technical assistance consultant’s report...105. the mean annual rainfall fluctuates between...

Technical Assistance Consultant’s Report

Project Number: 48440-002 November 2018

Islamic Republic of Afghanistan: Kabul Managed Aquifer Recharge Project (Financed by the Afghanistan Infrastructure Trust Fund)

Environmental Due Diligence Report on Proposed Pilot MAR Sites 3, 4 and 6

Part 2 of 3

Prepared by: Landell Mills Ltd.

Wiltshire, United Kingdom

For: Ministry of Finance, Afghanistan

Ministry of Energy and Water, Afghanistan

This consultant’s report does not necessarily reflect the views of ADB or the Government concerned, and ADB and the Government cannot be held liable for its contents. (For project preparatory technical assistance: All the views expressed herein may not be incorporated into the proposed project’s design.

19

Photo 3: MAR Site 3, April 2018

4.2.2. Site 4: Badam Bagh

87. This Site 4 is located at Badam Bagh Research Farm, established in 1959 with the financial

assistance of USAID. This research firm covers an area of 80 hectares of land and its latitude is

34055” N and longitude is 69011” E, approximately 1840 meters above mean sea level.

88. At an initial stage of farm development they introduced fruit saplings like almond, apricot, plum,

quince, grapes, apples, peach, pear etc. species were imported from various countries like

Lebanon, Italy and USA for plantation. In the course of time, the fruit species consisted of both

local and imported verities. This research farm was one of the biggest research farms in the

country, but after the fall of Sardar Daud Khan’s government, the farm was completely destroyed.

89. Nevertheless, in 1995 the farm was rehabilitated with the assistance of the German Agro Action

(GAA) organization4. Since then the rehabilitation of the farm continues. Lately, organizations like

GAA, EC, JICA, ASAP5 and FAO have been actively working for the reconstruction of the farm.

90. This Badam Bagh Farm authority expressed their interest to support KMARP, and agreed to

provide land for project implementation within their boundaries. It is proposed to construct a gravity

fed injection well at Badam Bagh with MAR water sourced via Qarga Reservoir and a canal

/siphon system. The suggested system is illustrated in Figure 5 (overleaf) and the site of the MAR

injection well to receive gravity fed water is shown in Photo 4.

91. The total depth of the well will be 70 meters with a design of 18 inch diameter J55 grade steel

casing and torch slotted screens. The drilled diameter of the borehole should ideally be 24 inches.

An example of such drilling is shown below in Photo 5.

4 International NGO, German Agro Action (GAA)

5 ASAP (Accelerating Sustainable Agriculture Program) is designed to revitalise Afghanistan’s agriculture sector and to improve global

competitiveness of the country’s agribusiness sector. It is a nationwide program providing strategic support to Afghanistan’s public and private sectors with two objectives: a) increase agricultural sector jobs and income, b) increase Afghan’s confidence in their government.

20

92. During construction, it is envisaged that the land take could amount to 16 m2 with a completion

foot print of 1 m2. The borehole would be completed flush with ground level. Water would feed the

injection well via direct gravity flow from an irrigation channel.

93. Once every 2 years the borehole should be plumbed to ensure backfilling has not taken place. If

backfilling has occurred, the borehole should be cleaned via bailer attached to a percussion drilling

rig.

94. Two piezometers will also be constructed at this site with each completed with 2 inch diameter

schedule 80 PVC screens and casing. The footprint of the surface expression of the piezometers

would be 30 cm x 30 cm with the piezometers completed flush with ground level.

FIGURE 5

Asian Development Bank

22

Photo 4: MAR Site 4

Photo 5: Example of borehole drilling to be carried out at Site 4

23

4.2.3. Site 6: Makroyan-e-4

95. Site 6 is situated at Makroyan-e-4, between Kabul River and Abdulhaq squire to Pol-e-Mahmood

Khan Road (GPS Location of BM: 34052”82’N; 69019”94’E). This site is characterized by a

seasonal nursery bed of various vegetables and flowers, and a small poultry farm under private

ownership (Photo 6).

96. The owner has agreed to allocate part of his land for the pilot KMARP facility on a rental or lease

basis.

97. The planned project intervention at this site is an Injection Well. The site has been selected to test

the ability of a shallow production well adjacent to the river to induce infiltration, partially treat the

river water by drawing the fluid through river gravels and ultimately use that water for MAR at a

deeper well nearby (Figure 6 and Figure 7).

98. An injection borehole, an induced infiltration borehole and a single piezometer will be constructed

at site 6. The total depth of the infiltration borehole will be 70 meters with a design as 18 inch

diameter J55 grade steel casing and torch slotted screens. The drilled diameter of the borehole

should ideally be 24 inches. During construction, it is envisaged that the land take could amount to

16 m2 with a completion foot print of 1 m2.

99. The total depth of the induced infiltration borehole will be 25 meters with a design as 18 inch

diameter J55 grade steel casing and torch slotted screens. The drilled diameter of the borehole

should ideally be 24 inches. During construction, it is envisaged that the land take could amount to

16 m2 with a completion foot print of 1 m2.

100. The induced infiltration well would be pumped with the intention of drawing water from the Kabul

River via river gravels to the pumped well. This flow through river gravels should treat the pumped

water sufficiently for MAR purposes. If this is proven to be the case, the water from the pumped

induced infiltration borehole would be discharged to the deeper injection well located further away

from the river as shown in Figure 7 below.

101. Once every 2 years the boreholes should be plumbed to ensure backfilling has not taken place. If

backfilling has occurred, the boreholes should be cleaned via bailer attached to a percussion

drilling rig.

102. One piezometer will also be constructed at this site with completion using 2 inch diameter

schedule 80 PVC screens and casing. The footprint of the surface expression of the piezometer

would be 30 cm x 30 cm with the piezometer completed flush with ground level.

103. Finally, Photo 7 below presents an example of torch slotted screens used in low budget MAR

boreholes in Arabia. For the pilot KMARP boreholes there will be a requirement for a 10% open

area in the screened section of the boreholes.

FIGURE 6

FIGURE 7

Asian Development Bank

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Photo 6: Proposed injection well location at MAR Site 6, as designated by the arrow

Photo 7: Example of torch slotted screens used in low budget MAR boreholes in Arabia

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5. Description of the Environment

5.1. Physical Resources of Project Area

5.1.1. Climate

104. The Kabul Province is located 1789-1791m above sea level in a narrow valley, wedged between

the Hindu Kush Mountains along the Kabul River. The Project area experiences a semi-arid

climate with precipitation concentrated in the winter and spring months. As described by the Kabul

Municipality, temperatures are relatively cool mainly due to high elevation of the city. Summer has

very low humidity, providing relief from the heat. Autumn features warm afternoons and sharply

cooler evenings. Winters are cold, with a January daily average of −2.3°C. Spring is the wettest time of the year, though temperatures are generally amiable. Sunny conditions dominate year-

round. The annual mean temperature is 12.1°C.

105. The mean annual rainfall fluctuates between 196.7mm and 430.7mm. Precipitation falls mostly in

winter-spring and is about 100-300mm in the many areas. Air humidity varies from 30% in the

summer to 80% in winter. During the period of February-May (3-6 times a month) strong winds

(speed of 15 km/sec and more) occur which cause dust blowing reducing visibility considerably. A

dry and dusty wind (the "Afghani") lasts around 30 hours normally in the summer and

accompanied by lowering of air temperature.

106. December to February is considered winter with cloudy weather with night temperature of -10°С. During this period, precipitation falls following drizzles (3 to 7 days in a month), and there is also

fog and snowfall in some areas.

107. Spring (March-April) is warm with a prevalence of unstable weather. Till the end of March frosts

are still possible. The greatest rainfall amount in a year (6 to 8 days in a month) falls mainly in the

form of downpours in spring. Summer (May-Sept) is hot with clear weather. The hottest months

are June, July, August (temperature of air in the afternoon is 28-35°С), at night 22-25°С. From the middle of August the heat starts gradually to fall down (temperature at night 15-18°С). Precipitation falls very seldom in the summer, and in July and August normally does not occur at all.

5.1.2. Topography

108. Kabul is part of a system of high level basins, the elevation of which varies from 1,500 to 3,600

meters, extends beyond the administrative borders of the present-day province and includes large

parts of the neighboring provinces Parvan and Kapisa on its northern flank. Drained by the Panjser

in the north and the Kabul River in the south, the Kabul-Panjser basin epitomizes a tectonic

depression zone framed by high mountains of old rugged crystalline and metamorphic Paleozoic

rocks6. The mountain ranges surrounding the basin are the southern slopes of the Hindu Kush,

reaching an average altitude of 5,000 meters in the north and east, and the Pagman chain with an

altitude of about 4,000 meters rising to the summit of the Taḵt-e Turkoman (4,696m) in the west

and southwest. The average elevation of the basin ground filled with probable Neogene and

Pleistocene sediments is about 1,800 meters. Having been deeply cut into the terrestrial

6 https://www.adb.org/sites/default/files/project-document/184540/42094-032-EDD-02.pdf

https://www.adb.org/sites/default/files/project-document/184540/42094-032-iee-02.pdf

28

sediments interspersed with layers of clay, marl, and sandstone, the river system carved out deep

and narrow gorges.

109. The basin of Kabul is dominated by the Kabul River and a mountain range running in a northeast-

southwestern direction. Coming from the southwest, the river breaks through the mountain chain

and forms an impressive valley, which narrows further down in the ravine of Deh Mazang between

the Koh-e Asmaʾi (2,110m) in the north and the Koh-e-Ser Darvaza (2,222m) in the south.

110. On its western side the Afghan capital is flanked by the densely populated valley of Cardeh. The

valley is enclosed by the hills running from Absahr to the Sorḵ Kotal in the north; by the Koh-e

Asmaʾi and Koh-e Ser Darvaza in the east; by the Korug Mountain in the south, and in the west by

the Koh-e Cungur and a spur that slopes down from the ridge east of the Sorḵ Kotal.

111. The proposed four Pilot KMAR sites are within these undulating regions.

5.1.3. Geological Characteristics and Soils

112. The geology of the Kabul basin is discussed at length in Volume 2 (Knowledge Base) of

Technical Report 1.

113. The Kabul basin as a whole is a high altitude elongate plateau extending from 34o N in the south

to about 35o 40'N at its northern apex. It is bound on three sides by major active faults whose

movements have resulted in a series of tensional basins, two of which underlie Kabul City and are

contained within the project intervention area. On the west lies the Paghman/Darulman sub-basin,

and on the east lies the Central Kabul sub-basin, separated by a NW trending ridge of ancient

crystalline rocks. The sub-basins represent downthrown blocks (grabens) that were subsequently

filled in with sediment.

114. All of the sub-basins, to some degree, can be described as closed basins, or alternatively

classified as undrained basins. Undrained means that under natural conditions inflows exceed

outflows and groundwater accumulates until levels reach near the surface where water is

discharged through evapotranspiration or through local discharge zones. Both these conditions

have been observed in the past and can be considered as a baseline for groundwater

management purposes. Historical records pre-dating the late 1990's drought show that water

levels of 2-3 meters below the ground surface were common occurrences. The swamps and

marshes that once existed north and west of the airport, exhibiting local discharge, is further

evidence of an undrained basin. In short, these sub-basins can be thought of as independent tanks

with small leaky faucets, with very little linking between them. If this is the case, it has important

implications for groundwater management, particularly strategies pertaining to safe yields and

rates of extraction. The same mitigation interventions in one sub-basin may not be met with equal

success in the other.

115. In general, the soils are formed under arid and semi-arid climatic conditions. Textural classes are

mostly clay loam to sandy loam. Soil pH and calcium carbonate contents are high.

5.1.4. Water Resources

116. The KMARP project area is located in the southern part of Kabul Basin, where the faults have

produced tensional forces that led to the fragmentation of the basin into a series of downthrown

blocks. The number of sub-basins and their names differ among various workers, but the most

29

common convention is to delineate them by hydrological catchments. All the sub-basin boundaries

are characterized by low mountain ranges that play an important role in directing groundwater flow.

117. The major rivers in the area are the Paghman and its tributaries Qarga and Gelkana joining the

Lower Kabul from the west; the Upper Kabul, the Logar, and the Chakari Rivers joining the Lower

Kabul from the south. These rivers maintain an intimate connection with the uppermost

groundwater system and are responsible for a substantial amount of recharge. The rivers carry

significant flow for only about seven months of the year, from November to June, with the Logar

River for a slightly longer period. Because the onset of rain normally approaches from the south,

the Logar, with an elongated southward extending catchment, begins flowing earlier in October.

118. An important thing to note is that in the Project’s assessment of the groundwater system7, the

catchment of the lower Logar River is not considered a separate sub-basin, but lies within the

Central Kabul sub-basin. The southern parts of the Shomali and Deh Sabz sub-basins are also

interpreted to be separate geohydrologic units. The sub-basins for the most part are internally

demarcated by older crystalline rocks, mainly Proterozoic gneisses estimated to be 2.5 billion

years old.

119. Historically, it has been thought that in Kabul there are four aquifers paralleling the major rivers

(the Logar, Upper Kabul, Paghman, and Lower Kabul aquifers), primarily based on the geo-electric

surveys of earlier reports. This simplified concept is challenged by the Project Team in Technical

Report 1. However, for this EDD report this concept will suffice. The location of the aquifers are

shown in Figure 1.

5.1.5. Seismology

120. The project sites are in Hercynian folded region and subjected to Alpine movements8 lies in

seismically active zone but does not lie directly on any fault line of Hindu Kush range.

5.1.6. Air Quality

121. The physical setting of Kabul is in valley at high altitude. Physically it is an environment where

pollutants can't disperse quickly. Kabul's lack of infrastructure, sanitation problems, and recent

population boom has resulted in dangerously high airborne contaminant levels. Levels of individual

hazardous compounds, such as carbon monoxide, lead, nitrogen oxide, and ozone are all

significantly above EPA primary and secondary standards, and levels of particulate matter are

more than 100 percent higher than World Health Organization recommended levels9. The NEPA of

Afghanistan has advised the Kabul residents to wear masks to protect them from particulate

matter.

5.1.7. Noise

122. No measurements of noise level were found for the KMARP Pilot sites. Levels are expected to be

typical of comparable Central Asian settings. Sites 3 and 4. Site 6 is in the city center.

7 See Technical Report 1

8 Processes of intensive folding, orogeny, and granitoid intrusive magmatism,manifested in Paleozoic geosynclines and responsible for fol

ded mountain systems, or Hercynides 9 https://www.adb.org/sites/default/files/project-document/151955/42094-032-EDD-01.pdf

https://www.adb.org/sites/default/files/project-document/151955/42094-032-iee-01.pdf

30

5.1.8. Archaeological, Historical and Cultural Treasures

123. No historical or cultural sites are encountered at Site 3, Site 4 and Site 6.

5.2. Ecological Resources in Project Area

5.2.1. Fisheries

124. In Afghanistan’s mountain rivers, available fish species are Brown trout and Milk fish; these are

basically carp from the family Cyprinidae. However, fishing in the Kabul River has not been

detected within the urban limit.

125. It is observed that fish do not contribute much to the economy of the country and therefore not

much attention is paid to them as aquatic resources. No fish species in Afghanistan are classified

as endangered. No aquaculture or fisheries exist within the KMARP Project area.

5.2.2. Wildlife

126. Afghanistan’s Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) has combined efforts with NEPA to establish

a list of 149 protected species found in Afghanistan. Although there has been extensive research

into types of wildlife and endangered species in Afghanistan, very little data exists specifically for

Kabul.

127. Within the city, the Koli Hashmat Khan reserve serves as a wetland stopping-point for birds that

migrate seasonally between South Asia and Central Asia. 107 species of bird have been recorded

by MAIL, though their numbers are reducing due to poor waste management, water pollution, and

over extraction of phragmite reeds for roof thatch. The United Nations has also declared the area

a protected conservation site and bird sanctuary and is now managed by MAIL and NEPA.

128. At other locations, it is estimated that within the Project area only a limited number of animal

species are present, due to the mainly urban nature of the site surrounds. No surveys have been

undertaken but it is expected that the species present at the Project sites are snakes, lizards and

frogs.

5.2.3. Flora

129. The North of Afghanistan forms part of the center of plant diversity for the mountains of middle

Asia. The northern high lands between 1000‐1500 m have steppe grass lands and low shrubs.

Small areas of Coniferous forest grow at high altitude and the woody plants in the mountainous

areas comprise sparse wild pistachio (Pistachia), almond (Amygdalis) and juniper wood land with

tree heights of 4‐10 meters. Above 3500m only low Alpine flora exists.

130. The available flora of the proposed KMARP Pilot sites and its area of influence is predominantly

scattered home garden vegetation (Site 6); fruits saplings like almond, apricot, plum, quince,

grapes, apples, peach, pear (Site 4); and no vegetation on Site 3.

131. No endangered flora exists in these sites.

5.2.4. Protected Areas

132. The Protected Areas in the country are listed in Table 2.

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Table 2: List of significant protected areas in Afghanistan

Area Habitat Type

Ab-i-Istada Lake

Bande Amir Lakes

Darqad River floodplain

DashteNawar Desert plateau

Hamun-i-Puzak Lake

HariRud Valley

Imam Sahib River floodplain

Jalalabad Valley

Khost Foothills

Koli Hashmat Khan Wetland

North-western steppe Plains

Pamir-i-Buzurg Mountains

Pech and Waygal Valleys

Registan desert Desert

SafedKoh Mountains

SalangKotal Mountains

Small Pamir Mountains, valleys and rivers

133. Pilot MAR Sites 3, 4 and 6 have no protected, sensitive or designated sites within their area of

influence.

5.3. Human and Economic Development

5.3.1. Demography

134. The population of Kabul has fluctuated since the early 1980s to the present period. It was

believed to be around 500,000 in 2001 but then many Afghan expatriates began returning from

Pakistan and Iran where they had taken refuge from the decades of wars. Today, in 2018, the CIA

World Fact book estimates that Kabul's population is a little over 4 million10. It should be noted that

many Afghans from other provinces stay in Kabul on temporary bases, to spend time with relatives

due to fighting or for other reasons.

135. The population of the city reflects the general multi-ethnic and multi-lingual characteristics of

Afghanistan. There is no official government report on the precise ethnic make-up but according to

a map of National Geographic; the population of the city was estimated at 45% Tajiks, 25%

Hazaras, 25% Pashtuns, 2% Uzbeks, 1% Baloch, 1% Turkmen, and 1% Hindu11. Dari (Afghan

Persian) and Pashto are the most widely used languages in the city, although Dari serves as the

10

https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/af.html 11

National Geographic Magazine, 2003

https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/af.html

32

lingua franca. Nearly all the people of Kabul are Muslims, which includes the majority Sunnis and

minority Shias. A small number of Sikhs, Hindus and Christians are also found in the city.

5.3.2. Disease Profile

136. Within Kabul City most neighborhoods lack sanitation and residents frequently face diseases

caused by a lack of cleanliness. Kabul residents now fear polluted groundwater in the sprawling

city is posing a grave threat to their health. Children are the most common victims of water-borne

diseases, which peak in summer. NEPA says that without a remedy to the crisis, all of Kabul’s groundwater will soon become unfit for human consumption. NEPA says septic tanks have

contaminated groundwater 15 meters deep in many Kabul neighbourhoods. The agency says

currently more than 2,000 septic tanks are being dug around the city every year12.

137. The Project has undertaken disease mapping through a social survey around the city with various

health clinics and centers. This work is now completed and is reported on in Volume 2 of Technical

Report 3 (September 2018).

5.3.3. Public Consultation

138. Informal consultation has been undertaken with local people on the project pilot implementation

program. The resettlement due diligence report has found that no persons are affected negatively

by KMARP with a Category C classification at all locations.

139. In general, local people appear to support the project and are in favor of immediate

implementation for enhancing groundwater resources for domestic needs (Appendix 2).

12

Polluted Groundwater Threatens Health in Kabul, Gandhara, Radio Free Afghanistan, 02 August 2017

33

6. Pros and Cons of Proposed Interventions

140. Prior to the Screening of the Environmental Impacts at each site, we present the pros and cons of

the proposed interventions as shown in Table 3.

Table 3: Pros and Cons of Proposed Interventions

Scenario Pros Cons

Do nothing / no

intervention /

existing

situation

There are no benefits for the

existing situation to continue.

There is a negative balance between

recharge and discharge due to low

annual precipitation in the Kabul basin.

Therefore, all surface waters have now

largely disappeared from wetland areas

and rivers are largely made up of

effluent outside of the winter months.

Population growth and continued

groundwater extraction is causing a

rapid reduction in groundwater levels

within the deep aquifer in many parts of

the city.

Within the shallow aquifer,

contamination from soakaways is

causing health issues (see Volume 2 of

Technical Report 3).

There is a likelihood that subsidence is

occurring due to aquifer dewatering

(work ongoing).

Implement pilot

sites 3, 4 and 6

There will be an increase in

groundwater resources with proper

water management.

The technology will demonstrate

the feasibility of MAR for wider

implementation across the city

Help in sustaining permanent or

ephemeral groundwater outflows in

springs and base flow along Kabul

River. This often permits availability

of water all the year round, which is

important when surface water

contribution ceases.

34

Scenario Pros Cons

Help in sustaining of wetlands,

lakes, swamps, bogs and

meadows.

Improving shallow water tables

accessible to perennial plants along

valley floors around lakes, or

elsewhere.

In areas of future MAR, where

shallow groundwater is polluted,

MAR would improve the situation

via dilute and disperse of the

existing poor quality water.

35

7. Screening Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Measures

7.1. Overview

141. This section presents information of the study team's assessment of the issues likely to arise as a

result of implementing KMARP’s pilot MAR sites.

142. The pilot MAR sites are classified as Category C (according to ADB Environmental Guidelines) as

they are likely to have minimal or no adverse environmental impacts. .

7.2. Soils and Geology

7.2.1. Construction period

143. Possible impacts include the minimum loss of top soil, insignificant damage to urban, existing

roads during transportation of construction material and equipment. The construction process will

not remove vegetation, not making upper soil layer susceptible to erosion and runoff. However, the

areas that will be subject to disturbance will be very small, and the potential impacts associated

with the establishment of Injection well; above surface receiving well; Spreading basins, etc. are

not considered significant, provided basic environmental management measures are implemented.

144. The roads will be used for carrying construction materials and equipment, if damaged, they shall

be repaired to their original condition by the contractor after completion of work.

145. Possible impacts also include oil leakage or hazardous material spills from vehicles and/or

equipment. The areas that will be subjected to disturbance will be very small and potential impacts

are considered insignificant. However, implementation of appropriate mitigation measures will

prevent or minimize the impacts.

7.2.2. Operational period

146. During operation, the potential for environmental impacts is insignificant. No severe adverse

impacts identified due to sedimentation, maintenance and use of access roads.

7.2.3. Recommendations

147. In order to minimize the potential of soil excavation/erosion, following mitigation measures are

recommended:

a. Areas disturbed during construction (e.g. excavation for foundation, materials etc.) should be

appropriately rehabilitated.

b. Proper maintenance of vehicles and equipment is recommended to avoid any leakage. Kits to

clean up any spillage should be made available at all construction sites and the contaminated

material should be disposed appropriately.

36

c. A detailed EMP should be compiled by the contractor, outlining site specific measures to be

implemented to minimize impacts on soil and topography.

7.3. Surface Water

7.3.1. Water quality testing on source waters

148. KMARP staff have sampled potential source waters for Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) for

hydrochemical analyses. The locations of both the sampled source waters and the associated

MAR sites are shown in Figure 8.

149. The water samples were analyzed at the DACAAR laboratory in Kabul and the results are

presented in Appendix 3 together with a statistical analysis of results and applicability to EU and

USEPA standards.

150. The results were compared with relevant European Union and United States standards as

surface water acceptable for forage crops as standards shown in Table 4, Table 5 and Table 6.

The sampled water results within the limits of laboratory technology in Kabul meet the USEPA and

EU requirements for forage crops which is also the standard applied to MAR criteria.

151. It should be noted that with respect to E.coli (Faecal Coliform) and the EU standards. One

sample had a count of >250. The class D standard which is still acceptable relates to water with

counts <10,000. The sample was in the range 250 to 1000 but it was too difficult to count the

colonies. Class C relates to counts < 1000.

152. Appendix 3 also includes the derogation clause from EU rules. This relates to high altitude which

is defined as > 1500 metres. This permits lower standards at high altitude. Kabul altitude varies

from 1700m to 2000m. The derogation clause mentions temperature. As the winter temperatures

in Kabul reach – 20oC, the derogation clause is relevant but perhaps not needed as the source

waters meet the required standards.

153. All the suggested MAR source waters naturally infiltrate into the ground along the river

courses. What is being suggested as MAR is merely enhancing that already occurring in nature in

western Kabul.

154. During MAR testing by the project, water quality will be monitored at the point of recharge and at

a point not far away (nearby borehole) to appreciate the difference between the two.

155. Verification of the effectiveness of MAR will include the use of a tracer (Suggest Lycopodium

spores if approved by the Afghan authorities as dye and radioactive tracers are beyond the testing

ability of local laboratories) in the water to see if injected water is also being picked up at nearby

sample testing.

37

Table 4: EU Standards for Forage Crop Waters

38

Table 5: EU Classes of food crops

US EPA Recommended Limits for Constituents in Reclaimed Water for Irrigation

Table 6: Relevant USEPA Standard

")

")

")

")

")

")

Shakardara

Paghman

Dih Sabz

Kabul

Bagrami

Khaki JabbarMusayi

Chahar Asyab

100

101

102

103

104

105

106

142

143

144145

152

153

154

155

156

157

158

159

161

162

163

164

165181

192 193

194

195

196

57

46

28 59

50

55

51

2949

525444

53

56

43

58 48

47

27

26

site 4

site 6

site 5

site 2

site 3

site 1

504800 509800 514800 519800 524800 529800 534800

38

049

00

38

099

00

38

149

00

38

199

00

38

249

00

38

299

00

MAR Sites with Canals and Water Sample Points

Scale

1:140,0000 4.5 9 13.5 182.25Km Map Source: Landell-Mills, DACAAR

Projection: WGS1984Date: 4th Nov 2018

Kabul

¬ Ministry of Energy and Water

Hydrogeology Department

D

Kabul

Managed Aquifer Recharge Project

Legend

") MAR site

Water sample for site 3




Canal

Canal feeding MAR site

Underground canal

River

Lake

Project Intervention Area

Musayi District Name

Water sample number143

FIGURE 8

40


156. Dust generation can also be a problem during dry periods, especially as much of the project sites

are in an urban arid zone. However, the issue of dust is considered to be minimal as it can be

minimized by proper mitigation measures such as spraying of water on any access roads or on

site if required. Waste water will be generated during the construction phase near the camping

facilities provided to workers (for Site 3). No discharge of untreated sewage will be permitted,

septic tanks will be constructed at Site 3 work camp, for other sites, workers will travel from their

respective home.


157. During operation phase the water quality will not be affected by dust or soil erosion; except

surface run-off. However, these impacts will be temporary and insignificant.

7.3.4. Recommendations

158. The following mitigation measures are recommended:

a. Provide sanitary latrines at work site and camps to avoid any pollution of ground water and

surface water from sewage and maintain hygienic environment.

b. A detailed EMP should be compiled by the contractor, outlining site specific measures to be

implemented to minimize impacts on surface water.

7.4. Solid Waste


159. Two types of waste will be generated during the construction phase including debris and

domestic refuse from construction camps (Site 3). Earth work can produce amounts of soil and

unmanaged domestic waste and litter can create unhygienic conditions for workers and

communities in the vicinity.

160. However, it is believed that by following the mitigation measures there will be no adverse impacts.


161. No solid waste should be generated during the operation, except for regular maintenance and

repair work of MAR facilities.

7.4.3. Recommendations:

162. To minimize the potential of unhygienic and un-scenic sights in and around construction area, the

following mitigation measures are recommended:

Any spoil generated by the construction activities should be disposed of at an approved location. For

the temporary storage of excavated earth should be done in a manner to avoid any inconvenience

to the daily activities of the workers and local people.

41

Littering should be prevented by providing adequate number of containers which shall be emptied

on regular basis.

After completion of construction, the site shall be properly cleaned of any construction wastes, litter

etc., and properly rehabilitated.

7.5. Other Impacts

7.5.1. Aquifer storage recovery (ASR)

163. This is a powerful technology for water resources management and environmental protection,

enabling storage deep underground when water is available, for recovery when needed to meet

urban, agricultural, ecosystem, industrial, recreational, emergency and other water uses. Water is

stored in suitable aquifers, or water-bearing formations, forming large subsurface reservoirs that

are safe from losses due to evaporation, transpiration, seepage or contamination.

164. Other recognized benefits include:

Large quantities of water can be stored underground, reducing the need to construct large and

expensive surface reservoirs.

ASR systems are considered to be more environmentally friendly than surface reservoirs.

Aquifer storage offers more protection from tampering than surface storage.

165. The practice may stabilize or reverse declining water levels in an aquifer that has experienced

long-term declines due to heavy pumping (such as in Kabul City).

7.5.2. Contaminants into Aquifers used for Potable Supply

166. The basic environmental concerns related to artificial recharge projects are associated with the

potential for the entry of contaminants into aquifers used for potable supply. However, this issue

will be checked once the pilot projects are operational and water quality will be analyzed

accordingly.

167. Reed beds are being considered for treatment of source waters for Managed Aquifer Recharge at

Koli Hashmat Khan. Reed beds are a popular and sustainable choice for wastewater and sludge

management. Reed bed systems are an effective, sustainable and low maintenance method of

sewage treatment. While aesthetically pleasing to the eye, they require no electricity and, once

matured, provides an ecological habitat for a wide range of species. With the help of common reed

plants, reed beds are used as a method of removing pollutants from greywater.

168. The Common Reeds (Phragmites Australis) transfer oxygen directly from their root systems and

through their stems. The root systems are met by a multitude of micro-organisms with areas of

varying oxygen levels. As a result, the wastewater stored in reed beds is treated and recycled. The

reed bed filters the water just as the conventional biological filter bed systems of sewage treatment

plants.

169. It is worth noting that in the event that the use of reed beds is refused, the project proposes the

use of a reverse osmosis plant to treat the sourced MAR water derived from rivers via canals to

42

the MAR site. This is an expensive alternative and as such the “Pros”13 as listed below for reed

beds must be emphasized:

minimizes solids

reduces water content

minimal day-to-day operation

no requirement of highly trained operators

no mechanical and electrical equipment are needed

pumping not necessary as the system works on gravity

provides sufficient storage time to stabilize biosolids prior to disposal

blowers to aerate are not required as the aeration is facilitated by reeds

170. Unconsolidated sand and gravel aquifers in Kabul at shallow depth usually have intergranular

porosity and contain water primarily under unconfined or water-table conditions. The hydraulic

conductivity of the aquifers is variable, depending on the sorting of aquifer materials and the

amount of silt and clay present, but generally it is high near the Logar and Kabul rivers The

unconsolidated sand and gravel aquifers are susceptible to contamination because of their

generally high hydraulic conductivity and the almost ubiquitous use of soak aways to dispose of

liquid waste (both domestic and petroleum products).

171. Such polluted groundwater is cleansed as it flows through an aquifer via the process14 of 1) Dilute

and disperse and also 2) via natural attenuation.

172. Therefore, the idea of source water being injected into the aquifer and contaminants diluting and

dispersing is expected at the pilot projects.

7.6. Site-Specific Screening

7.6.1. Site 3: Doghabad

173. This is a quarry site adjacent to Kabul River. Table 7 presents possible subjective environmental

impacts during pre-construction, construction, operation and maintenance phases. Likewise, Table

8 focuses on impacts during construction. The Screening Checklist can be found in Appendix 1.

174. The analysis of results indicates that, there will be minimal impacts during the construction period

on land use, waste generation, and localized noise and dust generation. Any temporary impacts

will be mitigated as required.

175. This site will have a positive impact by increasing underground aquifer storage. Soil moisture will

lead to increased vegetation growth. There is no need for tree cutting by the project, no families

will suffer and none lose their agriculture land, houses and structures. Additionally there will not be

any adverse impacts on public assets/structures such as mosques, clinic, schools, irrigation

sources and natural resources.

13

Reed Bed, A Green Waste Treatment Option 14

Natural Attenuation of Aromatic Hydrocarbons in a Shallow Sand Aquifer

43

176. Therefore, the work at Site 3 is classified as Category C as it is likely to have minimal or no

adverse environmental impacts.

Table 7: Environmental and Social Impacts Screening Matrix at Site 315

Environmental Components

Physical Biological Social and Socioeconomic

Aspects

Physical Activities

Lan

d u

se

So

il E

rosio

n

Su

rfac

e /G

rou

nd

Wate

r

Air

Qu

ality

an

d D

ust

Waste

gen

era

tio

n

Flo

ra

Fau

na

Lan

d a

cq

uis

itio

n

Ag

ricu

ltu

re / F

arm

ing

Healt

h a

nd

Safe

ty

Pre

ss

ure

on

Pu

blic

Uti

liti

es

Pu

blic In

frastr

uctu

res

No

ise a

nd

Vib

rati

on

s

Cu

ltu

ral

Pro

pe

rtie

s

Arc

ha

eo

log

ical

He

rita

ge

Gen

der

Issu

es

Pre-Construction Phase

0 N +2 N N +1 N N +2 N -1 N N N N 0

Construction Phase

-1 N -1 0 -1 0 N N 0 N -1 N 0 N N 0

Operation and Maintenance Phase

N N N N N +2 N N +2 0 N N N N N 0

Key: -2=High Negative Impact; -1=Low Negative Impact; 0=insignificant/Negligible impact; +2=High

Positive Impact; +1=Low Positive Impact; N=No Impact

Table 8: Impacts during Construction at Site 316

No Consequences of project activities

Potential impacts

Suitable mitigation

Remark

1 Trees cutting No - In this site no need for tree cutting

2 Agriculture Land No - This site is located in a private land, not for any agricultural use.

3 Borrow pit No - No need for borrow pit

15

Source: Field Survey, 16 April 2018 16

Source: Analysis of Field Survey, 16 April 2018

44


Potential impacts

Suitable mitigation

Remark

4 Land acquisitions No - No need for Land acquisitions. They will contract with land owner as per monthly payment.

5 Erosion No - Project construction work will not cause any soil erosion and sliding

6 Spills/leaks

Producing of hazardous materials, oil spills and work side accidents

Yes

All fuel and chemical storage (if any) shall be sited on an impervious base within a bund and secured by fencing. The storage area shall be located away from any watercourse or wetlands.

7 Noise

Yes Yes

Noise will be generated during construction, but no settlements are located nearby. Additionally, work will only be carried out during normal working hours

8 Resettlement

No - No need for resettlement

9 Air quality

Yes Yes For dust control on the construction activities will require watering for dust control

10 Water quality

No - Kabul River is adjacent to this site but during construction time construction best practice will be followed to prevent any water pollution

11 Common properties and infrastructures No -

In this site no common properties and infrastructures available

12

Construction activities (waste generation)

Minor Yes

Improper disposal of construction wastes may lead to soil contamination in surrounding environment. Waste will be collected and dumped at designated place determined by the Municipality and NEPA.

13 Contaminated materials No -

No contaminated materials located on-site (e.g., asbestos, lead-based paint, underground storage tanks, chemical storage containers) that will require removal prior to construction

14 Threatened/ endangered species

No -

No threatened/endangered species or species of concern and their critical habitat are within the project area , hence, no special provisions or measures required to avoid, minimize, or mitigate direct and indirect species impacts

45


Potential impacts

Suitable mitigation

Remark

15 Buildings on the site

No - No building on site is located within 0.5 km radius of a local, state, or district

16 Archaeological artifacts

No - No archaeological artifacts, cultural resources, or human remains on or located within a 0.5 km radius of the site

17 Tribal lands, Traditional Cultural Properties

No - No tribal lands, traditional cultural properties, or other resources (e.g., traditional fishing areas) are located on or adjacent to the subject site.

46

7.6.2. Site 4: Badam Bagh

177. Table 9 presents possible subjective environmental impacts during pre-construction, construction

operation and maintenance phases. Likewise, Table 10 focuses on impacts during construction.

The Screening Checklist can be found in Appendix 1.

178. The KMARP Pilot located in this Badam Bagh research farm is expected to have a positive

impact to the farm and associated hinterland in expanding water storage in the underground

aquifer, accelerating water transmissibility, and retaining soil moisture, increasing cropping

intensity.



will be mitigated as required.

180. Furthermore, this site will have more positive impacts by increasing underground water level and

also available soil moisture will increase vegetation growth and survival rate. . There is no need for

tree cutting by the project, no families will suffer and none lose their agriculture land, houses and

structures. Additionally there will not be any adverse impacts on public assets/structures such as

mosques, clinic, schools, irrigation sources and natural resources.



47

Table 9: Environmental and Social Impacts Screening Matrix at Site 417

Environmental Components

Physical Biological Social and Socioeconomic Aspects

Physical Activities

Lan

d u

se

So

il E

rosio

n

Su

rfac

e /G

rou

nd

Wate

r q

uality

Air

Qu

ality

an

d D

ust

Waste

gen

era

tio

n

Flo

ra

Fau

na

Lan

d a

cq

uis

itio

n

Ag

ricu

ltu

re / F

arm

ing

Healt

h a

nd

Safe

ty

Pre

ssu

re o

n P

ub

lic U

tiliti

es

Pu

blic In

frastr

uctu

res

No

ise a

nd

Vib

rati

on

s

Cu

ltu

ral

Pro

pe

rtie

s

Arc

ha

eo

log

ical

He

rita

ge

Gen

der

Issu

es

Pre-Construction Phase

0 N +2 N N +1 N N +2 N -1 N N N N 0

Construction Phase

-1 N -1 0 -1 0 N N 0 N -1 N 0 N N 0

Operation and Maintenance Phase

N N N N N +2 N N +2 0 N N N N N 0

Key: -2=High Negative Impact; -1=Low Negative Impact; 0=insignificant/Negligible impact +2=High

Positive Impact; +1=Low Positive Impact; N=No Impact

Table 10: Impacts during Construction at Site 418


Potential impacts

Suitable mitigation

Remark

1 Trees cutting No - In this site no need for tree cutting

2 Agriculture Land Yes – positive -

This site is located on government land. This is an agricultural farm, the project will enhance agricultural activities by raising local water levels.

17

Source: Field Survey, 19 April 2018 18

Source: Analysis of Field Survey, 19 April 2018

48


Potential impacts

Suitable mitigation

Remark

3 Borrow pit No - No need for borrow pit

4 Land acquisitions No - No need for Land acquisitions.

5 Erosion No - Project construction work will not adversely impact by soil erosion and sliding

6 Spills/leaks

Yes (Producing of hazardous materials, oil spills and work side accidents)

Yes

All fuel and chemical storage (if any) shall be sited on an impervious base within a bund and secured by fencing. No watercourse or wetlands are located around this site.

7 Noise

Yes Yes

Temporary construction noise will not affect any people. The site is out from residential area. Additionally, work will only be carried out during normal working hours

8 Resettlement

No - No need for resettlement

9 Air quality

Yes Yes For dust control on the construction activities sufficient watering will be performed.

10 Water quality

No - Adjacent to this site, no river, irrigation canal, stream are located. Therefore, no negative impact on water quality

11 Common properties and infrastructures No - Not applicable for this site.

12 Construction activities (waste generation) Yes Yes

Improper disposal of construction wastes may lead to soil contamination in surrounding environment. Waste will be collected and dumped at designated place determined by the Municipality and NEPA.

13 Contaminated materials

No -

No contaminated materials located on-site (e.g., asbestos, lead-based paint, underground storage tanks, chemical storage containers) that will require removal prior to construction.

14 Threatened/endangered species

No -

No threatened/endangered species or species of concern and their critical habitat are within the project area, hence, no special provisions or measures required to avoid,

49


Potential impacts

Suitable mitigation

Remark

minimize, or mitigate direct and indirect species impacts.

15 Buildings on the site No - No building on site is located within 0.5 km radius of a local, state, or district.

16 Archaeological artifacts No - No archaeological artifacts, cultural resources, or human remains on or located within a 0.5 km radius of the site

17 Tribal lands, Traditional Cultural Properties

No -

No tribal lands, traditional cultural properties, or other resources (e.g., traditional fishing areas) are located on or adjacent to the subject site.

50

7.6.3. Site 6: Makroyan e-4

182. Table 11 presents possible subjective environmental impacts during pre-construction,

construction, operation and maintenance phases. Likewise, Table 12 focuses on impacts during

construction. The Screening Checklist can be found in Appendix 1.



will be mitigated as required. The seasonal vegetable garden, nursery bed and associated

vegetation, will require removal and replantation at an adjacent area within this territory, but the

area effected will be small.

184. No destruction of existing water canals and structures will be required. The generation and

handling of construction and other waste, and health and safety of construction workers will be

carefully addressed following the EMP. Mitigation measures will be taken to minimize the

temporary impacts following environmental best practice.



technical assistance consultant’s report...105. the mean annual rainfall fluctuates between...

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