POWER CELL, POWER DIVISION MINISTRY OF POWER, ENERGY AND MINERAL RESOURCES

GOVERNMENT OF BANGLADESH

ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT OF WORLD BANK FINANCED 2 x 150 MW GAS TURBINE POWER PLANT

AT SIDDHIRGANJ

FINAL REPORT VOLUME 1: MAIN REPORT

Bureau o f Research, Testing and Consultation (BRTC) Bangladesh University o f Engineering & Technology (BUET), Dhaka

December 2007

44462

Pub

lic D

iscl

osur

e A

utho

rized

Pub

lic D

iscl

osur

e A

utho

rized

Pub

lic D

iscl

osur

e A

utho

rized

Pub

lic D

iscl

osur

e A

utho

rized

Pub

lic D

iscl

osur

e A

utho

rized

Pub

lic D

iscl

osur

e A

utho

rized

Pub

lic D

iscl

osur

e A

utho

rized

Pub

lic D

iscl

osur

e A

utho

rized

POWER CELL, POWER DIVISION MINISTRY OF POWER, ENERGY AND MINERAL RESOURCES

GOVERNMENT OF BANGLADESH

ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT OF WORLD BANK FINANCED 2 x 150 M W GAS TURBINE POWER PLANT

AT SIDDHIRGANJ

FINAL REPORT (Revised December 2007) VOLUME 1: MAIN REPORT

Bureau of Research, Testing and Consultation (BRTC) Bangladesh University of Engineering & Technology (BUET), Dhaka

December 2007

Executive Summary

INTRODUCTION

In order to increase the capacity o f electricity production, the Ministry o f Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, GOB has planned to establish a 2x150 MW Gas Turbine Peaking Power Plant at Siddhirganj with the financial assistance o f the Wor ld Bank. According to the Bangladesh Environment Conservation Rules 1997 (GOB, 1997), construction o f a power plant project falls under the RED category. Init ial Environmental Examination (IEE) followed by Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) including Environmental Management Plan are required for these types o f projects for getting environmental clearance f iom the Department o f Environment (DOE). According to the World Bank (1 999) operational policy OP 4.01, this project i s classified as an Environmental Category A project, requiring an Environmental Assessment for the construction and operation o f the project with recommendations for appropriate mitigation and management measures. Since a detailed environmental assessment o f the proposed project i s being carried out, the DOE has exempted the IEE o f the project in response to the request by the Electricity Generation Company o f Bangladesh Limited (EGCB). Thus, as a regulatory requirement set forth in the Environment Conservation Rules 1997 and as a requirement by the project financier, a detailed environmental impact assessment (EIA) has been carried out for the proposed 2x1 50 MW gas turbine peaking power plant project at Siddhirganj Power Station, Narayanganj.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT Project Location The Siddhirganj power generation complex i s located on the western bank o f Sitalakhya river, just outside and to the east o f metropolitan Dhaka, and north o f Narayanganj. The complex i s located in Siddhirganj pourashuva under Narayanganj Sadar upuzila within Latitude 23’41’14” to 23’40’45” Nor th and Longitude 90’30’50” to 90’31’47’’ East. The entire complex i s completely enclosed, covers an area o f about 88 acres and i s owned by the Power Development Board (PDB). Surrounding localities o f Siddhirganj Power Plant Complex include Siddhirganj, Adamjee Nagar and Sumil para. The location o f the Siddhirganj power generation complex, including the location o f the proposed 2x 150 MW peaking plant i s shown in Figure E 1.

The major existing infiastructures within the Siddhirganj complex include: (i) A 210 MW steam turbine power plant; (ii) A 50 MW steam turbine power plant. The Government has already planned to replace it with 2x 120 MW Gas Turbine Plant with ADB financing; (iii) Two 132 KV Sub-stations; (iv) Gas reducing main station; (v) A water treatment plant; (vi) Residential complex for almost 3000 people; (vii) A school located close to the site o f the proposed 2x150 MW plant; (viii) A mosque; (ix) A hospital, and (x) Shops and some other common facilities.

E- 1

Figure E l : Satellite image showing location o f proposed 2x 150MW plant within the Siddhirganj power plant complex

Equipment and Processes General components o f the proposed peaking power plant project include the following: (i) Plant facility comprising 2 gas turbines, generators and ancillary plant; (ii) High voltage switchyard comprising high voltage transformers and switchgear; (iii) Security fencing and gatehouse; (iv) Generator and Substation Control room, administration, amenities, and workshop facility if necessary; (v) Fire protection tank, water tank and septic tank; (vi) Sedimentation pond and associated earth bund and diversion drain; (vii) Air compressor plant; (viii) Switch room; (ix) Emergency generator and transformers; (x) Evaporation pond to accommodate waste water discharges from the evaporative air inlet cooler; (xi) Internal roads.

The proposed peaking plant at Siddhirganj i s a gas turbine based generator, which would evacuate power to the existing 132 KV transmission l ine already existing or to the under construction 230KV transmission l ine through the grid substation owned by the Power Grid Company Bangladesh. The gas supply to the proposed peaking power plants can be tapped at present from the existing gas l ine coming from the gas gnd junction at Narsingdi, which i s connected with the Ashuganj-Monohardi l ine and also with the Demra-Rupganj l ine from Bakhrabad. If the gas availability from these gnd lines are found to be inadequate, construction o f the proposed gas lines from Ashuganj to Meghnaghat from Bakhrabad and Ashugnaj to Aminbazar through Monohordi and Dhanua should be expedited and completed before the completion and commissioning o f these peaking plants at Siddhirganj. T h i s i s also necessary for the Meghna Ghat Phase 2 power station and any further expansion o f Haripur Power Station in the near future.

DESCRIPTION OF EXISTING ENVIRONMENT Physical Environment Climate, Geology, Soil The region has a tropical climate. There are two marked seasons: the rainy season from M a y to October, during which more than 85% o f the total annual rainfal l occurs and the dry season f rom November to April. The mean annual rainfall in the area i s about 2200 mm, with peak rainfal l occurring during June to August. Max imum annual average temperature i s around 30°C and minimum annual average temperature i s 2 1 "C. Max imum relative humidity for the project area i s found as 94.8% in the month o f September, whereas minimum relative humidity i s 68.4% in the month o f February. From November to February, the wind direction i s f rom north to northeast and f rom March to October it i s

E-2

from south to southeast. The maximum wind speed prevails during the month o f October, which i s 1157 km/day. Flooding o f the existing power plant complex i s not yet a major concern.

The geology o f the study area consists o f Quaternary deltaic sediments, which have been strongly influenced by tectonic movements on deep-seated faults. The area lies on a tectonic block, which has been uplifted relative to the surrounding areas. T h e soil profi le o f the study area consists o f about 12m thick clay deposit followed by sand, clay and progressively coarser sand as depth increases. With specific reference to the proposed power plant project site, the soil i s light to medium gray, fine sandy to clayey si l t .

As part o f the baseline study, soil samples were collected from three different locations within the site at shallow depth and analyzed for concentration o f 7 heavy metals (Fe, Cd, Cr, Cu, Zn, Pb, Hg). The heavy metal concentrations o f the soil samples were found well within the usual ranges for natural soils. A grab sample o f the bed sediment from Sitalakhya river was collected and was analyzed for these 7 heavy metals. The heavy metal contents o f the bed sediment were well below those o f the same soil samples collected from the proposed site.

Air quality Ambient concentrations o f NO, and SO2 are significantly lower compared to the national air quality standard. Available air quality data o f February 1998 and 2006 at Haripur, which i s near the project site, also shows that except for particulate matter (SPM and PMlo), the other air quality parameters (NO,, SO2 and CO) are within the national standard. Air quality measurement carried out in this study shows that the concentrations o f SO,, NO, and CO in vicinity o f the proposed site are relatively l o w and below the national ambient air quality standard, while concentrations o f SPM and PMlo are higher than the national standards.

Noise As a part o f EIA, baseline noise level measurements were carried out at different locations within the Siddhirganj complex. Noise level measured near the school located close to the proposed site shows that noise level exceeded 80 dI3(A) a number o f times during working hours; the mean and median sound levels were 70.7 and 68.3 dB(A), respectively with standard deviation o f 7.45 dB(A). The Equivalent Noise Level (Leq-lHr) was estimated to be 77.44 dB(A) during school hours at current operating conditions.

Water Quality Analysis o f groundwater carried out in this study shows that the concentrations o f the measured parameters satisfy the corresponding Bangladesh drinking water standards and the WHO guideline values. High concentrations o f ammonia, BOD5 and COD in the water sample from Sitalakhya river probably indicate that i t receives organic pollutant from domestic and industrial sources. High concentration o f sulfate and T D S i s probably due to discharge o f untreated textile dyeing waste.

Ecological Environment The project site i s located in a peri-urban area. During the EIA process, a baseline study o f the aquatic ecosystem was undertaken. According to fishermen, there i s virtually no fish in the river Sitalakhaya during the dry season. Most fishermen mentioned that discharge o f toxic wastes from the industries into the river i s responsible for decline o f fishes. A small-scale macro-invertebrate sampling campaign was conducted near the intake and the outfall o f the

E-3

Siddhirganj power plant to assess the ecological health o f the stretch o f the river under consideration. The study, which was conducted during monsoon, showed that the ecological health o f the river with respect to macro-invertebrates i s “fair”. However, the situation may become worse during the dry season.

Socio-economic Environment Household number and population in the study area within 5 km radius o f the proposed plant location have been estimated and projected for 2006 taking census o f 1991 and 2001 as base years. Total household and population o f the study area have been estimated to be 133,235 and 590,982, respectively for the year 2006 with average household size 4.4, which i s lower than the national average o f 5.4. Overall sex ratio (Male / Female x 100) o f the area i s 1 18, which i s higher than the national average. Most o f the population i s Muslim; Hindus are the second largest community, but way below in terms o f percentage. The literacy rate in the study area i s not very high, varying from 25.2% in Rupganj to 52.3% in Demra. The main occupation in the study area i s service and commerce. The project area i s a semi urban industrial area and a number o f polluting industries are located in the study area.

The proposed site i s located very close to the Dhaka-Chittagong National Highway connecting eastern part o f the country with the rest. The average annual daily traffic on the roadway exceeds 60000 PCU, which i s dominated by large bus and trucks. The volume o f traffic i s expected to increase at the rate o f more than 7 percent each year.

POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATORY MEASURES Construction Phase Water, Wastewater and Solid Waste Water and soil quality will be affected mainly by project activities such as mobilization o f equipment and personnel (e.g., solid and liquid waste from labor sheds), site preparation, and possible construction o f gas pipeline across Sitalakhya river. Possible gas pipeline construction activities will have adverse impact on the river water quality. However, since such activities will cover only a small stretch o f the river, the overall negative impact o f such activities i s l ikely to be “short-term” and o f “moderate” intensity.

The human wastes at the labour sheds should be appropriately disposed o f through construction o f sanitary latrines connected to appropriately designed septic tank system (consisting o f septic tank and soakage pit). Wastewater generated from different construction activities i s not l ikely to be significant and should be disposed o f by draining them in shallow pits (1 to 1.5 m deep) dug in the ground at appropriate locations, and filling them up with sand at the end o f the construction phase.

Project construction activities will result in generation o f considerable amount o f inert solid wastes, including lumber, excess concrete, metal and glass scrap, and empty containers used for non- hazardous substances. Management o f these wastes will be the responsibility o f the Contractor. Typical management practices include recycling, proper temporary storage o f waste and debris, and house keeping o f work areas. The wastes le f t after recycling will be transported to disposal site in municipal land fill area. No part o f this type o f construction waste should be mixed with the domestic solid waste generated within the Siddhirganj complex.

E-4

Traffic The negative impact o f the traffic f low resulting from increased movement o f vehicles carrying construction materials and personnel to the site and construction debris away from the site would be mostly concentrated primarily within the Siddhirganj plant complex, affecting people in residential areas and the school located close to the project site.

Traffic hazard during construction will increase and need to be carefully managed for the safety o f school going children and industrial workers o f the surrounding area. An alternate route should be used for bringing construction materials to the project site.

Air Quality Deterioration o f air quality during construction phase may result from increased concentration o f particulate matter in the air from construction activities such as stone (aggregate) crushing, vehicular movement and wind-blown dust. Construction materials at the site should be properly covered while hauled and stored, roads properly cleaned and water sprayed in order to minimize concentration o f dust in air. Vehicle movement to and from the site should be properly managed to ensure that i t does not significantly aggravate the traffic problem and air pollution. Stone (aggregate) crushing activities should not be allowed within the Siddhirganj plant complex.

Noise Level For assessment o f impact o f increased noise level during the construction phase, the project activities were divided into two major classes - (i) general site and plant construction, and (ii) access road construction. Results o f the assessment show that both the general site and plant construction and road construction activities would generate significant noise and would produce some adverse impacts. The cumulative noise near the school boundary caused by heavy truck, excavator and the pile driving activity for general site and plant construction i s expected to be about 84.6 &A, exceeding the acceptable level o f noise. Therefore, the combined effect o f these activities i s l ikely to cause annoyance and physical discomfort if someone i s exposed to the higher level o f noise for a prolonged period. Similarly, the cumulative noise caused by the heavy trucks, excavator and the concrete mixer operating simultaneously during the construction o f the access road i s about 85.5 &A, well above the acceptable limit. However, since the class rooms o f the schools are located about 30m away from the access road and the trees and boundary walls will have some damping effect, the noise level i s expected to come down to tolerable level in the school premises. The adverse effect o f project activities on noise level has therefore been categorized as “short term” and o f “moderate” intensity. To mitigate adverse impact o f noise during construction phase, it i s suggested that adequate boarding be provided on top o f the school boundary walls facing the project site.

Aquatic Environment There will be l itt le or no impact on the aquatic environment o f the Sitalakhya river from the proposed 2x150 MW power plant project. Gas pipeline construction activities, if undertaken during the proposed project, may destroy the benthic communities and obliterate the spawning and nursery grounds for fish. However, if the type o f sediment remains the same, a rapid re-colonization by the same type o f benthic community i s expected. Mobile biota, such as fish, are the least affected, as they are capable o f avoiding a disturbed area. Since the disturbances due to gas pipeline construction will only affect a small section o f the entire river, there i s l i tt le risk o f hampering fish migration. Macro-invertebrate community may however be temporarily affected due to the construction o f gas pipeline. Therefore, impacts

E-5

o f project activities on fisheries, micro-invertebrates and aquatic plants have been categorized as “short-term” and o f “moderate” intensity.

Public Health, Employment The project activities during construction phase will have some adverse impact on public health and well being due to increased noise pollution and vibration, and local air pollution within and around the project site. Some beneficial effect o f “low” intensity will come from job opportunities to be created for labors for construction o f the proposed project.

Operation Phase Effect o f project activities during operation phase on physico-chemical environmental parameters will be mostly o f “low” intensity. The noise level at the school boundary resulting from the air condensers during the operational phase i s expected to be below the Bangladesh Standard o f 75 dBA at daytime.

During the operational phase, exceedingly high level o f noise i s expected to be generated within the confines o f the turbine and generator installations. Prolonged exposure to such high level o f noise may cause permanent hearing loss. Therefore, proper protective measures should be adopted during the operation and inspection o f these equipment. Under no circumstances the operators should be allowed to enter these installations without proper protective gears such as ear muffs.

Some adverse impact during the operation phase o f the plant will come from thermal emission and NO, emission from the power plant. Modeling study, carried out using SCREEN3 and AUSPLUME air quality models, suggests that the effect o f increased NO, in the ambient air will not be very significant. Presence o f excess particulate matter in the air may adversely affect the operation o f the gas turbine power plant through reduction o f air filter l i fe. Hence efforts should be made to make sure that industries around the project site comply with national air quality standards. Restrictions may also be imposed on installation of industries in the area that emit significant amount o f particulate matter. Assistance o f DOE may be sought in this regard.

To reduce these adverse impacts o f emission, especially thermal emission, within the power plant complex, plantation o f indigenous species o f trees should be undertaken around the project site, especially along the boundary o f the school and residential areas located close to the project site.

The project will mostly have beneficial impacts on socio-economic parameters during operation phase. National economy will be benefited by the availability o f additional supply o f power to industrial sectors. Since the power plant i s located in an industrial zone, the industries will benefit from additional and uninterrupted power supply from this proposed plant. New industries will also come up, which will in turn increase socio-economic growth o f the region; employment i s also l ikely to increase in the industrial sector.

ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES As part o f the EL4 process, alternative site and technology options for the proposed 2x150 MW gas turbine peaking power plant were assessed. A comparative site assessment was carried out between the Siddhirganj power generation complex (proposed site) and an alternative location at Aminbazar, which was considered for the power plant in an earlier feasibility study. The assessment shows that the Siddhirganj site i s much more advantageous,

E-6

especially with respect to a number o f important aspects including land acquisition, land development, gas transmission line, and time o f implementation. Analysis o f alternative technology options suggests that considering the nature o f peaking demand, the proposed technology seems to be the most suitable option.

PUBLIC CONSULTATION Group discussions were held with interested groups or their representatives, representatives o f Union Parishad, fishing communities, workers at power plants both male and female, mixed groups o f farmers, businessmen, laborers, shop keepers, rickshaw pullers, van drivers, unemployed youths, different women’s groups, and students. In order to facilitate the discussions, tools l ike information on the project, certain socio-economic survey information, and illustrative maps and diagrams were used. A total o f 10 group discussions were organized; participants in the discussions varied from 10 to 15. Withn the study area, 9 key informants were interviewed who expressed their views and opinions on different aspects o f the proposed project.

In addition, a Consultation Workshop on the environmental assessment o f the proposed project was organized on 17 March 2007 and representatives o f EGCB, WB, DOE, Power Cell, Siddhirganj Power Station, LGED, DPHE, PDB, local NGOs, Siddhirganj Pourashava, local business community, and local school teachers were invited to attend the workshop. The workshop was attended by 40 participants, where a full presentation o f the EA study was given. In the discussions that followed, the participants expressed their view o f different aspects o f the proposed power plant project and suggested mitigation measures to reduce certain adverse impacts.

The key findings o f the public consultations and consultation workshop can be summarized as follows:

Baselin e Situation

. .

.

Noise pollution i s high. There are not much fish in the river. Surrounding air appears to be hot. Soil quality o f surrounding agricultural land i s good. Homestead trees are few. Communication facilities are well developed. There are number o f industries. Health facilities are rather poor. Drinking water supply i s less and quality i s poor. People face load shedding. There i s no storm water drainage system. There i s problem o f water logging during heavy rain.

Possible Impacts

There will be no impact on river and other aquatic bodies. There will be no impact on fisheries. There will be no impact on soil and crops. There will be no impact on vegetation.

w

. Income will increase.

E-7

. . . Load shedding will reduce.

There will be increase in traffic during construction. There will be more employment opportunities.

The project will benefit the country.

Mitigation Measures . . .

Alternate route should be constructed for project traffic. The existing road connecting Dhaka should be widened to accommodate increased and heavy duty traffic during construction works. Proper residential facilities should be developed for increased number o f employees.

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AND MONITORING The Environmental Management Plan (EMP) clearly la id out: (a) the measures to be taken during both construction and operation phases o f the project to eliminate or offset adverse environmental impacts, or reduce them to acceptable levels; (b) the actions needed to implement these measures; and (c) a monitoring plan to assess the effectiveness o f the mitigation measures employed. Environmental management and monitoring activities for the proposed power plant project could be divided into management and monitoring: (a) during construction phase, and (b) during operation phase.

The environmental management during the construction phase should primarily be focused on addressing the possible negative impacts arising from: (a) Generation and disposal o f sewage, solid waste and construction waste, (b) Increased traffic, (c) Generation o f dust (particulate matter), (d) Generation o f noise, and (e) Deterioration o f water quality and disturbance o f river bed ecosystem from possible gas pipeline construction. The environmental management should also focus on enhancing the possible beneficial impacts arising from employment o f local workforce for construction works.

Table E l summarizes the potentially significant environmental impacts during construction phase, the measures needed to eliminate or offset adverse impacts and enhance positive impacts.

The environmental management during the operation phase should primarily be focused on addressing the following issues: (a) Emission from the power plant, (b) Generation o f noise, and (c) Waste generation at the plant.

Table E2 summarizes the potentially significant environmental impacts during operation phase, the measures needed to eliminate or offset adverse impacts and enhance positive impacts.

Table E3 and Table E 4 provide a summary o f the proposed monitoring schedule for the construction and operation phases, respectively. An “Environmental Management Unit” has been recommended to be established (details in Chapter 11) at the power plant complex in order to implement the EMP.

E-8

Table E l : Potentially significant environmental impact during construction phase and mitigation measures

ActivityDssues

Influx o f workers

Transportation of equipment, materials and personnel; storage o f materials

Construction activities, including operation of construction equipment

Potentially Significant Impacts

Generation o f sewage and solid waste

Possible spread o f disease from workers

Increased traffichavigation Generation o f noise, especially affecting the nearby school and residential areas

Deterioration o f air quality from increased vehicular movement, affecting people in the surrounding areas Wind-blown dust from material (e.g., fine aggregate) storage areas

Generation o f noise from construction activities (general plant and access road construction), especially affecting the nearby school and residential areas

Deterioration o f air quality from wind- blown dust and possible use o f equipment, such as stone (aggregate) crushers

Proposed Mitigation and Enhancement Measures

Construction o f sanitary latrine and septic tank system Erecting “no litter” sign, provision o f waste binsfcans, where appropriate Waste minimization, recycle and reuse Proper disposal of solid waste

0

0

0

Clean bill o f health a condition for employment Regular medical monitoring o f workers Scheduling o f deliveries during non- school hours and after regular working hours School going children should be protected from traffic hazard during construction phase, with installation o f proper traffic sign and warnings Speed reduction to 10 km per hour within the Siddhirganj complex

Keeping vehicles under good condition, with regular checking o f vehicle condition to ensure compliance with national standards

Watering unpaveddusty roads Sprinkling and covering stockpiles Covering top o f trucks carrying materials to the site and carrying construction debris away from the site

Use of noise suppressors and mufflers in heavy equipment Avoiding, as much as possible, construction equipment producing excessive noise during school hours and also at night Avoid use o f noisy equipment such as stone crusher at the project site Avoiding prolonged exposure to noise (produced by equipment) by workers Creating a buffer zone between the school and construction site to reduce disturbance to normal schooling and to protect school children from health hazard Not using equipment such as stone crushers at site, which produce significant amount o f particulate matter Immediate use of construction spoils as filling materials Immediate disposalkale of excavated materials Continuous watering of bare areas

Responsible Parties

Contractor (Monitoring by EGCB)

Contractor (Monitoring by EGCB)

Contractor (Monitoring by EGCB)

E-9

h and safety briefing

water contamination

Table E2: Potentially significant environmental impact during operation phase and mitigation measures

ActivityLssues

Power Generation

Water Consumption

Potentially Significant Impacts

Emission from the power plant

Generation of noise

Depletion o f groundwater resources

~ ~ ~ ~ . ~ ~ ~ . -

Proposed Mitigation and Enhancement Measures

Using tall stack Using low nitrogen oxide burners Installation of stack emission monitoring equipment for major pollutants Planting of indigenous trees around the project site, especially along the boundary o f the school and residential areas located close to the project site Restrictions may also be imposed on installation of industries in the area that emit significant amount o f particulate matter. Provision o f silencers for generators and turbines Planting o f indigenous trees around the project site

Regular noise monitoring, especially at the school and residential quarters located close by Use o f ear-muffs and ear-plugs by plant personnel working in the generator and turbine facilities o f the plant Regular monitoring o f groundwater level

Regular plant maintenance

Responsible Parties EGCB

EGCB

E-10

Activity/Issues I Potentially Significant I Proposed Mitigation and Enhancement I Responsible I - -

Proper construction and maintenance o f wastewater disposal system for the plant premises Ensuring proper storage, treatment, and disposal o f all solid waste

Ensure proper storage, treatment and disposal o f hazardous waste

Scrap metals, cables, etc. should be recycled

Non-hazardous solid wastes should be or properly disposed o f

collected and transported to solid waste disposal site.

generation

EGCB generation during overhauling operation

Impacts Inappropriate disposal o f sewage causing environmental pollution Generation o f solid waste including sludge from demineralizer.

Hazardous waste generation, e.g., transmissiodlubrication oil, sealant, wash fluid

etc. Scrap metals, cables,

Non-hazardous solid

Measures I Parties Good housekeeping I EGCB

POWER PLANT RISKS ASSESSMENT The process o f electricity generation from gas i s by no means risk free because o f high temperature and pressure conditions within the plants, rotating machineries and high voltages involved. Apart from r isks associated with emissions, noise generation, solid waste, hazardous waste and wastewater disposal as a result o f construction and operation, the gas fired power plants put human beings and the environment inside and outside o f the plant to a certain degree o f risk o f accident and sometime loss o f life. I t i s therefore essential that a risk management plan be devised in order to both reduce risk o f accident and to take the correct action during accidents. Important risks o f accidents in thermal power plants leading to disasters or emergency situations may occur during the following events:

Risks during emergency 9 Fire 9 Explosion 9 Oil/acid spillage 9 Toxic chemical spillage 9 Electrocution

9 Flood 9 Cyclone 9 Earthquake 9 Storm 9 Lightning

9 Sabotage 9 War situation 9 Watedfood poisoning

Risks due to natural disasters

Risks due to external threats

E-1 1

Issue Ambient air quality

River water

Parameters Monitoring Frequency CO, SOZ, NO, and PMlo

Water temp., DO, BODS, COD, Oil and Grease and heavy metals

PMlo twice a month; CO, SO2 and NO, once every two months Once a month

Groundwater

Soil quality

Noise level

Table E4: Monitoring plan during operational phase o f the project

Groundwater level

Cr, Cd, Pb and Oil and Grease

Noise at different locations Every week, particularly during

Once every two months during October to May Twice during the construction phase

operation of heavy equipment Process waste Health

Solid waste Every week Health status of school children Once every 3 months by Siddhirganj

Power Station Health Center

E-12

Issue Meteorological measurements

Atmospheric emissions

Ambient air quality

River water

Soil quality

Parameters Monitoring Frequency Wind direction and speed, temperature, humidity and appropriate instrument precipitation. CO, SOz, NO,, PMlo, oxygen content and temperature NO,, SO2, PMlo, temperature

Water temperature and DO, BODS, COD, Oil and grease October-December Cr, Cd, Hg, Pb, Oil and Grease

Continuous monitoring by installing

Once a month

Once a month

Once a month during March-May and

Once a year around maintenance workshop

Groundwater

Noise level River morphology

Health

pH, Color, Turbidity, TDS, Ammonia, Nitrate, Phosphate, As, Fe , Mn and Coliforms; Groundwater level Noise at different locations River cross-section

Health status of school children

Twice a year

Once every three months Once a year during design l i f e o f the plant Once every 3 months by Siddhirganj Power Station Health Center for one year after construction period

Several strategic areas within the power plant can be identified as places o f potential r i s k s during plant operation:

Areas prone to explosion are: 9 Boiler area P Turbine hal l

Premises prone to fire and electrocution are: 9 Electrical rooms 9 Transformer area 9 Cabletunnel

9 Storage facilities for chemicals Premises where people can be exposed to toxic chemicals include:

In power plants, accidents can occur at two different levels. First, these may occur due to fires, explosions, o i l or chemical spillage and spontaneous ignition o f inflammable materials. In such events, operators working inside the plant and at various strategic hazard locations will be affected. Second, risks are also associated with external threats o f sabotage. Failure o f automatic control/warning systems, failure o f fuel o i l storage tanks and chemical release from acid and alkali stores and handling also pose great degree o f associated r isks.

Managing the Risks As mentioned earlier, in order to reduce the r isks associated with accidents, internal and external threats, and natural disasters, a risk management program i s essential. Risk management planning can be done during design and planning stage o f the plant as well as during plant operation. W h i l e risk management i s mainly preventive in nature during the plant operation stage, the design and planning stage o f the plant can incorporate changes in basic engineering to include safety design for al l processes, safety margins for equipment, and plant layout. The following steps among others are important in managing the r isks mentioned.

The power plant should be located on a reasonably large plot o f land giving ample space to locate al l uni ts whilst maintaining safe distances between them. The plant layout should provide roads o f adequate width and service corridors so that no undue problems arise in the event o f fires or other hazards. Gas storage i s to be designed with adequate precautions in respect o f f i re hazard control. Storage o f hazardous substances such as acids and alkalis should be sited in protected areas. With respect to plant operation, safe operating procedures should be laid down and followed to ensure safety, optimum operation and economy. A f i re fighting group with adequate manpower and facilities such as water tank o f sufficient capacity, COz tank, foam tank, portable f i re extinguishers should be provided and facilities located at strategic locations e.g., generator area, high voltage panel, control rooms, and fuel tank area. Regular checks on safe operating practices should be performed.

In order to achieve the objective o f minimizing r isks at the Siddhirganj power plant complex, in addition to Environmental Management Unit for the complex, an emergency response cell with adequate manpower and facilities for the complex must be in place. The cell will be

E-13

trained to act in a very short time in a pre-determined sequence to deal effectively and efficiently with any disaster, emergency or major accident to keep the loss o f life, human injury, material, plant machineries, and impacts on the environment to the minimum.

Emergency Response Plan Emergency response plans are developed to address a range o f plausible risk scenarios and emphasize the tasks required to respond to a physical event. The emergency response plan (ERP) for the proposed power plant has been developed listing various actions to be performed in a very short period o f time in a pre-determined sequence if it i s to deal effectively and efficiently with any emergency, major accident or natural disaster. The primary objective o f the plan i s to keep the loss o f life, material, machinery/equipment damage, and impacts on the environment to a minimum.

It i s highly recommended that an Emergency Response Cell (ERC) adequately equipped with highly trained manpower and appropriate gears i s established within the power plant complex in order to effectively implement the emergency response plan. The ERC headed by a trained Manager should establish an Emergency Control Room with l i n k s to a l l plant control rooms and al l other services.

The Senior Environmental Engineer o f the proposed Environmental Management Unit for the Siddhirganj Power Plant Complex with adequate s k i l l s o f facing emergency situation can act as the Emergency Manager o f ERC. The Emergency Manager shall have the prerogative o f shutting down the relevant units or the complete plant, which are affected or may further deteriorate damages, in case o f an emergency. The EM however, shall have to report to the Chief Engineer o f the complex o f such an event without any delay.

The team will be responsible for preparing and executing a specific emergency response plan for the power plant complex. The team should meet at regular intervals to update the plan, based on plant emergency data and changes in support agencies.

The team should undertake some trial runs, e.g., f i re drill, in order to be fully prepared and to improve upon the communication links, response time, availability and workability o f emergency gears and other critical factors.

CORPORATE ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY Neither EGCB nor BPDB has yet developed any corporate environmental policy. It i s important that EGCB develops i ts own environmental policy which will provide an overall sense o f direction and set the principles o f action for electricity generation. A tentative environmental policy statement for EGCB could be as follows. EGCB however, should review this carefully and make an appropriate policy statement accordingly.

“Electricity Generation Company of Bangladesh strives to achieve “low environmental impact” generation of electricity. EGCB is committed to generate electricity in compliance with relevant existing environmental laws and regulations.

8 I t further strives to minimize environmental, health and safety riskr to its employees and the communities in which it operates.

E-14

The company proactively addresses environmental concerns resulting from any EGCB operation and provides appropriate environmental training and educates employees to be environmentally responsible on the j o b and at home. EGCB wil l make every effort to minimize emissions, creation of wastes, particularly hazardous wastes, and dispose of wastes through safe and responsible methods. EGCB wil l support research aimed at enhancing knowledge of the environment and minimizing environmental impacts of power generation. EGCB wi l l communicate openly with those who live or work in the vicinity of its power generation complex to ensure their understanding of power plant’s operations and EGCB s understanding of their concerns. ”

The EGCB makes this policy available and accessible to all i t s employees and publishes it for the public.

Environmental Management by EGCB The environmental policy that EGCB would establish must clearly reflect the environmental objectives required to be achieved. Once the direction i s set through the establishment o f the environmental policy, the next step i s to develop a strategic plan to guide EGCB in accomplishing that policy. Identification o f key environmental issues that EGCB would need to address constitutes the first element o f the strategic plan. Implementation o f the strategic plan, assessment and further improvement are the basic elements o f an environmental management system that must be outlined in an environmental management manual. The manual will be used to ensure that the electricity generating plants at the Siddhirganj Power Complex as well other power generating facilities managed by the EGCB are operated with minimum environmental impact.

I t i s beyond the scope o f this environmental assessment study to develop an Environmental Management Manual for EGCB for application at i t s electricity generating plants. However, some important aspects are mentioned below that need to be clearly delineated in the manual for effective environmental management o f the plant site. One o f the first steps i s to identify the key environmental aspects that EGCB will need to address for al l i t s power generating facilities including the proposed 2x150 MW gas fired peaking power plant. Important environmental aspects are:

Waste generation and disposal e

0 Air emissions Noise level

e Occupational health and safety 0 Emergency response

Cooling water abstraction and discharge

These aspects are the results o f operation and maintenance o f the plants on the environment. Objectives and targets are then set for addressing each o f these high priority issues. Other important aspects that need to be included in the environmental manual for i t s effective implementation are:

Work plans and schedule Emergency response plan Resources, implementation and training

E-15

Work plans and schedules are prepared for each o f the key environmental aspects identified. These include management procedures, personnel requirements and responsibilities, appropriate equipment and time plan.

Environmental Management Unit Environmental Management Units should be established at all power generating facilities under the EGCB. For instance, environmental management system at Siddhirganj Power Complex will need an Environmental Management Unit headed by a Senior Environmental Engineer with adequate training and executive responsibilities and who shall be responsible, among others, for the followings:

0

Coordinate environmental monitoring 0

0

0

Promoting environmental awareness

Ensuring that environmental protection procedures are followed

Act as liaison with the public, local organizations and government Ensure and supervise record keeping, data storage and management for follow up actions Monitoring hazardous materials storage and handling

The senior environmental engineer will be responsible for ensuring that the environmental management plan i s effective and that the environmental standards outlined in this environmental assessment and Bangladesh environmental regulations are adhered to.

Environmental Training Environmental training will be required to effectively implement the environmental management and monitoring plan in each o f the facilities managed by the EGCB. However, training could be organized centrally by the EGCB involving relevant staff from al l i t s electricity generating facilities. Important training needs include:

General environmental awareness training 0 Specific training for staff working in sensitive areas

Training on environmental regulations and standards Staff training on environmental monitoring

Integrated Environmental Management at Siddhirganj Power Complex Siddhirganj power generation complex houses several plants o f varying generation capacities employing different technologies. The proposed World Bank financed 2x1 50 MW peaking power plant when operational will be only a part o f the whole complex. Most o f the environmental impacts will therefore, be cumulative and can not be attributed to any individual plant.

Wh i le it i s possible to monitor emissions o f individual plants, monitoring ambient environment will require a comprehensive monitoring program to be designed for the entire power station. It i s therefore, important that EGCB develops a comprehensive environmental management manual considering existing and new plants within the area o f Siddhirganj power plant complex. The Environmental Manager o f each plant will be responsible for the environmental monitoring and compliance at each plant, communicate with the

E-16

Environmental Management Unit o f the complex, and apply changes in environmental control when required for achieving overall environmental compliance within the complex.

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Conclusions In this study, the impacts o f the project activities on physico-chemical, ecological and socio- economic (i.e., human interest related) parameters have been identified, predicted and evaluated, and mitigation measures suggested for both construction and operation phases o f the proposed power plant. The important physico-chemical environmental parameters that are l ikely to be affected by the project activities include air and noise pollution.

The study suggests that most o f the impacts on the physico-chemical environment are o f l ow to moderate intensity and therefore, could be offset or minimized if the mitigation measures are adequately implemented. Since the project site i s located in a developed area that does not appear to be very sensitive ecologically, the impact o f project activities on most ecological parameters (e.g., wetlands, homestead vegetation, forest cover, bushes and trees, wild l i fe, species diversity) are mostly insignificant.

Noise level has been identified as a significant potential impact o f the proposed power plant during both the construction and operation phases. The noise generated from construction activities during the construction phase might become a source o f annoyance at the school located close to the project site. However, since the class rooms o f the schools are located about 30m away from the access road and the trees and boundary walls will have some damping effect, the noise level i s expected to come down to tolerable levels within the school premises. The workers should not be exposed to the noise produced by the construction equipment for a prolonged period to prevent permanent hearing loss. A rotational work plan i s advised for the workers and operators o f these equipment. During the operational phase, high level o f noise i s l ikely to be generated within the confines o f the turbine and generator installations. Prolonged exposure to such high level o f noise may cause permanent hearing loss. Therefore, proper protective measures should be adopted during the operation and inspection o f these equipment.

Some adverse impact during the operation phase o f the plant will come from thermal emission and NO, emission from the power plant. However, modeling study, using SCREEN3 and AUSPLUME models, suggests that the increased NO, concentrations in the ambient air due to emission from the proposed power plants (i.e., 2x150 MW and 2x120 MW) will not be very significant.

During operation phase, no significant negative impact i s anticipated on socio-economic environmental parameters. Significant positive impacts are expected due to improvement in power supply. T h i s will reduce load shedding in Dhaka city and contribute to the national economy. Wel l being o f the surrounding population, especially Dhaka city, will be significantly improved due to generation o f electricity during peak hours.

Recommendations The environmental assessment carried out for the proposed gas turbine power plant at Siddhirganj Power Generation Complex, suggests low to moderate scale o f adverse impacts, which can be reduced to acceptable level through recommended mitigation measures as mentioned in the EMP. I t i s therefore recommended that the proposed 2x150 MW gas turbine

E-17

peaking power plant may be installed at the Siddhrganj Power Plant Complex, provided the suggested mitigation measures are adequately implemented. I t i s also recommended that the environmental monitoring plan be effectively implemented in order to identify any changes in the predicted impacts and take appropriate measures to off-set any unexpected effects.

I t i s also highly recommended that the EGCB develops a corporate environmental policy o f i t s own following the outline given in this report. In order to ensure implementation o f i t s environmental policy, an “Environmental Management Unit” i s to be instituted by the EGCB. The unit will be responsible for implementation o f the environmental management and monitoring plan developed for this proposed project.

E-18

Consulting Services for Initial Environmental

Examination (IEE), Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), and

Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) o f the Proposed Bakhrabad-Siddhirganj Gas

Transmission Pipeline Project

BETS Consulting Servi Ltd,, Bangladesh House-10, Rwd-135, Gulshcm-1 , Dhaka-121 2, Bangladesh 9889923-24, FUX 880-2-9 E-mall : bets@betsbd.com

Environmental Impact Assessment for Construction of Bakhrabad-Siddhiruanj Gas Transmission Pipeline Project

ADB AER AQM BBS BCAS BETS BMD BWDB CGS CSMC DAE DC DOE DOF DTW ECA ECR EIA EMP EPZ GIS GOB GPS GSTP GTCL I EC IEE IUCN

JMB KI I LGED N DT NGO NWMP PAP PCP SDC SRDl TBS TOR UNDP

Asian Development Bank Agro-Ecological Region Air Quality Management Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics Bangladesh Centre for Advance studies Bangladesh Engineering and Technological Services Ltd. Bangladesh Meteorological Department Bangladesh Water Development Board City Gate Station Construction Supervision and Monitoring Consultant Department of Agricultural Extension Deputy Commissioner Department of Environment Department of Fisheries Deep Tube Well Ecologically Critical Area Environment Conservation Rules 1997 Environmental Impact Assessment Environmental Management Plan Export Processing Zone Geographic Information System Government of Bangladesh Global Positioning System Gas Sector Development Programme Gas Transmission Company Limited Important Environmental Component Initial Environmental Examination International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources or the World Conservation Union Jamuna Multipurpose Bridge Key Important Informant Local Government Engineering Department Non Destructive Testing Non-governmental Organization National Water Management Plan Project Affected Person Project Concept Paper Study and Design Consultant Soil Resource Development Institute Town Border Station Terms of Reference United Nations Development Programme

Abbreviation Page-I

Environmental ImDact Assessment for Construction of Bakhrabad-Siddhimani Gas Transmission PiDeline Proiect

Environmental Impact Assessment for Construction of Bakhrabad-Siddhirganj Gas Transmission Pipeline Project

TABLE OF CONTENT

mmmw . List of Abbreviation . ........................................................................ i . Glossary ......................................................................................................................................... 1-2 - Executive Summary 1-12

CHAPTER-01: INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................. 1 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 1.8 1.9 1.10

Background ....................................................................................................................... 1 Objective of the Project ...................................................................................................... 1 Purpose ............................................................................................................................. 1 Scope ................................................................................................................................ 2 Methodology ...................................................................................................................... 2 Limitations .............................................................................................. Structure of the Report ...................................................................................................... 4 Acknowledgement ............................................................................................................. 6 EIA Team .......................................................................................................................... 7 References ........................................................................................................................ 7

CHAPTER-02: POLICY AND LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS ........................................................ 8 2.1 Introduction ....................................................................................................................... 8 2.2 Relevant National Policies and Legislation ........................... ........................................ 8

2.2. I National Conservation Strategy (NCS) 1992 .............. ........................................ 8 2.2.2 National Environmental Management Plan (NEMAP) 1995 .................................... 8 2.2.3 Fifth Five-Year Plan (1997-2002) ............................................................................. 9 2.2.4 Forest Policy (1994) ................................................................................................. 9 2.2.5 The Bangladesh Forest Act 1927 .......................................................................... I O 2.2.6 Industrial Policy (1999) .......................................................................................... 10 2.2.7 National Water Policy (1999) ................................................................................. 10 2.2.8 National Tourism Policy (1992) .............................................................................. 1 1 2.2.9 Energy Policy (1995) .............................................................................................. 1 1 2.2. I O Petroleum Policy (1993) ....................................................................................... 1 1 2.2. I 1 Petroleum Act (1974) ........................................................................................... 11 2.2.12 Environmental Policy (1992) ................................................................................ 12 2.2.13 Bangladesh Wildlife Preservation Act (1973; Amended in 1974) ......................... 13 2.2.14 Environmental Conservation Act (1995. Amended in 2000 & 2002) .................... 13 2.2.15 Environmental Conservation Rules (1997) .......................................................... 14 2.2.16 Mineral Gas Safety Rules 1991 (Amendment 2003) ........................................... 14 2.2.17 East Bengal Protection and Conservation of Fish Act (1950) .............................. 15 2.2.18 The Protection and Conservation of Fish Rules (1985) ....................................... 15 2.2.19 The Penal Code (1860) ........................................................................................ 15 2.2.20 Acquisition and Requisition of Immovable Property

Ordinance (ARIPO 1982) ..................................................................................... 15 2.3 Compliance with WB Environmental Assessment (EA) Process ..................................... 16 2.4 World Bank Policy OP 4.12 on Resettlement and OP 4.1 1 on Cultural Resources ....... 16 2.5 Compliance with DOE EIA Guidelines ..................... ...... .......... 19 Table of Content Page-i

Environmental ImDact Assessment for Construction of Bakhrabad-Siddhimani Gas Transmission PiDeline Project

2.6 Compliance with International Requirements .................................................................. 20 2.6.1 Rio Declaration ...................................................................................................... 20 2.6.2 Convention on Biological Diversity, Rio de Janeiro. (1992) ................................... 20 2.6.3 Convention on Wetlands of International Importance

Especially as Waterfowl Habitat. Ramsar (1971) .................................................. 20 2.6.4 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. Montero Bay. (1982) ............. 21 2.6.5 Others .................................................................................................................... 21 Gas Transmission pipeline project compliance with Statutory Regulations .................... 26 2.7

CHAPTER-03: PROJECT DESCRIPTION ............................................................................... 27 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4

3.5 3.6 3.7 3.8

Project Location ............................................................................................................... 27 Present Plans and Status of the Project .......................................................................... 27 Project Category .............................................................................................................. 27 Need and Justification for the Project .............................................................................. 28 3.4. I Major Components of the Project Activities .......................................................... 28

3.4. I . 1 Pre-construction Phase ........................................................................... 28 3.4. I . 2 Construction Phase ................................................................................. 29 3.4.1.3 Operation and Maintenance Phase ......................................................... 31

Salient Features of the BKB-SG Gas Transmission Pipeline .......................................... 32 Proposed Schedule of Implementation ........................................................................... 33

Operational and Safety System of the Project ................................................................. 40 3.8. I Satellite Image of Proposed Alignment ................................................................ 40 3.8.2 Operational System of the Project Design ........................................................... 40 3.8.3

Project Data .................................................................................................................... 37

Safety System of the Project Design .................................................................... 40

CHAPTER-04: BASELINE EXISTING ENVIRONMENT .......................................................... 41 4.1 Introduction ..................................................................................................................... 41 4.2 Study Area ...................................................................................................................... 41 4.3 Physical Environment ...................................................................................................... 41

4.3. I 4.3.2 4.3.3 4.3.4 4.3.5 4.3.6 4.3.7

4.3.8 4.3.9

Climate ................................................................................................................ 41 Topography and Geology ..................................................................................... 43 Digital Elevation Model ......................................................................................... 43 Seismicity ............................................................................................................. 43 River system ........................................................................................................ 43 Air Quality ............................................................................................................. 43 Surface Water ...................................................................................................... 44 4.3. 7.1 Water Course Systems ............................................................................ 44 4.3.7.2 Description of Rivers ............................................................................... 44 4.3.7.3 Agricultural Activities ................................................................................ 44 Groundwater ........................................................................................................ 45 Noise .................................................................................................................... 45

4.3.10 Land Types .......................................................................................................... 45 4.3.1 I Soil Types ............................................................................................................ 46

4.4 Biological Environment .................................................................................................... 46 4.4. I Introduction ................................................................................................... 4.4.2 Wetland Habitat .................................................................................................... 47 4.4.3 Terrestrial Habitat ................................................................................................. 47 4.4.4 Fisheries ............................................................................................................... 47

4.5 Socio-Economic Environment ......................................................................................... 47 4.5. I Population and Demography ................................................................................ 47

Table of Content Page-ii

Environmental ImDact Assessment for Construction of Bakhrabad-Siddhiraani Gas Transmission PiDeline Proiect

4.5.2 Statistical Analysis of Demographic. Socio-Economic and Community Health Data ......................................................................................................... 48

CHAPTER-05: PUBLIC CONSULTATION ............................................................................... 50 5.1 5.2

5.3 5.4 5.5

5.6 5.7

Public Consultation ...................................................................... Methodology and Output ........................................................... 5.2. I Focus Group Discussion ........................................ ........................................ 50 5.2.2 Checklist Used for Public Consultation ..................... ........................................ 51 Findings from Focus Group Discussion ................... .................................... 52 Expectations of the People ................................................................................... 52 Public Consultation Results .................................................................................... 53 5.5. I Consultation with Project Affected Person ............................... 5.5.2 Summary of Public Consultation ............................................. 5.5.3 Discussion Relating to Public Property .................................... Response to Gas Pipeline ...................................................................................... 54 Conclusions and Recommendations ...................................................................... 54 5.7.1 Conclusion .................................................................................................... 54

CHAPTER-06: ANALYSIS OF SUITABILITY FOR ALTERNATIVE ROUTES ....................... 56 6.1 Route Selection Factors ................................................................................................. 56 6.2 Location of Selected Routes .......................................................................................... 56 6.3 Comparative Analysis ..................................................................................................... 57

6.3. I Major Environmental Features along different options ......................................... 57 6.4 Findings ......................................................................................................................... 58 6.5 Conclusion ..................................................................................................................... 59

CHAPTER-07: IDENTIFICATION. ANALYSIS AND MITIGATION OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS .................................................................................... 60

7.1 General ......................................................................................................................... 60 7.2 Identification of Impacts ................................................................................................. 60 7.3 Analysis of Impacts and Suggested Mitigation Measures .............................................. 61

7.3. I Air Quality ............................................................................................................. 61 7.3.2 Natural Gas Emission .................................................................................... 7.3.3 Socio-Economic ................................................................................................... 62 7.3.4 Noise and Vibration .............................................................................................. 63 7.3.5 Land and Soil ....................................................................................................... 64 7.3.6 River Crossing ...................................................................................................... 64 7.3.7 Surface and Groundwater .................................................................................... 64 7.3.8 Floral and Faunal ................................................................................................. 65 Summary of Findings ..................................................................................................... 65 7.4

CHAPTER-08: ANALYSIS AND DESCRIPTION OF THE MITIGATION MEASURES ........... 66 8.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................... 66 8.2 Mitigation Measure of Project Impacts .......................................................................... 66

8.2. I Air Quality ........................................................................................................... 70 8.2.2 Mitigation Plan for Land Use ............................................................................... 70 8.2.3 Mitigation plan for Noise and Vibration ................................................................ 71

8.2.5 Surface and Ground Water- Mitigation Plans ...................................................... 72 8.2.6 Mitigation Plans for Biodiversity ......................................................................... 72

8.2.4 Soil Erosion and Fertility Control Plan ................................................................. 71

8.2.7 Mitigation plan for Historical and Archaeological Resources .............................. 73 Table of Content Page-iii

Environmental lmDact Assessment for Construction of Eakhrabad-Siddhiraani Gas Transmission PiDeline Proiect

8.2.8 Mitigation plan for Socioeconomic Impact ........................................................... 73 8.2.9 Budget for Mitigation and Monitoring Measures .................................................. 73

CHAPTER-09: ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN .................................................... 75 9.1 9.2 9.3 9.4 9.5 9.6 9.7 9.8 9.9 9.10

9.1 1

9.12

9.13 9.14

General ......................................................................................................................... 75

Identification of Pipeline Alignment ................. ......................................................... 76 ... 76

Scope of EMP ............................................................................................................... 79 Environmental Policy of GTCL ..................................................................................... 79

Health, Environment & Safety Management Plan .......................

Environmental Monitoring Plan ..................................................................................... 97

Development of the EMP .............................................................................................. 76

Project Affected Physical Features ...................................................................

Organizational Aspects ................................................................ ................... 79

Environmental Management Costs .............................................................................. 96

9 . I O . I Monitoring Parameters ..................................................................................... 98 Pre-Construction Phase ............................................................................................... 98

9 . I I . 2 Presence of Survey Team and Migrant Workers .............................................. 98 9 . I I . I Road Blockage & Disturbance from Traffic ....................................................... 98

9.11.3 Restoration and Protection Measures for Physical Features ............................ 99 Construction Phase ...................................................................................................... 99 9.12. I Erosion ............................................................................................................ 99 9.12.2 Air Quality Monitoring ....................................................................................... 99 9.12.3 Noise Monitoring ............................................................................................... 99 9.12.4 Emission ........................................................................................................ 100 9.12.5 Health and Safety Monitoring ......................................................................... 100 9.12.6 Water Quality Monitoring ................................................................................ 100

9.12.8 Camp Waste Management ............................................................................. 102

9.12. I I Monitoring Schedule ..................................................................................... 105 9.12.12 Reporting ..................................................................................................... 107 Safety and Hazard Mitigation Plan ............................................................................. 108

9.12.7 Waste Management ..........................................................................

9.12.9 Construction and operation Waste Management ........................................... 102 9.12. I O Hazardous Material Handling and Storage ................................................... 102

Responsibility of the Contractor .................................................................................. 112

CHAPTER-10: EMERGENCY RESPONSE AND DISASTER

10.1

10.2 10.3

MANAGEMENT PLAN ............................................................................... 113 Emergency Response and Disaster Management Plan .............................................. 113 I O . I . 1 Six Steps in Emergency Response .................................................................. 114 Emergency Response Planning .................................................................................. 114 Assessment of Environmental Risks and Potential Hazards for Various Scenarios of Chemical Emergency during Pipeline Operation .................................... 115 10.3.1 General Approach to Risk Assessment ......................................................... 115 10.3.2 Chemical Hazards ........................................................................................ 116

10.3 Specialized Equipment ................................................................................................ 117 10.4 Training ....................................................................................................................... 117 10.5 Safety Orientation ........................................... ........................................................ 118 10.6 Approach to Emergency Response ................. .................................................... 10.7 Guidelines for Disaster Management .......................................................................... 121

10.7. I Introduction ...................................................................................................... 121 I O . 7.2 Disaster Management & Gas Pipeline Construction & Operation .................... 121

Table of Content Page-iv

Environmental lmoact Assessment for Construction of Bakhrabad-Siddhimani Gas Transmission PiDeline Project

11.1

12.1

13.1

I O . 7.3 Level of Incidents ............................................................................................. 121 I O . 7.4 IncidentdAccident Investigation & Reporting System ...................................... 122 IO. 7.5 Preparedness .................................................................................................. 122 IO. 7.6 Response ............................................................... ...................................... 122

...................................... 123 Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) ....................................................................... 123 I I. 1. i General Requirements ..................................................................................... 123 I I. 1.2 Workplace Environmental Quality .......................................................... . 124 I I . 1.3 Health Hazards ....................................................................................... . I26 I I. 1.4 Remedial measures ......................................................................................... 126 I I. 1.5 Safety ............................................................................................................... 126 I I. I . 6 Work in Confined Spaces ................................................................................. 127

I I . 1.8 Pipeline and Plants Construction ..................................................................... 128 I I. 1.9 Pipeline and Plants Operation ......................................................................... 128 I I. 1. I O Noise .............................................................................................................. 128 I I. I . I I Hazardous Substances .................................................................................. 128 Storage Facilities for Chemicals, Fuel, Oil and Grease ............................................... 128 12.1.1 Oil Storage Facilities ........................................................................................ 128 12.1.2 Oil/Condensate Leaks and Drainage Systems ............................................... 129 House Keeping ............................................................................................................ 130

I O . 7.7 Resources and Implementation .............................

I I. I . 7 Record Keeping and Reporting ....................................................................... 128

CHAPTER-I 1 : CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS .............................................. 131 11 .I General ....................................................................................................................... 131 11.2 Conclusions ................................................................................................................ 132 11.3 Recommendations ...................................................................................................... 132

List of Tables: Table-2.1 : Table-2.2 : Table-2.3 : Table-2.4 : Table-2.5 : Table-2.6 : Table 3.1 : Table41 : Table-4.2 : Table-4.3 : Table-4.4 : Table-4.5 : Table-4.6 : Table-4.7a : Table-4.7b : Table-4.7~ : Table-4.8 : Table-4.9 : Table410 : Table4. l la : Table-4.1 1 b : Table41 IC : Table-4.1 I d :

Bangladesh Standards for Ambient Air Quality Bangladesh Standards for Noise Bangladesh Standards for Odor Bangladesh Standards for Sewage Discharge Bangladesh Standards for Industrial and Project Effluent Bangladesh Standards for Industrial and Project Emissions Project Data of the BKB- SG Gas Transmission Pipeline Project Climatic Data of Comilla for the year 2003 Bangladesh Standard of Noise Level Divisions and Zilawise Distribution of Agriculture Land Types Characteristics of General Soil Types Aquatic flora Terrestrial Planted Flora Terrestrial Fauna Reptiles Terrestrial Fauna Mammals Terrestrial Fauna Birds Population and Demographic Characteristics Surrounding the Project Area Statement on Demographic Statistics along the Route Summary of Segment wise Land Structure and Tree Loser PAPS Details of Road etc -Muradnagar, Comilla Details of Road etc Daudkandi, Comilla Details of Road etc.-Gozaria, Munshigonj Details of Road etc.-Sonargaon, Narayanganj

Table of Content Page4

Environmental ImDact Assessment for Construction of Bakhrabad-Siddhiraani Gas Transmission PiDeline Proiect

Table4. l le : Table-4.12 : Table-4.13 : Table-4.14 : Table-4.15 : Table-4.16 : Table417 : Table-4.18 : Table-4.19 : Table-4.20 : Table-4.21 : Table-5.1 :

Table-5.2 : Table-5.3 : Table-5.4 : Table-5.5 : Table-5.6 : Table-5.7 : Table-5.8 : Table-5.9 : Table-5.10 : Table-5.1 1 : Table-5.12 :

Table-5.13 :

Table-5.14

Table-5.15 : Table-5.16 :

Table-5.17 : Table-6.1 : Table-7.1 : Table-8.1 : Table-8.2 : Table-8.3 : Table-8.4 : Table-8.5 : Table-8.6 : Table-9.1 : Table-9.2 :

Table-9.3 : Table-9.4 :

Table-9.5 : Table-9.6 :

Details of Road etc.-Bondor, Narayanganj Composition of the Household Members Age and Sex Distribution of the affected Household Members Distribution of the Households by Their Religion Educational Status of the Household Members Occupations of the Household Members Monthly Income Pattern of the affected Households Residential House Pattern Sources and Use of Water Types of Latrines Used by the affected Households Main Health Service Facilities of the Area Details of Participants and their Classification in Different Public Consultation Sites during Stage-1 Field Survey along the Route between June, 2007 & July, 2007 Focus Group Discussion at Vatipara, Sonargaon Focus Group Discussion at Bhaber Char, Munshiganj Focus Group Discussion at Gozaria, Munshiganj Focus Group Discussion at Gozaria, Munshiganj Focus Group Discussion at Daudkandi, Comilla Focus Group Discussion at Muradnagar, Comilla Focus Group Discussion at Daudkandi, Comilla Focus Group Discussion at Muradnagar, Comilla Focus Group Discussion at Muradnagar, Comilla Public Consultations Details of Participants and their Classification in Different Public Consultation Sites during Stage-2 Plot to Plot Field Survey along the route between December 2007 & January 2008 Summary of Participants with Classification in Different Public Consultation Sites during stage-1 & 2 of the consultation process. Different Types of Unconditional/ Conditional Response to Acquisition/ Requisition Received from Land and Structure losing PAP Details of PAP Requested Compensation in the form of Land for Land Miscellaneous Other Conditions Cited by the 18 Land and Structure Losing PAPS. Summary of PAP Response to Gas pipeline Construction Comparative analysis of salient features of alternative routes Project Activities and Potential Negative Impacts Analysis and Description Mitigation Measures Summary of Estimated Budget for Environmental Monitoring Estimated Budget Based on Values Claimed by PAP Estimated Budget Based on GOB Values Estimated Budget Based on Market Values Summary of Estimated Budget for RAP Summary of Segment wise Land Structure and Tree Losers Summary of affected plots of PAP with Trees, Structures, Rivers, Khals, Roads & Pond (Muradnagar, Daudkandi, Gozaria, Sonargaon, Bondor) Management Actions and Responsibilities Estimated outsourcing cost for monthly environmental monitoring during construction and operation phases. The price of different environmental monitoring equipments Cost estimate for training during construction and operational phase

Table-9.7 : Types and sources of domestic wastes Table of Content Page-vi

Environmental imoact Assessment for Construction of Bakhrabad-Siddhimani Gas Transmission Ploeline Project

Table-9.8 Table-9.9 : The Tentative Plan for Environmental Reporting Table-9.1 0 : Safety Hazard: Mitigation Control Measures

Table-10.1 :

: Monitoring plan during construction and operation phase of the project

General requirements for workers’ health and safety according to the labour law 2006 (Bangladesh).

List of Figures: Figure-A : Figure-B : Figure-C : Figure-D : Figure-E : Figure-F : Figure-G : Figure-H : Figure-I : Figure-J : Figure-L : Figure Figure-9.1 : Figure-9.2 : Figure-9.3 :

Figure-9.4 :

Figure-I 0.1

Figure-1 0.2 : Figure-1 0.3 :

The Environmental Assessment Process Steps Involved in Environmental Clearance Following DOE Guidelines Key Route Map Regional Geological Map of the Project Area Digital Elevation Model Showing Proposed Gas Line Scimic Map of Bangladesh River System Map of Project Area General Regional Land Type Soil Type Map of Project Area Alternative Route for the Pipeline Project Activity Schedule Climatic Chart: Comilla Segment wise Route Map Existing Organizational Set-up of GTCL Institutional Arrangement showing Interlinks between GTCL Technical Staff the EPC Contractor and the Environmental Specialist of the Owner’s Engineer. Waste Management flow diagram for the EPC contractor to be followed up to segregation Illustrates an example system approach to gas pipeline construction & operations. Beamed Containment facility Conceptual drawing for the separation of spillage

List of Annexes: Annex-1 : Statistical Analysis of Demographic, Socio-Economic and Community Health

Annex-2 : Questionnaires Annex-3 : Terms of Reference (TOR) Annex-4 : List of References Annex-5 : Photographs Annex-6 : Handouts Annex-7 : Hazard Report Form Annex-8 : Maps of the Report

Data

Table of Content Page-vii

Environmental lmpact Assessment for Construction of Bakhrabad-Siddhiraani Gas Transmission Pipeline Project

1 .O Any Introduction?

1.1

Natural gas is a significant national resource of Bangladesh. It is playing the key role by substituting it for imported fuel and thus saving hard earned foreign currency. The Government of the Peoples Republic of Bangladesh has attached high priority to the overall socio-economic development of the country through maximum and judicious utilization of its hydrocarbon resources. Its use in the power generation and industrial development sectors is gradually increasing and particularly about 85% of the electricity is, in fact, being generated from natural gas.

What’s the Background of the Project?

1.2 Who has planned for executing?

In appreciation of the great demand for natural gas to fulfill the growing need for industrialization and generation of power in the south-eastern region of the country, Gas Transmission Company Limited (GTCL) - a company of Petrobangla (PB) under the Energy and Mineral Resources Division of the Ministry of Power Energy and Mineral Resources has planned for executing a 30” diameter 60 km High Pressure Bakhrabad-Siddhirganj (BKB-SG) Gas Transmission Pipeline project with Regulating and Metering stations at SG and Meghnaghat (MGN) under the SG Peaking Power Project and with financing from the Word Bank (WB). It is expected that implementation of both SPPP and BSGTP will play an important role for the development of national economy.

1.3

The main objective of this gas transmission project with the pipeline from BKB to SG is to establish a sustainable Gas Grid and to meet gas demand of the power plants in SG, Haripur (HPR), MGN and surrounding areas. GTCL has also taken up this project in consideration of the existing situation and future higher demand of gas from domestic, commercial and different industrial consumers including meeting demand of the CNG stations of the region and the surrounding areas.

What are the Objectives to Achieve?

In fine, the objective of the project is as follows:

i)

ii)

iii)

To establish a sustainable Gas Grid and ensure gas supply to the South-East Region of the country particularly SG-MGN area and the ones adjacent to the city of Dhaka and its peripheral load centers. To supply Natural Gas to the proposed power plants under PDB and fulfill industrial, commercial and domestic gas demand thereby reducing use of imported fuel and destruction of trees as firewood and To ensure overall economic development through increased production in the industrial and commercial sectors.

1.4 What’s the Purpose of this EIA Report?

Gas Transmission Company Ltd. (GTCL) has intended to conduct the Initial Environmental Examination (IEE), Environment Impact Assessment EIA) and Resettlement Action Plan

Executive Summary Page- 1

Environmental lmpact Assessment for Construction of Bakhrabad-Siddhiraani Gas Transmission Pipeline Project

(RAP) of the Project. In fact, as per the criteria of DOE, the project falls under the Red Category and hence requires both IEE and EIA prepared in accordance with the DOE guidelines for the Red category industrial project for issuing the site clearance and Environmental clearance respectively for the project.

Since, IEE report has already been prepared and submitted to DOE and DOE has in turn accorded Site Clearance for the Project to GTCL with certain conditions for fulfillment and inclusion in the EIA report. Accordingly, in order to develop a full-scale EMP and other issues and conditions set forth by the DOE while approving the IEE, this EIA report has been prepared as per the TOR of GTCL and the guidelines of the ECA ‘95 and ECR ’97 of DOE.

1.5 How World Bank Get in to it?

The project has some environmental impacts and since these are of lesser degree as would be revealed from the subsequent chapters, it falls in the category “B” under the guidelines of the World Bank (WB) and as such, unlike DOE it does not require any Initial Environmental Examination (IEE), but it still needs the Environmental Impact Assessment (ESIA) studies along with preparation of the Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) report.

Since the project is being financed by WB, it was keenly felt necessary to have investigated about the qualitative and quantitative impact of the project on each and every project affected person (PAP), their surrounding community, public amenities and the environment and as such, this EIA report in terms of ESlA is also the requirement of WB as ESlA Vol.-1 so far as EA is concerned where as the report on RAP has been separately submitted as ESlA V0l.-2.

1.6 What Guidelines have been followed in Preparing the Report?

This EIA report has been prepared basically following the EA and Cultural Recourses related WB guidelines OP 4.01 & OP 4.11. Further, since Involuntary Resettlement is involved in executing this project, WB guidelines OP 4.12 with further references made in the foregoing Operational Policies has also been closely taken in to consideration in addition to the relevant GOB ordinance ARIPO 1982 and guidelines of DOE.

1.7 Who has Prepared it and for whom?

Upon assignment from GTCL and the TOR so provided for, BETS Consulting Services Ltd. House No.10, Road No. 135, Gulshan-I, Dhaka-1212, Bangladesh has prepared this EIA (ESIA Vol.-1.) report. A multidisciplinary team comprising Senior Gas Pipeline & Environmental Specialists, Hydro-Geologist, Socio-economist and a Resettlement Specialist was assisted by Field Engineers and a number of enumerators during different phases of field survey, public consultation, data entry, compilation and analysis in developing and preparation of this report.

This EIA report is intended for submission to GTCL for DOE as well as World Bank and includes a broad coverage of the environmental, socio-economic, health and safety impacts etc and its mitigation, management and monitoring plans.

1.8 What does the Report Contain?

This report, presents the assessment of the environmental impact of the proposed project on the basis of physical, biological and socio-economical information on baseline condition so obtained through plot to plot survey of the ROW consisting of the homesteads, agricultural lands, natural canals, rivers and roads etc. on private and public assets along the strip alignment and the secondary data about environmental conditions in the project area, proceedings on public consultation, mitigation measures with overall management and Executive Summary Page- 2

Environmental lmpact Assessment for Construction of Bakhrabad-Siddhiraani Gas Transmission Pipeline Project

monitoring plan including estimated budget and the structural set ups as to how the project proponent GTCL organizes to implement these plans.

1.9 What’s the Location of the Project?

The proposed gas transmission pipeline project is a 60 km high pressure gas transmission pipeline from BKB to SG via Comilla, Munshiganj and Narayanganj and passing through Muradnagar, Daudkandi, Gazaria, Sonargaon and Bandar Upazila of these districts. Various options were considered in selecting the route and the choice of the final one was influenced, decisively after having discussions with PDB and PGCB, by the fact that it is the shortest one and would therefore; minimize both total costs, execution time and the absolute level of environmental and social impacts.

1.10 How its Components are described?

The broken down components of the project consists of construction of 508 mm Le. 30 inch 57 km high pressure transmission pipeline; 5500 meter HDD crossings for 5 rivers i.e. Gomoti- Meghna, Kojla, Meghna, Old Brahmaputra and Sitalakkha, 3 Regulating and Metering Stations (RMS) including 1 City Gate Station (CGS) at Meghna Ghat, Haripur, Siddhirganj as well as interface SCADA, Civil works and other ancillary works.

1.11 Why the Project is needed for?

This project has been taken-up primarily to supply additional gas required in the region for feeding the 2 x 150 MW peaking power plants 2 x 120 MW peaking power plants and l x 210 MW thermal power plant at Siddhirganj; 360 MW power plant at Haripur, and the 450 MW Phase-ll, 450 MW Phase-Ill and 450 MW Phase-IV power plants at Meghna Ghat. Moreover, this will meet the demand of gas to the existing and upcoming industries, CNG stations, commercial and domestic in project and surrounding areas.

In fact, due to absence of natural gas, investors are reluctant to establish mills and factories in this region. Though arrangement for gas supply to the divisional city of Dhaka is already in existence, execution of this project would reinforce the supply situation and to cover additional areas and apart from supporting industrialization of the region, would reduce the air pollution. Further, the achievable savings in fuel cost as well as reduced destruction of trees for fire wood are yet other steps towards fulfillment of the environmental friendly objectives.

2.0 How the Project is going?

GTCL is now at work since July, 2007 to construct the aforementioned BKB-SG 60 km high pressure natural gas transmission pipeline with 5 valve stations and 1 city gate station with regulating and metering stations and completing the system including its testing and commissioning by June, 2010.

2.1 Is the Selection of Pipeline Route Finalized?

Selection of the pipeline route has been finalized considering alternative routes through satellite image study, field checking and discussion with PDB and PGCB. The various options so considered presented almost similar environmental impacts in nature. The factors that were taken into consideration included access to the pipeline from the main road, avoidance of major roads, river, canals, railway and high way crossings and the local habitats etc. as much as possible and most importantly the length of the pipeline. The choice of the final route was influenced, decisively, by the fact that the chosen route is the shortest one and would therefore minimize both total costs and the absolute level of environmental and social impacts. Executive Summary Page- 3

Environmental lmpact Assessment for Construction of Bakhrabad-Siddhiraani Gas Transmission Pipeline Project

2.2 Any Physical Intervention yet?

No physical intervention has yet been under taken. Preparation of the route map and associated design for inviting tenders for the pipeline construction work is in progress now. Physical interventions will follow after obtaining due clearances from the concerned authorities including DOE. According to GTCL, the GOB approval of the project and financing provision of same under the loan granted by WB are being firmed up.

2.3

The process of engaging expatriate and local consultants for bid evaluation, HDD crossings and civil works, regulating and metering stations, CP, QA & QC etc. are in progress. Environmental studies and Resettlement action plans are also being prepared for DOE and other clearances. GTCL is also working for engaging consultant for the design, construction, supervision, environmental management, quality control, testing and commissioning of the pipeline system. Preparation for engaging EPC contractor and materials for the project is also on the desk too.

2.4

The over all activities of the project are usually classified under three distinct phases e.g. pre- construction phase, construction phase and the operation & maintenance phase The major components of activities involved in this project are stipulated as below:

How about Engaging Consultant & Contractors?

What are the Major Components of the Project Activities?

Pipeline Routes Survey; Land Acquisition and Requisition Social Impact Management & Resettlement Actions Clearance from DOE; Detail Drawing and Design; Clearance from Concerned DC’s; Procurement of Materials; Temporary Storage and Stack Yard Appointment of EPC Contractor Site Camps & Equipment ,Vehicle and Crew Mobilization Pipeline Construction & Special Crossings Valve Stations, City Gate and Regulating & Metering Stations Quality Control & Quality Assurance Tie-in, Testing, Pigging and Commissioning Operation & Maintenance Environmental Impact Management, Mitigation & Monitoring

How about Impact Mitigation Plans?

What’s the Concept Working Behind?

Pipeline construction and operation, in general, has mostly temporary bio-physical environmental impact compared to that of the other industrial projects. However, certain socio- economic aspects might have some permanent residual impacts though. As such, among other topics, identification of potential impacts with mitigation measures with an environment

Executive Summary Page- 4

Environmental lrnpact Assessment for Constmction of Bakbrabad-Siddbiraani Gas Transmission PiDeline Project

and social management plan is to there to indicate management response in implementing the mitigation measures and resettlement action plans.

This may be achieved through use of best management and monitoring practices as well as mitigation procedures and controls which will minimize the adverse social and environmental impacts and thereby lead to a satisfactory level of environment friendly execution of the project.

3.2 What are the Key Features of the Existing Bio-Physical Environment?

In order to assess the base line condition in preparing the EIA and RAP reports, a detail topographical survey has been conducted to identify the proposed pipeline route with assistance from the survey organization of GTCL. The study team has then compiled the required data to establish a comprehensive database on the bio-physical baseline conditions existing within the project area. This includes information on parameter such as surface and ground water, air quality, metrology, soils, noise and terrestrial and aquatic ecosystem.

Key features of the existing biophysical environment are described below: . rn

rn

rn

. rn . . rn

rn

3.3

3.3.1

The region is characterized by high rainfall partially in the months of June to October. The main rivers of the study areas are, Gomoti - Meghna, Kajla, Meghna, Old Brahmaputra and Sitalakkha. Some Streams and natural canal exists in the areas. One Major Dhaka-Comilla High way is to be intercepted in the project area. The major sources of emission in the project area are road dust, motor vehicles, construction dust, wind blown dust from agricultural lands, biomass burning and brick kilns etc. The major habitats present within project area are cultivated land, homestead vegetation, road side vegetation, ponds, wetlands, etc. Most of the study area is comprised of agricultural land and wetlands for fisheries Main crops grown in the study area are Aman and lrri paddy in the main two seasons of the year. Besides these, potatoes, vegetables, maize, wheat, mustard, etc. are also cultivated in the project area. Fruits like mango, jack fruit, lemon, water melon, blackberry etc are also produced. The major employment activity in the project area is Agricultural production with wage laborers. The dominant religion in the area is Islam, with some areas of Hindu. A very few numbers of Christian & Buddhist communities are also there in the areas (Though none were found in the affected strip alignment of the project. The majority of the roads in the area are unpaved.

What are the Mitigation Measures for the Impacted Key Bio-Physical Issues?

Air Quality

The project has the potential to contribute some greenhouse gases to the atmosphere through two avenues:

rn . Emission of Con and NOn from combustion of petroleum product by project staff, vehicles and generators etc. Fugitive emission of CH4 from leakage of natural gas from the pipeline system

Mitigation measures will be implemented to reduce the potential impacts to appropriate level. These include: . Regular weekly maintenance of project vehicles to reduce particular emissions

Executive Summary Page- 5

Environmental lmpact Assessment for Construction of Bakhrabad-Siddhiraani Gas Transmission Pioeline Proiecf

. . . Reducing travel distance and fuel consumption where possible. Generator use should be kept to a minimum. Continuous vigilance over the pipeline system to prevent leakages, if any.

3.3.2 Surface Water & Groundwater

Potential impacts on local surface water and groundwater quality may arise in different phases of the project, which include impacts from the field camps for construction crews, RMS & CGS plants and potential discharges of waste in the local area. Selected mitigation measures for ameliorating impacts on surface and groundwater in and around the study area include: . . Construction of pipeline is to be executed during dry season.

Groundwater used for potable water by the construction crew will be tested to ensure that it meets the minimum environment standards of Bangladesh for safe drinking water. Containment of sanitary waste should be adequately disposed of avoid surface and ground water contamination. Safe disposal of drilling fluids & lube oil waste during HDD Monitoring of effluent quality from the plants and the pipeline dewatering activities.

.

. . 3.3.3 Soil

The main potential impacts on soils expected as part of the project will arise from erosion and sedimentation. Erosion and sedimentation are likely to occur during river and stream crossing, during trenching activities and when discharging water under sedimentation during directional drilling, hydrostatic testing, pigging etc. Top soil shall be segregated from the other soil and shall be put to top during re-instatement works. Adequate bank protection has to be ensured.

3.3.4 Noise

Impacts on the local area from noise emission will be different through out the different sections of the project area. High intensity sound such as that emitted by equipment and machines used for excavating earth and welding pipes for long periods of time is potentially disturbing to nearby human population and wildlife. The following mitigation measures are to be taken: . All operations are to be performed at day time . Selection of low noise plant and equipments . All generators and equipment must be maintained periodically . A muffler in good working order shall have to be attached to the engine to reduce the

level of noise so emitted.

3.3.5 Waste

The generation of waste product during construction of pipeline will be one of the most significant potential impacts of the project; the improper disposal of waste has the potential to cause environmental harm though contamination of surface and groundwater, soils, atmosphere etc. Indicative mitigation measure for the management of waste throughout the project includes:

Project staff shall not throw away any waste product, solid, liquid or otherwise, during the construction work rather shall be kept in the designated place. All waste products shall be carried out during construction work and disposed of appropriately at the designated place. Sanitary waste shall not discharge on or near to any waterway or body of water. No machinery vehicle maintenance is to be carried out on site. It should be done at a designated workshop. Hazardous wastes will be specially handled, transported and disposed off.

. .

. . . Executive Summary Page- 6

Environmental lmpact Assessment for Construction of Bakhrabad-Siddhirclani Gas Transmission Pbeline Project

3.3.6 Biodiversity

It is recognized that the activities within the project area have the potential impact upon the flora and fauna of the area. As such a number of specific mitigation measures are suggested in order to reduce the potential impact upon the biodiversity of flora and fauna to appropriate levels. These include: . . . .

The level of noise made by crews during the work shall be kept to a minimum The use of vehicle horns to be avoided whist near colonies of birds or other wildlife Minimum vegetation should be removed during clearing ROW Prompt reinstatement of disturbed ground will be ensured to facilitate re-growing.

3.3.7 Agriculture and Cropping

When clearing the ROW and the requisitioned areas for the movement of equipment, vehicles etc. and construction of pipeline, the crops are damaged. This crop damage shall be properly compensated as per GOB rules, WB guidelines and the RAP. Elected representatives from local communities and the PAP should be allowed to join the committee to ensure justice and transparency during payment of compensation to crop damage. The Compensation Determination Committee (CDC) and Grievance Redress Committee will play their due role.

3.4 What are the Key Existing Socio-Economic Features?

The key existing socio-economic features as revealed from the data base prepared and analyzed following segment wise socio-economic survey conducted over the project affected area along the strip alignment of pipeline route has been summed-up and highlighted below:

3.4.1 Composition of Household Members The field survey data shows that only 906 out of 91 1 PAP Le. 99.45% of sample household is comprised of the male heads, where 0.55% of the sample house holds are maintained by female head. 3.4.2 Age Sex, Religion & Education Distribution

Age Sex distribution that children of age groups 1 to 14 is about 32.97%, household members of age groups 15 to 60 (main work force) is 64.1 I % , those of age group above 60 is about 2.93% . 96.49% are Muslims, 3.51% Hindus. The educational status reveals that about 13.64% is totally illiterate (who cannot read and write), about 5.38% can read and write without any formal education, primary level is 28.26%, secondary level is 24.08%, and also graduate and above is about 1.71 %.

3.4.3 Main Occupation of the Household Members

9.34% is engaged as farmer, 26.80% in housework activities, 25.02% as students, 3.94% in service, 1.78% in small trade, 11.09% are children of less than 5 years and 3.60% are unemployed.

3.4.4 Monthly Income Patterns

17% of the house hold is Tk. 3000-5000, where 49% of them earn 5001-10000. 20% earn 10,001-15,000 and 8% have 1,001-20,000.

3.4.5 House Ownership 69.81% of the houses are Katcha (straw and bamboo roof with earthen wall/ earthen wall reinforced by sheet of woven cane & bamboo), 25.80% are Semi-Pucca (CI sheet roof with brick wall) and 4.06% are Pucca (reinforced concrete roof with brick wall) buildings.

Executive Summary Page- 7

Environmental lmpact Assessment for Construction of Bakhrabad-Siddhiraani Gas Transmission Pipeline P roiect

3.4.6 Sources and Use of Water by Purpose

96.71 % of the households drink tube wells water, around 3.29% of the households drink water from other source. The pond water is unsafe and is mostly used for bathing and cattle washing purposes.

3.4.7 Sanitation

63.45% of the project affected households have sanitary latrines. Among the remaining 30.95%, 3.84% use pits and hanging systems and 1.76% use open space or bushes for defecation.

3.4.8 Main Health Service Facilities of the Area

14.47% of them goes to the Govt. Hospital.l2.29% of them go to the Union Health Clinic, 27.30% goes to Quack, followed by about 22.98% to private doctors, 4.06% to Private Hospital and 18.49% to Pharmacy.

3.4.9 Cultural Aspects

People residing in the surrounding areas of the project location are of different religions; Muslims, Hindus, Christians, and Buddhist, etc. Besides the general culture and heritage of the area, culture also differs due to the difference of the communities built-up by these religions in different locations of the project. The Muslims pray in the mosques and observe their religious festivals like Eid, the Hindus observe their Pujas (Durga puja, Kali puja, etc.) in the temples and the Christians observe their prayer in the church and observe Christmas. There are special gatherings among the villagers where cultural events are performed

4.0 How about Consultation with the Stakeholders and the PAP?

Consultation with parties and persons interested in or affected by project activities, forms a critical part of best practice project planning and environmental impact assessment. Early and participative engagement of stakeholders in the project planning phase increases the likelihood of approval by regulatory authorities and the smooth implementation of project activities. Community participation in the event of exigencies has to be encouraged and ensured. Further, formation of strategic alliance with local administrations, health centers, and fire brigades is always helpful.

4.1 What were the methodology and Tools?

During field survey in June July, 2007, FGD meetings were conducted in 9 different locations of the 3 districts and leaflets were distributed explaining the details of execution of the project and its probable impacts on the HH and the community around the strip alignment of the pipeline route. Again a plot to plot survey was conducted during December2007- January, 2008 to gather socio-economic details interview of all the homestead land, structure and tree owners. 759 Questionnaires were responded by owners themselves while 152 were responded by owner’s relatives found present in HH during the survey.

4.2 What is the range of impact of the Project on the PAP?

Despite the fact that there was no marking on the proposed alignment as of the day of the latest surveying along the route in January, 2008, it appeared that 911 PAP will be both permanently and temporarily affected as pipe line will pass through their 1443 plots. Some of them have more than one entitlement. Out of these 91 1 PAP, all private land owners, 10 PAP are losing Structure, Land & Trees and 27 PAP are losing Land, & Trees. Out of the PAP

Executive Summary Page- 8

Environmental impact Assessment for Construction of 6a~~ra~ad-S idd~ i raan i Gas Transmission PiDeline Project

losing land, 1 is losing a part of his pond and another 1 is losing a part of his poultry farm. Structures of 17 PAP and 561 trees will have to be permanently removed.

4.3 What will be the Nature of Disturbance?

The temporary nature of disturbances in the project area will occur during construction, and the permanent impact shall be on long-term basis which will continue through the operation stages as well. Most of the agricultural lands encountered along the route were low lying ones and there have been some paddy fields which were said to be used for culturing fish during the rainy reason. Pipeline is also not crossing through any forest area any where along its alignment

4.4 Any Squatters, Tenants, Indigenous Groups or Tribal Communities Found?

Efforts have been made to identify and to look into the interest of squatters, indigenous people and tribal communities, but none such PAP was found on the alignment. Some vulnerable groups and some tenants have been found in the localities that would be affected. However, if any squatters, indigenous people and tribal communities or some more vulnerable groups and tenants are found during execution period, they would call for due compensation and resettlement as applicable.

4.5 How about Impacts on Vulnerable Groups & Severely Affected Households?

The socio-economic baseline study identified some categories of people who will feel the adverse impacts of the project more forcefully than others, or be rendered particularly vulnerable due to the project, either due to their present economic situation, excessive land loss relative to others or their age/disabilities. Segment wise detail analysis has been made on their socio-economic condition and quantum of loss vis-a-vis over all impact on their lively hood has been placed in the report.

The PAP who have been found to be losing over 20% of their assets or other wise determined Vulnerable or SAH may deserve special consideration in the form of cash grant, relocation allowance, skill training, microfinance, employment to them and/or their wards etc under the income restoration strategy as per provision of the GOB rules and the WB OP 4.12 besides due compensation payment for the loss of their assets etc. These issues have also been further detailed in the RAP doc. prepared for the project

4.6 What about the Attitude of the PAP towards the Project?

363 Le. about 40 % of 911 PAP have expressed positive attitude toward the project without any specific condition beyond normal compensation or resettlement provision as per rules and 548 Le. 60 % of them has also shown same positive attitude, but with certain conditions of proper compensation, providing job, providing land for land etc. 2 PAP suggested finding out alternative GOB land to pass through but none of the PAP had any negative views. In fact, all of the PAP including the ones asking land for land has offered a price / compensation for their assets so affected.

4.7 What about Organizational & Monitoring Aspects of RAP?

Organizational Responsibilities and Monitoring and Evaluation have to be initiated and performed by GTCL to be assisted by a Resettlement Specialist and the Environmental Specialist. This would be ensured with due promptness and pragmatic approach so that the implementation of RAP is achieved through establishing the proposed RIU offices, due

Executive Summary Page- 9

Environmental lmpact Assessment for Construction of Bekhrabad-Siddhiraani Gas Transmission PiDeline Project

grievance mechanism and a fully operational MIS system conforming to the organizational set up as outlined in the RAP report.

4.8 Any Concern Expressed by the Members of the Public?

The salient features of the opinions expressed by the participants of different profession in focus group discussion (FGD) meeting have revealed in general that they are concerned with due compensation and rehabilitation wherever any damage is done and providing gas in their localities on priority basis as and when feasible. Some of them have also expressed concerns relating to water pollution, air pollution, noise, river bank erosion, disposal of wastes and impact on public property.

However, in general, the pipeline project has been appreciated by them. In their opinion, as a development work of the country, it will help setting up industries, generate employment and its nature of impact would be usually temporary. But note of caution was there from them that, apart from promptly compensating the PAP, the work should be done carefully to avoid any accident in future and proper reinstatement along the alignment has to be done and promptly as the pipe laying works would be progressing in their localities.

4.9 Any Implementation Schedule worked out for RAP?

It is expected that implementation of RAP would involve a good deal of continuous work directly dependent on payment of compensation etc. Resettlement work will be carried out on a 8 month time-base as stipulated during the period between July, 2008 & June2009 subject to extension as required by the project authorities. Since the work on the project would continue until June, 2010, the post evaluation of RAP is also to be scheduled for completion by that period.

5.0 How about the Environmental Management Plan?

A detailed Environmental Management Plan (EMP) has been proposed for this project. The EMP is designed as a practical guide to the implementation of the environment and social mitigation measures. It is intended to set out the finer details of what is required “in the field” including the “what, who, how, when and what cost” factors are associated with these measures.

This EMP will also form the primary mechanism for management, accountability and reporting on the project’s social and environmental performance. It has been stressed in the EMP that the mitigation measures identified and management actions recommended there in, particularly addressing the specific public concerns, are to be implemented with due importance.

5.1

The organizational set up and the institutional arrangement as proposed in the report for due implementation of the mitigation, management, monitoring of and reporting on the environmental impact aspects of the project has been endorsed by GTCL. Accordingly, the Project Director, through a Project Implementation Team, will be responsible for the over all implementation of the EMP. Technical Staff of GTCL and the Environmental Specialist (ES) of the Owner’s Engineer will supervise, manage and monitor the works of the EPC contractor so far as the environmental impact issues of the project are concerned.

What is the Institutional Arrangement Proposed for the EMP?

Executive Summary Page4 0

Environmental Impact Assessment for Construction of Bakhrabad-Siddhiraani Gas Transmission PiDeIine Project

5.2 Any Budget worked out for Environmental Monitoring?

As experienced in executing different projects of similar dimension and magnitude and as opined by GTCL management during discussions with them, the environmental impact of execution of this project does not necessarily call for application of any substantial monitoring arrangements and procurement of specialized tools for measuring the qualities of different environmental elements impacted during the construction and operation phases.

Still then, it has been agreed with the GTCL management that they will, at the recommendation of ES, outsource undertaking the monitoring activities to a vendor who can do the monitoring periodically as and when deemed fit. Accordingly, for reference purpose, details of estimated cost of Tk. 981,000.00 for outsourcing monthly environmental monitoring during construction and operation phases and TK. 1,362,800.00 for procurement of equipments for environmental monitoring have been provided in the report.

5.3 Any Training recommended?

Yes. Training is essentially required for the officials to be assigned particularly to operate the in-house monitoring activities relating to HSE issues. This being an integral part for successful completion of this project as well, specialized low profile training on Safety and occupational health and Environmental management system has been recommended for a total of 4 persons at an estimated cost of Tk. 800,000.00 under the EMP of the project.

A tailor-made pre-project occupational health, safety & environmental management / refreshers training from local industrial safety institution(s) has also been recommended for the professionals to be posted to the project activities.

5.4

The report has incorporated environmental mitigation measures identified in the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report and in fulfilling the conditions imposed by DOE while according site clearance for the project. It is a live document which has detailed how the potential impacts will be managed at the same time a fully defined procedure for integrated implementation of the EMP.

What are the Factors taken in to Account in Preparing this Report?

6.0 What about the Emergency Response Plan and Disaster Management Plans?

The need for drawing the emergency response plan (ERP) and disaster management plan (DMP) for the project of such dimension & magnitude and to be executed over a long period of time has been duly recognized in preparing the report. Accordingly, the outline with essential details of ERP & DMP has been included for establishing and operating the same. An assessment of environmental risk and potential hazards as well as the base line of the current emergency set-up and resources of GTCL has been presented in the report.

The provision of Emergency Response cell as proposed in the project set-up is in line with the existing one operating from their regional HQ at Demra. In fact, this regional ER Center will look after the ER issues of the BKB-SG pipeline as well after its completion.

7.0 Any Concluding Remark?

In view of foregoing presentations, it is believed that the present EIA Report has been prepared as per guide lines of DOE and as such, has fulfilled the conditions of the TOR of

Executive Summary Page4 1

Environmental lmpact Assessment for Constnrction of Bakhrabad-Siddhiraani Gas Transmission Pipeline Project

GTCL. Further, since the project is being financed by the World Bank, the WB guidelines have also been duly taken care of. So, it is expected to meet the requirements of the WB as well so far as ESlA is concerned.

It is therefore recommended that the Department of Environment may issue necessary Environmental Clearance in favor of Gas Transmission Company Limited for execution of this 30” diameter 60 km High Pressure Bakhrabad - Siddhirganj Gas Transmission Pipeline project with associated facilities including Regulating and Metering Stations at Siddhirganj and Meghnaghat, - a priority project of national importance.

Executive Summary Page4 2

GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF BANGLADESH

MINISTRY OF POWER, ENERGY & M I ~ E ~ ~ RESOURCES

March 2008 Dhaka

Submitted by:

Center for Environmental and Geographic Information Services A public trust under the Ministry of Water Resources

House 6, Road 231C. Gulshan-1 I Dhaka-1212, Bangladesh. Tel: 8817648-52, Fax: 880-2-8823128

Table of Contents

Executive Summary ........................................................................................................................... vii Acknowledgement ................................................................................................................................ x i

1.1 Background ofthe Study ......................................................................................................... 1 1.2 Objectives o f the EIA .............................................................................................................. 1 1.3 Scope o f Work ......................................................................................................................... 2 1.4 Limitations ............................................................................................................................... 2 1.5 The EL4 Team ......................................................................................................................... 2 1.6 Structure ofthe Report ............................................................................................................ 3

Chapter 2 Policy and Legislations ....................................................................................................... 5

Abbreviation ....................................................................................................................................... xii Chapter 1 Introduction ......................................................................................................................... 1

2.1 2.2

2.3 2.4

2.5

2.6

2.7

2.8 2.9

Overview ................................................................................................................................. 5 Procedure for Obtaining SiteEnvironmental Clearance ........................................................... 5 2.2.1 Requirement for In i t i a l Environment Examination (IEE) Report ............................... 5 2.2.2 Procedure for getting ‘Site clearance’ ........................................................................... 6 2.2.3 Procedure for getting ‘Environmental clearance’ ......................................................... 6 Compliance with World Bank Environmental Assessment (EA) Guidelines ........................ 8 Organization related with Enforcement of Environmental Standards ..................................... 8 2.4.1 Ministry o f Environment and Forest (MoEF) ............................................................... 8 Relevant National Policies and Legislation Relevant to Environment ....................................... 9 2.5.1 ‘&Bangladesh Wildlife Preservation Order (1973;an~dedtoActm 1974) ................... 10 2.5.2 The National Forest Policy (1994) .............................................................................. 10 Policy Related with Energy Development ................................................................................ 10 2.6.1 T h e Electricity Act, 19 10 ............................................................................................ 10 2.6.2 T h e Power Policy, 1995 .............................................................................................. 10 2.6.3 T h e Energy Policy (1 996) ........................................................................................... 11 2.6.4 The Industrial Policy (1999) ....................................................................................... 11 Compliance with International Requirements .......................................................................... 11 2.7.1 Rio Declaration ........................................................................................................... 11 2.7.2 Convention on Biological Diversity, (1992) .............................................................. 11 2.7.3 Convention on Wetlands o f International Importance Especially as Waterfowl

Habitat, Ramsar (1 97 1) ............................................................................................... 11 2.7.4 Uni ted Nations Convention on the Law o f the Sea, Montego Bay, (1982) .......... 12

Others (Conventions and Agreements) ........................................................................ 12 Bu i ld ing Construction (Amenctment)Act, 1990 and Building Construction Rules‘1996 ....... 12 Land Acquisition Rules and Regulations: ............................................................................. 13

2.7.5

3.1.1 3.1.2 3.1.3 3.1.4 3.1.5 3.1.6 3.1.7 3.1.8 3.1.9

Chapter 3 Methodology .................................................................................................................... 15 3.1 Overall Approach .................................................................................................................. 15

Project Design and Description .................................................................................. 16 Environmental and Social Baseline ............................................................................ 16 Scoping ....................................................................................................................... 16 Bounding ..................................................................................................................... 16

Impact Assessment and Possible Computation ........................................................... 17 Impact Quantification and Evaluation ........................................................................ 17 Environmental Management Plan ............................................................................... 17 EL4 Report Preparation .............................................................................................. 17

Major Field Investigation ............................................................................................ 17

3.1.10 S I A M P Report Preparation ...................................................................................... 17 Chapter 4 Description ofthe Project ................................................................................................. 19

Major Components of the Project .......................................................................................... 19 4.1 4.2 Project Category .................................................................................................................... 19

... CZGBS 111

4.3

4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7 4.8

Project Location ..................................................................................................................... 19 4.3.1 Proposed Transmission Line ....................................................................................... 21 4.3.2 Proposed Sub-stations ................................................................................................. 22 Physical Features o f the Transmission L ines ......................................................................... 23 Physical Features o f the Sub-stations .................................................................................... 23 Component o f the Construction Works ................................................................................. 24 Construction Equipment ........................................................................................................ 26 Work Schedule ...................................................................................................................... 27

Chapter 5 Description of Environmental Baseline .......................................................................... 29 5.1

5.2 5.3

5.4

5.5

Atmosphere and Water resources .......................................................................................... 29 5.1.1 Climate ........................................................................................................................ 29 5.1.2 Water level I flooding ................................................................................................. 32 5.1.3 Water Quality .............................................................................................................. 33 5.1.4 Air Quality .................................................................................................................. 33 5.1.5 Ambient Noise ............................................................................................................ 34 5.1.6 Natural Hazards .......................................................................................................... 34 Land Resource ....................................................................................................................... 36 Agriculture resources ............................................................................................................. 36 5.3.1 Land use ...................................................................................................................... 36 5.3.2 Crop production .......................................................................................................... 37 5.3.3 Agricultural input and Intercultural operation ............................................................ 37 Ecosystem .............................................................................................................................. 41 5.4.1 Terrestrial ecosystem .................................................................................................. 41 5.4.2 Aquatic ecosystem ...................................................................................................... 44 Socio-economic baseline ....................................................................................................... 46

Chapter 6 Identification and Analysis of Environmental Impacts ................................................. 47 6.1 Identification o f Important Environmental Components (IECs) ........................................... 47 6.2 Potential Environmental Impacts ........................................................................................... 49 6.3 Analysis o f Alternatives ........................................................................................................ 58

Chapter 7 Public Consultation and Disclosure ............................................................................... 59 7.1 Public Consultation ............................................................................................................... 59 7.2 Methodology .......................................................................................................................... 59 7.3 Results o f Public Consultation .............................................................................................. 62 7.4 Consultation with Govt . Organizations, Industries and Real Estate Companies ................... 64 7.5 Disclosure Plan ...................................................................................................................... 64

Chapter 8 Environmental Management Plan ................................................................................... 65 8.1 8.2

8.3

8.4

Introduction ........................................................................................................................... 65 Mit igation Plan ...................................................................................................................... 65 8.2.1 Mit igation measures for loss o f crop production ........................................................ 65 8.2.2 Mit igation measures for interruption in intercultural operation .................................. 65 8.2.3 Mit igation measures for Soi l erosion .......................................................................... 65 8.2.4 Mit igation measures for impact due to dismantling and construction waste at tower

and sub-station sites .................................................................................................... 65 8.2.5 Mit igation measures for potential impact due to electromagnatic f ie ld ...................... 66 8.2.6 Mit igation measures for impact due to hazardous waste handling and disposal ........ 66 8.2.7 Mit igation measures for impact due to gaseous emission (SF6) f rom Gas Insulation

System in SIS .............................................................................................................. 66 8.2.8 Mit igation measures for impact o n domestic wastewater discharge at tower sites ..... 66 8.2.9 Mit igation measures for impact o n ambient air quality .............................................. 66 8.2.10 Mit igation measures for impact o n vegetation ............................................................ 66 8.2.11 Mit igation measures for impact o n wetland and pond ................................................ 66 8.2.12 Mit igation measures for impact o n habitat for w i l d lives ........................................... 66 Enhancement Plan ................................................................................................................. 67 8.3.1 Vegetation ................................................................................................................... 67 Compensation Plan ................................................................................................................ 67

8.5 Institutional Requirements and Monitoring Plan .... , . , . , . , , . , . , . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . .67 8.6 Institutional Arrangement for EMP .... . , , . , , .. . , . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . .7 1 8.7 Budget for the Environmental Management Plan (EMP).. ... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . .72

Chapter 9 Conclusion and Recommendations ........................................................ . .... . .................. .75 9.1 Conclusion ............................................................................................................................. 75 9.2 Recommendations ................................................................................................................. 76

Appendix - A: ‘Site Clearance’ obtained from the Department of Environment (DOE)

Appendix - B: List of participants in public consultation sessions

Appendix - C: Letter to Dhaka WASA regarding land for Sub-station

Appendix - D: Letter to Local Government Office regarding public consultation

List o f tables

Table 4.1 : M a i n Components o f the Project ........................................................................................ 19 Table 4.2: Area covered by the Siddhirganj - Maniknagar T/L ...................................................... 2 1 Table 4.3: Physical features o f transmission lines ................................................................................ 23 Table 4.4: Physical features o f the proposed sub-stations under this project ....................................... 23 Table 5.1 : Water Levels o f r iver Lakhya for different re turn periods ................................................... 32 Table 5.2: Number o f Ponds and Canals along the ROW ..................................................................... 33 Table 5.3: Standards of ambient air quality .......................................................................................... 34 Table 5.4: Land use o f 230 kV transmission lines as Right o f Ways area ............................................ 36 Table 5.5: Annual Agricultural production and net return o f the Transmission l ines (right o f way) in

the project area .............................................................................................................................. 37 Table 5.4: Dominant plants in the ROW ............................................................................................... 42 Table 5.5: Terrestrial wildlife o f the study area .................................................................................... 43 Table 5.6: Macrophytes o f the wetlands in the study area .................................................................... 45 Table 5.7: Wetland dependent w i l d fauna o f the study area ................................................................. 45 Table 6.1: Rationale o f selecting environmental components .............................................................. 47 Table 6.2: Overall Assessment o f Environmental Impacts ................................................................... 50 Table 6.3: Specific Environmental Impacts in Each Tower Site .......................................................... 52

List o f figures

Figure 3.1 : Process followed in the EL4 study ..................................................................................... 15 Figure 4.1 : Location o f the project in the context o f Dhaka ................................................................. 20 Figure 5.1 : Monthly Average Temperature (Source: BMD) ................................................................ 29

Figure 2.1 : DOE Environmental Clearance Procedures .......................................................................... 7

Figure 5.2: Average Relative Humidity in Dhaka (Source: BMD) ....................................................... 30 Figure 5.3: Monthly Average Evaporation (Source: BWDB, Station- Narayanganj) ........................... 30 Figure 5.4: Monthly Average Rainfall (Source: BWDB, Station- Narayanganj) ................................. 31

Figure 5.6: Hydrograph o f River Lakhya (Source: BWDB, Station- Narayanganj) ............................. 32 Figure 5.7: Earthquake Zones o f Bangladesh ....................................................................................... 35 Figure 5.8: Image o f the ROW o f Siddhirganj - Maniknagar T/L ....................................................... 38 Figure 5.9: Major Landuse in the ROW o f Siddhirganj - Maniknagar T/L ......................................... 39

Figure 5.12: Abundance o f different species o f plants in the study area .............................................. 43 Figure 5.13: Wetlands in Maniknagar S/S ............................................................................................ 44 Figure 5.14: O/H transmission lines cross wetland sites .................................................................... 44 Figure 7.1 : Consultation with affected people (Tower 5 - 8) at Mij-Miji, Siddhirganj ........................ 60 Figure 7.2: Consultation with affected people (Tower 9 - 13) at Painadi New Mahalla, Siddhirganj . 61 Figure 7 . 3: Consultation w i th affected people (Tower 14 - 16) at Nurbag, Siddhirganj ..................... 61 Figure 7.4: Consultation with affected people (Tower 17 - 21) at Bamail, Dogair .............................. 61 Figure 7.5: Consultation with affected people (Tower 22 - 42) at Matuai l .......................................... 62

Figure 5.5: Monthly Average Wind Speed ........................................................................................... 31

Figure 5.1 1 : O/H transmission l ines cross fal low land ......................................................................... 41

Figure 8.1 : Institutional Set up for EMP ............................................................................................... 71

Executive Summary

With a view to meet the electricity demand o f the consumers, PGCB i s planning to construct transmission line facilities under the project “ Siddhirganj - Maniknagar 230 kV transmission line project” to extract power f rom the proposed 2 x 150 MW Siddhirganj Peaking Power Plant. The total length o f the line w i l l be about 11 km with two new sub-stations. The existing 132 kV transmission lines wil l be replaced by the new transmission lines.

PGCB wants to construct new 230 kV transmission line replacing the existing o ld 132 kV line along the same route because the Siddhirganj area i s densely populated and therefore getting new ROW i s difficult. That’s why PGCB has chosen the existing ROW. But people a l l along the route o f the transmission lines expressed reservations about the alignment. People urged that they are losing their land value, benefit f rom making multistoried buildings and l iv ing w i th risk although they were settled in the area after construction o f the existing transmission line. They suggested that the existing transmission line should be removed and the proposed new transmission line may be constructed over the DND canal or underground along the road. But these options are not suitable as there are limitation o f funds and construction o f towers on the DND canal, which i s use for water intake canal o f SSWTP. Hence, the existing ROW i s suitable for the proposed transmission line.

However, people recognize the fact that they wil l not get electricity directly f rom the transmission lines. The i r main consideration i s that the overall development in the power sector would contribute to the national development.

As requested by PGCB, the environmental and social impact assessment study has been carried out for the proposed transmission line, to be drawn over the existing alignment, without considering any alternative options.

An Ini t ia l Environmental Examination (IEE) was duly performed for the proposed project and ‘Site clearance’ for the project has been obtained f rom the Department o f Environment (DOE). In keeping with the recommendations o f the IEE report, DOE and Wor ld Bank, a full-fledged Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Social Impact Assessment (SIA)/ Resettlement Act ion Plan (RAP) study has been undertaken. In this regard, PGCB assigned CEGIS to undertake the EIA study for the proposed transmission lines. Hence, t h i s EIA report has been prepared.

The transmission lines wil l be double circuit, made o f Alluminium A l loy conductor materials. The l i n e sporting towers wil l be steel towers, which are o f two types - Tension and Suspension. Tension towers wil l be installed in the angles and suspension towers wil l be installed along path o f the lines as load bearing support. Disc type insulators wil l be used in the towers to bear the wires.

The project i s located in the eastern part o f Dhaka and Narayanganj district covering Demra, Sabujbagh and Narayanganj upazilas. The transmission lines wil l be drawn o n the alignment o f the existing 132 kV lines, which come from the power plant to the Maniknagar 132 kV sub-station. One new 230 kV sub-station wi l l be constructed at the Siddhirganj power plant premises and another one w i l l be set up near the existing Maniknagar sub-station o n the land o f Dhaka WASA. T h e land for the new sub-stations wil l be taken f rom Dhaka W A S A and Siddhirganj power plant.

The proposed transmission lines wil l pass through agricultural and non-agricultural lands. The Right o f Way (ROW) o f the line i s 50m, which covers about 60 ha. Under the existing conditions, agriculture accounts for 27.5% o f the total land use covering about 16.5 ha. The agricultural lands

Executive Summa y

occur mainly o n the northwestern part o f the study areas, mainly o n the soils o f the Madhupur Tract. These agricultural lands are used only for the single crop o f Boro (HYV) in the dry season and fish farming in the monsoon season. At present the area i s seasonally flooded to a depth o f 5 to 6 feet by both river and rainwater.

Inside the DND areas, most o f the agricultural lands are converted to settlements, roads, shops, markets etc. Before commissioning o f DND project, the area was deeply flooded and used for agricultural crops. At present the area i s shallowly flooded by rainwater and partly used for the high yielding variety o f Boro crops.

The alignment o f the Siddhirganj - Maniknagar transmission l ine falls under the greater Dhaka district, where the typical monsoon climate prevails as elsewhere in the country.

Along the ROW from Shiddirganj to Maniknagar, there are a few permanent ponds, canals and seasonal water bodies. During dry season the seasonal water bodies remain fully dry and in the monsoon they are f i l led by seasonal rainfall and f lood water f rom Lakhya River.

T h e air, water and noise quality are not tested, as this would not be affected significantly. Natural hazards l ike storms, earthquakes and erosion are not prominent in the area but seasonal flooding due to rainfall causes inundation in most o f the area.

The high yielding variety (HW) o f Boro crop i s practiced here, which includes BRRI 29. The yield o f Boro crop i s about 5.6 todha. About 92 tons o f paddy are produced in the right o f way areas. The net return f rom the agricultural sector i s about Taka 4,52,100 per year.

T h e settlements along the transmission alignment and i t s adjoining areas are dominated by coconut (Narikel), mango (Aam), koroi, banana (Kola), mahogany, jackfruit (kanthal), neem, guava (peyara) trees, etc. Ecologically important unrecognized shrubs and herbs are also found in the settlements area. The roadside vegetation i s dominated by Shishu, Acacia, herbs, etc. The fal low lands are covered w i th varieties o f herbs and grasses. T h e average height o f some trees crosses the existing height o f the tower (30 ft). The trees, for instance coconut, mango, mahogany, koroi, etc. those fa l l along the ROW, need to be trimmed or cut down in size for safety measures. So, th i s activity wil l have some adverse impacts on the local ecosystem. These plants have some commercial and ecological value.

T h e wetlands in Maniknagar receive wastewater f rom the Saidabad Water Treatment Plant and runoff f rom the adjoining agricultural lands. Local people cultivate fish in the perennial seasonal water bodies.

Since a separate Social Impact Assessment (SIA)/ Resettlement Act ion Plan (RAP) has been prepared for the proposed Siddhirganj - Maniknagar transmission line project, the socio-economic baseline condition o f the affected persons in the tower sites and in the ROW i s not repeated in th is report.

The proposed transmission line project wil l increase the electricity supply to residential, commercial and industrial sector o f Dhaka city and surroundings. The degree o f benefit i s not accounted but necessity to fulfill electricity demand got priority.

T h e proposed transmission lines might not have any irreversible negative impact on the environment. M inor negative impacts wil l be felt due to loss o f crop production, cutting o f vegetation, dismantling and construction waste disposal, disturbance to domestic waste water discharge, deterioration o f ambient air quality, disturbance to wetland, ponds and habitat for Wild lives during implementation o f the project.

These problems wou ld be overcome by avoiding crop land or trees as much as possible, paying compensation and bringing back these lands to their original f o rm before handing them over to the owners after the construction i s over. Spaying water wil l be needed to minimize local air pollution (SPW dust) in the tower construction sites. Materials should be transported at night and kept w i th

... V l l l

Executive Summary

temporary fencing at the construction sites. The domestic wastewater disposal sites should be relocated during construction period, Construction and dismantling wastes should be disposed o f f safely so that agriculture land, pond and wetlands can be restored quickly. There i s the potential o f electrocution by high voltage power line, waste transformer o i l disposal that contain PCB materials and SF6 gas emission from GIS system in the substations. Safe distance o f the structures should be maintained to avoid electrocution. Proper disposal method should be applied for waste transformer o i l disposal. SF6 gas leakage from GIS system should be monitored and controlled. Sand and concrete works should be done in non-agriculture land to avoid disturbance to productivity o f agriculture land.

The project i s not l ikely to have any major negative impact. So major mitigation i s not required. The minor impacts o f increase in noise and traffic wil l be within the existing level experienced normally.

The erection and installation should be done under expert supervision. T h e contractor should be under specific orders to provide PPE to the workers engaged for the job.

Local people along the transmission l i n e alignment w i l l be benefited, as the project wil l generate some employment opportunities for them during the pre-construction and construction phases.

A monitoring plan, if properly implemented during the pre-construction, construction and post- construction and operation phases wil l ensure taking corrective measures.

The proposed project wil l have no residual adverse impact o n the environment or o n the eco-system.

The selection o f season for carrying out the work should be made by adjusting w i th the cropping season so as to inf l ict minimum damage to f ield crops.

The construction labour camps should be provided w i th water supply and sanitation facilities. The workers should be apprised o f hygienic practices. The transportation o f heavy equipment should be done by river crafts where wheeling i s not feasible. The stores and equipment yards should be properly guarded so that al l equipment remains safe. T h e sub-stations should be fully equipped with fne fighting equipment.

Adequate precautionary measures like nets should be kept over the crossing points o f roads while stringing up the wires. Danger signs and public awareness would be also required.

Sanitary waste disposal sites should be prepared for construction wastes at the tower and sub-station sites during the construction period. Adequate hygienic conditions should be maintained at the waste disposal sites.

After the construction o f the towers and transmission lines, proper measures should be taken to dismantle labor sheds and leveling fields in the usual manner and to clear the fields. Common properties l ike playgrounds, ponds and open spaces should not be disturbed.

About TK. 15,00,000.00 i s estimated for implementing the Environmental Management Plan, which includes costs for training professionals, waste disposal, public awareness and reporting etc. As there i s a separate RAP study for th is project, the compensation estimates for asset loss have not been included in the E M P budget.

,A l l environmental impacts should be minimized through suggested mitigation measures and the E M P should be implemented properly.

A separate S W RAP study has been accomplished. I t i s necessary to implement the R A P so that negative impacts on project-affected households are mitigated. Other measures suggested in S I A report against social impacts are also to be implemented as per recommendation. All these are required to address the social issues, disturbance to human dwellings and infrastructure at the tower sites and the ROW as wel l as access roads to the tower sites.

Executive Summa y

The proposed project w i l l have no residual adverse impact on the environment or o n the eco-system. Finally, upon proper examination it i s recommended that the proposed project can be implemented safely and in an environment friendly manner. So the project may be cleared to proceed w i th i t s activities.