Initial Environmental Examination · 2014-09-29 · Power Engineering Consulting Joint Stock Company 3 (PECC3), the consultants commissioned by NPPMB. Following the review of the

Power Transmission Investment Program (RRP VIE 42039)

Initial Environmental Examination Project Number: 42039-034 November 2011

Multitranche Financing Facility Socialist Republic of Viet Nam: Power Transmission Investment Program 500 kV/220 kV Bac Ninh2–Pho Noi Transmission Line

CURRENCY EQUIVALENTS (29 August 2011)

Currency unit - dong(D) D1.00 - $0.000048 $1.00 - D20,820.00

ABBREVIATIONS

ADB – Asian Development Bank CHSP – Community health and safety plan CPE – Commitment to Environmental Protection DoNRE – Department of Natural Resources and Environment DOT – Department of Industry and Trade EA – Executing Agency EIA – Environmental Impact Assessment EMF – Electromagnetic field EMoP – Environmental Monitoring Plan EMP – Environmental Management Plan EVN – Electricity of Viet Nam GDP – Gross Domestic Product GOV – Government of Socialist Republic of Viet Nam IA – implementing Agency ICB – International Competitive Bidding IFC – International Finance Corporation IEE – Initial Environmental Examination MFF – Multi-tranche Financing Facility MIT – Ministry of Industry and Trade MOC – Ministry of Construction MoNRE – Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment NPPMB – Northern Power Project Management Board NPT – National Power Transmission Corporation PECC3 – Power Engineering and Consulting Joint-stock Company No. 3 PPE – Personal Protective Equipment REA – Rapid Environmental Assessment ROW – Right-of-Way SPS – ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009) WHO – World Health Organization

WEIGHTS AND MEASURES

0C – Celsius (centigrade) ha – hectare km – kilometer km2 – square kilometer kV – kilovolt m – meter m2 – square meter m3 – cubic meter m3/day – cubic meter per day m/s – meter per second mm – millimeter mm/kV – millimeter per kilovolt t – ton

NOTE

In this report, “$” refers to US dollars.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Executive Summary ................................................................................................................... 8

I. INTRODUCTION ...............................................................................................................12

A. Purpose of the Report ......................................................................................................12

B. Approach to IEE Preparation ............................................................................................13

II. Policy, Legal, and Administrative Framework .....................................................................14

A. ADB’s Environmental Policies ..........................................................................................14

B. Viet Nam Environmental Policies .....................................................................................15

1. Environment Protection ...............................................................................................15

2. Other Related Laws and Regulations ..........................................................................16

3. Legal Documents and Approvals Required for the Project ..........................................17

4. The EIA Process and Requirements in Viet Nam ........................................................19

III. Description of the Project ...............................................................................................20

A. Location..........................................................................................................................20

B. Project Components .......................................................................................................22

1. Double Circuit 220kV Transmission Line .....................................................................22

2. 500kV Transmission Line ............................................................................................22

3. 500/220kV Transmission Line .....................................................................................22

4. Four Circuit 220kV Transmission Line.........................................................................23

C. Right-of Way and Land Requirements ........................................................................29

D. Project Implementation Phases...................................................................................29

1. Pre-Construction Phase ..............................................................................................29

2. Construction Phase .....................................................................................................30

3. Operational Phase ......................................................................................................31

E. Project Proponent ...........................................................................................................31

IV. Description of the Environment .......................................................................................32

A. Physical Resources ........................................................................................................32

1. Geography ..................................................................................................................32

2. Topography.................................................................................................................32

3. Geology ......................................................................................................................32

4. Climate .......................................................................................................................33

5. Water Resources ........................................................................................................34

6. Air and Noise Quality ..................................................................................................35

B. Biological Resources ......................................................................................................35

7. Forest .........................................................................................................................35

8. Flora ...........................................................................................................................35

9. Fauna .........................................................................................................................35

C. Socio-economic Conditions .........................................................................................35

1. Population and Affected Communities ........................................................................36

2. Health Services ...........................................................................................................36

3. Education ....................................................................................................................36

4. Economy .....................................................................................................................36

5. Water Supply ..............................................................................................................37

6. Transportation .............................................................................................................37

7. Land Use ....................................................................................................................38

8. Power Sources and Transmission ...............................................................................38

9. Communication ...........................................................................................................38

V. Anticipated Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures ...............................................40

A. Pre-Construction Phase Impacts and Mitigation Measures .............................................40

1. Loss of Property, Trees and Agricultural Land ............................................................40

2. Encroachment into Areas of Cultural/Historical Significance .......................................40

3. Encroachment into Ecologically Significant Areas .......................................................40

4. Impact on Aesthetics ...................................................................................................41

5. Presence of Unexploded Ordnances ..........................................................................41

B. Potential Impacts During the Construction Phase .............................................................41

1. Impact on Vegetation ..................................................................................................41

2. Soil Runoff ..................................................................................................................42

3. Impact on Water Quality..............................................................................................42

4. Impacts on Air Quality .................................................................................................43

5. Noise ..........................................................................................................................43

6. Generation of Construction Wastes ............................................................................43

7. Disruption to Traffic .....................................................................................................44

8. Damage to Infrastructure ............................................................................................44

9. Occupational Health and Safety ..................................................................................44

10. Community Health and Safety .................................................................................45

C. Impacts During the Operational Phase .............................................................................45

1. Occupational Health and Safety ..................................................................................45

2. Community Health and Safety ....................................................................................46

3. Risks and Emergencies Associated with Transmission Lines .....................................474. Management and Control of Vegetation at Transmission Line ....................................47

5. Bird Collisions .............................................................................................................48

6. Restriction on Development in Transmission Line ROW .............................................48

V. Analysis of Alternatives ......................................................................................................49

A. No Project Alternative.......................................................................................................49

B. Selection of Voltage Level ................................................................................................49

C. Selection of Conductor .....................................................................................................49

D. Selection of Overhead Ground Wires ...............................................................................49

E. Selection of Insulators ......................................................................................................50

F. Selection of Foundation ....................................................................................................50

F. Selection of Tower Design ..............................................................................................50

H. Selection of Route Alignment ............................................................................................50

VI. Information Disclosure, Consultation, and Participation ..................................................51

VII. Grievance Redress Mechanism ......................................................................................52

VIII. Environmental Management Plan ...................................................................................55

A. Mitigation Plan ................................................................................................................55

B. Monitoring Plan ..............................................................................................................61

C. Institutional Arrangements and Responsibilities ..........................................................63

1. Organizational Structure within NPPMB ........................................................................63

4. Institutional Capacity Building .....................................................................................64

D. Environmental Management Plan Budget ...................................................................64

IX. Conclusion and Recommendation ..................................................................................66

BIBLIOGRAPHY .......................................................................................................................68

Appendices ...............................................................................................................................69

LIST OF TABLES Table 1: Environment Protection Laws and Regulations in Viet Nam .......................................15 Table 2: Power Network Protection Laws and Regulations in Viet Nam ...................................16 Table 3: Land and Construction Laws and Regulations in Viet Nam ........................................17 Table 4: Legal Documents and Approvals Issued for the 500/220kV Bac Ninh2-Pho Noi Transmission Line Project .........................................................................................................18 Table 5: Location of alignment and transmission towers by Province, District and Commune ..20 Table 6: Major Infrastructures and Land Traversed by the 500/220kV Bac Ninh2-Pho Noi Transmission Line .....................................................................................................................21 Table 7: Main Features of the 500/220kV Transmission Line Project .......................................23 Table 8: Volume of Earthworks by Type of Foundation ............................................................26 Table 9: Volume of Concrete Works by Type of Foundation.....................................................26 Table 10: Area of Affected Land by the 500/220kV Bac Ninh2-Pho Noi Transmission Line ......29 Table 12: Geological Condition along ROW of Transmission Line ............................................33Table 13: Summary of Affected Crops and Trees along the ROW............................................35 Table 14: Environmental Management Plan .............................................................................55

Table 15: Environmental Monitoring Plan .................................................................................62 Table 16: Estimated Budget for Environmental Management and Monitoring ..........................65

LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1: Location Map ............................................................................................................10 Figure 2: Overview of Transmission Line Right-of-Way ............................................................21 Figure 3: Diagram of Typical Transmission Tower, 500/220kV Transmission Line Project .......24 Figure 4: Diagram of Typical Tension Tower, 500/220kV Transmission Line Project................25 Figure 5: Typical Foundation of Transmission Tower, 500/220kV Transmission Line Project ...28 Figure 6: Land Use Map ...........................................................................................................39 Figure 7: Grievance Redress Procedure during the Pre-Construction Phase ...........................53 Figure 8: Grievance Redress Procedure during the Construction and Operational Phases ......54

APPENDICES Appendix 1: Environmental Categorization ...............................................................................70 Appendix 2: Rapid Environmental Assessment Checklist .........................................................72 Appendix 3: Certificate of Registration of Environmental Protection Commitments for 220kV Bac NInh2-Pho Noi Transmission Line project ..........................................................................77 Appendix 4: Mechanical and Physical Properties of Soils in the 220kV Bac Ninh2 – Pho Noi Transmission Line .....................................................................................................................79 Appendix 5: Minutes and list of participants to the Public Consultation Meetings .....................82 Appendix 6: Photographs of the site ....................................................................................... 118

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1. The Government of Socialist Republic of Viet Nam (GOV) has requested assistance from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for the financing of transmission networks and substations that will ensure access to quality and reliable supply of electricity in Viet Nam. The Power Transmission Investment Program will be financed through a Multi-tranche Financing Facility (MFF) of the ADB. The power transmission network expansion program is expected contribute to improving system reliability and quality of electricity supply to industrial, commercial, and residential consumers throughout Viet Nam. It will (i) facilitate power transfers; (ii) remove transmission bottlenecks; and (iii) reduce transmission losses and voltage fluctuations. 2. Based on the energy blue print of Viet Nam, the government targets to connect 90% of the people to electricity by 2020 and subsequently 100% coverage by 2025. The extra capacity of new transmission and distribution networks will allow the grids to absorb the additional power plants coming on line in the coming years. 3. The construction of the 500/220kV Bac Ninh 2 – Pho Noi Transmission Line is one of the subprojects proposed for ADB financing under the MFF. The project will transmit power from the 220kV Bac Ninh 2 substation and associated 500kV grid in the northern region. The National Power Transmission Corporation (NPT) of Viet Nam will be the Executing Agency (EA) while the Northern Power Project Management Board (NPPMB) will be the Implementing Agency (IA) of the project. 4. The proposed project aims to:

(i) receive power from Pho Noi 500kV substation through the 220kV power network

and Pho Noi 220kV substation to supply power to the southwest regions of Bac Ninh province which includes Tien Du, Tu Son, and Thuan Thanh district, and a portion of Bac Ninh City;

(ii) provide overload protection for the 220kV and 110kV grids; and

(iii) link the 500kV-220kV power grid in the northern region and ensure energy security.

5. The 500/220kV Bac Ninh 2 – Pho Noi transmission line has a total length of about 30.5 km (kilometer)1. The transmission line will traverse the provinces of Bac Ninh and Hung Yen. Figure 1 shows the location of the proposed project. The right-of-way (ROW) will pass through the Tien Du district (Minh Dao, Canh Hung, Tan Chi, Lac Ve, Tri Phuong communes2), Thuan Thanh district (Nghia Dao, Cham Lo, An Binh, Mao Dien communes), Gia Binh district (Lang Ngam commune), Que Vo district (Chi Lang commune), in Bac Ninh province; and Van Lam district (Viet Hung commune) in Hung Yen province. The line will start at the 500/220kV Pho Noi substation and end at the 220/110kV Bac Ninh 2 substation

1 Feasibility Study Summary Report, 500/220kV Bac NInh2 – Pho Noi Transmission Line, January 2011. EVN/PECC3 2 Commune is a small administrative / community unit in Viet Nam.

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6. An Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) was prepared for the project in 2010 by the Power Engineering Consulting Joint Stock Company 3 (PECC3), the consultants commissioned by NPPMB. Following the review of the IEE by the District Division of Natural Resource and Environment, the Certificate of Environmental Commitment was issued for the project on 25 October 2010 (Appendix 3).

7. Based on ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement 2009 (SPS), the proposed substation and connecting lines project is categorized as an Environmental Category B project which requires an IEE. The preparation of this IEE is guided by the requirements outlined in SPS 2009. Information in the IEE is based on the Feasibility Study and IEE prepared by PECC3, secondary data from other agencies, field inspection and information gathered during community and stakeholder consultations. The environmental impact assessment was carried out with the objectives of (i) establishing current environmental conditions; (ii) identifying key environmental issues; (iii) assessing magnitude of impacts and to provide mitigating measures; (iv) integrating the environmental issues in the project planning and design stage and (v) developing an updated environmental management plan for implementation, monitoring and reporting of the environmental mitigation and enhancement measures.

8. Public Consultation. Consultations with affected communities within the proposed site of the substation and along the alignment of the connecting lines have been carried out by NPPMB and PECC3 team on 25 to 29 July 2011. Representatives from the communes of Tri Phuong, Cam Hung, Ming Dao, Tan Chi, and Lac Ve in Tien Du District and Chi Lang, commune in Que Vo District, and the Lang Ngam in Gia Binh District, Mao Dien, Tram Lo, Nghia Dao and An Binh communes in Thuan Thanh District and Viet Hung commune in Van Lam District participated during the consultation meetings. The environment-related concerns raised by the stakeholders about the proposed project included requests for orderly construction activities and clean-up of the ground after the completion of the construction works, community health and safety during construction, health hazards due to electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure, provision of lightning protector to affected households, and minimizing impacts on trees and crops of the local by providing compensation for loss of production in construction areas temporarily affected by the project.. The results of annual monitoring of EMF levels when the project is already operational were also requested by stakeholders to be made public. 9. Summary of Impacts and Mitigation Measures. The evaluation of the pre-construction, construction, and operational phases of the project components indicates that the project will generate minor adverse impacts to the environment that can be reduced to acceptable levels through the implementation of practical mitigation measures normally associated with internationally recognized engineering practices. The key findings of the IEE are summarized below:

(i) No significant natural habitats will be affected by the transmission line since the proposed project will be located within an area where the natural habitat has been greatly modified due to human settlements and agricultural activities.

(ii) The project avoided environmentally sensitive areas, villages, settlements, and religious and cultural/heritage sites.

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Figure 1: Location Map

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(iii) The impact of the project on agricultural land is limited and comprises the

permanent loss of 198,356 m2 (square meter) of state-owned agricultural land that has been leased to local farmers. A resettlement plan is being developed to compensate the affected people for the loss of agricultural land.

(iv) An Environmental Management Plan (EMP) has been prepared for implementation during all phases of the project. The EMP identifies the potential environmental impacts from the project and the corresponding mitigating measures to reduce the impacts to acceptable levels. The EMP also outlines the institutional responsibilities in implementing the EMP. An institutional capacity development program is recommended to ensure sustainable implementation of the EMP.

10. The proposed project is expected to contribute positively to the economic development of the northern region through the improvement of the northern power grid. The project is also expected to improve reliability and security of power supply and would allow NPPMB to meet the increased power demand in the region. 11. The NPPMB hires the services of consultants to assist the company in monitoring the implementation of the EMP. Within NPPMB, there is no Environmental Unit or Officer handling the EMP or monitoring plan. Concerns about environment are usually handled by the compensation department. A training program for NPPMB is developed in order to strengthen their capacity to implement the EMP and Environmental Monitoring Plan (EMoP). The program will focus on community safety, environmental impact assessment (EIA) preparation and review, EMP implementation, inspection and corrective action, environmental standard opeating procedures, proper handling and disposal of soils ,protection of local vegetation and water resources, and avoiding impacts on local population from noise and dust-generating activities 12. A Grievance Redress Mechanism was established to receive and facilitate resolution of affected people’s concerns, complaints, and grievances about the project, particularly on compensation policies and resolution of environment-related complaints.

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I. INTRODUCTION 13. The Electricity of Viet Nam (EVN) plans to develop transmission networks and substations that will support economic growth in Viet Nam and ensure access to reliable supply of electricity throughout the country. The Government of Socialist Republic of Viet Nam (GOV) hopes to meet its target of connecting 90% of the population to electricity by 2020 and subsequently 100% coverage by 2025. The building of power transmission and distribution networks will be able to accommodate the required energy of new power plants in the future. 14. A least cost development plan for Viet Nam between 2006 and 2015 was developed under the Master Plan of Power Development of Viet Nam No. VI. A program of transmission lines and substations, provision of meters and rehabilitation of urban and rural low voltage distribution networks or grids were identified in the master plan. ADB will finance the Power Transmission Investment Program covering the medium-term development plan for power transmission by the MFF. 15. One of the sub-projects proposed for financing is the 500/220kV transmission line from the 500/220kV Pho Noi substation to the 220/110kV Bac Ninh 2 substation, including associated facilities for workers, equipment, materials storage and assembly area.

16. The project proponent is the National Power Transmission Corporation (NPT), Viet Nam’s state-owned electric utility company responsible for the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity. The Northern Viet Nam Power Project Management Board (NPPMB) which is responsible for the operation of electric power system in the northern grid of Viet Nam will be the implementing agency of the project.,

17. The proposed transmission lines are within the right-of-way (ROW) of some communities and villages. These areas were subjected to rapid environmental assessment. Based on ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement 2009 (SPS), the project is classified as “Category B” and requires the preparation of an IEE.

A. PURPOSE OF THE REPORT 18. This IEE report assesses the environmental impacts associated with the construction and operation of the proposed 500/220kV Bac NInh 2 - Pho Noi transmission line. The report aims to describe the proposed project, its location, and assess the potential impacts of the project in the existing environment and to the adjoining community. It also suggests the mitigating measures to lessen any adverse environmental impacts during the construction and operation of the project. 19. The IEE is intended to meet the requirements of SPS 2009 for Category B projects. 20. The objectives of the IEE are to:

(i) Assess the existing environmental conditions in the project area including the

identification of environmentally sensitive areas;

(ii) Assess the proposed location, design, construction and operation activities to identify and evaluate the potential impacts, and determine their significance;

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(iii) Develop an EMP that will prevent or minimize adverse environmental impacts to acceptable levels; and

(iv) Develop an EMoP, including an institutional plan that will sustain the monitoring of significant environmental parameters of the project.

B. APPROACH TO IEE PREPARATION 21. The information used in the IEE was based on data from the previous Feasibility Study and IEE prepared by the Power Engineering Consulting Joint Stock Company 3 (PECC3), site visits, secondary sources, and information gathered from community and stakeholder consultations previously undertaken for the project. Information about the project components and design were provided by NPPMB. 22. The Environmental Categorization Form and Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) checklist from SPS were used for environmental categorization purposes and in screening the environmental impacts of the proposed project. The environmental impacts of the proposed project have been analyzed within the primary impact zone encompassed by and adjacent to the ROW of the transmission line up to a zone 1,000 m wide perpendicular to the alignment.

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II. POLICY, LEGAL, AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK

A. ADB’S ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES 23. All ADB financed projects are required to undergo an EIA to ensure the environmental soundness and sustainability of projects. It also aims to support the integration of environmental considerations in the project decision-making process. 24. The SPS 2009 clarifies the rationale, scope and content of an environmental assessment as supported by technical guidelines (Environmental Assessment Guidelines 2003). The environmental assessment process calls for the initial screening of the project to determine, at the early stage, the level of assessment that is required so that appropriate studies are undertaken commensurate with the significance of potential impacts and risks.

25. ADB defines four levels of impact assessment for development projects, namely:

(i) Category A: For a project that is expected to have significant adverse environmental impacts that are irreversible, diverse, or unprecedented. An EIA report including an EMP is required.

(ii) Category B: For a project in which potential adverse environmental impacts are less adverse, site-specific, mostly reversible, and in most cases can be mitigated. An IEE including an EMP is required. (iii) Category C. For a project expected to have minimal to no adverse environmental impacts. An EIA or IEE is not required beyond screening. (iv) Category F1. For a project that involves investment of ADB funds to, or through, a financial intermediary.

26. SPS introduces emphasis on the effective implementation of environmental safeguards. The objectives of ADB’s safeguards are to:

(i) avoid adverse impacts of projects on the environment and affected people, where possible;

(ii) minimize, mitigate, and/or compensate for adverse project impacts on the

environment and affected people when avoidance is not possible; and (iii) help borrowers/clients to strengthen their safeguard systems and develop the

capacity to manage environmental and social risks. 3 27. The SPS contains a number of operational principles that includes the requirement to ensure that the measures identified during the impact assessment are included in the EMP and were implemented in agreement with the borrower. The borrower/client is required to monitor the progress of implementation of the EMP, document the monitoring results, identify necessary

3 Asian Development Bank. June 2009. Safeguard Policy Statement, enforced January 2010.

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corrective actions, and reflect them in a corrective action plan. Periodic monitoring reports on progress of implementation of the EMP and the corrective actions, if any, are submitted to ADB on a semi-annual basis during the construction of projects with significant adverse environmental impacts and quarterly for highly complex and sensitive projects. During operation, reporting to ADB by projects with significant adverse impacts is required on an annual basis at the minimum. 28. Under SPS, the project has been evaluated considering the completion of the Environmental Categorization Form (Appendix 1) and Rapid Environmental Assessment Checklist (Appendix 2). The adverse environmental impacts of the project are considered site-specific and reversible. Therefore, it has been classified as Category B, requiring an IEE.

B. VIET NAM ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES 29. The policies on environment protection, power network protection, and land and construction in Viet Nam are presented in this section. Legal documents and approvals required for the project, issued by the national and local governments, are also included. A brief discussion on the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process and requirements in Viet Nam is provided.

1. ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION 30. National laws and regulations for environment protection applicable to the project are presented in Table 1. The Environment Protection Law is the main governing law. This is subsequently followed by implementation guidelines, amendments, and regulations. The related regulations on impact assessments, waste management, sanctions on administrative violations, incentives and support, and national technical regulations on quality of environmental media are also outlined in the table.

Table 1: Environment Protection Laws and Regulations in Viet Nam Laws and Regulations Description

Environment Protection Law 52/2005/QH11 Date issued: 29/11/2005

Regulates environmental protection activities; policies, measures and resources for protection of the environment; and the rights and obligations of organizations, family households and individuals with respect to protection of the environment.

Decree 80/2006/NĐ-CP Date issued: 09/08/2006

Detailing the guidelines in the implementation of a number of articles of the Environmental Protection Law regarding environmental standards; strategic environmental assessment; environmental impact assessment and environmental protection commitments; environmental protection in production, business and services; hazardous waste management; and disclosure of environmental information and data.

Decree 21/2008/ NĐ-CP Date issued: 28/02/2008

Amending and supplementing some articles of Decree 80/2006/NĐ-CP detailing the guidelines in the implementation of Environment Protection Law.

Decree 29/2011/ NĐ-CP Date issued: 18/04/2011

Regulation on the strategic environmental assessment, environmental impact assessment and environmental protection commitment.

Decree 117/2009/ND-CP Date issued:31/12/2009

Regulation on sanctioning administrative violations in environmental protection

Decree 04/2009/ND-CP Date issued:14/01/2009

Incentives and support for environment protection activities

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Laws and Regulations Description Decree 59/2006/ND-CP Date issued: 09/4/2007

Regulation on solid waste management

MoNRE Circular 05/2008/TT-BTNMT Date issued: 08/12/2008

Guiding strategic environment assessment, environmental impact assessment, and environment protection commitment.

MoNRE Circular No. 12/2011/TT-BTNMT Date issued: 14/14/2011

Regulation on hazardous waste management

MoNRE Decision No. 16/2008/QĐ-BTNMT Date issued: 31/12/2008

National Technical Regulation on environment regarding surface water quality (QCVN 08: 2008/BTNMT), underground water quality (QCVN 09: 2008/BTNMT, and domestic wastewater (QCVN 14: 2008/BTNMT), among others.

MoNRE Circular No. 16/2009/TT-BTNMT Date issued: 07/10/2009

National Technical Regulation on air quality (QCVN 05: 2009/BTNMT) and hazardous substance in ambient air (QCVN 06: 2009/BTNMT)


National Technical Regulation on hazardous waste threshold (QCVN 07: 2009/BTNMT), among others.


National Technical Regulation on Noise (QCVN 26:2010/BTNMT) and Vibration (QCVN 27:2010/BTNMT), among others.

Source: Power Engineering and Consulting Joint-stock Company No. 3 (PECC3). Initial Environmental Examination for the Bac Ninh 2 - Pho Noi 500/220 kV Transmission Lines.

2. OTHER RELATED LAWS AND REGULATIONS

31. Power Network Protection. The electricity law prescribes the detail for the power industry in areas such as development planning and investments, privileges and responsibilities of related organizations and individuals, protection of electric equipment and facilities, and safety, among others (Table 2). Implementation guidelines, amendments, and safety protection were detailed in succeeding government decrees and ministry circulars.

Table 2: Power Network Protection Laws and Regulations in Viet Nam Laws and Regulations Description

Electricity Law 28/2004/QH11 Date issued: 03/12/2004

Prescribes the electricity development planning and investment; electricity saving; electricity markets; rights and obligations of organizations and individuals conducting electricity activities and also on the use of electricity; protection of electric equipment and facilities, electricity works and electrical safety.

Government Decree 105/2005/NĐ-CP Date issued: 17/08/2005

Detailing the regulations and guidelines in the implementation of a number of articles of the Electricity Law


Detailing the guidelines in the implementation of a number of articles of the Electricity Law regarding the safety protection of high-voltage power grids.


Amending and supplementing a number of articles of Government Decree No. 106/2005/NĐ-CP () detailing the guidelines in the implementation of Electricity Law on safety protection of high voltage power grid works.

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Source: Power Engineering and Consulting Joint-stock Company No. 3 (PECC3). Initial Environmental Examination for the Bac Ninh 2 - Pho Noi 500/220 kV Transmission Lines. 32. Land and Construction. Implementation guidelines for the Land Law, amendments to the law, stipulations on land use, and details on compensation, support and resettlement were detailed in succeeding government decrees and ministry circulars. Further, regulations on construction management in investment projects and labor safety in the construction phases and equipment are described in Table 3.

Table 3: Land and Construction Laws and Regulations in Viet Nam Laws and Regulations Description

Land Law No: 13/2003/QH11 Date issued: 26/11/2003

Governs the powers and responsibilities of the State as owner of land and representative of the entire people for uniform administration of land and the rights and obligations of land users

Government Decree No: 181/2004/ND-CP Date issued:26/11/2004

Guidelines for the implementation of Land Law 13/2003/QH11()


Amending and supplementing some articles of the decree guiding the implementation of Land Law 13/2003/QH11

Government Decree No: 197/2004/ND-CP Date issued: 03/12/2004

Regulation on compensation, support, and resettlement on land recovered by the State


Stipulating the grant of land use right certificates, recovery of land, exercise of land use rights, order and procedures for compensation, support and resettlement upon land recovery by the State, and settlement of land related complaints


Providing for land use planning, land pricing, land recovery, compensation, support and resettlement.

Government Official Dispatch No: 181/DC-CP Date issued: 23/10/2009

Correcting the Government Decree No. 69/2009/ND-CP (which additionally provides for land use planning, land prices, land recovery, compensation, support, and resettlement

MoNRE Circular No: 14/2009/TT-BTNMT Date issued:01/10/2009

Detailing the compensation, support, resettlement and the order of and procedures for land recovery, allocation, and lease


Regulation on management of investment projects related to construction

Ministry of Construction (MOC) Circular No: 22/2010/TT-BXD Date issued: 03/12/2010

Provides labor safety in work construction; construction and installation of equipment which are newly built, repaired, renovated, relocated, embellished or restored; dismantling of works; and warranty for and maintenance of works.

Source: Power Engineering and Consulting Joint-stock Company No. 3 (PECC3). Initial Environmental Examination for the Bac Ninh 2 - Pho Noi 500/220 kV Transmission Lines. 3. LEGAL DOCUMENTS AND APPROVALS REQUIRED FOR THE PROJECT

Ministry of Industry and Trade (MIT) Circular 06/2006/TT-BCN Date issued: 26/09/2006

Implementation of a number of provisions of the Government Decree No. 106/2005/NĐ-CP detailing the guidelines in the implementation of a number of articles of the Electricity Law regarding the safety protection of high-voltage power grid works

MIT Circular 03/2010/TT-BCT Date issued: 22/01/2010

Providing for a number of requirements on safety protection of high-voltage power grid works

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33. The project was approved by the Prime Minister of Viet Nam, the NPT, the People’s Committee of the provinces covered by the project, the People’s Committee of Van Lam District where the project substation is located, and related offices approving height of project building and connection lines. A Certificate of Registration on Commitment to Environmental Protection (CPE) for the project was issued by the People’s Committee of Tien Du District (Document No: 17/UBND-GXN) on 25 October 2010, as shown in Appendix 3. 34. Aside from the Certificate of Registration on Commitment to Environmental Protection, there are other legal documents and approvals secured for the project as outlined in Table 4.

Table 4: Legal Documents and Approvals Issued for the 500/220kV Bac Ninh2-Pho Noi

Transmission Line Project Documents and Approvals Description

Ministry of Trade and Industry Decision 0900/QD-BCT, Date Issued: 24/02/2010

On revising and implementing the connection of additional planning and 220kV Bac Ninh substation 2, 3 and Hiep Hoa 220kV lines – Pho Noi

NPPMB Document No: 1571/CV-AMB-P2 Date issued: 15/07/2008

On the unified plan routes of 220kV Bac Ninh 2 – Pho Noi transmission line

Report of EVN No: 428/TB-EVN Date issued: 9/10/2009:

Conclusions of Deputy CEO Dau Duc Khoi at the meeting about agreement of plan adjustment of connection of 20kV Bac Ninh substation 2.3 and the route of transmission lines 500/200kV Hiep Hoa – Pho Noi.

Report of EVN No: 524/TB-EVN Date issued: 18/12/2009:

Conclusions of Deputy CEO Dau Duc Khoi at verification scheme meeting about revising the plan of connection of 220kV Bac Ninh 2, 3 substations and route of transmission line 500 /220kV Hiep Hoa – Pho Noi.

Document of EVN No: 256/EVN-KH Date issued: 20/01/2010

On the adjustment plan connecting the 220kV Bac Ninh substation 2, 3 and 220kV transmission line route of Hiep Hoa – Pho Noi

Hung Yen PPC Document No: 1672/UBND-KTTH Date issued: 30/09/2008

Agreement on the alignment of the 220kV Bac Ninh 2 – Pho Noi

Bac Ninh PPC Document No: 1797/UBND-CN Date issued: 26/11/2008

On the construction location of 220kV Bac Ninh 2 (Tien Son) substation and alignment overhead route of 220kV - 110kV connection to the substation.

General Staff of Vietnam People's Army Document No: 352/TM-Tg1 Date issued: 04/03/2009

Agreed alignment and clearance height of the 220kV Pho Noi - Bac Ninh 2

Hung Yen PPC Document No: 2443/UBND-KTTH Date issued: 30/12/2009

Agreement on the 500/220kV Bac Ninh 2 – Pho Noi route

Operations Bureau of the adoption Document No: 120/Tg1-QC Date issued:05/02/2010

Adoption of the agreement on the adjustments on the construction of 500/220kV Bac Ninh 2 – Pho Noi

Bac Ninh DOT Document No: 160/QLVT & &ATGT Date issued: 7/04/2010

On line clearance of 500/220kV Bac Ninh 2 - Pho Noi route at crossing the Duong river point.

Department of inland waterways of Vietnam Document No: 468/CDTND-QLHT Date issued: 20/04/2010

Opinion about the crossing transmission line of the Duong River in 500/220kV Bac Ninh2 – Pho Noi

Tien Du District Committee document No: 17/UBND-GXN Date issued: 25/10/2010

Certificate of Registration on Commitment on Environmental Protection of the 500/220 kV Bac Ninh 2- Pho Noi transmission lines issued by the Tien Du District

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Documents and Approvals Description Hung Yen province Decision No.25/2010/QD-UBND Date issued: 22/12/ 2010

Hung Yen PPC on land prices in area of Hung Yen province in 2011

Bac Ninh province Decision No.162/2010/QD-UBND Date issued: 23/12/ 2010

Bac Ninh PPC on the regulation on land prices in Bac Ninh province in 2011.

Source: Power Engineering and Consulting Joint-stock Company No. 3 (PECC3). Initial Environmental Examination for the Bac Ninh 2 - Pho Noi 500/220 kV Transmission Lines. Unpublished 4. THE EIA PROCESS AND REQUIREMENTS IN VIET NAM 35. EIA Process: Based on Decree No. 21/2008/ND-CP, transmission line projects less than 100 km in length is subject to make a Commitment Report to Protect the Environment. The report is prepared by the investor and submitted to the Department of Natural Resources and Environment (DoNRE) of the selected district, where the project is located. The selected district furnishes the other affected districts with copies of the IEE. The required report is a simpler form of Environmental Impact Assessment Report. The project is not required to:

(i) be assessed by a Review Committee; (ii) measure environmental condition; and (iii) conduct Public Consultation.

36. The duration for processing of the submitted report is five working days. Once approved, a Certificate of Registration on Commitment to Environment Protection is released for the project. An Environmental Clearance is not needed. 37. Just recently, the Decree No. 29/2011/ND-CP was issued on 18 April 2011 as an amendment of the EA process. The new decree outlines the regulation on strategic environmental assessment, environmental impact assessment and environmental protection commitment and will take effect in September 2011. There are changes in the required document and processing duration between the decree No 21/2008 and No 29/2011. The categorization is now based on the voltage capacity of the transmission line, wherein projects located in more than one province and with voltage capacity greater than 110kV are now required to submit an EIA report to MoNRE. In addition, projects not implemented or constructed within 36 months from issuance of the CPE or EIA will be required to submit a new application. 38. Since the CPE for this project was issued in 2010, the CPE is still considered valid. When the project is not implemented prior to October 2013, the CPE will be considered invalid. 39. EIA Requirements. The following are the needed documents that must be provided:

(i) description of the project (Name, capacity, etc.); (ii) documents between the Government, ADB, EVN, and the Acceptance Letter;

from the provinces covered by the transmission lines; (iii) project investment and highest and lowest height of the line; (iv) map of monitoring sampling points/areas; (v) map of the routes covered by the transmission lines; and (vi) indexes (Climate, social, etc.)

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III. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT 40. The Bac Ninh province, located in the northern delta region of Viet Nam, has been identified as one of the important provinces requiring power security and development. Bac Ninh province has eight districts, including Bac Ninh City, Yen Phong, Que Vo, Tien Du, Tu Son, Thuan Thanh, Gia Binh, and Luong Tai. The province is located in the economic growth triangle areas of Ha Noi – Hai Phong – Bac Ninh 2. Adjacent to the province is the region’s major industrial center in the north. In recent years, economic development in Bac Ninh province has resulted to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) average growth of 12.9%4. Recognizing the strategic importance of Bac Ninh province, the provincial leaders and the Electricity of Vietnam planned for the construction of electricity infrastructure to meet the current and future load demand of Bac Ninh province. 41. The Bac Ninh province is primarily supplied from the national grid by regional transmission grids and power station. The Master Plan for National Electricity Development VI which included plans for the improvement and development of the grid of the Bac Ninh power was approved by the Ministry of Industry and Trade. According to the results of feasibility study conducted in February 2011, there is a need to build a 500/220kV Bac Ninh 2 – Pho Noi transmission line to power the 220kV Bac Ninh 2 substation and associated 500kV grid of the northern region.

A. LOCATION

42. The 500kV/220kV Bac NInh 2 – Pho Noi transmission line will have a total length of 30.5 km, starting from the 500kV/220kV Pho Noi substation and ending at the 220kV/110kV Bac Ninh2 substation. Figure 2 presents the overview of the ROW of the transmission line while Table 5 summarizes the location of the transmission towers by province, district, and commune. The transmission line will traverse two provinces, namely, Bac Ninh and Hung Yen. In Bac Ninh province, the length of the ROW is about 29.3 km which will pass through the districts of Thuan Thanh, Gia Binh, Que Vo, and Tien Du. In Hung Yen province, the transmission line is about 1.2km and will pass through Van Lam district.

Table 5: Location of alignment and transmission towers by Province, District and Commune

Province District Commune Tower Bac Ninh Tien Du Minh Dao G13C, G16

Canh Hung G17 – G18 Tan Chi G13C1 Lac Ve G13B Tri Phuong G19

Thuan Thanh Nghia Dao G2A Cham Lo G2A1-G2A2 An Binh G2B Mao Dien G2C

Gia Binh Lang Ngam G2D Que Vo Chi Lang G2E –G2E1, G2F

Hung Yen Van Lam Viet Hung G1A – G1D1, G1D2, G1E-G1F Source: Line Route Layout, 500/220kV Bac Ninh2-Pho Noi Transmission Line. January 2011. 4 Feasibility Study Summary Report. 500/220kV Bac Ninh2-Pho Noi Transmission Line. February 2011. EVN/PECC3

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Figure 2: Overview of Transmission Line Right-of-Way

43. In general, the 500/220kV Bac Ninh2 – Pho Noi transmission line will pass through flat, agricultural terrain which is being used for planting rice and other crops. The line will traverse 27.5 km of rice land and 3 km of crop plantation. Table 6 outlines the location of the route of the 500/220kV transmission line. The ROW will pass through 77 irrigation and drainage canals, 9 ponds, and 81 roads consisting of one National Highway, 2 provincial roads and 77 communal roads. The line has one river crossing at the 348 m wide Duong River. The transmission line will also intersect 14 high and medium voltage transmission lines.

Table 6: Major Infrastructures and Land Traversed by the 500/220kV Bac Ninh2-Pho Noi

Transmission Line Infrastructure/Land Number of

Crossing Total length of transmission line : 30.5km Length of TL passing through land for crop plantation : 3 km Length of TL passing through rice paddy land : 27.5 km Highway No.38 2

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Infrastructure/Land Number of Crossing

Provincial road 282 1 Provincial road 284 1 Communal road 77 Duong river dike 1 Duong river 1 Canal, width <10m 63 Canal, width >10m 14 Pond, width <100m 4 Pond, width >100m 5 500kV TL 1 110kV TL 2 0.4÷35kV TL 11 Houses in transmission line ROW 2 Source: Feasibility Study Summary Report. 500/220kV Bac Ninh2 – Pho Noi Transmission Line. EVN/PECC3. January 2011 ; IEE Report, PECC3 (February 2011)

B. PROJECT COMPONENTS 44. The proposed project will include the construction of 500 kV transmission line towers with heights ranging from 23.5 – 92m. A 500kV single circuit and 220kV double circuit transmission line will be installed on the same pole. There are four major components of the project, as described in the succeeding sections and summarized in Table 7.

1. DOUBLE CIRCUIT 220KV TRANSMISSION LINE 45. The 220kV Transmission Line will have a total length of 1,584 km. The route of the line from busbar 220kV of the Pho Noi 500/220kV substation will pass through the Van Lam district area and then traverse the Nghia Dao commune in Thuan Thanh district. The ROW is characterized as relatively flat, paddy field area.

2. 500KV TRANSMISSION LINE 46. The 500kV Transmission Line will have a length of 1,924 km. The 500kV transmission line will run through relatively flat, paddy field and intersect the Quang Ninh – Thuong Tin 500kV transmission line. The route of the line will then go through the Viet Hung commune (Van Lam district) and Nghia Dao (Thuan Than district) for about 1,350 m.

3. 500/220KV TRANSMISSION LINE 47. The total length of the 500/220kV transmission line will be 23,743km. The line will run from the Thuan Thanh district and will pass through the rice paddy fields in the communes of Nghia Dao, Cham Lo, An Binh, and Mao Dien. The ROW then goes through the Lang Ngam commune (Gia Binh district), the Chi Lang commune (Que Vo district), and Lac Ve commune (Tien Du district) where it intersects the Bac Ninh – Tien Son 110kV transmission line. From there, the line will pass through relatively flat paddy field of Lac Ve, Tan Chi, and Minh Dao communes and meet the Pho Noi – Tien Son 110kV transmission line. The transmission line will further run through paddy field in Minh Dao and Cam Hung communes.

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48. The proposed route is mostly in the vicinity of rice land and runs nearly parallel with the Pho Noi – Tien Son 110kV transmission line. It is envisaged that the access to tower sites will be from existing roads and tracks. No new access roads will be constructed.

4. FOUR CIRCUIT 220KV TRANSMISSION LINE 49. The four circuit 220kV transmission line will have a length of about 3 km. The route will start from the Canh Hung commune in Tien Du district and goes through paddy field in Canh Hung and Tri Phuong communes. The route will connect to the busbar of the 220kV Bac Ninh 2 substation in Dai Dong – Hoan Son Industrial Zone.

Table 7: Main Features of the 500/220kV Transmission Line Project Item 500kV T/L 220kV T/L

(2 circuits) 500/220kV T/L 220kV T/L (4 circuits)

Starting point Busbar 500kV of Pho Noi 500/220kV substation

Busbar 220kV Pho Noi 500/220kV substation

G1D1 Tower No. 75 (G17 + 258m)

Ending point G1D1 G1D1 Tower No. 75 (G17+258m)

Bac Ninh2 220 kV substation

Voltage (kV) 500 220 500kV & 220kV 220kV Number of circuits

1 2 1 circuit for 500kV & 2 circuits for 220kV

4

Length of line (km)

1,924 1,584 23,743 3

Conductor 4Xacsr-330/42 3xacsr-400/51 4xacsr-330/42 (500kV) 3xacsr-400/51 (220kV) (at Duong crossing section: 4xASTER-366 and 3xAAAC-400)

3 x ACSR-400/51

Earthwire PHLOX-147 PHLOX-147 - - Fiber cable OPGW-120 OPGW-120 OPGW-120(02) OPGW-120 (02) Insulator Glass or ceramic Glass or ceramic Glass or ceramic Glass or ceramic Tower Galvanized steel Galvanized steel Galvanized steel Galvanized steel Foundation Site-precast steel

Reinforced concrete

Site-precast steel Reinforced concrete



Source: IEE. 500/220kV Bac Ninh2 – Pho Noi Transmission Line. PECC3. February 2011 50. Towers. There will be a total of 96 transmission line towers. All the towers of the 500/220kV Bac Ninh 2 – Pho Noi transmission line will be designed as steel latticed-type towers. The average distance between towers is 320m. The towers will be designed as suspension and tension towers (Figures 3 and 4). The height of the suspension towers will be 41.5m; 67m, 71m, 77m; 34m, 38m; 57.5m, 61.5m, 69.5m, 73.5m; and 102m. The height of tension towers will be 23.5m, 30m, 40m, 56m; 62m; 34m; 47m, 59m, 64m; 47m, and 59m5.

5 Footnote 1

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Figure 3: Diagram of Typical Transmission Tower, 500/220kV Transmission Line Project

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Figure 4: Diagram of Typical Tension Tower, 500/220kV Transmission Line Project 51. Foundations. The foundations of the steel towers will be reinforced concrete, cast in-situ. The foundation of the typical transmission tower of the project is presented in Figure 5. An average of 312.45 m3 of concrete and 25 tons of steel will be utilized for the tower foundations. 52. The size of tower foundations varies from 13m x 14m to 25m tx 25m while the excavation depth is about 2.0 – 5.0m, depending on the type of tower. All excavated soil will be utilized for refilling and banking-up of the tower foundations. Table 8 outlines the volume of main earthworks while Table 9 presents the estimated volume of concrete according to type of

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foundation. A total of 146,628.90 m3 of excavated soil will be generated while 122,137.40m3 is expected to be utilized as fill material. Construction of the 96 transmission line towers will require a total 29,995.20 m3 of concrete.

Table 8: Volume of Earthworks by Type of Foundation No. Type of Foundation Number of

Tower Total Volume of Foundation (m3)

Excavation Fill 1 4N52-42 1 1,062.35 992.75 2 4N52-45 18 20,576.97 19,193.20 3 4N52-54 1 1,404.19 1,279.79 4 4N55-60 2 3,566.19 3,238.11 5 4N70-64 5 15,675.71 14,616.59 6 4N70-68 1 3,355.46 3,125.62 7 3X4N55-60 1 5,349.29 4,857.17 8 3X4N70-64 1 9,405.43 8,769.95 9 MB13X14 4 2,703.85 2,123.85 10 MB14X16 2 1,606.24 1,279.48 11 2XMB14X16 2 3,595.15 2,941.63 12 3XMB14X16 2 6,377.86 5,397.58 13 3XMB16X16 1 3,368.02 2,814.91 14 MB17X20 18 20,568.39 15,680.13 15 MB18X21 15 18,761.00 14,277.65 16 MC13X25A 3 2,940.43 2,136.88 17 MC13X25B 3 2,940.43 2,126.32 18 MC13X25C 1 1,103.46 827.53 19 MC16X25A 3 4,893.93 3,992.11 20 MC16X25B 2 2,732.47 2,153.93 21 MC16X25C 2 2,206.92 1,705.59 22 3XMC16X25D 1 3,084.81 2,276.34 23 MC20X25A 1 980.14 609.52 24 MC20X25B 1 845.55 480.25 25 MC25X25A 1 1,762.64 1,305.35 26 MC25X25B 1 1,302.21 865.98 27 MC25X25C 1 1,486.59 1,045.69 28 MC25X25D 2 2,973.19 2,023.52

TOTAL 96 146,628.87 122,137.42 Source: IEE. 500/220kV Bac Ninh2 – Pho Noi Transmission Line. PECC3. February 2011

Table 9: Volume of Concrete Works by Type of Foundation

No. Type of Foundation Number of Tower

Total Volume of Concrete (m3) 1m x 2m 4m x 6m

1 4N52-42 1 61.8 7.8 2 4N52-45 18 1,224.7 159.0 3 4N52-54 1 111.8 12.6 4 4N55-60 2 297.4 30.7 5 4N70-64 5 972.0 87.1 6 4N70-68 1 210.2 19.6 7 3X4N55-60 1 446.0 46.1 8 3X4N70-64 1 583.2 52.3

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No. Type of Foundation Number of Tower

Total Volume of Concrete (m3) 1m x 2m 4m x 6m

9 MB13X14 4 460.0 120.0 10 MB14X16 2 258.5 68.2 11 2XMB14X16 2 517.0 136.5 12 3XMB14X16 2 775.6 204.7 13 3XMB16X16 1 436.3 116.8 14 MB17X20 18 3,974.4 913.9 15 MB18X21 15 3,635.4 848.0 16 MC13X25A 3 1,256.5 63.1 17 MC13X25B 3 1,264.1 66.0 18 MC13X25C 1 425.2 22.7 19 MC16X25A 3 1,464.3 72.5 20 MC16X25B 2 956.1 45.8 21 MC16X25C 2 884.4 40.3 22 3XMC16X25D 1 1,377.6 65.9 23 MC20X25A 1 607.0 28.2 24 MC20X25B 1 602.5 27.4 25 MC25X25A 1 755.8 32.2 26 MC25X25B 1 736.4 30.6 27 MC25X25C 1 740.7 31.0 28 MC25X25D 2 1,544.0 67.2

TOTAL 96 26,578.9 3,416.2 Source: IEE. 500/220kV Bac Ninh2 – Pho Noi Transmission Line. PECC3. February 2011

53. Overhead Ground Wires. The transmission line will use the PHLOX-147 and OPGW (Composite Fiber Optic Overhead Ground Wire)6 above the power lines for lighting protection. There will be two ground wires above the power lines with protection angles of ≤ 20. The overhead ground wires were selected during the feasibility after consideration of the limits of temperature rise caused by short-circuited transmission lines.

54. Conductor. The conductor to be used for the 500/220kV Bac Ninh2-Pho Noi transmission line is the 4 x ACSR7 330/42 for the 500kV) and 3 x ACSR 400/51 for the 220kV.

55. Insulators. The insulators for the transmission line will use glass or porcelain insulators for the insulator string type. As countermeasure against corrosion of the pin, each insulator will be armored with a zinc sleeve around the pin shank. All insulators and fittings to be utilized by the project shall conform with the international standard IEC-3058.

6 Footnote 4 7 ACSR stands for Aluminum Conductors Steel Reinforced 8 IEC 305 is the International Standard for insulators of overhead lines with a nominal voltage above 1000V developed by the International Electrotechnical Commission in 1995, 4th edition. The International Standard applies to string insulator units of the cap and pin type with insulating parts of ceramic material or glass intended for high voltage transmission lines.

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Figure 5: Typical Foundation of Transmission Tower, 500/220kV Transmission Line Project

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C. RIGHT-OF WAY AND LAND REQUIREMENTS

56. Right-of Way. A ROW of about 30 m will be established. An estimated area of 54,000m2 will be permanently acquired for the construction of the tower foundations while about 869,340m2 will be temporarily acquired for use as material storage site or temporary access road during the construction of the project. Table 10 shows the area of land that will be permanently acquired and temporarily affected by the project. Majority of the affected land are located in Bac Ninh province (96%) while only 4% will be affected in Hung Yen province.

Table 10: Area of Affected Land by the 500/220kV Bac Ninh2-Pho Noi Transmission Line Location Permanently

Affected Land (m2)

Temporarily Affected Land

(m2)

Total Affected Land (m2)

Percentage of Total (%)

Bac Ninh Province 51,500 832,840 884,340 96% Tien Du district 23,500 331,400 354,900 38% Thuan Thanh district 17,500 299,330 316,830 34% Gia Binh district 3,500 67,810 71,310 8% Que Vo district 7,000 134,300 141,300 15% Hung Yen Province 2,500 36,500 39,000 4% Van Lam district 2,500 36,500 39,000 4%

TOTAL 54,000 869,340 923,340 100% Note: Temporarily affected land includes area along the ROW and areas to be affected by the construction of the project including temporary material storage sites and temporary access roads. 57. Tall trees within the ROW will be removed as necessary to maintain the minimum conductor clearance. During the final design of the transmission line, it will be sited to avoid houses to the maximum extent possible. The minimum vertical clearance of 6 m for houses, trees, and other structures will be designed in the ROW, as allowed in Viet Nam.

D. PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION PHASES 1. PRE-CONSTRUCTION PHASE 58. Survey and Design. The detailed design of the transmission line shall be undertaken through site investigation, soil testing, and survey of siting of towers. Cadastral survey shall be undertaken to determine the route for the development of transmission line. The soil investigation is necessary to determine the subsurface conditions at the site of the towers. The result of the subsurface investigation will provide the designers with the construction design parameters for the foundation. 59. The PECC3 was commissioned by NPPMB to conduct the technical surveys, technical design, cost estimate, and the bid documents for the procurement of equipment and construction of the project. The NPPMB shall undertake the preliminary review and submit the technical project design to NPT for final approval. 60. Land Acquisition and Compensation. The construction of the project will require the acquisition of land for the transmission towers. A survey of affected land use and ownership, vegetation and other structures shall be undertaken to assess the implication on land acquisition and compensation. A resettlement plan is being prepared separately. Compensation of affected land shall be designed in accordance with the requirements of the ADB and the GOV.

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61. A total of 54,000 m2 of rice land will be permanently affected by the construction of the transmission line towers. Construction works will also cause temporary disturbance to about 869,340 m2 of land. These areas are currently utilized as rice land. There are two houses within the ROW of the transmission line. Other affected structures along the ROW are the Duong River, irrigation canals, drainage canals, ponds, and village roads.

62. The NPPMB shall be in-charge of the implementation of the compensation of permanently affected land as well as rental of the temporarily affected land.

2. CONSTRUCTION PHASE 63. The overall construction and installation works for the transmission line are scheduled to be implemented within a period of 18 months. The entire construction activities will employ about 500 workers with each worker group consisting of 20 people. Employment of qualified people from the community shall be considered by the project. A small construction camp for workers and material storage shall be identified in consultation with the local authorities in the communes. 64. Mobilization. Upon mobilization of the contractor, the construction works will initiate with the construction of temporary access roads from the main roads to the site of the tower foundation. Construction materials such as cement, sand, stone and equipment parts of the tower lattices, insulators and conductors will be transported to the site of the towers using trucks and unloaded along road sides near the sites of each tower. Consent of the local authorities shall be secured during the construction of the towers. The materials and equipment will then be transported using small vehicles or manually transported along the paths to avoid significant disturbance of land. 65. Construction of Tower Foundation. After verification of the location of the tower foundation, construction will begin with the excavation of the tower foundations and then casting of concrete. All excavated soil will be retained and used for back filling of the tower foundations.

66. Tower Erection. The electrical materials such as conductors, lightning wire, and optical cables will be transported to a temporary storage facility in the project area and at road sides near the construction sites. These are also brought manually to the site of each tower. The transmission towers are then assembled manually on site through bolts and nuts and raised in sections.

67. Tree Clearing and Trimming along ROW. Clearing of tall trees and vegetation at the tower sites in the ROW will be conducted using hand tools prior to stringing works. The clearing activities will not use heavy machinery or herbicides.

68. Stringing of Cables. The conductor and lightning wire are then stretched at each anchor in a mechanical and tension stringing operation to prevent damage to the wires and conductors caused by scrubbing on the ground or vegetation. Workers will be provided with radio communications equipment to ensure safety and smooth operation.

69. The tensioning of wires and conductors shall be carried out in accordance with the prescribed international procedures, taking into consideration safety to prevent workers accident and damage to facilities and properties. The line shall be tested and adjusted prior to full commissioning.

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3. OPERATIONAL PHASE

70. The activities that will be implemented during the operational phase of the transmission line include the routine monitoring and inspection to check if the required clearances of trees and houses below the transmission line are maintained. Maintenance activities include the trimming of trees if above 3 m high and checking of nuts and bolts to ensure structural stability. The regular maintenance and trimming of vegetation within the ROW is necessary to prevent damage to overhead power lines and towers. The clearing of vegetation shall be undertaken manually, without the use of heavy equipment and herbicides.

71. During the operational phase, there will be 12 workers to be assigned to maintain the 500/220kV Bac Ninh2 - Pho Noi transmission line.

E. PROJECT PROPONENT 72. The NPT will be the executing agency and the NPPMB will be the implementing agency and owner of the project. Project detailed design, including detailed transmission line surveys, preparation and evaluation of tenders, and construction supervision, will be undertaken by consultants in coordination with the NPPMB. 73. The overall management of the project will be carried out by NPPMB.

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IV. DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT 74. Baseline information on the relevant physical, biological, and socio-economic conditions of the existing environment of the project area is described in this section. Aspects on various environmental parameters which are likely to be directly or indirectly affected by the proposed 500/220kV Bac Ninh 2–Pho Noi Transmission Line project are discussed. In addition, current and proposed development activities within the area of influence of the project are presented. Photographs of the site and vicinity are shown in Appendix 6.

A. PHYSICAL RESOURCES

1. GEOGRAPHY

75. The transmission line will traverse the provinces of Bac Ninh (Gia Binh, Tien Du, Thuan Thanh, and Que Vo districts) and Hung Yen (Van Lam District). Both provinces are located in the Red River Delta Region of the northern part of Viet Nam and are contiguous. Bac Ninh is bordered by Bac Giang Province to the north, Hung Yen and Hanoi Province to the south, Hai Duong Province to the east, and Ha Noi Province to the west. 9

Specifically, Thuan Thanh District in Bac Ninh is bordered to the south by Van Lam District of Hung Yen.

2. TOPOGRAPHY

76. Bac Ninh Province. The province has a relatively flat terrain but with slopes mainly from north to south and from west to east as reflected by the flow of the Duong River and Thai Binh River. Gia Binh and Thuan Thanh Districts are in the flat areas while Que Vo and Tien Du are in the hilly areas of Bac Ninh Province. However, there are some low-lying areas along the dikes of Que Vo District. 77. Hung Yen Province. Located in the central Delta, the terrain of Hung Yen Province is relatively flat and with no hills;10 specifically, Van Lam District has flat and uneven low terrain that slopes from northwest to southeast at an average height of 3 – 4 m.

3. GEOLOGY 78. The geological feature of the affected provinces is influenced by the Red River valley of Quaternary sediments. The soils in the province show Cambrian to Quaternary formations that dominates the territory. The scattered Triassic formations in most of the mountains are of lithologic composition which is mainly sand. The thickness of the Quaternary formations of the sediments varies from north to south. In the mountains, there is denudation due to the thin layers, while in the south the thickness can reach 100 m and 30 – 50 m in the north. Drilling results in Pho Noi showed that the groundwater is stored in the soft plastic clay and sand layers and appeared to stabilize at depths from 2.5–6.5 m. Soft plastic clay can be a critical subsurface problem in addition to the high and fluctuating water table in the area (Table 12) with additional mechanical and soil properties in Appendix 4.

9 People’s Committee of Bac Ninh. Natural Conditions. 10 People’s Committee of Hung Yen. Land and Terrain.

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Table 11: Geological Condition along ROW of Transmission Line

Line Province Geological condition

Depth (m) Characteristics From G1A to G1D1 From G1F to G1D1 From G1D1 to G2B

Bac Ninh Hung Yen Bac Ninh

0 – 2,3 Clay, clay loam. Brown yellow to black grey. Fluid-plastic to soft-plastic.

2,3 – 4,7 Silty clay. Fluid to soft-plastic.

4,7 – 8,0 Sandy clay loam. Brown yellow. Soft-plastic.

From G2C to G18 Bac Ninh

0 – 4,0 Clay, silty clay. Black grey. Fluid to fluid-plastic.

3,0 – 8,0 Clay, clay loam. Soft-plastic.

> 8,0 Clay, clay loam. Hard plastic to semi-hard.

From G18 to Bac Ninh 2 substation 220kV Bac Ninh

0 – 2,0 Clay. Plastic to semi-hard.

2,0 – 8,0 Clay. Fluid-plastic to soft-plastic.

Source: PECC3 79. According to the Global Physics Institute (2003) the district of Luong Tai in Bac Ninh Province has a record acceleration of 0.1316 g (gravity). This was at a seismic level of VIII MSK-64 scale.11 Van Lam District in Hung Yen Province has a record earthquake acceleration of 0.0748 g. This registered at a seismic level of VII MSK-64 scale.12

4. CLIMATE

80. The two affected provinces are influenced by the tropical monsoon climate in the region. There are four distinctive seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter. 81. Bac Ninh Province. The province has an annual average temperature of 23.3 oC and a temperature difference of 15–16 oC in summer and winter. Temperature record of highest monthly average is 28.9 oC (July) and minimum of 15.8 oC (January). Rainy season mainly is from May to October (accounts for 80% of total annual rainfall) and dry season from November to April. Annual average rainfall is at 1400–1600 mm.13 The number of hours of sunshine per year is at 1530–1776 h. There are more hours of sunshine in July and least in January.14

82. There are two prevailing winds in the province: the northeast monsoon (October to March) and the southeast monsoon (April to September). The area has high humidity (79%–87%) and averages at 79%. The province is located in Hong Delta Region, thus, these are

11 Footnote 4, p25. 12 Footnote 4, p25. 13 Power Engineering and Consulting Joint-stock Company No. 3. Initial Environmental Examination of Bac Ninh 2 – Pho Noi 500/220 kV Transmission Lines. 14 Footnote 4, p21.

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not affected directly by storm. During storm season, storm-related rainfalls affect Bac Ninh Province and accounts for 15%–20% yearly precipitation.15

83. Hung Yen Province. An annual average temperature of 23.2 oC is quite evenly distributed in the province. In a span of 19 years, the average during summer was 27.3 oC and 1oC in winter. For the total annual average rainfall, it ranges from 1500 to 1600 millimeter (mm); slightly lower at 1176 mm for Van Lam District.16 During rainy season, it averages at 1200–1300 mm (80%–85% of total annual rainfall) and during dry season at 200–300 mm. Hot season from May to October has about 1080 to 1100 hours of sunshine while cold weather from November to April occurs at 500–520 hours. Highest recorded monthly sunshine was 268 hours in May 1974 and lowest at 6.8 hours in February 1988. Total evaporation averaged for several years is 8730mm; where absolute maximum was at 144.9 mm (July 1961) and minimum at 20.8 mm (February 1988).

84. The annual average humidity in the province ranges from 80% to 90% (maximum in February; minimum in November and December). There are two prevailing winds: the northeast from September to March (winter monsoon) and the southeast from March to July (summer monsoon). Maximum wind speed recorded was at 40 m/s blowing southwest direction (May 1978). Hurricane and tropical storm do not directly hit Hung Yen but the coastal provinces. Rainfall caused by the storm accounts for 15% to 20% of the total annual rainfall in Hung Yen. Associated rainfall from storms usually occurs February to November and is concentrated from May to September.

85. Historical data (1971) revealed that there was inundation at an elevation of 3.35 m due to heavy rain in some areas in Van Lam District. The water of the nearby Cam Giang River rose and caused the flooding in the paddies.17

5. WATER RESOURCES

86. Surface Water. Bac Ninh Province has three main river systems such as Duong, Cau and Thai Binh rivers. There are also internal river systems such as Dan, Bui, Dong Khoi, and Ngu. Total amount capacity of surface water in Bac Ninh Province is estimated at 177.5 million m3. This is a crucial resource for economic development. In Hung Yen Province, there are also main rivers systems such as Hong River (27 km) and Luoc River (25 km). The known creeks/small rivers are Ke Sat, Chanh, Cuu An, Tam Do, and Dien Bien. In addition, there are irrigation systems in the areas which are prevalent due to the paddy fields planted with rice and other crops. 87. Underground Water. In Bac Ninh Province, groundwater has a good quality and has a 400,000 m³/day reserve. Water fielding stratum is about 3–5 m from the ground surface. Both underground water sources can be exploited for provincial domestic use and production. Similarly for Hung Yen, underground water resource is quite plentiful. Results of investigation in some areas showed layers with massive amount of underground water. This resource will not only satisfy domestic demand but also production.

15 Footnote 1, p.34. 16 Footnote 1, p.29. 17 Footnote 1, p.25.

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6. AIR AND NOISE QUALITY

88. There are no many practices or activities contributing to noise that disrupt the activity or balance in the daily life of the villager except in the brick production areas. There are two brick factories, near the boundary between the provinces of Hung Yen and Bac Ninh, where the connection line passes heading to G5A. The brick areas are about 2 km away from the project substation and are not expected to affect the project due to distance and contrary wind direction. 89. In order to protect the high voltage insulator lines from air pollution (particulate matter, salt content, etc.) in the area, a creepage distance of 20 mm/kV is to be applied. These insulator lines are designed according to the Electrical Equipment Standard 11 TCN-19-2006.18

B. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES

7. FOREST 90. Hung Yen Province is located in the delta region which has no forest. For Bac Ninh, it has a total forest area of 661.26 ha. These areas are located in Que Vo District (317.9 ha) and Tien Du District (254.95 ha). However, the project will not affect any forest in the area.19

8. FLORA

91. There are no rare plant species found in the affected areas of the project. Vegetation is mainly rice and crops in farmlands. Plants such as longan (Dimocarpus longan), lychee (Litchi chinensis), and legumes are abundant in the area. However, only those affected by the project are the rice and crops in the paddy fields and several lychee trees. 20 The land area of the paddy fields and the number of lychee trees affected are all accounted for. Presented in Table 13 is the summary of the affected plants based on the survey performed on the substation area and on the routes of the connection and transmission lines.

Table 12: Summary of Affected Crops and Trees along the ROW Crop/Tree Unit Bac Ninh

Province Hung Yen Province

Total

Rice M2 884,340 39,000 923,340 Cajuput Tree 10,000 550 10,550 Longan Tree 50 - 50 Lychee Tree 136 - 136 Bamboo Tree 2,500 - 2,500 Source: PECC3 survey, January 2010

9. FAUNA

92. There are no rare animal species found living in the project area.21

C. SOCIO-ECONOMIC CONDITIONS 18 Footnote 1, p.25. 19 Footnote 1, p.29. 20 PECC4. Resettlement Action Plan for the Pho Noi 500 kV Substation and Connection Lines. 21 Footnote 1, p. 25.

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1. POPULATION AND AFFECTED COMMUNITIES

93. The transmission line will traverse the provinces of Hung Yen (Hung Yen city, An Thi, Khoai Chau, Kim Dong, My Hao, Phu Cu, Tien Lu, Van Giang, Van Lam, and Yen My) and Bac Ninh (Bac Ninh City, Tu Son, Tien Du, Thuan Thanh, Que Vo, Gia Binh, Yen Phuong, and Luong Tai). The 2009 population of Bac Ninh province was recorded as 1,026,700 people while at Hung Yen province was 1,131,200 people. Van Lam District has the least land area but highest in population density while Thuan Thanh District is the least populated. The population density in Bac Ninh province is 1,248 person/km2 and 1,225 person/km2 at Hung Yen province. 94. The ethnicity of all the affected persons in Bac Ninh is Viet (Kinh)22 while at Hung Yen there are some Hoa minority. 2. HEALTH SERVICES

95. Each district has one general hospital each and all communes covered by the project have one healthcare station each. The commune’s health care services include first air and medical assistance for minor illnesses and maternity deliveries. The district hospitals provide medical services for more serious illnesses or minor operations or surgeries. The health centers lack the equipment or facilities to attend to the medical needs of the community. 3. EDUCATION

96. Communes in the project area have schools from primary to secondary. All communes have achieved universal primary education standards. High schools are located mostly in the district centers. Both public and private school systems are available for high schools.23

4. ECONOMY

97. Bac Ninh Province. The province has several industrial zones such as Dai Dong–Hoan Son, Que Vo I, Que Vo II, Yen Phong I, and Thuan Thanh. Strategies of socio-economic development of the province are concentrated on exploitation of its advantageous geographic positions, provision of industrial infrastructures, and attracting more domestic and foreign investments. The targets of the province are to increase GDP to 14.5-15.5 %/yr; agriculture–forestry-aquaculture to 3.5 %/yr; industry-construction to 14.5 %/yr; and services to 14.6%/yr. In addition, job creation for 26,000 people and clean water supply to households to reach 91%, among many others, are targeted.24 98. Hung Yen Province. The province is located in the business district of the north of Vietnam. In recent years, its economic growth rate, along with Bac Ninh, has been higher than the average of the whole northern area. There are several industrial zones in the province such as Pho Noi A, Pho Noi B, Thang Long II, Nhu Quynh, and Minh Duc, among others. The targets of the Hung Yen province are to increase GDP to 12.8 %/yr; job creation for 23,000 people; and 87 % clean water supply for households, among others.25

22 The Kinh is the most common ethnic group in Viet Nam. 23 Footnote 1, p. 25. 24 Footnote 1, p. 29. 25 Footnote 1, p. 29.

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99. Communes in the project area are mainly rural. Economic activities are agricultural production and trading of products. Products of the communes are rice, crops, vegetables and fruits that are usually sold in markets in the province or nearby provinces such as Ha Noi and Bac Ninh.26

5. WATER SUPPLY

100. Surface water is the direct water source for production and daily life in Hung Yen Province.27 Still, some households use drilled wells to tap groundwater source. Specifically in Van Lam District, only 92 % of households have access to potable water.28 6. TRANSPORTATION 101. Both provinces consist of a network of roads, railway, harbors and waterways that will be beneficial during the different project phases. 102. Bac Ninh Province. The province is considered as the gateway of the capital Ha Noi to the northeast. It is the bridge between Ha Noi and the mountainous provinces in the north and the main exchange locations with China. There are national highways such as Highway 1A, New Highway 1B, Highway 18, Highway 38, and the Ha Noi–Lang Son Expressway. Highway 18, after completion of road rehabilitation, will be a very convenient passage to the Noi Bai International Airport in Ha Noi and to the deep-sea port of Cai Lan in Quang Ninh Province. There is also the Trans-Vietnam railway to China. 29

103. Bac Ninh also has convenient waterway connections with the surrounding area, such as Hai Phong Seaport and major economic centers in the North. Waterways such as the Duong River, Cau River, and Thai Binh River are very convenient mode of transportation of goods and people.30 104. Hung Yen Province. The road network of national highways, provincial roads, district roads, urban and village roads in the province are well-developed and are distributed rationally in all communes, wards, and towns.31 The project transmission lines will pass through existing inter-commune roads. Commune roads are made of asphalt and some are partly concrete. Access road (length = 2495.89 m; width = 5.5 m) to the project substation will be constructed starting from Provincial Road No. 388 at km 13 + 360 passing through the territories of Dong Chung and Me Dau hamlets in Viet Hung Commune, Van Lam District. Provincial Road No. 38 runs along the communes and is connected to the National Road No. 5A.

105. The Hanoi–Hai Phong railway, a 17–km route, passes through the town of Quynh Luong Tai, Van Lam District. In addition, a network of rivers and canals facilitate water transport development in the Hung Yen Province. The two main river systems, the 57-km Red River by Hung Yen and the 25-km Hung Yen Luoc, pass along a wharf for cargo ships.

26 Footnote 1, p. 25. 27 People’s Committee of Hung Yen. Administrative Map 28 Footnote 1, p. 29. 29 People’s Committee of Bac Ninh. Introduction to Security North 30 Footnote 1, p. 29. 31 Footnote 27.

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7. LAND USE

106. In the survey process, consultations and agreements had been made with the local authorities about the direction of routes in order to ensure the least impact on houses, land, and people. The direction of routes is approved by the People’s Committee of Bac Ninh and Hung Yen provinces. The project area mainly passes paddy fields.

8. POWER SOURCES AND TRANSMISSION

107. Hung Yen Province. In Van Lam District, electricity transmission lines of medium voltage have been gradually upgraded. To date, 100 % of rural households had electricity.

108. Bac Ninh Province. There is 100 % coverage of electricity in the province due to connection from the national electricity grid.

9. COMMUNICATION

109. Mobile phone networks, radios, and postal services are covered across all the project communes. Specifically in Van Lam District, the postal and telecommunications network are developing.

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Figure 6: Land Use Map

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V. ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

110. This Chapter presents the potential environmental impacts of the project and the recommended mitigating measures to address adverse environmental impacts. The environmental impacts are structured into the (i) pre-construction phase of the project; (ii) construction phase; and (iii) operation phase of the transmission line. Mitigating measures are recommended to avoid or minimize adverse environmental impacts.

A. PRE-CONSTRUCTION PHASE IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES 111. The potential impacts during the design and pre-construction phase of the project are related to the siting and survey of the transmission line alignment. There is potential for the transmission line alignment to affect agricultural land, irrigation canals, drainage canals, the Duong River, and roads. The construction of the towers may also have visual impacts for local residents.

1. LOSS OF PROPERTY, TREES AND AGRICULTURAL LAND 112. The construction of the transmission line will result to the permanent acquisition of 54,000 m2 of land for the tower foundation and the temporary acquisition of 869,340 m2 of land for the construction camp, material storage, and temporary access roads. Most of the land along the ROW is used for planting rice and other crops. There are two houses that will be affected while some cajuput, longan, and litchi trees will be cleared. 113. The NPPMB will design and provide an appropriate land acquisition and compensation plan for the affected area of the transmission line in accordance with the ADB and national requirements.

2. ENCROACHMENT INTO AREAS OF CULTURAL/HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE 114. The transmission line will not traverse any historical or culturally significant site. There is one cemetery/grave located in An Binh commune which was initially found to be along the ROW. The cemetery/grave is not a declared historical site but is considered culturally significant to the community. To avoid relocation of the cemetery/grave, the alignment of the transmission line was relocated to about 150m away from the said cemetery/grave.

3. ENCROACHMENT INTO ECOLOGICALLY SIGNIFICANT AREAS 115. The transmission line will not encroach upon any ecologically significant area. The ROW will be located in an expansive agricultural area which has been under cultivation for many years. There are also no protected areas, primary forest, wetlands, swamp forest, mangroves, and estuarine areas along the ROW. 116. The nearest known significantly ecological area to the site is the Tam Dao National Park which is located at a minimum distance of 40km northwest of the transmission line.

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117. The NPPMB and consultants of the project selected the sites for the project components through site investigation and coordination with the local government authorities, the Provincial People’s Committee of Hung Yen and Bac Ninh. Suggestions and approval of the authorities were secured in selecting the sites. The project also took into consideration the location of historical and cultural relics, natural preservation areas, and populated areas to avoid displacing houses and community structures. The areas close to roads were also selected for easy transport of materials and to avoid significant disturbance of land.

4. IMPACT ON AESTHETICS 118. The impact of the project on aesthetics has not been identified as a significant issue in the local context. There are existing transmission lines in the vicinity such that the aesthetic impact of additional transmission infrastructure at this location would be less than if such infrastructure was entirely new to the area. The proposed 500/220 kV transmission line will run parallel to an existing 500kV transmission line.

5. PRESENCE OF UNEXPLODED ORDNANCES 119. Unexploded ordnances (UXO) contamination occurred in Viet Nam following decades of war in the country. Highly dangerous and littered UXO is still reportedly present in some areas in the country. However, according to the results of the survey, there are no areas along the ROW with severe UXO contamination. The agricultural lands in the vicinity have been cultivated for a long time and therefore the risk of encountering UXO is considered low. In addition, the excavated areas for each tower are small and shallow.

B. POTENTIAL IMPACTS DURING THE CONSTRUCTION PHASE 1. IMPACT ON VEGETATION 120. The ROW of the transmission line project will encroach into 923,340 m2 of agricultural land. Vegetation in about 54,000 m2 of agricultural land will be permanently removed for the transmission towers. There will also be disturbance or removal of vegetation for activities such as assembly of steel towers, transmission line stringing and for the temporary facilities such as materials storage, construction camp, and assembly areas. Crops will be potentially damaged during the construction of the transmission line, thus, affecting crop productivity during the construction phase. 121. The affected agricultural land should be compensated in accordance with the requirements of the ADB and national requirements. There are areas where only cutting or trimming of tall vegetation in the ROW for conductor clearance will be undertaken. As much as possible, the cutting of the trees will be avoided. In cases where the cutting of affected tree cannot be avoided, compensation cost will be properly paid to the affected tree before the vegetation clearing.

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2. SOIL RUNOFF

122. The transmission line will affect a river crossing in Duong River and several irrigation and drainage canals. The drainage canals leading to the Duong River is the receiving point of potential runoff during the construction of the transmission line. There are also 77 irrigation and drainage canals that will be traversed by the transmission line. The irrigation canals supply water to the agricultural land in the immediate vicinity. There are also 9 ponds used either for duck raising, fish culture or as water retention ponds. These water bodies will likely be impacted to some extent by runoff from the project site and from frequent movement of vehicles to the site during the construction phase.

123. The construction of the transmission line towers will require earthworks and will result to impacts on water quality of receiving water bodies. Improper storage of materials, disposal of excavated soil, and construction wastes could also affect water quality. Particular attention should be paid when conducting works at towers near irrigation canals, ponds, and at Duong River. 124. Timing is also one of the critical factors involved in erosion and sedimentation control in construction sites. Careful scheduling of construction activities during the dry season can minimize the exposed area during the rainy season. Other measures that can be implemented to control soil runoff include the following:

(i) Limit clearing to areas necessary for construction. (ii) Locate potential sources of pollution away from steep slopes, water bodies or other

critical areas. (iii) Cover and stabilize stockpile of topsoil.

125. The stockpiles should be covered before rain events to prevent wash out due to runoff. If possible, there should be an intervening vegetated buffer from water courses to control sedimentation in the stream. 126. The effect of sedimentation during project construction is only temporary. Upon completion of the construction stage, exposed surfaces will be concreted while other areas for landscaping would stabilize soil with the growing of vegetation.

3. IMPACT ON WATER QUALITY 127. The construction of the project facilities will have impacts on the water quality of Duong River. Potential sources of water pollution are from the domestic sewage from construction workers, contamination due to spillage of oil and other lubricants, contamination due to disposal of construction wastes, and wastewater from washing of construction equipment and vehicles. These wastewaters will potentially pollute the Duong River, including the drainage canals and irrigation canals. 128. The contractor will be required to implement measures to prevent the discharge of wastewater during the construction of the project from entering directly into the drainage channels and irrigation canals. Measures to mitigate impacts on water quality include:

(i) Provision of adequate on-site sanitation facilities with septic tanks to prevent untreated sewage from being channeled into the drainage canals, irrigation canals, and river.

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(ii) Implementation of appropriate solid waste and construction waste collection and disposal system, with provision for waste segregation.

(iii) Designation of areas for equipment services, refueling, and wash down. The maintenance area should be provided with oil and grease traps to prevent oil from being washed into the offsite drainage canals.

(iv) Preparation of an oil spill emergency response plan.

129. Proper implementation of the above measures will ensure that the potential water quality impacts during construction will be insignificant.

4. IMPACTS ON AIR QUALITY 130. The air quality in the area can be affected by exhaust gases such as total suspended particulates (TSP), SOx, NOx, and CO due to the movement of construction vehicles. Excavation and backfilling works also give rise to the increase in ground level concentration of TSP. 131. The construction activities will be undertaken in a relatively unpopulated rural area and involve temporary and periodic use of mechanical equipment. The impact on air quality of the construction works will be insignificant and temporary. However, good construction practice to minimize these impacts shall be specified in contract documents backed up by effective environmental monitoring to ensure that nuisance caused by dust and exhaust gases to nearby communities along transport routes will be minimized and acceptable.

5. NOISE 132. The major sources of noise are movement of vehicles transporting construction materials and equipment to the site. However, this impact is considered minor, localized, and temporary. The major construction activities will be basically located in the paddy fields and far from residential houses. The residential houses are located far from the construction site to be affected by construction noise.

6. GENERATION OF CONSTRUCTION WASTES 133. During the construction of the transmission towers, construction wastes such as discarded construction materials, cement bags, wood, steel, lubricants, fuels, and vegetation debris will be generated. Packaging materials such as wooden pallets, plastic, foam, and cardboard boxes used for the equipment and electrical parts delivered at the site for installation will also be generated. The construction camp for workers will also result to domestic solid wastes. 134. The generated wastes during construction and installation of equipment and parts have the potential to contaminate land and water resources. Oil may potentially leak from improper storage and handling of fuel and lubricants. The packaging materials may have potential for reuse and could be collected separately to avoid being haphazardly left around the construction sites.

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135. With proper collection and disposal procedures, the generation of construction wastes will have minimal impact on the environment. Construction materials and stockpiles of spoils should be covered to reduce material loss. Particular attention should be made when conducting works at towers near Duong River to avoid discharge of wastes into the river. The stockpiles, lubricants, fuels, and other materials should be located away from steep slopes and water bodies while solid wastes should be disposed of properly in a designated disposal area within the construction site. All domestic solid wastes need to be segregated at source into biodegradable and non-biodegradable for disposal at designated solid waste disposal site.

7. DISRUPTION TO TRAFFIC 136. The movement of construction vehicles along provincial and communal roads may cause increased traffic volume to and from the construction sites. In particular, the communal roads are relatively narrow and movement of large construction vehicles along these roads might cause temporary blockage and nuisance to villagers. This will disrupt the normal traffic patterns and may expose the villagers to risk of injury or accidents.

137. NPPMB will ensure that established practices of posting warning signs and managing traffic to protect the travelling public and its workers will be properly implemented. NPPMB will also ensure that access to adjacent agricultural fields and nearby residences will be ensured throughout the construction period 138. To alleviate such impacts to local settlements, the contractor should closely coordinate with the local communities and engage good practices for traffic management. The contractor should require its drivers to lower speed when passing through built-up areas.

8. DAMAGE TO INFRASTRUCTURE 139. The movement of vehicles and other construction activities may cause damage to irrigation and drainage canals crossed by or adjacent to the construction sites. The increased movement of vehicles along the existing access roads may also potentially damage the roads. Most of the communal access roads are earth-paved while the irrigation and drainage canals are not provided with concrete embankments. 140. Any damaged infrastructure caused by the construction activities and transport of materials will be repaired to at least the same standard and condition upon completion of the project. At the commencement of the project, the initial condition of the community infrastructures will be done. The contractor will be required to undertake repair on damaged infrastructures. This provision shall be included in the Terms of Reference with the contractor.

9. OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY 141. Construction activities may cause harm and danger to the lives and welfare of workers. The wearing of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, safety gloves, ear mufflers, and other materials should be strictly imposed. A construction health and safety plan needs to be prepared and implemented by the contractor. 142. The existing health services in the vicinity are located in the commune areas. The commune health services may not be able to accommodate any additional patients from the

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construction workforce. Therefore in the construction phase, the contractor will be required to provide first-aid facilities for the workers and at least one trained first-aider should be available at the construction camp.

10. COMMUNITY HEALTH AND SAFETY 143. The project construction will result to impacts to community health and safety such as construction traffic, transport of materials, fires, emergency spills of materials, and unauthorized entry by the villagers into dangerous working areas. 144. To mitigate these potential impacts, the civil works contractor will be required to develop a Community Health and Safety Plan (CHSP) that incorporates good international practice and recognized standards. The CHSP should include emergency response and preparedness procedures to be developed in close consultation with potentially affected communities and local authorities. The plan should include specific emergency response procedures, communication systems and protocols, interaction with local and regional emergency and health authorities, provision of emergency equipment and facilities such as fire truck, emergency service vehicles, and fire drills. 145. The CHSP should also include a plan for fencing of the construction area and procedures for posting warning signs to protect local community members from dangerous work areas. The warning signages should be printed clearly in Vietanamese language for better understanding of the villagers.

C. IMPACTS DURING THE OPERATIONAL PHASE 146. The expected adverse impacts during the operational phase of the 500/220kV transmission line are generally related to the occupational and community health and safety issues. The impacts are reversible, manageable, and can be mitigated with proper engineering and management controls.

1. OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY 147. The occupational health and safety issues inherent to the operation of transmission line include hazards due to exposure to live power lines and high voltage systems, working in heights and risks of accidents, and potential exposure to electric and magnetic fields. Accidents that may occur include electro-cutting, lightning, fires, and explosion. 148. Exposure to Live Power Lines and High Voltage Systems. Workers may come in contact with live power lines during the maintenance of the facilities and electrocution from direct contact with high-voltage electricity is a hazard directly related to power transmission lines and facilities.32 149. The NPPMB and contractor should be guided by the “Environmental, Health, and Safety Guidelines – Electric Power Transmission and Distribution” (IFC) dated 30 April 2007 when

32 International Finance Corporation (IFC), Environmental, Health, and Safety Guidelines – Electric Power Transmission and Distribution. 30 April 2007.

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working at the transmission and substation facilities. Some of the prevention and control measures when working with live power lines are:

(i) Restricting access to electrical equipment by workers only trained and certified to work on electrical equipment.

(ii) Adherence to electrical safety standards.

(iii) Proper grounding and deactivation of live power distribution lines during maintenance work or if working in close proximity to the lines.

(iv) Provision of PPE for workers, safety measures, personal safety devices, and other precautions

(v) Observe guidelines to minimum approach distances for excavations, tools, vehicles, pruning, and other activities when working around power lines and the substation.

(vi) The entrance to all buildings, vaults, rooms, or enclosures containing exposed live parts or exposed conductors should be kept locked unless such entrances are under the observation of a qualified person at all times.

(vii) Switchboards, panel boards, industrial control panels, meter socket enclosures, and motor control centers that are likely to require examination, adjustment, servicing, or maintenance while energized should be field marked to warn qualified persons of potential electric arc flash hazards.

150. Working in Heights. Accidents may happen when working in heights. However, a worker safety plan may be implemented to reduce risks that include testing of structural integrity prior to proceeding with the work and the use of fall protection measures. 151. Worker Exposure to Electric and Magnetic Fields (EMF). Typically, electric utility workers have higher exposure to EMF than the general public because of working in close proximity to electric power lines. The occupational EMF exposure should be minimized through the implementation of an EMF safety program that includes:

(i) Identification of potential exposure levels in the work area including surveys of exposure levels and establishment of safety zones

(ii) Limit access to properly trained workers and those equipped with appropriate PPE when entering safety zones.

(iii) Utilization of personal monitors during work activities

(iv) Posting of safety signages and warning signs.

2. COMMUNITY HEALTH AND SAFETY 152. Electrocution. The community may also be exposed to electrocution hazards as a result of direct contact with high voltage electricity or from contact with tools, vehicles, or other devices that come in contact with high-voltage electricity. To prevent these hazards, NPPMB needs to implement the following improvements:

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Provision of signs, barriers and gates/posts surrounding transmission towers particularly in built-up areas

Grounding of conducting objects such as fences or other metallic structures near power lines.

153. Exposure to Electromagnetic Field. The transmission frequency commonly used in transmission systems ranges from 50Hz – 60Hz which is considered as extremely low frequency33, with impacts becoming low with distance. The electric fields become shielded by trees, buildings, and other materials that conduct electricity. In general, the electric fields are strongest close to the source and diminish with distance. 154. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that there is still weak evidence about substantive long-term health issues related to low frequency electric fields at levels generally encountered by members of the public. The potential health effects associated with exposure to EMF is not well-established due to lack of empirical data demonstrating adverse health effects. However, the public should be warned about the safety distances from the transmission system and power lines through warning signages. 3. RISKS AND EMERGENCIES ASSOCIATED WITH TRANSMISSION LINES 155. There are several risks that could occur with the operation of the transmission line. Among these are the likelihood of cable being damaged, vandalism of the equipment along the transmission line, corrosion of the towers over time which could compromise its structural integrity, potential fire events, explosion of equipment, and being hit by lightning. 156. Lightning arresters will be provided along the transmission line. There should also be provision for ensuring security of the cable to avoid vandalism. Regular inspections of the line and the facilities would help identify missing or corroded parts. 157. In case of fire events, explosion, and other related situations, a fire management strategy which may be included in the emergency preparedness and response plan of the project should be developed. 158. Workers should be trained on emergency preparedness and response procedures and a manual on safety and emergency procedures should be prepared and disseminated to workers like fighting oil fires, e.g. from transformer.. The procedure should outline the system to identify potential emergency situations and potential accidents that can have an impact to the health and safety of the workers and to the community.

4. MANAGEMENT AND CONTROL OF VEGETATION AT TRANSMISSION LINE 159. One of the regular programs to maintain the integrity of the transmission line is the trimming of tall trees and vegetation along the ROW. This is being done to maintain the necessary conductor clearance of the line. In addition, the presence of vegetation along the ROW provides habitat for birds. With reduced vegetation growth along the ROW, the risk of bird collision on the transmission line will be prevented.

33 Footnote 32.

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160. The vegetation maintenance activities may cause minor disturbance to local people. This can be mitigated by limiting use to already existing roads or tracks to reach the transmission lines and informing the locals in advance through the village heads on the schedule of the maintenance works. Care should be observed to avoid encroachment into rice or crop land of villagers by workers who will undertake vegetation trimming. 161. NPPMB does not allow the use of herbicides and pesticides to control vegetation growth. Burning to control vegetation along the transmission ROW is also prohibited. 162. To minimize the impacts associated with the removal of vegetation, such activity will only be allowed within the designated width of the ROW and up to the extent of achieving the required clearances. Chain saws and other heavy equipment will not be allowed for the removal of trees. Only manual or hand tools will be used for trimming.

5. BIRD COLLISIONS 163. Based on the field inspections and interviews with key informants about the path of migratory birds, there are relatively few birds in the project area. The site is not established as a path of migratory birds. There is an existing 500kV transmission line that will be parallel to the proposed 500/220kV transmission line, however, there are no reports about the occurrence of dead birds or other dead animals under the line.

6. RESTRICTION ON DEVELOPMENT IN TRANSMISSION LINE ROW 164. The NPPMB will institute restriction on development along the ROW during operation of the line. This will be done to maintain the ROW free of structures above the designated vertical and horizontal clearances. There are negative economic impacts to land owners and users because of the limited use of the land in the ROW. Appropriate payment of compensation to affected people is necessary.

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V. ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES 165. The following presents the considerations made during the design of the transmission line.

A. NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVE 166. A No Project alternative is not acceptable because the proposed project is an important component of the Master Plan of Power Sector Development of Viet Nam No. VI. Without the project, the load demand in the northern region and in general, the national load will not be met. This would lead to ongoing operating losses for power generation. The present situation will not improve and the reliability and safety of power supply in the northern region will not be attained.

B. SELECTION OF VOLTAGE LEVEL 167. The voltage level of the proposed transmission line was selected based on the duty of the line within the network. Three (3) voltage levels were selected, as follows:

(i) Super high voltage level : 500kV (ii) High voltage levels: 220kV, 110kV (iii) Medium voltage level : 22kV.

168. During the feasibility, calculations were made on the power distribution and transmission distance. This resulted to the 500kV and 220kV voltage as the most feasible.

C. SELECTION OF CONDUCTOR 169. The conductors to be utilized by the transmission line were selected according to the thermal and mechanical properties and cost. Based on the results of the calculation of the power flow, the cross-section of the conductor to be used for the project is 4 x ACSR 330/42 for the 500kV and 3 x ACSR 400/51 for the 220kV.

D. SELECTION OF OVERHEAD GROUND WIRES 170. The selection of overhead ground wires to be used in the transmission line was based on the calculated cross-section of the overhead ground wires and the limits of temperature rise that may be caused by short-circuited transmission lines. The requirements on lightning protection of the transmission line and link optical communication were also taken into consideration. Composite fiber optic overhead ground wire was selected for the overhead ground wires.

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E. SELECTION OF INSULATORS 171. The type of insulator to be used should meet the international standard IEC-305. The selection of glass or porcelain insulators should satisfy the mechanical falling load. The number of insulators per string was calculated in accordance with the nominal creepage distance.34

F. SELECTION OF FOUNDATION 172. Different types of foundations suitable for the transmission tower were considered. Based on surveys undertaken during the feasibility study of the project, the engineering, geology, relief, and hydrology along the ROW were found to be are relatively identical. Because of this, the pad-and-chimney type of foundation was selected as the most practical and economical option.

F. SELECTION OF TOWER DESIGN There are several tower design options, namely, wood, concrete pylon, tubular steel, aluminum, and steel lattice. The use of wooden pylons is insufficient to provide the necessary ground clearance. Concrete pylons are normally used for voltages below 30kV. Aluminum towers are expensive. The use of the steel lattice tower was selected since these can be pre-fabricated and easily assembled, reliable, and economically viable.

H. SELECTION OF ROUTE ALIGNMENT 173. The alignment of the transmission line was selected based on its distance from the Bac Ninh 220kV substation. PECC3 surveyed the existing conditions at the site. The route selection considered avoiding protected areas, forest areas, heritage/cultural sites, houses, trees, and large area of agricultural land.

34 Footnote 4.

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VI. INFORMATION DISCLOSURE, CONSULTATION, AND PARTICIPATION

174. This Chapter presents the public consultation process that was undertaken for the project, the results of the surveys and consultation meetings, and the concerns raised by the stakeholders. 175. Consultations with affected communities within the proposed site of the substation and along the alignment of the connecting lines have been carried out by NPPMB and PECC3 team on 25 to 29 July 2011. Representatives from the communes of Tri Phuong, Cam Hung, Ming Dao, Tan Chi, and Lac Ve in Tien Du District and Chi Lang, commune in Que Vo District, and the Lang Ngam in Gia Binh District, Mao Dien, Tram Lo, Nghia Dao and An Binh communes in Thuan Thanh District and Viet Hung commune in Van Lam District participated during the consultation meetings. 176. In Bac Ninh Province, the pertinent environmental issues raised by the stakeholders included the following and in more detail in Appendix 5.

Construction activities need to meet environmental regulations and environmental safety.

Contractors should be required to clean up the ground after completion of construction activities.

The owner, contractors and related organizations should ensure the implementation of the commitments such as environmental protection, landscaping and safety measures on EMF levels

Work schedule should be proposed to the local authority to minimize impacts on normal living conditions of the locals in project area

Ensure environmental sanitation during the construction phase Results of the annual monitoring and EMF levels must be made public Provision of lightning protectors and electro-induction facilities to ensure health of the

locals Coordination with local authorities should be made regularly to resolve matters and

ensure legitimate rights of the locals during the construction and operational phases of the project

There should be compensation for loss of production at the disturbed areas used during construction.

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VII. GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM 177. A grievance redress mechanism will be established to address concerns of the stakeholders about the project. The grievance redress procedure will comply with the requirements of ADB SPS (2009) in addressing people’s concerns and complaints promptly and in transparent manner. A. Pre-Construction Phase 178. During the pre-construction phase of the project, the most likely grievances that may be encountered involve land acquisition and compensation. A resettlement plan will be prepared to describe in detail the land acquisition and compensation process. The mechanism shall comply with Article 63, 64 of the Decree No. 84/2007/ND-CP dated 25 May 2007 entitled “Amendment on grant of land use right certificate, land acquisition, land use right implementation, compensation, allowances, resettlement sequences and procedures as the State acquires land and in solving grievance of land”. 179. In general, the grievance redress mechanism of the project during the pre-construction phase shall observe the following steps and as outlined in Figure 7:

Step 1: The project affected person can submit a complaint to the People’s Committee at the district level within 90 days from the date when the chairman of the People’s Committee has decided on land management as stipulated by Article 162 of Decree No. 181/2004/ND-CP. Step 2: If the affected person does not agree with the administrative action or decision of the People’s Committee at the district level, the affected person can elevate the complaint to the People’s Committee at the provincial level within 45 days since the date when the decision on the complaint was issued by the People’s Committee at the district level. Step 3: If the affected person is still not satisfied with the decision of the People’s Committee at provincial level, the complaint is sent to the People’s Court. The decision of the People’s Court becomes the final legal basis for the implementation of the compensation.

B. Construction and Operational Phases 180. Grievances during construction may also include impacts related to physical construction works on the towers and substation and the site clearing activities. During the operational phase of the project, the complaints that may be anticipated are related to maintenance activities of the connection lines and facilities. 181. For complaints received about the construction and maintenance works, the NPPMB will involve the contractor or maintenance personnel. When these are not resolved, any complaints are then facilitated by the General Manager of the NPPMB. 182. The following steps describe the grievance redress procedure during the construction and operational phases of the project (Figure 8).

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Figure 7: Grievance Redress Procedure during the Pre-Construction Phase

Step 1: A complainant may send his/her concerns about the construction or operation of the project to NPPMB or the construction contractor and the head of the commune. Immediate action on the complaint is expected from the contractor or the NPPMB on the concern raised by the complainant. The resolution of the complaint should be done within two weeks. Step 2: When the complainant is not satisfied with the action or decision of the NPPMB or the contractor, the complainant can inform the head of the commune about the matter. The commune head/authority through the Commune People’s Committee will then call a meeting of the complainant, NPPMB, and contractor to resolve the complainant. Step 3: When the complainant is not satisfied with the action or decision on the complaint, it the then elevated to the district level for resolution. Step 4: Complaints not resolved at the district level is elevated to the People’s Committee at the provincial level for resolution.

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Step 5: When the complaint is not resolved at the People’s Committee at the provincial level, the complaint is then elevated to the People’s Court. The decision of the People’s Court becomes the final legal basis for the decision on the complaint.

C. Legal Guarantee for Complaints and Grievances 183. Under the regulations in Viet Nam, affected persons having complaints or grievances will not be responsible for paying any administrative and legal fees in filing their complaints. Also, site clearing is not allowed while the resolution of the complaint is still pending. 184. In cases where the affected person is illiterate, the affected person can ask assistance from one representative of his household who can then write all the complaints and grievances to be submitted for resolution. Under the law, all meetings to resolve complaints and grievances should be documented and the minutes of meetings should be disclosed and posted at the Commune People’s Committee.

Figure 8: Grievance Redress Procedure during the Construction and Operational Phases

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VIII. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 185. This chapter presents the mitigation measures are given within the corresponding EMP, environmental monitoring plan, and institutional arrangements.

A. MITIGATION PLAN 186. The construction and operation phase mitigation measures identified in Chapter 5 are summarized in Table 14, together with the schedule, estimated cost and responsible entity for implementation.

Table 13: Environmental Management Plan Potential

Environmental Impact

Mitigating Measures Schedule Estimated Cost (US$)

Responsible Entity

PRE-CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Loss of property and agricultural land due to permanent and temporary acquisition of land

Careful routing of the transmission line to ensure that the final alignment avoids to the maximum extent possible sensitive ecosystems and areas with high concentration of economic trees, Prepare a Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) that will detail the compensation scheme, grievance redress mechanism, monitoring and institutional arrangements in compliance with ADB and GOV requirements. Secure all necessary permits associated with the transmission Schedule construction activities after crop harvesting to minimize damage to crops.

After finalization of plans

Part of design cost

NPPMB

Cutting of trees to maintain conductor clearance

Identification and inventory of affected trees Restrict cutting of trees/vegetation to within the ROW and only to the extent necessary to achieve required conductor clearances


Part of design cost

NPPMB

Encroachment into a cemetery/grave

Relocation of the ROW to avoid relocation of affected grave.

Part of revised ROW

Part of design cost

NPPMB

Location of construction camp

Provision of adequate sanitation facilities (toilets with septic tank, water supply, etc.) as part of the overall plan for the construction

Before contract signing of contractor

Part of design cost

NPPMB / Contractor

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Potential Environmental

Impact Mitigating Measures Schedule Estimated

Cost (US$) Responsible

Entity

camp Impact on aesthetics

Careful routing of the transmission line to ensure that final alignment avoids skylines and sensitive locations such as houses and schools.


Part of design cost

NPPMB

Presence of unexploded ordnances

Risk of encountering UXO is low since the agricultural lands have been cultivated for a long time. Chance find will be implemented during construction.

To be discussed with contractor during contract approval.

Part of design cost

NPPMB

Project Disclosure Meetings and consultations with community will be held to discuss the project design and any changes (if applicable)

Upon completion of detailed design

Operational requirement

NPPMB

CONSTRUCTION PHASE

Flora and Fauna Cutting of Vegetation/Trees within substation site

Compensation of agricultural land in accordance with ADB and GOV requirements. Undertake cutting or trimming of tall vegetation in the ROW for conductor clearance.

Before and during construction

Included in construction cost

Contractor

Water Pollution Soil runoff leading to irrigation canals, drainage canals, and Duong River.

Limit clearing to areas necessary for construction. Locate potential sources of pollution away from steep slopes, water bodies, or other critical areas Cover and stabilize stockpile of topsoil. Use intervening vegetated buffer from water courses Careful scheduling of grading and clearing during the dry season.

To be implemented during before and during project construction. The mitigating measures to control soil runoff will be incorporated in the design and bid documents.


Contractor

Wastewater from the worker’s camps.

Provide temporary toilet facilities with septic tanks at the construction camp. Implement appropriate solid waste and construction waste collection and disposal system.

To be implemented prior to start of project construction.


Contractor

Spillage of oil and other lubricants

Designate areas for equipment services, refueling, and wash

To be implemented

Included in construction

Contractor

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Entity

used during construction and washing of construction equipment and vehicles.

down. Provide oil and grease trap at the maintenance area (if applicable) Prepare an oil spill emergency response plan.

prior to start of project construction.

cost

Air Pollution Generation of dust or particulate matter.

Water sprinkling of the gravel access road near communities should be done to reduce the occurrence of airborne dust particularly during dry and windy conditions.

During project construction


Contractor

Emissions from movement of heavy equipment and construction vehicles.

Regular maintenance of construction vehicles. Water sprinkling when road become dry and dusty.

During project construction.

Contractor

Noise and Vibration

Noise pollution from the operation of construction equipment and movement of transport vehicles

All heavy equipment and construction vehicles will be checked and maintained to control noise.

To be implemented during project construction.


Contractor

Construction Wastes

Generation of construction wastes such as vegetation debris, cement bags, wood, steel, lubricants, fuels packaging materials, and other discarded construction materials.

Practice waste segregation. Residual cut soil and other construction debris will be disposed in an approved site by the village authorities. Packaging wastes from electrical equipment will be recycled or will be disposed of in local approved landfills.

Before and during construction


Contractor

Traffic Traffic and movement of construction vehicles

Contractor should adhere to established practices of posting warning signs/advisories and managing traffic to protect public and its workers Require drivers to slow down and maintain speed when passing through built-up areas. Coordinate with local community



Contractor

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Entity

and engage good practices for traffic management.

Damage to Infrastructure

Movement of construction vehicles may cause damage to irrigation and drainage canals.

Require contractor to survey condition of infrastructures to be traversed by the project prior to commencement of construction activities. Require contractor to repair damaged infrastructure to at least the same standard and condition upon completion of the project



Contractor

Occupational Health and safety

Increase in the incidence of diseases

Conduct training and orientation of workers on construction health and safety management. Require the wearing of PPEs by workers within the project site. Strictly require the contractor and its workers to follow construction health and safety program. Provide first-aid facilities for workers. All site workers will be accommodated in the provided construction camps unless they are recruited from nearby communes. The construction camp site and surrounding areas will be kept clean. Inspections of the camp sites will be carried out weekly. Adequate number of rubbish bins will be provided. Portable water supply and/or water tank will be provided for workers. All potable water supply sources and storage facilities will be secured. Regular collection of waste/rubbish at the camp to be taken to a managed waste disposal facility. Conduct seminar/workshop for

During construction


Contractor / NPPMB

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Entity

community on health and safety during construction.

Community Health and Safety

Emergency spills of materials, fires, accidents

Develop a Community Health and Safety Plan that integrates good international practice and recognized standards on community safety. Provide procedures for emergency response, communication systems and protocols, interaction with local and regional emergency and health authorities, provision of emergency equipment

During construction


Contractor / NPPMB

Unauthorized entry by villagers into dangerous working areas

Fencing of entire construction area Posting of warning signs in Vietnamese language for better understanding of locals.

During construction


Contractor / NPPMB

Electro-magnetic field

Provision of safety clearance to live conductor.

To be implemented during construction period

Part of project design cost

NPPMB

OPERATIONAL PHASE

Flora and Fauna Trimming of trees and bushes for maintenance of ROW

Herbicides shall not be used to control vegetation along ROW. Burning to clear and control vegetation along ROW will be prohibited. Local villagers living along routes of the TL will be invited to participate under contract to manually cut vegetation along ROW Plantation trees and crops higher than 3 m will not be allowed ROW checking and maintenance of ROW will be conducted every month. Conduct training on environmental performance

During project life


NPPMB

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Entity

monitoring with workers and community representatives

Occupational Health and Safety

Health and safety; injury to workers

Health and safety plan will be implemented throughout the operation phase. Conduct training/seminar on occupation health and safety Periodic health and safety training and practice drills Preparation of an Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan Restricting access to electrical equipment by workers only trained and certified to work on electrical equipment Provision of PPE for workers, safety measures, personal safety devices, and other precautions

Part of the operations plan.


NPPMB

Working in heights Testing of structural integrity prior to proceeding with the work Use of fall protection measures



NPPMB

Worker exposure to EMF

Identification of potential exposure levels in the work area including surveys of exposure levels and establishment of safety zones Limit access to properly trained workers and those equipped with appropriate PPE when entering safety zones. Utilization of personal monitors during work activities Posting of safety signages and warning signs.


US$2,000 for monitoring devices

NPPMB

Community Health and Safety

Provision of signs, barriers, and gates/posts surrounding transmission towers particularly in built-up areas Signboards (Danger Warning Signs) need to be put on every tower as well as on the



NPPMB

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Entity

conductors where crossing community centers, roads and rivers. Grounding of conducting objects such as fences or other metallic structures near power lines. Conduct orientation seminar on community health and safety programs

Hazardous Waste Management

Provision of secondary spill containment for fuel storage facilities, areas around substation transformers, and at maintenance yard. Direct discharges contaminated with oil from spill bunds into oil-water separators. Implementation of approved disposal options for all waste transformer oil, equipment maintenance, residually contaminated soils, and scrap metal.



NPPMB

Management and Control of Vegetation at Transmission line

Access already existing roads or tracks to reach the transmission lines Inform locals in advance through the village heads on the schedule of maintenance and trimming works Avoid encroachment into rice or crop land of villagers. Do not allow the use of herbicides and pesticides to control vegetation growth.



NPPMB

B. MONITORING PLAN 187. The actual implementation of the project will be managed by NPPMB. An Environmental Office (EO) will be established for project monitoring and coordinating purposes. The EO will be responsible for implementation and monitoring of the EMP and EMoP as well as coordination with local authorities and the affected persons. The EO shall work closely with the contractor during the construction phase and will be the first contact on the ground directly for NPPMB. It shall receive all complaints and grievances arising in the course of the implementation of the EMP and the EMoP.

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188. The proposed monitoring plan, duration and schedule and responsible entities to be involved in the monitoring and evaluation is shown in Table 15. The EMoP focuses on implementation of the EMP and compliance monitoring of NPPMB.

Table 14: Environmental Monitoring Plan Parameter Location and

Method of Monitoring

Activities Monitoring Frequency

Responsibility

Construction Phase Clearing of vegetation

Site inspection at ROW

Monitor tree cutting activities

During site clearing

NPPMB

Erosion and sedimentation

Site inspection at tower foundation sites

Site inspection of excavation works, silt arising from exposed soil surface, condition of erosion control measures

Weekly monitor throughout construction period

NPPMB

Damage or nuisance to nearby areas

Site inspection at ROW

Monitor and inspect construction works especially impact to communities, river, and irrigation, drainage canals.

Weekly throughout construction period

NPPMB

Impact to water, natural view and environment due to improper disposal of rubbish

Workers’ camp sites

Inspection of worker camp site condition to check proper solid waste disposal

Weekly NPPMB

Health and safety Transmission line construction

Review contractor/construction worker health and safety plan and training activities on health and safety

At least monthly review of contractor’s health and safety plan

NPPMB

Interference with road transportation infrastructure

Transmission line construction

Monitoring and inspect road condition and measures used to protect road and ensure public safety

Weekly, continuous throughout construction period

NPPMB

Dust Local road and village nearby where trucks pass through and construction sites

Monitor and inspect dust condition in areas that are sprayed with water. Conduct interviews with villagers on comments on dust pollution


NPPMB

Noise Local road and village nearby where trucks pass through as well as at various construction sites

Monitor noise during delivery of materials is allowed only at daytime hours (7:00AM to 6:00PM) Conduct interviews with villagers on concerns


NPPMB

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Parameter Location and Method of Monitoring

Activities Monitoring Frequency

Responsibility

about noise. Operation Phase Trees and vegetation control

Along the ROW Inspect the status of tree and vegetation growth that may damage or threaten the integrity of the lines.

Monthly NPPMB

Health and safety; injury to workers and villagers

Towers and tower bases

Inspect integrity of the towers in order to maintain and ensure good condition Inspect Warning Signs/Boards if placed well on towers and on the line where the TL crosses roads

Monthly NPPMB

189. Reporting. Regular reporting on the implementation of mitigation measures and on monitoring activities during construction and operation phases of the project are required by ADB and the GOV. Semi-annual monitoring reports are to be submitted to ADB during the construction phase and on an annual basis for a period of two years during the operational phase. Monitoring reports to the District Environmental and Resource Division are to be submitted based on the requirements of the approved approved CPE of the project. Reporting is the responsibility of NPPMB.

C. INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES 1. ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE WITHIN NPPMB 190. The NPPMB as the IA of the project will have the overall responsibility for the planning, design, construction, and operation of the project. The NPPMB will also be responsible for the implementation of environmental management, mitigation, and monitoring measures outlined in the EMP. During the design phase, the NPPMB commissioned PECC3 to undertake the feasibility study, IEE, and resettlement plan. 191. During the construction phase, the NPPMB will require a construction contractor who will be responsible for the detailed design and construction of the project. NPPMB will ensure that the appropriate mitigating measures to address potential environmental impacts are incorporated in the terms of reference with the contractor. Specifically, the NPPMB shall dispatch and manage the project implementation, including environmental management during the construction phase of the project which includes among others, the following:

(i) Assign an environment staff to monitor and manage the implementation of the EMP.

(ii) Ensure that the project implementation is in accordance to the requirements of the GOV and ADB on environmental management and protection.

(iii) Manage and monitoring the activities of construction contractors, particularly in the implementation of the EMP.

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(iv) Act by communities on complaints related to the environment.

(v) Prepare environmental monitoring reports for submission to NPT and ADB. 192. In addition, a Project Implementation Consultant will be commissioned to assist NPPMB in the overall project management. 193. The construction contractor will be responsible in implementing the mitigation measures which are recommended during the construction phase. The contractor is also required to submit monthly reports on the implementation of the mitigation measures to NPPMB. 194. The NPPMB has a technical monitoring unit which is responsible for the monitoring of performance of contractors which also includes periodic environmental monitoring in the project area. The unit will be involved in the conduct of public consultation meetings to gather feedbacks from local residences on environmental problems arising during the construction phase, the results of which are forwarded to the NPPMB. 195. During the operational phase, the Project Implementation Unit of NPPMB will be in-charge of the implementation of the EMP and will carry out the monitoring and reporting activities. 4. INSTITUTIONAL CAPACITY BUILDING

196. Capacity Development of NPPMB. Within the current organization of NPPMB, there is no person or staff who handles matters on environmental management throughout the project phase. Currently, the environmental monitoring reports are prepared by consultants commissioned by NPPMB. To strengthen the capacity of NPPMB to assess the environmental impacts of its projects and in implementing the EMP and EMoP, training of NPPMB personnel and contractors on best international environmental construction practices, implementation of the EMP and EMoP, and on occupational health and safety will be designed. 197. The capacity building and training activities will be delivered prior to the start of the construction activities and should be followed-up prior to the commissioning of the project.

D. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN BUDGET 198. The costs for many of the EMP and EMoP measures are part of engineering, construction, and procurement costs and are not included in the EMP budget. EMP costs are mainly included in the EPC package and PIC costs, based on two years of construction (Table 16). 199. The costs for implementing the mitigation measures during the construction phase of the project include the capacity building and training of workers and community on environmental management, health and safety. The costs also includes the inspection and management of soil runoff, dust, and construction wastes.

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200. The NPPMB shall contract a Project Implementation Consultant for one person-month to conduct training on occupational health and safety and community health and safety/awareness. 201. During the operational phase, the cost of the EMP are also integrated in the operations cost of the substation and transmission line. Capacity building, field monitoring, and procurement of monitoring devices for the operational phase are also outlined.

Table 15: Estimated Budget for Environmental Management and Monitoring Activity Unit No. Unit Cost Total (US$) (US$)

1. Establishment of Environmental Unit(a) Month 24 2,000

48,000.00

2. Environmental monitoring and inspection (b)

Month 24 300 7,200.00

3. Acquisition of EMP monitoring and GPS

Lump sum 2,000.00

4. Training and Capacity Building(c)

Environmental management and monitoring

Occupational health and safety

Day 5 2,500 12,500.00

5. Community health, safety and environmental awareness for communes

Commune 12 1,000 12,000.00

Sub-Total 81,700.00 Contingencies (15%) 12,255.00

TOTAL 93,955.00 (a) includes hiring of consultants to assist PPMB in environmental monitoring, supervision, and reporting (b) Includes transportation and per diem (c) Includes hiring of national consultant and training expenses. Cost of training to be co-shared with 500kV Pho Noi Substation.

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IX. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION 202. The proposed 500/220kV Bac Ninh 2 – Pho Noi transmission line project will generate only minor environmental impacts that can be reduced to acceptable levels through the implementation of practical mitigation measures normally associated with internationally accepted good engineering practice. 203. There are no significant sensitive areas that will be affected by the proposed project. The sites were selected to avoid environmentally sensitive areas, settlements, forests, and cultural/heritage sites. The vicinity is generally characterized as agricultural land used for planting rice and other crops. 204. The impact of the project on agricultural land is limited and comprises the loss of 54,000 m2 of flat, agricultural land that is being used to plant rice and other crops and further 869,340 m2 of land for temporary material storage and temporary access road during construction. Compensation for the loss of agricultural production will be paid to the affected households according to the resettlement plan.

205. The impacts of the project during the construction phase are limited to the surrounding area and can be readily mitigated. The adverse impacts likely to occur during the construction phase are considered temporary in nature and could be mitigated through proper design and integration of the proposed mitigation measures. The impacts during the construction of the project are primarily due to the clearing of the existing vegetation affected by the transmission towers and construction safety. These are briefly described in the following paragraphs:

(i) Soil erosion may potentially occur during the construction of the foundations for the towers. Engineering controls for erosion protection measures such as silt traps will be required from the contractor during the construction of the towers.

(ii) There will be water pollution, sanitation, and health hazards due to presence of workers camp. Adequate water supply and toilet facilities will be established at the construction camp.

(iii) A construction health and safety plan shall be required from the contractor, including

provision of first-aid facilities to provide measures and procedures in addressing occupational health and safety at the construction site.

(iv) The movement of construction vehicles along the access roads would contribute to the

increase in ground level concentration of total suspended particulates (dust), noise, and could also result to accidents and hazards to communities living along the access roads. Measures such as limiting of construction hours and deliveries to the site at night and imposition of speed limit to vehicles will be implemented.

(v) Impacts related to community health and safety such as construction traffic, transport of

materials, fires, emergency spills of materials, and unauthorized entry by the villagers into dangerous working areas will be mitigated through the development of a Community Health and Safety Plan that incorporates good international practice and recognized standards that includes fencing of construction area, posting of warning signs in Vietnamese language, emergency response and preparedness procedures, communication systems and protocols, interaction with local and regional emergency

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and health authorities, provision of emergency equipment and facilities such as fire truck, emergency service vehicles, and fire drills will be established.

206. The impacts during the operational phase include the concern about EMF and management of hazardous wastes. The community and workers will be protected against electrocution hazards as a result of contact with high voltage electricity through the provision of signs, barriers, and gates/posts surrounding the towers, particularly in built-up areas. 207. An EMP has been prepared and will be implemented during all phases of project implementation. The EMP identifies the potential environmental impacts from the project. It also includes the institutional arrangements for implementing the EMP to ensure its sustainability and effectiveness. 208. The project will provide positive impacts to the community because the transmission lines meet the power demand in the northern region. 209. Based on the analysis conducted in this assessment it is concluded that overall the project will result in significant positive socio-economic benefits, and those potential negative environmental impacts that have been identified are small-scale and localized, and can be minimized adequately through good design and the appropriate application of mitigation measures. It is therefore recommended that the project be supported by ADB, subject to the implementation of the commitments contained in the EMP and allocation of appropriate technical, financial and human resources by implementing agencies to ensure these commitments are effectively and expediently implemented. This IEE is therefore sufficient and no further environmental assessment is necessary.

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BIBLIOGRAPHY Asian Development Bank. June 2009. Safeguard Policy Statement. Manila Asian Development Bank. 04 March 2010. Operations Manila Bank Policies (BP) OM Section F1/BP. Safeguard Policy Statement. Manila International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). International Standard IEC 60305. Insulators for overhead lines with a nominal voltage above 1000v – ceramic or glass insulator units for a.c. systems – Characteristics of insulators units of the cap and pin type. 1995 4th edition. International Finance Corporation. April 30, 2007. Environmental, Health, and Safety Guidelines Electric Power Transmission and Distribution. World Bank Group Power Engineering and Consulting Joint-stock Company No. 3. Initial Environmental Examination of Bac Ninh 2 – Pho Noi 500/220 kV Transmission Lines. Unpublished. People’s Committee of Bac Ninh. Natural Conditions Power Engineering and Consulting Joint-stock Company No. 4. Initial Environmental Examination for the Pho Noi 500 kV Substation and Connection Lines. Unpublished. People’s Committee of Bac Ninh. Natural conditions People’s Committee of Hung Yen. Land and Terrain People’s Committee of Van Lam. Van Lam District - Development Resources. Power Engineering and Consulting Joint-stock Company No. 3. Feasibility Study of Bac Ninh 2 – Pho Noi 500/220 kV Transmission Lines (Vietnamese version). Unpublished. Power Engineering and Consulting Joint-stock Company No. 3. Initial Environmental Examination of Bac Ninh 2 – Pho Noi 500/220 kV Transmission Lines. Unpublished.

People’s Committee of Bac Ninh. Introduction to Security North.

People’s Committee of Hung Yen. Climate and Weather.

Power Engineering and Consulting Joint-stock Company No. 3. Resettlement Action Plan for the Bac Ninh 2 – Pho Noi 500/220 kV Transmission Lines. Unpublished. People’s Committee of Bac Ninh. Potential and Development of the Period 2011-2016: Bac Ninh Province. People’s Committee of Van Lam. Van Lam District - Situation of Economic Development – Social People’s Committee of Hung Yen. Administrative Map People’s Committee of Hung Yen. Rivers, Hydrology People’s Committee of Hung Yen. Natural Resources

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APPENDICES

1. Environmental Categorization Form 2. Rapid Environmental Assessment Checklist 3. Certificate of Registration of Environmental Protection Commitment 4. Mechanical and Physical Properties of Soils in the 220kV Bac Ninh2 – Pho Noi

Transmission Line 5. Minutes and List of participants in the public consultation meetings with stakeholders 6. Photographs of the site

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Appendix 1: Environmental Categorization

ENVIRONMENT CATEGORIZATION

Date: 18July2011

A. Instructions (i) The project team completes and submits the form to the Environment and Safeguards Division (RSES) for endorsement by RSES Director, and for approval by the Chief Compliance Officer (CCO). OM F1/OP on Safeguard Review Procedures (paras. 4-7) provides the requirements on environment categorization. (ii) The classification of a project is a continuing process. If there is a change in the project components or/and site that may result in category change, the Sector Division submits a new form and requests for recategorization, and endorsement by RSES Director and by the CCO. The old form is attached for reference. (iii) In addition, the project team may propose in the comments section that the project is highly complex and sensitive (HCS), for approval by the CCO. HCS projects are a subset of category A projects that ADB deems to be highly risky or contentious or involve serious and multidimensional and generally interrelated potential social and/or environmental impacts.

B. PROJECT DATA

COUNTRY/PROJECT NO./PROJECT TITLE

: 500/220KV BAC NINH2 - PHO NOI TRANSMISSION LINE

DEPARTMENT/ DIVISION : SOUTHEAST ASIA DEPARTMENT / ENERGY DIVISION

PROCESSING STAGE :

MODALITY : [ ] Project Loan [ ] Program Loan [ ] Financial Intermediary [ ] General Corporate Finance [ ] Sector Loan [ √] MFF [ ] Emergency Assistance [ ] Grant [ ] Other financing modalities: C. Environment Category (please tick one category based on the set of criteria in OMF1 (paras. 6-7)) [ √ ] New [ ] Recategorization ― Previous Category [ ]

Category A

Category B

Category C

Category FI

D. Basis for Categorization/ Recategorization (please. attach supporting documents): [√ ] REA Checklist [√ ] Project and/or Site Description

[√ ] Other: Initial Environmental Examination E. Comments Project Team Comments

RSES Comments

√

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F. Approval Proposed by:

Endorsed by:

Project Team Leader, {Department/Division} Director, RSES Date: Date: Approved by: Endorsed by:

Highly Complex and Sensitive Project Director, {Division} Chief Compliance Officer

Date: Date:

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Appendix 2: Rapid Environmental Assessment Checklist Instructions: (i) The project team completes this checklist to support the environmental classification of a project. It

is to be attached to the environmental categorization form and submitted to Environment and Safeguards Division (RSES) for endorsement by Director, RSES and for approval by the Chief Compliance Officer.

(ii) This checklist focuses on environmental issues and concerns. To ensure that social dimensions are

adequately considered, refer also to ADB's (a) checklists on involuntary resettlement and Indigenous Peoples; (b) poverty reduction handbook; (c) staff guide to consultation and participation; and (d) gender checklists.

(iii) Answer the questions assuming the “without mitigation” case. The purpose is to identify potential

impacts. Use the “remarks” section to discuss any anticipated mitigation measures.

Country/Project Title: Sector Division:

Screening Questions Yes No Remarks A. PROJECT SITING IS THE PROJECT AREA ADJACENT TO OR WITHIN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE AREAS?

√

There are no environmentally sensitive areas along or within the immediate vicinity of the transmission line. The Tam Dao National park is located at a minimum distance of 40km northwest of the transmission line.

� CULTURAL HERITAGE SITE √

There are no cultural or heritage sites that will be affected by the proposed transmission line.

� PROTECTED AREA √

There are no protected areas, primary forest, wetlands, swamp forest, mangroves estuarine areas, areas identified as having special ecological significance along the transmission line alignment. The closest protected area to the project is the Tam Dao National Park, located about 40 km northwest of the transmission line.

� WETLAND √

There are no wetlands in close proximity to the project site.

� MANGROVE √

There are no mangroves in close proximity to the project site.

� ESTUARINE √

There are no estuarine in close proximity to the project site.

� BUFFER ZONE OF PROTECTED AREA √

There are no buffer zones of protected areas in close proximity to the project site.

� SPECIAL AREA FOR PROTECTING BIODIVERSITY

√

The sites are not designated as special areas for biodiversity protection.

500/220 kV BAC NINH 2 - PHO NOI TRANSMISSION LINE

Energy Division

73

Screening Questions Yes No Remarks B. POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS WILL THE PROJECT CAUSE…

� encroachment on historical/cultural areas, disfiguration of landscape and increased waste generation?

√

The grave/cemetery which was initially found to be along the ROW was avoided. The new alignment is about 150m away from the cemetery.

� encroachment on precious ecosystem (e.g. sensitive or protected areas)?

√

The project will not encroach on sensitive or protected areas.

� alteration of surface water hydrology of waterways crossed by roads and resulting in increased sediment in streams affected by increased soil erosion at the construction site?

√

The line will pass through Duong River and irrigation canal. Mitigating measures to avoid runoff of sediments into these water bodies will be designed.

� damage to sensitive coastal/marine habitats by construction of submarine cables?

√

There are no submarine cables to be installed by the project.

� deterioration of surface water quality due to silt runoff, sanitary wastes from worker-based camps and chemicals used in construction?

√

This will be avoided or minimized through proper implementation of mitigating measures.

� increased local air pollution due to rock crushing, cutting and filling?

√

This will be avoided or minimized through proper implementation of mitigating measures.

� risks and vulnerabilities related to occupational health and safety due to physical, chemical, biological, and radiological hazards during project construction and operation?

√

To minimize potential risks an Occupational Health and Safety Plan (OHSP) will be developed and Implemented.

� chemical pollution resulting from chemical clearing of vegetation for construction site?

√

No herbicides will be used during the construction phase.

� noise and vibration due to blasting and other civil works?

√

Minor noise impacts will occur during movement of construction vehicles along access road.

� dislocation or involuntary resettlement of people?

√

The transmission line was designed to avoid houses and buildings and the dislocation of households. There will be no requirement to relocate people and houses.

� disproportionate impacts on the poor, women and children, Indigenous Peoples or other vulnerable groups?

√

Not likely. Social Impact Assessment process is being undertaken separately.

� social conflicts relating to inconveniences in living conditions where construction interferes with pre-existing roads?

√

Road closures are not anticipated to be necessary. Construction activities and the transport of materials including aggregate may cause some damage to roads and other local infrastructure. Any damaged infrastructure will be repaired to at least the same standard and condition on completion of the Project. A survey will be done at the commencement of the Project to determine the initial condition of such infrastructure.

74

Screening Questions Yes No Remarks � hazardous driving conditions where construction

interferes with pre-existing roads?

√

Existing access roads are suitable for construction activities, and no hazardous driving conditions are anticipated.

� creation of temporary breeding habitats for vectors of disease such as mosquitoes and rodents?

√

International good construction practices will be implemented. Areas of ground disturbance will be restored to prevent creation of ponds and mosquito breeding areas.

� dislocation and compulsory resettlement of people living in right-of-way of the power transmission lines?

√

The project location was designed to avoid houses.

� environmental disturbances associated with the maintenance of lines (e.g. routine control of vegetative height under the lines)?

√

It is anticipated that the maintenance of trees and vegetation within the ROW will create minor disturbance. Majority of existing vegetation is rice. Trees along the ROW will be manually trimmed to maintain the prescribed minimum clearance.

� facilitation of access to protected areas in case corridors traverse protected areas?

√

The transmission line was aligned to avoid protected areas.

� disturbances (e.g. noise and chemical pollutants) if herbicides are used to control vegetative height?

√

The use of herbicides will not be allowed.

� large population influx during project construction and operation that cause increased burden on social infrastructure and services (such as water supply and sanitation systems)?

√

Temporary worker camps will be small, and will be required to be provided with appropriate sanitation facilities, including water supply, and washing facilities, temporary toilets, and waste containers. The worker camp sanitation facilities should be developed in consultation with relevant local authorities and should have all required local, province and national approvals.

� social conflicts if workers from other regions or countries are hired?

√

Hiring of workers from outside the locality may cause concerns among local communities. To mitigate against this, it will be necessary to communicate about employment opportunities with the commune and provide employment priority to qualified workers in the commune.

� poor sanitation and solid waste disposal in construction camps and work sites, and possible transmission of communicable diseases from workers to local populations?

√

Contractors should be required to provide adequate sanitation facilities in the workers’ camps.

� risks to community safety associated with maintenance of lines and related facilities?

√

Risk from line maintenance is very low. A Community Health and Safety Plan (CHSP) will be developed so as to minimize any potential threats.

75

Screening Questions Yes No Remarks � community health hazards due to electromagnetic

fields, land subsidence, lowered groundwater table, and salinization?

√

The connection lines have been carefully routed and substations carefully sited to ensure that final alignment avoids to the maximum extent possible sensitive locations such as houses and schools. The project design follows WHO and IRPA guidelines. In addition, during operation monitoring will be undertaken to ensure EMFs are within national and international standards/guidelines. Land subsidence and lowered groundwater table is not anticipated.

No salinization is anticipated.

� risks to community health and safety due to the transport, storage, and use and/or disposal of materials such as explosives, fuel and other chemicals during construction and operation?

√

Good international practices will be adopted regarding the storage and handling of fuel, oil and hazardous materials, and occupational and community health and safety plans will be developed and implemented.

� community safety risks due to both accidental and natural hazards, especially where the structural elements or components of the project (e.g., high voltage wires, and transmission towers and lines ) are accessible to members of the affected community or where their failure could result in injury to the community throughout project construction, operation and decommissioning?

√

Community safety risks with power lines and substations include unauthorized access. Safety and warning signs will be installed. The towers will be fitted with anti-climbing devices.

Climate Change and Disaster Risk Questions The following questions are not for environmental categorization. They are included in this checklist to help identify potential climate and disaster risks.

Yes No Remarks

� Is the Project area subject to hazards such as earthquakes, floods, landslides, tropical cyclone winds, storm surges, tsunami or volcanic eruptions and climate changes (see Appendix I)?

√

The site is located in a relatively flat land. The potential for landslides in unlikely but erosion of sediments from construction activities will be controlled through the adoption of good international construction practice erosion control measures.

� Could changes in precipitation, temperature, salinity, or extreme events over the Project lifespan affect its sustainability or cost?

√

Not likely.

� Are there any demographic or socio-economic aspects of the Project area that are already vulnerable (e.g. high incidence of marginalized populations, rural-urban migrants, illegal settlements, ethnic minorities, women or children)?

√

Not likely.

76

� Could the Project potentially increase the climate or disaster vulnerability of the surrounding area (e.g., increasing traffic or housing in areas that will be more prone to flooding, by encouraging settlement in earthquake zones)?

√

No.

77

Appendix 3: Certificate of Registration of Environmental Protection Commitments for 220kV Bac NInh2-Pho Noi Transmission Line project

78

79

Appendix 4: Mechanical and Physical Properties of Soils in the 220kV Bac Ninh2 – Pho Noi Transmission Line

Table D.1: Mechanical and Physical Properties of Soils in the Line from KG1A - KG2B Item Layer 1a:

(CH-CL) Layer 2a: (CH-CL)

Layer 3a: (SC-SM)

Depth: 0–2.3 m Depth: 2.3–4.7 m Depth: 4.7–8.0 m Fraction (%)

Grit gravel: >10 - 2 mm 0 0 0 Sand: 2.0 - 0.06 mm 45 25 67

Silt: 0.060 - 0.005 mm 19 25 11 Clay: <0.005 mm 37 50 22

Moisture W (%) 32.79 59.87 28.45 Density (g/cm3) Natural γw 1828 1607 1861

Dry γd 1378 1005 1449 Proportion 2.68 2.63 2.68 Natural void ratio e 0.949 1613 0.847 Porosity (%) n 48.6 61.7 45.8 Saturation (%) 92.7 97.5 89.8 Atterberg Limit (%) Gh flow : WL 43.1 51.4 36.2 Gh flexible WP 18.9 28.7 16.6 Cs Plastic : Ip 24.1 22.7 19.6

Consistency: B 0.59 1.45 0.64 Shear Force (kG/cm2) ctb 0.14 0.03 ctc 0.08 Friction Angle (degrees) φtb 4o48’

φtc 13o50’ 20o11’ Subsidence Coefficient av1-2 0.04 0.103 0.03 av1-2 0.021 0.044 0.017 Module of Deformation E1-2 48.6 22.5 66.2

Source: Power Engineering and Consulting Joint-stock Company No. 3. Feasibility Study of Bac Ninh 2 – Pho Noi 500/220 kV Transmission Lines (Vietnamese version). Unpublished.

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Table D2: Mechanical and Physical Properties of Soils in the Line from KG2C – KG18

Item Layer 1b:

(CH-CL) Layer 2b:

(CH-CL) Layer 3b:

(SC-SM) Depth: 0–2.5 m Depth: 3.0-7.0 m Depth: 7.0–8.0 m

Fraction (%) Grit gravel: >10 - 2 mm 1 0 3

Sand: 2.0 - 0.06 mm 4 23 14 Silt: 0.060 - 0.005

mm 22 26 24

Clay: <0.005 mm 73 51 59 Moisture W (%) 54.74 34.9 29.06 Density (g/cm3) Natural γw 1630 1794 1873

Calculate I 1762 1860 Calculate II 1775 1865 Dry γd 1061 1333 1454 Proportion 2.65 2.71 2.7 Natural void ratio e 1530 1036 0.864 Porosity (%) n 60 50.8 46.2 Saturation (%) 94.6 90.7 90.4 Atterberg Limit (%) Gh flow : WL 56.4 45.2 51.4

Gh flexible WP 26.7 21.9 20.5 Cs Plastic : Ip 29.7 23.3 30.9 Consistency: B 0.96 0.57 0.3 Shear Force (kG/cm2) ctb 0.04

ctc 0.15 0.29 cI 0.09 0.24 cII 0.11 0.26 Friction Angle (degrees)

φtb 3o8’

φtc 14o29’ 16o04’

φ 10o14’ 14o00’ φ 11o53’ 14o42’ Subsidence Coefficient av1-2 0.127 0.04 0.029 av1-2 0.056 0.02 0.016

Module of Deformation E1-2 18.7 51.1 63.7 Source: Power Engineering and Consulting Joint-stock Company No. 3. Feasibility Study of Bac Ninh 2 – Pho Noi 500/220 kV Transmission Lines (Vietnamese version). Unpublished.

81

Table D3: Mechanical and Physical Properties of Soils in the Line from KG18 - Bac Ninh 220kV

Substation 2

Item Layer 1c: CH) Layer 2a: (CH-CL) Depth: 0–2.0 m Depth: 2.0–8.0 m

Fraction (%) Grit gravel: >10 - 2 mm 4 0

Sand: 2.0 - 0.06 mm 7 4 Silt: 0.060 - 0.005 mm 29 23

Clay: <0.005 mm 60 73 Moisture W (%) 32.1 55.18 Density (g/cm3) Natural γw 1889 1642

Dry γd 1430 1065

Proportion 2.68 2.62 Natural void ratio e 0.871 1490 Porosity (%) n 46.5 59.4 Saturation (%) 98.7 97 Atterberg Limit (%) Gh flow : WL 62 68.3

Gh flexible WP 25.9 28.9

Cs Plastic : Ip 36.2 39.4 Consistency: B 0.18 0.66 Shear Force (kG/cm2) ctb 0.32 0.1

ctc Friction Angle (degrees) φtb 15o55’ 6o35’

φtc

Subsidence Coefficient av1-2 0.03 0.072 av1-2 0.017 0.031

Module of Deformation E1-2 60.8 33.3 Source: Power Engineering and Consulting Joint-stock Company No. 3. Feasibility Study of Bac Ninh 2 – Pho Noi 500/220 kV Transmission Lines (Vietnamese version). Unpublished.

82

Appendix 5: Minutes and list of participants to the Public Consultation Meetings 500/220kV BAC NINH 2 – PHO NOI TRANSMISSION LINES

O.N PROVINCE/ DISTRICT/ COMMUNE

COMMENTS ON ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES COMMENTS ON COMPENSATION AND RESETTLEMENT ISSUE

Vietnamese English Vietnamese English

A Bac Ninh Province A.I Tien Du District

1 Tri Phuong commune

- Quá trình thi công phải đảm bảo vệ sinh môi trường. Khi kết thúc phải hoàn trả cảnh quan xung quanh

- Construction activities need to meet environmental regulations and environmental safety. Clean up the ground after completion of construction activities.

- Thu hồi phần đất tại các vị trí móng cột và hành lang tuyến

- Bồi thường theo giá và quy định hiện hành của Nhà nước

- Cần xét yếu tố trượt

giá và biến động của thị trường

- Hỗ trợ cho người dân để ổn định đời sống và địa phương về cơ sở hạ tầng phúc lợi chung

- Tạo điều kiện việc làm cho người dân khu vực dự án trong giai đoạn thi công

- Thông báo tiến độ giải phóng mặt bằng, thi công và kế hoạch bồi thường cho chính

- Acquisition land for tower foundation and under ROW

- Compensation has to conform to unit price and current regulations of Government.

- Should to consider further elements such as inflation and fluctuation

- Allowances for the affected people to stabilize their lives; and local authority to construct welfare infrastructure.

- Creating working opportunities for the locals during construction phase

- Proposing notice of

clearance, work

83



Vietnamese English Vietnamese English quyền địa phương và người dân khu vực dự án

schedule and compensation plan for local authorities and the local in project area.

2 Xã Cảnh Hưng - Đề nghị Chủ đầu tư, nhà thầu và các đơn vị liên quan bảo đảm việc thực hiện các cam kết về bảo vệ môi trường, cảnh quan và an toàn điện từ trường

- Thông báo tiến độ

thực hiện cho địa phương để hạn chế ảnh hưởng đến sinh hoạt và đời sống của người dân

- Proposing the owner, contructors and related organizations to ensure implemening commitments such as environmental protection, landscape and safety for electromagnetic field (EMF) levels

- Proposing work schedule for local authority to minimize impacts on living and lives of the local in project area.

- Chỉ thu hồi phần đất tại các vị trí móng trụ

- Bồi thường, thu hồi đất dưới hành lang điện

- Hỗ trợ thêm 30%

phần bồi thường đất thu hồi và hỗ trợ thêm cho người dân để ổn định sản xuất

- Hỗ trợ cho địa

phương để xây dựng các công trình phúc lợi

- Bồi thường cho khu vực trưng dụng tạm thời trong quá trình thi công

- Đảm bảo tính pháp lý về thu hồi đất theo quy định của nhà

- Acquisition land for tower foundations

- Compensation and acquisition for land under ROW

- Allowance about 30% unit price of acquisition land and extra allowance for affected people to stabilize their production

- Allowance for the local authority to construct welfare works

- Allowance for temporary area in construction phase

- Ensuring legality of

acquisition land under regulations of Government.

- Creating working

84



Vietnamese English Vietnamese English nước

- Tạo cơ hội việc làm cho người dân khu vực dự án trong quá trình thi công tuyến đường dây

opportunities for the locals during construction phase

3 Minh Đao commune - Bảo đảm vệ sinh môi trường trong quá trình thi công, hoàn trả cảnh quan khi hoàn tất

- Khi dự án đi vào vận hành phải công khai kết quả quan trắc hàng năm về tác động của điện từ trường

- Ensuring environmental sanitation in construction phase and clean up landscape as the original

- Must publicly the results of annual monitoring about the impact of electromagnetic fields during operation phase

- Chỉ thu hồi các phần đất làm móng trụ

- Bồi thường theo quy định của Nhà nước

- Tạo điều kiện thuận

lợi về việc làm cho người dân giai đoạn thi công

- Bồi thường hỗ trợ cho đường sá bị ảnh hưởng tương đương hoặc tốt hơn cấp phối ban đầu

- Việc bồi thường ảnh

hưởng do thi công nên thực hiện tín chấp cho địa phương để hỗ trợ quá trình thi công, tránh ảnh hưởng đến đời sống của người dân trong khu vực


- Compensation has to meet regulations of the Government.


- Compensation and allowance for damaged roads with better or at least equal level in comparison with the original aggregate

- Compensation for construction activities should be carried out in a credit procedure so that the local authority can ensure with the locals that implement of the project do not harm to their living

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Vietnamese English Vietnamese English

4 Tan Chi commune - Đề nghị quan tâm đến vấn đề chống sét và cảm ứng điện để bảo đảm sức khỏe cho người dân

- Trong thời gian thi công và vận hành đề nghị Chủ đầu tư, đơn vị quản lý và các nhà thầu thường xuyên phối hợp với chính quyền địa phương giải quyết những vấn đề phát sinh liên quan đến công trình và quyền lợi chính đáng của công dân

- Proposing proper attention to lightning protector and electro-induction to ensure healthy for the locals

- During construction and operation phases, we propose Project owner, management organizations and constructors often coordinate with local authorities to solve arising matter related to works, the legitimate rights of the locals

- Chỉ thu hồi phần đất tại các vị trí móng trụ

- Bồi thường và hỗ trợ thêm cho người dân trong giai đoạn thi công


- Ngoài bồi thường các

móng trụ, nên hỗ trợ cho người dân dưới hành lang do điện áp cao

- Tạo điều kiện lao động cho người dân khu vực dự án trong quá trình thi công tuyến đường dây


- Compensation and allowance for affected people in construction phase


- Besides, the owner should give allowances for affected people because of impacts of high level voltage


5 Lac Ve commune - Bảo đảm vệ sinh môi trường và cảnh quan khu vực

- Ensuring environmental sanitation and landscape of project area

- Chỉ thu hồi đất tại các vị trí móng trụ

- Bồi thường và hỗ trợ thêm cho người dân để ổn định đời sống và sản xuất

- Diện tích vòng quanh chân cột còn tồn tại nhỏ, kiến nghị bồi


- Compensation and extra allowances should be considered so that local people can stabilize their lives and productions

- Proposing compensation for the small rest area around

86



Vietnamese English Vietnamese English thường hẳn cho người dân vì rất khó khăn khi sản xuất

- Khu vực người dân thuê đất dự kiến xây dựng kinh tế trang trại trong 20 năm, vấn đề ảnh hưởng điện từ trường có thể gây khó khăn khi giải phóng mặt bằng

- Hỗ trợ địa phương 10.000đồng/m2 đất thu hồi để xây dựng công trình phúc lợi cho người dân

- Tạo thêm việc làm cho người dân khu vực dự án giai đoạn thi công tuyến đường dây

tower foundations due to difficulty in production process

- In areas which residents leased for planned the farm economy in 20 years, impact of the electromagnetic field issue can lead to difficulty of clearance

- Allowance with a rate of VND10,000 per square meter of acquisition land for the local authority to construct welfare works


A.II Que Vo District

6 Chi Lang commune - Quá trình thi công cần hạn chế tối đa ảnh hưởng đến cây cối, hoa màu của người dân. Phần đất chiếm dụng tạm thời cho các công trình phụ trợ phải bồi thường thiệt hại về

- Minimizing impacts on trees and crops of the locals in construction phase. Allowance for loss of production in temporary area.

- Bồi thường việc thu hồi đất tại các vị trí móng trụ

- Đơn giá bồi thường theo quy định của Nhà nước

- Tạo điều kiện việc


- Compensation unit price have to meet regulations of the Government.

- Creating working opportunities for the

87



Vietnamese English Vietnamese English sản xuất

- Đề nghị hoàn trả cảnh quan sau khi hoàn tất thi công

- Tránh ảnh hưởng đến phong tục tập quán, sinh hoạt của người dân

- Cleaning up the ground after completion of construction activities.

- Avoiding impacts on customs and habits of the locals

làm cho người dân khu vực dự án trong giai đoạn xây dựng

locals during construction phase

A.III Gia Binh District

7 Lang Ngam commune

- Cần áp dụng các biện pháp cần thiết để tránh gây ra các sự cố môi trường. Đề nghị dọn dẹp vệ sinh sau khi thi công

- Quan tâm giải quyết

các vấn đề môi trường hành lang tuyến đường dây đi qua địa bàn xã

- Proposing apply appropriate measures to avoid environmental problems. Clean up the ground after completion of construction activities.

- The owner should interested in solving environmental issues related to ROW passing local commune

- Bồi thường tại các vị trí thu hồi cho việc thi công làm móng trụ và vị trí trưng dụng tạm thời cho công tác xây dựng

- Bồi thường thỏa đáng và phù hợp theo quy định của Nhà nước

- Xem xét quy hoạch

phù hợp với tiềm lực kinh tế của địa phương

- Tạo điều kiện việc làm cho người dân giai đoạn thi công

- Acquisition land for tower foundations and temporary area in construction phase

- Compensation has to satisfied and meet regulations of the Government.

- Considering the transmission lines planning in accordance with the local economic potential


A.IV Thuan Thanh

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Vietnamese English Vietnamese English District

8 Mao Dien commune - Chủ đầu tư và các đơn vị liên quan cần sử dụng các biện pháp thích hợp để đảm bảo an toàn về môi trường, không gây ô nhiễm về khói, bụi, tiếng ồn và ảnh hưởng đến hoạt động sản xuất

- Proposing the owner and related organizations to use the appropriate measures to ensure environmental safety and impact on the harvest of the locals

- Chỉ thu hồi phần đất tại các vị trí móng cột

- Hạn chế ảnh hưởng các phần đất khác


- Hỗ trợ 10% giá đất

khi thu hồi trên 30%

- Hỗ trợ thêm cho người dân phần chênh lệch giá so với giá thị trường

- Thực hiện đào tạo và

chuyển đổi nghề cho các hộ dân bị ảnh hưởng

- Tạo điều kiện thuận lợi về việc làm cho người dân khu vực dự án trong giai đoạn xây dựng


- Reducing minimize impacts on other areas.


- Allowance with a rate of 10% of compensation unit price when acquition land is more than a rate of 30% of total property area

- Allowance for affected people for the difference in price in comparison with market prices

- Training for affected households for changing jobs


9 An Binh commune - Dự án phải đảm bảo cường độ điện trường thấp, không

- The project has to meet permitted levels of electromagnetic

- Chỉ thu hồi phần đất xây dựng vị trí móng


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Vietnamese English Vietnamese English ảnh hưởng đến người dân khu vực đường dây

- Tránh gây các ảnh hưởng đến đời sống sinh hoạt của người dân

field, no effect on house in ROW of the line.

- Avoiding impacts on living of the locals

cột - Đề nghị dịch chuyển

đường dây 500kV dự kiến khoảng 30m về phía Đông do đi qua khu đất giãn dân theo quyết định 737/QĐ-UBND huyện năm 2008

- Tạo thêm công ăn việc làm cho người dân khu vực dự án trong giai đoạn xây dựng

- Proposing moving the 500kV route line forward 30meters to the East because it may across residential area planning under Decision No.737/QĐ-UBND of Thuan Thanh District of People’s Committee


10 Tram Lo commune - Đề nghị chủ đầu tư quan tâm đến sức khỏe, môi trường cho cộng đồng bị ảnh hưởng trực tiếp

- Proposing the owner to care of healthy and environment for directly affected community

- Chỉ thu hồi đất tại các vị trí móng cột

- Tránh ảnh hưởng và phát sinh thêm khối lượng đến các vị trí xung quanh

- Bồi thường cho phần đất bị thu hồi và trưng dụng tạm thời trong thời gian thi công

- Thông báo tiến độ giải phóng mặt bằng, bồi thường và thi


- Avoiding arise impacts on surrounding areas

- Allowance for temporary area in construction phase

- Proposing notice of clearance, compensation and work for local

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Vietnamese English Vietnamese English công cho địa phương

- Hoàn trả mặt bằng xung quanh vị trí xây dựng móng trụ để người dân ổn định sản xuất

- Tạo việc làm cho

người dân trong giai đoạn xây dựng tuyến đường dây

- Bồi thường tương đương các dự án khác tại địa phương

authorities - Giving back temporary

areas around tower foundations so that the local can stabilize their production


- Compensation in equivalent with other projects in the local

11 Xã Nghĩa Đạo - Thi công đảm bảo an toàn và vệ sinh môi trường. Hoàn trả khu vực xung quanh vị trí xây dựng móng trụ

- Ensuring safety and environmental sanitation in construction phase. and clean up landscape as the original. Giving back temporary areas around tower foundations

- Chỉ thu hồi đất tại các vị trí móng cột

- Không thu hồi các vị trí đất khác không thuộc dự án

- Bồi thường cho các vị trí còn lại quá nhỏ sau khi thu hồi đất của người dân

- Tạo điều kiện việc làm cho người dân khu vực dự án trong giai đoạn xây dựng

- Công tác bồi thường, hỗ trợ nên thực hiện


- Do not acquisition land in other areas which not related to project area

- Proposing compensation for the small rest area after withdrawal land of the local


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Vietnamese English Vietnamese English sớm, trước khi bắt đầu khởi công xây dựng

- Trong tương lai, đề nghị chủ đầu tư quan tâm đến quy hoạch phát triển tại các địa phương dự án dự kiến đi qua để hạn chế ảnh hưởng

- Compensation and allowance should be done before commencement of the project

- In the future, the owner should to consider developing plan of locals which be constructed proposed projects to reduce impacts.

B Hung Yen Province

B.I Van Lam District

12 Viet Hung commune

- Bồi thường, hỗ trợ cho phần đất thu hồi vĩnh viễn và tạm thời trong thời gian thi công theo quy định chung của Nhà nước

- Compensation for acquisition land and allowance for temporary land in construction phase should be meet regulations of the Government.

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Appendix 6: Photographs of the site

Typical land use along the ROW of the transmission line

The proposed 220kV Bac Ninh2-Pho Noi Transmission Line will run parallel with the existing 500kV transmission line

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View of the existing 500kV transmission line