BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT - Terratest Water Treatment Works...Basic Assessment Report Page 1 of 42 GIBELA UMKHUMBI OLWA NOBUBHA (For official use only) EIA File Reference Number: DC

Basic Assessment Report

Page 1 of 42

GIBELA UMKHUMBI OLWA NOBUBHA

(For official use only)

EIA File Reference Number: DC/26/0019/2012

NEAS Reference Number: KZN/EIA/

Waste Management Licence Number: (if applicable)

Date Received:

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT: THE APPLICATION FOR THE EXPANSION OF THE PONGOLA WATER

TREATMENT WORKS, ZULULAND DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY, KWAZULU-NATAL

Submitted in terms of the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations, 2010 promulgated in terms of the National Environmental Management Act, 1998 (Act No. 107 of 1998)

This template may be used for the following applications:

Environmental Authorization subject to basic assessment for an activity that is listed in Listing Notices 1or 3, 2010 (Government Notices No. R 544 or No. R 546 dated 18 June 2010); or

Waste Management Licence for an activity that is listed in terms of section 20(b) of the National Environmental Management: Waste Act, 2008 (Act No. 59 of 2008) for which a basic assessment process as stipulated in the EIA Regulations must be conducted as part of the application (refer to the schedule of waste management activities in Category A of Government Notice No. 718 dated 03 July 2009).

Kindly note that: 1. This basic assessment report meets the requirements of the EIA Regulations, 2010 and is meant to

streamline applications. This report is the format prescribed by the KZN Department of Agriculture & Environmental Affairs. Please make sure that this is the latest version.

2. The report must be typed within the spaces provided in the form. The size of the spaces provided is not indicative of the amount of information to be provided. The report is in the form of a table that can extend itself as each space is filled with text.

3. Where required, place a cross in the box you select. 4. An incomplete report will be returned to the applicant for revision. 5. The use of “not applicable” in the report must be done with circumspection because if it is used in respect of

material information that is required by the competent authority for assessing the application, it will result in the rejection of the application as provided for in the regulations.

6. No faxed or e-mailed reports will be accepted. 7. The report must be compiled by an independent environmental assessment practitioner (“EAP”).


Page 2 of 42


8. Unless protected by law, all information in the report will become public information on receipt by the competent authority. Any interested and affected party should be provided with the information contained in this report on request, during any stage of the application process.

9. The KZN Department of Agriculture & Environmental Affairs may require that for specified types of activities in defined situations only parts of this report need to be completed.

10. The EAP must submit this basic assessment report for comment to all relevant State departments that administer a law relating to a matter affecting the environment. This provision is in accordance with Section 24 O (2) of the National Environmental Management Act 1998 (Act 107 of 1998) and such comments must be submitted within 40 days of such a request.

11. Please note that this report must be handed in or posted to the District Office of the KZN Department of Agriculture & Environmental Affairs to which the application has been allocated (please refer to the details provided in the letter of acknowledgement for this application).


Page 3 of 42


DEPARTMENTAL REFERENCE NUMBER(S) File reference number (EIA):

DC/26/0019/2012

File reference number (Waste Management Licence):

SECTION A: DETAILS OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT PRACTITIONER AND SPECIALISTS 1. NAME AND CONTACT DETAILS OF ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT PRACTITIONER (EAP) Name and contact details of the EAP who prepared this report:

Business name of EAP:

Terratest (Pty) Ltd

Physical address:

6 Pin Oak Avenue

Postal address: PO Box 794, Hilton

Postal code: 3245 Cell: /

Telephone: 033 343 6789 Fax: 033 343 6788

E-mail: [email protected]

2. NAMES AND EXPERTISE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE EAP Names and details of the expertise of each representative of the EAP involved in the preparation of this report:

Name of representative of the EAP

Education qualifications

Professional affiliations

Experience at environmental assessments (yrs)

Magnus van Rooyen BSc Hons; MPhil (Env. Man.)

IAIASA 9.5 Years

Imke Summers BSc (Honours) IAIASA 2.5 Years

3. NAMES AND EXPERTISE OF SPECIALISTS Names and details of the expertise of each specialist that has contributed to this report:

Name of specialist

Education qualifications

Field of expertise Section/ s contributed to in this basic assessment report

Title of specialist report/ s as attached in Appendix D

Magnus van Rooyen

BSc Hons; MPhil (Env. Man.)

Botanical Assessments

Section C, Number 4

N/A

Please note that Mr van Rooyen’s botanical expertise were used in the identification of endangered, rare, threatened and/or endemic species surrounding the structures proposed for upgrade.


Page 4 of 42


SECTION B: ACTIVITY INFORMATION 1. PROJECT TITLE Describe the project title as provided on the application form for environmental authorization: The proposed upgrade and expansion of the Pongola Water Treatment Works (ZDM Simdlangentsha East Regional Scheme), Northern Kwazulu-Natal 2. PROJECT DESCRIPTION Provide a detailed description of the project: The existing plant has a reported design capacity of 6 500 kℓ/day versus a demand of

in excess of 10 000 kℓ/day. The plant is a conventional surface water treat³ent works

and consists of the following unit treatment processes: • Chemical Addition; • Rapid Mixing; • Flocculation; • Sedimentation; • Rapid Sand Filtration; and • Disinfection.

(See Figure 1 below for further details of the general process followed). The plant consists of two plants adjacent to each other, combined with a joint wet sump and clear water pumping plant. Raw water is sourced from two sources; the Bivane Dam/Pongola River catchment area via the Impala Water Users Association Irrigation Canal, and from an abstraction point in the Pongola River during the annual canal shutdown maintenance period of two months.

It is estimated that the current water demand ranges from approximately 10 750 to 14 047 kℓ/day. It is expected that this demand will increase to 19 784 kℓ/day by 2030, as living standards and service provision improves. It expected that the capacity of the water treatment works will be increased to 12 000 kℓ/day, in order to meet this required immediate future demand. The proposed activity involves the expansion of the existing water treatment works to cater for the increased demand within the region. Construction activities associated with the expanded works footprint will include the construction of the following new infrastructure:

• Chemical dosing building; • Sludge holding ponds; • Sludge drying beds; • Filter house and clear water pump station; • Sedimentation tanks; and • Associated infrastructure including piping, fence lines etc.

Alternatives: A locality alternative has not been considered as the project entails the upgrading of the existing water treatment works. As a result associated infrastructure, such as the canal that feeds the treatment works, is already in place. An alternative layout would entail having to extend this infrastructure and the development footprint significantly, with associated increased environmental impacts. A layout alternative is not feasible due to numerous cumulative factors including the nature of the treatment works, the location of the existing facility, the amount of water to be treated, and the expertise of the technical staff who maintains the facility.


Page 5 of 42


Flocculation (Horizontal baffled

hydraulic flocculators)

Sedimentation tanks (Horizontal flow

clarifiers)

Filtration (Rapid gravity sand

filters)

Disinfection (Chlorine addition)

Bulk storage

Abstraction of raw water Chemical dosing

(Lime and coagulant dosing)

Rapid mixing (Coagulant dosing and turbulence at weirs)

Zero liquid effluent (Filter wash water and sludge recycled to the head of the works. Liquid effluent from the drying beds

and overflow from the sludge holding ponds recycled to the head of the works)

Filter backwash (Air scour and water

backwashing)

Sludge handling (Sludge and filter wash

water)

Drying beds (Underflow from

sludge holding tanks)

Hazardous landfill site

General landfill site

Figure 1. General treatment process followed at the Pongola Water Treatment Works. Please note the section in green is applicable to the functioning of the expanded works only


Page 6 of 42


3. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION Describe each listed activity in Listing Notice 1 (GNR 544, 18 June2010), Listing Notice 3 (GNR 546, 18June 2010) or Category A of GN 718, 3 July 2009 (Waste Management Activities) which is being applied for as per the project description:

Activity Number Activity

Description Project Description

GN No. 544, (18 June 2010)

40

The water treatment works is located in close proximity to an earth embankment dam approximately 30m south-west of the site as well as a drainage line to the south of the perimeter of the proposed extent of the works. As such the following applies: “The expansion of:

i. jetties by more than 50 square metres; ii. slipways by more than 50 square

metres; or iii. buildings by more than 50 square

metres; within a watercourse or within 32 metres of a watercourse, measured from the edge of a watercourse, but excluding where such expansion will occur behind the development setback line.”

4. FEASIBLE AND REASONABLE ALTERNATIVES “alternatives”, in relation to a proposed activity, means different means of meeting the general purpose and requirements of the activity, which may include alternatives to— (a) the property on which or location where it is proposed to undertake the activity; (b) the type of activity to be undertaken; (c) the design or layout of the activity; (d) the technology to be used in the activity; (e) the operational aspects of the activity; and (f) the option of not implementing the activity. Describe alternatives that are considered in this report. Alternatives should include a consideration of all possible means by which the purpose and need of the proposed activity could be accomplished in the specific instance taking account of the interest of the applicant in the activity. The no-go alternative must in all cases be included in the assessment phase as the baseline against which the impacts of the other alternatives are assessed. The determination of whether site or activity (including different processes etc.) or both is appropriate needs to be informed by the specific circumstances of the activity and its environment. After receipt of this report the competent authority may also request the applicant to assess additional alternatives that could possibly accomplish the purpose and need of the proposed activity if it is clear that realistic alternatives have not been considered to a reasonable extent.


Page 7 of 42


A description of the Preferred Layout (A1) and Alternate Layout (A2)

Preferred Layout (A1)

The preferred layout includes both the existing and proposed area for the upgrade and construction of the water treatment works within the same footprint. The engineering design has taken into account prevailing terrain, costs, materials etc. The result is the proposed layout which is the most applicable layout that achieves the desired goals of the project with the least amount of environmental impacts.

Alternate Layout (A2)

An alternative layout has not been considered as the most efficient layout was a design criterion in the engineering best design mandate. Any re-alignment would result in an exponential increase in environmental impacts and costs, and may not include the upgrade of present infrastructure.

Property Location and Activity

A property and activity alternative cannot be considered as the result would not include the upgrade of the existing works.

Operational Alternative

An operational alternative has not been considered as the end goal of the project is the provision of treated water to the increased population within the Pongola community. This will be achieved through the operational plan proposed which also takes into consideration the optimum technologies, processes and expertise of the treatment works employees.

No-Go Alternative A no-go alternative has been included.

Sections B 5 – 15 below should be completed for each alternative.

5. ACTIVITY POSITION Indicate the position of the activity using the latitude and longitude of the centre point of the site for each alternative site. The co-ordinates should be in degrees, minutes and seconds. List alternative sites were applicable. Alternative:

Latitude (S): Longitude (E):

Alternative S11 (preferred or only site alternative)

27 o

23’ 20.02” 31 o

37’ 05.08”

Alternative S2 (if any) o ‘ “ o ‘ “

Alternative S3 (if any) o ‘ “ o ‘ “

In the case of linear activities: Alternative: Latitude (S): Longitude (E): Alternative S1 (preferred or only route alternative)

Starting point of the activity o ‘ “ o ‘ “

Middle point of the activity o ‘ “ o ‘ “

End point of the activity o ‘ “ o ‘ “

Alternative S2 (if any) “ “


1 “Alternative S..” refer to site alternatives.


Page 8 of 42




Alternative S3 (if any) “ “




For route alternatives that are longer than 500m, please provide an addendum with co-ordinates taken every 500m along the route for each alternative alignment. 6. PHYSICAL SIZE OF THE ACTIVITY Indicate the physical size of the preferred activity/technology as well as alternative activities/technologies (footprints): Alternative: Size of the activity:

Alternative A12 (preferred activity alternative) 8 500m²

Alternative A2 (if any) N/A

Alternative A3 (if any) m2

or, for linear activities: Alternative: Length of the

activity:

Alternative A1 (preferred activity alternative) m

Alternative A2 (if any) m

Alternative A3 (if any) m

Indicate the size of the alternative sites or servitudes (within which the above footprints will occur): Alternative: Size of the

site/servitude:

Alternative A1 (preferred activity alternative) N/A



7. SITE ACCESS

Does ready access to the site exist? YES

If NO, what is the distance over which a new access road will be built m

Describe the type of access road planned:

Follow the N2 to Pongola, take a right turn onto the R66. Turn right onto Penguin Avenue and then left into Kingfisher Street. Take the first left which leads onto a dirt road. Follow the dirt road to the Water Treatment Works. Include the position of the access road on the site plan and required map, as well as an indication of the road in relation to the site. 2 “Alternative A..” refer to activity, process, technology or other alternatives.


Page 9 of 42


8. SITE OR ROUTE PLAN

A detailed site or route plan(s) must be prepared for each alternative site or alternative activity. It must be attached as Appendix A to this report. The site or route plans must indicate the following:

8.1. the scale of the plan which must be at least a scale of 1:500; 8.2. the property boundaries and numbers/ erf/ farm numbers of all adjoining properties of

the site; 8.3. the current land use as well as the land use zoning of each of the properties adjoining

the site or sites; 8.4. the exact position of each element of the application as well as any other structures

on the site; 8.5. the position of services, including electricity supply cables (indicate above or

underground), water supply pipelines, boreholes, street lights, sewage pipelines, storm water infrastructure and telecommunication infrastructure;

8.6. walls and fencing including details of the height and construction material; 8.7. servitudes indicating the purpose of the servitude; 8.8. sensitive environmental elements within 100 metres of the site or sites including (but

not limited thereto): rivers, streams, drainage lines or wetlands; the 1:100 year flood line (where available or where it is required by DWA); ridges; cultural and historical features; areas with indigenous vegetation including protected plant species (even if it is

degraded or infested with alien species); 8.9. for gentle slopes the 1 metre contour intervals must be indicated on the plan and

whenever the slope of the site exceeds 1:10, the 500mm contours must be indicated on the plan; and

8.10. the positions from where photographs of the site were taken. 9. SITE PHOTOGRAPHS Colour photographs from the centre of the site must be taken in at least the eight major compass directions with a description of each photograph. Photographs must be attached under Appendix B to this report. It must be supplemented with additional photographs of relevant features on the site, if applicable. 10. FACILITY ILLUSTRATION A detailed illustration of the facility must be provided at a scale of 1:200 and attached to this report as Appendix C. The illustrations must be to scale and must represent a realistic image of the planned activity/ies. 11. ACTIVITY MOTIVATION


Page 10 of 42


11.1. Socio-economic value of the activity

What is the expected capital value of the activity on completion? R 25 683 730.37 (Excl.

VAT)

What is the expected yearly income that will be generated by or as a result of the activity?

No yearly income will be generated by the activity.

Will the activity contribute to service infrastructure? YES

Is the activity a public amenity? YES

How many new employment opportunities will be created in the development phase of the activity?

Approximately 150 employment opportunities will be created during the construction phase

What is the expected value of the employment opportunities during the development phase?

R 2,568,373.37 (Excl. VAT)

What percentage of this will accrue to previously disadvantaged individuals?

70%

How many permanent new employment opportunities will be created during the operational phase of the activity?

9 Operators Positions

What is the expected current value of the employment opportunities during the first 10 years?

R 6 480 000.00 for 9 operators @ R 6000-00.

What percentage of this will accrue to previously disadvantaged individuals?

100%

11.2. Need and desirability of the activity

Motivate and explain the need and desirability of the activity (including demand for the activity):

1. An adequate, long-term water supply will be provided for the community. 2. Health and hygiene will be made available to a greater portion of the

community due to the availability of clean, potable water. 3. The current water demand within the region is between 10 750 to 14 047kl/day.

The plant will be upgraded to a capacity of 12 000 kl/day which will address the immediate future increase in demand which will grow as the population increases.

4. At present the raw water quality does not meet slow sand filtration requirements as the turbidity and colour is too high. There is therefore a need for chemical addition and rapid mixing, which will be included in the upgraded phase.

3

5. At present the plant is divided into two main units, both of which contain a lime and coagulant dosing point. Both of the lime feeders do not operate satisfactorily and need to be replaced with new feeders.

6. The existing chlorination system is old and the safety equipment on site is not in accordance with the requirements. These systems therefore require upgrading.

7. Sludge and filter wash is discharged into a nearby stream which contravenes NEMA regulations. An alternate means of treatment and disposal therefore needs to be implemented.

8. An objective of the uPhongolo Local Municipality IDP is to facilitate the provision of access to potable water for all households within the municipality as it is the most urgent human developmental need within the municipality.

3 Kwazulu-Infra (Pty) Ltd, 2012: Zululand District Municipality: Civil Engineering Services For the

Implementation of the Next Phase of the ZDM Simdlangentshe East Regional Scheme-Pongola Water Treatment Works, Vryheid.


Page 11 of 42


This will partly be achieved through the expansion of the existing water treatment works.

4

9. Water provision is a key development issue in the Zululand District Municipality. The Zululand District Municipality, in terms of the Water Services Act, is the Water Services Authority in respect of its area of jurisdiction. A Water Services Plan has been developed and is reviewed on an annual basis. The RDP standard for water supply (and the ultimate goal for water provision) is 25l/person/day within 200m walking distance. However, a rudimentary water supply process is currently underway to expedite the supply of water to all by ensuring that every settlement has access to a minimum of 5l/person/day within 800 m of the home. Zululand District Municipality has adopted a Free Basic Water Services policy as follows:

All households will receive six kilolitres of potable water free of charge for domestic use.

All water supplied from standpipes and rudimentary systems will be free. 5 Indicate any benefits that the activity will have for society in general:

1. Job opportunities can be created during the construction phase. 2. Economic empowerment will be brought to the area and the region as a whole. 3. Institutional empowerment will increase.

Indicate any benefits that the activity will have for the local communities where the activity will be located:

1. Local job opportunities shall be provided during the implementation phase. 2. The community will be supplied with adequate, safe, reliable and sustainable

water services. 3. Improved access to potable water will also result in increased standards of

living and the improved health, well being and sanitation of the communities involved.

4. Unemployment levels are relatively high and with only 13.43% of the population being formally employed. Dependency levels are also high with every employed person having to support 6.5 persons of which 3 are over 15 years of age.

6 The

construction of the expanded works shall provide short term employment to local residents.

5. Most of the urban communities have access to clean water with severe shortcomings in this respect as far as rural communities are concerned and have access to less than 5 litres of water per day. People rely on natural resources for water and are considered to live at survival levels.

7 Service

delivery in the rural areas will need to be attended to and it is proposed that this will be undertaken through extending the works to include a dedicated pump station for the Simdlangentsha East region. This endeavour will however only be possible if the present works is expanded to cater for this increased need.

8

6. The growth of the primary node of Pongola/Ncotshane is limited by the fact that the water purification plant and sewage works are operated at capacity and no new connections can be made.

9

12. APPLICABLE LEGISLATION, POLICIES AND/OR GUIDELINES

4 Pongola IDP 2011/2012




8 Kwazulu-Infra (Pty) Ltd, 2012: Zululand District Municipality: Civil Engineering Services For the

Implementation of the Next Phase of the ZDM Simdlangentshe East Regional Scheme-Pongola Water Treatment Works, Vryheid. 9 Kwazulu-Infra (Pty) Ltd, 2012: Zululand District Municipality: Civil Engineering Services For the

Implementation of the Next Phase of the ZDM Simdlangentshe East Regional Scheme-Pongola Water Treatment Works, Vryheid.


Page 12 of 42


List all legislation, policies and/or guidelines of any sphere of government that are relevant to the application as contemplated in the EIA regulations, if applicable: Title of legislation, policy or guideline: Administering authority: Date: National Water Act (Act No 36 of 1998) Department of Water

Affairs (DWA) 1998

National Forest Act (Act No 84 OF 1998) Department of Agriculture Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF)

1998

National Environmental Management Act (Act No 107 of 1998 [NEMA]) as amended

DEA 1998

National Water Act (Act No 36 of 1998) Department of Water Affairs (DWA)

1998

National Heritage Resources Act (Act No 25 OF 1999)

South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA)/ Amafa AkwaZulu-Natali (Amafa)

1999

National Environmental Management Protected Areas Act (Act No 57 OF 2003 [NEMPA])

DEA 2003

National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act (Act 10 of 2004)

DEA 2004

13. WASTE, EFFLUENT, EMISSION AND NOISE MANAGEMENT

13.1. Solid waste management

Will the activity produce solid construction waste during the construction/initiation phase?

YES

If yes, what estimated quantity will be produced per month? 1m³

How will the construction solid waste be disposed of? (describe) Solid waste generated during the construction phase will be stored in skips on site. These skips will be transported by road to the nearest registered landfill site. Where will the construction solid waste be disposed of? (provide details of landfill site)

Construction waste will be disposed of at the nearest landfill site that has capacity. Will the activity produce solid waste during its operational phase? YES

If yes, what estimated quantity will be produced per month? *This value is entirely dependent on the quality and amount of suspended solids in the raw water that is to be treated.

Unknown

m3*

How will the solid waste be disposed of? (provide details of landfill site) The three products produced in the treatment of raw water are clean water, sludge and backwash residue. The proposed process of the expanded works will return the backwash residue to the raw water inlet of the plant, resulting in a process which produces zero liquid effluent. Sludge however will be produced as a result of the process. The sludge will be stored on site in sludge drying beds which have a designed storage capacity for twenty years. No sludge will be taken to the landfill site during this time period. As a result a Waste Licence Application (WLA) will be undertaken concurrently with this application for the storage of waste on the site.

Where will the solid waste be disposed if it does not feed into a municipal waste stream (describe)? See above.


Page 13 of 42


If the solid waste (construction or operational phases) will not be disposed of in a registered landfill site or be taken up in a municipal waste stream, then the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine the further requirements of the application.

Can any part of the solid waste be classified as hazardous in terms of the relevant legislation?

YES*

If yes, contact the KZN Department of Agriculture & Environmental Affairs to obtain clarity regarding the process requirements for your application. *Heather Sheard from the DAEA was contacted telephonically in this regard, and it was noted that the storage of hazardous waste (NEM:WA Act 59 of 2008, Category A: Storage of Waste) is the only trigger which may be applicable in this instance. However it was also noted that it is incredibly difficult to determine whether the sludge is classified as hazardous, as it depends directly on the quality of the raw water that is received and the amount of flocculent and chemicals that are needed to treat it. In addition, it was noted that no water treatment works have had to apply for a Waste Licence Application in this regard. In conclusion however it has been determined that a Waste Licence will be applied for as the sludge drying beds will have a designed storage capacity of twenty years, after which they will be emptied and the waste taken to a landfill site.

Is the activity that is being applied for a solid waste handling or treatment facility?

NO

If yes, contact the KZN Department of Agriculture & Environmental Affairs to obtain clarity regarding the process requirements for your application.

13.2. Liquid effluent

Will the activity produce effluent, other than normal sewage, that will be disposed of in a municipal sewage system?

NO

If yes, what estimated quantity will be produced per month? m3

Will the activity produce any effluent that will be treated and/or disposed of on site?

YES


Will the activity produce effluent that will be treated and/or disposed of at another facility?

NO

If yes, provide the particulars of the facility:

Facility name:

Contact person:

Postal address:

Postal code:

Telephone: Cell:

E-mail: Fax:

Describe the measures that will be taken to ensure the optimal reuse or recycling of waste water, if any:


Page 14 of 42


All filter washwater and sludge withdrawn from the sedimentation tanks of both the existing and upgraded portions of the works will be diverted to sludge holding tanks from where the overflow will be recycled to the head of the works. The underflow from the sludge holding tanks will be pumped to sludge drying beds and the liquid effluent from the drying beds will also be recycled to the head of the works together with the overflow from the sludge holding ponds. The plant has therefore been designed to have zero liquid effluent.

13.3. Emissions into the atmosphere

Will the activity release emissions into the atmosphere? NO

If yes, is it controlled by any legislation of any sphere of government? NO


If no, describe the emissions in terms of type and concentration: Emissions will take the form of dust and engine emissions that will result from the operation of vehicles and construction equipment on site. This will be limited to the construction phase of the project and will not continue during the operational phase. Mitigation measures for such emissions are included in the site specific Environmental Management Programme (EMPr).

13.4. Generation of noise

Will the activity generate noise? NO

If yes, is it controlled by any legislation of any sphere of government? YES NO

If yes, the applicant should consult with the competent authority to determine whether it is necessary to change to an application for scoping and EIA.

If no, describe the noise in terms of type and level: Noise produced will be from vehicles and equipment and will be limited to the construction phase. No noise will be generated during the operational phase. 14. WATER USE Please indicate the source(s) of water that will be used for the activity by ticking the appropriate box(es):

municipal water board

groundwater river, stream, dam or lake

other the activity will not use water

If water is to be extracted from groundwater, river, stream, dam, lake or any other natural feature, please indicate the volume that will be extracted per month: *This is an estimated value, considering an average month is 30 days

long, at a demand of 432m³ per 22hr/day. Please note that this is the

amount of water that is treated within the treatment works which is abstracted from the Bivane Dam and the Pongola River.

12.960ML*

Does the activity require a water use permit from the Department of Water Affairs?

YES**

If YES, please submit the necessary application to the Department of Water Affairs and attach proof thereof to this report.


Page 15 of 42


**An existing water use permit (No. 21142185) is in existence for the water scheme which feeds the treatment works. The water use entitlement may be increased with little effect on the available water pending approval by the Department of Water Affairs. This process is being undertaken by Afri-Infra (Pty) Ltd on behalf of the Zululand District Municipality. 15. ENERGY EFFICIENCY Describe the design measures, if any, that have been taken to ensure that the activity is energy efficient: With regards to the sludge handling process, a sludge drying bed system has been used in the design instead of a mechanical desludging system, ensuring that no additional energy input is necessary. Pumps with the highest efficiency were also chosen to ensure optimum use of energy. Describe how alternative energy sources have been taken into account or been built into the design of the activity, if any: Alternative power sources are currently not feasible for water treatment works owing to high costs and the reliability of supply. As such, no alternative energy sources have been considered.

SECTION C: SITE/ AREA/ PROPERTY DESCRIPTION Important notes:

For linear activities (pipelines, etc) as well as activities that cover very large sites, it may be necessary to complete this section for each part of the site that has a significantly different environment. In such cases please complete copies of Section C and indicate the area, which is covered by each copy No. on the Site Plan.

Section C Copy No. (e.g. A):

Subsections 1 - 6 below must be completed for each alternative. 1. GRADIENT OF THE SITE Indicate the general gradient of the site. Alternative S1: Flat 1:50 –

1:20 1:20 – 1:15

1:15 – 1:10 1:10 – 1:7,5

1:7,5 – 1:5 Steeper than 1:5

Alternative S2 (if any):

Flat 1:50 – 1:20

1:20 – 1:15

1:15 – 1:10 1:10 – 1:7,5

1:7,5 – 1:5 Steeper than 1:5


Flat 1:50 – 1:20

1:20 – 1:15

1:15 – 1:10 1:10 – 1:7,5

1:7,5 – 1:5 Steeper than 1:5

2. LOCATION IN LANDSCAPE


Page 16 of 42


Indicate the landform(s) that best describes the site (Please cross the appropriate box). Alternative S1 (preferred site):

Ridgeline Plateau Side slope of hill/mountain

Closed valley

Open valley

Plain Undulating plain/low hills

Dune Sea-front



Closed valley

Open valley


Dune Sea- front



Closed valley

Open valley


Dune Sea-front

3. GROUNDWATER, SOIL AND GEOLOGICAL STABILITY OF THE SITE Has a specialist been consulted for the completion of this section? YES

If YES, please complete the following:

Name of the specialist: Mark Meyer

Qualification(s) of the specialist: BSc.(Hons.) Engineering Geology Pr.Sci.Nat.

Postal address: PO BOX 672, Paulpietersburg

Postal code: 3180

Telephone: 082 339 6111 Cell: /

E-mail: [email protected] Fax: 0865128867

Are there any rare or endangered flora or fauna species (including red data species) present on any of the alternative sites?

NO

If YES, specify and explain:

Are their any special or sensitive habitats or other natural features present on any of the alternative sites?

NO


Are any further specialist studies recommended by the specialist? YES NO

If YES, specify:

Due to the complex nature of the geotechnical conditions, mainly as a result of deeply weathered bedrock and vast amounts of shallow groundwater from various sources, it was recommended that further geotechnical testing be undertaken.

If YES, is such a report(s) attached in Appendix D? YES

Signature of specialist: Date:

Is the site(s) located on any of the following (cross the appropriate boxes)? Alternative S1: Alternative S2 (if

any): Alternative S3 (if

any):

Shallow water table (less than 1.5m deep)

YES YES NO YES NO

Dolomite, sinkhole or doline areas

NO YES NO YES NO

Seasonally wet soils (often close to water bodies)

YES YES NO YES NO

Unstable rocky slopes or steep slopes with loose soil

NO YES NO YES NO

Dispersive soils (soils that dissolve in water)

NO YES NO YES NO

Soils with high clay content (clay fraction more than 40%)

NO YES NO YES NO

Any other unstable soil or geological feature

YES YES NO YES NO


Page 17 of 42


An area sensitive to erosion

NO YES NO YES NO

The site is underlain by cover soils, sandy residuum and sandstone bedrock with a seemingly undulating profile. Conditions include deeply weathered, often loosely compacted residual soils. The founding material of the major WTW structures will be on dense to very dense residuum or soft rock sandstone with negligible settlement and adequate bearing capacity. The sludge dying beds, sludge holding ponds and sludge pump chamber are located within the marshy portion of the terrain. Seepage was observed in all test pits at the WTW, the exact source of seepage was not established but unlikely to be natural and believed to be due to the earth embankment dam, water from the WTW and perhaps aleaking concrete lined canal and adjacent concrete lined dams. Construction of any structures will have to take these factors into consideration. Mitigation measures have been recommended in the Geotechnical Investigation. See Appendix D for further details.

10

If you are unsure about any of the above or if you are concerned that any of the above aspects may be an issue of concern in the application, an appropriate specialist should be appointed to assist in the completion of this section. (Information in respect of the above will often be available as part of the project information or at the planning sections of local authorities. Where it exists, the 1:50 000 scale Regional Geotechnical Maps prepared by the Council for Geo Science may also be consulted). 4. GROUNDCOVER Has a specialist been consulted for the completion of this section? YES

If YES, please complete the following:

Name of the specialist: Magnus van Rooyen

Qualification(s) of the specialist: BSc, BSc (Hons), MPhil. (Environmental Management)

Postal address: PO Box 794, Hilton

Postal code: 3245

Telephone: 033 343 6789 Cell: 084 249 2365

E-mail: [email protected] Fax: 033 343 6789

Are there any rare or endangered flora or fauna species (including red data species) present on any of the alternative sites?

NO


Are their any special or sensitive habitats or other natural features present on any of the alternative sites?

YES NO


Are any further specialist studies recommended by the specialist? YES NO

If YES, specify:

If YES, is such a report(s) attached in Appendix D? YES NO

Signature of specialist: Date:

The location of all identified rare or endangered species or other elements should be accurately indicated on the site plan(s).

10

Engeolab CC, 2012: LL1956; Preliminary Report on a Geotechnical Investigation of Simdlangentsha East

Water Supply Scheme: Upgrading of the Phongolo WTW and Reservoir, ZDM.


Page 18 of 42


Natural veld - good conditionE

Natural veld with scattered aliensE

Natural veld with heavy alien infestationE

Veld dominated by alien speciesE

Gardens

Sport field Cultivated land Paved surface Building or other structure

Bare soil

Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife has developed the MINSET Planning Tool to secure conservation targets in KwaZulu-Natal. The MINSET database identifies the minimum number of planning units contained within KwaZulu-Natal which are required to be conserved in order to meet EKZNW’s biodiversity conservation targets. The MINSET data layer indicates that the proposed development site falls partially within a Biodiversity Priority Area 2 as it contains Edouardia conulus (mollusc) and Zinophora laminata (millipede) According to Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, Biodiversity Priority Area 2 is a planning unit which contains features that, if lost, will mean that KZN conservation targets can only be met in a very limited number of alternative / available planning units within the Province. Please See Appendix G (Other Information) for a MINSET map detailing the locality of the water treatment works in relation to the biodiversity priority areas. It must be noted however that the application is for the expansion of an existing works into land that contains exotic species. It is not anticipated, therefore, that the proposed development will have any impact on the Biodiversity Priority Area 2 identified in the area. The portion of land upon which the works will be expanded is a small portion of the stand of vegetation at the southern region of the works (See Appendix G, Other Information, for a map detailing this). The southern portion into which the works is proposed to be expanded is characterised by an anthropogenically-created wetland which most likely emanates from water leaking from the existing WTW. This area is characterised by hydrophilic vegetation and standing surface water. The area further to the south and east comprises a densely vegetated area of predominantly indigenous trees and invasive shrubs. Scattered clearings are currently used as informal vegetable gardens. The expansion of the works will result in some of this vegetation having to be removed. An Alien Vegetation Control Programme (AVCP) will be implemented during the construction phase as part of the EMPr.

Any Red Data Species identified? You stated at the beginning that Magnus was looking to see is any of these occurred in close proximity to the proposed development site. If any of the boxes marked with an “E “is ticked, please consult an appropriate specialist to assist in the completion of this section if the environmental assessment practitioner doesn’t have the necessary expertise. 5. LAND USE CHARACTER OF SURROUNDING AREA Cross the land uses and/or prominent features that currently occur within a 500m radius of the site and give a description of how this influences the application or may be impacted upon by the application: Land use character Description

Natural area YES There is a small patch of vegetation to the south of the water treatment


Page 19 of 42


works. The patch is interspersed with indigenous and exotic species. It is understood that the benefits gained through the expansion of the water treatment works and the consequent provision of water to an expanded proportion of the population outweighs the loss of indigenous vegetation. However it is recommended that a form of offset be implemented through the planting of indigenous trees around the perimeter of the expanded works. This in turn shall also improve the aesthetics of the works. In addition, and AVCP shall be implemented as part of the EMPr.

Low density residential NO

Medium density residential YES A housing development is found approximately 170m to the east south east of the existing treatment works. A residential area is also found approximately 240m to the north of the existing works. It is understood that there will be no long term impacts associated with the expansion of the works, on the relevant housing areas. However the aesthetics of the region may be negatively impact upon. This can be mitigated with the planting of indigenous vegetation around the perimeter of the works.

High density residential NO

Informal residential NO

Retail commercial & warehousing NO

Light industrial NO

Medium industrial NO

Heavy industrial NO

Power station NO

Office/consulting room NO

Military or police base/station/compound

NO

Spoil heap or slimes dam NO

Quarry, sand or borrow pit NO

Dam or reservoir YES There is an existing storage dam and associated infrastructure including a pump station (found on a neighbouring property) to the south south west of the existing works. It is not expected that the expansion will impact on this dam.

Hospital/medical centre NO

School/ creche YES Pongola Akademie School is found approximately 420m to the north east


Page 20 of 42


of the existing works. It is not anticipated that the expansion will have any impact on the school. However mitigation measures associated with traffic safety, air quality, noise etc. will be included in the EMPr for the construction phase of the project.

Tertiary education facility NO

Church NO

Old age home NO

Sewage treatment plant NO

Train station or shunting yard NO

Railway line NO

Major road (4 lanes or more) NO

Airport NO

Harbour NO

Sport facilities NO

Golf course NO

Polo fields NO

Filling station NO

Landfill or waste treatment site NO

Plantation NO

Agriculture YES The land to the south of the works is dominated by sugarcane fields and fallow land. Chicken runs are situated approximately 150m to the south south east of the works, approximately 400m to the north west and approximately 430m to the south of the proposed works. It is not anticipated that the expansion will have any impact on the agricultural lands in the long term. Construction associated impacts may be experienced by the surrounding farmers, but this will be mitigated as far as possible through the implementation of the construction EMPr and will only occur in the short-term.

River, stream or wetland YES A small drainage line feeds the existing storage dam to the south south west of the existing works. This drainage line will not be impacted on by the construction or operational phases of the expansion. However mitigation measures to prevent pollution, spills etc. will be included in the EMPr.

Nature conservation area NO

Mountain, hill or ridge YES A koppie is found in close proximity to the expansion but will not be impacted on by the development.

Museum NO


Page 21 of 42


Historical building NO

Protected Area NO

Graveyard NO

Archaeological site NO

Other land uses (describe) NO

6. CULTURAL/ HISTORICAL FEATURES

Are there any signs of culturally or historically significant elements, as defined in section 2 of the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999, (Act No. 25 of 1999), including archaeological or palaeontological sites, on or within 20m of the site? A Needs and Desirability Application was submitted to AMAFA. Their response noted that no features of archaeological significance were found within the proposed development footprint, but that certain conditions need to be adhered to. These conditions have been included in the EMPr.

NO

If YES, contact a specialist recommended by AMAFA to conduct a heritage impact assessment. The heritage impact assessment must be attached as an appendix to this report.

Briefly explain the recommendations of the specialist:

Will any building or structure older than 60 years be affected in any way? YES NO

Is it necessary to apply for a permit in terms of the National Heritage Resources Act, 1999 (Act 25 of 1999)?

YES NO

If YES, please submit the necessary application to AMAFA and attach proof thereof to this report.

SECTION D: PUBLIC PARTICIPATION 1. ADVERTISEMENT The person conducting a public participation process must take into account any guidelines applicable to public participation as contemplated in section 24J of the Act and must give notice to all potential interested and affected parties of the application which is subjected to public participation by— (a) fixing a notice board (of a size at least 60cm by 42cm; and must display the required

information in lettering and in a format as may be determined by the competent authority) at a place conspicuous to the public at the boundary or on the fence of— (i) the site where the activity to which the application relates is or is to be

undertaken; and (ii) any alternative site mentioned in the application; (b) giving written notice to—

(i) the owner or person in control of that land if the applicant is not the owner or person in control of the land;


Page 22 of 42


(ii) the occupiers of the site where the activity is or is to be undertaken or to any alternative site where the activity is to be undertaken;

(iii) owners and occupiers of land adjacent to the site where the activity is or is to be undertaken or to any alternative site where the activity is to be undertaken;

(iv) the municipal councillor of the ward in which the site or alternative site is situated and any organisation of ratepayers that represent the community in the area;

(v) the local and district municipality which has jurisdiction in the area; (vi) any organ of state having jurisdiction in respect of any aspect of the activity (as

identified in the application form for the environmental authorization of this project); and

(vii) any other party as required by the competent authority; (c) placing an advertisement in— (i) one local newspaper; or

(ii) any official Gazette that is published specifically for the purpose of providing public notice of applications or other submissions made in terms of these Regulations;

(d) placing an advertisement in at least one provincial newspaper or national newspaper, if the activity has or may have an impact that extends beyond the boundaries of the metropolitan or district municipality in which it is or will be undertaken: Provided that this paragraph need not be complied with if an advertisement has been placed in an official Gazette referred to in subregulation 54(c)(ii); and

(e) using reasonable alternative methods, as agreed to by the competent authority, in those instances where a person is desiring of but unable to participate in the process due to— (i) illiteracy; (ii) disability; or (iii) any other disadvantage.

2. CONTENT OF ADVERTISEMENTS AND NOTICES A notice board, advertisement or notices must: (a) indicate the details of the application which is subjected to public participation; and (b) state—

(i) that an application for environmental authorization has been submitted to the KZN Department of Agriculture & Environmental Affairs in terms of the EIA Regulations, 2010;(ii)

(iii) a brief project description that includes the nature and location of the activity to which the application relates;

(iv) where further information on the application can be obtained; and (iv) the manner in which and the person to whom representations in respect of the

application may be made. 3. PLACEMENT OF ADVERTISEMENTS AND NOTICES Where the proposed activity may have impacts that extend beyond the municipal area where it is located, a notice must be placed in at least one provincial newspaper or national newspaper,


Page 23 of 42


indicating that an application will be submitted to the competent authority in terms of these regulations, the nature and location of the activity, where further information on the proposed activity can be obtained and the manner in which representations in respect of the application can be made, unless a notice has been placed in any Gazette that is published specifically for the purpose of providing notice to the public of applications made in terms of the EIA regulations. Advertisements and notices must make provision for all alternatives. An advertisement was placed in the Zululand Observer on 24/08/2012 and in the Pongola News on the 07/09/2012. To date, no comments have been received from any Interested and Affected Parties in this regard. Site posters indicating the nature and location of the development were erected at the Pongola Local Municipal offices and at the Water Treatment Works.

4. DETERMINATION OF APPROPRIATE PROCESS The EAP must ensure that the public participation process is according to that prescribed in regulation 54 of the EIA Regulations, 2010, but may deviate from the requirements of subregulation 54(2) in the manner agreed by the KZN Department of Agriculture & Environmental Affairs as appropriate for this application. Special attention should be given to the involvement of local community structures such as Ward Committees, ratepayers associations and traditional authorities where appropriate. Please note that public concerns that emerge at a later stage that should have been addressed may cause the competent authority to withdraw any authorisation it may have issued if it becomes apparent that the public participation process was inadequate. 5. COMMENTS AND RESPONSE REPORT The practitioner must record all comments and respond to each comment of the public before this application is submitted. The comments and responses must be captured in a comments and response report as prescribed in the EIA regulations (regulation 57 in the EIA Regulations, 2010) and be attached as Appendix E to this report. 6. PARTICIPATION BY DISTRICT, LOCAL AND TRADITIONAL AUTHORITIES District, local and traditional authorities (where applicable) are all key interested and affected parties in each application and no decision on any application will be made before the relevant local authority is provided with the opportunity to give input. The planning and the environmental sections of the local authority must be informed of this application and provided with an opportunity to comment.

Has any comment been received from the district municipality? NO

If “YES”, briefly describe the feedback below (also attach any correspondence to and from this authority with regard to this application):

The Zululand District Municipality is the Applicant.

Has any comment been received from the local municipality? YES


Page 24 of 42



Mr Erhard Englebracht of the Planning Department received a copy of the BID and noted that he would provide comment if applicable. He stated that the advert should also be placed in the Pongola News. This was consequently undertaken.

Has any comment been received from a traditional authority? NO


The land is owned by the Municipality and as such no traditional authority was contacted.

7. CONSULTATION WITH OTHER STAKEHOLDERS Any stakeholder that has a direct interest in the site or property, such as servitude holders and service providers, should be informed of the application and be provided with the opportunity to comment.

Has any comment been received from stakeholders? YES

If “YES”, briefly describe the feedback below (also attach copies of any correspondence to and from the stakeholders to this application):

Comment on the Background Information Document

uPhongolo Local Municipality, Planning Division – 22 August 2012 “I believe you should place the advertisements also in the Pongola News and not only in the Observer”.

Amafa AkwaZulu-Natali – 18 September 2012 “We acknowledge receipt of the BID, application form Needs and desirability and R600.00 handling fee for the above proposed development, in terms of KwaZulu Natal Heritage Act No. 4 of 2008 and the National Heritage Resources Act No.25 of 1999 (Section 38 (1), we have no objection to the proposed development. You are however required to adhere to the below-mentioned Conditions:

1. Amafa should be contacted if any heritage objects are identified during earthmoving activities and all development should cease until further notice.

2. No structures older than sixty years or parts thereof are allowed to be demolished, altered or extended without a permit from Amafa.

3. No activities are allowed within 50m of a site which contains rock art. 4. Amafa should be contacted if any unidentified graves are disturbed during

construction and the following procedure is to be followed; Stop construction Report finding to local police station Report to Amafa to investigate.”

Department of Transport – 10 September 2012 “You are advised that the application is in the process of being investigated and that you will be advised accordingly of the Departments comments.”

Telkom, Eastern – 19 September 2012 “No Telkom infrastructure will be affected. Approval of the proposed is valid for six months. If construction has not yet commenced within this time period then the file must be resubmitted for approval. Any changes and deviations from the original planning during construction must be immediately communicated to this office.”


Page 25 of 42


Eskom – 27 September 2012 “We confirm that an investigation has been carried out with regard to encroachments into Eskom Servitudes, in respect of the construction as carried out above. The result of the investigation is that: No Eskom servitudes are affected. Should an upgrade of supply be required, a Network upgrade will be required. Application can be made to Eskom via the Eskom toll free number and will be processed in terms of Eskom’s standard customer connection tariffs, conditions and policies, the costs of which will be for the developer’s account.”

WESSA – 1 October 2012 “WESSA does not wish to register as an I&AP, however, we offer the following for consideration. The project aims to increase the capacity of the existing water treatment plant as the current demand is in excess of the treatment plant capacity. The water source is the Bivane dam (via the Water Users Association Irrigation Canal), with temporary extraction from the Phongola river during maintenance of the canal.

- Water Licence. Is the increase in water abstraction (from the current 6 500 kl/day to 12 000 k/l day) aligned with an existing licence or is a process underway to obtain the necessary authorisation from the Department of Water Affairs? In WESSA’s opinion an application for a water use licence should be obtained in advance of environmental authorisation and presented as information for public review.

- The extent of works in close proximity to the water course are not described. We trust that the infrastructure will be non-polluting and not be at risk of flooding.

- Land Management. The site is transformed except for a small portion of indigenous vegetation infested with invasive alien species. WESSA expects the applicant to ensure that listed invasive aliens are removed and controlled and as the treatment plant falls within an area of a vulnerable vegetation type landscaping using representative plant species in place of exotic palm trees would be of benefit.

- Water Demand Management. We trust that the applicant, in addition to a leak and maintenance programme, ensures that users are aware of their responsibility for the scare resource - ongoing awareness programmes should be undertaken.

- Sludge Disposal. Alternates to disposal at a landfill should be considered, depending on the level of chemicals used in the treatment process.

WESSA would like the above aspects considered in the planning and assessment process. We trust that an environmental management programme will ensure that no significant negative impacts occur during construction and that operation of the facility follows good practice. WESSA does not wish to receive further information and we thank you for the opportunity to comment.

SECTION E: IMPACT ASSESSMENT The assessment of impacts must adhere to the requirements in the EIA Regulations, 2010, and should take applicable official guidelines into account. The issues raised by interested and affected parties should also be addressed in the assessment of impacts.


Page 26 of 42


1. ISSUES RAISED BY INTERESTED AND AFFECTED PARTIES List the main issues raised by interested and affected parties. No comments have, to date, been raised by the general public. All comments noted are from Stakeholders and Municipal members. Response from the practitioner to the issues raised by the interested and affected parties (A full response must be given in the Comments and Response Report that must be attached as Appendix E to this report):

Comment on the Background Information Document

uPhongolo Local Municipality, Planning Division – 22 August 2012 Noted. This was undertaken, and a notice was placed in the Pongola News on the 07/09/2012.

Amafa AkwaZulu-Natali – 18 September 2012 Noted; these conditions have been included in the Construction EMPr.

Department of Transport – 10 September 2012 Noted.

Telkom, Eastern – 19 September 2012 Noted. All applicable reports with regards to the environmental application shall be submitted to Telkom until the completion of the project.

Eskom – 27 September 2012 Noted. The pertinent information has been passed on to the relevant personnel.

WESSA – 1 October 2012 Water Licence: It is understood from the Engineering Design Report that raw water is sourced from the Bivane Dam / Pongola River catchment under the Water Permit Number: 21142185. It was stated in the Design Report that “water use entitlement may be increased with little effect on the available water pending approval by the Department of Water Affairs”. As such it is understood that the correct documentation is existing and shall simply need to be updated with regards to use. This shall be clarified by the EAP, however the process of updating this permit is the responsibility of the Applicant/Engineer.

Extent of works: It shall be ensured throughout the process that best design measures are implemented in the engineering phase, and that preventative measures are included in the EMPr. In addition, the system that is being designed is a closed system and as such no spills of any sort are expected.

Land management: It is not expected that extensive landscaping measures will be implemented in the post-construction/rehab phase. However it shall be a recommendation of the BAR that indigenous vegetation be planted around the perimeter of the works as a screening measure as well as to offset the vegetation which will be lost during the expansion of the works.

Water demand management: Noted.

Sludge disposal: It is intended to store the sludge on site in sludge drying beds that will have a capacity of 20 years. When the beds have reached capacity it is intended that the waste will be disposed of at a landfill site. Depending on the levels of chemicals used, it can be recommended that the waste be used in an application to land use medium. This method will however have to be well researched and monitored and will depend on the chemical content of the sludge.


Page 27 of 42


2. IMPACTS THAT MAY RESULT FROM THE PLANNING AND DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, OPERATIONAL, DECOMMISSIONING AND CLOSURE PHASES AS WELL AS PROPOSED MANAGEMENT OF IDENTIFIED IMPACTS AND PROPOSED MITIGATION MEASURES

2.1. IMPACTS THAT MAY RESULT FROM THE PLANNING AND DESIGN PHASE

a. Site alternatives Note: Only technically possible design alternatives were considered for the proposed application. This is due to the fact that the project aims to expand on the existing works and therefore this is the basis of the application. List the potential impacts associated with site alternatives that are likely to occur during the planning and design phase: Alternative S1 (preferred alternative)

Direct impacts:

None Indirect impacts:

None Cumulative impacts:

None

Alternative S2 (if any)

Direct impacts: Indirect impacts: Cumulative impacts:

No-go alternative (compulsory)

Direct impacts:

The communities involved will not be serviced to a greater level as required and existing infrastructure will continue to serve the community at a substandard level.

Indirect impacts:

The government standard for water services provision will be not be met.

A denial of basic human rights as provided by the Constitution of South Africa’s Bill of Rights, will endure throughout the region that is proposed to be serviced.

Cumulative impacts:

The communities involved will not be serviced to a greater level as required and existing infrastructure will continue to serve the community at a substandard level.

The government standard for water services provision will be not be met.

The infringement on human rights will continue in this community. Indicate mitigation measures to manage the potential impacts listed above: Alternative S1 Alternative S2

There are no foreseeable impacts, therefore no mitigation measures are necessary. Should the no-go alternative prevail, the existing and future population earmarked by the Simdlangentsha East Regional Water Supply Scheme will not receive water services to National Government standards.


Page 28 of 42


b. Process, technology, layout or other alternatives List the impacts associated with any process, technology, layout or other alternatives that are likely to occur during the planning and design phase (please list impacts associated with each alternative separately): Alternative A1 (preferred alternative)

Direct impacts:



None Alternative A2 (if any)



Direct impacts:



None Indicate mitigation measures to manage the potential impacts listed above: Alternative A1: Alternative A2:

No impacts have been identified therefore mitigation measures are not required.

2.2. IMPACTS THAT MAY RESULT FROM THE CONSTRUCTION PHASE

a. Site alternatives

Note: Only technically possible design alternatives were considered for the proposed application. This is due to the fact that the project aims to expand on the existing works and therefore this is the basis of the application.

List the potential impacts associated with site alternatives that are likely to occur during the construction phase:

Alternative S1 (preferred site)

Direct impacts:

Soils The greater portion of the expanded works (sedimentation tanks, filter house, clear water pump station, sludge drying beds, sludge holding ponds and sludge pump chamber) will be constructed mainly in cut with only the sludge pump chamber being constructed on fill. Potential disturbances include compaction, physical removal and potential pollution by hydrocarbons. Furthermore, if standard stormwater control measures are not implemented during the construction phase, soil erosion and subsequent removal of vegetation may occur. Vegetation and fauna During the construction phase vegetation will be cleared for the construction of the expanded works and associated infrastructure. The proposed footprint entails the


Page 29 of 42


removal of both exotic and indigenous vegetation to the south of the works. It is advised the indigenous vegetation be planted around the perimeter of the works as an offset, as well as to provide an aesthetically pleasing visual barrier from the surrounding housing.

Surface water Clearing of vegetation during the construction phase will increase surface runoff and therefore adequate stormwater measures will need to be implemented. Waste generated during the construction phase may enter the environment through surface water runoff. Ground water As has been noted in the Geotechnical Investigation, the site experiences varying degrees of seepage at depths varying between 0.9 and 2m. It has been recommended in the report that a number of measures be implemented to prevent the seepage impacting on the expansion. These include the construction of cut-off drains, the implementation of sufficient site drainage and the importing of rock fill for moister areas. Air quality and Noise Pollution Dust generation from stockpiles and soil stripping, vehicle traffic on dirt roads and motor vehicle fumes will have an impact on air quality. During the construction phase, the operation of machinery and equipment, as well as the construction vehicle traffic will increase noise levels.

Cultural and Historical No heritage resources were observed within or adjacent to the proposed development and as such no Heritage Impact Assessment will be necessary; this was confirmed by Amafa AkwaZulu-Natali. Should any heritage resources, as defined in the National Heritage Resources Act 25 of 1999, be discovered during the course of development activities, the developer must cease all work immediately, and adhere to the protocol set out in the correspondence received by Amafa.

Visual The project involves the expansion of existing infrastructure as well as the construction of further infrastructure. Due to the nature of the works it is not expected that there shall be a significant visual impact. However it is advised that indigenous vegetation be planted around the perimeter of the works to mitigate any visual impacts which may occur.

Traffic An increase in heavy vehicle (construction vehicles) traffic will be limited to the construction period.

Socio-Economic Construction in the area is expected to have a positive impact on the area and local community as it will provide employment opportunities during the construction phase. Indirect impacts:

Soils Insufficient stormwater control measures may result in localised high levels of soil erosion, which will directly impact on the stability and longevity of the construction. Vegetation and Fauna Increase in alien invasive species, therefore a possible loss in biodiversity. Cumulative impacts:

Soils Soils on site have already been impacted by road construction and limited


Page 30 of 42


maintenance as well as compaction on the footpaths. There shall be a minimum additional impact within the proposed site.

Vegetation and Fauna The post-construction rehabilitation process of the project shall ensure that all alien invasive plant species shall be removed and the construction area rehabilitated to the pre-construction condition.

Surface Water Surface water runoff shall stay the same. Erosion of sediment may increase because remediation measures may not be implemented.

Air Quality Dust generation from stockpiles and soil stripping, vehicle traffic on dirt roads and motor vehicle fumes will have an impact on air quality. During the construction phase, the operation of machinery and equipment, as well as the construction vehicle traffic will increase noise levels.

Cultural and Historical No heritage resources were observed within or adjacent to the proposed development area. Should any heritage resources, as defined in the National Heritage Resources Act 25 of 1999, be discovered during the course of development activities, the developer must cease all work immediately, and adhere to the protocol set out in the correspondence received by Amafa.

Traffic An increase in heavy vehicle (construction vehicles) traffic will be limited to the construction period. Waste There will be an increase in construction waste; this will however be limited to the construction phase and can be disposed of a general waste landfill site.

Socio-Economic Potential for local employment during the construction and operational phase. Alternative S2 (if any)



Direct impacts:

The existing plant has a reported capacity of 6 500m³/hr versus a demand of 9 500

m³/hr. it is expected that demand will increase as living standards improve and

populations increase.

The existing water treatment works will continue but the future demand associated with population increase will not be provided for, resulting in members of the public not having access to potable water.

Indirect impacts:

Some communities will have to continue to go without water provision as they have until now.

Decrease in hygiene levels and possible infections where water is extracted from alternative, untreated sources such as nearby streams and dams

Denial of basic human rights and needs

Cumulative impacts:


Page 31 of 42


Existing water services infrastructure will deteriorate and maintenance costs may increase

The communities involved will continue to be served at a substandard level which is not in line with Government standards

Decrease in hygiene levels and possible infections where water is extracted from alternative, untreated sources such as nearby streams and dams

Increased costs of medical treatment associated with substandard water service provision.

Indicate mitigation measures to manage the potential impacts listed above: Alternative S1 Alternative S2

Soils

Spread absorbent sand on areas where oil spills have occurred;

Oil-contaminated soils are to be removed to a contained storage area and disposed of at a licensed facility;

Soil should be stockpiled in such a way as to minimize erosion.

Vegetation and Fauna

All construction areas should be demarcated prior to construction to ensure that the footprint of the impacts are limited (including areas where vehicles may traverse);

All alien invasive species within the construction and development footprint should be removed and follow up monitoring and removal programmes should be initiated once construction is complete;

Reseed cleared areas with an indigenous grass seed mix to prevent soil erosion and with indigenous trees to improve aesthetics;

Hunting and/or fishing activities on site are prohibited. This includes the setting of traps, or the killing of any animal caught in construction works;

No animal, reptile or bird of any sort found on site may be killed. This specifically includes snakes or other animals considered potentially dangerous discovered on site. If such an animal is discovered on site an appropriately skilled person should be summoned to remove the animal from the site. Consideration should be given to selection and nomination of such a person prior to site establishment. If no-one is available, training should be provided to at least two site staff members.

Waste Management and Pollution Prevention

Demarcated areas where waste can be securely contained and stored on a temporary basis during the construction phase should be established. When adequate volumes (not more than 1 month) have accumulated all waste is to be removed from site and disposed of at a licensed facility;

Waste is not to be buried on site or burned;

Storage of waste volumes must not exceed those stipulated in NEM:WA, Schedule 1.

Hydrocarbons should be stored in a bunded storage area with the capacity to contain 110% of the total material stored;

All hazardous materials including paints, turpentine and thinners must be stored appropriately to prevent these


Page 32 of 42


contaminants from entering the environment;

Spill-sorb or similar type product must be used to absorb hydrocarbon spills in the event that such spills should occur.

Surface Water

Care must be taken to ensure that in removing vegetation adequate erosion control measures are implemented;

A stormwater management plan, including sufficient erosion-control measures, must be compiled in consultation with a suitably qualified environmental practitioner / control officer during the detailed design phase prior to the commencement of construction; and

The propagation of low-growing dense vegetation suitable for the habitat such as grasses, sedges or reeds is the best natural method to reduce erosion potential in sensitive areas.

In-stream water flow should not be hindered throughout the construction phase.

Air Quality

Heavy vehicles and machinery should be serviced regularly to minimise exhaust fume pollution;

Soil stockpiles will be located in areas to limit the erosive effects of the wind, which will limit dust;

Removal of vegetation will be avoided until such time as soil stripping is required, which will limit dust.

Vehicle speeds on unpaved roads must be no more than 20 km/h to limit the amount of dust generated;

Haulage distances should be at a minimum;

Water should be sprayed onto gravel and dirt roads when required;

Environmentally friendly soil stabilisers may be used as additional measures to control dust on gravel roads and construction areas;

All equipment should be kept in good working order;

Equipment should be operated within its specifications and capacity and should not be overloaded;

All machinery/plant should be serviced and lubricated regularly to ensure a good working order;

Ensure that the potential noise source will conform to the South African Bureau of Standards recommended code of practice, SANS Code 0103:1983, so that it will not produce excessive or undesirable noise when it is released;

All the Contractors’ equipment shall be fitted with effective exhaust silencers and shall comply with the South African Bureau of Standards recommended code of practice and the South African National Standard (SANS) Code 0103:1983, for construction plant noise generation

All the Contractors’ vehicles shall be fitted with effective exhaust silencers and shall comply with Road Traffic Act (Act 29 of 1989) when any such vehicle is operated on a public road.

Cultural and Historical

Should any heritage resources, as defined in the National Heritage Resources Act 25 of 1999, be discovered during the course of development activities, the developer must cease all work immediately, and adhere to the protocol set out in the


Page 33 of 42


correspondence received by Amafa.

Traffic

Provide sufficient area for the storage of heavy vehicles within the construction site;

Ensure that all road diversions and closures are considered as part of the development footprint and do not add any unnecessary roads;

Ensure that vehicle traffic which may obstruct traffic flow is scheduled outside of peak travelling time;

Erect appropriate warning signage to warn road users, pedestrians and school children of the increased heavy vehicle traffic during the construction phase;

Ensure that heavy / large load traffic is appropriately routed and appropriate safety precautions are taken to prohibit road collisions and traffic incidences; and

Ensure that vehicle operators are suitably licensed, have had appropriate environmental and safety induction, are aware of specific site procedures, and are well rested and cognisant when operating heavy or unsafe vehicles / machinery.

Monitoring

The contractor must appoint an on-site Environmental Liaison Officer (ELO) who will manage the day to day compliance with the EMPr. An independent Environmental Control Officer (ECO) must be appointed to conduct monthly site audits and monitoring of compliance to the EMPr.

b. Process, technology, layout or other alternatives List the impacts associated with process, technology, layout or other alternatives that are likely to occur during the construction phase (please list impacts associated with each alternative separately): Alternative A1 (preferred alternative)

Direct impacts:

No other processes, technologies, layouts or alternatives have been considered as budget and time constraints do now allow for this. The structures will however be built

to the best standards and with the best possible materials. Indirect impacts:

No indirect impacts identified.

Cumulative impacts:

No cumulative impacts identified.

Alternative A2



Direct impacts:

Should the design not be considered, current levels of water service delivery will continue to deteriorate.

The communities involved will not be served to Government standards and poverty in the community may be worsened.

Maintenance costs may increase as the current infrastructure ages with no upgrades or improvements.


Page 34 of 42


Indirect impacts:



Cumulative impacts:



Indicate mitigation measures to manage the potential impacts listed above: Alternative A1: Alternative A2:

In this instance appropriate mitigation measures would include:

Managing the construction activities to a limited area at the sites in order to limit environmental damage.

All mitigation measures explained under the site alternatives, as well as further measures mentioned in the EMPr, would apply

2.3. IMPACTS THAT MAY RESULT FROM THE OPERATIONAL PHASE a. Site alternatives

Note: Only technically possible design alternatives were considered for the proposed application. This is due to the fact that the project aims to expand on the existing works and therefore this is the basis of the application.

List the potential impacts associated with site alternatives that are likely to occur during the operational phase:

Alternative S1 (preferred alternative)

Direct impacts:

The only foreseeable impacts are those of sludge disposal and routine maintenance checks and operations. If sludge is to be disposed of (post 20year drying bed lifespan) through land application, then numerous tests need to be undertaken before disposal, to ensure that levels of metals from the flocculent are acceptable. The state of the receiving environment also needs to be considered with regards to soil types, soil management practices etc.

Indirect impacts:

The water treatment works will have an improved lifespan and increased capability.

Cumulative impacts:

Satisfactory provision of water services. Alternative S2 (if any)



Direct impacts:

The present and projected number of communities and individuals that are not receiving sufficient quality and quantity of water will continue to be without water.

The existing works will not be able to cater for future demand.

Indirect impacts:


Page 35 of 42


Limited potential opportunities for local and regional economic growth development.

Cumulative impacts:

Should the works not be maintained correctly and continually, deterioration of the existing infrastructure would occur more rapidly and result in greater costs for refurbishment and replacement.

Any possible operational problems may not be reported and damage may occur to the pipelines or associated infrastructure.

Indicate mitigation measures to manage the potential impacts listed above: Alternative S1 Alternative S2

All mitigation measures included in the site specific construction Environmental Management Programme (EMPr) will need to be adhered to in order to reduce environmental impacts. However, it is not foreseeable that environmental impacts will be noteworthy during the operational phase as maintenance procedures are currently being conducted and should continue. In addition, no sludge will be sent to landfill within the first 20 years of the lifespan of the water treatment works, ensuring that there will be insignificant amounts of waste produced.

b. Process, technology, layout or other alternatives List the impacts associated with process, technology, layout or other alternatives that are likely to occur during the operational phase (please list impacts associated with each alternative separately): Alternative A1 (preferred alternative)

Direct impacts:

The only foreseeable impact is that of the disposal of sludge that will be produced during the treatment of the raw water. Predominant sludges being generated by these facilities are lime, alum and ferric sludges. Sludge is generated through the water softening (i.e. lime) and coagulation (i.e. alum or ferric) treatment processes. Common practice with regards to the disposal of this waste is to send it to a general / hazardous landfill site, depending on the concentration of materials that are used to treat the water. Alternative methods of disposal have been researched and predominantly include land application. The following criteria need to be seriously applied when considering this practice: 1. The sludge must not be classified as a hazardous waste; 2. The use of the sludge must not cause violations of applicable Departmental ground water or surface water standards and criteria; and 3. The sludge must not cause fugitive dust emissions or objectionable odours, or create a public nuisance. In addition, the concentration of softners and coagulant/flocculant in the sludge, the nutrient content of the soils, and the application of fertilisers need to be considered in combination with the proposed sludge land application. Based on studies that were undertaken by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection Solid Waste Section and Drinking Water Program

11, beneficial land

application of lime sludges from drinking water systems is not expected to create any significant threat to public health or the environment. Unlimited land application of alum sludges from drinking water systems could pose a small but significant threat to public health or the environment. Aluminium, iron and manganese often leached from ferric sludge in quantities that could pose a threat of exceeding Department water quality standards or criteria. Based upon these results, the Department has determined that unlimited land application of ferric sludges from drinking water systems could pose a small but significant threat to

11

Florida Department of Environmental Protection Solid Waste Section and Drinking Water Program, 2006: GUIDANCE FOR LAND APPLICATION OF DRINKING WATER TREATMENT PLANT SLUDGE, Tallahassee, Florida. http://www.dep.state.fl.us/waste/quick_topics/publications/shw/solid_waste/6-12-06DWsludgeguidance.pdf

http://www.dep.state.fl.us/waste/quick_topics/publications/shw/solid_waste/6-12-06DWsludgeguidance.pdf


Page 36 of 42


public health or the environment. It is expected that regulatory bodies that will have to ensure that the aforementioned factors are implemented, will not have enough capacity nor time, to police the correct implementation of sludge to land application. As a result it is recommended that this not be considered as an alternative to disposal at a landfill site.

A direct impact may stem from irregular and unsatisfactory maintenance of the treatment works which will result in an unreliable and substandard quality of water being provided to the surrounding communities.

Theft of infrastructure may result in potable water not reaching the proposed communities.

Indirect impacts:

The incorrect application of sludge to land may result in nutrient loading of the soils and a change in the nature and composition of the soil structure. This may further lead to issues such as leaching, increased erosion potential, reduced water retention etc.

Dried sludge from the treatment process (a hazardous material depending on the concentration of chemicals) may accumulate on site.

Cumulative impacts:

Satisfactory running of the water services. Alternative A2



Direct impacts:

The present and projected number of communities and individuals that are not receiving sufficient quality and quantity of water will continue to be without water.

The existing works will not be able to cater for future demand.

Indirect impacts:

Should damage occur to the water services infrastructure, this may result in water provision ceasing for a period of time.

Cumulative impacts:

Should the works not be maintained correctly and continually, deterioration of the new infrastructure would occur more rapidly and result in greater costs for refurbishment and replacement.

Any possible operational problems may not be reported and damage may occur to the pipelines or associated infrastructure.

Indicate mitigation measures to manage the potential impacts listed above: Alternative A1 Alternative A2

All mitigation measures included in the site specific Environmental Management Programme (EMPr) will need to be adhered to in order to reduce environmental impacts. However, it is not foreseeable that environmental impacts will be noteworthy during the operational phase if a responsible method of sludge disposal is implemented, and the necessary research undertaken, where applicable. Agreements must be reached between the Water Service Provider and farmers on whose property the dried sludge will be utilised. Additionally, a reliable,


Page 37 of 42


registered service provider must be contracted to remove the sludge in instances where concentration of chemicals are too high for the material to be used on agricultural land. It must be ensured that routine maintenance is conducted timeously and thoroughly with regards to the treatment works.

2.4. IMPACTS THAT MAY RESULT FROM THE DECOMISSIONING OR CLOSURE PHASE

a. Site alternatives

List the potential impacts associated with site alternatives that are likely to occur during the decommissioning or closure phase: Alternative S1 (preferred alternative)

The proposed water treatment works will not be decommissioned. Direct impacts:

None

Indirect impacts:

None

Cumulative impacts:

None

Alternative S2



Direct impacts:

Water services provision will continue to the currently serviced communities.

Indirect impacts:

The existing works will not be able to cater for future demand. Cumulative impacts:

Lack of water service provision to the greater Pongola region. Indicate mitigation measures to manage the potential impacts listed above: Alternative S1 Alternative S2

The proposed water treatment works will not be decommissioned; therefore there are no impacts to mitigate.

b. Process, technology, layout or other alternatives

List the impacts associated with process, technology, layout or other alternatives that are likely to occur during the decommissioning or closure phase (please list impacts associated with each alternative separately): Alternative A1 (preferred alternative)

The proposed water treatment works will not be decommissioned. Direct impacts:


Page 38 of 42


None

Indirect impacts:

None

Cumulative impacts:

None Alternative A2



Direct impacts:

Water services provision will continue to the currently serviced communities.

Indirect impacts:

The existing works will not be able to cater for future demand. Cumulative impacts:

Lack of water service provision to the greater Pongola region. Indicate mitigation measures to manage the potential impacts listed above: Alternative A1 Alternative A2

The proposed water treatment works will not be decommissioned; therefore there are no impacts to mitigate.

2.5. PROPOSED MONITORING AND AUDITING For each phase of the project and for each alternative, please indicate how identified impacts and mitigation will be monitored and/or audited. Alternative S1 (preferred site) Alternative S2

An onsite Environmental Liaison Officer (ELO) must be appointed to oversee and ensure that the Environmental Management Programme (EMPr) is correctly and stringently implemented and maintained for the duration of the construction phase of the activity. The ELO will be responsible for the day to day environmental monitoring of the expansion of the water treatment works. An independent Environmental Control Officer (ECO) will be employed to conduct monthly audits of the activity for the duration of the construction phase. The ECO will audit the compliance of the EMPr and specify any corrective measures that may be required. The ECO will also be in the position to issue penalties if any gross non-compliance with the EMPr occurs.

Alternative A1 (preferred alternative) Alternative A2

An onsite Environmental Liaison Officer (ELO) must be appointed to oversee and ensure that the Environmental Management Programme (EMPr) is correctly and stringently implemented and maintained for the duration of the construction phase of the activity. The ELO will be responsible for the day to day environmental monitoring of the expansion of the water treatment works. An independent Environmental Control Officer (ECO) will be employed to conduct monthly audits of the activity for the duration


Page 39 of 42


of the construction phase. The ECO will audit the compliance of the EMPr and specify any corrective measures that may be required. The ECO will also be in the position to issue penalties if any gross non-compliance with the EMPr occurs.

3. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT Taking the assessment of potential impacts into account, please provide an environmental impact statement that summarises the impact that the proposed activity and its alternatives may have on the environment after the management and mitigation of impacts have been taken into account, with specific reference to types of impact, duration of impacts, likelihood of potential impacts actually occurring and the significance of impacts. Alternative S1 (preferred site)

The impacts related to the Pongola Water Treatment Works expansion will mainly occur during the construction phase of the activity. All these impacts can be mitigated as described in the document above. Furthermore, detailed mitigation and management principles for the construction phase will be included in the Environmental Management Programme (EMP). The proposed activity will have no significant negative impact on the receiving environment if the mitigation measures and management of the impacts (particularly during the construction phase) are undertaken. Most of the negative impacts are expected to be of low significance and short duration. Most of the negative impacts are unlikely, or if they are likely to occur, will still have a low risk rating for the receiving environment. It is imperative that an approved EMPr be in place for the construction activities as well as the decommissioning of the contractor’s camp. An independent ECO should be appointed to enforce EMPr compliance. The social impact of the proposed project will be of high significance to the local and wider community during the construction phase. The impact shall be of long term significance with a high impact.

In the light of the impending need for improving the current water service levels to the surrounding community; the impacts identified herein; the definite successful mitigation of these impacts; and the definite positive impacts that will be forthcoming from the activity, it is our opinion that there are no fatal flaws associated with the project that should prevent it from receiving environmental approval. Recommendations made in the specialist studies must be taken into account.

Alternative S2

Alternative A1 (preferred alternative)

The proposed activity will have no significant negative impact on the receiving environment if the mitigation measures and management of the impacts (particularly during the construction phase) are undertaken. Most of the negative impacts are expected to be of low significance and short duration. Most of the negative impacts are unlikely, or if they are likely to occur, will still have a low risk rating for the receiving environment. It is imperative that an approved EMPr be in place for the construction activities as well as the decommissioning of the contractor’s camp. An independent ECO should be appointed to enforce EMPr compliance. It must be ensured that a Waste Management Plan be incorporated into the Operational Plan to ensure that all sludge is correctly disposed of.

Alternative A2


Page 40 of 42



The no-go alternative will have both a negative social and economic impact, of a long term duration of a high significance, on the surrounding communities; basic levels of sanitation and service provision will not be met, maintenance costs may increase as the current infrastructure ages with no upgrades or improvements and the status quo will thus remain the same.

SECTION F. RECOMMENDATION OF EAP

Is the information contained in this report and the documentation attached hereto in the view of the EAPr sufficient to make a decision in respect of this report?

YES

If “NO”, please contact the KZN Department of Agriculture & Environmental Affairs regarding the further requirements for your report.

If “YES”, please attach the draft EMPr as Appendix F to this report and list any recommended conditions, including mitigation measures that should be considered for inclusion in any authorisation that may be granted by the competent authority in respect of the application: The authorization should include the following provisions:

An Environmental Management Programme must be compiled for the Site Establishment and Construction phases, prior to the contractor moving on site.

An Environmental Liaison Officer (ELO) must be appointed for day to day environmental management and an independent Environmental Control Officer (ECO) to complete monthly compliance audits of the EMPr for the duration of the construction phase.

All stipulations set out by stakeholders such as Telkom, Eskom and the DWA, in the comments section, with regards to servitudes, must be upheld.

With regards to the following: Noise Pollution:

Maintain machinery regularly, as per the manufacturer’s specifications.

Limit working hours from 7:00 to 17:00 on weekdays. No works should occur on weekends or public holidays.

Air Pollution:

Maintain vehicles and machinery to control exhaust emissions.

Topsoil stockpiles to be vegetated if they are to stand for more than 2 months. Water Pollution:

Machinery is to be maintained so that it does not leak or spill fluids.

All measures shall be taken to prevent any pollution from entering any watercourse or any wet area.

Stabilising vegetation must only be removed where necessary, and must be replaced with indigenous, non-invasive vegetation as soon after development as possible.

Storm water runoff following completion of construction must approximate pre-development conditions.

Erosion Measures:


Page 41 of 42


Prevent runoff by constructing diversion berms and/or placing straw bales on denuded areas and as filters across run-off pathways.

Care must be taken to ensure that if pipelines are dug beneath water systems, that erosion control measures are implemented.

Groundwater Seepage: Recommendations listed in the Geotechnical Assessment should be implemented, including the following:

Prior to the construction phase, cut-off trenches be excavated to drain the site.

Rockfill be imported and dumped in the swampy area below the current water works to create a working platform for the construction of the drying beds.

Accidental Spillages:

Any spillage shall be cleared up immediately, with the substances being taken to the nearest registered landfill site capable of treating such materials.

A register shall be kept of all incidents on site, showing measures taken to clear up the spillages.

Heritage Issues:

If, under any circumstance an artefact of cultural or historical significance is unearthed, Amafa must be contacted immediately and all work must cease.

Health and Safety:

Traffic signage should be erected to advise people of roadworks and heavy machinery in the area.

A maximum speed limit of 40km/h, or as per the traffic engineers’ advice, should be imposed on all construction vehicles.

Pollution that could be detrimental to humans, flora and fauna shall be minimised as much as possible (dust control methods must be implemented, avoid using the surrounding environment as a toilet, avoid pollution of any kind entering the soil and water systems).

Waste Management:

All solid waste shall be collected and separated into recyclable and non-recyclable waste in on site waste bins and regularly disposed of in the nearest registered landfill site.

Hazardous waste shall be disposed of at a Shongweni Landfill site.

No long drop toilets will be allowed on site. All chemical/portable toilets are to be serviced regularly by a registered service provider.

Environmental Control:

The employment of an on site Environmental Liaison Officer (ELO) who would be responsible for the day to day management of the construction phase of the activity, is essential.

An independent Environmental Control Officer must be employed to undertake monthly audits of the compliance with the Environmental Management Programme (EMPr).

Where necessary, external audits should be carried out yearly by an independent environmental practitioner.

Rehabilitation:

The rehabilitation of all indigenous vegetation must be undertaken as soon as possible after the completion of the construction phase.

Alien Invasive:

All alien invasive species must be cleared from the construction site and


Page 42 of 42


measures must be put in place to inhibit the relocation of these species into disturbed areas during the rehabilitation phase of the project.

SECTION G: APPENDIXES The following appendixes must be attached as appropriate: Appendix A: Site plan(s) Appendix B: Photographs Appendix C: Facility illustration(s) Appendix D: Specialist reports Appendix E: Comments and responses report Appendix F: Draft Environmental Management Programme (EMPr) Appendix G: Other information

Appendix A: Site Plans

(i) Locality Map

(ii) Aerial Photo Locality of Proposed Development Footprint

(iii) Land Use

(iv) MINSET Layout

Appendix B: Site Photographs

Plate 1. The existing water treatment works (view from the east)

Plate 2. The sluice gates at which water which is drawn from the canal (see the canal sluice in the

background) and pumped into the two holding ponds

Plate 3 (a). The one holding pond in which raw water is pumped into for storage before being

treated

Plate 3 (b). The second holding pond in which raw water is pumped into for storage before

being treated

(a)

(b)

Plate 4. The interior of the water treatment works indicating

basins at which samples are extracted and water quality is

tested

Plate 5. Weir and stirring system at which flocculant for

suspended materials is added and mixed into the water

Plate 6. The westerly portion of the water treatment works. Water containing flocculant flows from the maze

into the settling ponds at which point flocculant settles from the water

Plate 7. The surrounding land use. Note the water treatment works within the trees, the housing in the

background and the cane fields in the foreground

Plate 8. The Palm Springs Housing Estate to the south east of the development

Plate 9. A water body to the south of the treatment works

Appendix C: Facility Illustration

Figure 1. The proposed layout for the upgraded Pongola Water Treatment Works

Appendix D: Specialist Reports

(i) Geotechnical Assessment

Appendix E: Comments and Responses

(i) Report

Interested and Affected Party Comment Response

uPhongolo Local Municipality, Planning Division – 22 August 2012

I believe you should place the advertisements also in the Pongola News and not only in the Observer.

Noted. This was undertaken, and a notice was placed in the Pongola News on the 07/09/2012

Amafa AkwaZulu-Natali – 18 September 2012

“We acknowledge receipt of the BID, application form Needs and desirability and R600.00 handling fee for the above proposed development, in terms of KwaZulu Natal Heritage Act No. 4 of 2008 and the National Heritage Resources Act No.25 of 1999 (Section 38 (1), we have no objection to the proposed development. You are however required to adhere o the below-mentioned Conditions:

1. Amafa should be contacted if any heritage objects are identified during earthmoving activities and all development should cease until further notice.

2. No structures older than sixty years or parts thereof are allowed to be demolished, altered or extended without permit from Amafa.

3. No activities are allowed within 50m of a site which contains roack art.

4. Amafa should be contacted if any unidentified graves are disturbed during cnstruyction and the following procedure is to be followed;

- Stop construction - Report finding to local police station - Report to Amafa to investigate.”

Noted; these conditions have been included in the Construction EMPr.

Department of Transport – 10 September 2012

“You are advised that the application is in the process of being investigated and that you will be advised accordingly of the Departments comments.”

Noted.

Telkom – 19 September 2012 No Telkom infrastructure will be affected. Approval of the proposed is valid for six months. If construction has not yet commenced within this time period then the file must

Noted. All applicable reports with regards to the environmental application shall be submitted to

be resubmitted for approval. Any changes and deviations from the original planning during construction must be immediately communicated to this office.

Telkom until the completion of the project.

Eskom – 27 September 2012

“We confirm that an investigation has been carried out with regard to encroachments into Eskom Servitudes, in respect of the construction as carried out above. The result of the investigation is that: No Eskom servitudes are affected. Should an upgrade of supply be required, a Network upgrade will be required. Application can be made to Eskom via the Eskom toll free number and will be processed in terms of Eskom’s standard customer connection tariffs, conditions and policies, the costs of which will be for the developer’s account.”

Noted. The pertinent information has been passed on to the relevant personnel.

WESSA – 1 October 2012 “WESSA does not wish to register as an I&AP, however, we offer the following for consideration. The project aims to increase the capacity of the existing water treatment plant as the current demand is in excess of the treatment plant capacity. The water source is the Bivane dam (via the Water Users Association Irrigation Canal), with temporary extraction from the Phongola river during maintenance of the canal.

- Water Licence. Is the increase in water abstraction (from the current 6 500 kl/day to 12 000 k/l day) aligned with an existing licence or is a process underway to obtain the necessary authorisation from the Department of Water Affairs? In WESSA’s opinion an application for a water use licence should be obtained in advance of environmental authorisation and presented as information for public review.

No further correspondence with regards to this process

shall be forwarded to WESSA as it has been noted by

yourself that you do not wish to be registered as an

IAP.

However, please note the following responses to your

queries:

- Water Licence: It is understood from the Engineering Design Report that raw water is sourced from the Bivane Dam / Pongola River catchment under the Water Permit Number: 21142185. It was stated in the Design Report that “water use entitlement may be increased with little effect on the available water pending approval by the Department of Water Affairs”. As such it is understood that the

- The extent of works in close proximity to the water course are not described. We trust that the infrastructure will be non-polluting and not be at risk of flooding.

- Land Management. The site is transformed except

for a small portion of indigenous vegetation infested with invasive alien species. WESSA expects the applicant to ensure that listed invasive aliens are removed and controlled and as the treatment plant falls within an area of a vulnerable vegetation type landscaping using representative plant species in place of exotic palm trees would be of benefit.

- Water Demand Management. We trust that the applicant, in addition to a leak and maintenance programme, ensures that users are aware of their responsibility for the scare resource - ongoing awareness programmes should be undertaken.

- Sludge Disposal. Alternates to disposal at a landfill should be considered, depending on the level of chemicals used in the treatment process.

WESSA would like the above aspects considered in the planning and assessment process. We trust that an environmental management programme will ensure that no significant negative impacts occur during construction and that operation of the facility follows good practice. WESSA does not wish to receive further information and we thank you for the opportunity to comment.”

correct documentation is existing and shall simply need to be updated with regards to use. This shall be clarified by the EAP, however the process of updating this permit is the responsibility of the Applicant/Engineer.

- Extent of works: The layout provided in the BID is a preliminary layout and does not give a clear indication of the proximity of the works to the surrounding water bodies (storage dam and stream). However it shall be ensured throughout the process that best design measures are implemented in the engineering phase, and that preventative measures are included in the EMPr. In addition, the system that is being designed is a closed system and as such no spills of any sort are expected.

- Land management: It is not expected that extensive landscaping measures will be implemented in the post-construction/rehab phase. However it shall be a recommendation of the BAR that indigenous vegetation be planted around the perimeter of the works as a screening measure.

- Water demand management: Noted.

- Sludge disposal: It is intended to store the sludge on site in sludge drying beds that will have a capacity of 20 years. When the beds have reached capacity it is intended that the waste will be disposed of at a landfill site.

Depending on the levels of chemicals used, it can be recommended that the waste be used in an application to land use medium. This method will however have to be well researched and monitored and will depend on the chemical content of the sludge.

(ii) IAP Comments

(iii) Advert

(iv) Photos of Posters on Site

Plate 1 (a & b). Site posters erected on the current water treatment works fence line

Plate 2.A site posters which was erected outside of the uPhongolo Local Municipality

Appendix F: Draft Environmental Management Programme (EMPr)

Zululand District Municipality Terratest (Pty) Ltd

EMPr – Pongola Water Treatment Works, Construction Phase

1

PONGOLA WATER TREATMENT WORKS EXPANSION,

ZULULAND DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY, KWAZULU-NATAL

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME

EIA REF: DC/26/0019/2012

Prepared for:

Afri-Infra Group (Pty) Ltd

P O Box 1368

Vryheid

3100

Prepared by:

Terratest (Pty) Ltd

PO Box 794

Hilton

3201

Prepared for:

Zululand District Municipality

Private Bag X76

Ulundi

3838



2

PONGOLA WATER TREATMENT WORKS EXPANSION, ZULULAND DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY, KWAZULU-NATAL ............................................. 1 1. INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................... 4

1.1 Background ......................................................................................... 5 1.2 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) ............................................ 6

1.3 Aims of this Document ........................................................................ 7 1.4 Status of this Document ...................................................................... 7 1.5 Definitions Used in this Document ...................................................... 7 1.6 Legislation Pertaining to this Document .............................................. 8

2. DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS ................................................................. 12

2.1 Visual Aspects .................................................................................. 12 2.2 Drainage ........................................................................................... 12

3. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS ................................................................ 12

3.1 EMPr Administration ......................................................................... 12 3.2 Roles and Responsibilities ................................................................ 13 3.2.1 Department of Agriculture and Environmental Affairs .................... 13 3.2.2 Employer: Zululand District Municipality ........................................ 13 3.2.3 Employer's Representative ............................................................ 13

3.2.4 Environmental Control Officer ........................................................ 14 3.2.5 Contractor's Environmental Liaison Officer .................................... 15 3.2.6 Environmental Management Committee ....................................... 15 3.2.7 Organizational structure ................................................................ 16

3.3 Environmental Awareness Training .................................................. 16

3.4 Method Statements ........................................................................... 17 4 CONTROL OF CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES ...................................... 18

4.1 Site Clearing ..................................................................................... 18

4.1.1 Vegetation clearing ........................................................................ 18 4.1.1.1 Mitigation Measures ................................................................... 19

4.1.2 Topsoil ........................................................................................... 19 4.1.2.1 Mitigation Measures ................................................................... 20 4.2 Management of Site Facilities ........................................................... 20

4.2.1 Site layout and establishment .................................................... 20 4.2.2 No-go areas ............................................................................... 21

4.2.3 Temporary fencing ..................................................................... 21

4.2.4 Ablution facilities......................................................................... 22 4.2.5 Eating areas ............................................................................... 22 4.2.6 Workshop, equipment maintenance and storage ....................... 22

4.2.7 General aesthetics ..................................................................... 23 4.3 Materials Handling, Use and Storage ............................................... 23

4.3.1 General ...................................................................................... 23 4.3.2 Transportation ............................................................................ 23 4.3.3 Stockpiling .................................................................................. 23

4.3.3.1 Mitigation Measures ................................................................ 24 4.3.4 Hazardous substances ............................................................... 24 4.3.4.1 Mitigation Measures ................................................................ 24

4.3.5 Surfacing materials ..................................................................... 25 4.3.6 Cement and concrete batching .................................................. 25 4.3.7 Sourcing of materials ..................................................................... 26

4.4 Traffic Accommodation ..................................................................... 26

4.4.1 Mitigation Measures ...................................................................... 27 4.5 Waste Management .......................................................................... 27



3

4.5.1 Solid waste ................................................................................. 27

4.5.2 Hazardous waste........................................................................ 28 4.5.3 Wastewater ................................................................................ 29 4.5.3.1 Mitigation Measures ................................................................ 29

4.6 Noise Control .................................................................................... 30

4.7 Air Quality ......................................................................................... 30 4.7.1 Mitigation Measures ................................................................... 30

4.8 Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control ........................................... 31 4.8.1 During construction .................................................................... 31 3.8.2 Remediation of existing eroded areas ........................................ 32

3.8.2.1. Mitigation Measures ................................................................... 32 4.9 Stormwater Management .................................................................. 33

4.10 Working in Watercourses and Wetland Areas ............................... 33

4.11 Protection of surface water quality ................................................. 34 4.12 Protection of Indigenous Vegetation .............................................. 35 4.13 Protection of Fauna ....................................................................... 35 4.14 Fire Control .................................................................................... 35 4.15 Blasting .......................................................................................... 36

4.16 Water Provision ............................................................................. 36 4.17 Protection of Heritage and Cultural Features................................. 36

5 ALIEN VEGETATION CLEARING PROGRAMME ................................ 37 5.1 General Requirements ...................................................................... 37

5.2 General Eradication Guidelines ........................................................ 37

6. VEGETATION REHABILITATION ......................................................... 39 5.3 Vegetation Rehabilitation Plan .......................................................... 39 5.4 General ............................................................................................. 39

5.5 Seed Collection and Storage ............................................................ 40 5.6 Search and Rescue .......................................................................... 40

5.7 Nursery ............................................................................................. 41 5.8 Mulch ................................................................................................ 41 5.9 Fertiliser ............................................................................................ 42

5.10 Landscaping and Ground Surface Preparation.............................. 42 5.11 Hydroseeding/ Hydromulching ....................................................... 42

6.10 Plants .............................................................................................. 42

6.11 Timing................................................................................................. 43 6.12.1 Establishment of Vegetation ....................................................... 43

6.12.1 Irrigation ....................................................................................... 43

6.12.2 Weed, disease and pest control .............................................. 44 6.12.3 Tree Establishment ................................................................. 44

7. CONSTRUCTION SITE CLOSURE ....................................................... 44 7.1 Construction Camp Rehabilitation ....................................................... 44

7.1.1. Land Rehabilitation ...................................................................... 45

7.1.2 Removal of Barriers and Remediation of Damage ......................... 45 7.2 General Remediation ........................................................................ 45

8. NON-COMPLIANCE .............................................................................. 45

8.1 Procedures ....................................................................................... 45 8.2 Indicative List of Transgressions ....................................................... 46


EMPr – Pongola Water Treatment Works, Construction Phase 4

1. INTRODUCTION

The Zululand District Municipality have undertaken the implementation of the expansion of the

Pongola Water Treatment Works, and in so doing have appointed the Afri-Infra Group (Pty) Ltd to

provide professional services for the design, documentation and construction administration of the

works.The proposed project forms part of the ZDM Simdlangentsha East Regional Scheme; Pongola

Water Treatment Works.

The existing Pongola Water Treatment Works is situated on the outskirts of the town of Pongola on

Portion 261 of the Farm Pongola, No. 61 ( LPI Code N0HU00000000006100261). The site is situated

on municipal land and does not fall within any Tribal/Traditional Authority. The water treatment works

is situated within the following co-ordinates:

Point Southerly co-ordinate Easterly co-ordinate

A 27° 23’ 18.61” S 31° 37’ 03.82” E

B 27° 23’ 19.72” S 31° 37’ 02.25” E

C 27° 23’ 21.65” S 31° 37’ 04.31” E

D 27° 23’ 21.98” S 31° 37’ 05.40” E

E 27° 23’ 20.28” S 31° 37’ 06.48” E

The existing plant has a reported design capacity of 6 500m³/day versus a demand of 9 500m³/day.

The plant is a conventional surface water treatment works and consists of the following unit treatment

processes:

Chemical Addition;

Rapid Mixing;

Flocculation;

Sedimentation;

Rapid Sand Filtration; and

Disinfection.

The plant consists of two plants adjacent to each other, combined with a joint wet sump and clear

water pumping plant. Raw water is sourced from the Bivane Dam/Pongola River catchment area via

the Impala Water Users Association Irrigation Canal. Raw water is also sourced from an abstraction

point in the Pongola River during the annual canal shutdown maintenance period of two months.

It is estimated that the current water demand ranges from approximately 10 750 to 14 047 kℓ/day. It is

expected that this demand will increase to 19 784 kℓ/day by 2030, as living standards improve. It

expected however that the capacity of the water treatment works will be increased to 12 000 kℓ/day,

which will meet the required current demand.



The proposed activity will include the expansion of the existing water treatment works to cater for the

increased demand within the region. Construction activities associated with the expanded works

footprint will include the following:

Chemical dosing building;

Sludge holding ponds;

Sludge drying beds;

Filter house and clear water pump station;

Sedimentation tanks; and

Associated infrastructure including piping, fence lines etc.

The proponent, the Zululand District Municipality, appointed the Afri-Infra Group (Pty) Ltd to conduct

the design for the proposed water treatment works as well as the compilation of the design and

construction tender documentation. Afri-Infra appointed Terratest (Pty) Ltd (Terratest) to undertake

the required environmental study as well as compile the Construction Environmental Management

Programme (EMPr).

1.1 Background

1.1.1 Land use and Vegetation

The land use of the immediate portion to be constructed on currently constitutes the Pongola Water

Treatment Works. The surrounding land use is varied and includes the Palm Springs housing estate

to the south east, scattered housing, and agricultural land which includes homesteads, sugar cane

fields and chicken houses.

The vegetation on site has been classified by Mucina and Rutherford (2006) as Delagoa Lowveld.

However the site falls within close proximity to the Zululand Lowveld classification type, and may

therefore be on the periphery of an ecotone. As such, some of the species listed in the Zululand

Lowveld Classification may thus be found within the region.

Delagoa Lowveld has a distribution which stretches across parts of the Mpumalanga Province,

Swaziland and marginally into KwaZulu-Natal at Pongola. The classification is found at an altitude of

between 150-450m with and a mean annual precipitation, predominantly in the summer and winter

months, of between 450-850mm.

The vegetation features consist of dense trees and tall shrub layers often forming thickets. In addition

to the wide variety of forbs found within the landscape, the herb layer has varying grass species.

Common plant species include Acacia welwitschii, Euclea divinorum and Albizia petersinana. The

vegetation classification has been listed as being moderately protected but vulnerable.



The majority of the proposed project area has been modified due to the establishment of the existing

water treatment works. The small stand of vegetation to the south of the project area contains

indigenous vegetation, but is interspersed by high levels of alien vegetation.

1.1.2 Heritage

According to the National Heritage Resources Act No 25 of 1999, provisions are made to protect

national heritage and this forms an integral part of the environmental assessment process. A

specialist Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) was not conducted for this project due to the nature of

the current landuse. Should any sites be discovered during construction, mitigation measures are

included in this report.

1.1.3 The Social Environment

The greater Pongola region is defined by its agricultural sector which is dominated by the farming of

sugarcane, subtropical fruit plantations, vegetable farming and the sugar cane mill. The economy of

uPhongolo is largely based on agricultural activities and is largely reliant on agricultural mono-crop

production i.e. sugarcane.

There are severe backlogs in the provision and availability of basic services in both urban and rural

communities within the uPhongolo Municipality. In total nearly 40% of households in uPhongolo do

not have access to potable water in their settlements and only 6% of households are recorded to have

water in their dwellings. A Key Performance Area with regards to Infrastructure and Services relating

to the uPhongolo Local Municipality is the provision of access to potable water for all households

within the municipality.

1.1.4 Geology

The site is underlain by cover soils, sandy residuum and sandstone bedrock with a seemingly

undulating profile. Conditions include deeply weathered, often loosely compacted residual soils. The

founding material of the major WTW structures will be on dense to very dense residuum or soft rock

sandstone with negligible settlement and adequate bearing capacity. The sludge dying beds, sludge

holding ponds and sludge pump chamber are located within the marshy portion of the terrain.

1.2 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)

Due to the nature of the proposed project certain regulations of the National Environmental

Management Act (NEMA), 1998 (Act 107 of 1998) require Environmental Authorisation (EA) from the

competent national authority. An application was lodged in terms of the NEMA, 1998 (Act 107 of

1998), as amended, and the Environmental Impact Assessment Regulations as published in

Government Notice No. R543, R544, R545 and R546 of 2010, for a Basic Environmental Impact

Assessment (BAR). This application has been submitted to the Department of Agriculture and

Environmental Affairs (DAEA).



1.3 Aims of this Document

The purpose of this Construction EMPr is to ensure that the impacts of the construction phase on the

environment are kept to a minimum. This includes ensuring that the mitigation measures described in

the Basic Assessment Report are implemented, to ensure continued monitoring of the construction

phase and to ensure the involvement of interested and affected parties (IAPs) in a meaningful way.

1.4 Status of this Document

The provisions of this Construction EMPr are binding on the Contractor during the construction period

and Defects Liability Period of the contract. This specification shall be read in conjunction with all the

documents that comprise the contract documents for this contract. In the event that any conflict

occurs between the terms of the Construction EMPr and the Project Specification or the EA, the terms

of the Construction EMPr shall stand.

1.5 Definitions Used in this Document

For the purpose of this Construction EMPr the following definitions will apply:

Alien vegetation means all undesirable vegetation, defined as but not limited to, all declared category

1 and category 2 plants in terms of the Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (43 of 1983)

(CARA) amended regulations 15 and 16 as promulgated in March 2001.

Construction activity refers to any action taken by the Contractor, his subcontractors, suppliers or

personnel in undertaking the construction work.

Construction area(s) refers to all areas used by the Contractor in order to carry out the required

construction activities. This includes all offices, accommodation facilities, testing facilities/laboratories,

batching areas, storage & stockpiling areas, workshops, spoiling areas, access roads, traffic

accommodation (e.g. bypasses), etc.

Environment means the surroundings within which humans exist and that are made up of - land,

water and atmosphere; micro-organisms, plant and animal life; any part or combination of the above

and the interrelationships among and between them; the physical, chemical, aesthetic and cultural

properties and conditions of the foregoing that influence human health and well-being.

Environmental impact refers to any change to the environment, whether desirable or undesirable, that

would result directly or indirectly from any construction activity.

Hazardous material/substances refer to any substance that contains an element of risk and could

have a deleterious effect on the environment.

Road reserve refers to the proclaimed 150m wide corridor of land within which the road is located and

that will be defined by the new fence line as part of the construction contract.



Vegetation rehabilitation refers to the re-establishment of locally indigenous vegetation with a similar

species composition to that which naturally occurs in the area.

1.6 Legislation Pertaining to this Document

The requirements for environmental authorisation are regulated by Government Notices 543, 544,

545 and 546, published in terms of Chapter 5 of the NEMA.

Under these regulations the proposed development contains activities that may potentially have a

detrimental effect on the environment, in terms of the Regulations given in R544 of 18 June 2010:

The following activities contained in GNR 544 of the new NEMA regulations, 2010, were applied for:

Number and

date of the

relevant

notice

Activity No

(s) (in terms

of the

relevant

notice)

Description of each listed activity as per project description

GN No. 544,

(18 June

2010)

40 The water treatment works is in close proximity to an earth

embankment dam approximately 30m south-west of the site as

well as a drainage line to the south of the perimeter of the

proposed extent of the works. As such the following applies:

“The expansion of:

i. jetties by more than 50 square metres;

ii. slipways by more than 50 square metres; or

iii. buildings by more than 50 square metres;

within a watercourse or within 32 metres of a watercourse,

measured from the edge of a watercourse, but excluding where

such expansion will occur behind the development setback

line.”

The South African Constitution (No 108 of 1996) Chapter 2 - Bill of Rights makes provisions for

Environmental rights - Section 24, Rights in property – Section 25, Administrative justice - Section 32

and Access to Information – Section 33.

The National Environmental Management Act (NEMA) (Act 107 of 1998) is a ‘principles-based Act’

and is an overarching statute regulating various aspects of natural resource use, integrated

environmental management and pollution control. The Act provides for the right to an environment

that is not harmful to the health and well-being of the South African people. Sustainable development,

environmental protection, equitable distribution of natural resources; and the formulation of

environmental management frameworks are also fundamental. The definition of the environment



includes the land and water of the earth, micro-organisms, plant and animal life or a combination of

those things, and the inter relationships among them.

The Act aims to provide for co-operative environmental governance by establishing principles for

decision-making on matters affecting the environment, institutions that will promote co-operative

governance, and procedures for co-ordinating environmental functions exercised by organs of state.

Section 24 Provides for the prohibition, restriction and control of activities which are likely to have a

detrimental effect on the environment.

NEMA contains a set of principles that govern environmental management, and against which all

environmental management plans and actions are measured. Sustainable development requires the

consideration of all relevant factors including the following:

Environmental management must place people and their needs at the forefront of its concern, and

serve their physical, psychological, developmental, cultural and social interests equitably.

That the disturbance of ecosystems and loss of biological diversity are avoided, or where they

cannot be altogether avoided, are minimized and remedied.

That pollution and degradation of the environment are avoided, or, where unavoidable, are

minimised and remedied.

That waste is avoided, or where unavoidable is minimised and reused or recycled where possible

and/or disposed of in a responsible manner.

That a risk-adverse and cautious approach is applied, which takes into account the limits of

current knowledge about the consequences of decisions or actions.

That negative impacts on the environment and on people’s environmental rights be anticipated

and prevented, and where they cannot be altogether prevented, are minimized and remedied.

The right of workers to refuse work that is harmful to human health or the environment and to be

informed of dangers must be respected and protected.

The role of women and youth in environmental management and development must be

recognised and their full participation therein must be promoted.

Responsibility for the environmental health and safety consequences of a policy, programme,

project, product, process, service or activity exists throughout its life cycle.

The participation of interested and affected parties in environmental governance must be

promoted, and people must have the opportunity to develop the understanding, skills and capacity

necessary for achieving equitable and effective participation.

The participation by vulnerable and disadvantaged persons must be ensured.

Decisions must take into account the interests, needs and values of all interested and affected

parties, and this includes recognising all forms of knowledge, including traditional and ordinary

knowledge.

That the cost of remedying pollution, environmental degradation and consequent adverse health

effects and of preventing, controlling or minimizing further pollution, environmental damage or

adverse health effects must be paid for by those responsible for harming the environment.



Community well-being and empowerment must be promoted through environmental education,

the raising of environmental awareness, the sharing of knowledge and experience and other

appropriate means; and

Decisions must be taken in an open and transparent manner, and access to information must be

provided in accordance with the law.

The National Water Act (No 36 of 1998) makes provisions for the protection of surface water and

groundwater resources and their sustainable management for the prevention and remediation of the

effects of pollution, and for the control of emergency occurrences.

The primary purpose of this Act is to manage and control South Africa’s water resources by:

Meeting the basic human needs of present and future generations.

Promoting the efficient, sustainable and beneficial use of water in the public interest.

Facilitating social and economic development.

Providing for growing demands for water use.

Protecting aquatic and associated ecosystems and their biological diversity.

Reducing and preventing pollution and degradation of water resources; and meeting

international obligations.

Landowners and users have an obligation not to pollute water, and prescribe certain

measures to prevent pollution.

When a bed, bank, course or characteristics of a watercourse is altered, the Act implies that a

license has to be obtained.

The institutional roles of DWA and the catchment management agencies (CMAs), which are bodies

charged with enforcing some aspects of this Act. The CMA may take measures it considers

necessary to remedy a harmful situation and may recover all costs incurred.

The Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (No 43 of 1983). The main focus of this act is

upon agricultural resources but it has an indirect implication for rivers and provides for the protection

of agricultural land while regulations provides for the implementation of control measures for alien and

invasive plant species.

National Environmental Management: Air Quality Act (No 39 of 2004) which provides for the

control of dust, noise and offensive odours.

The Occupational Health and Safety Act (No 85 of 1993) makes provisions in regulations Section 8

for the general duties of employers to their employees. Section 9 of the Regulations make provisions

for general duties of employers and self-employed persons to persons other than their employees.



The Protected Areas Act (No 57 of 2003) aims to provide for the protection and conservation of

ecologically viable areas representative of South Africa's biological diversity, natural landscapes and

seascapes.

National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act 10 of 2004) (NEMBA), makes

provisions for achieving the objectives of the United Nation’s Convention on Biological Diversity, to

which South Africa is a signatory.

The Bill promotes management, conservation and sustainable use of indigenous biological resources,

and provides for:

The management and conservation of biological diversity within the Republic.

The use of indigenous biological resources in a sustainable manner; and

The fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the commercialization through bio-

prospecting of traditional uses and knowledge of generic resources.

The Bill gives effect to international agreements relating to biodiversity which are binding on the

Republic and provides for co-operative governance in biodiversity management and conservation,

and provides for a National Biodiversity Institute to assist in achieving the above objectives.

The Act gives wide powers to a National Biodiversity Institute to inter alia protect animals and micro-

organisms in appropriate enclosures, the collection of information, undertaking and promotion of

research on indigenous biodiversity and the sustainable use of indigenous biological resources, the

prevention, control or eradication of listed invasive species, biodiversity planning and other functions.

The Waste Act (Act 59 of 2008), reforms the law regulating waste management in order to protect

health and the environment providing reasonable measures for the prevention of pollution and

ecological degradation and for securing ecologically sustainable development; to provide for

institutional arrangements and planning matters; to provide for national norms and standards for

regulating the management of waste by all spheres of government; to provide for specific waste

management measures; to provide for licensing and control of waste management activities; to

provide for the remediation of contaminated land; to provide for the national waste information

system; to provide for compliance and enforcement; and to provide for matters connected therewith.

The Minerals and Petroleum Resources Development Act (Act 28 of 2002) makes provision for

the equitable access to and sustainable development of the Nation’s mineral and petroleum

resources; and to provide for matters connected therewith.

The above legislation is empowering legislation for the following spheres of government:

Department of Agriculture and Environmental Affairs (DAEA)

Department of Minerals and Resources (DMR)



Department of Water Affairs (DWA)

Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF)

Department of Health (DH)

Department of Transport (DoT)

Department of Labour (DL)

2. DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

The general design approach is set out in the preliminary design report of the engineering guidelines

contract documents. The following additional environmental considerations need to be taken into

account in the Contractor’s design and construction procedures.

This section highlights several environmental constraints and/or recommendations that were identified

during the EIA that need to be incorporated into the detailed design of the works.

2.1 Visual Aspects

Aesthetics need to be taken into consideration with regards to the rehabilitation phase of the project

due to the location of the current works and its proximity to the surrounding residential areas. It is

advised that, where possible, indigenous trees be planted around the perimeter of the works to shield

the works from the surrounding community. In addition, this will provide an offset for the indigenous

trees that will be removed to the south of the works, during the expansion process.

2.2 Drainage

In general, stormwater culverts must reflect the positions of natural drainage lines. Where drainage

lines constitute streams or wetlands, culvert numbers must be increased. Culverts must be placed,

sized and designed so that they do not drain upstream of wetland areas, but facilitate surface and

subsurface flow linkages with downstream systems.

Recommendations listed in the Geotechnical Assessment should be implemented with regards to the

seepage which was noted on site. These should include the following:

Prior to the construction phase, cut-off trenches be excavated to drain the site.

Rockfill be imported and dumped in the swampy area below the current water works to create

a working platform for the construction of the drying beds.

Good drainage should be incorporated into all the design.

Further recommendations listed in the Geotechnical Assessment apply.

3. GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

3.1 EMPr Administration



Copies of this EMPr shall be kept at the site office and will be distributed to all senior contract

personnel. All senior personnel shall be required to familiarise themselves with the contents of this

document. All senior personnel will be required to sign a register confirming their understanding of

the document. This register shall be continuously updated as changeover of senior personnel takes

place.

3.2 Roles and Responsibilities

The implementation of this EMPr requires the involvement of several stakeholders, each fulfilling a

different but vital role to ensure sound environmental management during the construction phase.

The stakeholders are discussed below.

3.2.1 Department of Agriculture and Environmental Affairs

The DAEA is the designated provincial authority responsible for authorising the environmental

application and the EMPr related to the project. The DAEA has overall responsibility for ensuring that

the applicant (Zululand District Municipality) complies with the conditions of EA as well as this EMPr.

DAEA shall be invited to join the Environmental Management Committee (EMC) (see below) and

attend the monthly EMC meetings.

3.2.2 Employer: Zululand District Municipality

Under South African environmental legislation, the Applicant/Employer is accountable for the potential

impacts of the activities that are undertaken and is responsible for managing these impacts. The

Zululand District Municipality (ZDM) as the Applicant/Employer therefore has overall environmental

responsibility to ensure that the implementation of this EMPr complies with the relevant legislation and

the conditions of the EA. The Employer has appointed the Contractor to undertake the contract on a

design and construct basis. The ZDM shall join the EMC and attend the monthly EMC meetings.

3.2.3 Employer's Representative

Afri-Infra Group (Pty) Ltd, as the Employer’s Representative (ER) would act as the Employer’s on-site

implementing agent and has the responsibility to ensure that the Employer’s responsibilities are

executed in compliance with the relevant legislation and the EA.

In addition to general project management, the ER has the responsibility to appoint the Environmental

Control Officer (ECO).

The on-site ER shall assist the ECO where necessary and will have the following responsibilities in

terms of the implementation of this EMPr:

Ensuring that the necessary environmental authorisations and permits have been obtained.

Reviewing and approving the Contract’s Method Statements with input from the ECO where

necessary.



Assisting the Contractor in finding environmentally responsible solutions to problems with

input from the ECO and EMC where necessary.

Ordering the removal of person(s) and/or equipment not complying with the EMPr

specifications. Issuing fines for transgressions of site rules and penalties for contravention of

the EMPr.

Providing input into the ECO’s ongoing internal review of the EMPr, which is submitted as a

report to the Employer.

Chairing the monthly EMC meetings which may co-inside with the onsite project review

meetings.

3.2.4 Environmental Control Officer

The Independent Environmental Control Officer (ECO) appointed will monitor and review the on-site

environmental management and implementation of this EMPr by the Contractor. This will be done by

conducting monthly site audits for the duration of the contract and supply monthly audit reports for

submission to the EMC and the DAEA’s Compliance Monitoring and Enforcement Section.

The ECO’s duties will include the following:

Assisting the ER in ensuring that the necessary environmental authorisations and permits

have been obtained prior to construction commencing.

Maintaining open and direct lines of communication between the ER, Employer, Contractor

and EMC with regard to environmental matters.

Reviewing the Contractor’s construction Method Statements together with the ER.

Fortnightly site inspections of all construction areas with regard to compliance with the EMPr.

Monitoring and verifying adherence to the EMPr, the EA and approved Method Statements at

all times.

Monitoring and verifying that environmental impacts are kept to a minimum.

Taking appropriate action if the specifications are not followed, this includes reporting the

transgressions to the ER.

Monitoring the undertaking by the Contractor of environmental awareness training for all new

personnel coming onto site.

Advising on the removal of person(s) and/or equipment not complying with the specifications

(via the ER).

Recommendations regarding the issuing of fines for transgressions of site rules and penalties

for contraventions of the EMPr (via the ER).

Auditing the implementation of the EMPr and compliance with the EA on a fortnightly basis.

Compiling a final audit report regarding the EMPr and its implementation during the

construction period after completion of the contract and submitting this report to the Employer

and the authorising authority.

The ECO will conduct audits throughout the construction phase.



The DAEA requires that the ECO be at the forefront of all environmental management issues,

and as such the ELO described below will report to the ECO on any findings.

3.2.5 Contractor's Environmental Liaison Officer

The Contractor appointed by the Employer is to undertake the detailed design and the construction

activities for the project.

The appointed Contractor will be required to appoint a competent individual as the Contractor’s on-

site Environmental Liaison Officer (ELO). The selected ELO must be at least at Foreman level

appointment and must fully familiarise him-/herself with the contents of this EMPr. He/she will be

required to sign the register confirming his/her familiarity with the document. The ELO must

furthermore possess the necessary skills to action environmental management to all personnel

involved in the contract.

The ELO will be responsible for overseeing the Contractor’s internal compliance with the EMPr

requirements and ensuring that the environmental specifications are adhered to.

The ELO will be responsible for keeping detailed records of all site activities that may pertain to the

environment and include all these aspects in an environmental register. This register must be

presented at each EMC meeting and be made available to the ECO during his/her fortnightly audits.

In addition to the environmental register the ELO must keep a register of complaints from any

community members on environmental issues. Finally, the ELO will be required to keep a record of

all on-site environmentally related incidents and how these incidents were dealt with.

3.2.6 Environmental Management Committee

The EMC shall be a multidisciplinary team tasked with monitoring the progress of the EMPr and

resolving any environmental problems that may arise during the course of the project. The EMC shall

be accountable for ensuring that environmentally sound principles guide the project during the

construction phase. The DAEA will be included in the EMC monthly meetings.

The EMC shall consist of all the relevant stakeholders in the construction phase, as well as

representatives of interested and affected parties, for example:

Zululand District Municipality’s representative

ER’s representative

Contractor’s representative (the ELO)

Any affected landowners and/or communities and,

The local municipality.



DAEA

The EMC shall meet on a monthly basis.

3.2.7 Organizational structure

Details of the organizational structure are presented in Figure 1. The structure illustrates the reporting

procedures for stakeholders in the implementation of this EMPr.

Figure 1: EMPr implementation organisational structure

3.3 Environmental Awareness Training

The Contractor shall ensure that adequate environmental awareness training of senior site personnel

takes place and that all construction workers receive an induction presentation on the importance and

implications of the EMPr.

The presentation shall be conducted, as far as possible, in the employees’ language of choice.

As a minimum, training shall include:

Explanation of the importance of complying with the EMPr.

Discussion of the potential environmental impacts of construction activities.

The benefits of improvement personal performance.

Employees’ roles and responsibilities, including emergency preparedness.

Explanation of the mitigation measures that must be implemented when carrying out their

acidities.

Authority

DAEA

IAPs Employer

Zululand DM

Employer’s Representative Afri-Infra Group (Pty) Ltd

Contractor

Unknown

Environmental Control Officer Terratest (Pty) Ltd

Environmental Management Committee



Explanation of the specifics of this EMPr and its specification.

Explanation of the management structure of individuals responsible for matters pertaining to

the EMPr.

The contractor shall keep records of all environmental training sessions, including names, dates and

the information presented. These records will be presented at the EMC meetings and to the ECO on

request during his/her fortnightly audits.

3.4 Method Statements

Method Statements are written submissions by the Contractor to the ER in response to the

requirements of this EMPr or to a request by the ER. The Contractor shall be required to prepare

Method Statements for several specific construction activities and/or environmental management

aspects.

The Contractor shall not commence the activity for which a Method Statement is required until ER has

approved the relevant Method Statement.

Method Statements must be submitted at least 20 working days prior to date on which approval is

required to the ER. The ER must in turn accept or reject the Method Statement within 10 working

days of receipt.

Failure to submit a Method Statement may result in suspension of the activity concerned until such

time as a Method Statement has been submitted and approved.

An accepted Method Statement shall not absolve the Contractor from any of his obligations or

responsibilities in terms of the contract. However, any damage caused to the environment through

activities undertaken without an approved Method Statement shall be rehabilitated at the Contractor’s

expense.

The Method Statements shall cover relevant details with regard to:

Construction procedures and location of the construction site.

Start date and duration of the procedure.

Materials, equipment and labour to be used.

How materials, equipment and labour would be moved to and from the site as well as on site

during construction.

Storage, removal and subsequent handling of all materials, excess materials and waste

materials of the procedure.

Emergency procedures in case of any reasonably potential accident/incident which would

occur during the procedure.

Compliance/non-compliance with the EMPr specification and motivation if non-compliant.



Method statements (MS) required:

Based on the specifications in this EMPr, the following Method Statements (MS) are required as a

minimum:

MS1: Site clearing

MS2: Site layout and establishment

MS3: Hazardous substances

MS4: Cement and concrete batching (for each operation)

MS5: Sourcing of Materials

MS6: Traffic accommodation

MS7: Solid waste control system

MS8: Wastewater control system

MS9: Erosion remediation and stabilisation

MS10: Stormwater Control

MS11: Fire control and emergency procedures

MS12: Alien vegetation clearing programme

MS13: Vegetation rehabilitation plan

4 CONTROL OF CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES

4.1 Site Clearing

MS1: The Contractor shall submit a site clearing method for all areas where the Contractor is

required to, or intends to, clear vegetation. The Method Statement will include:

A clear indication of land reference;

Details of any search and rescue and/or seed collection to take place;

Which areas will be cleared;

How these areas will be cleared; and

How the cleared materials will be stored or disposed off.

4.1.1 Vegetation clearing

No vegetation clearing shall take place without written acceptance of the Method Statement by the

ER. No vegetation clearing will take place until seed collection has been undertaken in the area,

unless the area is not deemed suitable for seed collection.

Before clearing of vegetation, the Contractor shall ensure that all litter and non-organic materials are

removed from the area to be cleared.

Vegetation clearing shall take place in a phased manner in order to retain vegetation cover for as long

as possible.



Vegetation clearing in watercourses and wetland areas shall be conducted by hand. No heavy

machinery shall be permitted in watercourses to clear vegetation. Vegetation cleared from

watercourses shall be removed from the watercourses immediately.

All indigenous plant material removed from the cleared areas shall be stockpiled for mulching. All

remaining vegetation shall be removed and disposed of at a Department of Environmental Affairs

(DEA) registered landfill site.

4.1.1.1 Mitigation Measures

All construction areas must be demarcated prior to construction to ensure that the footprint of the

impacts are limited (including areas where vehicles may traverse);

All alien invasive species within the construction and development footprint must be removed and

follow up monitoring and removal programmes must be initiated once construction is complete;

Reseed cleared areas with an indigenous seed mix to prevent soil erosion;

Hunting and/or fishing activities on site are prohibited. This includes the setting of traps, or the

killing of any animal caught in construction works;

No animal, reptile or bird of any sort found on site may be killed. This specifically includes snakes

or other animals considered potentially dangerous discovered on site. If such an animal is

discovered on site an appropriately skilled person must be summoned to remove the animal from

the site. Consideration must be given to selection and nomination of such a person prior to site

establishment. If no-one is available, training must be provided to at least two site staff members.

4.1.2 Topsoil

The Contractor shall remove topsoil from all areas where topsoil will be impacted on by construction

activities, including temporary activities such as storage and stockpiling areas, mining areas and

detours.

Stripped topsoil shall be stockpiled in areas agreed with by the ER for later use in revegetation and

shall be adequately protected. Topsoil is considered to be the natural soil covering, including all the

vegetation and organic matter. The depth of the soil may vary and due to this reason the top 300mm

of soil must be removed and preserved as topsoil.

Topsoil stockpiles shall be convex and no more than 2m high. Stockpiles shall be shaped so that no

surface water ponding can take place.

Topsoil stockpiles shall be protected from erosion by wind and rain by providing suitable stormwater

and cut-off drains (accepted by the ER) and/or the establishment of temporary indigenous vegetation.

Topsoil stockpiles shall not be subject to compaction greater than 1 500 kg/m2 and shall not be

pushed by a bulldozer for more than 50m.



Topsoil stockpiles shall be monitored regularly to identify any alien plants. If any occurs, they must be

removed when they germinate to prevent contamination of the indigenous seed bank. Before topsoil

is to be re-used the stockpiles shall be analysed by a suitably qualified Landscape

Contractor/Horticulturalist and, if necessary, be fertilised before use.

Any topsoil contaminated by hazardous substances shall not be used but shall be disposed of at a

DWA registered landfill site.

The Contractor shall be held responsible for the replacement, at his expense, for any unnecessary

loss of topsoil due to his failure to work according to the approved Method Statement and the

requirements of this EMPr.


Spread absorbent sand on areas where oil spills have occurred;

Oil-contaminated soils are to be removed to a contained storage area and disposed of at a

licensed facility;

Soil must be stockpiled in such a way as to minimize erosion; and

All excavated areas are demarcated and kept to a minimum.

4.2 Management of Site Facilities

The construction, layout and extent of the construction site and its components shall be planned,

designed and managed in such a manner that environmental impacts are minimised. Temporary

structures and facilities shall be decommissioned to the satisfaction of the ER and clean-up after

construction shall be effectively undertaken.

4.2.1 Site layout and establishment

The Contractor shall establish construction camps, offices, workshops, testing facilities, stockpiling

areas, staff accommodation etc. in a manner that does not adversely affect the environment.

The construction areas shall be kept to a minimum.

Site establishment shall not take place on steep slopes, within 50m of wetland areas and

watercourses or sites declared as no-go areas.

The site layout shall take cognisance of access for deliveries and services. Likely disturbance to

neighbours, agricultural land as well as security implications shall be considered. Any site

establishment near any settlements shall be discussed with and agreed to by the local community.

These negotiations must be commissioned and chaired by the CLO.



MS2: Before construction can begin, the Contractor shall submit to the ER for accepted a

Method Statement detailing:

A layout plan and the method of establishment of the construction camp, i.e. all

offices, accommodation facilities, testing facilities/laboratories, batching areas, storage and

stockpiling areas, workshops, vehicle washing areas and all other areas/facilities required for

the undertaking of activities required for the completion of the project.

The plan shall include the location and layout of waste storage and treatment facilities,

ablution facilities, stockpiling and spoil areas and hazardous material storage areas. The

demolition and removal of these facilities on completion of construction works shall also be

detailed.

If applicable, written agreement from any affected local community shall be included.

The Contractor shall restrict all his activities, materials, equipment and personnel to within the

area specified. The Contractor shall ensure that the approved construction area will be

adequate to cover the project without further space adjustments being required at a later date.

4.2.2 No-go areas

Areas where construction activities (including traffic accommodation) are prohibited are referred to as

no-go areas. Entry into these areas by any person, vehicle or equipment without the ER’s written

permission will result in a penalty.

All declared no-go areas will be demarcated by temporary fencing, the position of which shall be

agreed to by the ER and the ELO, and appropriate signage.

All private property outside of the construction areas (including any detour routes) as set out in the

site layout plan shall be considered no-go areas.

The ER may declare additional no-go areas at any time during the construction phase as deemed

necessary and/or at the request of the ECO and/or the EMC.

Demarcation materials (fencing, signage, etc.) shall not be moved or removed at any stage of the

project without the written consent of the ER.

4.2.3 Temporary fencing

The Contractor shall erect temporary fencing along the perimeter of the contractor’s site camp.

Temporary fencing shall, as a minimum, consist of wooden or metal posts at 3m intervals, with two

plain wire strands tensioned horizontally at heights of 300mm and 900mm above the ground,

threaded with commercial type danger tape.



The Contractor shall maintain in good order all demarcation fencing and barriers for the duration of

construction activities, or as otherwise instructed.

4.2.4 Ablution facilities

The Contractor is responsible for the assembly and maintenance of adequate ablution facilities and

for enforcing the use of these facilities.

The Contractor shall be responsible for ensuring that all ablution facilities are maintained in a clean

and sanitary condition to the satisfaction of the ER.

Ablution facilities (chemical toilets, etc.) must be provided at all construction camp areas where there

will be a concentration of labour. According to the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations

(1993), a minimum of 1 toilet per 20 people must be provided and be serviced by a registered service

provider. Toilet paper must be provided.

4.2.5 Eating areas

If none is available, the Contractor shall provide adequate temporary shade within the construction

areas to ensure that site personnel do not move off site to eat.

The Contractor shall provide adequate refuse bins at all eating areas to the satisfaction of the ER.

If deemed necessary by the ER, the Contractor shall demarcate designated eating areas.

No feeding of wild animals shall be allowed.

4.2.6 Workshop, equipment maintenance and storage

All vehicles and equipment shall be kept in good working order to maximise efficiency and minimise

pollution.

All maintenance, including washing and refuelling of plant on site shall take place at designated

locations at the workshop area.

The Contractor shall ensure that no contamination of soil or vegetation occurs around workshops and

plant maintenance facilities.

All machinery servicing areas shall be bunded.

Drip trays shall be used to collect used oil, lubricants, etc. during maintenance. Drip trays shall be

provided for all stationary plant.



Washing of equipment shall be restricted to urgent maintenance requirements only.

Adequate wastewater collection facilities shall be provided.

4.2.7 General aesthetics

The Contractor shall ensure that the type and colour of roofing and cladding materials of any new

buildings and structures constructed as part of the project are selected to reduce reflection and blend

with the natural environment and the existing infrastructure.

The Contractor shall not deface, paint, damage or mark any natural feature (eg. Rocks, etc.) situated

on or around the site for survey or any other purposes unless agreed beforehand with the ER. Any

features, affected by the Contractor in contravention of this clause shall be restored/rehabilitated to

the satisfaction of the ER.

All construction areas must be kept neat and tidy at all times. Different materials and equipment must

be kept in designated areas and storing/stockpiling shall be kept orderly.

Lighting shall be of the downward facing spill off type.

4.3 Materials Handling, Use and Storage

The potential environmental impact of the handling, use, storage and disposal of materials used

during construction shall be minimised.

4.3.1 General

Environmental considerations shall be taken into account in the siting of any material storage areas.

4.3.2 Transportation

The Contractor shall ensure that all suppliers and their delivery drivers are aware of procedures and

restrictions (eg. no-go areas) in terms of this EMPr.

Material shall be appropriately secured to ensure safe passage between destinations during

transportation. Loads shall have appropriate cover to prevent them spilling from the vehicle during

transit. The Contractor shall be responsible for any clean-up resulting from the failure by his

employees or suppliers to properly secure transported materials.

4.3.3 Stockpiling

The Contractor shall plan his activities so that materials can be transported directly to and placed at

the point where they are to be used.

Should temporary stockpiling become necessary, the areas for the stockpiling of excavated material

shall be indicated and demarcated on the site plan submitted in writing to the ER for his approval



(MS1), together with the Contractor’s proposed measures for prevention, containment and

rehabilitation against environmental damage

Stockpiles shall be positioned and sloped to create the least visual impact.

No foreign material generated/deposited during construction shall remain on site.

Areas affected by stockpiling shall be reinstated to the satisfaction of the ER and the ECO.


Temporary stormwater control measures must be installed in the event that rain should occur

which has the potential to cause erosion of exposed soil;

Cut-off drains must be installed to facilitate the control of surface water runoff velocities;

Stormwater control barriers must be used to divert surface water runoff into grassland/wetland

buffers and not directly into the exposed workings;

Stockpiles of soils and material must be located on high ground out of the reach of flood flows;

and

Stockpiles will be sited in areas demarcated for such purposes prior to the commencement of

construction activities.

4.3.4 Hazardous substances

All hazardous material/substances (eg. petrochemicals, oils, paints, etc.) shall be stored on site only

under controlled conditions. All hazardous materials/substances shall be stored in a bunded,

secured, appointed area that is fenced and has restricted entry. All storage shall take place using

suitable containers to the approval of the ER. Hazard signs indicating the nature of the stored

materials shall be displayed on the storage facility or containment structure.

Fuel shall be stored in a steel tank supplied and maintained by the fuel suppliers. The tanks shall be

located in a secure, demarcated area and an adequate bund wall (110% of the total volume of the

tank) shall be provided. The floor and wall of the bund area shall be impervious to prevent infiltration

of any spilled/leaked fuel into the soil. No possible spillages or accumulated stormwater within this

bunded area will be allowed to be flushed from the bund into the surrounding area. All fluids

accumulated within the bunded area shall be removed by a registered service provider and disposed

of at a Department of Water Affairs approved landfill site which is registered to deal with waste of this

nature.

Weighbills shall be sourced from the service provider and be kept on site for inspection by the ECO

during his/her audits.


Ensure that any hydrocarbons spills are cleaned up as soon as possible;



Provide drip-trays for all vehicles/plant stored on site, particularly ones that leak hydrocarbons.

These leaks must be fixed off site immediately;

Ensure that a proper spill-kit is available at all times where hydro-carbon handling will be

undertaken;

Ensure that raw materials stockpiles are enclosed and bunded;

Ensure that hazardous materials are stored on a lined surface and that water runoff from the area

is contained; and

Method Safety Data Sheets (MSDS’s) must be readily available on site for all hazardous

substances/materials to be handled on site.

MS3: The Contractor shall provide a Method Statement detailing the hazardous

substance/material that are to be used during construction, as well as the storage, handling

and disposal procedures for each substance/material and emergency procedures in the event

of misuse or spillage that might negatively affect people or the environment.

4.3.5 Surfacing materials

Over spray of bitumen products outside of the road surface and onto roadside vegetation shall be

prevented using a method approved by the ER.

When heating of bitumen products, the Contractor shall take cognisance of appropriate fire control

measures.

Stone chip/gravel excess shall not be left on road/paved areas. This shall be swept/raked into piles

and removed to an area approved by the ER.

Water quality from runoff from any fresh bitumen surface shall be monitored by the ER and remedial

actions taken where necessary.

4.3.6 Cement and concrete batching

Concrete mixing directly on the ground shall not be allowed and shall take place on impermeable

surfaces to the satisfaction of the ER.

The concrete batching activities shall be located in an area of low environmental sensitivity to be

identified by the ER.

All runoff from batching areas shall be strictly controlled and cement-contaminated water shall be

collected, stored and disposed of at a DWA registered landfill site authorised to deal with these

substances.

Contaminated water storage facilities shall not be allowed to overflow and appropriate protection from

rain and flooding shall be implemented. The storage facilities shall be completely closed systems,



such as JoJo tanks, with adequate capacities.

Lime and other powders must not be mixed during excessively windy conditions.

Unused cement bags shall be stored out of the rain where runoff won’t affect it.

Used (empty) cement bags shall be collected and stored in weatherproof containers to prevent wind-

blown cement dust and water contamination. Used cement bags shall not be used for any other

purpose and shall be disposed of on a regular basis at a DEA registered landfill site.

All excess concrete shall be removed from site on completion of concrete works and disposed of at a

DWA registered landfill site.

Washing of the excess concrete into the ground is not allowed.

All excess aggregate shall be removed.

MS4: The Contractor shall submit a Method Statement detailing cement storage, concrete

batching areas and methods, method of transport of cement and concrete, storage and

disposal of used cement bags and spill contingencies for each concrete batching operation.

4.3.7 Sourcing of materials

Contractors shall prepare a source statement indicating the sources of materials (including topsoil,

sands, natural gravels, crushed stone, asphalt, clay liners etc.) and submit these to the ER prior to

commencement of any work.

Where possible, a signed document from the supplier of natural materials should be obtained

confirming that they have been obtained in a sustainable manner and in compliance with relevant

legislation. In addition, materials that can be sourced from within the region are preferable to materials

sourced outside of the region.

Where materials are mined, proof must be provided with authorisation to utilise these materials from

the landowner/mineral rights owner and the Department of Mineral Resources.

MS5: The Contractor shall submit a Method Statement for approval detailing the source of all

materials, as well as (where possible), a signed document from the supplier confirming the

source of materials. In the instance where materials are mined, a Method Statement must be

provided showing authorisation from the parties involved.

4.4 Traffic Accommodation

The Contractor shall be required to ensure that traffic along the road is accommodated and that

general traffic flow continues with as little congestion as is possible.



No new bypass or traffic accommodation routes shall be cleared or established without the approval

of the ER.

4.4.1 Mitigation Measures

Provide enough heavy vehicle storage areas within the construction site;

Ensure that all road diversions and closures are considered as part of the development footprint

and do not add any unnecessary roads;

Ensure that vehicle traffic which may obstruct traffic flow is scheduled outside of peak travelling

time in the morning or afternoon;

Ensure that heavy / large load traffic is appropriately routed and appropriate safety precautions

are taken to prohibit road collisions and traffic incidences; and

Ensure that vehicle operators are suitably licensed, have had appropriate environmental and

safety induction, are aware of specific site procedures, and are well rested and cognisant when

operating heavy or unsafe vehicles / machinery.

Ensure that sufficient warning and safety signage has been erected throughout the construction

site;

Where necessary, traffic calming measures need to be constructed to ensure the slow movement

of vehicles and machinery;

Machinery should be allowed a maximum driving speed of 40km/h. It must be ensured that

signage indicating this is shown throughout the construction site.

MS6: The Contractor shall submit a Method Statement for approval detailing how traffic is to

be accommodated along the road during construction. Cognisance must be taken of No-Go

areas within the project area. Details must include stop-go locations, estimated delays, start

date and duration as a minimum.

4.5 Waste Management

Waste management on site shall be strictly controlled and monitored. Only approved waste disposal

methods shall be allowed.

The Contractor shall ensure that all site personnel are instructed in the proper disposal of all waste.

4.5.1 Solid waste

The Contractor shall ensure that all facilities are maintained in a neat and tidy condition and the site

shall be kept free of litter. Measures shall be taken to reduce the potential for litter and negligent

behaviour with regard to the disposal of all refuse. The working site shall be cleared of all litter at the

end of each working day. At all places of work the Contractor shall provide litter bins, containers and

refuse collection facilities for later disposal at a DAEA registered landfill site. Where possible,

separate waste receptacles (for example glass, plastic, organic material etc.) shall be provided to



allow for recycling. Staff must be made aware of these separate receptacles, and the advantages and

benefits of recycling.

Solid waste may be temporarily stored on site in a designated area approved by the ER prior to

collection and disposal. Waste storage containers shall be covered, tip-proof, weatherproof and

scavenger proof, and where possible, have rubbish bin liner bags for efficient control and disposal of

waste. The waste storage area shall be fenced off to prevent wind-blown litter.

No burning, on-site burying or dumping of waste shall be allowed.

All solid waste shall be disposed of off-site at a DAEA registered landfill site. The Contractor shall

supply the ER with the Weighbills for these disposals who will keep them on record for the duration of

the project.

MS7: The Contractor shall submit a Method Statement detailing a solid waste control system

(storage, provision of bins, site clean-up schedule, bin clean-out schedule and point of

disposal as a minimum) to the ER for approval.

4.5.1.1 Domestic waste

The Contractor shall provide metal refuse bins or equivalent plastic refuse bins, all with lids, for all

buildings. Refuse shall be collected and removed from all facilities at least twice a week. Domestic

waste shall be transported to a DAEA registered landfill site for disposal in covered containers or

trucks.

The excavation and use of rubbish pits, as well as the burning of waste is forbidden.

4.5.1.2 Construction rubble/waste

Inert construction rubble and waste materials shall be disposed of by burying in a site approved by the

ER. Asphalt residue does not constitute “inert construction rubble or waste materials”. It is classified

as a hazardous waste and must be disposed off at a DWA registered landfill site that has the capacity

to deal with hazardous waste.

4.5.2 Hazardous waste

All hazardous waste (including bitumen, paint and all petrochemicals) shall be disposed of at a DEA

registered hazardous landfill site by an approved waste contractor. The Contractor shall provide the

ER with the appropriate Weighbills for record keeping.

Used oil and grease shall be removed from site and disposed of at a DEA registered hazardous

landfill site.



Under no circumstances shall the spilling of tar or bituminous products on the site, over

embankments, in borrow pits or any burying, be allowed.

Unused or rejected tar or bituminous products shall be returned to the supplier’s production plant.

Used oil, lubricants and other cleaning materials from the maintenance of vehicles and machinery

shall be collected in holding tanks and sent back to the supplier or removed from site by a specialist

oil recycling company for disposal at a DEA registered hazardous landfill site.

Spills in bunded areas must be cleaned up, removed and disposed of by a registered service

provider, as soon after detection as possible, to minimise pollution risk and reduced bunding capacity.

4.5.3 Wastewater

The ER’s approval shall be required prior to the discharge of contaminated water into sewer systems.

Water from kitchens, showers, laboratories and other washing areas shall be discharged into a

conservancy tank for removal from the site by a registered service provider.

Runoff from fuel depots, workshops, machinery washing areas and concrete batching areas shall be

collected into a conservancy tank and disposed of at a site approved by the ER. If the runoff contains

petrochemicals (diesel, petrol, oil and grease) it shall be collected by a registered service provider and

disposed of at a DWA registered landfill site capable dealing with waste of this nature.


Demarcated areas where waste can be safely contained and stored on a temporary basis during

the construction phase must be established. When adequate volumes (not more than 1 month)

have accumulated all waste is to be removed from site and disposed of at a licensed facility;

Waste is not to be buried on site;

Hydro-carbons must be stored in a bunded storage area;

All hazardous materials including paints, turpentine and thinners must be stored appropriately to

prevent these contaminants from entering the environment;

Drizit kits (or similar type product ) should always be close at hand on site to be used to absorb

small hydrocarbon spills in the event that such spills should occur; and

In the event that large scale spills occur, a registered service provider must be contacted

immediately to clean the spill up.

MS8: The Contractor shall submit a Method Statement to the ER detailing how wastewater

would be collected from all wastewater generating areas, as well as storage and disposal

methods. If the Contractor intends to carry out any on-site wastewater treatment, this must

also be included. Please note that if wastewater treatment plants are to be erected they will

require licensing under the Waste Act of 2008 (Act 59 of 2008), the costs and responsibilities

for such an application will be carried by the Contractor.



4.6 Noise Control

The Contractor shall endeavour to keep noise generating activities to a minimum.

The Contractor shall restrict all operations that result in undue noise disturbance to local communities

and/or dwellings (e.g. blasting and crushing) to daylight hours on workdays (Monday to Saturday) or

otherwise agreed with the ER.

The Contractor shall warn any local communities and/or residents that could be disturbed by noise

generating activities such as blasting, well in advance and shall keep such activities to a minimum.

The Contractor shall be responsible for compliance with the relevant legislation with the respect to

noise.

4.7 Air Quality

The Contractor shall ensure that the generation of dust is minimised and shall implement a dust

control programme to maintain a safe working environment, minimise nuisance for surrounding

residential areas/dwellings and prevent damage to natural vegetation, crops etc.

Construction vehicles shall comply with speed limits and haul distances shall be minimised. Material

loads shall be suitably covered and secured during transportation.

Exposed soils and material stockpiles shall be protected against wind erosion. The location of

stockpiles shall take into consideration the prevailing wind directions and locations of sensitive

receptors.

The Contractor shall implement dust suppression measures (e.g. Water spray vehicles, covering

material stockpiles, etc.) if and when required.

If an extensive amount of workers are to be staying in the construction camp, an alternative

arrangement (other than fire) must be made for cooking and heating requirements, to prevent the

smoke pollution reaching excessive levels for the surrounding homes. LPG gas cookers may be used,

provided that all safety regulations are followed. Under no circumstances are staff allowed to cut

down surrounding vegetation to provide wood for fires.

Vehicles and machinery are to be kept in good working order and must meet manufacturer’s

specifications for safety, fuel consumption etc. Should excessive emissions be observed, the

Contractor is to have the equipment seen to as soon as possible.

4.7.1 Mitigation Measures

Heavy vehicles and machinery must be serviced regularly to minimise exhaust fume pollution;

Soil stockpiles will be located in areas to limit the erosive effects of the wind, which will limit dust;



Removal of vegetation will be avoided until such time as soil stripping is required, which will limit

dust.

Limit vehicle speeds on unpaved roads to 40 km/h to limit the amount of dust generated;

Haulage distances must be at a minimum;

Water must be sprayed onto gravel roads when required;

Environmentally friendly soil stabilisers may be used as additional measures to control dust on

gravel roads and construction areas;

All equipment must be kept in good working order;

Equipment must be operated within its specifications and capacity and must not be overloaded;

All machinery/plant must be serviced and lubricated regularly to ensure a good working order;

Ensure that the potential noise source will conform to the South African Bureau of Standards

recommended code of practice, SANS Code 0103:1983, so that it will not produce excessive or

undesirable noise when it is released;

All the Contractors’ equipment shall be fitted with effective exhaust silencers and shall comply with

the South African Bureau of Standards recommended code of practice and the South African

National Standard (SANS) Code 0103:1983, for construction plant noise generation; and

All the Contractors’ vehicles shall be fitted with effective exhaust silencers and shall comply with

Road Traffic Act (Act 29 of 1989) when any such vehicle is operated on a public road.

4.8 Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control

4.8.1 During construction

The Contractor shall, as an ongoing exercise, implement erosion and sedimentation control measures

to the satisfaction of the ER.

Special attention must be paid to areas prone to erosion. Stormwater velocity dissipaters must be

erected in both the construction and operational phases.

During construction, the Contractor shall protect all areas susceptible to erosion by installing

necessary temporary and permanent drainage works as soon as possible and by taking any other

measures necessary to prevent stormwater from concentrating in streams and scouring slopes and

steep banks.

To prevent erosion, battering of all embankments must be such that cut and fill embankments are no

steeper than previous natural slopes unless otherwise permitted by the ER. Cut and fill embankments

steeper than previous ground levels shall be revegetated immediately on completion of trimming, or

shall be protected against erosion via measures listed hereunder. All embankments, unless otherwise

directed by the ER, shall be protected by a cut off drain to prevent water from cascading down the

face of the embankment and causing erosion.



Any runnels or erosion channels developed during the construction or maintenance period shall be

backfilled and compacted and the areas restored to a proper condition similar to the condition before

the erosion occurrence.

Stabilisation of cleared areas to prevent and control erosion and/or sedimentation shall be actively

managed. The method of stabilisation shall be determined in consultation with the ER. Consideration

and provision shall be made for the following methods (or combination thereof):

Brushcut packing;

Mulch or chip cover;

Straw stabilising;

Watering, planting or sodding;

Soil binders;

Anti-erosion compounds;

Mechanical cover;

Geotextiles; and

Packing structures (including the use of geotextiles, log/pole fencing and gabion baskets).

Traffic and movement over stabilised areas shall be restricted and controlled and damage to

stabilised areas shall be repaired and maintained to the satisfaction of the ER.

In areas where construction activities have been completed and where no further disturbance would

take place, topsoiling, revegetation and rehabilitation should commence as soon as possible.

3.8.2 Remediation of existing eroded areas

The Contractor shall be required to undertake actions to correct and stabilise existing areas of

erosion. If the erosion originates within the treatment works boundaries, it is the responsibility of the

contractor to mitigate the problem and to implement erosion control measures. If the erosion

originates outside the treatment works boundaries, it is the decision of the ECO to determine if

mitigation measures ate to be implemented. All erosion areas will be identified by the Client as part of

the Tender Documentation.

3.8.2.1. Mitigation Measures

Care must be taken to ensure that in removing vegetation adequate erosion control measures are

implemented.

The propagation of low-growing dense vegetation suitable for the habitat, such as grasses or

sedges, is the best natural method to reduce erosion potential in sensitive areas.

MS9: The Contractor shall submit a Method Statement to the ER for approval detailing the

method of erosion remediation and stabilisation in each of these areas.



4.9 Stormwater Management

To prevent stormwater damage, the increase in stormwater runoff, resulting from construction

activities must be estimated, and the drainage system designed accordingly.

The use of high velocity stormwater pipelines should be avoided in favour of open, high friction, semi-

permeable channels wherever feasible.

A number of smaller stormwater outfall points should be constructed rather than a few large outfall

points. Stormwater outfalls should be designed to reduce flow velocity and avoid stream banks and

soil erosion.

A periodic checking of the sites drainage systems must be undertaken to ensure that water flow is

unobstructed.

Under no circumstances can waste rubble be placed in drainage lines, stormwater channels and

rivers.

Stormwater discharge along the site should not be increased with the development of the bridge and

culvert structures and the upgrade of the road. Retention ponds may need to be implemented where

flow volumes are too high. Retention ponds should be vegetated with indigenous, preferably wetland

vegetation. The retention ponds must not block the flow of water, but should reduce flow velocity and

encourage filtration.

During construction, un-channelled flow must be controlled to avoid soil erosion. Where large areas of

straw are left exposed, revegetation must take place. In the instance that this is not possible, mulch,

vegetative matter or grass/straw/hay (generated during on site clearance) must be dug into the

unvegetated areas to slow surface wash and capture eroded material.

Where surface runoff is concentrated (e.g. along exposed tracks), flow should be slowed by

contouring with hay bales or bundled vegetation (generated through on site clearance), or by inserting

water directing ‘speed’ humps/berms, along the track to channel water into small retention ponds or

areas designed to reduce flow and increase sediment capture.

MS10: The Contractor shall submit a Method Statement to the ER for approval detailing the

method of stormwater control measures for the entire project area.

4.10 Working in Watercourses and Wetland Areas

The Contractor shall not work within the 1:10 year river floodlines, watercourses and wetlands without

written approval from the ER as required for the execution of the work. The Contractor shall not, in

any way, modify nor damage the banks or beds of streams, rivers or wetlands and drainage lines



adjacent to or within the designated area, unless required as part of the project construction

specification.

As far as is reasonably possible, work in watercourses and wetland areas shall take place outside of

the expected rainy season and allow sufficient time for the rehabilitation processes to be effected

before the rains commence, i.e. between the months of March to August. This includes any work

requiring the diversion of rivers or streams or sections of rivers or streams, the stabilisation of eroded

drainage lines and any construction activities involving the crossing of watercourses and wetland

areas. Where disturbance is unavoidable and the modification of a watercourse has to take place, a

Method Statement must be provided to account for the process undertaken.

All watercourses and wetland areas shall be protected from erosion and direct or indirect spills of

pollutants, e.g. sediment, refuse, sewage, cement, oils, fuels, chemicals, wastewater and bituminous

products.

In the event of a spill, the Contractor shall take prompt action to clear polluted areas and prevent

spreading of the pollutants. The Contractor shall be liable to arrange for professional service

providers to clear affected areas, if required.

Any work requiring the fording of watercourses or wetland areas by machinery and vehicles shall be

undertaken at slow speed and with clean vehicles (no hydraulic fuel, oil or other fuel leakages) and

along a single track.

Drip trays shall be used for all pumps, generators or other stationary equipment that will be used in

watercourses or wetland areas in order to prevent water contamination as a result of fuel spillages or

leaks.

4.11 Protection of surface water quality

The Contractor shall ensure uninterrupted flow of clean surface water past the construction works to

the satisfaction of the ER and the ECO. This shall be done by diverting surface water flow or piping

the surface flow past the works. No watercourse may be diverted dammed or modified without the

approval of the Method Statement 10 by the ER.

Contaminated water (silt-laden, cement-contaminated, etc.) pumped from the construction area shall

be pumped into settlement ponds and not straight back into the watercourse or wetland areas. Water

shall not be pumped from the settlement ponds into the river without the approval of the ER.

Washing of clothes and equipment, bathing and swimming in rivers, streams and dams, is strictly

forbidden.



4.12 Protection of Indigenous Vegetation

The Contractor shall be responsible for informing all employees about the need to prevent any

harmful effects on indigenous vegetation on or around the construction site as a result of their

activities.

Clearing of indigenous vegetation shall be kept to a minimum. The removal, damage and disturbance

of indigenous vegetation without the written approval of the ER, is prohibited.

Before vegetation clearing takes place in any construction area, search and rescue and seed

collection shall be undertaken.

The use of herbicides is prohibited unless approved by the ER.

The Contractor shall ensure that all threatened and endangered species within the expansion be

transplanted to areas outside of the current road alignment.

Indigenous vegetation that cannot be relocated but can remain on site must be clearly demarcated

(by fencing and/or danger tape) to prevent damage by plant and machinery. This fencing can be re-

used, and moved in phases as construction progresses, where necessary.

The expanded works must be screened by the planting of indigenous shrubs and trees along the

boundaries of the site.

4.13 Protection of Fauna

The Contractor shall ensure his employees do not undertake any hunting, trapping, shooting,

poisoning or other disturbance of any fauna on-site or in the areas surrounding the expansion.

The feeding of any wild animals is prohibited.

The use of pesticides is prohibited unless approved by the ER.

No domestic pets or livestock are permitted on site.

4.14 Fire Control

The Contractor shall take all reasonable steps to avoid increasing the risk of fire through activities on

site.

The Contractor shall ensure that basic fire-fighting equipment is available at all construction activities

on site.



The Contractor shall appoint a fire officer who shall be responsible for ensuring immediate and

appropriate action in the event of a fire.

The Contractor shall ensure that all site personnel are aware of the procedure to be followed in the

event of a fire.

Any work that requires the use of fire may only take place in a designated area approved by the ER

and must be supervised at all times. Fire-fighting equipment shall be available at all times.

MS11: The Contractor shall submit a fire control and fire emergency Method Statement to the

ER for approval. The Method Statement shall detail the procedures to be followed in the event

of a fire and the name of the appointed fire officer.

4.15 Blasting

In the instance that blasting needs to be undertaken, the Contractor shall take necessary precautions

to prevent damage to special features and the general environment, which includes the removal of

flyrock. Environmental damage caused by blasting/drilling shall be repaired at the Contractor’s

expense to the satisfaction of the ER.

The Contractor shall notify any occupants/owners of surrounding land at least one week prior to

blasting and shall address any concerns that they may have to the satisfaction of the ER.

4.16 Water Provision

The Contractor shall make available safe drinking water fit for human consumption at the site offices

and all other working areas.

All drinking water must be from a legal source and comply with recognised standards for potable use.

The Contractor shall comply with the provisions of the National Water Act, 1998 (Act 36 of 1998) and

its Regulations pertaining to the abstraction of waters from rivers and streams and the use thereof.

If water is stored on site, drinking water and multi-purposed water storage facilities shall be clearly

distinguished and demarcated.

4.17 Protection of Heritage and Cultural Features

If any archaeological or paleontological artefacts or remains are uncovered during earthmoving

activities, work in the vicinity of the find shall cease immediately. The Contractor shall immediately

notify the ER, who shall contact Amafa AkwaZulu-Natali (Amafa) who will take appropriate steps.

The Contractor will be required to abide by the specifications as set out by Amafa or the heritage

specialist appointed to investigate the find.



The Contractor must acquire a permit, issued by the relevant heritage resources authority, in the

instance that any destruction, damage, excavation, alteration, defacing or any other disruption are to

take place to any archaeological material.

5 ALIEN VEGETATION CLEARING PROGRAMME

5.1 General Requirements

MS12: The Contractor shall liaise with DEA’s Working for Water Programme (or another

experienced organisation approved by the ER) in compiling and implementing an alien

vegetation clearing programme (AVCP), which shall indicate eradication areas, vegetation

types, method of eradication, an order of priority for all the actions to be undertaken and

disposal of the collected plant material. The AVCP shall be submitted to the ER for approval

and only pertain to the areas within the construction site and all areas that are disturbed by

the Contractor for any purpose associated with the construction project.

The Contractor shall ensure that unskilled labour for vegetation eradication is sourced from the local

labour database to be drawn up in conjunction with the local Public Steering Committee (PSC).

The AVCP shall comprise specifications on the biological, mechanical, and chemical control methods

as required for the management of the alien species.

The AVCP shall provide for short, medium and long-term eradication and maintenance programmes

for this project. The programme shall include the following phases:

Initial control (reduction of existing population).

Follow-up control (control of seedlings after initial eradication).

Maintenance control (longer term monitoring and eradication of alien vegetation in areas that

have been cleared) for the duration of the contract period.

The Contractor shall ensure that cognisance is taken of the possibility of fire hazards and the spread

of alien vegetation seeds released when mature vegetation is chopped down.

The AVCP must also include the safe, effective disposal of removed vegetation. This is particularly

important in terms of stormwater management. Removed vegetation shall be disposed of at a DWA

registered landfill site and weighbills (if available) collected to present to the ER for record keeping.

5.2 General Eradication Guidelines

All alien vegetation within the proposed expansion footprint shall be cleared. If any alien vegetation

clearing is required within No-Go areas, this shall not take place without the written approval of the

ER and shall be undertaken under supervision of the ELO. Special care shall be taken to protect



indigenous vegetation in No-Go areas from trampling, herbicide drift or any other activity that might

impact on them.

The use of herbicides is encouraged in preference to vehicle-driven brush cutting and grading. No

herbicide use will however be allowed within streams, rivers or other drainage lines. Written

confirmation must first be gained from the ER for the use of herbicides.

All trees and saplings need to be cut down at ankle height where possible and herbicides applied

immediately after cutting. Cutting without the use of herbicide treatment would stimulate re-growth

and coppicing.

Eradication must start in the least infected areas and from highest lying areas.

Herbicides shall not be applied when conditions are windy, so as to avoid spray drift.

No herbicides should be applied when rain is forecast within two days.

Protective clothing and masks must be worn at all times during application of herbicides.

Colour dyes must be used with the herbicides to clearly mark areas that have been treated.

Herbicide drift onto other plants must be avoided and care must be taken not to trample indigenous

vegetation or stack alien vegetation on top of it.

Workers shall always read and follow the instructions on the labels of herbicides and make sure that

the employees that will be working with these substances are familiar with its uses and application

methodology.

Unused herbicides and empty herbicide containers shall not be disposed of on site, but collected,

stored at a point on site approved by the ER and disposed of by a registered service provider at a

registered landfill site capable of receiving hazardous materials such as this. Weighbills (if available)

must be collected and provided to the ER for record keeping.

The spraying of herbicides/pesticides must comply with the Occupational Health and Safety Act

(OHSA) specs and other chemical handling laws. Areas that are to be treated with herbicides must

first be confirmed with the ER.



6. VEGETATION REHABILITATION

5.3 Vegetation Rehabilitation Plan

MS13: The Contractor shall appoint a suitably experience landscaping contractor/horticulturist

to compile a Vegetation Rehabilitation Plan that shall detail search and rescue, seed

collection, seed mixing, seeding methods, planting and vegetation establishment in all

construction areas. The Contractor shall submit the Vegetation Rehabilitation Plan to the ER

for approval.

The landscaping contractor/horticulturist shall be familiar with the vegetation types of the greater

Pongola region and his/her appointment must be approved by the ER.

The Vegetation Rehabilitation Plan shall include the following:

Seed requirements, harvesting methods and locations and seed storage methods;

Search and rescue procedures;

Handling of plant materials rescued (transplantation areas, propagation etc.);

Establishment and maintenance of project specific nursery, if required;

Topsoil, mulch, fertiliser and soil stabiliser requirements and application;

Landscaping and revegetation methods for each area, i.e. hydroseeding/hydromulching,

planting, including locations and timing;

Procurement requirements and list of species of plants to be procured, if any;

Vegetation establishment and maintenance requirements (irrigation, fertilisation, etc.) for all

revegetated areas; and

The use of any herbicides, pesticides and other poisonous substances, if required.

5.4 General

All areas disturbed by construction activities, including temporary bypasses, storage and stockpiling

areas, etc. shall be rehabilitated to the satisfaction of the ER.

Hydroseeding/hydromulching is expected to be the most suitable method of revegetation for most

areas.

Certain areas may be identified where specific plants/trees could be planted. All plants/trees used in

revegetation shall be locally indigenous species only.

Avoidance is preferred over translocation and search and rescue must be undertaken only for

plants/trees for which translocation is likely to be successful.



Revegetation of construction areas shall take place as soon as possible after completion of

construction works. The timing of revegetation shall take cognisance of maintenance requirements

and provision shall be made for any irrigation requirements.

No construction equipment, vehicles or unauthorised personnel shall be allowed onto areas that have

been revegetated.

5.5 Seed Collection and Storage

Depending on the season, indigenous seed shall be harvested from areas that are free of alien

vegetation, either within construction areas prior to site clearing or from suitable neighbouring areas

with the consent of the relevant landowners.

Harvested seed shall be free of excessive quantities of organic and/or substrate material.

If it is required to collect seed from selected species by hand, this seed shall be treated and stored

separately.

Following harvesting, seed shall be dried under cool airy conditions. Seed shall be insect-free and

shall be stored in suitable containers under cool conditions that are free of rodents or insects. No wet,

mouldy or otherwise damaged seed is acceptable.

The Contractor shall provide adequate facilities for the storage of collected seed in rodent- and insect-

free, cool, dry conditions to the satisfaction of the ER.

Seed collection shall be an ongoing exercise throughout the construction period (at least twice a year)

in order to ensure that sufficient seed is collected for use in revegetation.

Only if the harvested seed quantities are not sufficient may additional seed be bought. Any

procurement of seed for use in revegetation shall be from reputable sources only. The seed mix

quantities and purity levels shall be as specified in the approved method statement.

5.6 Search and Rescue

Search and rescue of all rare or localised plant species within construction areas shall be undertaken

before any site clearing takes place. Search and rescue shall include the collection of plants, cuttings

and, where applicable, seed.

Search and rescue of seed and cuttings for propagation purposes may be undertaken within No-Go

areas under the supervision of the ELO.

Rescued plant material shall either be planted nearby within suitable habitats in areas that will not be

disturbed in the foreseeable future.



The Contractor shall provide nursery facilities for the holding of any rescued plant material that is

deemed suitable for later use in revegetation to the satisfaction of the ER, if possible.

5.7 Nursery

The establishment of an on-site nursery to propagate and supply indigenous plants for use in

revegetation is preferred to the procurement of plants / trees from commercial sources.

Nursery plants shall be grown from locally obtained seed, cuttings and plants.

The use of plants/trees bought from commercial sources in revegetation of specific areas (e.g. water

courses) or for use in propagation at the nursery may be allowed if approved by the ER. All plant

material shall be obtained from reputable nurseries and shall be locally indigenous species only.

5.8 Mulch

Mulch shall be used in all areas where revegetation has to take place. Mulch shall be obtained from

all areas where vegetation is cleared, after removal of alien vegetation and search and rescue of

conservation-worthy species.

Mulch shall be free of alien species.

Plant material shall be reduced by either mechanical means (chipper) or by hand-axing to pieces no

longer than 100mm.

No harvesting of mulch vegetation outside of construction areas shall be allowed.

Every effort shall be taken to ensure the retention of as much seed as possible in mulch made from

indigenous vegetation. Mulches shall be collected in such a manner that the loss of seed is restricted.

Brush-cut mulch shall be stored for as short a time-period as possible, and seed released from

stockpiles shall be collected for use in revegetation.

Compost from a local source may be used as mulch during revegetation, but must be approved by the

ER. Compost shall be well decayed, friable and free from weed seeds. Seed free, half-composted

material, such as mulled-bark, may be used as an additive to extend indigenous mulch. No more than

50% compost shall be used under these circumstances.

Wood chips (including bark), which are half composted and have not been treated with preservatives

can also be used as mulch during revegetation. Wood chips shall only be obtained from indigenous

species removed during site clearing of construction areas. Chips shall be no longer than 50mm in

length or breadth and the ER shall approve the source of the chips.



5.9 Fertiliser

The use, storage and handling of fertiliser shall be strictly controlled by the Contractor.

Fertilisers shall be suitably stored in sealed containers in areas approved by the ER.

Care shall be taken when using fertilisers near No-Go areas, watercourses and wetland areas and

other sensitive natural areas.

Soil shall be well watered and moist before any fertiliser is applied.

5.10 Landscaping and Ground Surface Preparation

Cut and fill slopes shall be shaped and trimmed to reflect the natural condition and contours as

closely as possible. Cut and fill slopes shall be left as rough as possible and shall be shaped to

contain ridges that would facilitate the accumulation of topsoil.

Prior to revegetation, the Contractor shall ensure that the area is clear of any building materials and

other foreign debris.

All visible weeds shall be removed from the area before replacing topsoil. Compacted soil shall be

ripped along the contour and hand-trimmed, topsoil shall then be spread evenly over the surface. This

should be at a maximum depth of 110mm.

The final prepared ground surface shall be furrowed to follow the natural contours of the land and not

smooth.

5.11 Hydroseeding/ Hydromulching

The Hydroseeding Contractor shall be capable of pumping the specified seed mix, fertiliser, soil

stabiliser, etc. at the specified rates over the areas to be seeded, according to the Method Statement

approved by the ER.

The Hydroseeding Contractor shall have an agitation system, which shall be sufficient to agitate,

suspend and homogeneously mix the specified slurry.

The slurry distribution lines shall be large enough to prevent stoppage. The discharge line shall be

equipped with hydraulic spray nozzles suitable for the even distribution of the slurry on the various

slopes to be seeded.

6.10 Plants

The handling, maintenance and planting of plants shall be undertaken under supervision of the

appointed landscape architect/horticulturist.



The Contractor shall ensure that each plant is handled and packed in the approved manner for that

species or variety, and that all necessary precautions are taken to ensure that the plants arrive on site

in a proper condition for successful growth.

Plants shall be protected from wind during transportation.

No plants with exposed roots shall be subjected to prolonged exposure to drying winds and sun, or

subjected to water logging or force-feeding at any time after purchase.

The Contractor shall ensure that the plants are in a good condition and free from plant diseases and

pests. The Contractor shall immediately remove plants containing any diseases and/or pests from the

site.

All plants supplied by the Contractor shall be healthy, well formed, and well rooted. Roots shall not

show any evidence of having been restricted or deformed at any time. The potting materials used

shall be weed free.

There shall be sufficient topsoil around each plant to prevent desiccation of the root system.

6.11 Timing

Revegetation of disturbed construction areas shall take place as soon as possible after construction

work is completed.

As much as is possible, revegetation shall take place at the start of the summer rains to maximise

water availability and minimise the need for watering.

If revegetation takes place during the dry season, irrigation of planted areas may be necessary.

6.12.1 Establishment of Vegetation

6.12.1 Irrigation

The Contractor shall be responsible for maintaining the desired level of irrigation necessary to

maintain vigorous and healthy growth, as advised by the appointed landscaping

contractor/horticulturist.

Water used for the irrigation of revegetated areas shall be free of chlorine and other pollutants that will

have a detrimental effect on the plants.

Where hydroseeding was undertaken, the commencement of watering may be postponed until seeds

have germinated and growth begins.



Where an irrigation system is required, the Contractor shall be responsible for its installation prior to

seeding or planting. The Contractor shall supply all required water as well as all equipment as

required by the approved Method Statement.

Every effort shall be made to avoid irrigation overspray into No-Go areas and other areas with natural

vegetation.

6.12.2 Weed, disease and pest control

The Contractor shall be responsible for ensuring that all revegetated areas remain free of all alien and

indigenous weed species during the contract and establishment period.

Weeding, removal methods and storage of this material shall be undertaken in such a manner that

prevents the re-infestation of the cleaned areas.

All dead plant material shall be removed immediately as it may become a fire hazard and disposed of

at a DWA registered landfill site.

The Contractor shall ensure that all plants are disease and pest free. Any methods used to control

any diseases and/or pests, including the use of herbicides and pesticides, must be approved by the

ER.

6.12.3 Tree Establishment

Trees that die or become diseased so that they appear to be in a badly impaired condition shall be

promptly removed and replaced as soon as possible.

Trees shall be kept free from dead wood, broken branches, etc.

7. CONSTRUCTION SITE CLOSURE

The contractor shall ensure that when the upgrades are completed, that all site closure specifications

are followed.

7.1 Construction Camp Rehabilitation

All structures comprising the construction camp are to be removed from site. The area that previously

housed the construction camp is to be checked for spills of substances such as oil, paint, fuels etc.

These are to be cleaned up and taken to a registered hazardous/general waste landfill site.

All hardened surfaces within the construction camp and surrounding areas, must be ripped, where

necessary and areas must be topsoiled and revegetated.



7.1.1. Land Rehabilitation

Surfaces are to be cleared of all waste products from activities such as asphalting and concreting and

disposed of in a hazardous landfill site. This is to be done to the satisfaction of the ECO.

All watercourses are to be free of building rubble, spoil, waste material etc. Under no circumstances

are these materials to be buried on site.

The site is to be cleared of all litter.

7.1.2 Removal of Barriers and Remediation of Damage

Fences, demarcations and barriers associated with the upgrade process are to be removed from site

unless stipulated otherwise by the ER.

All residual stockpiles must be removed to spoil, be spread on site as directed by the ER, or be sent

to a registered landfill site.

All leftover materials must be removed from site and returned to the depot.

The Contractor must repair any damage caused to neighbouring properties by the construction

workers. This cost shall be borne by the Contractor.

7.2 General Remediation

A meeting is to be held on site between the ECO, ER and the Contractor to ensure that all

rehabilitation and remediation tasks have been completed to the standard and satisfaction of the

ECO.

All areas where temporary services were installed e.g. roadworks, are to be closed and rehabilitated,

to the satisfaction of the ER. Access or haulage roads that have been built across watercourses must

be rehabilitated by removing temporary bridge, road and culvert structures, and any other materials

that were placed in close proximity to the watercourse. Revegetation of the watercourse, and

stabilisation of the banks and river beds, must be implemented to the satisfaction of the ER.

8. NON-COMPLIANCE

8.1 Procedures

The Contractor shall comply with the environmental specifications and requirements on an on-going

basis and any failure on his part to do so will entitle the ER to impose a penalty.

In the event of non-compliance the following recommended process can be followed:



The ER shall issue a notice of non-compliance to the Contractor, stating the nature and

magnitude of the contravention. A copy shall be provided to the ECO during his/her site

audit.

The Contractor shall act to correct the non-conformance within 24 hours of receipt of the

notice, or within a period that may be specified within the notice.

The Contractor shall provide the ER with a written statement describing the actions to the

taken to discontinue the non-conformance, the actions taken to mitigate its effects and the

expected results of the actions. A copy shall be provided to the ECO.

In the case of the Contractor failing to remedy the situation within the predetermined time

frame, the ER shall impose a monetary penalty based on the conditions of contract.

In the case of non-compliance giving rise to physical environmental damage or destruction,

the ER shall be entitled to undertake or to cause to be undertaken such remedial works as

may be required to make good such damage and to recover from the Contractor the full costs

incurred in doing so.

In the event of a dispute or difference of opinion between any parties arising out of the

interpretation of the conditions of the EMPr, or a disagreement regarding the implementation

or method of implementation of conditions of the EMPr, any party shall be entitled to require

that the issue be referred to specialists for arbitration.

The ER shall at all times have the right to stop work and/or certain activities on site in the case of non-

compliance or failure to implement remediation measures.

8.2 Indicative List of Transgressions

Where the Contractor and/or his/her Sub-contractor(s) inflicts non-repairable damage upon the

environment or fail to comply with any of the environmental specifications, he/she shall be liable to

pay a penalty fine over and above any other contractual consequences.

The Contractor is deemed not to have complied with this EMPr if:

Within the boundaries of the site, site extensions and haul/access roads there is evidence of

contravention of the EMPr;

Environmental damage ensues due to negligence on the Contractor’s and/or his/her Sub-

contractor’s part;

The Contractor and/or his/her Sub-contractor fail to comply with the corrective or other

instructions issued by the ER within a specific time;

The Contractor and/or his/her Sub-contractor fail to respond adequately to complaints from

the public.

Payment of any fines in terms of the contract shall not absolve the offender from being liable from

prosecution in terms of any law.



An Environmental Performance Guarantee of 5% of the contract value shall be deposited by the

Contractor with the Zululand District Municipality. This fund shall be used in the event of penalties or

rehabilitation costs for non-conformance or contraventions of the EMPr. The balance shall be given

back to the Contractor at Contract Closure.

Documents

BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT - Terratest Water Treatment Works...Basic Assessment Report Page 1 of 42 GIBELA UMKHUMBI OLWA NOBUBHA (For official use only) EIA File Reference Number: DC