SUMMARY ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

SOUTHWEST AREA INTEGRATED WATER RESOURCES PLANNING AND MANAGEMENT PROJECT IN BANGLADESH

July 2005

ABBREVIATIONS

AD line – alluvial and dilluvial line ADB – Asian Development Bank BWDB – Bangladesh Water Development Board CBSP – Chenchuri beel subroject DAE – Department of Agricultural Extension DC – district commissioner DOE – Department of Environment DOF – Department of Fisheries DPHE – Department of Public Health Engineering DTW – deep tube well EA – Executing Agency EAP – environmental action plan EIA – environmental impact assessment EIRR – economic internal rate of return EMP – environmental management plan FCD/I – flood control and drainage/irrigation FGD – focus group discussion IEE – initial environmental examination IPM – integrated pest management IWRM – integrated water resources management IWMP – integrated water management plan JMC – joint management committee JVT – joint verification team KJDRP – Khulna Jessore Drainage Rehabilitation Project LGED – Local Government Engineering Department LGI – local government institution LLP – low lift pump MED – monitoring and evaluation division MOEF – Ministry of Environment and Forest MOWR – Ministry of Water Resources NGO – nongovernment organization NSP – Narail subproject O&M – operation and maintenance PCO – project coordination office PMO – project management office PPTA – project preparatory technical assistance PRRA – participatory rapid rural appraisal PSC PWD

– –

project steering committee public works datum

RAC RP

– –

resettlement advisory committee resettlement plan

SEIA – summary environmental impact assessment SIP – subunit implementation plan SMO – subproject management office STW – shallow tubewell TA – technical assistance WMO – water management organization

Weights and Measures

ha – hectare m – meter mm – milli meter m3 – cubic meter µg – micro gram ppt – parts per thousand

GLOSSARY

Aman Wet season rice, either transplanted (in July-August) or broadcast (in March-April in low-lying areas) and harvested in November-January

Aus Early summer rice, usually grown in broadcast conditions

from April-May to July-August Baroj Farms Baor An oxbow lake or wetland formed in an abandoned arm of

a river Beel A saucer-like natural depression, which generally retains

water througout the year Boro Winter season rice, usually transplanted in November-

December and harvested in April-May Char land Accelerated land by deposition of sand or silt in rivers Dwarf embankment Low-height embankment required to protect against floods,

when bank level is comparatively at a higher elevation. Generally the embankment height is less than 1.5 meters

FCD/I schemes Flood control and drainage with or without irrigation

schemes. An FCD/I scheme is a system of water management infrastructure comprising flood embankments and networks of internal drainage/irrigation canals that are mostly for drainage purposes but can also be used for irrigation, in particular in the tidal impact areas in the southeast and southwest regions

Flood land/ Floodplains Areas of relatively low-lying lands, seasonally inundated by

overspill from adjacent rivers, lakes, reclaimed from a body of water and natural depressions

Gher Low land used for culture fisheries, especially for shrimp

culture in coastal areas

Integrated pest management (IPM) In the integrated pest management approach, each crop

and its measured pests are considered as an ecological system, and a control program that integrates a variety of biological, chemical, and cultural methods in proper sequence and timing, is developed

Khal Natural channel Kharif I Early summer (March through June) Kharif II Late summer (July through October) Kachcha Toilet A temporary, unhygienic, indigenous latrine made of

bamboo Khas land Unoccupied land that is legally owned by the Government,

including accredited land from rivers Pukkha toilet A permanent hygienic sanitary latrine with concrete ring

slab, covered with permanent shades PWD A survey datum being used by the public works

department for all topographic survey works Regulators The regulating structures required to control the flow of

water into and outside the project area Resectioning With reference to an embankment, rebuilding the damaged

embankment to its design section Temporary desilting basin A small low-lying area to accumulate runoff silt from a

construction site Thana/Upazila Subdistrict Union Subdivision of a subdistrict

CONTENTS

MAPS ii I. INTRODUCTION 1

II. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT 1

III. DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT 3 A. Physical Environment 3 B. Ecological Environment 5 C. Human and Economic Development 5

IV. ALTERNATIVES 7

V. ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES 9 A. Physical Environment 9 B. Ecological Environment 12 C. Human and Economic Development 12 D. Impact Identification and Assessment Matrix 16

VI. ECONOMIC ASSESSMENT 16

VII. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 16

VIII. PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT AND DISCLOSURE 19

IX. CONCLUSIONS 20 APPENDIXES 1. Subproject Area Topographical Maps 21 2. Multicriteria Analysis of Options 23 3. Dry Season Peak Salinity After Ganges Water Treaty Signing 24 4. Summary Resettlement Plans 26 5. Environmental Management Plan 32 6. Organizational Setup for Implementation of Project and Environmental Management

Plan 41 7. Summary Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures 42 8. Project Investment in Environmental and Social Measures 45

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KUSHTIA

MEHERPUR

CHUADANGA

RAJBARI

MANIKGANJ

FARIDPUR

MAGURAJHENAIDAH

NARAIL

JESSORE

GOPALGANJ

KHULNASATKHIRA BAGERHAT

ChenchuriBeel

SubprojectNarail

Subproject

PABNA

B A N G L A D E S H

SOUTHWEST AREA INTEGRATED WATERRESOURCES PLANNING AND

MANAGEMENT PROJECT

N

22 40’No

89 10’Eo

89 10’Eo

23 50’No

22 40’No

23 50’No

89 55’Eo

89 55’Eo

0 5 10 15 20 25

Kilometers

05-3453a RM

ii

I N D I A

River

District Boundary

International Boundary

Boundaries are not necessarily authoritative.

ss ss ss ss

ss ss ss ss

s

s

s

s

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Nawapara

Kalaohandpur

Proposed Bhomordia RegulatorKanchanpur

Proposed Sarulia Khal Regulator

Proposed Arenda Regulator

Rampur

Khali

Baraul217A Lohagora

Mangalhata

Narail

R-46.1 Narail

Charabari Khal Regulator

Gobra

BagdongaKhal Reg. - 1

BagdongaKhal Reg. - 2

Jadebpur Reg.

Proposed PoteswarNavigation Lock

Poteswar Regulator

Takimara Regulator

Satbaria

Proposed Suboler KhalRegulator

Proposed Ring Dyke

Cazirhat

Gazirhat

Borikhali

Manchandapur

Proposed Daskin Burikhali Regulator

Bhumbag

Proposed Regulator atDiadanga-Bishnapur

Noagram Regulator

Proposed Noagram Regulator(Reconstruction)

Modinar Regulator

Baghbaria Regulator

Mahajian

NARAIL

KALIA

To Jessore

CK-2

CK-3

CK-4

CK-5

CK-6

CK-7

CK-9

CK-8

Bardia

Chanalbarpur

Sibnaldapur

Sarutia

Palakhari

Laksmipasha

Baupati

Hawaikhali

Naopara

AmadaKamalpratab

Kamaral

Amada

Noagram

Suktagram

Moulichal

Komadanga

Ramshidal

Aterhat

Mallabangh

DakshinBagdagha

Palaldanga

Bhadrabila

Auria

Tabra

Hagladanga

Dhumdi

Bongram

Puruno

KadamtalaChanchori

Suktagram

ChenchuriDarighat

KanchanpurNoagram

ChachuriMaheskhala

Poteswari

Keshtapur

Tartala

Baringram

CK-1

Chota Beel

Bara Beel

Shalgari BeelNala Beel

Haw

akhali Khal

la

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D

Sarulia Khal

Daibari K

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How

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Gilatola Khal

Zia Khal

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Fulshor Raikha l i Khal

Fulshar Village Khal

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Mirar Khal

Line

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MBaghdanga Khal

Bangram Khal

Kadamtalo Khal

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Fuldo KhalMatalir Khal

Mohullah K

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Nabaganga River

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Upazila Headquarters

Home Stead

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River

Compartment Number

National Highway

Regional Highway

Upazila Road (Metalled)

Union Road (Metalled)

Union Road (Earthern)

Existing Embankment

Proposed Embankment

Retired Embankment

Resectioning

Proposed Check Structure

Existing Regulator

Proposed Regulator

Proposed Water Retention Structure

Existing WRS

Proposed Inlet Structure

Proposed Navigation Lock

Boat Pass

Proposed Retired Embankment

with River Bank Protection

Existing LGED Project

Water Level Station

Rainfall Station

Salinity Monitoring Station

Chainage

Upazila Boundary

Project Boundary

Compartment Boundary

Boundaries are not necessarily authoritative.

Upazila = Subdistrict, LGED = Local Government Engineering Department.

Ch. 10.00 Km

Ch. 20.00 Km

Ch. 15.00 Km

Ch. 05.00 Km

Ch. 00.00 Km

Ch. 95.00 Km

Ch. 90.00 Km

Ch. 85.00 Km

Ch. 80.00 Km

Ch. 75.00 Km

Ch. 70.00 Km

Ch. 60.00 Km

Ch. 55.00 Km

Ch. 50.00 Km

Ch. 45.00 Km

Ch. 45.00 Km

Ch. 35.00 Km

Ch. 30.00 Km

1

1

2

3

4

6

5

7

8

23 05’No

23 10’No

89 35’Eo

89 35’Eo

89 40’Eo

89 40’Eo

23 10’No

23 05’No

0 1 2 3 4

Kilometers

Chenchuri BeelIrrigation Sub-Scheme

Narail FCDScheme

Kola-Basukhali Project

KALIA UPAZILLA

LOHAGORA UPAZILLA

NARAIL UPAZILLA

CHENCHURI BEEL SUBPROJECT

B A N G L A D E S H

N

05-3453d RM

iii

89 25’Eo 89 35’Eo

23 10’No23 10’No

89 25’Eo 89 35’Eo 22 45’No22 45’No

s s s s

ss

s

s

ss

ss

District Headquarters

Upazila Headquarters

Home Stead

Beel

River

Compartment Number

National Highway

Regional Highway

Railway

Upazila Road (Metalled)

Upazila Road (Earthen)

Union Road (Metalled)

Union Road (Earthen)

Proposed Inlet Structure

Proposed Water Retention Structure (WRS)

Existing Embankment

Proposed Embankment

Resectioning

Proposed Flood Wall

Proposed Check Structure

Existing Regulator

Proposed Regulator

Existing LGED Project

Chainage

Water Level Station

Rainfall Station

Salinity Monitoring Station

Upazila Boundary

Project Boundary

Compartment Boundary

Boundaries are not necessarily authoritative.

Upazila = Subdistrict, LGED = Local Government Engineering Department.

N

05-3453e RM

CHENCHURI BEELSUBPROJECT

NARAIL UPAZILA

ABHAYNAGAR UPAZILA

KALIA UPAZILA

CHITRA BHARAIBAFRA PROJECTSUBPROJECT

Bhurfura Beel

Porad

anga

Kha

l

Pan

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hal

Katanai K

hal

Madhur Geaira Khal

Debipur to Maladanga Khal

Chamrul to

Maled

anga Khal

Tularampur Khal

Mul

ia K

hal

Turos Dahga Khal

Gearu Chira Khal

lahZia K

Barenda BranchJular Khal

Bahirgram Branch Khal

BahrigramKhal

Banag

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Kam

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Khal Soaler Khal

TahgrakhaliKhal Singia Branch

Nalama alra hK

Kat

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Sing

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Dudpatila KhalBagma lr aa Kh

lahK ilahkuR Zotin Khal Bora Khal

Shatkhali

Khal

Kaikhali Khal

Darar K

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Monowar Khal

Arzibari Khal

Jaikhola Culvert

Debhog B

ranch

Nirali Khal

Debhog Khal

Shaikhati Khal

Kachua Khal

Kudla Khal

lahK airoroh KW ste

Khoro

ria K

hal

Jamril D

anga Khal

Gea

pur

Soya

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hal

Bonar K

hal

Nabugati Khal

Peruli Khal

Sital B alari KhRan

agat

i K

hal

Arua Khal

Pariavanga

Khal

Mollah Khali

Khal

Ram

nagar Khal

Nal

amar

a K

hal

Nau

ly K

hal

Shiddirpasa Khal

Chargata Khal

Dighuliarabad Khal

Chitra River

reviR artihC

Bharaib R

iver

PurakhaliBeel

Afra K

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Bharaib R

iver

reviga RnagabaN

reviR

agnagaba

N

s

ss

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s

ss

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ss ss ss ss

s

s

s

Maijpara

Khatur Magure

Daulatpur

KismatDurgapur

NarayanpurGopikantapur

Duihurtala

Narayanpur

Paurashava

DurgapurChamrul

Mulia

Musuri

Bahirgram

Market

Gobra

Gobra

Singhsolpur

KalareBanagram

Kaichdaha

Shelkheti

Harispur

Sridharpur

Arazi Barni

Khararia

Subharara

Bhobanpur

Bhatpara

Khandanpur

Kalura

Rukhali

Biolihali

Chakai

Siddhirpasa

Debhag

NARAIL

To Lohagora

219 Gazir hat

Gazirhat

Proposed PoradangaKhal Regulator

Panu Regulator (LGED)

Boramara Regulator (LGED)

Proposed Debippur MadhurGeaira Regulator

Existing SiapaglaRegulator (LGED)

Chamrul Regulator

Proposed TularampurRegulator

Mulia Regulator

Proposed Flood Wall

Proposed Jular Khal Regulator

Proposed DebhogRegulator

Proposed DebhogBranch WRS

Proposed Kam Kul WRS

Proposed Shaikhat Regulator

Proposed BanagramKam Kul WRS

Proposed Banagram WRS

Proposed HialaMorolbari WRSRegulator

ProposedIsamati WRS

Existing 10 VentRanagati Regulator

MollahKhaliWRS

Shidhirpasa Regulator

Raninagar Regulator

ProposedSitalbariRegulator

Peruli Regulator

JamrildangaRegulator

Khararia Regulator

Proposed KanapukuriaRegulator

Singia Regulator

Proposed SingiaAdditional Regulator

Proposed Katanari WRS

Proposed Bahirgram BranchKhal WRS

Proposed Ck2 on Zia Khal

Proposed Sorospur Regulator

Proposed Turosdanga Regulator

(Dljitpur Regulator

Proposed BahirgramRegulator

Proposed KoloraRegulator

Gobraghat

s

s

6

5

4

3

2

1

1

0 1 2 3 4 5

Kilometers

B A N G L A D E S H

NARAIL SUBPROJECT

iv

Ch. 20.00 Km

Ch. 25.00 Km

Ch. 5.00 Km

Ch. 10.00 Km

Ch. 15.00 Km

Ch. 30.00 Km

Ch. 40.00 Km

Ch. 45.00 Km

Ch. 105.00 Km

Ch. 110.00 Km

Ch. 00.00 Km

Ch. 50.00 Km

Ch. 55.00 Km

Ch. 60.00 Km

Ch. 85.00 Km

Ch. 90.00 Km

Ch. 95.00 Km

Ch. 100.00 KmCh. 65.00 Km

Ch. 70.00 Km

Ch. 75.00 Km

Ch. 80.00 Km

Ch. 45.00 Km

CK1

CK3

CK4

I. INTRODUCTION

1. The Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) engaged consultants to undertake an environmental impact assessment (EIA) of the Southwest Area Integrated Water Resources Planning and Management Project. The Project aims to rehabilitate and upgrade the existing flood control and drainage/irrigation (FCD/I) schemes in the southwest region of Bangladesh, so as to achieve their maximum development potentials in terms of agricultural and fishery production and incomes of beneficiaries in a sustainable manner. The Project will involve rehabilitation of existing medium-size and large FCD/I schemes covering about 100,000 hectares (ha). Schemes that do not involve significant negative social and environmental impacts will be selected through a process-type approach. Detailed feasibility studies and safeguards for assessment of two sample subprojects, i.e., Chenchuri Beel and Narail FCD/I schemes in Narial district, were carried out during the project preparatory technical assistance (PPTA). The two schemes together cover an area of 57,000 ha and represent the range of development works that the Project would undertake. In that sense they are representative subprojects. Although no significant environmental impacts were identified in the initial environmental examination (IEE) given that the subprojects aim to rehabilitate existing infrastructure, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) classified the Project as environmental category A in view of the large area covered. The Government’s guidelines also classify the intervention as “category red”.

2. This summary environmental impact assessment (SEIA) report prepared for the Project summarizes the possible environmental impacts of the two subprojects and the mitigating and enhancement measures that will be implemented to minimize any detrimental impacts and increase the benefits from the Project. Although the SEIA relates specifically to two subprojects, it demonstrates the substantive and procedural aspects involved in environmental issues applicable to all the subprojects. Implementation of the mitigating measures is included in an environmental management plan (EMP). The SEIA was carried out in accordance with the Environmental Assessment Guidelines of the Asian Development Bank1 and the guidelines of the Government of Bangladesh, including the Guidelines for Environmental Impact Assessment.2 A multidisciplinary team of consultants conducted the EIA during the PPTA from June 2004 to September 2004 and utilized a range of available data including those obtained from specific surveys for the Project. The EIA and the SEIA was prepared by the Government and through a consultative process for review by ADB and other stakeholders.

II. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT

3. The two subprojects aim to rehabilitate and upgrade existing FCD/I facilities by (i) preparing integrated water management plans (IWMPs), (ii) delivering improved water management infrastructure and support services for agriculture and fishery development and piloting mitigation of arsenic contamination, and (iii) strengthening institutions to undertake sustainable operation and maintenance (O&M) of these facilities. The IWMPs were prepared during the PPTA,3 along with the feasibility studies of the identified interventions. 4. The Chenchuri Beel subproject provides flood protection for a total of 25,560 ha (net cultivated area of 17,900 ha) through 86 kilometers (km) of embankments. The area is crisscrossed by drainage channels of various sizes draining into the Chitra and lower 1 ADB. 2003. Environmental Assessment Guidelines of the Asian Development Bank. Manila. 2 Flood Plan Coordination Organization (FPCO). 1992. Guidelines for Environmental Impact Assessment. Dhaka. 3 ADB. 2003. Technical Assistance to the People’s Republic of Bangladesh for the Southwest Area Integrated Water

Resources Management Project. Manila (TA No. 4079-BAN, approved in January 2003).

2

Nabaganga rivers through eight existing regulators. Due to the high water level of outer rivers, over half the cultivated area becomes inundated during the monsoon. Some 34% of the cultivated area is irrigated, mostly from shallow tubewells (STWs) and low-lift pumps (LLPs); 1,100 ha is covered by a surface water scheme in the northwestern corner of the subproject operated by BWDB. The existing infrastructure generally performs far below its potential due to insufficient maintenance. Key water management problems include (i) low reliability of flood protection because of degraded flood embankments, river erosion along the lower Nabaganga River, and leakage from regulators; (ii) overdrainage in higher lands; (iii) congested drainage in low-lying areas due to siltation in the drainage canals; (iv) shortage of irrigation water and occasional salinity intrusion from surrounding rivers in the dry season due to leakage through regulators or lack of them. The subproject locations are shown in the maps on pages ii-iii, whereas topographical features are shown in Appendix 1.

5. The Narail subproject comprises two hydrological systems divided by the Gobra khal in the middle of the subproject area. It provides flood protection for 31,600 ha (net cultivated area of 23,440 ha) with 33 km of flood embankment along the right bank of the Chitra River in the southern system. Other parts of the subproject area do not require embankment (due to relatively high elevation), except for a 17 km reach along the Afra khal where an existing dwarf embankment provides insufficient protection. The subproject area has nine regulators that provide flood protection and drainage. A little less than half the cultivated area becomes inundated during the monsoon. About 39% of cultivated area is irrigated, mostly through STWs and LLPs. Infrastructure performance and key water management problems are similar to those of Chenchuri beel.

6. To address these diverse water management problems comprehensively, IWMPs were prepared for the subprojects. The Chenchuri beel subproject and Narail subproject areas were divided into eight and six compartments, respectively, and appropriate structural and nonstructural measures within the compartments and their hydrological subunits were identified. This arrangement will allow localized water management within the compartments and their hydrological subunits.

7. Specific structural measures identified for the two subproject areas include the following:

(i) Chenchuri beel subproject. (a) resectioning of 25 km of embankment, 6 km of new internal dwarf embankment, and retirement of 3.5 km of embankment (to cope with riverbank protection); (b) reexcavation of 193 km of drainage khals, excavation of 4.5 km of new khals (to improve drainage and storage capacities for irrigation); (c) rehabilitation of 10 km of brick lined irrigation channel in the surface water irrigation system; (d) 2.8 km river bank protection along the Nabaganga River, (e) reconstruction of one regulator; construction of 6 drainage-cum-flushing structures, 7 water retention structures, and 12 water inlet/outlet structures, besides construction of a navigation lock. The eight compartments will be based on the existing road networks with necessary check structures in existing watercourses that cross compartment boundaries.

(ii) Narail subproject. (a) construction of 16.6 km of new flood control embankment (on top of the existing dwarf embankments) and resectioning of 10 km embankment; (b) reexcavation of 227 km of khals and excavation of 0.5 km new khal; and (c) construction of 14 drainage-cum-flushing regulators, 4 check structures, 16 water retention structures, and 4 inlet/outlet structures, along with the rehabilitation of all existing structures. Compartmentalization is based on existing road networks to generate six compartments.

3

8. To enhance the benefits of the structural measures, the Project will provide the following nonstructural measures (i) support services such as agricultural and fishery extension targeting the poor and disadvantaged, and (ii) establishment and strengthening of local water management associations (WMAs) (to operate and maintain localized structures), and scheme-level joint management committees (JMCs) comprising WMA, local governments, and BWDB and other line department representatives (to operate major structures).The Project focuses on implementing integrated water resources management (IWRM) and maximizing its impact through participatory, demand-driven activities that will enhance the livelihood of project beneficiaries, especially the poor.

III. DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT

A. Physical Environment

1. Climate, Hydrometeorology, and Air

9. The project area has four distinct seasons. The monsoon and the dry season are the main seasons, separated by transition seasons. The southwest monsoon lasts approximately from June to September, and is the main rainy season. More than 90% of the annual rainfall (average 1,700 millimeters [mm]/year in the subproject area) occurs during this period. In an average year the potential evapotranspiration exceeds rainfall between October and April. Rainfall in the early and late monsoon periods is highly variable. No measurements exist, but in general air quality is considered to be within acceptable Government norms. Brick kilns are the main source of air pollution.

2. Geology, Topography, and Soils

10. The subproject areas are situated in the southwest part of the Bengal Basin. The area is actively subsiding and impacted by tectonic movements. The Chenchuri beel subproject area is saucer-shaped, having ridges along the banks of the peripheral rivers, the Chitra and Nabaganga, with a gradual north-to-south slope from 5.0 m to 1.0 m (public works datum [PWD], i.e., standard elevation). The Narail subproject slopes from north to south as well from 4.5 m to 1.5 m (PWD). Here the overall topography is complicated by the presence of low-lying areas (beels) interconnected by drainage channels and watercourses. The soils of the Chenchuri beel and Narail areas are relatively heavy and with low permeability.

3. Surface Water, Hydrology, and Morphology

11. The hydrological regime in the Chenchuri beel subproject is governed by the Chitra River to the west, the Nabaganga River to the north, east, and south, and by the khals draining the interior. Tides in the Chitra and Nabaganga range from 0.5 m to 1.0 m during the dry season and 1 m to 1.5 m during the wet season. Water levels in the rivers are higher than those normally experienced inside the Chenchuri beel in particular during the monsoon period, leading to congested drainage. Regulators on the embankments control the connections of the khals with the concerned rivers. Active river erosion is observed in the Nabaganga River in two concave sections along the southern border of the subproject.

12. The Chitra and Bhairab Rivers dominate the Narail subproject area’s hydrological regime. The Chitra flows along the northeast boundary until it joins a branch of the Nabaganga near Gazirhat. In the southeast corner the Nabaganga rejoins the Chitra. On the western side of the subproject the Afra khal joins the Bhairab River near Shaikhati. The tide varies from 0.5 m to

4

1.0 m during the dry season and 1 m to 1.5 m during the wet season. Little river erosion is observed in the subproject area.

13. Salinity intrusion in the river system downstream of the project has been an issue. The Nabaganga River receives water from the Gorai-Madhumati River, a Ganges tributary, which reduces its flow during the dry season. The Chitra River receives flows from the irrigation waste flows from the Ganges-Kobadak surface irrigation system. Due to the reduced flow of these rivers during the dry season, salinity intrudes into the river systems, although its levels are generally within the acceptable limits for paddy cultivation, particularly after the ratification of the Ganges Water treaty in late 1996,4 signed following the expiration of the previous treaty in 1988. Mean monthly maximum salinity data after the effectiveness of the latest Ganges water treaty from salinity monitoring stations of Nabaganga and Chitra Rivers are shown in Table 1:

Table 1: Mean Monthly Maximum Salinity (parts per thousand [ppt])

River Name Station Name Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Nabaganga Gazirhat 0.20 0.22 0.22 0.22 0.27 0.54 0.49 0.23 Nabaganga Bardia 0.29 0.22 0.19 0.20 0.22 0.24 0.26 0.19 Chitra Gobraghat 0.18 0.20 0.27 0.26 0.22 0.24 0.37 0.17

Notes: 1. Maximum acceptable salinity level for paddy cultivation is approximately 2 ppt. 2. The location of the salinity monitoring stations are shown in maps on pages iii and iv. Source: BWDB field data between 1988 and 2004.

4. Ground Water and Arsenic Contamination

14. The groundwater resources in the subproject areas are found in three separate aquifers. An upper aquifer: a surface layer, consisting mainly of clay and silt, characterized by high porosity but low permeability; composite aquifer: an intermediate layer of mainly fine sand and clay characterized by high porosity and moderate permeability (possibility of providing water with hand pumps); and main aquifer: a deeper layer, containing mainly fine to coarse sand. The main aquifer is characterized by high porosity and moderate to high permeability and is separated from the composite aquifer by a clay layer. Fresh groundwater is relatively carbonate rich with low total dissolved solid contents of less than 500 milligrams/liter (mg/l). However, wells in the southern parts of the project area show evidence of high salinity levels.5

15. About 73%, 46%, and 20% of the tubewells are contaminated with arsenic at levels exceeding the Bangladesh Drinking Water Standard of 0.05 mg/l in Kalia, Lohagara, and Narail Sadar subdistricts, respectively, where the two subprojects are located. Arsenic contamination is thought to be a natural process and not a result of any human activities. Groundwater is also extensively used for irrigation in the subproject areas. Studies are being carried out to understand the effects that arsenic in irrigation water has on agriculture and the food chain. It is believed, however, to be less harmful than a direct intake of contaminated water.6 No discernible pattern in arsenic contamination of aquifers has been observed in the project area.

4 Further described in the full EIA report. 5 Increasing salinity levels over time in wells in the southwest area of Bangladesh is normally caused by intrusion

from saline layers found between the sweet shallow 10-30 feet top layer and the sweet deep layers. 6 USGS Arsenic Studies Group, updated 30/11/2004: http://wwwbrr.cr.usgs.gov/Arsenic/memdirectory.htm

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B. Ecological Environment

16. The Chenchuri beel and Narail basins are dominated by freshwater ecosystems. The biological environment and the entire ecosystem have been significantly altered by intense human activity. There are no important ecologically sensitive sites in the subproject areas. The areas with the highest biodiversity are homesteads and beels with their vegetation and aquatic biota. Sediment loads conveyed by large seasonal water flows induce a rapidly changing pattern of habitats. This environment favors species with physiological and behavioral mechanisms that can cope with the resultant stress and which exploit the powerful dynamic systems transporting and delivering massive quantities of all kinds of materials, nutrients, and energy. Thus, the floodplain and the deltaic ecosystems of the subproject area are characterized by organisms that have adjusted to the temporal and spatial boundaries encompassing the full span of annual and seasonal changes.

17. Wetlands play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of ecosystems together with performing a wide variety of functions such as flood control, water purification, protection from natural disasters, source of livelihood, and habitat for wildlife and fish. The major wetlands and aquatic habitats of the Chenchuri beel and Narail subproject areas are open water bodies (baor, beels, floodplains, rivers, and khals) and closed water bodies (i.e., different types of ponds and borrow pits). While most of the aquatic plant species of the subproject areas are subject to seasonal water level fluctuations, the abundance of wetlands supports a wide variety of aquatic biota. Aquatic fauna includes prawns, crabs, snails, freshwater mussels, etc., and about 100 species of fish. There are 9 species of aquatic birds, including winter migratory birds (lesser whistling teal and ruddy shelduck). The only known aquatic mammal is the otter, but it is rare. Dolphins are found in the rivers during the monsoon.

18. More than 90 species of flora are present in the two subproject areas of which majority are planted plants. There are around 56 species of wild animals of which 2 species are amphibians, 11 reptiles, 33 birds (including 9 aquatic birds), and 10 mammals. The migratory ghorial and otter are the only endangered species in the subproject areas, but they are rarely found. The list of plants, wildlife and fish species are shown in the EIA.

C. Human and Economic Development

1. Social and Economic Profile

19. Agriculture is the dominant economic activity and the primary source of livelihood of beneficiaries in the subproject areas. Other occupations include wage labor, fishing, and formal employment/service. The working population constitutes close to 55% of the total population. Based on stated incomes, over 50% of households at Chenchuri beel and Narail have incomes below the poverty line.7 According to results of the household survey (consultant’s socioeconomic survey in June 2004), about 4% of households in Chenchuri beel and 5% in Narail are headed by females. The incidence of gainful employment for women is limited (under 3%). Women work primarily in shrimp/prawn ghers, betel leaf farms, and as domestic workers during harvest periods. These are primarily informal jobs that give very low income. The survey shows that 53% of the males and 47% of the females in Chenchuri beel and 52% of males and 48% of females in Narail were literate.

7 Official poverty line is calculated for 2,122 kilocalories intake per person per day, which is ensured by a per capita

income of Tk624 per month.

6

20. Only about 33% of the households in the project area have access to electricity. Tube- wells are the primary source of water supply. About 42% of families have their own private tubewells, while the rest share public tubewells. The presence of arsenic in a large number of the existing tubewells and lowering of the groundwater table beyond the withdrawal depth of STWs during the dry season are both problems in the area. About 13% of the households use pucca toilets and 26% semi-pucca, but more than 54% use kachcha toilets, while 6% of the households still use the open field. Modern medical facilities are not available and about 90% of the population depend mainly on traditional practitioners.

2. Cultural and Heritage Sites

21. There are no archaeological sites of national interest in the project areas. The mosques, temples and bazaars of historical interest are not likely to be affected by project activities.

3. Infrastructure Facilities

22. Chenchuri beel area has 15 km of national highways, 9 km of regional highways, and about 160 km of subdistrict- or union-level roads. Road access is principally through the Jessore-Narail metalled road. However, road access is not continuous, but is linked by several ferry connections. Two more motorable roads run north-south from Narail to Noagram and from Lohagara to Mahajan. In the Narail subproject there are 7 km of national highways, 17 km of regional highways, and about 230 km of subdistrict or Union roads. There is good road access to the Narail subproject area with the Jessore-Narail road running through the northern part of the area and bridges across the Afra khal and the Chitra. Travel within the subproject away from these roads is generally by rickshaw, rickshaw van, or by foot. River transport using large and small country boats forms an important link to the peripheral parts of the subproject areas and the surrounding areas. Small country boats are also used for communication on the internal khals, particularly in the beel areas and during the monsoon season.

4. Agriculture and Fisheries Development

23. About 70% of the Chenchuri beel subproject and about 74% of the Narail subproject areas are cultivated. The rest of the land has homesteads, infrastructure, and water bodies. The major wetlands of the Chenchuri beel and Narail subproject areas are (i) open water bodies–baor, beels, floodplains, rivers and khals–totaling about 30,127 ha (13,715 ha in Chenchuri beel and 16,412 ha in Narail); and (ii) closed water bodies–ponds and borrow pits–totaling 2,615 ha (1,128 ha in Chenchuri beel and 1,487 ha in Narail subproject). Agriculture is the prime economic activity in both subproject areas. The main constraints to agriculture development are (i) flooding, (ii) waterlogging due to congested drainage, (iii) saline water intrusion in the south, and (iv) irrigation shortage and faulty water management. However, agricultural production has increased considerably from 107,000 tons in 1990/91 to 194,000 tons in 2000/01. Average cropping intensity is about 190%. Double cropping is the main practice covering about 60% of the net cultivated land followed by single (25%) and triple (15%) cropping.

24. In both subproject areas, rice is the most important food crop. In kharif I (March-June) local broadcast aus, broadcast aman, and jute are the dominant crops with minor crops of oilseeds and fruits. In kharif II (July-October) broadcast aman continues to grow in lowlands. Local transplant aman and high yield variety (HYV) transplant aman are grown mostly in high lands. In the rabi season (November-February), wheat, lentil, mustard, mashkalai, gram, chilli, brinjal, bean, borboti, sesame, onion, garlic, sugarcane, etc. are planted in addition to HYV boro. Fruits like banana, papaya, and guava are grown year-round.

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25. Fishery is an important subsector contributing to the socioeconomic activities in both subproject areas. With the introduction of FCD/I activities in Chenchuri beel in 1981, the capture fisheries yields declined by about 14% between 1983/84 and 2001/02. During the same period, culture fisheries yields increased by about 350%. Overall production between 1983/84 and 2001/02 increased by 62% from around 1,350 tons to around 2,190 tons. Similarly in the Narail subproject area, capture fisheries yields declined by 6% and culture fisheries yields increased by 272% in the same period. Overall fisheries production increased by 72%.

26. Industry within Narail district comprises primarily agroindustrial enterprises. The sector contributes 12% (Tk1,496 million) to the district’s gross domestic product and grew at the rate of 5.2% per annum between 1995/96 and 1999/2000.8 Typical small and medium-size enterprises consist of rice mills, tobacco factories, and brick manufacturing.

5. Water Management

27. Irrigation. Irrigation is normally required between November and April, even under average rainfall conditions. Both surface water from rivers, canals, and beels and groundwater are used for irrigation purposes. LLPs are used to extract water from rivers and khals. STWs are used to extract groundwater. It is estimated that 34% (6,132 ha) of the net cultivated areas in the Chenchuri Beel and 39% (9,160 ha) in Narail subproject are under irrigation.

28. Flood Control and Drainage. There is substantial flood protection and drainage improvement infrastructure in the two subproject areas. The facilities are mostly owned and managed by BWDB as common facilities (except for a few small-scale water management structures constructed by the Local Government Engineering Department and handed over to local WMAs). Poor performance of these facilities reveals the weaknesses in achieving and sustaining the intended benefits. These facilities are often managed to meet the needs of a few privileged users, thus causing conflicts among other users. Moreover, maintenance has been underresourced, hence the targets of the investment are unrealized.

IV. ALTERNATIVES

29. The available alternatives were considered, from both the conceptual level–with direct reference to recommendations of the National Water Management Plan (NWMP)9–and the engineering level, with emphasis on the practical aspects. The NWMP indicates two main conceptual approaches to FCD/I schemes:

(i) Rehabilitation/remodeling of existing schemes, and (ii) Proactive disengagement from “sick” schemes.

30. Three practical alternatives in undertaking rehabilitation/remodeling were considered, based on multicriteria analysis taking economic, social, and environmental consequences into account. The results are summarized below (see also Appendix 2).

(i) Without project/demolition of existing infrastructure. (ii) Rehabilitation of existing FCD/I system as single compartment/unit. (iii) Rehabilitation of existing FCD/I system as multiple compartments/units.

31. Without Project/Demolition of Existing Facilities. The earlier executed FCD/I project has contributed to economic growth in the subproject areas. Existing embankments still provide 8 Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS). 2003. Dhaka 9 Ministry of Water Resources. 2004. National Water Management Plan Volume No. 2 Main Report. Dhaka

8

some flood protection benefits although reliability is low due to frequent breaches caused by river erosion, particularly in the Chenchuri beel subproject. The existing regulators still function for drainage and irrigation purposes, albeit partly, and efficient operation is restricted due to the poor condition of lifting gears, etc. Besides, the present organizational and management infrastructure is inadequate. In a “without project” situation, facilities would degrade further.

32. Without the project interventions, positive trends and developments achieved, such as increased food production, will be jeopardized and the general situation will deteriorate in both subproject areas. Investments made will be lost through lack of maintenance. Flood control will no longer be provided and agricultural production will decline. Road communication, commerce, livestock breeding, and general social conditions such as water supply, sanitation, and health will also deteriorate. A few positive impacts may be seen. Navigation will become possible in some channels that are now closed off, and capture fisheries may gradually increase in floodplains and beels. However, the loss in culture fisheries (associated with loss of reliable flood protection) will be considerable. Consequently, the option of doing nothing or demolishing the facilities was rejected by stakeholders during the consultative process.

33. Rehabilitation of Existing FCD/I System as Single Compartment. A conventional approach in FCD/I interventions places water control structures (embankments and regulators) along the boundaries of the hydrological unit, taking the entire area as a single compartment. This option has lower intervention costs for the subprojects and will still provide flood protection, drainage, and irrigation. It will increase agriculture and culture fish productivity, and improve associated quality of life values, although there would be small negative impacts on the terrestrial and aquatic habitats.

34. However, this option would not address the localized diverse internal local water management problems in the two subproject areas. Neither would this option address over-drainage of highland and waterlogging of low-lying areas, since no internal control of water movement is undertaken. Moreover, the main infrastructure tends to be managed for the benefit of stakeholders living adjacent to the facilities, with little recognition of the concerns and interests of those who live in internal areas. As a result, the overall stakeholder interests and support are weak and this option will not address fully the water management issues.

35. Rehabilitation of Existing FCD/I System as Multiple Compartments and Units. The concept of dividing FCD/I systems into multiple smaller compartments enabling internal water management activities was developed during a previous study undertaken by BWDB with the assistance of ADB.10 Each main compartment can be divided addressing more localized water problems within subunits. This option requires more resources, but these are mostly small-scale in nature and cost-effective, and will provide significant positive impacts on agriculture and culture fisheries productivity, and associated quality of life values. However, slightly more, albeit small, negative impacts on the terrestrial and aquatic habitats are expected (in association with the installation of additional small-scale structures).

36. The multiple compartment option was identified as the optimal solution and was supported by the largest number of stakeholders. It will generate the highest income in a cost-effective manner. Concerned local stakeholders showed strong sense of ownership in their willingness to participate in planning, implementation, and O&M of local infrastructure, as

10 ADB. 1996. Report and Recommendation of the President to the Board of Directors on a Proposed Loan to the

People’s Republic of Bangladesh for the Southwest Area Water Resources Development Project. Manila (Loan No. 1289-BAN, approved in November 1996).

9

already demonstrated elsewhere.11 The overall stakeholder interests in and support for the entire water management infrastructure is also expected to be the strongest for this option.

37. Other alternatives are somewhat limited in scope and are, in effect, slight mutations of the two basic themes of doing nothing or rehabilitating the system with compartments. For example, one additional alternative could be doing nothing with the infrastructure, but forming WMAs in each subsystem. This, however, must be rejected outright as there would be no incentive for WMAs to function, as the basic infrastructure would continue to deteriorate and the level of resources mobilized by WMAs would be insufficient to address the necessary repairs.

V. ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

A. Physical Environment

1. Air and Noise Pollution

38. During the construction phase, handling and transporting construction material, earth movement, and excavation may cause air and noise pollution. The impacts will be minimized by covering the construction material (to reduce windborne pollution) and by keeping construction surfaces wet by frequent sprinkling of water. Work will be restricted to the daytime hours to minimize nuisance from noise.

2. Physiography, Hydrology, and Morphology

39. The general physiography of the subproject areas will not be significantly altered by the Project since works will be mainly rehabilitation of existing water resources facilities. The extent of new embankments, and number of new structures and new khals will be limited.

40. Implementation of compartments and rehabilitation of the flood control infrastructure will result in a change in flood depth (Table 2). Flood depths in low-lying land will be reduced by 6% in Chenchuri beel and by 8% in Narail subproject. In terms of the area affected by a reduction in deep flooding, the impact is not substantial. However, compartmentalization will result in a redistribution of the flooded areas with the main objective of better distributing water over the entire subproject areas within each compartment. This will make more water available for surface water irrigation. Further, water regulation structures within compartments will be operated to control the duration of flooding, optimize agricultural production, and prevent waterlogging. This action will make the physical environment more conducive to socioeconomic development activities. Areas that presently get flooded and are water logged will become more habitable. This is considered to be a major positive impact of the Project.

41. The hydrological and morphological changes outside the subproject areas as a result of the Project, are considered negligible since the Project will primarily rehabilitate areas already covered by FCD/I schemes. Riverbank protection works will have significant local positive impacts by protecting infrastructure, productive agricultural lands, and homesteads.

11 ADB. 2001. Report and Recommendation of the President to the Board of Directors on a Proposed Loan to the

People’s Republic of Bangladesh for the Second Small-scale Water Resources Development Sector Project. Manila. (Loan No. 1831-BAN, approved in July 2001).

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Table 2: With- and Without-Project Conditions for Chenchuri Beel and Narail Without Project

(ha) With Project

(ha) Subproject Land Type and

Flood Depth Gross NCA Gross NCA

F0 < 0.3m 4,915 3,910 4,909 3,010 F1 0.3–0.9m 7,940 4,345 8,058 5,550 F2 0.9–1.8m 7,901 6,610 8,315 6,480 F3 1.8–3.0m 4,804 3,035 4,278 2,860

Chenchuri Beel

Total 25,560 17,900 25,560 17,900 F0 <0.3m 5,805 5,665 5,762 5,250 F1 0.3–0.9m 9,969 7,695 10,308 8,010 F2 0.9–1.8m 9,878 7,430 10,362 7,730 F3 1.8–3.0m 5,948 2,650 5,168 2,450

Narail

Total 31,600 23,440 31,600 23,440 < = less than, ha = hectare, NCA = net cultivated area. Source: Department of Agriculture Extension and consultant’s survey and estimate.

42. During the implementation phase of the water resources infrastructure, connectivity between various river segments and other water bodies would be temporarily affected. Mitigating measures to minimize the impact on hydrology will include bridged openings in embankments and creation of temporary channels. The overall impact is considered minimal.

3. Drainage and Irrigation

43. The proposed rehabilitation works and upgrading of FCD/I facilities in the subproject area will improve drainage conditions especially during the premonsoon and postmonsoon seasons. Irrigation with both surface water and groundwater is planned to ensure year-round water supply. Surface water is carried from the peripheral channels through the re-excavated drainage channels into the subproject areas. LLPs will lift water from these channels to the fields, while STWs will lift groundwater. Groundwater irrigation is already practiced to a large extent. Table 3 shows the estimated irrigated area under the without- and with-project conditions. The Project is expected to have a significant benefit on drainage and irrigation.

44. Temporary impediments to existing drainage and irrigation structures may occur during construction. To mitigate their impacts, works will be carried out during seasons when the facilities are normally not in use. Overall the impact is expected to be only slightly negative.

Table 3. Dry Season Irrigated areas (ha) Subproject Present Future

Without Project Future

With Project Chenchuri beel 6,132 (34%) 7,717 (43%) 10,229 (57%) Narail 9,160 (39%) 10,595 (45%) 12,703 (54%)

Source: Department of Agriculture Extension and consultants’ survey and estimate. 45. The Project is likely to result in about 43% overall increase in irrigation water use. This increase could potentially have negative impacts on the downstream irrigation users due to reduced availability and increased salinity intrusion. However, that impact is considered negligible since the Project will benefit from increased water storage capacity and improved regulatory structures established within the subproject areas. Water use efficiency will increase as seepage from irrigated fields drains out into the canals and are reused through LLPs. Staff of project management office (PMO), subproject management office (SMO), and WMAs will be trained in water management procedures to optimize use of the water resources.

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46. Increased salinity intrusion in the rivers surrounding the subproject areas is considered a negligible impact. First, as shown in Appendix 3 and explained in para. 13, actual salinity levels in rivers below the project area are low and largely within the limits acceptable for irrigated agriculture (1–2 ppt) in the rabi season. Second, as mentioned in para. 45, the increase in water use in the subproject areas will be largely met with the enhanced storage capacity and improved structures. Hence there is not likely to be a significant net deficit of water downstream. Nevertheless, additional mitigating measures will be adopted as part of agricultural extension services. They will include a rotational supply of irrigation water and primary application of irrigation water in paddy fields during key growth stages in combination with alternating crops. A salinity monitoring and information networking program will also be implemented, involving local WMAs, local government, and line department representatives, including users in downstream areas. This program will facilitate implementation of a more effective salinity management and response strategy. Management measures that contemplate restricted abstractions of upstream irrigation water in the event of increased downstream salinity levels will also be developed.

4. Groundwater

47. Groundwater irrigation is rapidly expanding in both subproject areas and is expected to continue with or without the subproject. Under the with-project scenario, however, farmers are likely to extract more groundwater, in response to improved drainage conditions. Groundwater development can cause localized groundwater table drawdown. Increased use of surface water for irrigation will ease the pressure on aquifers. For effective monitoring and control, observation wells will be installed in the subproject areas. Monitoring data will provide PMO/SMOs information to intervene and restrict groundwater exploitation in close cooperation with WMAs, if and when necessary. Overall, the Project is expected to cause a rather limited drawdown of the water table in restricted parts of the project area. However, there will be full recharge during the monsoon season, and the overall impact is considered relatively small.

48. Horizontal movement of arsenic caused by groundwater extraction nearby is deemed extremely slow.12 On the other hand, there is a possibility of vertical movement, if DTWs construction for pilot arsenic mitigation is faulty. The annular space of bore holes of DTWs is required to be sealed at the level of impermeable stratum to prevent percolation of arsenic-contaminated shallow aquifer water. The drilling design and implementation will include this measure. Effective control and auditing will be carried out during DTW installation.

5. Erosion and Siltation

49. No major impact on river morphology is expected along the rivers as a result of the Project, given the fairly localized nature of riverbank protection works. However, locally induced erosion may occur immediately surrounding the protected sections. These sections will be closely monitored and appropriate structural and nonstructural mitigating measures will be adopted. Likewise, siltation may occur in canal entrances to inlet structures. The Project will support the implementation during the operation phase of proper operational procedures to minimize siltation and flush out sediments from the canals system.

50. During construction, erosion from the work sites and siltation from runoff may occur. Proper drainage facilities and protection for erosion-prone work areas and materials will be

12 British Geological Survey/ Department for International Development/ Department of Public Health Engineering.

2000. Arsenic contamination of groundwater in Bangladesh Final Report. Dhaka.

12

provided. Wherever necessary, spill flows with high sediment content will be contained within temporary desilting basin for sediment removal.

6. Water Pollution

51. The Project will provide irrigation and drainage facilities that will help flush out polluted or stagnant water from the project area. This in turn will reduce local water pollution problems. The overall project impact on water pollution is expected to be positive. During the implementation phase, some water pollution may originate from construction sites. Mitigating measures will include (i) maintaining all construction sites in a clean and safe condition and providing appropriate facilities for temporary storage of all wastes before transportation and disposal; (ii) organizing disposal of all wastes generated during construction in an environmentally acceptable manner, including considering the nature and location of disposal sites; and (iii) taking all precautionary measures when handling and storing fuels and lubricants, including establishing contingency plans for cleaning up in the event of spillage.

B. Ecological Environment

52. Depth of flooding in seasonal wetlands will slightly decrease due to improved overall drainage. However, the excavation of channels and khals and improvements to water retention structures will enlarge and preserve other water bodies. Overall, the loss of wetland areas is expected to be limited, with only a small negative impact. The khals will also act as dry season refuge areas where a mix of diverse species can survive and attain maturity. During construction local negative impacts may arise from placement of construction support material in water bodies, spills of construction material etc. Effective disposal of construction materials and waste management will be mitigating factors, and the overall impact is considered small.

C. Human and Economic Development

1. Industries and Infrastructure

53. Small- to medium-scale industries present in the project area will benefit from the flood protection structures. In addition, increased agricultural production and economic development is expected to lead to expansion of agriculture-related industries. Providing a safe water supply in arsenic affected areas will improve the health and general well-being of beneficiaries.

54. Road transport will improve considerably as the Project will improve the road-cum-embankments and provide safeguards against floods. During construction, some activities may temporarily impede road transport and navigation at some sites. Alternative routes for transport will be provided. The overall impact during construction is considered slightly negative.

55. The key factor influencing navigation is the year-round hydraulic conditions prevailing in the project area. Installment of regulators and water retention structures in the open khals will obstruct boat movements. On the other hand, reexcavated khals will provide a better environment for boat operations. Although most facilities are installed in minor channels with little boat transportation, the overall impact of the project interventions on navigation is deemed negative. To mitigate the impacts, a navigation lock and a boat-pass structure (at Linar khal) will be installed in Chenchuri beel. They will also serve to redress major negative impacts of the existing structures. In the case of other water control structures with less frequent boat movements, the Project will support the implementation of gate operation schedules to allow the passage of boats during important seasons, such as paddy harvest.

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2. Resettlement

56. The proposed new interventions for rehabilitating the subprojects will cause adverse social impacts and, in some instances, will require land acquisition and resettlement of affected households and businesses. According to the census/resettlement surveys during the project preparatory work, the two subprojects together will involve acquisition of 56.4 ha (Chenchuri: 13.4 ha, Narail: 43.0 ha) for the construction of project infrastructure. Table 4 summarizes the impacts of the two subprojects.

Table 4: Project Impacts and Displacement Subproject Land

Acquisition Requirements

(ha)

Households Requiring Relocation

Household Affected but

Need no Relocation

Households Losing

Agricultural Land and TCF

Total Households

Total APs

Chenchuria 13.38 49 20 77 146 886 Narailb 42.95 100 134 166 400 2,495 Total 56.33 149 154 243 546 3,381

AP = affected person, ha = hectare, TCF = tenant contract farmer. a Includes an estimated 43 households, and 27 shops on embankment slopes to be displaced. b The relatively large displacement in Narail subproject is due to the choice by the villagers of embankment

alignment to protect the villages along the riverbank from the impact of the floods in lieu of aligning the embankment excluding the village area. Ownership of existing embankment also rests with the original owners.

Source: Socioeconomic Survey, August-September 2004.

57. The two subprojects will affect 546 households 149 of which will require relocation due to acquisition of their homesteads. The rest will lose fish farms, shops, and agricultural land. Around 43 households in Chenchuri beel and 12 households in Narail subprojects are informal settlers on government or private land. House structures are predominantly kuccha (89%) – made of wood, bamboo and straw with corrugated tin roof. About 8% are semi-pucca and the rest (3%) are pucca structures. In general, there will be loss of (i) homestead land/trees, (ii) residential/ commercial/ community structures, (iii) income/work days due to dislocation and relocation, (iv) agricultural land (including bank lines and eroded land), and (v) ponds (cultivated) and shrimp ghers. To mitigate the adverse impacts, separate resettlement plans (RPs) have been prepared for two subprojects (summary in Appendix 4). The RP follows Government laws and ADB policy13 and guidelines.14 The RP has devised appropriate mitigating measures to compensate for all identified losses and to assist in resettling the affected population.

58. During the construction phase some disturbances on homesteads adjacent to structure works may be unavoidable. However, proper precautions will be taken to mitigate the effects, including avoiding work during nighttime, restricting traffic through settlements, reducing noise and dust emission close to homesteads. The negative impact is considered minor.

3. Agricultural Development

59. The Project will have a significantly positive impact on agricultural productivity, with cropping intensity increasing to 220%. The agricultural benefits constitute the largest part of the total project benefits. Improvements in flood control, drainage, irrigation, and the agricultural enhancement activities will result in changes in crops grown, cropping patterns, cropping

13 ADB. 1995. Involuntary Resettlement. Manila. 14 ADB. 1998. Handbook on Resettlement: A Guide to Good Practice. Manila.

14

intensities, yields, and outputs. Total cereal production is estimated to increase from the present 45,900 tons to 62,800 tons for Chenchuri beel, and from 60,200 tons to 79,400 tons in Narail. Nevertheless, the cultivated area will increase, resulting in increased use of fertilizer and pesticides. The potential negative impact of these will be mitigated through integrated pest management techniques. Agricultural productivity may be slightly reduced during construction. These impacts are considered temporary and small, and adequate compensation will be given.

4. Fisheries

60. No negative impacts on culture fisheries are anticipated. Proper planning will ensure that no repairs and upgrading of structures will take place during periods when these structures are needed for protecting cultured fisheries and/or are necessary for their management. During construction, some minor negative impacts on capture fisheries, caused by disturbance are anticipated. However, these effects are localized and reversible.

61. The proposed culture fisheries development activities under the Project are expected to significantly increase the production of culture fish in subproject areas. The overall positive impact on culture fisheries is therefore considered major. On the other hand, it is estimated that the present capture fisheries areas and corresponding production volumes will decrease slightly because fish migration through regulators and other structures constructed along khals is obstructed. Specific mitigating measures will include (i) introducing fish-friendly operation of the regulators to allow fish migration into the FCD/I schemes at the onset of the monsoon, (ii) providing culture fishery opportunities in public water bodies and private ponds and paddy fields (for rice-cum-fish culture) supported by extension services, and (iii) stocking of natural water bodies in support of ongoing projects and programs undertaken by the Department of Fisheries. Professional fisherfolks will be given priority opportunities to undertake culture fish activities in public water bodies that can be controlled by the water management facilities.15

5. Water Management and Irrigation Practices

62. The preparation of IWMPs will help improve the overall efficiency of water use and management in the subproject areas, by stipulating diverse water management opportunities and specific measures to take advantage of those opportunities. Providing relevant infrastructure will substantially facilitate improved water management and irrigation practices. Specific positive impacts will include (i) increased security against flood within the embankments, (ii) improved drainage in areas currently suffering congested drainage, (iii) increased storage capacities of existing canals for irrigation during dry season as well as monsoon season (in particular in high land areas for the latter season), and (iv) improved salinity control through rehabilitated regulators and their gates. The overall positive impact is considered as major.

63. However, there is a risk that the opportunities for improved water management are captured by a small number of interested groups who operate facilities for their own benefits alone, with adverse effects on the livelihood of the excluded stakeholders. For example, water retention structures may be operated to draw and store excessive amounts of water and thus cause drainage problems in low-lying areas. On the other hand, the water level may be kept low, without yielding intended benefits to the high land area. Private fish culture interests may 15 In the two subproject areas, however, fisher folks within the FCD command area are engaged in capture fishery on

a part-time basis in combination with agriculture and wage labor activities, with the latter providing primary source of income due to the low productivity of the former. Thus, reduction in fish capture is likely to be offset by increased agriculture and labor income.

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oppose the appropriate flushing of drain water and cause drainage congestion in adjacent areas. Mitigating measures include (i) selecting sites for minimal stakeholder conflicts; (ii) ensuring due representation of all stakeholders groups in WMAs and agreeing on operational practices; (iii) offering suitable O&M training following the agreed-upon operational practices; and (iv) providing regular monitoring and support for enforcement of agreed-upon practices, including social audit and dispute resolution mechanisms.

64. During implementation phase, some water management activities will be disrupted due to the construction of embankments, canals, and structures, and blocking of channel sections. However, careful design, and implementation will ensure blockages are only temporary, and, if necessary, temporary connections will be established. The overall impact is considered minor.

6. Water Supply and Sanitation

65. Lohagara subdistrict (one of the worst affected subdistricts where no arsenic mitigating measures are taking place) in Chenchuri beel subproject has been selected for pilot provision of safe and arsenic-free water supply to affected communities under the Project. The activities include point source development such as rainwater harvesting, pond sand filters, and DTWs. Given the small pilot nature of the interventions, no significant environmental impacts are envisaged. However, care will be taken that mitigating measures do not worsen or exacerbate the situation. Potential environmental risks associated with arsenic mitigation measures include (i) cross-aquifer contamination due to poor construction of DTWs, and (ii) potential negative health impact due to contamination of alternative water sources. While there is only limited understanding of the appropriate options for arsenic mitigation and their management, the Project will regularly update the available information by networking with ongoing interventions assisted by various external funding agencies to reduce the risks by (i) proper technology selection for arsenic mitigation, on a case-by-case basis; (ii) proper site selection; (iii) ensuring community awareness of the risks involved; and (iv) operating environmental management plans (EMPs) including routine quality monitoring and management.

7. Quality of Life Values

a. Income and Poverty

66. The Project will have a highly positive impact, benefiting all strata of the population by protecting agricultural land, homesteads, markets, roads, irrigation systems, etc. Increased agricultural production and the construction works of the Project will generate more employment opportunities for the poor. To maximize these benefits, contractors will be encouraged to recruit laborers among the poor and landless, giving priority to destitute women.

67. The Project will also help reduce poverty by increasing agricultural production, employment, and income generating possibilities. The economic analysis indicates that the main beneficiaries of the subproject interventions will be farmers (i.e., over 85% of financial benefits in both Chenchuri and Narail). Culture fish producers will also obtain significant financial benefits. The poverty impact ratio is estimated at over 50% for both subprojects. The Project will thus make an important contribution to poverty reduction in the subproject areas.

b. Health and Education

68. The Project will provide sustained protection against floods and improved conditions for agriculture and aquaculture production. The result will be an overall increase in household income, thereby people in the subproject areas will be encouraged to send their children to

16

school on a more regular and prolonged basis, with positive impact on education. As the Project will also create increased protection against floods, the living conditions will improve, especially with respect to health and the nutritional status of people. It is likely that the per capita expenditure on food, sanitation, and health care will increase, resulting in a positive impact on health. Increased income will allow for a higher expenditure on food for the poor. The overall long-term impact of the Project on education and health will be very positive.

69. During the construction stage, the workforce will be hired locally. Any impacts on the health of workers employed on the Project will be mitigated with the provision of adequate water supply and sanitation facilities, proper waste collection and disposal systems, health clinics, etc. There is a general risk of accidental injury of workers. Implementation of adequate safety procedures and provision of first-aid facilities will mitigate this risk. Following appropriate construction techniques and safety procedures will mitigate the negative impacts on workers.

D. Impact Identification and Assessment Matrix

70. The important environmental components and their potential interaction with the major project activities are presented in a matrix (Table A5.1 of Appendix 5) following the methodology described in the EIA report. National guidelines require that this matrix be considered to be able to evaluate the impact of the Project. Proper planning for managing potential environmental and social impacts will be undertaken and reflected in the contract documents with the contractors.

VI. ECONOMIC ASSESSMENT

71. The projected capital investment required for the full Project is estimated at $44.6 million (in constant 2004 prices) for the 7-year project period. The foreign exchange component is calculated at $9.8 million (22%) and the local currency amounts to $34.8 million equivalent (78%). Taxes and duties account for $3.0 million equivalent of the local currency.

72. The economic assessment of the Project shows an economic internal rate of return (EIRR) of 17% for the Chenchuri Beel and 21% for Narail subproject. For Chenchuri beel, sensitivity analysis shows the subproject is not sensitive to changes in O&M costs, but is sensitive to adverse changes in capital costs. Nevertheless, the subproject remains viable with increases in capital costs of up to 67%. On the other hand, the Narail subproject is not sensitive to those parameters. The subprojects are more sensitive to changes in incremental benefits and become uneconomic if incremental benefits are reduced by 36% in Chenchuri beel and by 49% in Narail. Thus, it is important to implement an agricultural support program focusing on rice intensification and crop diversification.

VII. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

A. Institutional Arrangements for Environmental Management 73. The institutional requirements for mitigating the adverse effects of the Project and the associated environmental monitoring program have been incorporated into the EMP (Appendix 5). The EMP outlines the environmental management system that will be implemented during detailed planning, design, and follow-on work of the Project to minimize deleterious effects and implement enhancement measures. The EMP also embraces environmental management issues following the rehabilitation of water management facilities, to maximize the beneficial effects, and to detect and ameliorate adverse long-term effects.

17

74. Environmental management of the Project will involve several national-level agencies, including (i) BWDB under the Ministry of Water Resources as the Executing Agency of the Project; (ii) Department of Environment (DOE) under the Ministry of Environment and Forest, responsible for environmental clearance of the subprojects and enforcement of environmental regulations; (iii) line departments including Department of Agriculture Extension (DAE), Department of Fishery (DOF), and Department of Public Health Engineering (DPHE); and (iv) JMCs and WMAs for the subproject areas.

75. BWDB will set up a PMO in its Southwest Zonal Office at Faridpur, headed by the project director at the level of senior director.16 The overall responsibility for environmental management and monitoring including liaison with the DOE will be with the Monitoring and Evaluation Division (MED) in the PMO, which will be headed by an executive engineer (EE) possessing environmental management skills. MED will monitor and support the implementation of the subproject EMP through the designated organizations. The EE will be assisted by an environmental management consultant who will advise on the operation of MED and assist in their specific tasks. Further, the consultant will provide training in environmental monitoring, data interpretation, impact assessment and reporting. The consultant will provide support on a part-time basis throughout the project period. At the subproject level, a SMO will be established in the subproject area for day-to-day implementation, following the activity plans prepared with the subproject JMC comprising representatives of line departments, local governments, and WMAs. An experienced EE will be assigned as full-time subproject manager in each SMO. A subdivision engineer will be assigned as environmental officer in each SMO to manage the concerned mitigating activities with the assistance of the consultant and MED staff (Appendix 6).

76. As part of the agricultural extension support activities to be carried out by the DAE, farmers will be trained in environment-friendly soil and fertilizer management. The fisheries development support activities to be carried out by the DOF will build awareness of the importance of environmental and fish-friendly water management. Gate operation will be a central element, along with specific training for water managers, WMAs, and gate operators. Realizing there will be unavoidable negative impacts on capture fisheries, environmental and fish-friendly water management and gate operation will be supplemented by fish stocking of natural water bodies. The Project will also support arsenic-safe water supply on a pilot basis through DPHE, which will have a highly positive impact on improving the health conditions of affected people. To sustain the positive impact, the arsenic mitigating efforts will be supplemented by training in maintenance of safe water treatment and supply installations. A monitoring system for groundwater and water supply will also be implemented.

77. During the O&M phase, a range of monitoring and mitigating measures will be undertaken to safeguard the environment and ensure no unanticipated negative impacts would occur. Should negative impacts be identified, relevant mitigating measures will be implemented. Besides monitoring, specific mitigating measures for the O&M phase encompass the following: (i) agricultural extension services including soil and fertilizer management issues will be continued as part of the regular services provided by the DAE; (ii) provision of effective O&M to safeguard against negative impacts of river erosion will continue as part of the maintenance of the rehabilitated FCD/I schemes under the responsibility of the PMO/SMOs, in cooperation with WMAs; and (iii) planning for and coordination and management of groundwater exploitation will be an ongoing activity under the responsibility of the PMO/SMOs in cooperation with WMAs.

16 At the central level, BWDB will establish a project coordination office (PCO), which will provide technical

backstopping and coordination with line departments including DOE.

18

78. The environmental responsibilities of civil works contractors and other private service providers including nongovernment organizations (NGOs) (that will provide support services such as WMA institutional development, agriculture and fishery extension, and livelihood enhancement) will be prescribed by PMO/MED in the tender documents and later on in the contract. Contractors’ responsibilities will include ensuring occupational health and security for workers, minimizing disturbance, and adhering to existing environmental legislation, including avoiding water pollution and observing proper waste disposal. Contracts and program documents for other private providers will also stipulate due environmental management measures applicable to those providers. Upon subproject completion, the environmental management responsibilities will rest with SMO, concerned line departments, and WMAs.

79. MED will supervise and enforce contractual requirements and monitor compliance. It will be supplied with necessary equipment for sampling and measuring relevant environment parameters. It will submit quarterly and annual reports for the PMO. All reports will be forwarded to the DOE for review. A summary of the environmental impacts and mitigating measures is presented in Appendix 7. To support capacity strengthening and monitoring of BWDB and the concerned line departments for environmental management, the Project will provide international and domestic consultants over the period of 2 months and 39 months, respectively.

80. The costs associated with the environmental mitigating measures identified relate to the resettlement and environmental mitigation components to be covered in the civil works contracts, water quality monitoring and networking, environmental and benefit monitoring, and institutional strengthening and training. Details of the total cost, amounting to $8.124 million, including the resettlement cost of $2.172 million are in Appendix 8.

B. Environmental Assessment and Review Framework

81. The Project will prepare IWMPs for additional FCD/I schemes covering about 43,000 ha. Subsequent subprojects will be identified following public consultation and in conformity with the established selection criteria. The selection criteria include (i) no significant negative social and environmental impacts; (ii) a benefit area of less than 14,000 ha; and (iii) confirmed beneficiary willingness to meet annual O&M requirements, among others, which are detailed in subproject preparation stages in the EMP (Appendix 5). Screening of subprojects and preparation of IWMPs will be undertaken in one batch, and environmental assessments applicable to each subproject will be done simultaneously. IEEs will be prepared for each step as a first step. This will be carried out by PMO/MED with the assistance of consultants. The IEEs will be prepared following the Government procedures and in accordance with ADB’s Environmental Assessment Guidelines,17 and will become the basis for deciding on the need for more detailed EIAs. The decision on EIAs will be taken in consultation with DOE and ADB.

82. Subprojects requiring EIAs will receive higher priority in completing the planning process. The consultants will assist the PMO in conducting EIAs, using the Chenchuri beel and Narail subproject EIAs as samples. The PMO will ensure that processes and procedures applicable to EIAs in accordance with the Government and ADB guidelines are followed. In particular, these include the two-stage public consultation process (supplemented by necessary consultation at the national level) and the 120 day public disclosure rule. The IEEs/EIAs prepared as final environmental assessment reports will be subject to approval by DOE and ADB before activities start on the respective subprojects.

17 Found at http://www/adb/org/documents/Guidelines/Environmental Assessment/Content Format Initial

Environmental Examination.pdf.

19

VIII. PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT AND DISCLOSURE

83. Public consultation has been an important part of the PPTA, which was in two phases: (i) preparing subregional water management strategy covering five districts including the two subproject areas (October 2003–May 2004), and (ii) preparing IWMPs and feasibility studies for two sample subprojects (June–September 2004). During the process, two rounds of field-level stakeholder consultation, including those who are negatively affected, were held, once in each phase, comprising (i) focus group discussions (FGD) held with specific groups of people; and (ii) local stakeholder workshops at the subdistrict and district levels. These were accompanied by three rounds of national-level workshops at inception, end of first phase, and draft final stage to discuss the study progress and draft outputs. In addition, a consultative meeting was held in September 2004 to discuss the draft output of the EIA to 14 NGOs, and government and other institutions active in the environment sector. Participants at the workshops are listed in the EIA.

84. Public consultations confirmed that existing FCD/I infrastructures were only partially functioning, due to the degradation of main structures (caused by insufficient maintenance), and lack of attention to diverse stakeholder interests. Nevertheless, people’s perception of the existing FCD/I infrastructure was positive. They identified numerous opportunities to achieve their unattained development potentials, which were reflected as comprehensive institutional, structural, and nonstructural measures in the project design. The process confirmed complex stakeholder interests in water management, particularly among farmers at different locations and elevations, and fisherfolks within the subproject area. The situation calls for integrated and coordinated water resources management. FGD with the affected population also indicated that negative social and environmental impacts, such as land acquisition and impacts on capture fisheries can be mitigated through the specific measures reflected in the EIA.

85. The three rounds of national level workshops mentioned in para. 83 seeking stakeholder feedback on the subproject design had participants from the Government, NGOs, external funding agencies, and water and environment-related organizations. Important advice was obtained: (i) the scope of IWMPs should be carefully defined to effectively address diverse interests and constraints while avoiding implementation complexity; (ii) institutional arrangements to prepare and implement IWMPs in a coordinated manner are critical and need support; (iii) sustainable O&M need to be established through maximum resource mobilization by stakeholders and improved public funding; (iv) specific mechanisms should be installed to deliver due benefits to the poor through IWMPs; (v) the Project should consider installing built-in self-correction mechanisms through effective monitoring and evaluation; and (vi) implementation arrangements should harmonize with other sector interventions assisted by external funding agencies.

86. The consultative meeting with environment experts was held as part of the public involvement process to seek feedback on the draft EIA. The participants were supportive of the selected intervention option (rehabilitating major FCD/I infrastructure and providing additional minor structures to address local water management problems with integrated provision of support services) as opposed to the conventional single sector approach focusing on major facilities. They generally concurred with the assessment of the environmental impacts and the mitigating measures identified. A number of suggestions were given to effectively implement the environmental measures: (i) active participation of beneficiaries in environmental management should be pursued; (ii) to mitigate the impacts of arsenic contamination, due attention should be given to promotion of rainwater harvesting, along with other priorities such as expansion of LLP (in lieu of STW) irrigation; and (iii) the community-based fishery management framework under an ongoing project should be followed. The suggestions were incorporated in the project design.

20

IX. CONCLUSIONS

87. The objective of the two subprojects is to increase income from agriculture and fisheries, and thus provide employment opportunities that will contribute to socioeconomic development. The interventions will establish participatory institutions to operate and maintain the water management structures in such a way that the diverse interests of the stakeholders can be optimized and sustained with beneficiary participation in O&M as well. In addition, the project will pilot test options to mitigate the impacts of groundwater arsenic contamination. Specifically, agriculture and fishery production is expected to rise with the implementation of water resources infrastructure and associated improvement in flood protection, drainage, irrigation, and on-farm water management, which will have a spin-off on other sectors. With socioeconomic development, the overall standard of living will rise. Poverty will be reduced due to the job opportunities created, especially for the landless and destitute women.

88. The positive impacts will substantially surpass the negative ones, such as the impacts on resettlement, capture fisheries, navigation, and possible salinity intrusion. The negative impact from resettlement will be fully mitigated by implementing the resettlement plan. Unavoidable damage to capture fisheries and to local boat operation will be mitigated by careful water management and gate operation to allow maximum passage of fish species and local boats, careful selection of locations and design of structures, and installing boat passes at critical locations. Professional fisherfolks and boat operators will have priority opportunity to project-supported income enhancement activities such as fish culture in public water bodies created behind the water retention structures. Strengthening salinity monitoring and warning systems also mitigate the risk of salinity intrusion inside and outside the subproject areas. Overall, the negative environmental impact will be limited due to the mitigating measures.

89. Nevertheless, implementing identified environmental management activities including monitoring of environmental impact, mitigation, and enhancement indicators is critical for effective implementation of the Project. The identified EMP will be integrated with Project-specific information management systems such that all project-related activities are effectively managed through appropriately identified process and outputs indicators covering institutional, social, financial, and economic aspects. Such mechanisms should be embedded in BWDB’s field office structures. EMP will be operated in this context, with appropriate capacity strengthening support including training provided through the consultants.

90. Consultations with all stakeholders demonstrated that rehabilitating the existing FCD/I structures while addressing internal local water management problems, applying the concept of integrated and coordinated management of local water infrastructures through a participatory approach, is the best alternative that can generate maximum positive impacts with a stronger sense of local ownership and institutional development to operate and maintain the improved infrastructure. While local stakeholders have diverse interests in the structure operation, they can be coordinated through participatory management to bring about optimal benefits.

91. In conclusion, the Project will have overall positive benefits by preserving existing flood protection works, drainage control, and irrigation benefits from the existing facilities, and enhancing their positive impacts through structure works to address internal water management problems that have not been addressed. They are integrated with non-structural measures for developing viable local WMAs, support services for agriculture and fishery development, and capacity strengthening to sustain benefits through sustainable O&M. Successful implementation of the Project will serve as a model to achieve substantial underachieved development potentials of existing FCD/I systems while sustaining their benefits through participatory O&M.

4.0

Nawapara

Kalaohandpur

Kanchanpur

Rampur

Gora Khali

Baraul

Mangalhata

Ch. 10.00 Km

Gobra

Ch. 05.00 Km

Ch. 00.00 Km

Ch. 95..00 Km

Ch. 90..00 Km

Ch. 85.00 Km

Satbaria

Borikhali

Manchandapur

Ch. 80.00 Km

Bhumbag

Ch. 75.00 Km

Ch. 70.00 Km

Ch. 60.00 Km

Ch. 55.00 KmMahajian

Ch. 50.00 Km

Ch. 45.00 Km

NARAIL

KALIA

Ch. 35.00 Km

Ch. 30.00 Km

Ch. 20.00 Km

Ch. 15.00 Km

Ch. 40.00 Km

Nabaganga

Bardia

Ch. 25.00 Km

LOHAGORA

Chanalbarpur

Sibnaldapur

Sarutia

Palakhari

Laksmipasha

Baupati

Hawaikhali

Naopara

AmadaKamalpratab

Kamaral

Amada

Noagram

Suktagram

Moulichal

Komadanga

Ramshidal

Aterhat

Mallabangh

DakshinBagdagha

Palaldanga

Bhadrabila

Auria

Tabra

Hagladanga

Dhumdi

Bongram

Puruno

KadamtalaChanchori

Suktagram

ChenchuriDarighat

KanchanpurNoagram

ChachuriMaheskhala

Poteswari

Keshtapur

Tartala

Baringram

CK-5

CK-4

CK-1

CK-3

CK-6

CK-2

Kumira

CK-7

CK-8

CK-9

Chandechar

Chota Beel

Bara Beel

Shalgari BeelNala Beel

Haw

akhali Khal

Dtt

apar

a K

hal

Sarulia Khal

Daibari K

hal

How

aikhali Khal

Gilatola Khal

Zia Khal

Lak

smip

osha

Kha

l.

Fulshor Raikhali Khal

Fulshar Village Khal

lahK rupinabah

B

Bhabanipur Khal

Mirar Khal

Line

r K

hal

Amad

a (B

ranc

h Kha

l)

Kumira Khal

Jalisha Bakundia Khal

Ate

rhat

Kha

l

Hazla Khal

M

athabanga KhalBaghdanga Khal

Bangram Khal

Kadamtalo Khal

lahK ihsarUBobra

Bil

l Bal

isha

Kha

l

Purulia Khal

Fuldo KhalMatalir KhalMohullah Khal

lah

K rupbadJa

Bar

olpa

ra/L

iner

Kha

l

Chachu

ri Khal

Mod

inar

Kha

l

Am

tala

Kha

lN

arid

anga

Kha

l

Mora K

halKumarerKhal

Noagram Khal

Gaz

aria

Kha

l

Ch

i t r a Ri v

er

Ch

it

ra

Ri

ve

r

re

viR a

gn

ag

ab

aN

Na

ba

ga

ng

a Riv

er

Shomerukhola K

hal

Baghbaria Khal Suktagram Khal

Juis

hala

Kha

l

Baghbari K

halNabaganga River

Cha

raba

n K

hal

District Headquarters

Upazila Headquarters

Home Stead

Beel

River

Compartment Number

Chainage

Project Boundary

Compartment Boundary

Boundaries are not necessarily authoritative.

Ch. 45.00 Km

1

1

2

3

4

6

5

7

823 00’No

23 10’No

89 35’Eo

89 35’Eo

89 45’Eo

23 10’No

89 45’Eo

23 00’No

05-3453b RM

Appendix 1 21

0 1 2 3 4 5

Kilometers

N

CONTOUR MAP: CHENCHURI BEEL PROJECT

3.5

4.5

3.0

3.5

4.0

4.0

3.5

2.02.5

3.0

1.5

2.0

1.5

2.0

1.0

1.0

1.5

1.5

89 25’Eo 89 35’Eo

23 10’No

23 00’No

23 10’No

23 00’No

89 25’Eo89 35’Eo

Maijpara

Khatur Magure

Daulatpur

KismatDurgapur

NarayanpurGopikantapur

Duihurtala

Narayanpur

Paurashava

DurgapurChamrul

Mulia

Musuri

Bahirgram

Market

Gobra

Gobra

Singhsolpur

KalareBanagram

Kaichdaha

Shelkheti

Harispur

PurakhaliBeel

Sridharpur

Arazi Barni

Khararia

Subharara

Bhobanpur

Bhatpara

Khandanpur

Kalura

Rukhali

Biolihali

Chakai

Siddhirpasa

Debhag

Ch. 85.00 Km

Ch. 90.00 Km

Ch. 95.00 Km

Ch. 100.00 Km

Ch. 105.00 Km

Ch. 110.00 Km

Ch. 0.0 Km

Ch. 5.00 Km

Ch. 10.00 Km

Ch. 15.00 Km

Ch. 20.00 Km

Ch. 30.00 Km

Ch. 25.00 Km

Ch. 40.00 Km

Ch. 45.00 Km

Ch. 50.00 Km

Ch. 55.00 Km

Ch. 60.00 Km

Ch. 65.00 Km

Ch. 70.00 Km

Ch. 75.00 Km

Ch. 80.00 Km

Ch. 45.00 Km

NARAILChamrul Regulator

Peruli

3.50

3.0

3.0

3.0

3.5

2.5

2.0

2.0

3.03.5

4.0

3.0

3.5Baghutia

2.5

1.5

2.5

1.5

Bhurfura Beel

Porad

anga

Kha

l

Pan

u K

hal

Katanai K

hal

Madhur Geaira Khal

Debipur to Maladanga Khal

Chamrul to

Maled

anga Khal

Tularampur Khal

lah

K ailuM

lahTuros KD ahga

Gearu Chira Khal

lahZia K

Barenda BranchJular Khal

Bahirgram Branch Khal

BahirgramKhal

lahK luk

maK

marganaBSoaler Khal

TahgrakhaliKhal Singia Branch

lama aN ra Khal

Kat

anal

iK

hal

niaM aig

n i S

Dudpatila KhalBagmara Khal

lahK ilahku

R

laZotin h KBora Khal

Shatkhali

Khal

Kaikhali Khal

Darar K

hal

Monowar Khal

Arzibari Khal

Jaikhola Culvert

hcnar BgohbeD Nirali Khal

Debhog Khal

Sha at haikh i K l

Kachua Khal

Kudla Khal

lahK airorohK tsWe

Khoro

ria K

hal

Jamril D

anga Khal

lah

K tayoS rupaeG

Bonar K

hal

Nabugati Khal Ki l hu are lP

Si hata K ll BariRan

agat

i K

hal

Arua Khal

Pariavanga

Khal

Mollah Khali

Khal

Ram

nagar Khal

lahK ara

malaN

lahK yl

ua

N

Shid

dirpasa KhallahK C taharga

Dighuliarabad Khal

Chitra River

Chitra

Riv

er

Bharaib River

KharariaBeel

Afra K

hal

0 1 2 3 4 5

Kilometers

CONTOUR MAP: NARAIL SUBPROJECT

22 Appendix 1

District Headquarters

Upazila Headquarters

Home Stead

Beel

River

Compartment Number

Railway

Chainage

Project Boundary

Compartment Boundary

Boundaries are not necessarily authoritative.

6

5

4

3

2

1

N

05-3453c RM

1

Appendix 2 23

MULTI-CRITERIA ANALYSIS OF OPTIONS Project Components and Alternatives

Chenchuri Beel Subproject Narail Subproject Item

Without Project Single Compartment

Multiple Compartment

Without Project Single Compartment

Multiple Compartment

Economic Aspect

Economic Internal Rate of Return

17% 21%

River Hydraulics N I I N I N Flooding III BB BB III BB BB Drainage III BB BBB III BB BBB Irrigation III BB BBB III BB BB Erosion & Siltation II B B II B I Wetlands BB I I BB I N Groundwater N N N N N N

Physical Environment

Water Pollution I N N I N I Terrestrial Habitat I I I I I I Aquatic Habitat B I I B I N Culture Fisheries III BB BB III BB BB

Biological Environment

Capture Fisheries BB I I BB I I Land use and settlement/ resettlement

I II II I II II

Agricultural Land II I I II I I Agricultural productivity II BB BBB II BB BBB Safe Water Supply I B B I B B Navigation N I I N I I

Human and Economic Development

Road Transport I B BB I B BB Education & Health II B B II B B Employment and Economic Activities

II BB BB II BB BB

Poverty II BB BB II BB BB Migration II BB BBB II BB BBB Status of Women I B B I B B

Quality of Life Values

Equity N B B N B B I= small negative impact, II= medium negative impact, III= large negative impact, B= small benefit, BB= moderate benefit, BBB = large benefit, N= not significant. Source: Halcrow Group Ltd. 2004. Environmental Impact Assessment of the Bangladesh Southwest Area Integrated Water Resources Planning and Management Project. United Kingdom.

Satkhira

Khulna

Bagerhat

Pirojpur

Mongla

Gopalganj

1.00

5.00

10.00

15.00

20.00

1.00

Pussur R

iver

Sibsa River

Arpangasia R

iver

Balesw

ar River

Nabaganga River

Bhairab R

iver

Afra River

Nab

agan

ga R

.

Kobadan R

.

DRY SEASON PEAK SALINITY AFTER GANGES WATER TREATY(NO GORAI FLOW)

24 Appendix 3

0 10 20 30

Kilometers

District Capital

Narail Bubproject

Chenchuri Beel Subproject

Sundarbans

Isohalines (1-20ppt)

River

International Boundary

Boundaries are not necessarily authoritative.

89 00’Eo

89 00’Eo

22 00’Eo

90 00’Eo

22 00’Eo

23 00’Eo23 00’Eo

90 00’Eo

05-3453f RM

N

I N D I A

Satkhira

Khulna

Bagerhat

Pirojpur

Mongla

Gopalganj

1.00

5.00

10.00

15.00

20.00

1.00

Pussur R

iver

Sibsa River

Arpangasia R

iver

Balesw

ar River

Nabaganga River

Bhairab R

iver

Afra River

Nab

agan

ga R

.

Kobadan R

.

DRY SEASON PEAK SALINITY AFTER GANGES WATER TREATY(WITH 1999 GORAI FLOW)

Appendix 3 25

0 10 20 30

Kilometers

District Capital

Narail Bubproject

Chenchuri Beel Subproject

Sundarbans

Isohalines (1-20 ppt) under

No Flow in Gorai

Isohalines (1-20 ppt)

River

International Boundary

Boundaries are not necessarily authoritative.

89 00’Eo

89 00’Eo

22 00’Eo

90 00’Eo

22 00’Eo

23 00’Eo23 00’Eo

90 00’Eo

05-3453g RM

N

Appendix 4

26

SUMMARY RESETTLEMENT PLANS

A. Description of the Project

1. The Southwest Area Integrated Water Resources Management Project selected Chenchuri beel subproject (CBSP) and Narail subproject (NSP) in Narail, Lohagara, and Kalia subdistricts under Narail district in preparing an investment project under financing from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The two sample subprojects will cover 57,000 hectares (ha) of hydrological areas in the district including Avoinagar subdistrict in Jessore district. The main objective in rehabilitating the subprojects is to increase agricultural production, farm incomes, and employment opportunities by improving water management facilities and the capabilities of the beneficiaries to manage the facilities. The improved facilities will be made effective by controlled flooding and drainage through compartmentalization. The new interventions for improving integrated water management in the two subprojects include (i) resectioning 35 kilometers (km) existing embankment, (ii) constructing 23 km new and 3.5 km retired embankments, (iii) constructing 2.15 km revetment at two locations, (iv) excavating 5 km new drainage channels, (v) reexcavating 419 km existing channels, (vi) rehabilitating 12 existing regulators, (vii) constructing 21 external regulators, (viii) constructing 16 water retention structures, (ix) constructing 13 check structures and 16 inlet/outlets, and (x) constructing one navigation lock. The Project will make eight compartments in CBSP and six in NSP including water control structures.

2. Two resettlement plans (RPs), one for each subproject, have been prepared to assist the households to be displaced or affected. The Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) will be the Executing Agency (EA) of the Project.

B. Scope of Land Acquisition and Resettlement

3. The two subprojects will involve acquisition of 56.326 ha: 13.376 ha in CBSP and 42.950 ha in NSP. About 1.863 ha of underwater land, presumably khas, will be required for bank protection work in the CBSP. Acquisition of eroded land (i.e., underwater) will not lead to any displacement; however, owners of the land will be compensated as per the entitlement matrix adopted by the Project, which is based on both Government laws and ADB policy on involuntary resettlement. The char land, if eroded due to bank stabilization in the proposed area within 2 years of project completion, will also be compensated.

4. Land acquisition will result in dismantling of 128,548 square feet (ft2) physical structures, mostly non-concrete (89%)–34,492 ft2 in CBSP and 94,056 ft2 in NSP–and felling 29,712 trees of various species and sizes–2,160 in CBSP and 27,552 in NSP.

5. BWDB will prepare land acquisition proposals and submit them to the Land Acquisition section of the deputy commissioner's (DC’s) Office, Narail. It would take the DC over 1 year to process land acquisition. BWDB will ensure that eligible persons receive due compensation before their land is taken over for civil construction.

C. Socioeconomic Information

6. The two subprojects will affect 304 households’ dwellings and other establishments and displace 737 persons in 149 households: 237 persons in 49 households in CBSP and 500 persons in 100 households in NSP (Table A4.1). The interventions will also displace 57 shops and remove 12 shrimp ghers, 14 ponds, and 23 betel leaf farms. An additional 74 households

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(54 in NSP and 20 in CBSP) will be affected by loss of productive and livelihood resources (Table A4.2). Women head about 3%of the households. There are 96 occupied and sheltered units and 9 tenants. Hindus are dominant in NSP (82%) while all the affected persons (APs) in CBSP are Muslims. The Project will not affect any indigenous people or ethnic minorities.

Table A4.1 Project Impacts and Displacements Project-Affected Physical Units

Attached Population Units to be displaced

Population to be displaced Impact

Category Total Units

Attached House-holds

Male Female Total

No. Attached

households Male Female Total Chenchuri Beel Subproject Households 49 49 131 106 237 49 49 131 106 237 SBEs 27 20 82 67 149 27 20 0 0 0 CRPs 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 Ponds 2 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 Subtotal 79 69 213 173 386 79 69 131 106 237 Narail Subproject Households 164 164 430 385 815 100 100 266 234 500 SBEs 35 34 111 77 188 30 29 0 0 0 CRPs 13 0 0 0 0 11 0 0 0 0 Ponds 12 8 17 15 32 8 5 0 0 0 Shrimp ghers 12 9 25 26 51 8 6 0 0 0 Betel leaf farms 23 20 65 62 127 16 14 0 0 0

Tombs 3 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 Subtotal 262 235 648 565 1,213 176 154 266 234 500 Total 341 304 861 738 1,599 255 223 397 340 737 SBE = small business enterprise, CRP = common property resources. Source: Socioeconomic Survey, August 2004.

Table A4.2: People Experiencing Major Impacts

Households To Be Displaced

Households Losing Non-agri Productive

Sources

Households Losing More than 10% of Their Income from

Agriculture Total PEMI Sub-

project

No. Population No. Population No. Population No. Population

CBSP 49 237 20 149 52 341 121 727

NSP 100 500 54 425 27 210 181 1,135 Total 149 737 74 574 79 551 302 1,862 CBSP = Chenchuri Beel Subproject, NSP = Narail Subproject, PEMI = people experiencing major impacts. Source: Socioeconomic Survey August 2004.

7. Agriculture is the dominant occupation of the affected population in the subproject areas. Services are a major source of income Chanderchar and Noagram areas under CBSP. The working population constitutes about 60% in CBSP and 58% in NSP. About 44% of the working population are housewives who are not considered as income earners. However, only 19 women (only 1 in CBSP) are found to have some recognized paid employment.

Appendix 4 28

8. According to the total stated income, 46% of the households have income below the absolute poverty line.1 About 30% of the households are living below the hard-core poverty line. Acquisition of agricultural land will affect 1,782 people in 243 households including 20 tenant contract farmers (9 in CBSP and 11 in NSP). Households losing more than 10% of their agricultural income constitutes about 35% of the total affected households (52 households in CBSP and 27 households in NSP).

9. Households stand to lose (i) homestead land, (ii) residential/commercial/ community structures and trees, (iii) income/workdays due to dislocation and relocation of vulnerable households, (iv) underwater land, (v) agricultural land, (vi) ponds (cultivated) and shrimp ghers, and (vi) betel leaf farms. In few cases, the households and other physical structures including ponds and shrimp ghers will be insignificantly affected and will simply be shrunk.

D. Objectives, Policy Framework, and Entitlements

10. Two major legislations are applicable in acquiring land for the Project: (i) Acquisition and Requisition of Immovable Property Ordinance (1982), and (ii) East Bengal State Acquisition and Tenancy Act (1951, revised 1994). The first governs all cases of acquisition and requisition by the government of immovable property for any public purpose or in the public interest. The affected owners are eligible for compensation for (i) land and assets permanently acquired (including standing crops, trees, houses); and (ii) any other damage caused by such acquisition. The Tenancy Act (Section 7) defines the ownership and use rights of alluvial (nadi sikosti) and diluvial land (payosti, reformation in situ or original site) in the country.

11. Legally, the Government owns the bank lines and eroded land in the river. The bank line is considered the slope of the floodplain, affected by erosion. The deputy commissioner’s (DC) office draws alluvial and dilluvial line (AD line) annually to demarcate the bank line so as to establish khas (or government) rights over land eroded into the river.

12. The affected households and informal settlers will be entitled to a combination of resettlement benefits and income restoration assistance, depending on the nature of ownership rights of lost assets and scope of the impact, including social and economic vulnerability of the affected persons (Table A4.3). In general terms, those affected by land acquisition will be entitled to (i) compensation for loss of land/fishponds, crops/trees; (ii) compensation for structures (residential/commercial) and other immovable assets at replacement cost; (iii) shifting/relocation assistance; (iv) house construction grant; (iv) assistance for loss of income/work days; and (v) compensation for Project-induced erosion of char land.

Table A4.3: Compensation Entitlement Matrix

Type of Loss Application Definition of Affected Persons

Entitlement

1. Loss of land (agricultural, commercial, homestead, pond, ghers, betel leaf farms)

Land on the project ROW to be acquired by DC

Legal owner(s) of land recognized by DCs

a. CCL determined by DC in respective districts including 50% premium

b. Additional grant to ensure replacement market value to be determined by PVAT after CCL and 50% premium if lower

c. Refund of registration cost incurred for purchase of replacement at the replacement market value.

1 The official poverty line is calculated for 2,122 kilo calorie intake per person per day, which is ensured by a per

capita monthly income of Tk720.

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29

Type of Loss Application Definition of Affected Persons

Entitlement

2. Loss of underwater land

Land on the project ROW within the river after AD line if acquired

Legal owner(s) of land (DC) , and the previous private owner(s) of land below the AD line

a. Same as loss 1 if DC cannot declare the land khas b. In case of khas land, CCL to respective DCs without 50%

premium c. Replacement value of eroded khas land assessed by PVAT, to

the previous owner(s) whose land was eroded d. Refund of registration cost incurred by the previous owners of

khas land for purchases of replacement land at the replacement value

3. Loss of residential/ commercial structure

Structure on the ROW identified by DC and the SES

Legal owner(s) of structures and owners non-titled to land including occupiers /encroachers /sheltered/ squatters identified by the SES for each household/ shop

a. CCL to be determined by DC including 50% premium to legal owners

b. Additional grant to ensure replacement market value of structure to be determined by PVAT to titled and nontitled owners after CCL and 50% premium if lower than replacement market value

c. Transfer grant equivalent to 12.5% of the value of nonconcrete structure assessed by PVAT to titled and nontitled owners

d. Transfer grant equivalent to 5% of the value of concrete structure (pucca/semi-pucca) assessed by PVAT to titled and non-titled owners.

e. Reconstruction grant equivalent to 12.5% of the value of nonconcrete structure assessed by PVAT for titled owners

f. Homestead development and reconstruction grant of Tk15,000 to nontitled owners (squatters, occupiers/encroachers, sheltered, etc.)

g. Salvaged materials free of cost. 4. Loss of nonstructure assets (baroj, shrimp gher and ponds)

Concerned structures on the ROW identified by DC or SES

Legal owner(s) of structures/land and nontitled owner(s) including leaseholders

a. Cash grant equivalent to one year's net income from the structure to be determined by PVAT to the cultivator(s)

b. Cash grant equivalent to one year's rental income to the owners of associated land /structure assessed by PVAT.

5. Loss of trees, crops, perennials

Standing crops, trees on the ROW to be removed for the project

Legal owner(s) of land

a. Compensation at the rate determined by respective DCs based on price data from the FD for trees and the DAE for crops

b. Free saplings to the relocated households c. Salvaged materials free of cost.

6. Loss of access to agricultural, commercial, and homestead land

Agricultural, residential, and commercial plots on the project ROW

Legal tenants of land identified by DCs and nontitled tenants (renters, leaseholders, sharecroppers) identified by SES

a. Crop compensation to titled sharecroppers or lesees by DC b. Cash grant of Tk300 per decimal of land sharecropped by

nontitled sharecroppers c. Cash grant for alternative housing to renters of residential and

commercial land (lump sum) Tk 6000 d. Cash grant of Tk500 per decimal to renters/lease holders of

land for pond/gher/betel leaf farms. 7. Loss of income and work days due to dislocation

Households (both titled and non-titled) and employees in SBEs on right of way

Head of poor households / owners of shops and employees identified by the SES

a. Cash grant of Tk5,000 per household as subsistence for lost income/workdays

b. Cash grant of Tk6,000 for loss of business income by affected traders/shops

c. Cash grant equivalent to Tk3,000 to owners of rented land/premises

d. Cash grant of Tk3,000 to affected employees equivalent to 2 months' wages.

Appendix 4 30

Type of Loss Application Definition of Affected Persons

Entitlement

8. Affected vulnerable households

Vulnerable households on the ROW (both titled and non-titled)

Vulnerable households identified by SES (household headed by women, hard core poor, and poor households losing more than 10% of their income)

a. Additional cash grant of Tk5,000 to head of affected households b. Training and credit facilities under income generation program c. Employment in project construction work, if available.

9. Displaced community structure

Community structure on the project ROW

Community representative identified by concerned DC and/or SES

a. CCL to be determined by DC and 50% premium b. Additional grant to ensure replacement market value of

structure to be determined by PVAT after CCL and 50% premium if lower than the replacement market value

c. Transfer grant equivalent to 5% of the assessed value of structure by PVAT

d. Dismantling and reconstruction cash assistance as assessed by PVAT, considering the CCL for concerned land and structure.

10. Access to community/ civic facilities at relocated sites

All households on the ROW if they relocate in group

Households identified by SES/joint verification

a. Community infrastructure facilities, access roads, plantation, tubewells, sanitary latrines and drainage.

11. Project -induced erosion of accreted land

Char land if it erodes due to the project within 2 years of completion

Owners/ occupiers of eroded char land

a. Market value of concerned land assessed by PVAT to the owner-occupied land by 100 % or

b. Share it 50–50 among owners and occupiers for non-owner occupied land.

AD line = alluvial and dilluvial line, CCL = cash compensation under law, DAE = Department of Agriculture Extension, DC = deputy commissioner, FD = Forestry Department, PVAT = property valuation assessment team, ROW = right of way, SBE = small business enterprise, SES = socioeconomic survey. Source: Bangladesh Water Development Board. 2005. Resettlement Plan of the CBSP and NSP. Dhaka.

13. Based on stakeholders' consultation i.e., participatory rapid appraisal and focus group discussions (FGD) and identified losses and impacts through the socioeconomic survey, appropriate mitigating measures and compensation packages have been devised. The Project will encourage self-relocation by affected households selecting replacement homestead land in the vicinity of their own. Additional measures will be taken to appropriately support livelihood restoration for the project-affected people.

E. Stakeholders Participation and Disclosure of RPs

14. During the project preparatory stage, BWDB with the assistance of the project preparatory technical assistance (PPTA) consultants undertook information sharing, consultation with affected persons (APs), participatory appraisal, and FGDs, presenting a local language brochure following the entitlement matrix shown in Table A4.3. Based on this, appropriate mitigation measures and compensation package have been devised. The RPs as prepared will be refined further at the time of detailed design, submitted to ADB for approval, with full disclosure to APs and on ADB website. During the subproject implementation stage, the nongovernment organization (NGO) implementing the RPs will make public the procedure and jurisdiction of the grievance redress committee (GRC) through individual contact, village consultation meetings, and distribution of booklets. Through public consultations, the APs will be informed that they have a right to grievance redress from BWDB.

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31

F. Grievance Redress Mechanisms

15. The GRCs will be activated, with power to resolve resettlement and compensation issues not addressed in legal suits in the courts. The GRCs will receive grievance cases from the APs through the implementing NGO. The NGO will assist the APs in lodging their resettlement complaints in a proper format acceptable to the GRCs after they get identification cards from the subproject management office or are informed about their entitlements and losses. The GRC will settle the disputes within 15 days of receiving the complaints from the APs.

G. Institutional Framework and Budget

16. The Ministry of Water Resources (MOWR) through BWDB (the EA) will be responsible for implementing the RP. The project director will monitor RP implementation through the chief resettlement officer (CRO) appointed at the project management office. The executive engineer or a senior subdivisional engineer at each subproject management office (SMO) will act as the resettlement coordinator and implement the RPs through the implementing NGO. Implementation of the RPs will be completed within 3 years from mid-2006.

17. A joint verification team (JVT), property valuation advisory team (PVAT), and GRC will be formed by MOWR through a gazette notification with clear indication of their scope and responsibilities. The JVT and PVAT will be constituted with the resettlement coordinator as chair, a representative of the implementing NGO as member secretary, and a representative of the DC as member. The GRC will be constituted with the EA, the implementing NGO, and representatives of local government institution, and APs. In addition, the implementing NGO will form a resettlement advisory committee to involve the local communities and APs in the implementation.

18. The budget includes all costs for acquisition of land and assets and cost associated with involuntary resettlement. The total estimated cost is Tk130.2 million: Tk29.4 million ($0.49 million) in CBSP and Tk100.8 million ($1.68 million) in NSP. The budget is provisional, subject to final design and assessment of prices at the implementation level. The entire budget for land acquisition and resettlement will be provided from the Government fund while that of implementation, EA capacity building, and rehabilitation and training to the APs will be provided from ADB.

H. Monitoring and Evaluation

19. Land acquisition and resettlement implementation will be supervised and monitored by the project director in coordination with the CRO, BWDB field staff, supervision consultants, and the resettlement-implementing NGO. RP implementation monitoring will be done both internally and externally involving stakeholders including an independent monitoring consultant to provide feedback to BWDB and to assess effectiveness. Postevaluation of resettlement activities will be carried out by ADB to assess the impact and sustainability of the resettlement program.

Appendix 5

32

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

1. The environmental management plan (EMP) outlines the environmental management system that will be implemented during the detailed design and implementation of the Project to minimize deleterious effects. The EMP also covers environmental management issues following the implementation of the water management infrastructure to maximize the beneficial effects of the project, and detect and ameliorate adverse long-term effects. The EMP is based on the anticipated environmental impacts and mitigation measures identified in the environmental impact assessment (EIA), and would be further developed and updated when the individual programs (with appropriate geographical boundary setting and scoping) are finalized, including water management association (WMA) institutional development, structure design and implementation, and other support programs such as agriculture and fishery development. Individual programs will stipulate environmental action plans (EAPs).

A. Summary of Potential Impacts

2. The major adverse environmental and social impacts to be mitigated are resettlement, due to land requirements for constructing new embankments and excavation of new khals, and the expected decline in capture fisheries. In addition, a range of adverse impacts during construction has to be avoided and mitigated. Table A5.1 gives an overview of the adverse impacts identified.

Table A5.1: Impact Evaluation Matrix Showing the Project Impact on Important Environmental Components

Design Phase Implementation O&M Important Environmental Components Chench.

Beel Narail Chench.

Beel Narail Chench.

Beel Narail

Air 0 0 –1 –1 0 0 Soils 0 0 –1 –1 0 0 Physiography 0 0 0 0 0 0 River hydraulics 0 0 –2 –2 0 0 Flooding 0 0 0 0 +6 +6 Drainage 0 0 0 0 +8 +8 Irrigation 0 0 –2 –1 +8 +8 Erosion & siltation 0 0 –1 –1 +2 +2 Open water areas, wetlands

0 0 –1 –1 –1 –1

Groundwater 0 0 0 0 0 0

Physical Environment

Water Pollution 0 0 –2 –2 0 0 Aquatic Ecosystem 0 0 –1 –1 0 0 Terrestrial Ecosystem –1 –1 –1 –1 0 0

Biological Environment

Endangered Species 0 0 –1 1 0 0 Industry 0 0 –1 –1 +4 +4 Infrastructure Facilities 0 0 –1 –1 +5 +5

Human and Economic Development Navigation 0 0 –2 –2 0 0

Road transport 0 0 –1 –1 +5 +5 Land use –2 –2 –2 –2 –2 –2 Power 0 0 0 0 0 0 Agricultural land –1 –1 –-1 –1 –1 –1 Agricultural productivity –1 –1 –1 –1 +7 +7 Culture fisheries 0 0 0 0 +4 +4

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33

Design Phase Implementation O&M Important Environmental Components Chench.

Beel Narail Chench.

Beel Narail Chench.

Beel Narail

Capture fisheries 0 0 –1 –1 –3 –3 Water management 0 0 –1 –1 +7 +8

Water supply/ sanitation

0 0 0 0 +7 +7

Equity 0 0 +1 +1 +2 +2 Migration 0 0 +3 +3 +7 +7 Status of women 0 0 +1 +1 +2 +2 Employment and economic activities

0 0 +5 +5 +6 +6

Poverty 0 0 +1 +1 +3 +3 Health 0 0 0 0 +7 +7

Quality of Life Values

Education 0 0 0 0 +2 +2 Note: The Impact has been scored on a scale of 1 to 10. No impact is “0”, negative impacts are –1 to –10, and positive

impacts are +1 to +10. Source: Halcrow Group Ltd. 2004. Environmental Impact Assessment of the Bangladesh Southwest Area Integrated Water

Resources Planning and Management Project. United Kingdom. B. Planned Mitigation Measures

3. The measures identified to mitigate the potential impacts are described in detail in Section V of the main paper. A summary matrix of the potential impacts and their planned mitigation during planning and design, implementation, and operation and maintenance (O&M) is given in Appendix 7. The table should be considered as an integral part of the presentation of the EMP, however, its format makes its separate presentation practical.

4. Mitigating measures during planning and design take into consideration environmental requirements to minimize land acquisition, and disturbance to people, infrastructure, facilities and services. Additional measures are the planned provision of means for rehabilitation, compensation, and enhancement into the design and incorporation of all relevant environmental protection requirements in the tender and other program documents, risk and hazard assessment, and permit and approval. The contractors and program providers will describe the implementation of the required environmental mitigating measures in the form of an EAP to be approved by the project management office (PMO). During this stage, the project needs to establish effective salinity monitoring and information sharing.

5. Mitigating measures for the construction phase include renting land for the contractor's temporary office; parking area for equipment and working sites; compensation, resettlement, and rehabilitation for affected people before their land is acquired for construction; site preparation; work area establishment; drainage; saving topsoil for reuse; waste and spoil management; job opportunities for local people; worker health and safety; provision of safe drinking water, health care, emergency facilities, and first-aid services; monitoring and control of air, water, and land pollution; survey of construction activities, and loss and degradation of the terrestrial and aquatic environments; subsequent demolition of facilities not required for further construction and restoration of rented land; replacing the topsoil; turfing and planting.

6. Mitigating measures for the follow-on development services—agriculture, fishery, and livelihood enhancement—include training on integrated pest management, soil testing, soil nutrient management, and fish-friendly operation of regulators; provision of culture fish opportunities behind the water retention facilities; fishery extension for environment-friendly

Appendix 5 34

practices; support for stocking of natural water bodies; and regular monitoring of groundwater and surface water availability and quality. Pilot arsenic mitigating services will require careful selection of sites for DTW to ensure the existence of separation layers between shallow and deep aquifers; construction of quality control to avoid drawdown of contaminated water into deep aquifers through boreholes; and regular monitoring and management of water quality.

7. The O&M phase involves continued monitoring of river water salinity level and information networking during the dry season, monitoring and support for effective O&M of water management facilities, and monitoring of other environmental indicators including the quality of water supplied under the arsenic-mitigating component.

C. Planned Environmental Monitoring

8. The Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) will build on its existing staff when establishing the project management office (PMO). The staff positions in charge of environmental management and resettlement in the Monitoring & Evaluation Division (MED) will be filled by hiring staff with the necessary qualifications. The staff assigned for environmental management will be responsible for monitoring the environmental aspects of the Project and the subsequent reporting, and will be assisted by the PMO during construction. At each subproject field level, BWDB will establish subproject management office (SMO) for day-to-day implementation. A subdivisional engineer will be assigned as environmental officer to manage the concerned environmental activities with the assistance of the consultant and MED staff. Pilot arsenic mitigation works will be implemented by Department of Public Health Engineering (DPHE) through its subdistrict office, in which a sibdivisional engineer will be assigned to manage the concerned monitoring and mitigation activities.

9. PMO/MED will regularly monitor the site and environs during the construction period, through the assigned SMO staff. There will be both prearranged and unscheduled audits and spot checks. PMO/MED staff will also conduct postconstruction evaluation, to assess the effectiveness of mitigating measures and the overall effect of the Project on the environment.

10. Groundwater levels and quality at selected sites will be monitored to establish an updated baseline sufficient to assess the potential for groundwater pollution due to construction activities and design of pollution-avoiding procedures. Drainage from construction sites will be controlled to avoid environmental deterioration. Agricultural land and crops will be observed for damage and loss due to Project-associated activities. Areas where topsoil should be removed, stored and reinstated after construction works will be identified. Ambient air quality will be monitored. With dust loads in the air and on vegetation, dust control measures including grass-turfing and regular watering will be carried out. Noise pollution will be mitigated by checking the timing of noisy operations. Waste collection methods, waste dumps and associated risks will be inspected. There will be periodic checks of health and safety measures for workers and other project personnel, and first-aid medical service will be provided. Impact on fisheries and catches from construction sites and from similar, undisturbed areas, and potential adverse effects on wildlife will be monitored.

11. A detailed monitoring program with respect to sites and positions, frequencies, parameters, etc. will be prepared during project design, as the details will depend on the final design of each intervention. Table A5.2 gives an overview of the monitoring requirements.

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35

Table A5.2: Summary of Environmental Monitoring Requirements Phase Mitigation

Measure Parameters to Be Monitored

Location Measurements Frequency Responsibility

Careful planning and design

Embankment alignments, fish-friendly structures, etc.

Subprojects Audit of plans and designs

Monthly during planning and design

PMO/Consultant

Resettlement People's satisfaction

Subprojects Consultations and surveys

Ongoing during implementation

PMO/RAC

Pre-construction

Water resources assessment

Groundwater quality/quantity

Project area Drilling/sampling/survey/testing

As per detailed assessment plan

PMO/consultant

Construction Phase

EAP/ compensation

Parameters in compliance with EAP People's satisfaction

Construction sites and immediate surroundings

Water quality testing, etc. Consultations and surveys

Once per month per construction site Ongoing during construction

MED/consultant PMO/WMA

Community-based fisheries development

Capture fish production Fish biodiversity

Subprojects Fish landings Fish species catch

Seasonal MED/DOF

Afforestation and plantation

Forestry and plant cover

Subproject embankment

Forest and plant density and coverage

Yearly MED/MOEF

Integrated pest control and optimal use of fertilizers

Pesticide and fertilizer concentrations

Selected water bodies

Water quality sampling and testing

Seasonal MED/consultant

Operation and Maintenance

Groundwater monitoring

Groundwater level and quality

Subproject Water quality sampling and testing

Seasonal MED/consultant

EAP = environmental action plan, DOF = Department of Fisheries, MED = monitoring and evaluation division, MOEF = Ministry of Environment and Forest, PMO = project management office, RAC = resettlement advisory committee Source: Halcrow Group Ltd. 2004. Environmental Impact Assessment of the Bangladesh Southwest Area Integrated Water Resources Planning and Management Project. United Kingdom.

D. Planned Public Consultation and Implementation Process

12. It is envisaged that each flood control and drainage irrigation (FCD/I) system area will be divided into individual subunits controlled by corresponding infrastructure, and will be managed by beneficiaries: WMAs for subordinate infrastructure (having a command area of 2,500 ha), and joint WMAs and subproject management office (SMO) through a joint management committee (JMC) for other main infrastructure. In the case of the CBSP and NSP systems, these subunits have already been defined, based on their internal hydrology. Internal works have been identified and outlined on the basis of participatory rapid rural appraisal (PRRAs) carried out during project preparation. Likewise, the need for agricultural, fisheries, and livelihood support has been identified. These culminated in integrated water management plans (IWMPs) for the two schemes.

13. Based on the feasibility-level IWMPs, the SMO will collaborate with the concerned WMAs and line departments and under the guidance of PMO to prepare subunit implementation plans (SIPs) and an associated subunit EMP that stipulates functioning of the mitigation, compensation, and enhancement measures within the subunits, with WMA feedback. The SMO will also work with the agricultural extension and fisheries services to define the extent, location,

Appendix 5 36

and scope of any of these interventions within their area. The SIP will ensure a transparent and results-oriented implementation of these schemes.

14. A nine-stage generic implementation procedure involving local stakeholders at each stage is described in paras. 15–26 below. For the EMP for the schemes in Narail and Chenchuri, the procedure will begin at the social mobilization stage since the schemes have already been identified during project preparation.

1. Stage 1: Scheme Identification

15. Based on the FCD/I scheme inventory, candidate schemes will be identified with initial participatory rapid rural appraisals (PRRAs) within the FCD/I scheme area, together with local line agency supplementary information. An outline inventory of needed works will be prepared, incorporating stakeholder interests. The physical extent of each scheme will be defined to estimate the beneficiaries within the scheme and to set the boundaries for implementing the EMP. For inclusion as candidate schemes, the net benefit area should not exceed 14,000 ha. Main works required should comprise rehabilitation and improvement, with no major new works. The scheme should not require technically complex analysis such as drainage improvement of outer river channels and erosion control for dynamic rivers.

2. Stage 2: Scheme Assessment

16. The assessment of each scheme will either confirm, or reject its suitability for inclusion and will provide necessary information to enable a subsequent prioritization of all included schemes. Additional, more targeted PRRAs, socioeconomic surveys, and environmental examinations will be required. Of particular importance will be the willingness and ability of the stakeholders to form WMAs and make commitments of participation in scheme implementation and O&M. Other criteria follow: (i) infrastructure cost should not exceed $400/ha with a pre-feasibility economic internal rate of return (EIRR) of more than 15%, (ii) poverty head count ratio in the scheme area is above the national average, (iii) there will be no major social or environmental impacts, and (iv) there will be no major social and land-related issues. This activity will yield a finalized shortlist of schemes with identified local environmental issues.

3. Stage 3: Prioritization and IWMP Preparation

17. Using the results of the surveys and investigations carried out in stage 2, the schemes will be prioritized for feasibility assessment and IWMP preparation. The criteria for prioritization will be kept simple and be based on the following:

(i) Beneficiaries of the proposed scheme show willingness and basic ability to form WMAsaccording to the needs.

(ii) Beneficiaries will contribute to the cost of the capital works according to an agreed-upon percentage (presently, the Local Government Engineering Department [LGED]-executed works under the Small-Scale Water Resources Development Sector Project require the beneficiaries to deposit funds equivalent to 3% of the cost of the earthworks and 1.5% of the cost of the structures).

(iii) Priority will be given to schemes that can be implemented relatively quickly with limited physical infrastructure requirements.

(iv) Priority will be given to areas where significant levels of poverty are evident and where opportunities exist for targeted pro-poor interventions under the project.

Appendix 5

37

(v) Priority will be given to schemes with a high potential for implementation of pro-poor fisheries support initiatives, subject to stakeholder willingness to comply with appropriate cost-sharing and/or O&M commitments.

(vi) Sufficient evidence is available that the scheme will be economically viable and produce a high EIRR exceeding 15%.

18. Considering ranking and manageability of the number of schemes in each SMO, the PMO and the consultants in collaboration with the SMO will prepare feasibility studies and IWMP following the outputs of project preparatory technical assistance (PPTA). An ad-hoc JMC will also be formed with the participation of the SMO, line agencies, and union representatives to overview the process. The specific activities will include (i) collection of data on physical, socioeconomic, and institutional setting; (ii) analysis of agriculture, fisheries, infrastructure, and water problems; (iii) participatory rural appraisal; (iv) identification of investment requirements; and (v) preparation of IWMP for the concerned scheme. At the same time, a feasibility study of the identified scheme will be undertaken, along with the assessment of safeguard issues including environmental assessments, resettlement plan, and social development plan. The IWMP and feasibility study report should be endorsed by ad hoc JMC, technical evaluation subcommittee of the central steering committee, and then by the Asian Development Bank (ADB). These activities are undertaken for all identified subprojects at one time during the first 2 years of the project implementation period.

19. For environmental assessment, a set of initial environmental examinations (IEEs) will be prepared for the selected schemes by PMO/MED with the assistance of the consultants and in consultation with the Department of Environment (DOE) following Government and ADB guidelines. IEEs will indicate if the individual scheme needs a full environmental impact assessment (EIA). Full EIAs for the concerned schemes will be prepared by PMO/MED with the assistance of consultants for subsequent approval by DOE and ADB.

4. Stage 4: Social Mobilization 20. The aim of social mobilization is to establish appropriate WMAs within the scheme area. These groups will be formed from local beneficiaries with a wide but representative range of social and economic classes. Women will be especially encouraged to participate directly in these groups and a prerequisite will be that one-third of the members will be female. Strengthening the WMAs to enable them to carry out water management functions in an environmentally sustainable way will be the responsibility of SMO community organizers under the support of MED staff, the consultants, and local NGOs to be engaged for this purpose.

5. Stage 5: Planning and Design

21. Parallel to stage 4 activities, SIPs will be prepared for the concerned subunits by SMO (or LGED in the case of independent subunits less than 1,000 ha) with the WMAs and the consultants, and will closely involve the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) and Department of Fisheries (DOF) in defining supplementary service delivery of these functions. The SIP will define the extent of the physical works to be executed and will include the scope, nature, targets, and expected outputs of the agriculture, fisheries, and livelihood support components linked to the physical works. The service delivery implementation plan will be used by the WMA to monitor the progress of the nonstructural components of the plan during project implementation. It will also include O&M plan for the concerned infrastructure.

Appendix 5 38

22. After WMA and PMO approves the SIP, PMO will undertake detailed design, which will be subject to technical approval by the Design Office of BWDB (or LGED, as appropriate) and endorsement of the WMA. Based on the detailed design, the EIA and EMP (for the concerned subunits) will be updated and finalized.

6. Stage 6: Implementation

23. The infrastructure components of the schemes will be constructed after a suitable tender process, and SMO (or LGED for independent subunits less than 1,000 ha) will be responsible for their supervision and quality control. The consultants will support the PMO to undertake monitoring and auditing. The WMAs will observe the construction works and will report to BWDB/MED shortcomings on environmental and other issues so that action can be taken. The WMAs will work with DAE and DOF in following the SIP for these support components.

7. Stage 7: Management Plan

24. For infrastructure with a command area of less than 2,500 ha, a management plan will be drawn up between the WMAs and BWDB (or LGED, as appropriate) which will set out the modalities for operation of the infrastructure and delivery of agricultural, fisheries, and livelihood support components. The EMP will form part of the overall management plan. The same will apply to infrastructure whose command area is greater than 2,500 ha, but for them the responsibility will lie with the JMC. The management plans will be based on the original plan drawn up in stage 5. Clearly defined rules and responsibilities will be established with transparent environmental indicators. Future environmental monitoring will be included in the plan, with responsibilities of the various stakeholders clearly set out.

8. Stage 8: Operation and Maintenance

25. The scheme will be operated, as per the management plan including the EMP devised in stage 7 annually. To whatever extent is meaningful, such plans will reflect the longer requirements that infrastructure covering less than 5,000 ha will eventually be operated and maintained by local government institutions (LGIs) and/or community groups. An annual inventory of necessary maintenance and support service delivery will be made.

9. Stage 9: Ex-Post Monitoring

26. Scheme impacts in terms of the sustainability of the infrastructure, socioeconomy of the users, and any active or passive environmental impacts will be monitored over the long term and the resulting data fed into national monitoring services. Responsibility for monitoring will rest with the concerned SMO, department of cooperatives, and the members of the WMAs.

E. Responsibilities and Authorities for Implementation of Mitigation Measures and Monitoring Requirements

27. Parties to be involved in environmental management for the Project include the following:

(i) Ministry of Water Resources (MOWR) (ii) Ministry of Environment and Forestry (MOEF) (iii) Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) (iv) Joint Management Committee (JMC)

Appendix 5

39

(v) Line agencies (Department of Environment, Department of Public Health Engineering [DPHE], Department of Agricultural Extension [DAE], Department of Fisheries [DOF])

(vi) Project management office (PMO) (vii) Monitoring and Evaluation Division (MED) of PMO (viii) Subproject management office (SMO) (ix) Institutional strengthening and project management consultants (x) Other service providers including NGOs (xi) Construction contractors (xii) Local government institutions (xiii) WMAs and other stakeholders organizations

28. The primary responsibility for environmental management lies with BWDB. However, the parties involved have important roles and responsibilities in efficiently implementing the EMP to avoid, minimize, and mitigate adverse impacts and effectuate planned enhancements. The main roles of the different parties are summarized in Table A5.3, and the overall institutional framework is presented as Appendix 6 and should be considered as an integral part of the EMP.

Table A5.3: Institutional Responsibilities for Environment Management Project Stage Responsible Organization Responsibilities

DOE/ DOE Khulna Division Review subproject EIA and give environmental clearance for the subproject; review environmental monitoring report; monitor and supervise compliance with legal requirements during subproject implementation and O&M stages.

BWDB planning and O&M departments (coordinated by PCO)

Guidance in environmental planning (Planning Dept), mitigation, and monitoring and management of monitoring and evaluation data (O&M Dept.).

Project consultants Support development of the capacity for environmental management in BWDB, line departments, and WMAs; Monitor, guide, and auditing environmental management activities by SMOs (including on-the-job training for MED).

Overall

PMO (in particular MED) Overall review, monitor, and report to PCU including quarterly reports; monitor, guide, and audit of environmental management activities arranged or implemented by SMOs.

PMO/SMO -- consultants Minimize nonavoidable losses in consultation with diverse stakeholders, and prepare EAP by specifying mitigation and enhancement measures for engineering design, bid and contract documents, nonstructure program plans, and periodic implementation plans.

PMO – consultants Review and approve environmental mitigating measures reflected as EAP and attached to documents mentioned above.

SMO – consultants/NGOs Strengthen WMAs and JMCs including capacities for monitoring (undertaken during program implementation stage as well); ensure coordination/resolution of conflicting interests.

Participatory design

SMO/NGOs – consultants Prepare and implement resettlement plans. Contractors (structure works) LCS/NGO (earth works)

Implement required environmental measures as reflected in EAP and attached to the contract documents

Providers of agriculture and fishery extension, livelihood enhancement, and pilot arsenic mitigation works

Implement required environmental measures as reflected in EAP and attached to the program documents.

SMO/MED – consultants Supervise contractors’ and service providers’ implementation of EAP, and enforce contractual and program requirements. Monitor and report environmental indicators.

Project implementation

MED/consultants Audit EAP activities; Submit quarterly/annual reports. Operation BWDB Provide budget to undertake environmental monitoring. SMO/JMC – MED Carry out environmental monitoring and reporting.

Appendix 5 40

Project Stage Responsible Organization Responsibilities WMAs – SMO/MED Carry out environmental monitoring of designated water

management infrastructure. PMO (in coordination with

relevant BWDB field offices) Strengthen hydrological monitoring system and operate networking of salinity data to local government and WMA representatives in salinity-prone zones.

BWDB = Bangladesh Water Development Board, DOE = Department of Environment, EAP = environmental action plan, EIA = environmental impact assessment, JMC = joint management committee, LCS = labor contracting society, MED = monitoring and evaluation division, NGO = nongovernment organization, O&M = operation and maintenance, PCO = project coordination office, PMO = project management office, SMO = subproject management office, WMA = water management association. Source: Halcrow Group Ltd. 2004. Environmental Impact Assessment of the Bangladesh Southwest Area Integrated Water Resources Planning and Management Project. United Kingdom. F. Records, Audits, and Corrective Actions

29. MED in the PMO, with the assistance of consultants, will collect all records pertaining to project environmental management from contractors, service providers, line departments, and WMAs through SMOs in terms of mitigating measures, corrective actions, and monitoring during planning and design, construction, and follow-on support phases. The MED will be set up as a regular establishment by the end of the Project, and will continue to operate the function.

30. MED, with the assistance of consultants, will audit compliance of auditing environmental performance during the construction period. Besides, the PMO and funding agencies will audit works carried out by MED and the consultants. Quarterly and biannual audit reports will be prepared by the MED to be forwarded to the PMO for consideration. DOE will biannually review the audit reports and, if required, carry out visit sites and recommend remediation activities.

31. The PMO will prepare an environmental audit report every half year during the project implementation period. These project performance audit reports will include an assessment of the Project with respect to expected environmental impacts. The report will describe to what degree the subproject satisfies the environmental requirements, the efficiency of mitigation and enhancement measures, and how any unforeseen effects that occurred, were mitigated.

G. Procurement Plan for Environmental Management

32. The procurement and costs of equipment required to implement the mitigating and monitoring programs are included in the overall costing of environmental and social measures.

33. During detailed design the specific items and equipment needed for mitigation and monitoring will be specified in detail. They will include purchase of means of transport (cars, motorbikes, boats), sampling equipment, sample handling and storage equipment, photo and video recording equipment, in situ measurement equipment (noise, dust, water quality, etc.), computers, office facilities, etc. No ineligible items are foreseen to be procured.

34. Environment review of design should include the goods and services envisaged in the design, an assessment of their potential damage to the environment, and recommendations for substitution of goods and services where less damaging alternatives are identified.

I. Cost Estimates

35. See Appendix 8.

Appendix 6 41

ORGANIZATIONAL SETUP FOR IMPLEMENTING THE PROJECT AND ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN

Ministry of Water Resources

BWDBProject Coordination Office Project Coordinator Executive Engineer Accounts Officer, etc.

Project Management Office (BWDB Southwest Zonal Office) Project Director (Sr. SE) Deputy Chief Extension Officer EE (Planning Division) EE (Design Div.) EE (Implementation Div.) EE (M&E Division) DC (Agriculture) 2 AC (Fishery, Economics) 6 SDE, 3 AE Community Development Officer Accounts Officer, etc.

Subproject Management Office (BWDB Sub/Divisional Office)

Subproject Advisor (SE) Subproject Manager (EE) SDE, AE RO (Agriculture/ Fishery) Accountant, 3-4 SAE/SO Community organizer, etc. 6 NGO Facilitators

Local Government Division

WARPOCoordination Unit Headed by PSO

LGEDIWRM Unit Headed by SE

Project Steering Committee

Institutional Development and Project Management Consultants

Water Management Association

SP JMC (Each Subproject) Members: Federation, SP Manager, Line Dept sub-district heads, LGI, etc.

IWMP Working Group

Line Depts Dist OfficeDAE, DOC, DOF, DPHE, LGED

Line Depts Upazila Office DAE, DOC, DOF, DPHE, LGED

Private Design/ Survey Firms, NGOs

DPHEArsenic Unit Headed by SE

AC = assistant chief, AE = assistant engineer, BWDB = Bangladesh Water Development Board, DAE = Department of Agriculture Extension, DC = deputy chief, DOC = Department of Cooperatives, DOF = Department of Fishery, DPHE = Department of Public Health Engineering, EE = executive engineer, IWRM = integrated water resources management, IWMP = integrated water management plan, JMC = joint management committee, LGED = Local GovernmentEngineering Department, LGI = local government institution, M&E = monitoring and evaluation, NGO = nongovernment organization, PSO = principal scientific officer, SAE = sub-assistant engineer, SDE = subdivisional engineer, SE = superintending engineer, SO = section officer, SP = subproject, WARPO = Water Resources Planning Organization

42 Appendix 7

SUMMARY ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES (Chenchuri Beel and Narail Subprojects)

Possible Impact Mitigation during Planning and Design

Mitigation during Construction

Mitigation during Follow-on Development

Support

Mitigation during Operation and Maintenance

Mitigation Cost

($‘000) a. Air pollution - Incorporate people’s

suggestions - Spray water on dry

surfaces that create dust problems

- Regulate vehicle emission

- Create awareness on sources of air pollution like brickfields and pesticides sprays

- Monitor vehicle, ship, and brickfield emission

630

b. Soil quality degradation - Consider strategies to avoid soil quality degradation

- Remove topsoil during construction; turf and plant after civil works

- Offer training on soil and fertilizer management

- Use organic manures - Do occasional flushing

through regulators

- Monitor soil quality - Continue soil and

fertilizer management training by DAE

Included in (a)

c. Drainage and irrigation

- Establish salinity monitoring and information sharing system in the region

- Implement civil works during dry season with temporary irrigation water provision

- Training farmers on efficient water management

- Offer training on effective water abstraction with salinity monitoring

- Carry out operation of salinity monitoring and information networking system

334

d. River erosion and siltation

- Carefully align riverbank protection works

- Limit excavation and fill

- Monitor civil works for riverbank protection

- Manage worksite soil erosion

- Give training on bank protection and vegetation growing

- Monitor morphological changes

- Provide effective O&M for erosion/ siltation like clearing and excavating canals side and bed slope

Included in (c)

e. Degradation of open water areas and wetlands due to construction

- Survey and make appropriate design for construction works

- Observe effective disposal of construction materials and waste management and maintenance of open water bodies

- Give training on excavation and maintenance of khals and beels

- Monitor changes in wetland and open water areas

Included in (a)

f. Groundwater depletion and quality degradation

- Inventory groundwater use and depletion status

- Maintain quality control in installing deep tubewells as arsenic mitigating measures

- Give training on local coordination on groundwater exploitation

- Consider groundwater quantity and quality monitoring

- Monitor groundwater - Coordinate locally on

new groundwater exploitation

Included in (c)

g. Water pollution due to construction

- Avoid impediments to natural drainage and soil erosion

- Keep construction sites clean

- Give training on water pollution control

- Monitor water quality Included in (a)

Appendix 7 43

Possible Impact Mitigation during Planning and Design

Mitigation during Construction

Mitigation during Follow-on Development

Support

Mitigation during Operation and Maintenance

Mitigation Cost

($‘000) h. Water pollution due to

increased use of agrochemicals

- Suggest optimal application rate and IPM practice

- Practice IPM to reduce pesticides use

- Give training on judicious use of agrochemicals and implementation of IPM

- Monitor fertilizer and pesticides use

680

i. Aquatic ecosystem –restricted access or blockade of fish migration

- Carefully select site for control structures

- Design fish-friendly structures

- Conduct stakeholder consultation to reach agreement

- Carry out proper maintenance of watercourses at the construction site

- Mainten fish passes and regulators

- Give training on gate operational practices, and fishery management

- Give training on coordinated WMA management

- Provide culture fishery opportunities to fisherfolks

- Stock natural water bodies

- Monitor/audit effective WMA management including coordinated gate operation, fisheries management, habitat protection, etc.

638

j. Terrestrial ecosystem –disruption to flora and fauna

- Carefully align roads and embankments

- Select site carefully to avoid unnecessary disruption of existing vegetation

- Fence off work sites to protect flora/fauna outside

- Give Training on conservation of biodiversity, protection of wildlife and habitat restoration

- Plant trees after completion of construction works

- Conserve local biota

Included in (a)

k. Land acquisition and resettlement

- Minimize need for land acquisition

- Identify at-risk groups and incorporate their interests and protection

- Prepare and implement compensation package

- Ensure all compensation is provided prior to contract signing as per the resettlement plan

- Provide specific support services to ensure equal or higher level of income for affected persons

- Relocate displaced household to new sites

- Monitor periodically and provide necessary support services

2,172

l. Disruption of road traffic - Minimize need to affect existing roads

- Provide alternative access roads

- Practice caution in use of vehicles

- Practice motivational approach to people

- Monitor road traffic situation

Included in (a)

m. Boat transport – blockade of boat passage

- Conduct stakeholder consultation to reach agreement on site selection and gate operation

- Design navigation lock and boat pass

- Provide temporary boat pass

- Give training on gate operational practices

- Give training on coordinated facility management

- Provide livelihood enhancement support for boat operators

- Monitor/audit effective coordinated gate operation

276

44 Appendix 7

Possible Impact Mitigation during Planning and Design

Mitigation during Construction

Mitigation during Follow-on Development

Support

Mitigation during Operation and Maintenance

Mitigation Cost

($‘000) n. Disturbance to water

supply - Minimize impediments to

water supply - Establish adequate

alternative water supply - Give training on

maintenance of water treatment and supply facilities

- Monitor groundwater quantity and quality

- Observe proper maintenance

Included in (a)

o. Disruption of agricultural activities

- Minimize need for use of agricultural land during construction

- Minimize need to disrupt irrigation

- Reinstate land after construction

- Provide adequate land rent and compensation

- Restore irrigation facilities

- Provide compensation

- Provide agriculture development support services

- Provide agricultural extension training

- Monitor agricultural production

- Enhance/ remedy if required

Included in (a)

p. Disputes on water management practices

- Select appropriate sites with minimal conflicts

- Develop WMA with stakeholder representation

- Agree on operational practices of facilities

- Avoid disrupting irrigation channels and other water management facilities

- Provide compensation

- Give sufficient O&M training to implement agreed operational practices

- Monitor/audit effective coordinated facility operation

- Monitor irrigation efficiency

- Observe proper maintenance/ remediation

875

q. Transmission of diseases among workers

- Provide health inspection and vaccination

- Organize for proper collection of wastes

- Provide adequate sanitary facilities to personnel and workers

Included in (a)

r. Safety of workers - Adopt appropriate safety measures

- Provide first-aid services - Make workers aware of

risks and how to avoid them

Included in (a)

BWDB = Bangladesh Water Development Board, DAE = Department of Agricultural Extension, IPM = integrated pest management, O&M = operation and maintenance, WMA = water management association. Source: Halcrow Group Ltd. 2004. Environmental Impact Assessment of the Bangladesh Southwest Area Integrated Water Resources Planning and Management Project. United Kingdom.

Appendix 8

45

PROJECT INVESTMENT IN ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MEASURES (2004 PRICES)

Total Cost ($’000)

Quantifiable Items Chenchuri Beel

Subproject

Narail Subproject

Basis of Derivation

Social mobilization of water management associations

Social mobilization 384 491 Resettlement and social development

Resettlement and compensation during construction

494 1,678 Includes land acquisition, resettlement, rehabilitation, and training

Environmental mitigation components

Environmental costs - civil works contract 344 286 Assumed at 5% of capital works

costs Construction of boat passes 276 Full costs assumed as mitigation

measure Arsenic mitigation 1,000 Fisheries development 319 319 Estimated costs per subproject Agricultural support including integrated pest control and optimal fertilizer use

340 340 Estimated costs per subproject

Livelihood enhancement 274 274 Estimated costs per subproject Project management Monitoring and evaluation unit, environmental monitoring 146 188

Consultancy, local staff, and 20% of total project management operating costs

Benefit monitoring 43 56

Consultancy, local staff, and 20% of project management operating costs

Institutional strengthening and training

382 490

Assumed that 30% of institutional strengthening costs will directly or indirectly contribute to environmental and social improvement, equally among all subproject areas

Total 4,002 4,122

Source: Consultant's estimate.