Initial Environment Examination · Initial Environment Examination This report has been submitted...

Initial Environment Examination

This report has been submitted to ADB by the Government of Uttarakhand, Dehradun and is made publicly available in accordance with ADB’s public communications policy (2011). It does not necessarily reflect the views of ADB.

Project Number: 40648-033 January 2014

IND: Infrastructure Development Investment Program for Tourism – Tranche 2

Submitted by

Government of Uttarakhand, Dehrdaun

(L-- tfr/'' . /../ Mff L ~ ~~u afll~~

Program Management Unit ~1 (/Ai~..,~' Infrastructure Development Investment Program for Tourism \.)

• • Uttar'akhand (ADB Assisted - Loan No. 2833, India) uimplqCJfcmw i!

Govt. of Uttarakhand Government of Uttarakhand · PandltDeendyalUpadhayaParyatanBhawan,

Near ONGC Helipad GarhiCantt, Dehradun -248003 Tel: 91-135-2559987, Fax: 91-135-2559988 E-mail: [email protected]

Ref: /35/2-10-ADB {PMU)/ (IDIPT)/7 /2011-12 Date: 03.01.2014

To

Country Director

Indian Resident Mission (INRM),

ASIAN DEVELOPMENT BANK INRM

COUNTRY [>IRFCTOR"S OFFICE

Plot no -4, San Martin Marg, Chanakyapuri,

New Delhi 110021, PB No-53311 {HPO)

O 6 JAN 201~~~ RECEIVED

Sub:-Loan No. 2833 IND-Infrastructure Development Investment Program for Tourism

Initial Environment Examination Reports

Ref: Fax dt. 14 November 2013 (received vide malls dt. 20th Nov)

Respected Sir,

Kindly refer to IEE document submitted vide letter dt. 02.09.13 and ADB's

comments on the same received vide referred letter. Comments pertaining to

"Development of Tourism Infrastructure For North Corbett Entry Point At Kotdwar"

{contract Package No. UKIDIPT/KOT/01) have been incorporated and accordingly

updated IEE document is being sent for your kind perusal and approval.

Encl.:- As above CV/ (Sachin Kurve) IAS

Program Director

ASIAN OEVELOPMENlt:-;1~K INRM ~

~ . 11~ 0 8 JAN 201~

RECEIVED

Response Matrix - Development of Tourism Infrastructure for North Corbett entry point at Kotdwar

Sr. No. as per suggestion/ Comments fromADB 2

3

4

5

From ADB

We note that there are no changes in the scope of works originally approved (ADB approved IEE report of November 2011), and the submission of updated IEE reports is to ensure compliance with the agreed environmental safeguards related arrangements for the Loan.

Based on the desk review of the information provided with the updated IEE reports and the IEE report of November 2011; the environment category of the sub-projects continues to be "B", and the sub projects are eligible for financing under the Loan from environmental safeguards perspective.

We note from the IEE reports that all subprojects are outside the boundaries of environmentally sensitive areas such as national parks, sanctuaries, etc., and the proposed activities are in line with the approved conservation /development plans of the relevant regulatory agencies.

During our desk review, we noted that certain environmental impacts (and associated mitigation and monitoring measures) identified for these sub-projects in the ADB approved IEE report were missing in the updated IEE reports. It is likely that on account of certain other initiatives undertaken during the past 24 months, since the approval of earlier IEE report (not referred to in these IEE reports), these impacts no longer exist. We request you to provide a rationale for not considering these impacts (and associated mitigation and monitoring measures) at this stage, especially when the scope has remained unchanged.

Remarks/Response

Agreed At TA stage DPR was not prepared, IEE was developed on the basis of conceptual design. Now revised IEE is now developed considering specific project components as pointed out in detailed design report and complyinQ loan covenant No deviation. Revised IEE reports indicate categorization of the project as "B'' as per level of impact

No project components are selected within environmental sensitive area

In 2011 TA stage IEE report was prepared for entire program considering number of sub projects and mitigation measures are developed in generic way not as per specific work components. locations and specific sub projects. Now IEE is revised as per specific work components (which suppose to be revised again in form of "site specific EMP") and that's the reason of deviation from earlier generic mitigation measures against impacts. As per suggestion mitigation measures under EMP reviewed once aQain and revised wherever

1

6

7

(i)

(ii)

(iii)

The public consultation section requires to be strengthened by providing details of consultations with local people. The section should elaborate on (i) whether the environmental assessment, either draft IEE reports of the anticipated impacts and proposed mitigation measures (in local language) were shared with the local community prior to consultations; (ii) the issues raised by locals during the meetings; and (iii) the methodology adopted . to incorporate those issues in the final design. Form the details furnished, it appears that the majority of consultations have been with local government officials. Some of the photo plates attached with IEE reports are the same. A clarification should be included in those IEE reports stating that the stakeholders including local communities are the same for such subprojects. It is also not very clear whether the IEE reports or summaries (after incorporating the consultation discussions) in local language have been shared with local people or disclosed at easily accessible places.

We request you to ensure that

required During preparation of IEE (design stage) consultation has been carried out with primary and secondary stakeholders. During consultation project components, possible impacts and mitigation measures were explained in local Hindi language

Issues raised by locals have been considered for development of mitigation measures and action plan.

Further local level community consultation particularly related to environmental attributes attached in the revised IEE report. Additional photographs are included in the revised report.

After approval executive summaries of the IEE will be translated to local Hindi language and to be disclosed to program website, local offices, line agencies and public places like libraries/ villaQe panchvat office/ ULBs

Statutory regulations of India at the national. Complied and to be comply as per State and local levels are complied with; the loan covenant. relevant clearances, consents, permissions, All will be reflected in quarterly and etc. are obtained prior to commencement of semiannual report works; the terms and conditions stipulated therein are fully complied with; and the relevant clearances, consents, permissions are renewed in timely manner.

All proposed improvement or augmentation Complied and to be comply as per measures in environmentally sensitive areas loan covenant. are in accordance with the respective All will be reflected in quarterly and regulatory authority approved management semiannual report plans;

The permissions are obtained from the Obtained as per requirement/ relevant regulatory agencies for the sub- selection of project components projects in or close to protected monuments; location

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(iv)

(v)

(vi)

(vii)

(viii)

The environmental budget mentioned in the Environmental budget for IEE report is included in the overall sub-project monitoring and application of cost and made available during mitigation measures implementation and O&M phases;

The environmental management and Environmental management and monitoring plans are made a part of the monitoring plans is attached in BID bidding documents (stating that the associated document. Entire IEE is available IEE reports could be made available to for observation by contractor. interested bidders and/or by providing a web Revised and approve IEE will be link of disclosed IEE report); and subsequently disclose in web site in the works contracts;

The contractors and other agencies Will be complying by concerned responsible for the implementation of EMMPs contractor as per EMMP. understand the environmental safeguards Monitoring report will show level of related requirements agreed under the sub- compliance project;

The proposed bio-manipulation activities in the Not applicable for the said sub Naukuchiatal lake would be carried out in project consultation with the concerned regulatory authorities and the agencies with expertise in the subject;

In case of any unanticipated environmental Agreed. risks or impacts or in case of any changes in In case of changes in scope and the scope of subproject during location IEE will be revised and to implementation, you shall promptly inform be send to ADS for review and ADB about such risks, impacts or changes; approval. and prior to commencing with works in such All will be reflected in quarterly and sections, undertake environmental semiannual report assessment for further revision of IEE reports as deemed necessary, and submit to ADB for review and approval.

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Environmental Assessment Document

Final

Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) Project Number: 40648/IND December 2013

Infrastructure Development Investment Programme for Tourism, Uttarakhand

Subproject -Development of Tourism Infrastructure for North Corbett entry point at Kotdwar

Prepared by the Government of Uttarakhand for the Asian Development Bank

This IEE is a document of the borrower. The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of ADB's Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature

ADB

ASI

CPCB

CPR

DOT

DSC

EA

EIA

EMP

FSI

GMVN

Gol

Gou HNB

IA

IDIPT

IEE

IUCN

MFF

MoEF

NDBR

NDNP

NP

OM PA

PD

PIU

PMC

PMU

PUC

REA

SEIAA

SLEC

SPCB

SPM

SPS

UNESCO -

UTDB

UUSDIP

WLS

Development of tourism infrastructure for North Corbett entry point at Kotdwar lnltlal Environmental Examination

ABBREVIATIONS

Asian Development Bank

Archaeological Survey of India

Central Pollution Control Board

Common property resources

Department of Tourism

Design Supervision Consultants

Executing Agency

Environmental Impact Assessment

Environmental Management Plan

Forest Survey of India

Garhwal Manda! Vikas Nigam

Government of India

Government of Uttarakhand

Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna

Implementing Agency

Infrastructure Development Investment Program for Tourism

Initial Environmental Examination

International Union for Conservation of Nature

Multi-tranche Financing Facility

Ministry of Environment and Forests

Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve

Nanda Devi National Park

National Park

Operations Manual

Protected area

Program director

Project Implementation Unit

Project Management Consultant

Project Management Unit

Pollution under Control

Rapid Environmental Assessment

State Environment Impact Assessment Authority

State-level empowered committee

State Pollution Control Board

Suspended Particulate Matter

Safeguard Policy Statement

United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation

Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board

Uttarakhand Urban Sector Development Investment Program

Wildlife Sanctuary

Development of tourism infrastructure for North Corbett entry point at Kotdwar Initial Environmental Examination

CURRENCY EQUIVALENTS

(as of 22nd August 2013)

Currency unit - Indian rupee (Rs)

Rs1 .00 = $0.0153

$1.00 =Rs 65.30

WEIGHTS AND MEASURES

dB (A) A-weighted decibel

ha - hectare

km - kilometer

km2 - square kilometer

µg - microgram

m - meter

m2 - square meter

MW (megawatt) - megawatt

This initial environmental examination is a document of the borrower. The views expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of ADB's Board of Directors, Management, or staff, and may be preliminary in nature. In preparing any country program or strategy, financing any project, or by making any designation of or reference to a particular territory or geographic area in this document, the Asian Development Bank does not intend to make any judgments as to the legal or other status of any territory or area.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY


CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................................................................... 1

1.1 Project Background .. ..... .... ... ............. ....... ..... .. .... ... .................. .... ....... ... ........................ ............... .... 1

1.2 Purpose of the IEE ...................... ....... .................. ......................................... ........... .......................... 1

1.3 Extent of the IEE ...... ............ ....... .. .. .. ......... ..... .. .... .. ......................... ... .... ... .. ... .. .. .. ... ..... ..... .. ......... .. ... 2

1.3.1 ADB Policy .. ...... ...... .. ...... ... .. ...... .......... ..... .... ......... ..... ...... ............... ............. ..... ........................ 2

1.3.2 National Law .. ........ .. ...... ................... ... .. ...... ......................... ..... .... ..... .. ......................... .. .......... 2

1.3.3 Review and Approval Procedure ........ ..... .. ...... ............. .. .............. ............................................. 3

1 .4 Scope of Study .......... .................. ...... .............. ....... ...... ...... ...................... .. ............................ .. .. .... ... 4

1.5 Report Structure .. .... ............. ....... .. ................... ................... .. ..... .............. ........ ......... ...... ................ .. 4

2 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT COMPONENTS ............................................................................... 4

2.1 Components of the Subproject .. ................. ................................ ....................................................... 4

2.2 Project Category .... ....... ..... ... .. ... ... ... .......... .. ... .... ... .......................................................................... .. 5

2.3 Project Location .......... .... ..................... .. .. .... ...... ........................................................ ........................ 5

2.4 Proposed Project Implementation Schedule .................................................................................... 6

3 DESCRIPTION OF THE EXISTING ENVIRONMENT .............................................................................. 9

3.1 Physical Resources .... ... .......... .... .............. ................................................................................. ..... .. 9

3.1 .1 Air and Noise Quality .... ......................................................... ................................................... 9

3.1 .2 Climate ... .. .. .............................................................................................................................. 10

3.1 .3 Topography and Soils .... ................................................................................................ .... .... 10

3.1.4 Surface water and Ground water ..... .. ..................................................................................... 11

3. 1 . 5 Geology I Seismology ........ ... ... .... ............................................................................................ 11

3.2 Ecological Resources ..... ....... .. ..... ....... ........................................................................................... 12

3.2.1 Forests ..... .............. ............ ...................................................................................................... 12

3.2.2 Wildlife .. .............. .. ............ .... .................................................................................................. 13

3.2.3 Protected Areas .... .. ...... ... ............ ........................................................................................... 15

3.3 Economic Resources ... ... ................................................................................................................ 16

3.3.1 Industries .... ...... .... .............. ............ ....................................................... .. .............................. .. 16

3.3.2 Infrastructural Facilities ......... ...... ............................................................................................. 17

3.3.3 Transportation .. ............ ... ....... ... ............................................................................................... 17


3.3.4 Landuse ..................................................................................................•.....•.......................... 18

3.3.5 Powersource ............................. .. ................................... ......................................................... 19

3.4 Social and Cultural Resources ............... ... ... .... ... .......................... ..... ..... .. .................................. .... 19

3.4.1 Population and Communities ................................................................................................... 19

3.4.2 Health facilities ................................................................................... ...................................... 19

3.4.3 Education facilities ........................................................................... ........................................ 19

3.4.4 Social and Cultural Heritage .................................. .................................................... ............. 20

3.4.5 Archaeological Resources .................. ........ .. ................ ...................................... ..................... 21

4 POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES ...................................... 21

4.1 Summary of Potential Environmental Impacts ............. .... ... ................... ........................................ 21

4.1 .1 Location Impacts ................. ........ ......................................... ............. ....................................... 22

4.1.2 Impacts during Design and Pre-Construction Phase .................... .......................................... 23

4.1.3 Impacts during Construction Phase ......................................................................................... 23

4.1 .4 Impacts during Operation Phase ............................................................................................. 25

4.2 Description of Planned Mitigation Measures .... ............ .. ................................... .............................. 25

5 INSTITUTIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENT MONITORING PLAN .................. ............. 31

5.1 Institutional Arrangements .. ... ............................... .... ........................... ............................. ...... ......... 31

5.2 Environmental Management Plan .................................. ............. .................. ....................... ...... ..... 33

5.3 Environmental Monitoring Plan .......... .. ..................................................... .. ............................ .... ..... 42

6 PUBLIC CONSULTATION AND INFORMATION DISCLOSURE ........................................................ 46

6.1 Plans for Continued Public Participation ........................ ................................................................. 47

6.2 Information disclosure ......... .... .... ..................................................................................................... 47

6.3 Grievance Redress Mechanism ...... .. .............................................................................................. 48

7 FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS ................................................................................................ 50

8 CONCLUSIONS ·~···· ····· · ......................................................................................................................... 51

Annexure 1: REA Checklist

Annexure 2: Photo Illustration

Annexure 3: Summary of Public Consultation

Table No. Table 1

Table 2

Table 3

Table 4

Table 5

Table 6

Table 7

Table 8

Table 9

Table 10

Table 11

Table 12

Table 13

Table 14

Table 15

Table No. Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Development of tourism infrastructure for North Corbett entry point at Kotdwa r Initial Environmental Examination

LIST OF TABLES

Description Page No.

Environmental Regulatory Compliance 3 Description of the Subproject Components 4 Air Quality Monitoring in Jaghot (Kotdwar-Pulinda road sections) 9

Results of noise level monitoring in Jaghot (Kotdwar-Pulinda road 9

sections)

Average Monthly Temperature and Rainfall data for Kotdwar 10

Fauna! diversity of Corbett and Rajaji National Parks 14

National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries in Uttarakhand 14

Tourist Arrival & Revenue Receipts of Important Protected Areas of 16

Uttarakhand (April 2011-March 2012)

Land use pattern of Pauri Garhwal District 17

Environmental Impacts and Planned Mitigation Measures 24

Generic EMP to guide the contractor in mitigating environmental 31

impacts

Monitoring Plan for Kotdwar Subproject 39 Training Modules for Environmental Management 40

Environmental management and monitoring costs (INR) 42

Consultations with Stakeholders 43

LIST OF FIGURES

Description Page No. Pauri Garhwal District map showing the subproject town 6 Subproject Layout Plan 7 Proposed subproject layout - Proposed Components 8 Seismic zones of India 12 Forest Map of Uttarakhand 13 Grievance Redress Mechanism in IDIPT, Uttarakhand 46


EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1. The India Infrastructure Development Investment Program for Tourism (IDIPT) envisages environmentally and culturally sustainable and socially inclusive tourism development in the project states of Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Tamil Nadu and Uttarakhand, delivered through a Multitranche Financing Facility (MFF) loan from Asian Development Bank (ADB). IDIPT Project 2 includes the states of Uttarakhand and Tamil Nadu. Executing Agency is the Tourism Department of the Government of Uttarakhand; and the Implementing Agency is the Project Management Unit (PMU) of the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board (UTDB).

2. This Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) has been prepared for the sub-project namely "Development of tourism infrastructure for North Corbett entry point at Kotdwar" as part of IDIPT Project 2 Uttarakhand. The IEE was based on a careful review of subproject site plan and report; field visits; secondary data collection to characterize the environment and identify potential impacts; and consultations with stakeholders. An Environmental Management Plan (EMP) outlining the specific environmental measures to be adhered to during implementation of the subproject has been prepared. The subproject will conform to all Government regulations, policies and standards, as well as Asian Development Bank's Safeguard Policy Statement (2009).

3. Subprojects will provide needed tourist infrastructure at Kotdwar to improve the environmental management and quality of the sites towards preserving their ecological and cultural integrity. The subproject site is an abandoned flush door factory compound of about 11 acres at Kotdwar, owned by the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN). There are also no Protected areas (PAs), wetlands, mangroves, or estuaries within or near the sub project site. Trees, vegetation and animals in the subproject site are those commonly found in built-up areas with many planted exotic trees. No rare, threatened, endangered or endemic flora or fauna are observed in the subproject area.

4. There are no heritage sites listed by Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) within the subproject area or in near vicinity. Similarly, no common property resources (CPR) such as public wells, water tanks, play grounds, common grassing grounds or pastures, market areas and community buildings will be affected by the proposed subproject.

5. The environmental impact of the subproject is not significant and is placed at Category B level, as per ADB's Safeguards Policy Statement. The specific measures stated in the EMP will address all adverse environmental impacts due to the subproject. A detailed monitoring plan prepared as part of this IEE will further mitigate negative environmental impacts during

implementation.

6. The proposed subproject locations are within the lands under the ownership of Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN). There are no impacts envisaged on land acquisition or resettlement due to the proposed subproject components.

7. Potential negative impacts were identified in relation to construction and operation of the improved infrastructure. No impacts were identified as being due to the subproject design or location. EMP, proposed as part of this IEE which includes (i) mitigation measures for adverse environmental impacts during implementation, (ii) environmental monitoring program, and the responsible entities for mitigation, monitoring, and reporting; (iii) public consultation and information disclosure; and grievance redress mechanism. Mitigation measures have been developed to reduce all negative impacts to acceptable levels. The design will be in such a way


that it will minimize the clearance of trees wherever possible except clearing of the underground shrubs.

8. Majority of the significant impacts will occur during the construction phase and are generic to the construction activities. Key impacts during construction phase are envisaged on the following aspects: (i) drainage, (ii) quarry/borrow pit operations, (iii) dust generation, air and noise pollution from construction activities, (iv) handling of construction materials at site, (v) disposal of construction waste materials, and (vi) adoption of safety measures during construction. These are common impacts of construction in built-up areas, and there are well developed methods for their mitigation. The project is relatively small in scale and involves straightforward construction and low-maintenance operation, so it is unlikely that there will be major impacts. Ground water will not be used for construction purposes and the problem of ground water contamination is not anticipated during the construction phase as there will be proper disposal of the sludge.

9. The implementation of the sub project will not involve dislocation or involuntary resettlement of people. The Objective of the IOI.PT is to have enhanced and sustainable economic growth of Uttarakhand with emphasis on promoting commerce and improvement of livelihood of the poor by exploring potential of Tourism sector. The Investment Program envisages improvement of Tourist infrastructure, urban environment and better living conditions in the state, as well as for the increasing number of tourists visiting the State.

10. Positive impact is anticipated in terms of employment opportunity as many skilled, semiskilled and un-skilled personnel will get direct and indirect employment during construction phase. During operations of the improved infrastructures and seNices, added residential developments, commercial and business facilities and increased densities are expected to develop and enhance the subproject area. This can be considered a long-term cumulative benefit of the subproject.

11. The subproject is unlikely to cause significant adverse impacts. The potential adverse impacts that are associated with design, construction, and operation can be mitigated to standard levels without difficulty through proper engineering design and the incorporation or application of recommended mitigation measures and procedures. Based on the findings of the IEE, the classification of the Project as Category "B" is confirmed, and no further special study or detailed EIA needs to be undertaken to comply with ADS Environment Policy (2009) or Government of India (Gol) EIA Notification (2006).

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Project Background


12. Asian Development Bank (AOB) approved Infrastructure Development Investment Program for Tourism (IDIPT) on 02 April 2012 to promote economic growth in the state of Uttarakhand. The main goal of the program is to elevate the overall economic status in the State by improving both service delivery system and urban management in principal cities and important towns of the State. Investment planning has been formulated mainly based on the requirement for strengthening of Tourism sector. Loan funds from ADB will be available to the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board (UTDB) through a number of tranches (projects). ADB has a plan to provide loans up to amount of US$23.28million to finance projects under IDIPT Project 2. Each tranche will be comprised of a number of sub-projects and the execution of the same will be decided after thorough assessment and time bound planning. The scope includes design and implementation of different schemes formulated based on need assessment and long term planning processes. To support implementation of the program, UTDB has engaged Project Management Consultant (PMC) and three separate Design Supervision Consultants (DSC).

13. Development of tourism infrastructure for North Corbett entry point at Kotdwar is one of the sub-projects assigned to DSC Kotdwar. Corbett, one of the Tiger Reserves in India, is the abode of large range of flora and fauna including a substantial population of tigers and attracts a large number of tourists every year. The main entrance to the reserve is located at Ramnagar with a secondary entrance at Kotdwar. At present more than 90% of the visitors use the Ramnagar entrance. This sub-project aims to improve the tourist facilities around Kotdwar in order to reduce the tourism pressure around Ramnagar and to improve the livelihood of stakeholders in the region. The expected impact of the Project is sustainable and inclusive tourism development in and around North Corbett entry point at Kotdwar that exhibit enhanced protection and management of Corbett Tiger Reserve, improved market connectivity, enhanced destination and site environment and tourist support infrastructure, and enhanced capacities for sustainable destination and site development with extensive participation by the private sector and local communities.

14. As per the ADB's Environmental Assessment Guidelines, and in line with the Environment Assessment and Review Framework (EARF) for the project, the sub-project namely Development of tourism infrastructure for North Corbett entry point at Kotdwar is categorized as B and an Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) prepared. This IEE assesses the environmental impacts due to the proposed development works and specifies measures towards addressing the impacts.

1.2 Purpose of the IEE

15. This IEE assesses the environmental impacts due to the proposed subproject and specifies measures towards addressing the impacts. The IEE was based on a review of subproject site plans and reports; field visits, and secondary data to characterize the environment and identify potential impacts; and interviews and discussions with stakeholders. This IEE provides mitigation measures for impacts related to location and design, construction, operation, and maintenance. An EMP outlining the specific environmental measures to be adhered to during implementation of the subproject has been prepared.

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1.3 Extent of the IEE


16. Indian law and ADB policy require that the environmental impacts of development projects are identified and assessed as part of the planning and design process, and that action is taken to reduce those impacts to acceptable levels. This is done through the environmental assessment process, which has become an integral part of lending operations and project development and implementation worldwide. The realm of environmental regulations and mandatory requirements for the proposed sub-project is shown in Table 1.

1.3.1 ADB Policy

17. ADB's Safeguard Policy Statement (SPS, 2009) requires the consideration of environmental issues in all aspects of the Bank's operations, and the requirements for Environmental Assessment as described in its Operations Manual (OM). This states that ADB requires environmental assessment of all project loans, program loans, sector loans, sector development program loans, financial intermediation loans and private sector investment operations. The nature of the assessment required for a project depends on the significance of its environmental impacts, which are related to the type and location of the project, the sensitivity, scale, nature and magnitude of its potential impacts, and the availability of cost effective mitigation measures. Projects are screened for their expected environmental impacts and are assigned to one of the following categories:

);. Category A: Projects that could have significant environmental impacts. An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is required.

}loo Category B: Projects that could have some adverse environmental impacts, but of less significance than those for category A. An Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) is required to determine whether significant impacts warranting an EIA are likely. If an EIA is not needed, the IEE is regarded as the final environmental assessment report.

»- Category C: Projects those are unlikely to have adverse environmental impacts. No EIA or IEE is required, although environmental implications are reviewed.

1.3.2 National Law

18. The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Notification, 2006 (and its subsequent amendments in 2009) by the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF), Government of India (Gal) specifies the mandatory environmental clearance requirements. All projects/ activities are broadly categorized in to Category A and Category B for the mandatory environmental clearance requirements, based on the spatial extent of potential impacts and potential impacts on human health and natural and man-made resources specifies. Projects included as Category A in the Schedule require prior environmental clearance from the Central Government where as projects included as Category B in the Schedule require prior environmental clearance from the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (SEIAA). Any project specified in Category B will be treated as Category A, if located in whole or in part within 10 km from the boundary of (i) protected Areas notified under the Wild Life Protection) Act, 1972, (ii) critically polluted areas as notified by the Central Pollution Control Board from time to time, (iii) notified eco-sensitive areas, and (iv) inter-State boundaries and international boundaries. Given that the subproject is not covered in the ambit of the EIA notification, Environment clearance requirements from the Gol are not triggered.

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Proposed sub project is screened through Environmental Regulatory Compliance as shown in Table below.

Table 1: Environmental Regulatory Compliance

Applicability of ActsfGuidelines Compliance Criteria

The EIA notification, 2006 (and its subsequent This subproject is not covered in the ambit of the amendments in 2009) provides for categorization EIA notification as they are not covered either of projects into category A and B, based on under Category A or Category B of the extent of impacts notification ADB Safeguard Policy Statement, (2009) Sub-project is Category B as no significant

impacts are envisaged The Wildlife Conservation Act, 1972, amended in Not Applicable 2003 and 2006, provides for protection and management of Protected Areas. Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 This act provides guidelines for conservation

of forests and diversion of forest land for non-forest use. The law also states guidelines on de-reservation of various categories of forests for diversion of forest land. This law describes the penalty for contravention of the provisions of the Act. Restriction on the de-reservation of forests or use of forest land for non-forest purpose. If forest land is to be acquired for the project, the Forestry Clearance needs to be taken. For felling of the tree if any permission will be required from local forest office.

19. Table 1 indicates that the proposed sub-project does not need to go through a full-scale environmental assessment process; as the scale of impacts and categorization of the sub-project components will not require clearances from Competent Authorities. Therefore, any further approvals or environmental clearances from the Gol are not envisaged. The ADB guidelines, stipulate addressing environmental concerns, if any, of a proposed activity in the initial stages of Project preparation. For this, the ADS Guidelines categorizes the proposed components into categories (A, B or C) to determine the level of environmental assessment required to address the potential impacts. The Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) checklist method was followed as per ADB requirement to assess the potential impacts of the project in planning phase. The REA checklist is attached as Annexure 1 with this report. The sub-project has been categorized as B. Accordingly this IEE is prepared to address the potential impacts, in line with the recommended IEE content and structure for Category B projects. The IEE was based mainly on secondary sources of information and field reconnaissance surveys. Stakeholder consultation was an integral part of the IEE. An Environmenta l Monitoring Plan outlining the specific environmental measures to be adhered to during implementation of the sub-project has been prepared.

1.3.3 Review and Approval Procedure

20. For Category B projects the Draft Environmental Status report is reviewed by ADB's Regional Department sector division and Environment and Social Safeguards Division, and by the

3


Executing Agency, and additional comments may be sought from project affected people and other stakeholders. All comments are incorporated in preparing the final documents, which are reviewed by the Executing Agency and the national environmental protection agency. The EA then officially submits the IEE report to ADB for consideration by the Board of Directors. Completed report is made available worldwide by ADB, via the depository library system and the ADB website.

1.4 Scope of Study

21 . This is the IEE report for the subproject viz. , Development of tourism infrastructure for North Corbett entry point at Kotdwar. It discusses the generic environmental impacts and mitigation measures relating to the location, design, construction and operation of physical works proposed under this subproject.

1.5 Report Structure

22. The IEE has been structured as per ADBs Environmental Assessment Guidelines (2003), and the Government of India's Environmental Impact Assessment Notification (2006). This IEE contains eight sections: (1) Introduction; (2) Description of Project; (3) Description of the Environment; (4) Screening of Potential Environmental Impacts and Mitigation measures; (5) Institutional requirements and Environmental Monitoring Plan; (6) Public consultation and Information disclosure; (7) Findings and Recommendations; and (8) Conclusions.

2 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT COMPONENTS

2.1 Components of the Subproject

23. Table 2 provides a summary of each of the existing condition, need for the subproject and components proposed under this subproject. Layout plan and proposed location of project components are shown in Figure 2 and 3.

Table 2: Description of the Subproject Components

Description Need of the Project Proposed Component

The Jim Corbett National Park is A detailed assessment Kotdwar gateway and the first wildlife reserve of India of existing situation destination connectivity, which is located in the Himalayan reveals there is an including Visitor foothills. The National Park was urgent need to improve Information, Facilitation established in 1936, as the Hailey the tourism and Reception Centre National Park. In 1955-56 it has infrastructure facilities (384 m2

); Amphitheatre changed to Ramganga National around Kotdwar. This in Complex with toilet block, Park and finally Jim Corbett turn will reduce the food court, Kitchen, National Park. tourist pressure on Handicraft stall (1400 m2

);

The reserve has six access points at Ramnagar, Khara, Kotdwar,

Ramnagar area which is Cottages for tourists (4 already overcrowded. Nos., 105 m2

) ;

Vatanvasa, Rathvadhavb, and This will also improve the livelihood condition Khadvasi. Of these, only two

gates provide permit issuance of people facilities for entry into the reserve Kotdwar region.

around

at Ramnagar and Kotdwar.

4

Convention Centre cum restaurant (292 m2

); Staff quarters (100 m2

);

Overhead Reservoir (60 m2

) ; Entrance Gate with


Description

However, at present, more than 90% of the visitors to the Reserve come via the Ramnagar gate. The Kotdwar gate is more than 30 kilometers from the core zone of the national park.

While the cluster of towns and villages in the southern buffer zone around the Ramnagar entrance have benefited significantly from the development of support tourist facilities and services for tourist visits to this area, the reserve around Kotdwar have received little attention.

2.2 Project Category

Need of the Project Proposed Component

Security and Booking counter (30 m2

) I landscaping and Signage.

24. This is a tourism infrastructure development sub-project, and as explained above it has been classified by ADB as Category B, because it is not expected to have major negative environmental impacts. Under ADB procedures such projects require an IEE to identify and mitigate the impacts, and to determine whether further study or a more detailed EIA may be required. The environmental screening revealed that the project location is away from protected or sensitive areas.

2.3 Project Location

25. Sub project is located in Pauri Garhwal District. About 11.1 acres of land is available in Kotdwar town for the development of eco resort and visitor facilitation centre. This land is under the ownership of Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) and was used for their flush door factory. Presently most of the factory buildings have been demolished and only one office building remains near the entrance. Photo illustration of proposed project site is Annexed as Annexure 2.

5

UTTAR PRADE.SH


Almora

Figure 1: Paurl Garhwal District map showing the subproject town

2.4 Proposed Project Implementation Schedule

26. The implementation period for the proposed subproject is 17 months. Concept Plan preparation started in April 2013. Detailed design started in June 2013. Construction of all elements will begin in the last quarter of the year 2013, and work will be completed in the mid of 2015.

6


\ \

Figure 2: Subproject Layout Plan

7


Figure 3: Proposed subproject layout - Proposed Components

8


3 DESCRIPTION OF THE EXISTING ENVIRONMENT

27. This section presents a brief description of the existing environment, including its physical resources, ecological resources, socio-economic development and social and cultural resources. Broad aspects on various environmental parameters such as geography, climate and meteorology, physiography, geology, seismology, ecology, socio-cultural and economic development parameters that are likely to be affected by the proposed subproject are presented. Secondary information was compiled from relevant government agencies like the Forest Department, State Environment Protection and Pollution Control Board, and Metrological Department.

3.1 Physical Resources

3.1.1 Air and Noise Quality

28. The air pollution level is well within the permissible limits because there are no major sources of pollution in the region. Any point or non-point pollution sources of air pollution were not observed during the survey period. It was observed that the traffic on the roads is too low to cause unbearable air pollution due to vehicular exhaust. Finally, there are no industries recorded in or around the project site and hence any other source of atmospheric air pollution is not expected. Table 3 shows the ambient air quality for Kotdwar-Pulinda road sections at Jaghot observed on 24 hour duration on 25.04.2010, which is lower than national standards.

Table 3: Air Quality Monitoring in Jaghot (Kotdwar-Pulinda road sections)

SPM RPM NOx co

Ja hot National Standard

SPM - suspended particulate matter, RPM - respirable particulate matter,

SOx - sulfur oxides, NOx - oxides of nitrogen, CO- carbon monoxide

Source: Draft Detailed Project Report, Uttarakhand State Road Investment Program (2011)

29. It was observed that ambient noise scenario in the study area are quite low in general. Traffic, industrial, and festival/cultural noises, along with noise generated from construction activities, DG sets etc., are the most prominent sources of noise in the Kotdwar urban areas. There are no industrial enterprises in and around the project area. As the traffic is very low, the noise either at point or nonpoint sources is not expected in the project area. Moreover, there will be not much rise in the noise levels to be brought about by the proposed activities as there are no major settlements near the proposed site. Table 4 shows the results of noise monitoring carried out for Kotdwar-Pulinda road sections at Jaghot on 25.04.2010, which is lower than national standards.

Table 4: Results of noise level monitoring in Jaghot (Kotdwar-Pulinda road sections)

9


Sound Level dB (Al Station Maximum I Minimum Jaahot 52.8 I 41.5

Source: Draft Detailed Project Report, Uttarakhand State Road Investment Program (2011)

30. During the construction period, a temporary increase in the noise levels are expected as there will be movement of construction machineries and construction activities to be done in the proposed site. Suitable noise barriers in the form of temporary enclosures and timely scheduling of construction activities will help minimize these effects better.

3.1.2 Climate

31 . The climate of Kotdwar is generally temperate, although it varies from tropical; from hot in summers to severely cold, depending upon the season and the altitude of the specific location. The nearby hilly regions often get snowfall during winter but the temperature in Kotdwar is not known to fall below freezing. Summer temperatures can often reach 43°C whereas winter temperatures are usually between 4 and 20°C. During the monsoon season, there is often heavy and protracted rainfall. Kotdwar and other plains areas of Uttarakhand see almost as much rainfall as Coastal Maharashtra. Relative humidity varies between 54 and 63 percent. Agriculture benefits from fertile alluvial soil, adequate drainage and plentiful rain.

Table 5: Average Monthly Temperature and Rainfall data for Kotdwar

Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May

Average 20 22 27 33 36 high °C l°F) (68) (72) (81 ) (91) (97)

Average low 3 6 13 18 21

"C (°F) (37) (43) (55) (64) (70)

Rainfall mm 72 76 78 55 113 (inches) (2.83) (2.99) (3.07) (2.17) (4.45)

Source: Wikipedia 2013

3.1.3 Topography and Soils

32. The topography of Pauri Garhwal district is by and large rugged and except for the narrow strip of Bhabar, the entire region is mountainous. The zone close to the hills is almost wholly comprised of boulders and conglomerates, and is highly permeable. This zone is called the Bhabbar. The study region Kotdwar is located on Terai and Bhabar, on the

Jun Jul Aug Sep

34 31 30 30

(93) (88) (86) (86)

23 23 23 21

(73) (73) (73) (70)

296 599 568 301 (11.65) (23.58) (22.36) (11.85)

T8fai & Bhobhar

_ Doon S h111e lia.:& vnlleys

Oct Nov Dec

29 26 22

(84) (79) (72)

17 11 8

(63) (52) (46)

102 23 91 (4.02) (0.91) (3.58)

Schematic of elevation of Uttarakhand

Year

28.3

(83.1 )

15.6

(59.9)

2,374 (93.46)


foothills of the Shivalik Range of Himalayan Mountains.

33. The soils in the study region are alluvial, riverine, non-calcareous to moderately calcareous soils, mixed with boulders, gravel and pebbles and have been carved out by the fast flowing rivers draining the Himalayas. Limited distribution of red soil is also found in the region.

3.1.4 Surface water and Ground water

34. The Ganges system drains the major part of the region covering the whole of the Garhwal. Khoh River is the main source of water in Garhwal foothills at Kotdwar in Pauri Garhwal district. There is very little documentation on the pollution status of rivers except that of the holy river Ganga. In terms of qual ity, the surface water of the region is unprotected from untreated wastewater and runoff from agricultural chemical fertilizers and pesticides. No proper sewage treatment facilities exist in the project area. The increasing pollution of water bodies constitutes the biggest threat to public health. At present, there is limited information available on the quality of fresh water resources in the study region.

35. The Central Groundwater Board has estimated the annual replenishable quantum of groundwater resources in Uttarakhand to be nearly 0.28 million hectare meter. The estimation of groundwater in the mountainous terrain is very complex and very little empirical data exists. The groundwater occurs often in pockets, depending largely on the secondary porosity developed due to fractures, joints, and faults and is restricted in extent due to topographical features. In the Bhabar zone the groundwater is very deep, though often in artesian conditions, while in the

Terai it is shallow and causes water logging.

3.1.5 Geology I Seismology

36. The Himalayan organic belt is visualized as compressive plate boundary zone between the Eurasian plate on the north and the Indian plate to the south. The plate conversance between the formerly separated continental masses (the plates), resulted into complete demolition of the Tethys ocean basin, which was intervening between the two plates till the MidMiocene. The collision of the two plates gave birth to the Himalayan orogeny. The Himalayan general strike is WNW-EWE, measuring about 2400 km long and average width about 270 km. Uttarakhand Himalaya occurring in the central part of the Himalayan folded belt has exposed rock types varying in age from Proterozoic to Late tertiary period, disposed in four major tectonic belts designated as the Foothill Siwalik belt, Lesser Himalayan belt, Central Crystalline and Tethyan belt.

37. The Himalayan tract of the Kumaon-Garhwal region exposes wide variety of rocks, ranging in age from Himalayan Pre-Cambrian to Quaternary. The Himalayan tract between the Bagirathi and Alaknanda valleys in Garhwal is occupied by schists, schistose phyllites, granulites, migmatites, and the likes dipping north easterly with a scrap facing the gangetic plain and intruded by gneissose granite, pegmatite. These rocks rest upon metamorphosed shales, phyllites, limestones, quartzites, etc. from where these are separated by thrust.

11


38. The main tectonic elements of the region include the central thrust, and boundary fault. Several NE-SW lineaments are also known from the area and these traverses across different tectonic zones. Seismically, the State constitutes one of the most active domains of the Himalayan region. Several damaging earthquakes are recorded from this region. As such, the region is classified under high seismic zone IV.

MAP OFINOIA &HOWIMG

SttSMIC ZONE'S OF INO<J\ '-:::-:'. t _· L -. ;.;.;.:" •. - :. I ... ., "' ,... ,~

" t .. ~

~

t~ - ,~.

I ~ ..

# ..

Figure 4: Seismic zones of India

3.2 Ecological Resources

3.2.1 Forests

39. The recorded forest area of the state is 3.47 million hectares, which is around 64.79 % of its geographic area {FSI, 2011 ). Reserve Forests constitute 71.11 %, Protected Forests 28.52% and Un-classed forests constitute 0.35% of the total forest area. The forests can be broadly categorized into two categories: the hill forests and the lower Shiwalik hill forests, more commonly known as Bhabar and Terai forests. In terms of type, the state forest is classified into 9 forest types based on Champion and Seth (1968) system, the largest among which are the Himalayan Moist Temperate Forests, Sub-tropical Pine Forest, Tropical Moist Decidous Forest

12


and Tropical Decidous Forests accounting for 37.15%, 28.81 %, 19.08%, and 6.46%, respectively.

40. No forest area is observed in the vicinity (within 10 km radius) of the study site. The subproject area is an abandoned flush door factory compound and many planted exotic and indigenous trees are found. Some notable tree species observed in the study site are Poplar (Popu/us ciliata) and Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus citriodora) due to their fast growing and large market demands, and Khair (Acacia catechu) and Seesam (Da/bergia sissoo) for their

ecological and economic importance.

HIVAC!iAI. ,. P~fS>t ·'

' , .

.... l. CttlH-. ...

. ..... UT"'AR f'RJIO[Sl l

Forest Cover Map of Uttarakhand

Source: India State of Forest Report. 2011

Figure 5: Forest Map of Uttarakhand

3.2.2 Wildlife

41 . Uttarakhand has about 64.79 % of its geographic area under forests and most of it is managed by the Forest Department. The variation in the landscape has created great diversity

13


of flora and fauna. From the snowbound peaks of the Himalayas to the moist Alpine scrub, sub Alpine forests, dry - temperate and moist- temperate forests to moist deciduous forests, the state possesses a wide biodiversity that in return nurtures a large multiplicity of floral and fauna! forms.

42. The State is home to nearly 4048 species of Angiosperms and Gymnosperms belonging to 1198 genera under 192 families. Of these nearly 116 species are endemic to Uttarakhand. 161 species of flora found in Uttarakhand are recognized as rare or threatened under the categorization of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Out of the 223 species of Orchids reported from the North Western Himalayas, over 150 have been reported from the State.

43. The State also supports a wide variety of faunal forms which includes about 102 species of mammals, 623 species of birds, 124 species of fish, 69 species of reptiles and 19 species of amphibians. Highly endangered species like Tiger, Asian Elephant, King Cobra, etc. find suitable habitat in the forests around Kotdwar. The fauna I diversity of two nearest National Park (situated more than 1 O km away from the subproject area) is given in Table 6.

Table 6: Faunal diversity of Corbett and Rajaji National Parks

No. of species

Fauna Corbett National Park Rajaji National Park

Mammals 50 49

Birds 354 315

Reptiles 23 49

Amphibia - 10

Pisces 49

Chilopoda 15 7

Termites - 21

Odonata - 38

Lepidoptera - 68

Source: Uttarakhand Forest Department

44. The subproject area is an abandoned flush door factory compound and with planted trees and dense underground lantana shrubs. No rare, threatened, endangered or endemic flora or fauna are observed in the subproject area. Trees will be saved through judicial design.

14

3.2.3 Protected Areas


45. The State of Uttarakhand is represented by Biogeographic Zones 28 Western Himalaya and 78 Siwaliks. About 18.7 % of the total area under the Forest Department has been earmarked for biodiversity conservation by the creation and management of 12 Protected Areas (PA) and a biosphere reserve in the State. The Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve (NDBR) is the lone biosphere reserve in the State. The Nanda Devi National Park (NDNP) and the Valley of Flowers NP are UNESCO World Heritage Sites declared in 1988. The list of PA's (National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries) in the State is given in Table 7. Nearest PA's to the subproject area are Corbett NP, Rajaji NP and Sonanadi WLS, all situated more than 10 km away from the subproject area.

Table 7: National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries in Uttarakhand

SI. No National Park Year of Area District

Establishment (sq.km)

1 Corbett NP 1936 521 Pauri Garhwal

2 Nanda Devi NP 1982 630 Chamoli

3 Valley of Flower NP 1982 87 Chamoli

4 Rajaji NP 1983 820 Oehradun and Haridwar

5 Gangotri NP 1989 2390 Uttarkashi

6 Govind NP 1990 472 Uttarkashi

7 Govind WLS 1955 521 Uttarkashi

8 Kedarnath WLS 1972 957 Chamoli

9 AskotWLS 1986 600 Pithoragarh

10 Sonanadi WLS 1987 301 Pauri Garhwal

11 BinsarWLS 1988 46 Almora

12 Musoorie WLS 1993 11 Dehradun

Source: Wildlife and Protected Areas, ENVIS, 2002

46. The Rajaji National Park was established in 1983 protecting sections of the tropical deciduous forest area of the Shivalik Hill range on the Himalayan foothills. The Park covers 820.42 km2 along the Haridwar, Dehradun and Pauri Garhwal. The park has a vast Sal forest, and mixed forest mostly covered with Acacia catechu and Vetiveria zizanioides. It is refuge to approximately 49 species of mammals, 315 species of birds, 49 species of reptiles, 10 species of amphibians and 49 of Piscean species. This park has the largest population of elephants in Uttarakhand and a large population of tigers and leopards. Noteable animals seen in the par are the Wild Cat, Goral, Rhesus Macaque, Himalayan Yellow Throated Marten, Monitor, Lizard,

15


Indian Hare, Sloth, Himalayan Black Bear, King Cobra, Jackal, Barking Deer, Sambar, Wild boar, Indian Langur. Indian Porcupine and Pythons. The population of birds consists of the Great Pied Hornbill, Himalayan Pied Kingfisher, Sparrows, Fire Tailed Sunbird, and the Peacock (Indian National Bird).

47. The Jim Corbett National Park covers 520 km2 of Savannah-type grasslands and Sal forests. Declared as a Tiger Reserve in 1973, the Park has a rich diversity including the White Tiger, Throated Martem, Himalayan Palm Civet, Indian Grey Mongoose, Para, Kakka. Ghoral, Bar-headed Goose, Duck, Grepe, Snipe, Turtles, Python, Common Otter, Porcupine, Clacktaped Hare, Chital, Spotted Deer, Viper, Cobra, Krait, King Cobra, Tortoise, Graylag, Sandpiper, Gull, Cormorants and Egrets. There are 488 species of flora found protected in the Park including Sal, Savannah Grass, Anogeissus-Acacia catechu forests, Ma/lotus philippensis, Jamun, and Diospyros tomentosa.

3.3 Economic Resources

3.3.1 Industries

48. The State has very few industrial units mainly because of lack resources. In recent years, the government is encouraging private participation in all industrial activities in the State. The New Industrial Policy announced in 2003 indicates that private resources may be tapped while promoting integrated industrial estates in Uttarakhand. The State government provides assistance in establishing small and medium sized agro parks, food parks, and the likes which in turn are expected to provide common infrastructure facilities for storage, processing, grading, and marketing.

49. Kotdwar has very few industries as industrial development here is still in its infancy stage. Some of the companies having their manufacturing units here are Wipro Technologies and Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL). Kotdwar is developing as an industrial town due to its accessibility from other industrial cities via railway and road transport. An industrial area Sigaddi Growth Center (SIDCUL) is in developing stage in Kotdwar.

50. There are number of National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary are located in Uttarakhand. Revenue is generated from visit of the tourist. Corbett NP received 71.9 million INR from tourism activities during April 2011 to March 2012 which forms 80.4% of the total revenue receipts by the key PA's of the State. Table 8 shows the tourist arrival and revenue receipts of important PA's of Uttarakhand during April 2011 to March 2012.

Table 8: Tourist Arrival & Revenue Receipts of Important Protected Areas of Uttarakhand

(April 2011-March 2012)

Protected Area Area (km2) Indian Foreigner Tot.al Revenue (Rs. In Lakhs)

Corbett NP 520.84 202528 7734 210262 719.38

16


Rajaji NP 820.42 19268 1793 21061 52.42

Gangotri NP 2390.00 13675 1692 15367 38.15

Valley of Flowers NP 87.00 6328 527 6855 11.39

Nanda Devi NP 630.00 55 8 63 0.13

Govind NP/WLS 472.08 2172 125 2297 4.88

Binsar WLS 45.59 17343 432 17775 37.57

Sonanadi WLS 301 .76 16323 788 17111 29.41

Kedarnath WLS 957.00 701 102 803 1.31

Total 278393 13201 291594 894.64

Source: Uttarakhand Forest Department

3.3.2 Infrastructural Facilities

51. Kotdwar was graded as a second class Nagar Palika in 1977. Since then, there has been no upgradation and no expansion in municipal area. There are 10 slums in the town with about 1,600 households. Kotdwar town generates about 16 tons of solid waste which is disposed in haphazard manner because there is no landfill or composting site. Uttarakhand Drinking Water Resources Development and Construction Corporation provide water to the town area. However there is a need to improve the facilities and reach. As such there is no sewerage system in the region.

52. Kotdwar is one of the Program towns under the Uttarakhand Urban Sector Development Investment Program (UUSDIP}. UUSDIP is an Asian Development Bank (ADS) assisted program under Multi Tranche Financing Facility (MFF) conceives to support the Government of India (GoJ) and Government of Uttarakhand (GoU) in their policy of balanced regional socioeconomic development and poverty reduction through improvements in urban governance, management and infrastructure and service provision throughout the urban sector in Uttarakhand.

3.3.3 Transportation

53. Kotdwar is well connected by motorable roads with major destinations of Uttarakhand State. Kotdwar is connected with National Highway 119. Kotdwar can be accessed from Delhi by train (distance about 240 km) or by road (distance about 210 km). Trains such as 4041 Mussouri Express and 4044 Garhwal Express are available from Old Delhi Railway Station. Buses to Kotdwar are available from major destinations of Uttarakhand State and also from ISBT Kashmiri Gate, Delhi. Kotdwar can be reached via air through the airport of Jollygrant which lies close to Dehradun, 91 km away from Kotdwar en route to Haridwar.

17

3.3.4 Landuse


54. Kotdwar is only plain town of the mountainous district of Pauri Garhwal and is situated at the bank of river 'Khoh', with an altitude is 650 m from sea level. Agriculture is one of the main economic activities of the region around 10 km radius of the subproject area. Most of the farmers in the region are owner-cultivators with small and limited family farms - approximately 50% of all landholdings are less than 0.5 hectares in size and 50% under one hectare. Agriculture in the region is interlinked with crop husbandry, animal husbandry and forestry to form a production system.

55. Wheat and Barley are the main 'Rabi' crops while Rice, Kodo, Sanva are main 'Kharif crops of the region. Various pulses are grown intercropped during the two harvest seasons -early winter after the rainy season (millet), and mid-summer before the hot dry season (barleywheat). Dry and wet rice, taro, pumpkins, beans, corn, ginger, chili, cucumber, and leafy vegetables are also grown in the area. Potatoes have become an important cash crop being grown in areas. However, the subproject area is an abandoned flush factory premise owned by the GMVN.

56. Table 9 provides a summary of Land use pattern of Pauri Garhwal District.

Table 9: Land use pattern of Pauri Garhwal District

Land use Area (In hectare)

Forest 443977

Non Agricultural 35584

Barren Uncultivated 46127

With Permanent Pasture 18692

Misc. Tree Crops 18182

Fallow Land 44998

Net Sown 80817

Sown More Than Once 44490

Gross Cropped 125307

Net Irrigated Area 14837

Gross Irrigated Area 7667

Total Area 752364

Source: District Statistical handbook year 2003, Pauri Garhwal

18

3.3.5 Power source


57. Uttarakhand has an estimated hydro power potential of 20,200 MW. However, only 1,130 MW has been tapped at present. Meanwhile, 4,170 MW projects are under implementation and 3,800 MW projects are allotted to Central, State, and private sectors.

3.4 Social and Cultural Resources

3.4.1 Population and Communities

58. As of 2011 Census of India, Kotdwar Nagar Palika had a population of 116,497; Males constitute 53% of the population and females 47%. Kotdwar has an average literacy rate of 79.63% - higher than the national average of 64.83% - Male literacy is 88%, and female literacy is 70%. In Kotdwar, 14% of the population is under 6 years of age. Pauri Garhwal district has a population of 686,527 (Census of India, 2011 ), with a population density of 129 inhabitants per square kilometer. Its population growth rate over the decade 2001-2011 was 1.51 %. Pauri Garhwal has a sex ratio of 1103 females for every 1000 males, and a literacy rate of 82.59 %.

59. Garhwal Himalaya has its own distinguished historical traditions and religious importance due to its geographical significance, cultural heritage and social background. The people of Pauri Garhwal as a part of Garhwal Himalaya share this rich heritage in their life styles, which root with their tough economic and hardworking day-to-day life, their work culture and faith in physical labour. Society in the District is a mixed one - Brahmins, Rajputs, Harijans (Scheduled Castes) being the major constituents. Each caste group is subdivided in sub-groups and sub-castes. Inter-caste marriage is forbidden but exception and breeches of the rules are

tolerated.

3.4.2 Health facilities

60. At the Pauri Garhwal district head quarter, there is one district hospital, one women hospital, one T.B. clinic and one leprosy clinic. There is a joint hospital at Kotdwar and a base hospital at Srinagar. In these hospitals all-important medical facilities such as Radiology, Pathology, Child Care, Orthopedics, Anesthesia, Surgery, etc. are available. Besides these, there are 31 primary health centers, 59 ayurvedic hospitals/dispensaries, 91 allopathic hospitals/dispensaries, 9 homeopathic hospitals/ dispensaries, 239 family welfare and child care

center/sub-centers.

61. Few private hospitals namely Shyam Mother and Child Care Centre, Child Care and Maternity Centre, Shakti Clinic and Deepak Nursing Home are available in the subproject

region.

3.4.3 Education facilities 62. In the Pauri Garhwal district, there are 474 senior basic schools, 257 higher secondary schools and 1791 junior basic schools. Jn higher education, Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna (H.N.B.) Garhwal University at Srinagar with its two campus colleges named as 'Birla Parisar,

19


Srinagar' and 'Swami Ramthirth Parisar, Pauri' is serving in the district. Three Government degree colleges at Jahrikhal, Bedikhal and Chobbatakhal and one postgraduate college at Kotdwar are also affiliated to this university.

63. In technical education there are two polytechnic institutions situated at Srinagar and Thalnadi and seven Industrial Training institutes with two woman units at Srinagar and Jahrikhal, which provide training in different engineering branches and technical trades. To fulfill the requirement of higher technical education, an engineering college was established at 'Ghurdauri', at a distance of 15 km. from district head quarter. This college is affiliated to H.N.B. Garhwal University, Srinagar. Making a modest beginning by offering degree course in Electronics and Communication Engineering, the college has emerged as a leading institution offering degree courses in Electronics and Communication Engineering, Computer Science and Engineering, Electrical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering.

64. Kotdwar has a Government Postgraduate College (Dr. Pitamber Dutt Barthwal Himaliyan Government Post Graduate College, Kotdwar) affiliated to H.N.B. Garhwal University (Central University). Other colleges are Institute of Hotel Management Studies, Malini Valley College of Education, Chandrawati Tiwari Law College and Mauryan Institute of Hotel Management. There are two High Schools, 21 Primary and Junior High Schools and five Private Computer Training Institutes in the region.

3.4.4 Social and Cultural Heritage

65. The name Kotdwar indicates the gateway (dwara) to the Abode of God (Dev Bhoomi), since this was the place from where the pilgrimage to two famous temples Kedarnath (Lord Shiva) and Badrinath (Lord Vishnu) started in earlier days. It is situated on the banks of three seasonal rivers namely Kho, Malini, and Sukhro. This area was the place of meditation for many sages and rishis. The city is surrounded by many small villages and towns which are generally termed as Bhabar area such as Kanvashram (where Shankuntala gave birth to Prince Bharat, after the name of whom the country is called Bharat), Shivpur, Kalalghati, Shibunagar, Durgapuri, Himank, Motadhak, Kashirampur, Manpur, Padampur, Haldukhata, Kishanpur, etc.

66. Various customs and traditions of the region are based on the Hindu religion. "Shiva" is most widely regarded and "Durga" in different forms is also worshipped throughout the area. Most of the fairs and festivals in the region are associated with the worship of the above. Religious faiths and superstitions are deep rooted amongst the people. Individual function on a new birth, marriage, death, etc., is governed by ancient customs and traditions. For everything, people depend heavily on the astrological forecast of the Brahmins for its auspiciousness.

67. Kanva Ashram, a historically and archaeologically important place, is situated 14 km from Kotdwar. It is believed that Indra, the king of Gods, was scared by Sage Vishwamitra's meditation, and sent a beautiful heavenly damsel named Menaka, who finally succeeded in diverting Vishwamitra's attention. She gave birth to a girl who later became Shakuntala and married the prince of Hastinapur. She gave birth to Bharat, the prince after whom our country is

20

Development of tourism infrastructure for North Corbett entry point at Kotdwar · Initial Environmental Examination

called Bharatvarsh. Around 10,000 pupils used to get education in the ashram by Kanva Rishi in ancient times and hence the ghati is known as Kanvaghati.

68. Siddhbali temple holds enormous religious importance amongst the people of Uttarakhand and especially with the people living in Kotdwar. This temple is situated on the edge of the mountain, 2km from Kotdwar and the residing deity of the Temple is Lord Hanuman. The Durgadevi temple, situated 9 km from Kotdwar, is a famous religious place around the region.

69. All the important social and heritage sites are away from the study area and hence the proposed project activities do not have any adverse impact on those sites.

3.4.5 Archaeologlcal Resources

Siddhbali temple

70. There are no heritage sites listed by Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) within the subproject area or in near vicinity. Similarly, no common property resources (CPR) such as public wells, water tanks, play grounds, common grassing grounds or pastures, market areas and community buildings will be affected by the proposed subproject.

4 POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

4.1 Summary of Potential Environmental Impacts

71. Urban development projects like tourism infrastructure development projects may cause impacts upon environment in many ways. The impacts anticipated from the proposed project may be on Physical, Biological, Socio-economical and Cultural environment. The IEE helps to identify those negative impacts that are anticipated in the project under consideration and to

21


suggest the mitigation measures to minimize the negative impacts. The assessment the subproject namely Development of tourism infrastructure for North Corbett entry point at Kotdwar has been carried out for potential impacts during the following stages of the project planning and implementation:

(i) Location impacts: Impacts associated with site selection, including impacts on

environment and resettlement or livelihood related impacts on communities;

(ii) Design impacts and Pre-Construction Impacts: Impacts arising from project

design, including the technology used, scale of operations, discharge standards,

topographic survey, geotechnical survey, etc.;

(iii) Construction impacts: Impacts resulting from construction activities including site

clearance, earthworks, civil works, etc.; and

(iv) Operation and Maintenance impacts: Impacts associated with the operation and

maintenance of the infrastructure built in the project.

72. Impact identification, screening for significance, and recommended mitigation measures for the sub-project were guided by the use of ADB Rapid Environmental Assessment Checklist for Urban Development and standard environmental monitoring plan required for ADB Projects.

4.1.1 Location Impacts

73. The subproject site is located more than 30 km from the core zone of the Jim Corbett National Park and there are no significant ecological resources in the subproject region (protected areas or rare or important species or habitats). There are no heritage sites listed by Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) within the subproject area or in the near vicinity. No significant impacts can arise due to project location as the sites involving the project components do not pass through/ near any environmentally sensitive areas or any cultural I

historical areas, etc.

74. The proposed subproject locations are within the lands under the ownership of Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN). There are no impacts envisaged on land acquisition or resettlement due to the proposed subproject components.

75. One anticipated location impact is the lack of sufficient planning to assure long term sustainability of the improvements and ensure protection of the assets created and the architectural character of the surroundings. In order to overcome this, design should include provisions for ensuring effective maintenance and protection of the assets created so as to ensure the long term sustainability.

22


4.1.2 Impacts during Design and Pre-Construction Phase

76. Impacts arising from the inappropriate designs of proposed facilities would in general include the inadequate drainage provisions, contemporary designs for the traditional

environment, etc. These have been addressed through careful selection of materials, so as to not adversely impact the ecological and aesthetic appeal of the surroundings. The results of

interventions are unobtrusive and will be integral part of the overall ambience so as to avoid impacts on the aesthetics of the site

77. Anticipated Environmental impacts associated with the Pre-construction phase are: loss of land, properties and livelihood due to acquisition of properties; tree cutting; etc. As the proposed subproject area is owned by the government, there is no land acquisition or

resettlement. However, relocation of existing staff quarters of the abandoned flush factory and a gas Godown is proposed within the same locality. The design will be in such a way that it will

minimize the clearance of trees wherever possible except clearing of the underground shrubs.

78. Based on the environmental screening of the subproject area, there are no significant

adverse environmental impacts during the design and Pre-construction phase.

4.1.3 Impacts during Construction Phase

79. Majority of the significant impacts will occur during the construction phase and are

generic to the construction activities. Key impacts during construction phase are envisaged on

the following aspects: (i) drainage, (ii) quarry/borrow pit operations, (iii) dust generation, air and noise pollution from construction activities, (iv) handling of construction materials at site, (v) disposal of construction and demolition waste materials, and (vi) adoption of safety measures

during constn,1ction.

80. Ground water will not be used for construction purposes and the problem of ground

water contamination is not anticipated during the construction phase as there will be proper

disposal of the sludge. Municipal water (or another source approved by the Engineer) shall be used for all activities such as washing of equipment or disposal of any type of waste, dust suppression, concrete mixing, compacting etc.

81. Generation of dust is anticipated during transportation, excavation and construction

activities particularly during demolition of old building. Certain volumes of dust and gaseous emissions will also be generated during the construction period from construction machineries like mixers, vehicles engaged in transportation of construction materials. Pollutants of primary

concern at this stage include Respirable Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) and gaseous emissions (NOx. S02. CO, etc). However, transportation of construction materials will be confined to adequate trips per day depending upon extent of construction activity. Therefore,

impact at this stage will be temporary and restricted to the close vicinity of the construction activities only.

82. All vehicles and construction equipment operating for the contractor and the consultant will obtain and maintain "Pollution under Control" (PUC) Certificates. To control dust emissions,

23


vehicles deployed for borrow material, sand and aggregate haulage, shall be covered with tarpaulins to be spillage proof. Regular sprinkling of water during excavations, loading, unloading, vehicular movement and raw material transport, provisions shall be made construction period.

83. Periodic air quality monitoring to ensure emissions comply with standards will be conducted.

84. During construction phase, some noise will be generated from the various construction activities like equipment and vehicles engaged in transportation of construction materials. However, transportation of construction materials will be confined to the requirement per day, depending upon extent of construction activity. Further the noise associated with the equipments shall be reduced with the application of the lubricant. The increase in noise levels is expected to be between 5 - 10 %. However, these noise levels will be confined to the work sites only and will be temporary in nature and also short duration as well.

85. The construction activity will be carried out away from environmentally sensitive area. Therefore, no adverse impact on fauna and flora is anticipated due to the proposed activity.

86. Debris/solid waste will be generated due to dismantling of pavement, bituminous road, old building, excavated earth material and waste generated from construction camps if any. Debris/excavated earth material will be reused subject to the approval of the Engineer during the construction. Bituminous material will be disposed off as per established law and at the approved site. Waste generated from the construction camps will be disposed off as per law to the satisfaction of the Engineer.

87. The clean-up and restoration operations are to be implemented by the contractor prior to demobilization. The contractor will clear all temporary structures and dispose of all garbage. All construction zones used/affected by the sub-project will be left clean and tidy, at the contractor's expense as per the satisfaction the Engineer.

88. The Contractor is likely to engage local labour for various construction activities. However, in case of engaging migratory labour for the purpose, the contractor has to establish properly designed labour camp with all basic amenities such as potable drinking water supply and sanitation facilities. EMP envisages mitigation measures for likely adverse impacts associated with the labour camps.

89. The implementation of the sub project will not involve dislocation or involuntary resettlement of people. Positive impact is anticipated in terms of employment opportunity as many skilled, semi-skilled and un-skilled personnel will get direct and indirect employment during construction phase.

90. Most of the predicted impacts are associated with the construction process, and are produced because that process is invasive, involving trenching and other ground disturbance. However the routine nature of the impacts means that most can be easily mitigated. This land was used for flush door factory. The project is relatively small in scale and involves

24


straightforward construction and low-maintenance operation, so it is unlikely that there will be major impacts.

4.1.4 Impacts during Operation Phase

91. No impact is anticipated on the ground water quality during the operation phase as there will be proper disposal of the sludge. Municipal water shall be used during operation phase along with water collected through rainwater harvesting facilities.

92. During operational phase of proposed sub-project, ambient air quality will not be affected, therefore, no impact is anticipated and no mitigation measure is required.

93. During the operational phase, very little noise may be generated at the time of operation of generator, etc., which is temporary and irreversible. No major impact is anticipated on the noise levels. Therefore, no mitigation measure is required.

94. The implementation of the sub project will not involve dislocation or involuntary resettlement of people. The Objective of the IDtPT is to have enhanced and sustainable economic growth of Uttarakhand with emphasis on promoting commerce and improvement of livelihood of the poor by exploring potential of Tourism sector. The Investment Program envisages improvement of Tourist infrastructure, urban environment and better living conditions in the state, as well as for the increasing number of tourists visiting the State. Positive impact is anticipated in terms of employment opportunity as many skilled, semi-skilled and un-skilled personnel will get direct and indirect employment during construction phase. During operations of the improved infrastructures and services, added residential developments, commercial and business facilities and increased densities are expected to develop and enhance the subproject area. This can be considered a long-term cumulative benefit of the subproject.

95. As the subproject location is away from any environmentally sensitive area, no adverse impact on fauna and flora is anticipated due to the proposed activity.

4.2 Description of Planned Mitigation Measures

96. Screening of environmental impacts is based on the magnitude and duration of the impact. Table 10 provides the potential environmental impacts and the mitigation measures including the responsibilities for implementing the same. The subproject site is located sufficiently away from PA's and the components proposed will not impact any environmentally sensitive or protected areas. Improvements are proposed within available government lands and existing right-of-way.

Table 10: Environmental Impacts and Planned Mitigation Measures

SI. Potential Duration I Magnitude Proposed Mitigation Institutional No. Environmental Extent Measures Responsibilities

Issues

1 Location Impacts

25

SI. No.

1.1

Potential Environmental Issues


Duration I Magnitude Extent

Proposed Measures

Mitigation Institutional Responsibilities

Lack of sufficient Permanent Major Design will include PIU I DSC planning to assure long term sustainability of the improvements and ensure protection of the assets created and the architectural character of the surroundings

provisions for ensuring effective maintenance and protection of the assets created so as to ensure the long term sustainability.

Designs will be worked out and implemented in accordance with the provisions and will strictly conform to Uttarakhand architecture.

2 Oesig n Impacts and Pre-construction Impacts

2.1

2.2

2.3

Layout of Permanent Major components to avoid impacts on the aesthetics of the site

Increased storm Permanent Moderate water runoff from alterations of the site's natural drainage patterns due to landscaping, excavation works, construction of parking lots, and addition of paved surfaces

Selection of Permanent Moderate materials and construction technologies, if not carefully chosen, will adversely impact the aesthetic aooeal of

26

The project components PIU I DSC (location of tourist information centre, parking, road alignment, locations where the toilet blocks, provision of water supply to tourists, parking, footpaths, signage, etc.) siting will avoid impacts on the aesthetics of the site and to ensure minimal impacts.

Design of proposed PIU/DSC components will enable efficient drainage of the sites and maintain natural drainage patterns.

Selection of materials and PIU I DSC construction technologies proposed will strictly conform to the Uttarakhand architecture. Any new landscaping elements will only utilize

SI. No.

2.4


the destinations


Duration I Magnitude Extent

Proposed Measures

native species.

Mitigation Institutional Responsibilities

Integration of energy Permanent Moderate The detailed designs for PIU/DSC the sub-project components shall ensure

efficiency and energy conservation programs in design of sub-project components

that environmental sustainability principles, including energy efficiency, resource recycling. waste minimization, etc.

3 Construction Impacts

3.1

3.2

3.3

Construction Camps Temporary - Location, Selection, Design and Layout

Site activities, delineation

clearance including

of construction areas

Temporary

Drinking availability

water Temporary

Moderate

Moderate

Major

27

Construction camps will be Contractor I DSC located away from settlements and drainage from and through the camps will not endanger any domestic or public water supply. Construction camps including sanitation facilities must be adequately drained.

The commencement of site clearance activities will be undertaken with due permission from the Environment Specialist of the DSC consultant to minimize environmental impacts.

All areas used for temporary construction operations will be subject to complete restoration to their former condition with appropriate rehabilitation procedures.

Contractor I DSC

Sufficient supply of cold Contractor I DSC potable water to be provided and maintained. If the drinking water is obtained from an intermittent public water supply then storage tanks will be provided.

SI. Potential No. Environmental

Issues

3.4 Waste disposal

3.5 Stockpiling of construction materials

3.6 Quarry I Borrow pits Operations

3.7 Soil Erosion

3.8 Soil and Water Pollution due to fuel and lubricants, construction waste

3.9 Siltation of water bodies due to spillage of construction wastes


Duration I Magnitude Proposed Mitigation Institutional Extent Measures Responsibilities

Permanent Major Location of disposal sites Contractor I DSC will be finalized by the Environmental Specialist of the DSC and he will confirm that: disposal of the material does not impact natural drainage courses or surface water bodies or low lying areas and that no endangered I rare flora is impacted by such materials.

Temporary Moderate Stockpiling of construction Contractor I DSC materials does not impact obstruct the drainage and Stockpiles will be covered to protect from dust and erosion.

Permanent Moderate Adequate safety Contractor I DSC precautions will be ensured during transportation of quarry material from quarries to the construction site. Vehicles transporting the material will be covered to prevent spillage.

Temporary Moderate Slope protection measures Contractor I DSC wil l be undertaken as per design to control soil erosion.

Temporary Moderate The fuel storage and Contractor I DSC vehicle cleaning area will be stationed such that water discharge does not drain into the water body. Soil and water pollution parameters will be monitored as per monitoring plan.

Temporary Moderate Silt fencing to be provided Contractor I DSC at all water bodies near construction sites to prevent sediments from

28


Issues

3.10 Generation of dust

3.11 Emission from Construction Vehicles, Equipment and Machinery

3.12 Noise Pollution

3.13 Material Handling at Site


Duration I Magnitude Proposed Mitigation I nstitutlonal Extent Measures Responsibilities

the construction site to enter into the watercourses.

No disposal of construction wastes will be carried out into the river. Extraneous construction wastes will be transported to the pre-identified disposal site for safe disposal.

Temporary Moderate The contractor will take Contractor I DSC every precaution to reduce the levels of dust at construction site.

All earthworks to be protected/ covered in a manner to minimize dust generation.

Temporary Moderate Vehicles, equipment and Contractor I DSC machinery used for construction will conform to the relevant Standard and will be regularly maintained to ensure that pollution emission levels comply with the relevant requirements.

Temporary Moderate Noise limits for Contractor I DSC construction equipment used in this project will not exceed 75 dB (A).

Temporary Moderate Workers employed on Contractor I DSC .. m1x1ng cement, lime mortars, concrete etc., will be provided with protective footwear and protective goggles.

Workers, who are engaged in welding works, will be provided with welder's protective eye-shields.

Workers engaged in stone breaking activities will be provided with protective

29


Issues

3.14 Disposal of Construction Waste J Debris I Cut Material

3.15 Safety Measures During Construction

3.16 Clearing of Construction of Camps and


Duration I Magnitude Proposed Mitigation Institutional Extent Measures Responsibilities

goggles and clothing.

The use of any toxic chemical will be strictly in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. The Engineer will be given at least 6 working day's notice of the proposed use of any chemical. A register of all toxic chemicals delivered to the site will be kept and maintained up to date by the Contractor.

Temporary Moderate Safe disposal of the Contractor I DSC construction waste will be ensured in the pre-identified disposal locations. In no case, any construction waste will be disposed around the project site indiscriminately.

Temporary Moderate Adequate safety measures Contractor I DSC for workers during handling of materials at site will be taken up.

The contractor has to comply with all regulations for the safety of workers, including complete use of PPEs. Precaution will be taken to prevent danger of the workers from fire, etc. First aid treatment will be made available for all injuries likely to be sustained during the course of work.

The Contractor will conform to all anti-malaria instructions given to him by the Engineer.

Temporary Major Contractor to prepare site Contractor I DSC restoration plans for approval by the Engineer.

30

SI. No.


Restoration


Duration I Magnitude Proposed Extent Measures

Mitigation Institutional

The plan is to be implemented by the contractor prior to demobilization.

On completion of the works, all temporary structures will be cleared away, all rubbish burnt, excreta or other disposal pits or trenches filled in and effectively sealed off and the site left clean and tidy, at the Contractor's expense, to the entire satisfaction of the Engineer

Responsibilities

4 Operation and Maintenance impacts

4.1

4.2

4.3

Environmental Conditions

Temporary Moderate

Uncontrolled tourism Temporary Major flow

Unhygienic condition Temporary Moderate due to poor maintenance of sanitation facilities and irregular solid waste collection

Air, water, noise and soil Tourism quality will be monitored department periodically as per the Environmental Monitoring Plan prepared.

Environmental Monitoring Tourism Plan the Tourism Master Plan department will be implemented strictly to avoid uncontrolled tourism flow.

Tourism department will carry Tourism out maintenance of the toilets, department and carry out the regular collection and disposal of wastes to a designated waste treatment site.

5 INSTITUTIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENT MONITORING PLAN

5.1 Institutional Arrangements

97. The Government of Uttarakhand through Department of Tourism (DOT) is the Executing Agency (EA). The EA (i) assumes overall responsibility for the execution of the Project and reporting; (ii) engage adequate permanent or fixed-term staff to implement the Project; (iii) setup a state-level project management unit (PMU) and project implementation units (PIU); (iv) provide overall strategic guidance on technical supervision and project execution ; and (v) ensure overall compliance with the loan covenants.

31


98. The implementing agency (IA) is the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board (UTDB). The IA's responsibilities include (i) project planning and budgeting; (ii) day-to-day assistance, supervision and guidance for the project implementation units and their consultants; (iii) review subprojects for due diligence requirements and approve subproject proposals; (iv) bidding, evaluation and contract award; (v) managing and disbursing funds; (vi) review compliance with loan covenants, contract specifications, work plans and quality control; and (vii) consolidate and submit progress reports, finance and accounting I audit reports, and matters requiring higher level decision to state-lever empowered committee (SLEC) and ADB.

99. A State-level empowered committee (SLEC) has been established in Uttarakhand, chaired by state's Chief Secretary, with Principal Secretary/Secretary of the Department of Tourism as member secretary and comprised of secretaries from relevant line departments. The SLEC have been empowered to take all decisions on behalf of the State and will (i) act as a policy making body, (ii) provide overall advice and guidance to the State's executing agency and PMU, and (iii) accord all approvals under the Project.

100. DoT has established a PMU, headed by a full-time program director (PD), and consisting of personnel drawn from relevant line departments and market. The PMU is the nodal agency for overall management of all program activities and will be responsible for: (i) project planning and budgeting; (ii) providing day-to-day assistance, supervision and guidance for the PIUs and their consultants; (iii) reviewing subprojects to satisfy ADB's due diligence requirements and approving subproject proposals submitted by PIU and line departments; (iv) bidding, evaluation and contract award; (v) managing and disbursing funds; (vi) reviewing compliance with loan covenants, contract specifications, work plans and quality control; (vii) consolidating and submitting progress reports, finance and accounting/audit reports, and matters requiring higherlevel decision, to the SLEC and ADB. The PMU will be supported by a team of consultants.

101. The sub-project will be implemented by the Project Implementation Unit (PIU) of IA, i.e. UTDB, comprising of personnel drawn from relevant line departments and outside of government and will be headed by a Project manager. The PIUs will be responsible for: (i) prioritizing and preparing subproject proposals; (ii) providing day-to-day assistance, supervision and guidance to the design and supervision consultants; (iii) conducting detailed assessments and surveys including public consultation and input from stakeholders; (iv) preparing detailed designs, specifications, schedule of quantity, bidding documents, and related documentation; (v) implementing civil works and related activities; (vi) reporting to PMU; (vii) preparing regular progress reports for the SLEC, the executing agency and ADB through PMU; and (viii) supervising construction, conducting quality control, approving progress payments to contractors; and (ix) maintaining records and accounts on an up-to-date basis and making these available to ADB, its missions, or auditors for inspection.

102. The Project Management Consultant (PMC) will be engaged to provide support to the PMU in overall planning, risk management, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of projects under the Investment Program. The PMC will also assist the PMU and PIUs in meeting the relevant requirements of ADB, Government of Uttarakhand, and Government of India for

32

SI.


project implementation. The PMC will report to and work under the overall guidance of the PMU. The scope of services of the PMCs will include but not necessarily be limited to: (i) planning, reporting, and communication; (ii) establishment of procedures and systems; (iii) review and preparation of plans, manuals and reports; (iv) overall Investment Program management, monitoring and implementation of PPMS; and (v) social, environmental, archaeological, occupational health and safety, community participation and gender action compliance monitoring.

103. The Design and Supervision Consultant (DSC) will be engaged to provide all necessary support to and coordination with the EA, IAs, PMU and any other consultants engaged by the authorities to achieve the desired outcomes of the Investment Program. The DSC will report to and work under the overall guidance of the Pl Us. The scope of services of the DSC will include but not necessarily be limited to: (i) surveys, verification of feasibility studies and base maps; (ii) project planning and management support to the PIU; (iii) finalization of design criteria, preparation of manuals, guidelines and systems; (iv) preparation of detailed design and bid documents; (v) construction management and contract administration; (vi) environmental, social, archaeological, cultural heritage, community participation and gender action compliance monitoring; and (vii) capacity building of the service providers for operational sustainability.

5.2 Environmental Management Plan

104. The Environmental Management Plan (EMP) translates recommended mitigation and monitoring measures into specific actions that will be carried out by the contractor and proponent. EMP deals with the management measures and implementation procedure of the guidelines along with enhancement measures recommended to avoid, minimize and mitigate foreseen environmental impacts of the project. For each mitigation measure to be taken, its location, timeframe, implementation and overseeing/ supervising responsibilities are listed in the EMP. Table 11 presents a generic EMP to guide the contractor in mitigating environmental impacts.

Table 11: Generic EMP to guide the contractor in mitigating environmental impacts

Environmental Mitigation Measures Location Implementation Supervision No. Issues

1 Location Impacts

1.1 Lack of sufficient Design will include Subproject PIU I DSC PMU planning to assure provisions for ensuring site long term effective maintenance and sustainability of the protection of the assets improvements and created so as to ensure ensure protection of the long term the assets created sustainability. and the architectural Designs will be worked out character of the surroundings

and implemented in accordance with the

33

SI. No.

Environmental Issues


Mitigation Measures

provisions and will strictly conform to Uttarakhand architecture.

Location Implementation Supervision

2 Design Impacts and Pre-construction Impacts

2.1

2.2

2.3

2.4

Layout of components to avoid impacts on the aesthetics of the site

Increased water runoff alterations of

storm from

the site's natural drainage patterns due to landscaping, excavation works, construction of parking lots, and addition of paved surfaces

The project components (location of tourist information centre, parking, road alignment, locations where the toilet blocks, provision of water supply to tourists, parking, footpaths, signage, etc.) siting will avoid impacts on the aesthetics of the site and to ensure minimal impacts.

Subproject site

Design of proposed Subproject components will enable site efficient drainage of the sites and maintain natural drainage patterns.

Selection materials

of Selection of materials and construction technologies and

Subproject site

construction technologies. if not carefully chosen, will adversely impact the aesthetic appeal of the destinations

Integration of energy efficiency and energy conservation programs in design of sub-project components

proposed will strictly conform to the Uttarakhand architecture. Any new landscaping elements will only utilize native species.

The detailed designs for the sub-project components shall ensure that environmental sustainability principles, including energy efficiency, resource recycling, waste minimization, etc.

34

Subproject site

PIU I DSC PMU

PIU/DSC PMU

PIU /DSC PMU

PIU/DSC PMU

SI. Environmental No. Issues

3 Construction Impacts

3.1 Construction Camps - Location, Selection, Design and Layout

3.2 Site clearance activities, including delineation of construction areas


Mitigation Measures Location Implementation Supervision

Siting of the construction Construction Contractor DSC/ PIU camps shall be as per the camps guidelines below and details of layout to be approved by DSC.

Construction camps shall not be proposed within 500m from the nearest settlements to avoid conflicts and stress over the infrastructure facilities with the local community.

Location for stockyards for construction materials shall be identified at least 300m away from watercourses.

Construction camps will be located away from settlements and drainage from and through the camps will not endanger any domestic or public water supply. Construction camps including sanitation facilities must be adequately drained.

The Sewage Treatment Plant and solid waste treatment for the camp shall be designed, built and operated.

Vegetation shall be Subproject Contractor DSC I PIU removed from construction site site before commencement of construction. All works shall be carried out such that the damage or disruption of flora other than those identified for cutting is minimum.

Only ground cover/shrubs that impinge directly on the permanent works or

35

SI. No.

3.3

3.4

3.5



Mitigation Measures

necessary temporary works shall be removed with prior approval from the Environmental Expert of DSC

All areas used for temporary construction operations will be subject to complete restoration to their former condition with appropriate rehabilitation procedures.


Drinking availability

water Sufficient supply of cold Subproject Contractor DSC/ PIU

Waste disposal

Stockpiling construction materials

potable water to be site provided and maintained. If the drinking water is obtained from an intermittent public water supply then storage tanks will be provided.

The pre-identified disposal Waste Contractor location shall be part of Disposal sites Comprehensive Waste Disposal Plan Solid Waste Management Plan to be prepared by the Contractor in consultation and with approval of Environmental Specialist of DSC.

The Environmental Specialist of DSC shall approve these disposal sites after conducting a joint inspection on the site with the Contractor.

Contractor shall ensure that waste shall not be disposed off near any water course or agricultural land, Orchards and Natural Habitats like Grasslands.

of Stockpiling of construction Subproject materials does not impact site obstruct the drainage and Stockpiles will be covered to protect from dust and

36

Contractor

DSC f PIU

DSC/ PIU

SI. No.

3.6

3 .7


Quarry Operations

Arrangement for Construction Water


Mitigation Measures Location

erosion.

Contractor shall finalize Quarry site the quarry for procurement of construction materials after assessment of the availability of sufficient quantity of materials, quality and other logistic arrangements.

The Contractor shall obtain materials from quarries only after consent of the Department of Mines and Geology and District Administration.

Adequate safety precautions will be ensured during transportation of quarry material from quarries to the construction site. Vehicles transporting the material will be covered to prevent spillage.

The contractor shall use ground/surface water as a source of water for the construction with the written consent from the concerned Department.

To avoid disruption/ disturbance to other water users. the Contractor shall extract water from fixed locations and consult DSC before finalizing the locations.

The Contractor shall provide a list of locations and type of sources from where water for construction shall be extracted.

The Contractor shall need to comply with the requirements of the State Ground Water Department

37

Subproject site

Jmplementatlon Supervision

Contractor DSC I PIU



3.8 Soil Erosion

3.9 Water Pollution from Construction Wastes

3.10 Water Pollution from Fuel and Lubricants



for the extraction and seek their approval for doing so and submit copies of the permission to DSC.

Slope protection measures Subproject Contractor OSC/PIU will be undertaken as per site design to control soil erosion.

The Contractor shall take Subproject Contractor DSC/ PIU all precautionary site measures to prevent entering of wastewater into streams, water bodies or the irrigation system during construction.

Contractor shall not wash his vehicles in river water and shall not enter riverbed for that purpose.

The Contractor shall Subproject Contractor DSC/ PIU ensure that all construction site vehicle parking locations, fuel/ lubricants storage sites, vehicle, machinery and equipment maintenance and refueling sites shall be located at least 500 m away from rivers and irrigation canal/ponds if any

Contractor shall ensure that all vehicle/machinery and equipment operation, maintenance and refueling shall be carried out in such a manner that spillage of fuels and lubricants does not contaminate the ground.

Wastewater from vehicle parking, fuel storage areas, workshops, wash down and refueling areas shall be treated in an oil interceptor before discharging it on rand or into surface water bodies

38


SI. Environmental Mitigation Measures Location No. Issues

or into other treatment system.

3.11 Soil Pollution due to The fuel storage and Subproject fuel and lubricants, vehicle cleaning area will site construction waste be stationed such that

spillage of fuels and lubricants does not contaminate the ground. Soil and pollution parameters will be monitored as per monitoring plan.

3.12 Generation of dust The contractor will take Subproject every precaution to reduce site

3.13 Emission

the levels of dust at construction site.

All earthworks to be protected/ covered in a manner to minimize dust generation.

from All vehicles, equipment and machinery used for construction shall confirm to the relevant Bureau of

Construction Vehicles, Equipment and Machinery

India Standard (BIS) norms. The discharge standards promulgated under the Environment Protection Act, 1986 shall be strictly adhered to. The silent/quiet equipment available in the market shall be used in the sub Project.

The Contractor shall maintain a record of PUC for all vehicles and machinery used during the contract period which shall be produced for verification whenever required.

Subproject site

3.14 Noise Pollution The Contractor shall Subproject confirm that all site Construction equipment used in construction shall

39

Implementation Supervision


Contractor DSC /PIU

Contractor DSC/ PIU

Contractor DSC/ PIU

SI. No.



Mitigation Measures

strictly conform to the MoEF/CPCB noise standards and all Vehicles and equipment used in construction shall be fitted with exhaust silencers.

At the construction sites noisy construction work such as crushing, operation of DG sets, use of high noise generation equipment shall be stopped during the night time between 10.00 pm to 6.00 am.

Noise limits for construction equipment used in this project will not exceed 75 dB (A).


3.15 Material Handling at Workers employed on Subproject Contractor DSC/ PIU Site mixing cement, lime site

mortars, concrete etc., will be provided with protective footwear and protective goggles.

Workers, who are engaged in welding works, will be provided with welder's protective eyeshields.

Workers engaged in stone breaking activities will be provided with protective goggles and clothing.

The use of any toxic chemical will be strictly in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. The Engineer will be given at least 6 working day's notice of the proposed use of any chemical. A register of all toxic chemicals delivered to the site will be kept and maintained up to date by the Contractor.

40


3.16 Disposal of Construction Waste J Debris I Cut Material

3.17 Safety Measures During Construction


Mitigation Measures

The Contractor shall confirm that Safe disposal of the construction waste will be ensured in the pre-identified disposal locations. In no case, any construction waste will be disposed around the project site indiscriminately.

Adequate safety measures for workers during handling of materials at site will be taken up.

The contractor has to comply with all regulations for the safety of workers. Precaution will be taken to prevent danger of the workers from fire, etc. First aid treatment will be made available for all injuries likely to be sustained during the course of work.

The Contractor will conform to all anti-malaria instructions given to him by the Engineer.


Disposal site Contractor DSC/ PIU

Subproject Contractor DSC/ PIU site

3.16 Clearing of Contractor to prepare site Subproject Contractor DSC/ PIU Construction Camps Restoration

of restoration plans for site and approval by the Engineer.

The plan is to be implemented by the contractor prior to demobilization.

On completion of the works, all temporary structures will be cleared away, all rubbish burnt, excreta or other disposal pits or trenches filled in and effectively sealed off and the site left clean and tidy, at the Contractor's expense, to the entire satisfaction of the Engineer

41

SI. No.

4

4.1

4 .2

4 .3




Operation and Maintenance impacts

Environmental The periodic monitoring of Subproject Pollution Tourism Conditions the ambient air quality, site Monitoring department

noise level, water (both Agency PMU ground and surface water) quality, in the subproject area as suggested in pollution monitoring plan through an approved monitoring agency.

Uncontrolled tourism Environmental Monitoring Subproject Tourism PIU/ PMU flow Plan the Tourism Master site department

Plan will be implemented strictly to avoid uncontrolled tourism flow.

Unhygienic condition Tourism department will Subproject Tourism PIU/ PMU due to poor carry out maintenance of site department maintenance of the toilets. and carry out sanitation facilities the regular collection and and irregular solid disposal of wastes to a waste collection designated waste

treatment site.

5.3 Environmental Monitoring Plan

105. Environmental monitoring will be done during construction in three levels; namely monitoring development of project performance indicators done by the DSC Environmental Specialist. monitoring implementation of mi"tigation measures done by the Contractor; and overall regulatory monitoring of the environmental issues done by the PMU Environmental Specialist. To ensure the effective implementation of mitigation measures and Environmental Management Plan during construction and operation phase of the sub-project, it is essential that an effective Environmental Monitoring Plan be followed as given in Table 12. The proposed monitoring of all relevant environmental parameters, with a description of the sampling stations, frequency of monitoring, applicable standards and responsible agencies are presented.

Table 12: Monitoring Plan for Kotdwar Subproject

SI. Attributes Parameters to be Standards Frequency Duration Responsibility

No. Monitored

1 Air Quality CO, NOx, PM10, Air (prevention Once in every 2 years Contractor, DSC/

PM2 s. Pb and S02 and control of three months Tourism department

pollution) Rules, during through approved

42

I


SI. Attributes Parameters to be Standards Frequency Duration Responsibility No. Monitored

CPCB, 1994 construction and Monitoring Agency

operation stages

2 Water TDS, TSS, pH, IS for Inland Once in every 2 years Contractor, DSC/

quality Hardness, BOD, surface waters three months Tourism department Faecal Coli form (1$:2296, 1982) during through approved

and for drinking construction and Monitoring Agency

water (IS:10500, operation stages 1991)

3 Noise Noise quality as MOEF Noise Once in every 2 years Contractor, DSC/ Levels per National Rules 2000 three months Tourism department

Ambient Noise during through approved

Standards on db construction and Monitoring Agency

(A) scale operation stages

4 Socio- Income levels, - Once a year, for 5 years Tourism department economic livelihood options, five years from

monitoring especially on the completion of

tourism the project

5.4 Capacity Building

106. The Environmental Specialist of PMC and DSC will provide the basic training required for environmental awareness. Specific modules customized for the available skill set will be devised after assessing the capabilities of the members of the Training Program and the requirements of the project. The training would cover basic principles of environmental assessment and management; mitigation plans and programs, implementation techniques, monitoring methods and tools. The proposed training program along with the frequency of sessions is presented in Table 13 below.

Table 13: Training Modules for Environmental Management

Program Description Participants Duration Training Conducting Agency

A. Pre-Construction Stage

Sensitization Introduction to Environment: Basic Tourism I Forest 1h Environmental Workshop Concept of environment Department Working Specialist of

Environmental Regulations and Officials, Project Day the PMC Statutory requirements as per Director (PD} and Government of India and ADB Environmental

Specialist (ES) of the PMU/PIU

43


Program

Session 1

Session 2

Description

Introduction to Environment: Basic Concept of environment Safeguards Regulations and Statutory requirements as per Govt of India and ADB Guidelines on Environmental considerations in planning, design and implementing projects

Environmental components impacted In construction and operation stages Activities causing pollution during construction and operation stages

Environmental Management, Environmental Provisions, Implementation Arrangements, Methodology of Assessment Good engineering practices to be integrated into contract documents

8. Construction Stage

Session 3

Session 4

Role during Construction- Roles and Responsibilities of officials I contractors / · consultants towards protection of environment Implementation. Arrangements Monitoring mechanisms

Monitoring and Reporting System

B. Construction Stage

Session 5 Skill upgrade on ecotourism and nature guides Dealing with tourists. lnterpretational skills, micro-planning, natural resources, management of self-help groups, etc.

Participants Duration

PMU/PIU (including y. the ES) and Working Engineering staff of Day the implementing agencies

PMU/PIU (including y. the ES) and Working Engineering staff of Day Tourism dept

Engineers and staff Y. of line departments Working of the Government Day of Uttarakhand, and PMU/PIU (including the ES)

Engineers and staff Y. of implementing Working agencies . and Day PM UfPI U (including the ES)

Youth in the villages in and around Kotdwar, and other NGOs in the district

2 days

Training Conducting Agency

Safeguards Specialist of the PMC

Safeguards Specialist of the

PMC

Safeguards Specialist of the DSC

Safeguards Specialist of the DSC

Tourism department

Notes: PMU = Project Management Unit; PIU = Project Implementation Unit: PMC = Project Management Consultant; DSC= Design and Supervision Consultant; ES = Environment Specialist; NGO - nongovernment organization

5.5 Environmental Budget

107. Most of the mitigation measures require the contractors to adopt good site practice, which should be part of their normal procedures already, so there are unlikely to be major costs associated with compliance. Only those items not covered under budgets for construction are included in the IEE budget. The IEE costs include mitigation, monitoring and capacity building

44


costs. The summary budget for the environmental management costs for the subproject is presented in Table 14.

Table 14: Environmental management and monitoring costs (INR)

Item Rate Total Cost (INR) Source of funds

Environmental Monitoring

Construction Phase Contractor's costs

Air Quality (2 locations; 8 times) 7500 1,20,000.00

Water Quality (4 locations; 8 times) 5000 1,60,000.00

Noise Quality (2 locations; 8 times) 2500 40,000.00

O&M Phase Implementing agencies' cost

Air Quality (1 location; 8 times) 7500 60,000.00

Water Quality (1 locations; 8 times) 5000 40,000.00

Noise Quality (1 location; B times) 2500 20,000.00

Socio-economic monitoring 20000 100,000.00 (annually for 5 years)

Capacity Building Expenses 90000 5,40,000.00 PMU/ DSC

(6 Sessions)

Total Cost 10,80,000.00

5.6 Environmental Monitoring and Reporting

108. The PMU will monitor and measure the progress of EMP implementation. PIU will undertake site inspections and document review to verify compliance with the EMP and progress toward the final outcome. DSC will submit monthly monitoring and implementation reports to PIU, who will take follow-up actions, if necessary. PIU will submit quarterly monitoring and implementation reports to PMU. The PMU will submit semi-annual monitoring reports to ADB. Monitoring reports will be posted in a location accessible to the public.

109. ADB will review project performance against the EA's commitments as agreed in the legal documents. The extent of ADB's monitoring and supervision activities will be commensurate with the Project's risks and impacts. Monitoring and supervising of social and environmental safeguards will be integrated into the project performance management system. ADB will monitor projects on an ongoing basis until a project completion report is issued.

45


6 PUBLIC CONSULTATION AND INFORMATION DISCLOSURE

110. This subproject does not involve any elements, which could have an adverse impact on the community. There is no deprivation of any sort for the residents or displacement of any groups. Particularly, with regard to environmental impacts the subproject can be characterized as innocuous. In view of this, the need for holding a public hearing is not perceived at this stage. However in compliance with the ADB's guidelines, focused public consultations were undertaken during the site visits in the sub project areas. Residents of the area were informed about the proposed sub-project and their views were obtained. During the preparation of this IEE, consultations have been held with the officials of Utharakhand Tourism Department, Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN), Forest Department, Police Department, and other Stakeholders and agencies in Kotdwar region .

Table 15: Consultations with Stakeholders

s. Place Date Consulted Issues discussed No. officials/ persons

1 Rajhans Hotel, BEL Road 214/2013 Mr. R Neoi Tourism facilities of Kotdwar 2 Patro {Corbett entry gate) 214/2013 Mr. N. Sharma and About no. of visitors and their

other local vouths views about improvino facilities 3 Sandigarh (Corbet entry 2/4/2013 Mr. S. Negi and About no. of visitors and their

gate) other local views about improving facilities residents

4 Forest Department. 414/2013 Range Officer About no. of visitors passing Kotdwar through North gates and forest

5 DFO Office, Landstown 4/4/2013 Mr. Bharadwaj, depts. plans and views on the ACF proposed project

6 DFO Office, Landstown 6/4/2013 Mr. Sharma, SDO 7 Kotdwar 614/2013 MD, Surya Plaza Views on the proposed project 8 GMVN 414/2013 Manager, GMVN About the ownership of the

Guest House croposed project site 9 Kotdwar Hospital 614/2013 OMO About the medical facilities

10 Kotdwar Police Station 8/4/2013 Ms. Aruna Bharati, About crime and other issues co and Views on the proposed

project 11 Municipal Office 8/4/2013 Assistant Engineer About the facilities in and

around Kotdwara including drainage and Sanitation, Public toilets, etc

12 Jal Bhavan 8/4/2013 Assistant Enoineer About the water supply 13 Kotdwar 16/7/2013 Mr. S. Rawat, Views on the proposed project

Local resident 14 Project site 9/4/201 3 Residents of staff Views on the proposed project

1917/2013 quarters, GMVN and on proposed relocation within the site

15 Kotdwar 2117/2013 Mr. Sharma, Taxi Views on the proposed project driver cum owner

111. The process of consultations was taken up as an integral part of the sub.project in accordance with ADS Guidelines and following objectives:

46


../ To educate the general public, specially potentially impacted or benefited communities I individuals and stakeholders about the proposed sub project activities;

../ To familiarize the people with technical and environmental issues of the sub project for better understanding;

../ To solicit the opinion of the communities I individuals on environmental issues and assess the significance of impacts due to the proposed development;

../ To foster co-operation among officers of PIU, the community and the stakeholders to achieve a cordial working relationship for smooth implementation of the sub project;

../ To identify the environmental issues relating to the proposed activity.

112. Local level consultation with village community and tourists has been done for understanding positive and negative impacts of the proposed project. Summary of consultation is attached as Appendix 3. Suggestions as given by locals are considered in the design and for framing out mitigation measures.

113. During the consultations local residents and other stakeholders of subproject area opined that there are limited tourism infrastructures in the region and the tourist inflow is minimal. The subproject implementation will help improvement in infrastructures and publicity about the region. They demanded fast implementation of the subproject.

6.1 Plans for Continued Public Participation

114. To ensure continued public participation, provisions to ensure regular and continued stakeholder participation. at all stages during the project design and implementation is proposed. A grievance redressal cell will be set up within the PIU to register grievances of the people regarding technical, social and environmental aspects. This participatory process will ensure that all views of the people are adequately reviewed and suitably incorporated in the design and implementation process. Further, to ensure an effective disclosure of the project proposals to the stakeholders and the communities in the vicinity of the subproject location, an extensive project awareness campaigns will be carried out.

6.2 Information disclosure

115. Electronic version of the IEE will be placed in the official website of the Tourism Department and the website of ADB after approval of the documents by Government and ADB. On. demand, any person seeking information can obtain a hard copy of the complete IEE document at the cost of photocopy from the office of the PMU/PIU, on a written request and payment for the same to the Project Director.

116. The PMU will issue notification on the disclosure mechanism in local newspapers, ahead of the initiation of implementation of the project, providing information on the project, as well as the start dates, etc. The notice will be issued by the PMU in local newspapers one month ahead of the implementation works. This will create awareness of the project implementation among the public.

47


6.3 Grievance Redress Mechanism

117. The affected person/aggrieved party can give their grievance verbally or in written to the local grievances committee. Grievances of affected person will first be brought to the attention of the implementing NGO who can resolve the issue at site level. If the matter is not solved within 7 days period by the NGO or PIU, it will be brought to the Grievance Redress Committee constituted for the purpose in PIU. This GRC shall discuss the issue in its monthly meeting and resolve the issues within one month of time after receiving the grievance. If the matter is not resolved by GRC at PIU level within stipulated time, it shall be referred to GRC at PMU level by Executive Engineer of PIU.

118. GRC at PMU shall discuss the issue and try to resolve it and inform the PIU accordingly. If the matter is not resolved by the GRC at PMU level within one month of time, the aggrieved person/party can bring the matter to The Court of Law. The PIU shall keep records of all grievances received including contact details of complainant, date of receiving the complaint, nature of grievance, agreed corrective actions and the date these were affected and final outcome. The grievance redress process is shown below.

Composition and functions of GRC

119. Local Grievance Committee.(LGC) - In this LGC has worked with NGO, SHG, Line Agency, representative of Gram Panchayat ,Special invitee.

120. Grievance Redress Committee (GRC) at PIU- In each PIU there shall be one GRC, which will include Project Manager (PIU), District Tourist Officer of Department of Tourism of Govt. Of Uttarakhand, Community Development Officer of PIU, nominated representative of District Magistrate and nominated representative committee shall be headed by Project Manager (PIU). The committee will meet at least once in every month. Agenda of meeting shall be circulated to all the members and affected persons/aggrieved party along with venue, date and time; informed in written at least 7 days in advance of meeting. The matters shall remain with GRC at PIU level for one month and if grievance is not resolved within this time period, the matter shall be referred to GRC at PMU.

121. GRC within Environmental and Social Management Cell (ESMC) at PMU- There shall be one GRC in PMU. The matters not resolved by the GRC at PIU level within one month shall come under GRC at PMU. GRC at PMU will include Community Development Expert of PMU, Safeguard Specialist of PMU and Additional Project Director (APD) of PMU. The Committee shall be headed by APO of PMU. This committee shall look the matters, which are referred to and not resolved by GRC at PIU level. If the matter is not resolved by the GRC at PMU level within one month of time, the aggrieved person/party can bring the matter to The Executive Committee/State Level Empowered Committee (SLEC).

Approach to GRC

122. Affected person/aggrieved party can approach to GRC for redress of his/their grievances through any of the following modes-

48


(a) Web based: A separate corner will be developed at the program website so that public I community/ affected person can register their complaint in the online column.

(b) Telecom based: A toll free no. Will be issued by the PMU/ PIU so that general public can ' register their complaint through telephone I mobile phone to the PIU/PMU office.

(c) Through implementing NGO: The local representative of the NGO appointed for the purpose will collect the problems & issues of the community or affected person and pass on the same to PIU I PMU.

GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM (IDIPT-Y.!!ii~t1~n~O

~!irie ,.~d Partv ! :..ffe :ti?:I

person

I Lo-.:i :l• £.iar::. ~--- ttH: I ~W=\a=io=r=G=,=,v=a=nc=~=:~I GZ II========:::=~

I

JGRC Pll.

GRC in Env.ronm"'nt and

$oci31 l~'.anasement (!! II PMU

GrievorKe NotA<l~r=~~e::

I G•ievan:e :..d:!resu~ I 1======:::>1, L.....-~~~~~~~--

G ri .:~nce~;ot -1.ddr~s~

becutive Committ'?e

/ Stat!! L,e.ve i Empov19red

C:immittee

Figure 6: Grievance Redress Mechanism in IDIPT, Uttarakhand

49

Grievon t e Addren;>d

Note:


1. LGC - NGO, SHG, Line Agency, Representative of Gram Panchayat, Special Invitee 2. GRC - PM, COO, Engineer, DFO, OTO, SOM 3. GRC in Environment and Social Management Cell .(ESMC) - PMU (APO, SS, CDS, FS),

PMC (EE, COE)

7 FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

123. The proposed subproject components do not involve any interventions in and around the natural and cultural heritage destinations and have less significant (direct/indirect) environmental impacts. It is expected that the proposed subproject will enhanced economic growth and provision of livelihood opportunities for local communities through tourism infrastructure development with a focus on preservation and development of natural and cultural heritage and incidental services. The proposed Project under the Facility is provided to support the State of Uttarakhand, to enhance and develop the tourism sector as a key driver for economic growth.

124. This IEE has identified minor likely impacts on water, air and noise during construction and operation period and has defined mitigation measures. Those mitigation measures will be implemented and monitored during the sub-project execution. Further, the provision of environmental infrastructure, including access to sanitation and waste management facilities within the tourist areas, will better the environmental conditions and minimize the pollution related and aesthetic quality.

125. The specific management measures laid down in the IEE will effectively address any adverse environmental impacts due to the subproject. The effective implementation of the measures proposed will be ensured through the building up of capacity towards environmental management within the PMU supplemented with the technical expertise of a Safeguards Specialist as part of the PMC and DSC Consultants. Further, the environmental monitoring plans provide adequate opportunities towards course correction to address any residual impacts during construction or operation stages.

126. On the basis of the IEE It is expected that the proposed project components have only minor, negative, localized, temporary and less significant environmental impacts. These impacts can be easily mitigated through adequate mitigation measures and regular monitoring during the Design, Construction and Post Construction Phase of the project. It is recommended that PMU should have monitoring responsibility in environmental issues of all program components and to ensure the environmental sustenance.

127. In conclusion, the sub-project will have overall beneficial impacts after completion in terms of tourism development. Negative impacts if any on water & air quality, noise levels during civil works & operation phase, which will be appropriately monitored and adequately mitigated. This report has not identified any comprehensive, broad, diverse or irreversible adverse impacts caused by the sub project. It is recommended that project can be implemented with proper mitigation measures to protect the environment.

50

8 CONCLUSIONS


128. The proposed Investment Program of Development of tourism infrastructure for North

Corbett entry point at Kotdwar can be done without any major environmental impacts and is

beneficial to the society. As per the reconnaissance survey followed by discussion with stakeholders and public no major adverse impacts are anticipated. Further, there are hardly any significant environmental impacts that may arise during construction and operation period, and it will be of short duration and site specific as well.

129. Based on the findings of the IEE, the classification of the subproject as Category "B" is confirmed, and no further special study or detailed EIA needs to be undertaken to comply with

ADB SPS (2009).

51


Appendix 1: Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) Checklist

URBAN DEVELOPMENT

Instructions:

i. The project team completes this checklist to support the environmental classification of a project. It is to be attached to the environmental categorization form and submitted to the Environment and Safeguards Division (RSES) for endorsement by the Director, RSES and for approval by the Chief Compliance Officer.

ii. This checklist focuses on environmental issues and concerns. To ensure that social dimensions are adequately considered, refer also to ADB's (a) checklists on involuntary resettlement and Indigenous Peoples; (b) poverty reduction handbook; (c) staff guide to consultation and participation; and (d) gender checklists.

iii. Answer the questions assuming the "without mitigation" case. The purpose is to identify potential impacts. Use the "remarks" section to discuss any anticipated mitigation measures.

Country/Project Title: llTIDP: Uttarakhand, Development of tourism infrastructure for North Corbett entry point at Kotdwar

Sector Division: SAUW (South Asia Urban Development and Water Division)

Screening Questions Yes No Remarks

A. Project Sitting

Is the project area .......

Densely populated? ..J Presently the proposed project area is not densely populated

Heavy with development activities? ..J No as such development activities nearby the project site

Adjacent to or within any environmentally sensitive -.J No environment sensitive area

areas? nearby the project site

Cultural heritage site? '1 Protected Area ..J

Wetland '1 Mangrove ..J

Estuarine ..J

Buffer zone of protected area ..J

Special area for protecting biodiversity ..J

52



Bay ...J

Ramsar site ...J

B. Potential environmental impacts

Will the project cause ...

Impacts on the sustainability of associated ,,; There will be no direct impacts sanitation and solid waste disposal systems and on the sustainability of the their interactions with other urban services. systems due to the proposed

improvements .

Deterioration of surrounding environmental ...; It is envisaged that due to conditions due to rapid urban population growth, increase in tourism related commercial and industrial activity, and increased infrastructure development, waste generation to the point that both manmade more entrepreneurs like hotel, and natural systems are overloaded and the lodge, home-stay, shops etc will capacities to manage these systems are be developed resulting to rapid overwhelmed? urban population growth,

commercial and industrial activity, and increased waste generation.

Development controlled plan is to be considered

Degradation of land and ecosystems (e.g. loss of ...J No as such impact anticipated wetlands and wild lands, coastal zones, watersheds and forests)?

Dislocation or involuntary resettlement of people " Not applicable

Disproportionate impacts on the poor, women and '1 Not applicable children, Indigenous Peoples or other vulnerable oroup?

Degradation of cultural property, and loss of ...J Not applicable cultural heritage and tourism revenues?

Occupation of low-lying lands, floodplains and ...J No such conditions in the steep hillsides by squatters and low-income proposed site groups, and their exposure to increased health hazards and risks due to pollutive industries?

Water resource problems (e.g. ...J depletion/degradation of available water supply, deterioration for surface and ground water quality, and oollution of receivinq waters?

Air pollution due to urban emissions? " During construction phase only dust may arise which should be mitigated through water sprinkling, no other significant emission is expected as no use of heavy equipment is proposed

Risks and vulnerabilities related to occupational ...J Only physical hazards to health and safety due to physical. chemical and workers due to accidents mav

53



biological hazards during project construction and come across during construction operation? for which safety of workers

should be taken in prioritv Road blocking and temporary flooding due to land ,j Civil works are limited to small excavation during rainy season? areas and will not involve road

blocking. Conduct of construction activities will minimized during monsoon season.

Noise and dust from construction activities? " Anticipated during the construction activities. The Environmental Management Plan (EMP) provides mitigation measures to reduce the impacts.

Traffic disturbances due to construction material " There are no significant traffic on transport and wastes? the approach road

Temporary silt runoff due to construction? " Temporary silt runoff is expected due to construction activities which is required to be mitigated by silt traps

Hazards to public health due to ambient, " No significant ambient,

household and occupational pollution, thermal household and occupational

inversion, and smog formation? pollution is expected

Water depletion andfor degradation? " Water depletion or degradation is not expected in this proiect

Overpaying of ground water, leading to land " No excessive use of subsidence, lowered ground water table, and underground water is required salinization? which may lead to depletion of

ground water table or salinization

Contamination of surface and ground waters due " Waste disposal shall be done in to improper waste disposal? legitimate manner and will not

cause water pollution

Pollution of receiving waters resulting in amenity " Not applicable losses, fisheries and marine resource depletion, and health problems

Large population influx during project construction " Only small number of workers and operation that causes increased burden on shall execute the construction social infrastructure and services (such as water works, therefore no burden on supply and sanitation systems)? social infrastructure and services

is expected Social conflicts if workers from other regions or .,; No social conflicts is expected countries are hired? due to workers Risks to community health and safety due to the " There is no habitation, therefore transport, storage, and use andfor disposal of no risk to community health and materials such as explosives, fuel and other safety is expected chemicals durinq ooeration and construction? Community safety risks due to both accidental and " The construction area shall be natural hazards, especially where the structural isolated from visitors movement elements or components of the project are area and therefore no risk of

54

Develop·ment of tourism infrastructure for North Corbett entry point at Kotdwar Initial Environment.al Examination

Screening Questions Yes

accessible to members of the affected community or where their failure could result in injury to the community throughout project construction, ooeration and decommissioninc?

Climate Change and Disaster Risk Questions

No Remarks

community safety will exist

The following questions are not for environmental categorization. They are induded in this checklist to helo identify potential climate and disaster risks. Is the Project area subject to hazards such as .,J earthquakes, floods, landslides, tropical cyclone winds, storm surges, tsunami or volcanic eruptions and climate changes (see Appendix I)?

Could changes in temperature, precipitation, or extreme events patterns over the Project lifespan affect technical or financial sustainability (e.g., increased extreme rainfall increases flooding, damaging proposed infrastructure)? Are there any demographic or socioeconomic aspects of the Project area that are already vulnerable (e.g., high incidence of marginalized populations, rural-urban migrants, illegal settlements, ethnic minorities, women or children)? Could the Project potentially increase the climate or disaster vulnerabil ity of the surrounding area (e.g., by paving vulnerable groundwater recharge areas, or using water from a vulnerable source that is relied upon by many user groups, or encouraoinQ settlement in earthQuake zones)? • Hazards are potentially damaging physical events.

55

This is only small construction project which is not expected to lead to such hazards. But the project region is under Seismic Zone IV accordingly structure needs to be design This is only small construction projecl with short duration which is not expected to lead to such hazards

No such problem exist at this site

No such problem exist at this site


ANNEXURE 2

Photo Illustration

Existing building needs to be renovate Proposed project site

Gas Godown within the site needs to be shifted ..

Proposed project site Boundary wall at the proposed project site

56


RECORDS OF PUBLIC CONSULTATION

Sub Project: North Entry Corbett Entry Point Kotdwar-Uttarakhand

Sub Project: UKJIDIPT /KOT/01

Location of Meeting Venue: Saneh Panchayt office, Kotadi Dhang

Date: 17th Dec 2013

ANNEXURE 3

Various issues related to the proposed subproject were discussed at project locatons. Discussions were held with the Panchyat functionaries directly or indirectly affected by the subproject execution as well as the general public of the subproject area. The problem faced along suggestions/concerns were recorded and same have been given due consideration during formulation of the project design, IEE and EMP.

The participants, in general were in favour of the upcoming tourism infrastructure sub project. However, they were concerned about the permanent and temporary impacts which are expected to arise during construction stage such as loss of access and increase in air pollution due to dust emission , impact of vegetation. People are ready to extend all type of support during execution of the project. The detail of public consultation is mentioned below.

Issues discussed

> Awareness and extent of the project and development components > Benefits of Project for the economic and social Upliftment of Community > Labour availability in the project area or requirement of outside labour involvement > Local disturbance due to Project Construction Work > Necessity of tree felling etc. at project site > Water logging and drainage problem if any > Drinking Water problem ;;. Forest and sensitive area near by the project site > Movement of wild animal if any > Other problems, encountered, if any

57


Area: Kotdwara

Village: Saneh Gram Panchyat: Saneh

Date & Time: 17.12.2013 11.00 AM-01.00 PM

Sr.No.

2

3

4

5

6 7

8

9

10

11

Table: Issues of the Public Consultation -Design phase

Kev Issues/Demands Awareness of the project including coverage area

Perception of community i. Welcome the sub project ii. Accept the theme of the project iii. Agreed on tourism infrastructure development

In what way they may i. All type of support from Gram associate with the project Panchyat ii. Labour may

be supplied by Panchyat iii. Active role in advocacy of the sub project

Presence of any forest. wild life or any sensitive I unique environmental components nearby the oroiect area Presence of historical/ cultural/religious sites nearby

Unfavorable condition

Occurrence of flood

climatic

Drainage problem facing

Present problem quality Present collection problem

drinking water - quantity and

solid and

waste disposal

Availability of labour during construction time

Access road to oroiect Site

There is forest area near by the project site.

i. Sidhbali Temple, ii. Sidh pith iii. Kanavashram iv.Durgadevi Temple v.St. Joseph Cathidral Chruch In the peak summer season it is humid and hot. Not suitable for continuous work. No such case is reported No such case reported even during monsoon. On the way to Pokhrao, there is a river Saneh which is full of water during rainy season and disconnect two sides of road Kotdwar and Pokhrao. It is an important connection for North Corbett Entrv Point, Safe drinking water is available - as reported in the meeting

As per the local people there is no scientific system to disposed garbage and solid waste which is generated in small quantity

As discussed dunng the consultation, some local skilled & unskilled labours may be available Bituminous road existing, but it is almost

58

Action to be taken Frequent communications are to be required during implementation stage for better understandinQ. Close contact and utilize the panchyat support

This is a tourism project and no wild life will be harmed

Project site is away from the temples and church and will increase visitors to these

No need for any intervention

No action needed Permanent bridge is required on River Saneh if all season tourism to North Corbett Entry Point, is desired

No action needed

It is required and waste will be segregated and Composted and used for land fill or handed over to Kotdwar Municipality for treatment No action needed

Required sufficient funds

12

13

14

15


in damaged condition (from Kauria chak to Panchyat for major to Project site-1.2 km.) reoairs

Perception of locals On tree Generally the locals are against the tree No objection for felling of felling and afforestation felling but for construction work trees will be taken from

whatever trees particularly Eucalyptus forest dept. and required are to be required felling with due re-plantation will be oermission from Forest Deots. done as oer Govt. rule.

Dust and noise pollution and Request for arresting dust and Mitigation measures will disturbances during protection from noise pollution for be applied as per EMP. construction work habitation. Setting up worker camp site Project area has sufficient space for Contractor will use local within the village/ project setting labour camp. Local people will labour or set up camp locality allow setting up labour camp. within premises of

project site Safety of residents during Local people requested for safety Arrangements as per construction phase and measures when excavation and EMP will be applied. plying of vehicle for construction work will be going on and construction activities also for traffic management.

59


NAME OF PARTICIPANTS IN CONSULTATION

Public Awareness Meeting of ADB Assisted IDIPT "Development of Tourism Infrastructure for North Corbett Entry Point at Kotdwar

Place of Consultation: Saneh Panchayat Bhawan Date: 17 .12.2013

Sr. No. Name Occupation/Address Mobile No. Signature

1. Jai Singh Rawat Army Retired, 8937193216 Village Kotridhang

2. Jagdish Singh Negi Army Retired, 7351167102 Villaae Kotridhang

3. Upendra Singh Negi Lalpani 8954686464 4, Matbar Singh Lalpani 9012960076 5. Birendra Singh Rawat Saneh, Malla 9568126752 6. Padmender Singh Lalpani 8445558076 7. Shiv Charan Singh KotridhanQ 9917005451 8. Vikram SinQh Negl Kotrldhana 9411762524 9. Mahavlr sinah Kandari Army Retired, Kotridhana 9458365025 10. Dhaneshi devi Villaaers 11 Madan Mohan Sincih Villaciers 9012959967 12. Ajay Slncih Villaaers 865025770

Persons from DSC & PIU, Kotdwar 1. Raiiv Choudhary Office Manager 8755086696 2. Kaial Kumar Dey Data Entry Operator 7417627946 3. Sushil Kumar CAD Operator 9837104279 4. Archana Ghildlyal Office Secretary 8923008916 5. Kesar Sahal Office Assistant 9044421740 6. Amit Bhardwaj C.D.O, PIU 9719628073

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--- - - --Public Awareness Meeting of AOB Assisted IDlPT "Development of Tourism Infrastructure for North Corbett entry point

at l(otdwarfl Dated 17.12.2013 ---~----

Name Designation Mobile No. Signature

17.

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