WATER SECTOR DEVELOPMENT
AND INSTITUTIONAL IMPROVEMENTS PIU
Environmental Management Plan
Rehabilitation of Primary Canals of Artashat
Irrigation Scheme:
Mkhchyan Canal D/M 35+20-D/M 73+43 and
Dvin Canal D/M 7+69-D/M 38+08
30 September 2008
Revised – 9 August 2011
WSDII PIU
75/44 Baghramyan Street
Yerevan 033, Armenia
Tel +374 10 277943
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Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
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Contents
Glossary ii
Executive Summary 1
1 Introduction 4
2 Project Description 4
3 Description of Existing Conditions 6
4 Environmental and Social Impacts 9
5 Mitigation and Enhancement Measures 10
6 Institutional Responsibilities, Reporting and Budget 11
6.1 Institutional Responsibilities 11
6.2 Reporting Format and Schedule 12
6.3 Budget 12
7 Public Consultation 13
8 Environmentally Sound Clauses for Civil Works Contracts 15
9 Main Findings 15
Annexes 15
Annex A: Environmental Management Plan: Mitigation Measures 17
Annex B: Monitoring Plan 25
Annex C: Incident Report Form 27
Annex D: Check List of Potential Environmental and Social Impacts 28
Annex E: Environmental Clauses for Contracts 36
Annex F: Minutes of Public Consultation Meetings 42
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
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Glossary
AMD Armenian Dram
ARD Armenian Road Directorate
DM Distance Marker (or “Picket Number”)
EA Environmental Assessment
EIA Environmental Impact Assessment (equivalent to EA)
ESIA Environmental and Social Impact Assessment
EMP Environmental Management Plan
Environmental
Expertise
State Environmental Expertise NCO of the MNP
ESAOC Environmental and Social Assessment and Oversight Consultant
ESIO Environmental and Social Impact Office/Officer, MCA-Armenia
FSU Former Soviet Union
FS/FD Consultant Feasibility Study/Final Design Consultant
GIS Geographic Information System
GoA Government of Armenia
ICID International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage
ICOLD International Commission on Large Dams
Irrigation PIU Water Sector Development and Institutional Improvements PIU
MCC Millennium Challenge Corporation
MCA-Armenia Millennium Challenge Account - Armenia State NCO
MNP Ministry of Nature Protection of the Republic of Armenia
NGO Non-Governmental Organization
RAP Resettlement Action Plan
RA Republic of Armenia
RPF Resettlement Policy Framework
RRRP Rural Road Rehabilitation Project
SCWS State Committee on Water Systems
USD United States of America Dollars
WB World Bank
WSA Water Supply Agency
WUA Water User Association
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
1
Executive Summary
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals is envisaged under the Additional Financing of the
Irrigation Rehabilitation Emergency Project (IREP). These two canals belong to the Artashat
Irrigation Scheme, rehabilitation of which was envisaged under the MCA-Armenia program.
For this purposes Environmental Management Plan was prepared under the MCA-Armenia
program, however because of the limited time and resources these rehabilitation works were not
carried out under the MCA-Armenia program.
This Environmental Management Plan (EMP) has been developed for the rehabilitation of the
Artashat Irrigation Scheme, as a part of the comprehensive assignment under the Infrastructure
Activity of the Irrigated Agriculture Project of MCA-Armenia. Provided that Mkhchyan and
Dvin canals are part of the Artashat Irrigation Scheme, this EMP fully covers them. An overall
objective of the EMP is to bring the project into compliance with the environmental and social
requirements set by the legislation of the Republic of Armenia and environmental and social
policies of the Millennium Challenge Corporation. The EMP links the mitigation measures into
a comprehensive implementation scheme, designed to ensure action. It describes institutional
responsibilities, compliance monitoring and reporting requirements, and cost for implementing
the EMP, all in order to answer the “who?”, “how?” and “how much?” questions.
Mkhchyan and Dvin Canals are part of the Artashat Irrigation Scheme. Within the framework of
MCA-Armenia Program the feasibility study and final design for the Talin Main Canal was
prepared by “Hayjrnakhagits” CJSC under the contract IA-06/003 for Design and Construction
Supervision for Rehabilitation of Six Main Canals.
The proposed project is expected to cover the rehabilitation of 2.010 km of degraded structures
of Mkhchyan Canal including monolithic concrete lining 12 cm thick, rehabilitation of existing
and performance of new joints, and rehabilitation of 2.811 km of degraded structures of Dvin
Canal including monolithic concrete lining 12 cm thick, rehabilitation of existing and
performance of new joints. The rehabilitation works are expected to start in fall 2011 and
continue for two years, taking place during the irrigation off-season.
The overall objective of the rehabilitation is to improve the technical state of the main canals in
order to reduce seepage losses, restore the reliability of water command and delivery to irrigated
lands, restore under-utilized or unutilized irrigated lands, and, where feasible, and if water
supplies are available, to expand irrigated lands. It is expected that the results of the canals
rehabilitation program will be an increase in crop yield and in the incomes of the water users.
73 communities are located within the area serviced by Artashat Main Canal. However, only 48
communities whose lands are located within the area proposed for rehabilitation are considered
direct beneficiaries. The total population in these 48 communities is nearly 79,000 (51.4%
women) with more than 21,000 water users registered with the five WUAs managing the
irrigation water supply. The potentially irrigated area within the rehabilitation sections
comprises a total of 18,271 ha of which 14,412 ha is actually irrigated. Main crops grown
include vegetables, wheat and fodder while orchards and vineyards cover large parts of the area
as well.
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
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Mkhchyan Canal starts from the pressure basin of the pressure pipeline of Mkhchyan pumping
station. The length of the canal is 17.0 km and the design discharge capacity is 7.7 m3/s. The
canal passes entirely through Ararat Marz.
Mkhchyan Canal is located in 20-27km distance from Yerevan city, and is under “Azat” WUAs
command. The total population living in the territory irrigated by Mkhchyan Canal is 3883 in
total. Lands of 3 communities (Aygestan and Byuravan) are located within the area proposed for
rehabilitation:
Dvin Canal is located in 20-27km distance from Yerevan city, and is under “Artashat” WUAs
command. The total population living in the territory irrigated by Dvin Canal is 1833 in total.
V.Dvin community lands are located within the area proposed for rehabilitation (V.Dvin
community is located in 2-5km distance from Dvin canal):
The main crops grown include vegetables, wheat and fodder while orchards and vineyards cover
large parts of the area as well.
The proposed rehabilitation works will have insignificant, short-term and localized
environmental impacts during implementation of rehabilitation works and further operation and
maintenance of the canal systems. The impacts during the construction period are expected to be
mainly caused by the need for removal of degraded concrete slabs lining canals under
rehabilitation; removal of out-take fixtures and piping prior to replacement; extensive dredging
of canals under rehabilitation; upgrading of service roads; and earthworks as required. All
debris, spillage and construction waste, including silt taken from canals must be properly
removed and disposed of at approved landfills/dump sites that do not encroach upon areas
inhabited by local residents. Earth borrowing and mining of local aggregates and spoils disposal
sites will have a temporary negative impact on the environment. Clearing of vegetation and
excavations may also take place for some parts of the access roads. Base camps with storage of
oil, chemicals and other pollutants will be removed. Following rehabilitation, canals
embankments will be planted with ground cover and steep slopes strengthened with vegetation,
grass and plants or gabions. Dust and smoke arising from construction machines can have
negative impact on the ambient air quality. Such effects are expected to be minimal and
transient. During operation negative environmental impacts will be less apparent, but might
result from inadequate attention to removal of silt debris and waste from canal beds during
routine maintenance. Leakage from canals will be monitored to prevent excess soil saturation
and water logging.
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin Canals will bring positive changes to delivery of
irrigation water, and water users will more easily obtain the required quantity of irrigation water
in a timely manner. Greater water use efficiency can lead to increased levels of agricultural
productivity, including more water for landholders at the end of the canal delivery system.
Rehabilitation can lead to the adoption of higher value cropping patterns, as well as the
extension of irrigated land holdings thereby increasing food security. As a result of
rehabilitation of the canals the water resource will be more effectively managed. Site
investigations suggest that there are some areas where rural inhabitants have encroached on
lands adjacent to the canals. Where construction or operation of the project result in a loss of
assets or access to assets (temporarily or permanently), the project affected people (PAPs) will
be compensated in accordance with the World Bank’s Operational Policy on Involuntary
Resettlement (OP 4.12). A Resettlement Action Plan will be developed consistent with the
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
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Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF) and will be implemented prior to construction in the
affected areas to ensure proper compensation to the affected people.
This EMP provides a list of measures designed to mitigate the likely negative environmental
and social impacts as well as enhancement measures to strengthen the positive impacts. These
measures were designed with due consideration of public concerns that were obtained in the
process of informal and formal consultations with the public to be affected by the project. A set
of environmentally and socially sound clauses for civil works contracts is incorporated in the
Technical Specifications for Mkhchyan and Dvin Canals and included in Annex E.
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
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1 Introduction
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals is envisaged under the Additional Financing of the
IREP. These two canals belong to the Artashat Irrigation Scheme rehabilitation of which was
envisaged under the MCA-Armenia program. For this purposes Environmental Management
Plan was prepared under the MCA-Armenia program, however because of the time and funds
limitation these rehabilitation works were not carried out under the MCA-Armenia program.
Currently the WB considers Additional Financing to IREP to address rehabilitation of
Mkhchyan and Dvin canals. Taking into account that EMP prepared under the MCA-Armenia
program for Artashat Irrigation Scheme fully covers the stretches to be rehabilitated on
Mkhchyan and Dvin canals, the EMP is applicable for rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin
canals.
Mkhchyan and Dvin Canals are part of the the Artashat Irrigation Scheme. The feasibility study
and final design for the Mkhchyan and Dvin Canals was prepared by “Hayjrnakhagits” CJSC
under the contract IREP/AF/NCB/CW-11/01 for Design and Construction Supervision for
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin Canals.
Mkhchyan canal starts from the pressure basin of the pressure pipeline of Mkhchyan pumping
station. The length of the canal is 17.36 km, the design discharge capacity is 7.7 m3/s. The canal
passes entirely through Ararat Marz.
The section DM 35+20 DM 44+27 is deteriorated, 30% of reinforced concrete slabs are
missing. The section DM 63+40 DM 74+43 is deteriorated, 50% of reinforced concrete slabs
are missing and the rest are destroyed.
Dvin canal starts from Azat Reservoir. The length of the canal is 15.268 km, the design
discharge capacity is 1.2 m3/s.
The section D/M 7+69-D/M 11+18 starts from 2nd
syphon up to 5th syphon, reinforced concrete
slabs of the slops are deteriorated, settlements of the slops are observed. Is some stretches canal
doesn’t provide designed discharge capacity.
The proposed project is expected to cover the rehabilitation of about 4.43km of degraded
structures of Mkhcnyan and Dvin canals, including 12cm thick monolithic concrete lining,
rehabilitation of existing and performance of new joints. Rehabilitation of the canals stretches
will start on late 2011 and will continue for two years, again mostly taking place during the
irrigation off-season.
2 Project Description
This chapter was developed by using the baseline environmental and social data collected and
provided by the FS/FD Consultant.
Artashat Main Canal is located in the administrative area of Yerevan City and Ararat Marz of
Armenia (see Figure 1 below). The design area of the irrigation scheme is 30,000 ha, the
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
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cadastral value1 of which is estimated to be 29,600 ha and the actually irrigated area is 22,400
ha. The system was commissioned in 1938 and comprises the following canals: Artashat,
Mkhchyan, and Dvin.
Artashat Main Canal starts from the head intake structure at the Hrazdan River. The total
length of the canal is 59.95 km, 9.5 km of which goes through Yerevan and the remaining part
through the administrative area of Ararat Marz. The design discharge capacity of the canal at the
first 1.5 km section is 22.0 m3/s and then varies between 12.65.0 m
3/s. The canal covers
irrigated lands of 32 communities.
Figure 1: Map of Artashat Main Canal
Mkhchyan canal starts from the pressure
basin of the pressure pipeline of Mkhchyan
pumping station. The length of the canal is
17.0 km and the design discharge capacity is
7.7 m3/s. The canal passes entirely through
Ararat Marz. The section DM 35+20 DM
44+27 is deteriorated, 30% of reinforced
concrete slabs are missing. The section DM
63+40 DM 74+43 is deteriorated, 50% of
reinforced concrete slabs are missing, and
the rest are destroyed
Dvin canal starts from Azat Reservoir. The
length of the canal is 15.268 km, the design
discharge capacity is 1.2 m3/s.
The section D/M 7+69-D/M 11+18, D/M
12+73-D/M 16+70, D/M21+90-D/M38+08
start from 2nd
syphon up to 5th syphon,
reinforced concrete slabs of the slops are
deteriorated, settlements of the slops are
observed. In some stretches canal doesn’t
provide designed discharge capacity.
A summary of the proposed rehabilitation works of the Mkhchyan and Dvin Canals is presented
in Table 1.
1 Cadastral area is the total irrigable area of the given region registered by the State Committee of Real Estate of the Republic of Armenia.
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
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Table 1
Overview of sections of Mkhchyan and Dvin Canals and hydraulic structures
subject to rehabilitation
Canal name
Length (in m) of
canal sections
proposed for
rehabilitation
Siphon
piece/meter
Aqueduct
piece/meter
Storm water
diverting
structures
Bridges Outlet
Piece
Mkhchyan canal 2330 m - - - - -
Dvin canal 1100 m - - - - -
Total 4430 - - - - -
3 Description of Existing Conditions
Climate
The climate in the Ararat Plain is strongly continental. The average annual air temperature
varies from -270C (Aragats) to +11.9
0C (Ararat). The spring is short and warm. The temperature
in April is +4 to +120C. The autumn is also warm but the number of rainy and cloudy days is
greater. The temperature in October varies between +60 to +14
0C. The annual sunshine period is
2,680 hr or 360 hr per month in summer and 60-100 hr per month in winter. The hot and dry
weather prevails during 5-6 summer months. Precipitation in summer is 220-235 mm, relative
air humidity 30% and sometimes down to 5%. The winter is moderately cold with limited snow
cover. It lasts from the beginning of December until the first week of March. The number of
days with snowmelt is very high in some years (15-16 days per month). The maximum frost
depth is 60-80 cm (Armavir) and the minimum is 50 cm (in Yerevan, but no stable frost soil
layer is developed here).
Air circulation in the Ararat Plain occurs from the mountains to the lowland. The wind direction
is specified mainly by river direction. The wind velocity is maximal in the warm season’s
evening hours (24 m/sec).
Hydrology
Artashat Main Canal starts from the intake structure at Hrazdan River and is about 60 km long.
According to observations carried out during the period of 1997-2007, the minimal monthly
discharge occurred in 2003 and made 8.4 m3/s. Water shortage was compensatedwith additional
uptake from Azat Reservoir (42.2 mln m3)
and Mkhchyan pumping station (90 mln m3)
.
The groundwater level within the area is high, 0.5 m, and a drainage network of 35,000 ha was
constructed in the area to reduce it.
Biological diversity
Flora
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
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The project area is located mainly in a desert area with specific holophilic plants - Salsola
ericoides Bieb.; S. denderoides Pall.; S. nitraria Pall.; Halocnemum strobilum (Pall.) Bieb with
some participation of gypsophilous plants - Salsola canan C. Koch; S. tomentosa (Moq.) Spach;
S. gemmascens Pall.; Gypsophila aretioides Boiis.; Halanthium rarifolium C. Koch;
Cephalorrhynchus takhtadzhianii (Sosn.) Kirp and psamophilious plants - Calligonum
polygonoides L.; Achillea tenuifoliaLam.; Salsola tamamschjanae lljin; Stipagrostis plumose
(L.) Munro ex T. Anders.; Astragalus paradoxus Bunge.
Plants horse elder (Inula helenium), setwall (Valeriana officinalis), common tansy, red
hawthorn and others: Ononis arvensis; Syrian rue (Peganum harmala); Armenian everlasting
(Helichrusum armenium); madder (Rubia tinctorum), common squirting cucumber (Ecballium
elaterium); narrow leaf oleaster (Elaeagnus angustifolia); spiny caper bush (Capparis sylvatica).
The endemic plant species of the region are represented by Vedi spurge (Euphorbia vedica),
Linum barsegianii, Takhtajyan dusty miller (Centaurea takhtajanii), Ararat sow-thistle
(Sanchus araratium), Allochrusa takhtajanii, Nina meadow-saffron (Colchicum ninae):
The following plant species of the region are included in the Armenian Red Book: Dactylorhiza
cataonica; unusual milk vetch (Astragalus paradoxus); ammonial plant (Dorema glabrum),
currant-like rhubard (Rheum ribes); Thesium szovitsii; Ararat wheat (Triticum araraticum),
Oshei elecampane (Inula aucherana), Tamamshyan saltwort (Salsola tamamschjanae).
Fauna
The fauna of the project area is typical for the dry, continental semi-desert zone. Meanwhile
some animal species occur almost in all landscape zones due to their ecological elasticity.
The following animals are characteristic for this region: wild boar, reed cat, nutria, jackal, hare,
bobcat, he-sheep, Beozarian goat, brown bear. The most common among birds are the blue
pigeon and partridge. From reptiles and amphibians the Mediterranean turtle, lebetina viper, and
from non-vertebrates the grape snail. Araks River is the wild boar’s habitat. Hunting of this
animal is permitted in this region.
The following species registered in the Armenian Red Book occur in the mountainous zone of
this region: From mammals - Armenian moufflon (Ovis orientalis ssp. Gmelinii Blyth),
Caucasean otter (Lutra lutra L.), manul (Otocolobus manul Pall), small horseshoe-nosed bat
Rhinolophus hipposideros Bechstein, Meheli horseshoe-nosed bat (Rhinolophus mehelyi
Matschie), large horseshoe-nosed bat (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum Schreb.); birds: crisp-
winged pelikan (Pelecanus crispus Brush), white-eye pochard (Aythya nyroca Giild), common
white-tailed eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla L.); reptiles – Mediterranean turtle (Testudo graeca L.);
insects: similar dragonfly (Onychogomphus assimilis Schneid), Proserpinus proserpina Pall.,
Hyles hippophaes.
Soil properties and salinisation
The area of Ararat Marz is located within semi-desert, arid steppe, steppe, forest and mountain
meadow soil zones. These zones are specified by semi-arid, irrigated meadow-brown,
paleohydromorph, combined saline-alkaline, brown, black, meadow black, river valley and
terrace, forest brown and mountain meadow types of soil.
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
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Artashat Main Canal passes through semi-desert brown soil with rock debris occasionally with
typical carbonate cement, semi-desert brown residual carbonate soil and semi-desert typical
sedimental brown soil.
Semi-desert brown soils cover the lower hilly plains of pre-mountain area of Ararat Depression
Valley located at an elevation of 850-1,250 m. They are specified by small thickness of humus
layer (25-40 cm) and low humus content (up to 2%), presence of rock debris, skeleton structure
and considerable content of carbonate. Beneath are the gypsiferous layers. Salination of soil is
observed in some locations. This type of soil has average and alkaline reaction (pH 7.7 - 8.2)
and low absorption properties (20 – 30 mg/eq).
Hydromorphic saline-alkaline soils are developed in the areas of Ararat Plain where subsoil
water is mineralized and is located close to the surface (1 – 2 m). They are specified by strong
salination (total soil content 1 – 3%), considerable carbonatization, low humus content (<
1.0%), high alkaline reaction (pH 9-11) and high absorbed sodium content. The considerable
content of sodium in this type of soil makes their amelioration difficult.
About 25-35% of salinated soils of Ararat Plain are located within the north-eastern part of the
command area of Artashat Main Canal.
Erosion and sedimentation
No major soil erosion is observed within the project area.
Artashat Main Canal gets water from the Hrazdan River, Azat Reservoir and Mkhchyan
pumping station. A cascade of concrete barrages is constructed at the head intake structure on
the Hrazdan River, so sedimentation processes are relatively weakly expressed.
Some sediments accumulate during canal operation, however they are cleaned before
commencement of the irrigation season. The quantity of drifts and sediments accumulated in
main and secondary canals is within standard tolerances and they are cleaned mechanically (not
hydraulically) before commencement of the vegetation season.
Social conditions
According to the social surveys conducted by the FS/FD Consultant at the preliminary design
phase, the irrigation water from the canals is managed by five WUA’s, respectively “Yerevan,”
“Azar”, “Artashat”, “Vedi” and “Mkhchyan” WUAs. According to data provided by the
Irrigation PIU, the service area supplied by the above mentioned WUAs comprises a total of
18,271ha of which 14,412 ha is de facto irrigated. Only about 28% of the total population are
water users and all of them are members of the WUAs.
Some characteristics of the communities directly benefiting from Mkhchyan and Dvin Canals’
rehabilitation are shown in the table below2:
2 Socioeconomic data are derived from National Statistic Service “List of Communities Benefiting from Main Canals,” as of 25 July 2008, cross-checked with CJSC, Final Report on Artashat Main Canal, “Socio-Demographic Characteristics of Communities,” Annex 5.2.2.
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
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WUA
Water
Users
Total
Population
% Water
Users Male Female
Mkhchyan, Mkhchyan
Canal 4,784 15,957 30.0% 7,655 8,302
Artashat, Dvin Canal 2,071 6,642 31.1% 3,207 3,435
Total 6,855 22,599 10,862 11,737
Females as a % of total population = 51.4%
4 Environmental and Social Impacts
Only rehabilitation works on existing canals are to be carried out. Due to its rehabilitation
nature, the proposed project is not likely to cause significant negative environmental and/or
social impacts. Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin Canals will bring positive changes to
delivery of irrigation water and water users will more easily obtain the required quantity of
irrigation water in a timely manner. This should promote both increases in food security and
incomes from agriculture, thereby reducing the number of poor population and mitigating out-
migration in the area. These outcomes will be especially remarkable in the communities located
at the tail-end sections of the Main Canal as their lands will become fully irrigable. Overall
positive impacts from the rehabilitation effort are long-term and cumulative in their nature,
ultimately contributing to the increased social benefits of the communities affected.
Short-term social adverse impacts may occur only in cases when cutting plants and/or
demolishment of light structures appearing within the alienation zone of the main canal cannot
be avoided. It is expected that within the proposed project such adverse impact will be avoided
through application of appropriate construction techniques. However, if conduct of construction
works is not possible without cleaning of the alienation zone from cultivated plants and/or
structures Resettlement Action Plan must be developed in accordance with the Word Bank’s
operational Policy on Involuntary Resettlement (OP 4.12). A Resettlement Action Plan will be
developed on a basis of the Resettlement Policy Framework (RFP) prepared under the MCA-
Armenia Program.
The likely negative environmental and social impacts of the construction phase are expected to
be localized and short-term. As a result of timely and proper implementation of this
Environmental Management Plan with practical implementation of mitigation measures
presented in Annex A to this report, all identified potential negative impacts can be prevented
and minimized. In addition to this, regular monitoring over the civil works, in accordance with
the Monitoring Plan, will ensure effective implementation of mitigation measures included in
EMP. A possible negative environmental impact of the operation phase may be an increased use
of agrochemicals in the areas of the project coverage, provided that with improved access to
irrigation, farmers opt to increase volume of high value crops grown in their fields and apply
increased amount of pesticides. This will be mitigated by carrying out a public information
campaign on the optimal use of pesticides and extending some elements of the integrated pest
management (IPM) relevant in the current country context.
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
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5 Mitigation and Enhancement Measures
The mitigation measures are proposed for design, construction and operation phases of the
rehabilitation of the Mkhchyan and Dvin Canals that shall be undertaken by executing agencies
to prevent and/or minimize the likely adverse impacts listed above.
Design phase
Environmental mitigation requirements shall be incorporated into final design, technical
specifications and bidding documents, to be implemented by the construction contractor to
avoid, prevent, minimize, or rehabilitate the potential impacts.
The final design documents package shall include a list of approved borrow pits and agreed
spoil disposal sites; permits, agreements obtained from the relevant local/regional authorities for
use of borrow pits and sites for disposal of wastes as appropriate; list of construction preparation
temporary sites such as access roads, construction camps, transport and machinery sites, storage
facilities, etc.
The final design documents shall also provide, to the extent possible, such technical approaches
and solutions to the rehabilitation of separate stretches of the main canals where encroachments
of the alienation zone are observed that do not require demolition of temporary and permanent
private properties (structures, fences, poles, fruit trees, etc). In case the demolition (including
tree cutting) or dislocation of private/state holdings is required for the rehabilitation works, a
resettlement action plan (RAP) shall be prepared based on the existing RPF and in agreement
with the guiding principles of the WB OP 4.12. Compensation will then be provided to the
affected population according to RAP.
Construction Phase
Measures to prevent and/or minimize the degradation of landscapes and soil erosion, pollution
of surface and groundwater resources and soils by construction run-off should be implemented
by the contractor during the construction phase. Measures to prevent and/or minimize the
degradation of landscapes and soil erosion, pollution of surface and groundwater resources and
soils by construction run-off should be implemented by the contractor during the construction
phase. This may include, but may not be limited to:
the use of already existing quarries and disposal sites, according to the requirements set in
the appropriate permits and agreements obtained at the design phase;
zones of preliminary accumulation of wastes that will cause no damage to the vegetation
cover and other components of the environment should be maintained by the contractor;
all vegetative cover should be restored to its original condition;
sites for storage of oil and chemicals should be properly equipped to minimize the risks of
polluting soils and waters;
dust and noise from the construction site should be minimized, especially in resident areas,
public places, near schools, etc.
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
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If historical and/or cultural monuments or artefacts are unexpectedly found during earthworks,
the construction contractors must cease the works and provide relevant information to the State
Agency for Protection of Historical and Cultural Monuments which, after due consideration of
the findings, shall recommend whether the works can be continued or the design must be
revised.
Operational Phase
During operation it is essential that canal beds be periodically maintained to ensure proper
conveyance, to avoid stagnation, to prevent flooding and damages caused by frost.
The detailed mitigation measures to be undertaken by the executing agencies are presented in
Annex A to this document.
The following enhancement measures are proposed to strengthen the positive impacts expected
as a result of rehabilitation of the Mkhchyan and Dvin Canals:
Involve the local population in project related activities (e.g. work force during construction
phase, etc.)
Increase local water users’ knowledge on more efficient water management through
providing training and practice, on-farm water management, higher value agricultural
production, etc.
Raise awareness of integrated pest management and sound application of pesticides among
water users;
Build capacity of local water users through provision of credits;
Support the institutional strengthening of the water supply and delivery organizations (Water
Supply Agencies and Water Users Associations).
6 Institutional Responsibilities, Reporting and Budget
6.1 Institutional Responsibilities
Institutional responsibility for implementation of the proposed mitigation measures will be
shared amongst the following agencies:
Executing agencies
Executing Agencies are responsible for executing the measures of the EMP. During the design
phase, the executing agency, FS/FD Consultant (“Hayjrnakhagits Institute” CJSC) shall ensure
that all the necessary permits and agreements (e.g. permits for the disposal of excavated
materials, wastes, and demolition debris, etc.) are obtained from relevant state and local
authorities before the construction works are tendered out. Executing agencies during
construction phase (Construction contractors) shall take the responsibility for physical
implementation of mitigation measures provided under the EMP, as well as for obtaining all
permits and agreements related to construction activities (e.g. agreement with Historic and
Cultural Monuments Protection Agency if any new historical/cultural/archaeological monument
or artifacts are unexpectedly found during civil works) in accordance with the WB
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
12
Environmental Policies and applicable environmental and social legislation of the Republic of
Armenia. WUAs will be responsible for conducting awareness campaign among their members
on integrated pest management and sound application of pesticides, using printed material and
other training aids provided by PIU.
Supervising agencies
Supervising Agencies are responsible for supervising the executing agencies to ensure that they
execute the mitigation measures as planned. The Construction Supervision Company hired by
PIU for daily supervision over the implementation of civil works will be responsible for
supervising the timely, proper and reliable implementation of works and measures as provided
by the EMP (including oversight over the environmental and social aspects of all activities
implemented under the project in order to ensure that mitigation measures are designed and
implemented properly to prevent and minimize likely adverse environmental and social
impacts).
The supervising agencies will also ensure that all necessary agreements and permits are
obtained by the appropriate contractors from relevant state and local authorities before the
construction works are tendered out. The WB may request to check if such permits are issued
and valid (e.g., not expired) as well as if the EMP mitigation and monitoring aspects are
implemented on the ground during the canal rehabilitation phases according to the WB
Environmental Policies and applicable Armenian environmental and social legislation.
Monitoring agencies
Monitoring agencies are in charge of monitoring the extent of implementation and the
effectiveness of the mitigation and enhancement measures and of adjusting the program if
needed. Monitoring agencies will be responsible for covering all measures requiring some sort
of monitoring by PIU/WB.
The government entities, in particular the Ministry of Nature Protection and its affiliated
agencies (State Environmental Inspectorate etc.), the Ministry of Health (State Hygienic Anti-
Epidemiologic Inspectorate) and the Ministry of Culture (Historic and Cultural Monuments
Protection Agency) may also be involved in the monitoring activities, as a part of their mandate.
6.2 Reporting Format and Schedule
The Construction Supervision Company, working in cooperation with the Construction
Contractor, will be responsible for reporting to PIU on the implementation of the mitigation
measures included in Annex A and according to the monitoring plan presented in Annex B. The
Incident Report Form shall be completed and submitted to PIU if any major environmental and
social occurrences are observed (such as spills, explosions, etc.). The Incident form is presented
in Annex C.
6.3 Budget
The budget for civil works contracts includes costs allocated for implementation of
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
13
environmental and social mitigation measures. Appropriate mitigation measures to be fulfilled
by the construction contractor are presented in Annex A.
The cost of EMP implementation is estimated at 1.18% of the cost of the total construction
contract.
7 Public Consultations
According to the FS/FD Consultant’s report the area affected by the rehabilitation works of
Mkhchyan Canal covers 18 communities (Mrgavet, Masis, Berkanoush, Mkhcyan,
Baghramyan, Dimitrov, Azatavan, Mrgavan, Burastan, Aygestan, Berdik, Byuravan, Ditak,
Kanachout, Dalar, Vostan, Shahumyan, Artashat), and Dvin Canal covers 4 communinties (N.
Dvin, V. Dvin, Norashen, Getazat).
Two communities may undergo adverse impacts from the rehabilitation works of Mkhchyan
canal - Aygestan and Byuravan. Positive impacts will occur not only in the remaining 20
communities, but also in the aforementioned 2 communities that are possibly exposed to
adverse impacts.
Present EMP was disclosed in-country through the web page of MCC and through the
administrations of WUAs servicing all of the 18 affected communities. Public consultation
meetings were carried out in 40% of communities which may undergo adverse impacts from the
rehabilitation works (e.g. seepage, possible cutting of the trees in the alienation zone, etc) and in
15% of those that will benefit from possible impacts. Due to above mentioned Byuravan village
was selected from 40% of communities as one that may undergo adverse impact. Three villages
were selected from 15% of villages as communities that will undergo positive impact. Four
communities that will undergo positive impacts were selected for public consultation:
Byuravan, Berdik, Mrgavet, and Nerkin Dvin.
On June, 2011, public consultations were held in Byuravan,, Berdik, Mrgavet, N.Dvin, villages
in relation to the Mkhchyan and Dvin canals rehabilitation project. The consultations involved
representatives from WSDII PIU: H.Harutunyan – PIU Irrigation Officer, N. Atayan -
Environmental and Social Impact Officer, V. Movsisyan – Institutional Improvements Officer,
“Azat” and “Artashat” WUAs, community leaders and farmers..
A record was kept of the participants through a signature on an attendance paper. The list of
participants is attached in the Minutes of Meetings of the Public Consultations (see Annex F).
The consultations aimed at discussing environmental and social issues related to Mkhchyan and
Dvin canals rehabilitation project. The meetings were organized with the presentation and the
discussion of the overall description of the activities to be implemented within the scope of the
WSDP PIU Project, the details of the proposed rehabilitation activities, potential negative
impacts, the envisaged mitigation measures, importance of the project activities for the local
people, the expected outcomes and other issues.
Participants in all the communities welcomed the proposed project and for rehabilitation of
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
14
Mkhchyan and Dvin canals due to importance of its expected benefits. The participants asked to
implement rehabilitation activities within non-vegetative season not to hinder irrigation works.
The participants mentioned the importance of the quality of the activities to be implemented in
general. They asked to perform all the works of a high quality standard. The participants’
questions were about possibility for local population to be involved in the construction works.
The questions presented received exhaustive answers by the PIU representatives, who explained
that this Project is also aimed on reduction of poverty in rural regions and improving the social
conditions by involvement of local population in construction works implemented in the scope of
this Project.
8 Environmentally Sound Clauses for Civil Works Contracts
Most construction phase impacts will be mitigated by including appropriate clauses into the
civil works contracts. These clauses are included in Annex E.
9 Main Findings
The rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin Canals is aimed at improving the deteriorated sections
of the canals, which will reduce large water losses within the system and allow reliable
irrigation of more lands. This will increase the agricultural production in rural areas of the
Republic of Armenia and contribute to increased food security and reduced poverty.
No new construction will be implemented under the Mkhchyan and Dvin Canals. The project
mostly envisages rehabilitation of existing structures, which will have minor, short-term and
localized environmental impacts during the construction phase. This EMP elaborates a list of
measures (see Annex A) to be undertaken to mitigate likely environmental and social impacts
that can occur during the various phases of the Mkhchyan and Dvin Canals rehabilitation –
design, construction and further maintenance. The implementation of these measures will be
monitored by the appropriate agencies and in accordance with the monitoring plan included in
Annex B.
The positive socio-economic and environmental effects of the project outweigh the likely
environmental risks associated with its implementation. The rehabilitation of the Mkhchyan
and Dvin Canals will ensure greater water use efficiency, leading to increased levels of
agricultural productivity, including more water for landholders at the end of the canal delivery
system. This can also lead to the adoption of higher value cropping patterns, as well as the
extension of irrigated land holdings thereby increasing food security.
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
15
Annexes
Annex A: Environmental Management Plan: Mitigation Measures
POTENTIAL NEGATIVE
IMPACT
ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION OR
MONITORING MEASURES
EXECUTING
AGENCY
SUPERVISING
AGENCY
COST
(To be quantified where
possible)
TIMING
Design Phase
Pollution of water and soil,
degradation of landscapes as
a result of improper disposal
of excavated materials and
construction wastes
Obtain appropriate permits and/or agreements for
disposal of excavated materials and construction
wastes, use of water resource and water systems, etc.
FS/FD
Consultant PIU
Part of the
contract with
the FS/FD
Consultant
During design
Develop a list and specifications for construction
temporary sites such as access roads, construction
camps, transport and machinery maintenance sites,
storage facilities, etc.
FS/FD
Consultant PIU
Part of the
contract with
the FS/FD
Consultant
During design
Temporary air pollution
(dust) related to the
transportation of
construction materials and
truck traffic
Develop the traffic management plan on canal service
roads to ensure smooth traffic flow and safety both for
workers, local traffic and population
FS/FD
Consultant PIU
Part of the
contract with
the FS/FD
Consultant
During design
Landscape degradation and
soil erosion
Develop measures to strengthen the steep slopes with
vegetation, grass and plants or gabions. Consider the
use of plant species characteristic for the landscape in
the course of restoration of the vegetation cover.
FS/FD
Consultant PIU
Part of the
contract with
the FS/FD
Consultant
During design
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
16
POTENTIAL NEGATIVE
IMPACT
ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION OR
MONITORING MEASURES
EXECUTING
AGENCY
SUPERVISING
AGENCY
COST
(To be quantified where
possible)
TIMING
Develop efficient methods for disposal or backfilling
of extracted soils. Sites without vegetative cover and
within the alienation zone or specifically designated
by local areas shall be used for storing the excavated
soils.
FS/FD
Consultant PIU
Part of the
contract with
the FS/FD
Consultant
During design
Temporary or permanent
taking of property or
productive assets, including
peoples’ access to such
assets that appear within
the alienation zone that
hinder construction works
Develop such technical approaches and solutions to
the construction of the system, which, to the extent
possible, allow implementation of construction works
without demolition and dislocation of private and
community properties. Any taking of property,
permanent or temporary, will be in compliance with
WB OP4.12, the RPF and a RAP.
FS/FD
Consultant PIU
Part of the
contract with
the FS/FD
Consultant
During design
If dislocation and/or demolition or temporary or
permanent use of the assets is required for
implementation of the works, the compensation shall
be envisaged for the affected people in compliance
with WB OP4.12, the RPF and a RAP.
FS/FD
Consultant PIU
Part of the
contract with
the FS/FD
Consultant
During design
Servitudes must be ensured for the temporary and
permanent use of community and private lands (if
applicable).
FS/FD
Consultant PIU
Part of the
contract with
the FS/FD
Consultant
During design, before
construction works
start
Construction Phase
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
17
POTENTIAL NEGATIVE
IMPACT
ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION OR
MONITORING MEASURES
EXECUTING
AGENCY
SUPERVISING
AGENCY
COST
(To be quantified where
possible)
TIMING
Pollution of water and soil,
degradation of landscapes as a
result of improper disposal of
excavated materials and
construction wastes
Removal of old cement linings and accumulated silt.
Construction
Contractor
PIU through
Construction
Supervisor
Part of the contract with
Construction Contractor
During construction
works
Maintain zones of preliminary accumulation of wastes
that will cause no damage to the vegetation cover and
other components of the environment.
Construction
Contractor
PIU through
Construction
Supervisor
Part of the contract with
Construction Contractor
During construction
works
Arrange transport and disposal of wastes according to
the established traffic management plan, procedure
and in the approved dump sites designated for the
specific purpose.
Construction
Contractor
PIU through
Construction
Supervisor
Part of the contract with
Construction Contractor
After obtaining of
permit, during
construction works
Maintain appropriate operating rules for the camps in
identified suitable sites, including safe handling of
control of access, adequate drainage, etc.
Construction
Contractor
PIU through
Construction
Supervisor
Part of the contract with
Construction Contractor
During construction
works
Spillage of oil or toxic
substances
Implement the measures to control spillage of toxic
substances that will be included in construction contracts,
including: guidelines for the proper storage and sitting of
hazardous material such as oil, grease, fuel, asphalt, or
ignitable and corrosive materials; lubricants will be
collected in clearly marked containers and reused if
possible, or disposed of at properly regulated offsite
locations; water samples will be taken and tested for oil
when there is a risk of spills or leakages to canal waters,
surface waters, or groundwater.
Construction
Contractor
PIU through
Construction
Supervisor
Part of the contract with
Construction Contractor
During construction
works
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
18
POTENTIAL NEGATIVE
IMPACT
ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION OR
MONITORING MEASURES
EXECUTING
AGENCY
SUPERVISING
AGENCY
COST
(To be quantified where
possible)
TIMING
Temporary air pollution
(dust) related to the
transportation of
construction materials and
truck traffic
noise and. vibration
disturbances
Use closed/covered trucks for transportation of
construction materials and wastes. Depending on
season, wash truck tires as appropriate at the specially
designed car washing sites to control tracking mud and
dust onto paved roads.
Construction
Contractor
PIU through
Construction
Supervisor
Part of the contract with
Construction Contractor
During construction
works
Clean the surrounding area from dust by water sprinkling
(except in Winter), remove excess materials and clean the
sites upon completion of activities
Construction
Contractor
PIU through
Construction
Supervisor
Part of the contract with
Construction Contractor
During construction
works
Provide workers that deal with hazardous materials or
exposed to dust with necessary protection gear, and
follow applicable regulations and procedures as
established by GoA authorities.
Construction
Contractor
PIU through
Construction
Supervisor
Part of the contract with
Construction Contractor
During construction
works
Terminate the works at the established time (e.g. work
in daylight time) and avoid increase of noise and
number of peak hours. Consult with local authorities
Construction
Contractor
PIU through
Construction
Supervisor
Part of the contract with
Construction Contractor
During construction
works
Impacts on safety of
personnel
Workers during cement pouring and while using
heavy equipment shall have and use safety equipment.
Construction
Contractor
PIU through
Construction
Supervisor
Part of the contract with
Construction Contractor
During construction
works
Impacts on historic-cultural
monuments or artefacts
Cease the works as soon as historical and cultural
monuments or artefacts are encountered and
immediately provide relevant information to the State
Agency for Historical and Cultural Monuments
Protection
Construction
Contractor
PIU through
Construction
Supervisor
GoA funding if urgent
excavations are required
During construction
works
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
19
POTENTIAL NEGATIVE
IMPACT
ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION OR
MONITORING MEASURES
EXECUTING
AGENCY
SUPERVISING
AGENCY
COST
(To be quantified where
possible)
TIMING
Landscape degradation and
soil erosion
Arable land shall not be used as earth borrowing. If
unavoidable the topsoil (about 30 cm) shall be
removed, kept at specifically designated sites and
refilled.
Construction
Contractor
PIU through
Construction
Supervisor
Part of the contract with
Construction Contractor
During construction
works
Dump excavated soils and substances only within the
areas designated for that purpose.
Construction
Contractor
PIU through
Construction
Supervisor
Part of the contract with
Construction Contractor
During construction
works
Restore landscape to quasi-original vegetation cover
after completion of rehabilitation works.
Construction
Contractor
PIU through
Construction
Supervisor
Part of the contract with
Construction Contractor
During construction
works
Temporary or permanent
taking of property or
productive assets, including
peoples’ access to such assets,
(including tree cutting) that
appear within the alienation
zone that hinder construction
works
If it is required to develop and implement the
Resettlement Action Plan, and/or obtain servitude, the
construction works will start after the compensations are
paid to the project affected persons (PAPs) and servitudes
acquired. These must be guided by the Armenian
legislation and WB guidelines.
GoA through
relevant entity
PIU GoA funding Before construction
works start in the
particular section
If demolition and/or dislocation is required, the project
affected persons will be compensated in accordance with
WB OP4.12 before the construction starts.
GoA through
relevant entity
PIU GoA funding Before construction
works start in the
particular section
Operation Phase
Hydrological issues of
flooding, low flow and water
stagnation
Maintain the water conduit and hydro-technical structures
to minimize the risk for water stagnation and accidents.
WSA, WUA SCWS
Regular Operation and
Maintenance cost
During operation
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
20
POTENTIAL NEGATIVE
IMPACT
ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION OR
MONITORING MEASURES
EXECUTING
AGENCY
SUPERVISING
AGENCY
COST
(To be quantified where
possible)
TIMING
Operate the water intakes in such a way that the water
withdrawal is properly controlled to avoid withdrawing
more water than allowed.
WSA, WUA SCWS
Regular Operation and
Maintenance cost
During operation
Maintain the canal beds and hydraulic structures to avoid
water stagnation.
WSA, WUA SCWS
Regular Operation and
Maintenance cost
During operation
Regularly clean slit from the canals bed and dispose the
removed slit in the approved waste disposal sites. The
removed slit can be also applied in the farm-fields as a
fertilizer.
WSA, WUA SCWS
Regular Operation and
Maintenance cost
During operation
Negative impact on human
and environmental health as a
result of increased use of
pesticides in the areas with
improved irrigation
Conduct of public awareness campaign and extension of
applicable IPM technologies to water users
PIU through
pest
management
consultant,
WSA, WUA
SCWS Included in the project
procurement plan as
procurement of
consulting services
Although this impact is
expected during
operation, the mitigation
measure is proactive and
will be applied during
operation
Siltation in canals Training of WSA staff on proper operation and
maintenance
PIU/WSA SCWS Regular operation and
maintenance
During operation
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
21
Annex B: Monitoring Plan
This monitoring plan will be used to determine compliance with the Environmental Management Plan (Annex A).
Phase What parameter is to be
monitored?
Where is the parameter to
be monitored?
How is the parameter to be
monitored?/ type of monitoring equipment
When is the parameter to be
monitored? (frequency of measurement or continuous)
Cost Reporting Agency
Design
Material borrows and dumps At the design consultant Perspective borrows and
dumps identified
During the design Minimal additional
design cost
PIU
Road accessibility to the
structures
At the design consultant Inspection During the design Minimal additional
design cost
PIU
Construction
Soil erosion In new cutting areas and
slopes
Inspections at site and
soils mechanical
information
During and after
construction work, when
deemed necessary
Minimal additional
construction cost
PIU through
Construction
Supervisor
Water pollution In water bodies Inspection During construction
works
Minimal additional
construction cost
PIU through
Construction
Supervisor
Air pollution/dust At working site Visual inspection During earth works, when
deemed necessary
Minimal additional
construction cost
PIU through
Construction
Supervisor
Noise At working site Inspection of
noise levels (dB)
During earth works and
blast, when deemed
necessary and on
complaint
Minimal additional
construction cost
PIU through
Construction
Supervisor
Conservation of vegetation
resources
At working site Inspection When cutting and
restoring used areas
Minimal additional
construction cost
PIU through
Construction
Supervisor
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
22
Phase What parameter is to be
monitored?
Where is the parameter to
be monitored?
How is the parameter to be
monitored?/ type of monitoring equipment
When is the parameter to be
monitored? (frequency of measurement or continuous)
Cost Reporting Agency
Staff safety
(protective equipment)
At work site Inspection Unannounced inspections
during work
Minimal additional
construction cost
PIU through
Construction
Supervisor
Overall workers’ camp site
conditions
On the camp site during
construction activities
Inspection According to the existing
regulations
Minimal additional
construction cost
PIU through
Construction
Supervisor
Conduct of campaign for
rising awareness of IPM and
sound use of pesticides
WUA offices and water
user communities
Inspection
Survey
After formal launch of the
campaign
Minimal additional
cost to operational
budget of PIU
PIU
Operation
Maintenance of irrigation
delivery system
On site Inspection Continuous – full scale
desiltation required yearly
Routine operation
and maintenance
cost
WSA, WUA
Maintenance of irrigation
off-takes and other
structures
On site Inspection When needed Routine operation
and maintenance
cost
WSA, WUA
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
23
Annex C: Incident Report Form
REHABILITATION OF MKHCHYAN AND DVIN CANALS
1 Date:
2 Canal Section:
3 Location:
4 Construction Contractor:
5 Marz (Region):
6 Water Supply Agency/WUA
7 Incident Type:
8 Severity: � High
� Medium
� Low
10 Reported By:
11 Description of Incident Root Cause:
12 Corrective Action Taken:
13 Corrective Action to be Taken:
14 Action Taken to Prevent Recurrence:
15 Corrective Action Carried Out By:
16 Close Out By:
17 Close Out Date:
18 Person Involved:
19 Machine Involved:
20 Contractor/Sub Contractor Involved:
21 Third Party Involvement:
22 Photo Reference – Attached: The photos with appropriate descriptions
should be presented as an Attachment to
the Incident Report
For PIU use only
Date
Received by:
Decision/Action made:
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
24
Annex D: Check List of Potential Environmental and Social Impacts
Project Name/location: Mkhchyan and Dvin Canals Assessment: 1st
Assessor’s name/position: CS Team Date(s) of Assessment: July
2008
For each environmental effect place a cross (X) in one or
two of the columns Po
siti
ve i
mp
act
like
ly
Po
siti
ve i
mp
act
po
ssib
le
No i
mp
act
lik
ely
Neg
ati
ve i
mpa
ct
po
ssib
le
Neg
ati
ve i
mpa
ct
like
ly
No j
udg
emen
t
po
ssib
le a
t
pre
sent
Comments
N/A = Environmental effect is Not Applicable in this case
For detailed explanation refer to the correspondingly numbered sections following this table
A B C D E F
Hyd
rolo
gy 1-1 Low flow regime X
1-2 Flood regime X 1-3 Operation of dams X N/A 1-4 Fall of water table X 1-5 Rise of water table X
Po
llu
tion 2-1 Solute dispersion X
2-2 Toxic substances X 2-3 Organic pollution X 2-4 Anaerobic effects X N/A 2-5 Gas emissions X
Soil
s
3-1 Soil salinity X 3-2 Soil properties X 3-3 Saline groundwater X 3-4 Saline drainage X 3-5 Saline intrusion X
Sed
imen
ts 4-1 Local erosion X
4-2 Hinterland effect X 4-3 River morphology X N/A 4-4 Channel regime X 4-5 Sedimentation X 4-6 Estuary erosion X N/A
Eco
logy
5-1 Project lands X X Positive and negative impacts possible 5-2 Water bodies X 5-3 Surrounding area X Positive and negative impacts possible. 5-4 Valleys & shores X N/A 5-5 Wetlands & plains X N/A 5-6 Rare species X 5-7 Animal migration X 5-8 Natural industry X
Soci
o-e
con
om
ic
6-1 Population change X 6-2 Income & amenity X 6-3 Human migration X 6-4 Resettlement X See below. 6-5 Women’s role X 6-6 Minority groups X 6-7 Sites of value X 6-8 Regional effects X 6-9 User involvement X 6-10 Recreation X
Hea
lth
7-1 Water & sanitation X 7-2 Habitation X 7-3 Health services X 7-4 Nutrition X 7-5 Relocation effect X 7-6 Disease ecology X 7-7 Disease hosts X 7-8 Disease control X 7-9 Other hazards X
Imb
ala
nce
s 8-1 Pests & weeds X 8-2 Animal diseases X 8-3 Aquatic weeds X 8-4 Structural damage X 8-5 Animal imbalances X
Number of crosses 6 4 34 5 3 3 Total possible = 53 (Unless positive & negative impacts)
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
25
Annotated Questions from the Check List of Potential Environmental and Social Impacts
1. Hydrological changes
1.1 Low flow regime
Is the flow regime of the river substantially changed by the Project and its dams (by more than +/-
20% in low flow periods)? If so, does this change benefit or impair aquatic ecosystems, existing or
potential downstream abstractions, hydropower, navigation or recreational uses?
The rehabilitation activities will have no impact on the low flow regime of Hrazdan River. At the
river section of the joint head water intake of Artashat and Low Hrazdan main canals the river flow
is regulated by the water outlets from Lake Sevan, taking into account the required flow capacities
for the existing intake structures, hydropower, recreational and sanitary environmental uses. The
head water intake of the irrigation system is in a good technical state and precisely regulates the flow
of the required water amount into the canal.
Mkhchyan and Dvin canals rehabilitation activities will have no impact on the low flow regime of
Azat River, since the flow of the given canals is regulated by the water outlets from Azat reservoir
built on Azat River, taking into consideration the required flow capacities for the existing intake
structures, hydropower, recreational and sanitary environmental uses.
1.2 Flood regime
Is the flood regime of the river (peak discharge and stage, speed of flood waves, flood super-position
with joining rivers, duration or extent of floodplain inundations downstream) substantially changed
by the Project as a result of changes in abstractions, retention storage, reservoir releases, flood
protection works, new road/rail routs, river training or surface drainage works? If so, does this
change benefit or impair aquatic and flood-affected ecosystems, lead to an increase or decrease in
flood damage or change land use restrictions outside the Project?
The canals rehabilitation activities will have no impact on the flood regime of the rivers (water
sources, Azat and Hrazdan Rivers). The head water intakes and offtake regulators precisely control
the water flow to the canal and to the inlet basin of the pumping station. Therefore, the canals will
not receive more water than maximum permissible into the canals and the pumping station.
1.3 Operation of dams
Can modifications to the operation of any storage or flood retention reservoir(s) compensate for any
adverse impacts associated with changes in flow regime, whiles minimizing the losses to the Project
and other users? Possible modifications affecting water quality downstream, saline intrusion, the
sediment regime of channels, the ecology of affected areas, amenity values, disease transmission or
aquatic weed growth should be considered (A separate environmental assessment of large
reservoir(s) may be required.)
Not applicable.
1.4 Fall of water table
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
26
Does the Project cause a fall of the water table (from groundwater abstractions, reduced infiltration
due to river training, drainage or flood protection works)? If so, does this fall lead to increased
potential for groundwater recharge (from seasonal rainfall) and improved conditions for land use;
or lead to depletion of the groundwater system, affecting wells, springs, river flows and wetlands?
The rehabilitation of the canals will reduce water losses from the canals and will cause no changes
to the level of groundwater in the project area.
1.5 Rise of water table
Does the Project cause a rise of the water table (from increased infiltration or seepage from
irrigation, seepage from reservoirs and canals, or increased floodplain inundation)? If so, does this
rise lead to improved yield of wells and springs and improved capillary rise into the root zone; or
lead to water logging of agricultural or other land in the Project area or vicinity?
The last site visit of the irrigation system was made at the beginning of August when irrigation water
demand in the project area is high and therefore, the water level in the canals amounts up to
maximum permissible. No over humidity or water logging processes were observed in the
agricultural lands of the project area during the site visit. The seepage processes from the hydro
technical structures which were due to the water losses from the canals were localized and did not
cause significant impact.
So, project implementation (reduction of water losses from the canals) will not cause rise of
groundwater table in the project area.
2. Organic and inorganic pollution
2.1 Solute dispersion
Are the Project and its dams leading to changes in the concentrations of organic or inorganic
solutes in the surface water due to changes to the pattern of water abstraction and reuse in the basin
or flow regulation? If so, do the changes benefit or impair biological communities or domestic,
agricultural or industrial water users in the basin?
The project will not cause changes to the pattern of water abstraction or flow regulation.2.2
Toxic substances
Are significant levels of toxic substance accumulating or being introduced, mobilized and
transmitted due to the construction and operation of the Project and its dams, or are levels being
reduced? Substances such as pesticides, herbicides, hydrogen sulphide, oil derivatives, boron,
selenium and heavy metals in irrigation supplies or surface, draining and ground waters should be
considered.
Increased or increasingly intensive cultivation of irrigated lands may lead to increased use of
pesticides. Safe use of pesticides is addressed in farmers training..
Measures to control spillage of oil or toxic substances will be included in construction contracts,
including: guidelines for the proper storage and siting of hazardous material such as oil, grease, fuel,
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asphalt, or ignitable and corrosive materials; lubricants will be collected in clearly marked containers
and reused if possible, or disposed of at properly regulated offsite locations; water samples will be
taken and tested for oil when there is a risk of spills or leakages to canal waters, surface waters, or
groundwater.
2.3 Organic Pollution
Are nutrients, organic compounds and pathogens being reduced or introduced and concentrated,
due to the Project, its dams and its associated domestic settlements? If so, does the change result in
a reduction or increase in environmental and water use problems in the Project area or
downstream (in rivers, canals, reservoirs, and lakes, evaporation wet lands, depressions, deltas,
estuary regions) or in the groundwater?
At several points where livestock pens or dwellings are adjacent to a canal’s alienation zone,
wastewater drains into the canal. Proper maintenance and monitoring of the canals and their alienation
zones should significantly reduce these current sources. While such organic loads are unlikely to be a
problem for agricultural usage, the canals are also used occasionally by local people for bathing,
swimming, or consumption. In addition, this may also cause a spread of animal diseases, having an
indirect negative impact on human health.
Increased or increasingly intensive cultivation of irrigated lands may lead to increased use of
fertilizers. But fertilizer use is currently at very modest levels and, given the rising cost of fossil fuel
inputs, is unlikely to increase significantly.
2.4 Anaerobic effects
Is the Project reducing or creating anaerobic conditions or eutrophication in any impoundments,
natural lakes, pools or wetlands due to changed input or accumulation of fertilizers, other nutrients
and organic matter or due to changed water quality resulting from dams, river abstractions and
drainage flows?
No.
2.5 Gas Emissions
Is the Project, either directly of through associated industrial processing, causing decreased or
increased gas emissions which contribute to air pollution (O3, SO3, H2S, NOx, NH4, etc) or the
greenhouse effect (CO2, CH4, NOx, etc)?
Insofar as increased irrigation increases fodder supplies or through improved income generation
stimulates production of cattle and sheep, emissions of methane would increase accordingly. These
amounts would be very modest in the context of Armenia’s total livestock production.
3. Soil Properties and salinity effects
3.1 Soil salinity
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Is the Project leading to progressive accumulation of salts in the soils of the project area or the
vicinity because of prevailing high salt content in the soil, the groundwater, or the surface water; or
can a progressive leaching effect be expected?
It is not expected that there is any risk of soil salinity in pre-mountain and most part of plain zone of
the project area as a result of project implementation. Groundwater is very deep here and the
irrigation water does not contain salts.
Groundwater table varies between 1-2m below the earth surface in plain areas in the project area and
the groundwater has a fair content of salts. With the improvement of the irrigation conditions it is
expected that the qualitative properties of soils will improve.
3.2 Soil properties
Is the Project leading to changes in soil characteristics within the Project area or the vicinity due to
such activities as irrigation, the application of fertilizers or other chemicals, cultivation practices or
dewatering through drainage? Changes which can improve or impair soil structure, workability,
permeability, fertility association with nutrient changes, humus content, pH, acid sulphate or hard
pan formation or available water capacity should be considered.
Water losses will be reduced and canals discharge will increase as a result of project implementation
and the the farmers will be provided with the required quantity of irrigaiton water in the end. In case
the required water is provided, the correct selection of irrigation method for the area, maintenance of
irrigation norms and agro technical measures will improve the qualitative properties of soils. Project
implementation will ensure improvement of the qualitative properties of soils also in areas where
groundwater table varies between 1-2m. Considerable positive qualitative changes are expected
especially in former non-cultivated and newly cultivated lands.
3.3 Saline groundwater
Are changes to the rates of seepage, percolation or leaching from the Project and its dams
increasing or decreasing the concentrations of chlorides, nitrates or other salts in the groundwater?
Before delivering irrigation water, state authorities (now MNP) examine its quality and chemical
composition, its possible impact on the melorative state of irrigated lands. In this case Artashat canal
water is considered fit for irrigation use. Therefore, seepage losses from the canals and outflows
from hydro technical structures cannot lead to soil salinity or alkalization. Moreover, project
implementation reduces such losses from the canals.
3.4 Saline drainage
Are changes to the concentrations of chlorides, nitrates or other salts in the runoff or drainage
water from the Project area in danger of affecting biological communiities or existing or potential
downstream users (particulalry during low flow conditions)?
It is expected that as a result of project implementaiton water provision of irrigated lands will
increase and that new lands will be irrigated (in pre-mountain zone). In the greater part of the pre-
mountain and plain zones of the project area where the groundwater table is deep, no such changes
are expected as result of project implementaiton.
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In areas of plain zone where there is drainage, water provision will improve as a result of project
implementation. Therefore, it will affect the improvement of drainage exit, but that will not lead to
an increase of salt concentration in the drainage flow, as far as those lands are permanently irrigated.
3.5 Saline Intrusion
Are the Project and its dams leading to changes in saline water (sea water) intrusion into the
estuary or into groundwater due ot changes in low flow, groundwater use, dredging or river
training? If so, are the changes likely to affect biological communities and water users in the
Project vicinity and other areas?
No
4. Erosion and sedimentation
4.1 Local erosion
Is increased or decreased soil loss or gully erosion being caused within or close to the Project area
by changes in land gradient and vegetative cover, by irrigation and cultivation practice, from banks
of canals, roads and dams, from areas of cut and fill or due to storm drainage provision?
Local erosion has not been observed in project area. The rehabilitation of the canals will prevent
seepage from the canals, leakage from the damaged joints of HSs and other losses, the increase in
sizes which might lead to fluid erosion of soils in steep slopes and operational roads. During the
rehabilitation of access roads passing through steep slopes local erosion is likely to occur in steep
slopes.
4.2 Hinterland effect
Are the Project and its dams leading to changes in natural vegetation, land productivity and erosion
through changes in population density, animal husbandry, dryland farming practices, forest cover,
soil conservation measures, in the region?
In case of receiving the required amount of irrigation water the farmers will cultivate high value
crops in previously and newly irrigated lands as a result of which there will be an increase in yield
and in farmers’ incomes. That will also contribute to the development of cattle breeding.
4.3 River morphology
Is the regime of the river(s) changed by the Project and its dams through changes in the quantity or
seasonal distribution of flows and flood peaks in the river(s), the abstraction of clear water, changes
in sediment yield (caused by 4.1 and 4.2), the trapping of sediments in reservoirs or the flushing of
sediment control structures? If so, do these changes benefit or impair aquatic ecosystems or existing
or potential users downstream?
No.
4.4 Channel structures
Is scouring, aggradation, or bank erosion in the river(s),endangering the Project’s river headworks,
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offtake structures, weir or pump inlets, its canal network, draininge or flood protection works, the
free flow of its drainage system or structures and dvelopments downstream? Consider effects
associated with changes noted in 4.3 as well as those causesd by other existing and planned
upstream developments.
The canal network is the target beneficiary of this component.
4.5 Sedimentation
Are the changes noted in 4.1 – 4.4 causing increased or decreased sediment deposition in irrigagtion
or drainage canals, hydraulic structures, storage reservoirs or on cultivated land, either via the
irrigation systgems or the river(s)? If so, do these changes benefit or impair soil fertility, Project
operation, land cultivation or the capacity and operation of reservoirs?
Dvin canal is fed from Azat reservoir. This canal does not face any issue of sedimentation either.
The drifts accumulated in the canal are cleaned by operating companies before the commencement
of the irrigation season.
4.6 Estuary erosion
Are the Project and its dams leading to changes in the hydrological or sedment regimes of the river
which can affect delta formation or estuary and coastal erorsion? If so, do these changes benefit or
impair aquatic ecosystems (estuarine or marine), local habitation, navigaiton or other uses of the
estuary?
No.
5. Biological and ecological changes
Is the Project, its dams or its associated infrastructure causing substantial and permanent changes
(positive or negative) within the habitats listed in 5.1 – 5.5?
natural ecology (habitat, vegetation, terrestrial animals, birds, fish and other aquatic
animals and plants),
areas of special scientific interest
biological diversity
Include the likely ecological benefit of any new or modified habitats created and of any protective or
mitigatory measures adopted (such as nature reserves and compensatory forests).
Observations
As a result of the visit it turned out that the central part of Dvin canal of Artashat irrigation
system is situated at the distance of 10-15km from Khosrov State Reserve area.
A visit was made to the water intake junction at Azat River of Artashat irrigation system for the
purpose of examining life resources. As a result of the visit it turned out that there are no fish
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31
ladders and/or fish screens in that junction. At the same time it is not purposeful to require their
existence in the given section since the junction receives water from the water outlets of Azat
reservoir (which on his way works also HPP) and from Artashat canal. The canal receives most
of its discharges from two stage pump station of Mkhchyan canal. The aforementioned does not
exclude the possibility of fish resources existence in those waters, since Artashat main canal
starts at Hrazdan River and the water intake is located in Yerevan city where the existence of
fish is obvious. It is necessary to ensure appropriate fish isolating measures in the headwork
water intake of Artashat canal to solve this issue.
The enquiries showed that there have been encountered no fish species in Artashat irrigation
system canals and no hunting is carried out either.
6 Socio-Economic impacts
6.1 Population change
Is the Project causing significant demographic changes in the Project area or vicinity which may
affect social harmony? Changes in population size/density and demographic/ethnic composition
should be considered.
There is no indication that there will be any significant demographic changes in the Project area.
However, like elsewhere in rural areas of Armenia, some of the young people are seeking
opportunities off the farms.
6.2 Income and amenity
Is the Project introducing significant economic/political changes which can increase or decrease
social harmony and individual well-being? Changes in the general levels of employment and
income, in the provisions of local infrastructure and amenities, in the relative distribution of income,
property values and Project benefits (including access to irrigation water) and in the demand for
labour and skills (particularly in relation to family/political hierarchy and different sexes and social
groups) should be considered.
Farmers are aware of the proposed project, and expect to benefit from it. Nevertheless, increased
levels of irrigation water or more reliable delivery is not considered a critical economic variable.
The increased cost of agricultural inputs, including fertilizer, pesticides, land taxes, water charges
and the cost of petrol are causing economic distress to small farmers. In effect, farmers are saying
that in spite of their best efforts, that at the end of the day, “they have no income.” They noted that
each year it becomes “more and more difficult to make money from farming.”
6.3 Human migration
Has adequate provision been made for any temporary or migratory population influx to avoid social
deprivation, hardship or conflicts within these groups or between the permanent and temporary
groups? Human migration arising both from the demand for skills/labour during construction and
from the requirements for seasonal agricultural labour should be considered.
No human migration into or out of the area is anticipated as a consequence of project activities.
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6.4 Resettlement
Has adequate provision been made for the resettlement, livelihood and integration of any people
displaced by the Project and its dams or losing land, grazing or other means of income due to the
Project? Also, has adequate provision been made for the subsistence farming needs of people
settled on or associated with the Project?
No resettlement or resettlement effects are anticipated under the project. Encroachments of the
alienation zone3 that were observed and may require mitigation are included below and reflected in
the Mitigation Measures Table in Annex A.
Mkhchyan canal
There is a lot of domestic waste in the canal, in the
sections of Aygestan village.
Dvin canal
There were seepage phenomena in some sections of the
canal. The report presented by Hayjrnakhagits Institute
provides with the appropriate information. Hence, the
details are not specified.
At DM7+69DM16+70 section the width of the access road in some parts reaches up to 4m
because of the relief.
6.5 Women’s role
Does the Project change the status and role of women (positively or negatively) in relation to social
standing, work load, access to income and heritage and marital rights?
In view of the nature of the proposed works (rehabilitation of sections of an already existing main
irrigation canal), no impact is expected on the status of women and role of women.
6.6 Minority groups
Are the Project and its dams causing changes to the lifestyle, livelihoods or habitation of any social
groups (particularly minority groups) leading to major conflicts with, or changes to their traditional
behaviour, social organization or cultural and religious practices?
In view of the nature of the proposed works (rehabilitation of sections of an existing main irrigation
canals), no impact is expected on minority groups.
6.7 Sites of Value
3Armenian legislation requires the maintenance of a 10m alienation zone for hydro-technical structures (see Government decision N64-N, 2005) without providing any specifics. According to N 422 decision of the Board of Ministers of RA (24 June, 1991) main canals and inter-economic canals in the valley should have an alienation zone/layer of 2m at one side and 10m at the other, but this decision has gone out of force on 11.06.2000. While preparing the given document attempts were made to clarify whether a new decision of the type has been made after losing the force.
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Is access improved or hampered to places of aesthetic and scenic beauty, sites of historical and
religious significance or mineral and palaeontological resources? Also, are any such sites being
destroyed by the Project?
In view of the nature of the proposed works and the existence of designated service areas
(“alienation zones”) along the canals that will be utilised for these works, no impact is expected as
there are no known sites of value within the restricted area of the canal.
6.8 Regional Effects
Are the economic, infrastructural, social and demographic changes associated with the Project
likely to enhance, restrict or lead to unbalanced regional development? Also, has adequate
provision been made for new transport, marketing and processing needs associated with the
Project?
Increased efficiency and utilization of irrigation facilities should lead to higher levels of farm
productivity. Minor positive regional impacts are expected, principally comprising a greater level of
farm production available in local and regional markets. Farmers noted that the source of farm
inputs such as fertilizer is from Georgia, and that prices are becoming prohibitive for small farmers.
As a consequence there may be some shift from crops to livestock to adjust to significant price
fluctuations in the sector.
6.9 User Involvement
Has there been adequate user and public participation in project planning, implementation and
operation to ensure Project success and reduce future conflicts? The potential for incorporating
within the Project existing systems of land tenure, traditional irrigation, and existing organizational
and sociological structures and for the provision for new or extended facilities for credit, marketing,
agricultural extension and training should be considered.
Farm participants almost universally noted that the local administrator for water use and control,
including the WUA heads, were sometimes unaware of their problems. Farmers said this was not so
important, because most of the farmers had been there for 20 years or more and already “know their
land and what to do with it.”
6.10 Recreation
Are the Project and its dams creating new recreational possibilities (fishing, hunting, sailing,
canoeing, swimming, scenic walks, etc) and are existing facilities impaired, preserved or improved?
The proposed project activities will have no impact on recreational activities in the area.
7. Health
Consider each of the items 7.1-7.9 in relation to the local population, the labour force during
construction and their camp followers, the resettled and newly resettled populations and migratory
labour groups.
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The rehabilitation study of theMkhchyan and Dvin Canals proposes to improve sections of the
canals to be rehabilitated to increase the efficiency of the system as a whole. These rehabilitation
works are not assumed to have any negative or positive immediate health effect on the population in
its vicinity, apart perhaps during the period of actual construction work when increased vehicular
movement may be causing some disturbance and additional emissions in the area. These potential
and temporary effects are duly described in the EMP to reduce those temporary effects to the extent
possible and desirable.
In the longer term it is assumed that increased production and income resulting from the project
should contribute to the local population’s health.
8. Ecological Imbalances
8.1 Pests & weeds:
Are crop pests or weeds likely to increase or decrease (particularly those favoured by
irrigation/drainage/flood control) affecting yields, cultivation and requirements for pesticides or
herbicides?
Some growth of pests and weeds may be expected together with the extension of irrigated
agriculture but, in general, the effective operation and the reliability of the system will enable the
farmers to manage their cultivated lands more effectively as a result of which such an impact will be
marginal.
8.2 Animal diseases:
Are domestic animals in the Project or vicinity more or less exposed to hazard diseases and
parasites as a result of the Project and its dams?
No.
8.3 Aquatic weeds
Are reservoirs, rivers or irrigation and drainage canals likely to support aquatic vegetation or
algae? If so, can these plants be harvested or controlled, or will they reduce the storage/conveyance
capacity, interfere with the operation of hydraulic structures or lead to oxygen-oversaturated or
anaerobic water bodies?
Rehabilitation of the canals will reduce further what is already – except in a few currently neglected
spots – a low incidence of aquatic weeds in the Mkhchyan and Dvin Canals system.
8.4 Structural damage:
Is there a danger of significant damage being caused to dams, embankments, canal banks or other
components of the irrigation/drainage/flood control worksthrough the action of plants and animals
(including rodents and termites) favoured by the Project?
The rehabilitation works, if properly constructed and maintained, will eliminate current damages,
and prevent potential structural damage in the future.
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8.5 Animal imbalances
Does the Project cause zoological imbalances (insects, rodents, birds and other wild animals)
through habitat modification, additional food supply and shelter, extermination of predators,
reduced competition or increased diseases?
No. Any negative changes would be marginal, and should be largely prevented or offset by
improved water and agricultural management.
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Annex E: Environmental Clauses for Contracts
The Environmental Management Plan (EMP) provides general and specific guidance on protection
and mitigation of potential environmental damage. The EMP is attached to these Technical
Specifications, and shall be considered as binding on the Contractor. All necessary measures on
protection of environment shall be carried out by the Contractor in accordance with the order of
competent authorities, the EMP, and instructions of the Engineer.
1. Obligations of the Contractor
The general environmental and social obligations of the Contractor within this Contract, without
prejudice to other official provisions in force, include the following:
The Contractor shall respect the environmental regulatory provisions in force in the Republic of
Armenia (including those announced during the execution of the works if imposed by the
Engineer), the contractual provisions of this Contract as well as the conditions fixed by the
various required authorizations or approvals;
The Contractor shall fully assume responsibility for the consequences of his choices and actions;
in particular, and without prejudice to the regulatory provisions in force, he guarantees, if
necessary, the repair at his cost and according to the most appropriate technologies and deadlines,
notably with regard to the level of sensitivity of the site concerned, of damage caused to the
environment and residents by failure to respect regulatory and/or administrative provisions and/or
the applicable technical specifications, as well as the payment of fines, damages or other penalties
which may be incumbent upon him;
Contractor shall agree with the Engineer the technical approaches and solutions to the
rehabilitation of stretches of the Main Canal where encroachments of the alienation zone are
observed. Preference should be given to the technical solutions that do not require taking or
demolition of temporary and permanent private properties. In case the taking or demolition of
property cannot be avoided the Contractor shall notify the Engineer and ESIO and cease the
works in that particular section of the Main Canal. Construction activities may only proceed with
approval of the Engineer.
The Contractor shall take all measures to ensure the environmental quality of operations which
are the subject of this contract, and not disrupt the quality of life of the adjacent villages, in
particular by applying the applicable specifications and provisions. The Contractor shall consider
the execution of works or the implementation of environmental and social provisions as an
integral part of the operations relating to the general construction program of the works; and
Appropriate information and training for Contractor personnel, including management staff, with
regard to the security and/or quality of operations;
The Contractor shall inform the local authorities (village mayor, council of elders) and the
affected population on planned construction activities, sites and schedule at least 2 weeks in
advance of any planned construction activities;
The Contractor shall hold information meetings at least 2 weeks before entering any village area
for planned construction activities, to inform the villagers of the nature of the forthcoming works,
their duration, and all effects such as dust, smoke, or noise that will be felt in the village, whether
such effects are to be mitigated or not;
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The Contractor shall refrain from destroying, removing or clearing trees, timber, scrub, crops and
other flora to any extent greater than is approved by the Engineer as being necessary for the
execution of this Contract and shall take such measures as may be necessary to prevent his
employees from hunting, disturbing, capturing or destroying stock, crops and such flora as may
be protected by relevant statutes;
Borrow pits or other similar excavations as well as waste accumulation and disposal sites shall be
in locations approved by the Engineer;
Controlling pollution, noise and nuisances generated by the works;
The re-use of materials available on the existing site each time the technical and financial
conditions allow for this in a satisfactory manner from the point of view of the Engineer.
Recycling and reuse of wastes (e.g. lubricants, plastic bottles, paper) is encouraged where
appropriate. Strictly banning the use of fire for clearing and grubbing and cleaning sites, except
for the treatment of organic waste as approved by the Engineer;
The maximum preservation of natural resources and the minimization of the use of space, soil and
vegetation, in particular by the minimizing of cleared and stripped surfaces, by the passage of
blades at a high level (5 cm above the natural ground level) each time that a simple clearing or a
provisional storage of material is required, by controlling logging, including any tree alignments,
by the appropriate management of the topsoil, by driving and working the machines perpendicular
to the slope, by the maintenance on the sites of naturally grassed areas, and by the control of site
erosion;
As appropriate the systematic stripping of topsoil of all work sites unless (with prior consent of
the Engineer) the soil structure of the surface, predominantly organic matter ("topsoil" or mud),
does not exist or has a thickness less than the working height adjustment of the blade of the
excavator or machine used, taking into account the state of the terrain (eroded soil, gravel, soil
with rocks that prevent the passage of the machine, etc.);
The Contractor shall respect, for the whole of his site (including borrow sites and disposal areas,
quarries and installations) the zones, areas, elements and periods which are environmentally
sensitive, including, but not limited to locations and areas identified in the EMP. In the project
areas adjacent to specially protected areas, machinery shall not go beyond the alienation zone;
there shall be no waste accumulations and waste disposal sites in the same areas; and there shall
be no use and storage of explosives and toxic and chemical substances;
Any discharge or disposal of used water, mud, grout, bituminous products, pollutants of any kind,
etc. into wells, boreholes, surface water or groundwater, water courses, natural streams, drains,
ditches, etc. is strictly forbidden;
It is forbidden to create a dam or alter a permanent or temporary watercourse for the
requirements of the site (unless otherwise specified in the Design), without authorisation of the
Engineer;
All construction vehicles shall travel at slow speed (as specified in Armenian legislation) within
100 m on either side of any areas around villages where children are present;
The control of health risks relating to the works and personnel of the Contractor, in particular the
adoption of minimum hygiene rules at the work sites and camps and for the benefit of residents,
the control of dust emissions in populated areas and the control of stagnant waters as specified in
the EMP;
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Contractor shall exercise every reasonable precaution to protect from injury persons or property.
The Contractor shall erect and maintain all necessary temporary fencing, barricades, barriers,
signs and lights and provide fire alarm, fire extinguishing and fire fighting services at strategic
points on the Site. The Contractor shall also be responsible for erecting and maintaining
structures for storage and containment of hazardous materials or liquids. The Contractor shall
adopt and enforce such rules and regulations as may be necessary, desirable or proper to
safeguard the public, all persons engaged in the work and its supervision. The Contractor shall be
responsible for the flagging and control of traffic and he shall comply with the requirements of
the Engineer and competent authority in these matters. Contractor shall keep clear and in good
working order all temporary access road structures, bridges, culverts, drains and other waterways
necessary for the execution of the works during the term of the Contract;
The Contractor shall ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare at
work of his personnel including those of his subcontractors and of all other persons on the Site or
crossing the site. The Contractor shall provide protective clothing and equipment to workers that
are appropriate to the workers’ tasks. The Contractor shall be fully responsible for ensuring
necessary first aid services to his staff and workmen, including transport for injured personnel to
hospital or other appropriate accommodation as and when required. The organization of the
construction sites and work places, and the Contractor’s approach to the aspects listed below,
shall be included in the ESHSP, details of which are included in Clause 2.21.2, to be prepared by
the Contractor and approved by the Engineer.
The cleaning, restoration and then, if necessary, the appropriate rehabilitation or redevelopment of
work sites, camps, quarries and borrow pits released by the Contractor as the work progresses.
This obligation, which includes possible drainage of stagnant water and the completion of
compensatory tree plantations (if envisaged by the Design), is a condition of the acceptance of the
works;
Taking appropriate sanctions against personnel violating the applicable specifications and
provisions on environmental and social matters;
Checking, by regular inspection, that all stipulated environmental and social provisions are being
adhered to;
Systematically and in timely manner informing PIU and Technical Supervision Consultant of
each incident or accident, damage or degradation caused to the environment, workers or residents
or their assets, in the course of the works. Contractor shall also take appropriate measures, as
approved by the Engineer, to address the incident or accident in timely fashion; and
Environmental and social monitoring of the works by the ESO (as defined in Clause 2.21.2., Sub-
clause 2.21.2.2(ii)), and the writing of corresponding monthly reports.
2. Environmental, Social, Health and Safety Plan
The Contractor shall establish an Environmental, Social, Health and Safety Plan (ESHSP) in order to
meet his obligations concerning this matter; the ESHSP particularly shall include the following:
1. Management Acknowledgements
2. Organization & Staffing
3. Communications and Reporting
4. Environmental, Health and Safety Management Provisions
The Contractor shall prepare and submit for the Engineer’s approval an ESHSP within 30 days of the
commencement date. The Engineer may require periodic reviews, including updating of the ESHSP
during the Works.
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2.1 Management Acknowledgement
(i) Certification and Commitment
The ESHSP submitted by the Contractor shall provide a signed statement from the Contractor’s
Managing Director(s) attesting to a commitment that all environmental protection, safety, and
occupational health aspects of the Contract will be given highest priority in the discharge of
contractual obligations and certifying a commitment to the provisions in the EMP, and ESHSP as
approved by the Engineer.
(ii) Statutory Understanding and Compliance
The Plan shall provide a statement attesting the firm’s understanding of, and means of ensuring due
compliance with, the statutory regulations relating to construction work in the Republic of Armenia,
specifically in regard to compliance with:
(a) All safety and occupational health legislation including, without limitation, the Rules
and Regulations of the Republic of Armenia and the authorities having jurisdiction.
(b) All current environmental laws and regulations, including both national and local
regulations, related to the following, but not limited to:
- Noise;
- Vibration;
- Air pollution;
- Water contamination;
- Solid and hazardous waste disposal;
- Liquid waste disposal;
- Sanitary conditions (water supply, sewerage, etc.);
- Use of explosives; and
- Protection of public traffic,
- Historical, cultural and archaeological monuments/sites,
- Resettlement, land acquisition, servitude, temporary use of land and
compensation, etc.
(iii) Availability of Documents
The Plan shall state where copies of safety and occupational health regulations and documents will
be available on the construction site and verify that all regulations and documents have been or will
be available.
(iv) Management of Subcontractors
The requirements of this and related sections and obligations therein shall include for execution of
parts of the Works by the approved subcontractors whilst the Contractor shall:
(a) Provide subcontractors with copies of the ESHSP whilst incorporating such provisions into all
sub-contracts and ensure compliance with such plan under the Contract.
(b) Require all subcontractors to appoint a safety representative who shall be available on the site
throughout the operational period of the respective sub-contract and ensure as far as is practically
possible that staff and employees of subcontractors are conversant with appropriate parts of the
ESHSP and the statutory regulations.
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2.2 Organization and Staffing
(i) Organization Chart
The Plan shall include an organization chart identifying (by job title and by the name of the
individual) the personnel to be engaged solely for environmental protection, safety and traffic
control. The chart and the supporting text shall identify participants and their areas of responsibility
and contact details.
(ii) Appointment of Environmental Safety Officer (ESO)
The Contractor shall submit for approval the name and details (full CV) of his proposal for an ESO
to the Engineer within 14 days of the commencement date. The ESO shall be responsible for day-to-
day issues of environmental management for the duration of the Contract. The Contractor shall
obtain approval of such person being appointed, who shall be in position to carry out his duties prior
to Works activities commencing on site except as may be agreed in exceptional circumstances in
writing with the Engineer. The ESO will not be removed from the site without the express written
permission of the Engineer. Within fourteen (14) days of any such removal or notice of intent of
removal, a replacement ESO will be nominated for approval by the Engineer.
The ESO shall be empowered to instruct employees of the Contractor and Subcontractors to cease
operations and shall take the appropriate action as is necessary and within his limits of delegation by
informing others as may be appropriate to prevent unsafe working practices or other infringements
of the Plan or the statutory regulations. The ESO shall maintain a daily site diary comprehensively
recording all relevant matters concerning site environmental management, safety and traffic control,
inspections and audits, related incidents and the like. The site diary shall be available at all times for
inspection by the Engineer and his staff.
2.3 Communication and Reporting
The Contractor shall prepare and submit to the Engineer for his approval monthly progress reports
on compliance with implementation of EMP and ESHSP. It is expected that these reports will
include information on:
Environmental, social, health, and safety management actions/measures taken, including
approvals sought from local or national authorities;
Problems encountered in relation to environmental, social, health, and safety aspects (incidents,
including delays, cost consequences, etc. as a result thereof);
Lack of compliance with contract requirements on the part of the Contractor;
Changes of assumptions, conditions, measures, designs and actual works in relation to
environmental, social, health, and safety aspects;
Observations, concerns raised and/or decisions taken with regard to environmental, social, health,
and safety management during site meetings;
Chance historical, cultural and archaeological finds;
Follow-up on the status and efficacy of remedial measures and/or corrective actions identified in
Incident Reporting Forms included in EMPs or otherwise; and
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
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Follow-up, including remedial measures, status of measures and their efficacy, related to lack of
compliance with contract requirements.
2.4 Environmental, Health and Safety Management Provisions
ESHSP should include at minimum the methodology and resources to meet the requirements of these
Technical Specifications including but not limited to the following:
Stakeholder communication and information dissemination;
Relevant staff training;
Maintaining farmers’ access to irrigation water if the Works are implemented during the irrigation
season;
Maintaining vehicle access to the communities;
Pollution control (including spill prevention, dust abatement, noise, etc.);
Provision of potable water and washing/toilet facilities to workers;
Provision of lodging and insecticide-treated mosquito nets to workers as appropriate;
Provision of health care to workers and treatment for injuries and infections; and providing
workers with access to condoms;
Assessing importance of, and reporting and investigating, chance historical, cultural and
archaeological finds;
Inspection and monitoring.
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Annex F: Minutes of Public Consultation Meetings
Date: 02.06.2011
Community: Mrgavet
Participants:
H.Harutyunyan PIU Irrigation Officer
N.Atayan PIU Environmental and Social Impact Officer,
V.Movsisyan Institutional Improvements Officer
A.Gevorkyan Director of Azat WUA
L .Abrahamyan Governor of Mrgavet community
Water users of Mrgavet community
Agenda
To carry out public discussions of environmental and social impacts and other issues related to
rehabilitation of deteriorated stretches of diversion canal of Mkchyan pump station of Artashat
irrigation scheme.
V. Movsisyan presented in details the proposed project and the nature of anticipated activities.
N.Atayan presented environmental and social aspects of the anticipated works.
The Governor of Mrgavet community L.Abrahamyan raised the issue of the rehabilitation of on-farm
irrigation networks.
V. Movsisyan clarified that the rehabilitation of on-farm irrigation networks included in the project
will be implemented on the condition of 15% co-financing by water users.
A.Gevorkyan reminded that the community first has approach with that issue to the Administrative
Council of WUA. The Council will discuss the request of community and apply to PIU specialists, if
required. In case of positive opinion of PIU, the on-farm irrigation system will be included into the
Project.
Water user H.Karapetyan raised the issue of involvement of local population in construction works.
PIU specialists clarified that one of the Project’s objectives is to involve in civil works as much local
population as possible to increase local employment. Local people will be hired if they posses
required construction skills.
The list of water users having participated in public consultations is attached.
Mrgavet Community Governor [SIGNATURE] L.Abrahamyan
Secretary [SIGNATURE] S.Simonyan
[SEAL]
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LIST OF PARTICIPANTS OF THE PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS
ARTASHAT IRRIGATION SCHEME
“Azat” WUA
Date 02.06.2011 Community Mrgavet
Participant’s Name Participant’s position and
occupation
Signature Comments
Asatryan Rafik Water User /signature/
Avagyan Avag Water User /signature/
Aslanyan Andranik Water User /signature/
Mouradyan Aram Water User /signature/
Ardakyan Aram Water User /signature/
Mkhitaryan Mher Water User /signature/
Karapetyan Hrach Water User /signature/
Simonyan Simon Water User /signature/
Badalyan Karlen Water User /signature/
Badalyan Smbat Water User /signature/
Davtyan Lyova Water User /signature/
Eghiazaryan Hamlet Water User /signature/
Astaryan Edik Water User /signature/
Esayan David Water User /signature/
Voskanyan Simon Water User /signature/
Petrosyan Temur Water User /signature/
Mirzoyan Vachik Water User /signature/
Vardanyan Mikael Water User /signature/
Sargsyan Sergey Water User /signature/
Sahakyan Hakob Water User /signature/
Andreasyan Razmik Water User /signature/
Asatryan Hrant Water User /signature/
Asatryan Hakob Water User /signature/
Khachartryan grgham Water User /signature/
Margaryan Seda Water User /signature/
Head of Mrgavet Community L.Abrahamyan /signature/
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
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Date: 02.06.2011
Community: Byuravan
Participants:
H.Harutyunyan PIU Irrigation Officer
N.Atayan PIU Environmental and Social Impact Officer,
V.Movsisyan Institutional Improvements Officer
A.Gevorkyan Director of Azat WUA
G.Hovakimyan Governor of Byuravan community
Water users of Byuravan community
Agenda
To carry out public discussions of environmental and social impacts and other issues related to
rehabilitation of deteriorated stretches of diversion canal of Mkchyan pump station of Artashat
irrigation scheme.
H.Harutyunyan presented in details the proposed project and the nature of anticipated activities.
N.Atayan presented environmental and social aspects of the anticipated works.
The Governor of Buravan community G.Hovakimyan raised the issue of the rehabilitation of on-
farm irrigation networks.
H.Harutyunyan clarified that the rehabilitation of on-farm irrigation networks included in the project
will be implemented on the condition of 15% co-financing by water users.
A.Gevorkyan reminded that the community first has approach with that issue to the Administrative
Council of WUA. The Council will discuss the request of community and apply to PIU specialists, if
required. In case of positive opinion of PIU, the on-farm irrigation system will be included into the
Project.
Water user J.Harutyunyan raised the issue of involvement of local population in construction works.
PIU specialists clarified that one of the Project’s objectives is to involve in civil works as much local
population as possible to increase local employment. Local people will be hired if they posses
required construction skills.
The list of water users having participated in public consultations is attached.
Buravan Community Governor [SIGNATURE] G.Hovakimyan
Secretary [SIGNATURE] V.Harutyunyan
[SEAL]
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LIST OF PARTICIPANTS OF THE PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS
ARTASHAT IRRIGATION SCHEME
“Azat” WUA
Date 02.06.2011 Community Biuravan
Participant’s Name Participant’s position and
occupation
Signature Comments
Khachatryan Tadevos Water User /signature/
Harutunyan Jirayr Water User /signature/
Nazaryan Vrej Water User /signature/
Hovhannisyan Sos Water User /signature/
Ayvazyan Gagik Water User /signature/
Hakobyan Ando Water User /signature/
Avetisyan Surik Water User /signature/
Shabazyan Hrach Water User /signature/
Sargsyan Gegham Water User /signature/
harutunyan varujan Water User /signature/
Gevorgyan Misha Water User /signature/
Sedrakyan Hakob Water User /signature/
Sahakyan Sirush Water User /signature/
Harutunyan Misha Water User /signature/
Gevorgyan Vardges Water User /signature/
Ghazaryan Jivan Water User /signature/
Arakelyan Razmik Water User /signature/
Avagyan Virab Water User /signature/
Hakobyab Aljir Water User /signature/
Mamikonyan Slavik Water User /signature/
Khachatryan Hamik Water User /signature/
Simonyan Sargis Water User /signature/
Misakyan Sasun Water User /signature/
Hamoyan Ishkhan Water User /signature/
Avetisyan Garnik Water User /signature/
Head of Byuravan Community G.Hovakimyan /signature/
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Date: 02.06.2011
Community: Berdik
Participants:
H.Harutyunyan PIU Irrigation Officer
N.Atayan PIU Environmental and Social Impact Officer,
V.Movsisyan Institutional Improvements Officer
A.Gevorkyan Director of Azat WUA
A.Bagdasaryan Governor of Berdik community
Water users of Berdik community
Agenda
To carry out public discussions of environmental and social impacts and other issues related to
rehabilitation of deteriorated stretches of diversion canal of Mkchyan pump station of Artashat
irrigation scheme.
V.Movsisyan presented in details the proposed project and the nature of anticipated activities.
N.Atayan presented environmental and social aspects of the anticipated works.
The Governor of Berdik community A.Bagdasaryan noted that their community is located at the
end-tail section of the system, so rehabilitation will improve irrigation water supply and make it
more reliable.
V.Movsisyan clarified that one of major objectives of the project is reduction of irrigation water
losses and provision of ensured irrigation water to farms.
Water user K.Khachatryan raised the issue of involvement of local population in construction works.
PIU specialists clarified that one of the Project’s objectives is to involve in civil works as much local
population as possible to increase local employment. Local people will be hired if they posses
required construction skills.
The list of water users having participated in public consultations is attached.
Berdik Community Governor [SIGNATURE] A.Bagasaryan
Secretary [SIGNATURE] H.Gevorkyan
[SEAL]
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LIST OF PARTICIPANTS OF THE PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS
ARTASHAT IRRIGATION SCHEME
“Azat” WUA
Date 02.06.2011 Community Berdik
Participant’s Name Participant’s position and
occupation
Signature Comments
Tumanyan Gabriel Water User /signature/
Soghomonyan Hrayr Water User /signature/
Sahakyan Grigor Water User /signature/
Babayan Aram Water User /signature/
Avagyan Garush Water User /signature/
Muradyan Samvel Water User /signature/
Khachhatryan Korun Water User /signature/
Karapetyan Jora Water User /signature/
Muradyan gegham Water User /signature/
Davtyan Razmik Water User /signature/
Vardanyan Hrach Water User /signature/
Avagyan Vachik Water User /signature/
Hakobyan Karen Water User /signature/
Asatryan Samvel Water User /signature/
Muradyan Vemir Water User /signature/
Melkonyan Manik Water User /signature/
Karapetyan Samvel Water User /signature/
Smbatyan Hrayr Water User /signature/
Mkrtchyan Mher Water User /signature/
Khachatryan Ashot Water User /signature/
Danielyan Vard Water User /signature/
Boyayan Hrayr Water User /signature/
Gevorgyan Hasmik Water User /signature/
HovhjannisArmen Water User /signature/
Head of Berdik Community A.Baghdasaryan /signature/
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Date: 01.06.2011
Community: Lower Dvin
Participants:
H.Harutyunyan PIU Irrigation Officer
N.Atayan PIU Environmental and Social Impact Officer,
V.Movsisyan Institutional Improvements Officer
T.Tadevosyan Director of Artashat WUA
A. Abrahamyan Governor of Lower Dvin community
Water users of Lower Dvin community
Agenda
To carry out public discussions of environmental and social impacts and other issues related to
rehabilitation of deteriorated stretches Dvin canal of Artashat irrigation scheme.
V. Movsisyan presented in details the proposed project and the nature of anticipated activities.
N.Atayan presented environmental and social aspects of the anticipated works.
The Governor of Lower Dvin community A.Abrahamyan raised the issue of the rehabilitation of on-
farm irrigation networks.
V. Movsisyan clarified that the rehabilitation of on-farm irrigation networks included in the project
will be implemented on the condition of 15% co-financing by water users.
T.Tadevosyan reminded that the community first has approach with that issue to the Administrative
Council of WUA. The Council will discuss the request of community and apply to PIU specialists, if
required. In case of positive opinion of PIU, the on-farm irrigation system will be included into the
Project.
Water user G.Nazaryan raised the issue of involvement of local population in construction works.
PIU specialists clarified that one of the Project’s objectives is to involve in civil works as much local
population as possible to increase local employment. Local people will be hired if they posses
required construction skills.
The list of water users having participated in public consultations is attached.
Lower Dvin Community Governor [SIGNATURE] A.Abrahamyan
Secretary [SIGNATURE] G.Sahakyan
[SEAL]
Rehabilitation of Mkhchyan and Dvin canals
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LIST OF PARTICIPANTS OF THE PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS
ARTASHAT IRRIGATION SCHEME
“Artashat” WUA
Date 01.2011 Community Lower Dvin
Participant’s Name Participant’s position and
occupation
Signature Comments
AmirkhanArtur Water User /signature/
Azaizyan Movses Water User /signature/
Badalyan Murad Water User /signature/
Gevorgyan Shavarsh Water User /signature/
Khachatryan Spartak Water User /signature/
Khachatryan Frunzeyan Water User /signature/
Rostomyan Kamo Water User /signature/
Vardanyan Serob Water User /signature/
vardanyan Slavik Water User /signature/
Samvelyan Khoren Water User /signature/
Hazaryan Hrach Water User /signature/
Muradyan Eranos Water User /signature/
Melkonyan Ludvig Water User /signature/
Malkhasyan Seyran Water User /signature/
Harutunyan Mariam Water User /signature/
karapetyan Mrtik Water User /signature/
Khudoyan Hripsik Water User /signature/
Baghdasaryan Jura Water User /signature/
Kamalyan Shushik Water User /signature/
Grigoryan Hamlet Water User /signature/
Boyahgchyan Nver Water User /signature/
Head of Lower Dvin Community A. Abrahamyan /signature/
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