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UTTAR PRADESH Pro-poor Tourism Development Project

Request for Expression of Interest

For Visitor/Interpretation Center and parking rehabilitation at the West Gate of the Taj Mahal

Terms of Reference

1. Project Background The state of Uttar Pradesh is home to some of India’s most iconic tangible and intangible assets and is India’s biggest tourist draw, attracting 155 million domestic and 1.8 million international tourists out of 748 million domestic and 6.2 million international tourists visiting India in 2011, contributing a total of US$ 6 billion to the state’s economy. Paradoxically, despite such staggering numbers, Uttar Pradesh remains India’s third most lagging state, with a 37.7 percent poverty rate. Moreover, the economic and service delivery benefits of the tourism sector have had little trickle-down effect in the state in general, and in the communities adjacent to cultural assets in particular. Many of the state’s most recognized assets are home to or surrounded by some of the poorest communities, and the assets themselves fact great threats as a result of, for instance, limited institutional capacities and lack of coordinated management. The Uttar Pradesh Pro-Poor Tourism Development Project (the Project) aims to address this paradox by unlocking the potential of the unique heritage of Uttar Pradesh through pro-poor tourism development for inclusive growth and poverty reduction in asset-rich but lagging areas of the state. Ultimately, the Project is expected to improve living standards, create job opportunities and promote thriving local enterprises among the poor communities living in the Buddhist Circuit, the Braj region and the city of Agra, while protecting the state’s unique heritage through a restructured tourism sector. To this end, the Project will provide Uttar Pradesh with the necessary policies, approaches, capacities and infrastructure to help structure its tourism economy using a pro-poor approach. The Project aims at: (i) increasing the benefits to the state’s residents and its poor through the provision of jobs and public services to some of the poorest communities in the state living in heritage rich but lagging areas, (ii) enhancing the management of the State’s unique natural and cultural assets as endogenous sources of inclusive growth, and (iii) enabling productive private investments and associated job creation opportunities especially to the youth and women. The Project is aligned with India’s 12th Five-Year Plan, which stresses pro-poor tourism as a priority aimed at increasing the net benefits to the poor and at ensuring that tourism growth contributes to job creation, particularly for poor female and young workers, and ultimately to poverty reduction. The Government of Uttar Pradesh shares this vision and is currently updating its 2002 Tourism

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Development Policy, prioritizing the Buddhist Circuit, Agra and the Braj region as drivers for the socioeconomic development of the state. The Project has four proposed components: (i) destinations planning, management, branding and promotion, (ii) development of new tourist products in the selected destinations, (iii) support to livelihoods and local creative economy, and (iv) project management. 2. Consultancy Motivation Taj Mahal in Agra has three entry gates i.e., West gate, East gate and South gate. The busiest is the west gate which handles 60-70% of total visitor volume, while the south gate is mostly unknown and the east gate is mainly used by foreigners. The majority of domestic tourists (about 5 million in 2014) mostly access the monument through the west gate, resulting in queues of several hours for Indian ticket holders specially. During high season and weekends, the west gate handles between 20,000 and 80,000 people visiting the monument. There is no formal system in place to reroute visitors to less crowded gates. The west gate conditions are very poor. Its parking area (3 acres) is crowded with vehicles, camel cars, golf carts, three wheelers, and people meandering altogether. Tourist facilities are not existent, inadequate or in poor conditions. At the west gate itself, there are no waiting areas or seating at and near checkpoints, so visitors congregate in security area, on stairs or in entry path, impairing entry and egress. Tour group members wait for remaining members to clear security, particularly females who often clear security faster but then have to wait up to 30 minutes for males in their party who are still in the queue. In order to ensure high quality visitation to the Taj Mahal, India’s prime tourist attraction, there is an urgent need to rehabilitate the entire west gate and its facilities. There is also a need to provide additional tourist facilities, including interpretation of the monument prior to the visitation. The provision of these tourist facilities and parking facility at the west gate of Taj Mahal is part of the improvement/development of tourist products proposed under the Project. To this end, the State Department of Tourism, GoUP, requires the services of an expert firm to carry out the necessary assessments and studies and accordingly prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the construction of Tourist Visitor/Interpretation Center and rehabilitation of the parking area and to supervise the implementation of the DPR. 3. Consultancy Objectives The objectives of the consultancy services are:

i. To carry out all necessary socioeconomic and cultural property assessments as well as historical research and tourist flows analysis to inform the DPR preparation.

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ii. To prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR), including detailed drawings and all relevant engineering specifications for the construction of tourist visitor/interpretation center and parking facility at the west gate of Taj Mahal at Agra.

ii. To supervise the execution of the proposed works, including monitoring, quality assurance, contract management and furnishing technical decisions, verification of quantity, recording of measurement, certifications of measurement and bills of the Contractor. The Consultancy services shall necessarily include ensuring successful and timely completion of construction works and related safeguards activities.

4. Scope of Work and Outputs

i. Background studies and assessments

Site survey and baseline map will include an in situ detailed reconnaissance survey of the area/site identified for the subproject. The survey should assess: (i) the current status of the tourist infrastructure at all gates of the Taj Mahal including tourist facilities, volume and flows through each gate, management and land ownership of parking and surrounding areas, as well as the current gaps in terms of tourist infrastructure/facilities at each gate with a special attention to the west gate; and (ii) the surrounding communities (within 500 meters minimum of each gate) and their socioeconomic linkages with the monument.

Output: Updated physical, social, cultural and ecological

profile and updated baseline information of Taj Mahal gates.

Historical research. The consultancy will carry out a historical research of the area to examine historical events, physical patterns of development, conservation features, urban morphology and elements in order to orient the preparation of the DPR’s drawings and physical interventions. The historical research will also inform the content of the interpretation center for the Taj Mahal.

Stakeholder mapping and consultations. Based on the two previous activities, the consultancy will map and identify with local stakeholders and communities, including those likely to influence, contribute and be affected by the proposed interventions under the subproject, their suggestions, insights and concerns for the DPR detailing. The consultancy will ensure that all stakeholder mapping and consultations both take a gender-sensitive approach and consider the views/needs of youth. The DPR should also identify and suggest measures to ensure that those who may be potentially affected have access to subproject benefits both from its implementation to the maintenance and operation phase.

Output: Stakeholder map and consultations minutes.

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Definition of preliminary scope of work will be based on the findings of all prior research, data collection and consultations, and will detail the exact activities and works to be financed by the subproject. The details of preliminary proposed scope of work as well as salient findings will be discussed with the key stakeholders including inter alia the State Department of Tourism, GoUP, authorities, ULBs, Gram Panchayats (if available), State Department of Forestry, ASI, tourism agencies, local experts, local communities, tourists, and local businesses

Output: Detailed scope of work, design approach

Institutional and economic feasibility studies will be carried out in order to inform the operation and maintenance of the subproject’s facilities and infrastructure after execution.

Output: Operation and maintenance plan

ii. Environmental and social screening and analysis

Environmental and social screening and analysis of the proposed

works will be carried out in conformity with the Project’s ESMF, including assessment of the nature and extent of potential environmental, social (gender disaggregated), economic and cultural impacts (if any) and risks associated with the proposed subproject,. The consultancy will use the screening checklist and templates given in the ESMF. The analysis will assess, but will not be limited to: Solid waste Sewerage Drinking water supply Existing forest areas and alike Water bodies Local community livelihoods and uses of site Potential need for resettlement Specific impacts on women and/or youth The value and integrity of concerned monuments and historic

sites

The analysis will also identify any adverse impact due to proposed interventions such as loss of immovable assets, natural habitats, livelihood or sources of livelihood or any other negative impact, including quantification of impacts and specific mitigation measures in line with the Project’s ESMF. Based on the degree of impacts, if required, an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) and Resettlement Action Plan (RAP) shall be prepared along with the DPR. The Consultant may also prepare a Gender Action Plan (GAP) and/or a Physical Cultural Resources Management Plan

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(PCRMP) if deemed necessary during the impact assessment, according to the provisions of the ESMF.

Output: Social and environmental screening, analysis, risks

identification, opportunities and benefits identification, as well as safeguards plans and strategies for rehabilitation, mitigation and management plans, where necessary.

iii. DPR preparation:

Micro detailing of all architectural, engineering, civil, conservation and rehabilitation works to be financed under the subproject, including special design and materials to be used. The micro detailing should be sensitive to the history and significance of Agra history, the Taj Mahal and its surrounding sociocultural, economic and ecological features as previously identified through the historical research, site survey and consultations. Key aspects to be detailed include, inter alia: Tourist Visitor/Interpretation Centre Multi modal parking facilities Landscaping, signage and street furniture Any other facility as required

The micro detailing may lead to tailor specifications in terms of design, materials and workforce for the later execution of works given the historical setting. Special attention should also be given to appropriate technologies and techniques and local materials for ease maintenance and operation of the facilities financed under the subproject.

The consultancy will also include all relevant soft aspects aimed at sustainable management and maintenance of the works and their surroundings, within the DPR preparation. Such aspects may include, inter alia: economic linkages with local communities long-term maintenance and management strategy any required training programs branding and promotion

Output: Site plans, schematic conceptual drawings

Cost estimates including detailed specifications will be provided for all the proposed works and activities. The capital and operational costs will be estimated based on the subproject specifications.

Output: Detailed cost estimates for all proposed works and

activities.

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Detailed execution action plan. The plan will be prepared as per Government of Uttar Pradesh, World Bank and Standard Procurement Manual of the Department; along with tender specifications, tender drawings, and bill of quantities (BOQ) etc. complete. It will include timeframe, responsible agencies, monitorable schedule of implementation and indicators pert chart and management plan covering all stages of the implementation process to ensure coordination and minimization of disruption for the general public; IEC and capacity building components; training requirements; and community participation.

Output: Detailed execution action plan for all investments.

iv. Supervision:

Construction drawings. The contractor will detail the construction drawings under the technical supervision of the consultancy, and suggest modifications if required. The consultancy will assess the construction and/or rehabilitation methods proposed by the contractor to ensure they are satisfactory and in line with the proposed design approach and schematic drawings, their technical requirements, project implementation schedule and environmental, social, gender, physical cultural resources aspects, as well as safety of works, personnel and the general public. Regular observation of the contractor’s equipment, machinery, installations, etc. should also be conducted to ensure they are adequate and in accordance with the terms and conditions of the contract.

Monitoring and recording of all works. The consultancy will observe all works to ensure that the DPR is adhered to, and will ensure modifications in case of deviations. The consultancy will be responsible for testing, measuring and quality assurance of all materials and works in progress, and maintaining accurate records of all data, including any necessary modifications.

Supervision of closing of works. Once works are nearing

completion, the consultancy will observe works and indicate to the SPCU/TSU any outstanding work to be carried out by the contractor. The Consultant will certify “as constructed” drawings for each component of the works, ensure satisfactory “closing” of works sites, and ensure that all requirements and standards have been met. The consultancy will also be responsible for preparing an Operation and Maintenance Manual for any built assets, in collaboration with the contractor(s).

Any other assignment as requested by the DoT.

Output: Completed regular field observation checklists, including recommended improvements/modifications where necessary; complete records of tests, measurements, etc.

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5. Other Related Tasks and Responsibilities

Submission and approval of the DPR: The consultancy will make a comprehensive presentation on the overall recommendations of the DPR to the Department of Tourism, Uttar Pradesh, District Officials and the GoUP, and other state, local or central agencies, as identified in the stakeholder mapping and required. The DPR will then be finalized including any revisions in costs based on suggestions received.

Securing clearance from appropriate authority: The consultancy

will assist the Department of Tourism, GoUP, in obtaining necessary permissions and clearances from competent authorities to implement the proposals made in the DPR.

Mobilizing resources for timely execution: After acceptance of

consultants’ program by client, the consultancy will be fully responsible to mobilize the resources required to maintain the agreed schedule of work within the total person months agreed under the contract for the services. In case of any delays, which are not beyond the control of consultants, the client reserves the right to require the consultancy to provide additional resources and personnel as may be required to make up the lost time, for which no additional payment shall be made. During execution of contract, the expert or person who is not found able to deliver or perform as per the expectation of the client, which is supposed to be within his control, shall be demobilized by the consultancy with immediate effect and his replacement arranged with prior approval of the client.

Familiarity with Project documentation: For all key tasks, the consultancy should be familiar with the key Project documents, including the Environmental and Social Management Framework, the Operation Manual, a any relevant Management Plans stemming from safeguards screening, and related documents.

6. Deliverables

i. Work Plan including methodology of work, team and output based timeline of assignment delivery.

ii. Reconnaissance Report (RR)including all findings and minutes from the background studies and assessments (including preliminary physical, social, cultural and ecological profile of the subproject area) as well as complete social and environmental screening and analysis, as per the ToR.

iii. Design Approach and Draft DPR: The DPR should include design approach, site plans and micro detailing of any architectural, engineering drawings and of soft components; EMP/RAP/GAP as required; detailed cost estimates for all proposed interventions; and a

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detailed O&M and execution action plan for all investments, as per the ToR.

iv. Final DPR incorporating all comments from the major stakeholders.

v. Regular supervision reporting before, during and after works: Completed regular field observation checklists, including recommended improvements and/or modifications, complete records of tests, measurements, progress reports, etc.

vi. Disclosure. The consultancy shall assist the client in disclosing the

satisfactory DPRs and Management Plans in compliance with the

safeguard policies of the World Bank and GoI regulations.

All deliverables must be satisfactory to the GoUP and the World Bank.

Deliverables Time frame Work Plan Within 2 weeks of contract signature Reconnaissance Report Within 8 weeks of contract signature Design Approach and Draft DPR Within 12 weeks of contract signature Final DPR Within 24 weeks of contract signature

7. Consultancy Qualifications The consultancy firm should comprise a multi-disciplinary team for the assignment with proven, successful experience in:

Proven experience in implementing similar urban revitalization project development

Capacity to coordinate and supervise complex assignments as well as deliver high quality products maintaining a tight work schedule is critical.

Proven experience in design of visitor center/parking complexes in historic areas/cities

Proven experience in urban design, project development and construction of commercial complexes and alike in India and/or abroad

Proven experience in data collection and analysis as well as problem

conceptualization and their translation into practical recommendations for

subproject appraisal and implementation.

Proven experience in qualitative analysis as well as participatory methods

is also essential.

Capacity to convene sectoral agencies and experts for developing an

integrated and socially sensitive approach to destination development

planning.

Knowledge of World Bank safeguards policies is an advantage.

Excellent communication skills and proven capacity to engage with

relevant infrastructure, heritage, environment and culture related

government and expert agencies in India preferably.

The project manager/team leader should have minimum 20 years of experience in successful similar assignments and other core team members/core

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teamshould have a minimum of 10years experience. A suggested list of experts is provided below:

Suggested Minimum Team and Specialities No. Project Manager / Team Leader 1 Heritage Conservation / Urban Landscape 1 Urban Planner / Urban Design 2 Tourism development 1 Civil Engineer (Building and heritage tourism related projects) 1

Sewerage, Drainage and Solid Waste Management 1

Social Development 2 Public Health 1 Environmental Management 1 Others

The core consultancy team will be evaluated on the basis of their qualifications and working experiences in these fields of work on earlier successfully completed assignments. Investment capabilities will be assessed based on the current business turnovers for the last 3 years and net worth computed. Last 3 year’s turnover (Audited Balance Sheets, for the relevant years should be enclosed). 8. Compliance with Regulatory Requirements The assignment must be conducted in accordance with relevant environmental, social and cultural/heritage laws, regulations, and any other requirements of the Government of India (GoI) and the Government of Uttar Pradesh (GoUP). On Resettlement & Rehabilitation (R&R) issues, the assignment will take into account the provisions of the National LA and R&R Act 2013.

It must also address the cultural resources, environmental and social requirements of the World Bank as outlined in its relevant safeguard policies triggered by the Project and proposed project.

9. Confidentiality All information, data and documents provided to the consultants by the client or developed by the consultants in the course of performing the services under this TOR shall be treated by the consultants as confidential and shall not be published or disclosed to any third party without the prior written approval of the client. 10. Intellectual property rights All intellectual property rights of information, data, reports etc. pertaining to the task shall remain with the World Bank and Department of Tourism, GoUP.

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11. Support from GoUP The consultancy will be extended full support from the State Tourism Department, GoUP, through its designated representatives, regarding access to basic available data and information relevant to the preparation of the documents as well as to key agencies and other stakeholders. The consultancy will also be extended advisory support from the World Bank on its policies and the project, as appropriate. However, it is the sole responsibility of the qualified expert consultancy to contact the identified stakeholders, gather the necessary information, synthesize and analyze it as well as prepare all the assignment deliverables satisfactory to the GoUP and the World Bank. 12. Submission of Proposals The hardcopy of the Expression of interest should be in a single sealed envelope, clearly marked as “EOI for Visitor/Interpretation Center and parking rehabilitation at the West Gate of the Taj Mahal in Agra, U.P. under UP Pro Poor Tourism Development Project" from<<Bidder Name>>”. The envelope shall indicate the name and address of the bidder to enable the proposal to be returned unopened in case it is declared "late.” It shall contain no interlineation or overwriting, except as necessary to correct errors made by the bidder itself. Any such corrections must be initialed by the person (or persons) who sign(s) the proposals. All pages of the proposal must be sequentially numbered and shall be initialed by the Authorized Representative of the bidder. 13. The attention of interested agency is drawn to paragraph 1.9 of the World

Bank’s Guidelines: Selection and Employment of Consultants [under IBRD Loans

and IDA Credits & Grants] by World Bank Borrowers “Consultants Selection

Guidelines of the World Bank dated January 2011” (“Consultant Guidelines”),

setting forth the World Bank’s policy on conflict of interest. "The Guidelines are

available at www.worldbank.org/procure."

14. A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Quality and Cost

based System (QCBS) method set out in the Consultant Guidelines.

15. Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours i.e. 10.00 to 17.00 hours. 16. Venue and Deadline for submission

a. Proposals must be received at the address specified below before by not later than 03.00 PM on 16th November 2015 at below mentioned address:

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Director General, Tourism, Govt. Of U.P., Paryatan Bhawan, C-13

(4th Floor), VipinKhand, Gomti Nagar, Lucknow-226010.

b. Any proposal received by the Department of UP Tourism after the above

deadline shall be rejected and returned unopened to the bidder.

c. The bids submitted by telex/telegram/ fax/e-mail etc. shall not be considered. No correspondence will be entertained on this matter.

d. Department of UP Tourism shall not be responsible for any postal delay or non-receipt/ non-delivery of the documents. No further correspondence on the subject will be entertained.

e. Notwithstanding anything contained in this Document, the Authority reserves the right to accept or reject any Proposal and to annul the Selection Process and reject all Proposals, at any time without any liability or any obligation for such acceptance rejection or cancellation.

f. Department of UP Tourism reserves the right to modify and amend any of the above-stipulated condition/criterion depending upon project priorities vis-à-vis urgent commitments.

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Information to be submitted along with EOI

Submission Requirements 1. Organizational: Provide a brief description of the background and organization of your

agency/entity. The brief description should include ownership details, date and place of incorporation of the agency, objectives of the firm etc

Brief Data Sheet of the Agency

Sl. No.

Particulars To be filled up by the Agency along

with supporting documents

1 Name of Agency and address of registered office

2 Registration No. & Date: (Please attach Registration Certificate)

3 Year of incorporation

4 Total number of years of Experience from the incorporation of the Firm.

Agency’s experience

Sl. No.

Name of Assignment

Nature of Assignment

Name of the Client

Duration Brief Details Contract Value Rs. (lakhs)

Use separate sheets if space provided is not sufficient