7. MITIGATION MEASURES

7.1 During Investigation and Preparation

7.1.1 Social and Socio-Economic Impacts

PPG___________________________________________________________________

Note to Sohan: Displacement of people (same text by Jinapala) has been included under investigation & preparation and construction stages as I was not sure to which stage it is applicable.

JINAPALA_____________________________________________________________

Displacement of people

The RDA has been making all attempts to reduce the number of families that will have negative impacts due to various project interventions. As a result of such attempts made through various studies the number of families to be displaced was brought down to 584 at the present condition. The plans are being developed by RDA to settle these affected families. The progress so far achieved (by the moth of August 2005) with regard to relocation of affected people is as follows:

RDA has initiated and some work has been already completed to settle 220 affected families in 13 resettlement sites. ( about 170 families have been already settled in these 13 sites)

Each original family will be given 20 perch of land for home garden. The families of second and third generations in the affected families will also be given 10 perch land for the same purpose.

The common infrastructure system in these resettlement sites will be installed by the RDA from its funds. The cost for the land and houses will be deducted from the compensation paid to each affected family.

The policies suggested on involuntary resettlement by the government of Sri Lanka on involuntary resettlement are being followed and will be followed by the RDA in the whole resettlement process. The RDA has obtained the services of various parties to assist the resettlement process beside the activities of its own project staff. About 2909 families in total had various impacts and all of them have been compensated. Out of 597 houses (physical structures) which had negative impacts and they all will be demolished for allowing the road construction works to take place ( majority of the houses have been demolished already) . Only 584 of 597 houses are occupied by people and therefore, they would be relocated. The other 13 houses affected were just physical structures partially constructed or not occupied by people. The owners of these 13 houses will be given compensation although there is no need to relocate people (but the structures will be demolished to acquire lands to carry out project construction work).

At the focus group discussions held by the consultant with the affected and already resettled communities the participants expressed following views on the resettlement process they had under gone:

Some drawbacks of the resettlement process according to the communities:

There are some problems remaining to be solved in resettlement sites ( land development)

Some resettlement sites have not been given drinking water facilities yet. (In some sites the capacity of the water supply schemes is not adequate to cater the whole families resettled).

Some families are of the opinion that location of settlement sites and also the land lots given to them are not the preferred ones by them ( The opinion of some resettled families not all)

The RDA has not planned and implemented proper post-resettlement program to help the APs ( Based on the experience so far gained by the APs resettled in new sites)

They all suggested that if active participation of the affected parties were sought in the entire resettlement process to implement it would have been able to raise the satisfaction of the communities The project developer played some roles in post resettlement actions with the communities resettled in RDA sponsored sites. The affected communities were provided with training on entrepreneurship development and other livelihood reestablishment activities. A development credit program was initiated to use as revolving funds to start income generation activities.

The resettlement process should not be just confined to relocation of affected people in another location. A well designed program should be implemented in the post –resettlement phase to assist the affected people to reestablish their disturbed livelihood systems using adequate compensation paid under the project. Otherwise there can be pathetic cases that some householders may spend their whole money for unnecessary things and get into sorrowful conditions of their lives. The post –resettlement actions also may not be confined only to the communities resettled in RDA sponsored sites. Actions may be launched to monitor the process followed by the communities who have resettled with their own initiatives. Though the RDA may not be legally bound to pay their attentions to these aspects we recommend that it would be a social obligation of the project developers to verify the situation of the communities affected due to development actions implemented for the benefit of the country as whole not for creating specific benefits to the affected communities.

ABEYWICKRAMA______________________________________________________

(No mitigation measures for positive impacts such as increasing land values). However, settling the people in the expected ROW with the intention of possible. Therefore, it is recommended to have a proper investigation plan to avoid encroachment of the planned ROW by outsiders.

NIMAL_____________________________________________________________

7.1.2 Hydrological ImpactsProper drainage paths should be provided for the existing flow paths during site preparation. There is no hydrological impacts during investigations.7.1.2.1 Water

PPG_____________________________________________________________

7.1.2.1.1 Surface Water QuantityNothing to Report

7.1.2.1.2 Ground Water Quantity

Nothing to Report

LLR_____________________________________________________________

7.1.3 Impacts on Road Trace Design

The sun-shine effect, when the road section traverses within the stretch in the East to West direction, has not been considered in the previous studies and detailed design stage. The following measures are applicable to reduce this effect.

This effect can be mitigated to a great extent by planting some trees along the centre median at close interval during construction stage. This is to be implemented to the sections of the Expressway which flies in East – West direction.

Further, the road users are advised to keep the followings in mind to reduce the effect. Drive cautiously and leave a proper distance to ensure ample reaction time. Make it a habit to lower visors, to help block some of the reflected light. Avoid using high-gloss vinyl cleansers on dashboards. Keep the car windshield clean and the windshield washer fluid full. When possible, take an alternate route lined with tress or tall buildings in lieu of

one with extreme glare. Turn on headlights to assist the possible poor visibility of oncoming drivers. Most importantly, wear sunglasses at all times. Even more important is to wear

sunglasses with polarized lenses and UV protection.

MAHESH_____________________________________________________________

7.2 During Construction

This section describes the general mitigatory measures required to be implemented during the construction phase of the highway project in the JBIC section and the measures to be implemented are applicable to both the RDA trace and the combined trace. It should be noted that with reference to the mitigatory measures to be taken into consideration during the construction phase all the relevant mitigatory measures should be included in the

contractor documents, so that the contractor is held responsible for carrying them out during construction and on completion of the work.

NIMAL_____________________________________________________________

7.2.1 Hydrology and Drainage Aspects

7.2.1.1 Water

7.2.1.1.1 Surface Water QuantityThe topography of the final design trace lies in similar topography as the RDA trace along the significantly deviated stretches. Therefore no major impacts caused on various components of the hydrological cycle such rainfall pattern, evaporation, temperature, relative humidity & surface water quantity.

PPG_____________________________________________________________

7.2.1.1.2 Ground Water Quantity

Nothing to Report

7.2.1.2 Processes

NIMAL_____________________________________________________________

7.2.1.2.1 Floods/Hydrology and Drainage PatternsMain Final Trace

Changes of Hydrograph Pattern

The topography of the final design trace lies in similar topography as the RDA trace along the significantly deviated stretches. Therefore no major impacts caused on various components of the hydrological cycle such rainfall pattern, evaporation, temperature, relative humidity & surface water quantity. Hence, no special mitigatory measures are necessary. When compared with the length of the catchments and the deviated distances, Final Design Trace deviation has marginal effect on the catchment areas, river widths, and flood plain widths of either side of Kalu Ganga, Welipenne Ganga, Bentota Ganga flood plains at the proposed Bridge sites. Therefore the design flood at the new bridge locations of the Final Trace does not have significant variation when compared with the previous RDA Trace. Adequate opening to pass flood waters should be provided during the construction phase.

In Panape area, from 14+000 to 17+500, is susceptible to flooding as the catchments cross the Final trace in both directions. Therefore adequate openings should be provided to pass the flood water especially during construction period.

7.2.1.2.2 Irrigation and Flood Protection Structures

SAMAN_____________________________________________________________

7.2.2 Orientation for Contractor and Workers

Workers should be educated of the good construction practices and safety measures during construction phase. Especial attention should be given to following aspects.1. Special briefing and / or on-site training for the contractors and workers on the environmental requirements of the project.2. Agreement on critical areas to be considered and necessary mitigation measures, among all parties who are involved in project activities.3. Training on proper construction practices and waste disposal to be implemented Such as:

(i) Proper compaction of the fillings for the road embankment;(ii) Importance of proper construction quality control measures;(iii) Removal of soft soil and replacement with good quality material to reduce

long-term settlement of the road surface,(iv) Temporary storage of construction spoil without contamination of the

ground water and without obstruction of the water ways(v) Safety aspects to be observed during excavation for the roadway and

material exploitation (eg. Blasting, stability of excavations etc.)(vi) Proper disposal of solid waste from construction activities and labor

camps.4. Orientation of new workers should be done on a continuous manner..

7.2.3 Water Quality

MAHESH_____________________________________________________________

7.2.3.1 Surface Water Quality

Proposed Measures to Address Surface Water Quality Deterioration

It is recommended to implement the following measures during the construction phase in order to avoid significant deterioration of the water bodies in the RDA and combined trace as a consequence of soil erosion, disposal of wastewaters and other construction activities.

The use of weedicides and pesticides containing high levels of heavy metals such as As or organo-chloride rich compounds (which are non-biodegradable and soluble in fat tissue) for any vegetation clearing for construction, for borrow, landscaping, etc. needs to be refrained in order to avoid contamination of water bodies and even groundwater and subsequent bioaccumulation in biota.

Application of approved pesticides (i.e. pesticides not containing hazardous material) should be stopped during rainy periods and any vegetation clearing activities needs to be carried out using manual labor or machinery as much as possible.

Clearing of vegetation cover needs to be minimized in order to avoid erosion and even salinization of groundwater. At each borrow area the stripped vegetative top soil should be piled and respreaded to an adequate depth to ensure growth of land cover to mitigate acceleration of surface flows.

Borrow of earth and quarrying of rock material for construction activities should be done only at carefully selected sites. In other words these sites selected for quarrying activities should be far away from the water bodies occurring in the vicinity of the combined trace and the RDA trace in order to avoid immediate adverse impacts such as colour and turbidity problems that could occur during rainy periods. Also these sites should be far away from residential areas also in order to avoid disturbing effects caused by high noise and vibration levels.

At all times during material exploitation, clearing, cut and fill operations the removal of land cover in natural slopes should not be carried out to endanger the existing slope stability and subsequent collapsing and erosion problems. Any excavated slopes should be maintained at stable angles depending on the type of soil encountered in the region. Similarly it is imperative that any construction activities should be carried out in other locations that may be susceptible to landslides, hence severe erosion during rainy periods.

Once an area is exploited for fill material it is undesirable to leave that land in the form of an undulating plane, as such surfaces are often subject to soil erosion. Land exploited for fill material should be cut into profiles of flat surfaces leaving no over burden.

After completion of excavation for fill material slope should be maintained to ensure stability and benches and drains be provided to avoid erosion and slope failure.

In order to prevent erosion of sites due to excavation, it needs to be either hard landscaped with retaining walls or soft landscaped with ground cover planting. Thatching of exposed soil areas with dead or live vegetation and even replantation of such areas where possible with any stripped native vegetation is recommended to reduce the generation of surface run-off during rainy periods, intercept rain and also to reduce dust emission scenarios.

For the dumping of cut material a temporary storage area must be selected.

Cut and fill operations should not be practiced on rainy days. Similarly other in-situ construction activities including vegetation clearing and excavation works for foundations, etc. should not be carried out during the rainy periods to avoid the generation of surface run-off and hence subsequent color and turbidity problems. However if the time schedules of the construction activities cannot be effectively coincided with the desired weather patterns in the area, then silt traps and interceptor drains should be incorporated in the construction sites as much as possible to prevent erosion and siltation of nearby water bodies in both traces. Also maintaining suitable surface covers in the vicinity of the water bodies covered is recommended to reduce the effects of rainfall impact.

It is imperative to refrain from the practice of stockpiling of construction material and tipping excavated material near any water bodies to prevent such material from entering through erosion or by any other means.

Sand mining should not be undertaken in rivers since re-suspension of flocculated particles such as clay material could result in intense visual pollution in terms of colour and turbidity and even spread out to considerable distances depending on wind and water circulation patterns. Moreover the re-suspended particles could result in mechanical injury and clogging of fish gills and have smothering effects on benthic aquatic fauna, though effects may be temporary. Therefore the use of river sand should be limited to only where it is not possible to substitute sea sand, even using latest available techniques (for all other purposes, off-shore sea sand should be used. However further studies are needed to identify those locations of sea sand mining and all sea sand removal activities have to be carried out in accordance to guidelines prescribed by the Coast Conservation Department of Sri Lanka). In this respect necessary approval has to be obtained from the Geological Surveys & Mines Bureau under the provisions of the Mine and Mineral Act No. 33 of 1992. If designated quantities of sand from selected river basins are allowed to be exploited, then it is also imperative that such activities are carried in accordance to guidelines prescribed by the Coastal Zone Management Plan, Forest Ordinance, Crown Land Ordinance, Proposed Western Provincial Council Statute on Sand Mining and CEA.

Wastewater from asphalt or concrete plants should not be directed to soil or any nearby water bodies unless treated using pH correction and physicochemical treatment such that the treated wastewater quality conforms to the CEA stipulated wastewater standards for inland surface waters. Oil and grease traps must be provided to curtail run-off carrying them to water bodies (if such plants are to be located in the vicinity of water bodies). Also there needs to be heavy restrictions on washing of construction and excavated material transporting vehicles and other machinery involved in construction works to avoid groundwater contamination and pollution of water bodies with dust material, oil and heavy metals such as Pb. Washing of vehicles and construction associated machinery has to be undertaken only at designated areas (i.e. off-site the project area preferably in vehicular washing service stations having wastewater treatment plants that are effectively functioning).

To minimize oil spills during the construction period, all machinery including dredgers should be properly and regularly maintained. Also there needs to be heavy restrictions on fuel storage for any machinery such as concrete mixers that may be required for in-situ construction works in order to prevent contamination of soil, groundwater and surface water bodies. Heavy restrictions have to be placed particularly in areas in the vicinity of the water bodies in each trace. Any storage of oil or oil rich products should be allowed to be stored only in cans that are not corroded and have well closing lids or in self-contained enclosures. These cans, etc. should be stored in temporary sheds that are well protected against heavy rain. Used or waste oil and lubricants should not be disposed or burnt and should be stored securely in full compliance with the national and local regulations.

The work force involved in the construction activities have to be provided with proper accommodation in suitable locations having good sanitary and solid waste disposal facilities with adequate clean drinking water systems. The solid wastes collected may be

disposed to the nearest sanitary landfill or site having and complying with the necessary permits.

7.2.3.2 Ground Water Quality

Deep excavations for foundations particularly for the bridge and culvert construction works should be avoided to avoid any alterations in water table. The excavations to be done should not reach below mean sea level to avoid saline water intrusion. Alternative foundation techniques including sheet piling, injected bentonite walls may be considered under such circumstances.

To minimize oil spills during the construction period, machinery should be properly and regularly maintained. Also there needs to be heavy restrictions on fuel storage for any machinery such as concrete mixers that may be required for in-situ construction works in order to prevent soil and groundwater contamination.

In borrow areas where the project does not permit the green land cover to be brought back closer to the previous status, it is imperative to plant with suitable native trees in the surrounding area to lower the ground water levels so that earlier levels could be maintained. Wherever surface cover is tampered with during the project activities, suitable tree planting should be carried out to ensure lowering the possibilities of the land becoming saline due to rise in groundwater. Heavy deforestation should not also be allowed to minimize salinization.

Water needed for construction works needs to be provided to the sites in tankers or bouzers.

7.2.4 Air Quality

All dust emissions that could arise during the constructional phase needs minimization through measures such as wetting or wet spraying of dusty surfaces, roads and exposed earthwork surfaces periodically, transporting construction and excavated material or spoil with covers, regular cleaning of the site and removal of excessive or unnecessary excavated material (which could be recycled to back fill foundations and for other construction works), screening and enclosing dusty working places, and even thatching of exposed soil areas with live or dead vegetation. Enforcing limitations to speeds of construction vehicles carrying material is another measure that needs to be practiced in reducing dust emissions. Transport through more inhabited areas should also be avoided where possible.

Care should be taken in stockpiling construction material such as cement to avoid unnecessary dust emissions and the construction material needs to be adequately covered against wind and rain. Moreover care needs to be taken to avoid spillage of construction material and dust emissions that occur during loading of construction material to the project site.

Aggregate piles from asphalt and concrete plants must be kept in places where dust and impurities are minimum. Watering of stock piles of sand and coarse aggregates should be carried out to avoid dust emissions. Use of cement silos in high elevations and the use of dust collectors especially fabric bag filters wherever possible needs to be practiced. Concrete and asphalt facilities should be upwind of sensitive receptors (e.g. residential areas and schools) a minimum of 500 m and downwind of sensitive receptors minimum 100 m.

During the construction phase it is also imperative that the vehicles and the machinery to be used are regularly and well maintained in order to avoid smoke emissions. They shall be fitted in full compliance with the national and local regulations (National Environmental Air Emissions Fuel and Vehicle Standards E.O. Gazette 1137/35 of June 2000, updates by air emissions fuel and vehicle standards (importation standards) 1268/18 December 2002 and 1295/11 June 2003)

7.2.5 Noise/Ground Vibration

During the construction phase operation of any high noise generating equipment should be restricted only during daytime. Percussion (pile driving) operations should be avoided in sensitive areas unless geotechnical conditions require this method to be used. Hammer type pile driving operations should be restricted to day time.

The vehicles to be used for the construction phase needs to be regularly and well maintained in order to avoid generation of significant noise levels also. Further the machinery to be used for the construction phase should be regularly and well maintained to avoid irritating noise levels which may include hums. For example gear noise can be reduced by examining their teeth and filing high spots and by checking the depth of engagement. Similarly proper lubrication of the moving parts of the machinery in contact will reduce noise due to friction. Wherever possible attempts should be made to make use of low noise generating machinery. Basically all heavy equipment and machinery should be fitted in full compliance with the national and local regulations (Extra Ordinary Gazette No. 924/12 May 1996 amended by E.O. Gazette 937/7 April 1999). Also proper traffic management practices needs to be implemented during of transport of materials, including quarry material in order to reduce traffic noise.

With reference to the siting of asphalt and concrete plants, proper site planning together with noise abatement measures should be practiced to reduce air-borne noise transmission. Concrete and asphalt facilities should be upwind of sensitive receptors (e.g. residential areas and schools) a minimum of 500 m and downwind of sensitive receptors minimum 100 m.

With reference to blasting activities newly developed blasting methods should be used wherever possible in order to reduce vibration effects on nearby structures. This may include special controlled vibrationless techniques to avoid any damage to existing buildings including houses in the urbanized areas in the RDA and combined trace. Alternately blasting activities could be carried out using the normal techniques if there is a possibility of using newly developed blasting methods. However under such circumstances blasting should be done at regular intervals and it is essential to make

people aware about the places, dates and times of blasting. Reasonable compensation should also be given to any property which is damaged by blasting. Further it is imperative to carry out a careful continuous monitoring of nearby building structures particularly in the urbanized areas to investigate any instability or damage following blasting. In other words regular monitoring of vibration levels in nearby building structures is of paramount importance and special attention should also be paid to the development of cracks and crevices in nearby building structures.

However the use of explosives should be strictly controlled or prohibited to avoid significant impacts on nearby structures especially in the urbanized areas of the road traces. Also the sites of quarries should not be close to transport routes and residential areas.

In addition to continuous monitoring of nearby building structures for any instability or damage following blasting activities, there needs to be an intensive monitoring of noise levels especially in nearby noise sensitive areas such as residences, schools and religious sites occurring in the urbanized areas of the road traces. If predicted noise levels near noise sensitive areas are excessive, then provision of noise barriers is necessary for these locations.

NIMAL_____________________________________________________________

7.2.6 Soil Erosion/Surface Run-off

Farm land can be affected due to soil erosion. Therefore all measures should be taken to avoid reaching soils in to specially paddy fields. This can be mitigated by compacting soils properly without leaving lose soil. Also soil traps should be excavated as necessary to trap the soils before reaching paddy lands.

SAMAN_____________________________________________________________

Surface runoff and the resulting soil erosion could cause numerous construction related problems and environmental issues such as destroying the agricultural crops including tea and paddy. Therefore, following mitigation measures should be implemented during the construction phase:

1. Construction sites (including borrow and disposal sites) should be graded to original contours, re-vegetated, and compacted properly in accordance with design specifications2. Cut areas and stockpiles will be configured to maintain stability of the slopes.3. Temporary or permanent drainage works shall be installed and maintained to minimize erosion.4. The Contractor should consult Ag. Societies, Ag. Authorities in the area to solicit input on mitigation measures.5. Stabilizing vegetation to be planted and maintained in a continuous/ongoing manner6. Large scale nurseries should be located with access to good supply of water for the care and storage of appropriate vegetation to be re-used on site.7. Use of temporary or permanent drainage systems to collect water coming to the slope and drain out without causing soil erosion.

8. Construction activities such as site clearing, cut & fill and material exploitation should be planned during dry periods of the year. However, if it is not possible to carry out these operations during dry periods, silt traps and interceptor drains should be provided.

7.2.7 Stability of Slopes

Stability of slopes of the sides of the excavation for the roadway is a very important consideration for a road trace running through hilly and undulating terrain. Therefore, following measures should be adopted to reduce the possibility of slope failures.

1. Original designs should be reviewed in light with the new subsurface information gathered during excavation for the roadway.2. Increase of the elevation of the height of the water table, due to natural or manmade reasons, at the top of the slope should be monitored.3. Additional Loading at the top of the slope outside the ROW, due to construction of new structures etc., should be avoided4. Similarly unloading at the toe of the slope even out side the ROW could reduce the factor of safety of fill slopes against stability.5. Monitor other indications of slope instability such as: settlement of the top of the slope, cracking of the surrounding area including the road surface, appearance of springs at the bottom of the slope and elevation of the groundwater table near the top of the slope6. Growing a suitable vegetation cover to minimize infiltration of surface water into the slope and binding of the subsurface soil with the root network of such vegetation.7. Provision of adequate drainage facilities to drain out water from such slopes without infiltration and surface erosion.

7.2.8 Settlement and ground subsidence

Post construction settlement of the roadway will require considerable amount of road maintenance work. Therefore, following factors should be considered during construction stage for minimization of post construction road maintenance due to settlement and ground subsidence.1. Proper construction practices and quality control programme during construction of the road embankment over low-lying areas.2. Adequate compaction of the fill portions of the cut & fill sections to avoid large differential settlement of the fill portion of the cut & fill sections. 2. Proper implementation of the ground improvement methods such as complete removal of the compressible soft organic soil layers during replacement and adequate compaction of the fill.3. Monitoring of the settlement and pore water pressure of the pre-loaded sections to ensure that the long term settlement of the road surface is within tolerable limits.

7.2.9 Exploitation Handling, Transportation and Storage of Construction Materials

Improper exploitation, handling, transportation and storage of construction material could have some adverse effects on the surrounding environment. Therefore, following mitigation measures are proposed:

1, Initial surveys should be performed to estimate the quantity and quality of the material that could be exploited from each borrow pit site without leaving abrupt excavated slopes after the exploitation process. 2. Stretch of the road, for which the material from each borrow pit will be used, should be identified and the route of transportation of material without causing traffic congestions should be planned.3. Borrow pits should be located well away from residential areas and drinking water sources;4. Temporary stability of the slopes of the borrow pits during exploitation of material and long term stability of the excavated slopes after the material exploitation process should be given due considerations.5. Exploitation of the construction material and the subsequent usage should be planned in such a way to minimize material in temporary storage;6. Sites to be used as temporary storage should be selected on relatively flat land well away from drinking water sources without obstructing natural drainage pattern of the neighborhood area 7. When excavated material within the trace are used as fill material, proper planning and management of cut and fill operations should be practiced to minimize distance of transport and the volume of material in temporary storage. Before the beginning of the construction, the cut sections and the corresponding fill sections should be marked on a map for the entire trace considering the distance of transport, easiness of transport, construction process etc.8. Material generation and usage map, mentioned above, should be regularly revised depending on the progress of construction9. License for borrow pits must be obtained from the GS&MB for all mining activities such as quarries and borrow pits.10. Mining license/s should be obtained for mining of river sand required for construction

activities.

11. To prevent dust blowing from open-topped Lorries, it is necessary to ensure that the loads are covered, when transported.12. During dry periods it is necessary to dampen the exposed areas and the access roads at regular intervals to prevent emission of dust.13. Necessary approval shall be obtained from CEA and the relevant Local Authority for the operation of the metal crushers prior to commencement of operations14. When exploited rocks within the trace are used to produce coarse and fine aggregates, quarry sites should be selected considering the location of the predicted availability of the rock and distance of transport apart from other environmental issues such as emission of dust, noise and vibration.

ABEYWICKRAMA______________________________________________________

7.2.10 Spoil and Construction Waste Disposal

Excavated peat and boggy soils should not be dumped closer to paddy fields and water bodies as acidic conditions created due to oxidization of peat may be harmful to paddy cultivations and aquatic resources. Moreover, formation of dust would affect the economic

activities such as vegetable and tea. Dumping sites will generate adverse impacts on day to day activities of the people by blocking the rural roads. Since tea is particularly vulnerable to dust which may cause degradation of quality, the contractor should ensure that dust emerging from various operations and moving vehicles that carry soil is kept to a minimum by taking proper precautions in handling cut and fill operations within the vicinity of tea lands.

Provision of drainage facilities becomes very important in low lying lands because water logging, especially in paddy lands bordering the proposed road may cause serious losses in yields of paddy and other field crops. Therefore, proper drainage structures should be constructed to avoid any losses in agricultural output in adjoining lands.

Use of contractors’ own access roads for transporting materials instead of using existing rural roads in the area. Avoid rainy seasons in earth work closer to paddy lands and water bodies in order to prevent from moving soil through run off water. Appropriate soil conserving structures should be constructed to prevent movement of soil to adjoining lands.

SAMAN_____________________________________________________________

It is expected that a large quantity of waste material will be generated within the project area due to construction activities. Temporary storage places should be selected for collection of the spoil and construction waste before transporting them to permanent disposal sites. Following aspects should be considered in selecting temporary and permanent spoil and construction waste disposal sites: 1. Optimum number of temporary construction waste disposal sites should be selected along the trace considering the distribution of generation of construction waste along the trace2. Depending on the volume of construction waste in temporary waste disposal sites and the capacity of the permanent waste disposal sites, permanent waste disposal sites should be selected to dispose waste from one or more temporary waste disposal sites. In practice, construction waste from the original location could be directly transported to permanent waste disposal sites without keeping it in temporary storage;3. Temporary and permanent waste disposal sites should be located on relatively flat lands to minimize surface erosion and slope stability problems. Those sites should be located well away from the drinking water sources. 4. Temporary construction waste disposal sites should be located in such a manner not to obstruct natural ground water flow resulting stagnation of water5. Construction waste consisting of peaty soil, placed in permanent dump sites, should be covered with a suitably selected soil cap to avoid exposure to rain waster and a grass cover should be maintained on the exposed surface of such soil caps to avoid erosion..6. Peaty soils are highly compressible and have very low shear strength parameters. Therefore, stability of the exposed slopes of the permanent waste disposal sites should have a reasonably high factor of safety against failure under the most critical condition7. Anticipated or already planned future developments of the surrounding area should be considered in location of the permanent construction waste disposal sites8. If a 1 – 2m thick layer of inorganic soils could be placed over disposed peaty soils at permanent dumpsites, the underlying highly compressible peaty soils will be compressed and improved. 9. Transportation of peaty soils immediately after excavation should be avoided, as the liquid nature of such waste at that stage will pollute the environment due to spilling

during transportation. Such material should be kept in temporary storage at near by places before transporting to distant permanent storage sites.

MAHESH_____________________________________________________________

Solid wastes should not be disposed on the sides of the road and any debris shall not be left after construction works is complete since it may be carried away by water. Locations of sites for disposal of spoil and other construction wastes and reclamation needs to be carefully selected. It should be noted that the recycling potential of some of the construction generated wastes such as rock material, excess concrete and bricks is good. Therefore attempts should be made to trade off or sell such wastes to relevant stakeholders. For example concrete and bricks could be grinded up to make aggregates required in road repairs. Similarly the excavated material such as sand could be recycled to back fill foundations and for other construction works. Alternately excavated soil material could be used as daily covering and final capping material for sanitary landfills or trade off to the horticulture industry. The excavated peat material should not be left in the construction area or disposed to water bodies or left near water bodies in order to avoid acidification and hardness problems in surface waters and groundwater during periods of rain, but may be dumped in paddy fields provided adequate drainage facilities are supplied. Alternately the peat material may be traded off to the agricultural and horticulture or gardening related industry and to stakeholders who could cut and dry the peat material to make fuel that burns or the peat material may be used for the construction of noise barriers. All scrap materials such as cables, metal structures, steel wires, insulators involved in power line construction works needs removal after construction works and attempts be made to evaluate their recycling potential.

Left-overs including wastewater treatment plant sludges from asphalt and concrete plants should be dumped only in pre-determined places which do not disturb public, aquatic and terrestrial biodiversity. Nevertheless these left over material needs to be safely disposed in accordance to guidelines on disposal of contaminated material and it is recommended to carry out the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) prescribed toxicity characteristics leaching protocol (TCLP) test prior to disposal. Wherever possible options should be evaluated in trading off the left over material for the construction industry. For example petroleum wastewater treatment plant sludges may be utilized for the manufacturing of masonry bricks (Sengupta et al., 2002).

All municipal solid wastes produced by the work force should be managed in accordance to the principles of municipal solid waste management with special emphasis on segregation (separation) of recyclables from biodegradable material, which could be sold to the composting industry to make soil fertilizer or incinerated after sufficient sun drying. Alternately arrangements may be made with Local Authorities in order to dispose of the collected wastes provided the collected waste material is well segregated.

SAMAN_____________________________________________________________

7.2.11 Work Camp Operation and Location

Work camps should be located at selected places to reduce the impact on the environment during operation of such camps. Following mitigation measures are suggested for operation and location of work camps:1. Identify location of work camps in consultation with Grama Niladharies (GNs). The location shall be subjected to approval by the RDA. If possible, camps shall not be located near settlements or near drinking water supply intakes.2. Cutting of trees shall be avoided and removal of vegetation shall be minimized.3. Avoid, as much as possible, use of sloping lands for work camps to avoid removal of vegetation cover on sloping lands to minimize soil erosion and slope stability problems.4. Water and sanitary facilities shall be provided for employees.5. Solid waste and sewage shall be managed according to the national and local regulations. As a rule, solid waste must not be dumped, buried or burned at or near the project site, but shall be disposed of to the nearest sanitary landfill or site having and complying with the necessary permits.6. The Contractor shall organize and maintain a waste separation, collection and transport system.7. The Contractor shall document that all liquid and solid hazardous and non-hazardous waste are separated, collected and disposed of according to the given requirements and regulations.8. At the conclusion of the project, all debris and waste shall be removed. All temporary structures, including office buildings, shelters and toilets shall be removed.9. Exposed areas shall be planted with suitable vegetation.10. The RDA and Supervising Engineer shall inspect and report that the camp has been vacated and restored to pre-project conditions.

ABEYWICKRAMA______________________________________________________

7.2.12 Loss of Vegetation Cover of the Areas for Temporary Work Space

Formation of dust, increased soil erosion and siltation of irrigation canals may cause due to removed vegetative cover. Moreover, grassing lands for animals will be affected. Soil deposits in roads and agricultural lands will cause problems in agricultural and economic activities.

Therefore, contractors should take possible actions to minimize the problems associated with removal of vegetative cover.

Avoid the seasons of heavy rain. Construction of temporary structures to reduce soil erosion through runoff water. Wetting the floor to minimize dust formation in sensitive areas.

MAALA_____________________________________________________________

Areas in which vegetation is removed and temporary work places have been established can be re-vegetated with appropriate tree species such as fast growing Alstonia

macrophylla, which is common the wet zone. Besides, timber trees, Jak (Artocarpus heterophylla) Mahogany, and Teak also can be recommended for the purpose.

SUSIRA_____________________________________________________________

Clearing of green surface cover for construction and areas for temporary work spaces, for borrow or for development should be piled and respreaded to an adequate depth to ensure growth of land cover to mitigate acceleration of surface flows During the construction following mitigation measures can be identified

+ The stripped areas other than those designated to be void of trees should be replanted with proper trees to ensure proper run off

+ Select the most suitable places for material storage and temporary workspace site.

When ever surface cover is tempered with during the project activities suitable tree planting should be carried out to ensure lowering the probability of land be coming loss of fertility

Landscaping and road verges planting of indigenous and endemic trees / shrubs ground covers contribute to the aesthetic value of the area and compensate for the lost capability of the area to absorb carbon dioxide.

All temporary structures including office buildings, shelters, toilets and extra hard material shall be removed.

MAHESH_____________________________________________________________

The following measures have to be implemented.

Clearing of green surface cover for construction, for borrow or for development, cutting trees and other important vegetation has to be minimized.

Landscaping and road verges to be accomplished in continuous/ongoing manner.

Planting of native trees/shrubs and ornamental plants to contribute to the aesthetic value of the area and compensate for the lost capability of the area to absorb CO2 and arrest dust particles in the air.

At the conclusion of the project, all debris and waste has to be removed.

All temporary structures, including office buildings, shelters and toilets should be removed.

SAMAN_____________________________________________________________

7.2.13 Safety Precautions for the Workers and General Public

Following safety aspects should be followed during the construction phase of the project.1. Adequate warning signs, barriers and lighting as appropriate should be provided at the construction sites2.Especial safety measures such as road humps and traffic diversion during construction should be adopted at locations where existing roads cross the trace.3. Access of general public to the construction sites should be controlled 2. Providing workers with skull guard or hard hat3. The Contractor shall instruct his workers in health and safety matters, and require the workers to use the provided safety equipment.4. Establish all relevant safety measures as required by law and good engineering practice

7.2.14 Salinization

1. As the ground level is lowered due to excavation for the road way and exploitation of the construction material, the ground water table will be lowered increasing the salinity level of the ground water. 2. Offshore sand mining will require an environmental impact assessment additionally.3. If sand is mined from offshore deposits this sand should be stockpiled on the shore and proper arrangements will be made to desalinate before being transported to the project site. 4. Deforestation must be discouraged to retard the process of salinization. 5. The proper design of hydraulic and irrigation structures should be adopted to curtail formation of stagnant water bodies, which may cause elevated levels of salinity

MAALA_____________________________________________________________

7.2.15 Impact on Wetlands

The most affected in this part of the road will be the abandoned paddy fields at Panape as the road trace traverses along the margin of the wetland. This area has been identified as a temporary refuge (habitat) for migratory birds and therefore enrichment of the vegetation through planting plant species such as Pandanus striatus (Wetakayya), Typha anguistifolia (Hambu pan) and Phragmites karka along the margins of the wetland, particularly along the banks of the proposed road trace.

Inhabitants in the low-lying areas close to the proposed highway may have to be trans-located in elevated ground to avoid areas that may be flooded during raining periods, due to reduction of water retention capacity of the wetland due to construction of the highway.

PPG_____________________________________________________________

7.2.16 Bio-Diversity

. Nothing to Report

7.2.17 Social and Socio Economic Impacts

JINAPALA_____________________________________________________________

Displacement of people

The RDA has been making all attempts to reduce the number of families that will have negative impacts due to various project interventions. As a result of such attempts made through various studies the number of families to be displaced was brought down to 584 at the present condition. The plans are being developed by RDA to settle these affected families. The progress so far achieved (by the moth of August 2005) with regard to relocation of affected people is as follows:

RDA has initiated and some work has been already completed to settle 220 affected families in 13 resettlement sites. ( about 170 families have been already settled in these 13 sites)

Each original family will be given 20 perch of land for home garden. The families of second and third generations in the affected families will also be given 10 perch land for the same purpose.

The common infrastructure system in these resettlement sites will be installed by the RDA from its funds. The cost for the land and houses will be deducted from the compensation paid to each affected family.

The policies suggested on involuntary resettlement by the government of Sri Lanka on involuntary resettlement are being followed and will be followed by the RDA in the whole resettlement process. The RDA has obtained the services of various parties to assist the resettlement process beside the activities of its own project staff. About 2909 families in total had various impacts and all of them have been compensated. Out of 597 houses (physical structures) which had negative impacts and they all will be demolished for allowing the road construction works to take place ( majority of the houses have been demolished already) . Only 584 of 597 houses are occupied by people and therefore, they would be relocated. The other 13 houses affected were just physical structures partially constructed or not occupied by people. The owners of these 13 houses will be given compensation although there is no need to relocate people (but the structures will be demolished to acquire lands to carry out project construction work).

At the focus group discussions held by the consultant with the affected and already resettled communities the participants expressed following views on the resettlement process they had under gone:

Some drawbacks of the resettlement process according to the communities:

There are some problems remaining to be solved in resettlement sites ( land development)

Some resettlement sites have not been given drinking water facilities yet. (In some sites the capacity of the water supply schemes is not adequate to cater the whole families resettled).

Some families are of the opinion that location of settlement sites and also the land lots given to them are not the preferred ones by them ( The opinion of some resettled families not all)

The RDA has not planned and implemented proper post-resettlement program to help the APs ( Based on the experience so far gained by the APs resettled in new sites)

They all suggested that if active participation of the affected parties were sought in the entire resettlement process to implement it would have been able to raise the satisfaction of the communities The project developer played some roles in post resettlement actions with the communities resettled in RDA sponsored sites. The affected communities were provided with training on entrepreneurship development and other livelihood reestablishment activities. A development credit program was initiated to use as revolving funds to start income generation activities.

The resettlement process should not be just confined to relocation of affected people in another location. A well designed program should be implemented in the post –resettlement phase to assist the affected people to reestablish their disturbed livelihood systems using adequate compensation paid under the project. Otherwise there can be pathetic cases that some householders may spend their whole money for unnecessary things and get into sorrowful conditions of their lives. The post –resettlement actions also may not be confined only to the communities resettled in RDA sponsored sites. Actions may be launched to monitor the process followed by the communities who have resettled with their own initiatives. Though the RDA may not be legally bound to pay their attentions to these aspects we recommend that it would be a social obligation of the project developers to verify the situation of the communities affected due to development actions implemented for the benefit of the country as whole not for creating specific benefits to the affected communities.

ABEYWICKRAMA______________________________________________________

Agricultural Productivity of the lands bordering the proposed road, especially the paddy lands, is likely to fall during the construction period due to soil erosion. Therefore, the contractor should be asked to adopt measures that minimize soil erosion during the construction period in order to prevent any loss of value due to reduced agricultural productivity. Otherwise the farmers should pay a substantial amount for their damages. (Rs. 150.00 per perch of complete loss of cultivated paddy land and Rs. 50.00 per perch for not sowing (But land preparation has been done) due to problems occurred with construction activities of highway.

Since tea is particularly vulnerable to dust which may cause degradation of quality, the contractor should ensure that dust emerging from various operations and moving vehicles that carry soil is kept to a minimum by taking proper precautions in handling cut and fill operations within the vicinity of tea lands.

Provision of drainage facilities becomes very important in low lying lands because water logging, especially in paddy lands bordering the proposed road may cause serious losses in yields. Therefore, proper drainage structures should be constructed to avoid any losses in agricultural output.

Whenever the construction of the proposed road lead to division of fertile agricultural land, it is necessary to adopt measures that preserve the productivity of blocks of divided land. One of the strategies that can be adopted to preserve the productivity of the divided blocks of fertile agricultural land is to provide access to such lands from close by overpasses or underpasses (by constructing small access roads) if investment on such means of access is unlikely to exceed the expected social benefits.

It is of paramount importance to provide the people with access to agricultural lands, work places and markets by constructing overpasses or underpasses across the proposed road (which will help preserve the existing road net work too). Yet, people may still find problems of access during the construction period. Therefore, the contractor must make sure that he provides the people with temporary means of access to land and work places in order to avoid such short term negative impacts on the society.

When acquisition of land leads to displacement of people belonging to various employment categories, precautions will have to be taken in relocating them once relocation sites are identified. Relocation may bring in additional benefits to some employees and additional costs to the others, depending on factors such as the status of factor markets, product markets, infrastructure facilities, access to work places, etc. Therefore, in relocating people, it is necessary to get the proper consent of the people affected in order to avoid any unforeseen social costs imposed on some employees.

As a measure of equity, those who lost employment due to the project and seek employment should be given additional weights when various vacancies for employment are filled within the affected areas.

Use of contractors’ own access roads for transporting materials instead of using existing rural roads in the area.

Avoid rainy seasons in earth work closer to paddy lands and water bodies in order prevent from moving soil through run off water

Appropriate soil conserving structures to prevent movement of soil to adjoining lands.

Excavated peat and boggy soils should not be dumped closer to paddy fields and water bodies as acidic conditions created due to oxidization of peat may be harmful to paddy cultivations and aquatic resources.

In the areas tea and vegetable, green belts should be maintained to protect the crops fro dust and various forms of toxic substances of vehicular emissions.

Use of appropriate structures to protect the surrounding lands from the soil transported with runoff water.

7.2.18 Institutional Strengthening and Capacity Building

MAHESH_____________________________________________________________

7.3 During Operation

7.3.1 Air Quality

Proper traffic management practices are crucial to be implemented with appropriate pollution control measures for vehicles during the operational phase. It is also important to emphasize the fact that vehicles to be used in the road traces are regularly and well maintained to reduce both air pollution and engine noise. In other words enforcement of stringent laws governing maintenance aspects of vehicles, periodic or random on-site

monitoring of vehicular exhaust emissions by specially trained Police personnel perhaps with assistance from ITI or NBRO and implementation of heavy fines or penalties for vehicles not meeting exhaust standards would be of paramount importance. Moreover development of mass transit and reformulation of diesel oil would be beneficial in the long run to decrease the rate of SPM emission though air pollution in terms of elevated SPM levels due to generated or diverted traffic cannot be totally curtailed.

7.3.2 Noise

Necessary actions needs to be exercised in areas having noise sensitive places (i.e. areas, lands or places belong Category B) such as residences and schools as well as in areas having sensitive lands or lands in which serenity and quiet are of importance (i.e. areas or lands belong to Category A) such forest patches, wetlands, etc. in both the combined and RDA trace since the results obtained using the FHWA model revealed that noise level generation increases with time period due to an increase in vehicular traffic. Table XXX illustrates the necessary actions to be exercised in certain areas of the road traces.

Table XXX. Necessary actions to control possible high noise levels in certain areas of the combined and RDA trace in the JBIC section Category Description Maximum

Permissible Leq

*

Remedial Measure

Undeveloped lands (Category D)

Paddy, rubber, tea, coconut, water shrubs and marshy areas

- No action necessary

Sensitive areas (Category B)

Schools, religious places, libraries, public meeting, rooms, courts, residences, hospitals, etc.

52 (Interior)67 (Exterior)

Sound barriers and sound installation techniques

Developed lands

Home gardens and other areas not included in the above categories

72 (Exterior) Buffer zone with luxuriant vegetation and tree canopy layers and sound insulation of affected buildings (Any existing thick and tall vegetation notably shrubs and trees such as weeping willows could be used for this purpose)

* Maximum permissible limits stipulated by the Federal Highway Association of USA (FHWA)Drastic noise level reduction should be practiced by means of noise barriers if necessary together with acoustic insulation of buildings in areas having noise sensitive places such as residences, schools, etc. Construction of thick parapet walls of sufficient height (around 5-5.4 m in height) on both sides of the highway roads to achieve noise attenuations up to around 15-20 dB(A) is one good method of reducing traffic noise transmission to noise sensitive areas (Garg, 1979). However such noise barriers to be built have to be constructed such that there would be no development of cracks or gaps on exposure to sun and rain, and therefore the masonry walls should be finished with render or cement based paint. Any development of cracks and gaps in noise barriers have to be regularly monitored and immediately repaired by the RDA. Alternately concrete or any

other type of barrier systems is recommended in places where there is no possibility of having an earthen beam due to lack of space.

Intensive noise reduction programmes will also be necessary in areas where Category A lands such as forest patches and wetlands are occurring. In this respect strict laws pertaining to prohibiting the beeping of horns (especially the large diesel powered vehicles such as trucks, lorries and buses which are known to produce loud and highly irritating noise from beeping horns) with heavy fines has to be imposed by RDA with assistance from mobile Police forces. Also notice boards clearly stating that beeping of horns are prohibited (since a particular stretch in the road trace encounters sensitive lands) have to be properly erected on both sides of the road traces and even in the island stretch of the road traces.

It is also imperative that a national policy be established on vehicle imports noting that noise level generation from vehicles increases with age.

LLR_____________________________________________________________

7.3.3 Traffic Condition

A suitable terminal with bus stops for long distance and local buses as well as parking for three wheelers and other local vehicles must be provided as a road side facility and be properly separated from the Southern Expressway right of way and this connecting road.

Redesign the traffic sign layout. It should in detail specify the location of all traffic signs and road markings

On-street parking must be controlled and off-street parking must be provided

7.3.4 Road Accidents

The safety standards, motor traffic laws or regulations for access controlled highways should be incorporated in the Motor Traffic Act.

Only roadworthy vehicles should be used during the operation stage to minimize road accidents.

In case of an accident the broken crash barriers or breakable posts should be immediately replaced with new ones.

All crash barriers, posts etc. should be properly maintained and there has to be a special crew assigned for this work.

There will be many breakdowns of vehicles, tyre punctures, vehicle stoppages due to lack of fuel etc. Properly organized automobile service units should be engaged to be in charge of these operations. They should have fully equipped vehicles, towing trucks, trained people etc. to carry out these operations.

Telephone facilities should be provided on either side of the road to contact police, ambulance, automobile services etc. during emergencies. It is recommended to have these stations at 2-km intervals.

Police vehicles, ambulances, fire engines etc. should be available 24 hr. a day for emergencies, accidents, fires etc. An organization needs to be established for highway surveillance, highway patrol, rescue operations. The police and emergency vehicles should be provided with emergency access and exits in accordance with international standards.

At interchanges, a suitable terminal with bus stops for long distance and local busses as well as parking for three wheelers and other local vehicles must be provided as a road side facility and be properly separated from Southern Highway right of way and its access roads.

Speed control measures like well designed rumble strips and humps should be implemented in the access roads to Southern Highway.

Due to prevailing security situation in the country, a special police or military force needs to be assigned to protect bridges, culverts, overpasses, underpasses etc. from terrorist attacks.

MAHESH_____________________________________________________________

7.3.5 Garbage Disposal

Arrangements must be made with Local Authorities (LAs) or with private environmental (solid waste) management firms such as Abans Cleantech (PVT) Limited in order to dispose of the municipal solid waste disposed by persons using the highway in a proper manner either by closed trucks or any other means such as semi-automated collection systems or fully automated collection systems (vehicles equipped with “can snatchers”). Proper large bins or containers lined with biodegradable bags (not HDPE or LDPE material for example) must be provided at least every 1 km intervals along with signboards on both sides of the road traces in order to collect all solid wastes until they are taken away. The bins provided must be well closed with lids in order to avoid rummaging by stray dogs or other animals and birds. Further it will lead to keep the flies and other insects out of the area. It should be noted that the garbage bins to be provided should be of different colours with clear instructions and with figures in brief explaining as to what sort of wastes are to be disposed (i.e. for segregation or separation of perishable or putrescible wastes from recyclables). Implementation of heavy fines is necessary is to be carried out by Police personnel for persons involved in careless and open dumping of bottles, cans and other garbage. This is also applicable to persons who throw trash out of car windows, etc.

It is also imperative that the RDA undertake regular surveys pertaining to the adequacy of bins for garbage collection and assess the efficiency of waste management firms or authorities pertaining to the daily collection frequency.

Collection of garbage and cleaning of the road traces has to be done on a regular basis by the LAs particularly during periods of low traffic (e.g. during late night and early morning hours). Regular sweeping of roads using manual labor or mechanical litter collection systems (for example devices having a series of rotating plastic teeth that fling the litter into a collection basket or devices equipped with vacuum arms on a truck to suck up the roadside litter while cruising at highway speed) is recommended rather than flushing with water to effectively remove litter as well as nutrient rich dirt, organic matter and other contaminants, hence more beneficial to avoid contamination of water bodies (which generally occurs from road flushing activities). Further regular sweeping tends to improve

the aesthetics of the streetscape and water bodies and prevents blocking of drains and any localized flooding of any nearby waterways.

Also organization of information campaigns and community education programme on garbage disposal in roads, streets and highways by the LAS may be a useful strategy to reduce careless garbage disposal.

7.3.6 Transportation of Dangerous Chemicals/Goods

Currently there is no proper legislation in Sri Lanka pertaining to the safe storage and transport of prescribed wastes and hazardous material such as flammable liquids. Therefore strict laws or policies have to be established by the CEA with other relevant government authorities. It is imperative that the following basic measures be implemented to prevent possible spills from hazardous materials transporting vehicles either during periods of material transport or accidents. These monitoring aspects and implementation of laws and regulations need be carried out by specially trained police personnel (preferably police personnel having a good science background) and RDA with assistance from the fire emergency authorities and CEA in the form of regular vehicular checkings, speed monitoring programmes, heavy fines if necessary, etc.

Very stringent speed limits of around 20 km/hr have to be imposed for trucks, containers and other vehicles carrying hazardous material.

The staff and drivers involved in transporting of such material have to be over heavy weight, physically and mentally healthy persons having a valid driver’s license to drive heavy vehicles.

Ensure that vehicles have a current permit to transport prescribed wastes and hazardous materials.

Ensure that vehicles have a current registration number and fully insured.

Ensure that drivers and assistants are not under the influence of liquor.

Ensure that vehicles are provided with suitable fire extinguishers which are serviced at regular intervals and ensure that the drivers and their assistants are capable in the use of extinguishers.

The vehicles carrying hazardous material should display clear placards on all sides of the vehicle as to what sort of wastes or chemicals are carried. The placards should clearly state the hazardous nature of the load as the UN Hazard Class and subsidiary risks; for example Class 3 for flammable liquids and Class 8 for corrosive substances. If the waste cannot be classified as dangerous goods (e.g. abattoir effluent, scallop shells, etc.) then the descriptions 30XY or 30XX may be used to designate environmentally hazardous wastes or the numbers UN 3082 (Environmentally Hazardous Substances, Liquid, “not otherwise specified”) or UN 3077 (Environmentally Hazardous Substances, Solid, “not otherwise specified”) may be used instead.

Pressure-relieving equipment and other safety devices fitted to tanks should be in good condition.

Trucks designed to carry solid wastes which may ooze liquid during transport have to be ensured that they are well constructed so as to retain liquids inside the vehicle until they are loaded.

Vehicles transporting liquid wastes have to be ensured that such vehicles are well sealed to prevent spillage or loss of contents; for example discharge outlets should be checked whether they are properly sealed with a blank flange or cap on the outside of the discharge valve).

Open trucks transporting waste or hazardous materials should not be allowed to travel unless such vehicles are well covered to prevent spills, possible dust and vapour emissions, access to flies and birds, etc.

Ensure that hoses are stowed in such a way that no liquid is discharged while transporting.

Also policies should be introduced pertaining to the issuing of waste transport certificates (comprising one original copy known as White and 4 copies known as Copy 1 or Pink, Copy 2 or Green, Copy 3 or Yellow and Copy 4 or Gold) by the CEA as has been conducted in developed countries such as Australia in order to track down the prescribed waste material from its production to final disposal or treatment (Clarey, 1997). These 5 forms have to be divided into 3 parts namely Part A (to be completed by the waste producer or storer with necessary details), Part B (to be completed, signed and dated by the transporter with necessary details such as permit and vehicle registration number) and Part C (to be completed and signed by a licensed receiver which could be a treatment or a disposal facility). The policy should be such that there has to be a requirement that the original copy (which is to be filled by the licensed receiver on completion of Part C) and copy 1 (which is to be filled by the waste producer with Parts A and B complete) to be forwarded to the CEA within 7 days of transporting the material for the purpose of matching and monitoring of the generation and disposal (i.e. while the other copies 2, 3 and 4 are to be retained by the waste producer or storer, waste receiver and waste transporter, respectively). It is imperative that regular measures be taken to inspect these waste transport certificates (i.e. copy 4 which is to be retained by the waste transporter) from the drivers involved in transporting the prescribed wastes or the hazardous materials.

PPG_____________________________________________________________

7.3.7 Landslides and Soil Erosion

Nothing to Report

7.3.8 Social and Socio Economic Impacts

Nothing to Report

MAHESH_____________________________________________________________

7.3.9 Other Measures to be Implemented during the Operational Phase

During the operational phase it is anticipated that maintenance construction activities would be required to be conducted depending on prevailing circumstances. For example the frequency of road maintenance would become high depending on the extent of tear and wear or damage, which in turn is dependent on traffic flow. Any impacts arising during these activities could be temporary. Nevertheless the proper solid waste management techniques and the mitigatory measures applicable for the construction phase with reference to minimization or prevention of surface and groundwater quality deterioration, air pollution and generation of high noise levels are also applicable for the maintenance construction activities where deemed necessary and hence such measures should be implemented by the RDA and the contractor. For example very deep excavations have to be avoided unless alternative foundation techniques such as sheet piling, injected bentonite walls have been considered, heavy restrictions have to be placed on any storage of oil or oil rich products and washing of construction vehicles and machinery near water bodies, and the use of high noise generating pneumatic construction equipment should be restricted to day time only. During maintenance construction works environmental monitoring by the RDA and contractor would be of paramount importance to minimize or avoid environmental pollution and generation of high disturbing noise levels. This task should be carried out with assistance from ITI or NBRO throughout the period of the maintenance construction works and depending on the location and complaints made by the local people from their premises.

With reference to management of impacts arising from roadside development activities, imposing strict landuse controls would be of paramount importance. In this respect the UDA should play a major role to implement these regulations.

In areas where the proposed road traces disturb the rustic nature of the landscape, visual intrusion impacts may be minimized by using a greenways concept (i.e. planting with native vegetation). Planting with thick and tall native trees preferably in a zig-zag manner would also be beneficial in the long run to reduce noise and simultaneously to arrest wind induced dust, airborne Pb particles (produced from (C2H5)4Pb added petrol powered vehicles) and gaseous pollutants. Further planted vegetation would intercept rain and decelerate run-off while filtering out sediments, nutrients and heavy metals such as Pb and Zn present in the urban run-off and hence minimize such pollutants present in the run-off from entering any nearby water bodies. In this respect it is also desirable that the vegetation to be planted are native trees and deep-rooted shrubs that could use significant

quantities of sub-surface waters so that the quantity of pathogens, nutrients, salts and other contaminants entering any nearby water bodies by this pathway could be reduced.

JINAPALA_____________________________________________________________

7.4 Further Studies Needed

It is recommended to undertake action oriented studies to support the Social impact management process of the project. It will help in two ways for the project developer (RDA):

Generate useful information for making effective decisions to carry out/mange the social impact mitigation process and facilitate for implementation of the on going development project.

It will also provide generic lessons for RDA to replicate/apply in other similar road development projects in the country.

In this context the future studies recommended are:

Action oriented study to document the social impact mitigation process undertaken by the different institutions and also assess the strengths and weaknesses of the process. ( Provide frequent feedback to the relevant stakeholders on the process monitored and recommend corrective measures for redirecting the project decisions/ actions)

ABEYWICKRAMA______________________________________________________

It is recommended to undertake multidisciplinary action research program by experts in different disciplines (Agriculturists, Engineers, Sociologists, Policy makers etc) to find environmental and social impacts of the project in order to provide necessary information for stakeholders and decision makers and also to gather knowledge for future programs.

MAALA_____________________________________________________________

Periodic counts on the migratory birds that visit the Panape wetland may be used as an indicator of the quality of the environment.

JINAPALA_____________________________________________________________

7.5 Summary

7.5.1 Mitigation of Social Impacts

No Project Activities

Potential Impacts

Potential location where the impacts will be occurred

Existing mitigation Measures (if any)

Additional Mitigation Measures

Mitigation Costs

Party who implement Mitigation Measures

Party who supervised the implementation of mitigation measures

1 Land Acquisition

Lost of income from crops, lost of long standing properties.

ROW Monitoring the impact on income , supporting to reestablish livelihood system

Continuation of existing monitoring activities and establishment of GRC ( Grievances readiness committee)

Cost for GRC, M&E cost

RDA, DS office

DS office, consultants employed by RDA

2 Resettlement Lost of income, lost of long stranded residences , psycholog

RDA created resettlement sites, locations individually found and resettled

Providing infrastructure ( physical, economic and social) at the resettleme

GRC, monitoring the adequacy of infrastructure and other supports

Cost for GRC, M&E cost

RDA, DS offices

DS offices, RDA and RDA recruited consultants

ical impact

nt sites.

3 Construction of Burrow pits

Dust, noise and other disturbances to the communities

Residential areas around burrow pits

On going monitoring and attending the community problem

Improve and intensify the RDA M&E process

Cost for additional M&E staff

RDA, RDA recruited staff

DS offices, RDA and community leaders in the area

4 Construction sites

Dust, noise, access difficulties ( routine travels and to the special locations)

Construction sites and their adjacent locations

On going M&E program , process of attending to community grievances

The continuation of existing M&E program. Improve and intensify the effectiveness of M&E activities

Cost for recruitment of additional staff by RDA.

RDA recruited staff and DS offices

DS offices and RDA recruited consultants.

5 Operation stage

Noise, accidents, access difficulties

The entire road stretch and specific locations ( access roads, schools and other public places)

No yet implemented

Recurrent surveys for identifying the problems

Cost for group of consultants to be recruited by RDA

RDA recruited staff

RDA and DS offices

PPG_____________________________________________________________

7.5.2 Mitigation of Hydrological Impacts

Nothing to Report

7.5.3 Mitigation of Aesthetic Aspects

No Project Activities

Potential Impacts

Potential location where the impacts will be occurred

Existing mitigation

Measures (if any)

Additional Mitigation Measures

Mitigation Costs

Party who implement Mitigation Measures

Party who supervised the implementation of

mitigation measures01. Earth cut

& fill during cons. Stage

High Impact during cons.

High impact areas No Application of engineering Measurements

- Contractor / RDA Consultant

RDA / Prof. Institute

02 Rock blasting during cons. Stage

High Impact during cons.

Quarry sites Visual Supervision only

Noise & dust - Contractor / RDA Consultant

RDA / Prof. Institute

03. Reloading materials

Intermediate impact

Storage yards Visual Supervision only

Dust & air pollution - Contractor / RDA Consultant

RDA / Prof. Institute

04. Bill Boards

Low impact Near Town Centres No Visual Supervisions - RDA UDA / Prof. Institute

05. Road Side Lighting

High impact Town Centres No Light Intensity - RDA / CEB UDA / Prof. Institute

06. Soft Buffer zone planting

Low impact High sensitive areas No Physical Measurements

- CEA / RDA UDA / Landscape unitProf. Institute

MAHESH_____________________________________________________________

REFERENCES – CITED BY RESOURCE PERSONS

Clarey, 1997. Integrated Management of Hazardous Materials – Part 2. Deakin University Press, Geelong, Australia.

Garg, S.K., 1979. Sewage Disposal and Air Pollution Engineering – Environmental Engineering (Vol. II). Khanna Publishers, Dehli-110006, India.

Sengupta, P., N. Saikia and P.C. Borthakur, 2002. Bricks from petroleum effluent treatment plant sludge: properties and environmental characteristics. Journal of Environmental Engineering, 128: 1090-1094.