Environmental Management Plan (Pre-Construction)

Transcription

1 Environmental Management Plan (Pre-Construction) Upper Kotmale Hydropower Project Parsons Brinckerhoff 348 Edward Street Brisbane Qld 4000 GPO Box 2907 Brisbane Qld 4001 Australia Telephone: Facsimile: brisbane@pb.com.au ABN NCSI Certified Quality System to ISO9001 Parsons Brinckerhoff Australia Pty Limited ACN and Parsons Brinckerhoff International (Australia) Pty Limited ACN trading as Parsons Brinckerhoff ABN March 2004 r

2 Environmental Management Plan (Pre-construction) Contents Page Number 1. Introduction Environmental Management Process and Responsibilities Statutory Requirements Environmental Management and Sub-Plans Documentation and Review of Environmental Management Plan (Pre-construction) References... List of Tables List of Figures Annexes Annex 1: (A) National Environmental Act No. 47 of 1980 (B) National Environmental (Amended) Act No. 56 of 1988 (C) National Environmental (Amended) Act No. 53 of 2000 Annex 2: Pollution Control Regulations: (A) National Environmental (Protection and Quality) Regulations No. 1 of 1990 Gazette (Extraordinary) No 595/16 dated 02 nd February (B) 1 st Amendment to National Environmental (Protection and Quality) Regulations No. 1 of 1990 (Amendments to include Hazardous Waste Management) (C) Gazette (Extra Ordinary) No. 924/13 dated 23 rd May nd Amendment to National Environmental (Protection and Quality) Regulations No. 1 of 1990 and List of activities for which Environmental Protection Licence (EPL) is required Gazette (Extra Ordinary) No 1159/22 dated 22 nd November (D) National Environment (Ambient Air Quality) Regulations, 1994 Gazette (Extraordinary) No 850/14 dated 20 th December (E) National Environment (Noise Control) Regulations No. 1 of 1996 Gazette (Extraordinary) No 924/12 dated 23 rd May Page i

3 Environmental Management Plan (Pre-construction) Contents (continued) Page Number (F) National Environment (Air Emission, Fuel and Vehicle Importation Standards) Regulations No. 1 of 2000 Gazette (Extraordinary) No 1295/11 dated 30 th June Annex 3: Interim Standards and Guidelines: (A) Proposed Source Specific Atmospheric Emission Standards for New and Modified Stationery Sources.. (B) Proposed General Atmospheric Emission Standards for Stationery Sources (C) Proposed Vibration Standards for Sri Lanka 2002 (D) Proposed Ambient Water Quality Standards for Sri Lanka (E) Proposed Guidelines for Incinerators. (F) Guidelines for Natural Resources Extraction. Annex 4: National Environmental (Upper Kotmale Hydropower Project Monitoring) Regulations No.1, 2003 of April 10,2003. \ Page ii

4 - 1. Introduction 1.1 Project History The development of the Upper Kotmale Hydropower Project Began in 1968 with the preparation of a master plan for hydroelectric development in the Mahaweli Basin. The concepts in the master plan were further studied in 1985 when the Government of Japan funded a feasibility study to examine Hydropower options in the Upper Kotmale Area. Five sites were examined in the feasibility study and the report concluded that two sites were technically and economically feasible. The two sites were a reservoir type development at Caledonia and a run of river project at Talawakelle. The project at Caledonia had a cheaper estimated construction cost but involved the displacement of 2500 families and had a much lower generating capacity than the Upper Kotmale Hydropower Project (UKHP). The UKHP was therefore selected as the preferred option. I993 and 1994 saw the preparation and publication of an environmental impact statement, which identified that the key issues associated with the UKHP as resettlement, impacts on waterfall aesthetics and maintenance of flows over the falls. The committee evaluating the proposal recommended that further work be required to address a number of significant environmental issues associated with the UKHP proposal. Further work was undertaken to develop suitable mitigation options for the impacts and extensive consultation and review of the work was undertaken. However, due to several unanticipated reasons, the implementation of the project got delayed. In march 2000, the then Secretary of the Ministry of Forestry and Environment issued an order in terms of the National Environmental Act to allow the CEB to implement the project, subject to the strict adoption of the proposed mitigatory measures in the EIA report. This decision was further strengthen and implementation of mitigatory measures was set into the law in April 2003 by the Gazetting of the National Environmental (Upper Kotmale Hydro-power Project Monitoring) Regulations No Project Description The UKHP consists of a number of components, these include: A dam located close to the town of Talawakelle with a height of 35.5m and a crest length of 180m. It will have an effective storage capacity of 0.8MCM and create a reservoir with an area of 0.25km 2. A headrace tunnel 5.2m in diameter, running north from the dam towards the Pundal Oya Falls before turning to the northwest towards the existing Kotmale dam and reservoir. The maximum gross head between the reservoir and the powerhouse will be 491m. A number of additional intakes to augment flow from the dam with flows diverted from other watersheds. These include two intakes from the Devon Oya to supply additional flow into the Talawakelle intake dam, and four intakes from the Puna Oya and the Pundal Oya feeding into the headrace tunnel to the east of the penstock. A surge tank located on the crest of the hill above the powerhouse. Page 1

5 - An underground powerhouse located at the eastern end of the Kotmale reservoir. The powerhouse will generate 150MW from two 75MW units. A downstream surge chamber and tailrace tunnel that will discharge into the existing Kotmale reservoir. The construction phase of the project will also include the following: Improvements to existing roads and construction of new roads. The building of transmission lines and switchyards. Infrastructure to support the project during the construction phase including campsites and equipment yards. Preparation of resettlement sites. The general layout of the project is shown on Figure 1. Page 2

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7 - 2. Environmental Management Process Project Team Structure The proponent for the UKHP is the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) who has appointed J- Power to act as consultant engineer for the project. The successful contractor will also be appointed by CEB, and the contractor will be answerable to both CEB and J-Power. CEB have established a Project Management Office (PMO) to co-ordinate the pre-construction, construction and commissioning of the project. An Environmental Management Office (EMO) has also been established and will form part of the PMO. The EMO will be staffed by an Environmental Management Specialist and Social Impact Specialist from J-Power and Environment and Resettlement Officers from CEB. The contractor will be required to work with and report on environmental issues to the EMO. The contractor will be required to appoint an Environmental Representative who will be the primary point of contact for all environmental issues. Environmental Management Plans The mechanism through which the various mitigation measures will be introduced and monitored will be through the implementation of the project environmental management system and the various environmental management plans. The key document will be the UKHP Environmental Management Plan. This will be the source document for all environmental issues relating to the UKHP during the design, construction, operation and maintenance of the project. This draft of the environmental management plan has been prepared to provide planning level strategies for the tendering process, it will be further developed after the completion of the tendering process in consultation with the chosen contractor(s). The contractor will also be required to prepare his own environmental management plan to manage environmental issues associated with his operations and also to control those of any sub-contractor utilised on the project. After the commissioning of the project the operator will take over the environmental management function. Figure 2 outlines the environmental management process for the UKHP while Figure 3 shows the reporting relationships. Page 4

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10 - 3. Pre-construction Environmental Management Plan 3.1 Purpose and Scope The purpose of the Pre-construction EMP is to: assist in achieving UKHP PMO s goal of minimising environmental impacts and to integrate environmental considerations into project planning, design, construction and maintenance operations; ensure that all issues arising out of the environmental impact assessment, negotiations with various stakeholders and the requirements of the regulations are carried forward into the construction and operation of the project; set the parameters for the environmental management of the project to guide the development of the specific environmental management plans for construction, operation and maintenance; detail environmental strategies to assist the projects compliance with environmental legislation, policies and guidelines and to minimise the risk of environmental harm resulting from the proposed works; detail the environmental responsibilities of those involved throughout the various stages of the project; develop performance criteria and benchmarks for environmental compliance; provide an integrated and consistent approach to the environmental management of the design, construction and maintenance phases; and facilitate the best practice environmental management of the project. This Environmental Management Plan (Pre-construction) has been prepared to provide supporting information to the tender process so ensuring that the environmental responsibilities of the winning contractor(s) are known from the outset. In Addition it sets out the requirements for any field studies or site works that may occur in the preconstruction phase. The pre-construction phase is completed at the end of the tender process. AT this point the construction phase begins and an Environmental Management Plan (Construction) will be prepared. 3.2 Previous Environmental Project Studies and Reports The documents used to develop the Pre-construction Environmental Management Plan are:upper Kotmale Hydropower Project Environmental Impact Assessment Report Volume 1 and Annexes, CEB, Sept 1994;JBIC Special Assistance for Project Formation for Upper Kotmale Hydropower Project, SAPROF Team for JBIC, March 2001; Japan Bank For International Cooperation Guidelines for Confirmation of Environmental and Social Considerations, JBIC, April 2002; An Overview of the Engineering Geological Impacts on the Severely Affected Areas due to the Proposed Upper Kotmale Hydro-power Project, National Building Research Organisation, November 2002.Watershed Management Plan Page 7

11 - for the Upper Kotmale Hydropower Project, Natural Resources Management Services Pvt Ltd, March Action Plan for the Year 2004 to implement the Watershed Management Plan for the Upper Kotmale Hydropower Project, Natural Resources Management Services Pvt Ltd, December Decision of the then Secretary of the Ministry of Forestry and Environment in terms of the National Environmental Act to allow the CEB to implement the project, National Environmental (Upper Kotmale Hydro-power Project Monitoring) Regulations No Information from these studies shall be used to assist with design and environmental management through the design, construction and maintenance phases. 3.3 Structure of this Plan This plan has been structured with the aim of providing information regarding the environmental management of the proposed project that can be easily understood and implemented by all members of the project team, including both operational and nonenvironmental staff. As shown in Figure 4, the Environmental Management Plan (Pre-construction) is divided into five main sections: Chapter 1 - Introduction (project history and description); Chapter 2 - Environmental Management Process; Chapter 3 - Pre-construction Environmental Management Plan; Chapter 4 - Statutory Requirements; Chapter 5 - Environmental Management and Sub-plans; and, Chapter 6 - Documentation and Review. Page 8

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13 - 4. Statutory Requirements 4.1 The National Environmental (Upper Kotmale Hydro-power Project Monitoring) Regulations No. 1 of 2003 Approval for the UKHP was given by the then Secretary of the Ministry of Forestry and Environment in terms of the National Environmental Act in March,2000 subject to the strict adoption of the proposed mitigatory measures in the EIA report. This decision was further strengthen and implementation of mitigatory measures was set into the law in April 2003 by the Gazetting of the National Environmental (Upper Kotmale Hydro-power Project Monitoring) Regulations No 1 of The regulations establish the requirement for a Monitoring Committee consisting of representatives of all relevant Government Departments and other stakeholders to oversee the implementation of the regulations. The regulations also require the proponent to undertake specific monitoring duties and mitigation measures as set out in Schedule 2 of the regulations. Failure to implement or comply with any mitigation measure is an offence under Section 31 of the National Environment Act. The mitigation measures in Schedule 2 are as follows: 1). Waterfalls and Stream Flow in order to preserve the aesthetic values of the waterfalls the following flows will be maintained: i). Devon Falls - In order to maintain a continuous flow over the waterfall a total volume of 18,000m 3 of water shall be released per day, for a minimum of ten hours daily between sunrise and sunset, provided that such quantity of water be available from the natural flow of the stream: The flow of water from the catchment as is not impounded by the project shall be permitted to run over the falls at all other times. ii). St Clair Falls In order to maintain continuous flow over the waterfall, a total volume of 47,250m 3 of water shall be released per day, for ten half hour periods, daily between sunrise and sunset, provided that such quantity of water shall be available from the natural flow of the stream: the flow of water from the catchment not impounded by the project shall be permitted to run over the falls at all other times. iii). Puna Oya Falls Two streams commonly referred to as Puna Oya, one flowing through the Palagolla Grama Niladhari Division and the other flowing through the Wedamulla Estate have their confluence at the location of this waterfall. The stream flowing through the Palagolla Grama Niladhari Division shall be utilised for this project to a maximum of 79 percent of the area of the catchment upstream of this waterfall. The other stream shall be permitted to flow unimpeded at all times over this waterfall. iv). Ramboda Falls A maximum of 58 percent of the area of the catchment upstream of this waterfall shall be utilised for this project, and the balance flow within the catchment shall at all times flow unimpeded over this waterfall. v). Dunsinane Falls No impoundment shall be permitted upstream of this waterfall at any time. 2). Maintaining a Photographic Record of the Falls the regulations require that the project proponent, under the supervision of the Central Environment Authority, collect and maintain, as frequently as possible, but not less frequently than once in every month, a complete standardized photographic record of the waterfalls listed in the regulations so Page 10

14 - that a continuous assessment can be objectively carried out (against flow and weather regimes) of the visual appearance of each waterfall. 3). Watershed Management The CEB is required to prepare a Watershed Management Plan for the Upper Kotmale catchment area with a view to mitigating the impacts arising from the project on the environment such as landslides within the area comprising the project. The watershed management plan shall focus on afforestation within the area with indigenous species. The ministries in charge of the subjects of water management, forestry and environment shall also approve the plan. The implementation of this plan is required to begin on or before the 1 st January ). Biodiversity - CEB is required to carry out an assessment of biodiversity in the streams impacted by the project. Greater consideration should be placed on any possible threat to the survival of any species presently considered to be endangered found within the project area and any species that are endemic to the streams impacted by the project. The Central Environment Authority shall be responsible for setting the terms of reference for this assessment and the details to be adhered to in its execution. Where any such assessment indicates that the project presents a threat the species considered to be endangered or endemic to the streams impacted by the project, UKHP PMO shall set in place remedial or mitigatory action. The remedial or mitigatory action shall be approved and monitored by the Department of Wildlife and UKHP PMO shall cause records to be maintained of all activities being carried out in the area and produce the same for inspection when ever the same is required. 5). Water Table The Monitoring Committee shall be responsible for the preparation of a monitoring programme for the water table in the area. The plan shall be prepared under the supervision of the Central Engineering Consultancy Bureau and be approved by them before implementation. The project shall monitor the implementation of the programme. In the event that any de-watering occurs as a result of any project activity, UKHP PMO shall make compensation in the full amount of the loss as determined by the Chief Government Valuer, to the affected landowners for any loss in respect of their agricultural productivity in relation to these lands. 6). Landslide Mitigation UKHP PMO shall in consultation with the Monitoring Committee, the Central Environment Authority, the National Building Research Organisation and the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau adopt a plan to mitigate as far as possible the risk from landslides in known high risk areas within the area comprising the project and set out safeguards to minimise such risk. These measures are to be implemented as and when the need arises. A geological information base shall be maintained of all this information in order to prevent as far as possible all danger from such risks. The Monitoring Committee shall approve and supervise all action being taken in this regard. 7). Excavated Materials All excavated materials, including tunnel muck shall as far as possible be used in the construction of landfill road works, which are associated with the project. Care must be taken by way of adequate safeguards being put in place to prevent erosion and washing away of any of this material into waterways within the project. Any balance material shall be disposed of in an environmentally safe manner in consultation with and under the supervision of the Monitoring Committee and such implementation shall be to the satisfaction of the Central Environment Authority. 8). Social Responsibility UKHP PMO shall make available any reservoir within the project area for purposes off day-to-day activities, recreational tourism and inland Page 11

15 - fisheries. These activities shall be carried out in accordance with plans approved by the Ministry of Housing and Plantation Infrastructure, and in accordance with the provisions of the relevant local government legislation. UKHP PMO shall provide all necessary amenities to the project area and all houses and other buildings necessary for life of the community in accordance with plans approved by the relevant local authority, the Urban Development Authority and the National Involuntary Resettlement Project of the Ministry of Lands. 4.2 Standards and Guidelines Monitoring and Auditing Annexes 1-4 provide details of the various environmental standards and guidelines to be adopted for the project. The UKHP is a high profile project and will be subject to scrutiny from a number of sources during its construction. The contractor(s) will be required to support the UKHP PMO during site inspections by regulators and other interested parties. Page 12

16 - 5. Environmental Management and Sub-Plans 5.1 Training and Induction The successful construction and operation of the UKHP will depend on the implementation of the various monitoring and mitigation measures set out in the regulations. In order for this to occur every person involved in the project must be aware of their role and responsibilities. All personnel involved in the project must undertake an environmental training and induction course. The training and induction course will include but not be limited to: An introduction to what the term environment means. Overview of Environmental Legislation in Sri Lanka Environmental Standards and Guidelines (water, Air, Noise etc.) National Involuntary Resettlement Policy (NIRP) principles. CEB s environmental policy. UKHP Environmental Policy General environmental responsibilities of project staff. Site and project specific requirements such as the Watershed Management Plan. Dissemination of extra information as required during the course of the construction works. 5.2 Consultation and Communication Environmental Representative The Contractor will appoint a suitably qualified Environmental Representative following the award of the contract. The Environmental Representative will be the primary point of contact for assistance with all environmental issues during the pre-construction and construction phases. Information Dissemination The contractor is required to implement a process for ensuring that information is disseminated to all personnel throughout the life of the project. A concept such as Tool Box Talks where sections or teams are given a briefing at the beginning of the working day or week which would include further environmental training, talks or reminders of correct work practises would be suitable. This process should be designed to facilitate staff awareness and familiarity with the environmental issues and risks within the project area for both supervisors and contractors and project management staff. External Consultation With the commencement of construction activities there will be a need to provide those members of the community that may be affected, directly or indirectly, by the works with notification of the commencement and nature of the works. The notification, and timing of the notification, will be in accordance with the Community and Stakeholder Plans developed by the contractor and approved by the Environmental Management Office. Page 13

17 - Complaints Management The Contractor shall appoint a person responsible for community liaison, this is often a responsibility of the Environmental Representative. All public complaints will be entered into the Complaints Register. The Environmental Representative will investigate and review environmental complaints and implement the appropriate corrective actions to arrest or mitigate the cause of the complaint. A register of all complaints is to be passed to the Environment Management Office on the day they are received. 5.3 Environmental Work Method Statements Construction work will occur at a number of different sites within the project area. In order to provide effective environmental management for the various activities and sites a method of ensuring that management measures that are suitable for each site and activity needs to be employed. The method used will be a risk based approach utilising environmental work method statements (EWMS). The preparation of each statement will require an assessment of the activities likely to impact on the environment, the identification of any environmentally sensitive areas close by and an assessment of possible environmental damage that could occur. Suitable environmental management and mitigation measures for each area will then be identified and employed. EWMS will be prepared by the contractor s environmental representative for specific sites or activities within the project area identified by the Environmental Management Office. The contractor will submit the EWMS to the Environmental Management Office for approval before work commences in that area. 5.4 Environmental Sub Plans Environmental sub-plans have been prepared to assist the management of a range of environmental issues including waterfalls and stream flow, watershed management, water quality, groundwater, noise and vibration, flora and fauna, air quality, waste management, cultural heritage and landslides. Each sub plan details management objectives, identifies potential environmental impacts and specifies required actions in relation to all activities including construction, operation, monitoring, auditing and rehabilitation Air Quality Sub-plan Management Objectives Construction and operation of the UKHP shall not result in an excessive and sustained deterioration of the local ambient air quality. Impact Assessment The construction of the UKHP will create air quality impacts. These include: dust generated from: < clearing vegetation and topsoil stripping; < excavating, quarrying and drilling activities; < metal crushing plants; < vehicles traversing unsealed ground; < wind erosion of stockpiles and unsealed ground; Page 14

18 - < loading and unloading of trucks; and < transport of materials. emissions from: < machinery and vehicles (mostly diesel) used in construction activities; and, < bitumen used in the production of asphalt. < Foul odour due to degradation of organic waste (eg. Kitchen waste, Sewage) if haphazardly disposed in to the environment. Table 5.1: Air Quality Sub Plan Performance Criteria Statutory Requirements Actions Construction Adherence to relevant air quality criteria Please see Annexes 2 and 3 Dust production shall be minimised through: disturbing areas only as required; adopting sufficient dust suppression measures; effective management of dust generating activities such as topsoil removal during periods of high winds or during more stable conditions with winds directed towards adjacent residences; seeding stockpiles by spreading with hydroseed until required, by covering with a geotextile fabric, or by using mulching materials to minimise wind erosion for stockpiles of topsoil, and variable quantities of general fill as appropriate; protecting stockpiles from water and wind erosion; using a water truck for dust suppression on all exposed areas as required (note: the use of waste oil for dust suppression is prohibited); establishing and enforcing vehicle speed limits to minimise dust generation; using tarps or other such devices to cover haul trucks moving off-site; locating stockpiles away from sensitive receptors; loaded haul trucks travelling to and from the site having loads levelled to avoid spillage; avoiding multiple access points during earthwork stages by using the existing road networks so that dirt and mud is not tracked onto the roads (particularly following wet weather); carrying out progressive rehabilitation of cleared land; and locating construction compounds away from existing residences. Other emissions shall be minimised by: The burning of waste is only allowed if no other disposal options are available. minimisation of exhaust emissions from construction equipment through: < regular maintenance of all construction machinery and vehicles; and < direction of exhaust emissions of mobile plant away from the ground. Dust Emissions from blasting and metal crushing will be minimised through: < utilising the minimum size of charge; Page 15

19 - < designing the charge to minimise dust generation; < Siting of plants away from sensitive receptors; < Installing a sprinkler system for dust suppression on metal crushing plants. Rehabilitation Operation and Maintenance Responsible: Contractor The Contractor shall: carry out progressive rehabilitation of cleared land; and re-vegetate disturbed areas of the project area. Responsible: Contractor A procedure shall be prepared as part of the Environmental Management Plan (Maintenance) to respond to any complaints associated with air quality issues and the operation of the UKHP. Responsible: UKHP PMO Monitoring and Audits Construction The extent of monitoring including duration, number of locations and type of equipment to be used shall be determined in consultation with the appropriate government regulatory / advisory bodies. Provision should be made for the positioning of dust deposition gauges such as sticky pads around the perimeter of work areas close to sensitive receptors such as houses, schools, hospitals, temples, shrines and outdoor recreation areas. The Environmental Management Office can request the contractor to undertake air quality monitoring. The contractor shall carry out or delegate the following monitoring activities to determine the effectiveness of controls: < daily inspection of construction work practices to ensure dust mitigation measures are being employed and are effective; < monthly monitoring of dust deposition gauges to assess compliance with the air quality goals. The monitoring location shall be carried out near adjacent sensitive receptors. Monitoring frequency shall be increased appropriately if dust complaints occur; < monitoring emissions from on-site batch plants (if necessary); and < monitoring of odours and hydrocarbon emissions from pavement, spray sealing and line painting. If there are recorded exceedances of the air quality goals for dust deposition, the contractor shall instigate the following actions: < determine reasons for the exceedances and apply appropriate corrective action; and < conduct monitoring of dust until the recorded levels are in compliance with the air quality goals. Responsible: Contractor Operation and Maintenance It has been assumed that the operation of the UKHP will not result in the generation of significant amounts of airborne pollutants, therefore no monitoring is proposed at present. Responsible: N/A Reporting The Environmental Management Office shall be provided with a written report on the effectiveness of any air quality control measures on a monthly basis during the construction period. Responsible: Contractor Page 16

20 Surface Water Sub-plan Management Objectives Construction and operation of the UKHP shall not result in a significant and/or sustained deterioration in the existing water quality of rivers, streams and other water bodies in the project area. All activities undertaken shall comply with or exceed the objectives and targets of the UKHP Watershed Management Plan. In addition the activities associated with the construction and operation of the UKHP will have no impact on drinking water supplies within the project area. Impact Assessment The success of the UKHP Watershed Management Plan is key to the long term sustainability of the UKHP. Failure to meet its objectives may result in increased siltation levels within the Tallawakele dam and a reduction in operating capacity. Construction works within the project area will be high profile activities in what is currently a quiet rural setting. It is essential that the construction works are seen to comply with and, where possible, exceed the requirements set out in the UKHP Catchment Management Plan, so that the local population can see that there is a strong commitment to doing it right. Failure of the contractor to follow the requirements will severely dent the credibility of the UKHP Watershed Management Plan. Control of water quality within the construction areas will be a key activity to meet this goal, particularly the control of sediment and turbidity levels. Erosion controls shall be used wherever possible on-site in preference to sediment controls. Potential impacts on receiving water quality during construction include: sedimentation and elevated turbidity levels from erosion and sediment control in disturbed areas; discharges from Batching Plants litter accumulation; and, hydrocarbon and toxic contamination from spills and leakages. Once operational the potential for impacts on water quality from the UKHP are minimal. Table 5.2: Water Quality Sub Plan Performance Criteria Statutory Requirements Actions To meet and where possible exceed the objectives and targets of the UKHP Watershed Management Plan. To maintain water qualities at an acceptable level (annex 3C) in local streams, rivers and water bodies during construction. Prevent long-term impacts to existing water quality by ensuring water quality levels in surrounding watercourses post construction do not exceed pre-construction levels. National Environmental (Upper Kotmale Hydro-power Monitoring) Regulations No.1 of See also annexes 2 and 3 Construction Erosion and sediment controls shall include: < where possible stripping of topsoil shall be staged and minimised in area and time periods; < installation of silt fences downstream of disturbed areas and along the top edge of buffer zones. Silt fences shall be located Page 17

21 - continuously along contours and should treat areas less than 0.6 hectares per 100 metres of silt fence. A maximum slope length of 60 metres would also ensure optimal performance; < designation of areas for construction plant and material storage, away from waterways and run-off from these areas shall be directed to a holding pond in case of spillages. Run-off from upstream areas shall be diverted around these designated storage areas; < diversion banks created at the upstream boundary of construction activities to ensure upstream run-off is diverted around any areas to be exposed; < check dams in the form of rock dams, silt fences and sand bags to be placed along catch drains to slow flow, reduce scour and capture some sediment; < construction of appropriately designed sedimentation basins at the downstream ends of catch drains to capture sediment from run-off generated at exposed areas. Sedimentation basins shall be designed prior to construction commencing; < A turbidity and suspended solid discharge objective of 50 mg/l shall be used when designing sedimentation basins; < All water quality treatment control devices shall be designed for the adequate control of pollution and sediment and other coarse materials in the 1 year Average Recurrence Interval (ARI) peak flow (minimum), and also designed for the stability of these devices in at least the 20 year ARI peak storm event. < The quality of run-off shall not have an observed impact on the quality of receiving waters. < Vegetation is to be left undisturbed and topsoil stockpiled for final site rehabilitation and landscaping works, wherever possible; < progressive re-vegetation of batters and other disturbed areas as quickly as possible. Endemic species would be used where suitable; < discharge of waters from sedimentation basins as a diffuse sheet flow over vegetated buffer areas before entering waterways; < using a water truck for dust suppression on all exposed areas, as required. < regular inspection and maintenance of silt fences, sedimentation basins and other erosion control measures. Following rainfall events greater than 20 millimetres, inspection of erosion control measures and removal of collected material should be undertaken. Replacement of any damaged equipment would be performed immediately; < education of site personnel regarding sediment and erosion control measures implemented on site; < regular monitoring of water quality impacts from construction activities in receiving waters and sediment basins prior to discharge (refer to Monitoring and Audits Section below). < where possible, the amount of stormwater leaving a site shall be minimised through on site storage and reuse in construction requirements, dust suppression and revegetation; and < excess water from the site shall not be discharged into stormwater drains, local drainage lines or streams until discharges meet the stated water quality indicators (See annex 3A). Following the completion of construction works in any area, the following activities would be performed: < revegetation and landscaping of remaining exposed areas using the topsoil and mulched native vegetation retained from initial site clearing. Vegetation should be maintained until vegetation is established; Page 18

22 - < water quality monitoring, to monitor any ongoing impacts to water quality from the proposal (refer to Monitoring and Audits Section below). Location of activities/materials shall be carried out as follows: < stockpiles of potential water pollutants (i.e. oils, construction materials, rubbish, fuel etc) shall be located so as to minimise the potential for contaminants entering local streams, or any other watercourse or stormwater drainage; < cleaning of equipment and or vehicles used during construction shall not be undertaken in locations that permit flow of untreated wastewater into any stream, wetland or drainage channel adjacent to the area; < all construction fill and material storage areas shall have cut-off drains installed, be bunded, and away from local streams and other drainage lines. These areas will have dust, erosion and sediment control measures in place. Temporary crossings are to be constructed where required for tracks crossing any stream or drainage line. The following actions shall apply: < clearly indicate the location of all haul roads and access tracks on each site and confine them, where practicable, to the proposed construction footprint. Haul roads or access tracks should minimise crossings through wetlands or stream systems. Adequately designed temporary watercourse crossings should be used; < all vehicle exit points shall incorporate a washdown or shakedown area. Appropriate gravel shakedown areas should be located at all exit/entrance points to the site; < install cut-off and diversion drains prior to significant land disturbance to divert run-off from undisturbed areas into stable drainage lines at non-erosive velocities. Similarly, install cut-off or diversion drains to divert run-off around stockpile sites; < all areas designated for the storage of fuels, oils, chemicals or other hazardous liquids shall have a compacted base and be surrounded by a bund to contain any spillage. These areas shall be covered by a roof structure to minimise the potential for infiltration and contamination of rainwater. Alternatively ventilated containers and individual spill pallets should be used, dependent on the volume of hazardous materials; < areas designed for the storage of hazardous materials are to be clearly designated and storage of such materials outside these areas strictly prohibited. < An Emergency Spills Contingency Plan shall be prepared as part of the Contractors Environmental Management Plan. < On-going education of site personnel of their responsibilities shall be established with respect to erosion and sediment control. Drinking water supplies will be protected in the following manner: All surface water sources supplying drinking water will be mapped and recorded. If the EMO feels that there is a possibility of impacts on a drinking water supply the following will take place: No surface water drainage from the project site will be permitted to discharge into the surface water utilised for drinking water supply. A monitoring program will be implemented prior to any work commencing. The program shall monitor both quality and supply. Parameters to be measured are: o Colour Page 19

23 - Operation and Maintenance Monitoring and Audits o Dissolved oxygen o BOD/COD o ph o Nitrate o Chloride o Phosphate o Sulphate o Total faecal coliforms o Metals including Arsenic, Cadmium Total Chromium, Copper, Iron, Lead, Mercury o Phenolic compounds Monitoring of all parameters will be undertaken on at least a monthly basis while works are taking place near to the drinking water supply. The EMO may request more frequent monitoring. Responsible: Contractor An Environmental Management Plan (Maintenance) is to be prepared to include all requirements as set out in the Environmental Management Plan (Pre-construction) relevant to the operation of the UKHP. Responsible: UKHP PMO Pre-construction Baseline water quality monitoring in potentially affected waterways shall be undertaken to determine the pre-construction condition of local waterways for subsequent assessment of construction impacts. The water quality parameters to be monitored include as a minimum: < total suspended solids; < oil and grease (to be sampled when visible slicks are observed); < metals (copper, zinc, lead, nickel, cadmium and chromium); < temperature; < ph; < dissolved oxygen; < salinity/conductivity; < turbidity; and < total phosphorus and total nitrogen. < BOD / COD Responsible: UKHP PMO Construction Formal monitoring and auditing of construction of the UKHP shall be in accordance with the Environmental Management Plan (Construction). A set of water quality guidelines shall be derived for each monitoring location, using the values obtained from baseline monitoring. The exact form of the water quality guidelines shall be determined prior to construction commencing through negotiations with the relevant government departments and subject to approval by the monitoring Committee. These guideline values shall be used in conjunction with a comparison of values at upstream and downstream monitoring sites to indicate when the UKHP is having an unacceptable impact on water quality. Water quality monitoring during construction shall be conducted at the same sites as those established during baseline monitoring for the duration of construction. Baseline monitoring should occur throughout the year in order to characterise the range of water quality conditions that may occur in the watershed. Page 20

24 - Operation and Maintenance The water quality parameters to be monitored during construction with regard to receiving waters include (as a minimum): < total suspended solids; < oil and grease (to be sampled when visual slicks are observed at monitoring sites); < temperature; < ph; < dissolved oxygen; < salinity/conductivity; < turbidity; and < total phosphorus and total nitrogen. < BOD / COD (Note: COD will be an essential parameter if resins are proposed to be used in tunnel grouting) Visual observations and general comments shall assist with the speedy modification to site water quality management measures. These include: < physical observations associated with water appearance (e.g.: colour, clarity, odour), flow rate and levels; < recent rainfall and weather; < summary of current site activities that have the potential to impact receiving waters; < the name of the relevant site foreman / engineer responsible for the works; and < the name of the person(s) collecting the samples/data. Results showing unacceptable impacts shall result in an investigation into the cause of the problem and subsequent mitigating actions. A written report shall be supplied within one week on the preliminary evaluation of the impacts of the event, and the likely success of corrective actions. If required, the Environmental Management Plan (Construction) shall be revised with additional water quality measures and approved prior to work re-commencing. Responsible: Contractor and UKHP PMO Any discharges from the sedimentation basins would be monitored for turbidity and suspended solid levels. The discharge objective of 50 mg/l will apply to all discharges. Temporary erosion and sedimentation control structures shall be checked daily during rainy seasons, maintained and remain in place until the area they are protecting is stabilised to the satisfaction of the Contractor and the Environmental Management Office. All machinery used on site shall be maintained to the specified requirements and shall be inspected daily. Any leaks detected shall be repaired prior to the use of that machinery on site. Responsible: Contractor Following completion of the construction, monitoring during the operational phase would be conducted for a minimum of a further 12 months to determine if the completed works have any impact on downstream water quality. Water quality monitoring during UKHP operation would be conducted at the same sites as those established during baseline monitoring. Results showing unacceptable impacts shall trigger an investigation into the cause of the problem and subsequent mitigating actions developed. The water quality guidelines shall be determined prior to construction commencing through negotiations with the relevant government departments. Water quality monitoring shall continue until such time as the Monitoring Committee determine it is no longer required. Responsible: UKHP PMO Page 21

25 - Reporting Reporting shall be done as per the Environmental Management Plan (Construction) and the Environmental Management Plan (Maintenance). Responsible: Contractor and UKHP PMO respectively. Page 22

26 Waterfalls and Stream Flows Sub-Plan Management Objectives Flows over the Devon, St. Clair, Puna Oya, Ramboda and Dunsinane Falls shall comply with the requirements set out in Schedule II of the National Environmental (Upper Kotmale Hydro-power Monitoring) Regulations No.1 of Impact Assessment The importance of the waterfalls in the project area are twofold, firstly they are part of the natural landscape of the hill country and secondly their visual appeal makes them a regular stop for tourists visiting the highlands. The UKHP will change the flow characteristics of the falls by diverting flow for power generation, the potential impacts on the falls would be: Reduction of flow resulting in the lowering of tourist visits; and, Reduction of flow resulting in impact on natural landscape of the area. Table 5.3 Waterfalls and Stream Flows Sub Plan Sub Plan Performance Flows over the falls are to be maintained to ensure that: Criteria the aesthetics of the falls are maintained; the bio-diversity of the streams are not disturbed. Statutory Requirements Actions Construction Operation and Maintenance National Environmental (Upper Kotmale Hydro-power Monitoring) Regulations No.1 of 2003 Daytime flows over the waterfalls will be maintained during the construction period in accordance with the requirements of the regulations. This will require the following flow regimes: Devon Falls a minimum of 18,000m 3 per day for a minimum for ten hours per day between sunrise and sunset. St. Clair Falls 47,250m 3 of water shall be released per day, for ten half hour periods between sunrise and sunset. Puna Oya Falls only the stream flowing through the Palagolla Grama Niladhari Division shall be utilised for the project. Maximum of 79% of the area of the catchment upstream of the fall shall be used. Ramboda Falls A maximum of 58% of the catchment upstream of these falls is to be utilised for the project. Dunsinane Falls No impoundment shall be permitted upstream of this waterfall at any time. Responsible: UKHP PMO and Contractor The flow regimes detailed in the regulations are to be maintained during the operation of the UKHP. Responsible: UKHP PMO Monitoring & Audits Construction A record of flow rates over each of the falls is to be kept. This will require: The installation of continuous flow measuring devices to record river flow above each of the falls prior to construction commencing. When the diversion weirs are constructed in river flow upstream of the weirs and the flow over the weirs will be measured. Page 23

27 - Sub Plan Data from each flow meter is to be downloaded and stored on computer at the Environmental Management Office. A continuous assessment of the visual appearance of the falls and their flows will be kept. This will require: Locations from where photographs are to taken to be agreed and marked. A record of location using GPS co-ordinates is also to be kept. The locations are to be those agreed with the Monitoring committee. Concrete plinths to be constructed at each location from where photographs are to be taken. The plinths are to have a plate mounted on them identifying the location and number. Photographs of each of the falls are to be taken by digital camera. The date stamp facility is to be used for all photographs. The f-stop settings to be used at each location are to be determined and used for each monitoring event. Photographs are to be downloaded onto the computer at the Environmental Monitoring Office after each visit. Hard copies are to be printed after each visit and kept on file. Assessments and photography will be undertaken each month. Rainfall data for each of the catchments is to be recorded for the month previous to the monitoring event. Responsible: UKHP PMO Maintenance The recording of flow rates and the photographic record will continue to be collected during operation of the UKHP. Responsible: UKHP PMO Page 24

28 Groundwater Sub Plan Management Objectives Movements of groundwater resulting from the construction of the headrace and diversion tunnels have no significant impacts on related groundwater dependent surface features. Impact Assessment The UKHP requires the construction of approximately 22 kilometres of tunnels. The tunnels will be bored through high grade metamorphic rocks. The transmissivity of this type of rock is low so groundwater flows occur along discontinuities such as cracks and fault plains. The tunnels are therefore unlikely to draw down groundwater except where the tunnel crosses a discontinuity. At these points there is potential for groundwater flows into the tunnel to occur resulting a drop of groundwater levels at the surface. Potential impacts from groundwater drawdown include: drying up of existing surface water bodies, such as wells, ponds and groundwater fed streams; drying up of paddy fields; reduction in soil moisture and fertility; and, changes in vegetation. The boring of the tunnels may give rise to the following impacts: generation of large amounts of tunnel waste requiring disposal; incorrect disposal of tunnel waste impacting on local water courses from increased sedimentation; contamination of local water courses through disposal of tunnel waste water without treatment; and, incorrect storage of grouting materials, fuel and other hazardous materials causing contamination of ground and water. Table 5.4 Groundwater Sub plan Sub Plan Performance Criteria Statutory Requirements Actions Pre-Construction Groundwater levels are to be maintained at levels that have no impact on local water supply and groundwater dependent ecosystems. National Environmental (Upper Kotmale Hydro-power Monitoring) Regulations No.1 of 2003 See also the Monitoring Program of Water Table and Impacts of Its Variation on Surface Environment in UKHP Project Area, February A groundwater monitoring program has been established, to be implemented prior to the start of the tunnelling works. The program focuses on three components; groundwater used for drinking water supply, ground water dependent agriculture groundwater dependent ecosystems The groundwater monitoring program will have two constituents: monitoring of near surface water at selected locations where the tunnel passes under ground with less ground cover and relatively thick layers of overburden. These areas have a potential for movement in the levels of groundwater depending on the presence and penetration of weathered open joints to the tunnel grade. Monitoring the condition of plantations, forests and surface water sources such as wells, springs and streams prior to construction. Responsible: UKHP PMO Page 25