Rural Energy Project (RRP CAM 45303)

Initial Environment Examination Project Number: 45303 February 2012 Kingdom of Cambodia: Rural Energy Project (Proposed Administration of Grant by the Government of Australia)

Prepared by Electricite du Cambodge for the Asian Development Bank.

CURRENCY EQUIVALENTS (13 February 2012)

Currency unit - Riel (KHR) KHR 1.00 - $0.00025 $1.00 - KHR 4,043

ABBREVIATIONS

ADB – Asian Development Bank AusAID – Austrailian Government Aid Program CHSP – Community Health and Safety Plan CMAC – Cambodian Mine Clearance Authority CO – carbon monoxide EDC – Electricite du Cambodge EIA – Environmental Impact Assessment EMF – Electromagnetic field EMoP – Environmental Monitoring Plan EMP – Environmental Management Plan IA – Implementing Agency IEC – International Electrotechnical Commission IEE – Initial Environmental Examination IFC – International Finance Corporation IUCN – International Union for Conservation of Nature MARPOL – Marine Pollution MIME – Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy MOE – Ministry of Environment NBSAP – National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan NOx – oxides of nitrogen PCBs – polychlorinated biphenyls PIC – Project implementation consultant PPE – Personal Protective Equipment RAP – Resettlement Action Plan REA – Rapid Environmental Assessment REE – Rural Electrification Enterprises ROW – right-of-way SEPRO – Social, Environment and Public Relations Office SOx – oxides of sulfur SPS – Safeguard Policy Statement (2009) TSP – total suspended particulates UNFCC – United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change UXO – Unexploded ordnances WHO – World Health Organization

WEIGHTS AND MEASURES

C – Celsius (centigrade) cct-km – circuit-kilometers ha – hectare km – kilometer kV – kilovolt kWh – kilowatt-hour LV – low voltage m – meter m/s – meter per second mm – millimeter mm/kV – millimeter per kilovolt MV – medium voltage MW – megawatt

NOTE

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

This initial environment examination report 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.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Executive Summary ................................................................................................... viii I. INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................................... 1

A. Purpose of the Report .................................................................................................... 1 B. Approach to IEE Preparation ......................................................................................... 2

II. POLICY, LEGAL, AND ADMINISTRATIVE FRAMEWORK .................................... 3 A. ADB’s Environmental Policies ....................................................................................... 3 B. Cambodia’s Environmental Policies .............................................................................. 3

1. Environment Protection and Preservation ..................................................................... 4 2. EIA Requirements in Cambodia ................................................................................... 5 3. International Environmental Conventions ..................................................................... 6

III. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT ........................................................................ 7 A. Project Location and Components ............................................................................... 7 B. Project Implementation Phases .................................................................................... 9

1. Pre-Construction Phase ............................................................................................... 9 2. Construction Phase ...................................................................................................... 9 3. Operational Phase .......................................................................................................10

C. Project Proponent .........................................................................................................10 IV. DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT ............................................................ 11

A. Physical Resources ......................................................................................................11 1. Geography ..................................................................................................................11 2. Topography .................................................................................................................11 3. Geology .......................................................................................................................11 4. Land Use .....................................................................................................................14 5. Climate ........................................................................................................................16 6. Water Resources .........................................................................................................16 7. Air and Noise Quality ...................................................................................................17

B. Biological Resources ...................................................................................................17 C. Socio-economic Conditions .........................................................................................18

1. Population and Affected Communities .........................................................................18 2. Housing .......................................................................................................................18 3. Power Supply ..............................................................................................................18 4. Health Services ...........................................................................................................19

5. Water Supply ...............................................................................................................19 V. ANTICIPATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES..... 20

A. Pre-Construction Phase Impacts and Mitigation Measures ......................................20 1. Loss of Property, Trees and Agricultural Land .............................................................20 2. Encroachment into Areas of Cultural/Historical and Ecological Significance ................20 3. Impact on Aesthetics ...................................................................................................20 4. Presence of Unexploded Ordnances ...........................................................................21 5. Presence of Flood-Prone Areas ..................................................................................21

D. Potential Impacts During the Construction Phase .....................................................21 1. Impact on Agricultural Farming Activities .....................................................................21 2. Soil Erosion .................................................................................................................21 3. Impact on Water Quality ..............................................................................................22 4. Impacts on Air Quality .................................................................................................22 5. Noise ...........................................................................................................................22 6. Generation of Construction Wastes .............................................................................23 7. Disruption to Traffic .....................................................................................................23 8. Damage to Infrastructure .............................................................................................23 9. Occupational Health and Safety ..................................................................................24 10. Community Health and Safety ...................................................................................24

E. Impacts During the Operational Phase .......................................................................24 1. Occupational Health and Safety ..................................................................................24 2. Community Health and Safety .....................................................................................25 3. Risks and Emergencies Associated with Distribution Lines .........................................26 4. Trimming of Trees .......................................................................................................26 5. Reduced Dependence on Lead-Acid Batteries ............................................................27

V. ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES ........................................................................... 28 A. No Project Alternative ..................................................................................................28 B. Selection of Electric Poles ...........................................................................................28 C. Selection of Transformers ............................................................................................28 D. Selection of Route Alignment ......................................................................................28

VI. INFORMATION DISCLOSURE, CONSULTATION, AND PARTICIPATION ........ 29 VII. GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM .............................................................. 33 VIII. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN ....................................................... 35

A. Mitigation Plan ..............................................................................................................35 B. Monitoring Plan ............................................................................................................41 C. Institutional Arrangements and Responsibilities .......................................................43

1. Organizational Structure within EDC .............................................................................43 2. Institutional Capacity Building .......................................................................................44

D. EMP Budget ..................................................................................................................44 IX. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION .......................................................... 46 BIBLIOGRAPHY ........................................................................................................... 48 Appendices .................................................................................................................. 49 Appendix A: Environmental Categorization ..............................................................................50 Appendix B: Rapid Environmental Assessment Checklist ........................................................52 Appendix C: Stakeholder Survey on Environment ....................................................................56 Appendix D: Photographs of the site .........................................................................................64

LIST OF TABLES Table 1. Geology at the Project Area .......................................................................................11 Table 2. Land Uses in Project Area ..........................................................................................14 Table 3. Housing Conditions ....................................................................................................18 Table 4. Data on Power Supply in Svay Rieng Province ..........................................................19 Table 5: Environmental Management Plan ...............................................................................35 Table 6: Environmental Monitoring Plan ...................................................................................42 Table 7: Estimated Budget for Environmental Management and Monitoring ............................44

LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1. Location Map ............................................................................................................. ixFigure 2: Overview of Distribution Line Right-of-Way ................................................................ 8Figure 3. Topography at the project site ...................................................................................12Figure 4. Geology at project site ..............................................................................................13Figure 5. Land Use Map ...........................................................................................................15Figure 6. Map showing protected areas in Cambodia ...............................................................17Figure 7: Grievance Redress Procedure ..................................................................................34

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EXECUTIVE S UMMARY 1. The Rural Energy Project is a proposed grant to Electricite du Cambodge (EDC) from the Government of Australia that will be administered by the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The proposed project aims to assist efforts of EDC to provide electricity to about 13,000 households in Svay Rieng Province by extending the 22 kilovolt (kV) medium-voltage (MV) sub-transmission line and low-voltage (LV) distribution network. 2. The project also has another component on the use of improved cooking stoves with higher efficiency in rural areas of Kampong Cham province. This component aims to reduce reliance on firewood and charcoal for cooking which are known to result to indoor air pollution and cause adverse health effects to households. The third component is the capacity development of the Electricity Authority of Cambodia (EAC) which is the regulatory body overseeing the power sector. 3. The entire project was conceptualized based on the thrust of the Royal Government of Cambodia (the Government) for the development of the energy sector through the expansion of electricity network. Cambodia has one of the lowest electricity consumption in the region with an electrification rate of only 24% at 124 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per capita. By providing electricity to rural areas, the project has an overaching objective of reducing poverty to 19.5% by 2015. 4. The EDC will be the Executing Agency of the project. The EDC is a state-owned power utility mandated to implement the Government’s long-term objective of achieving 100% electrification of villages by 2020 and 70% of households by 2030 in cooperation with Rural Electrification Enterprises (REEs). The Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy (MIME) will be the implementing agency (IA) for the component on improved cooking stoves at Kampong Cham Province. The EAC will be the IA for the capacity development component. 5. Overall, the proposed project aims to:

(i) Increase electrification rate in Svay Rieng Province through the extension of

22kV MV sub-transmission and LV distribution lines;

(ii) Improve reliability of the electricity grid; and

(iii) Reduce dependence on firewood and biomass for fuel in cooking to prevent threats to health due to air pollution.

6. The MV and LV distribution lines will be installed in the province of Svay Rieng, along existing roads, extending from existing power lines and substations of EDC. The distribution lines will be designed to reach unserved rural villages and in some cases existing areas served by REEs. The EDC plans to install the LV lines including the metering points in areas outside the REE-served areas to connect rural households. Figure 1 shows the location of the proposed project. 7. The Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) that is presented in this report focused on the electrification project in Svay Rieng. The other components do not involve development of infrastructure that may cause adverse environmental impacts. The report has been prepared to comply with the requirements of Safeguard Policy Statement (2009) in relation to environmental assessment of ADB-financed projects. Based on the assessment, the proposed rural

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electrification project falls under Environmental Category B because the environmental impacts are minimal and that any adverse environmental impacts can be readily mitigated. 8. The following methodologies were used in the preparation of the IEE:

(i) Review of project-related documents and literature related to the project area (ii) Site visits (iii) Consultation and interview with stakeholders (iv) Screening of environmental impacts (v) Updating of the 2003 Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and Environmental

Monitoring Plan (EmoP) prepared by EDC. (vi) Development of a Grievance Redress Mechanism.

Figure 1. Loca tion Map

9. The preparation of this IEE is guided by the requirements outlined in SPS 2009. Information in the IEE is based on the information, plans, and documents provided by EDC and from field inspection and information gathered during community and stakeholder interviews. The environmental impact assessment was carried out with the objectives of (i) establishing current environmental conditions; (ii) identifying key environmental issues; (iii) assessing magnitude of impacts and to provide mitigating measures; (iv) integrating the environmental issues in the project planning and design stage; and (v) developing an updated environmental management plan for implementation, monitoring and reporting of the environmental mitigation and enhancement measures.

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10. Public Consultation. Consultations and interviews with affected communities along the alignment of the distribution lines was carried out on 18 November 2011 by the ADB consultant and EDC staff. Follow-up interviews were undertaken by the social consultant in December 2011. The proposed project was explained to the stakeholders who were then asked on their awareness of the proposed electrification project, environmental issues and concerns in the community, perceived project benefits and adverse environmental effects, and recommendations and suggestions. There was a low level of awareness of the project among the stakeholders who would like further information particularly on the electricity charges and the location of the service area. Although there is low level of awareness on the project, majority of the respondents (99.6%) approved of the rural electrification project. The main reason for the approval is the improvement of the living conditions in the community. Those that approve of the proposed project agree that it is for the good of the community. 11. Those that approve the project want the project to be implemented as soon as possible. They are hoping that the electrification project will improve their living conditions as well as their livelihood and businesses. The stakeholders said that they are aware that some trees may be cut because of the installation of the electric poles. Other stakeholders mentioned their concern about any potential hazard such as electrocution or explosion of transformers that should be addressed by EDC. Somes respondents said that the project might generate wastes that could be left by the contractor at the site. They said that the contractor should be asked to clean-up the construction site and to observe proper disposal of waste materials. 12. Other comments of the respondents are the following:

• EDC should implement the project as soon as possible so that they can already connect to electricity

• EDC should not charge high price of electricity • Safety should be considered by EDC in the connection • Some of the communities in the remote areas and away from the roads might not be

connected. • In areas in Kampung Trach Market, the respondents requested that they use the existing

electrical equipment that they had bought from the REE. 13. Summary of Impacts and Mitigation Measures. The evaluation of the pre-construction, construction, and operational phases of the project components indicates that the project will generate minor adverse impacts to the environment that can be reduced to acceptable levels through the implementation of practical mitigation measures normally associated with internationally recognized engineering practices. The key findings of the IEE are summarized below:

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

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

(iii) An EMP has been prepared for implementation during all phases of the project.

The EMP identifies the potential environmental impacts from the project and the corresponding mitigating measures to reduce the impacts to acceptable levels. The EMP also outlines the institutional responsibilities in implementing the EMP.

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An institutional capacity development program is recommended to ensure sustainable implementation of the EMP.

14. The proposed project is expected to contribute positively to the economic development of the Svay Rieng province through the improvement of the power distribution grid. The project is also expected to improve reliability and security of power supply that would allow EDC to meet the increased power demand in the province. 15. The EDC hires the services of consultants to assist the company in monitoring the implementation of the EMP. Within EDC, there is a Social, Environment and Public Relations Office (SEPRO) that handles the implementation of the EMP. A capacity development program for EDC is developed in order to strengthen their capacity to implement the EMP and Environmental Monitoring Plan (EMoP). The program will focus on community safety, environmental impact assessment (EIA), EMP implementation, inspection and corrective action, environmental standard opeating procedures, proper handling and disposal of wastes, protection of local vegetation and water resources, and avoiding impacts on local population from noise and dust-generating activities during the construction phase. 16. A Grievance Redress Mechanism was established to receive and facilitate resolution of affected people’s concerns, complaints, and grievances about the project, particularly on resolution of environment-related complaints during the construction and operational phases of the project.

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I. INTRODUCTION 1. The Electricite du Cambodge (EDC) plans to develop a power distribution network that will support economic growth in Svay Rieng Province in Cambodia. Currently, EDC services only 13,460 customers1 while about 2,000 customers are being supplied by three (3) REEs2

. The two (2) REEs purchase power from EDC while one REE generates its own electricity using a 475 kVA diesel generator. From a household population of 110,000 in Svay Rieng, the overall electrification rate is only 14%.

2. Majority of the unelectrified households rely on lead-acid batteries for lighting. On the average, these batteries are being charged once a week at a cost of KHR1,500-2,000 per battery which are then discarded once a year. Each commune in Svay Rieng has about 4–5 battery charging stations operated by private entrepreneurs. 3. Overall, the proposed rural electrification project aims to increase access to economical and reliable energy supply to rural communities in Svay Rieng Province. The project envisions to expand the supply of electricity to about 13,000 households by December 2014.

A. P URP OS E OF THE REP ORT 4. This IEE report assesses the environmental impacts associated with the construction and operation of the proposed 22kV distribution line. The report aims to describe the proposed project, its location, and assess the potential impacts of the project in the existing environment and to the adjoining community. It also suggests the mitigating measures to lessen any adverse environmental impacts during the construction and operation of the project. 5. The IEE is intended to meet the requirements of SPS 2009 for Category B projects. 6. The objectives of the IEE are to:

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

identification of environmentally sensitive areas;

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

(iii) Develop an EMP that will prevent or minimize adverse environmental impacts to

acceptable levels; and

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

1 Customer data of Electricity of Svay Rieng as of 12 August 2011 and Concept Paper. 2 Concept Paper, Rural Energy Pilot Project.

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B. AP P ROACH TO IEE P REP ARATION 7. The information used in the IEE was based on data from the previous Environmental Management Plan prepared in 2007 by EDC, site visits, secondary sources, and information gathered from community and stakeholder consultations previously undertaken for the project. Information about the project components and design were provided by EDC. 8. The Environmental Categorization Form and Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) checklist from SPS were used for environmental categorization purposes and in screening the environmental impacts of the proposed project. The environmental impacts of the proposed project have been analyzed within the primary impact zone encompassed by and adjacent to the ROW of the distribution line up to a zone of about 50 m wide perpendicular to the alignment.

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II. P OLICY, LEGAL, AND ADMINIS TRATIVE FRAMEWORK

A. ADB’S ENVIRONMENTAL P OLICIES 9. The ADB’s Environmental Assessment Policy as outined in the SPS (2009) requires that all ADB financed projects should undergo an environmental assessment to ensure the environmental soundness and sustainability of projects. It also aims to support the integration of environmental considerations in the project decision-making process by developing safeguards to avoid adverse impacts of projects on the environment and affected people, minimize, mitigate, and/or compensate for adverse project impacts on the environment and affected people when avoidance is not possible, and to help borrowers/clients to strengthen their safeguard systems and develop the capacity to manage environmental and social risks. 10. Environmental assessments are classified into different categories based on complexity, scale and level of impact, ranging from the largest and most complex - Category A, to the smallest and least complex – Category C. For all the categories, the environmental assessment should take into account the global environmental aspects on biodiversity and institutional capabilities related to environmental and social aspects. 11. The SPS 2009 clarifies the rationale, scope and content of an environmental assessment as supported by technical guidelines (Environmental Assessment Guidelines 2003). The environmental assessment process calls for the initial screening of the project to determine, at the early stage, the level of assessment that is required so that appropriate studies are undertaken commensurate with the significance of potential impacts and risks. 12. The SPS contains a number of operational principles that includes the requirement to ensure that the measures identified during the impact assessment are included in the EMP and were implemented in agreement with the borrower. The borrower/client is required to monitor the progress of implementation of the EMP, document the monitoring results, identify necessary corrective actions, and reflect them in a corrective action plan. Periodic monitoring reports on progress of implementation of the EMP and the corrective actions, if any, are submitted to ADB on a semi-annual basis during the construction of projects with significant adverse environmental impacts and quarterly for highly complex and sensitive projects. During operation, reporting to ADB by projects with significant adverse impacts is required on an annual basis at the minimum. 13. Under SPS, the project has been evaluated considering the completion of the Environmental Categorization Form (Appendix A) and Rapid Environmental Assessment Checklist (Appendix B). The adverse environmental impacts of the project are considered site-specific and reversible. Therefore, it has been classified as Category B, requiring an IEE.

B. CAMBODIA’S ENVIRONMENTAL P OLICIES 14. Major legislations in Cambodia are issued through a Royal Decree signed by the King which ratifies laws that are passed by parliament. These Royal Decrees are supplemented by “prakas” or ministerial decisions signed by the Prime Minister. There are also sub-decrees and regulations to be passed that outline the procedures and standards that are necessary to ensure compliance with the law.

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15. Cambodia’s new Constitution which was confirmed in 1993 by the Royal Government of Cambodia stipulates the environmental considerations in project implementation. Specifically, Article 59 of the 1993 Constitution states that:

“The State shall protect the environment and balance the abundant natural resources and establish a precise plan of management of land, water, air, wind, geology, ecological system, mines, energy, petrol and gas, rock and sand, gems, forests and forestry products, wildlife, fish and aquatic resources.”

16. The Ministry of Environment (MOE) was established to implement this particular provision of the Constitution. 1. ENVIRONMENT P ROTECTION AND P RES ERVATION 17. Cambodia issued the 1996 Law on Environmental Protection and Natural Resource Management (NS/RKM/1296/36) as the main governing law on environmental management. The law required the Government to prepare national and regional environmental plans and sub-decrees that take into consideration a wide range of issues that include the conduct of environmental assessment, pollution prevention and control, public participation and project disclosure. 18. The Ministry of Water Resources, Hydrology and Meteorology and Ministry of Land Use Managemnt, Urbanization and Construction were mentioned in the law. The list of government agencies was later expanded to include the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, Ministry of Agricutlre, Forestry and Fisheries, Ministry of Rural Development, Ministry of Health and Ministry of Tourism. 19. Following the issuance of the Law on Environmental Protection and Natural Resource Management, the Ministry of Environment passed sub-decrees and regulations to protect the environment. The law provides the umbrella for subsequent more targeted laws, sub-decrees and regulations for environmental protection and natural resource management within the country which include:

• Sub-decree No.27 on water pollution control, issued on 6 April 1999; • Sub-decree No.36 solid waste management, issued on 27 April 1999; • Sub-decree No.42 on air pollution and noise disturbance, issued on 10 July 2000; • Sub-decree No.72 on environmental impact assessment process, issued on 11 August • 1999; • Law on the management and exploitation of mines resources, adopted on 13 July 2001.

20. National environmental policy documents exist within Cambodia such as the National Environmental Action Plan (1998-2002) and the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) of 2002 which recognises the need to implement and integrate them into the government’s wider policy framework for environmental management. 21. Law on Nature Reserves. The Royal Decree on Protected Natural Areas was issued in November 1993. The law provides protection to the environment, land, forests, wetlands and coastal zones. The law covers 23 natural protected areas in Cambodia, representing 18% of the total land area of the country or 2.2 million hectares. The MOE is designated to implement the law and manage the natural protected areas. The Forest Administration has also designated protected forests from cancelled logging concessions which adds the total area under protected to about 25% of the country’s land area.

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22. In 2008, Cambodia introduced the Protected Area Law No. NS/RKM/0208/007 which defines the National Parks (IUCN Category II, Wildlife Sanctuaries (IUCN Category IV), Protected Landscapes (IUCN Category V), Multiple-Use Areas (IUCN Category VIII), and Ramsar sites which includes two sites in the IUCN Categrories IV and VIII. 23. Law on Historical Monuments. All national monuments in Cambodia are protected by the “Law on Protection of Cultural and National Heritage” which was promulgated in 1996. This is supplemented by the “Decision on the Definition of 3 Zones to Protect Temple Surrounding Areas in All Provinces and Municipalities Except Angkor Wat” (1996). The law also protects small temples or ancient structures in Cambodia. 2. EIA REQUIREMENTS IN CAMBODIA 24. The two primary mechanisms for the implementation of environmental legislation within Cambodia are:

• Regional Planning; and, • Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).

25. Of the two implementation methods, EIA has been more successful in integrating environmental policy within the development decision-making process in Cambodia. The scope of the EIA legislation is extensive requiring that EIA “shall be done on every project and activity, private or public, and shall be reviewed and evaluated by the MOE before being submitted to the Royal Government for decision.” 26. Article 6 of the 1996 Law on Environmental Protection and Natural Resource Management qualifies this, by identifying that the implementation of an EIA is dependent on the “nature and size of the proposed projects and activities”. A full EIA and feasibility report is required for projects with potential to have a “heavy environmental impact on natural resources, the ecosystem, health and public welfare.” 27. More detailed information of the EIA system within Cambodia is established within 1999 Sub-Decree on the Environmental Impact Assessment Process. Within this it is established that the MOE is responsible for reviewing, “monitoring, observing and taking action to ensure that the project owner follows the environmental management during construction, operation and termination” of the project. Chapter 5 of the EIA Sub-Decree 1999 established that MOE must review the feasibility study and initial or full EIA report and send recommendations to the project owners and institutions approving the project within 30 days of receiving the documents. A potential loophole within this legislation allows that if the MOE fails to perform the review duties within the mandated timescale, the organisations deciding upon the development may declare that it meets the requirements of the EIA Sub- Decree. 28. The theoretical aspect of EIA legislation within Cambodia is comparatively standard, however, in practice challenges arise within the EIA system these are:

• There are no guidance within the Sub-Decree 1999 for the MoE when reviewing the feasibility studies and EIA decisions;

• MOE does not have the authority to reject project proposals – it may only

provide recommendations and monitor them.

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29. Sub-decree 72 ANRK.BK outlines the EIA processes and the requirements for an initial EIA (IEIA) or EIA for selected projects The IEIA or EIA document are to be submitted by public or private project owners to the MOE for review. 30. Annex of sub-decree No. 72 ANRK.BK presents the list of projects that require an IEIA. The proposed power distribution project is not included in the list of projects requiring an IEIA. 3. INTERNATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONVENTIONS 31. Besides the national legislations, a number of international environmental conventions/treaties and protocols related to environmental management and protection were also signed, accessed and ratified by the Royal Government of Cambodia. These conventions/treaties and protocols include:

• United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC), 1992, entered into force on 21 March 1994 (Cambodia ratified on 18 December 1995)

• Kyoto Protocol 1997, entered into force on 16 February 2005 (Cambodia accessed on 4 July 2002)

• Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer, entered into force on 22 September 1988 (Cambodia accessed on 27 June 2001)

• Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, 1987, entered into force on 1 January 1989 (Cambodia accessed on 27 June 2001)

• The International Convention for the Prevention of Marine Pollution from Ships, 1973 as modified by the Protocol of 1978 relating thereto “MARPOL 73/78”, fully entered into force on 2 October 1983 (Cambodia ratified on 1994)

• Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal, entered into force on 5 May 1992 (Cambodia accessed on 02 March 2001)

• United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, entered into force on 26 December 1996 (Cambodia ratified on 18 August 1997).

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III. DES CRIP TION OF THE P ROJ ECT 32. The Svay Rieng province, located in the southern delta region of Cambodia, has been identified as one of the important provinces requiring power security and development. Svay Rieng province has 80 communes, a population of 482,788 and household population of 110,000. Only 13,460 customers in the province is supplied by EDC while about 2,000 customers are being supplied by three REEs. 33. EDC’s isolated network in Svay Rieng is supplied only through import from Viet Nam at two nodes. The combined power purchase of 17 MW is being negotiated to increase to 23 MW which is sufficient to service the additional connections programmed under the project.3

34. Unelectrified households in Svay Rieng rely on lead-acid (automobile) batteries that costs each household about KHR1,500-2,000 to charge every week. These batteries become busted after about one year, requiring households to spend for new batteries. 35. The proposed project will assist the efforts of Electricite du Cambodge (EDC) to electrify up to 13,000 households in Svay Rieng Province by extending the 22 kilovolt (kV) medium-voltage (MV) sub-transmission line and low-voltage (LV) distribution network.

A. P ROJ ECT LOCATION AND COMP ONENTS

36. The proposed project will consist of 220 circuit-kilometers (cct-km) of MV lines and 400 cct-km of LV lines. Figure 2 presents the overview of the ROW of the distribution line. In general, the 22 kV distribution line will pass along existing roads and through flat, rural, and agricultural terrain. 37. Poles. The distribution poles will consist of round pre-stressed concrete poles. The average distance between poles is 60 – 80 m. The LV poles will be positioned 15 m from the center of existing road while the MV poles will be installed at 25 m from the center of the road. The height of the poles will be 12 – 14 m. As required for safety, a mnimum vertical clearance of 2 - 3 m from existing structures and trees will be maintained by EDC. Tall trees within the ROW will be removed as necessary to maintain the minimum conductor clearance. During the final design of the transmission line, it will be sited to avoid houses to the maximum extent possible. 38. Foundations. The foundations of the poles will be reinforced concrete, cast in-situ. The size of pole foundations is about 1m x 1m while the excavation depth is about 1.2m. All excavated soil will be utilized for refilling and banking-up of the pole foundations. 39. Overhead Ground Wires. The distribution line will use the overhead ground wire for lighting protection, conductors, and insulators for corrosion control. All insulators and fittings to be utilized by the project shall conform with the international standard of the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).

3 Concept Paper

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Figure 2: Overview of Dis tribution Line Right-of-Way

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40. Transformers and Automatic Voltage Regulators. There will be about 77 pole-mounted distribution transformers and AVRs that wil be installed for the project. The outdoor transformers include 4-250KVA, 5-160KVA, 29-100KVA, 21-50KVA, 9-50KVA, and 9-25KVA transformers.

B. P ROJ ECT IMP LEMENTATION P HAS ES 1. P RE-CONS TRUCTION P HAS E 41. Survey and Design. The detailed design of the distribution line shall be undertaken through site investigation, soil testing, and survey of siting of poles. Cadastral survey shall be undertaken to determine the route for the development of distribution line. 2. CONS TRUCTION P HAS E 42. The overall construction and installation works for the distribution line are scheduled to be implemented within a period of 6 months. The entire construction activities will employ about 25 workers, with each worker group consisting of 5 people. Employment of qualified people from the community shall be considered by the project. A small construction camp for workers and material storage shall be identified in consultation with the local authorities in the communes. 43. Mobilization. Upon mobilization of the contractor, the construction works will initiate with the construction of temporary access roads from the main roads to the site of the pole foundation. Construction materials such as cement, sand, stone and equipment parts of the concrete pole, insulators and conductors will be transported to the site of the electric poles using trucks and unloaded along road sides near the sites of each pole. Consent of the local authorities shall be secured during the construction of the poles. The materials and equipment will then be transported using small vehicles or manually transported along the paths to avoid significant disturbance of land. 44. Excavation and Pole Setting. After verification of the location of the pole foundation, construction will begin with the excavation of the pole foundations and then casting of concrete. All excavated soil will be retained and used for back filling of the pole foundations. 45. Installation of Accessories. The electrical materials such as conductors, lightning wire, lamp post, and optical cables will be transported to a temporary storage facility in the project area and at road sides near the construction sites. These are also brought manually to the site of each pole. 46. Tree Clearing and Trimming along ROW. Clearing of tall trees and vegetation at the tower sites in the ROW will be conducted using hand tools prior to stringing works. The clearing activities will not use heavy machinery or herbicides.

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

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48. Line Testing. The tensioning of wires and conductors shall be carried out in accordance with the prescribed international procedures, taking into consideration safety to prevent workers accident and damage to facilities and properties. The line shall be tested and adjusted prior to full commissioning. 49. Transformer Installation. Once the line has been tested, the transformers shall be installed for commissioning of the line.

3. OP ERATIONAL P HAS E

50. The activities that will be implemented during the operational phase of the distribution line include the routine monitoring and inspection to check if the required clearances of trees and houses below the line are maintained. Maintenance activities include the trimming of trees if above 3 m high and checking of nuts and bolts to ensure structural stability. The regular maintenance and trimming of vegetation within the ROW is necessary to prevent damage to overhead power lines. The clearing of vegetation shall be undertaken manually, without the use of heavy equipment and herbicides. 51. During the operational phase, there will be about 3 workers to be assigned to maintain the power line.

C. P ROJ ECT P ROP ONENT 52. The EDC will be the executing agency and owner of the project. Project detailed design, including detailed distribution line surveys, preparation and evaluation of tenders, and construction supervision, will be undertaken by consultants in coordination with the EDC. 53. The overall management of the project will be carried out by EDC. During the operational phase, the maintenance of the distribution line will be managed by EDC Provincial Office which is based in Svay Rieng.

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IV. DES CRIP TION OF THE ENVIRONMENT 54. Baseline information on the relevant physical, biological, and socio-economic conditions of the existing environment of the project area is described in this section. Aspects on various environmental parameters which are likely to be directly or indirectly affected by the proposed 22kV distribution line project are discussed. In addition, current and proposed development activities within the area of influence of the project are presented.

A. P HYS ICAL RES OURCES

1. GEOGRAP HY

55. Svay Rieng is located in the southeastern part of Cambodia sharing borders with Kampong Cham to the north, Prey Veng to the west and an international border with Viet Nam from east to south. The total area of the province is approximately 2,966 square kilometers.4

Svay Rieng is classified as a rural province which is composed of seven (7) districts and subdivided into 80 communes. The seven districts are Chanthrea, Kampong Rou, Romdoul, Romeas Haek, Svay Chrom, Svay Rieng, and Svay Theab.

56. Of the 80 communes in Svay Rieng province, there are thirty-six (36) communes that will be traversed by the distribution line.5

2. TOP OGRAP HY

57. Cambodia’s topography is divided into three (3) distinct topographic regions: central plains, flat coastal areas, and the mountain ranges with high plateaus. The central plains form 75% of the country. The topography at the proposed project site lies in the central plain area as shown in Figure 3. The topography is mostly lowland paddy fields, except for lowland/ upland mosaic and upland forested areas in the northern district of Romeas Haek. 3. GEOLOGY 58. Geology in the affected communes consists mainly of alluvial plain deposits, except in a few communes in the north of the province, which consist of terrace laterite deposit and a very small portion of floodplain and lakebed deposit, in Chey Thum, Ampil and Kokir communes (Figure 4).

Table 1. Geology a t the Pro jec t Area Geological Description Percentage (%) Alluvial plain deposits 93.1% Floodplains 1.3% Lake bed deposits 0.2% Terrace laterite deposits 4.7% Water 0.8%

4 MAFF, www.maff.gov.kh 5 Based on distribution line route map provided by EDC.

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59. There are 27 different soil types in Cambodia but the major ones are either soils developed on the old alluvial terraces or the colluvial-alluvial plains. Four types – Prey Khmer, Prateah Lang, Bakan and Tuol Samroung are where most of the agricultural production occurs.

Figure 3. Topography a t the pro jec t s ite

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Figure 4. Geology a t pro jec t s ite

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60. The soils on the active flood plains such as Kabal Po and Krakor are also highly suited for rice production and comprise approximately 30% of soils where rice production occurs. Such soils respond well to improved ditch and drainage irrigation and judicious application of fertilizers. 4. LAND US E 61. Land use within the communes where the distribution line will traverse is largely covered by paddy field (Figure 5). Paddy field accounts to 69.56% of the land area in Svay Rieng, followed by paddy field with villages with 15.95%. As shown in Table 2, majority of the land in the province is used for agricultural purposes, primarily as rice land. There are some areas in Romeas Haek where shrubland can be found.

Table 2. Land Us es in Pro jec t Area Land use Percentage (%)

Abandoned field covered by grass 0.96% Abandoned field covered by shrub 1.39% Bamboo and secondary forests 0.16% Field crop 1.91% Flooded grassland 0.40% Flooded shrub 0.00% Lakes (<8 ha) 0.02% Lakes (>8 ha) 0.04% Marsh and swamp 1.79% Others (Sea, Bay etc.) 0.55% Paddy field 69.56% Paddy field with villages 15.95% Receding and floating rice fields 4.74% Reservoir 0.07% Settlement 0.07% Shrub land (undifferentiated) 0.05% Swidden agriculture (Slash and burn) 2.09% Village garden crop 0.24% Woodland and scattered trees (C < 10%) 0.01%

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Figure 5. Land Us e Map

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5. CLIMATE

62. Climate in Cambodia is influenced by the tropical monsoon climate which causes distinct wet and dry seasons. The southwest monsoon typically brings the rainy season which prevails from May to October. The northeast monsoon brings the drier and cooler air during the months of November to March while the hotter air occurs from April to May. The southern part of the country has a two-month dry season. 63. The annual mean rainfall is 1,400mm in the central lowland regions while the coastal areas experiences 5,000mm of rainfall. Relative humidity is high throughout the year, usually exceeding 90%. During the dry season, relative humidity falls below 50%. 64. The temperatures throughout the country is fairly uniform, with only small variations from average annual temperature of around 28oC. January is considered as the coldest month where lowest temperatures of 12oC have been recorded. April is the warmest month where temperatures reach 42oC. Most of Cambodia’s regions have an average wind velocity of less than 3 m/s. Maximum wind speeds can reach in excess of 20 m/s during the wet season while during the dry season the maximum wind velocities are lower and are in the range of 6 – 8 m/s. 6. WATER RES OURCES

65. The distribution line will cross a number of irrigation canals and streams. The irrigation systems in the area are prevalent due to the paddy fields planted with rice and other crops. Overall, the hydrology of the plain is moderated by the low slopes which increases storage, retards runoff, and attenuates discharges. Floods appear to be synchronized with the flood heights which appears to rise and fall on both sides of existing roads. People who were interviewed during the site survey disclosed that flooding occurs in the paddy fields and up to the road level only. However, there are areas in Basak, Samyaong, and Prey Angkhun which experiences flooding during heavy rainfall events. 66. Within the project area, surface run-off on exposed soil and erosion of river and irrigation canal embankments cause turbidity in some of the water courses. Surface water pollution from domestic sewage along densely populated villages can be found. Run-off from surrounding agricultural rice lands may also be expected.

Photo 1. Surface water and irriga tion canals in the a rea

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67. Underground Water. In Svay Rieng Province, groundwater yield is abundant and is evident by the shallow wells that are used by villagers for water supplies. However, water quality suffers during the dry season.

7. AIR AND NOIS E QUALITY

68. Based on observations of the project area, air quality is typical of other rural areas in Cambodia. There are no major activities that could contribute to air quality changes or noise nuisance that would disrupt the normal balance in daily lives of villagers. The main sources of air pollutants are dust from unpaved roads, burning of agricultural wastes, particulate matter from fires and vehicle emission, and construction works. Air quality conditions in the project area is generally good.

B. BIOLOGICAL RES OURCES 69. The terrestrial biodiversity in the project area is limited. Within Svay Rieng Province are scattered trees and agricultural land planted with rice, cassava and other crops. There are no rare or endangered species that have been reported in the area since the area has been used for agriculture and supports sparse vegetation cover. There are no protected areas or forest areas in Svay Rieng Province (Figure 6). 70. Although the details of the alignment of the distribution line is still not final, we can expect some trees to be affected and which would need permit/clearance from the commune for cutting.

Figure 6. Map s howing pro tected areas in Cambodia

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C. S OCIO-ECONOMIC CONDITIONS 1. P OP ULATION AND AFFECTED COMMUNITIES

71. The 2008 population of Svay Rieng is 482,788. The distribution line will traverse the 36 communes in Svay Rieng with a total recorded population of 213,422, representing 44% of the total population of Svay Rieng Province. These communes are Ampil, Anhk Ta Sou, Chambak, Chantrea, Chantrei, Chek, Chheu Teal, Doun Sa, Doung, Kampong Trach, Kandieng Reay, Kokir, Kouk Pring, Koy Trabaek, Me Sa Thngak, Meun Chey, Mukh Da, Pou Ta Hao, Pouthi Reach, Prasout, Prey Angkunh, Prey Chhlak, Prey Kokir, Prey Thum, Reach Montir, Romeang Thkaol, Sambatt Mean Chey, Samraong, Svay Angk, Svay Chrum, Svay Rieng, Svay Toea, Svay Yea, Thlok, Thmea, and Thmei. Of these 36 communes, Svay Rieng commune is considered as the most populated with a recorded population of 13,908, followed by Kampong Trach commune with 10,891 and Doung commune with 10,372. These populated communes are located near the rural centers. The commune wth the least population is Pou Ta with 1,736 people. 72. In Svay Rieng province, households whose primary occupation is rice farming account to over 90% of the total provincial household population. 2. HOUS ING 73. The table below shows the housing structure in the project area. Majority of the houses are built with zinc/fibro roof, followed by those with thatched roof and tiled roof. There are also concrete houses, flats/apartments with one or many families living, and villa houses in the project area.

Table 3. Hous ing Conditions

House type 2006 2007 2008 % Number

House with thatched roof

31% 27% 23% 25,395 houses

House with zinc/fibro roof

46% 50% 53% 58,349 houses

House with tiled roof

22% 22% 23% 25,036 houses

Flats/apartments (with many families living)

0% 0% 0% 374 houses

Concrete house or flat (with one family living)

1% 1% 2% 1,674 houses

Villa house 0% 0% 0% 145 houses

3. P OWER S UP P LY 74. Electricity in Svay Rieng is provided by EDC to about 13,460 households while about 2,000 households are supplied by REEs. Many of the households rely on lead-acid (automobile) batteries for electricity. Each household uses at least one lead-acid battery which requires an average of once a week charging. Each commune in Svay Rieng has about 4 -5 battery charging stations to service the needs of the community. Battery charging cost ranges from KHR1,500 – 2,000 per battery.

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75. Those that are connected to an REE or to EDC’s line still use lead-acid batteries at home for lighting purposes because of the unreliability of supply from existing systems. There are households that were interviewed in Romeas Haek that decided not to tap to the REE because of the high electricity charge of about KHR3,200/kwh as compared to EDC’s rate of KHR600/kwh.

Table 4. Data on Power Supply in Svay Rieng Province

House type 2006 2007 2008 % Number

Houses with electricity 7% 9% 12% 13,395 houses Houses using battery for lighting 70% 77% 76% 84,702 houses Houses with television sets 52% 60% 66% 73,723 houses Data source: Cambodia Socioeconomic Survey 2009 76. In terms of fuel for cooking, the majority of the households rely on firewood for fuel by cutting branches of trees within their backyard. There are also a few that uses rice husks, kerosene and charcoal for cooking. 4. HEALTH S ERVICES

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

5. WATER S UP P LY

78. Surface water is the direct water source for production and daily life in Svay Rieng Province. Some households use drilled wells to tap groundwater source.

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V. ANTICIP ATED ENVIRONMENTAL IMP ACTS AND MITIGATION MEAS URES

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

A. P RE-CONS TRUCTION P HAS E IMP ACTS AND MITIGATION MEAS URES 80. The potential impacts during the design and pre-construction phase of the project are related to the siting and survey of the distribution line alignment. There is potential for the distribution line alignment to affect agricultural land, irrigation canals, drainage canals, and private properties. 1. LOS S OF P ROP ERTY, TREES AND AGRICULTURAL LAND 81. The construction of the distribution line will result to the permanent acquisition of land for the pole foundation and the temporary acquisition of land for the construction camp, material storage, and temporary access roads. Most of the land along the ROW is used for planting rice and other crops. There will also be potential loss of trees along the ROW. 82. Land acquisition is expected at the 10,280 electric pole sites, depending on the project design. However, there is no expected land use changes since current land uses will remain, provided that the vertical height clearance from the electric line is observed. 2. ENCROACHMENT INTO AREAS OF CULTURAL/HIS TORICAL AND ECOLOGICAL

S IGNIFICANCE 83. The distribution line will not traverse any historical or culturally significant site. Likewise, the line will not encroach upon any ecologically significant area. The ROW will be located in an expansive agricultural area which has been under cultivation for many years. There are also no protected areas, primary forest, wetlands, swamp forest, and mangrove areas along the ROW. 84. The areas close to roads were also selected for easy transport of materials, to avoid significant disturbance of land, and for ease in line maintenance. 3. IMP ACT ON AES THETICS 85. The impact of the project on aesthetics has not been identified as a significant issue in the local context. There are existing distribution lines in the vicinity such that the aesthetic impact of additional electric line infrastructure at this location would be less than if such infrastructure was entirely new to the area.

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4. P RES ENCE OF UNEXP LODED ORDNANCES 86. Unexploded ordnances (UXO) contamination occurred in Cambodia following decades of war in the country. Highly dangerous and littered UXO is still reportedly present in some areas in the country. However, according to the results of the survey, there are no areas along the ROW with severe UXO contamination. The agricultural lands in the vicinity have been cultivated for a long time and therefore the risk of encountering UXO is considered low. In addition, the excavated areas for each electric pole are small and shallow. 5. P RES ENCE OF FLOOD-P RONE AREAS 87. There are areas in Svay Rieng which are subject to flooding. During heavy and continuous rainfall events, some areas become impassable which could render construction and maintenance works difficult. 88. The integrity of foundation of concrete poles that will be constructed in flooded areas can be compromised because of high potential for scouring and liquefaction. 89. At this evaluation stage, the design and construction of the distribution line and the pole foundation structure should consider potential progressive erosion in flood-prone areas and along the banks irrigation canals and streams that would result to reduction in bearing capacity.

B. P OTENTIAL IMP ACTS DURING THE CONS TRUCTION P HAS E 1. IMP ACT ON AGRICULTURAL FARMING ACTIVITIES 90. During the constrution of the electric line, there will be temporary disruption of farming activities and the disturbance of crops, bunds, canals, and drains. There will be some short sections of paddy bunds and drain/canal embankments that will be temporarily affected during construction of the poles. The contractor will be required to reinstate any affected structures once construction has been completed. 91. There will also be disturbance or removal of vegetation for activities such as assembly of concrete poles, line stringing and for the temporary facilities such as materials storage, construction camp, and assembly areas. Crops will be potentially damaged during the construction of the distribution line, thus, affecting crop productivity during the construction phase. 92. The affected agricultural land should be compensated in accordance with the requirements of the ADB and national requirements. There are areas where only cutting or trimming of tall vegetation in the ROW for conductor clearance will be undertaken. As much as possible, the cutting of the trees will be avoided. In cases where the cutting of affected tree cannot be avoided, compensation cost will be properly paid for the affected tree before the vegetation clearing.

2. S OIL EROS ION

93. Soils along the ROW of the distribution line are generally prone to erosion, therefore, ground disturbance has the potential to create erosion hazard. However, the construction of the pole foundation will be done in small areas and is therefore expected to generate minimal

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impact on soil erosion. Any possible runoff to irrigation canals and streams can be controlled by the immediate rehabilitation of the disturbed ground surface. Particular attention should be paid when conducting works at poles near irrigation canals and streams. 94. Timing is also one of the critical factors involved in erosion and sedimentation control in construction sites. Careful scheduling of construction activities during the dry season can minimize the exposed area during the rainy season. Other measures that can be implemented to control soil runoff include the following:

(i) Limit clearing to areas necessary for construction. (ii) Locate potential sources of pollution away from water bodies or other critical areas. (iii) Cover and stabilize stockpile of topsoil.

3. IMP ACT ON WATER QUALITY 95. Water sources are susceptible to pollution from accidental spills of construction materials, oils and lubricants, washing of construction equipment and vehicles, and from domestic sewage from the construction workers. These wastewaters will potentially pollute the streams, including the drainage canals and irrigation canals. 96. The contractor will be required to implement measures to prevent the discharge of wastewater during the construction of the project from entering directly into the drainage channels and irrigation canals. Measures to mitigate impacts on water quality include:

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

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

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

97. Proper implementation of the above measures will ensure that the potential water quality impacts during construction will be insignificant. 4. IMP ACTS ON AIR QUALITY 98. The air quality in the area can be affected by exhaust gases such as total suspended particulates (TSP), SOx, NOx, and CO due to the movement of construction vehicles. Excavation and backfilling works also give rise to the increase in ground level concentration of TSP. 99. The construction activities will be undertaken in a relatively rural area and involve temporary and periodic use of mechanical equipment. The impact on air quality of the construction works will be insignificant and temporary. Good construction practice to minimize these impacts shall be specified in contract documents. 5. NOIS E 100. The major sources of noise are movement of vehicles transporting construction materials and equipment to the site. However, this impact is considered minor, localized, and temporary.

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6. GENERATION OF CONS TRUCTION WAS TES 101. During the installation of the electric poles, construction wastes such as discarded construction materials, cement bags, wood, steel, lubricants, fuels, and vegetation debris will be generated. Packaging materials such as wooden pallets, plastic, foam, and cardboard boxes used for the equipment and electrical parts delivered at the site for installation will also be generated. The construction camp for workers will also result to domestic solid wastes. 102. The generated wastes during construction and installation of equipment and parts have the potential to contaminate land and water resources. Oil may potentially leak from improper storage and handling of fuel and lubricants. The packaging materials may have potential for reuse and could be collected separately to avoid being haphazardly left around the construction sites. 103. With proper collection and disposal procedures, the generation of construction wastes will have minimal impact on the environment. Construction materials and stockpiles of spoils should be covered to reduce material loss. The stockpiles, lubricants, fuels, and other materials should be located away from steep slopes and water bodies while solid wastes should be disposed of properly in a designated disposal area within the construction site. All domestic solid wastes need to be segregated at source into biodegradable and non-biodegradable wastes for disposal at designated solid waste disposal site. 7. DIS RUP TION TO TRAFFIC 104. The electric poles will be constructed along existing roads which may cause temporary disruption of traffic along these roads. In addition, the movement of construction vehicles along provincial and communal roads may cause an increase in traffic volume to and from the construction sites. In particular, the communal roads are relatively narrow and movement of large construction vehicles along these roads might cause temporary blockage and nuisance to villagers. This will disrupt the normal traffic patterns and may expose the villagers to risk of injury or accidents. 105. EDC will ensure that established practices of posting warning signs and managing traffic to protect the travelling public and its workers will be properly implemented. EDC will also ensure that access to adjacent agricultural fields and nearby residences will be ensured throughout the construction period 106. To alleviate such impacts to local settlements, the contractor should closely coordinate with the local communities and engage good practices for traffic management. The contractor should require its drivers to lower speed when passing through built-up areas. 8. DAMAGE TO INFRAS TRUCTURE 107. The movement of vehicles and other construction activities may cause damage to existing roads, irrigation and drainage canals crossed by or adjacent to the construction sites. Most of the communal access roads are earth-paved while the irrigation and drainage canals are not provided with concrete embankments.

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108. Any damaged infrastructure caused by the construction activities and transport of materials will be repaired to at least the same standard and condition upon completion of the project. At the commencement of the project, the initial condition of the community infrastructures will be done. The contractor will be required to undertake repair on damaged infrastructures. This provision shall be included in the Terms of Reference with the contractor. 9. OCCUP ATIONAL HEALTH AND S AFETY 109. Construction activities may cause harm and danger to the lives and welfare of workers. The wearing of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, safety gloves, ear mufflers, and other materials should be strictly imposed. A construction health and safety plan needs to be prepared and implemented by the contractor. 110. The existing health services in the vicinity are located in the commune areas. The commune health services may not be able to accommodate any additional patients from the construction workforce. Therefore in the construction phase, the contractor will be required to provide first-aid facilities for the workers.

10. COMMUNITY HEALTH AND S AFETY 111. The project construction will result to impacts to community health and safety such as construction traffic, transport of materials, fires, emergency spills of materials, and unauthorized entry by the villagers into dangerous working areas. 112. To mitigate these potential impacts, the civil works contractor will be required to develop a Community Health and Safety Plan (CHSP) that incorporates good international practice and recognized standards. The CHSP should include emergency response and preparedness procedures to be developed in close consultation with potentially affected communities and local authorities. The plan should include specific emergency response procedures, communication systems and protocols, and interaction with local and regional emergency and health authorities.

C. IMP ACTS DURING THE OP ERATIONAL P HAS E 113. The expected adverse impacts during the operational phase of the 22kV distribution line are generally related to the occupational and community health and safety issues. The impacts are reversible, manageable, and can be mitigated with proper engineering and management controls. 1. OCCUP ATIONAL HEALTH AND S AFETY 114. The occupational health and safety issues inherent to the operation of distribution line include hazards due to exposure to live power lines, working in heights and risks of accidents, and potential exposure to electric and magnetic fields. Accidents that may occur include electrocution, lightning, fires, and explosion.

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115. Exposure to Live Power Lines. Workers may come in contact with live power lines during the maintenance of the facilities and electrocution from direct contact with electricity is a hazard directly related to power transmission lines and facilities.6

116. The EDC and contractor should be guided by the “Environmental, Health, and Safety Guidelines – Electric Power Transmission and Distribution” (IFC) dated 30 April 2007 when working at the distribution line facilities. Some of the prevention and control measures when working with live power lines are:

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

(ii) Adherence to electrical safety standards.

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

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

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

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

117. Working in Heights. Accidents may happen when working in heights. However, a worker safety plan may be implemented to reduce risks that include testing of structural integrity prior to proceeding with the work and the use of fall protection measures.

2. COMMUNITY HEALTH AND S AFETY 118. Electrocution. The community may also be exposed to electrocution hazards as a result of direct contact with live conductors, flashover from the conductor to a pole and conductor breakage. Contact with live conductors or flashover to a person or object near a live line may occur without a safe vertical clearance. To prevent these hazards, EDC needs to observe the minimum vertical clearance as well as protection which can be detected immediately including conductor snapping and de-energizing of the line within three cycles, thus, largely avoiding the potential for electrocution from a breakage. 119. Exposure to Electromagnetic Field. The transmission frequency commonly used in power distribution systems is considered as extremely low frequency7

, with impacts becoming low with distance from the source. The electric fields become shielded by trees, buildings, and other materials that conduct electricity. In general, the electric fields are strongest close to the source and diminish with distance.

6 International Finance Corporation (IFC), Environmental, Health, and Safety Guidelines – Electric Power Transmission and Distribution. 30 April 2007. 7 Footnote 6.

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120. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that there is still weak evidence about substantive long-term health issues related to low frequency electric fields at levels generally encountered by members of the public. The potential health effects associated with exposure to EMF is not well-established due to lack of empirical data demonstrating adverse health effects. However, the public should be warned about the safety distances from the power lines through warning signages. 3. RIS KS AND EMERGENCIES AS S OCIATED WITH DIS TRIBUTION LINES 121. There are several risks that could occur with the operation of the distribution line. Among these are the likelihood of cable being damaged, vandalism of the equipment along the power line, degradation of the poles over time which could compromise its structural integrity, potential fire events, explosion of equipment, and being hit by lightning. 122. Lightning arresters will be provided along the distribution line. There should also be provision for ensuring security of the cable to avoid vandalism. Regular inspections of the line and the facilities would help identify missing or corroded parts. 123. In case of fire events, explosion, and other related situations, a fire management strategy which may be included in the emergency preparedness and response plan of the project should be developed. 124. Workers should be trained on emergency preparedness and response procedures and a manual on safety and emergency procedures should be prepared and disseminated to workers like fighting oil fires, e.g. from transformer. The procedure should outline the system to identify potential emergency situations and potential accidents that can have an impact to the health and safety of the workers and to the community. 4. TRIMMING OF TREES 125. One of the regular programs to maintain the integrity of the distribution line is the trimming of tall trees and vegetation along the ROW. This is being done to maintain the necessary conductor clearance of the line. In addition, the presence of vegetation along the ROW provides habitat for birds. 126. Private and communal trees and plants about 3 m height within the ROW will be either removed or pruned to provide the necessary conductor clearance distance. In addition, large trees within 3 m of the base of the poles will be selectively removed or pruned to reduce the potential to fall and strike these structures. Tree removal or pruning will also be undertaken immediately outside the ROW to prevent trees from falling and striking the lowest conductor. 127. The vegetation maintenance activities may cause minor disturbance to local people. This can be mitigated by limiting use to already existing roads or tracks to reach the distribution lines and informing the locals in advance through the village heads on the schedule of the maintenance works. Care should be observed to avoid encroachment into rice or crop land of villagers by workers who will undertake vegetation trimming. 128. EDC will not allow the use of herbicides and pesticides to control vegetation growth. Burning to control vegetation along the ROW is also prohibited.

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5. REDUCED DEP ENDENCE ON LEAD-ACID BATTERIES 129. The proposed project is expected to expand the service coverage of EDC in Svay Rieng. More households will now tap into more reliable power supply source from EDC rather than on the use of lead-acid batteries. With improvement in electricity service in the community, households will now reduce dependence of lead-acid batteries which are known to generate air emissions during charging. The spent and busted lead-acid batteries also contain hazardous waste components such as lead and cadmium which require proper management during disposal. 130. The generation of air emissions and hazardous wastes from batteries will be minimized with improved power supply and are therefore considered as positive environmental impacts of the proposed project.

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V. ANALYS IS OF ALTERNATIVES 131. The following presents the considerations made during the design of the transmission line.

A. NO P ROJ ECT ALTERNATIVE 132. A No Project alternative is not acceptable because the proposed project is fully aligned with the National Strategic Development Plan Update 2009–2013 of the Royal Government of Cambodia, which calls for the development of the energy sector through expansion of the electricity network to achieve the overarching objective of reducing poverty to 19.5% by 2015. 133. Without the project, the load demand in Svay Rieng Province and in general, the national load will not be met. The present situation will not improve and the reliability and safety of power supply in Svay Rieng Province will not be attained.

B. S ELECTION OF ELECTRIC P OLES 134. The design of electric poles of the proposed power distribution system was selected based on several pole design options, namely, wood, concrete pre-stress, and tubular steel. The use of wooden pole is insufficient to provide the necessary ground clearance. Tubular steel towers are expensive. The use of the pre-stressed concrete poles was selected since these can be pre-fabricated and easily erected at the site. 135. Circular pre-stressed concrete poles were preferred than the square pre-stressed poles because of durability.

C. S ELECTION OF TRANS FORMERS 136. The transformers to be utilized by the distribution line were selected according to the thermal and mechanical properties and cost. Transformers not containing polychorinated biphenyls (PCBs) will be selected to avoid any environmental effects of PCB contamination.

D. S ELECTION OF ROUTE ALIGNMENT 137. The alignment of the distribution line will be selected based on the results of the site survey to be conducted by EDC. The route selection will consider avoidance of houses, trees, irrigation canals, streams, and large area of agricultural land. The exact location of poles will be determined by the EPC contractor.

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VI. INFORMATION DIS CLOS URE, CONS ULTATION, AND P ARTICIP ATION

138. This Chapter presents the public consultation process that was undertaken for the project, the results of the surveys and consultation meetings, and the concerns raised by the stakeholders. 139. Consultations with affected communities along the alignment of the distribution line were carried out by the ADB consultant and EDC team on 18 November 2011. Representatives from the district of Romeas Haek, Beong Veng village, Svay Chrum commune, Osamdei village, Poutei Reach commune, Pong Trach village, and Pong Trah commune participated during the interview. Follow-up interviews through a social perception survey on environment was conducted on December 27 – 31, 2011 to gather information within the impact areas of the proposed power distribution project in Svay Rieng and to determine the stakeholders’ views especially on environmental issues, their awareness and the project acceptability. The survey team was led by Chea Sarin with trained supervisors and enumerators. An orientation and briefing of the enumerators was conducted prior to the stakeholder interviews. The proposed project and the survey questionnaires were discussed with the enumerators. Interviews were conducted in several villages in the communes in Andoung Pou, Doung Sor, Kompoung Trach, Me sa Tngok, Samrong, and Tiouk. A total of 273 respondents participated in the survey. Table 5 presents the composition of the respondents.

Table 5. Tota l Number of Res pondents Province District Commune Village No. of Respondents

Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Andoung Pou Areaks Svay 3 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Andoung Pou Bos Kokir 2 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Andoung Pou Chong Preaek 3 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Andoung Pou Ream Sena 4 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Andoung Pou Roung Snao 2 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Andoung Pou Thmei 1 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Andoung Pou Trapeang Banteay 3 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Andoung Pou Trapeang Bos 2 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Andoung Pou Trapeang Choar 2 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Andoung Pou Trapeang Tbal 1 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Doung Sor Boeung Kaek 4 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Doung Sor Chensa 3 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Doung Sor Doung Preash 4 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Doung Sor Doung Sor 5 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Doung Sor Kouy 5 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Doung Sor Ou Sreongam 4 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Doung Sor Prey Por 5 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Doung Sor Prey Ruka 5 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Doung Sor Rumpoat Chruk 4 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Doung Sor Sour 5 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Doung Sor Thom 7

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Province District Commune Village No. of Respondents Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Doung Sor Trach 5 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Kompoung Trach Bromarth pram 5 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Kompoung Trach Chheur Pleang 6 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Kompoung Trach Choung Ou 4 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Kompoung Trach Kampong Trach 8 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Kompoung Trach Klar Luot 5 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Kompoung Trach Prey kachey 5 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Kompoung Trach Prey Kralanh 5 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Kompoung Trach Ta Hong 3 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Kompoung Trach Ta Khob 5 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Kompoung Trach Ta Trav 6 Svay Rieng Chan Trea Me sa Thngok Baray 9 Svay Rieng Chan Trea Me sa Thngok Bos 8 Svay Rieng Chan Trea Me sa Thngok Dei Kraham 8 Svay Rieng Chan Trea Me sa Thngok Pou 8 Svay Rieng Chan Trea Me sa Thngok Svay Kuy 9 Svay Rieng Chan Trea Me sa Thngok Ta Dev 8 Svay Rieng Chan Trea Samrong Chek 17 Svay Rieng Chan Trea Samrong Koh Kbun Kandal 18 Svay Rieng Chan Trea Samrong Koh Kbun khang

Cheung 13

Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Tlouk Dong Tong 6 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Tlouk Kandal 7 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Tlouk Om Povprey 6 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Tlouk Snay Kreang 6 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Tlouk Some Dei 6 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Tlouk Thlok 6 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Tlouk Thy Yeang 6

Total 273 140. All of the respondents were selected from the primary impact zone or zone in the community to be most affected by the project. Details of the social perception survey on environment is presented in Appendix C. 141. Solid waste management is the primary problem mentioned by 53 or 19% of the respondents. The improper disposal of garbage by the locals was cited as one of the environmental problems in the community. Some respondents mentioned that simple practice of discipline will lessen their environmental problems. This is followed by pollution of waterways and rivers as mentioned by 19 respondents. Flooding was also disclosed by 13 respondents as an environmental problem that they experience particularly during heavy rainfall which sometimes damage their crops. 142. When the respondents were asked on potential environmental issues that they think could happen when the project is implemented, majority or 86 respondents answered that trees may need to be cut or trimmed during the installation of the electric poles. Some of the

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respondents said that this is alright as long as compensation will be provided for cut trees. Others said that the cutting of trees is acceptable since electrification will provide them better living comfort. There are 4 respondents who said that the project might generate wastes that could be left by the contractor at the site. They said that the contractor should be asked to clean-up the construction site and to observe proper disposal of waste materials. 143. In terms of project awareness, there are 197 respondents (72%) who are not aware of the proposed electrification project in their locality while 76 respondents or 28% have heard of the proposed project from village heads and commune heads. There are a few who said that information about the project came from EDC personnel who surveyed the site. When asked if they need any further information on the project, majority (90%) of the respondents asked for more information particularly on the electricity charges and location. Information education campaign may be necessary to increase level of awareness of the respondents on the proposed project and its implications to the community and the environment. 144. In terms of project perception, comfort and convenience is the primary perceived benefit mentioned by 77% or 210 respondents. They said that their normal lives will become better when they have electricity in their homes. There are 39 respondents or 14% who mentioned that the project will bring forth progress in their community. With electrification, the respondents said that more livelihood and business opportunities may now be offered in the community. Majority or 219 respondents (80%) answered that they do not see any negative impact of the project because it is necessary for the improvement of their community. 145. Although there is low level of awareness on the proposed project, majority of the respondents (99.6%) approved of the project. The main reason for the approval is the improvement of the living conditions in the community. Those that approve of the proposed project agree that it is for the good of the community. 146. Other comments of the respondents are the following:

• EDC should implement the project as soon as possible so that they can already connect to electricity;

• EDC should not charge high price of electricity; • Safety should be considered by EDC in the connection; • Some of the communities in the remote areas and away from the roads might

not be connected; • In the area of Kampung Trach Market, the respondents requested that they use

the existing electrical equipment that they had bought from the REE. 147. The stakeholders raised the following environmental issues during the interviews:

• EDC should address any potential hazard from electrocution or explosion of transformers;

• Cutting and trimming of trees should have permission of the commune and property owner;

• Electricty rates to be charged by EDC should be reasonable; • Contractors should be required to clean-up the ground after completion of

construction activities; • The owner, contractors and related organizations should ensure the

implementation of the commitments such as environmental protection, clean-up and safety measures.

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Photo 2. Socia l perception s urvey on environment

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VII. GRIEVANCE REDRES S MECHANIS M 148. A grievance redress mechanism will be established to address concerns of the stakeholders about the project. The grievance redress procedure will comply with the requirements of ADB SPS (2009) in addressing people’s concerns and complaints promptly and in a transparent manner. 149. During the pre-construction phase of the project, the most likely grievances that may be encountered involve land acquisition and compensation. A resettlement plan will be prepared to describe in detail the land acquisition and compensation process. 150. Grievances during construction may also include impacts related to physical construction works on the distirbution line and the site clearing activities. During the operational phase of the project, the complaints that may be anticipated are related to maintenance activities of the distribution lines and facilities. 151. For complaints received about the construction and maintenance works, the EDC will involve the contractor or maintenance personnel. When these are not resolved, any complaints are then facilitated by the General Manager of the EDC through the SEPRO. Complaints received during the operational phase are also facilitated through the EDC Provincial Office. 152. The following steps describe the grievance redress procedure during the construction and operational phases of the project (Figure 8):

Step 1: A complainant may send his/her concerns about the construction or operation of the project to EDC or the construction contractor. Step 2: A meeting will be held among the complainant, contractor and EDC to discuss the whereabouts of the complaint. Immediate action on the complaint is expected from the contractor or the EDC on the concern raised by the complainant. The resolution of the complaint should be done within one week. Step 3: When the complainant is not satisfied with the action or decision of the EDC or the contractor, the complainant can inform the head of the commune or Village Chief about the matter. The commune head/authority will then call a meeting of the complainant, EDC, and contractor to resolve the complainant. Step 4: If the complainant does not receive any response or action from the EDC or the contractor within twenty (20) days from the meeting with the Village Chief, the complainant will have the right to submit the complaint to the next higher level of the grievance redress mechanism or mediating bodies such as the council of village elders, monks at the local pagoda, or any other dispute resolution mechanism. However, in general and based on current EDC operations, complaints are generally acted upon promptly by EDC and are resolved immediately.

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Figure 7: Grievance Redres s Procedure

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VIII. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT P LAN 153. This chapter presents the mitigation measures, environmental monitoring plan, and institutional arrangements to address adverse environmental impacts of the project.

A. MITIGATION P LAN 154. The construction and operation phase mitigation measures identified in Chapter 5 are summarized in Table 6, together with the schedule, estimated cost and responsible entity for implementation.

Table 6: Environmental Management Plan Potential

Environmental Impact

Mitigating Measures Schedule Estimated Cost (US$)

Responsible Entity

PRE-CONSTRUCTION PHASE Loss of property and agricultural land due to permanent and temporary acquisition of land

Careful routing of the distribution line to ensure that the final alignment avoids to the maximum extent possible areas with high concentration of trees and houses. Prepare a compensation scheme for affected structures, trees, and land, grievance redress mechanism, monitoring and institutional arrangements in compliance with ADB and CAM requirements. Fair compensation for acquired land and affected trees. Design to minimize pole footprint.

After finalization of plans

Part of design cost

EDC

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

After finalization of plans

Part of design cost

EDC-SEPRO

Crop and land disturbance

Pole foundation design should minimize permanent land use requirement and should allow access for farming in and around the footing area.

During finalization of plans

Part of design cost

EDC

Location of construction camp

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

Before contract signing of

Part of design cost

EDC / Contractor

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Potential Environmental

Impact Mitigating Measures Schedule Estimated

Cost (US$) Responsible

Entity

the construction camp. contractor Presence of unexploded ordnances

Risk of encountering UXO is low since the agricultural lands have been cultivated for a long time.

To be discussed with contractor during contract approval.

Part of design cost

EDC

Presence of flood-prone areas

Consider structural integrity in the design of poles constructed in flood-prone areas.

During finalization of plans

Part of design cost

EDC

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

Upon completion of detailed design

Operational requirement

EDC

CONSTRUCTION PHASE Flora and Fauna Cutting of Vegetation/Trees

Undertake cutting or trimming of tall vegetation in the ROW for conductor clearance. Felled trees and other cleared or pruned vegetation (wood, branches and foliage) will be made available to the owner of that vegetation for his/her use, or will be removed by EDC with permission from the owner.

Before and during construction

Included in construction cost

Contractor

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

Construction activities involving significant ground disturbance will not be undertaken during the dry season. Limit clearing to areas necessary for construction. Locate potential sources of pollution away from water bodies, or other critical areas Cover and stabilize excavation/disturbed ground.

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

Included in construction cost

Contractor

Spillage of oil and other lubricants used during construction and washing of construction equipment and vehicles.

Designate areas for equipment services, refueling, and wash down. Provide oil and grease trap at the maintenance area (if applicable) Prepare an oil spill emergency response plan.

To be implemented prior to start of project construction.

Included in construction cost

Contractor

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Potential Environmental

Impact Mitigating Measures Schedule Estimated

Cost (US$) Responsible

Entity

Air Pollution Generation of dust or particulate matter.

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

During project construction

Included in construction cost

Contractor

Emissions from movement of heavy equipment and construction vehicles.

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

During project construction.

Contractor

Noise and Vibration

Noise pollution from the construction activities

Construction activities will only be undertaken during the day and local communities will be informed of the construction schedule. If nighttime construction becomes necessary, local population will be notified in advance, and limited until about 6PM.

To be implemented during project construction.

Included in construction cost

Contractor

Construction Wastes

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

Practice waste segregation. Construction debris will be disposed in an approved site by the village authorities. Packaging wastes from electrical equipment will be recycled or will be disposed of in local approved landfills.

Before and during construction

Included in construction cost

Contractor

Traffic Traffic and movement of construction vehicles

Contractor should post warning signs/advisories and manage traffic to protect public and its workers Require drivers to slow down and maintain max speed of 30kph when passing through built-up areas. Coordinate with local community

During project construction

Included in construction cost

Contractor

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Potential Environmental

Impact Mitigating Measures Schedule Estimated

Cost (US$) Responsible

Entity

and engage good practices for traffic management.

Damage to Infrastructure

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

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

During project construction

Included in construction cost

Contractor

Occupational Health and safety

Increase in the incidence of diseases and accidents

Contractor will be required to prepare an Occupational Health and Safety Plan and to provide related training and instructions to all staff/workers before commencement of duties. Construction camp will be provided with proper housing, sanitation, water supply, and waste disposal facilities. Require workers to wear PPEs such has hard hats, gloves, and safety belt, if working in heights, within the project site. Strictly require the contractor and its workers to follow occupational health and safety program. Provide first-aid facilities for workers and coordinate with the nearest health center. All site workers will be accommodated in the provided construction camps unless they are recruited from nearby communes. The construction campsites and surrounding areas will be kept clean. Inspections of the

During construction

Included in construction cost

Contractor / EDC

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Potential Environmental

Impact Mitigating Measures Schedule Estimated

Cost (US$) Responsible

Entity

campsites will be carried out weekly. Adequate number of rubbish bins will be provided.

Community Health and Safety

UXO contamination, emergency spills of materials, fires, accidents

All sites will be certified clear of UXO by the Cambodian Mine Clearance Authority (CMAC) prior to mobilization. Contractor will be required to prepare a Community Health and Safety Plan that integrate good international practice and recognized standards on community safety. Provide procedures for emergency response, communication systems and protocols, interaction with local and regional emergency and health authorities.

During construction

Included in construction cost

Contractor / EDC

Unauthorized entry by villagers into dangerous working areas

Barricading of construction area Posting of warning signs in local language for better understanding of locals.

During construction

Included in construction cost

Contractor / EDC

Electro-magnetic field

Provision of safety clearance to live conductor.

To be implemented during construction period

Part of project design cost

EDC

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

Herbicides shall not be used to control vegetation along ROW. Burning to clear and control vegetation along ROW will be prohibited. Local villagers living along routes of the distribution line will be invited to participate under contract to manually cut vegetation along ROW Trees and crops higher than 3 m will not be allowed within ROW

During project life

Operational requirement

EDC

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Potential Environmental

Impact Mitigating Measures Schedule Estimated

Cost (US$) Responsible

Entity

ROW checking and maintenance of ROW will be conducted every month. Conduct training on environmental performance monitoring with workers and community representatives

Occupational Health and Safety

Health and safety; injury to workers; explosion of transformers and electrocution.

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

Part of the operations plan.

Operational requirement

EDC Provincial Office

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

Part of the operations plan.

Operational requirement

EDC Provincial Office

Community Health and Safety; explosion of transformers; electrocution

Provision of safety and danger warning signs on poles particularly in built-up areas, community centers, roads, and rivers. Conduct orientation seminar on community health and safety programs

Part of the operations plan.

Operational requirement

EDC Provincial Office

Hazardous Waste PCBs will not be used in transformers or any other project facilities or equipment. Provision of secondary spill containment for fuel storage facilities, areas around maintenance yard.

Part of the operations plan.

Operational requirement

EDC Provincial Office

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Potential Environmental

Impact Mitigating Measures Schedule Estimated

Cost (US$) Responsible

Entity

Direct discharges contaminated with oil from spill bunds into oil-water separators. Implementation of approved disposal options for all waste transformer oil, equipment maintenance, residually contaminated soils, and scrap metal.

Management and Control of Vegetation at Distribution line

Inform locals in advance through the village heads on the schedule of maintenance and trimming works Avoid encroachment into rice or cropland of villagers. Do not allow the use of herbicides and pesticides to control vegetation growth. Practice manual trimming of vegetation.

Part of the operations plan.

Operational requirement

EDC Provincial Office

B. MONITORING P LAN 155. The actual implementation of the project will be managed by EDC through the Social, Environment, and Public Relations Office (SEPRO). The SEPRO will be responsible for implementation and monitoring of the EMP and EMoP as well as coordination with local authorities and the affected persons during the design and construction phase. The SEPRO shall work closely with the contractor during the construction phase, particularly in the implementation of the EMP. 156. During the operational phase, the EDC Provincial Office will be the first contact on the ground directly for EDC. It shall receive all complaints and grievances arising in the course of the implementation of the EMP and the EMoP. 157. The EDC can hire the services of consultants to assist the company in monitoring the implementation of the EMP as well as in developing its capacity to implement environmental management measures. The capacity development program will focus on community safety, environmental impact assessment (EIA), EMP implementation, inspection and corrective action, environmental standard opeating procedures, proper handling and disposal of wastes, protection of local vegetation and water resources, and avoiding impacts on local population from noise and dust-generating activities during the construction phase. 158. The proposed monitoring plan, duration and schedule and responsible entities to be involved in the monitoring and evaluation is shown in Table 7. The EMoP focuses on implementation of the EMP and compliance monitoring of EDC.

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Table 7: Environmental Monitoring Plan

Parameter Location Method of Monitoring Monitoring Frequency

Responsibility

Construction Phase Clearing of vegetation

Along ROW Site inspection and observation of tree cutting activities

Monthly EDC-SEPRO/ Contractor

Crop and land disturbance

Along ROW Site inspection and observation

Monthly EDC-SEPRO/ Contractor

Air quality; dust Along ROW Site inspection and observation

Weekly monitor throughout construction period

EDC-SEPRO/ Contractor

Soil erosion Pole foundation sites

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

Weekly monitor throughout construction period

EDC-SEPRO/ Contractor

Damage or nuisance to nearby areas

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

Weekly throughout construction period

EDC-SEPRO/ Contractor

Improper disposal of rubbish

Workers’ camp sites

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

Weekly EDC-SEPRO/ Contractor

Health and safety Along ROW, construction camp

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

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

EDC-SEPRO/ Contractor

Interference with road transportation infrastructure

Along ROW Monitoring and inspection of road condition and measures used to protect road and ensure public safety

Weekly, continuous throughout construction period

EDC-SEPRO/ Contractor

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

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

Weekly, continuous throughout construction period

EDC-SEPRO/ Contractor

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

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

Weekly, continuous throughout construction period

EDC-SEPRO/ Contractor

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Parameter Location Method of Monitoring Monitoring Frequency

Responsibility

villagers on concerns about noise, if any.

Operation Phase Trees and vegetation control

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

Monthly EDC Provincial Office

Health and safety; injury to workers and villagers

Electric poles Inspect integrity of the poles and distribution line in order to maintain and ensure good condition Inspect Warning Signs/Boards if placed well on poles

Monthly EDC Provincial Office

159. Reporting. SEPRO, in coordination with the contractor and EDC Provincial Office, will prepare monthly reports on the implementation of the EMP and on the environmental monitoring program. The report shall contain a summary of the environmental effects which have been observed and the project’s compliance with the EMP. Recommended adjustments in the project operation, if any, and other observations and recommendations shall form part of the report. Semi-annual monitoring reports are to be submitted to ADB during the construction phase and on an annual basis for a period of two years during the operational phase.

C. INS TITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS AND RES P ONS IBILITIES 1. ORGANIZATIONAL S TRUCTURE WITHIN EDC 160. The EDC as the EA of the project will have the overall responsibility for the planning, design, construction, and operation of the project. The EDC currently undertakes it environmental management functions through the SEPRO. The SEPRO is headed by a chief who is in-charge of the general management of the office. He is assisted by two deputy heads. One is in-charge of land acquisition and compensation and environmental management while the other is in-charge of public relations. The SEPRO also has two staff for land acquisition/compensation and two staff for environmental management. 161. The SEPRO shall carry out inspection and compliance monitoring to ensure that the appropriate monitoring and mitigating measures to address potential environmental impacts are incorporated in the terms of reference of the contractor. EDC contractor shall also dispatch and manage the project implementation, including environmental management during the construction phase of the project which includes among others, the following:

(i) Ensure that the project implementation is in accordance with the requirements of the CAM and ADB on environmental management and protection.

(ii) Manage and monitor the activities of EDC contractors, particularly in the implementation of the EMP.

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(iii) Address grievances of affected people.

(iv) Prepare environmental monitoring reports for submission to ADB.

162. In addition, a Project Implementation Consultant (PIC) will be commissioned to assist EDC in the overall project management. 163. During the operational phase, the EDC Provincial Office will carry out the monitoring and reporting activities, in coordination with the SEPRO. 2. INS TITUTIONAL CAP ACITY BUILDING

164. Capacity Development of EDC. Within the current organization of EDC, there are seven (7) persons or staff who handle matters on environmental management throughout the project phase. To strengthen the capacity of EDC to assess the environmental impacts of its projects and in implementing the EMP and EMoP, training of EDC personnel and contractors on implementation of the EMP and EMoP, and on occupational health and safety will be designed and implemented. 165. The capacity building and training activities for both central and provincial EDC staff will be delivered prior to the start of the construction activities and should be followed-up prior to the commissioning of the project.

D. EMP BUDGET 166. The costs for many of the EMP and EMoP measures are part of engineering, construction, and procurement costs and are not included in the EMP budget. EMP costs are included in the EPC package and PIC costs. (Table 8). 167. The costs for implementing the mitigation measures during the construction phase of the project include the capacity building and training of workers and community on environmental management, health and safety. The costs also includes the inspection and management of soil runoff, dust, and construction wastes. 168. The EDC shall contract a Project Implementation Consultant for one person-month to conduct training on occupational health and safety and community health and safety/awareness. 169. During the operational phase, the cost of the EMP implementation are also integrated in the operations cost of the distribution line. Capacity building, field monitoring, and procurement of monitoring devices for the operational phase are also outlined.

Table 8: Es timated Budget for Environmental Management and Monitoring Activity Unit No. Unit (US$) Total (US$)

Construction Phase 1. Site inspection and monitoring Month 12 100 1,200.00 - Transportation Month 12 100 1,200.00 - Per diem Month 12 50 600.00 Operational Phase 1. Inspection and survey 2 Continuing 1,000/yr 2,000.00

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Activity Unit No. Unit (US$) Total (US$) 2. Training and capacity building

- Overview of environmental management Persons 20 60 1,200.00

- Occupational health and safety Persons 20 60 1,200.00

- Community health, safety, and environmental awareness Persons 30 60 1,800.00

3. Hiring of PIC consultant 5,000.00 Sub-Total 14,200.00 Contingencies (15%) 2,130.00

TOTAL 16,330.00

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IX. CONCLUS ION AND RECOMMENDATION 170. The proposed 22kV distribution line project will generate minimal environmental impacts that can be reduced to acceptable levels through the implementation of practical mitigation measures normally associated with internationally accepted good engineering practices. 171. There are no significant sensitive areas that will be affected by the proposed project. The vicinity is generally characterized as a rural community with agricultural land for planting rice and other crops. Compensation for the loss of land and agricultural production for the areas to be occcupied by the electric poles will be paid by EDC to the affected households. 172. Any impacts of the project during the construction phase are temporary and limited to the surrounding area and can be readily mitigated through proper design and construction. These impacts are primarily due to the clearing of the existing vegetation affected by the pole foundations and construction safety. These are briefly described below:

(i) Soil erosion may potentially occur during the construction of the foundations for the poles. Immediate rehabilitation and covering of exposed ground should be undertaken by the contractor.

(ii) Trees and other vegetation may be affected by the construction of the distribution line.

Appropriate compensation for damages crops and trees should be provided by the project.

(iii) The construction activities and movement of construction vehicles along the access

roads would contribute to the increase in ground level concentration of total suspended particulates (dust), noise, deterioration of existing roads, and could also result to accidents and hazards to communities living along the access roads. Measures such as limiting of construction hours and deliveries to the site at night and imposition of speed limit to vehicles will be implemented. Rehabilitation of any damaged portion of the roads and other structures in the community should be done by the contractor. Such activity should be included in the terms of reference with the contractor.

(iv) Potential impacts related to community health and safety due to construction traffic,

transport of materials, fires, and spills will be mitigated through the development of a Community Health and Safety Plan that may include barricading of construction area, posting of warning signs in the local language, emergency response and preparedness procedures, communication systems and protocols, and arrangement with local health authorities.

173. The potential impacts during the operational phase could be due to electrocution, explosion of transformers, and poor management of hazardous wastes. These could be prevented through regular inspection and maintenance of facilities and proper warning signages. 174. An EMP has been prepared and will be implemented during all phases of the project cycle. The EMP identifies the environmental mitigating measures as well as the institutional arrangements for its implementation.

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175. The project will provide positive impacts to the community because the distribution lines will provide electricity of 13,000 households in Svay Rieng Province. 176. Based on this assessment, it is concluded that overall, the project will result in significant positive socio-economic benefits, and any potential negative environmental impacts are small-scale and localized, and can be minimized adequately through good design and implementation of appropriate mitigation measures. 177. The provision of electricity to households in Svay Rieng Province will also reduce dependence of the population to lead-acid batteries which result to the production of emissions during charging and hazardous wastes primarily acid, lead, and cadmium-containing wastes once discarded. 178. It is therefore recommended that the project be supported by ADB, subject to the implementation of the commitments contained in the EMP and allocation of appropriate technical, financial and human resources by EDC to ensure these commitments are effectively and expediently implemented.

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BIBLIOGRAP HY

1. Asian Development Bank. June 2009. Safeguard Policy Statement. Manila

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3. International Finance Corporation. April 30, 2007. Environmental, Health, and Safety

Guidelines Electric Power Transmission and Distribution. World Bank Group

4. Ministry of Industry Mines and Energy. November 2003. Environmental Management Plan. Cambodia: Rural Electrification and Transmission Project. Cambodia.

5. Ministry of Environment. 02 September 2009. Prakas (Declaration) on General Guideline

for Conducting Initial and Full Environmental Impact Assessment Reports.

6. Asian Development Bank. October 2011. Concept Paper for Cambodia: Rural Energy Pilot Project.

7. Electricite du Cambodge. February 09, 2007. Detailed Environmental Management Plan

(Draft) for Power Distribution and Greater Mekong Sub-Region Transmission Project and Rural Electrification and Transmission Project. Ministry of Industry Mines and Energy. Cambodia.

8. Electricite du Cambodge. Bill of Quantities and Prices for Plant and Equipment for

Supply Design and Installation. Schedule 1-5. Cambodia.

9. Cambodia Socio-economic Survey, 2009. Cambodia.

10. Asian Development Bank. 5-15 September 2011. Aide Memoire.Reconnaissance Mission for the Proposed Rural Energy Pilot Project. Cambodia.

11. World Food Programme. Provincial Food Security Profile – Svay Rieng.

http://www.foodsecurityatlas.org/khm/country/provincial-Profile/Svay-Rieng

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AP P ENDICES

A. Environmental Categorization Form B. Rapid Environmental Assessment Checklist C. Stakeholder Survey on Environment D. Photographs of the site

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Appendix A: Environmenta l Categoriza tion

ENVIRONMENT CATEGORIZATION

Date: 18July2011

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

B. PROJECT DATA

COUNTRY/PROJECT NO./PROJECT TITLE

: 22KV RURAL ENERGY PROJECT

DEPARTMENT/ DIVISION : SOUTHEAST ASIA DEPARTMENT / ENERGY DIVISION

PROCESSING STAGE :

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

Category A

Category B

Category C

Category FI

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

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

RSES Comments

√

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F. Approval Proposed by:

Endorsed by:

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

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

Date: Date:

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Appendix B: Rapid Environmenta l As s es s ment Checklis t Instructions: (i) The project team completes this checklist to support the environmental classification of a project. It

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

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

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

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

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

Country/Project Title: Sector Division:

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

√

There are no environmentally sensitive areas along or within the immediate vicinity of the distribution line.

CULTURAL HERITAGE SITE √

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

PROTECTED AREA √

There are no protected areas, primary forest, wetlands, swamp forest, mangroves estuarine areas, areas identified as having special ecological significance along the disitrbution line alignment. There are no declared protected areas in Svay Rieng Province.

WETLAND √

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

MANGROVE √

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

ESTUARINE √

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

BUFFER ZONE OF PROTECTED AREA √

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

SPECIAL AREA FOR PROTECTING BIODIVERSITY

√

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

B. POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS WILL THE PROJECT CAUSE…

22 KV RURAL ENERGY PROJECT

Energy Division

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Screening Questions Yes No Remarks encroachment on historical/cultural areas,

disfiguration of landscape and increased waste generation?

√

None

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

√

The project will not encroach on sensitive or protected areas.

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

√

The ROW of the distribution line will pass through irrigation canals, streams, and drainage canals but will not pose significant environmental impact with the implementation of mitigating measures to address soil runoff during construction.

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

√

There are no submarine cables to be installed by the project. There will be no impact on coastal/marine habitats.

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

√

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

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

√

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

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

√

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

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

√

No herbicides will be used during the construction phase.

noise and vibration due to blasting and other civil works?

√

Minor noise impacts will occur during construction.

dislocation or involuntary resettlement of people?

√

The distribution line will be designed to avoid houses and buildings and the dislocation of households. Relocation of people and houses will be avoided.

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

√

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

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

√

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

hazardous driving conditions where construction interferes with pre-existing roads?

√

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

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Screening Questions Yes No Remarks creation of temporary breeding habitats for vectors

of disease such as mosquitoes and rodents?

√

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

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

√

The project location will be designed to avoid houses.

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

√

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

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

√

There are no protected areas in Svay Rieng.

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

√

The use of herbicides will not be allowed.

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

√

Temporary worker camps will be small, and will be required to be provided with appropriate sanitation facilities, including water supply, and washing facilities, temporary toilets, and waste containers.

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

√

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

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

√

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

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

√

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

community health hazards due to electromagnetic fields, land subsidence, lowered groundwater table, and salinization?

√

The distribution lines will be carefully routed to ensure that final alignment avoids to the maximum extent possible sensitive locations such as houses and schools. The project design follows WHO and IRPA guidelines. Land subsidence and lowered groundwater table is not anticipated.

No salinization is anticipated.

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Screening Questions Yes No Remarks risks to community health and safety due to the

transport, storage, and use and/or disposal of materials such as explosives, fuel and other chemicals during construction and operation?

√

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

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

√

Safety and warning signs will be installed.

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

Yes No Remarks

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

√

The site is located in a relatively flat land. The potential for landslides in unlikely but instances of flooding have been reported in certain areas of the project.

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

√

Not likely.

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

√

Not likely.

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

√

No.

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Appendix C: Stakeholder Survey on Environment

The perception survey on environment was conducted on December 27 – 31, 2011 to gather information within the impact areas of the proposed power distribution project in Svay Rieng and to determine the stakeholders’ views especially on environmental issues, their awareness and the project acceptability. Chea Sarin led the survey team with trained supervisors and enumerators. An orientation and briefing of the enumerators was conducted prior to the stakeholder interviews. The proposed project and the survey questionnaires were discussed with the enumerators. Interviews were conducted in several villages in the communes in Andoung Pou, Doung Sor, Kompoung Trach, Me sa Tngok, Samrong, and Tiouk. A total of 273 respondents participated in the survey. Table 1 presents the composition of the respondents.

Table 1. Tota l Number of Res pondents Province District Commune Village No. of Respondents

Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Andoung Pou Areaks Svay 3 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Andoung Pou Bos Kokir 2 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Andoung Pou Chong Preaek 3 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Andoung Pou Ream Sena 4 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Andoung Pou Roung Snao 2 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Andoung Pou Thmei 1 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Andoung Pou Trapeang Banteay 3 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Andoung Pou Trapeang Bos 2 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Andoung Pou Trapeang Choar 2 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Andoung Pou Trapeang Tbal 1 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Doung Sor Boeung Kaek 4 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Doung Sor Chensa 3 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Doung Sor Doung Preash 4 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Doung Sor Doung Sor 5 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Doung Sor Kouy 5 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Doung Sor Ou Sreongam 4 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Doung Sor Prey Por 5 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Doung Sor Prey Ruka 5 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Doung Sor Rumpoat Chruk 4 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Doung Sor Sour 5 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Doung Sor Thom 7 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Doung Sor Trach 5 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Kompoung Trach Bromarth pram 5 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Kompoung Trach Chheur Pleang 6 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Kompoung Trach Choung Ou 4 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Kompoung Trach Kampong Trach 8 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Kompoung Trach Klar Luot 5 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Kompoung Trach Prey kachey 5 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Kompoung Trach Prey Kralanh 5 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Kompoung Trach Ta Hong 3

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Province District Commune Village No. of Respondents Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Kompoung Trach Ta Khob 5 Svay Rieng Ro Meashaek Kompoung Trach Ta Trav 6 Svay Rieng Chan Trea Me sa Thngok Baray 9 Svay Rieng Chan Trea Me sa Thngok Bos 8 Svay Rieng Chan Trea Me sa Thngok Dei Kraham 8 Svay Rieng Chan Trea Me sa Thngok Pou 8 Svay Rieng Chan Trea Me sa Thngok Svay Kuy 9 Svay Rieng Chan Trea Me sa Thngok Ta Dev 8 Svay Rieng Chan Trea Samrong Chek 17 Svay Rieng Chan Trea Samrong Koh Kbun Kandal 18 Svay Rieng Chan Trea Samrong Koh Kbun khang

Cheung 13

Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Tlouk Dong Tong 6 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Tlouk Kandal 7 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Tlouk Om Povprey 6 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Tlouk Snay Kreang 6 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Tlouk Some Dei 6 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Tlouk Thlok 6 Svay Rieng Svay Chrom Tlouk Thy Yeang 6

Total 273 All of the respondents were selected from the primary impact zone or zone in the community to be most affected by the project. Profile of Respondents

Gender of Respondents Table 2 presents the gender distribution of the respondents. Most of the interviewed respondents are female (144); 129 respondents are male. Most women on the affected project sites are home-based.

Table 2. Gender of Res pondents District Commune Female Male

Ro Meashaek Andoung Pou 8 8 Svay Chrom Andoung Pou 4 3 Svay Chrom Doung Sor 30 27 Ro Meashaek Kompoung Trach 22 22 Svay Chrom Kompoung Trach 5 3 Chan Trea Me sa Thngok 25 25 Chan Trea Samrong 24 25 Svay Chrom Tlouk 26 16

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Age of Respondents The age of respondents ranges from 17 to 82 years old. About 74% comes from the productive age of 28 to 57. Only 17 or 6 % of the 273 respondents were considered as part of the dependent population.

Table 3. Age of Res pondents Age No. of Respondents Percentage (%)

18-27 18 7% 28-37 57 21% 38-47 71 26% 48-57 75 27% 58-67 35 13% 68-77 12 4% 78-87 5 2%

Total 273 100% Ethnicity Majority or 99% of the respondents are Khmer while only two are Vietnamese.

Educational Attainment Table 4 presents the educational attainment of respondents. One hundred twenty nine (129) or 47% of the respondents were not able to complete primary school while fifteen (15) or 5% completed primary school. Those who completed lower secondary school comprise of 65 respondents or 24% while those who finished upper secondary school are composed of 25 respondents or 9% of the total. Only four (4) or 1% of the respondents finished university school. There are 28 respondents (10%) with no education.

Table 4. Educa tiona l Atta inment of Res pondents

Educational Attainment No. of Respondents Percentage (%) University 4 1% Upper Secondary 25 9% Lower Secondary 65 24% Primary (completed) 15 5% Primary (not completed) 129 47% Others 7 3% No Education 28 10% Total 273 100%

Occupation Most of the respondents (72.2%) are engaged in farming, fishing or livestock as means of livelihood (Table 5). There are 12 respondents (4.4%) who are engaged in contractual jobs while 18 respondents are employed as full-time workers. There are 7 respondents (2.6%) who are involved in subsistence production or as full-time household work, home gardening, and caring for the family. There are 27

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who are engaged in their own business such as trading and other retail services. The business operators are hopeful that the electrification of their area will improve their business operations.

Table 5. Occupation of Res pondents

Occupation No. of Respondents Percentage (%) Farming, fishing or livestock 197 72.2% Part-time work for wages 12 4.4% Subsistence production (household work, home gardening, caring for family, etc.)

7 2.6%

Full time work for salary/wages 18 6.6% Others 5 1.8% Retired 3 1.1% Full-time student 1 0.4% Business 27 9.9% Unemployed and seeking work 1 0.4% No answer 2 0.7% Total 273 100.0%

Household Information Social Status of Household The respondents were asked on the category of household that they belong. If available, the enumerators asked the respondents to show their Poor Identification Card. The results of the survey show that majority or 183 respondents (67%) do not consider themselves as poor. There are 60 respondents (22%) who showed their Poor ID while 30 respondents or 11% are not yet classified.

Table 6. Soc ial S tatus of Res pondents Social Status No. of Respondents Percentage (%)

Poor 60 22% Not Poor 183 67% Not yet classified 30 11%

Total 273 100% Housing Characteristics In terms of ownership of house, majority of the respondents (261 respondents or 96%) stated that their houses are self-owned while 12 respondents (4%) said that they share the house with other members of the family and that the family owns the house. Majority of the houses of the settlers, 42.1%, are said to be made out of wood while 23.4% of the flooring material of houses are made out of soil (Table 7). In terms of wall materials, majority of the houses (11 or 41%) has steel or fibro cement sheets are wall materials. There are 59 respondents (22%) with houses using wood/timber as wall materials.

Table 7. Type of Primary Floor Materials Type of Housing Materials No. of Respondents Percentage (%)

Bamboo 38 13.9% Brick/cement block 13 4.8%

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Type of Housing Materials No. of Respondents Percentage (%) Concrete 42 15.4% Leave/Thatch/Plastic 1 0.4% Soil 64 23.4% Wood/Timber 115 42.1%

Total 273 100.0%

Table 8. Type of Primary Wall Materia ls Type of Housing Materials No. of Respondents Percentage (%)

Wood/Timber 59 22% Steel/Fibro Cement Sheet 111 41% Soil 13 5% Leave/Thatch/Plastic 57 21% Concrete 24 9% Brick/Cement block 7 3% Bamboo 2 1%

Total 273 100% Source of Energy The respondents were asked about their use of energy for cooking, lighting and others. Majority (72%) replied that the female member of the household takes care of the energy use, i.e. for cooking and lighting. Majority of the household use a combination of firewood, charcoal, kerosene, dry-cell battery and car battery for energy use. Firewood is utilized by 99% of the households for cooking. Firewood is either collected or purchased at the local market. On the average, the respondents gather the firewood within their own backyard. Seventy-seven (77) or 28% of the respondents said that they collect firewood once a month while 44 respondents (16%) said that firewood collection is done twice a month. When purchasing firewood, the average cost spent for firewood is KHR28,000 per month. The households for starting fire and for cooking primarily use charcoal. On the average, the household purchase about 10 – 50 kg of charcoal per month. Kerosene is used for starting fire, cooking and also for lighting. On the average, 1.46 liters of kerosene is consumed by the households per month. Cost of kerosene ranges from KHR4,000 – 6,000 per liter. There are 168 respondents (62%) who mentioned that their household use dry-cell batteries. On the average, the households maintain 1 – 10 dry-cell batteries, with some households using up to 20 dry-cell batteries. The latter are those that operate businesses. Households also use more than one car battery. The total size of the car batteries ranges from 6 – 12 volts. Overall, the total price of the car battery ranges from KHR13,000 – 400,000 per month. These batteries are being recharged in local recharging stations at a cost of KHR1,000 – 4,000 per month. The households spend KHR2,000 – 35,000 on recharging of car batteries per month.

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Environmental Issues in the Community Solid waste management is the primary problem mentioned by 53 or 19% of the respondents. The improper disposal of garbage by the locals was cited as one of the environmental problems in the community. Some respondents mentioned that simple practice of discipline would lessen their environmental problems. This is followed by pollution of waterways and rivers as mentioned by 19 respondents. 13 respondents also disclosed flooding as an environmental problem that they experience particularly during heavy rainfall, which sometimes damage their crops. Outlined in Table 9 are the environmental problems of the community as disclosed by the respondents.

Table 9. Environmental Problems in the Community Environmental Problem No. of Respondents Percentage (%) Solid waste management 53 19%

Water pollution 19 7% Flooding 13 5% Others 20 7% None 152 56%

Do not know 3 1% No answer 13 5%

When asked about environmental disasters that have been experienced in their community. Some 118 respondents said that drought was experienced while 52 respondents mentioned that flooding has caused disasters in their locality. Both problems affected their rice land. Health of the Community The respondents were asked about the common diseases experienced by their household or community. Majority mentioned that only common cough and colds are experienced by their households (Table 10). 84 respondents also cited Dengue/malaria disease as a common ailment in their community. Others (16 respondents) said that they experience respiratory ailments. Some of the respondents mentioned that health centers could be found in communes for treatment of illnesses. The large hospital is in the provincial center.

Table 10. S icknes s /Ailments Fe lt in the Community Sickness/Ailment No. of Respondents

Common cough/colds 131 Respiratory 16

Dengue/malaria 84 Others 21

No answer 20

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Environmental Concerns on Project Implementation When the respondents were asked on potential environmental issues that they think could happen when the project is implemented, majority or 86 respondents answered that trees may need to be cut or trimmed during the installation of the electric poles. Some of the respondents said that this is all right as long as compensation will be provided for cut trees. Others said that the cutting of trees is acceptable since electrification will provide them better living comfort. There are 4 respondents who said that the project might generate wastes that could be left by the contractor at the site. They said that the contractor should be asked to cleanup the construction site and to observe proper disposal of waste materials. A number of the respondents did not provide any answer on the environmental concerns on the project. Awareness of the Project There are 197 respondents (72%) who are not aware of the proposed electrification project in their locality while 76 respondents or 28% have heard of the proposed project from village heads and commune heads (Table 11). There are a few who said that information about the project came from EDC personnel who surveyed the site. When asked if they need any further information on the project, majority (90%) of the respondents asked for more information particularly on the electricity charges and location. Information education campaign may be necessary to increase level of awareness of the respondents on the proposed project and its implications to the community and the environment.

Table 11. Level of Pro jec t Awarenes s Level of Project Awareness No. of Respondents Percentage (%)

Aware of the project 76 28% Not aware of the project 197 72%

Total 273 100% Perception on the Project Perceived Benefits Comfort and convenience is the primary perceived benefit mentioned by 77% or 210 respondents. They said that their normal lives would become better when they have electricity in their homes. There are 39 respondents or 14% who mentioned that the project would bring forth progress in their community. With electrification, the respondents said that more livelihood and business opportunities might now be offered in the community. There are 16 respondents who said that their existing businesses would improve with the proposed project. Perceived Negative Impacts The respondents were asked if they foresee any negative impacts of the project. Majority or 219 respondents (80%) answered that they do not see any negative impact of the project because it is

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necessary for the improvement of their community. The others said that they are not sure whether the project will cause some negative impacts to them.

Approval/Disapproval of the Project Although there is low level of awareness on the proposed project, majority of the respondents (99.6%) approved of the project. The main reason for the approval is the improvement of the living conditions in the community. Those that approve of the proposed project agree that it is for the good of the community. Only one respondent disapprove the project and mentioned that there are a few details about the project. Other comments of the respondents are the following:

• EDC should implement the project as soon as possible so that they can already connect to electricity

• EDC should not charge high price of electricity • Safety should be considered by EDC in the connection • Some of the communities in the remote areas and away from the roads might not be

connected. • In the urban area, particularly in Kampung Trach Market, the respondents requested that

they use the existing electrical equipment that they had bought from the REE.

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Appendix D: Photographs of the s ite

Unpaved roads along the ROW of the distribution line.

Vegetation along the ROW.

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Rural communities in the area.

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One of the battery charging stations in the area.

Cooking stoves available in the area.

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A junkshop buying busted batteries.