and emergency procedures; • Seek funding support for emergency management related projects and programs; • Ensure operational debriefs are undertaken after all major emergency events, and that a
report is prepared and distributed. If refinements to the procedures are identified, they are issued and the ERP subsequently amended at review;
• Ensure that ERC members are appropriately trained and are competent in specific emergency management;
• Review the ERP on a regular basis as necessary; • Review the effectiveness of the ERC; and • Ensure that all staff that has responsibilities within the ERC and all members of the ERT
have access to ERP documentation.
9.3.5 EPR Organisation
304. The Bangladesh Army, Police Force and Fire Department will identify staff for the ERC
with an adequate number of personnel from each respective agency. An office will be
identified for emergency use and there will also be fully functional medical facilities
identified to deal with injuries or any other type of medical emergencies. In the event
there are a large number of medical emergencies and the ERC will contact the upazila,
district and national Health facilities. The ERC will ensure that the medical facilities and
ambulances in all upazila Health Complex close to the project site are adequate and
functional with regular visits. The project may consider procuring more ambulances if
ambulances in the upazila Health Complex are inadequate.
9.3.6 Resources and Equipment
305. Personnel will be identified from the army, police force and fire department to form the
ERT. The annual budget for the day to day operations of the ERC and other activities
such as equipment maintenance will be established by the ERT. The requirement for
emergency response equipment (vehicles, boats, medical equipment etc) will be
identified and acquired if necessary.
306. The ERC will maintain an up-to-date contact information (telephone numbers, alternative
telephone numbers and facsimile numbers) of individuals within the ERC, members of
the ERT, BBA officials, Bangladesh Army, local police department, fire department, DMB,
BRTA, regulatory contacts, containment and clean up equipment contractors, structural
and maintenance engineers, technical specialists, public health, and DoE.
9.3.7 Reporting and Training
307. The ERC will submit monthly reports to the ERT following any emergency event. The
ERT will verify the preparedness of the ERC for emergency events and the effectiveness
of the response.
103
308. The ERT will review staff and contractor competency and identify training needs for
committee members, staff and/or contractors including:
• In-house training; • Courses and workshops; • Emergency event case studies; • Debriefs and shared learning with or from other emergency response organizations
9.4 Institutional Requirements and Monitoring Plan
309. Various government agencies will be involved in execution and implementation of the
EMP and associated mitigation and monitoring measures e.g. Deputy Commissioner’s (DC) Office, Agricultural Extension Department (DAE), Department of Forestry (DoF), the
Public Works Department (PWD). In the case of crop compensation, representatives of
DAE, representative of concerned DC’s office, Executing Agency (EA-PGCB) staff, PWD,
forest officials and representatives from affected communities will carry out joint
verification of the inventory of affected persons and their assets (crops, structures, trees
and others) prior to any payments to be made by the DC office. Furthermore, PGCB will
make a separate joint verification of affected properties for their relocation prior to project
implementation.
310. PGCB, as the EA for the Project will take responsibility to ensure that the safeguard
measures in this report as well as the associated Resettlement Plan Document are
implemented. PGCB will ensure that the EMP is included in the bidding documents and
civil works contracts for the Project and shall from a contractual obligation of the
contractors. PGCB will ensure that contractors appropriately implement EMP safeguards
and mitigation measures and will monitor implementation. PGCB will submit
environmental monitoring reports to ADB semi-annually during construction phase and
annually during operation phase. The template of environmental monitoring report is
presented in Appendix 6.
311. PGCB has, therefore, assigned a Superintending Engineer as the Project Director (PD)
in mid-2015 for overall execution of the Project. Two additional engineers have also been
assigned to form a Project Management Unit (PMU). These officers are engineers and
require environmental training and it is recommended that environmental training is
provided and a lump sum of Tk. 1.5 million is provided in the budget for this.
312. For monitoring of the construction and operation of the towers in the river, it will be
necessary to have close collaboration with BBA to ensure compliance with SPS
requirements.
104
Table 9.4 - Monitoring Plan
Measure/Indicator Locations Frequency Methods of Monitoring
Monitoring Agency
Pre-construction Phase
Proper compensation to affected people for property, crops, trees. Notify farmers, provide compensat-ion well in advance
TL RoW Initial one off compensation
Field visits. District Commissioner’s staff
PD, PGCB PMU and Consultant
Water samples
At Padma, Modhumati, Dhaleshwar, Madipur and Pashur Rivers and alongside the GS site
Once prior to construction
Laboratory test as baseline for later monitoring during construction.
PD, PMU, PGCB, Monitoring Consultant
Soil samples Samples from GS site and points along the TL route where different soil types/ characteristics are found
Once before construction
Laboratory test as baseline for later monitoring during construction.
PD, PGCB, PMU, Monitoring Consultant
Construction Phase
Measure/Indicator Locations Frequency Methods of Monitoring
Monitoring Agency
Water samples At Padma, Modhumati, Dhaleshwar, Madipur and Pashur Rivers and alongside the GS site
Monthly Laboratory test checked against baseline report.
PD, Design Section, PGCB, Consultant and DC Office
Navigation Every river or khal that cross the TL
Every week Field observation, informal interview
PD, Design Section, PGCB, Consultant and DC Office
Monitoring air and noise quality, spray water on roads and tracks. Ensure vehicles are properly covered.
GS site, any construction track in RoW, particularly close to residential areas
Daily during construction activities
Field observation informal interview
PD, PGCB and Contractor
Interferences at road crossings
All roads crossed by the TL
Every week during project construction
Field observation, informal interview
PD, Design Section, PGCB, Consultant and DC Office
Crop compensation for the affected land
TL tower footings during construction and erection and TL RoW during
Every week at tower locations prior to work commencement
Survey PD, Design Section, PGCB, Project Contractors and DC Office,
105
Water Quality Parameters to be monitored: Turbidity, DO, pH, BOD, COD, Arsenic, Iron, Fecal Coliform,
Salinity and Manganese.
9.5 Budget for the Environmental Management Plan (EMP)
313. For implementation of the Environmental Management Plan (EMP), Tk 13.2 million is budgeted. The breakdown of budget for the EMP is given in Table 9.5.
stringing conductors
Vegetation clearance RoW Once during construction
Field observation, informal interview
PD, PGCB and Consultants
Adequate compensation for loss of trees
RoW Once before construction at individual tower sites
Field observation, informal interview
PD, PGCB and local government institutions.
Wildlife presence
RoW Once before construction and once during construction
Field observation, informal interview
PD, PGCB and Consultants
Monitoring construction activity on barges in Padma River to ensure good practice
At locations in Padma River for TL tower erection
Weekly at least during tower erection
Field observation PGCB and Consultants
Post-Construction/Operation Phase
Navigation All rivers or khals crossed by the TL
Monthly Field observation, informal interview
PD, PGCB and Monitoring Consultant
Construction waste removal
Tower sites
Once at each tower site
Field observation, informal interview
PD, PGCB and Contractor(s)
Land recovery following construction activity and waste removal. The reapplication of top soil at and around TL towers and at conductor stringing sites.
Every TL tower and conductor stringing location
After completion of work at each site and quarterly follow up
Field observation, informal interview
PD, PGCB and Contractor(s) and Monitoring Consultants
River erosion at Padma River and embankment stability
Right and left embankment at tower locations next to river banks
Quarterly and following flood events
Field observation PD, PGCB in conjunction with BBA
106
Table 9.5 -Budget for the Environmental Management Plan
Item Qty Rate/Ref. Total Amount (Tk. Million)
Tree planting program Lump sum 1.2
Environmental training for PGCB staff Lump sum 1.5
Sub total 2.7
Monitoring Plan From revenue budget
Consultant (for monitoring) 30 person – month
Tk.200,000 per month
6.0
Transport (for monitoring team) 300 days Tk.10,000 per day
3.0
Reporting and others (yearly DoE license renewal cost)
Lump sum 1.5
Sub Total 10.5
Total Cost 13.2
107
Chapter 10 Conclusions
314. The Project for construction of a 400 kV double circuit TL and the augmentation and
upgrade of GS at Aminbazar is designed to enable transmission of electricity between
Khulna and Dhaka City and improve reliability of power supply and assist the whole
economy of Bangladesh.
315. The 174 km of the TL follows low lying land which is extensively farmed mainly with rice
based crops, and some other crops and fruit trees. The proposed TL will cross Padma,
Madhumati and Dhaleshwari Rivers. Padma. There will be 581 towers to carry the TL
conductors, and in the case of Padma River there will be 7 towers on platforms which will
be provided by the BBA. These platforms and support piling are being constructed by
BBA as part of the Padma Multipurpose Bridge Construction Project. The 7 towers tower
platforms in the Padma River is the associated facility of The Project. Work in the river for
the bridge and associated facilities began at the end of 2015 and is financed by GoB.
316. At the design stage of the Project three options for the TL have been examined and both
the TL route and individual towers have been located to avoid impacts to human activities
as much as possible. The final route selected passes mostly through agricultural fields
avoiding settlements and ecologically sensitive areas.
317. About 23 ha of agricultural land in all will be permanently affected by the tower footings.
There will be no loss of residential homes or property. Various project activities will,
however, have impacts during the construction phase of the project. There will be some
damage to vegetation and standing crops in the field in order to access each of
transmission tower locations. There will be further damage during stringing of conductors
between the towers. Construction activities will affect crop production and there will be
some crop loss and lopping of fruit and economic trees. During the operation phase of
the Project, there will be restriction for planting large trees and pruning in the TL RoW.
The vegetation pattern will be changed in some locations within the TL RoW. At most
tower locations herbaceous plants will re-generate within a few years and agricultural
practices will return to normal.
318. During the construction phase of the project, measures will be undertaken to keep
impacts to a minimum. The EMP included in this IEE defines mitigation measures and
responsibility for implementation. Measures for mitigation will be included in construction
contracts for instance to ensure materials are properly stored and that waste materials
are properly disposed of. Any work camps will be controlled and the GS will be fully
equipped with fire-fighting equipment. Personal Protective Equipment and emergency
rescue items will be available.
319. Crop and tree losses as a result of the Project have been assessed and affected people
will be compensated under the RP.
320. There are potential impacts to navigation of vessels in the Padma River. The platforms
for towers in the river are constructed by the BBA and there are measures in the Padma
Bridge EIA approval for mitigating impacts to aquatic life and water quality. Extensive
108
revetment work along the banks of the Padma River to reinforce the embankments
upstream of the two transmission towers located either side of the river are proposed to
minimize river bank erosion. The height of the lowest sag point of the TL across the river
will have safety clearance above the new Padma Bridge crossing so that vessels going
under the bridge will clear the TL without a difficulty. Special measures such as fixing
reflectors on the optical fibre cable along the top of the towers, fixing red ball reflectors
along the optical fibre cable on the top and painting of towers red and white in photo-
chromatic colours will be employed. Special measures during stringing of lines across the
river will be employed to partially close the main river navigation channel.
321. During 2015 and 2016, 12 consultation meetings took with local people at various
locations along the pipeline route at which 318 people attended The TL will not supply
electricity direct to the people along the TL route. However, the people contacted
expressed keen interest for implementation of the TL and GS. Their main interest is that
overall development in the power sector would contribute to the national development
from which they along with others can benefit.
322. Construction of the Project will require skilled and non-skilled laborers and thus will
create employment opportunities for people in the area. The additional power supply
made possible by the TL will impact positively on industrial development.
323. In conclusion, there will be some minor negative impact caused by the Project during the
construction and operations phases. Compensation will be paid for loss of land and
crops. There are no protected or environmentally sensitive areas impacted by the project.
The impacts identified in this IEE can be mitigated with implementation of the
Environmental Management Plan and monitoring measures included in the IEE. PGCB
has formed a PMU and will strengthen its capacity to implement and monitor the project.
324. For implementing of the EMP a total amount of Tk. 13.2 million has been budgeted
including monitoring cost. Subject to implementation of the mitigation measures in the
EMP and monitoring, it is recommended the Project should proceed.
109
Appendix 1 List of Participants at FGD Meetings
Participants at June 2015 Meetings
No. Name Age Occupation
1. Md. Sohil Sadder
25 Service
2. Sumon Mistry 29 Service
3. Sheikh Salah Uddin 32 Service
4 Md. Abdul Matin 50 Fisher man
5 Md. Rana Sheikh 15 Day labour
6 Anwara Begum 32 House wife
7 Md. Shafiqul Islam 40 Day labor
8 Md. Shekh Syed Ali 75 Agriculture
9 Md. Shafiqul Islam 24 Service
10 Debotosh Das 50 Agriculture
11 Afjal Mollik 70 Agriculture
12 Jamal Uddin Khan 65 Vehicle labor
13 Nikhil Biswas 62 Agriculture
14 Taposh Roy 42 Service
15 Md. Manu Khan 40 Ansar and VDP(Village police)
16 Mikail Mollah 30 Service
17 Samad Fakir 70 Agriculture
18 Md.Yunus Munshi 52 Agriculture
19 Md. Mojibur Rahman 45 Painter
20 Md. Hafej Khan 35 Business
21 Rafija Begum 25 Housewife
22 Md. Dadan 35 Agriculture
23 Md.Ramjan 30 Van puller
24 Ajmat Ali 50 Agriculture
25 Seraj Sheikh 55 Agriculture
26 Mojibur Manjhi 45 Agriculture
27 Nurul Islam Bepari 65 Agriculture
28 Monir Hossain 26 Driver
29 Md. Saidur Rahman 24 Madrasa student
30 Md. Belal Hossain 20 Madrasa student
31 Zulhash sheikh 25 Shopkeeper
32 Md. Raton 38 Driver
33 Md. Hanif 29 Agriculture
34 Md. Anis Morol 45 Businessman
35 Md. Mujibur Rahman 36 Agriculture
36 Farhad Sheikh 54 Agriculture
37 Moksed Ali 52 Driver
38 Hafez Hawladar 35 Agriculture
39 Giasuddin Mallik 42 Agriculture
40 Joynal Mia 38 Agriculture
41 Thandu Mallik 56 Agriculture
42 Md. Zubayer Hossain 42 Tree business
43 Chandon Biswas 36 Mason
44 Gouro Boiragi 41 Labor
45 Moru Bala 35 Labor
110
No. Name Age Occupation
46 Pankoj Boiragi 38 Labor
47 Apurbo Boiragi 46 Labor
48 Anukul Goldar 34 Labor
49 Kushen Bagchi 37 Labor
50 Bodrul Kazi 65 Agriculture
51 Mohammad Fakir 62 Agriculture
52 Siddik Ali Mir 65 Agriculture
53 Sher Ali Khan 65 Agriculture
54 Jahangir Hossain Molla 68 Agriculture
55 Md Momin Mir 55 Shopkeeper
56 Atahar Ali Biswas 52 Agriculture
57 Sheikh Shahid 45 Agriculture
58 Hanif Biswas 36 Shopkeeper
59 Shudhangshu Shekhar Das 42 Agriculture
60 Md Mizanur Rahman 35 Business
Participant List for October/November 2015 Meetings
No. Name Age Occupation
1. Sheikh Rezaul Karim 48 Chairman,Gaula ,Mollarhat
2. Nilapod Biswas 40 Business
3. Tushar Podder 38 Business
4. Sheikh Mithu 43 Business
5. Pritom Somadder 33 Human Rights worker
6. Ajit Kumar Roy 32 Business
7. Majharul 35 Business
8. Debdash Roy 55 Business
9. Saheb Ali 45 Business
10. Abu Bokor 45 Business
11. Md. Mahabubur Rahman 45 Farmer
12. Thakur Das Bala 50 Business
13. Hridoy Mollick 51 Business
14. Samor Pandey 35 Lawyer
15. Topon Roy 32 Farmer
16. Samiron Adhikari 30 Farmer
17. Nitish Majumder 29 Student
18. Ashis toskor 30 Farmer
19. Bivakhho Ch. Biswas 48 Electrician
20. Rafique Sheikh 55 Farmer
21. Binoy Sarker (Anadi) 43 Up Chairman
22. Amar krisna Sarker 63 Teacher
23. Sapon Sarker 45 Farmer
24. Nirmal Sakhari 42 Village Police
25. Mihir Roy 48 Farmer
26. Anup Ghosh 45 Farmer
27. Pritish Roy 40 Business
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No. Name Age Occupation
28. Sukdeb Sarker 32 Business
29. Protap Roy 19 Student
30. Suvash Chandra Parai 55 UP Secretary
31. Suvash Chandra Roy 72 Farmer
32. Gobinda Biswas 37 U.P Member
33. Prokash Chandra Sarker 47 Teacher
34. Dadon Kanta 48 Chairman
35. Gaffar Bapari 65 Business
36. Md.Mujibur Rahman 50 Service
37. Md. Hiru Sheikh 30 Service
38. Md. Khabir Uddin Sharif 60 Farmer
39. Md. Saidur Rahman 44 Contractor
40. Laddu 40 Service
41. Md. Yasin Sheikh Tipu 35 Business
42. Md. Hasem 65 Farmer
43. Md. Mujibur Rahman Munshi 67 Farmer
44. Harun Hawlader 50 Farmer
45. Md. Abu Taher Munshi 50 Farmer
46. Dulia Begum 30 Housewife
47. Md.Mosharrof Hossen Shikder 52 Farmer
48. Md.Monowar Hossain 55 Chairman
49. Md.Chanmia Khan 49 Farmer
50. Md.Danosh Hawlader 38 Farmer
51. Md. Kamal Mia 25 Service
52. Md.Sekander Mal 60 Farmer
53. Md.Kawser Bapari 35 Business
54. Md. Anawar Khan 35 Farmer
55. Md. Selim Talukder 40 Business
56. Md. Jahangir Hossain 50 Farmer
57. Md.Mosharrof Hossain 46 Service
58. Md. Kamal Bapari 29 Business
59. Abdul Latif Bapari 57 Business
60. Md.Saber Podder 60 Freedom Fighter
61. Md.Nawab 50 Up Member
62. Hazi Nur Mohammad Matbor 65 Farmer
63. Md. Monowar Talukder 32 Immigrant
64. Alhaj Ayub Ali khan 57 Chairman
65. Md.Nazrul Islam 35 Farmer
66. Md. Ataleb Dewan 42 Business
67. Md.Jewel Hossain 29 Business
68. Md.Abdul Hi sikder 60 Up Member
112
No. Name Age Occupation
69. Md. Lokman 22 Student
70. Fatema 40 Housewife
71. Sirajul Haq 45 UP Secretary
72. Md. Alek Morol 47 Farmer
73. Rabeya Sobhan 56 Up Member
74. Md. Ripon 35 Business
75. Siddiqur Rahman 38 U.P Member
76. Md. Sabuj Hossain 43 Business
77. Hasem Morol 43 Farmer
78. Md.Ahsan Habib 50 U.P Member
79. Abdul Haq 48 U.P Member
80. Kurban 52 U.P Member
81. Md. Yakub Ali 56 U.P Member
82. Mecher Ali 50 U.P Member
83. Rebeka Sultana 37 U.P Member
84. Hosnara 50 Up Member
85. Hasina 45 UP Member
86. Md. Harun 34 UP Member
87. Iqbal Hossain 30 Bussiness
88. Md. Nasir Mollah 40 Village Police
89. Mrs. Sufia Begum 40 Village Police
90. Md. Sahidullah 51 Village Police
91. Md. Muslim Ullah 50 Village Police
92. Md. Bachhu Mia 55 Village Police
93. Md. Aman Ullah 50 Village police
94. Md. Badsha Mia 50 Village Police
95. Md. Jazz Mia 55 Village Police
96. Md. Abed Ali Gazi 82 Farmer
97. Md. Abdul Jalil Shekh 60 Farmer
98. Md. Hasal Ali Fakir 76 Farmer
99. Md. Nabab Ali Gazi 55 Farmer
100. Shrimoti Swapna Rani 40 House wife
101. Sukumar Mondol 35 Businessman
102. Somir Shikari 42 Village Doctor
103. Bibhash Boiragi 25 Businessman
104. Gopal Mondol 19 Student
105. Basona Mondol 30 House wife
106. Md. Khokon Shekh 64 Farmer
107. Md. Shahjahan Khan 50 Businessman
108. Md. Abdul Aziz 45 Businessman
113
No. Name Age Occupation
109. Dr Md. Mojibur Rahman 50 Doctor
110. Md. Raja Mia Matbor 47 Businessman
111. Md. Nurul Hoque 60 Businessman
112. Md. Shohid Ali 50 Businessman
113. Md. Babul 37 Businessman
114. Md. A. Monayem Chowdhury 50 Service
115. Tarun Kumar Biswas 42 Service
116. Md. Sohel Sarder 25 Service
117. Sumon Mistry 29 Service
118. Md. Mahbubur Rahman 40 Service
119. Atul Sarker 52 Agriculture
120. Barun Barkandaj 48 Business
121. Tarun Barkandaj 40 Agriculture
122. Abdul Halim Mollah 40 Shrimp gher owner
123. Md.Gius Uddin 30 Shrimp gher owner
124. Shipon Kumar Morol 30 Shrimp gher owner
125. Taposh Barkandaj 38 Small Business
126. Md. Sahidul Islam 50 Agriculture
127. Choto Biswas 65 Agriculture
128. Md. Rati Mandal 50 Agriculture
129. Shisir Mondal 60 Agriculture
130. Suresh Bala 55 Agriculture
131. Laxmi Baidya 27 Business
132. Komal Kanti Bala 70 Carpenter
133. Sindhu Bhusan Sarker 80 Elder person
134. Gouranga Mondal 70 Elder person
135. Chitto Ranjan Bain 25 Agriculture
136. Bidu Bairagi 42 Agriculture
137. Sushanto Guko 43 Business
141. Ramen Chandra Roy 47 Van puller
142. Subash Bairagi 44 Agriculture
143. Samir Sikari 42 Village doctor
144. Imamul Matbor 40 Fisherman
145. Md.Abu salam Matobber 40 Agriculture
146. Sah Alam Mollah 38 Agriculture
147. Md.Tajul Islam 28 Business
148. Md. Apon Mridha 35 Agriculture
149. Md. Abul Kalam 35 Agriculture
150. Jamal Mollah 25 Business
151. Abdul Jabbar 55 Agriculture
152. Md. Afjal haque 55 Agriculture
153. Md. Abdul Mannan 58 Ex driver
114
No. Name Age Occupation
154. Md. Abdul majid 28 Agriculture
155. Abdus Sattar 36 Business
156. Md. Sujan 30 Day labor
157. Manir Hossain 32 Fisherman
158. Abdul Malek Mollah 36 Day labor
159. Kiam Ali 50 Truck driver
Source: IEE Field Visit, CEGIS.
Participant List for June 2016 Meeting Aminbazar
No Name Male/Female Age
Occupation
1 Hazi Md. Hazrat Ali Male 78 Retired Govt. Official
2 Md. Abbas Ali Male 50 Agriculture
3 Md.Selim Male 40 Business
4 Md. Kamal Uddin Male 38 Imam
5 Hazi Abdul Halim Male 44 Business
6 Md.Shomod Ali Male 53 Driver
7 Md.Sowdagor Male 42 Craftsman
8 Md.Morsalin Male 38 Lawyer
Conducted by eGen Consultants
Participant List for June 2016 Meeting at Chagolchira Village Gopalganj
SL Name Male Female Age Occupation
1 Jalil Munshi Male 50 Agriculture
2 Md.Sohel Male 30 Agriculture
3 Sirajul Islam Male 53 Business
4 Hasina Begum Female 40 Housewife
5 M Minzanur Rahman Male 54 Business
6 Asma Female 35 Housewife
7 Seharun Female 40 Housewife
8 Hawa Khanom Female 45 Teacher
9 Mohon Bepari Male 70 --
10 Amaet Khan Male 45 Business
11 Omar Faruqe Male 22 Teacher
12 Zafar Molla Male 60 Agriculture
13 Runi Khan Male 24 Business
115
SL Name Male Female Age Occupation
14 Fozle Matabbor Male 65 Agriculture
15 Zakir Matabbor Male 47 Agriculture
16 Soliman Munshi Male 40 Business
17 Shohel Khan Male 39 Agriculture
18 Idrish Matabbor Male 65 Agriculture
19 Mannan Matabbor Male 60 Business
Conducted by eGen Consultants
116
Appendix 2. List of Officials Consulted
No Name Organisation
1 Engr. Masum Al Beruni MD, PGCB
2 Engr. Arun Kumar Saha CE, P&D, PGCB
3 Engr. Muhammad Nuruzzaman SE, Planning Division, PGCB
4 Engr. Kazi Istiaque Hasan SE, PGCB
5 Engr. A Monayem Chowdhury PD, NG3, PGCB
6 Engr. Sirajul Haque DPD, PGCB
7 Engr. Abdus Salam DPD, PGCB
8 Engr. Md. Delwar Hossain Executive Engineer, Design & QC(Civil), PGCB
9 Engr. Nur Mohammed Sub Divisional Engineer System Planning, PGCB
10 Engr. Jafrul Hasan Executive Engineer (Design), PGCB
11 Dr Dewan Md Abdul Kader,
Exec Eng (Bridge). Padma Multipurpose Bridge Construction Project PMBCP
12 Dr Md Nazim Uddin,
Senior Environmentalist, PMBCP
13 Bruce Hunter Sen Res Engineer (River Training Works) PMBCP
Photos of Consultation Meeting and Different Locations in the Study Area
Consultation with local people at different places
117
Consultation with local people and fish sellers
A discussion with local people A discussion with local people
Traditional house Traditional houses
118
Bats Babui pakhi
RoW, land without crop RoW, land without crop
119
RoW, wetland RoW, crop (jute) land
RoW, crop (jute) land RoW, crop (maize) land
Madaripur beel route River Madhumati River
120
Direction to Madaripur Dhaka-Maowa high way
Aminbazar-Meghnaghat 400 kV TL Residential Projects, Sreenagar
121
A consultation meeting with local people A consultation meeting with local people
Chatal Mosque
Bridge on Naria Road, Sariatpur Padma River Crossing Point for TL
122
Appendix 3 Finds Procedures in Case of Finds of Culturally Valuable Materials
In the case of discovery of culturally valuable material:
Stop work immediately following the discovery of any materials with possible archaeological, historical, paleontological, or other cultural value. Announce findings to project manager and notify to the Department of Archaeology under Ministry of cultural Affairs, GOB
Protect artifacts as well as possible using plastic covers, and implement measures to stabilize the area, if necessary, to properly protect artifacts
Prevent and penalize any unauthorized access to the artifacts
Restart construction works only upon the authorization of the relevant authorities.
Appendix 4 Seven Platforms Constructed in the Padma River - Associated Facility
The 7 platforms which will carry the TL for the Project across the Padma River are being
constructed as part of the Padma River Multipurpose Bridge Construction Project which is
being directly funded by GoB. This project will extend communications across the Padma
River and link the south west of the country to Dhaka. The project consists of the following
elements:
1. Main bridge (6.15km long) and transition structures (bridge end viaducts);
2. River training works;
3. Bridge connecting approach roads (about 2.3km at Mawa left bank side and 12.8km at
Janjira side) and associated structures
4. 6 other bridges, 14 culverts, 7 underpasses, and 11 junctions;
5. 2 Toll plazas (1 at Mawa and other at Janjira);
6. 2 Construction yards (area at Mawa = 81ha and at Janjira =78ha);
7. 2 Service areas (area at Mawa=27.2ha and at Janjira=63.7ha);
8. 4 Resettlement sites (2 at Mawa: RS02: Jashaldia with area 13.96ha, RS03: Kumarbhog
with 15.46 ha and 2 at Janjira: RS04: Paschim Naodoba with area 19.95ha and RS05:
Bakhorerkandi with area 18.45ha, respectively);
9. Future provision of railway on the lower deck of the bridge; and
10. Provision of utility crossings (high pressure gas main, high voltage power TL and optical
fiber telecommunication cable).
The high voltage power TL in element 10 above is the Mongla to Aminbazar 400 kV TL
which is the subject of the IEE document.
Current Status of the Project: The DoE gave environmental clearance to the Padma
Multipurpose Bridge Project in September 2010. This approval is on the basis of document
BAN: Padma Multipurpose Bridge Project July 2010 which was prepared in accordance with
ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement 2009.
The DoE clearance letter and the latest renewal of the clearance in May 2015 are attached.
Work began on the main bridge structure in November 2015 while the bridge approach
roads were already more than 25% complete at that time.
123
Map of Padma Multipurpose Bridge Project
Four alternative crossing points for the bridge were considered (see Map below). These were
narrowed down to the two options Mawa-Janjira and Pauria-Goalundo. At the conclusion of the
various physical, technical, hydraulic, transport, and socio-environmental studies, the Feasibility
Study Team decided in favor of Mawa-Janjira for the construction of the proposed bridge.
124
Map of 4 Padma Bridge Crossing Alternatives
Three crossing options were considered to support the 400 kV Mongla to Aminbazar TL
which is part of the Project. The options were:
1. Support within the main bridge structure,
2. Support on conventional lattice towers attached to the main-bridge foundation, and
3. Support on free standing towers away from the bridge proper.
The freestanding option was decided upon, to be located 2 km downstream away from the
main bridge. Support for the TL immediately adjoining the main bridge has been rejected on
aesthetic grounds. For the preferred 7 platform option, costs are also significantly lower.
Installation of the TL away from the Bridge also avoids any possible future disruption to the
operation of the Main Bridge. With the TL on the bridge, there had been concerns regarding
the electromagnetic compatibility between the power line and the railway line signalling
125
systems. PGCB also indicated it did not support accommodation of the TL within the main
bridge because of concerns regarding installation and maintenance.
For all aspects of the Multipurpose Bridge Project acquisition and or requisition of land was
required for construction of the various components of the project. The total land that has
been acquired for various components is about 1,144 ha, of which 842.8 ha (about 73.7%)
is on the South or right bank (Shariatpur and Madaripur districts). In addition, 190 ha of
charland is required for the transit/access channel and manoeuvrings of barge and cranes.
Detailed resettlement plans have been formulated and put in place.
There is extensive dredging work in the river for river training works and piling for the bridge,
associated facilities and including the 7 piles and pads required for the transmission towers
of the TL. Surface water quality in the river will deteriorate from increased turbidity during
dredging. This will result from disposal of dredged materials during piling activities and local
turbidity at drill cutter heads. Other sources of turbidity include materials used from
superstructure formworks and other construction activities in or over water, and solid waste
disposal. Increase in turbidity in the downstream water might cause significant damage to
breeding and spawning of fish and may pose a threat to other aquatic species.
Disposal of dredging materials, without proper management, on unhabitated Charland at
downstream of the proposed bridge alignment could have significant impacts. Such impacts
could include loss of vegetation, loss of habitats for migratory birds, benthos, snakes,
insects etc. Dust pollution may also occur specially during dry period due to deposition of
dredged materials on Charland. Further, due to frequent movement of construction vessels
Charland will be eroded. The project has developed a waste management plan and a
dredge material disposal plan. Dredge materials are extensively used in construction as
borrow material for filing at bridges, construction yards and bridge approach roads. In some
places fill material is stored in designated place prior to re-use.
There is no exclusive habitat of any endangered species near the project site. However, the
Padma River is a secondary habitat of 2 endangered species namely Shushuk (Dolphin) &
Gangetic Gharial. Padma River is also an important migratory route for hilsa fish. Pile driving
will have a significant impact on the Hilsa migration. The annual Hilsa migration has the
potential to be affected by construction especially during piling. It is possible that project
activities may cause temporary changes in migratory patterns during construction. Juvenile
Hilsa migration at the bridge site predominantly takes place during March-May. Hilsa use the
deep channels (>10m) for their migration and two such channels were identified in 2008 and
2009 bathymetric survey of the bridge alignment; both are close to the left bank. Any piling
activity in the deep channels of the river during the hilsa migration period will hamper their
migration pattern.
No direct mitigation measures are considered as possible in the EIA report for temporary
construction activities and disturbance of habitat, but compensation in the form of fish
reserves or sanctuaries in the riverine zone in up and downstream areas have been
provided for and a charland visitor centre will be established as mitigation. For the river
piling work extensive mitigation measures will be employed to ensure sound impacts and
interference with dolphins are minimized with exclusion zones defined during piling. Scaring
tactics are to be used when dolphins are present. Piling is also restricted in the two deep
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channels during the hilsa migration season which also coincides with the dolphin breeding
season. The following procedure will be adopted:
• Gradually ramp up the sound levels to scare cetaceans away before piling proper commences,
• Use pingers upstream and downstream to chase away dolphins and other cetaceans,
• Monitor area for these creatures to ensure they are well away from the piling site – scare them away if they are two close to the site using pingers.
Compliance with SPS 2009
Originally the Multipurpose Bridge project was to be funded by international donors and the
EIA was specifically undertaken in July 2010 for BBA to ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement
2009. Due diligence was undertaken with examination of the EIA report. A site visit and
meetings took place with the Multipurpose Bridge staff in October 2015 (meetings with
engineers, the Consultant Environmental Officer for the Padma Multipurpose Bridge along
with the Project Director PGCB).
Table of Compliance
Compliance with SPS 2009 Gaps and follow up Monitoring
Compliance
Conduct an Appropriate
Environmental Assessment
Full EIA undertake to ADB
Standards in 2010
Approved under GoB
Need to access BBA
environmental monitoring
reporting to NoC to judge if
compliant in implementation
Examine Alternatives Alternatives considered in EIA
the EIA looked at three
crossings for the bridge and
two alternatives for the TL
crossing
Carry out Meaningful
Consultation with Affected
People
Proper consultation and
disclosure took place to
comply with SPS
Implementation of EMP and
disclose monitoring reports
Measures in the EMP and
monitoring reports have been
made to DoE, but compliance
could not be determined as
monitoring reports made to
DoE not available as yet to
eGen consultants
Need BBA monitoring reports
to judge if implementation is
compliant
Develop a Grievance Redress
Mechanism
A combined grievance redress
committee is defined in the
EIA to address grievances in
both social and environmental
issues.
Need reports from BBA to
determine compliance
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Environmental Health and
Safety Plans and Emergency
Response Plans
Plans set down in the EIA Need reports from BBA to
determine compliance
The Bridge project has established its own Environmental Monitoring Unit and an
independent panel of experts has been set up to oversee implementation of the EIA, EMP
and monitoring plan and general good practice. Public consultation and EIA disclosure have
been undertaken properly. A Grievance Redress Mechanism and Committee are in place.
Resettlement Action Plans have been implemented to properly compensate land owners
and villagers have been resettled at new settlement sites on the right bank of the Padma
River. Environmental health and safety measures are in place along with an emergency
response plan.
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Padma Multipurpose Bridge Environmental Approval
129
130
131
132
133
134
135
Appendix 5 Emergency Action Plan
EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN
For
Mongla-Maowa-Aminbazar 400 kV Transmission Line and
Aminbazar 400/230 kV Substation project
Facility Address: ___________________
DATE PREPARED: April 7, 2015
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EMERGENCY PERSONNEL NAMES AND PHONE NUMBERS
DESIGNATED RESPONSIBLE OFFICIAL (Highest Ranking Manager at
_____________site, such as __________, ___________, or ____________):
Name: Phone: (________________)
EMERGENCY COORDINATOR:
Name: Phone: (______________)
AREA/FLOOR MONITORS (If applicable):
Area/Floor: Name: Phone: (_______________)
Area/Floor: Name: Phone: (_______________)
ASSISTANTS TO PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED (If applicable):
Name: Phone: (_______________)
Name: Phone: (________________)
Date ____/____/____
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EVACUATION ROUTES
• Evacuation route maps have been posted in each work area. The following
information is marked on evacuation maps:
a) Emergency exits
b) Primary and secondary evacuation routes
c) Locations of fire extinguishers
d) Fire alarm pull stations’ location
e) Assembly points
• Site personnel should know at least two evacuation routes.
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EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBERS
FIRE DEPARTMENT: ________________
PARAMEDICS: _______________
AMBULANCE: _______________
POLICE: ________________
FEDERAL PROTECTIVE SERVICE: ________________
SECURITY (If applicable): _________________
BUILDING MANAGER (If applicable): ________________
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UTILITY COMPANY EMERGENCY CONTACTS
(Specify name of the company, phone number and point of contact)
ELECTRIC: _____________________
WATER: _______________________
GAS (if applicable): __________________________
TELEPHONE COMPANY: _______________________
Date: ___/____/_____
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EMERGENCY REPORTING AND EVACUATION PROCEDURES
Types of emergencies to be reported by site personnel are:
• MEDICAL
• FIRE
• SEVERE WEATHER
• BOMB THREAT
• CHEMICAL SPILL
• STRUCTURE CLIMBING/DESCENDING
• EXTENDED POWER LOSS
• OTHER (specify)___________________________________
(e.g., terrorist attack/hostage taking)
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MEDICAL EMERGENCY
• Call medical emergency phone number (check applicable):
1 Paramedics
2 Ambulance
3 Fire Department
4 Other
Provide the following information:
a. Nature of medical emergency,
b. Location of the emergency (address, building, room number),
and
c. Your name and phone number from which you are calling.
• Do not move victim unless absolutely necessary.
• Call the following personnel trained in CPR and First Aid to provide the required
assistance prior to the arrival of the professional medical help:
Name: Phone:_______________________
Name: Phone: ________________________
• If personnel trained in First Aid are not available, as a minimum, attempt to
provide the following assistance:
Stop the bleeding with firm pressure on the wounds (note: avoid contact with blood or other
bodily fluids).
Clear the air passages using the Heimlich Maneuver in case of choking.
• In case of rendering assistance to personnel exposed to hazardous materials,
consult the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) and wear the appropriate
personal protective equipment. Attempt first aid ONLY if trained and qualified.
Date___/___/___
FIRE EMERGENCY
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When fire is discovered:
• Activate the nearest fire alarm (if installed)
• Notify the local Fire Department by calling .
• If the fire alarm is not available, notify the site personnel about the fire
emergency by the following means (check applicable):
5 Voice Communication
6 Phone Paging
7 Radio
8 Other (specify)
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Fight the fire ONLY if:
• The Fire Department has been notified.
• The fire is small and is not spreading to other areas.
• Escaping the area is possible by backing up to the nearest exit.
• The fire extinguisher is in working condition and personnel are trained to use it.
Upon being notified about the fire emergency, occupants must:
• Leave the building using the designated escape routes.
• Assemble in the designated area (specify location):
• Remain outside until the competent authority (Designated Official or designee)
announces that it is safe to re-enter.
Designated Official, Emergency Coordinator or supervisors must (underline one):
• Disconnect utilities and equipment unless doing so jeopardizes his/her safety.
• Coordinate an orderly evacuation of personnel.
• Perform an accurate head count of personnel reported to the designated area.
• Determine a rescue method to locate missing personnel.
• Provide the Fire Department personnel with the necessary information about the
facility.
• Perform assessment and coordinate weather forecast office emergency closing
procedures
Area/Floor Monitors must:
• Ensure that all employees have evacuated the area/floor.
• Report any problems to the Emergency Coordinator at the assembly area.
Assistants to Physically Challenged should:
• Assist all physically challenged employees in emergency evacuation.
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Date___/___/___
EXTENDED POWER LOSS
In the event of extended power loss to a facility certain precautionary measures should be
taken depending on the geographical location and environment of the facility:
2. Unnecessary electrical equipment and appliances should be turned off in the event that
power restoration would surge causing damage to electronics and effecting sensitive
equipment.
3. Facilities with freezing temperatures should turn off and drain the following lines in the
event of a long term power loss.
1. Fire sprinkler system
2. Standpipes
3. Potable water lines
4. Toilets
4. Add propylene-glycol to drains to prevent traps from freezing
5. Equipment that contains fluids that may freeze due to long term exposure to freezing
temperatures should be moved to heated areas, drained of liquids, or provided with
auxiliary heat sources.
Upon Restoration of heat and power:
6. Electronic equipment should be brought up to ambient temperatures before energizing to
prevent condensate from forming on circuitry.
7. Fire and potable water piping should be checked for leaks from freeze damage after the
heat has been restored to the facility and water turned back on.
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CHEMICAL SPILL
The following are the locations of:
Spill Containment and Security Equipment: ___________________________
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
MSDS:_____________________________________________________
When a Large Chemical Spill has occurred:
• Immediately notify the designated official and Emergency Coordinator.
• Contain the spill with available equipment (e.g., pads, booms, absorbent powder,
etc.).
• Secure the area and alert other site personnel.
• Do not attempt to clean the spill unless trained to do so.
• Attend to injured personnel and call the medical emergency number, if required.
• Call a local spill cleanup company or the Fire Department (if arrangement has
been made) to perform a large chemical (e.g., mercury) spill cleanup.
Name of Spill Cleanup Company:_______________________________
Phone Number:_____________________________________________
• Evacuate building as necessary
When a Small Chemical Spill has occurred:
• Notify the Emergency Coordinator and/or supervisor (select one).
• If toxic fumes are present, secure the area (with caution tapes or cones) to
prevent other personnel from entering.
• Deal with the spill in accordance with the instructions described in the MSDS.
• Small spills must be handled in a safe manner, while wearing the proper PPE.
• Review the general spill cleanup procedures.
Date___/___/___
STRUCTURE CLIMBING/DESCENDING EMERGENCIES
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List structures maintained by site personnel (tower, river gauge, etc.):
No.
Structure
Type
Location (address, if
applicable)
Emergency Response
Organization* (if available
within 30-minute response
time)
Emergency Response Organization(s):
Name Phone Number______________________
Name Phone Number______________________
(Attach Emergency Response Agreement if available)
* - N/A. If no Emergency Response Organization available within 30-minute response time
additional personnel trained in rescue operations and equipped with rescue kit must
accompany the climber(s).
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TELEPHONE BOMB THREAT CHECKLIST
INSTRUCTIONS: BE CALM, BE COURTEOUS. LISTEN. DO NOT INTERRUPT THE CALLER.
YOUR NAME: __________________________ TIME: _____________ DATE: ________________
CALLER'S IDENTITY SEX: Male _____ Female ____ Adult ____ Juvenile ____ APPROXIMATE AGE: _____
ORIGIN OF CALL: Local __________ Long Distance ___________ Telephone Booth __________
VOICE CHARACTERISTICS
SPEECH
LANGUAGE
___ Loud
___ High
Pitch
___ Raspy
___
Intoxicated
___ Soft
___ Deep
___ Pleasant
__________
__
Other
___ Fast
___ Distinct
___ Stutter
___ Slurred
___ Slow
___ Distorted
___ Nasal
__________
__
Other
___
Excellent
___ Fair
___ Foul
___ Good
___ Poor
__________
Other
ACCENT
MANNER
BACKGROUND NOISES
___ Local
___ Foreign
___ Race
___ Not
Local
___ Region
___ Calm
___ Rational
___
Coherent
___
Deliberate
___
Righteous
___ Angry
___ Irrational
___
Incoherent
___
Emotional
___
Laughing
___ Factory
___
Machines
___ Music
___ Office
___
Machines
___ Street
___ Traffic
___ Trains
___ Animals
___ Quiet
___ Voices
___ Airplanes
___ Party
___
Atmosphere
BOMB FACTS
PRETEND DIFFICULTY HEARING - KEEP CALLER TALKING - IF CALLER SEEMS
AGREEABLE TO FURTHER CONVERSATION, ASK QUESTIONS LIKE:
When will it go off? Certain Hour ____ Time Remaining
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Where is it located? Building Area
What kind of bomb? ___________________
What kind of package?______________
How do you know so much about the bomb?___
What is your name and address?
If building is occupied, inform caller that detonation could cause injury or death.
Activate malicious call trace: Hang up phone and do not answer another line. Choose
same line and dial *57 (if your phone system has this capability). Listen for the confirmation
announcement and hang up.
Call Security at __________ and relay information about call.
Did the caller appear familiar with plant or building (by his/her description of the bomb
location)? Write out the message in its entirety and any other comments on a separate
sheet of paper and attach to this checklist.
Notify your supervisor immediately.
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SEVERE WEATHER AND NATURAL DISASTERS
Tornado:
• When a warning is issued by sirens or other means, seek inside shelter.
Consider the following:
- Small interior rooms on the lowest floor and without windows,
- Hallways on the lowest floor away from doors and windows, and
- Rooms constructed with reinforced concrete, brick, or block with no
windows.
• Stay away from outside walls and windows.
• Use arms to protect head and neck.
• Remain sheltered until the tornado threat is announced to be over.
Earthquake:
• Stay calm and await instructions from the Emergency Coordinator or the
designated official.
• Keep away from overhead fixtures, windows, filing cabinets, and electrical power.
• Assist people with disabilities in finding a safe place.
• Evacuate as instructed by the Emergency Coordinator and/or the designated
official.
Flood:
If indoors:
• Be ready to evacuate as directed by the Emergency Coordinator and/or the
designated official.
• Follow the recommended primary or secondary evacuation routes.
If outdoors:
• Climb to high ground and stay there.
• Avoid walking or driving through flood water.
• If car stalls, abandon it immediately and climb to a higher ground.
Hurricane:
• The nature of a hurricane provides for more warning than other natural and
weather disasters. A hurricane watch issued when a hurricane becomes a threat
to a coastal area. A hurricane warning is issued when hurricane winds of 74 mph
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or higher, or a combination of dangerously high water and rough seas, are
expected in the area within 24 hours.
Once a hurricane watch has been issued:
• Stay calm and await instructions from the Emergency Coordinator or the designated official.
• Moor any boats securely, or move to a safe place if time allows.
• Continue to monitor local TV and radio stations for instructions.
• Move early out of low-lying areas or from the coast, at the request of officials.
If you are on high ground, away from the coast and plan to stay, secure the building,
moving all loose items indoors and boarding up windows and openings.
• Collect drinking water in appropriate containers.
Once a hurricane warning has been issued:
• Be ready to evacuate as directed by the Emergency Coordinator and/or the
designated official.
• Leave areas that might be affected by storm tide or stream flooding.
During a hurricane:
• Remain indoors and consider the following:
- Small interior rooms on the lowest floor and without windows,
- Hallways on the lowest floor away from doors and windows, and
- Rooms constructed with reinforced concrete, brick, or block with no
windows.
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CRITICAL OPERATIONS
During some emergency situations, it will be necessary for some specially assigned
personnel to remain at the work areas to perform critical operations.
Assignments:
Work Area Name Job Title Description of Assignment
• Personnel involved in critical operations may remain on the site upon the
permission of the site designated official or Emergency Coordinator.
• In case emergency situation will not permit any of the personnel to remain at the
facility, the designated official or other assigned personnel shall notify the
appropriate _______________ offices to initiate backups. This information can
be obtained from the Emergency Evacuation Procedures included in the
___________________ Manual.
The following offices should be contacted:
Name/Location:________________________________
Telephone Number:_____________________________
Name/Location:________________________________
Telephone Number:_____________________________
Name/Location:________________________________
Telephone Number:_____________________________
TRAINING
The following personnel have been trained to ensure a safe and orderly emergency
evacuation of other employees:
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Facility:
Name Title Responsibility Date
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Appendix 6 Template for Environmental Monitoring Report
Environmental Safeguard Monitoring Report
Reporting Period {From Month, Year to Month, Year} Date {Month, Year}
Title of the Project {Example: SRI: Green Power Development and Energy Efficiency Improvement Investment Program}
Prepared by the {Executing Agency} for the Asian Development Bank
This environmental safeguard monitoring report is a document of the borrower and made publicly
available in accordance with ADB’s Public Communications Policy 2011 and the Safeguard Policy Statement 2009. The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of ADB’s Board of Directors, Management, or staff.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Executive Summary
Brief status of environmental compliance during the coverage period 1.0 Introduction
1.1 Brief Project Description 1.2 Project Progress Status and Implementation Schedule
2.0 Compliance to National Regulations
2.1 Environmental Conservation Rules 1997 3.0 Compliance to Environmental Covenants from the ADB Loan Agreement
3.1 Schedule 5 Environment (prepare a matrix to show how compliance was achieved)
4.0 Compliance to Environmental Management Plan (Refer to the EMP of the Project) 5.0 Safeguards Monitoring Results and Unanticipated Impacts
(Refer to the Environmental Monitoring Plan and document any exceedance to environmental standards (if any), or any unanticipated impact not included in the EMP and any correction action/measures taken)
6.0 Implementation of Grievance Redress Mechanism and Complaints Received from
Stakeholders (Summary of any complaint/grievance and the status of action taken) 7.0 Conclusion and Recommendations