Mai Hydropower Project Environmental Impact Assessment Study: Executive Summary With Environmental Protection Measures

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1. NAME AND ADDRESS OF PROPOSAL AND PROPONENT i) ii) iii) Name of Proposal Location Name of Proponent : Mai Hydropower Project (MHP) : Soyak, Chisapani and Danabari VDCs; Ilam District : Sanima Hydropowr (P) Ltd. (SHPL) : Narayanchaur, Naxal, Kathmandu

iv) Address v) Contact

Phone/Fax No : Phone no: (977-1) 4446442/ 4415314 Fax no : (977-1) 4441277

Email : sanima@sanimahydro.com.np shpp@wlink.com.np Website : www.sanimahydro.com.np 2. BACKGROUND Nepal is considered to be a country rich in hydropower resources. However, with a total installed capacity of 617.48 MW (562.45MW from hydro) till 2007, only a small fraction of the available potential has been utilized. Presently Nepal is facing shortage of electricity and suffering from inevitable load shading. Load forecast estimated by Nepal Electricity Authority shows peak demand of electricity by 2011-12 to be 989.5 MW. This is expected to be met not only by in-house projects by NEA but also through projects developed by private sector. Government of Nepal has therefore opened way to private sector investments in the development of hydropower through the Hydropower Policy 2001. Encouraged by the policy, Sanima Hydropower (P) Ltd (SHPL), a private sector company established by engineer members of the Non-resident Nepalese Association (NRN) has identified a potential site on the Mai Khola covering parts of Soyak, Chisapani and Danabari VDCs of Ilam district and intends to implement the Mai Hydropower Project (MHP). Detail feasibility study of MHP conducted by in-house experts of the Engineering Department of SHPL is at completion stage. After conducting a comprehensive optimization study of two possible alternatives, a run-of-river hydropower system utilizing a gross head of 116.5 m and with a design discharge 16.0 m3/s resulting into 15.0 MW installed capacity is proposed. This is expected to produce approximately 95.6 GWh of net electricity per year. Implementation of such development projects is bound to bring in change in the overall environment. GoN has ensured integration of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) as an integral part of project development through enforcement of EPA-1996 and EPR-1997. Since installed capacity of MHP is more than 10 MW, the project is subjected to a full-fledged EIA study. Main purpose of the present EIA study is to identify, predict and evaluate positive and negative impacts due to implementation of MHP on physical, chemical, biological, socio-economic and cultural aspects of the environment; recommend measures to enhance beneficial impacts and minimize adverse environmental impacts by adopting principles of avoidance, mitigation and compensation and inform decision makers/stakeholders about environmental implications of MHP.

Mai Hydropower Project Environmental Impact Assessment Study: Executive Summary With Environmental Protection Measures

The EIA report is an outcome of the EIA study carried out by the Engineering Department of SHPL following the approved Scoping report, the approved ToR and various policy related documents, legislations and guidelines. The report is based on full scale field study by various experts on related topics and desk study of topographic maps, aerial photographs availed by Department of Survey and various relevant documents and reports. Digital version of the topographic maps has been utilized for analyzing and displaying geographical information applying ArcView GIS software. 3. MAIN PROJECT COMPONENTS AND SALIENT FEATURES Main components of MHP comprises of headworks arrangement including diversion weir, spillway, intake, stilling basin, flushing arrangement; headrace tunnel including inlet and outlet portal; penstock arrangement; powerhouse; access road and transmission line. A 133 m long weir is designed to divert water into an 82 m long three chambered settling basin through orifice intake with gravel trap. The water cleared by settling basin will be delivered by 775 m long trapezoidal headrace canal to the 2172 m long headrace tunnel comprising of inlet portal, the main tunnel and the outlet portal. The tunnel will be joined to a 474 m long penstock pipe arrangement with the surge shaft at the junction which primarily acts as a pressure relief system. The penstock pipe then delivers the water to a semi-surface powerhouse which houses two vertical axis turbine and generator arrangements. Two generating units, each of 7.5 MW capacities will make the proposed 15 MW Installed Capacity of MHP (net head is 109.42 m and design discharge of 16.0m3/s). The water discharged from powerhouse will be carried to Lodhiya khola through a 1370 m long stone masonry tailrace canal and 225 m tailrace pipe along the right bank of Muse Khola. The water will subsequently flow back to Mai Khola at the Lodhiya-Mai confluence. The electricity generated by the powerhouse will be evacuated to the NEA sub-station at Anarmani, Jhapa by a 24 km long 132 kV single circuit transmission line. EIA of the transmission will be conducted separately and detail of transmission line will be presented in the EIA report. Salient Features of MHP 1 Location : Soyak, Danabari and Chisapani VDC, Ilam District, Eastern Development Region of Nepal : To supply electricity to the national grid for domestic use

Purpose of Project

Hydrology Catchment Area : 589.0 km2 Average Flow : 32.66 m3/s (minimum monthly flow 6.46 m3/s) Design Flow : 16.0 m3/s Design Flood (Q100) : 3590 m3/s

Diversion Structure Type : Concrete gravity weir Slope : Ogee-profile

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Mai Hydropower Project Environmental Impact Assessment Study: Executive Summary With Environmental Protection Measures

Crest Elevation : 316.0 m above msl Crest Length : 133.0 m Maximum height : 5.5 m 5 River Arrangement Diversion

Length : Along the river channel Diversion flow : 1410 m3/s Coffer dams : Two cofferdams facilitating stage1 and stage2 concreting (Total coffer dam length=660m) 6 Spillway Type : Under-sluice (2x8m width) and over-flow weir Crest Elevation : 316.0 m above msl (undersluice 311.0 m above msl) Maximum Flood Level : 322.5 m above msl Length : 133.0 m Design Discharge : 3590 m3/s 7 Intake : Type : Side Intake, Submerged orifice intake Number of Orifices : 4 Bottom Elevation of Orifice : 313.5 m above msl Top Elevation of Orifice : 315.5 m above msl Length of Orifices : 3.0 m 8 Gravel Trap Type : Conventional flushing, Single chamber Top elevation : 317.75 m above msl Average Height : 6.2 m Average Width : 14.0 m Spillway crest elevation : 316.0 m above msl Spillway length : 20 m

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Mai Hydropower Project Environmental Impact Assessment Study: Executive Summary With Environmental Protection Measures

Settling Basin Type : Conventional flushing Number of Chamber : 3 (Three) Top elevation : 316.30 m above msl Normal Operation elevation : 315.80 m above msl Length of the basin : 70.3 m Average Height : 5.25 m Average Width per Chamber : 8.25 m

10 Headrace Canal Type : Trapezoidal, Stone masonary with concrete lining Length : 775 m Height : 2.5 m Bottom width : 2.5 m Longitudinal slope : 1:1500 (Vertical:Horizontal) Side slopes : 1:1 (Vertical:Horizontal) 11 Headrace Tunnel Length : 2172.0 m Dimensions : Inverted D 3.8x3.8m, (13 m2-finish) Discharge : 16.00 m3/s 12 Surge Tank dimensions Type : Vertical, circular section Height : 28.0m Diameter : 6.0m (finish) 13 Penstock : Length : 474m Diameter/thickness : 2.35 m internal dimeter/10 mm to 28 mm thickness 14 Power Facilities

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Mai Hydropower Project Environmental Impact Assessment Study: Executive Summary With Environmental Protection Measures

Powerhouse Type : Semi-surface Dimensions : 27.0 m x 22 m Gross Head : 116.5 m (316.0 199.5 m above msl) Net Head : 108.9 m Installed capacity : 15 MW (2x7.5MW) Annual Net Energy Output : 95.60 GWh Annual Net wet Energy : 75.7 GWh (Baisakh to Mangsir) Output Annual Net dry Energy : 19.9 GWh (Paush to Chaitra) Output 15 Tailrace Canal Type : Trapezoidal, Stone masonry with concrete lining and steel pipe Length : 1370 m canal and 1.5 dia pipe 225 m Height : 1.5 m Bottom width : 1.5 m Longitudinal slope : 1:100 (Vertical : Horizontal) Side slopes : 1:1 (Vertical : Horizontal) 16 Transmission Facilities: Transmission line length : 24 km Voltage level : 132 kV 17 Project Cost : 2320 million NPR (30.5 million USD) at price level of March 2006 excluding transmission line :

18 Economic/Financial Indicators

Benefit cost ratio (B/C Ratio) : 1.38 Internal Rate of Return : 15.67% NPV Government : 1,020 million NPR takes (as a tax and royalty) Net Present Worth : 979 million NPR

Mai Hydropower Project Environmental Impact Assessment Study: Executive Summary With Environmental Protection Measures

19 Cost/kW of Installed Capacity

: 2,379 USD/kW (Forex 1USD =

4. MAIN ACTIVITIES AND APPROACH TO CONSTRUCTION Project activities are classified into pre-construction, construction and post construction activities. Activities during pre-construction stage are further site investigation and completion of detail survey including core drilling, land acquisition and leasing, camps and facilities for project staff etc. Construction stage is commenced when the main civil construction contractor is mobilized to the site. Main civil works include construction of headworks structure including two coffer-dams, tunnel, powerhouse, access road etc. It also includes environmental protection measures as recommended in the Environmental Management Plan (EMP). Other works include hydromechanical works, powerhouse equipment and the transmission line etc. Operation stage activities comprise of operation and regular maintenance works, some social support works as well as the works recommended to be carried out under Environment Management Plan during operation stage. The works will be carried out by separating them into contract packages. One main package of civil works including headwork, tunnel system and the powerhouse will form the main civil contract. Other work packages will be transmission line system, hydro-mechanical works and powerhouse equipment. Access road, the camps, power supply etc. together will form one package. Engineering design and construction supervision of the project will be conducted by in-house engineering department of the SHPL. Main guideline for implementation management will be the Project Implementation Schedule. It has been carefully derived on the basis of calculated quantity of works to be done and the time that is required to design, fabricate, supply and install major components. Major activities and schedule is presented in Figure 3.3: Implementation Schedule. Peak time human resource is estimated to be around 450 persons. Unskilled peak time labor has been estimated to be in the range of 250 to 300 persons. The skilled labour, foreman, operaters will be between 50-60 numbers whereas the administrative and managerial resources will be around 15 numbers. Technical human resources will be around 30 numbers and other support/guard staff will be about 40 nos. 5. EXISTING ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITION THE BASELINE Record of existing environmental condition in a structured frameworki.e the baseline will be necessary later to be used as the standard base to measure changes and actual impact and also to monitor the implementation of Environmental Protection Measures (EPMs). Existing environmental condition within the spatial extent of DIA, IIA and SA of MHP for most of the issues and for the spatial extent covering Ilam district for other relevant issues has been obtained, analyzed and presented in detail. Summary of the main features are presented in following sections. 5.1. Physical Environment MHP project area lies in a typical mountain area with elevation ranging from 250m to 600m amsl. The climate of the area is subtropical. The project area lies in the Siwaliks and is characterized by a highly rugged relief. Mai Khola at the headwork area is a wide U-shaped valley formed by moderately vertical rock cliff at right bank and moderate dipping rock at left bank. Recent alluvial deposits are distributed alongside of the bank; the flat terrain on the left bank at Gunmune is one such typical deposit. Major rock types in the project area are sandstone, siltstone and mudstone. Main Boundary Thrust (MBT) lies at about 500m north of

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Mai Hydropower Project Environmental Impact Assessment Study: Executive Summary With Environmental Protection Measures

the proposed weir axis. Seismic map of Nepal suggests that the MHP area falls in the second seismic risk zone category. The Mai Khola is a spring fed perennial river which also drains the heavy monsoon rain. It originates from the Mahabharat range at Bhalukhop Danda; catchment area considering the intake site is 589 km2 and lies completely within Ilam district. Upper part of the catchment area is mostly dominated by dense forest, which significantly contributes to keep the river perennial. The river is called Kankaimai Nadi before entering into Jhapa district. Major tributaries of Mai Khola are Jogmai Khola and Puwamai Khola. Other drains that join it are the Thade Khola and Karphok Khola. Steep hills and slopes are present in higher elevation followed by gentle cultivated slopes on lower elevation and flat alluvial terraces on banks of the Mai Khola. Typical characteristics of landslide and mass wasting in the Siwalik Mountains are observed in the Mai Khola basin. There are no significant landslide sites in the catchment area that should be specifically accounted in the planning of MHP. No groundwater polluting industries are there in the area. Also, there is no air polluting industry or perceptible road traffic. No perceptible noise generating industry or activities are present in the area, though some minor noise due to vehicle movement, especially in the dry season, in the roads of area could be felt. Land use of the project area consists of the forest, tea plantation, grass, bushes, cultivation, rivers and stream channels and alluvial deposits (sand and gravel) adjacent to the river flow path. There are two tea processing factories which use anti-insecticides for tea plant treatment which may produce some air and water polluting effect. 5.2. Biological Environment Forest occupies 47.2% of the total land area of Ilam district. The Mai Valley forests which forms part of the Mai watershed falls entirely within the Ilam. Forest in the project area lies in the tropical zone having altitude ranging from 200m to 600m. Land use pattern of the project site consists of mainly forests, grassland and some cultivated land. The land type/use of land consists of mainly community forest land, and private owned cultivated land. The forest land within the project area is managed by three community forest groups namely - Gunmune Ghaletar Community Forest, Chisapani-9 (196ha); Mai Valley Community Forest, Soyak-9 (381ha); Jhantechuli Community Forest, Danabari-6 (937ha). There are no any government managed forests, leasehold forests and private forests. Dominant tree species found are Sal, Asna, Karma, Jamuna, Bhalayo, Maina kath, Chilaune, Barro etc. Tree density of direct impact zone is 63 per ha and that of indirect impact zone is 202 per ha. The indirect impact zone is densely forested with small trees and the direct impact zone is sparsely forested with big trees. Estimated forest area (vegetation cover only) to be occupied by project construction works is 1.37 hectares and total volume of standing wood to be felled are 12.08 m2/ha with stem volume 5677 ft3/ha in DIA and Basal area 25.99m2/ha with stem volume 11823.28 ft3/Ha in IIA. The project area is rich from the point of view of biodiversity. Altogether 83 plant species were recorded from the project impact area. Among the recorded species, there were 43 species of trees, 21 species of shrubs, 9 species of herbs, 6 species of climbers, 3 species of bamboos and one species of epiphyte. Together with the typical wild life the scaly ant eater namely Pangolin (Salak) which is specific to the area, avifauna, reptiles and amphibians are found. Likewise, fish and aquatic life including, long and short distance migratory fishes, eriphytons, zooplamblon and fishery resources exists. Endangered and Protected Flora and Fauna and hazard due to forest fire has also been included in the report. Status of conservation efforts on biodiversity in the area was analyzed. Main challenges faced regarding conservation of biological environment are conversion of forest land into agricultural land, habitat loss, deforestation and degradation of the forest, sustainable use of sal trees, challenges to forest biodiversity, non timber forest products and forest fires.

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Mai Hydropower Project Environmental Impact Assessment Study: Executive Summary With Environmental Protection Measures

5.3. Socio-economic and Cultural Environment General status of the project area as a whole comprising of DIA, IIA and SA was obtained and then specific study of the DIA was carried out. 5.3.1 Status in Project Area (DIA, IIA and SA) covering 8 VDCs Total household in the project area is about 9996 with population of 54407 (male 27188, female 27209) resulting into average household size of 5.42 person per house. It is found that 31 % of the household is below poverty line, 47% have food sufficiency nearly for 6 month. 21% of the population lies in food sufficient category and only 1% lies in surplus food category. 95% of the total population in the project area is engaged in agriculture and only 5% of the total population in the project area is engaged in other occupation such as teacher, lawyer, police, foreign employment, carpenter, mason, goldsmith, businessman, technicians, driver etc. Land holding in the project area ranges between 10-80 Ropanies; average land holding of 10 ropani. Most of the people residing here do not have legal land holding paper (Jagga Dhani Parman Purja). The principal agriculture crops in the project area are Paddy, Mize, Wheat, Millet, Bean and Vegetables. Basically, income from agriculture and livestock provides the subsistence requirements for the families Most of people are engaged on agriculture which is seasonal in nature so the productive manpower remains unemployed for about 6 months over the year. Some people get employment as tea labor for about 3 months over the year. Only unskilled human resources are available here. The tea factory located at Chisapani-9, Soktim and Danabari as well Chilingkot is the major industry in the project area. Price of Khet is Rs 30,000/ to 35,000/ per Ropani, Price of Bari is Rs 20,000/ to 25,000/ per Ropani and price of Pakho type of land is Rs 15,000/ per Ropani. Regarding infrastructural development, it is found that most of the villages are joined with small local roads. In the areas like Danabari, Chisapani and Mahamai 2 buses provide public passenger services on daily basis. Taxis also play to the area on as an when hired basis. Regarding communication, the Jitpur and Banjho is provided with post office. People of Chisapani, Danabari, Mahamai, Soyak, Ivang and Siddhithumka VDcs also have access to the post office. Presently, telephone distribution work is being carried out in most of the areas which is expected to be the most important means of communication. Only two VDCS namely Chisapani and Soyak have electricity. Presently Danabari VDC is used for base camp of People Liberation Army of Nepal Communist Party (Maobadi); it is reported that the process for electrification of the VDC has been initiated. People of all other area use kerosene lamp for lighting purpose and firewood for cooking purposes. 5.3.2 Specific Study of Project Affected Families in DIA and IIA There are 82 project affected households in DIA and IIA of MHP in the three VDCs namely Chisapani, Soyak and Danabari. Socio-economic study specific to the 82 households was conducted separately. Total population is 488 (male 252, female 236) with average household size 6. Of the total of 82 household, 26 household has sufficient food for less than 6 month, 39 household for a year and only 7 household has surplus food. 78% are engaged in agriculture and only 22% is engaged in other occupation. Approximately 38% of the households are self sufficient in food; 47% were reported to be short of food and 9% households have surplus food. Other socio-economic aspects such as age group and sex, caste/ethnicity and religion, gender aspect, marginalized family, economic profile including occupation, land holding, agricultural production and food sufficiency status of the people in DIA is reported is presented in Chapter

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Mai Hydropower Project Environmental Impact Assessment Study: Executive Summary With Environmental Protection Measures

4. Also existing situation about off farm activities, income and expenditure status, employment condition and availability of human resources, socio-economic and cultural development parameters such as literacy and education, health and sanitation etc is also presented in the same chapter. 6. GENERAL PERCEPTION AND PEOPLE'S EXPECTATION People in the DIA and IIA are found to be well informed about the project and its various effects and possible impact through interaction with SHPL various investigative studies, socioeconomic survey, public response process for scoping etc. and are well aware that they will be fully compensated for their land (both permanent and temporary) that the project will occupy. They are generally enthusiastic at the prospect of such a large development activity taking place and expect to derive benefit in terms of employment opportunity, trading, services etc. They are optimistic about getting support for electrification of the area and support in implementation of other local development needs. Thus the people are found to have a positive perception and they would like the project be implemented at the earliest. 7. ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES IDENTIFIED, EVALUATION AND PROTECTION MEASURES All significant environmental issues during construction as well as operation stage of MHP classified into physical, biological and socio-economic and cultural domain and was identified as per the process prescribed by EPA and EPR and other standard method. Altogether 56 issues (6, 9 and 20 issues pertaining to physical, biological and socio-economic domain respectively during construction stage and similarly 3, 6 and 12 issues during operation stage) were identified and prioritized during scoping phase. Likely environmental effect and impact, both adverse as well as beneficial due to the prioritized issues were studied, evaluated and rated for its significance, extent of the impact and duration. Also the area of influence (DIA, IIA, SA) and significance of the impact has been determined. Of the total of 56 issues, impact due to 45 were found to be adverse, 8 beneficial, impact due to 1 issue (issue of possible change in ecosystem of Lodhiya Khola) is not assessable and 2 issues (related to construction of peaking pond for a particular PROR alternative) identified at the stage of scoping became non-relevant because the option has been dropped after optimization study (SROR option adopted instead of PROR) since there is no need of a peaking pond. Appropriate environmental protection measures to avoid, minimize or compensate for the adverse impacts and enhancement measures for the beneficial impacts have been proposed. Additional issues identified during detail EIA study has also been evaluated. Summary of the impacts identified, its evaluation and environmental protection measures is shown in table presented at the end of the executive summary. 8. BENEFIT TO LOCAL PEOPLE AND ROYALTY TO GOVERNMENT TO NEPAL GoN will be benefited by MHP on two aspects-royalties for installed capacity and royalty for energy produced. Royalty on account of installed capacity (15.0 MW) will be NRs 1,500,000.00 per year for first 15 years and Nrs 15,000,000.00 per year after that. Royalty on account of energy will be as per annual energy produced. For the estimated 95.6 GWh energy produced per year, royalty will be 8,101,560.00 per year for first fifteen years and NRs 405,50,400.00 per year after that. The local community will directly benefit from the proposed local development activities as part of Environmental Protection Measures such as rural electrification, upgrading of existing road, water supply, development of irrigation facility etc. They will also be benefited from the numerous type of employment opportunity generated during the construction period of about 3.5 years. Employment will increase the income level of the workers. The increased income level, in turn, is expected to improve the overall living condition. Also part of the royalty will be diverted to the DDC, Ilam which will be used for development activities of Ilam. The affected VDCs will receive part of the royalty through the DDC.

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Mai Hydropower Project Environmental Impact Assessment Study: Executive Summary With Environmental Protection Measures

9. ALTERNATIVE ANALYSIS All possible alternatives have been analyzed including the no project alternative. After a comprehensive optimization study carried out for the Peaking Run-of-River (PROR) and also for the traditional Run-of-River alternatives, the RoR alternative was adopted. Therefore, peaking pond will not be required thereby rendering the issue of loss of football field to be irrelevant. 10. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN Appropriate monitoring indicators to measure change due to implementation of EPM have been developed. Monitoring method, specific monitoring activity, frequency, timeframe and the agency responsible to carry out the activity has been covered in the proposed Environmental Management Plan agency responsible and timeframe. Summary of the prioritized issues, evaluation, proposed mitigation measure, time frame of implementation of the measures and agency responsible for its implantation is shown in the table at the end of this executive summary. 11. CONCLUSION The Proposed Mai Hydropower Project located at Soyak, Chisapani and Danabari VDCs of Ilam district with the main objective to generate hydroelectricity by using water of Mai Khola (installed capacity of 15.0 MW) and supply to the National grid of NEA will contribute to achieve the required national electricity demand forecast. Together with the beneficial aspect, implementation of the project will have adverse environmental impacts. As per the provisions of EPA and EPR, MHP has been subjected to detail EIA process. All relevant information on the significant environmental issues identified and prioritized during scoping phase obtained through field observation/measurement and study of related literature has been analyzed and likely effect and impact has been evaluated in terms of its magnitude, spatial extent of the impact and duration (long term, short term). Some of the issues were found to be not relevant because of adoption of the ROR alternative instead of the PROR. Comprehensive mitigation measures to avoid, minimize or compensate for each of the adverse impacts and enhance beneficial impacts have been proposed. Further, Environmental Management Plan to ensure proper implementation of the proposed mitigation measures and also its monitoring and auditing aspect has been proposed. Together with being techno-economically beneficial to achieve the main objective of hydroelectricity generation, MHP will have beneficial impact on the local population. Prospect of direct benefits in terms of local development works (electrification of the area, road construction, irrigation, health facility etc.) to be carried out a as a part of the project and also opportunity for employment has created enthusiasm among the local people. Provision of compensation measures to address land acquisition issues will remove apprehensions about providing private land, both permanent and temporary to be occupied by MHP. Thus, Mai Hydropower Project should be implemented.

Mai Hydropower Project Environmental Impact Assessment Study: Executive Summary With Environmental Protection Measures

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 1. MINIMIZATION /COMPENSATION OF ADVERSE IMPACT

A.
1.

Solution Measures Construction Stage

Degradation of springs

to

Impacts

on

Physical

Environment

during

MHP will take following action to minimize possible degradation of the springs in terms of decrease in discharge and degradation of its quality: 1. Provide drinking water supply at least equivalent to the presently available quantity and quality at the same location from the water supply arrangement for MHP. 2. Construct water supply system (surface water and/or dug well) separately for the workforce so that there will be no additional pressure on the springs 3. Construct temporary fences around the springs to prevent the direct pollution of these springs 2. Change in land use due to tunnel muck disposal 1. The sites will be carefully selected so that the disturbance created and possible future adverse impact will be such a way that they would not obstruct the river flow in wet season. 2. The disposed material will be compacted and with proper moisture so that it is stable and less dust is released while disposing. Proper composition with water sprinkling to avoid air pollution and subsequent erosion during rainy season 3. The disposed area will be shaped and landscaped to give attractive aesthetics and also harmonize with the surrounding area by planting trees of indigenous species and other bio-engineering works 3. Degradation air quality in tunnel, around concrete mixture and diesel generator 1. Provide adequate ventilation and oxygen inflow arrangement inside tunnel and also provide mask to the tunneling workforce 2. Keep construction equipment, generator, vehicles etc. in good working condition through scheduled maintenance 3. The issue on impact to workforce is dealt in the issue on occupational hazard to tunneling crew. 4. Degradation water quality MHP will take following corrective action to minimize the impact: MHP will take following corrective action to minimize the impact: MHP will take following corrective actions to minimize the impact due to the land use change.

1. Keep all the mechanical equipments in proper working condition

2. Install concrete mixing plant adequately away from river and spring so that pollution is minimum 3. Dispose solid waste generated in camps in proper waste bins; the bins will be kept at a safe distance from river and springs. The waste will be classified and different bins used for each type 4. Collect and dispose wasted/leftover construction materials like cement bags, iron rods, oils, drums etc. in environmentally sound manner. Wherever possible the wastes will be sold to nearby market. (e.g. Jhapa) 5. Slope stability (Particular at tunnel portals) 1. Cut the unstable slopes and provide benching till stability is reached MHP will take following preventive and corrective actions to minimize the impact:

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Mai Hydropower Project Environmental Impact Assessment Study: Executive Summary With Environmental Protection Measures

2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Avoid vulnerable slopes that is out of scope of being stabilized Minimize use of explosives at surface area to reduce possibility of triggering of slides Apply engineering solution in terms of gabion retaining wall to protect slope Apply bio-engineering to stabilize vulnerable spots

Impact on topography, river morphology and soil stability due to quarrying of construction material

Construction materials will not be quarried from only one site, rather quarry sites will be distributed over the available area so that the impact is minimum and such that flood will refill quarry sites so that topography is not changed permanently

B.
1.

Solution Measures to Impacts on Physical Environment during Operation Stage

Change in erosion pattern & river morphology of Lodhiya Khola 1. Construct bank protection works (gabion spurs and/or revetment ) to prevent erosion of banks of Lodhiya Khola at appropriate location 2. Conduct study/experiment on the possibility to use much disposed from tunnel for protection of banks of Lodhiya Khola or any other creative use. 3. Study longitudinal and cross section of affected portion of river after every rainy season

MHP will take following preventive/corrective measure to minimize the impact

2.

Change in river dynamics of Mai Khola

Decrease in discharge in dry months in the dewatered stretch (Weir-Mai-Deomai confluence) will reduce carrying capacity of river, erosion & transportation of the sediment in this stretch resulting in temporary change in river regime. No practical mitigation measure is possible however environmental flow of at least 500 l/s will contribute to reduce the adverse impact. 3. Degradation of springs due to tunneling Actions to be taken by MHP as measure against degradation of springs for any reason whatsoever is presented in Section 5.1.1-Solution Measures to Impacts on Physical Environment during Construction Stage; Issue No. 1: Possibility of Degradation of springs

C.
1.

Solution Measures Construction Stage

to

Impacts

on

Biological

Environment

during

Loss of forest resources 1. Compensatory plantation 2.4 Ha land area (2535 saplings or 1:25 plant saplings as per GoN rules) in the three affected community forest area 2. Regarding use of forest area for construction purpose as well as for generation period, the forest land area required will be obtained on lease from GoN as per provisions of prevalent Forest Act 3. Cash compensation to the owner of private tree as per prevalent practice

MHP will take following measures to minimize the impact:

2.

Fire Hazard and habitat destruction 1. Give priority and employ maximum local people 2. Implement code of contact and organize orientation program at regular interval 3. Locate workforce camp at safe distance

MHP will take following measures to minimize the impact:

3.

Disturbance of wildlife habitat

MHP will take following measures to minimize the impact:

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Mai Hydropower Project Environmental Impact Assessment Study: Executive Summary With Environmental Protection Measures

1. Minimize and control use of explosive use 2. Prohibit blast activity during night (10pm to 4am) 4. Increase pressure on forest 1. Employ as much local people as possible so that pressure of influx of people from outside is minimum thereby minimizing pressure in forest for fuel wood and timber 2. Implement code of conduct and organize orientation program at regular interval to provide required information and increase awareness of workforce specially on things that may be done and things that should not be done 3. Encourage workforce to use alternative fuel eg. kerosene/LPG to workforce. Study feasibility to use solar energy and give priority if found feasible 4. Ensure that workforce use kerosene/LPG by making it obligatory in the contract agreement 5. Illegal Hunting and Poaching 1. Employ as much local people as possible so that pressure of influx of people from outside is minimum thereby minimizing intimidation/hunting/poaching of wildlife 2. Implement code of conduct and organize orientation program at regular interval to provide required information and increase awareness of workforce specially on things that may be done and things that should not be done such as illegal hunting and poaching 3. Conduct program to increase awareness of adjoining community 6. Impact on rare, endemic, endangered, protected & threatened species of flora and fauna 1. Compensatory plantation proposed in Issue No 1 above will include saplings of sal. 2. As mitigation measures for possible impacts due to "forest fire" & "increased pressure on forest" has already been proposed in respective headings, no additional mitigation measure will be required 7. Impact on wildlife due to construction activities Mitigation measures for possible impact due to construction disturbances, forest fire and increased pressure, on forest & illegal hunting & practicing have been proposed on respective headings, No other practical mitigation measures are possible. 8. Impact on Aquatic habitat and fish 1. Control of spillage of oil, chemicals & other construction materials, regular maintenance of machines & equipments 2. Avoidance of removal of river bed and basic material as far as possible. 3. Implementation of Code of Conduct, and organization of orientation Programme in order to restrict the workers (and their families) to be instructed-illegal fishing 4. Conduct awareness program to the adjoining communities 9. Impact on terrestrial and aquatic habitat of flora and fauna 1. Provide sufficient no of crossing structures over those structures that hinder movement of animals so as to facilitate their easy movement 2. Release downstream flow of at least 500 l/s so that impact on aquatic habitat is minimum MHP will take following measures to minimize the impact: MHP will take following measures to minimize the impact: MHP will take following measures to minimize the impact: MHP will take following measures to minimize the impact:

MHP will take following measures to minimize the impact:

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Mai Hydropower Project Environmental Impact Assessment Study: Executive Summary With Environmental Protection Measures

3. Other mitigation measures have been described in respective headings

D.
1. 2.

Solution Measures to Impacts on Biological Environment during Operation Stage

Impact on fish and their habitat in Mai Khola Impact on migratory fishes in Mai Khola

Mitigation measure to this impact is described in impact no 2 below. Water release structure for release of 10 % of low flow discharge of Mai Khola (about 500 l/s) of water through the weir will be included in the design, weir will be constructed accordingly. 3. Impact on Rare, Endangered, Protected and Threatened species of flora and faunal

In order to mitigate this impact MHP will implement strong Code of Conduct for the O & M staff. 4. (a) Impact on safety and movement of wildlife due to operation of tailrace canal (long open canal) (b) Impact due to sudden water dischared from weir to the "dewatered zone" during lean season due to stoppage of powerhouse MHP will take following measures to minimize the impact: 1. Provide canal crossing structures at probable locations but in the area of human habitation there will be no significant impact except to domestic animals 2. Provide alarm system to inform release of water No other mitigation measures possible 5. 6. Impact on river ecosystem of Lodhiya Khola Impact on terrestrial and aquatic habitat of flora and fauna Impact not clearly understood so no mitigation measures proposed. Mitigation measures have been proposed in the heading under "Impact on Biological Environment during Construction stage"

E.
1.

Solution Measures to Impacts on Environment during Construction Stage

Loss of land and property

Socio-Economic

and

Cultural

MHP will take following action to acquire/hire required land: 1. Land belonging to private owner will be purchased by paying appropriate price. Price will be decided based on prevalent market price, consultation with the land owner, local community, and following prevalent laws. 2. Government land, especially forest land will be leased as per prevalent law. 3. Agricultural land required temporarily will be leased by paying annual lease price. Annual value of the agricultural production will be considered while fixing the lease price. The leased land will be brought in a state equivalent, if not better than initial condition before returning. 4. The area for temporary land acquisition will be fixed in such a way that there will be least farming hindrances to the adjacent area in consultation with local people and land owner. 2. 3. Electrification expansion in Chisapani-9, Gunmune Ghaletar (5km) Motor road expansion (Soktim to Gunmune- 5km) Mitigation measure for this impact has been dealt under SSCP.

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Mai Hydropower Project Environmental Impact Assessment Study: Executive Summary With Environmental Protection Measures

Mitigation measure for this impact has been dealt under SSCP. 4. 5. 6. Road maintenance on Khudunabari to Soktim Skill enhancement, education, employment and health support Providing employment opportunity to local people priority as per their capacity and qualifications Occupational hazard to tunneling crew Mitigation measure for this impact has been dealt under SSCP. Mitigation measure for this impact has been dealt under SSCP.

It has been addressed on enhancement measures for beneficial impacts. 7. MHP will abide by the provisions of labor act and will make arrangement to implement following preventive and mitigation measures to minimize the hazard. 1. Conduct orientation program on a routine basis to orient the workforce on safety measures to be taken while working in the tunnel. Visitors will also be oriented before entering the tunnel. 2. Provide each person entering the tunnel for any purpose whatsoever will with safety helmet, ear plug, a mask and special safety suit 3. Install adequate lighting and ventilation arrangement inside tunnel to make the environment conducive to comfortable working requirement 4. Maintain appropriate time gap between blasting and working inside the tunnel 5. Train the tunneling workforce on work procedures and safety measures in case of accidents 6. Establish one health care unit in the project site staffed by a nurse, a helper and all equipments and medicines as required, to handle accidents and provide primary health care 8. Fire hazards to nearby settlement MHP will take following preventive measures to minimize the risk of fire hazard to nearby settlement; 1. Develop and implement a Code of Conduct clearly listing the conduct that the workforce living in camps should obey. 2. Conduct orientation program at regular intervals to inform the workers about the provisions of code of conduct 9. Damage to nearby houses/structures due to blasting 1. Employ highly experienced blasting experts skilled in estimating optimum quantity of explosive in terms of work progress and possible damage. 2. Pre-splitting technology which will not only help to reduce the possible damage to the structures but also to reduce over breakage in tunnel will be applied as far as possible. 3. In case of occurrence of damage, MHP will make arrangement to pay adequate compensation based on damage actually occurred. Compensation amount in cash or kind will be decided in consultation with concerned party, local community, Government agency, NGOs, if any. MHP will arrange third party insurance to cover the risks due to blasting activity. 10. Change in transportation pattern 1. Optimize use of heavy transportation vehicles so that the impact is minimized. MHP will take following preventive and corrective measures in order to minimize the impact: MHP will take following preventive and corrective measures in order to minimize the impact:

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Mai Hydropower Project Environmental Impact Assessment Study: Executive Summary With Environmental Protection Measures

2. Sprinkle water over the roads in project area especially nearby settlement areas so that the affect due to dust is minimized. 3. Repair and maintain the road damaged due to use for project activities 4. Conduct orientation program to drivers so that hazard of accident is minimized 5. Reform the temporary roads into appropriate use after completion of project 6. Identify locations vulnerable to accident and establish protection indicators 7. In case of occurrence of accidental events it will be handled as per legal provisions. 8. Provide third party insurance against accidents 11. Degradation of sanitary and hygienic condition 1. Construct adequate no. of construction camps (employers camps and contractors camps) with all basic facilities such as electricity, water supply and sanitation. Entertainment & recreation facilities such as sports grounds, television room, news desk etc. will also be provided in the camps 2. Develop a Code of Conduct, containing list of codes to be followed by workforce and employees of MHP to ensure proper sanitary and hygienic condition 3. Conduct orientation program on a periodic basis to educate the code of conduct and to make it mandatory 4. Organize social awareness in DIA and IIA so as to aware the public on sanitation and hygiene. 5. Provide treatment facility to local people to treat common communicable disease. In the Primary Care Unit established for the workforce and MHP staff 12. Degradation of agricultural land on right bank of Muse Khola due to tailrace construction 1. Land that will be required permanently or temporarily for construction of tailrace canal will be acquired in similar manner as mentioned in mitigation measures of Issue No 1 (Socio-economic and Cultural domain during Construction stage) above. 2. Land vulnerable to erosion due to the tailrace canal will be protected appropriately so that it is safe. 3. Construction works will be carried out in such a way that disturbance to adjacent land is minimum 13. Impact on people's behavior and local economy due to increased economic activity 1. Implement the Sanima Support and Cooperation Program (SSCP) to carry out social welfare activities which will include "Social Awareness Program" to inspire local community to abstain from social evils. 2. Prepare and implement "Code of Conduct" with list of social conducts to guide project staff and workforce on minimum social behavior 3. Organize regular orientation program to disseminate the Code of Conduct to workforce, project staff and visitors 14. Impact on football playing fied After detail optimization study the option of PROR scheme has been dropped and SROR is adopted instead. So the impact is not relevant. Therefore no mitigation measure is required 15. Impact on Church and Mahadev Stone 1. Include specific instructions in the Code of Conduct to cause minimum disturbance to the church MHP will take following preventive measures: MHP will take following preventive and mitigative actions to minimize the impact:

MHP will take following action in this regard:

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Mai Hydropower Project Environmental Impact Assessment Study: Executive Summary With Environmental Protection Measures

2. Deploy specific workmen as required to clean the dirt caused due to construction activity in the vicinity of the church premises. 3. Take special attention while carrying excavation works for tailrace canal in the vicinity of Mahadev stone to prevent displacement or dislocation. 4. Make temporary fencing arrangement around Mahadev to protect it from damage due construction activities. 16. Impact on multiethnic society; on social, cultural and religious practices In order to mitigate the possible conflict and unrest due to the presence of workers MHP will take following preventive action: 1. Implement special package program named Sanima Support and Cooperation Program (SSCP) with main objective to create harmony between MHP and local community 2. Include social awareness program targeting the local communities and orientation program targeting the workforce regarding social cultural and religious practices and prepare code of conduct for the workforce 17. Impact on law and order situation 1. Establish in-house security arrangement including security personnel and equipment 2. Design and implementation of Code of Conduct to the workforce. 3. Maintain cordial relation with the local Police post and district police 4. Prepare action plan in coordination with local police posts in case of undesirable occurrence of breach of law and order in project area 18. 19. Impact on Social, cultural and religious practices Impact on communal resources 1. Establish health care unit at appropriate location in project area as required. 2. Similarly, MHP will develop its own drinking water supply system so that additional pressure on existing system is minimized. 3. Since no significant impact on school is expected no measures need to be taken in this regard 20. Impact on women, children and disadvantaged groups SHPL is committed to abide by the prevalent law of Nepal and international agreements to which Nepal is a party; it will take following preventive measures to minimize the impact. 1. MHP will carefully understand the prevalent rules regarding employing workforce, specially women, children and disadvantaged group and abide by the provisions. Nevertheless, given the nature of work, it is obvious that more men will join the job than women. 2. Ensure equal job opportunity and equal wages to workforce employed by MHP or Contractors 3. Make prohibition arrangements to employ children less than 16 years of age by contractors and other agency employed by MHP through appropriate contractual condition Mitigation measures are provided under impact no 16 above. MHP will take following preventive measure address the impact: MHP will take following action regarding law and order situation:

F.
1.

Solution Measures to Impacts on Environment during Operation Stage

Socio-Economic

and

Cultural

Change of working regime of Kankai Mai irrigation System due to peaking pond option

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Mai Hydropower Project Environmental Impact Assessment Study: Executive Summary With Environmental Protection Measures

Since the option of PROR has been dropped, there will be almost no significant change or flow pattern at the intake of Kankai Irrigation Project so this issue is not relevant. 2. Rural electrification of Danabari VDC in collaboration with CFUGs, DDCs, NEA etc Mitigation measures are described separately under Beneficial Sanima Support and Cooperation Program (SSCP). 3. Impact on existing water uses in the dewatering zone including Chisapani -9 There is no significant adverse impact on existing water use in the dewatering zone except for some use as washing, swimming, fishing etc. will be adversely affected though to a less degree. Following mitigative measure will address to avoid the impact: Make arrangement to necessarily release a minimum flow (environmental flow) of 500 l/s under all circumstances which will ensure that above impact is addressed. The value is calculated as per environmental rules and standard practice whichever is higher to determine downstream release. 4. 5. 6. Increase in Revenue of GoN Discharged water from tailrace for agriculture purpose Impact on occupation/employment pattern of fishermen 1. Fishing families (if existing) in the reach between weir and the confluence of MaiDeomai confluence will be disadvantaged to some extent. MHP will give provide employment opportunity to at least 1 member per disadvantaged family depending upon the skill. 2. However, study so far has not shown existence of any family fully dependent on fishing for livelihood. If such families are found, then MHP will consider possibility of continuing the employment to operation stage as well depending upon availability of required skill 7. Impact on Shree Saraswati Lower Secondary School at Muse Khola, Danabari-6 due to water discharged from tailrace 1. Construct RCC canal crossing structure across the tail race canal at appropriate location with railing all complete to provide maximum safety to children 2. Construct 50 m long fence along the bank of the canal to prevent children from falling into the canal. 8. Safety and movement of people due to release of water in the dewatered zone Solution to the impact is classified into two situations Planned release and sudden release of water to natural Mai Khola course. For planned release, schedule of release is exactly known beforehand but since sudden release will take place due to some technical difficulties, it may occur at any time. MHP will take following corrective action to address the possible impact: Planned Release 1. MHP will notify the concerned communities about the plan of release through written notices, mouth to mouth information, awareness program and all other possible means identified later 2. Besides, MHP will install alarm warning system (siren) at appropriate location so that alarm sound is disseminated to all concerned. Warning signal (siren) will be made at least three times (before 1 hour, 30 minutes and 15 minutes) before water is released. Enhancement measures are described in section 7.3.2, no 1. Enhancement measures are described in section 7.3.2, no 2. MHP will take following corrective action to minimize the impact:

MHP will take following corrective measures to minimize the impact:

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Mai Hydropower Project Environmental Impact Assessment Study: Executive Summary With Environmental Protection Measures

Sudden Release 3. MHP will install a special alarm system so that in case of sudden shut down of powerhouse or tunnel, the system will automatically ring loudly for at least 5 minutes. The released water will take some time to travel downwards during which people nearby river bank will have sufficient time to move to safety. 9. Impact to flood protection works along Lodhiya Khola MHP will take following corrective measures to address the impact. However if found feasible, construction of MCHP as mentioned in previous section will eliminate the possibility of this impact 1. Construct appropriate bank protection works (dykes, revetments, spurs etc.) to train Lodhiya River on the basis of result of mathematical model study. 2. As far as possible, muck derived from tunnel will be used for construction of dykes and other the river training works. 3. Arrange provision for monitoring and annual repair of the river training works 10. (a): Impact on safety and movement of people due to operation of tailrace canal (b): Impact on movement of people and vehicles across Lodiya Khola MHP will undertake following kind of corrective measure to minimize the impact. Measures regarding safety will be dealt within the activities of SSCP so no separate mitigation measure is proposed: 1. MHP will construct a wooden foot bridge over Lodhiya Khola at appropriate location to minimize discomfort to pedestrians and animals and will perform regular maintenance to keep the bridge safe and useful. 2. Presently vehicles cross Mai Khola and Lodhiya during the dry season; crossing Lodhiya Khola is not a major difficulty. During operation of powerhouse discharge of Mai Khola will be diverted to Lodhiya khola, there will be no additional discharge (compared to present situation). Therefore, diversion of water from Mai khola will result in decreasing the present difficulty. During construction period MHP will support the local community in making the temporary crossing arrangement. 3. MHP is planning to construct Mai Cascade Hydropower Project (MCHP) with the objective to utilize the tailrace water from powerhouse and head available along Lodhiya Khola to generate hydropower for which feasibility study is ongoing to determine techno-economical aspects. If found feasible and implemented there will be no added discharge into the Lodhiya Khola thus the impact will not be relevant. If MCHP is feasible and implemented then this issue will not be relevant 11. Impact on behavior (human) and local economy due to decreased economic activities after construction stage

Conclusion of construction phase will result in sudden slowdown in economic activity which is expected to bring in frustration to local people who have been benefiting. MHP will take following preventive measures to minimize the impact and for smooth transition from construction phase to operation phase: 1. Design and implement transition program in the form of training, counseling, creating awareness etc. 6 months before target completion date. Two events will be organized every month for 6 month targeting the project employee and local people separately. 2. Prepare and distribute pamphlets containing consequences of project completion counseling messages 12. Impact on gender Since no significant impact on women, children and other vulnerable group is expected during the operational phase, no mitigation measure is required. 2. ENHANCEMENT MEASURES FOR BENEFICIAL IMPACT

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Mai Hydropower Project Environmental Impact Assessment Study: Executive Summary With Environmental Protection Measures

I.
1.

Socio-economic and Cultural Domain during Construction Phase

Providing employment opportunity to local people priority as per their capacity and qualifications (impact no 6) In order to maximize the benefits of employment opportunity in a rational way the MHP will take following action: 1. Set up a special unit to look into employment matters in its management setting 2. Set following order of priority linking employment opportunity with project impacts First priority : SPAF Second priority : PAF Third priority : People from Chisapani, Danabari and Soyak VDCs Forth priority : Other five VDCs which are located downstream Fifth priority : Other parts of Ilam district Sixth priority : Other parts of Nepal 3. Organize 5-7 days trainings on skill development to train selected people from SPAF, PAF and marginalized families to support them to avail employment

II.

Socio-economic and Cultural Domain during Operation Phase

1. Increase in Revenue of GoN (impact no 4) In order to maximize the benefits of the increase in revenue, SHPL/MHP will take following action through SSP: 1. Allocate some fund during the first two years of project operation for enhancement training program to utilize the royalty 2. Develop practical guidelines in coordination with VDCs for rational and effective use of the hydropower royalty 3. Organize programs for capacity building of concerned people of the VDCs 2. Discharged water from tailrace for agriculture purpose (impact no 5) A total of 150 ropani agricultural lands, which presently has no any form of irrigation are found to be potentially irrigable using water discharged from the tail race. MHP will take following action through SSCP to provide irrigation facility to the area: 1. Coordinate and consult with beneficial farmers to understand various aspects of irrigation scheme, irrigation development plan, cost sharing scheme etc 2. Provide some fund to partially support development of the irrigation system e.g. construction of side intake in each bank etc. 3. Provide partial financial and full technical support to the beneficiary farmers to construct the side intakes. MHP will not take responsibility of the construction and maintenance of the irrigation system. The impact has been dealt separately as special package under Sanima Support and Cooperation Program and is presented in section 7.5. 3. ENHANCEMENT OF ADDITIONAL BENEFICIAL ISSUES (NOT COVERED IN TOR) 1. Increase local Economic Activity MHP will take following action through SSCP: 1. Coordinate with local community to identify necessary items with respect to local products 2. Organize regular orientation program to disseminate information on products and prices 2. Skill development/ technology transfer opportunity MHP will take following action to maximize the benefits of skill imparted to the local people by construction of MHP 1. Prepare and maintain database of the professional and workers involved in the project construction 2. Identifying required human resource for other hydropower construction projects. 3. Availability of Health Facility

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