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Environmental Monitoring Report

2nd Semestral Report, 2010 January 2011

BHU: Road Network Project

Prepared by ENGEO Consultancy for the Department of Roads, Ministry of Works and Human

Settlement and the Asian Development Bank.

ROAD NETWORK PROJECT (RNP) (ADB Loan No. 2187‐BHU)

Department of Roads Ministry of Works & Human Settlement

Royal Government of Bhutan

Karma Chogyel, Environmental Specialist ENGEO Consultancy,

Zomlha Building, Room 129 P.O. Box 1366

Thimphu: Bhutan

Annual Environmental Monitoring Report

Road Network Project (ADB Loan No.

2187‐ BHU)

January 2011

Annual Environmental Monitoring Report 2010

2 Karma Chogyel, Environmental Specialist

ABBREVIATIONS

ADB ‐ Asian Development Bank

CSC - Construction Supervision Consultant

DEC - District Environment Committee

DGM - Department of Geology & Mines

DOF - Department of Forest

DoR ‐ Department of Road

DTL - Deputy Team Leader

EC ‐ Environment Clearance

EE - Environmental Engineer

EIA ‐ Environment Impact Assessment

EMP - Environmental Management Plan

IEE - Initial Environmental Examination

MOHCA - Ministry of Home & Cultural Affairs

NEC ‐ National Environment Commission

NRDCL - Natural Resource Development Corporation Limited

NWF - National Work Force

OHS - Occupational Health & Safety

PM - Project Manager

RAP - Rural Access Project

RBP - Royal Bhutan Police

RE - Resident Engineer

RGOB - Royal Government of Bhutan

RNP ‐ Road Network Project

SI - Site Inspector

STCBL - State Trading Corporation of Bhutan Limited

TL - Team Leader

TOR ‐ Terms of Reference



Contents

1 Introduction ......................................................................................................................................................... 4

2 Environmental Monitoring .................................................................................................................................. 5

2.1 GT01, GT02, GT03 and GT04 ...................................................................................................................... 5

2.2 GT05 (Tingtibi – km 106.3) ......................................................................................................................... 7

2.3 GT06 (WANGDIGANG – km 106.3) ............................................................................................................. 9

2.4 GT07 (Bridge at Yeshigang & Wangdigang).............................................................................................. 11

2.5 FR01 (Mirchim – Bongo feeder road) includes FR02 ................................................................................ 12

2.6 Fr03, fr04, fr07 and fr08 ........................................................................................................................... 15

3 Conclusions & Recommendations ..................................................................................................................... 16

Annex 1: Environmental compliance monitoring matrix



1 INTRODUCTION

The Road Network Project (RNP I) funded by the Asian Development Bank which was initially planned to be

completed by June 2010. However, due to various problems the completion dateline was postponed twice. The

project is now scheduled to be completed by June 2011.

Road Network Project has two components – 1) upgrading and realignment of 140 km of 244 km Gelephu –

Trongsa National Highway and 2) Construction of about than 92 km of feeder roads under Chukha, Lhuntse,

Mongar, Trashigang and Zhemgang Districts of Bhutan.

The project is subdivided into 15 separate contract packages for implementation purposes as shown in the table 1

of the following section. Three contract packages (FR05, FR06 and FR09) out of 15 have been dropped. Except for

FR01 (Mirchim – Bongo feeder road) all other feeder roads constructions were completed and handed over to the

Department of Road (DOR). While for Gelephu – Trongsa National Highway improvement works, the contract

packages – GT01, GT05, and GT06 are yet to be completed.

This report is an annual environmental monitoring report for period of June 2010 – December 2010 for the Road

Network Project’s contract packages as provided in the table 1.

Table 1: Details of Contract Packages and the work status

SNo Package Section Length (Km)

Contractor Work Status as of May 2009

1 GT01 Trongsa – Kuenga Rabten 22.5 M/s Druk Sherig

Wall Construction – 99% completed

Drainage Construction – 98 % completed

Sub base work – 82%

Bitumen surfacing – Not started

2 GT02 Tingtibi – Tamala Pass 32.3 M/s Welfare Construction Completed and handed over to DOR

3 GT03 Tamala Pass – Rongang Zam 30.5 M/s Nima Construction Completed and handed over to DOR

4 GT04 Rongang Zam - Gelephu 36.5 M/s Bhutan Engineering Completed and handed over to DOR

5 GT07 2 Bridge at (Yeshigang and Wangdigang)

NA M/s Gaseb Construction Completed and handed over to DOR

6 GT05 Tingtibi - km 106.3 8.5 M/s Welfare Construction

Formation cutting (FC) is completed

Back cutting – 90% completed

Drainage works started

7 GT06 Km 106.3 – Wangdigang bridge

7.334 Bhutan Engineering Company

7.24 km of Formation cutting (FC) is completed

1400m formation level (sub-grade) completed

8 FR08 Kharungla – Thrimshing (Revised termination point)

16.354 km (Revised Length)

Joint Venture of M/s Bhutan Builder, Selgar and Rigsar Construction

Completed and handed over to DOR

9 FR01 Meritsemo (Mirchim) – Bongo (Includes FR02)

17.5 M/s Gaseb Construction 10.780 km of FC is completed

9.640km of Drainage works and Slope stabilization has been completed

10 FR03 Tekizam - Bjena 6.5 M/s Lhojong Construction Completed and handed over to DOR

11 FR07 Garbagtang - Chali 12.020 M/s Bhutan Monico Venture of M/s Druk Sherig Construction

Completed and handed over to DOR

12 FR04 Autsho - Gumrang 15.0 M/s Bhutan Construction Completed and handed over to DOR

13 FR05 Gumrang - Chakling 13.0 NA Dropped

14 FR06 Chakling - Chali 11.0 NA Dropped

15 FR09 Growan chhu - Kangpara 15.0 NA Dropped



2 ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING

2.1 GT01, GT02, GT03 AND GT04

Except for GT01, the contract packages of GT02, GT03 and GT04 have been completed and the sites have been

handed over to the DOR.

GT01 works which was initially carried out by M/s Druk Sherig Construction Company has been handed over to

M/s Welfare Construction Company (WCC) due to Druk Sherig’s non performance. As of January 2011, about 98%

of the GT01’s work is completed.

GT01, GT02, GT03 and GT04 are for pavement improvement works which includes improvement of drainages and

building of retaining and breast walls along Gelephu – Trongsa National Highway. No major environmental

impacts are seen due to execution of these works.

2.1.1 SITE CLEARANCE/REMOVAL VEGETATION

The Site Clearance is limited in pavement improvement works.

2.1.2 EARTHWORK, EXCAVATION AND SPOIL DISPOSAL

Earthwork or excavations are completed. No indiscriminate dumping of spoils or construction wastes has been

observed in and around construction sites.

2.1.3 HANDLING AND USE OF BLASTING MATERIALS

All blasting works has been ceased.

2.1.4 DISRUPTION OF DRAINAGES (RIVERS/STREAMS)

There are no disruptions of drainages (rivers or streams).

2.1.5 QUARRIES, BORROW PITS AND STOCKPILES

Almost 98% of the GT01 is complete while GT02, GT03 and GT04 have been already completed and handed over

to the DOR; the crushing operations have been ceased. In the case of construction material stockpiles except for

GT01, others have removed. After the completion of the GT01 resurfacing and other works, the crushing plant

site at Tashidingkha needs to be cleaned and restored.

2.1.6 CONSTRUCTION, OPERATION AND SHIFTING LABOUR CAMPS

Only GT01 has labour camps under operation.

2.1.7 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY

Workers of GT01 were not wearing safety helmets and face masks. The facemask was seen necessary for workers

who are engaged in cleaning the road aftermath of resurfacing works.



2.1.8 WILDLIFE AND HABITATS

There are no reports of illegal hunting or fishing by the construction workers.

2.1.9 ROAD SURFACING/GRAVELLING WORKS

Resurfacing works for GT01, GT02, GT03 and GT04 has been completed. The resurfacing work has been carried

out using the modern technology which eliminates the use of wood to melt bitumen to mix with sand and gravels.

No impacts from the road resurfacing have been seen along that road section.

2.1.10 DISRUPTION AND PRESURRE ON COMMUNITY INFRASTRUCTURES

Irrigation water supply pipeline for Tashidingkha community which is damaged during road improvement works

of GT01 needs to repaired and restored to the preconstruction level. The repair needs to be done before the

onset of paddy cultivation.



2.2 GT05 (TINGTIBI – KM 106.3)

GT05 is the first part of the Tingtibi to Wangdigang realignment section which follows the Mangdichhu River.

Total Length of the Road – 8.5 km

Length of Road Constructed (Formation and back cut) – 8.5 km


Site clearance works and formation cutting have been completed all the away till 8.5 km. Tree felling is limited to

road corridor only. Tree felling is done in the presence of the forestry officials.


As of May 2010, 184,000 cubic meters of earth and about 621,000 cubic meters of rocks has excavated from the

road construction. Of the total earth excavated, 150,000 cubic has been disposed to the designated dumpsites.

About 18% of excavated earth was not able to be disposed to the dump site. This is due to the extremely difficult

construction terrain in the area with steep slopes and vertical cliffs. However, most of the excavated rocks have

been used for the construction with minimal wastage.

As per the recommendation of District Environmental Committee (DEC) and the National Environmental

Commission (NEC), the fallen rocks or debris have been removed from the Mangdechhu Riverbed.

Figure 1: Debris removed and bioengineering carried out for river bank protection




Blasting work is almost completed. So far approximately 28,212.5 kg of blasting materials have been used rocky

rock cutting. Blasting materials were transported with an official of escort of Royal Bhutan Police to construction

site. The designated store in-charge takes care of storing, recording and issuing of the blasting materials.


Fallen debris including rocks from Rocks on the opposite bank of Takaibi village has been removed as per

recommendations of NEC and DEC. In other areas no major disruption are seen in other areas.


Sand is quarried from the Mangdechhu River bank. No major impact has been witnessed. Boulders are extracted

from the blasting areas.


Labour Camps are located at 0+060, 3+000 and 6+000 km. Water and sanitation facilities are provided.


Drillers were found using helmets, boots and facemasks. However, other workers constructing walls, drainages

and cross drainages were found without any safety wears not even helmets. The use of helmet is necessary to

avoid injury due to shooting or falling stones along the construction zone.


The site clearance has been limited to 7.5 meter in the forested area in order to minimize the damage of habitat.

The controlled blasting has been carried out all along the road section to prevent damage of wildlife habitat. In

steep construction areas between chainage 7+500 to 8+500, the forest or vegetation downhill have been

substantially damaged due to unavoidable debris fall. The recovery of the vegetation along this section would

take time.


No gravelling or surfacing is carried out so far.


No community infrastructures.

2.2.11 DAMAGES OF RELIGIOUS AND CULTURAL RESOURCES

No religious or cultural along the road.



2.3 GT06 (WANGDIGANG – KM 106.3)

GT06 is the second stretch of the Tingtibi to Wangdigang realignment section following the Mangdichhu River.


Length of Road Constructed (Formation Cutting) – 7.344 km

Back cutting is ongoing


Site clearance works and first cutting have been carried out till 7+344 km. The road passes through steep

forested slope. Removal or damage of vegetation is far more than in gentle slope owing the downfall of excavated

earth. It is almost impossible to prevent the downfall construction debris particularly from the first cut. However,

from the subsequent cut, after access road is built than contract needs to transport the excavated material to the

safe disposal sites.


As of Dec 2010, 84542.70 cubic meters of earth and 452,222.09 cubic meters of rocks have been excavated from

the road construction. Due to steep slope and rugged terrain, substantial amount of construction debris from the

first cut inevitably goes downhill to the river bank. There are almost no feasible dumpsites. Therefore, project

and contractor has to identify proper dumpsites to dispose construction debris safely.


So far approximately 23,871.25 kg of blasting materials have been ordered and used for rock cutting. Blasting

materials were transported with an official of escort of Royal Bhutan Police to construction site. The designated

store in-charge takes care of storing, recording and issuing of the blasting materials.

The controlled blasting needs to be implemented to avoid the damage of wildlife habitats.


From 0+000 to 7+344 km is through a steep slope. The formation cutting is extremely difficult in this section. It is

really difficult to prevent construction debris from falling toward the Mangdechhu River. No protection is possible

in this steep slope. The only possible thing that can be done is to transport the construction debris from the

construction site to safe disposal site after the first cut.


No quarries. However, the boulders are extracted from the blasting areas.


Labour Camps are located at Wangdigang and at 2+300 km from Wangdigang. Water and sanitation facilities are

provided.




Regular use of safety equipments, particularly the helmet, is necessary in a steep and rocky construction zone to

avoid injuries or death of the workers. It has been found that some of the workers were without the safety

helmets despite working in risky areas.


From 0+500 km onward, the road passes through forested area which is the habitat of wildlife. The road

construction will inevitably disturb and damage wildlife and its habitat. Hence the contractor need to employ

controlled blasting to prevent the wildlife habitat.


No gravelling or surfacing is carried out so far.


The power tiller track to Nimshong village below GT06 alignment near Wangdigang which has been temporarily closed during the first cut has now been opened to the commuters. However, for the safety of the travelers, the movement along the power tiller track is restricted to certain timings. People are advised to use the alternatively route, their original mule track from the Nimshong bridge to Reotala road point.


No religious or cultural along the road.



2.4 GT07 (BRIDGE AT YESHIGANG & WANGDIGANG)

The construction of two bridges under GT07, at Yeshigang and Wangdigang are completed and handed to the

DOR. The construction sites are restored.

Figure 2: Completed Yeshigang Bridge (Jan 2011)

Figure 3: Completed Wangdigang Bridge (Jan 2011)



2.5 FR01 (MIRCHIM – BONGO FEEDER ROAD) INCLUDES FR02


Length of Road Constructed (Back cutting) – 15.600 km


Site Conditions or Impacts:

Site clearance works and formation cutting have been carried out till 15+600 km.

From 0+000 km to 1+160 km the road goes through settlement areas or agriculture land. There is no

vegetation coverage in this area.

The road from chainage 1+160 km till 15+600 km mostly passes through forest area.

Mitigation Measures adopted:

Overall bush clearance is done within 12 meter (Road Corridor)

Tree felling is mostly limited to the road formation width 5.36 m. Tree cutting is done in coordination

with forestry official.

Upon payment of royalty to the Department of Forest, the contractor is allowed to collect felled trees

along the road construction site wherever possible. The collect trees are then used as construction

timber, log barriers and even for firewood.



As of Dec 2010, more than 137,865.52 cubic meters of earth and about 72,479.07 cubic meters of rocks

have been excavated from the ongoing road construction work.


From total of 197,947.52 cum of earth excavated only about 78,011 cum of soil has been disposed at the

designated dumpsites.

Bioengineering or site restoration of dump site at chainage 0+560 – 0+580 has been carried out.

Site restoration and slope stabilization works for dumpsite 6+680 km is yet to be carried out because of

its ongoing usage.



From 7+633 km to 10+780 km, passes through a steep rocky area which required considerable amount of

blasting.

About 49,850 kg of blasting materials have ordered and used for the rock cutting.


Blasting materials have been procured from the government recognized agency – State Trading

Corporation of Bhutan Limited (STCBL) and transported to the construction site under strict supervision

of Royal Bhutan Police (RBP).

Store In-Charge has been assigned who is responsible for storage, issuance and recording of the use of

blasting materials.

Controlled blasting has been employed.

There are no complaints from the nearby communities of the impacts of blasting.



Communities are informed through the geog administration on the blasting schedule

Signals such as signboards, whistle and flags are used for warning the blasting.

Labourers working for blasting operations are provided with safety gadgets (helmet, gloves, gasmask,

earplug and boots)

2.5.4 SLOPE INSTABILITY AND EROSION


Seepage or marshy area seen at chainage 0+400, 0+540 and 2+500 km

Small Landslides of chainage 0+400 and 0+500 km are due to the seepage of irrigation water of Mirchim

paddy fields.


As a temporary measure boulder staking has been carried to prevent the landslide.

Gabion walls are constructed at chainage in most of the unstable slope areas to prevent slope

instabilities.

2.5.5 QUARRIES, STOCKPILES AND CRUSHING PLANTS


No quarries are established but the boulders are extracted from the earth work for the road construction

sites and from the road widening area at 12+900 km along Gedu – Mirchim feeder road.

Crushing plant which was established at Hadochen area now stopped operating instead the mobile

crusher is operational at 13+700 Km.


Crushing plant area at Hadochen has cleaned and restored upon completion of construction works

There are no settlements near the mobile crushing plant site.



There are 13 stream crossings at chainages 0+400, 0+540, 1+500, 1+820, 2+280, 2+490, 3+500, 4+030,

7+630, 8+180, 10+190, 12+000, 13+490, and 13+710 Km.

Road constructions in steep slope particularly nearby the stream crossing have resulted in blocking or

narrowing of natural stream flow.


Hume pipe culverts or crossing are built.

10 m span RCC Bridge built at 10+190 Km and 5 bailey bridges are built at 7+630, 8+180, 12+000, 13+49,

13+710 km.

Construction debris from the stream beds are being removed in order to restore the natural stream flow

and to prevent soil erosion leading water pollution downstream. This mitigation measure has to be

applied in all disrupted drainage sites.

No major impact on aquatic environment has been observed at the bridge constructions.

Only required and necessary tree felling is done in and around the bridge construction site.





Labour camps and construction stores are located at 1+160, 2+480, 8+100 and 13+700km.

In total, there are 141 labourers (103 non-Bhutanese and 38 local people)

No complaints of open defecation, illegal hunting, and fuel wood use from the people nearby.


Labourers are briefed on the laws, and, rules and regulations of the Kingdom of Bhutan

The labour camps are provided with water supply, sanitation facilities and even the lighting facilities

through generator.


Safety gadgets such as helmet, boots and gloves are provided to all labourers who carryout road construction.

Additional safety equipment such as earplug and gasmask are provided to those labourers are working in blasting

area. The workers were seen using the safety wears during the field visit.


Site Conditions or Impacts

From 8+200 onwards road passes through primary broadleaf forest area which is significant wildlife habitat. The

road construction through this area needs considerable blasting due to presence of rocky stretches. Hence road

construction works such vegetation, earthworks and blasting will have adverse impact on wildlife and its habitat.


Controlled blasting is carried out to minimize the damage to forest and the wildlife habitat

Construction debris after the first cut is taken to the designated dumpsites

Unnecessary tree felling are avoided

Boulder or log barriers are erected to prevent construction debris from falling downhill and damage the

vegetation on down slopes.


Sub-base is being carried out. As of May 2010, almost 7 km of sub-base work has been completed. No adverse

impacts due to sub-base work have been observed.



Road crosses foot path at chainage 4+200 and 5+200 km.


Footpaths crossing are restored



Mirchim Temple is located at chainage 0+000 km approximately 20 meter away from the road edge.



Due to unavailability of suitable land, the labour camp is constructed near to the temple.

There are no reports of open defecation by labourers as they are provided with pit latrines and solid

waste disposal pit.

Mitigation Measures needed to be adopted:

Labour camp have been shifted

The camp sites have been cleaned and restored

2.6 FR03, FR04, FR07 AND FR08

Works on the construction of feeder roads of FR03, FR04, FR07 and FR08 has been completed and handed over to

DOR for ownership and maintenance. Almost all mitigation measures prescribed by the Environmental

Management Plan have been followed and implemented.



3 CONCLUSIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS

Except for GT05, GT06 and FR01, all other contract packages have been completed and handed over the Department of Roads for ownership and maintenance. The environmental friendly road construction approach has been applied in all road construction activities. The Environmental Management Plan (EMP) has been followed and to the most extent mitigation measures prescribed therein has been implemented. Therefore, in general, the environmental compliance of the project is satisfactory despite the lapses in some areas (Refer Annex 1 for more details).

Damaged irrigation channel of Trashiding village within GT01 section has not been restored. Therefore, it is important for the project restore irrigation channel before the farmers start their paddy cultivation.

The formation and back cutting has been completed for GT05. The road passes mostly through vertical rocky cliff which required substantial amount of blasting materials. Construction debris particularly the rocks have reached the river banks due to blasting and excavation in difficult terrain. As per the DEC’s recommendations the contractor has removed of construction debris particularly the rock falls from the river bank opposite to Takaibi village to prevent damage of agriculture land due to change in course of the river.

There are no disposal sites in a steep and rugged topography along GT06. Almost all the excavated materials have to be disposed downhill along the construction sites, which causes scaring of slopes, damaging of vegetation and siltation of river. Therefore, it is imperative for the project, wherever possible; to look for dumpsites for proper disposal of excavated materials.

The construction workers along GT05 and GT06 face substantial risk of injuries and even death as their work area falls in a rugged and steep topography, where the chances of getting hit by falling boulders or stones are quite high. Therefore, use helmet by all workers within the construction zone is absolutely necessary.

[Annex 1 – Final Environmental Compliance Monitoring] June – Dec 2010

1 Karma Chogyel, Environment Specialist

Table 1: Environmental Compliance Monitoring (Pavement Strengthening of Project Highway Sections, Construction of Realignment and Feeder Roads)

S.N. Activities Potential Negative Impacts Proposed Mitigation Measures Responsible

Agency Remarks

1. Labor camp location and operation a. Latrines b. Drinking

water supply c. Waste

disposal site d. Energy

supply except firewood

Improper location of camps in areas near communities;

Conflicts with nearby settlements regarding water resources;

Health problems and spread of diseases such as HIV/AIDS;

Unhygienic living conditions;

Improper disposal of domestic waste

Water pollution of nearby streams and rivers;

Illegal hunting, fishing, cutting of Labor camp location and operation e. Latrines f. Drinking water supply g. Waste disposal site h. Energy supply except firewood

trees

Leaving of trash and camp structure remains after shifting

Location of camps in areas at least 500 m away from communities;

Sourcing of water for camps from water sources separate from community water sources

Screening of health workers for diseases such as HIV/AIDS before accepting them as workers

Provision of adequate first aid kit and medical supplies

Provision of fire fighting equipment

Provision of waste disposal bins and opening of a waste disposal pit at appropriate location

Provision of proper toilet facilities in locations away from streams and rivers

Provision of cooking gas or kerosene to workers

If firewood is required for cooking, forestry permits from relevant territorial forestry office must be obtained for collection of firewood.

Education of workers on illegality of hunting, fishing, cutting trees etc.

Proper restoration of construction camp site by cleaning up the site, planting appropriate plant species and covering the waste disposal pit with top soil and revegetating it.

Contractors Complied.

Complied. Camps are provided with drinking water supply and pit latrines.

Complied. Screening and awareness on HIV/AIDS are carried out.

Complied. Briefing by project officials on illegal hunting, fishing and felling of trees have been carried out.

Complied. Campsite restoration works are carried out.

2. Site clearance: Clearing forest, felling of trees and removal of top soil.

Loss of vegetative cover

Disturbance to the micro level ecosystem

Disturbance to wildlife

Soil erosion

Scarring of landscape

Improper disposal of vegetation and earth removed

Misuse of felled trees/ not handed over to the right authority (FDCL) in accordance with Forestry rules

Removal of only necessary vegetation.

Bio-engineering and re-vegetation of the road shoulders and bare slopes above and below the road immediately after construction of the specific road section using local plant species.

Felled trees should be handed over to Forestry Development Corporation Ltd.

Top soil should be stockpiled and conserved for reuse on the road shoulder.

Contractors Complied. Site clearance or vegetation removals were done only within 12 m road corridor.

Complied. Bioengineering works have been carried out.

Partly Complied. Felled trees are collected only FR03 construction site by the Natural Resources Development Corporation Limited (NRDCL). The logs from other construction sites (GT05, GT06, FR08, FR01, FR03, FR07, and FR04) have not been taken by NRDCL due to lack of economy of scale.




Agency Remarks

3. Earthworks/slope stabilization a. Earthwork

site b. Volume of

spoils c. Slope

stabilization work

Excessive cutting leading to instabilities of local landscape and production of excess spoil

Slope failures, soil erosion

Dust pollution

Injury to workers

Loss of vegetation

Water pollution and disruption of aquatic ecology of nearby streams and rivers from excess sediments

Use balanced cut and fill method to minimize cut volume.

Provision of adequate safety wears to workers.

Construction of log barriers on valley side of slope to hold any falling debris.

Proper disposal of unearthed spoil to waste disposal site.

Appropriate bio-engineering using local plant species to stabilize slopes.

Construction of retaining walls wherever needed

Contractor. Partly complied. The balanced cut and fill technique is difficult to be employed particularly in a steep and rugged terrain.

Complied. Log and stone barriers are built to stop the construction debris from damaging the downhill vegetation.

Complied. Retaining, breast and gabion walls are constructed for slope protection.

4. Blasting activities Excessive blasting weakening the local geological structures.

Risk of fire

Accidents, injury to workers and other nearby people.

Disturbance to wildlife and the settlements nearby

Practice of only controlled blasting using fewer charges where possible.

Use Acconex near habitations and protected areas.

Provision of well equipped first aid kits, health facilities and fire fighting equipment on construction site.

Allowing only trained or certified blasters to carry out all blasting activities and provision of appropriate documents by contractor to authenticate the experience of their blasters.

Coordination with the local Dzongkhag Administration, Police and Gup on the schedule for blasting and ensure that nearby community people is informed and prepared.

Use of appropriate warning signals by using whistles, red flags and megaphones to ensure safety of travelling vehicles or people passing by.

Provision of workers with construction hats, face masks, ear plugs, gloves, eye goggles etc.

Blasting only during the day-time to minimize disturbance to nearby communities and wildlife.

Contractor Complied: Blasting materials transported, stored and issued as per the specification or rules of Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs.

Complied: Total controlled blasting was carried out only during day time with adequate early and prior warnings to the people living nearby.

5. Quarrying: a. establishment b. operation c. restoration

Location of rock quarries in environmentally sensitive areas

Sourcing of material from unauthorized quarries;

Excessive blasting for opening new

Location of rock quarries in environmentally sound areas

Obtain proper clearances from DoF, DGM and NEC for establishment of new quarries

Source materials only from legally authorized

Contractor

Complied.




Agency Remarks

rock quarries causing instabilities in local landscape

Destruction of trees and vegetation

Injuries and hearing and respiratory problems to workers

Air pollution from dust;

Disturbance to nearby communities and wildlife;

Disturbance to aquatic wildlife when sourcing riverside materials;

Pollution of river water from vehicle/machinery fuel and effluents and other waste

No or improper site restoration resulting in scarred and ugly landscape

locations;

Carry out only controlled blasting

Cover trucks transporting rocks/sand/gravel with tarpaulin or other material to prevent generation of dust.

Sprinkle water on site during loading and unloading of material to minimize dust.

Provision of proper safety gear such as helmets, gloves, face mask, earplugs, eye goggles to workers

Carrying out of blasting works and quarry operation only during the day time

Proper site restoration after completion of quarry works by covering with topsoil and carrying out suitable bioengineering methods.

6. Borrow pits a. Identification b. Operation c. Restoration

Location in unstable areas or unsuitable areas close to settlements;

Disruption of local hydrology and excess sedimentation Soil erosion;

Localized air pollution from dust;

Scarring of landscape and improper reclamation;

Destruction and damage of vegetation

Location in suitable/stable areas away from settlements and streams/rivers;

Sprinkling of water to minimize dust problems;

Storage of top layer while opening borrow area;

Proper restoration of borrow area by covering with stored top soil and re-vegetation with local plant species

Contractor. No borrow pits are established for the ongoing construction works.

7. Spoils and construction waste disposal a. Construction

of spoil benches

b. Disposal of spoil, construction wastes

c. Reclamation by plantation

Scarring of landscape and damage to vegetation due to improper disposal of construction debris on valley side of road;

Water pollution of nearby streams, disruption of natural flow and disturbance to aquatic ecology due to excess sediments.

Proper disposal of all spoil and construction waste into identified disposal sites;

Proper restoration of the waste disposal area by covering with top soil and carrying out appropriate bioengineering works.

No disposal of spoil and construction debris in streams and rivers.

Contractor Partly complied as disposal of all spoil to the designated dump sites was not possible due to steep and rugged terrains in all project sites.

8. Use of bitumen a. Bitumen

heating

Illegal felling of trees for use as firewood for bitumen heating

Injuries to workers from fire and

Purchase of firewood from local firewood contractor for heating bitumen.

Collection of firewood with proper forestry

Contractor Complied. Bitumen heating is done using modern technology which does not require fire woods.




Agency Remarks

b. Storage

heat

Health problems of workers from smoke emitted

Bleeding of bitumen

Inappropriate use of bitumen

permit, in areas where firewood contractor does not exist.

Provision of proper construction attire gloves, goggles, face masks etc. to protected workers from heat and smoke

Maintenance of first aid kit on construction site

Spread of stone chips on bitumen bleeding areas

9. Stockpiling of Materials a. Top soil b. Fill materials c. Gravel/aggre

gate

Huge stock pilling can slump down and may cause land slip during raining season.

The slumping can damage existing vegetation and cause surface erosion.

Can also damage existing infrastructure down below.

Stockpiling in appropriate locations that are not prone to erosion.

Contractor Complied.

10. Explosives, combustible and toxic materials management

Accidents and injuries

Pollution of ground and surface water due to leakage of toxic materials and waste endangering the health of the people as well as aquatic wildlife

The transportation, handling and storage of all explosives should be as per the standing guidelines on ‘Explosive Rules of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Explosives should be transported under Police escort.

At construction site explosive should be stored in steel containers, “Magazines” under lock and key, which are water, fire proof.

Explosives should not be stored near fire.

Gelatin and detonators, Cortex should not be stored together.

Disposal of all toxic wastes safely by burying them in 5 – 8 feet deep pits

Contractor Complied. Explosives are transported and stored as per the norms of the Ministry of Home and Cultural Affairs (MoHCA).

11. Operation of stone crushing plant and storage of materials a. Operation of

a plant b. Use of dust

control devices

Excessive dust and noise

Damage to vegetation surrounding the crushing plant

Accidents and injury to workers

Sprinkling of water to minimize problems of dust

Provision of adequate safety wear to the workers such as ear plugs, face masks etc.

Contractor Partly Complied. Strict dust control measures such as regular sprinkling of water were needed at the crushing plants operated by GT05.

12. Water management

Collapse of drainage structures due to poor quality construction.

Quality construction.

Construction during dry season.

Contractor Complied. Cross drainage structures are built as per the specifications.




Agency Remarks

a. Longitudinal drains

b. Cross drain c. Diversion

drains d. Discharge of

storm water

Disruption of local stream/river course and aquatic hydrology.

Increased sediments in the rivers or streams.

Provision of appropriate drainage facilities and river/stream diversion structures.

Proper restoration of original course of water bodies after construction.

13. Construction of bridges

River training works and temporary diversion of river leading to disruption of aquatic ecology.

Excess sedimentation due to improper disposal of construction waste into the river

Illegal fishing

Removal of trees and vegetation at bridge site

River training works or diversion of the river must be carried out only where necessary.

Where diversion of the river is necessary, the original course must be restored as soon as construction works are over.

Workers must not carry out any fishing as it is illegal. This clause must also be included in the contract document.

Proper forestry clearance must be obtained for trees (with dbh more than 10 cm) that may need to be removed.

Construction debris must not be thrown into the river. It must be disposed off properly into the nearest disposal site.

Area around the newly constructed bridge sub structure must be restored using appropriate bioengineering methods.

Contractor Complied

14. Operation of vehicles, machinery and equipment

Air pollution,

Noise pollution

Water pollution of nearby streams and rivers

Injuries and accidents

Regular maintenance of vehicles.

Use of air pollution and noise control devices.

Covering of construction materials by tarpaulin.

Provision of adequate safety gear such as gloves, boots, helmets, face masks, ear plugs, and eye goggles to construction workers.

Contractor Complied. Regular maintenance of machineries is done.

Complied. Safety Equipments are provided.

15. Bio -engineering

Use of inappropriate methods of bioengineering causing landslides, drainage complications

Use of inappropriate plant species such as slow growing species or invasive species

Use appropriate bioengineering techniques depending on site specific conditions as given in the Bioengineering manual.

Use local, fast growing and soil conserving plant species

Contractor Complying - Bioengineering works has been carried out for construction site except for GT05 and GT06.

16 Community Infrastructure and Private Properties

Damage of irrigation channel

Damage of drinking water supply

Damage of Orchard

Damage of Agriculture land

Reinstate or rehabilitate the damage irrigation system and drinking water supply

Alternative siting of cross drainage

Divert or reduce velocity of storm water through drains




Table 2: Environmental Compliance Monitoring (Site Specific Environmental Management Plan for Project Highway Sections)

S.N. Existing Problem

Potential Negative Impacts Proposed Mitigation Measures Responsible

Agency Remarks

1 Road sinking at Km 14 + 200

Removal of two trees on the hill side and one tree on valley side of road section.

Destruction and reduction of dense undergrowth vegetation in the area.

During construction of the sub surface drains and other structures the two trees should not be removed.

While removing undergrowth vegetation for construction of proposed structures, only necessary vegetation must be used.


2 Landslide and road sinking at Km 15+500

Further scarring of landscape through improper disposal of construction debris

Proper disposal of construction waste in the nearest disposal site.


3. Road sinking at Km 17+300

Excessive removal of dense undergrowth vegetation including trees.

No trees must be removed. Only necessary vegetation must be removed for construction of proposed structures.


4 Landslide at

Km 22+850

No other measures in addition to the proposed engineering and geotechnical works are required to improve the environment of the area.

EMP has not specified the mitigation measures

5 Road sinking at Km 28+500




Disruption of the aquatic ecology of the Ronggang Chhu due to improper disposal of waste and illegal fishing in the river.

Avoid disposal of construction debris into the Ronggang Chhu.

No illegal fishing. Include clause on hunting, fishing etc. as illegal activity in the contractor agreement.

Contractor Complying


Water seepage and improper flow of water from irrigation works in the paddy fields above causing erosion and other instabilities.

Disruption of the aquatic ecology of the Betini Chhu due to improper disposal of construction debris and illegal fishing.

Discussion with farmer household on proper routing and disposal of excess agriculture/ irrigation water so that it does not cause any erosion or other instabilities in the area.

Avoid disposal of construction into the Betini Chhu.

No illegal fishing. Include clause on hunting, fishing etc. as illegal activity in the contractor agreement.

Contractor Complied




9 Rockslide at Km 49+500

Disruption of construction activities and injuries to workers due to falling

Provision of adequate safety gear such as helmets, boots, gloves etc. to workers.

Contractor Complying, the construction work are ongoing



S.N. Existing Problem

Potential Negative Impacts Proposed Mitigation Measures Responsible

Agency Remarks

boulders and loose material especially during the monsoon season.

Production of excessive dust, hence respiratory health problems to workers during the dry season.

Conduction of construction activities during the dry season to avoid slide issues during the monsoon season.

Sprinkling of water on site to minimize dust if construction activities are carried out during the dry season.

10 Rockslide at Km 90+350

Disruption of the aquatic ecology of the Yangdigang Chhu due to disposal of construction debris and illegal fishing.

Avoid throwing any construction debris into the Yangdigang Chhu.

No illegal fishing. Include clause on hunting, fishing etc. as illegal activity in the contract agreement.

Contractor Complying, the construction work are ongoing

11. Road sinking at Km 233 + 600

Disruption of the aquatic ecology of the rivulet flowing on the valley side of the road due to disposal of construction debris.

Avoid throwing any construction debris into the rivulet.

No illegal fishing. Include clause on hunting, fishing etc. as illegal activity in the contract agreement.

Contractor Complying, the construction works are ongoing.



Table 3: Environmental Compliance Monitoring (Site Specific Environmental Management Plan for Wangdigang and Yeshigang Bridges)

S.N. Description Potential Negative Impacts Proposed Mitigation Measures Responsible

Agency Public Participation and

Coordination

1. Wangdigang bridge at Km 154

Removal of trees on the south (about 12 trees) and north bank (about 1 tree) along with undergrowth vegetation.

Disruption of aquatic ecology of the Wangdigang chhu due to improper disposal of construction waste into the river and illegal fishing.

Erosion and landslips due to improper restoration of area.

Forestry clearance must be obtained for removal of the trees.

All construction debris must be appropriately disposed off at a suitable disposal site and not into the river.

Top soil of the unearthed area must be stored and reused for restoration and bioengineering works around the newly constructed structures.

Contractor

Complied

2. Yeshigang bridge Removal of trees on the south (about 7 trees) along with undergrowth vegetation.

Disruption of aquatic ecology of the Yeshigang chhu due to improper disposal of construction waste into the river and illegal fishing.

Erosion and landslips due to improper restoration of area.

Forestry clearance must be obtained for removal of the trees.

All construction debris must be appropriately disposed off at a suitable disposal site and not into the river.

Top soil of the unearthed area must be stored and reused for restoration and bioengineering works around the newly constructed structures.

Contractor

Complied.

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