Lao Eia Draft PDF
Lao Eia Draft PDF
Lao Eia Draft PDF
January 2012
Prepared by The Kansai Electric Power Company, Inc., EGAT International Company, Ltd., and
Lao Holding State Enterprise for the Asian Development Bank.
ABBREVIATIONS
AAU – Assigned Amount Unit
ACF – Action Contre la Faim
ADB – Asian Development Bank
AGAC – Airborne GPS Aero Control System
APs – Affected Peoples
ARI – Acute Respiratory Infection
B – “Ban” Village in Laotian Language
BOT – Built-Operate-Transfer
CA – Concession Agreement
CDM – Clean Development Mechanism
CER – Certified Emission reduction
CEM – Construction Environmental Manager
COD – Commercial Operation Date
CPS-NSC,2002 – CPS-National Statistical Center,2002
CDEP – Committee for Development of Electric Power
CPC – Committee for Planning and Cooperation
DAFEO – District Agriculture and Forestry Extension Officer
DAFO – District Agriculture Forestry Office
DHO – District Health Office
DLF – Department of Livestock and Fisheries
DMH – Department of Meteorology and Hydrology
DNA – Designated National Authority
DOE – Department of Electricity
DOF – Division of Fisheries
DOL – Department of Land
DRWG – District Resettlement Working Groups
EAC – Environmental Assessment Committee
EAMP – Environmental Assessment and Management Plan
EAP – Emergency Action Plan
EB – Executive Board of the CDM
ECCD – Early Childhood Care for Development
EDL – Electricite du Laos
EFOs – Environmental Field Officers
EGAT – Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand
EIA – Environmental Impact Assessment
EM – Environmental Manager
EMC – Environmental Management Committee
EMMP – Environmental Management & Monitoring Plan
EMP – Environmental Management Plan
EMU(s) – Environmental Management Unit(s)
EPC – Engineering, Procurement and Construction
EPL – Environmental Protection Law (National Law 02/99)
EPF – Environmental Protection Fund
EPMs – Environmental Protection Measures
ERIC – Environmental Research Institute of Chulalongkorn
University
ERU – Emission Reduction Unit
ES – Environment Section
ESIA – Environmental and Social Impact Assessment
ESMMU – Environment-Social Management and Monitoring Unit
ET – Emission Trading
FAO – Food and Agriculture Organization of The United Nations
FIMC – Foreign Investment Management Committee
GHG – Green House Gas
GPS – Global Positioning System
GOL – Government of Lao PDR
HEPP – Hydroelectric Power Project
FAO – Food and Agriculture Organization of The United Nations
FDR – Family Dispute Resolution
FRCD – Forest Resource Conservation Division
FS, F/S – Feasibility Study
FTA – Federal Transit Administration
IEE – Initial Environmental Examination
IPDP – Indigenous Peoples Development Plan
IPP – Independent Power Producer
JI – Joint Implementation
JBIC – Japan Bank for International Cooperation
JICA – Japan International Cooperation Agency (Japan)
KANSAI – Kansai Electric Power CO.,INC.
LA – Loan Agreement
Lao IRRI – Lao International Rice Research Institute
Lao PDR – Lao People’s Democratic Republic
LDC – Least Developed Country
LECS – Lao Expenditure and Consumption Surveys
LHSE – Lao Holding State Enterprise
LLDC – Least Less-Developed Countries
LNCE – Lao National Committee for Energy
LWU – Lao Women’s Union
MAF – Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry
MAF-DOF – Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry- Department of
Forestry
MCTPC – Ministry of Communication, Transportation, Post and
Construction
MCH – maternal and child health
MCM – Multi-Chip Modual
MIH – Ministry of Industry and Handicrafts
MOH – Ministry of Health
MOI – Ministry of Industry
MOU – Memorandum of Understanding
MRC – Mekong River Commission
NAFRI – National Agriculture and Forest Research Institute
NBCA – National Biodiversity Conservation Area
NCC – National Consulting Company
NEAP – National Environmental Action Plan
NEM – New Economic Mechanism
NEPO – National Energy Policy Office
NESMC – National Environment and Social Management
Committee
NGOs – Non Governmental Organizations
NGPES – Nation Growth and Poverty Eradication Strategy
NNHP 1 – Nam Ngiep Hydropower Project 1
NNT – Nakai Nam Thuen
NTEC – Nam Theun 2(NT2) Electricity Company
NTFPs – Non-Timber Forest Products
NTPC – Nam Theun 2(NT2) Power Company
OCHA – (The United Nations) Office for the Coordination of
Humanitarian Affairs
O&M – Operation and Maintenance
OC – Ownership Company
ODA – Official Development Assistance
OE – Operational Entity
PAFO – Provincial Agriculture and Forestry Office
PDA – Project Development Agreement
PDD – Project Design Document
PDP – Power Development Plan
PESMC – Provincial Environment and Social Management
Committee
PHO – Provincial Health Office
PMO – Prime Minister’s Office
PPA – Power Purchase Agreement
PRC – People’s Public of China
PRP – Preliminary Resettlement Plan
RAP – Resettlement Action Plan
RC – Resettlement Committee
RMU – Resettlement Management Unit
RS – Resettlement Section
RWG – Resettlement Working Group
SCADA – Supervisory control and data acquisition
SDS – Social Development Section
SIA – Social Impact Assessment
SP – Sub Plan
SPC – Special Purpose Company
ST – Station
STEA – Science, Technology and Environment Agency
TPA – Third Party Access
TOR – Terms of Reference
UNDP – United Nations Development Program
UNEP – United Nations Environment Program
UNFCCC – UN Framework Convention on Climate Change
UNICEF – United Nations Children’s Fund
UXO – Unexploded Ordnance
VDC – Villages Development Cluster
VHV – Village Health’s Volunteers
WB – World Bank
WCD – World Commission on Dams
WHO – World Health Organization
WMCA – Watershed Management Conservation Agency
WREA – Water Resources and Environment Agency
WEIGHTS AND MEASURES
ASL – Above Sea Level
B/C – Benefit – Cost, Economic efficiency
BOD – Biological Oxygen Demand
CC – Combined Cycle Power Plant
CEC – Cation Exchange Capacity
cent/kWh – Cent per kilo watt
CFRD – Concrete Faced Rock fill Dam
3
cm /s – Cubic centimeter per second
COD – Chemical Oxygen Demand
dB – Decibels
dBA – Decibels Adjusted
DBH – Diameters at Breast Height
DO – Dissolved Oxygen
DSCR – Debt Service Cover Ratio
ECRD – Earth Core Rockfill Dam
EIRR, FIRR – Economic/Financial Internal Rate of Return
EL( ) m – Meters above Sea level
EU – European Union
F/C – Forage species/carnivorous species ratio
FSL – Full Supply Level of Reservoir
FWL – Flood Water Level
GDP – Gross Domestic Product
GW – Giga Watt
GWh – Giga Watt Hour (one million watt hour)
ha – Hectare
HH – Household
Hz – Hertz
IMR – Infant Mortality Rate
IRR – Internal Rates of Return
JTU – Jackson Turbidity Unit
km – Kilometer
km2 – Square meter
kV – Kilo Volt
kW – Kilo Watt
L/day – Liter per day
m – Meter
m3/s – Cubic meter per second
MAP – Mean Annual Precipitation
MAR – Mean Annual Runoff
mg/ m3 – Milligram per Cubic meter
Mg/l – Milligram per liter
mm – Millimeter
mm3 – Cubic Millimeter
MOL – Minimum Operation Water Level
MSL – Mean Sea Level
MW – Mega Watt (one million watt)
NE-SW – Northeast-Southwest
NHWL – Normal High Water Level
NWL – Normal Water Level
oC – Degree Celsius
PICAD – Participatory Integrated Conservation Committee
PM 10 – Particulate Matter 10
PMF – Probable Maximum Flood
PMP – Probable Maximum Precipitation
PPV – Peak Particle Velocities
RCC – Roller Compacted Concrete
ROE – Return on Equity
RWL – Rated Water Level
SLC – Salvage Logging Committee
SS – Suspended Solid
t/km2/yr – tonnes per square meter per year
ton/ha – tonne per hectare
TWL – Total water level
US$ – US Dollar
USBM – United States Bureau of Mines
VFA – Village Forest Associations
μm – Micrometer
This draft environmental impact assessment is a document of the borrower. The views
expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of ADB's Board of Directors, Management,
or staff, and may be preliminary in nature.
EIA of The Nam Ngiep 1 Hydropower Project Draft Report: TOC
CONTENTS
Page
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1 General Background 1-1
1.2 Objectives of the EIA 1-4
1.3 Scope of Study 1-4
1.4 Rationale of EIA 1-5
1.5 Study Area and Methodology 1-6
1.5.1 Study Area 1-6
1.5.2 Methodology 1-8
1.6 Authors 1-9
1.7 Structure of the Report 1-10
2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
2.1 Project Background 2-1
2.2 Project Location 2-2
2.3 General Layout and Infrastructure 2-3
2.4 Main Dam and Related Facilities 2-5
2.4.1 Main Dam Site Reservoir 2-5
2.4.2 Main Dam 2-7
2.4.3 River Diversion 2-9
2.4.4 Spillway 2-10
2.4.5 Intake 2-10
2.4.6 Penstock 2-10
2.4.7 Conduit for Riparian Release 2-10
2.4.8 Main Power station 2-11
2.5 Re-regulation Dam and Related Facilities 2-12
2.5.1 Re-regulation Dam 2-12
2.5.2 River Diversion 2-13
2.5.3 Spillway 2-13
2.5.4 Intake 2-14
2.5.5 Re-regulation Gate 2-14
2.5.6 Re-regulation Power Station 2-14
2.5.7 Saddle Dam 2-15
2.6 Operation & Maintenance 2-15
2.6.1 Operation of Project Facilities 2-15
2.6.2 Operation of Main Power Station 2-17
2.6.3 Operation of Re-regulation Power Station 2-20
2.7 Ancillary Works 2-21
2.7.1 Quarry Site 2-21
2.7.2 Access Road 2-21
2.8 Transmission Line 2-23
2.9 Construction Plan 2-24
2.9.1 Method of Construction 2-24
2.9.2 Functional Area 2-25
2.9.3 Construction Schedule 2-25
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CONTENTS (Continued)
Page
3 METHODOLOGY
3.1 Physical Environment 3-2
3.1.1 Topography 3-2
3.1.2 Meteorology 3-2
3.1.3 Geology, Landforms and Seismology 3-3
3.1.4 Soils 3-4
3.1.5 Erosion and Sedimentation 3-5
3.1.6 Surface Water and Groundwater Quality 3-6
3.1.7 Mineral Resources 3-13
3.1.8 Noise and Vibration 3-14
3.1.9 Air Quality 3-15
3.1.10 Potential Contaminated Site 3-16
3.1.11 Hydrology 3-17
3.2 Biological Environment 3-18
3.2.1 Terrestrial Ecology/Wildlife 3-18
3.2.2 Forest, Vegetation Cover 3-19
3.2.3 Aquatic Biota 3-24
3.2.4 Wetland 3-26
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CONTENTS (Continued)
Page
5 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT
5.1 Physical Environment 5-1
5.1.1 Topography 5-1
5.1.2 Meteorology 5-2
5.1.3 Geology, Landforms and Seismology 5-5
5.1.4 Soils 5-10
5.1.5 Erosion and Sedimentation 5-24
5.1.6 Surface Water and Groundwater Quality 5-30
5.1.7 Mineral Resources 5-40
5.1.8 Noise and Vibration 5-41
5.1.9 Air Quality 5-46
5.1.10 Potential Contaminated Sites 5-47
5.1.11 Hydrology 5-49
5.2 Biological Environment 5-56
5.2.1 Terrestrial Ecology/ Wildlife 5-56
5.2.2 Forests, Vegetation Cover 5-66
5.2.3 Aquatic Biota 5-85
5.2.4 Wetlands 5-89
6 STUDY OF ALTERNATIVES
6.1 Energy Alternatives 6-1
6.2 Project Design Alternatives 6-2
6.2.1 Hydropower Alternative 6-2
6.2.2 Project Location 6-2
6.2.3 Alternative Dam Sites 6-3
6.2.4 Alternative Dam Type 6-7
6.2.5 Project Optimization Study of the Main Power Station 6-10
7 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES
7.1 Introduction 7-1
7.2 Anticipated Impacts During Pre-Construction and Construction Phases 7-6
7.2.1 Construction Impacts on Physical Environment 7-6
7.2.2 Construction Impacts on Biological Environment 7-30
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CONTENTS (Continued)
Page
8 PUBLIC CONSULTATION
8.1 Introduction 8-1
8.2 Methodology 8-1
8.2.1 Use of Suitable Techniques 8-2
8.2.2 The Approach 8-2
8.3 The Stakeholders 8-3
8.4 Public Consultation Process 8-6
8.4.1 Information Collection and Dissemination 8-6
8.4.2 Stakeholder Concerns 8-6
8.4.3 Active Involvement in Project Design and Implementation 8-6
8.5 Consultation and Participation Activities 8-7
8.5.1 Summary of Local Events 8-7
8.5.2 Summary of Regional Events 8-7
8.6 Summary of Public Consultation 8-9
8.6.1 Summary of PCs Zone by Zone 8-9
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14 INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS
14.1 Institutional Arrangements during Pre-construction and Construction Phase 14-1
14.1.1 Government Institutional Arrangements for the Project for Pre- 14-3
Construction and Construction Phase
14.1.2 Project Institutional Arrangements for Pre-Construction and
Construction Phase 14-10
14.2 Institutional Arrangements for Operation Phase 14-18
14.2.1 Government Institutional Arrangements for Operation Phase 14-18
14.2.2 Project institutional Arrangements for Operation Phase 14-18
14.3 Grievance Redress Committees 14-20
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LIST OF TABLES
Tables Pages
4-1 Key Provisions in the Laws, Decrees and Regulations of the Lao PDR 4-7
Pertinent to the EIA of the Nam Ngiep 1 Hydropower Project
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8-1 Sub-basins of Nam Ngiep River: Area and Contributions to Flow 8-4
8-2 Land Use and Vegetation Types of the Nam Ngiep Watershed 8-6
8-3 Slope Classification of the Nam Ngiep Watershed 8-8
8-4 8-8
Districts, Villages, and Population in the Provinces in the Nam Ngiep
Watershed Area (2008)
8-5 Birth and Death Rates, Fertility and Infant Mortality in the Provinces of 8-9
the Nam Ngiep Watershed: 1995 and 2000
8-6 Dependency Ratio in the Provinces with Territory in the Nam Ngiep 8-10
Watershed, from the 2005 Population Census
8-7 Design Summary of the Nam Ngiep River Basin Watershed 8-22
Management Plan
8-8 Estimated Budget for NNHP-1 Watershed Management 8-24
8-9 Monitoring and Evaluation 8-25
8-10 Watershed Classification Statistics 8-28
8-11 Total Area of Land Use Distribution on Watershed Class 8-29
8-12 Responsible Parties for Watershed Zoning Management 8-32
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LIST OF FIGURES
Figure Page
5-1 Location of hydrological gauging locations within and peripheral to the 5-4
Project basin area
5-2 Map of natural hazard risks in the Lao PDR, 2007 5-7
5-3 Geological map of Lao PDR 5-9
5-4 Soil sampling locations at Hat Gniun area, Bolikhan District, 5-16
Bolikhamxay Province. Conducted in December 2007
5-5 Soil sampling locations at proposed area on the right bank of re- 5-23
regulation dam during the final resettlement site selection
5-6 Soil sampling locations of Ban Sopyouak and Ban Namyouak 5-23
5-7 Soil texture map of the Nam Ngiep watershed 5-25
5-8 Open dump of solid waste in a city 5-31
5-9 Three-canopy forest located near the proposed dam site 5-32
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ABBREVIATIONS
Lao PDR Agencies Foreign
Committee for Development of Electric
CDEP ADB Asian Development Bank
Power
Electricity Generating Authority of
CPC Committee for Planning and Cooperation EGAT
Thailand
District Agriculture and Forestry Environmental Research Institute of
DAFEO ERIC
Extension Officer Chulalongkorn University
Food and Agriculture Organization of
DAFO District Agriculture Forestry Office FAO
The United Nations
DHO District Health Office IRRI International Rich Research Institute
Department of Meteorology and World Conservation Union
DMH IUCN
Hydrology (Switzerland)
Japan Bank for International
DOE Department of Electricity JBIC
Cooperation
Japan International Cooperation
DOF Division of Fisheries JICA
Agency (Japan)
DOL Department of Land KANSAI Kansai Electric Power CO.,INC.
EDL Electricite du Laos MRC Mekong River Commission
National Biodiversity Conservation
EMU(s) Environmental Management Unit(s) NBCAs
Areas
EPF Environmental Protection Fund NEPO National Energy Policy Office
Foreign Investment Management Nam Theun 2(NT2) Electricity
FIMC NTEC
Committee Company
GOL Government of Lao PDR NTPC Nam Theun 2(NT2) Power Company
(The United Nations) Office for the
Lao IRRI Lao International Rice Research Institute OCHA
Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs
Lao PDR Lao People’s Democratic Republic UNDP United Nations Development Program
Lao Expenditure and Consumption
LECS UNEP United Nations Environment Program
Surveys
LHSE Lao Holding State Enterprise UNICEF United Nations Children’s Fund
LNCE Lao National Committee for Energy WB World Bank
LWU Lao Women’s Union WCD World Commission on Dams
MAF Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry WHO World Health Organization
Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry-
MAF-DOF Unit and technical Term
Department of Forestry
Ministry of Communication,
MCTPC ASL Above Sea Level
Transportation, Post and Construction
MIH Ministry of Industry and Handicrafts B/C Benefit – Cost, Economic efficiency
MOH Ministry of Health BOD Biological Oxygen Demand
MOI Ministry of Industry CC Combined Cycle Power Plant
National Agriculture and Forest Research
NAFRI CEC Cation Exchange Capacity
Institute
NCC National Consulting Company cent/kWh Cent per kilo watt
Nation Growth and Poverty Eradication
NGPES CFRD Concrete Faced Rock fill Dam
Strategy
3
PAFO Provincial Agriculture and Forestry Office cm /s Cubic centimeter per second
PHO Provincial Health Office COD Chemical Oxygen Demand
PMO Prime Minister’s Office dB Decibels
Science, Technology and Environment
STEA dBA Decibels Adjusted
Agency
Watershed Management Conservation
WMCA DBH Diameters at Breast Height
Agency
WREA Water Resources and Environment Agency DO Dissolved Oxygen
AAU Assigned Amount Unit DSCR Debt Service Cover Ratio
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ABBREVIATIONS (continued)
Other Unit and technical Term
ACF Action Contre la Faim ECRD Earth Core Rockfill Dam
Economic/Financial Internal Rate of
AGAC Airborne GPS Aero Control System EIRR, FIRR
Return
APs Affected Peoples EL( ) m Meters above Sea level
ARI Acute Respiratory Infection EU European Union
Forage species/carnivorous species
B “Ban” Village in Laotian Language F/C
ratio
BOT Built-Operate-Transfer FSL Full Supply Level of Reservoir
CA Concession Agreement FWL Flood Water Level
CEM Construction Environmental Manager GDP Gross Domestic Product
COD Commercial Operation Date GW Giga Watt
CPS-
CPS-National Statistical Center,2002 GWh Giga Watt Hour (one million watt hour)
NSC,2002
DLF Department of Livestock and Fisheries ha Hectare
DRWG District Resettlement Working Groups HH Household
EAC Environmental Assessment Committee Hz Hertz
Environmental Assessment and
EAMP IMR Infant Mortality Rate
Management Plan
EAP Emergency Action Plan IRR Internal Rates of Return
ECCD Early Childhood Care for Development JTU Jackson Turbidity Unit
EFOs Environmental Field Officers km Kilometer
EIA Environmental Impact Assessment km2 Square meter
EM Environmental Manager kV Kilo Volt
Environmental Management
EMC kW Kilo Watt
Committee
Environmental Management &
EMMP L/day Liter per day
Monitoring Plan
Engineering, Procurement and
EPC m Meter
Construction
Environmental Protection Law
EPL m3/s Cubic meter per second
(National Law 02/99)
EPMs Environmental Protection Measures MAP Mean Annual Precipitation
ES Environment Section MAR Mean Annual Runoff
Environmental and Social Impact
ESIA mg/ m3 Milligram per Cubic meter
Assessment
Environment-Social Management and
ESMMU Mg/l Milligram per liter
Monitoring Unit
FDR Family Dispute Resolution mm Millimeter
FRCD Forest Resource Conservation Division mm3 Cubic Millimeter
FS, F/S Feasibility Study MOL Minimum Operation Water Level
FTA Federal Transit Administration MSL Mean Sea Level
GPS Global Positioning System MW Mega Watt (one million watt)
HEPP Hydroelectric Power Project NE-SW Northeast-Southwest
IEE Initial Environmental Examination NHWL Normal High Water Level
IPDP Indigenous Peoples Development Plan NWL Normal Water Level
o
IPP Independent Power Producer C Degree Celsius
Participatory Integrated Conservation
LA Loan Agreement PICAD
Committee
LDC Least Developed Country PM 10 Particulate Matter 10
LLDC Least Less-Developed Countries PMF Probable Maximum Flood
MCH maternal and child health PMP Probable Maximum Precipitation
MCM Multi-Chip Modual PPV Peak Particle Velocities
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ABBREVIATIONS (continued)
Other Unit and technical Term
MOU Memorandum of Understanding RCC Roller Compacted Concrete
National Biodiversity Conservation
NBCA ROE Return on Equity
Area
NEAP National Environmental Action Plan RWL Rated Water Level
NEM New Economic Mechanism SLC Salvage Logging Committee
National Environment and Social
NESMC SS Suspended Solid
Management Committee
2
NGOs Non Governmental Organizations t/km /yr tonnes per square meter per year
NNHP 1 Nam Ngiep Hydropower Project 1 ton/ha tonne per hectare
NNT Nakai Nam Thuen TWL Total water level
NTFPs Non-Timber Forest Products US$ US Dollar
O&M Operation and Maintenance USBM United States Bureau of Mines
OC Ownership Company VFA Village Forest Associations
ODA Official Development Assistance μm Micrometer
PDA Project Development Agreement CDM Terms
PDP Power Development Plan CDM Clean Development Mechanism
Provincial Environment and Social
PESMC CER Certified Emission reduction
Management Committee
PPA Power Purchase Agreement DNA Designated National Authority
PRC People’s Public of China EB Executive Board of the CDM
PRP Preliminary Resettlement Plan EMP Environmental Management Plan
RAP Resettlement Action Plan ERU Emission Reduction Unit
RC Resettlement Committee ET Emission Trading
RMU Resettlement Management Unit GHG Green House Gas
RS Resettlement Section JI Joint Implementation
RWG Resettlement Working Group NA Not Available
SDS Social Development Section OE Operational Entity
SIA Social Impact Assessment PDD Project Design Document
Supervisory control and data
SP Sub Plan SCADA
acquisition
ST Station SPC Special Purpose Company
TOR Terms of Reference SWL Surcharge Water Level
UN Framework Convention on Climate
TPA Third Party Access UNFCCC
Change
UXO Unexploded Ordnance
VDC Villages Development Cluster
VHV Village Health’s Volunteers
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CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
1.1 GENERAL BACKGROUND
As a r esult, one of the pillar policies of the government of the Lao PDR (GOL) is to
utilize its plentiful water resources. With its policy of domestic and rural electrification,
EDL’s primary objective is to supply power within the country, but it also exports excess
power to Thailand and other neighboring countries in order to earn foreign exchange.
The government owned Electricite du L aos (EdL) owns and operates a number of
hydropower projects. The theoretical hydropower potential of Lao PDR amounts to about
26,000 MW (excluding the mainstream Mekong River), but this assessment of the total
exploitable potential is only an estimate: Some of the studies involved in this estimate are up
to 30 years old and it must be borne in mind that limitations in hydrological, geological and
other technical information render the estimate approximate. Furthermore, it represents an
upper limit, bearing in mind that the socio-environmental impacts associated with
development of some part of the total potential may be considered unacceptable by today’s
more stringent standards.
The development of the Nam Theun 2 H ydropower Project, with a capacity of 1,070
MW, was considered by independent experts as having greatest immediate potential to
achieve the country’s development objectives as a m ajor source of foreign exchange. The
World Bank awarded a loan to the Lao PDR in March 2005 for the construction of the Nam
Theun 2 P roject. Following five years of construction, the Nam Thuen 2 P roject was
commissioned in 2010. T he decision of the World Bank to provide support for the Nam
Theun 2 Project is believed to have greatly encouraged other hydropower development plans,
EIA of The Nam Ngiep 1 Hydropower Project Draft Report: Chapter 1
and the Lao PDR is now proceeding with several projects, among them the Nam Ngiep 1
Hydropower Project.
The Nam Ngiep 1 Hydropower Project (NNHP-1) is located on the Nam Ngiep River, is a
left bank tributary of the Mekong River, with the confluence about 7 k m upstream of the
town of Pakxan (Paksane) in Bolikhamxay province. The source of the river is near the town
of Phonsavan in Xieng Khouang province. The River flows from north to south from its
origin on the Tra Ninh plateau at EL.1,200 m down to the Mekong plain at EL.160 m. The
maximum altitude of the ridge surrounding the catchment area to west of the Nam Ngiep
River basin, is 2,819 m. The river flows for nearly 160 km, and it drops a total of 1,030 m
along its course. At its confluence with the Mekong, the Nam Ngiep has a total catchment
area of 4,494.7 km2 and is composed of 33 tributaries (sub-catchments) (Figure 1-1).
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The objectives of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study are to:
1) Identify the environmental, social, and economic conditions in the project area.
2) Evaluate potential impacts of the project and the characteristics of the impacts,
including factors such as the magnitude, distribution, and duration of the
impacts, and the affected elements of the human and natural environment.
4) Assess the best alternative project, with consideration of the financial, social,
and environmental costs.
The EA statement must consist of environmental effects on the physical, biological, and
socio-economic and cultural environments, as well as measures to prevent or mitigate any
adverse environmental effects that are expected from the design, construction, operation and
closure of the project. According to DOE’s regulations as declared in 2001, an investor in a
power generation project must apply for the permits to build the hydropower plant before
starting any of its activities that may cause impacts to the environment.
The scope of the EIA of the NNHP-1 project has been defined to follow closely the
Environmental Management Standard prescribed by the DOE, Ministry of Energy and Mines,
Lao PDR and by the environmental assessment guidelines and the environmental and social
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EIA of The Nam Ngiep 1 Hydropower Project Draft Report: Chapter 1
safeguards of the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The main components of the EIA studies
are to:
1) Analyze the following: a project description, the defined study area, site maps,
and other maps for the study area, which were provided by EGAT.
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EIA of The Nam Ngiep 1 Hydropower Project Draft Report: Chapter 1
effects in the design, construction, operation and closure of the electricity project. The major
steps of the EA process, in order to get the certificate approved, include project description
and screening, carrying out an Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) and review of the
IEE, and when determined necessary carrying out an EIA and review of the EIA.
The environmental assessment for the Nam Ngiep 1 Hydropower Project is based on the
feasibility study of Nippon Koei in 2000 a nd in 2002. T hese recommended the proposed
alternative for the dam with a full supply level (FSL) at EL 320 m as the most promising
design for the project. This alternative is able to provide an economically viable and
financially attractive project, while also minimizing environmental and social impacts.
The project area was divided into five zones, according to major features created by the
project or their location to the project. Figure 1-2 shows the village in the project area and
indicates in which zone these villages lie:
Zone 3 Construction area (the area where the dam and associated
facilities will be built)
1-6
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1.5.2 METHODOLOGY
The methodology for the EIA study on the environmental and social impacts expected from
construction and operation of the Nam Ngiep Hydropower Project consisted of several stages.
The environmental assessment involves the inventory and description of the baseline
environment, the predicted impact on t hose baseline conditions, and the prescription of
mitigation measures to address these impacts. Accordingly, this information is presented in
the following discussion, where appropriate, as separate subheadings under each major
environmental parameter.
The environmental issues are each evaluated as a subsection volume. Each evaluation
includes:
2) A background of the approach used by the EIA team for making the assessment.
3) Description of links between the various environmental issues and other sectors
of assessment.
2) Potential impacts on water quality, including both the impact of the project on
water quality and the impact of these changes in water quality on various water
uses.
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6) Potential threats to the forest resources in the absence of the Nam Ngiep Project.
This volume presents, where applicable, with project and without project impact
scenarios for various environmental issues. This is particularly relevant for the terrestrial and
biodiversity resources that are expected to undergo rapid and systematic depletion due to
logging and accompanying encroachment from various human activities, if there is no
project.
1.6 AUTHORS
Researcher
Environmental Aspects Environmental Research Institute
National Consulting Company
Chulalongkorn University
Physical Environments
1) Topography Assoc. Prof. Pongsri Chanhow -
2) Meteorology Dr. Sangchan Limjirakan Dr. Inthavy Akkharath
3) Geology, Landforms, Asst. Prof. Dr. Chakkaphan Suthirat -
Seismology
4) Soils Dr. Nukoon Tawinteung Dr. Hatsadong Phannavong
5) Erosion and Sedimentation Asst. Prof. Dr. Chakkaphan Suthirat Dr. Inthavy Akkharath
6) Surface and Groundwater Dr. Kallaya Suntornvongsagul Dr. Phousi Inthapannya
Quality
7) Mineral Resources Asst. Prof. Dr. Chakkaphan Suthirat -
8) Noise and Vibration Assoc. Prof. Prathan Areebhol -
9) Air Quality Dr. Tussanee Pluksasith -
10) Potential Contaminate Site Dr. Ekawan Luepromchai -
Biological Environments
1) Terrestrial Ecology/Wildlife Dr. Rattanawat Chaiyarat Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sengdeuane
Wayakone
2) Forest/Vegetation Cover Asst. Prof. Dr. Sakhan Teejuntuk Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sengdeuane
Wayakone
3) Wetlands Dr. Somrudee Jitpraphai -
4) Aquatic Biota and Habitats Prof. Wit Tarnchalanukit Dr. Sinthavong Viravong
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Researcher
Environmental Aspects Environmental Research Institute
National Consulting Company
Chulalongkorn University
Socio-Economics and Cultural Environments
1) Population and Communities Mr. Satien Rujiravanich Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sengdeuane
Wayakone
2) Socio-economics Assoc. Prof. Dr. Somchai Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sengdeuane
Ratanakomut Wayakone
3) Land Use Mr. Luechai Kroutnoi Dr. Inthavy Akkharath
4) Infrastructure Facilities Mr. Luechai Kroutnoi Mr.Panya Simonkol
5) Water Use and Water Supply Mr. Dheerabol Gangaketu Dr. Phousi Inthapannya
6) Transportation Asst.Prof. Dr. Sompong Sirisoponsilp -
7) Navigation Asst. Prof. Dr. Sompong Sirisoponsilp -
8) Energy Sources Assoc. Prof. Withaya Yongchareon -
9) Public Health Asst. Prof. Pakorn Sumethanurugkul Dr. Onechanh Keosavanh
10) Public Safety and Occupation Dr. Benjalak Karnchanasest Dr. Onechanh Keosavanh
Health
11) Agriculture Dr. Supot Faungfupong Dr. Hatsadong Phannavong
12) Fisheries/Aquaculture Dr. Jintana Salaenoi Dr. Sinthavong Viravong
13) Industries Mr. Luechai Kroutnoi Mr.Panya Simonkol
14) Mineral Development Asst. Prof. Dr. Chakkaphan Sutthirat Dr. Khamfeuane Sioudom
15) Archaeology Asst. Prof. Sinchai Krabuansang Dr. Viengkeo Souksavatdy
16) Aesthetic / Recreation / Dr.Pongsak Vadhanasindhu Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sengdeuane
Tourism Assoc.Prof.Dr. Thavivongse Sriburi Wayakone
17) Resettlement Mr. Satien Rujiravanich Dr. Sengdara Kattignasack
18) Land Acquisition and Mr. Satien Rujiravanich Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sengdeuane
Compensation Wayakone
19) Culture Asst.Prof.Dr. Sulak Sriburi Mr Bounma Molakhasouk
20) Public Consultation Mr. Satien Rujiravanich Videth Visounnarath
21) Laws and Regulations Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mattaya Jittirat Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sengdeuane
Wayakone
22) GIS and Mapping Dr. Ornprapa Pummakarnchana Dr. Inthavy Akkharath
23) Environmental Management Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thavivongse sriburi -
Plan
Project Director: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thavivongse Sriburi
This EIA generally conforms to the preferred outline for environmental assessment. The
Environmental Assessment Overview document, which is prepared as a separate document,
provides a general overview of issues taken from each of the chapters of the EIA. It
constitutes a reliable synopsis of the contents of the EIA. There are 9 chapters in this EIA:
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Chapter 2 – Project Description: presents the project features in detail. T his chapter
enables the reader can obtain a clear understanding of the project. A description is presented
of the study areas that were identified to evaluate the project impacts.
Chapter 3 – Methodology: provides details about the objective, scope and methods.
Chapter 4 – Legal Aspects for EIA: provides the policy, legal and administrative
framework for the project. It contains a description of the implementation framework
proposed by Nam Ngiep Project to undertake mitigation actions through the Head Contractor.
It also contains descriptions of existing and proposed policies and laws related to the
environment, as well as the management of forests and watersheds and river systems in
general. It describes the institutions that are responsible for administering national
instruments of policy and provides a description of relevant policies and laws related to
resettlement and human impacts.
Chapter 8 – Nam Ngiep Watershed Management Plan: A draft plan for management
of the Nam Ngiep watershed is presented. This program should be initiated by the GOL, with
appropriate technical and financial support from the NNHP-1 Project, other hydropower
projects in the watershed, and any other projects that affect the watershed’s resources.
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References
Annexes: contains supporting documentation for various issues addressed in the report.
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CHAPTER 2
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
2.1 PROJ ECT BACKGROUND
The Lao PDR expects that its hydropower resources are to be a primary source of income for
the future, selling electricity to Thailand and other neighbors. The foreign exchange earned
from sale of hydropower will in turn spur other economic and social development in the Lao
PDR, while the electric network will be a key infrastructure for that development. Thailand
has considerable demand for electricity, with domestic supply unable to keep up w ith the
growing demand. Most of the alternatives available to Thailand for additional large-scale
electrical production in country are much more costly than hydropower, both financially and
environmentally.
For the NNHP-1, several pre-feasibility studies have been done. The JICA-F/S which has
been done in 2000 a nd 2002 w as implemented environmental impact assessments and
technical feasibility studies. The JICA-F/S stated that the Nam Ngiep1 project has been
planned to help cope with peaks or intermediate peaks in the load curve. It can maintain price
competitiveness among other power sources.
A company, in future to be named the Nam Ngiep1 Power Co., Ltd., will be established
under a shareholder agreement in order to sign loan agreements with lenders and start work
on the project. The sponsors of the Nam Ngiep1 Power Co., Ltd., are a consortium consisting
of The Kansai Electric Power Co., Inc. from Japan, EGAT International Co., Ltd. from
Thailand, and Lao Holding State Enterprise (LHSE) from the Lao PDR. Detailed designs,
construction plans, commissioning, operations and maintenance are all among the objectives
of the company. The company is expected to repay its loans and recover its investment from
EIA of The Nam Ngiep 1 Hydropower Project Draft Report: Chapter 2
power sales. At the end of the concession period, the facilities are to be transferred to GOL
under specified conditions, either at zero value or at an amount agreed in the concession
agreement.
Current project cost would be around 0.9 billion USD. According to the results of more
detailed studies of the environmental and social impacts, environmental and social costs
recommended for the various mitigation measures would be around ( ) million USD.
The site of the main dam is located on the Nam Ngiep River some 145 km north-east to
Vientiane or about 40 km north to Pakxan as shown in Figure 2-1.
The main facility of the project is to be in Bolikhamxay Province. The reservoir will
cover parts of Vientiane and Xieng Khouang provinces, with a surface area of 66.9 km² when
at full supply level of EL320 m and an effective storage capacity of 1,192 million m³ from
the reservoir is designed to drop around 130 m to a power station downstream from the main
dam. Water discharged from the power station is to flow into a re-regulating pond, t hen
discharged downstream daily through the re-regulation dam.
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Extending over three provinces of Bolikhamxay, Vientiane, and Xieng Khouang located in
central Lao PDR, the NNHP-1 plans to construct a 148 m high concrete gravity dam on the
Nam Ngiep River, and will build a main power station having 272 MW and annual power
generation of 1,515 GWh at substation, together with a re-regulation power station, located
downstream of the main power station, having 18 MW and annual power generation of
105 GWh.
Average annual rainfall throughout the catchment area is estimated at about 1,900 m m.
The area south of the mountains sees nearly double the rainfall than the northern part of the
river basin. The catchment area at the dam site is estimated to be 3,700 km2 with average
annual inflow of 148.4 m3/s or 4.68 billion m3.
The main features of the project are presented in Table 2-1 and Figure 2-2.
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Figure 2-2 Location of main features of the Nam Ngiep 1 Hydropower Project.
The dam location is planned to be 1.7 km upstream from the end of the narrow gorge, and
9.4 km from Ban Hat Gniun. The main dam reservoir with the effective storage capacity of
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1,192 Mm3 at NWL of EL 320 m and 70 km length is shown in the Figure 2-3. The reservoir
is quite narrow along most of its length, and will cover an area of 66.9 km2, with most of the
area to be inundated within the first 20 km upstream from the main dam.
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As seen in Figure 2-4, where the main dam will be constructed the river floor is at EL 180
m. The reservoir depth at the deepest point just behind the dam is equal to the dam height,
about 140m. The average depth would be about 70 m starting at 140 m at the dam site and
decreasing as it goes farther upstream to only few m at about 70 km from the dam.
2.4.2.1 Layout
The structures will consist of a single lane river diversion with an intake/outlet, cofferdams
located in upstream/downstream of the diversion tunnel, the main power station, and
a tailrace are to be laid near the main dam. Intakes, penstocks, and a spillway, a riparian
release conduit and valve are to be located in the main dam body. Figure 2-5 shows the layout
plan in the periphery of the main dam.
Source: Kansai and EGAT, Technical Report on Nam Ngiep Hydropower Project, 2011
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The main dam facilities will be located on the left bank to avoid the folded zone on the
right bank and to minimize the impact caused by the extensive adjustment that would be
required for the facilities to fit on the slopes. The main dam will be located in the gorge 1.2
km downstream of the junction where the Nam Katha River joins the Nam Ngiep River,
formed by the construction of concrete gravity dam, with a crest length of approximately 530
m and a crest height of 148 m. Dam crest elevation will be EL 322.0 m. The elevation will be
set in order to avoid overflow caused by the provable maximum flood. Grouting is also
planned to improve the water cut-off effect of the dam foundation. (Figure 2-6)
Source: Kansai and EGAT, Technical Report on Nam Ngiep Hydropower Project, 2011
Figure 2-6 Upstream cross-section of the main dam.
The dam axis has been set by considering the topography and geology. An RCC dam type of
148 m height has been selected as the most economical of the options; there would be
considerable difficulties in the arrangement of a spillway and the procurement of materials
such as core or asphalt/concrete, as well as difficulties in scheduling of construction relating
to filling soil/rock materials during the rainy season, if a rockfill dam had been selected.
The reservoir water level has been set at EL.320.0 m. Although higher water levels would
be more economical, the EL.320.0 water level was selected in order to reduce the impacts on
the environment and on residents around the reservoir.
A spillway with four (4) gates is mounted in the middle of the RCC dam. A ski jump type
spillway was selected to mitigate effect of discharged water around the powerhouse
downstream, though a hydraulic type dissipater was planned. A dam control center is located
near the dam crest on t he left bank to operate the spillway gate, to allow monitoring the
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reservoir water level during floods. A diversion tunnel having the capacity to discharge flood
waters during construction is laid inside the left bank mountain, taking into consideration the
better geology of that location.
The river profile at dam site is a V-shape with 30−40 m width of riverbed. Therefore, a tunnel
construction method is recommended. The left bank route is selected to avoid the folded zone
in the middle of the right bank which is about 90 m wide and runs in upstream/downstream
direction (Figure 2-7).
Source: Kansai and EGAT, Technical Report on Nam Ngiep Hydropower Project, 2011
Figure 2-7 River diversion tunnel layout.
The river diversion is to be a single-row water pressure tunnel with inner diameter of 10.0
m and 653 m long and horseshoe cross-section, and structurally capable of passing 1.5-year
probable flood discharge of 1,000 m3/s. The tunnel would be concrete lined with 0.7 m
thickness for the intake section, outlet section and the plug section, and 0.3 m thickness for
the rest. The tunnel would be blocked up at two sections, the intake section and the section
below the dam axis.
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2.4.4 SPILLWAY
The spillway is considered the necessity of direct water spillage to the Nam Ngiep River as
well as the necessity of some elongation from the power station considered. It is designed for
four (4) radial gates, each to be 12.25 m breadth and 16.0 m radius. The spillway is designed
for 5,210 m3/s (1,000-year probability) flood discharge in fully open conditions. The gated
spillway type is selected to be in accordance with the spill design flood discharge at NWL. A
spillway chute and its energy dissipater are set to mitigate downstream impacts of the main
dam.
The crest and chute of the spillway are to be configured and designed to mitigate
negative-pressure created under all conditions. The falling pattern and other conditions of the
design flood discharge are confirmed by hydraulic model simulation tests. The ski-jump style
projection end, which is to act as energy dissipater, was set at EL 206.4 m, by considering the
flood level of EL 192.1 m derived by non-uniform flow computation from the re-regulation
dam using Design (8,050 m3/s), plus some allowance.
2.4.5 INTAKE
Intakes are located on the upstream surface of the main dam. The sill level of the intake is set
at EL. 275.500 m which is above the assumed sedimentation level of EL. 233.000 m. Intake
structure is designed to minimize water head loss and to avoid harmful hydraulic phenomena
of air bubbles generation, vortexes generation. Considering these conditions, now the intake
location has enough water depth from the minimum operation level of EL296.0 m, generally
two times as much as the inlet diameter is required, is considered in the power intake design.
Further to minimize head loss, bell mouth inlet is applied.
2.4.6 PENSTOCK
Two rows of penstocks are planned to be near the center of the river. Diameter is 6.76 m at
the beginning point and gradually reduced to 5.20 m and rapidly reduced to 3.7 m at just
upstream of the inlet valve. The penstocks are exposed rather than buried for less impact on
overall dam construction work as well as ease of inspection and maintenance.
A conduit is planned for riparian release for environmental protection of the downstream
area. Water velocity inside the pipe has to be set at 20 m/sec, because the velocity in the slide
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valve section needs to be limited to within 10 m /s under any conditions in order to avoid
harmful vibrations. Considering these conditions, one (1) row of 0.8 m diameter discharge
pipe and two (2) sluice valves, each 1.1 m in diameter, are installed inside the dam body.
The upstream slide valve is for back-up. The sill level of the gate chamber is set at EL.
244.600 m, which is lower than MOL 296.0m and higher than the assumed sedimentation
level of EL. 233.0 m. The discharge is designed for a 5.5 m3/s discharge of riparian release.
The layout of main power station and the spillway are designed so that they are closer to the
river center, considering that water from the spillway and the tailrace merge into the river.
The upstream end of the main power station elongated from the dam axis is 143.5 m long.
The main power station, a four-storey building, is approximately 25.0 m long, 62.5 m wide,
and 47.2 m high. The tailrace is 48.5 m long.
Two (2) Francis turbine units will be installed at the main power station, which will
generate energy for delivery to EGAT. (Table 2-2)
Power supply to the main power station, including the power generating equipment, will
be tapped from each of the Francis unit’s busbars through auxiliary transformers.
The power transformers will be arranged next to the power station building. The power
transformers of the main power station will be connected to the 230kV substation by means
of overhead lines.
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A Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system will enable to monitor,
supervise and control the power stations and substations. This system will enable analysis of
power station conditions. All relevant information will be transmitted to EGAT’s national
and regional control centers. The SCADA system will enable automatic operation of both the
main power station and the re-regulation power station
A re-regulation dam is planned to be at the site 1.3 km downstream from Ban Hatsaykham or
3.2 km upstream from Ban Hat Gniun. The dam site is hilly at EL 163 m. The hills along the
riverbanks are about EL 200 m. On the left bank there is a 90 m wide terrace plain 5-10 m
above the river surface. The proposed dam crest elevation in the non-overflow section is
indicated at about 187 m to discharge design flood.
The layout of the main facilities for the re-regulation dam is shown the figure below
(Figure 2-8).
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The re-regulation dam is located 6.2 km downstream from the main dam, at a site where
foundation rock can be reached by abutment and the regulating capacity is secured. The dam
function is to store discharged water from the main dam during power peaks, re-using it for
power generation and releasing it downstream evenly on 24 -hour basis on weekdays. This
will regulate downstream flows to mitigate environmental impacts caused by fluctuations of
water level. The re-regulation reservoir will have 4.6 Mm3 capacity (Effective storage
capacity). The main facilities are a free overflow type concrete gravity dam, and a
powerhouse on the left mountain side.
The re-regulation dam will be formed by concrete gravity dam (CVC), with a crest length
of approximately 185.2 m and a crest height of 20.6 m. Dam crest elevation will be EL 187.0 m.
To secure five-year probable flood discharge (1,590 m3/s), the height of the cofferdam at EL
173 m is required at primary diversion. After construction of cofferdams on the left bank, it
will then be possible to construct the re-regulation powerhouse, the re-regulation gate, and
the intake.
Following that, river flow can be diverted to the waterway of the re-regulation gate by
constructing a secondary diversion to secure 10-year probable flood discharge during the dry
season (230 m3/s), during which time the re-regulation dam will be constructed. After
construction of all the facilities, upstream and downstream cofferdams will be removed.
• Re-regulation gate discharge: Q = 230 m3/s (10-year flood during dry season)
2.5.3 SPILLWAY
The dam crest elevation is set at 187 m in the non-overflow section to discharge design flood,
and an ungated spillway is selected to ensure safe and easy operation. During flooding,
inflow from the main dam is discharged downstream through the spillway. A submerged
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bucket type of energy dissipater is selected to utilize high river water levels downstream
(since the river water level downstream is higher than the water level of the hydraulic jump).
2.5.4 INTAKE
The intake is designed to accommodate the maximum plant discharge of 160 m3/s at any
water level between NWL and MOL. The dimension of the intake bell-mouth is determined
so as to avoid vortexes at any water level between NWL and MOL.
One (1) fixed wheel gate shall be at the left side of the Re-regulation dam. The re-regulation
gate is planned to release the regulated flow in the case of maintenance of the re-regulation
dam.
The re-regulation powerhouse has a length of 62.5 m, a width of 25.0 m and a height of
47.2 m. One unit of bulb type turbine and generator is installed at EL. 154.4 m. The tailrace is
an open channel type with length of 68.5 m and average bottom width of 9.8 m, which has a
rectangular cross section with concrete walls and slab.
A bulb turbine unit will be installed at the re-regulation power station. A bulb turbine unit
will generate energy for delivery to EdL, the re-regulation power station, the administration
office and the operator’s village (Table 2-3).
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A Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system will enable to monitor,
supervise and control the power stations and substations. This system will enable analysis of
power station conditions. All relevant information will be transmitted to EGAT’s national
and regional control centers. The SCADA system will enable automatic operation of both the
main power station and the re-regulation power station.
For the purpose of securing an effective storage capacity of NWL EL 179.0 m as well as
preventing leakage, a saddle dam is built on the right bank, and the area behind it is utilized
for the resettlement area. The saddle dam will be a f ormed concrete facing rock fill dam
(CFRD), with a crest length of approximately 508 m and a dam height of 15.1 m.
The main power station with the maximum power output of 272 MW will be operated in
accordance with the “Operation and Maintenance Manual” which will be prepared before the
initial filling of the reservoir. The maximum discharge through the turbines of the main
power station will be 230 m3/s. The re-regulation power station will provide maximum power
output of 18 MW for domestic power supply, and the maximum discharge will be 160 m 3/s.
The electricity generated at the main power station will be delivered to EGAT by a 145 km
long 230kV transmission line that will be owned by the project owner, and by a 27 km long
shared-ownership 500kV transmission line beyond the substation at Ban Nabong. Ownership
of the shared 500kV facilities and their operation and maintenance will be determined in due
course by the various developers, EGAT, and government authorities.
The maximum reservoir elevation of the main dam will be EL 320.0 m and the minimum
operating level will be EL 296.0 m. Drawdown of the reservoir normally occurs during the
dry season, with filling during the wet season. During periods of high inflow the maximum
reservoir elevation could be achieved, resulting in water discharge through the spillway gates.
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This will regulate the downstream flow for environmental reasons, by smoothing out the peak
discharge. At the immediate downstream of the re-regulation dam, the change in water flow
between before- and after-project conditions is shown in Figure 2-9, giving two duration
curves of monthly flow data for 30 years. Operations of both the main dam and re-regulation
dam could create a t ypical flow pattern with more decreased discharge in the rainy season
and augmented flow in the dry season than there is for the natural river flow.
The discharge of the normal operation of the main power station is designed at 16-hour
peak generation on w eekdays and Saturday. The main power station would not operate on
Sunday. Typical operation case is shown in Figure 2-10. The discharge from the main dam
would be stored in the re-regulation reservoir.
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Figure 2-10 Typical Operation case of 230 m3/s 16-hour peak generation at the main
power station.
Operation of the main dam would intentionally release water downstream during
emergency events such as drought or flooding when both turbines are unable to release water
because of those unforeseen events. Spillway gates would be operated during flooding in
accordance with the spillway gates operation rules to minimize downstream impacts. Before
operating the spillway gates, information regarding expected water level increases would be
disseminated to those living downstream in accordance with the spillway gates operation
rules and the emergency action plan.
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Figure 2-11 Seasonal inflow and outflow of the main reservoir and changes in
reservoir volume.
The spillway gates will be operated i) during flooding period, ii) for the preparation of
flooding, and iii) in any situation required by laws or regulations or the Concession
Agreement of the Nam Ngiep1 Hydropower project.
The spillway gates of the main dam will be operated in accordance with the spillway
gates operation rules and the emergency action plan, which will be prepared prior to the
initial filling of the main and re-regulation reservoirs.
Patterns of the spillway discharge from the main dam will be generally divided into the
two (2) cases as shown in Table 2-4.
Case 1:
Whenever the WL is lower than NWL, the spillway gates will not be operated and all the
river inflow will be stored in the main reservoir until the WL reaches NWL unless there is
any requirement for preparation of flooding routine and/or required by l aws, regulations or
the Concession Agreement. Such operation could result in a peak-cut operation of floods and
then mitigate possible flood damages to the downstream areas.
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In the highly unlikely case that floods exceeding the design flood (5,210 m3/s) occur, the
project owner will maintain close contact with local governmental units in both the upstream
and downstream areas through appropriate means and in the appropriate manners.
The main power station will operate only 16 hours on w eekdays (from Monday to
Saturday) and will often halt operation for the remaining 8 hour s on weekdays. If the re-
regulation dam and reservoir (pondage) are not installed, this operation pattern of the main
power station would cause large fluctuations in the downstream river water level
The re-regulation dam is planned to be constructed for the purpose of smoothing out this
daily fluctuation of the water level downstream, and thus mitigating environmental impacts
caused by the Project.
Figure 2-13 Inflow and plant discharge pattern in the re-regulation reservoir water level.
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The operation to change the amount of released water from re-regulating dam will be
controlled gradually, to prevent adverse environmental impacts downstream. The operational
rules will be established before the initial impounding.
During flood periods, the re-regulation reservoir will store water discharged from the main
reservoir until the re-regulation reservoir water level reaches EL179 m. After that, the water
from the main reservoir will be spilled through the spillway of the re-regulation dam. It is
capable of coping with 1,000-year probable flood discharge of 5,210 m3/s which is equal to
the design flood adopted for the design of the spillway gates of the main dam.
The quarry site is located on the flat plain on the right bank some 500 to 1,000 m downstream
from the main dam site. This flat area is one of the old peneplains at EL 250 to 340 m. The
site slopes toward the downstream at about a 10-degree angle and is 50 to 250 m wide.
The main construction materials to be brought in from outside to the dam site are cement, fly
ash and steel bars used for concrete, gates and penstocks for metal-work, turbines and
generators for the power station, and other equipment. A promising quarry site for the
concrete aggregates has been selected downstream on the right bank. The main construction
equipment at the dam site will include earth transport and construction equipment, and an
aggregate and a concrete plant. A majority of the equipment and materials will be imported
from foreign countries. At present, it is expected that the cement, fly ash and steel bars will
be from Thailand, and that construction equipment, transformers, gates, penstocks, and other
equipment will be imported mainly from other industrialized countries.
The most promising transportation route for these imported equipment and materials
would be through Thailand. They would first be discharged at either the Bangkok Port or the
Laem Chabang Port in Thailand; then taken by road to Vientiane, Lao PDR via the
Friendship Bridge. From Vientiane, equipment and materials will be taken by Route 13 south
to Pakxan, then to the north on a provincial road to Ban Nonsomboun before turning left onto
the access road to the dam site.
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With reference to the IEE reported in Annex D, the transportation distance and road
conditions for each section of the route between Vientiane and Ban Hat Gniun are shown in
Table 2-5. Since all the equipment and materials will be transported, during the construction
period, through the route mentioned in Figure 2-14, widening the existing road, constructing
bridges or culverts at stream (marsh area) crossings, and stabilization work of the roadbed
will need to be done as appropriate.
Table 2-5 Vientiane−Ban Hat Gniun Transportation Distance and Road Condition
Figure 2-14 General layout of existing road between Paksan and Ban Hat Gniun.
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A temporary road now exists along the left bank of the Nam Ngiep River between Ban Hat
Gniun and the dam site. T his road was built for the geological surveys for JICA-F/S. For
access to the left bank of the dam site, this temporary road will be upgraded and used as a
construction road during the construction period. However, because of the mitigation of
detour route which would not be economical to use for permanent access. A new permanent
access road is proposed to reach the power station and the dam crest along the left bank from
Ban Hat Gniun. The proposed design condition of the road and width would be determined to
allow frequent transportation of construction materials. A 22 kV electricity line will be
adjacent the access road, branching off from the existing line at Nonsomboon, to provide
electricity during construction. The road route plan is shown in Figure 2-15.
There are two transmission lines for the Nam Ngiep Project, a 230 kV line from the power
station at the main dam and a 115 kV from the power station at the re-regulation dam. The
230 kV line is proposed to run for about 130 kilometers from the main dam to the Nabong
substation to contribute electrical power to Thailand in support of the increasing power
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demand of the Thai power grid. The 115 kV line is proposed to run 40 kilometers, starting at
the re-regulation dam and ending at the Pakxan substation, providing domestic power supply.
1) Construction of the new road (to reach the outlet of the diversion tunnel),
rehabilitation/expansion of existing road, construction of labor camp, and
administration facilities and lay-down area.
8) Placing dam concrete. Clearing major trees in proposed reservoir area with the
cut and burn method.
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Sites for project activities should be prepared during early phases of construction. Areas that
need to be cleared are for the main and re-regulation dams, cofferdams, diversion tunnels,
power houses, quarry areas, temporary yards, access roads, disposal areas, office, worker
camps, waste storage, chemical storage, and waste treatment and disposal systems. Sizes of
functional areas are presented in Table 2-6. Location of various components were shown in
Figure 2-5.
Permanent
Size Length (m)
Functional area Use
(ha) (m2) Yes
Main dam 4.32 43,200 Yes
Re-regulation dam 1.60 16,000 Yes
Cofferdams 0.67 6,700 Yes
Diversion tunnels 0.62 6,240 Yes
Main dam powerhouse 0.15 1,470 Yes
Re-regulation dam powerhouse 0.06 570 Yes
Quarry areas 9.12 91,200 No
Temporary yards 16.81 168,100 No
Switch yard 0.24 2,400 Yes
Access Road - - 23 Yes
Disposal areas 25.10 251,000 No
Office 1.60 16,000 Yes
Worker camps 12.00 120,000 No
Source: Drawing name: General plan, Aug, 2007 DWG # NNP1-C-03 and Technical Report, 2007
A tentative schedule for the construction is presented in Table 2-7. Construction schedule is
planned at the total 70 months.
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CHAPTER 3
METHODOLOGY
The study components are organized into two main categories according to their general
environmental aspects:
1. Physical Environment
1) Topography
2) Meteorology
3) Geology, Landforms, Seismology
4) Soils
5) Erosion and Sedimentation
6) Surface Water and Groundwater Quality
7) Mineral Resources
8) Noise and Vibration
9) Air Quality
10) Potential Contaminated Sites
11) Hydrology
2. Biological Environment
1) Terrestrial Ecology / Wildlife
2) Forests, Vegetation Cover
3) Aquatic Biota
4) Wetland
3.1.1 TOPOGRAPHY
To study topography changes expected with the project and provide information of possible
impacts for further assessment in the other study components.
(1) Study topographical data around the project site by reviewing existing works, in
particular the previous feasibility studies, and data provided by t he project
developer.
(2) Study project details on water level dynamics (during fill up and operation
periods), civil structures, and construction access routes. The study will focus on
the activities involving modification of landscape.
(3) Prepare maps depicting the modified topography and recommended mitigation
measure to minimize negative impacts.
3.1.2 METEOROLOGY
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Geology is the most crucial fundamental for dam construction. The geological information
including regional structure and rock formation is most useful for indicating potentials of
mineral deposits and geohazards (e.g., seismic risks, rock falls and landslides). The
geohazards may cause enormous threat to the loss of lives and infrastructure; hence, dam
stability is included in the detailed designs of dam structure to minimize the risks of dam
failure. Geological structures and rock types are considered for the potential of rock falls,
flows and landslides. The geological information is also used for assessing the vulnerable and
geologically risky areas, which are indicated for future monitoring. Long-term records of
earthquake occurrences in the country were collected and interpreted along with tectonic
setting and structural geology of both local and regional areas.
(1) To compile and integrate geological data (e.g., rock formation, structure and
tectonic) of the project area and regional area.
(2) To assess seismic hazards affecting the project site and adjoining areas.
(3) To propose solutions and alternatives if any potential problems are found.
Results of the study in the previous Feasibility Study were investigated to determine the
geological setting of the area. In addition, the following tasks were carried out.
(1) Compile information on r egional geology and seismic source zones from Lao
and international literature.
(2) Delineate geological features of the regional project area from satellite images.
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(3) Review field surveys conducted around the project dam site to confirm and
enhance the interpretations of the previous studies
(4) In case potential problems are found, develop appropriate measures to minimize
the impacts.
3.1.4 SOILS
The dam development could lead to loss of large areas of forest and agricultural lands for
reservoir and resettlement sites. Soil fertility of agricultural lands in resettlement sites is
crucial to the viability of crop production, livestock rearing, and other livelihoods. The aim of
soil fertility study is to evaluate whether or not the areas provided for resettlement allow
people to continue their traditional agricultural practices. Additional soil analysis is to assess
the possibility of soil loss from erosion. The tributaries of the rivers which would be
obstructed by a coffer dam could have an impact on soil fertility.
(1) To determine soil fertility and suitability by using both primary and secondary
data in order to understand soil characteristics at the project site and other key
sites, especially resettlement sites.
(2) To assess the probable effects and impacts from the project on soil fertility and
suitability during construction and operation phases.
(3) To develop mitigation measures and monitoring plans for possible adverse
effects.
(1) Investigated soil types and chemistry of the resettlement sites and project area.
(2) Conducted field survey and soil sampling at 2 different depths 0-15 cm and 15-
30 cm by composite sampling method.
(3) Soil samples were prepared and analyzed for chemical and physical properties:
- Soil samples were air dried, under shade, crushed and sieved through 2 mm sieve.
• Chemical properties: pH, Lime requirement (LR), Organic matter (OM), Total
Nitrogen (N), Available Nitrogen (NO- 3 -N and NH+ 4 -N), Available
Phosphorus (Avail. P), Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC), Exchangeable base
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(4) Collected data were assessed for the impacts on soil fertility and to determine
mitigation measures wherever necessary.
The amount of sediment carried into a reservoir depends on the rainfall patterns and land
cover characteristics. Generally the amount of sediment being carried is at its highest during
and after a pa rticularly violent storm. Under such conditions, a river may carry as much
sediment as it would in several normal years. Mudslides can also have a dramatic and
unpredictable effect on reservoir sedimentation.
The actual process of sediment deposition is unique to every reservoir and is impossible
to predict accurately. In general, the coarser, heavier sediments, the gravel and sand, tend to
settle out at the upper end of reservoir, forming a “backwater” delta, which gradually
advances toward the dam. The lighter sediments, the silt and clay, tend to be deposited nearer
the dam.
(1) To determine sedimentation and erosion of the Nam Ngiep river from the
existing flow
(2) To assess possible impacts of the NNHP-1 project on sedimentation and erosion
(3) To develop a plan to ensure minimum and controllable impacts of the dam on
sedimentation and erosion
There was no systematic collection of data on erosion patterns and sediment discharge in the
river for any of the preliminary studies. This makes it extremely difficult, if not impossible, to
estimate accurately how the dam will affect erosion and sedimentation. Since erosion patterns
and sediment flows vary widely seasonally as well as from year to year, determining these
factors require a long run of data. In theory, statistical data should be available for a period
equal to at least half the projected lifetime of the dam for an accurate assessment. Using data
on erosion and sedimentation collected over a short period is extremely prone to error. With
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insufficient data from the project area, it was considered more desirable and likely to be more
accurate to use data from similar catchments in the region for the assessment.
(1) To forecast the impacts on existing water quality of the Nam Ngiep River that
could be caused by project activities.
(2) To propose mitigation measures and monitoring plans to prevent or mitigate the
impact on water quality.
The assessment of water quality of Nam Ngiep River was conducted by:
(1) Reviewing discharge sources and other relevant data water quality of the Nam
Ngiep River, focusing on the segment passing through Xieng Khuang, and down
to the Mekong River.
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Coordinate
Station No.
N E
1. Ban Xiengkhong 19°06’01.80’’ 103°20’51.30’’
2. Ban Phonngeng 19°02’25.67’’ 103°23’40.14’’
3. Ban Pou 19°01’04.58’’ 103°27’25.53’’
4. Ban Houypamom 18°47’04.53’’ 103°26’08.67’’
5. Ban Sopphouan 18°46’53.60’’ 103°25’56.82’’
6. Ban Sopyouak 18°42’52.61’’ 103°26’01.74’’
7. Hat Sakhua 18°41’11.22’’ 103°27’03.87’’
8. Ban Hat Gniun 18°39’15.25’’ 103°35’22.44’’
9. Ban Somseun 18°30’17.54’’ 103°39’31.81’’
10 .Nam Ngiep Bridge 18°25’03.77’’ 103°36’11.30’’
(3) Sampling the surface water twice to compare late hot and dry season (low flow)
and late rainy season (high flow) conditions. The first sampling was collected on
24 April 2007 toward the end of the hot season, while the second sample was
collected on 17 October 2007 in the later part of the rainy season. Groundwater
quality was observed on 17 October 2007 at Ban Somseun and Ban Hat Gniun;
however, only the well-water of Ban Somseun was collected.
(4) Sampling methods taken extensively and over a wide area; sampling procedures
were done to prevent of sample cross contamination and water parameters
especially trace elements. Grab sampling was conducted by using a water
sampler dropped down to around 1 meter under the water surface. Samples were
cooled to 4 de grees Celsius and hand carried to the laboratory for further
analysis. Temperature, pH, conductivity, salinity, turbidity, and DO were
measured at the field sites, whereas other characteristics were analyzed in a
laboratory at the National University of Lao
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(5) Analyzing the water quality. Parameters of interest included physical and
chemical water qualities (temperature, pH, conductivity, salinity, hardness,
alkalinity, turbidity, suspended solid, total dissolved solid, oil and grease),
biological water qualities (DO, COD, BOD 5 , P, PO 4 3-, N, NO 3 -, NH 3 ),
bacteriological water quality (total coliform and feacal coliform), and other
chemicals and trace elements (Cd, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb Zn and As). Their
analytical methods were indicated following the Standard Methods for the
Examination of Water and Wastewater, 19th edition, 1995, e dited by Andrew
Egton, Lenore Clesceri and Ashold Greenberg (Table 3-2)
(6) The ambient water standards of the Lao PDR were used for analysis (Table
3-3) The surface water standards of Thailand (Table 3-4) were also used for
analysis, because it includes several levels of water quality, indicating
whether the water is appropriate for drinking, agriculture, or other uses. In
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- not indicated
Based on Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater recommended by APHA :
American Public Health Association, AWWA : American Water Works Association and WPCF : Water
Pollution Control Federation
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Source: Notification of the National Environmental Board, No. 8, B.E. 2537 ( 1994), issued under the
Enhancement and Conservation of National Environmental Quality Act B.E.2535 (1992), published in the Royal
Government Gazette, Vol. 111, Part 16, dated February 24, B.E.2537 (1994).
Table 3-4 Ground Water Standards for Drinking Purposes of Lao PDR
(7) Assessed potential water quality impact from project implementation. The water
standards together with results of water quality models conducted by Kansai
Electric Power Co., Inc were integrated for the evaluation of:
• Construction Phase
• Operation phase
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(8) Suggested mitigation measures and monitoring plans for impacts expected from
project construction and operation.
Before the establishment of the Lao PDR in 1975, a number of foreign countries and
international corporations conducted geological surveys to determine the potential mineral
resources of the country. After the Lao PDR opened for foreign investment in mineral
resources, these surveys were disclosed. They revealed that Laos has considerable potential
of geological resources and in particular deposits of economic minerals. For this reason, the
project area and its vicinity were assessed for any potential economic mineral deposits that
may have been identified in these earlier surveys.
The primary objectives of mineral resources assessment were to evaluate potential sites of
deposits within and around the project area, and to estimate the probable sizes of those
mineral prospects. The study attempts to find the most up-to-date information, though it is
necessarily limited by the lack of an adequate mineral resource database and the relative
inaccessibility of some of the project area. I n many cases, indirect data collection through
interviews was the best method possible where it was too difficult to find information from
other sources.
Another concern is the possible presence of toxic elements that could affect the water
supply. The possibility of these toxic elements, particular of heavy metals that might occur
within a mineral deposit, would also need to be reported.
(2) To indicate if any toxic elements could accumulate within particular mineral
deposits found the project area.
(1) Compile information on regional geology and mineral resources from Lao and
international literatures.
(2) Collect data collection on mineral occurrences, mining history, and other
appropriate geological data to indicate prospective sites of economic minerals.
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(3) Conduct field interviews to verify secondary data and resolve any problematic
or conflicting information.
The NNHP-1 Project is located in an area that still has much of its natural habitat. Project
activities, both during construction and in normal operation, will changes patterns and
amplitude of noise and vibration. This will disturb animal life as well as affect people in the
vicinity. Excavation, other digging, blasting, construction of foundations, and operation of
heavy machinery may cause adverse impacts on wildlife, on local residents, and on workers.
Without sufficient protection, these activities can cause hearing loss to workers. In addition,
movement of heavy machinery and other traffic along the access routes of the project may
affect residents and any wildlife living nearby.
(1) To determine the potential noise and vibration sources during construction and
operation.
(2) To determine the levels of noise and vibration generated from dam construction
activities at the dam site.
(3) To assess the potential noise and vibration impacts due to other construction and
operation of the proposed project.
(4) To recommend mitigation measures to maintain the noise and vibration levels
within appropriate international standards.
(5) To recommend an appropriate noise and vibration monitoring program for the
proposed project.
(1) Review project description concerning noise and vibration created by equipment
used during construction and operation phases.
(2) Investigate sensitive areas such as schools, temples and clinics in residential
areas.
(3) Assess potential noise impacts associated with grading and construction using
methodology developed by FTA and integrating with Guidelines for Community
Noise of WHO.
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Noise parameters
• L eq 24 hr
Vibration parameters
• Frequency
• Displacement
(5) Propose appropriate mitigation measures and monitoring programs for the
construction phase.
Dust from construction activities is expected to be the potential impact on air quality. Air
sensitive receivers were identified for use for this study to enable measurement of existing
ambient air quality; however, the use of these receivers was not possible for the study,
because the permits required for the receivers were not yet granted.
Emissions from vehicles and equipment used for construction of the NNHP-1 and its
infrastructure might affect air quality. Also, dust from unpaved roads and working areas
should be controlled. Burning of waste or burning during clearing of biomass can cause
significant effect to air quality. Thus, all significant parameters on air quality are studied and
examined. An appropriate dust and emissions control plan is recommended.
Suggest measures to mitigate air pollutants especially dust produced at construction sites. .
Of greatest concern for the construction of the dam will be the creation of particulate matter
(PM 10 ) to the atmosphere. Because Lao PDR has not yet adopted national ambient air quality
R R
The WHO annual standards for particulate matter (PM 10 ) are now set at 0.20 µg/m3,R R P P
while those of Thailand are 0.50 µg/m3. P P According to European Union directives
1999/30/EC and 96/62/EC, the annual standards for EU nations from 2005 was set at 0.40
µg/m3, while from 2010 they will be 0.20 µg/m3.
P P P P
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• Conduct field survey to indicate potentially sensitive sites for dust and other
emissions.
(2) Methodology
• Meteorological data at the selected site was limited in air quality data and on-
site measurement could not be conducted because the government had not yet
granted permission. For this reason, the study had to rely on presentation of
and comparison between the ambient air qualities found in similar land uses.
Several hazardous substances such as fuels, oils, paints, solvents, and pesticides will be used
during the construction and operation of the NNHP-1 dam. Consequently, the construction
site as well as nearby areas will have high potential for contamination. To protect the health
of workers and nearby residents and to protect the ecosystems, the study investigated
potential contaminated sites. Moreover, there will be potential impacts associated with
handling, storage, use and disposal of chemicals during construction. Relevant mitigation
measures and chemical waste and spillage management plans are prepared.
(1) To investigate the sources and activities during construction and operation of the
NNHP-1 dam that could lead to environmental contamination.
(2) To assess potential contaminated sites and the potentil extent of contamination.
(3) To prepared chemical waste and spillage management plan, site remediation
plan, and chemical monitoring plan.
(1) Acquire both primary and secondary data to evaluate present conditions and use
of hazardous substances.
(2) Identify the project activities that may lead to site contamination.
(3) Evaluate the types of waste that could be generated during construction and
operation of the dam.
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(4) Determine the areas that might be contaminated and its potential spread to the
environment.
(5) Prepare protection and mitigation measures and propose monitoring plans.
3.1.11 HYDROLOGY
Hydrological impact caused by the dam is a major concern for a hydropower project because
the existing hydrological condition of the Nam Ngiep River will be controlled for power
generation. Therefore, the hydrological operations must be conducted with sufficient
understanding of how the hydrological conditions influence other environmental aspects. For
example, the extent of river fragmentation can degrade stream habitats and pose barriers to
the migration of aquatic species and transport of sediment 1.
(1) Evaluate the impacts due to the change of hydrological phenomena during
project construction and operation.
(2) Suggest mitigation measures to minimize the impacts on the environment and
local people.
(1) Review the collection of hydrological data that show the project conditions
1
Anne Chin; Laura R. Laurencio; Adriana E. Martinez. 2008. The Hydrologic Importance of Small- and
Medium-Sized Dams: Examples from Texas. The Professional Geographer, 60(2), 238 – 251pp.
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Blockage in a waterway to create a large reservoir as well as other activities associated with
the construction and operation of a large dam like the NNHP-1 can cause abrupt changes in
the environment. It may affect plants and animals in either positive or negative ways. Some
animals may respond positively to the changes, hence increasing their populations. Other
animals may not be able to withstand the abrupt changes and must either seek a new place to
live or die out.
(1) Investigate the diversity, abundance, and distribution of wildlife in the project
area, and any use of the wildlife by local residents.
(2) Assess environmental impacts that the proposed project may have on wildlife,
their food sources, and their habitat.
The surveyed area is broadly defined as the area north of the dam site extending to the
northern margin of the reservoir, covering the proposed reservoir area. The surveys were
conducted to provide baseline information on the distribution of wildlife and wildlife habitats
to determine likely impacts of the project on such fauna and to assess how any such impacts
might be mitigated through appropriate interventions.
After a review of available literature, a field survey was conducted in both wet (October
2007) and dry (March 2007) seasons to collect primary field data concerning all wildlife
species including mammals, reptiles, amphibians and birds.
Within and around the survey areas, wildlife conditions were surveyed and assessed by
visual inspection and interviews with villagers, as well as from secondary data and
information gathered from available sources such as authorities concerned with wildlife.
Local villagers within and around the project area were interviewed regarding wildlife
conditions within and around their villages. Additionally, wildlife within circular sample
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plots for forest collection were recorded, such as the sighted animals, foot-prints, nests,
burrows, hair or feathers, molts, sounds and any other evidence.
Status of the wildlife species is then assessed according to the current IUCN classification
(IUCN, 2009):
- CR = Critically Endangered
- EN = Endangered
- VU = Vulnerable
- NT = Near Threatened
- LC = Least Concern
- DD = Data Deficient
(IUCN 2009. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2009.1. <www.iucnredlist.org>.
Downloaded on 09 June 2009.)
The Nam Ngiep Hydropower Project will affect forest resources and ecosystems by clearing
some forest to be replaced by the dam and reservoir.
(1) Study forest characteristics particularly tree species, density, and timber volume
as well as saplings and seedlings in the reservoir area and in the resettlement
area.
(2) Assess the economic value of timber to be cut in the reservoir and the
resettlement areas.
(3) Evaluate impacts on forest resources that may be caused by the project.
The surveyed area is broadly defined as the area north of the dam site extending to the
northern margin of the reservoir, covering the proposed reservoir area. The surveys were
conducted to provide baseline information on the distribution of forest types and vegetation
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to determine likely impacts of the project on such flora and to assess how any such impacts
might be mitigated through appropriate interventions.
The methodology involved in assessing the forest and vegetation cover was to compile
maps and available literature on the land and water resources of the region and in particular
the survey area. Based on these maps and literature, the field survey was conducted in
October 2007 t o collect primary data concerning tree and vegetation species, density and
estimated volume per hectare for big tree species with diameter at breast height (DBH) of
more than 10 centimeters.
The main method used in this survey is similar to that used for the wildlife survey
including interviews with villagers, especially senior persons who have experience with the
types of vegetation and non-timber forest products in their vicinity. The villagers were
questioned on land use as well as lists of vegetation and NTFPs.
Primary data was collected from 35 temporary sample plots that were set in the form of
line plot system covering the reservoir area according to land use, geographic conditions and
forest types. The sample plots were set in the dominant area or good s ample areas located
where the reservoir will be located. There were 3 types of temporary sample plots, and the
data collected depended on their shapes and size:
(1) A circular sample plots with a radius of 17.85 m eters (0.1 hectare total area)
from which data on t rees of DBH equal to and above 10 c entimeter were
collected. Other significant information recorded included tree species, their
diameter and height, and bamboo types, including number of clumps and stems
per clump found in the plot.
(2) Square plots of 5x5 meters (25 square meters) was established in the middle of
the circular plots. Information on small trees and/or saplings (trees whose DBH
is less than 10 centimeters and whose height exceeds 1.3 meters), tree species,
number of tree and their average height as well as NTFP species was recorded
from these plots.
(3) Square plots of 2x2 meters were established within the larger square plots of 5x5
meters. D ata concerning plants and vegetation including sapling or seedlings
(all undergrowth vegetation), focusing on s pecies of trees or seedlings of each
species as well as NTFPs were recorded in these plots. The main concern was
on the diversity of plants and NTFPs species, not the numbers or density of the
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saplings and seedling or plants, since the time available for field data collection
was limited, and also since some of the data, especially that on NTFPs were
being collected through interviews with villagers.
Several forest classification schemes have been proposed for the Lao PDR. The classification
of forest types for this study is based on the classification used by the Forest Inventory and
Planning Division, Department of Forestry since 1982, a nd the preliminary national forest
record. Box 1 shows the classification and definition of each forest or land use type.
1. Current Forest:
Current Forest includes natural forests and plantation forests. It is used to refer to land with
a tree canopy cover of more than 20% and area of more than 0.5 ha. The trees should be able
to reach a minimum height of 5 m. The basis for the distinction between forest and other land
use groups is the crown density. Natural forests are classified into forest types, which are Upper
and Lower Dry Evergreen Forests, Upper and Lower Mixed Deciduous Forests, Gallery Forest,
Coniferous Forest, Mixed Broadleafed and Coniferous Forest, and Dry Dipterocarp Forest.
• Dry Evergreen Forest (DE): The Dry Evergreen Forest type has a lower proportion of evergreen
trees than the Evergreen type, 50% -80%. Except in disturbed stands there is very little bamboo.
Soil is usually deep. The forest consists of a considerable number of species, of which 2 t o 3
species tend to be predominant.
• Mixed Deciduous Forest (MD): In the Mixed Deciduous Forest, deciduous tree species
represent more than 50% of the stand. The forest storeys are not as dense as those of evergreen
types and most of the seedlings and saplings are deciduous trees. Bamboo often occurs in this
type of forest.
i) Upper Mixed Deciduous Forest (UMD): This type of forest is located at an altitude above
200 m. In moist areas there might be many climbers, and it could be difficult to distinguish
this forest from the Dry Evergreen type. In dry regions the difference can be clearly seen.
This forest type appears quite open with a considerable amount of bamboo and
undergrowth.
ii) Lower Mixed Deciduous Forest (LMD): This type of forest is located at an altitude below
200 m.
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• Dry Dipterocarp Forest (DD): This type of forest occurs in open stands. The tree diameter is
comparably small and the height of the stand varies from 8 to 25 m. The crowns do not spread
out widely. It is normally found in places with shallow soil, where the hard pan emerges above
the ground, and on latirized soil. On the most poor and shallow soils the trees are crooked and do
not exceed 10 m in height: If the crown cover is less than 20% and the stand is undisturbed the
vegetation type should be classified as Savannah.
Many species characteristic for the Dry Dipterocarp forests are fire resistant and have a thick
bark. Mai Sabeng (Dipterocarpus intricatus), Mai Chick (Shorea obtusa), Mai Sat
(Dipterocarpus obtusifolius), Mai Seuak (Terminalia tomentosa) and Mai Hang (Shorea
siamensis) are among these species.
• Coniferous Forest (S): The Coniferous Forest is usually single storied and open but the young
growth may sometimes form a dense second storey. This forest type occurs in higher elevations
with a cool climate. The characteristic species of this type are pines (Pinus kesiya or P inus
merkusii) but other coniferous trees such as i.e. Cunninghammia may also be predominant.
• Mixed Broadleaved and Coniferous Forest (MS): The MS Forest is a transition type between
the coniferous and the broadleaved forest types. The coniferous trees could be mixed with either
deciduous or evergreen trees. It is also found in higher elevations.
2. Potential Forest:
Previous forest areas where the crown cover has been reduced below 20% (whether from
logging or shifting cultivation) are classified as Potential Forest. The potential forest includes
Bamboo, old shifting cultivation areas (young secondary forests) and Temporary Unstocked
areas. Potential Forest is consisted of Unstocked, Bamboo and Ray.
• Unstocked Forest (T): Unstocked Forest Areas are previous forest areas in which the crown
density has been reduced to less than 20% because of logging, shifting cultivation or other heavy
disturbance. If the area is left to grow undisturbed it becomes forest again. Abandoned ray and
disturbed stands with a crown density less than 20% should be classified as Unstocked Forest
Areas. Old ray in which seedlings, sapling and trees cover more than 20% of the area should be
classified as some type of Current Forest.
• Bamboo (B): If an area is covered with bamboo and the over storey has a crown cover less than
5% it should be classified as Bamboo Forest.
• Swidden (Ray) (RA): Ray is an area where the forest has been cut and burnt for temporary
cultivation of rice and other crops. The area should be classified as Ray from the time it is clear
cut until one year after it has been abandoned. Areas being prepared but not yet clear-cut and
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areas that have been abandoned for more than 1 year should not be classified as Ray.
• Savannah (SH): is an area where the soil conditions are unsuitable for tree growth as well as for
agriculture production. The tree cover in the Savannah should be at least 1% but not more than
20%. The trees are drought resistant and mostly short with graminaceous and herbaceous plants
forming an under storey. Savannahs should not be confused those grass covered areas that
sometimes occur after shifting cultivation. Normally, the Savannah does not occur on steep
slopes but in plains.
• Scrub Forest (SR): This is an area covered with scrub and stunted trees. The soil is shallow and
rocky.
• Barren Land and Rock (R): Unfertile or seriously degraded land on s hallow soil and rocky
areas on which neither trees nor grasses can grow.
• Grassland (G): Unfertile or degraded land on which no trees or shrubs grow. It might be an area
that is too dry for tree growth that has been covered by grasses. It could also be an area that has
originally been covered by trees, but has been heavily disturbed by cutting and fire and gradually
depleted. One reason for the absence of trees could be that larger areas have been deforested and
the seed supply from surrounding forest has ceased. Areas burnt every year to grow fodder or for
hunting purposes could also be classified as Grassland. That type of Grassland can be found on
higher elevations in the Northern part of Laos. Grassland can also occur on deep sand with a
high moisture content.
• Swamp (SW): Swamps are areas where the soil is saturated with water. The soil may basically
be fertile but the lack of oxygen limits its agriculture or forest capacity. The Swamp could have a
high ecological or environmental value and the flora and fauna may be rich.
The typical tree species found in the Swamps are trees which can grow in water, such as Adina
cordifolia, Rhus succedanea and Barringtonia acutangula.
Land being used for agricultural purposes other than crop cultivation, such as cattle grazing,
should be classified as Other Agricultural Land, unless the tree cover exceeds 20%. In that case
it should be classified as some type of Current Forest depending on the tree species composition.
• Rice Paddy (RP): Areas permanently being used for rice cultivation. Old paddy that has been
abandoned and not in use for more than one year should not be classified as Rice Paddy.
Source: Report on the Assessment of Forest Cover and Land Use (MAF, DOF, July 2005)
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Reservoir impoundment and effluent discharge from the power plant and from other activities
during construction and operation will affect the surrounding water bodies, including aquatic
life in local canals and rivers. Therefore, a study on aquatic biota and habitats is necessary to
asses present conditions and possible project impacts, and as a basis for possible plans for
future utilization or development of their aquatic resources by local communities.
(1) Review secondary data of aquatic biota and habitats from preliminary reports
and the collect primary data from the field.
(2) Assess potential impacts on aquatic biota in the project area and downstream.
Dry season survey along Nam Ngiep River was conducted in January 2008 at ten stations: six
located downstream from the proposed dam and the other four located upstream (Table 3-6
and Figure 3-2).
Table 3-5 Fish and Fisheries Survey Locations along the Nam Ngiep River
Location Coordinate
No. Name
Village District Province N E
1 Station 1 Piengta Thathom Xieng Khouang 19o01’33.6” 103o25’09.6”
2 Station 2 Hatsamkhone Thathom Xieng Khouang 19o00’46.0” 103o26’40.3”
3 Station 3 Pou Thathom Xieng Khouang 19o00’52.5” 103o27’37.7”
4 Station 4 Houypamom Hom Vientiane 18o59’32.6” 103o30’10.5”
5 Station 5 Sopphuane Hom Vientiane 18o50’01.9” 103o26’19.9”
6 Station 6 Sopyouak Hom Vientiane 18o42’53.7” 103o26’40.9”
7 Station 7 Hatsaykham Bolikhan Bolikhamxay 18o38’41.1” 103o33’17.4”
8 Station 8 Hat Gniun Bolikhan Bolikhamxay 18o39’23.6” 103o35’03.6”
9 Station 9 Somseun Bolikhan Bolikhamxay 18o25’03.5” 103o36’22.6”
10 Station 10 Pak Ngiep Pakxan Bolikhamxay 18o31’58.8” 103o38’48.3”
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Figure 3-2 Fish and fisheries survey locations along the Nam Ngiep River.
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Examination of aquatic fauna and flora included distribution of indigenous fish species
and their abundance in particular areas of the river. Plankton, benthos and aquatic plants,
which provide nutrients to young fish, were also examined.
The aim of the survey was mainly to determine the existence of aquatic life in the river.
Study results and other relevant data (hydrology, water quality) were used to predict possible
changes in aquatic life after project development and its effect on peoples’ livelihood.
Fish were collected using sampling seine net with the size of 430 x 160 cm with 5 mm mesh
size. At the site, the seine net was equipped with bamboo pole at each end that was at least
equal to the height of the net. Haul seine was operated and fished parallel to the river bank.
Fish samples were preserved in a plastic bottle or a jar containing 10% formalin solution. The
bottle was labeled with information such as date of sampling, station code, name of collector
and time of collection. The samples were sent to a laboratory for species identification. In the
laboratory, fish sampled from each station were identified by using a magnifier, a dissection
microscope and classification guidance books (Kottelat, 2001 a nd Rainboth, 1996). Their
productivity in the river was recorded
Plankton sampled from those stations was conducted using a plankton net of 70 µm mesh size
and a 2-litter beaker (Gajaseni, 1993). Sampling depth of water was taken at 30 cm below the
water surface. Ten litters of sample were preserved in a plastic bottle containing 5% formalin
solution. Information such as the code of sampling station and date were marked on the
bottle. The specimens were sent to a laboratory for species identification as well as their
density.
Benthic fauna at each station was sampling using an Ekman dredge (Gajaseni, 1993) . The
samples were sieved by using a 1 m-mesh sieve. Each specimen was preserved in a separate
bottle containing 7% formalin solution. Necessary information was labeled on the bottle. They
were delivered to a laboratory for specie identification and density assessment.
3.2.4 WETLAND
A wide range of inland wetland habitats are found in Laos PDR. The Mekong River and its
tributaries, paddy fields, small ponds, swamps, and flooded forests are among them. These
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habitats provide a fundamental source of food for local people as well as shelters for wildlife
species such as native catfish and large waterbirds (Giant Ibis and Sarus Crane). Although the
Lao PDR has not yet ratified the Ramsar Convention on W etlands for the protection of
wetlands of international importance as of March 2009, it well recognizes the importance of
wetlands. Therefore, any significant adverse impact on wetland habitat caused by this project
should be identified. In addition, the rehabilitation and restoration of any damaged wetland
ecosystem should be promoted.
(1) Identify location and pattern of wetlands found in the project area. This
information serves as baseline data for future comparison of land cover changes
or wetland habitat losses due to the project.
(2) Detect changes of location and patterns of wetlands and the impacts of project
development on wetlands. This is useful for assessment of impact on t he
wetlands after project development.
(2) Acquire both primary and secondary data to evaluate wetlands in the project
area.
(4) Prepare protection and mitigation measures and propose monitoring plans
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CHAPTER 4
One of the main principles of the Nam Ngiep 1 Hydropower Project (NNHP-1) is to ensure
that the project conforms to the environmental and social statutes and policies of the GOL.
This EIA has been prepared in conformance with these statutes, policies, directives and
procedures.
The project also is to conform to international treaties to which the Lao PDR is signatory,
and to standards and safeguard policies of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and to the
Equator Principles. W here there are legal gaps in terms of standards, the ADB or other
international standards or other relevant local standards will be used, whichever is strictest.
The key laws and decrees relevant to environment assessment and protection issues for
NNHP-1 are:
The Environmental Protection Law (National Law 02/99) (EPL) was approved by the
President on A pril 3, 1999. T his law provides a legal framework for environmental
management of development projects. It establishes the framework for unified environmental
management with the aim of preserving the environment and making rational and sustainable
use of natural resources. T he sustainable use of natural resources is to contribute to the
national socio-economic development and to the guaranteed health and improved quality of
life of the people of Lao PDR. T he Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment
(MONRE), previously the Water Resources and the Environment Administration (WREA),
which was formerly the Science Technology and Environment Agency (STEA), is
responsible for the implementation of EPL. While other ministries issue guidelines for
implementing provisions of the EIA and of environmental protection, it is MONRE that is
responsible for review of the EIA and that will issue the environmental compliance
certificate.
• The Implementing Decree of 2002, w hich provides the legal tool for
implementation of the law, and
WREA (now MONRE) has also developed a set of regulations for conducting the EIA of
proposed hydropower projects (2000 and 2001). These regulations and standards established
general impact assessments requirements, including a timing of the EIA in the project
development cycle. They stipulate detailed project screening, initial Environmental
Examination and Environmental Impact Assessment requirements, including content and
format of reporting, and approval of the report.
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The Law on Water and Water Resources (1996) is intended to assure sustainable water use
through policies related to ownership, preservation, use and management of water and water
resources. It establishes a basis for classifying water according to use, defining catchments,
and setting requirements for EIA for any ‘large scale uses’, inclusive of construction of water
reservoirs for the purpose of irrigation, consumption, and energy production. In this respect
the law mandates the requirement for the current EAMP work and should necessitate a
review of the EAMP among the appropriate groups within GOL. The Water Resources
Committee under the under the Prime Minister’s Office administers the Water Law and is
responsible for the review and evaluation of EIAs related to use of water resources.
The Amended Forestry Law, No 06/NA (Dec. 2007) stipulates the basic principles,
regulations and measures concerning forest conservation, management, and use. I t aims to
make the forests and forestland a stable source of livelihood and use for the people, by
ensuring sustainable preservation of water sources, preventing of soil erosion and maintaining
soil quality, conserving plant and tree species and wildlife species, preserving the
environment, and contributing to national socio-economic development.
The Amended Forestry Law (2007) confirms that natural forests and forestlands are the
property of the national community and that these are centrally managed by the State. The
State can grant individuals or organizations the right to plant and own trees. Forests are
classified into three general categories: Protection Forest, Conservation Forest (or National
Biodiversity Conservation Areas), and Production Forest. E ach category of forest is
designated a different and distinct zone and area, within which there can be rich or dense
forest, degraded forest, bare forestland and village use forest according to each zoning plan.
Conversion of public forestland to another land use type is only possible when allowed if
it is to bring maximum benefits to the nation and to the wellbeing of people and is included in
the national socio-economic development plan. S uch conversion is only allowed in
designated areas. Entities given approval for forestland conversion are responsible for paying
fees for technical service, royalties and conversion fees. For temporary conversion such as
mining exploitation and other production activities, the land must be restored and trees must
be replanted. If the State converts the forestland, which is allocated to individuals or
organizations for agreed upon and determined purposes, the State shall compensate according
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to laws and regulations. For permanent forestland conversion into another land use type for
long-term purposes, such as for roads or hydropower construction, the State owns the timber
and forest resources that are cut or harvested in those forests or forestlands.
The law stipulates which administrative authorities have the right to approve conversion
of degraded forestland that cannot naturally regenerate or of barren forestland. While district,
municipal, or provincial authorities can approve conversion of smaller areas of forestland, the
conversion of more than 100 ha to 1,000 ha of degraded forestland per activity and of more
than 200 ha to 10,000 ha of barren forestland per activity must be approved by t he
government, through proposals by the National Land Management Authority and agreement
by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and the Provincial Agriculture and Forestry
Office. T he National Assembly Standing Committee must endorse the conversion of
forestland greater than those amounts (1,000 ha of degraded forestland or 10,000 ha of barren
forestland).
The Wildlife and Aquatic Law restricts regulates the management, monitoring, conservation,
and protection of wildlife and aquatic species in their natural habitats. Wildlife and aquatic
species living within the territory of the Lao PDR are considered property of the national
community, with the State representing the national community in managing those species.
If an individual or organization has permission to raise and reproduce any of these species, it
is then considered their own property so long as they abide by the laws and regulations.
Wildlife includes both terrestrial and aquatic life, and all forms of animal life, whether
mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, or insects. Wildlife are classified into three categories
for protection: 1) prohibition, 2) management, and 3) common or general. W hether any
species are classified as prohibition or management depends upon the level of threat to them
(endangered, threatened, rare), the condition of their habitat, and the condition of their
regeneration and reproduction. The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry recommends to the
government for consideration and approval the list of species under the prohibition and
management categories. The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry has authority to include or
remove species itself from the list of animals in the common or general category.
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The land law was enacted on October 23, 2003. The law determines the management,
protection and use of land to ensure its efficient use and to conform with land-use objectives,
with other laws and regulations, to contribute to national socio-economic development, and to
contribute to the protection of the environment.
The Electricity Law No 03/NA dated 8 Dec 2008, requires a license for the generation and
transmission of electricity. The Law also requires:
• That EIAs be prepared for at least the larger hydroelectric dams, along with
budget estimates for environmental mitigation measures.
• That transmission lines and related activities are done in such a way as to limit
any damages to natural environment and people’s property
The Road Law (1999) requires that the environment be protected during road construction
and related activities and in the maintenance of roads, and that the national as well as the
provincial levels of the Ministry of Communication, Transport, Post and Construction
(MCTPC) have duties to protect the environment in relation to roads.
The 2010 P rime Ministerial Decree No. 112/PM established the procedures and guidelines
for conducting Environmental Impact Assessments in Lao PDR. I t stipulates the rights of
those affected by pr ojects, including their rights of participation. T he decree outlines the
process, both for WREA (now MONRE) and the developer of projects, of conducting the
EIA, preparing environmental management and monitoring plans, social management and
monitoring plans, issuing environmental compliance certificates, monitoring compliance with
the various plans, and establishing the institutional framework for implementing the
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environmental and social components of projects, and for hearing and deciding on grievances
of affected parties.
The Decree on S tate Land Lease or Concession, dated May 25, 200 9, establishes the
principles, procedures and measures for the leasing or providing concessions of land, for
purposes of development for agriculture, industry, tourism, and other activities.
Among the obligations of those leasing or obtaining a concession are that they should not
cause damages to the land quality, nor cause negative impacts to the environment or society.
Pursuant to Prime Ministerial Decree No. 112/PM, GOL endorsed the Technical Guidelines
on Compensation and Resettlement of People Affected by Development Projects, first issued
in November 2005. T hese guidelines were initially adopted under the Decree on
Compensation and Resettlement of People Affected by D evelopment Projects in 2006, and
have now been endorsed and promulgated as official GOL policy and procedure for the
assessment, planning, and mitigation of environmental as well as social impacts from
development projects.
These guidelines include detailed procedures for the conduct of public consultation and
other participatory processes, to inform affected people of the environmental and social
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impacts, and to assure their involvement in all aspects of the mitigation and compensation
process, from planning to implementation.
This regulation clarifies the principles and methodologies for environmental impact
assessment of road projects, including setting out necessary and appropriate mitigation
measures to avoid or reduce negative environmental impacts on the natural environment and
society resulting from the implementation of road projects in the Lao PDR.
This Decree defines the principles, rules and procedures for the organization and operation of
the Environmental Protection Fund (EPF). The fund is to finance eligible activities that can
strengthen environmental protection, sustainable natural resources management, and
specifically, biodiversity conservation and community development in Lao PDR. Among the
objectives of the EPF are to implement chapter V of the Environmental Protection Law,
Article 47 of the Forestry Law, and Article 15 of the Decree to Implement the Law on Water
and Water Resources. Sources of funds for the EPF are grants and loans from domestic and
foreign entities, State budget, development projects and other activities, and interest or
benefits accrued from investing the EPF endowment.
The table below provides a brief summary of the key provisions of the various laws and
decrees of the Lao PDR, as they relate to the environmental components of the project.
Table 4-1 Key Provisions in the Laws, Decrees and Regulations of the Lao PDR
Pertinent to the EIA of the Nam Ngiep 1 Hydropower Project
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The Lao PDR is party to several major international environmental treaties, which oblige it to
abide by conditions of those treaties. Among those potentially relevant to this project are:
The government of the Lao PDR acceded the Convention on B iological Diversity in
September 1996. Under this convention, the Lao PDR accepted several obligations, among
them the establishment of protected areas, management of those areas, identification of key
components of biological diversity, monitoring of those key components, increase public
awareness and participatory management of biodiversity, and assessment of proposed
projects that could have an adverse impact on bi ological diversity. T he Prime Minister
Decree 164 of 1993 t o establish National Biodiversity Conservation Areas, the
Environmental Protection Law of 1999, t he Wildlife and Aquatics Law of 2007, and the
Amended Forestry Law of 2007 w ere all enacted in part to meet the obligations of the
Convention on Biological Diversity.
In 2004, the Lao PDR prepared a Biodiversity Strategy to 2020 and Action Plan to 2010.
Recognizing the importance of hydropower for national development, the strategy and action
plan found that most hydropower projects to date did not take adequate measures to assure
protection of biodiversity. Issues of particular concern were that:
• Dam construction has a direct impact on fisheries and local income, especially
in downstream areas.
• The resettlement of the local people can have a direct and indirect impact on
biodiversity.
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• The compensation schemes for lost land and property are not clearly defined
according to different scale. 1
Having ratified the Convention on C limate Change in January 1995, t he Lao PDR is
obligated to mitigating greenhouse gas emissions. Of concern to this Project are the possible
impacts of the reduction of forest area, the emission of greenhouse gasses from organic
matter in the reservoir, the development of renewable sources of energy, and the promotion
of sustainable forms of agriculture.
In April 1995, t he Lao PDR ratified the Agreement on t he Cooperation for Sustainable
Development of the Mekong River Basin. This agreement, between the countries of
Cambodia, Lao PRD, Thailand and Vietnam, established the Mekong River Commission and
formed the basis for the joint management and development of the water resources of the
Mekong River and its tributaries.
1
Science, Technology and Environment Agency, National Biodiversity Strategy to 2020 and Action Plan to
2010, STEA, GOL: 2004, p. 35.
2
Ibid.
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The four signatory countries agreed “to cooperate in all fields of sustainable development,
utilization, management and conservation of the water and related resources of the Mekong
River Basin including, but not limited to irrigation, hydro-power, navigation, flood control,
fisheries, timber floating, recreation and tourism, in a manner to optimize the multiple-use
and mutual benefits of all riparians and to minimize the harmful effects that might result from
natural occurrences and man-made activities.” (Article 1)
• “To promote, support, cooperate and coordinate in the development of the full
potential of sustainable benefits . . . a nd the prevention of wasteful use of
Mekong River Basin waters . . . t hrough the formulation of a basin
development plan . . .” (Article 2)
• “To protect the environment, natural resources, aquatic life and conditions,
and ecological balance of the Mekong River Basin from pollution or other
harmful effects resulting from any development plans and uses of water and
related resources in the Basin.” (Article 3)
• “To make every effort to avoid, minimize and mitigate harmful effects that
might occur to the environment, especially the water quantity and quality, the
aquatic (eco-system) conditions, and ecological balance of the river system,
from the development and use of the Mekong River Basin water resources or
discharge of wastes and return flows.” (Article 7)
The Lao PDR joined the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild
Fauna and Flora (or CITES) in March 2004, with it coming into force on 30 May 2004. The
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Wildlife and Aquatics Law of 2007 includes provisions that meet the obligations of the Lao
PDR to CITES.
The Inter-Governmental Agreement on Regional Power Trade in the Greater Mekong Sub-
Region between Cambodia, China, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam sets the
framework for electricity development and trade among the countries of the sub-region. The
agreement is based on principles of:
ii) Gradualism: That the Parties consider the progressive development of regional
electricity trade; and
With funding expected from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the key environmental
safeguard policies of the ADB that should be addressed by t his project are noted in this
section. Social safeguard policies are presented in the volume on Social Impact Assessment.
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The ADB stresses the link between natural resources and pro-poor development, since
most of the rural poor depend upon these resources for their livelihood, be it agriculture,
fishing, or use of forest products. T o do so, the ADB directs its activities to the “(i)
protection, conservation, and sustainable use of natural resources to maintain the livelihoods
of the poor; (ii) reduction of air, water, and soil pollution that directly impacts the health and
productivity of poor people; and (iii) reduction of vulnerability to natural hazards and
preventing disasters.” 3
The ADB also requires that the borrow carry out a consultation process for category A
projects, to consult with and provide information on the environment assessment process to
project affected persons and to local NGOs. This consultation should be carries out at least
twice: once early states of the EIA field work to be able to incorporate the views of and views
of the affected people, and then again after the draft EIA is prepared and before the loan
appraisal by the ADB. 4
Among the key environmental concerns of the ADB noted in its policy that need to be
addressed in the NNHP-1 project EIA are: deforestation and land degradation, biodiversity
loss, aquatic resources, water pollution, and climate change.
Private banks now do a large amount of the lending for international development. Initiated
by several of the world’s largest banks, the Equator Principles were established to assure that
borrowers from the private banks for development projects abide by similar environmental
and social standards as those applied by the World Bank, the ADB and other international
financial institutions. The Equator Principles incorporate the International Finance
Corporation’s Environmental and Social Performance Standards. Of particular relevance to
the environmental aspects of the NNHP-1 project are the need and means for biodiversity
conservation and sustainable natural resource management, and pollution prevention and
3
ADB, Environment Policy of the Asian Development Bank, 2002, p. 9
4
Ibid, p. 18
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abatement. More than 60 of the world’s leading banks have adopted the principles, which
require them to stop lending if the borrower is found not to abide by the processes.
As with the ADB, projects deemed to have potentially great environmental impact, such
as dams, are classified as Category A projects. T hese are required to have social and
environmental impact assessments, adequate consultation with project affected people and
local organizations, and adequate management and grievance mechanisms, similar to those
required by the ADB.
Some of the environmental issues of concern in the Equator Principles that relate to the
NNHP-1 project are:
These issues are not considered exhaustive, but indicative of the types of issues to be
addressed.
5
The Equator Principles, July 2006, Exhibit II: Illustrative list of potential social and environmental issues to be
addressed in the Social and Environmental Assessment documentation, p. 7.
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CHAPTER 5
EXISTING ENVIRONMENT
5.1.1 TOPOGRAPHY
From the study of various sources such as maps, reports and field surveys of the Nam Ngiep
Hydropower Dam, the Nam Ngiep catchment is to cover an area of about 4,533 square
kilometers (453,300 ha). The Nam Ngiep River runs 160 kilometers in a generally south to
southwest direction to the Mekong River. The source of the Nam Ngiep River lies at 2,819
meters above mean sea level (MSL). For most of its flow, the river passes through steep
valleys down to a level of 150-160 MSL, where it then enters a low plain for the final
segment to the river mouth at the junction with the Mekong River. R elief along the river
differs in each part of the stream; though it can be clearly divided into two main segments,
based on physical conditions, upstream and downstream from the main dam.
The main dam of the NNHP-1 Project is located on the Nam Ngiep River at the latitude of
18o 39’ N and the longitude of 103o 30’ E at a ground elevation is about 180 meters MSL. In
general, a mountainous terrain with some intermittent narrow plains marks the area upstream
of the main dam. These plains are all inhabited.
High mountains can be found on both sides of the Nam Ngiep, notably Phu Xao at 2,590
meters and Phu Khe at 2,125 meters MSL. These are sources of tributaries to the Nam Ngiep,
providing continuous supplies of large amounts of water throughout the year. Elevated water
levels during the rainy season may cause rocky and sandy banks in the river, as well as
invisible rapids.
EIA of The Nam Ngiep 1 Hydropower Project Draft Report: Chapter 5
Most of the river downstream from the main dam has an elevation of less than 180 meters. A
re-regulation dam will divide the downsream into two parts, one between the two dams and
the other downstream of the re-regulation dam.
The re-regulation dam is located about 6 kilometers downstream from the main dam in a part
of the river that runs from west to east. The basal elevations of these two dams are lower than
20 meters MSL. Physical appearance of the area is still characterized by valleys but the
slopes are not as steep as upstream from the main dam. The terrain on both sides of the river
widens and consequently forms flatter plains. Ban Hatsaykham is the only village located
between the two dams that would be directly affected by the project. The villagers of Ban
Hatsaykham will be resettled for their safety and to minimize long-term deterioration of
livelihoods of the villagers.
The terrain downstream of the re-regulation dam is rather flat and tilts gradually towards the
Mekong River. Tributaries from Phu Keng, Phu Ngou to Phu Pha Mela merge in this section
of Nam Ngiep. The major tributaries are Nam Pha and Nam Tek.
The flat area from Ban Nam Ngiep towards the Mekong River has an average relief
between 150 a nd 160 meters. In this area, the Nam Ngiep runs parallel to the Nam Xan
before it merges with the Mekong at Pakxan. Both rivers help create a fertile plain which is
one of the most important agricultural areas of the country.
5.1.2 METEOROLOGY
The Lao PDR is a landlocked country surrounded by Myanmar, Cambodia, China, Thailand,
and Viet Nam. The total land area of the country is 236,800 square kilometers (km2) with a
largely mountainous topography. The country is bordered on the west by the Mekong River, has
a tropical monsoon climate, characterized mainly by a rainy season (May to October) and dry
season (November to April) and temperatures ranging from 5oC to 40oC depending on t he
altitude. Humidity is generally high (in the 70 to 80% range).
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The Nam Ngiep1 Hydropower Project is located in the Bolikhamxay Province, Lao PDR,
which is influenced by a Southwestern monsoon climate regime. The project area is located
in a tropical climate. Weather is dominated by monsoons, which divides the year into clearly
defined wet and dry periods. The wet season begins from May and extends until October,
while the dry season runs from November to April.
The NNHP-1 project area generally experiences better weather conditions than elsewhere
in the Lao PDR, with less extremes of temperature. The EIA study found that for the months
of March to the end of May, temperatures ranged from 17oC to 38oC (Department of
Meteorology and Hydrology, 2005). In the wet season from the beginning of June to the end
of September, emperature ranged from about 19oC to 36oC, and from December to February
(considered to be the dry season) temperatures ranged from about 11oC to 29oC. Table 5-1
shows climate data at Pakxan station, Bolikhamxay province.
5.1.2.2 Rainfall
The rainfall records were reviewed for the hydrological study and dam designs. The records
of hydrological gauging locations in areas peripheral to the planned basin were evaluated.
Average annual rainfall in Lao PDR in select locations in the country is:
Rainfall data were collected from 3 gauging stations – Ban Thoun in M. Khoun (R5), Ban
Hokai in M. Pakxay (R7), and Ban Thaviang (R14), all located within the Project basin area.
Data were also collected from another 11 stations peripheral to the project basin, as shown in
Table 5-2 and Figure 5-1. For the Feasibility Study for the Project, conducted by Kansai in
2007, rainfall data from these sites were assessed for the years 1971 to 2000. T he study
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concluded that there was average rainfall of 1,870 mm/year between 1971 and 2000. The
detailed information about rainfall is presented below in section 5.1.11 on hydrology.
Figure 5-1 Location of hydrological gauging locations within and peripheral to the
Project basin area.
Table 5-2 List of Hydrological Gauging Stations within and Peripheral to the Project
Basin Area
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Although seismic events in the project area have been rare, and the area where the dam and
reservoir are located are classified as being of only moderate risk (level VI) on the Modified
Mercalli Intensity Scale, geological structures in the region seem to indicate joints and
fractures of rock formations, which suggest seismic activity in the past. Therefore, detailed
mapping and coring explorations has been carried out prior to detailed design and dam
construction.
5.1.3.1 Seismology
Seismic investigations of the proposed dam sites were conducted (see Section 2.3.7) for
project design. During the past 20 years, there has been no record of an earthquake in the area
exceeding magnitude of 5. It can be concluded that the investigated region is characterized
by a geological structure with good stability and that seismic activities in the Nam Ngiep
river basin are rare. This conclusion is supported by the report on “Lao PDR: Natural Hazard
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EIA of The Nam Ngiep 1 Hydropower Project Draft Report: Chapter 5
Risks”, edited by the OCHA Regional Office for Asia Pacific, issued on 08 March 2007. 1 As
shown in Figure 5-2, the entire area of the Nam Ngiep 1 Hydropower Project is located in an
area with earthquake intensity of I to V and VI on a Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale. The
dam and reservoir area are located in the area which is shown as having an earthquake
possible at level VI intensity, which is considered of only moderate risk with possibility of
only slight camage. Most of the area downstream of the dam is in the area indicated as having
risk of earthquakes of I to V intensity, which is considered to be of low risk with no damage.
Available regional geological information shows that earthquake evens in the project area
and adjoining areas have been rare. Structural geology indicats no active fault in the project
area. Seismic impact to the project appears to be low.
However, the existing data are at a regional scale, and so any detailed assessment at this
stage is limited. A preliminary assessment of the geological structures in the region has
shown there are possibly joints and fractures in the rock formations. T hese would suggest
seismic activity sometime in the past. In order to assure utmost safety in the design of the
dam, it is strongly recommended that detailed mapping and coring explorations should be
carried out prior to detailed design and dam construction.
The Nam Ngiep basin is located in central Lao PDR. T he proposed dam site is
surrounded mainly by Mesozoic-Palaeogene flat formation. Outcrops are usually found along
high cliffs in the area. Older rock formations, mostly grouped as Palaeozoic rocks, are also
found in the region, which was controlled by geological structures of significant folding and
faulting. Lineaments were observed along NW-SE, W-E and NE-SW directions, but these are
believed restrict to and relate to the old geological structure and tectonic movements. Active
faults have never been reported within this area (see Figure 5-3).
Rock formations found in the region can be divided into four main sedimentary sequences
and one period of igneous activity as described below.
1
Datum: WGS84, Map data source: UN Cartographic Section, Global Discovery, FAQ, Smithsonian Insitute,
Pacific Disaster Center, UNISYS, Munich Reinsurance Group.
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Figure 5-2 Map of natural hazard risks in the Lao PDR, 2007.
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Late Palaeozoic granites intruding into Palaeozoic formations are found in the middle part of
the reservoir area. These rocks are highly fractured and deeply weathered in some areas.
Based on t he geologic setting reviewed above, it seems likely that there is a very low
potential for economic mineral deposits in the project area. Only construction materials
(sandstone, conglomerate, sand and gravel) are available at some sites. Detailed testing still
needs to be carried out to determine if these materials have the appropriate properties.
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5.1.4 SOILS
Soil surveys found that the soils around the proposed construction sites and camps are also
prone to wind and water erosion. S oils near the reservoir are generally acidic, low in
nutrients, and also susceptible to erosion. Soil surveys in the proposed resettlement areas
found that the soils generally had low to medium levels of nutrients. Measures will need to
be taken during construction, resettlement, and operation to avoid erosion of the topsoil and
to maintain or enhance soil nutrients.
Soil fertility is of course a key element for farming, and where nearly all of the population
depends on near subsistence agriculture for food and cash income, soil fertility is of critical
importance. The depletion of the natural fertility of the soil from loss of soil nutrients in the
agricultural lands of communities affected by the project is the chief concern. Once natural
vegetation is removed to convert the land to agriculture, the most fertile soil strata, the
topsoil, can easily be eroded, or soil nutrients can easily be depleted from the soil through
leaching. Trying to improve soil fertility with chemical inputs may also adversely affect
local residents and water quality. Soil fertility should be maintained or enhanced in order to
maintain agricultural productivity.
There are four dominant great soil types found in the project area:
• Lithosols (shallow soils) occur on s teeply sloping rock outcrops where soil
formation is limited by natural erosion processes.
• Ferralsols and acrisols (lateritic type soils) form on the upper ridge slopes of
the escarpment and plateau areas. The soils are derived from weathered weak
sandstone. These soils are characterized by a dark red loamy clay surface
horizon overlying a slightly bleached horizon. Clay content is found to
increase with depth. Their properties are moderately acidic, low fertility and
poor internal drainage. Due to their low inherent fertility their proper
properties last for only one or two years.
• Luvisols, cambisols and acrisols form lower down on slopes where water
tables are likely variable. The soils are composed of dark brown loamy
topsoil, which changes to a massively structured yellowish brown clay loam
with depth. Their acidic condition depends on t heir base saturation. This
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• Fluvisols are classified as young, frequently well drained soils that occurred
on newly formed terrace areas adjacent to the Nam Ngiep River. They are
reasonably fertile and can be observed in the lower reservoir.
The general soil systems of the Nam Ngiep watershed are acrisols and alisols. The major
soils in the upstream areas are acrisols (Ferric Acrisols: ACf, Haplic Acrisols: ACh) and
alisols (Ferric Alisols: ALf). Downstream soils are similar except that the dominant soils are
Haplic Alisols (ALh). The luvisol and fluvisol great soil groups are found adjacent to the
Nam Ngiep River.
Soils in the project area reflect variations in parent material and can be divided into fluvial
environments (subject to river processes) or colluvial environments (subject to in situ
weathering of bedrock initiated by r ainfall). S mall-scale spatial variation in soil depth is
large for all soil types, with soil depths varying from less than 25 cm to over 1 m, but seldom
exceeding 2 m over short distances. A deep solum (material between the effective root
growth layer and bedrock) can exist up to a depth of 2 to 3 m in the highly weathered, but not
easily eroded material.
The skeletal soils (lithosoils), in more shallow horizons, are soils with a lithic or paralithic
contact within 25 cm of the surface or with more than 50 percent rock fragments within this
depth. Such shallow soils are susceptible to erosion after vegetation is removed. The structure
of red-yellow podzolic soils is massive to weakly coarse or medium blocks. They are acidic
(i.e., pH < 5) and have low base saturation. The small percent of soils that are not podzolic
are most often lateritic. These soils are well drained, still shallow (less than 2 m), and consist
of yellow to red clay-loam material. They are also acidic (pH < 5.5), and have a high
sesquioxide (Fe-Al) content, but a low base content and therefore poor in nutrients. One
difference between the two is that lateritic soils are more highly permeable when undisturbed
thus making these soils less susceptible to erosion (Whitmore, 1984).
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Preservation of surface soil with its all-important organic matter is imperative. Low input
farming on A crisols, in their present leached condition, is not very successful. Mechanical
clearing of the natural forest by extraction of root balls and filling of holes with surrounding
surface soil produces land that is largely sterile because toxic levels of aluminium in the
former subsoil kill off new growth. All exposed soils erode at a f aster rate, increasing the
risk and adverse impact of greater sediment discharge rates into local waterways.
Adapted cropping systems with complete fertilization and careful management are
required if sedentary farming is to be taken up on Acrisols. R ecent agricultural production
research (Lao-IRRI, 1995) and shifting cultivation studies (UNDP, 1994) confirm this, and
show soils in Lao lack sufficient mineral content. The studies indicate that soils are acutely
deficient in phosphate, which is needed to help plants fix nitrogen.
Studies in 2000 regarding the paddy areas around the planned reservoir showed there is a
consistent yield response to an incremental increase in P (phosphate) application rate (Lao-
IRRI, 2000). There is also a need for K (potassium) in the fertilizer recommendations for this
site. The application of limestone to correct soil acidity will also improve availability of
phosphorus and potassium. Commonly used slash and burn agriculture (as a form of shifting
cultivation) for upland plots may utilise large areas of marginal lands, but can represent a
well adapted type of land use. The proven practice has been developed over centuries of trial
and error. If occupation periods are short (one or two years) and followed by a sufficiently
long regeneration period (up to 15 to 20 years), this system probably makes the best use of
the limited possibilities of Acrisols (Driessen and Dudal, 1991). Due to limited access to new
land and government regulations, coupled with a growing population and increased food
demand, the length of fallow is being shortened considerably to only a few years. This results
in reduced yields.
Gravel for stabilising roads is available from the lateritic red soils. Presently, existing
erosion is limited due to the protective forest cover. Erosion increases with road construction,
particularly roads built with steep grades, with the removal of such protective forest cover.
Soils around the proposed construction sites and camps are also prone to wind and water
erosion. Therefore, as construction starts, care must be taken to implement appropriate
measures to control erosion in work areas and camps. Appropriate measures vary by s oil
type, and monitoring will be necessary to determine the effectiveness of mitigation measures.
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As a part of site selection criteria, initial soil surveys were conducted in December 2007 and
July 2011 to determine soil fertility. Soil fertility was selected as a key indicator for the
potential land productivity of the proposed resettlements sites: these were the area near Hat
Gniun, and across the river, in the area on the right bank of re-regulation dam.
The initial surveys of soil fertility found conditions were similar in the 2 proposed sites:
soil pH was very acidic; soil organic matter and total nitrogen were at low to medium levels,
whereas available phosphorus and CEC were found at low levels. Most of the soils were
medium in texture.
All the potential agricultural areas in these proposed resettlement sites have considerable
potential for the soil fertility to be improved, so there would be more than sufficient
agricultural productivity for those who resettle in the area. Other possible resettlement sites
were studied in great detail, in particular the areas near Pha-Aen, near Phukatha (Nam
Poung), and near Samtoey in Hom District of Vientiane Province. These sites in Hom District
were considered by t he affected people to have insufficient land and inadequate productive
area. On the basis of available land and soil fertility, two sites, the areas near Hat Gniun and
across the river from Hat Gniun on the right bank of re-regulation dam, were selected as
potential resettlement sites.
After public consultations on r esettlement site selection with representatives of all the
villages to be relocated, and including provincial and district authorities, representatives of
the developer (from KANSAI and EGAT), and representatives of the ESIA teams, it was
determined that the most appropriate resettlement sites would be the proposed area on the
right bank of re-regulation dam for the APs of Ban Houypamom, Ban Sopphuane, Ban
Sopyouak and Ban Namyouak; and the Hat Gniun area for the APs of Ban Hatsaykham.
Hat Gniun village: soil in this village was very strong acidic, pH and KCI ranged from 3.71-
5.18 and 3.02-4.92. Organic matter content of the analyzed soil sample was medium and high
1.21-4.24% and with the same level of total nitrogen 0.07-0.21%. However, the available N
(NH4+ and NO3-) and available phosphorus and CEC were, respectively, very low and low.
Sandy loam, loam, loam, clay loam and sandy clay loam soil were found in this village.
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Table 5-3 Physical Soil Properties of Four Villages for Initial Site Selection
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Table 5-4 Chemical Soil Properties of Four Villages for Initial Site Selection
Source: Environmental Research Institute Chulalongkorn University (ERIC), 2009. Data obtained from soil sampling locations of initial site
selection.
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Figure 5-4 Soil sampling locations at Hat Gniun area, Bolikhan District, Bolikhamxay Province. Conducted in December 2007.
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(2) Soil Properties for agriculture of the area on the right bank of the re-regulation
dam and upstream area of the dam site
Additional surveys of the soils of in the proposed resettlement area on the right bank of
the re-regulation dam (HY P01 ~ HY P06) were conducted and samples collected in July
2011 for evaluation of soil fertility. Soils of the existing agricultural lands of the affected
persons’ villages of Ban Sopyouak (SG-1) and Ban Namyouak (SG-2) were also collected for
comparison, to determine if the lands in the proposed resettlement area is of similar quality.
The field survey and soil physico-chemical analysis data of the resettlement site on the
right bank of the re-regulation dam found that most areas are extremely acid to very strong
acid (soil pH 4.0 ~ 4.6). Organic matter and total nitrogen are found at low to medium levels.
The soil contained low available phosphorus and very low to medium exchangeable
potassium. The majority of soil types are Sandy Loam (SL) or Loam (L) texture, so they
should not pose a problem for agricultural production Soil characteristics are shown in Table
5-5 and Table 5-6, while Figure 5-5 and Figure 5-6 show the location of the samples.
This soil profile have a medium organic matter (%OM) content of 2.02% in topsoil layer,
medium in % base saturation (42.72%), very low exchangeable potassium (0.05 Exch-k
meq/100g soil), low in % total phosphorous content (0.04%), soil reaction is an extremely
acid with pH value equals to 4.4, m oderate cation exchange capacity (5.32 CECt cmol/kg).
Corresponds to soil texture (SL) that have clay content of 13.4%, field water stored in this
soil profile is assumed adequate for rice growing due to soil having moderate downward
water movement (the estimated downward water movement rate (percolation) ranges for
sandy loam soil (SL) were from 0.8-6.5 mm/day, while for sandy soils they ranges from 3.4-
9.2 mm/day). When considered together all these chemical and physical properties, this soil
profile is rated as marginal to moderate suitable for rice cultivation. Exchangeable potassium
and soil pH make this soil generally less suited to cultivation and limit their use if without
soil improvement application. Special attention should be paid to improve soil acidity that is
why farm manure and organic fertilizer together with liming application is recommended.
The yield under indigenous soil nutrient supply simulated by the Crop yield model (AEZ) is
around 1,180 kg/ha.
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This soil profile has a medium topsoil OM content (2.23%), low in % base saturation
(10.58%BS) and % total phosphorous (0.04%), very low exchangeable potassium (0.07 K2O
meq/100g soils), and medium cation exchange capacity (11.58 CECt cmol/kg). Soil reaction
is classified as extremely acid with pH value of 4.2. Soil has loam texture (L) with clay
content in top soil layer (15.24%) and downward water movement rate of around 1.1
mm/day. When considered all elements together this soil is rated as marginally to moderately
suitable due to low indigenous soil potassium supply and high acid. To ensure rice crop
production, an appropriate management on improving soil fertility and acid soil are needed.
Farm manure and organic fertilizer together with liming application is recommended.
Simulated yield under indigenous soil nutrient supply is about 1,200 kg/ha.
This soil profile has similar soil physical and chemical properties as soil profile mentioned
above (HY P02). Medium OM content (2.59%) in topsoil layer, medium rate of cation
exchange capacity (6.88 CECt cmol/kg), low level of % base saturation (17.76 %BS) and
total phosphorous content (0.03%), very low exchangeable potassium (0.05 K2O meq/100g
soils). Soil reaction is also an extremely acid with pH value of less than 4.4. This soil show
sandy loam textured which is characteristic of a soil that has moderate water holding capacity
and moderate percolation rate of 1.5 mm day-1. When all limiting factors are combined, this
soil is considered as marginally to moderately suitable for rice cultivation with yield
estimates around 1,073 kg ha -1 under native soil fertility conditions. Farm manure and
organic fertilizer together with liming application is also recommended.
This soil profile is considered as marginally to moderate suitable for rice cultivation on
account of low native soil fertility on soil organic matter content (1.8%OM), low in % base
saturation (24.28%) and low P-total (0.03%), although cation exchange capacity and
exchangeable potassium are rated as medium, with the values of 6.38 CECt cmol/kg and 0.09
K2O meq/100g soils, respectively. Soil reaction is also classified as an extremely acid with
pH value equals to 4.45. These soils are limiting in its use for rice cultivation due to low in
soil fertility and strong acid soil, farm yard manure and organic fertilizer together with liming
is advisable in order to improve both soil chemical and physical properties and maintain soil
fertility.
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This soil profile has moderate to high potential for rice cultivation due to soil have a no
limitation in crop requirements on % base saturation (70.25%) and exchangeable potassium
(0.23 ExchK meq/100g soil), soil organic matter (2.77%OM) as well as cation exchange
capacity (7.28 CECt cmol/kg), which are classified as high for %BS and medium rate for
ExchK, OM and CECt. Although this soil requires a minor input, the improvement of soil
fertility particularly indigenous phosphorous supplies from soils and soil acidity is needed
due to both elements are considerate as the limiting factors affect on rice crop production for
this soil. The yield in response to indigenous nutrient supplies estimated exceeding 1,300 kg.
This soil profile is comparatively a better soil than the other soil profiles, which associated
with high value of soil pH (4.56), moderate in the percentage of base saturation (46.82%BS),
total phosphorous (0.06%), cation exchange capacity (10.28 CECt cmol/kg) and soil organic
matter ( 2.41%), even though e xchangeable potassium (0.07 K2O meq/100g soils) is low.
This soil show high clay content which is characteristic of a soil that has a high water holding
capacity, and poor or imperfect drained due to low downward water movement (0.7 mm day-1).
When all physical and chemical are combined, this soil is considered as moderately to highly
suitable for rice cultivation, with yield estimated of around 1.6 t ha-1 under native soil fertility
conditions.
This soil profile has no limitation for crop requirement on s oil organic matter content
(15.82%) and cation exchange capacity (15.04 CECt cmol/kg), which are classified as very
high and high, respectively; moderate total phosphorous content (0.54%), low % base
saturation (14.10%), and very low exchangeable potassium (0.02 ExchK meq/100 g soil).
Soil having high clay content (23.96%) which characterized as high field water stored due to
low downward water movement (estimated percolation is 0.6 mm/day). This soil shows
extremely acid which requires a major input of liming and the improvement of soil fertility
particularly potassium supplies from chemical fertilizer are needed due to both elements are
considerate as the limiting factors affect on rice crop production for this soil. The yield in
response to indigenous nutrient supplies estimated exceeding 1,600 kg/ha.
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This soil profile has similar soil physical and chemical properties as soil profile mentioned
above (SG-1) with organic matter content of 10.99% and cation exchange capacity of 36.86
CECt cmol/kg in topsoil layer, which are classified as very high for both elements. Soil has
moderate total phosphorous content (0.58%), but very low % base saturation (3.91%) and
very low exchangeable potassium (0.01 ExchK meq/100g soil). Soil reaction is also an
extremely acid with pH value of less than 4.14. This soil show sandy loam textured which is
characteristic of a soil that has moderate water holding capacity due to moderate percolation
rate of 1.0 mm day-1. When all limiting factors are combined, this soil is considered as
moderately to highly suitable for rice cultivation with yield estimates around 1,664 kg ha-1
under native soil fertility conditions.
Table 5-5 Soil Texture of Proposed Area on the Right Bank of Re-regulation dam,
Ban Sopyouak and Ban Namyouak, in July 2011(PLEASE TRANSLATE
THE LAO LANGUAGES TO ENGLISH)
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Table 5-5 Soil Texture of Proposed Area on the Right Bank of Re-regulation dam,
Ban Sopyouak and Ban Namyouak, in July 2011(Continued)
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Table 5-6 Chemical Soil Properties of Proposed Area on the Right Bank of Re-
regulation Dam, Ban Sopyouak and Ban Namyouak, in July 2011
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Figure 5-5 Soil sampling locations at proposed area on the right bank of re-regulation
dam during the final resettlement site selection.
Figure 5-6 Soil sampling locations of Ban Sopyouak and Ban Namyouak.
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As noted in the section above on soil properties, the soils around the proposed reservoir are
susceptible to wind and water erosion. Given the need to control sedimentation, further
analysis of potential soil erodibility was taken.
Soil in the Nam Ngiep watershed area, according to the survey by Soil Survey and Land
Classification Centre in 1994, is classified into two major soil types:
• STP steep slope complex where the topography is very steep, the slope is more
than 55%, and the soil is relatively fragile and easy to erode.
Soil texture (T) Soil depth (D) Slope (S) Erodibility (E) Soil fertile (F)
LL (Loam) > 100 cm 0-25% 75-100%
SL (Sandy loam) 75-100 cm 2-8% 50-75%
CL (Clay loam) 50-75 cm 8-16% E 25-50%
LC (Light clay) 25-50 cm 16-30% EE < 25%
HC (Heavy clay) <25 cm 30-55% EEE
LS (Loamy sand) > 55%
SA (Sand)
(EEE: very serious potential erodibility)
Table 5-8 Soil Texture
AREA
SOIL TEXTURE
ha %
CL (Clay loam) 269,972 59.00
HC (Heavy clay) 39,904 8.72
LL (Loam) 25,784 5.63
LS (Loamy sand) 214 0.05
SL (Sandy loam) 121,729 26.60
TOTAL 457,603 100.00
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There are presently ten water-sampling stations in the project area. Seven are situated inside
the controlled watershed (Nos. 1 to 7) and the other three stations situated downstream from
the Dam site (Nos. 8 to 10) (Figure 3-1). The location of the ten stations by their coordinates
is given in Table 5-9.
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Coordinate
Station No.
N E
Stations Situated Upstream of Dam Site
1. Ban Xiengkhong 19°06’01.80’’ 103°20’51.30’’
2. Ban Phon Gneng 19°02’25.67’’ 103°23’40.14’’
3. Ban Pou 19°01’04.58’’ 103°27’25.53’’
4. Ban Houypamom 18°47’04.53’’ 103°26’08.67’’
5. Ban Sopphuane 18°46’53.60’’ 103°25’56.82’’
6. Ban Sopyouak 18°42’52.61’’ 103°26’01.74’’
7. Hat sakhua 18°41’11.22’’ 103°27’03.87’’
Stations Situated Downstream of Dam Site
8. Ban Hat Gniun 18°39’15.25’’ 103°35’22.44’’
9. Ban Somsuen 18°30’17.54’’ 103°39’31.81’’
10. Nam Ngiep Bridge 18°25’03.77’’ 103°36’11.30’’
5.1.5.3 Water sampling collection
The water samples were collected manually at the water sampling stations on two occasions:
once during the rainy season, on a stormy day, and once during the dry season. These
samples can be considered representative for the distinct wet and dry seasons. They were
analyzed to determine the suspended sediment concentration only, addressed in mg/l.
To determine the inorganic sediment concentrations, use of glass fiber filters might not be
suitable. The filter is not combustible at 550ºC, but loses its form at higher temperatures. The
Whatman 542, Whatman cellulose nitrate, were used at the temperature required to remove
organic matter from suspended sediment.
To obtain a good r ecord of sediment data, it normally requires adequate stream water
sampling at various stages of the stream flow. However, the frequency of sampling is
sometimes constrained by the time taken for the water samples to be analyzed in the
laboratory. The laboratory apparatus used for the gravimetric analysis were as listed here and
as noted in Table 5-10.
• Whatman 542;
• Porcelain crucibles of 50 ml capacities;
• Measuring cylinder 500 ml;
• Stainless steel forceps;
• Desiccators;
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Table 5-10 Laboratory Procedure for Suspended Sediment and Filter Separation
Step Procedure
1 Each porcelain crucible (p.c) was washed thoroughly then placed in the muffle
furnace for 2 hour s. It was cooled in a desiccator for 30 minutes before being
weighed to the nearest 0.0001 g.
2 Whatman 542 filters were placed in individually weighed p.c before oven dried for 2
hours at 105°C, then placed in desiccator for 30 minutes before its weight was
measured.
3 About 100 ml of the filtrate was saved and stored in a vial tube, preserved with 1 ml
of concentrated nitric acid and kept in a refrigerator for chemical analysis.
4 The filter with the residue from (3) was then placed in the oven for 24 hours at
105°C. This was then desiccated for 30 minutes before weighing was carried out to
determine the suspended sediment concentrations. The amount of suspended
sediment in milligrams per liter (mg/l) was determined as:
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The Western and Northern edges of the basin form a vast cirque with very steep sides due to
headward erosion, while only outliners remain of the eastern rim which separates this basin
from that of the Nam Sane River. The maximum altitude of the ridge separating the two
basins is 2,819 m, in the middle of the western edge of the Nam Ngiep catchment area.
The study on erosion and sedimentation from river basins is important for many reasons.
Sediment deposits in a reservoir reduces its capacity and power generation. Use of forestland,
logging in particular, has often been a cause for concern, because it reduced forest cover and
so increases erosion and sedimentation. This not only affects the quality of water but also
alters stream behavior, water released from catchments, and makes flooding and droughts
more extreme. Logging operations over large tracts of land have often been described as one
of the major causes for altering the complicated hydrological processes of hydropower
projects.
The laboratory procedure was adopted and the calculations expressing suspended
sediment concentrations in milligram per liter (mg/l) are summarized in Table 5-11 for the
dry season and Table 5-12 for the rainy season. The volume of water sampled which was
colledted in Ban Hat Gniun by the gravimetric analysis was usually 1,000 ml.
Table 5-11 Results of Erosion and Sedimentation Monitoring on Dry Day 2010
Suspended
Station No. Date Depth (m) Volume (ml)
Sediment (mg/l)
Stations at 1 Oct 2010 - 1,000 42.5
Ban Hat Gniun 14 Oct 2010 1.17 1,000 32.1
30 Oct 2010 0.97 1,000 12.9
14 Nov 2010 0.85 1,000 5.2
30 Nov 2010 0.76 1,000 10.9
14 Dec 2010 0.74 1,000 9.5
Preliminary assessment found suspended sediment concentration highest during the rainy
season, ranging from 14.10 mg/l at the site farthest downstream to 532.60 mg/l at Ban Hat
Gniun, with the water level at about 1-3m. During the dry season, the maximum suspended
sediment concentration was 42.50 mg/l at Ban Hat Gniun and the minimum was 5.20 mg/l. It
is a common phenomenon in the tropics that storms are usually of high intensity of
sedimentation but short lived and localized in nature. Storms of small and moderate nature
are responsible for transporting suspended sediment from one reach to another in stages as
they progress downstream.
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Table 5-12 Results of Erosion and Sedimentation Monitoring during Rainy Season 2010
Suspended
Station No. Date Depth (m) Volume (ml)
Sediment (mg/l)
Stations at 30 Apr 2010 - 1,000 14.1
Ban Hat Gniun 29 May 2010 - 1,000 103.5
30 Jun 2010 - 1,000 221.1
31 Jul 2010 1.82 1,000 532.6
28 Aug 2010 2.44 1,000 323.5
29 Aug 2010 2.68 1,000 182.5
30 Aug 2010 2.62 1,000 114.9
31 Aug 2010 3.06 1,000 522.7
1 Sep 2010 3.02 1,000 237.3
5 Sep 2010 2.86 1,000 374.4
14 Sep 2010 2.97 1,000 179.6
16 Sep 2010 3.31 1,000 204.3
20 Sep 2010 2.25 1,000 67.1
27 Sep 2010 1.76 1,000 71.6
5.1.5.6 Sediment load and yield
To control further adverse developments in the entire watershed area and avoid increasing
sedimentation, it is recommended that a comprehensive watershed management study be
conducted.
In order to estimate the overall sediment transport of the project watershed, it was
necessary to compute the suspended sediment load, which constitutes an important
component of watershed sediment output. Because of the considerable gaps in the sediment
sample record, the sediment rating curve method the most suitable procedure. In the absence
of sedimentation survey information for the Nam Ngiep River, reservoir sedimentation is
estimated based on t he suspended sediment concentration and discharge at a lognormal
distribution.
The following formula is obtained from the relationship between discharge and
suspended sediment.
Qs = 7.063×10-8×Q2.155
, where Qs: Suspended Sediment (m3/sec)
Q: Discharge (m3/sec)
Annual sediment yield at the dam site is estimated by the following equation. Bed load,
which is equivalent to 20 % in weight of suspended load, was added to the suspended load.
Vy=Vys+Vyb
1 1 1 1
VyS= R × × , Vyb= R × 0.2 × ×
γ (1 − ns ) γ (1 − nb )
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Surface water quality in the project area is generally moderately good t o good qua lity,
depending on the level of human activity near the site where the water was tested. Where
there is more human activity, the quality of water is lower. There is also evidence that water
quality is deteriorating.
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A World Bank 2 environmental monitoring report for Lao PDR found that the major source
for urban water supply is surface water, while groundwater is the main source of water for
rural communities in lowland areas. For upland communities, water is supplied by gr avity-
flow systems, mostly originating from streams or springs.
In 1998, the water quality of rivers within the Lao PDR was generally considered to be class
2 or class 3 depending on human use and activities in a catchment of water courses. The level
of oxygen was high while the nutrient concentration was low 3. However, water quality was
deteriorating. In urban areas, pollutants from roads, commercial and industrial areas, and
private properties washed into drains and watercourses. Open dumps of garbage, dust, dirt,
oil and grease, rubber, tires, metal, glass and plastic in public areas and private properties
were commonly found, as seen in Figure 5-8.
2
World Bank. 2006. Lao PDR Environmental Monitoring Report.
3
ADB. 1998. Water Sector Study.
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area, the existing lifestyle of villagers and their practices relating to the Nam Ngiep River was
investigated.
The Nam Ngiep River originates in the mountainous areas of Xieng Khuang and runs
through the mountains down to the lowlands and into the Mekong River in Bolikhamxay
province. Density of villages in the upstream is low. M any more villages are found,
especially in the lowland plains of Pakxan district near the Mekong River. The villagers
along the Nam Ngiep River use it for personal transportation, to transport their agricultural
produce, and for washing, bathing and to dump their wastes. A number of these activities
along the river can affect water quality, with several sources of water pollutants observed.
Upstream reaches of the river remain relatively undisturbed (Figure 5-9 to Figure 5-11),
though the relatively few people living there practiced shifting cultivation and grew industrial
trees. Even with such low population, the agricultural practices and the residential activities
could directly pollute the Nam Ngiep River. This is even more the case farther downstream,
particularly in the relatively densely populated plains of Pakxan (Figure 5-12). Garbage was
openly dumped and scattered around the residential area. The garbage was mostly organic
and plastic. After degradation of the organic matter, plastic bags remained scattered
throughout the villages. Animals such as water buffaloes, cows, and fowl were kept in the
house areas (Figure 5-13). Their waste can mix with runoff and flow through the riverbank
down to the river.
Figure 5-9 Three-canopy forest located near the proposed dam site.
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Figure 5-13 Residential areas divided for activities such as washing, waste dumping
and animal feeding.
After observing activities that could load pollutants into the river, ten locations were
determined for surface water sampling to cover four zones.
• Zone 1 Upstream area: ST1 Ban Xiengkhong and ST2 Ban Phonngeng
The photos of the ten sampling locations are presented in Figure 5-14. The water quality
at these sites is shown in Table 5-14.
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Table 5-14 Results of Surface Water Quality Sampled from the Nam Ngiep River in April and October
St 1 St 2 St 3 St 4 St 5 St 6 St 7 St 8 St 9 St 10
Parameters Unit
April Oct. April Oct. April April Oct. April Oct. April Oct. April Oct. April Oct. Oct. April Oct. April Oct.
Temperature °C 26.4 24.2 28.8 24.5 28.5 24.5 27.0 28.5 27.6 29.9 25.9 31.1 26.3 27.4 29.5 25.3 28.2 27.9 27.7 26.5
pH - 8.06 6.87 8.17 7.16 8.20 7.24 7.03 7.85 7.21 7.78 7.35 8.13 7.25 7.79 7.09 7.09 8.18 7.34 7.58 7.17
Alkalinity meq/L NA 0.14 NA 0.23 NA NA 0.28 NA 0.26 NA 0.21 NA 0.29 NA 0.26 0.14 NA 0.29 NA 0.27
DO mg/L 7.80 6.90 8.00 7.12 8.10 7.30 6.87 7.80 7.11 6.60 8.10 7.20 7.20 6.40 7.21 7.23 7.60 7.47 7.20 6.97
BOD5 mg/L 2.6 1.1 3.0 0.9 2.8 3.4 1.3 2.4 1.3 2.1 1.2 2.5 1.1 2.1 1.4 1.2 2.6 1.1 3.3 1.1
Oil and mg/L NA <0.01 NA <0.01 NA NA <0.01 NA <0.01 NA <0.01 NA <0.01 NA <0.01 <0.01 NA <0.01 NA <0.01
Grease
Turbidity FTU 24.7 13.3 31.4 12.4 31.4 57.2 19.4 59.1 12.0 12.9 18.2 21.1 16.9 9.1 17.9 16.2 47.9 15.7 32.9 17.3
Suspended mg/L 100.0 21.6 78.0 19.2 94.0 246.0 18.7 69.0 19.0 72.0 23.8 74.0 21.5 80.0 21.4 22.1 112.0 17.9 72.0 21.2
solids
TDS mg/L 100.0 18.2 110.0 17.4 90.0 70.0 33.9 110.0 37.8 110.0 22.4 50.0 29.6 30.0 33.1 19.7 100.0 21.2 93.0 31.6
Hardness mg/L 124.0 71.5 90.0 66.2 136.0 140.0 77.4 78.0 69.3 100.0 83.2 130.0 86.4 140.0 78.0 73.0 184.0 84.0 118.0 76.0
Conductivity µS/cm 92.4 47.7 94.4 49.8 104.8 56.60 58.00 89.40 49.80 147.00 56.88 85.10 61.04 82.40 60.56 48.9 88.5 72.0 94.5 74.1
Phosphate- mg/L 0.05 0.21 0.98 0.31 0.03 0.11 0.21 0.20 0.18 0.20 0.25 0.09 0.38 0.19 0.48 0.10 0.14 0.20 0.16 0.12
P
Total P mg/L 0.35 0.09 0.31 0.06 0.11 0.34 0.07 0.36 0.06 0.29 0.09 0.33 0.09 0.29 0.11 0.04 0.27 0.09 0.32 0.04
Ammonium- mg/L 0.01 0.02 0.01 0.02 0.01 0.01 0.02 0.01 0.05 0.01 0.04 0.01 0.04 0.01 0.05 0.02 0.01 0.04 ND 0.04
N
Nitrate-N mg/L 0.16 0.12 0.23 0.15 0.18 0.26 0.12 0.27 0.14 0.34 0.14 0.29 0.16 0.20 0.14 0.21 0.17 0.10 0.20 0.09
Total N mg/L NA 0.05 NA 0.06 NA NA 0.02 NA 0.05 NA 0.05 NA 0.07 NA 0.07 0.05 NA 0.07 NA 0.03
Total MPN/ NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA
coliform 100
Fecal MPN/ NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA
coliform 100
Cadmium, mg/L 0.01 <0.001 0.03 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 0.02 <0.001 0.01 <0.001 0.01 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 0.06 <0.001 0.05 <0.001
Cd
Mercury, mg/L <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001
Hg
Copper, Cu mg/L <0.10 <0.10 <0.10 <0.10 <0.10 <0.10 <0.10 <0.10 <0.10 <0.10 <0.10 <0.10 <0.10 <0.10 <0.10 <0.10 <0.10 <0.10 <0.10 <0.10
Iron, Fe mg/L <0.10 0.31 <0.10 0.34 <0.10 <0.10 0.24 <0.10 0.99 <0.10 0.31 <0.10 0.20 <0.10 0.22 0.20 <0.10 0.10 <0.10 0.11
Manganese, mg/L 0.50 0.10 0.34 0.10 0.70 0.28 0.20 0.31 0.14 1.67 0.10 1.97 0.17 2.03 0.18 0.11 0.76 0.13 0.70 <0.10
Mn
Nikel, Ni mg/L NA <0.10 NA <0.10 NA NA <0.10 NA <0.10 NA <0.10 NA <0.10 NA <0.10 <0.10 NA <0.10 NA <0.10
Lead, Pb mg/L <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 0.16 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01 <0.01
Zinc, Zn mg/L 0.03 <0.02 0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02 0.02 <0.02 <0.02 <0.02
Arsenic, As mg/L <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001 <0.001
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Parameters of interest included physical and chemical water qualities (temperature, pH,
alkaline, conductivity, salinity, hardness, turbidity, suspended solid and total dissolved solid),
biological water qualities (DO, BOD5, PO43-, P, N, NO3-, NH3, oil and grease),
bacteriological water quality (total coliform and fecal coliform) and trace elements (As, Cd,
Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn). Rains started around the end of March, so the river turned to
a brown color in April, the early rainy period when the first sample was taken. The dry
season already started when the second sample was taken in October.
The study revealed that natural water temperatures ranged between 24°C to 31°C in April
and 24°C to 30ºC in October. The range of temperature was similar to the water temperature
of Nam Thurn on the Nakai Plateau. The environmental assessment and management plan of
Nam Theun 2 Hydroelectric Project reported that the temperature was about 17°C to 22ºC in
December to February and 20°C to 28ºC in March and even reached 31ºC in April.
As a result of geological properties, the water samples were found to be slightly basic.
Other physical properties such as conductivity, salinity and hardness were natural as those
showing good f reshwater and less disturbed forest in the upper catchment. Turbidity value
was low in the dry season, but became higher in rainy season. The higher value could be the
result of suspended sediments, which were obviously higher in the rainy season. Its average
value was about 83 ppm in April and 17 ppm in October.
Regarding to the biological water qualities, DO concentrations were high with a range of
>7 to 10. H owever water quality data corresponding to nutrient concentrations showed that
nitrate concentration in April was higher than in October. The increase of nitrates during the
rainy season might be caused by ni trate-polluted runoff discharged from residential
communities and from animal farms along the riverside. The runoff could flush animal and
human wastes, which accumulated on the land during the dry seaso, into the river during the
early rainy season.
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Since data of total coliform and fecal coliform was not available, there was no
microbiological parameter for the water samples. The WHO/UNICEF Joint Monitoring
Programme in its Country, Regional and Global Estimate on W ater and Sanitation gave a
estimate for water and health in Lao PDR in 2002 that only 24% of households used latrines,
and of those only a few households had a pit or water-seal toilets. Lands with animal herds
and fowl might be able to contribute to those contaminants, especially the high amount of
coliform, a parameter revealed in the poor sanitation of communities.
Because Lao PDR does not yet have its own water quality standards, the quality of
surface water was evaluated using the classification of the Surface Water Standards
(Table 3-3) of Thailand and of the Surface Water Quality Guidelines and Standards by
International Organizations and Countries (Table 3-5). These then help provide the general
guidelines to determine proper water management.
In general, the water quality of water samples collected in October was classified as Class
2 according to the Thai Surface Water Standards. This is considered very clean fresh surface
water resources that can be used for consumption with simple water treatment before use. It
was also appropriate for aquatic organism for conservation, fisheries and recreation.
However, the quality in April fell to Class 3 according to the Thai standards, which is
medium clean fresh surface water resources that can be used for agriculture but that needs to
pass through water treatment before being used for consumption. The increase of BOD5 was
caused by the nutrients flushed from the agricultural lands and residential areas into the river
during the start of the rainy season.
Although there is a well at Ban Hat Gniun, the villagers do not use it and dump trash in
the well. Spring water from a gravity-flow system built under Action Contre la Faim (ACF)
and the Nam Ngiep River are the main water sources that supplied water to the village.
Residents of Ban Somseun, however, do use water from a well and also from the river. The
well was about 12 m deep (Figure 5-15 to Figure 5-17). Table 5-15 shows the groundwater
quality at Ban Somseun.
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Figure 5-16 The well at Ban Hat Gniun. Figure 5-17 Spring water gravity flow
system in Ban Hat Gniun
Table 5-15 Ground water Quality of Ban Somseun Collected on 17 October 2007
STD value
Parameters Unit Somseun Maximum
Suitable allowance
allowable
o
Temperature C 31 - -
pH units 5.98 7.0-8.5 6.5-9.2
Alkalinity meq/L 0.34 - -
DO mg/L 6.90 - -
BOD5 mg/L 1.20 - -
Oil and Grease mg/L <0.01 - -
Suspended solids mg/L 21.8 - -
TDS mg/L 17.6 ≤ 600 1,200
Hardness mg/L 79 ≤ 300 500
Conductivity µS/cm 37 - -
Phosphate-P mg/L 0.88 - -
Total P mg/L 0.22 - -
Ammonium-N mg/L 0.16 - -
Nitrate-N mg/L 0.22 ≤ 45 45
Total N mg/L 0.10 - -
Coliform MPN/100 NA < 2.2 -
E. coli MPN/100 NA None -
Cadmium, Cd mg/L <0.001 None 0.01
Mercury, Hg mg/L <0.001 None 0.001
Copper, Cu mg/L 0.10 ≤ 1.0 1.5
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STD value
Parameters Unit Somseun Maximum
Suitable allowance
allowable
Iron, Fe mg/L 0.23 ≤ 0.5 1.0
Manganese, Mn mg/L 0.10 ≤ 0.3 0.5
Nickel, Ni mg/L <0.10 - -
Lead, Pb mg/L <0.01 None 0.05
Zinc, Zn mg/L <0.02 ≤ 5.0 15.0
Arsenic, As mg/L <0.001 None 0.05
Note: NA = “Not Available”
- = Not indicated
The WHO/UNICEF Joint Monitoring Programme in 2002 r eported around 60% of
communities used dug w ells (also called boreholes) as their water source and they often
suffered from outbreaks of diarrhoeal disease, indicating that the source of the disease likely
originated from the dug wells. Data of coliform in the sample at Ban Somseun were not
available, so the other water quality parameters were assessed. Water quality of the sample
collected from the well was good a ccording to the Groundwater Quality Standard of
Thailand. However, the water was slightly acidic. Assuming the presence of waterborne
disease carried in the wellwater, as found in the WHO/UNICEF Joint Monitoring
Programme, it is recommended that the wellwater should be boiled before drinking.
Mineral resources were assessed according to the 5 zones indicated in the chapter 1. In
particular, the opportunity loss of mineral exploitation was considered if valuable mineral
resources were inundated by the reservoir. At the same time, the presence of any mineral
mines around the project reservoir was assessed for potential water and land contamination of
the project zones.
Geologica l surveys a round the reservoir a rea (zone 2) a nd construction a rea (zone 3)
show tha t the geologic setting ha s very low potentia l for minera l deposits in these a rea s.
According to the information obtained from the Department of Geology and Mines at
Provincial and District levels, the project area had not been explored in detail by the Lao
government for possible mineral resources. From interviews with Vientiane and
Bolikhamxay government officers, confirmation from villagers, and further confirmation
from Lao mining officials, it is almost certain that no valuable mineral resources would be
lost due to the project.
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As for potential water contamination from existing mineral resources and mines, the
chances of contamination from mines is extremely small since the closest mines are located
quite far from the project reservoir. (how far?)
Only medium occurrence of metallic and non-metallic mineral reserves was found in
Xieng Khouang, Vientaine, and Bolikhamxay provinces. Gold is the major valuable metallic
mineral found in Hom district, however, the two gold mines under operation are located very
far from the dam sites and are not located in the catchment of Nam Ngiep River. Other
minerals including zinc, copper, silver and rock salts are scattered within those provinces, but
they are also located far from the reservoir area (zone 2) and construction zone (zone 3). One
site was found as a potential source of copper according to a geological study conducted by
Lao-Fuda Co., Ltd in March 2007, but this site in Houixiat Village, Hom District, Vientiane
Province is also far from the project and so should not have any impact on the project.
Only one community, Ban Hat Gnuin, about 3 km from the construction site, is close enough
to the dam site to be affected by noises and vibrations during construction or operation.
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Any undesirable sounds are usually called noise. T his is especially true for loud or
irritating sounds. Sound is measured by its frequency as the number of vibrations per second
in units of Hertz (Hz). Humans hear sounds between 20 Hz and 20,000 Hz. F requency is
also related to pitch, with the higher pitches having higher frequencies. Sound intensity is
measure in decibels (dB), which is a measure on a log scale of perceived change in loudness.
If the sound level increases by 10 dB , the normal ear perceives it as doubling in loudness,
while a drop of 10 dB is a helving in loudness. Annoyance can be evaluated by differences in
background levels and additional sound sources.
The actual background noise and vibrations were unable to be measured for this project.
Despite official letters of application for a permit to measure existing noise and vibration
levels around the dam site and sensitive areas having been submitted since October 2007 to
three organizations that could authorize the measurements, no approval was granted by any of
the organizations. The measurements could not proceed and plans to carry them out were
finally cancelled in January 2008.
Because of this, references to other projects and activities similar to the NNHP-1 Project
were compared and applied to the noise and vibration assessment. In particular, the
background sound level of the Hutgyi Hydropower Project in Kayin state, in the south of
Myanmar, was selected. S ome of the staff conducting the field studies for the NNHP-1
Project also work on the field research for the ESIA of the Hutgyi Hydropower Project. They
found that the two sites have many similarities in noise and vibration sources and impacts.
Variables that were considered for comparison were similarities of local agricultural activities
of sensitive communities, of other land uses that could contribute to noises and vibrations,
and other noise and vibration sources.
Field surveys were conducted for identification of sensitive areas. Only Ban Hat Gnuin, a
village located about 3 km from the construction site (Figure 2-3), was considered close
enough to the dam site to be affected by noi ses and vibrations during construction or
operation.
Sensitive receptors in the village included houses (Figure 5-19), a school (Figure 5-20)
and a temple (Figure 5-21). There were 395 residents in Hat Gniun and 86 students attending
the Hat Gniun Completed Primary School. On religious days, most villagers congregate at the
Hat Gniun Temple for religious observances and to offer food to the monks. N oise and
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The village area is generally quiet. However, some agricultural activities produce sounds that
interfere with activities of nearby people. This sound could become a disturbing noise,
especially in the evening and during normal sleeping hours. The main noise source of the
village is the hand tractor, a popular form of local transport. It has two wheels, with the driver
walking behind to plough rice fields. It is also used to pull a cart to transport things including
agricultural products such as bagged rice and bamboo, materials for house construction, and
people (Figure 5-22). The acoustic environment normally consists of natural sounds such as
wind blowing through trees, birds, and pets.
The intensity of sound is measured in dB. T he Ministry of Agriculture Food and Rural
Affairs of the Government of Ontario provided common sound levels including agricultural
activities (Table 5-16). Most of the common sounds listed are in fact found in everyday life
(whisper, leaves, conversation, traffic). Others such as agricultural machinery and chain saws
would be similar, whether in a temperate climate with large scale commercial agriculture, as
in Canada, or tropical small scale farms as in Lao PDR.
Background sound and vibration levels in rural areas were also reviewed. The
background sound levels of the Hutgyi Hydropower Project were reviewed because of the
many similarities with the areas near NNHP-1 with regard to noise and vibration sources and
their impacts. For example, its location is in a remote and mountainous area similar to Nam
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Ngiep 1. Equipment and techniques of construction were generally similar, and community
sizes near the dam site also small.
dB Sound
0 Acute threshold of hearing
15 Average threshold of hearing
20 Soft whisper
30 Leaves rustling
40 Rural ambient background
65 Normal conversation
69 In bin grain dryers and aeration fans
80 Heavy traffic
90 Grain dryers
100 Tractor under load
110 Chain saws
Source: Minstry of Agriculture Food and Rural Affairs, Government of Ontario Last Modified:
August 9, 2008. http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca Retrieved on August 9, 2008.
Preliminary sound measurements of Hutgyi Hydropower Project were carried out in April
2007 by m easuring equivalent sound level at 1 hour, Leq 1 h. Sound level was about
60 dB(A) in the small towns, with vehicular noise sometimes the major noise sources.
The sound level was even lower in rural areas where the major noise sources usually came
from natural sounds such as wind and birds. Noise sources at Ban Hat Gnuin were mostly
the two-wheel tractor and the natural acoustic environment, so sound levels should also be 40
to 60 dB.
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Air quality in the project area is still considered generally good quality.
The relationship between environment and the development is one of the most important
issues at present. M any developmental activities, including construction of hydropower
plants, transmission lines, and related facilities, cause degradation too many aspects of the
environment, including the hydrosphere (water), lithosphere (soil) and atmosphere (air), and
even the biosphere through pollution and disturbance. In order to recognize the adverse
effects of air pollutants, accurate scientific data is essential. Quantitative characterization of
air quality would be the prerequisite to understanding the existing conditions and the
potential air pollution around the project site. This then can help to determine the extent to
which pollution control is required, and how much the atmosphere might able to be a natural
sink for gaseous pollutants.
The exact baseline air quality of the project site could not be measured, because there is
no permanent air quality monitoring station in the Project area and because permission was
not granted to conduct site specific monitoring during the period of field assessment.
However, because of the lack of major pollutants in the project area, air quality is expected to
be good: there are no industrial pollution sources in the vicinity and transportation density is
still quite low.
The Lao PDR has not adopted its own ambient air standards, so generally accepted
international standards are used instead. “The Lao PDR Environment Monitor 2005” of the
World Bank showed that overall air quality is currently at acceptable levels in both urban and
rural areas in Lao PDR. It is therefore quite reasonable to expect that the air quality in the
project area falls well within the standards presented in Table 5-17.
(Unit: mg/m3)
Average Time
Parameter 1 hr 8 hr 24 hr 1 Month 1 Year Method of Measurement
Av Av Av Av Av
Carbon monoxide 30 10 Non dispersive infrared
(CO) analyzer method
Nitrogen dioxide 0.30 Chemi-luminescence method
(NO2) using ozone or Colorimetry
employing Saltzman reagent
Sulfur dioxide 0.50 0.30 0.10 Ultraviolet
(SO2) Fluorescence or
Conductometric method
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Average Time
Parameter 1 hr 8 hr 24 hr 1 Month 1 Year Method of Measurement
Av Av Av Av Av
Particulate (TSP) 0.33 0.10 Gravimetric High Volume or
Weight concentration
measuring methods
Ozone (O3) 0.20 Chemi-luminescence or
Absorption
spectrophotometry using a
neutral potassium iodide
solution
Lead 0.5-1.0 Atomic Adsorption
Spectrometer
Dust 0.12 0.05 Gravimetric High Volume
Sources:
WHO, 1987. ‘WHO Ambient Air Quality Guideline’,
URL: http://w3.whosea.org/techinfo/air.htm ,(21/6/06)
Pollution Control Department (PCD), Ministry of Natural Resource and Environment, 1995.
‘ Air Quality and Noise Standards’,
URL: http://www.pcd.go.th/info_serv/en_reg_std_airsnd.html, (18/6/06)
Aside from solid waste and wastewater from human activity in the villages in the area, there
do not appear to be any pre-existing activities or conditions that would lead to contamination
of the project sites. A number of project related activities, especially during construction, do
have considerable potential to cause contamination. T he location of these sites has been
determined and the potential contamination threats considered.
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The hazardous site investigation was also taken to identify potential contaminated
activities within the area that could affect the project, whether existing or past contamination
within the river basin. The study concluded that while there were potential mineral resources
in the region (see Mineral Resources), these were not located in the Nam Ngiep River basin.
Thus there was no contaminated site from minerals or mineral extraction that could cause
hazardous contamination in the project area. T here is also no i ndustrial activity within or
immediately adjacent the Nam Ngiep River basin, so industrial activity would also not be a
source of hazardous contamination, at least for the present.
Thus, potential contaminated sites would be solely the result of various activities relating
to hazardous material transport, storage, and use during construction and operation of the
NNHP-1 dam. The chemicals that must be used for the project during construction and
operation were reviewed to predict the potential site contamination. The project materials that
would be storaged in the construction site and could cause hazardous contamination to the
environment were determined to be explosive materials, fuel (diesel, LPG), lubricant oils,
pesticides and paints. The activities that involve hazardous materials are: chemical use and
storage, drum reconditioning or recycling, electric transformers, explosive use and storage,
landfills, pest control, use of petroleum product and oil storage, and scrap yards. Hazardous
materials used for the RCC were also considered. During the operation phase, pesticides and
fertilizers may be used for landscaping in the project area, along roadsides and wiers, near
offices and parking areas.
Non-harzardous substances that could contiminate the project site would be from the
generation of solid waste and wastewater during construction. Human waste and wastewater
of the workers could also be a source of land and water contamination. It is estimated that
1,000 to 1,800 persons will work for the project daily for six years; thus creating solid waste
of about 800 kg t o 1,500 kg/days. Seepage from the landfill for this waste would be another
potential source of pollution. Turbidity and hardness caused by r unoff from the quarry site
near the riverbank are also potential problems. The contractor camp yard, the disposal site for
solid waste, the stockpile and plant year, the potential quarry site near the river, and other
sites where project activities will be carried out that could run the risk of contamination are
shown Figure 2-3.
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5.1.11 HYDROLOGY
A dam will necessarily change the hydrology of a river. However, measures can be taken to
minimize any adverse impacts from changes caused by the dam.
For most of its 160 km length, the Nam Ngiep flows through mountainous regions in a south
to southeastern direction. After a turn to the east, it passes through a narrow gorge of some 7
km between Mt. Huasua (elevation 1,538m) to the northeast and Mt. Katha (elevation 2,071
m to the southewest. T he mouth of the gorge lies 7.7 km west-southwest of the main
settlement of Ban Hat Gniun. From there the river runs through hilly terrain to the Mekong
River.
About 2.9 km from the end of the gorge, the Nam Katha joins the Nam Ngiep. This
last segmet of the gorge has a river gradient as steep as 1/100. The planned dam site is in
this segment of the gorge about 1.2 km downstream from the confluence of the Nam Katha
River. The entire basin for the dam has an area of about 3,700 km2.
Hydrological data were compiled from records of gauging stations within and in the
peripheral of the planned basin. The locations of these stations are shown in Figure 5-1.
Rainfall, water level and discharge records are shown in Table 5-18. Other meteorological
data such as air temperature, relative humidity, barometric pressure, solar radiation, sunshine
hours, evaporation, wind velocity were obtained from related areas.
Rainfall records were obtained from September 1998 to December 2000 at an automatic
rainfall recorder installed at Ban Thaviang.
Water level records were obtained from September 1998 to December 2000, at a staff gauge
for water level measurement installed at Ban Hatkham (a sub-village of Ban Hat Gniun).
Discharge measurementw were taken at the same location until March 2000. Discharge
rating curve was shown in Figure 5-24.
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This data collected from September 1998 to December 2000 were used for the hydrological
study. H owever, hourly water level data were not available for flood analysis. The flood
water level and the tail water level at the dam site were determined by using topographical
maps of 1/10,000 derived from aerial photo.
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Water level measurement using an automatic water level recorder (pressure type) and
periodic discharge measurement at Ban Hat Gniun as well as rainfall measurement at Ban
Thaviang recommenced since June 2007.
Hydrological records of the Nam Ngiep River basin have not been well maintained. The
estimate of mean basin rainfall was assessed from the rainfall data available for areas
within and outside of the basin. The mean basin rainfall and discharge were inputs for the
Tank Model method to estimate the mean annual discharge. These records were not collected
for a sufficiently long period for accurate analysis. Thus rainfall data from peripheral areas
was also applied using the Thiessen method to obtain the mean basin rainfall. Missing data
during the measurement period is derived by using correlations. The assumed mean basin
rainfall was shown in Table 5-19.
(mm)
Year Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Annual
1971 0 65 56 120 280 432 551 302 164 39 0 10 2,019
1972 0 2 27 120 192 395 316 350 75 107 16 2 1,603
1973 0 0 16 25 244 278 277 484 296 13 0 0 1,634
1974 3 11 13 111 195 216 403 471 152 49 16 0 1,642
1975 23 12 27 27 304 421 189 340 285 119 3 0 1,752
1976 0 54 4 53 210 230 385 427 250 170 0 0 1,783
1977 6 0 12 72 122 269 402 242 194 9 6 8 1,.42
1978 10 12 39 122 38 518 400 31 3360 87 5 0 1,904
1979 1 29 10 51 404 253 324 189 146 26 0 0 1,433
1980 0 7 29 67 236 415 433 367 256 39 0 0 1,849
1981 0 0 5 119 214 292 519 346 221 196 0 0 1,913
1982 2 0 72 134 240 304 363 540 508 42 21 0 2,226
1983 0 63 52 141 185 263 363 500 226 131 45 0 1,999
1984 26 33 10 100 191 301 351 356 222 74 24 0 1,688
1985 0 2 6 129 508 363 404 276 182 35 0 22 1,928
1986 0 31 42 158 133 333 250 332 228 67 25 0 1,601
1987 0 11 10 47 167 357 397 556 189 192 7 0 1,932
1988 85 0 120 123 215 460 523 285 320 128 5 5 2,270
1989 12 0 120 145 189 435 382 313 229 117 0 0 1,942
1990 4 36 66 99 173 644 717 305 267 311 30 0 2,653
1991 2 0 33 115 164 359 379 438 233 30 6 4 1,762
1992 35 28 1 41 127 315 354 263 140 26 0 36 1,365
1993 0 5 35 94 262 448 464 337 198 15 0 3 1,863
1994 9 32 106 118 171 401 413 330 219 115 38 9 1,960
1995 1 0 8 94 222 398 567 552 119 54 14 0 2,029
1996 0 8 41 107 251 337 451 555 215 29 84 3 2,080
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Year Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Annual
1997 9 4 85 220 250 302 485 416 243 94 4 0 2,111
1998 0 11 17 86 231 295 364 282 156 45 9 8 1,503
1999 7 3 60 119 521 426 320 537 293 125 26 8 2,445
2000 4 46 7 178 296 359 293 382 312 93 2 0 1,972
Av. 8 17 38 104 231 361 402 380 230 86 13 4 1,873
The mean rainfall of the basin of 1,870 mm/year was finally selected after considering the
Isohyetal Map (Figure 5-25). The mean rainfall of Nam Ngiep River basin was assumed at
1,870 mm/year, which is considerably less than the annual rainfall of Pakxan (3,000 mm).
The tropical low pressure systems that develop in the China Sea and move along the
Mekong Valley are blocked by high mountains and steep cliffs in the northwest, causing
many of the storms to stall there until the low pressure dissipates.
Based on the 14-year actual measurement of discharge at the Moung Mai station and the
measured discharge at Ban Hat Gniun, the difference between measured discharge and
calculated discharge was minimized through trial-and-error method. The result of the dam site
low flow analysis by T ank Model method showed the annual average discharge (1971 to
2000) of 148.4 m3/s.
The annual average discharge assumed this time (148.4 m3/s) was compared with other
projects located in the middle of Laos (the Nam Theum River basin) and in the northwest (the
Nam Ngum River basin) to confirmed values of runoff coefficient and the specific yield
(Table 5-20).
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Annual Annual
Catchment Specific
average average Runoff
Project Source Year Area yield
rainfall dischage coefficient
km2 m3/s/100km2
mm/year m3/s
KANSAI Update
2007 3,700 1,874 148.4 4.01 0.67
F/S
Feasibility Study on
the NAM NGIEP 1
Nam Ngiep 1 Project (Phase II)
2002 3,700 1,874 147.2 3.98 0.67
Final Report:
volume1 Main
Report (JICA)
Nam Ngum 2 Hydropower 2000 5,640 2,166 200.6 3.56 0.52
Nam Ngum 3 Development 3,873 2,166 106.2 2.74 0.40
Strategy for LAO
Nam Ngum 5 Draft Final Report 483 1,944 22.7 4.70 0.76
Nam Theun 3 (LAHMEYER) 2,338 - 110.00 4.70 -
Water Management
Plan for the NAM
Nam Theun 2 THEUN Final 1997 4,013 2,250 233.0 5.81 0.81
Report (NORPLAN
A.S.)
Nam Ngum 1 Nam Ngum5 1997 8,460 - 308.0 3.64 -
Hydropower Project
Nam Ngum 5 Feasibility Study 483 2,200 22.8 4.72 0.68
(LAHMEYER)
Nam Ngum 1 NAM NGUM1 1995 8,460 2,250 301.2 3.56 0.50
Nam Ngum 2 Hydropower Station 5,750 1,950 163.0 2.83 0.46
extension Feasibility
and Engineering
Nam Ngum 3 study Mid-term 3,810 1,600 74.1 1.94 0.38
Report
(LAHMEYER)
5.1.11.4 Flood analysis
The hourly rainfall data for the Nam Ngiep basin was prepared by the automatic rainfall
recorder installed at B. Thaviang, near the center of the basin (Sep, 1998 t o Dec, 2000).
To estimate the hourly rainfall hydrograph under torrential rain conditions, 24-hour rainfall of
50 mm and more was selected from the hourly rainfall data observed at Ban Thaviang and a
pattern of typical rainfall of the Nam Ngiep basin was determined (Figure 5-26).
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Using the 13-year discharge data of Muong Mai station, the base flow at Muong Mai station
was estimated at 400 m3/s and the base flow at the dam site was estimated at 350 m3/s by
multiplying the ratio of the basin.
Typical hydrographs were selected from the 13-year discharge data of Muong Mai station.
By cutting off the base flow from the hydrographs, the effective rainfall was obtained, to
which a runoff coefficient was estimated.
Hourly discharge data are necessary for preparing a unit hydrograph, but such data are not
available. Hence the dimensionless unit hydrograph quoted by the US Soil Conservation
Service was used as a unit hydrograph.
Probable flood discharge estimation was made using two methods. The first was an estimation
using annual maximum daily discharge data of Muong Mai station and frequency curve. The
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flood time peak discharge at M uong Mai site was converted from annual maximum daily
discharge by m ultiplying with the correction coefficient (1.2). Log Peason Type-III for the
frequency curve as the most suitable one out of the other four functions.
The second m ethod was an estimation of probable rainfall from the annual
maximum daily rainfall (1971−2000) of the mean basin rainfall using frequency curve.
It was likely that actual discharge measurement at Moung Mai station was more reliable
than the rainfall data estimated by Thiessen method. Thus, 5,210 m3/s of probable flood
discharge in 1,000 years was adopted for designing the dam (Table 5-21).
(m3/s)
Probable year Probable flood discharge
10,000 7,920
1,000 5,210
500 4,560
200 3,800
100 3,290
50 2,840
30 2,530
20 2,300
10 1,930
5 1,590
2 1,150
1.01 680
(6) Riparian Release
Riparian release was included into the calculation. Cases of specific discharge of 0.15
m3/s/km2 for Nam Ngiep1 (Table 5-22) is adopted, and the minimum discharge after the
initial impounding should be 5.5 m3/s.
From the hydrologic study, the ecological implication of minimum flow during dry
season is also very important for project operation. Dry season flow downstream from the
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construction site and the dam should not be less than the existing flow regimes, which is
about 26 m3/s as the minimum monthly river flow during 30 years (1971-2000).
Like most tropical monsoon communities, the life of the people living along the Nam Ngiep
River and its tributaries flows with the seasonal rains and the water levels. In a 16 year study
of annual maximum and minimum discharge of the Nam Ngiep River, conducted from 1987
to 2002, a verage annual maximum flow was 1,046.76 m 3/sec, while the average annual
minimum flow as 29.72 m3/sec. Based on discussions with local residents, similar extremes
in flow are found at all the communities, with at least some water available even in drier
years.
With the exception of one community in Zone 2LR, Houayphamom, and the sub-village
in Zone 3, Hatsaykham, all villages in the affected area of the project, from Zone 1 upstream
to Zone 4 do wnstream, get their drinking water from gravity flow water systems, with the
water obtained from springs or other sources with all-year flows, or from wells, with the Nam
Ngiep and tributaries as a supplemental source of domestic water. Only those two
communities mentioned above depend entirely on the Nam Ngiep and nearby tributaries for
all their water.
For most of its course, the Nam Ngiep passes through valleys with steep embankments.
Even farther downstream, where the topography is less mountainous, the river flows through
a valley between higher hills. Nearly all the agricultural fields are on lands well above the
river. The main agriculture production – lowland rice, upland crops, and tree crops – depends
upon rainfall rather than river water. A few areas are irrigated, but these use water from
streams flowing down toward the Nam Ngiep from the mountains. Farmers use river water
only for some small plots near the embankments. Those are mostly vegetable plots, and they
are planted when the waters are high and more accessible, just after the rice harvest in
October or November.
The construction of the Nam Ngiep Hydropower Project will not have a significant impact on
wildlife in the area. At present, the only remaining viable wildlife habitats are on the steep
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and relatively inaccessible slopes of undisturbed forests outside the project area. These areas
will not be affected by the reservoir, resettlement, or other project-related activities. The
areas of the reservoir, dam, and re-regulation dam are not significant for wildlife
migration, breeding, or feeding. Whatever remaining wildlife found in the project area lives
mostly in the higher elelvations, and these have been and are still being indiscriminately and
extensively hunted and captured.
The definition of wildlife used for the purpose of this study consists of 4 gr oups of
animals: mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Forests are the dominant habitat of
wildlife in Lao PDR. Much of what had been forest in the project area has long since been
cleared for shifting cultivation. Shifting cultivation is practiced widely near the Nam Ngiep
River and the dam sites. Official forest classification for most of the project area is largely
(1) unstocked forest that is part of the cycle of slash and burn agriculture and (2) mixed forest
that is located either on areas of steep land where the forest is inaccessible or on poor soils
unsuitable for upland rice and other crop production.
Lao PDR is still rich in wildlife, when compared with many other countries, including it
immediate neighbors. According to the UNDP, at least 166 species of reptile and amphibian,
700 bird species, and 100 mammal species are found in Lao PDR; 4 but with rather extensive
forest degradation and destruction in recent decades, much of the wildlife can now be found
mainly in the designated National Biodiversity Conservation Areas (NBCAs).
The richness of Lao PDR’s wildlife has less to do with conservation efforts than with the
country’s low population density and consequent remaining extensive forest cover. Although
there is still considerable hunting in the country (most villagers depend on hunting for part of
their diet), the relative abundance of forest habitat and, in some cases, its considerable
distance from human settlements and inaccessibility have provided some protection for the
country’s wildlife. However, human population and development pressures are increasing,
especially since 1990, a nd consequently the wildlife population has declined dramatically
throughout the country.
Threatened species recorded in Lao PDR, based upon N ovember 1998 da ta from the
Word Conservation Monitoring Centre of UNEP, included 220 plants and 150 animals. The
purpose of this assessment was to determine what if any threatened species live in or near the
4
UNDP, “Agrobiodiversity, Mainstreaming Biodiversity in Lao PDR’s Agricultural and Land Management
Policies, Plans and Programmes,” Fact Sheet 04/2009 ABD April 2009.
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project area, in particular in or near the areas directly affected by the project (the dam and
reservoir), and whether the project will affect their habitats or not.
The surveyed or project area is broadly defined as the area north of the dam site extending
to the northern m argin of the reservoir, covring the proposed reservoir area. Within and
around the Project Area (PLEASE DEFINE THE AREA COVERAGE OF ‘AROUND THE
SURVEY AREAS”), wildlife conditions were surveyed and assessed by visual inspection
and interviews with villagers on wildlife conditions in and around their village areas, as well
as secondary data and information gathered from previous assessments and from authorities
who work with wildlife, forests, and related activities to establish a baseline information on
the distribution of wildlife and wildlife habitats to determine likely impacts of the project on
such fauna and to assess how any such impacts might be mitigated through appropriate
interventions. The field survey was conducted in both wet (October 2007) and dry (March
2007) seasons to collect primary field data concerning all wildlife species including
mammals, reptiles, amphibians and birds. (NOTES:
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Data on mammal species were collected in interviews and field surveys in March and
October 2007. Villagers described that in years past there was considerable mammal wildlife
in the project area, both in number of species and in higher populations. However, at present,
after the forests in the river valley have mostly been cleared and the surrounding areas also
cleared and/or extensively hunted or captured, most of these species are no l onger seen or
only rarely seen in the areas where the dam and reservoir are located. If the species are still
found in the project area, they are in the less accessible, higher elevations where some forest
still remains. Some of the more agile animals go at night down the steep slopes to the river to
drink, and this will still be possible for them after the dam is built.
The remaining pockets of virgin forest that exist in the region are home to some species
on the IUCN Red List of 2009. These are:
Table 5-23 provides the list of mammal species and the method of reporting their
presence or absence in or near the project area.
5.2.1.2 Reptiles and Amphibians within and around the Project Area
Reptiles and Amphibians (herpetofauna) have always been abundant in Lao PDR. Earlier
reports on he rpetofauna (Gressitt 1970, S alter 1993s) have been reviewed and re-edited
recently (Wildlife in Lao PDR 1999), with at least 166 species of reptiles and amphibians
recorded, most verified with pictures.
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Table 5-24 presents the reptile and ambhibian species recorded in the interviews. These
included turtles, tortoises, monitors, Varanus spp., Python spp., and king cobra. Provisionally
at-risk species that were recorded as present from the surveys include the Reticulated Python
and the Water Monitor. None of the reptiles are on the IUCN Red List (2009). Only 5 of the
amphibians are lists. These are:
The project is not expected to have a detrimental impact to the reptile and ambhibious
species in the area.
Data on bird species data was gathered during interviews and field surveys in March 2007
and October 2007 a nd then compared with the list of species found in Lao PDR. Some
species in this list are derived from authoritative sources in Lao PDR, however, not all
species listed have adequate supporting evidence. They may have been mentioned in
interviews, but no evidence of their actual presence was found during the field surveys.
As with the mammal species, the number of bird species and their populations declined
significantly because of habitat loss, hunting, as capture as pets. Also as with the mammal
species, there are no s ignificant breeding or migratory sites for birds where the dam and
reservoir will be located, mainly because of the lack of viable forest cover. I t is therefore
expected that the project will not have a significant impact on these species.
Table 5-25 also provides the list of avian species and the method of reporting their
presence or absence in or near the project area. The national risk status categories are based
upon “The conservation status of Birds in Laos: a review of key species” (Thewlis et al.
1998) and A Field Guide to the Birds in Lao PDR 2003. Two species identified during
interviews that are globally threatened vulnerable species are the green peafowl and the
Rufous-neck hornbill (Aceros nipalensis). Species in the IUCN Red List (2009) found in or
near the project area or identified through interviews were:
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Table 5-23 Wildlife Conditions within and around the Project Area: Mammals (NOTE:
PLEASE DEFINE THE SCOPE AND E XTENT OF COVERAGE OF THE “WITHIN
PROJECT AREA” AND ALSO THE “OUTSIDE PROJECT AREA”)
Identification of
IUCN
Within Outside Sites Survey within
English (Lao) Name Classification Red
Scientific Name Project Project the project Area
(Common Name) and Status List
Area Area Reservoir Dam
Status
area site
Mammal Species:
Bovidae
Gaur (Meuey) Bos gaurus S S VU
Chinese Serow (Nheuang) Capricornis milneedwardsi A A Prohibited List 1 R2 R2 VU
Canidae
Asiatic Jackal (Ma Jork) Canis aureus S S LC
Asian Wild Dog (Ma Nai) Cuon alpinus S S EN
Cercopithecidae
Stump-Tailed Macacque Macaca arctoides S S VU
(Ling Kung)
Asamese Macaque (Ling Sehn) Macaca assamensis S S NT
Rhesus Macacque (Ling Vork) Macaca mulatta S S LC
Monkey (Ling) Macaca spp. A A Managed List 2 R1 R2
Red-shanked Douc Langur Pygathrix nemaeus D A Prohibited List 1 EN
(Khadeng)
Phayre’s Langur Trachypithecus phayrei S S EN
Cervidae
Sambar Deer (Kouang) Rusa unicolor A A Managed List 2 R2 R2 VU
Barking Deer (Fan) Muntiacus muntjak A A Managed List 2 R1/[] R1 LC
Cynocephalidae
Colugo (Malayan Flying Galeopterus variegatus S S LC
Lemur) (Bahng Hog)
(Bahng Nai))
Elephantidae
Asistic Elephant (Xang) Elephas maximus S S EN
Felidae
Asian Golden Cat Pardofelis temminckii D A Prohibited List 1 NT
(Seua Fai (Seua Daeng))
Fishing cat (Seua Pa) Prionailurus viverrinus S S EN
Marbled Cat (Seua Maeo) Pardofelis marmorata S S VU
Tiger (Seua Khong) Panthera tigris S S EN
Wildcat/Leopard cat (Seua Meo) Prionailurus bengalensis A A Prohibited List 1 R2 - LC
Hylobatidae
Whitecheeked crested gibbon Hoolock leuconedys D A Prohibited List 1 VU
(Thany)
Hystricidae
Porcupine (Men) Hystrix brachyura A A Managed List 2 R2 R1 LC
Asiatic Brush-tailed Porcupine Atherurus macrourus A A - R2 R1 LC
(Hone)
Lorisaadea
Asian Slow Loris (Ling Lom) Nycticebus bengalensis S S VU
Pygmy Loris Nycticebus pygmaeus S S VU
Manidae
Pangolin (Liin) Manis javanica A A Managed List 2 R2 R2 EN
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Identification of
IUCN
Within Outside Sites Survey within
English (Lao) Name Classification Red
Scientific Name Project Project the project Area
(Common Name) and Status List
Area Area Reservoir Dam
Status
area site
Mustelidae
Hog Badger (Mu Leung) Arctonyx collaris S S NT
Common Otter (Nahk) Lutra lutra S S NT
Large-toothed Ferret-Badger Melogale personata S S DD
(Ma Leung)
Back Striped Weasel Mustela strigidorsa S S LC
(Phung Porn)
Pteropodidae
Greater Short-Nosed Fruit Bat Cynopterus sphinx S S LC
Geoffroy’s Rousettle Rousettus amplexicaudatus S S LC
Rhinolophidae
Horseshoe Bat UNIDENTIFIED S S
Rhizomyidae
Horay Bamboo Rat Rhizomys pruinosus S S R1 R1 LC
(Onn Khaem)
Large Bamboo Rat (Onn Hok) Rhizomys sumatrensis S S R1 R1 LC
Sciuridae
Variable Squirrel Callosciurus finlaysonii S S R1/F R1 LC
(Ka Hok Lark Sy)
Grey-Bellied Squirrel Callosciurus caniceps S S LC
caniceps
Red-Cheeked Squirrel Dremomys rufigenis S S LC
Phayre’s Flying Squirrel Hylopetes phayrei S S LC
Lesser Giant Flying Squirrel Petaurista elegans S S LC
(Bahng Lua)
Red Giant Flying Squirrel Petaurista petaurista S S LC
(Bahng Lua)
Flying squirrel (Baang) Subfamily Sciurinae, Tribe D A Prohibited List 1
Pteromyini
Suidae
Wild boar (Mou Paa) Sus scrofa A A - R1/[] R1 LC
Talpidae
Kloss’s Mole (Teung) Euroscaptor klossi S S LC
Tragulidae
Lesser Mouse Deer (Kaay) Tragulus javanicus A A Managed List 2 R1 R1 DD
Tupaiidae
Northern Treeshrew (Ka Tae) Tupaia belangeri S S R1 R1 LC
Ursidae
Malayan Sun Bear (Mee Born) Helarctos malayanus D A Prohibited List 1 VU
Asian Black Bear (Meuey) Ursus thibetanus S S R1 R1 VU
Viverridae
Binturong (Ngen Hang Kho) Arctictis binturong S S VU
Three Striped Palm Civet Arctogalidia trivirgata S S LC
(Ngen Omm Na Daen)
Javan Mongoose (Phung Porn) Herpestes javanicus S S LC
Masked Palm Civet (Ngen Paguma Iarvata S S LC
Kheua Khow)
Common Palm Civet Paradoxurus S S R2 R1 LC
(Ngen Omm Tin Tam) hermaphroditus
Small Indian Civet Viverricula indica S S LC
(Ngen Faeng)
Three-Striped Palm Civet Viverra zibetha S S NT
Common palm civet Paradoxurus A A - LC
(Ngen Om) hermaphroditus
Table 5-24 Wildlife Conditions within and around the Project Area: Reptiles and
Amphibians
Identification of
Within Outside Sites Survey within IUCN
English (Lao) Name Classification
Scientific Name Project Project the project Area Red List
(Common Name) and Status
Area Area Reservoir Dam status
area site
Reptile Species:
Agamidae
Asian Water Dragon (Kathang) Physignathus cocincinus A A Managed List 2 R1 R1 -
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Identification of
Within Outside Sites Survey within IUCN
English (Lao) Name Classification
Scientific Name Project Project the project Area Red List
(Common Name) and Status
Area Area Reservoir Dam status
area site
Serpentes
Colubridae
Indochinese Sand Snake Psammophis condanarrus A A - R1 R1 -
(Ngou Xeuak Phat)
Common Ratsnake Ptyas mucosus A A - R1 R1 -
(Ngou Sing)
Black Rat Snake Ptyas carinatus S S -
Red-Necked Keelback Snake Rhabdopsis subminiatus S S -
Elapidae
King Cobra Ophiophagus hanah S S -
Naja
Monocled cobra (Ngou Haou) Naja kaouthia A A Managed List 2 R2 R2 -
Pythonidae
Reticulated Python Python reticulates A A Prohibited List 1 R2 R2 -
(Gnou Leuam)
Not Clearly Identified
Green Snake (Ngou Khieo) - A A - R2 R2 -
Scincidae
Sun Skink Mabuya multifasciata S S -
Testudinidae
Tortoises (Tau) Testudo spp. A A Managed List 2 R2 R2 -
Varanidae
Water monitor (Hiaa) Varanus salvattor A A Managed List 2 R1 R1 -
Jellow Tree Monitor (Len) Varanus bengalensis A A - R1 R1 -
Amphibian Species:
Dicroglossidae
(Kob Hin/Kob Dong) Annandia delacouri A A - DD
Microhylidae
(Khiet Leuang) Microhyla berdmorei A A - LC
Ranidae
(Khiet Lai/Hin) Amolops cremnobatus A A - NT
Rachophoridae
(Khiet Ta Pat Leuang) Rhacophorus calcaneus A A - NT
(Khiet Ta Pat Tong) Rhacophorus reinwardtii A A - NT
Table 5-25 Wildlife Conditions within and around the Project Area: Birds (Avian)
Identification of
Within Outside Sites Survey within
English (Lao) Name Classification IUCN
Scientific Name Project Project the project Area
(Common Name) and Status status
Area Area Reservoir Dam
area site
Birds Species:
Accipitridae
Imperial Eagle (Leo) Aquila heliaca A A Managed List 2 R1/F R1/F VU
White backed vulture D A Prohibited List 1 CR
(Heng Khorkham) Gyps bengalensis
Anatidae
White winged duck D A Managed List 2 EN
(Nok Pet Nam) Cairina scutulata
Anhingidae
Oriental Darter D A Managed List 2 NT
(Nok Khor Gnou) Anhinga melanogaster
Apodidae
Himalayan Swiftlet (Nok En) Collocalia brevirostris F LC
Ardeidae
Intermediate egret Mesophoyx intermedia D A - LC
(Nok Nhang Noy)
Blue Throated barbet Megalaima asiatica S S LC
Blue Eared barbet Megalaima asiatica S S LC
Gold Whiskered barbet Megalaima chrysopogon S S LC
Green Eared Barbet Megalaima faiostricta S S LC
Golden Throated Barbet Megalaima franklinii S S LC
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Identification of
Within Outside Sites Survey within
English (Lao) Name Classification IUCN
Scientific Name Project Project the project Area
(Common Name) and Status status
Area Area Reservoir Dam
area site
Birds Species:
Coppersmith Barbet Megalaima haemacephala S S LC
Moustached Barbet Megalaima incognita S S LC
Red Crowned Barbet Megalaima rafflesii S S NT
Bucerotidae
Oriental Pied Hornbill Antracoceros albirostris D A Managed List 2 R2 LC
(Nok Keng)
Helmeted Hornbill Nok kok Rhinoplax vigil S S NT
Rufous-necked Hornbill Aceros nipalensis D A Prohibited List 1 VU
(Nokkok kho-kham)
Caprimulgidae
Grey Nightjar Caprimulgus indicus S S LC
Chloropseidae
Blue Winged Leaf Bird Chloropsis cyanopogon S S NT
Columbidae
Green Winged Pigeon Chalcophaps indica S S LC
Mountain Imperial Pigeon Ducula badia A A - R2 LC
(Nok Moum)
Oriental Turtle Dove Streptopelia orientalis S S F F LC
Spotted Dove (Nok Kao) Streptopelia tranquebarica S S R1/F R1 LC
Orange Breasted Pigeon Treron bicincta S S LC
(Nok Pao)
Thick Billed Pigeon Treron curvirostra S S LC
Pink Necked Pigeon Treron vernans S S LC
Green Pigeon (Nok Paao) Columba pulchricollis A A - R1 R1 LC
Spotted necked dove Streptopelia tranquebarica A A Managed List 2 LC
(Nok Khao)
Corvidae
Large-Billed Crow Corvus macrorhynchos S S LC
Black-Billed Magpie Pica pica S S LC
Rufos Treepie Dendrocitta vagabunda S S LC
Racket-Tailed Treepie Crrpsirina temia S S
Cuculidae
Green-Billed Malkoha Phaenicophaeus tristis S S LC
Lesser Coucal Centropus bengalensis S S LC
Greater Coucal (Nok Kot) Centropus sinensis A A - R1/F R1/F LC
Dicruridae
Bronzed Drongo Dicrurus aeneus S S LC
Black Drongo Dicrurus macrocercus S S R1 R1 LC
Greater Racket Tailed Drongo Dicrurus paradiseus S S LC
Lesser Racket Tailed Drongo Dicrurus remifer S S LC
Estrildidae
Scaly-Breasted Munia Lonchura punctulata R1/C R1 LC
(Nok Ka Pid)
Eurylaimidae
Long Tailed Broadbill Psarisomus dalhousiae S S LC
Hirundinidae
Asian house Martin Delichon dasypus S S LC
Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica S S LC
Motacillidae
Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea S S LC
Forest Wagtail Dendronanthus indicus S S F LC
Muscicapidae
Pale Blue Flycatcher Cyornis unicolor S S LC
Nectariniidae
Crimson Sunbird Aethopyga siparaja S S LC
Purple Sunbird Nectarinia asiatica S S LC
Oriolidae
Asian Fairy Blue Bird Irena puella S S LC
Phasianidae
Bar-Backed Partidge Arborophila brunneopectus S S LC
Scaly-breasted Partridge Arborophila charltonii S S NT
(Nok Kho)
Chinese Francolin Francolinus pintadeanus S S LC
Red Jungle Fowl (Kay Paa) Gallus gallus A A - R1/O R1/O LC
Siamese Fireback (Kay Khoua) Lophura diardi A A Prohibited List 1 NT
Silver Pheasant (Kay Khoua Lophura nycthemera A A Prohibited List 1 R1 R1 LC
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Identification of
Within Outside Sites Survey within
English (Lao) Name Classification IUCN
Scientific Name Project Project the project Area
(Common Name) and Status status
Area Area Reservoir Dam
area site
Birds Species:
Luang)
Grey Peacock Pheasant A A Managed List 2 LC
(Nok Kang Kort) Polyplectron bicalcaratum
Pittidae
Eared Pitta Pitta phayrei S S LC
Blue Pitta Pitta cyanea S S LC
Psittacidae
Red Breasted Parakeet Psittacula alexandri S S LC
Alexandrine Parakeet Psittacula eupatria S S LC
Grey Headed Parakeet Psittacula finschii S S LC
Bossom Headed Parakeet Psittacula roseata S S LC
Parakeets (Nok Keo) Psittacula spp. A A Managed List 2 R1
Upupidae R1/F R1
Common Hoopoe (Nok Hone) Upupa epops LC
Pycnonotidae
White-Headed Bulbul Hypsipetes thompsoni S S LC
Puff-Throated Bulbul Alophoixus pallidus S S LC
Ashy Bulbul Hemixos flavala S S LC
Black-Headed Bulbul Pycnonotus atriceps S S LC
Puff Backed Bulbul Pycnonotus eutilotus S S NT
Stripe Throated Bulbul Pycnonotus finlaysoni S S LC
Flavescent Bulbul Pycnonotus flavescens S S LC
Red Whiskered Bulbul Pycnonotus jocosus S S LC
Black Crested Bulbul Pycnonotus melanicterus S S LC
Cream Vented bulbul Pycnonotus simplex S S LC
Rallidae
White Breasted Waterhen Amaurornis phoenicurus S S LC
Ruddy-breasted Crake A A - R1/F R1 LC
(Nok Kay Na) Porzana fusca
Rostratulidae
Greater Painted Snipe Rostratula benghalensis S S LC
Strigiformes S
Brown Hawk Owl Ninox scutulata S S LC
Common Scops Owl Otus scops S S LC
Mountain scops Owl Otus spilocephalus S S LC
Asian Barred Owls (Nok Khaow) Glaucidium cuculoides A A Prohibited List 1 RI/F R1/O LC
Sturnidae
Hill Myna (Nok Sa Li Ka) Gracula religiosa A A Managed List 2 LC
White-Vented Myna Acridotheres grandis F LC
(Nok Ieng Mong)
Sylviidae
White-Tailed Leaf-Warble Phylloscopus davisoni S S LC
Golden Spectacled Warbler Seicercus burkii S S LC
White-rumped Shama A A - R2 LC
(Nok Tem Poun) Copsychus malabaricus
Timaliidae
White Headed Babbler Gampsorhynchus rufulus S S LC
White-Crested Laughingthrush Garrulax leucolophus S S LC
Trogonidae
Scarlet Rumped Trogon Harpactes duvaucelii S S NT
Turdidae
White Rumped Shama Copsychus malabaricus S S LC
Blue Whistling Thrush Myophonus caeruleus S S LC
Cark-Sided Thrush Zoothera marginata S S LC
Turnicidae
Barred Buttonquail Turnix Suscitator S S LC
Yellow Legged Buttonquail Turnix tanki S S LC
Source: Interviews and field surveys, March and October 2007; and Nippon Koei Co., Ltd. (2000):
Final Report (Vol. 1).
Note: A = Indicates “Appearance” according to survey of villagers. D = Indicates “Disappearance”
according to survey of villages. S = Indicates the information is based on Secondary Data,
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from the “Feasibility study on the Nam Ngiep-I hydroelectric power project in the LAO
People’s Democratic Republic, 2000”
- CR = Critically Endangered
- EN = Endangered
- VU = Vulnerable
- NT = Near Threatened
- LC = Least Concern
- DD = Data Deficient
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The project will cover parts of three provinces, and so will affect forest and other vegetative
cover in those areas. The largest area will be affected by the reservoir, most of which is
located in Hom district, Vientiane Province and Bolikhan district, Bolikhamxay Province.
The surveyed area is broadly defined as the area north of the dam site extending to the
northern margin of the reservoir, covering the proposed reservoir area. The surveys were
conducted to provide baseline information on the distribution of forest types and vegetation
to determine likely impacts of the project on such flora and to assess how any such impacts
might be mitigated through appropriate intervention. The field survey was conducted on
October 2007 t o collect primary data concerning tree and vegetation species, density and
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EIA of The Nam Ngiep 1 Hydropower Project Draft Report: Chapter 5
estimated volume per hectare for big tree species with a diameter at breast height (DBH) of
more than 10 centimeters. The main method used in this survey is similar to that used for the
wildlife survey including interviews with villagers, especially senior persons who have
experience with the types of vegetation and non-timber forest products in their vicinity. The
villagers were questioned on land use as well as lists of vegetation and NTFPs. Detailed
methodology for conducting primary data collection is discussed in Section 3.2.2 F orest,
Vegetation Cover.
According to the Report on the Assessment of Forest Cover and Land Use during 1992-2002,
(Department of Forestry, July 2005) for the Northern Part of Lao PDR (including the project
area), 28% of the total land area is covered by the Current Forest 5, while 66.5% is covered by
Potential Forest 6, approximately 1% is other wooded area, 1.5% is permanent agricultural
land, and 3% other land uses. For Xieng Khouang Province, 38.6% of the total land area of
the province was Current Forest, while 49% was Potential Forest, 0.4% other wooded area,
3% is permanent agricultural land and 9% other land uses. A reported 24.3% of Vientiane
Province was covered by Current Forest, and 60.6% covered by Potential Forest, 1.8% other
wooded area, 4.7% is permanent agricultural land and 8.5% other land uses.
The definition of the project area used for this section refers only those lands covered by the
proposed reservoir, the dam sites and powerhouse. The Lao landscape has historically been
dominated by dense forest and, despite more recent clearance, still retains significantly more
forest coverage than neighboring countries Thailand, Vietnam and China (Yunnan Province)
(Duckworth et al, 1999). The original forests of the Northern-Central Highlands, where the
project is located, were predominantly dry evergreen and mixed deciduous forests. However,
shifting cultivation has removed much of the original forest and large areas of grassland,
5 Current Forest includes natural forests and plantation forests. It is used to refer to land with a tree canopy
cover of more than 20% and area of more than 0.5 ha. The trees should be able to reach a minimum height
of 5 m. The basis for the distinction between forest and other land use groups is the crow density. In this study
the natural forests are classified into forest types which composed of Upper and Lower Dry Evergreen Forests,
Upper and Lower Mixed Deciduous Forests, Gallery Forest, Coniferous Forest, Mixed Broadleaved and
Coniferous Forest, and Dry Dipterocarp.
6
Previous forest areas where the crown cover has been reduced below 20% for some reason (logging or
shifting cultivation) are classified as Potential Forest. The potential forest includes Bamboo, old shifting
cultivation areas (young secondary forests) and Temporary Unstocked areas.
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EIA of The Nam Ngiep 1 Hydropower Project Draft Report: Chapter 5
bamboo and other secondary vegetation are now present. Non-timber forest products
(NTFPs) such as leaves, shoots, flowers, fruits and bark are used extensively by t he Lao
people and are of great importance both as a food source and also medicinally and culturally.
Based on a review of the 2002 Land Use and Forest Cover maps for the regions in which
the Nam Ngiep 1 Hydropower will be constructed, and from the interviews with villagers, as
well as observations made during the field survey, the following observations were made
regarding the conditions of forests and land use within the project area.
Based on the 320 MSL full supply level (Full Reservoir Load), slightly more than 7,700
ha will be directly affected. The Land Use and Forest Types Map of this area shows that
inundated lands will consist of about 1.62% Dry Evergreen Forest and approximately 40%
Mixed Deciduous, while the largest portion of the reservoir area (almost 46%) is covered by
Unstocked Forest and Scrub and about 2% Bamboo forest. Apart from these, some
agricultural land 7 will be affected: 3.3% of the area is swidden or shifting cultivation and 7%
is rice paddy fields. Based on t he study, the landuses in the immediate project area (the
reservoir) are presented in Table 5-26, with a comparison to the area of similar landuses in
the entire catchment area. The forest cover distribution will be updated in the dry season
2012-2013 or prior to reservoir impoundment. (TO BE CONFIRMED BY THE PROJECT
SPONSOR)
Table 5-26 Land Use and Forest Types in the Reservoir Area with FSL 320 MSL
Proportion of
Percent in
Area of this landuse in reservoir
Forest Land Use and Forest Area total
landuse in entire to same landuse in
Category Types (ha) Reservoir
catchment (ha) entire catchment to
(%)
be affected (%)
Dry Evergreen Forest
Current 125 1.62 23,690 0.53
(DE)
Forest
Mixed Deciduous (UMD) 3,089 40.00 101,420 3.05
Unstocked Forest (T) 3,551 45.99 209,725 1.69
Potential
Bamboo (B) 158 2.05 852 18.54
Forest
Swidden (Ray, RA) 255 3.30 3,383 7.54
Permanent Rice Paddy Field (RP) 544 7.04 11,777 4.62
Agriculture Other Agricultural Land 0 0.0 0 0.0
Land (OA)
Total 7,722 100 350,847 2.2
Note: Focusing on the inundated areas of the reservoir.
7
This includes permanent and non permanent cultivation areas.
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Land uses for the entire catchment area are presented in Table 5-27. Unstocked forest is
even more predominant in the entire area (over 53%), while Mixed Deciduous was the main
type of current forest (over 25%).
Table 5-27 Land Use and Forest Types in the NNHP-1 Catchment Area
Category Land Use and Forest Types Area (ha) Percent (%)
Dry Evergreen Forest (DE) 23,690 6.0
Mixed Deciduous (MD) 101,420 25.8
Current Forest
Coniferous Forest (S) 821 0.2
Mixed Coniferous and Broad-Leaved (MS) 5,922 1.5
Unstocked Forest (T) 209,725 53.4
Potential Forest Bamboo (B) 852 0.2
Swidden (Ray, RA) 3,383 0.9
Savannah/Open Woodland (SH) 2,751 0.7
Other Wooded Area
Scrub (SR) 851 0.2
Permanent Rice Paddy Field (RP) 11,777 3.0
Agriculture Land Other Agricultural Land (OA) 0 0.0
Barren Land and Rock (R) 30 8.0
Other Non-Forested
Grassland (G) 31,303 0.0
Areas
Swamp (SW) 13 6.0
Total 392,537 100
Note: The Land use and Forest Types in the Table are included the reservoir area.
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Figure 5-28 Land use and forest types in the proposed NNHP-1 reservoir.
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4B
Figure 5-29 Land use and forest types in the NNHP-1 catchment area.
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All tree species were recorded in the sample plots set-up during the field survey. The forest
types are classified according to the classification and definition of Forest Inventory and
Planning Division, Department of Forestry (see Box 1, Chapter 3). In addition to the broad
categorization of vegetation according to the land use planning classification system, a closer
identification of plant communities was undertaken for the areas likely to be most affected by
the proposed hydropower development.
A vegetation map has been produced based on analysis of satellite imagery and aerial
photographs. According to the field reconnaissance survey and interviews, a larger portion of
the project area was already significantly disturbed years ago by conversion of forest land
into other land use types, mostly agriculture, but also burning forests for hunting and illegal
logging within and near the proposed reservoir and dam site. The land is a medley of
vegetation communities, with local agricultural practices heavily impacting on species
composition and maturity. Three main forest types are found in the area of the Nam Ngiep 1
Hydropower Project, with the dominant species shown in Table 5-28 below:
Table 5-28 Forest Types and Main Tree Species found in the Project Area
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EIA of The Nam Ngiep 1 Hydropower Project Draft Report: Chapter 5
- The tree species are only those with DBH equal to or more than 10 cm.
5.2.2.4 The Average Number and Volume of stand Trees (with DBH ≥ 10 cm)
The number of trees and average volume for each tree species per one hectare of stand trees
with DBH equal to or greater than 10 cm were calculated, by the different types of forests as
shown in Table 5-29.
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Table 5-29 Average Number and Volume of Tree Species per Hectare, of Trees with
DBH ≥ 10 cm
No. of Average
No Forest Types Scientific Name Lao Name Tree per Volume per
Hectare Hectare (m3)
1 Dry 1) Cinnamomum liseafolium May Chuang 5.4 8.631
Evergreen 2) Hopea odorata May Khen Heua 15.8 13.465
Forest 3) Lagerstroemia florribunda May Peuay Khao 19.7 9.024
4) Ailanthus fauveliana May Nhom Pha 14.2 8.534
5) Vatica cineria May Xi Dong 8.5 6.935
6) Duabanga sonneratioides May Ten 6.3 3.420
7) Dipterocarpus turbinatus May Nhang Dong 7.4 5.028
8) Pentacme siamensis May Hang 11.3 8.057
9) Vatica astrotricha May Khen Phai 9.3 8.925
10) Dipterocarpus May Kung 8.2 4.476
tuberculatus (Tong Kung)
11) Albissia codoratisima May Houa Lon 6.7 2.768
12) Pentace burmanica May Si Siet 3.5 2.967
13) Vitex altisima May Khi Ngen 8.6 3.452
14) Castanopsis hystrix May Kor (Nam) 12.8 7.142
15) Castanopsis annamonsis May Kor Khi Mou 16.4 8.382
16) Tetramaleles nudiflora May Phung 7.2 5.964
17) Cinnamomum iners May Sikhay Ton 1.8 3.543
18) Peperomia pellusida May Ka Xang 12.1 4.632
19) Dialium indum May Kham Phep 4.2 2.086
20) Carallia lucida May Bong Nang 5.7 0.872
21) Vitex pinnata May Tin Nok 6.9 2.654
22) Steeospermum Spp May Khe (Deng) 13.2 3.347
23) Canarium kerrii May Kok Leuam 3.7 2.763
24) Cassia siamea May Khi Lek 4.2 0.534
25) Holarrhaena May Mouk 11.1 3.675
antidysenterica
26) Bombax anceps May Ngew Paa 3.2 2.875
27) Anogeissus acuminata May Ben Mon 4.5 0.134
28) Sterculia villosa May Por 13.8 2.573
29) Baccaurea Oxycarpa May Mak Fay 12.1 1.675
Gagnepain
30) - May Deua Pong 15.2 1.241
31) - May Meuat 7.7 2.756
Average Number and Volume of Trees per Hectare for DE Forest 280.7 142.530
2 Mixed 1) Pterocarpus pedatus May Dou 8.6 3.671
Deciduous 2) Cinnamomum liseafolium May Chuang 4.3 4.657
Forest 3) Hopea odorata May Khen Heua 4.9 4.097
4) Xylia kerrii May Deng 2.9 1.643
5) Hopea ferrea May Khen Hin 3.0 2.363
6) Lagerstroemia florribunda May Peuay 11.7 8.790
7) Ailanthus fauveliana May Nhom Paa 8.6 3.086
8) Vatica cineria May Xi Dong 5.1 5.296
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No. of Average
No Forest Types Scientific Name Lao Name Tree per Volume per
Hectare Hectare (m3)
2 9) Sindora cochinchinensis May Tae Hor 5.7 2.956
10) Duabanga sonneratioides May Ten 8.6 4.149
11) Dipterocarpus turbinatus May Nhang Dong 5.9 5.784
12) Pentacme siamensis May Hang 7.9 2.366
13) Vatica astrotricha May Khen Phai 8.6 5.593
14) Dipterocarpus May Kung 11.4 3.470
tuberculatus (Tong Kung)
15) Dialium indum May Kham Phep 7.9 3.910
16) Albissia codoratisima May Houa Lon 3.4 1.119
17) Pelthopholum dasyrhachis May Sa Fang 13.3 1.900
(Sa Kham)
18) Dialium cochinchinensis May Kheng 1.4 3.451
19) Pentace burmanica May Si Siet 3.9 2.649
20) Irvingia cambodiana May Bok 4.3 6.833
21) Vitex altisima May Khi Ngen 2.9 2.089
22) Castanopsis hystrix May Kor (Nam) 4.0 1.367
23) Castanopsis annamonsis May Kor Khi Mou 2.9 1.443
24) Tetramaleles nudiflora May Phung 5.7 10.441
25) Peperomia pellusida May Ka Xang 4.0 3.238
26) Terminalia chebula May Som Mor 1.4 1.814
vancitrina
27) - May Nam Pheung 1.4 2.833
28) Baccaurea Oxycarpa May Mak Fay 3.7 0.037
Gagnepain
29) Phyllanthus emblica L. May Kham Pom 2.9 1.120
30) - May Phay 8.4 0.440
31) - May Keo 7.9 0.661
32) - May Bia 5.4 0.554
33) - May Kong Sy 4.3 1.331
34) - May Tong Khok 12.9 1.807
Average Number and Volume of Trees per one Hectare for MD Forest 199.2 106.958
3 Unstocked 1) Pterocarpus macrocarpus May Dou 2.0 2.542
Forest 2) Aquilaris Sp. May Por Heuang 8.0 0.574
3) Cinnamomum liseafolium May Chuang 8.0 1.524
4) Hopea odorata May Khen Heua 6.0 6.128
5) Xylia kerrii May Deng 2.0 5.216
6) Vatica cineria May Xi 6.0 4.542
7) Lagerstroemia florribunda May Peuay 9.0 5.108
8) Duabanga sonneratioides May Ten 8.0 3.920
9) Dipterocarpus turbinatus May Nhang 10.0 3.881
10) Ailanthus fauveliana May Nhom 8.0 2.602
11) Sindora cochinchinensis May Tae Hor 10.0 3.192
12) Hopea ferrea May Khen 6.0 0.152
13) Hopea ferrea May Khen Hin 2.0 1.566
14) Pelthopholum dasyrhachis May Sa Fang 12.0 3.456
15) Dipterocarpus tuberculatus May Tong Khok 4.0 1.068
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No. of Average
No Forest Types Scientific Name Lao Name Tree per Volume per
Hectare Hectare (m3)
3 16) Dialium cochinchinensis May Kheng 4.0 1.102
17) Pentace burmanica May Si Siet 7.0 3.146
18) Irvingia cambodiana May Bok 2.0 2.198
19) Sinnamomum iners May Si Khay (Ton) 4.0 2.842
20) Dipterocarpus tuberculatus May Tong Kung 8.0 2.278
21) Cratexylon prunifolium May Tiew 2.0 0.682
22) Holarrhaena antidysenterica May Mouk 6.0 2.982
23) Tetramaleles nudiflora May Phung 5.0 7.108
24) Castanopsis annamonsis May Kor Khi Mou 6.0 1.376
25) Vitex altissima L.f. May Khi Nok 2.0 0.068
26) Helicteres viscida Blume May Khi On 4.0 0.162
27) Streblus ilicifolius (Vidal) May Khi Het 4.0 0.122
Corner
28) - May Ka Thang 6.0 3.508
29) - May Por Mim 6.0 0.247
30) Baccaurea Oxycarpa May Mak Fay 4.0 0.104
Gagnepain
31) Ziziphus cambodiana May Khom 4.0 0.079
Pierre
32) - May Khab 8.0 0.073
33) - May Hou Xang 6.0 0.166
34) - May Bong 2.0 0.074
35) - May Nam Pheung 4.0 3.75
Average Number and Volume of Trees per Hectare for Unstocked Forest 193 74.996
Note: The average Number and Volume of the tree species per one hectare are for stand trees with
DBH equal to or more than 10 cm.
5.2.2.5 Average Number of Tree Species (with DBH <10 cm and >1.3 meters of
height)
A survey was also made of tree species with DBH of less than 10 centimeters and height of
more than 1.3 meters, with the results shown in Table 5-30.
Table 5-30 Main Tree Species and Average Number of Trees per Hectare, of trees less
than 10 cm DBH and height above 1.3 m
No of Tree
No Forest Types Scientific Name Lao Name
per Hectare
1 Dry 1) Ailanthus fauveliana May Nhom Pha 4.3
Evergreen 2) Hopea odorata May Khen Heua 5.6
Forest 3) Lagerstroemia florribunda May Peuay Khao 9.5
4) Cinnamomum liseafolium May Chuang 1.3
5) Vatica cineria May Xi Dong 2.5
6) Duabanga sonneratioides May Ten 1.3
7) Dipterocarpus turbinatus May Nhang Dong 2.6
8) Albissia codoratisima May Houa Lon 2.8
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No of Tree
No Forest Types Scientific Name Lao Name
per Hectare
1 9) Vatica astrotricha May Khen Phai 3.9
10) Dipterocarpus tuberculatus May Kung (Tong Kung) 7.2
11) Vitex pinnata May Tin Nok 2.9
12) Pentace burmanica May Si Siet 2.5
13) Cinnamomum iners May Sikhay Ton 1.3
14) Carallia lucida May Bong Nang 1.7
15) Vitex altisima May Khi Ngen 4.2
16) Pentacme siamensis May Hang 1.9
17) Castanopsis annamonsis May Kor Khi Mou 7.5
18) Peperomia pellusida May Ka Xang 2.1
19) Castanopsis hystrix May Kor (Nam) 6.2
20) Tetramaleles nudiflora May Phung 3.5
21) Holarrhaena antidysenterica May Mouk 13.1
22) Canarium kerrii May Mak Kok 0.7
23) Cassia siamea May Khi Lek 7.2
24) Sterculia villosa May Por 3.8
25) Baccaurea Oxycarpa Gagnepain May Mak Fay 3.2
26) - May Deua Pong 5.1
27) - May Meuat 1.6
Average Number of All Trees per Hectare for MD Forest 109.5
2 Mixed 1) Pterocarpus pedatus May Dou 5.7
Deciduous 2) Cinnamomum liseafolium May Chuang 8.6
Forest 3) Hopea odorata May Khen Heua 8.5
4) Shorea harmandii May Khen 4.3
5) Hopea ferrea May Khen Hin 11.4
6) Lagerstroemia florribunda May Peuay 17.1
7) - May Leuad 10.0
8) Vatica cineria May Xi Dong 5.7
9) Sindora cochinchinensis May Tae Hor 1.4
10) Duabanga sonneratioides May Ten 1.4
11) Holarrhaena antidysenterica May Mouk 4.3
12) Vitex altissima L.f. May Khi Nok 5.7
13) Vatica astrotricha May Khen Phai 4.3
14) Dipterocarpus tuberculatus May Kung (Tong Kung) 1.4
15) Dialium indum May Kham Phep 1.4
16) Helicteres viscida Blume May Khi On 5.7
17) Streblus ilicifolius (Vidal) May Khi Haet 1.4
Corner
18) Dialium cochinchinensis May Kheng 5.7
19) Pentace burmanica May Si Siet 1.4
20) Irvingia cambodiana May Bok 2.8
21) - May Cham 1.4
22) Castanopsis hystrix May Kor 2.8
23) Fokinia chinensis May Hing 1.4
24) Tetramaleles nudiflora May Phung 1.4
25) Peperomia pellusida May Ka Xang 1.4
26) Terminalia chebula vancitrina May Som Mor 2.8
27) - May Nam Pheung 2.8
28) Baccaurea Oxycarpa Gagnepain May Mak Fay 7.1
29) Lacticum May Lam Yay Paa 1.4
30) - May Kong 4.3
31) - May Keo 2.8
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No of Tree
No Forest Types Scientific Name Lao Name
per Hectare
2 32) Sinnamomum iners May Si Khay 1.4
33) - May Ka Bong 1.4
34) Mangifera indica May Muang Paa 1.4
Average Number of All Trees per Hectare for MD Forest 142.9
3 Unstocked 1) Pterocarpus macrocarpus May Dou 2
Forest 2) Aquilaris Sp. May Por Heuang 4
3) Cinnamomum liseafolium May Chuang 8
4) Lagerstroemia florribunda May Peuay 12
5) Sindora cochinchinensis May Tae Hor 4
6) Hopea ferrea May Khen 10
7) Pelthopholum dasyrhachis May Sa Fang 18
8) Dipterocarpus tuberculatus May Tong Kung 4
9) Steroespermum Spp May Mak Khe 2
10) - May Mak Khor 2
11) Sinnamomum iners May Si Khay (Ton) 2
12) Castanea Castanopsis (quercus) May Kor 2
13) Cratexylon prunifolium May Tiew 4
14) Holarrhaena antidysenterica May Mouk 6
15) Tetramaleles nudiflora May Phung 4
16) Castanopsis annamonsis May Kor Khi Mou 6
17) - May Ka Thang 4
18) - May Por Mim 2
19) Baccaurea Oxycarpa Gagnepain May Mak Fay 10
20) - May Khab 10
21) - May Hou Xang 4
22) - May Lin May 8
23) - May Tin Cham 2
Average Number of All Trees per Hectare for Unstocked Forest 132
Note: The average Number of tree species per one hectare focused on trees with DBH of less than
10 centimeters and height of more than 1.3 meters.
Other plants and NTFPs were also noted and collected during field surveys. Forest products
especially NTFPs play a important role in the rural economy, as they provide: 1) animal
protein (from wild meat, fish, frogs, shrimp, soft-shelled turtles, crabs and molluscs),
2) calories, vitamins and dietary fiber (from mushrooms, bamboo shoots, honey, wild fruits
and vegetables), 3) materials for house construction and handicraft production (bamboo,
rattan, pandanus, bloom-grass, paper mulberry), 4) traditional medicines and 5) cash income
(from the sale of NTFP species). However, most villagers within the project area collect
NTFP mostly for food and household use, and not for sale, because the area is distant from
the town and market.
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Bamboos and Bamboo Shoots: Four species of bamboo found in the project area, mostly in
Mixed Deciduous and Unstocked Forests, are used by local residents. May Lay
(Gigantochloa albociliata Munro Kurz) provides bamboo shoots that are an important food
source in the rainy season (June to September). May Hia (Dendrocalamus longispathus
Kurz), May Xang (Dendrocalamus membranaceus Munro), and May Xort (Oxytenanthera
parvifolia Br.) are used as temporary housing material, material for fencing, and to make
looms for weaving. They are distributed along the streams and up to the hills, widespread
throughout the study area. The distribution of these species is shown in Table 5-31.
Table 5-31 Average Number of Bamboo Trees and Clumps per Hectare
Mushrooms: Mushrooms grow well in Unstocked and Mixed Deciduous Forests in the early
rainy season. V illagers reported the main mushroom species they collected for food were:
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Het Puak (Termitomycetes species, Agaricus integer Loureiro), Het Pheung (Boletus sp.),
Het Hu Nou (Auricularia polytricha-Montagne-Saccardo), Het Khao (Lentinus sp.), Het La
Ngok (Auricularia sp.), Het Bot (Lentinus kurzianus Curr., L. praerigidus), and Het Khon
Kong (Hiatula sp., Lepiota sp.).
Agarwood, or Ket-Sana (Aquilaria crassna), known locally as May Por Heuang, has long
been an important plant for international trade. Perfumed essential oils can be extracted from
the wood of the plants that have been infected with a particular parasitic mold. Due to its
value, it has become very rare, and no price is reported locally due to the lack of trade of this
resource. Only young trees still remain in nearby forests. While these trees are too young for
harvesting, their potentially high value in the future and the risk of local extinction suggest
the need for management of this species.
Aside from the main NTFPs described above, other species that are important for local
villagers’ livelihood were also found within the project area, such as wild vegetables, wild
fruits and wild groundnuts, and some resins. Table 5-32 presents the main species of NTFPs
found within the Project Area.
Table 5-32 Main Species of Plants and NTFPs Found within the Project Area
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National Biodiversity Conservation Areas were established in 1993 under Prime Ministerial
Decree No. 164/1993. At first 18 NBCAs were established, covering approximately 10% of
the land area of the country. Another two were added in 1995-1996 plus two corridor areas,
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bringing the total area covered by NBCAs to 3.4 million hectares or 14.3% of the country’s
total area. In addition, provinces and districts have designated their own conservation areas
and protection forests bringing the overall national protected area to 5.34 million hectares or
22.6% of the total land area.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) has overall responsibility for
management of all categories of forests including NBCAs. Responsibility is delegated to the
Department of Forestry (DOF), with the Forest Resource Conservation Division (FRCD) as a
technical unit. U nder the DOF (FRCD), local responsibilities lie with the Provincial
Agriculture and Forestry Offices (PAFO) and the District Agriculture and Forestry Extension
Offices (DAFEO), who manage the conservation forests, aquatic animals and wildlife within
their jurisdiction.
Two of the 20 N BCAs, Phou Khao Khoauy and Nam Ka Ding, are in Vientiane and
Bolikhamxay provinces. However, both NBCAs are located far from the project area. The
project does not pose any direct threat to an NBCA or major protected forest.
However, although the project area is not near any NBCAs, it still does contain some
important forests, including village conservation forests and special spirit pool forests at
Namyouak, Sopyouak and Sopphuane Villages, Hom District and at Hatsaykham Village,
Bolikhan District (Table 5-34). These are on quite steep terrains, on lands relatively
inaccessible to humans, allowing the vegetation to remain relatively intact and keeping the
areas as viable sites for a number of species. It should be stressed that these forests are at
elevations above the flood level of the reservoir.
The area is under pressure from logging and hunting and from continuing patterns of
shifting cultivation. In the more remote and steep areas there are patches of pristine forest,
especially in Mixed Deciduous Forest. These are located, however, outside of the immediate
project and reservoir area, in places difficult to access by boat or by foot (more than a day’s
walk from settlements). Because of the relatively difficult access, there is less hunting in
these places.
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Table 5-34 Summary of Village Conservation and Protection Forests within the Proposed
Project Area
Forest Area
No Forest Types Forest Conditions Village/District
Categories (ha)
1 MD Forest Conservation Still abundant 202 B.Namyouak, Hom District
2 MD Forest Protection Still in good conditions 89 B.Namyouak, Hom District
3 MD Forest Conservation Still abundant 22 B.Sopphuane, Hom District
4 MD Forest Conservation and Still abundant 22 B.Sopyouak, Hom District
spirit lake inside
forest
5 MD Forest Conservation Still in good conditions - B.Hatsaykham,
Bolikhamxay District
Source: Discussions with village leaders
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Figure 5-30 Map shows the location of three forest categories nationwide.
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The Nam Ngiep River is the eleventh longest tributary of the Mekong River in the Lao PDR
(Phanthaba et al. 2005). The total flow contributed by these rivers is about 35% of the entire
flow of the Mekong River Basin. The Nam Ngiep River accounts for 1.5% of the flow of the
Mekong River (Hori 2000).
Because the Nam Ngiep River passes different habitats with elevations ranging from
1,300 m at the source to 200 m above the mean sea level (MSL) at its convergence with the
Mekong, it supports a large variety of aquatic biota.
5.2.3.1 Results
Dry season survey along the Nam Ngiep River was conducted in January 2008 at ten
aquatic sampling stations: six located downstream from the proposed dam and the other four
located upstream (shown in Figure 3-2) to determine the existence of aquatic life in the river.
The number and location of each station were: station 1 ( Ban Piengta); station 2 ( Ban
Hatsamkhone); station 3 (Ban Pou); station 4 (Ban Houypamom); station 5 (Ban Sopphuane);
station 6 (Ban Sopyouak); station 7 (Ban Hatsaykham); station 8 (Ban Hat Gniun); station 9
(Ban Somseun); and, station 10 (Ban Pak Ngiep). Fish and fisheries survey locations along
the Nam Ngiep River is also presented in Table 3-5.
Examination of aquatic fauna and flora included distribution of indigenous fish species
and their abundance in particular areas of the river. Plankton, benthos and aquatic plants,
which provide nutrients to young fish, were also studied. Study resulsts and other relevant
data (hydrology, water quality) were used to predict possible changes in aquatic life after
project development and its effect on peoples’ livelihood. Detailed methodologies for fish,
plankton and benthic sampling are discussed in Section 3.2.32- Method of Study.
The survey found 42 fish species along the Nam Ngiep River, a part of the project areas.
They are common species that can be found in other water bodies in Lao PDR (Annex B) and
are not categorized as Red List species by the IUCN (2009). Many species are caught almost
daily and sold at local fresh markets. Most fish sold at the markets were juveniles while the
bigger sizes of certain species especially expensive fish were sold at some markets.
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Cyprinidae accounted for 24 species. The other species were in the Bagridae family (3).
The other families, such as Notopteridae family and Siluridae were represented by only 1 or
species each.
The density and yield distribution of the fish varied considerably from station to station.
Station 2 ha s the highest density (12,384) of fish by a ll species, followed by s tation 5
(10,465), station 6 (9,690), station 8 (8,753) and station 10 (8,372) (Figure 5-31). Cyprinidae
were dominant in each station, especially the juvenile stage: Opsarius pulchellus followed in
numbers by Puntius brevis, Rasbora borapetensis, Rasbora danioconius, Raiamas guttatus
and Poropuntius spp.
The numbers of fish does not directly correlate with yield. Station 4 had fewer but larger
fish in its catch, hence higher yield. T he most common fish at station 4 w ere Bagarius
yarrelli, Neolissochilos blanci, Cirrhinus molitorella, and Hemibagrus wyckioides. Some of
the larger fish caught at stations 9 and 7 were: Hypsibarbus wetmorei, Hypsibarbus vernayi,
Helicophagus waandersii, Barbodes gonionotus and Scanphognathops stejnegeri.
Note: The line graph represents density of fish. The bar graph represents fish yield.
Figure 5-31 Illustration of fish density and their yield at sampling stations.
The 42 fish species caught in the project area can also be classified into three groups
according to their feeding habits, whether surface feeders, bottom feeders, or mid-water
(column) feeders (Table 5-36). The column feeders (mid-water) comprised the largest
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proportion, accounting for 38.10% of the total, followed by both surface feeders and bottom
feeders, each accounting for 30.95% of the total. Most of the surface and mid water fish were
cyprinids, accounting for over half to the total fish population in the river (54.8 %).
Figure 5-32 Proportional composition of feeding types of fish in the Nam Ngiep River.
The Nam Ngiep River has a great diversity of plankton species. About 104 species were
found in the project sites, of which 64 were phytoplanktons and the other 40 s pecies were
zooplanktons (Annex B). The highest density of planktons were found at the site closest to
the mouth of the river at station 10 (1,215.379 x 103), followed by station 6 (811.058 x 10 3),
station 7 ( 786.181 x 10 3) and station 8 ( 775.084 x 10 3). T he most common species of
phytoplankton found in the river were Anabena helicoidea, Chlorella ellipsoidea and
Closteriopsis longissima. Zooplankton occurrence in the water varied according to the
sampling station. The highest density of zooplankton were found at station 5 (227.33 x 103)
followed by stations 3 (216.59 x 10 3) and 9 (91.2 x 103). The most common zooplankton
species found in the river were Cephalodella gibba, Haraella thomassoni, Spirostromum
spp., Stenosemella ventricosa and Trichocerca rosea.
Twelve species of benthic fauna were found in Nam Ngiep project area (Annex B). The most
abundant species were earthworms. They were found at a density of 12,000/m2 at station 9,
1,320/m2 at station 10, and 120/m2 at stations 1 and 8. The next most abundant species was
the Damselfly Nymph, found mostly at stations 6 (720/m2) and 4 (520/m2), and much less at
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stations 2, 5, and 7. Other species found mostly in the mid-part of the river that will be most
affected by the project are the Mayfly Nymph (found at stations 3, 5, 6, and 8, mostly at
stations 6 and 8) and the Stonefly Nymph (found at stations 3, 4, 6, and 8, mostly at stations 3
and 4). The remaining 8 invertebrate species were found at much lower density.
The Nam Ngiep River does not host as many fish species as most other Mekong tributaries.
Furthermore, the fish are all common species that can be found in other water bodies Small
cyprinidae, the dominant species in the river, can adapt to the different environments in the
various sections of the river.
Some species are typical rocky bottom feeders that show a preference to specific habitats.
The largest numbers of species were found at stations 3 and 1 in the river, which will be part
of the new reservoir. Bigger species of fish, such as Bagarius yarrelli, Cirrhinus molitorella,
Hemibagrus wyckioides and Labeo erythropterus were found at station 4. M any of these
larger fish, particularly Cirrhinus molitorella, Hemibagrus wyckioides and Labeo
erythropterus are migratory species of the lower Mekong basin that swim upstream along the
river and its tributaries during the wet season for spawning (Poulsen et.al. 2004). While these
species have been found split into different subpopulations along the Mekong River, it is not
certain if this is the case for these species in the Nam Ngiep River. A number of species were
found the Nam Ngiep River in their juvenile stage: Opsarius pulchellus, Puntius brevis,
Rasbora borapetersis, Rasbora danioconius, Raimas guttatus and Poropuntius spp. This
shows that the Nam Ngiep River serves as other tributaries of the Mekong in providing safe
habitats for the young f ish, to ensure maximum number of survivors into maturity (Lowe-
McConnell 1995).
During the first survey trip to Nam Ngiep project area, it was reported that eels (Anguilla
sp.) had been caught a few years earlier in the middle zone of the river. One caught by gill net
before 1999 was 1.60 m long and weighed 18 kg. Another caught in 1999 weighed over 26
kg and was about 2.00 m long. The villagers reported that when this fish was caught, it was
then distributed among all the fishing families in the community. Another specimen
approximately 2.00 m long is preserved in a glass container at the Bolikhamxay Fisheries and
Veterinary Office. Because of their size, these eel are probably Anguilla marmorata, or the
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giant mottled eel. This kind of eel is reported elsewhere in tributaries of the Mekong, and
migrates to the sea to spawn in deep gullies, returning to the rivers as adults.
The Nam Ngiep River is host to many species of planktons. During the dry season, most of
the river becomes shallow, so that light can penetrate into the water for longer periods and
with higher light intensity. This can accelerate photosynthesis for the planktons and algae to
grow. The relative richness of plankton species is due to substantial variations in ecosystems,
caused by the range of climatic and geological conditions of the Nam Ngiep River.
The higher density of earthworms in stations 9 and 10 i ndicate the soils around these areas
are in a virgin or near virgin stage. Earthworms and other insects are excellent food for many
kinds of local fish. Some species of benthic invertebrates are very sensitive to environment,
such as water temperature, turbidity, and flow pattern.
5.2.4 WETLANDS
According to the survey results and the analysis of forest and vegetation cover and land use
maps conducted by the Forest Inventory and Planning Division, Department of Forestry
(2002), only 97 ha (0.97 km2) or about 0.02 % of the watershed are swampy. However, most
of this is already disturbed by the expansion of residential and agricultural areas, so they have
lost their ecological function as a wetland. They are not Ramsar sites and they have no
potential in their disturbed states to become Ramsar sites.
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CHAPTER 6
STUDY OF ALTERNATIVES
The study of alternatives analyzes information from previous studies including the Phase I
(1998-2000) and Phase II (2001-2002) feasibility studies conducted by Nippon Koei Co., Ltd.
for JICA, and the Technical Report by The Kansai Electric Power Co., Inc. and Electricity
Generating Authority of Thailand. Alternative fuels sources are also considered.
A wide range of fuels and power-generating technologies are currently available. Because
this project is to produce electricity primarily for sale to Thailand, the potential alternative
energy sources should consider those that might be used in Thailand as well as in Lao PDR.
Petroleum, lignite, coal, and natural gas are nonrenewable resources. While lignite and
natural gas are both found in Thailand and used for electricity generation, any expansion of
their use for additional electricity production is not recommended because of the high rate of
greenhouse gas emissions from these sources, even with newer technologies. The main
causes of greenhouse gas emissions in hydropower projects are related to construction
(production of steel and concrete, transport of materials to site, and during construction) and
by the decay of biomass that was covered by t he reservoir and the oxidation of surface
sediment on the reservoir. The larger the reservoir, the greater the emissions can be expected.
Even so, these emissions are much less than those emitted by production of electricity with
any of the fossil fuels. 1 For the NNHP-1 project, the reservoir will be narrow but long, so the
1
Spadaro, J.V., Langlois, L., and Hamilton, B. (2000) “Greenhouse Gas Emissions of Different Electricity
Generating Chains”, IAEA Bulletin, 42 (2), pp 19-24.
EIA of The Nam Ngiep 1 Hydropower Project Draft Report: Chapter 6
surface area is relatively small, and any emissions from oxidation of surface sediment should
not be great.
Among the renewable energy sources, hydropower is at present the most viable both
technically and economically for exploitation in Lao PDR, given its many rivers and streams
in the steep mountains. Use of any other renewable energy source such as solar or wind
power at this stage of the country’s development would require the import of large amounts
of materials and equipment at great cost, with little opportunity to regain those costs.
Another alternative some suggest would be many small-scale hydropower generators along
the river, rather than one large dam with its hydropower plants. These would not be feasible
for both economic and environmental reasons. The fluctuation of river flow between wet and
dry seasons in a monsoon climate are too great for a small-scale hydroelectric system to
work. Furthermore, the electricity produced by the small-scale schemes would be appropriate
for use by small local communities, but not for higher production for larger towns or cities, or
for sale to other countries, or use elsewhere in Lao PDR, unless all the small systems were
linked in a grid. However, if a large enough number of small-scale systems were linked to
produce electricity for use elsewhere in the country or for export, the cost of infrastructure to
transmit the electricity over great distances in the steep terrain of the Nam Ngiep watershed
and in much of Lao PDR would be prohibitive. Operation and maintenance costs would also
be massive, since each small-scale system would require its own personnel to look after it
The project site (Main dam site) is located on the Nam Ngiep River some 145 km northeast
from Vientiane or about 50 km north from Pakxan. The project site is accessible from the
capital of Vientiane first by National Highway 13 South, about 120 km to the intersection of
Provincial Route 4, j ust before reaching the city of Pakxan. After about 20 km , Provincial
Route 4 reaches Ban Nonsomboun, where there is a road branching off to Ban Hat Gniun.
This road goes 21 km to Ban Hat Gniun, which is located 10 km away from the main dam
site. T ravel from Vientiane to the project site takes about 4.5 hou rs by car. The roads
between Vientiane and Ban Nonsomboun are paved, after which there are only dirt roads to
the project site.
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While access to the dam site from downstream of the project site, as described above, is
easier, it is also accessible from upstream, from Phonsavan in Xieng Khouang Province, near
the source of the Nam Ngiep River. There are roads going down the river valley for most of
the distance, until some 20 km before the dam site. T he Nam Ngiep River goes in a
predominantly south-southeast direction through a mountainous region, then turns east into a
steep gorge. T he river exits the gorge about 7.7 km upstream from Ban Hat Gniun, after
which it again goes mainly south-southeast through the hilly areas downstream. The dam is to
be located at the end of the 7 km gorge that cuts straight through the mountain range that
connects Mt. Huasua to the northeast and Mt. Katha to the southwest. Given the topography,
this has been determined as the most preferable location for the hydropower project, so as to
ensure sufficient capacity of the reservoir and appropriate location for the various
components of the project.
6.2.3.1 Overview
For dam site selection, JICA-F/S studied only the downstream section of the gorge from the
Nam Katha River junction. The Review Report issued thereafter proposed another dam site at
the uppermost location of the gorge (A site). However, very little study of the peripheral area
of the uppermost dam site was done. For this reason, preliminary selection of several
promising sites was made through desk study, and these sites were then checked through
several site reconnaissance and field surveys. The survey results were evaluated and
compared to establish the final dam site.
As a result of the study, a new location 1.0 km upstream of the Nam Katha River junction
(designated as B site) was also evaluated as a potentially viable location for the dam site, in
addition to the original site and the A site. At B site, rock outcrops were identified and the
riverbed was free of boulders that are deemed problematic for the excavation work of the
dam and the river diversion or from the viewpoint of water shut-off. These three sites were
compared in their economic, topographical and geological, and technical aspects.
For the comparative study, existing drilling data were available for the original site.
However, topographical and geological data were absent for the A site and the B site. New
topographical and geological surveys were conducted for these sites. Figure 6-1 shows the
alternative locations of each dam site. (The KANSAI Electric Power Co., Inc., 2011)
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The existing topographical map available for the comparison of the 3 sites was of 1/10,000
scale prepared by a n aerial photo survey for JICA-F/S. However the accuracy of this
topographical map was insufficient for comparative evaluation of the dam sites. A new
topographical map of 1/2,000 scale was prepared through ground surveys. The ground survey
coverage is approximately 2.4 km 2, to include the original site, the A site, and the B site, as
shown in Figure 6-2. The JICA-F/S did not establish any benchmarks near the dam site area.
Based on the Pakxan base point, new benchmarks were established in the periphery of the site
by the GPS survey. (The KANSAI Electric Power Co., Inc., 2011)
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The geological surveys conducted over A site and B site include site reconnaissance, seismic
wave prospecting, drilling surveys, and alkali-aggregate reaction tests.
The seismic wave prospecting was to verify the weathering conditions of the foundation
rock, and the drilling surveys aimed to identify the thickness of the river deposit. Meanwhile,
JICA-F/S conducted the alkali-aggregate reaction tests and reported a “positive alkali-
aggregate reaction”. Since these test results have a great impact on the quarry site planning
and the dam type selection, it was decided to conduct the same tests again for the purpose of
confirming the applicability of the aggregates for concrete. The quantities found at each site
are given in Table 6-1. Figure 6-3 shows the survey location plan. Data from the original site
were already in JICA-F/S. (The KANSAI Electric Power Co., Inc., 2007)
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Table 6-2 provides the topographical and geological characteristics of each site on the
basis of the survey results. No single positive alkali-aggregate reaction was observed for the
same tests conducted at this time.
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Comparisons of the three sites were made regarding topography, geology, workability and
economic efficiency. The study confirmed that the original site proposed by JICA-F/S located
1.7 km upstream of the gorge exit was the optimum site. (Table 6-3)
The environmental impact of these three alternatives did not differ much. First, the
reservoir area would be the same for the three alternatives because the NWL of 320 meters
had been fixed for environmental and social reasons, to minimize the number of people who
had to be resettled and to minimize environmental impacts. Second, given the similar
topography, in particular the dimension of the gorge among the alternative dam sites,
excavation volume would not differ significantly. Third, the access road for all the sites
would have to be from downstream, and an access road to the present dam site, located
farther downstream than other alternative sites, would be the shortest, thus resulting in less
impact to the environment.
6.2.3.1 Overview
In selecting the dam type, JICA-F/S compared CFRD and RCC methods in terms of
topographical and geological conditions, ease of materials procurement, and economic
efficiency, and eventually decided on t he CFRD type. A comparative study on C FRD and
RCC was conducted again for the original site, which has been adopted as the dam site.
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The Review Report, 2004 re-evaluated the comparison of CFRD and RCC and changed
the type to RCC. Selection of dam type was reassessed according to the following
benchmarks.
In the JICA-F/S, the dam layout was composed mainly of two river diversion tunnels,
a concrete faced rockfill dam (CFRD), a spillway with gated overflow portion, an intake
structure and power waterway, a surface type powerhouse and outlet facilities. The CFRD
was selected taking account of the site topography and geology, availability of construction
material, and technical as well as cost advantages, compared with both an earth core rockfill
dam (ECRD) or a roller compacted concrete dam (RCC).
The ECRD would require a considerable amount of soil for embankment, as so was
discarded as an alternative because of insufficient soil materials. The placement of core
material would also have to be interrupted during the rainy season.
The development of RCC caused a major shift in the construction practice of mass concrete
dams and locks. The traditional method of placing, compacting, and consolidating mass
concrete was at best a slow process. Improvements in earth-moving equipment made the
construction of earth and rock-filled dams speedier and, therefore, more cost-effective. Thus,
the RCC differed from conventional concrete, principally in its consistency requirement.
Depending on t he complexity of the structure, RCCs costs were generally 25% to 50%
less than that of conventional concrete. The economical analysis for dam type selection of the
RCC which was proposed in the Review Report, 2004, and the original CFRD recommended
in JICA-F/S II, 2002 was carried out as shown in Table 6-4. The result is that there would be
no major cost difference between the two dam types.
Although some figures were revised in later study, the comparison described in Table 6-4
shows that the RCC type of dam is more preferable from economically.
The RCC dam is also preferable environmentally. I t requires less volume of filling
materials such as concrete aggregates extracted from the quarry site in comparison to other
alternatives such as a rockfill dam. Furthermore, RCC dams can utilize fly ash, which is the
waste produced in coal-fired thermal power plants, and it is planned for this project to replace
cement with fly ash at rate of more than 50%.
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The excavation volume is also less because the spillway for an RCC type dam is installed
within the dam body whereas that for a rockfill dam is installed separate from the dam body.
Table 6-4 Comparison of RCC and CFRD Dam Types for NNHP-1
Note: Revised items/figures are in Italic.
Review JICA
Factor Items Unit Report F/S(Phase-II)
Report in 2004 2002
Catch. Area Catchment area at dam site km2 3,700 3,700
Annual average basin rainfall mm 1,873 1,873
Average run-off coefficient - 0.67 0.67
3
Reservoir Probable maximum flood (PMF) m /s 14,220 14,220
Mean annual sediment flow t/km2/yr 500 500
FSL (Full supply water level) EL.m 320 320
MOL (Minimum operation level) EL.m 296 296
3
Gross storage capacity mil.m 2,241 2,241
Effective storage capacity mil.m3 1,192 1,192
Reservoir area at FSL km2 66.9 66.9
Main dam Dam type - RCC CFRD
Dam height, crest length m 151 151
Dam crest length m 600 513
3
Dam volume mil.m 2.6 7.3
Power plant Design discharge m3/s 230 230
Annual mean runoff m3/s 147.2 147.2
Rated head m 127.7 136.2
Plant capacity MW 260 260
Annual output GWh 1,327 1,327
Economic Total construction cost US$ mil. 313 344
analysis Unit cost US$/kW 1,204 1,323
Economic internal rate of return (EIRR) % 21.6 19.5
Financial) internal rate of return (FIRR) % 14.4 13.1
Required Number of villages Nos. 4 4
resettlement Number of Households H/H 239 239
Population People 1,609 1,609
Note; (1) Revised project features in Review report are shown in italic/bold/red color.
(2) RCC (Roller Compacted Concrete Dam), CFRD (Concrete Faced Rockfill Dam)
Source: Review Report of the Feasibility Study by JICA, 2004.
6.2.3.4 Risk Determination on Dam Type Selection
If the CFRD dam type were selected, overtopping caused by flooding during the construction
period was regarded as one of the largest risk factors. If the RCC dam type were selected,
securing aggregate for concrete mixing in the vicinity of the site was a vital requirement.
Through the newly conducted alkali-aggregate reaction tests, it was verified that there was no
evidence of alkali-aggregate reaction which ensured that the aggregate available near the dam
site could be used.
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After all the study results were taken into consideration, RCC was selected as the dam
type. (The KANSAI Electric Power Co., Inc., 2011)
The main power station (peak operation time of 16 hour s) proposed in the project
optimization study (optimum reservoir operation) of JICA F/S is shown in Table 6-5.
Table 6-5 Project Optimization Study of the Main Power Station (proposed by JICA)
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The elevations of most vulnerable villages in the Thaviang area are shown in Table 6-6.
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CHAPTER 7
7.1 INTRODUCTION
The study of impacts identification and their mitigation that are likely to affect the
environment is based on the period of
The environmental impacts are analyzed for two major elements, (1) the physical
environment and (2) the biological environment.
3) Main Dam
• Foundation excavation
• Concrete placing
EIA of The Nam Ngiep 1 Hydropower Project Draft Report: Chapter 7
• Grouting works
• Spillway
• Main Powerhouse
• Foundation excavation
• Concrete placing
• Grouting works
• Saddle dams
• Re-regulation Powerhouse
5) Other
• Disposal Area
• Quarry Site
• Transmission Line
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The main construction activities commence after the access roads have been completed
and the contractor’s facilities have been prepared. This is expected to take about 12 months.
Construction commences with the excavation of the diversion tunnel, which is then followed
by other activities until the powerhouse and dam are completed. During this time the
reservoir and resettlement programs are also completed. Construction concludes with the
filling of the reservoir and the commissioning of the structure which is scheduled to
commence at the end of year 6 of the construction phase. The principal construction activities
associated with these components are described in Chapter 2.
The main construction activities on the dam foundation can only start after the river
has been diverted through diversion tunnels and the river excluded from the site by coffer
dams constructed above and below the dam site. There are likely to be temporary fluctuations
in the flow regime in the river whilst this is going on, plus release of sediment associated with
the diversion tunnel construction.
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area, Residents living alongside access roads will experience impacts from increased traffic
resulting in; noise, dust and reduced safety.
• De-mining
The area around the dam site, quarries, access roads and transmission lines are located
within known UXO contaminated sites. De-mining activities will need to be performed
according to established criteria before construction activities start. De-mining will also be
required at the resettlement sites.
• Earth moving
This is a major activities associated with the dam and is required for building internal
and external access road, preparing sites for construction camps, dam foundation, opening
quarries and for landscaping after completion of the dam site. Risks involved include;
increased erosion of exposed surfaces, increase sediment loads in drainage lines, release of
chemical contaminants into water, dust and noise.
• Spoil disposal
Proper design should maximize the re-use of spoil from excavation activities for road
and foundation preparation. Spoil that is generated and is surplus to use will need to be safely
disposed of to avoid erosion and destabilization of the spoil disposal area leading to
sedimentation of water courses and release of chemicals in runoff.
• Quarrying
Quarries will need to be opened to provide rock fill for the dam and as a source of
aggregate for concrete and road surface materials. This will involve removing overburden
including topsoil which should be stockpiled for later use, blasting, rock crushing and sorting.
Impacts on people and wildlife arise from the noise and vibration from hammers, blasting and
dust. There is also a risk of release of sediment and chemicals into watercourse from washing
activities.
There will be several hundred vehicles and machines operating in and around the
construction sites requiring regular maintenance. This will produce quantities of used oil,
parts etc. which will need to be disposed of safety and securely to prevent environmental
damage.
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• Materials storage
There will be several thousand workers at the site at any one time who will require
accommodation, recreation, washing, sanitation and cooking facilities, Worker camps will
produce solid and liquid wastes which will require treatment and safe disposal to prevent soil
and water pollution.
• Reservoir clearance
The vegetation in the reservoir area will need to be cleared in order to minimize the
development of anoxic conditions due to breakdown of the organic matter after flooding and
hence water quality issues downstream. The methods for disposal of the vegetation can cause
air pollution from burning etc. During filling, vegetation residues that float to the surface will
need to be cleared to prevent clogging the dam intake structure.
• Impoundment
After the removal of the vegetation and resettlement of people from within the
reservoir, the dam will be closed and the reservoir will commence filling by c losing the
diversion tunnel. Management of the downstream river flows will be a key task at this stage.
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With the project, mitigation measures are to be taken that will protect and enhance the
remaining forests of the Nam Ngiep watershed. Fishery resources will be monitored and
replenished as needed. Water quality will also be closely monitored. Agricultural production
will be supported to become more sustainable.
Without the project, existing trends of forest, land, and water use can expect to continue.
These are: deforestation from illegal logging and conversion to agriculture, land degradation
from unsustainable agricultural practices, and overfishing and pollution of water resources
with increased population along the rivers. Without the project, it is likely these resources
will continue to be exploited at unsustainable levels. With the project, if the environmental
monitoring system is in place and implemented effectively and if the recommended
mitigation measures are implemented, it is likely there would be less environmental
degradation than if the project was not implemented.
The available topographic maps were of 1:250000, 1:50000 and 1:2000 scale. Additionally,
more accurate information was obtained from visits to the proposed dam sites, as well as
other documents.
During pre-construction and construction phases, the topography will necessarily change
with the modification of the landscape with the construction of the dam and other civil works
and the construction of access routes.
No mitigation measures are needed that relate solely to changes in topography. Possible
impacts that are related to changes in topography, such as erosion or sedimentation, are
considered separately. These issues are discussed in separate sections.
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7.2.1.2 Meteorology
The impact of the project on climate is uncertain and not expected to be significant. Climate,
however, can have considerable impact on the construction and operation of the project.
The number of available and effective meteorology stations, the monitored parameters,
and the period of monitoring will limit the precision of weather forecasts. Standardization of
available records from peripheral stations and by Thiessen and Isohyetal methods were the
most practical means for the project hydrological study. H owever, they may be not
appropriate for certain activities or purposes, such as the scheduling of the clearing plan.
Therefore, more local monitoring of meteorological and climate data should be done during
pre-construction, construction and operation, so that work plans can be adjusted to fit the
meteorological conditions.
Meteorological conditions will affect several project activities. Site cutting and clearing
will not be possible during the rainy season, and cut and fill work will also be limited by the
rains. Heavy rains will affect construction.
Mitigation measures may be needed during construction, to control the dispersion of dust
created by clearing lands at the construction sites. If the clearing of the reservoir area is done
in part by burning, meteorological conditions also need to be taken into account. (Figure 7-1).
Both rains and wind would have effect on clearing.
The available days to transport heavy machinery and to work at the construction site
during pre-construction and construction phases will be limited by heavy rain.
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Local winds will distribute dust from the construction site. After vegetative covering has
been removed at the construction sites, the large bare areas will create dust that is dispersed
downwind.
Most of the geological information available for review was at the regional scale, some of the
major geological impacts such as seismic events can also be assessed at the scale. Some
geological ground surveys were conducted around the construction sites. The data obtained
from these surveys was used for project design and can also used to assess the impact of
geological patterns on riverbank erosion, landslide and ground leakages of the reservoir.
Based on r egional geology of the project area and local geological data from the
Technical Report, the potential for earthquake in the project area is determined to be low.
Landslides and rock movements are possible during construction. T his potential is
influenced by the Late Palaeozoic granites found intruded into Palaeozoic formations which
were highly fractured and deeply weathered in the middle part of the reservoir area and by
young unconsolidated sediments found along the river and riverside.
The fractures and deep weathering patterns may partly impact the construction process
and dam designs. For instance, they can affect the stability of excavations and engineered
structures. Landslides and rock movement may occur, particularly along steep slopes around
the construction site. This is the most crucial geological impact the needs to be prevented or
mitigated.
The geological information reveals only minor potential of seismic events, but the
observed geological formations of fractures and deep weathering can lead to water leakage
and to landslides and rock falls. To prevent these possible impacts, these mitigation measures
are recommended.
• The data obtained from the geological tests around the Zone 2, Z one 3 and
some locations of Zone 4 ( Downstream) should be used for detailed project
design and to prepare a safety plan during project construction.
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• Any landslides and rock movements around the site should be investigated
during construction.
Most erosion from construction is due to the removal of protective ground cover and
vegetation by a ctivities that require land clearing. It is anticipated that until the ground is
stabilized through natural or artificial means, the project will result in increased sediment
yields through greater erosion and subsequent sediment discharge. This has frequently been
observed on other projects, so that after the vegetation has been removed and catchment areas
have been converted to other land uses (Brooks 1993), increased sediment discharges and
associated adverse effects result and can persist for some time.
The proposed NNHP-1 Project will involve the construction of a variety of associated
major facilities, including power plant facilities, as well as support infrastructure such as
roads, bridges, and transmission lines. Consequently, the potential for adverse impacts from
erosion is considered to be significant and careful implementation of sediment control
measures will be required. Because there is as yet no detailed design of the construction site,
and the locations of the workers’ camp, landfill, and quarry are all still tentative, it is not
possible to estimate the potential erosion and sediment discharge from these works.
If suitable mitigation measures are implemented, such erosion impacts due to construction
would likely be significantly reduced and controlled. Consequently, it will be essential that
appropriate mitigation measures be implemented with the best management measures
followed. Whenever feasible, construction, particularly land clearing activities should be
conducted to the maximum amount possible during dry periods to help minimize erosion
impacts. Moreover, care needs to be taken during road construction and excavation works at
the dam site.
In the general project area, Erosion and Sediment Control Design Plans should be
prepared prior to the commencement of works. These should contain:
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Erosion and sediment control plans will be included in the site specific plans prepared for
each construction site. The erosion and sediment works will be implemented prior to the
commencement of any construction works on the site.
Erosion and sedimentation should be controlled during the construction phase of the
power plant. Wherever possible, land clearing and vegetation removal should be conducted as
small footprint as possible to ensure as much of the original ground cover is maintained in its
existing condition.
• Soil erosion and sediment control practices should be installed prior to any
major soil disturbance.
• Soil and spoil removed during the construction process will be stockpiled
separately and stabilization measures implemented. The stockpiles will be
constructed with smooth slopes and free draining patterns. Topsoil stockpiles
will be deep ripped to provide for moisture retention and regrowth.
Appropriate measures will be installed in between the stream and the stockpile
to control runoff where necessary.
• Potential problems with erosion along the base of waste or soil surplus piles
must be considered in planning the location of such sites.
In terms of erosion control, the major effort at construction sites for the project will focus
on the management of erosion of excavated surfaces, especially during the wet season when
the volume of runoff is expected to be high. A Site Management Plan which includes a sub-
plan for Erosion and Sediment Control will be prepared by the Head Contractor for use at all
the construction sites. It will include environmental management and pollution control
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techniques for all areas of activity including drainage measures for underground works. It
will also include a Water Quality Monitoring Plan. The Plan will meet the appropriate
standards, and include development of drainage works, sediment traps, diversions, culverts
and other structures designed to treat water to an acceptable quality before discharge into
natural and/or constructed watercourses.
The Erosion and Sediment Control Plan will be prepared for use at all the construction
sites as part of the site management plan for construction. It will include environmental
management and pollution control techniques for all drainage measures. This will involve
measures such as:
• Soil erosion and sediment control practices will be installed prior to any major
soil disturbance, or in their proper sequence.
• Soil and spoil removed during the construction process will be stockpiled
separately and stabilization measures implemented.
The impact assessment of water quality is considered with reference to the standards
reviewed in Section 3.1.6 and water quality models developed by Kansai Electric Power Co.,
Inc (Annex C).
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Because of the varying impacts from different activities, the impact assessment considers
three main phases: (1) pre-construction and construction (total 6 years, 1 for preconstruction
and 5 for construction), (2) the initial inundation period (the first 5 y ears of operation,
including the time when the reservoir is first filled), and (3) long-term operations.
During construction phase, treated wastewater with remaining BOD5 of less than 20 mg/L
will be discharged from on-site wastewater treatment facility or a settling pond. When there
is the peak of 1,800 workers, with estimated wastewater of 50 L/day/person, the project could
produce a total of 90,000 L/day or 1.0 x 10 -3 m3/s 1 of wastewater. Given the average annual
flow of 148.4 m3/s of the river, the release of the treated water with low BOD at the rate of
1.0 x 10-3 m3/s will not have a significant impact on water quality.
It is more likely that changes could occur from construction and clearance activities. If
these are not carefully monitored and controlled, a number of parameters could be affected,
among them water temperature, nutrient load, turbidity, suspended solids and concentration
of dissolved elements. Of particular concern is the increase in sediment load downstream
caused by construction activities, such as cutting into the hillsides to build the new access
road, which could lead to more sediment and landslides during the cut and fill works.
Figure 7-2 Water drainage channel provided along an elevated unpaved road.
1
Average wastewater 140 L/day/person were designed for the rural areas in Mahasarakham Province, Thailand.
The average water use of rural Thai people was 45 liters/person/day. (www.spo.moph.go.th/). Water use of Nam
Ngum 2 Hydroelectric Power Project was designed at 50-60 L/person/day.
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The area to be cleared for construction has been estimated to cover about 2.543 km 2 or
254.3 ha. This is based on estimates from spaces provided for the construction activities such
as opened diversion channel, longitudinal cofferdam, foundation excavation, etc.
Office = 10.2 ha
The study of soil erosion indicated that the specific sediment yield is conservatively set at
248 tons/km2/year same level as that of Nam Ngum 1 H ydropower Project, which is more
than that of annual sediment yield of NNHP-1 estimated 178 tons/km2/year. During the wet
season, the suspended solids could rise up to about 200 mg/L, compared to the much lower
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rate of about 20 mg/L in dry season. The erosion rate would also be very high on uncovered
lands developed for agriculture. Within the areas to be inundated, logging and land clearing
must be carried out. During this logging and clearing period, the top soil could be eroded by
rains and high sediment in the river could affect downstream.
The bare topsoil and excavated debris rocks caused by t he construction activities at the
construction site would also contribute to high sediment levels downstream. Uncovered soil
will be a major source of sediment by runoff. The soil erosion during the rainy season that
causes sedimentation downstream could occur during the five to six years of the construction
period.
The main materials used for construction could also be a source of water contamination.
Specification of the materials should indicate which substances would be potential
contaminants, such as heavy metals. Some metal elements could leach from components used
as the construction material or from the geochemistry of foundation rocks where anaerobic
reaction occurs.
Potential cause of deterioration on water quality downstream is the surface water runoff
from the erosion of the soil surface. Although the impact of wastewater from the worker
camp sites is predicted to be insignificant, proper measures still need to be taken to minimize
that impact even at a very specific or limited location. Water quality monitoring will begin as
soon as possible after the Environment and Social Management and Monitoring Unit
(ESMMU) is formed and technical assistance for the project begins.
Details of mitigation programs are suggested according to the types of project activities
during construction are as follows.
Background
The construction areas of the Project, including construction of the transmission line, will
lead to deterioration of water quality downstream in two major ways: from storm water
carrying sediment and from wastewater contaminated with nutrients from worker camps.
Settling ponds can be an alternative method for improving the quality of final draining
effluent from construction areas and worker camps. They can be installed to mitigate the
impacts of water contamination.
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Objectives
To control the release of sediment and other water nutrients downstream from the dam.
Activities
Sediment settling tests should be conducted to determine the settling pond retention
time to meet the natural concentration of that area. Settling ponds are suggested where a
space is available and able to trap sediments and other water pollutants that come along with
the runoff or direct discharge, and construction costs are manageable.
Properly designed settling ponds retain water long enough for coarse suspended solids to
settle. Water discharge from the settling ponds will be lower in suspended solids
concentrations and concentrations of total nitrogen, total phosphorus, and biochemical
oxygen demand than water entering them. The ponds also provide the opportunity for pH
adjustment. The wastewater discharge from the worker camps should be trapped in a separate
pond since the time for nutrient degradation is longer. Shapes and sizes of the ponds can be
flexible depending on the topographical structure. The end of pipe where the treated water is
released can be near the river. However, direct discharge into natural receiving water is not
recommended as a best management practice and discharged water should be monitored to
determine the quality of the treated wastewater before it is released into the river.
Period of Practices
The settling ponds should be provided when and where cut-and-fill operations are conducted
and where bare areas occur during the construction period.
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The impact assessment is made for only project construction while the impacts during normal
operation of the dam will be negligible. The impacts due to noise and vibration levels are
specific to major considerations such as the sources of noise and vibration, distance between
sensitive receptors and those sources, exposure time and differences between day/night times.
The sensitive receptor of the project would be Ban Hat Gniun, which is located next to
the proposed new access road and is near the re-regulation dam.
Impacts and their mitigation measures on the receptors during the construction activities
are assessed as:
During the construction phase, activities that can cause noise impacts to the surrounding area
include cutting and land excavation, and moving equipment and materials for construction.
Using measurements of the noise level of construction equipment by t he Federal Transit
Administration (FTA) and typical usage factors, equivalent hourly sound levels were
calculated for each construction activity. Pile driving sound levels of 90 dB A and 84 dB A
were obtained at 100 feet (30.48 m) and 200 feet (60.96 m), respectively.
Potential noise impacts associated with grading and construction have been assessed
using the methodology developed by FTA (Federal Transit Administration, 1995). Table 7-3
is a summary of noise levels generated from construction equipment (in terms of Leq)
(Federal Transit Administration, 1995). Generally, construction equipment can be operated
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Maximum Level
Type of Equipment
(dBA at 50 feet)
1. Grader 85
2. Scrapers 89
3. Bulldozers 85
4. Heavy Trucks 88
5. Backhoe 80
6. Pneumatic Tools 85
7. Concrete Pump 82
Source: Federal Transit Administration,1995
Considering worst case scenario, all construction equipment operates concurrently and
continuously in the same area (whereas several activities might be operated at the same time)
has been assessed. The combined sound level of all of equipment would be approximately
94.2 dBA at a distance of 50 f eet (15.24 m) from the construction site. The nearest
community, Ban Hat Gniun lies about 3 km, or nearly 9,900 feet, from the construction site,
the noise level would be approximately 48.3 dBA.
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Project area indicated that existing ambient sound levels are in the range of 40 to 45 dBA, the
construction noise will have a potential to be no more than 15 dB A above the existing
ambient sound level for the closest houses, and it will be negligible for most of the
community, which lies nearly 10,000 feet from the nearest construction site.
The report of the World Health Organization on “Guidelines for Community Noise”
establishes health-based guideline values of noise exposure, for which no adverse effects of
community noise exposure on hum an health would be expected. The guidelines provide
guidance on va rious levels of risk on publ ic health. This concept allows countries to adopt
their own level of noise control, according to affordability and technical feasibility versus
public health risks. It is also recommended that community noise exposure should be
managed through the use of environmental health impact analyses.
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Time LAmax
LAeq
Specific environment Critical health effect(s) base , fast
[dB(A)]
[hours] [dB]
Outdoor living area Serious annoyance, daytime and evening 55 16 -
Moderate annoyance, daytime and evening 50 16 -
Dwelling, indoors Speech intelligibility and moderate 35 16
annoyance, daytime and evening
Inside bedrooms Sleep disturbance, night-time 30 8 45
Sleep disturbance, window open (outdoor 45 8 60
Outside bedrooms
values)
Speech intelligibility, disturbance of 35 during -
School class rooms and
information extraction, message class
pre-schools, indoors
communication
Pre-school bedrooms, Sleep disturbance 30 sleepin 45
indoors g-time
School, playground Annoyance (external source) 55 during -
outdoor play
Hospital, ward rooms, Sleep disturbance, night-time 30 8 40
indoors Sleep disturbance, daytime and evenings 30 16 -
Hospitals, treatment
Interference with rest and recovery #1
rooms, indoors
Industrial, commercial Hearing impairment 70 24 110
shopping and traffic areas,
indoors and outdoors
Ceremonies, festivals Hearing impairment (patrons:<5 100 4 110
and entertainment times/year)
events
Public addresses, Hearing impairment 85 1 110
indoors and outdoors
Music through Hearing impairment (free-field value) 85 #4 1 110
headphones/earphones
Impulse sounds from Hearing impairment (adults) - - 140 #2
toys, fireworks and Hearing impairment (children) - - 120 #2
firearms
Outdoors in parkland Disruption of tranquility #3
and conservation areas
#1: as low as possible;
#2: peak sound pressure (not LAmax, fast), measured 100 mm from the ear;
#3: existing quiet outdoor areas should be preserved and the ratio of intruding noise to natural
background sound should be kept low;
#4: under headphones, adapted to free-field values
Source: World Health Organization,1999
These construction noise impacts can occur throughout the construction phase. The
project will involve the use of many different types of equipment and activities. Large
machinery, such as generators, will be transported to the dam sites by t rucks. Many of the
raw materials for construction will be transported from the Thai border by t rucks along the
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newly constructed access road. The noise impacts from this transportation will be low,
because there are few residential areas along the new road. However, where the road does
pass near a community or a house, the contractor should take measures to mitigate the
impacts of noise on those residences during transportation.
Since there is no residential community in the immediate vicinity of the project site, the
only noise impact would be on t he workers and on s ome communities that have been
proposed to be resettled by the riverside.
• Construction activities that may generate harmful noise should be limited only
in day time, e.g. 6 am – 7 pm, in order to minimize community disturbance.
• A blasting report shall contain complete details of the blasting schedule and
procedures. People shall be warned in advance and trespassing to the blasting
area shall be strictly prohibited controlled.
(2) Vibration
Vibration levels of different construction activities were also calculated. Using reference
source vibration levels and typical usage factors, peak particle velocities (PPV) were
calculated for each type of construction activity. The vibration records from explosions
collected at the Mae-Moh Coal Mine, Lumpang Province, Thailand showed that relatively
peak particle velocity occurs between distance from explosive source and explosive mass
Table 7-6.
Table 7-6 Peak Particle Velocities (PPV) from Explosion at Mae-Moh Coal Mine,
Lampang Province, Thailand
Distance from source Explosive mass Vibration level
(m) (kg/d) PPV (mm/s) Freq (Hz)
640 20 0.90 39
613 20 0.63 30
690 20 0.79 43
677 20 0.73 21
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Using the above equation and recommended reference amplitude, the estimated vibration
amplitude at various distances was calculated and summarized in Table 7-7.
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The air blast could exceed the 130 dB USBM standard at a location within about 250 feet
from a blast.
Employ measures to reduce air blast and vibration from blasting. The contractor shall
retain a qualified blasting specialist to develop a site-specific blasting program report to
assess, control, and monitor air blasts and ground vibrations from blasting. This shall include,
at a minimum, the following measures:
• The contractor shall use current state-of-the-art technology to assure that blast-
related vibrations at offsite residential and other occupied structures are as low
as possible, consistent with blasting safety. In no instance shall blast vibration,
measured on the ground adjacent to a residential or other occupied structure,
be allowed to exceed the frequency-dependent limits specified in the
Alternative Blasting Level Criteria contained in USBM Report of
Investigations 8507.
• The project contractor shall use current state-of-the-art technology to keep air
blasts at offsite residential and other occupied structures as low as possible. In
no instance shall air blast, measured at a residence or other occupied structure,
be allowed to exceed the 0.013-psi (133 dB) limit recommended in USBM
Report of Investigations 8485.
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• The contractor shall monitor and record air blast and vibration for blasts
within 1,000 feet (330 m) of worker camps and other occupied structures to
verify that measured levels are within the recommended limits at those
locations. If blasting is found to exceed specified levels, controlled blasting or
alternative blasting or excavation methods shall be employed that result in the
specified levels not being exceeded.
• Air blast and vibration monitoring shall be made at the nearest offsite
residential or other occupied structure. If vibration levels are expected to be
lower than those triggering the seismograph at that location, or if permission
cannot be obtained to record at that location, recording shall be accomplished
at some closer site in line with the structure. Specific locations and distances
where air blast and vibration are measured shall be documented in detail along
with measured air blast and vibration amplitudes.
At the construction site, particles and fugitive dust from the construction activities, the
emissions from on-road vehicles associated with the construction site and on-site machinery
(off-road emissions) need to be considered. In addition to the land clearing and surface
excavation activities, construction of water conveyance systems, tunnels, and distribution
systems also represent potential sources of air emissions from point sources. Increased traffic
on unsealed gravel road surfaces will contribute to air pollution by the generation and release
of fugitive dust. All of these activities can lead to considerable high negative impacts on the
air quality in the project site. However, these do not need to be significant and can be limited
through good construction management practices. In addition, minor impacts are expected
from upgrading and construction of new roads, including other infrastructure construction.
There are many dust and emission sources in the construction sites that can release a
range of particles. Dust (all particulate matter up to 75 μm in diameter) and PM10 (airborne
particles with an aerodynamic diameter of 10 microns or less).
The PM10 is comprised of coarse particles (2.5-10 μm in diameter, which are primarily
from non-combustion sources) and fine particles (<2.5 μm in diameter, which includes
combustion processes or the chemical reaction of primary emissions of gases).
Most dust particles can cause eye, nose and throat irritation and lead to deposition on
object surfaces while the PM10 can have greater effect to human health, such as causing
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breathing and respiratory problems. PM10 can be carried by w ind to people who live and
work in the area surrounding and near to the site. Emissions of particles and dust from
construction activities can also affect indoor air quality in the neighboring areas.
Flora and fauna can also suffer adverse impacts from these particles and dust. It is thus
important to consider the impact of dust on sensitive sites, such as special areas of
conservation, protection areas, and non-statutory wildlife sites in the vicinity of the
construction site.
Three principles; prevention, suppression and containment are adopted to control the
creation of dust and other emissions and to decrease airborne hazards to health.
The impacts on air quality caused by the project construction activities will likely be
temporary and controllable.
The contractor should implement an emission and dust control plan within their
environmental protection and mitigation framework. The emission and dust control plan
should include methods for dust suppression resulting from quarry sites, crushing and
batching plans, including road construction, embankment and channel construction, haulage
of materials and construction of work camps. Methods for dust suppression should be
employed as necessary, including supplying water to control dust resulting from construction
activities. The following measures should be used:
1) Site planning
• Planned site-layout machinery and dust causing activities should be located
away from sensitive receptors.
2) Construction traffic
• All vehicles should switch off engines when stopped, and should not leave the
vehicle idling.
• All vehicles should be washed or cleaned before leaving the site if close to
sensitive receptors
• Loads entering and leaving the site should be covered if they are expected to
contribute to creation of particles or dust.
• The construction equipment emission as a result of diesel fuel combustion is
expected to be relatively minor and localized. However, combustion engines
should be inspected on a regular basis and adjusted as required to minimize
pollution levels.
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The impact assessment and recommended mitigation measures for the construction phase are
described as follows:
Some of the project construction materials that are classified as hazardous include explosive
materials, fuel (diesel, LPG), lubricant oils, pesticides and paints. The improper transport,
storage, use, and disposal of these materials could cause spills, leakage, fire, and site
contamination. Besides hazardous materials, leachates from solid waste landfill and
wastewater from campsites could pollute the river and soils by i ncreasing nutrient loads,
heavy metals, and pathogens.
Activities that may cause the contamination are chemical storage, drum reconditioning or
recycling, electric transformers, explosive product and storage, landfill, pest control,
petroleum product and oil storage, and scrap yards. The hazardous chemicals from these
activities may leak into the environment during construction. In addition, the hazardous
materials may pollute the areas near the temporary stockpiles and spill on the area along the
access roads during being transported.
The receptors of those contaminants are likely to be the workers who are involved in
chemical use, transport and storage, and the local residents of Ban Hat Gniun some 3 km
from the nearest main construction site. Since the functional units during construction are
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projected to be close to the river, the risk enhanced by hi gh slope surfaces would be
increased. The cut-and-fill technique that is planned for application for the high slope can
only retain the contamination. Stringent management of hazardous materials to prevent spills
must be applied to the construction sites.
The proposed quarry site and the solid waste landfill near the river will require careful
operation and must follow best practices. They can easily be sources of water contaminants
mixing with overflow during heavy rain.
• All chemicals and waste that are considered as potentially hazardous materials
will be registered in order to follow up on the type, quantities stored,
quantities used or generated. Movements from storage and to waste disposal
sites will be recorded. Emergency response procedures will be developed and
displayed at each construction site. Safety procedures applicable to the
handling and use of hazardous materials will be established and become a part
of the training program for workers.
• General waste generated from employees and in the construction site will need
to be cleared regularly. Cleaning should be daily for the worker camps and
office. Waste collection should be done periodically for construction sites,
with the frequency depending on actual construction activities. The waste
could be stored in a temporary storage container and transported out of the
office or the camp. Wastewater treatment systems are proposed for the
wastewater released from the construction sites. The system should be able to
treat water contaminants such as human waste and suspended solids.
2) Spillage prevention
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• All workers responsible for handling hazardous waste will receive appropriate
training in accordance with general good practices recommendations and
emergency response procedures.
• All workers will be informed of the stringent controls, and these controls will
be advertised to all workers.
• Warning signs and rules must be located in the most appropriate places such
as the entrance to the storage warehouse, the office, and other places where
these materials might be used or where workers will congregate.
• Probation and punishment should be applied to whoever avoids or breaks the rules.
7.2.1.9 Hydrology
The schedule for project construction is about 70 months or 5 ye ars and 10 months. Water
impoundment to meet the operation level will be one rainy season or one year. During the
pre-construction and construction period, there will be several activities that must be
completed before initial impoundment.
The tunnel construction method was recommended in the Technical Report. The tunnel
with 10 m inner diameter, 660 m of length was proposed on the left bank to avoid the folding
zone in the middle of the right bank. Duration of service of the diversion tunnel will be 3
years and then there is no plan for other uses. The flood discharge of 1.5 year probability was
proposed at 1,000 m3/s.
During construction, there will need to be regular analysis of the actual conditions and in
particular the actual hydrological phenomena, because the available hydrological information
is at present very limited. This makes any assessment to evaluate or simulate to verify the
results difficult. The proposed construction schedule is also a draft plan, and there is
uncertainty in its applicability, especially since flood events can interrupt the construction
schedule. Prediction of these flood events is also difficult because of the lack of long-term
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hydrological data in the project area and vicinity. Extreme events, such as rapid surface
floods from the highland could cause some damage to the construction process and
equipments.
Although cofferdams will bank up the river with the design flood discharge of 1,000 m3/s
and the upstream cofferdam will be set at the downstream side of the river diversion outlet to
prevent river flow into the construction site of the dam body.
Since the flood flow is fast and high volume, loose materials and equipment might be
caught in the flow of the floodwaters downstream and cause damage to structures, campsites,
roads, inhibit navigation, and can be hazardous to human and animal life. Construction
materials and equipment must be firmly in place during flooding season.
It should be noted that minimum flows to mitigate environmental impacts along the Nam
Ngiep River downstream from the construction site are not applicable in the Pakxan area at
the mouth of the river 40 km from the site. That is because the Pakxan area is affected more
by fluctuations or influences from the Mekong River than from the Nam Ngiep River.
During reservoir impoundment, even though upstream inflow has to be collected to meet
water storage requirements before hydropower operations can commence, there is still need
to maintain minimum flow downstream to mitigate environmental impacts as far as practical.
Although water can discharged from the riparian release conduit at the elevation of 245 m ,
water cannot be discharged from the main dam immediately after the closure of the diversion
conduit inside the main dam. Before the closure of diversion conduit, re-regulation reservoir
should be filled with the water to release the water to downstream area until the water level of
the main reservoir reach at the elevation of 245 m. This will help control the ecological
system of the Nam Ngiep River and the uses of the river by local residents downstream from
the dam site.
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Based on t he field survey and interviews with local residents, it is apparent that the only
significant remaining wildlife habitats are in the forested areas on the steep upper
slopes or in the still abundant forests outside the project area. There are still some
wildlife habitats, though not as significant, within the proposed reservoir area where the
mixed deciduous forest still remains. I n the other more accessible lower and less steep
slopes, the forests have been destroyed by indiscriminant logging, bush fires, and shifting
cultivation, and the wildlife and wildlife habitats there have also been severely disturbed.
Most of the project components are located on t he lower slopes of mountains or in the
valleys. A lthough these used to be among the most important wildlife habitats, human
activities have forced the wildlife into the higher and less accessible slopes, so that the
proposed project activities are now located well below their remaining habitats. H owever,
local residents also reported that some of the wildlife will come down to the river at night,
then return to the comparative safety of the higher elevations during the day. It is thus of
prime importance that the destruction of remaining habitat be kept to a minimum. Temporary
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access roads that go t hrough forest areas must be closed permanently after construction is
completed and the area rehabilitated to its original condition.
Although there remains some relatively undisturbed forest in the upper part of the
proposed reservoir and near the dam site, these represent only a fraction of the surrounding
forest. C onstruction of the dam and inundation of the reservoir will cause minimal
disturbance to the wildlife in the area.
Loud noises from construction machinery may disturb the wildlife. Some restrictions
may be necessary to keep noise disturbances to a minimum, such as restricting the times
when loud machinery can be operated.
Another threat to local wildlife would be hunting of the animals by construction workers
and other project staff. Prohibitions to hunting must be strictly enforced.
Tables 5.23, 5-24 and 5-25 present the list of species recorded during the baseline surveys
undertaken in 2007 in the project area. The list will be updated during the biodiversity survey
to identify the species that will be directly impacted by the project and unable to adapt to the
new environment created by t he impoundment of the reservoir and the modifications
upstream and downstream.
• Strict rules against logging outside the approved construction areas and against
wildlife hunting and poaching will be imposed on project staff, workers, and
all contractors and personnel engaged in or associated with the Project, with
penalties levied for anyone caught carrying and using fire arms, or using
animal snares and traps, including fines and dismissal, and prosecution under
the laws of the Lao PDR. The project owner shall be directly responsible for
dissemination to its staff and workers of all rules, regulations and information
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• In the remaining forest areas in the catchment, and especially in those areas
near the reservoir, a forest and wildlife conservation and management program
needs to be implemented in order to protect the wildlife in the area.
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Unlike other types of infrastructure development such as roads or railways, the various
components of hydroelectric power projects are much more limited by physical constraints of
location, topographical features, the condition of river networks and of catchment areas.
With need for extensive reservoirs and as well as other major components, the potential
adverse impact to both the community and the environment could be enormous. Whatever
benefits that may derive from technical aspects must be weighed against the adverse impacts
on communities and the environment, in particular on forests.
Because the placement of access roads and transmission lines are much more flexible
than the placement of the dam, powerhouse, and other structures, planning for the access
roads and transmission lines should be sufficiently flexible to avoid as much as possible
adverse environmental impacts. The project should:
• Where possible keep the access road and the transmission line alignments as
straight as possible between the start and end points. For transmission lines,
this will minimize the total number of towers, and for both the transmission
lines and access roads, this will reduce the amount of materials that need to be
imported, reduce construction costs, minimize the area that needs to be
converted from other land uses and minimize the area of forest clearing.
However, if there is a choice between a straight path going through a forest or
a more circuitous route that avoids the forest, the more circuitous route should
be selected, since it will minimize forest destruction.
• Ensure adequate clearance between the transmission line and access road
alignments and any significant cultural/historical monuments/sites.
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From the field survey carried out as well as from the information available, the most
favorable components were recommended and their selections based on the above principles.
However it must be emphasized that these are subject to further detailed site survey and
detailed design, and that these principles should be maintained for these more detailed works.
Generally, the clearance of vegetation within the dam site, powerhouse and reservoir can lead
to fragmentation of already diminishing areas of natural forests and wildlife habitats. Overall,
the existence value, as well as the ecological research value of the ecosystem will be
diminished. Rare and/or threatened tree and plant species may also be affected by flooding.
The permanently maintained access roads to the dam site and powerhouse during and after
construction will eliminate the ability of the land on which the roads are located to regenerate
to the original species-rich secondary forest.
Based on a nalysis of the land use and forest map and results of the field survey, as
presented in Table 5-26, most of the forest and vegetation cover that will be affected within
the immediate project area and in particular within the proposed reservoir is classified as
Unstocked Forest and Scrub (3,551 ha) or 1.69% of the entire catchment area (refer to Figure
7-4).
This is severely degraded forest, mostly from conversion to agricultural land. There are
small patches of dry evergreen forest (125 ha) and bamboo forest (158 ha) and larger areas of
mixed deciduous forest (3,089 ha). H owever, there are no ol d forests or environmentally
unique areas, such as National Biodiversity Conservation Areas (NBCAs) and protection
forests, within the project area. There are still some commercial tree species within the
remaining three forest types. These commercially valuable tress should be removed prior to
flooding. Some of these high value species are Aquilaris Sp. (May Por Heuang/May
Ketsana), Pterocarpus pedatus (May Dou), Pterocarpus macrocarpus (May Dou),
Cinnamomum liseafolium (May Chuang), Hopea odorata (May Khen Heua), Xylia kerrii
(May Deng) which belong to the “Special List”, identified by the Instruction of the Ministry
of Agriculture and Forestry No. 0116/MAF.07, dated 17th May 2007.
In terms of the density and volume of the trees that will be directly affected by
inundation, for trees with diameter at breast height (DBH) of equal to and more than 10 cm,
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an estimated 281 trees of approximately 143 m 3 per hectare (volume of stand tree) will be
affected in the Dry Evergreen (DE). In the Mixed Deciduous (MD) Forest an average about
199 trees and 107 m 3 per hectare will be affected. For the Unstocked (T) Forest about 193
trees and approximately 75 m3 per hectare will be affected. In addition, for trees with DBH
of less than 10 cm and more than 1.3 meters of height, an average about 110 trees per hectare
will be affected within DE Forest, approximately 143 trees per hectare will be inundated
within the MD forest, and about 132 trees per hectare affected in the Unstocked Forest.
Apart from the loss of timber species, the submerged forest will reduce the total
availability of non-timber forest products, but only to a relatively minor extent at the
watershed scale. Some of the NTFPs (including medicinal plants, fruits, material, value for
animals and conservation) that will be affected are listed in the Table 5-32. Some of the high
value NTFP species found were medicinal plants or herbs such as cardamom (Amomum
Xathioides Wallich), Beberin (Coscinium fenestratum-Gagnepain), Neolourya pierrei Rod,
Ziziphus attopoensus Pierre etc., while others are used as food, such as mushrooms, bamboo
shoots, wild vegetables, and wild fruits.
Forest and NTFPs play an important role in the livelihood of many local people,
especially the poor, who depend heavily on forests not only for timber for house construction
and other purposes but also for food, fodder, fencing materials, medicines and condiments.
Villagers also often derive cash income from sale of NFTPs and, in many areas, harvesting of
forest resources is one of the few available economic activities. NTFP consumption and sales
in some parts of the country can account for more than half of family income. However, in
the project area, as is discussed in the Social Impact Assessment report, NTFP consumption
and sales account for only a small portion of the total income of households in the NNHP-1
project area. Still, any project affected persons who lose income or livelihood from the loss
of forest products or NTFPs should be compensated, as is discussed in the Resettlement
Action Plan.
None of the reservoir area or other project area is situated on conservation forest or
protected area, so that the overall impact of the removal and loss of the trees in this area can
be considered relatively minor. Because the main means of access to land along the Nam
Ngiep River is by boat, land adjacent to the river that is to be inundated by the reservoir is the
most accessible and thus the most degraded.
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DE = Dry Evergreen Forest; MD = Mixed Deciduous; T = Unstocked Forest; B= Bamboo; RP = Rice Paddy
Field
Figure 7-4 Losses of different land uses and forest types from inundation of the reservoir.
(3) Pre-Impoundment Reservoir Preparation
• Do nothing.
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Based on recent experience from similar projects, some preliminary principles for
clearing may be proposed. These will have to be detailed during the preparation of a logging
and clearing plan. The main recommendations and objectives may be summarized below:
• All remaining timber after commercial and salvage logging operations have
been completed will be cut as necessary and burnt. Experience from other
projects show that the local population can be contracted to clear relatively
large areas of land using their slash and burn techniques. The area that can be
cleared by heavy equipment or by the local population will depend mainly on
labor availability, but also on terrain. The task should take no more than two
dry seasons. The area suitable for heavy machinery is limited because of the
steep terrain. It is estimated that 200-300 workers would be required. If
necessary, temporary migrant workers may be hired to undertake this task,
however priority should be given to employing local residents. T he cost of
using local workers to clear small timber can cost a little less than the cost of
using heavy machinery. For a similar project (Nam Lik) the average cost for
manual labor and its supervision was about US$420/ha for clearing and
burning. It can be expected that costs will be similar for the NNHP-1 project.
• Avoid removing stumps as disturbed soil may release far more nutrients in
water – this requirement favors the use of manual labor, as heavy machinery
tends to push over the standing timber and attached stumps.
• Maintain a 200 m wide buffer zone along the major creek channels or small
streams to control sediment movement down the reservoir, and additionally to
provide habitats for fish and to preserve the fish against commercial fisheries
(since nets can hardly be used among all the tree branches).
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• Preserve at least a 100 m wide vegetation strip around the perimeter of the
reservoir so that the intact root structure of the trees will help bind the soil and
reduce shoreline erosion and wave erosion. This will also provide a shelter for
fish.
Calculation of biomass from DBH more than 10 cm could be conducted and the result is
shown in Table 7-10.
Table 7-10 Estimation of Remaining Biomass on Each Main Forest Type in Reservoir
Area
1) There are some commercial tree species that should be removed. However, a
detailed survey needs to be conducted to determine which of the large
commercial tree species should be logged. This will be overseen by Provincial
and District Forestry Section (Unit) to ensure there is no illegal logging or
destruction of trees outside the approved area. (As per Article 105 and 106 of
Amended Forestry Law No. 06/NA-2007).
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provided to local authorities to promote the collection of all NTFPs from the
reservoir area prior to clearing and burning. The local authorities will be asked
to collaborate with the Provincial Environment and Social Management
Committee (PESMC) to ensure that these operations are limited to the reservoir
area.
4) Logging and sale of log selling must comply with the Forestry Law and other
laws and related regulations. A salvage logging committee (SLC) must be
established in order to manage all of the logging process.
5) In order to reduce intrusion into the reservoir area by pr oject workers, the
reservoir area will be part of the designated buffer area from which all workers
are excluded. The developer shall be responsible for dissemination of all
regulations and related information to its staff and workers, and will also be
responsible for any misconduct by its staff and workers.
6) Water quality of the reservoir, especially in the first years, is dependent on the
quantity of biomass in the reservoir area that will be inundated. Given the
amount of forest area and vegetation, including agricultural lands, that will be
inundated in the case of the NNHP-1 Project, vegetation or biomass clearance in
the reservoir area is needed.
8) Compensation and consultation with local organization and villagers are needed
before logging; traditional protocol and spiritual rituals must be observed. All
commercial tree species that are cut in community lands belong to the
community/village.
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10) A monitoring program will be implemented that involves the DAFO, other
authorities concerned, village forest associations (VFA), and an independent
third party, to audit the clearing operation and compensatory replanting
operations.
During constructing period, moving of heavy equipment for cutting, soil leveling, digging
and soil transport may produce dust and sediment adding to water turbidity. This turbid water
can prohibit penetration of sunlight to deeper layers in the river, and reduce the population of
plankton, consequently leading to a decrease of fish biomass. The distance of this turbidity
will depend on t he flow of the river and the amount of dust and sediment released. T he
greatest impact is likely on benthic species. The turbid water will run down to the distance
short or long depending on rate of flow at that time.
To avoid pollution that can affect aquatic species, toilet, cooking, and other facilities must
be well maintained and must avoid releasing waste or sediment into the river. Construction
materials must be adequately stored to avoid leaching of pollutants from those materials.
• Site clearing and other earth works should use appropriate method, to
minimize release of dust and sediment into the river that would increase water
turbidity.
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7.3.1.1 Meteorology
The impact of the project on climate is uncertain and not expected to be significant. Climate,
however, can have considerable impact on the construction and operation of the project.
The number of available and effective meteorology stations, the monitored parameters,
and the period of monitoring will limit the precision of weather forecasts. Standardization of
available records from peripheral stations and by Thiessen and Isohyetal methods were the
most practical means for the project hydrological study.
The creation of a reservoir and flooding of 66.94 km2 of formerly forested and sometimes
seasonally flooded land, including reservoir of re-regulation dam 1.42 km2 will likely result
in some localized changes to air temperatures and relative humidity over the water and
around the shore. Some potential exists for the reservoir to change the rates and intensity of
occurrence of haze and fog (Figure 7-5), as well as result in increased down slope winds, and
could result in cloud base creation or suppression.
The magnitude of the changes will be small, localized and not particularly noticeable
because of the comparatively small size of the reservoir and forces created by this new
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waterbody in relation to the dominant climatic influence of the seasonal monsoons. The
reservoir will likely only contribute to minor microclimatic changes. The forested lands in the
catchment and in the project area will be important to help maintain and enhance localized
climatic conditions.
The water quality simulations as shown in Annex C showed that downstream water
temperatures could be significantly changed. The input factors of surface water temperature
model were solar radiation, wind velocity, cloud amount and relative humidity. The average
temperature of outflow from the dam would be about 4°C higher than the river water
temperature.
After the water is impounded, the existing land in Zone 2 ( Reservoir) and Zone 3
(Construction area) will change.
Geohazards, such as landslides and rock falls, may be induced by t he inundation. Their
movement may occur along the steep slope of riparian zone where is affected by the
diminished vegetation and high water saturation, as well as intense or prolonged rainfall. The
materials on t he steep slopes will also gradually weaken from long-term weathering,
infiltration of water, root wedging, and other physical processes such as cut-and-fill. The
geohazards are more risky on t he existing landforms that are cut for new roads or other
construction sites.
However, the impacts that could contribute to the geohazards can be minor if suggested
mitigation measures are implemented. During the operation phase, inspection of dam
structure and monitoring of water quality in the reservoirs and downstream are
recommended.
• Water quality, in particular the amount of suspended solid and its chemical
characteristics e.g. mercury should also be monitored annually as a baseline
information
7.3.1.3 Soils
The field survey and soil physico-chemical analysis data of the resettlement site on the right
bank of Re-regulation dam in July 2011 found that most areas are extremely acid to very
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strong acid (soil pH 4.0 ~ 4.6). Organic matter and total nitrogen are found at low to medium
levels. The soil contained low available phosphorus and very low to medium exchangeable
potassium. The majority of soil types are Sandy Loam (SL) or Loam (L) texture, so they
should not be a problem for agricultural production.
The field survey and soil physico-chemical analysis of flooded paddy fields around Ban
Sopyouak and Ban Namyouak in Zone 2 UR was also conducted in July 2011 for before after
comparison study. The date shows that most area are extremely acid to very strong acid (soil
pH 4.1 ~ 4.4) and organic matter and total nitrogen are found at low to medium levels.
The soils are generally considered as moderately suitable for rice cultivation, however
some area in the resettlement site are considered as less suitable for rice cultivation. Predicted
rice yield differs from 959 kg/ha to 1,601 kg/ha/year within the resettlement area. In order to
increase rice yield, improvement in soil fertility with fertilizer and liming application plants
to be implemented so that the resettled households can continue their traditional agricultural
practices with higher rice yield.
General recommendations
According to the soil analysis data (Table 5-3 to Table 5-6), soils in the resettlement areas
is suitable for both lowland rice and fruit trees, but other factors such as land form and soil
depth also need to be considered. Lowland rice needs to be located on flat areas, which can
have from low to high depth of soil; whereas fruit trees can be planted in all land forms where
soil depth is greater than 75 cm. Because the soil in these villages is very acidic, it needs to
be neutralized by lime, with other organic fertilizer or material added to improve soil organic
matter and maintain soil fertility.
In fruit tree plantations, the rate of lime should be about 2~3 t/ha or about 5~10 kg/plant.
For lowland rice, liming is not as essential and can be applied at lower rates. Nitrogen and
phosphorus fertilizers would be important to increase lowland rice production, and should be
applied at the rate of 60 kg N and 20-25 kg P2O5/ha for improved rice varieties. For
potassium management, organic materials that can be found or available in this area should
be used. Incorporating straw and applying other farm residue into the field can be the main
sources of N, P and K. Therefore, efficient use of farm residue is very important to improve
soil fertility.
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Mitigation Measures
Often for any soil management problem in this study site, there are several best management
practices to choose from or to use in combination. These include:
• Lime application on the sites which soil pH is very strong acid to extremely
acid.
• Organic fertilizer; composed of leftover food, animal dung, bacteria, and water
• Infrastructure enhancement
- Saddle dam; protect new resettlement are from flood of Nam Ngiep
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• Crop management:
- Cover crops, grown to protect the soil when the usual crop is not being
grown, can help maintain soil structure, add organic matter, use excess
nutrients and control pests.
- Crop Rotation, by alternating forage or cereal crops with row crops, helps
maintain fertility. The forage or cereal crops are seeded solidly over the
area and help return residue and nutrients to the soil, while the row crops
leave portions of the soil exposed for much of the year and return little
residue to the soil.
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- Green Manure Crops are short-term cover crops used to cover and protect
the soil between other crops, particularly after short-season crops such as
peas. Green manure crops are grown for the plant material produced,
which can then be returned to the soil to maintain soil organic matter
levels – providing an excellent source of foodstuff for soil biota.
- Soil conservation by erosion control plants such a vetiver grass, which can
prevent loss of soil nutrients and improve capture and efficient use of
water.
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The sediment yield from the catchment and in the reservoir should be taken into account
during the design life of the project. The long-term protection of the catchment area is
essential to insure that sediment yields will remain at the current low level. Flows from the
dam site are expected to remove sandbars and finer sediment from beds leaving a coarser
substrate. This removal of fine-grained stream substrate just downstream of the dam will
likely result in the deposition of such materials further away from the project, which could
have significant adverse effects on aquatic habitat and species in areas outside the study area.
Monitoring the recovery of the dam construction site after the construction work is
needed for further impact to downstream. It will be of great importance to monitor the
development and sediment output decrement with recovery. Sensitive erosion areas are
defined as follows:
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• Where possible, works in sensitive erosion areas will be restricted to the dry
season.
• Clearing of sites will be undertaken in the sequence that sites are required for
construction.
At Zone 2 (Reservoir), the creation of a large catchment Area of 3,700 km2 should ensure
that mitigation measures to control erosion and sedimentation in the reservoir are
implemented and insure that sediment yield will remain at the current estimated low level.
The issue is how to ensure that the reality is as close as possible to the predictions. The key to
this is the management of activities in the watershed, particularly the steeper slopes. These
areas are wholly in the catchment area and without management could be subject to logging
and slash and burn agriculture. It is therefore important that prohibition of logging in the
catchment area be enforced rigorously and that slash and burn activities be limited to and
preferably reduced significantly from their current levels in watershed management plan.
Areas downstream of the main dam site and re-regulation dam are expected to experience
some erosion, particularly where soil properties comprise areas of instability that are sensitive
to erosion. T he environmental assessment and management plan recommends that the
situation should be periodically monitored by the ESMMU and measures taken to rectify the
conditions if adverse impacts are found and identified.
Erosion is anticipated along the banks and on the bed of the excavated downstream
channel, particularly in areas of unstable or poor soil conditions. These areas must be
protected with suitable control and stabilization measures to control erosion of the banks and
the streambed. This situation is to be monitored on a regular basis, and additional measures
enacted if it is determined that erosion is threatening the structural stability of the
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downstream channel, especially in the downstream of Nam Ngiep. Both remedial mitigation
measures and compensation for the loss or interference with villagers' livelihoods should be
considered and the most appropriate measure or combination of measures applied on case-by-
case basis.
The impact assessment of water quality is considered with reference to the standards
reviewed in Section 3.1.6 a nd water quality models by K ansai Electric Power Co., Inc
(Annex C).
A large number of hydroelectric dams have been constructed throughout the Southeast Asia,
which can help us understand the potential problems with the NNHP-1 project. Three major
biophysical environmental issues have been found with these dams:
An example of reservoirs that resulted in the deterioration of water quality in this region
was the Yali reservoir in Vietnam. It produced hydroelectric power and discharged water year
round from the hypolimnion, harming downstream water quality conditions.
In Lao PDR, the impact due to water inundation has been recorded. During the early part
of the rainy season, normally around August and September, the water quality downstream of
Nam Ngum hydropower dam in the Lao PDR was found filled with the smell of hydrogen
sulfide, which was highly toxic to the aquatic life there.
In Thailand, the Bhumibol dam caused deterioration of water quality downstream for
decades because of anaerobic organic degradation and stratification phenomena. The water
quality in the reservoir was reported as Class 5 2 due to rapid depletion of DO with the
2
Notification of the National Environmental Board of Thailand, No. 8, B.E. 2537 (1994), issued under the
Enhancement and Conservation of National Environmental Quality Act B.E.2535 (1992), published in the Royal
Government Gazette, Vol. 111, Part 16, dated February 24, B.E.2537 (1994).
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discharge of the hypolimnion zone. Class 5 is the lowest surface water quality standard in
Thailand, which is appropriate only for navigation and not for any other human use.
However, it is not likely that similar problems will occur with the NNHP-1 project as with
the Bhumibol dam in Thailand, since the reservoir of the Bhumibol dam covers a vast
expanse of very deep water, while that of the NNHP-1 is long and relatively narrow.
Generally, the water quality of small reservoirs in Southeast Asia is not affected by the
stratification effect. In Thailand, dams with about 10-15 meters water depth sometimes
reported thermocline effects. However, the stratification depends on many factors including
water body, environment, and polluted organic matter. Therefore, the designs of dams,
especially the water head, usually include the aspects of stratification.
Even when the dam designs include prevention of stratification so as not to affect
downstream water quality, low DO in the water can still occur from the high degradation rate
of organic matter in the cleared topsoil of the upper reservoir and of remaining organic debris
in the inundated area. However, in the longer-term operation of the dams, the water quality in
reservoirs recovers. Moreover, colder temperatures, wind velocity and wave action during the
cool season causes turnover, with the low-DO water in the hypolimnion layer naturally
turning over and mixing with that of epilimnion zone, resulting in higher DO content in the
hypolimnion zone which is discharged downstream.
In Thailand, Lao PDR and Vietnam, there are 17 hydro-power projects with stratified
storage reservoirs which periodically release anaerobic water with highly toxic hydrogen
sulfide that affects downstream aquatic ecology and fisheries. There were 18 i rrigation
reservoirs with a depth of more than 10 m eters that potentially showed the same negative
downstream effects on water quality, depending on the reservoir operation.
Computer models were made to determine the quality of water expected at EL 280 m, the
level of water discharge. The predicted change of temperature, DO, and SS varied monthly
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and at different distances downstream. The input for water quality models were extrapolated
and assumptions made based on records of air temperature. Annex C provides greater detail
on the method of computation of water level fluctuation and water quality to the downstream.
Inflow quality can be considered based on the water quality samples taken two times in
different seasons, and also from the water quality of other nearby water courses. The average
monthly temperature of the Nam Ngiep River calculated based on the measurement in 1999
appeared to be unusually high, so the water temperature was measured again in 2011. The
water temperature is analyzed based on the measurement in 2011.
Other computerized output focusing on DO was considered for impact assessment during
the operational phase. SS is expected to have a major impact on w ater quality downstream
during construction, while changes in water quality during water impoundment will be due to
the high rate of anaerobic degradation.
Activities related to the construction of the dam and other construction activities, such as
the worker camps, office, access roads, concrete mixing plant, stockyard, quarry, and disposal
site are potential major sources of water pollutants.
Because of the varying impacts from different activities, that already mentioned in section
7.2.1.5, the impact assessment considers three main phases: (1) pre-construction and
construction (total 6 ye ars, 1 f or preconstruction and 5 f or construction), (2) the initial
inundation period (the first 5 years of operation, including the time when the reservoir is first
filled), and (3) long-term operations. The long term operations are further divided into two
phases: (3.1) from 5 to 10 years after start of operations and (3.2) after 10 years of operation.
The different types of impacts during these phases and the various changes of water quality
(sediment, DO, phosphorous and nitrogen concentrations) potentially have adverse effects
downstream unless appropriate mitigation measures are taken.
While the dam structures have been designed to minimize changes in water flow, it is still
likely that there will be changes in water quality during the first years of operation. The
reservoir may also release stratified into thermocline and hypolimnion zones, and the water
from these zones could be released from riparian release conduit, intake, or spillway.
Initial impounding plan will be prepared during construction phase. After the designated
water level is reached for electrical generation, the stacked water will be released following
the normal operating schedule. It will take several months for the initial impounding and to
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fill to EL 320 m as its normal operating level. Water from EL 280 m will be discharged
downstream.
During the early phase of water impoundment, organic matter in the soil and remaining
plants (Figure 7-12) will degrade anaerobically, while some chemical components can be
expected to leach from the concrete structures. This leaching and degradation can be expected
to occur under anaerobic conditions for about seven years (Reference: Water Quality in
Hydroelectric Project: Consideration for Planning in Tropical Forest Regions, WB Technical
Paper No.20, 1984). After that, the rate of leaching and degradation would become much
lower, depending on amount of organic remaining in the reservoir, the depth of the
impounded water and the effect of the thermocline. Regular monitoring of water quality will
help indicate the ability of the water in the project reservoir to recover.
Figure 7-12 Algal bloom and debris degradation during the early stage of water
impoundment of a small reservoir in Feung.
After about ten years of water impoundment, the discharge quality may recover to Class 2
or Class 3 s tandard for surface water. Even so, water quality monitoring programs must be
continued on a regular basis, because many external factors can affect water quality.
During routine operation, the direct impacts on the water body included the load of sediment
in the reservoir and the change in downstream water quality caused by altered flow pattern.
The water level could induce stratification in the water body, forming a thermocline and
hypolimnion. The water quality models reported the thermocline occurred at about EL 250 m.
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Under this level, the degradation of plants and other organic sources would occur under
oxygen-limited conditions. The depletion of dissolved oxygen significantly affects both
physical and biological environmental characteristics of the downstream water.
The organic or nutrient loads from land uses in the river catchment will affect the
quantitative and qualitative characteristics of the water. Natural forests, crops and
communities are found throughout the catchment area. After the water has filled to the
designed level, the stored water will inundate a large variety of terrestrial and riparian
habitats, including natural plants and strips of crops along the shore. Water can continue to
deteriorate from the dissolved components of these plants flowing into the reservoir, with
runoff containing soil nutrients and sediment from the catchment settling in the reservoir.
Water quality models were calculated to predict the quality change of inflow and outflow
or discharge due to the project. Monitoring data of nearby reservoirs were used to calibrate
the model. S everal factors, however, limited the quality of the model results. N ormally,
impacts on aquatic life would need to concentrate on hourly quality change rather than daily,
weekly or monthly water quality values. M aximum and minimum values are also very
important to indicate the tolerance of the biota to the fluctuations in quality. The database of
water quality of the project did not include this information on hourly or even on maximum
and minimum values, providing only average monthly water quality.
The water at the inflow and the outflow at the main dam were selected for computer
modeling. T he water parameters assessed were water temperature, dissolved oxygen and
suspended solids.
Water Temperature
Inflow water temperature was estimated by using a correlation equation between air
temperature and observed data of water temperature. The daytime water temperature at the
dam site, was observed in 2011. The other study of correlation equation was conducted using
both the observed water temperature in Tavieng and the air temperature in Vientiane.
Extrapolation method was used to estimate missing water temperature data.
Monthly average solar radiation in Nongkhai (Thailand, observed from 2005 to 2008).
Average solar radiation was estimated by using the Savinov's equation:
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Sdf: Total solar radiation into horizontal plane on a sunny day without a cloud
(cal/cm2/day)
The simulation of water temperature in the Nam Ngiep1 reservoir and discharge was
carried out, based on the hydraulic data of eight (8) years (1991-1998).
The average daytime water temperature of reservoir surface close to the dam was the
lowest (25.9°C) in January while the highest (30.1°C) was in May (Figure 7-13). The
difference in the water surface temperatures between the reservoir and at the dam fluctuated
throughout the year. The thermocline zone was predicted to form around EL. 250 m and it
may affect the water quality for eight years.
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The water temperature of discharged water tends to be higher than that of the
natural inflow (Figure 7-14). The temperature of the discharged water also tends to be lower
than that of reservoir surface water close to the dam.
The water temperatures of the downstream river before and after dam construction
were significantly different. The average temperature downstream after dam construction
would be about 4°C higher than that before dam construction (Figure 7-15).
Due to the limits of available data on temperature, the impact assessment of water
temperature on aquatic life in the project area had to be made was indirectly linking to the
biochemical functions that is affected by temperature change. The change could affect to
biochemical functions that control immune response, spawning, hatching, and survival rate of
larva.
A study of small dams in warm climate areas assessed the impact of changing water
temperature on fish and macro invertebrate communities below those dams. The main change
downstream was that macroinvertebrates showed shifts in community composition below
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these small, surface release dams. 3 At the least, it can be expected that there will be changes
in the community composition of macroinvertebrates in those areas downstream from the
dam that will face the significant increases (up to 4°C) in temperature predicted.
3
Lessard, J. L. a nd Hayes, D. B. Effects of elevated water temperature on fish and macroinvertebrate
communities below small dams. 19 (7), Pages 721 – 732. Published Online: 2 Apr 2003
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Dissolved Oxygen
The prediction of DO change due to the project was conducted by reviewing the impacts of
similar dam projects, taking data of eight (8) years (1991-1998) from those dams, and
comparing the results with that of natural inflow. The result of the computation shows that
the DO in the discharged water has a significant tendency to be lower than that of inflow. The
predicted range of the DO in the discharge varies from 3.5 mg/L to 7.9 mg/L through the year
(Figure 7-16).
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Although the DO concentration deeper than the sill level of power intake is possibly less
than 2mg/L, it is not likely that the DO in the discharged water be less than 2 mg/L. (Figure
7-17)
DO concentration of discharged water from the re-regulating dam is over 6 mg/L almost
all the year. The DO concentration increases gradually as the water flows further downstream
due to oxygenation and dilution. (Figure 7-18)
There were three main sources of oxygen in the aquatic environment: 1) direct diffusion
from the atmosphere; 2) wind and wave action; and 3) photosynthesis. Oxygen, produced
from photosynthesis, occurs during the day. Oxygen levels dropped at night because of
respiration by plants and animals, including fish. These predictable changes in DO that occur
every 24 hours are called the diurnal oxygen cycle.
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10 10 10
8 8 8
DO(mg/ l)
DO(mg/ l)
DO(mg/ l)
6 6 6
4 4 4
2 2 2
0 0
0
40,000 30,000 20,000 10,000 0 40,000 30,000 20,000 10,000 0
40,000 30,000 20,000 10,000 0
distance from the Mekong(m) distance from the Mekong(m)
distance from the Mekong(m)
after construction before construction after construction before construction after construction before construction
10 10 10
8 8 8
DO(mg/ l)
DO(mg/ l)
DO(mg/ l)
6 6 6
4 4 4
2 2 2
0 0 0
40,000 30,000 20,000 10,000 0 40,000 30,000 20,000 10,000 0 40,000 30,000 20,000 10,000 0
distance from the Mekong(m) distance from the Mekong(m) distance from the Mekong(m)
after construction before construction after construction before construction after construction before construction
10 10 10
8 8 8
DO(mg/ l)
DO(mg/ l)
DO(mg/ l)
6 6 6
4 4 4
2 2 2
0 0 0
40,000 30,000 20,000 10,000 0 40,000 30,000 20,000 10,000 0 40,000 30,000 20,000 10,000 0
distance from the Mekong(m) distance from the Mekong(m) distance from the Mekong(m)
after construction before construction after construction before construction after construction before construction
10 10 10
8 8 8
DO(mg/ l)
DO(mg/ l)
DO(mg/ l)
6 6 6
4 4 4
2 2 2
0 0 0
40,000 30,000 20,000 10,000 0 40,000 30,000 20,000 10,000 0 40,000 30,000 20,000 10,000 0
distance from the Mekong(m) distance from the Mekong(m) distance from the Mekong(m)
after construction before construction after construction before construction after construction before construction
Figure 7-18 Prediction of DO changes per month (longitudinal profile of the river).
Oxygen depletion occurs when oxygen consumption exceeds oxygen production, and this
can be caused by an overabundance of aquatic plants or algae in the reservoir, "turnover" of a
body of water (stratification was predicted and the thermocline was about at EL 250 m ),
4
This document was reviewed from Fact Sheet FA-27, Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, Florida
Cooperative Extension Service, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida. Reviewed
May 1997, February 2003. Web Site at http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu.
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increased organic waste entering the reservoir, or death and decay of organic matter at the
bottom of the impounded water.
According to the water quality models, the DO of discharge should be optimum for fish
during the daytime. Low DO could be determined by noticing the fish behavior. Moribund
fish may be seen at the surface trying to get oxygen. If many fish die simultaneously, that
could indicate low DO. The weather immediately prior to the harmful to fish may have been
hot, still and overcast. However, the most important factor affecting oxygen depletion is if the
reservoir has heavy concentrations of decomposing organic matter. The product of
degradation could be a good source of nutrient for algae or aquatic plant growth.
Suspended Solids
The computation of SS concentration of the reservoir was conducted based on the hydraulic
data of eight (8) years (1991-1998) from similar sites, and the results showed that the SS in
the discharged water is obviously lower than the SS of inflow since most SS would settle in
the reservoir. It was shown that particles of SS less than 10 μm would be suspended and
maintained in the reservoir for a few months. In this computation, the fine particle size
distribution at the site was assumed as 30% of less than 1μm and 20% of 1-5μm.
The SS concentration was computed and the result showed only about 10 mg/L to 20
mg/L of SS in the discharged water to downstream (Figure 7-19). This is less than one-tenth
of the SS concentration in the water at present, before the project is built. SS settling is a
major factor that would reduce nutrients for primary producer and consumers downstream.
Jiménez-Montealegre and et al, 2002 c oncluded that total solids sedimentation was highly
correlated (P≤0.01) to fish weight and biomass, chlorophyll -a and total suspended solids 5.
After the dam is built, the reduction of nutrients downstream because of reduced SS could
occur, and aquatic lives could be affected by food depletion.
5
Ricardo Jiménez-Montealegre, , Marc Verdegem, Jorge E. Zamora and Johan Verreth. Organic matter
sedimentation and resuspension in tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) ponds during a production cycle.
Aquacultural Engineering. 26(1), 2002, Pages 1-12.
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1991 1995
300 300
250 250
200 200
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
1992 1996
300 300
250 250
200 200
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
1993 1997
300 300
250 250
200 200
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
1994 1998
300 300
250 250
200 200
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
50
40
30
20
10
The sedimentation at the dam would also imply reduced levels of dissolved phosphorus
(P-PO4) concentrations, total phosphorus (TP) concentrations, nitrate (N-NO3) and
ammonium (N-NH4) downstream during normal operation. However, during the early stage
of inundation, the nutrients trapped in the reservoir could be a source for algal bloom.
The most critical period of the project in terms of downstream water quality will be when
the impounded water is first discharged. Water pollutants from point sources as well as none-
point sources of agricultural drainage and open defecation that have accumulated under
anaerobic conditions will certainly affect the water quality downstream. G iven that
pathogens such as bacteria that are waterborne diseases and contaminates in the deposit
sediment can also be released along with sediments, steps need to be taken to monitor for and
educate local people about hygiene to prevent waterborne diseases.
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The engineering practices should include the installation of sanitary toilets and animal
manure pits in communities near the reservoir, as well as educating local people on improved
sanitary practices to prevent nitrogen loads in the dam. Environmental study and monitoring
programs including studies of stratification at the dam and assessment of nutrient loading
capacity upstream and downstream during the operation need to be conducted. Indirect
impacts on w ater quality during dam operation such as increased water temperature and
conversion of lands around and near the reservoir to agriculture or other non-forest or non-
natural conditions as a non-point source to the water quality of the dam need to be taken into
consideration in the environmental study and monitoring program.
Engineering works will be designed to comply with the agreed water quality standards at
various points in the purpose-built system, including the point of release into the Nam Ngiep
River below the regulating dam site, and releases from the Nam Ngiep downstream into any
natural watercourse or location of use. The water quality standards are set in order to assure
that beneficial uses of the water are maintained. The project owner and head construction
contractor will be responsible to mitigate direct and indirect impacts on pe ople and
aquatic/terrestrial species through alternative means if water quality standards are not met.
The project owners and the operators must also conduct water quality monitoring,
especially during the first years of the operations phase, in order to control the quality of
discharge of water at the dam site and through the turbines.
The first period of releasing impounded water is very vital to aquatic life downstream. Its
flow and load information is of prime importance on water quality for the receiving water
downstream. A grievance procedure is required so the developer can receive complaints and
take action immediately if the water quality downstream is not suitable for fish and leads to
the death of fish. The immediate response to the complaints should be sending staff to
observe by sight the dead fish and to measure the DO level. Other responses such as
compensation for lost livelihoods from the loss of fish or aeration at the discharge point shall
be implemented.
Based on the availability of the data, it is not practical to forecast the recovery period in
accordance with “Water Quality in Hydroelectric Projects: Considerations for Planning in
Tropical Forest Regions, Camilo E. Garzon, World Bank Technical Paper No.20, April 1984”
as recommended by A DB. It presents that assuming recovery at 10% of the initial
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concentration value (e.g. mg/l), seven years would be required for complete renewal of the
water mass.
Nevertheless, the EIA Report also presents the result of soil analysis from various villages
in the project area. It was shown that the organic matter content at Ban Hat Gniun is in range
from 1.21 t o 4.24%. To calculate the oxygen demand for organic release rate from ground,
the medium value of 2.75% would be adopted.
The following assumption applied in Nan Thuen 2 P roject also would be adopted for
calculation:
= 33 ton
According to the EAMP for Nam Theun 2 Hydroelectric Dam Project, Annex G,
Approximately 47% of the carbon should be consumed in methane production (Wetzel, 1983)
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and another 15~20% of total carbon should be degraded anaerobically to Carbon dioxide
(David Hamilton, 1997) Based on this study, approximate 35% of carbon would be left so
that the calculation is = 33 ton/ha x 35%
As a result, the oxygen demand to be required for organic content in ground is,
= 1,155 x 32/12
= 3,080 g/m2
where molecular weight of carbon (C) and carbon dioxide (CO2) is 12 a nd 44,
respectively, for mineralization process.
Therefore, during 7 ye ars of recovery period, the daily oxygen demand (for ground) is
equal to = 3,080/7/365
= 1.2 g/m2
Due to the data limitation, oxygen demand for biomass above the ground could not be
estimated. However, it is anticipated that timber logging and vegetation clearing is the
preferred option so the calculation would not be applied at this time.
The operation phase does not have major activities that can create dust; hence, adverse
impacts from dust are not likely after the operation phase begins. During operation, the
hydropower project is widely accepted to be air-quality friendly. Air pollution is, then,
expected to be very limited, caused more by vehicles traveling to and from the site than from
any direct dam-related activities.
The possibility of having contaminated sites during project operation will be low since only
few hazardous materials such as flammable fuels and pesticides will be used. In the operation
phase, there will be very few vehicular movements related to the operational and maintenance
work of the dam within the project area, thus only small amounts of fuels and petroleum
products will be required. Some pesticides and fertilizers may be used for landscape control
and maintenance. These chemicals may be contaminated if they are over used and improperly
stored. Meanwhile, this contamination would be limited only to the areas where applied.
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• The users of the pesticides and fertilizers must follow proper application
methods.
2) Spillage prevention
7.3.1.8 Hydrology
Normal High Water Level (NHWL) is a factor controlling the scale and benefits of the
project. The recommended level was +320.00 EL m. Because the power generation strategies
which have to meet the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), the consultant has studied only on
the operating strategies such as peaking and intermediate peaking hours per day. The criteria
for selecting the NHWL are as follows:
The catchment area at the dam site was estimated to be 3,700 km2 with natural average
annual discharge of 148.4 m3/s or 4.68 billion m3. The design specifications of the Nam
Ngiep 1 Hydropower Project for operation are shown in Table 7-11.
The maximum monthly natural flow was about 483 m3/s. Due to the project operation
according to the Kansai study, the flow will be changed to be 405 m3/s. Design flood with a
1000-year probability was 5,210 m3/s. After completion of dam construction, monthly
outflow in dry season will decrease and those in rainy season will increase because the main
dam reservoir can regulate the discharge between seasons.
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2) Riparian Release
Riparian release was included into the calculation. Cases of specific discharge of 0.15
m3/s/km2 for Nam Ngiep1 (Table 7-11) is adopted, and the minimum discharge after the
initial impounding should be 5.5 m3/s.
Spillway gates would be operated during the flooding period in accordance with the
spillway gates operation rules to minimize the downstream impacts. Before operating the
spillway gates, information regarding expected water level increase would be disseminated to
downstream area in accordance with the spillway gates operation rule and the emergency
action plan.
3) Weekly Operation
The maximum reservoir elevation of the main dam is EL 320.0 m. and the minimum
operating level would be at EL 296.0 m. Drawdown of the reservoir normally occurs during
the dry season, with filling occurring during the wet season. During periods of high inflow
the maximum reservoir elevation could be achieved, resulting in water discharge through the
spillway gates. The discharge of normal operation of the main power station was designed at
16-hour peak generation on weekdays and Saturday. There is to be no operation on Sundays
except during the rainy season.
Operations staff will operate the main power station in accordance with the operations
manual. The maximum discharge through the turbines at the main dam is indicated at 230
m3/s. The electricity generated at the main power station will be delivered to EGAT by t he
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230kV transmission line and common 500kV transmission line through the substation located
in Ban Nabong. The re-regulation power station could provide maximum power of 18 MW
for domestic supply when the maximum discharge is controlled at 160 m3/s.
If floods exceed the design flood, an EAP are proposed to mitigate such an event.
Impacts could be minimized by t he provision of adequate information and by good
communications between the project staff and the local residents.
• Downstream
The possible impacts from project discharge are changes of water levels, water
velocity and backwater effect at the confluence of Mekong River.
These can be considered a positive impact to the area at the confluence of Mekong
River because the dam and reservoir will control most of the rainy season flow of the Nam
Ngiep. Flows during the rainy season will be lower with the dam than they are naturally. As
a result, the reservoir, dam, and re-regulation dam will lead to reduction of flooding at the
confluence of Mekong River.
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During the wet season, water level from the re-regulation dam to the confluence of the
Mekong River will change. The level of the river downstream will decrease in a range of 0.5
to 0.7 m during July and August because of re-regulation dam operations. The downstream
that would be affected by the decreasing levels will be the area between km 0 to km 22.53
from the re-regulation dam in August and between km 0 to km 27.33 in July. During the
lower water levels, more sections of the river will be narrower. The biggest reduction of the
river width is expected at km 17.74 with decrease in width of 16.35 m in June. Water velocity
will have its maximum decrease in July and August, at about 0.2 m/s lower than the natural
water velocity.
In the dry season, the dam operations will contribute to about 0.5-0.7 m higher water
levels than under natural conditions. This can be considered as a positive impact for the
downstream, since there will be increased flow even during the drier periods. The higher
water levels will occur over almost the entire downstream segment of the river during March
and April. The river width will also expand during the dry season. The increasing width of
the river can be greatest, with an increase of 31.77 m compared to the width under natural
flow without the dam. This will occurs at km 21.64 in May.
This change in water level, river width, and water velocity during wet season will be
minor since the operating discharge was planned to comply with natural conditions over 30
years.
The backwater effect during peak floods is a concern of local people living
downstream, especially those in Pakxan (Public consultation in Pakxan dated on April 22,
2008). According to the Hydrological Study and Water quality modeling results, it is clearly
that the construction of the NNHP-1 should reduce the possibility of flooding at Pakxan since
the release from the proposed dam to Mae Khong River during the wet season should be
lower than natural flow in order to store water for power generation in the dry season. The
water level of Ngam Ngiep River at downstream of the dam should be equal or lower to the
condition before the construction during June to September (wet season) and the water level
there should be higher during December to May (dry season). On the other hand, the
construction of the proposed dam will reduce the risk of flooding at Pakxan since the released
flow from Nam Ngiep river which is a main tributary is reduced during flood prone season.
The irregular floods of communities located along the Nam Ngiep River near Mekong
River, however, could be misunderstood to be caused by flows from the Nam Ngiep, in fact,
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they are almost entirely due to fluctuations in the Mekong River. Effective information and
communication plans should be established for downstream communities. Potential causes of
any flooding around Pakxan should be disseminated thoroughly to the people in the area.
Moreover, to confirm this fact, water measurement station at the downstream of the second
dam (re-regulation dam) should be closely monitor following the construction, and
information regarding water flow and its level should be disclosed to the public.
• Project developer must install staff gauge of water level along the river
downstream from proposed dam site especially areas of the communities to let
local people aware of the water level.
• The time it will take for any floods to travel along the river downstream from
the dam must be forecast, and local residents must be informed.
• A flood warning system must be installed in the river between the dam to the
first main tributary.
• Information on water level analysis must be available to the public at all times,
so people can prepare themselves for the periods of higher and lower flow. In
case of extreme events, the project must inform people of the expected time
and duration of extreme low flows or extreme high flows.
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dam operations, the developer has to compensate the local people for the
losses.
There will be continuous impacts from construction phases that will carry forward to
project operation phase. A s such, the appropriate mitigation measures recommended are
provided as follows:
• Strict rules against logging outside the approved construction areas and
wildlife hunting and poaching will be imposed on project staff, workers, and
all contractors and others engaged by or otherwise involved with the Project,
with penalties levied on anyone caught carrying and using fire arms, or using
animal snares and traps, including dismissal and prosecution under the laws of
the Lao PDR. The project owner and operator shall be directly responsible for
dissemination to its staff and workers of all rules, regulations and information
concerning these restrictions, as well as the punishment that can expected if
any staff or worker or other person associated with the project breaks these
rules and regulations.
• The project should develop a wildlife protection plan linked with the forest
management plan (including compensatory reforestation program), which
aims to manage and protect the forest and wildlife in the watershed area.
Participatory Integrated Conservation and Development (PICAD) will be
applied for the management of forests and wildlife in the watershed area.
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Water levels in the Nam Ngiep River depend mainly on s eason rains. Near the confluence
with the Mekong River, water levels also depend on flows of the Mekong. Water levels are
high in the wet season and low in the dry season. Turbidity and availability of natural fish
food are high in the wet season and low in the dry. Spawning normally occurs during the wet
season. L ocal residents fish mostly during the beginning and the end of the rainy season,
when fish are abundant.
Because of the decay of organic matter in the reservoir, water quality will be adversely
affected in the first years of inundation, as described in the section on Water Quality above.
This will have adverse effects on aquatic species in the reservoir and downstream from the
dam. The water and sediment during this period will generate gases that are toxic to fish and
other aquatic species.
Because the river has been impounded, the dam will block migration routes of some fish
species that might migrate downstream to upstream and or upstream to downstream for
feeding, spawning and or other purposes during their lifespan.
During this period, the operations staff will produce wastewater and solid waste, though a
much lower total amounts than during construction when about 1,800 people are being
engaged. Even so, the wastewater and solid waste produced by the operations staff should be
treated and disposed to avoid polluting the river.
After dam closure, all migratory fish will face a permanent barrier to their migration
paths. Water quality in the reservoir, especially in the years immediately following first
inundation, will be critical to maintaining productive fisheries. Reservoir water quality at the
time of first inundation will depend largely on the amount of biomass, particularly rapidly
decomposing soft-biomass, within the reservoir basin and the extent of stratification of the
water column creating anoxic conditions. Kansai has predicted dissolved oxygen in the
reservoir after construction will be 3.5 – 6.0 mg/l in between September to the end of
November, compared to 8.8 – 8.9 mg/l in the natural river. This reduced level dissolved
oxygen will be caused by an annual reservoir turnover, and it will lead to significantly stunted
fish growth, even if occurring for a short period.
Adaptation to new conditions like those that will be found in the reservoir will be the
main challenge for some species, especially of small cyprinids, that will need new habitats for
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their spawning and feeding for the young. T his is likely to be the case for Cirrhinus
molitorella, Poropuntius sp., Puntius brevis, Onychostoma sp., Hampala dispar, Labeo
erythropterus, Hemibargrus wyckioides, Neolissochilus blanci, Scaphognathops theunensis,
Chitala lopis. A fisheries management program should introduce and maintain indigenous
fish populations by finding new breeding and feeding habitats in after the construction phase,
both in the reservoir and in other parts of the river.
Effects of impoundment on aquatic biology in the NNHP-1 reservoir will likely be similar
to what has occurred elsewhere in Lao PDR and in other tropical conditions. T he organic
loading in the first years of inundation will be high, which can promote the growth of
plankton and benthos, and these in turn can increase production of fish.
All fish found in the Nam Ngiep River are either species common to the Mekong River or
common to mountainous waters. T hey are all potamodromous. When part of the river
becomes blocked and turned into a reservoir, habitats for fish will also change, especially
spawning grounds. T his may lead to decreased fish populations. H igh priority should be
given to fish enhancement programs.
Fishing zones, conservation zones and preservation zones (spawning grounds) should be
considered in the reservoir according to the data obtained from monitoring.
New settlements, clearing of new agricultural lands, and establishment of factories around
the reservoir area should be prohibited.
Rapidly decomposition of soft biomass in the reservoir at the time of first inundation will
cause stratification of the water column creating anoxic conditions. P oor water quality
caused by an annual reservoir turnover in December-January for 3 up to at most 5 years may
cause harmful to fish and reduce aquatic productivity. Artificial circulation systems are
usually considered economically unfeasible for a reservoir such as this. Mitigation measures
are thus limited to biomass removal before inundation and reservoir storage management
until the first year, when the problem of poor water quality may be spread downstream.
In the event of insufficient biomass clearance and rapidly deteriorating water quality, one
option is to release poor quality water from the lower levels of the dam. Appropriate
countermeasures are needed if monitoring shows significant deterioration of water quality.
These countermeasures should ensure maintenance of aquatic life downstream from the dam.
Apart from harmful to fish just after the dam closure due to the habitat change and by low
water quality caused of pollution, some of the river fish might thrive initially in the new
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lacustrine conditions. For these species, the tributaries flowing into the Nam Ngiep above the
dam may prove to be important new spawning and feeding areas. If this is found to occur,
those new areas should be protected.
Downstream area
Maintaining the seasonal flow of water in the areas downstream from the dam will be
important to help maintain the fish and other aquatic resources. To minimize downstream
fisheries losses, a minimum amount of water discharge should be ensured. According to the
results of the hydrology models by K ansai, downstream water levels during the project
operation will vary ±0.65 meters from the levels in the natural river flow. This operating
condition should be sufficient to minimize downstream fisheries losses due to changes in
water level.
Aquatic biology in the newly formed reservoir and in the downstream should be
monitored every year of the construction phase. During the operation period, monitoring
should be done twice each year, once in the dry season and again in the wet season, starting
from year 2 unt il year 10. A fter then, fisheries resources should be sufficiently stabilized,
and monitoring can be done once every 3 years. The aquatic life to be monitored include
plankton organisms, benthic invertebrate animals, aquatic weeds and fish.
1) Conceptual Approach
The purpose is to increase yield and promote fisheries occupation. The fishery survey
found 42 fish species from the sampling stations along the Nam Ngiep River which is the
tributary of the Mekong River in the LAO PDR. Several species are significant for their size
and known as white migratory fish (undertake long-distance migration, in particular between
lower floodplain and the Mekong mainstream). Most fish species depend on different habitats
at different stages of their life cycle and at different seasons of the year. During the flood
season, most fish species take advantage of the flood plains for feeding, breeding and rearing
of young fishes. The construction of barriers acts as a physical to migrations, spawning
ground change, lead to decrease fish population and production.
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2) Scope
To sustain the fisheries resources in the reservoir and downstream area, fish
enhancement program is required with the Fisheries Management Program. To reach the
goal, 2 major fields of activities are required, which constitute the core program of fisheries
enhancement program
The propose area are on both upstream and downstream of project area for additional
fish survey and fish stocking program will be only in the future reservoir.
3) Objectives
• Additional fish surveys to be organized the river system of the upstream and
downstream area. This should provide a detailed baseline data on fish
occurrence, productivity, migration compatibility with potential species to
stock.
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5) Duration
Additional fishery survey will be 3 years continuously after impoundment and the fish
stocking will be throughout the project operation period.
6) Expected results
To ensure that the project will cause minimum impact on fish production, high yield
of fish will be promoted in order to increase the productivity and Nam Ngiep reservoir will be
one of the major fisheries resources in the area.
A summary of key environmental impacts for the construction and operation phase, together
with recommended mitigation measures, are provided in Table 7-12 and Table 7-13.
A detailed description of potential environmental impacts, environmental management plan,
and monitoring programme are given in a separate document, namely, the Environmental
Assessment and Management Plan (EAMP).
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Table 7-12 Summary of Anticipated Impacts from the Project and Mitigation Measures - Pre-Construction and Construction Period
Magnitude
and Level
of Impacts
Environmental Nature of Concerned Activities
Impact Area Proposed Mitigation Measures
Aspects Impact (that would cause impacts)
Medium
High
Low
Physical Environment
Topography Changing on Modification of landscape • Dam and other • No mitigation measure is needed that relate solely to changes in topography
Topography civil works area but limitation of works only construction boundary should be conducted.
• Access routes and
adjacent
Meteorology Not expected Reservoir clearing and Reservoir • Limitation and controlling the dispersion of dust created by site preparation
burning (if any) activities.
Geology, Landslide and Earthquake and Seismic Project area • Take into account with all geological survey data at design stage
Landforms and rock movement events • Continuous monitoring and investigation after project commencement
Seismology
Erosion and • Erosion on • Site clearing Project area • Land clearing activities during dry period should be performed as much as
Sedimentation disturbed • Excavation works possible.
area • Slope stabilization • Best practices for excavation and working in riverbed should be conducted.
• Increased • Underground works • Limitation of land disturbs activities only in design construction boundary.
sediment • Stockpiled should be separated and stabilized.
load in the • Appropriate drainage should be implemented.
environment • Erosion and Sediment Control Plan especially during the wet season should
be developed and implemented.
• Appropriate standards of drainage works, sediment traps, diversion,
culverts and other structures designed to treat water before discharge into
natural and/or constructed watercourses should be conducted.
Reservoir and Increasing of Discharge of wastewater River • To provide designate wastewater treatment facilities.
river water pollution into from worker camps • On-site toilets at working areas and toilet facilities at worker camps should
quality the environment be installed with adequate number of workforce
• Direct discharge of wastewater into natural receiving water is not allowed.
Release of contaminants River • To provide designed contaminants treatment facilities for each significant
into water during construction sites.
construction
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Magnitude
and Level
of Impacts
Environmental Nature of Concerned Activities
Impact Area Proposed Mitigation Measures
Aspects Impact (that would cause impacts)
Medium
High
Low
Reservoir and Increasing in sediment load Downstream • To conduct best practice in management of earthworks
river water downstream • To provide designed settling ponds for sediment settling before release to
quality environment.
• Implementation of mitigation measures for erosion and sedimentation
control is strictly required.
Noise and Noise of • Cutting and land Ban Hat Gniun • Appropriate and sufficient PPE for noise protection shall be provided to all
Vibration construction excavation workers.
activities • Moving of equipments • Sound-control devices on equipments should be maintained in good
impacts to • Material transportation Communities condition.
surrounding area • Blasting works • Construction activities that may generate harmful noise should be limited
only in day time, e.g. 6 am to 7 pm.
Worker Camps • People shall be warned in advance with blasting works.
• Trespassing to the blasting area shall be strictly control.
Vibration of Blasting Communities • To assure that blast-related vibrations and keeping of air blasts at offsite
construction residential and other occupied structures are as low as possible.
activities • Measured on the ground adjacent to a residential or other occupied
impacts to structure should be implemented
surrounding area • Monitoring records of air blast and vibration should be documented in
detail.
Air Quality Increased dust • On-site machinery (off- • Quarry sites • Minimize dust generating activities.
particles and road emissions) • Crushing and • Keep stockpiles for the shortest possible time.
fugitive dust • Land clearing and Batching plants • Dust suppression system to minimize dust from construction activities and
into atmosphere excavation activities • Road construction transportation should be implemented.
• Construction activities areas • Machinery and dust generating activities should be located away from
(e.g. quarry, crushing • Embankment and sensitive receptors.
plant) channel • Best practice such as vehicles cleaning and routine maintenance should be
• Road traffic on unsealed construction implemented for all project equipments and machineries
gravel road surface • Haulage of
• Underground activities materials
• Construction of
worker camps
• Communities
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Magnitude
and Level
of Impacts
Environmental Nature of Concerned Activities
Impact Area Proposed Mitigation Measures
Aspects Impact (that would cause impacts)
Medium
High
Low
Potential Contaminated of • Chemical storage Project area • Avoid operation of the proposed quarry site and solid waste landfill near
Contaminated chemical and • Drum reconditioning or the river.
Sites hazardous into recycling • Register and record all of potentially hazardous chemicals and waste with
environment • Electric transformers their movements.
• Explosive product and • Appropriated training should be conducted for all workers responsible for
storage handling hazardous waste.
• Landfill operation • Best practice and emergency response procedure will be developed and
• Pest control implemented for all construction site.
• Petroleum product and • Warning/safety signs and rules must be located in the most appropriate
oil storage places.
• Trenches should be provided to divert contaminated runoff to a designed
precipitation pond.
Hydrology Change in flow • Construction of the Dam Downstream • River diversion works shall be constructed during low flow season.
during and Diversion • In case of floods, the construction contractor must prepare emergency plans
construction of and procedures to release excess water in ways that will not affect
Dam downstream communities.
• The possibility of flash floods during the rainy season should be included in
safety plans during construction period.
• Warning system on water level fluctuation must be installed at major
locations/communities downstream of the proposed dam site.
Change in flow • Reservoir impoundment Upstream • To complete the resettlement activities according to Resettlement Action
during Reservoir Plan and national standards.
impoundment • Public consultation with local residents must be conducted frequently.
Downstream • Training should be given to local residents in downstream communities to
provide public readiness in case of emergency situations.
• Public consultation with local residents must be conducted frequently.
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Magnitude
and Level
of Impacts
Environmental Nature of Concerned Activities
Impact Area Proposed Mitigation Measures
Aspects Impact (that would cause impacts)
Medium
High
Low
Biological Environment
Terrestrial Disturbance of • Temporary and Upstream area, • Conduct updated biodiversity study to identify species the specoes that will
Ecology/Wildlife wildlife permanence access road Reservoir and be directly impacted by the project and unable to adapt to the new
through the forest areas downstream area environment created by the impoundment of the reservoir and the
• Reservoir clearing modifications upstream and downstream.
• Reservoir impoundment • Wildlife protection team will be established to protect and rescue wildlife
during inundation period.
• Wildlife specialists should be engaged to collect more detailed data
concerning the existing wildlife species in the project area, and how these
species will be affected during construction and operations.
• Strict rules against logging outside the approved construction areas and
against wildlife hunting and poaching will be imposed on project staff,
workers, and all contractors and personnel engaged in or associated with
the Project, with penalties levied for anyone caught carrying and using fire
arms, or using animal snares and traps, including fines and dismissal, and
prosecution under the laws of the Lao PDR
• The project owner shall be directly responsible for dissemination to its staff
and workers of all rules, regulations and information concerning these
restrictions, as well as the punishment that can expected if any staff or worker
or other person associated with the project violate rules and regulations.
• The remaining forest areas in the catchment, and especially in those areas
close to reservoir, a forest and wildlife conservation and management
program considered as a biodiversity offset measures need to be
implemented.
Forest, Loss of some • Reservoir and sites Reservoir and all • To complete the detailed survey of tree species that shall be removed
Vegetation valuable forests clearing construction areas • Regulations and Laws related to forest shall be considered and implemented
Cover and timber • Trees cutting and • Compensation shall be applied according to Resettlement Action Plan
species removal • Forest protection and management (including compensatory reforestation
• Reservoir impoundment program) shall be carried out in the watershed area (or catchment area) as
discussed in the Watershed Management Plan
Aquatic Biota Decrease of fish • Earth works that may River • To avoid/minimize releasing sediment load into the river, e.g. using nylon
population produce sediment screens to minimize sediment from steep slope releasing to the river.
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Magnitude
and Level
of Impacts
Environmental Nature of Concerned Activities
Impact Area Proposed Mitigation Measures
Aspects Impact (that would cause impacts)
Medium
High
Low
adding to water turbidity • Cofferdam and diversion tunnels shall be conducted to allow water in the
• Establish of worker Nam Ngiep continual and free flowing to the downstream, as it did prior to
camp impoundment
• Fishing and using of illegal fishing gear anywhere along the river should be
prohibited.
Table 7-13 Summary of Anticipated Impacts from the Project and Propose Mitigation Measures - Project Operation Phase
Magnitude
and Level
of Impacts
Environmental Concerned Activities
Nature of Impact Impact Area Proposed Mitigation Measures
Aspects (that would cause impacts)
Medium
High
Low
Physical Environment
Meteorology • Localized changes to The creation of a reservoir Localized climatic • To develop water quality model for prediction and further planning.
ambient air and inundation of forest condition • Adequate recording of meteorological data shall be conducted
temperatures and area continuously during operation.
relative humidity, and
water temperature at
downstream
• Changing on the rates
and intensity of haze
and fog
• Increased down slope
winds
• Changing of cloud
base creation or
suppression
Geology, Reservoir-induced The creation of reservoir Reservoir • Routine inspection of dam structure is recommended, particular after
Landforms and earthquake / Geohazards that exert pressure to cause initial storage of water in the reservoir
Seismology an earthquake
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Magnitude
and Level
of Impacts
Environmental Concerned Activities
Nature of Impact Impact Area Proposed Mitigation Measures
Aspects (that would cause impacts)
Medium
High
Low
Soil • Low level of soil Agricultural production Resettlement sites • Improvement in soil fertility should be considered.
fertility • Crop management should be conducted.
• Unsuitable of land • To prevent loss of soil nutrient with appropriate erosion control.
form and soil depth
Erosion and Soil erosion in the Increasing of agricultural Watershed area • Watershed Management Plan should be implemented.
Sedimentation watershed area
Build up of sediments in The creation of reservoir Reservoir area • Erosion and sedimentation control plan should be implemented.
reservoir
Erosion occur along the Regulating water release Downstream • Regularly monitoring of riverbank erosion should be implemented.
riverbank will alter the characteristic
of water flow and scorching
effect on the river bank
Reservoir and Increased organic matter Decaying of residual Reservoir • To remove as much vegetation from reservoir before impoundment.
River Water and nutrients in reservoir biomass
Quality Release of water with Consequence of decaying of Downstream • To develop water quality model for prediction and further planning.
low dissolved oxygen biomass in the reservoir • Engineering works might be needed if water quality results show
significant deterioration of water quality.
• Water quality monitoring plan should be conducted during the initial
phases of operation.
• Water quality, the amount of suspended solid and its chemical
parameters e.g. mercury contents should also be monitored annually.
Air Quality Not expected Air pollution is caused by Road link to • No mitigation necessary
vehicles traveling to and project area
from the site than from any
direct dam-related activities
Potential Contaminated of Using and storage of Project area • The use of the pesticides and fertilizers must follow proper application
Contaminated chemical and hazardous hazardous materials such as methods.
Sites into environment flammable fuels and • Overuse of hazardous chemicals such as fuels and pesticides and
pesticides fertilizers must be avoided to prevent soil and water pollution.
Spillage of chemical or Project area • Vehicles carrying pesticides and fertilizers for landscaping must be
hazardous materials covered on the route between the storage warehouse and the landscape
site.
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Magnitude
and Level
of Impacts
Environmental Concerned Activities
Nature of Impact Impact Area Proposed Mitigation Measures
Aspects (that would cause impacts)
Medium
High
Low
• Hazardous chemicals must be well sealed and instruction to use shall
be clarified.
Hydrology Flood impact on villages Water level in reservoir is Upstream and • Management of the reservoir water levels should be conducted
and their agricultural above EL 320 m during wet Reservoir area • If flood exceed the design flood, Evacuation Action Plan (EAP) should
lands that are located season be proposed.
above EL 320 m. • Provision of adequate information and interactive two ways
communications between the project and the local communities should
be maintained
Backwater effect at the Project discharge The confluence of • To develop water quality model for prediction and further planning.
confluence of Mekong Mekong River
River
Hydrology Changing of water level Water releasing Downstream • Water levels at major locations/communities, especially downstream
and water flow from the dam site to Pakxan should be monitored continuously.
• Additional monitoring points may be considered if needed.
• Water levels should be regulated as much as possible similar to normal
level prior to project development to avoid negative impacts to the
local residents and to the environment.
• Downstream communities should be informed of the characteristic
change on river fluctuations, and how they can then use the river as
effectively as possible under the new hydrologic conditions.
• Highest water level marker should be install along the river downstream,
especially those that close to communities, should be installed.
• Provide in place flood forecasting system and early warning protocol
for the downstream communities to give an ample time for evacuation
if necessary.
• A flood warning system should be installed in the river between the
dam to the first main tributary.
• In case of extreme events, the project must inform people about the
expected time and duration of extreme low flows or extreme high flows.
• In case of flooding of downstream agricultural areas because of the
failure of dam operations, compensation process shall be provided to
the local people for their losses.
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Magnitude
and Level
of Impacts
Environmental Concerned Activities
Nature of Impact Impact Area Proposed Mitigation Measures
Aspects (that would cause impacts)
Medium
High
Low
• The minimum guaranteed release of water should be provided in order
to protect the various ecological conditions found in the riparian
environment below the intake weirs.
• Operational management of the release discharges shall be monitored.
Biological Environment
Terrestrial Disturbance of wildlife Continuous impact from Upstream area • Strict rules against logging outside the approved construction and
Ecology/Wildlife construction phases ,Reservoir and inundated areas.
downstream area • wildlife hunting and poaching will be imposed on project staff,
workers, and all contractors and others engaged by or otherwise
involved with the Project, with penalties levied on anyone caught
carrying and using fire arms, or using animal snares and traps,
including dismissal and prosecution under the laws of the Lao PDR.
Terrestrial • Wildlife specialists should be engaged to monitor the conditions of the
Ecology/Wildlife wildlife species in the project area.
• Wildlife protection plan linked with the forest management plan, which
aims to manage and protect the forest and wildlife in the watershed
area, should be provided.
Aquatic Biota • Changing of habitats Permanent barrier to fishes Upstream, • Appropriate fish enhancement program should be provided and
for fish, especially migration paths from dam Reservoir area, implemented.
spawning grounds closure and Downstream • Fishing zones, conservation zones and preservation zones (spawning
• Decreasing of fish grounds) should be considered in the reservoir according to the data
populations obtained from monitoring
• New settlements, clearing of new agricultural lands, and establishment
of factories around the reservoir area should be prohibited
• Harmful to fish due to Rapidly decomposition of Reservoir area • Appropriate countermeasures are needed if monitoring shows
anoxic condition soft biomass in the reservoir significant deterioration of water quality eg. additional aeration
• Reducing of aquatic at the time of first structure.
productivity inundation • For fish species, the tributaries flowing into the Nam Ngiep above the
dam may be a new spawning and feeding area. If it occurs, that new
areas should be protected.
Downstream fisheries Project discharge Downstream • Maintaining the seasonal flow of water in the areas downstream from
losses the dam.
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Magnitude
and Level
of Impacts
Environmental Concerned Activities
Nature of Impact Impact Area Proposed Mitigation Measures
Aspects (that would cause impacts)
Medium
High
Low
• Minimum amount of water discharge should be controlled.
• Aquatic biology should be monitored at least twice a year, once in the
dry season and again in the wet season, starting from year 2 until year
10, after that should be done once every 3 year. Aquatic life to be
monitored including plankton organisms, benthic invertebrate animals,
aquatic weeds and fish.
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CHAPTER 8
PUBLIC CONSULTATION
8.1 INTRODUCTION
Public consultation and participation has played and will continue to play key roles in
planning of the Nam Ngiep 1 Hydropower Project. This study has involved the
comprehensive public consultation and disclosure process in accordance with the GOL’s and
standard EIA guidelines.
Public consultation is considered vital to the project’s long term sustainability. Since the
project planning started with the EIA study in 2007 to 2008 by E RIC and NCC, there had
been more than 29 publ ic consultation and participation briefings and meetings, which had
taken place at the villages’ level during data collection.
After revising the resettlement plan based on t he new resettlement site at Houay Soup,
additional village consultation meetings were held for Zones 2UR, 2LR and Zone 3 including
Ban Hat Gniun and Ban Thahuea as host villages.
8.2 METHODOLOGY
Transparency and openness through the dissemination of information should be a priority for
the project in both the development of public consultation plans and in implementation. With
the stakeholders being broadly identified, it has subsequently been the objective of the study
team to understand the views of these groups. There has been a need to plan and develop
appropriate interaction and information sharing techniques for these different stakeholders.
Techniques developed for public consultation were designed to suit the needs of each target
audience. These techniques also required careful consideration in order to meet the
requirements of the diverse and numerous participants involved in this study. The techniques
adopted included the following methods:
• The translation into the Lao language of project documents and summaries.
These were used in particular for local leaders, regional officials and national
stakeholders.
• The use of local project information centers at Vientiane, Bolikhan and Hom
District. These centers enabled the distribution of information about the
project, the collection of feedback from stakeholders, the ability to deal with
inquiries and requests for additional information, and a place to conduct
periodic meetings with village and district representatives. This system
provided access to information for people with questions.
Public consultation activities conducted had been recorded and documented with
summaries provided in the Laos and English languages.
Throughout the public consultation process it had been important to take into account the
following considerations:
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• The structure of local power and authority structures and the need to ensure
that participation in construction activities is not dominated by l ocal
authorities;
Through extensive scoping of issues and a review of preliminary study findings, which have
been subjected to public and professional review, the key stakeholders identified for
consultation for the project are:
• Villagers of the project area who may be affected directly and indirectly by the
project;
• The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and other potential funders ; and
Table 9-1 presents each type of stakeholder within these main categories, what is their
relative priority of interest, whether the project will affect them adversely or provide benefits,
and gives a brief description of their interests in the project.
The purpose of this exercise is two-fold: (1) to assure the concerns of the main
stakeholders, in particular the primary stakeholders, are covered in the EIA, SIA, REMP and
other key documents, and (2) to assure that all the stakeholders, whether primary or
secondary or even external, are included in meetings and other participatory discussions.
Relative
Potential
Stakeholder Priority of Key Stakeholders’ Interests in the Project
Project Impact
Interest
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Relative
Potential
Stakeholder Priority of Key Stakeholders’ Interests in the Project
Project Impact
Interest
Primary Stakeholders
Directly affected people • The comprehensive environmental,
who will lose their property economic, social and cultural impacts of the
or lose livelihood Project.
opportunities due to • What properties and how much property will
inundation of the NNHP1 be affected? Privately owned or public
reservoirs, and/or property?
construction of various • What will they get in return?
Project components • How will the losses be compensated or the
impacts be mitigated?
• Where will they be resettled?
• How will their livelihoods be affected by the
(-)(+) 1
Project?
• Who are the main people responsible or the
people or organizations to contact in case
compensation or mitigations measures are
unsatisfactory?
• Can they take part in the project as workers
or some other capacity?
• What will be their sources of income after
the project?
• Will they still be able to continue their
existing ways of life or livelihoods?
Indirectly affected people, • What will be the impacts of the project?
who are in the same • Can they be certain there will be no direct
communities as some of the impacts to them?
directly affected people, or • Will they also have the right to participate
who share the Nam Ngiep the development programs or other activities
basin of the Project that can provide benefits?
(-)(+) 2
• Is there any chance for them to be hired to
work for the project?
• What will be their livelihoods with the
project?
• Will they still be able to continue their
existing ways of life or livelihoods?
Laborers and other staff • Good living conditions in the workers’ camp
and good facilities
(+) 3 • Adequate protection in hazard prone areas or
protection from hazardous materials
• Sufficient training for the assigned tasks
Village Organizations • Continuation of existing organizational
• Village Headman and arrangements at the new resettlement sites
Deputy • Boundaries and land use of the new villages
• Village Security • Land reallocation criteria and fair application
(Konglon) of the criteria
• Police • Management of newly introduced
(-)(+) 1
• Health Volunteers development projects
(Orsomor) • Priority of participation in the newly
• Lao Youth introduced development projects or activities
• Lao Women’s Union
• Front for National
Construction
Secondary Stakeholders
Developers • The costs
(+)
• EGAT-i • The most economical and practical process
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Relative
Potential
Stakeholder Priority of Key Stakeholders’ Interests in the Project
Project Impact
Interest
• KANSAI • The fastest way to implement the plan
• LHSE efficiently
• Efficient and effective communication with
stakeholders
• Investment profit and positive image
Financiers; • Investment profit and positive image
• ADB • The project is implemented according to the
plan
(+)
• Affected people are adequately compensated
• Integration of the project into the overall
plan and policy of the bank
Government of Lao PDR; • The return of investment to the country
via various line ministries, • Integration of the Project to the National
• Prime Minister's Development Plan 2010-2015 and the
Office Millennium Development Goals
• Ministry of Natural • Minimizing the environmental and social
Resources and the impacts
Environment • Benefits to the local people, distributed
(MONRE) thoroughly and evenly
• Ministry of • Effectiveness of communication between the
Agriculture and Project, GoL authorities, provincial and
Forestry district counterparts, and the affected people
• Ministry of
Communication, (-)(+)
Transport, Post and
Construction
• Ministry of Industry
and Handicrafts
• DOE
• Ministry of Labour and
Social Welfare
• Ministry of
Information and
Culture
• Ministry of Education
• Ministry of Health
GOL Authorities at • Integration of Project and its elements in
Provincial Level: provincial development plans
• Vientiane Province, • Selection and management of personnel
• Bolikhamxay (-)(+) required to help implement and/or monitor
Province, the Project
• Xieng Khouang
Province
GOL Authorities at District • Integration of Project and its elements in
Level: district development plans
• Hom District, • Selection and management of personnel
• Bolikhan District, required to help implement and/or monitor
• Pakxan District, (-)(+) the Project
• Thaphabath • Benefit to the district and local people
District, • Land use and land reallocation
• Pak Ngum District,
• Thathom District
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Relative
Potential
Stakeholder Priority of Key Stakeholders’ Interests in the Project
Project Impact
Interest
External Stakeholders
NGOs and other external • Impacts on environment within Nam Ngiep
stakeholders watershed
• Impacts on environment of the Mekong
(-)(+) River
• Impacts of the Project on local people and
the Lao PDR
• Issues of culture, gender, ethnicity, etc.
Dialogue has been established with stakeholders who are directly or indirectly involved and
potentially affected by the NNHP-1 Project and who are in concern. Consultations at the
local, regional and national levels were well advanced and continue to progress through steps
associated with the public consultation process following:
This initial phase of consultation is aimed at collecting and disseminating information. Data
had been collected on t he human and physical characteristics of the current environment in
order to predict project impacts. This information is important to adequately evaluate and
plan for project implementation. As part of this phase, information was disseminated to
stakeholders that detailed the project features and the implications in terms of potential
changes to the social and physical environment.
Comments were and will continue to be sought from stakeholders in response to information
gathered as part of the phase one studies. This information was disseminated with an ongoing
discussion encouraged regarding the alternatives and proposed mitigation measures. Issues
for stakeholders that may have been previously overlooked or are outstanding are given a
forum for review through public consultation activities. This assessment of stakeholder needs
provides a base from which decisions can be made.
Based on the discussion and subsequent commitments to the community as a result of phase
two for this project, a set of mitigation measures develop that addresses direct project
impacts. In addition, there are concessionary measures provided in terms of education,
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training, financial and institutional strengthening to communities that are directly and
indirectly affected by project activities. The process of stakeholder involvement and
identification will continue during project implementation.
Consultation events were focused around the dissemination of information and public
participation. Some consultations focused around the GOL commissioned study of
alternatives, economic analysis, and the environmental management plan. Accessibility of
information and participation had been enhanced through the establishing of the information
center at each respective district within the affected area of the Project.
The need for participation and involvement at a local level has required attention to
ensure the collection and presentation of appropriate information. This desire to obtain such
information has involved the utilization of village meetings and focus group discussions with
affected people in various project areas. These approaches were adopted to ensure a cl ear
understanding of the existing situation and the cultural and livelihood implications of the
project, as well as providing a forum to inform affected persons about the project and involve
them in project planning.
Local level consultation had utilized various formats to suit the needs of the situation. In all
cases the villagers had been notified prior to the public consultation team’s arrival. Letters
were sent by the staff of the district office to inform village authorities of the pending visits
and to inform residents within the villages themselves. This notification allowed villagers to
adjust their daily activities in order to attend the meetings. All surveys and visits included
presentations and interactive discussions, and the display of graphics, including maps.
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Most staff working on public consultation and participation for the project and the GOL
had been recruited from this region. Furthermore, provincial officials and agency
representatives had an integral part of all policy planning matters alongside Ministerial
representatives. Consultation and participation at the regional level had sought to provide a
forum for the exchange of information and idea between project representatives, the GOL and
regional stakeholders.
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The major topics of discussion of the consultation meetings, and the major concerns of
the participants from Zone 1, Upstream of the Reservoir Area, and Zone 2UR, Upper Section
of the Reservoir Area were:
Environmental Issues
1. Compensation scheme;
2. Resettlement site selection (this option was later ruled out, because resettlement
was to be carried out within the same district or the same province as much as
possible, and all the resettled communities are in Vientiane or Bolikhamxay
Provinces). Wangsai (Phonesai) area and Khetyam areas were on the list of
recommendation;
3. Occupation training;
5. Impact caused by widening of the Nam Ngiep, blocking crossing to the other side
of the river during rainy season. Ban Piengta asked for a small bridge to be able to
let at least hand pushed tractors cross the river;
10. Possible hiring of the un-skilled workers for the project from among the Project
affected people;
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Other issues
• There was question if the Project could support the relocation process and
other facilities to the village. It should be noted that Ban Nakang was already
being moved about 10 kilometers away to Phonhom, a larger village in the
same valley. This was part of the relocation and village consolidation policy
of GOL, to be able to provide better infrastructure and services to rural
communities, and it was being done whether or not there was the NNHP-1
project. Though the households moved 10 kilometers distant, they were still
using their agricultural lands and other resources.
Village Level Consultation Meeting on October 2 to 3, 2011 for 3 villages of Ban Pou, Ban
Hatsamkhone and Ban Piengta
Based on the new census carried out from July to August, 2011, consultation meetings for the
village level were held to inform the villagers of the updated resettlement action plan and to
hear the direct opinions by separate group discussion of women, men and vulnerable people.
So that all the villagers could understand the content and participate in the discussions,
Hmong language was also used in the meetings.
Results of Meetings;
Most of APs agree to the project development with some suggestions and proposals.
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1. The meetings suggested the study team work closely with relevant authorities of
Vientiane Province. Since there were many hydropower projects in the province,
the authorities are well experienced with the process of EIA and SIA studies.
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2. The meeting requested the Developer to confirm the demarcation both in the field
and with the Geological Department to make sure that its demarcation accurately
represents the area where the inundation is to occur.
1. Housing at the new resettlement site should be better than their present structures.
2. The current locations of the 4 a ffected villages in the province are considered
rather high quality sites in terms of access to resources. The new sites should be
at least equal in quality if not better.
3. Consideration should be made for the mental effects of resettlement and worry of
the affected people.
8. Access road to Samtoey, a potential resettlement site, is difficult and probably not
possible to be built.
10. Asking for 3 yrs prior compensation for cemetery and graveyard.
11. The amount of available land in the new settlement sites should correspond to the
current actual amount of land being used.
Other issues
1. Indirect effects, for example: Namyouak, the main rice supply for Phalavaek, will
no longer be available; tax to Hom district will be reduced.
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2. A request was made that 1% of the profits of the project be set aside for the
development of Hom district. However, this cannot be considered by the Project,
since any rule about development funds must come from the GOL.
5. There should concern about local permission for use of local sources of materials
to be used in the construction of the Project, and any agreement on this should be
included or described in the CA
Village Level Consultation Meeting on September 16 to 19, 2011 for 4 villages of Ban
Namyouak, Ban Sopphuane, Ban Houypamom and Ban Sopyouak
Based on the new census carried out in July to August, 2011 and the rejection by the APs of
the previous resettlement sites, new resettlement site plans were prepared. Consultation
meetings at the village level were held to inform the villagers of the updated resettlement
action plan and to hear the direct opinions by gr oup discussion of women, men and
vulnerable people. Because all the households but one are Hmong in these communities, the
Hmong language was used as the main language of the meetings.
Results of Meetings;
The main concerns expressed by the villagers about the new resettlement plan are:
• Suspect that the production land provided by the project may not be sufficient
for agricultural production.
• Until these meetings, the women were not fully involved in the village
meetings, which makes difficult to make decision.
• The villagers are interested in this resettlement plan. Although not all of the
villagers are registered as participating in the meetings, the group discussions
have extended knowledge of the project throughout the villages, and people
are now beginning to understand the project better.
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A series of meetings at the village, district and provincial levels were held in Zones 3 and 4
of the project area. Both these zones are located in Bolikhamxay Province.
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Environmental issues
1. Mitigation measures on water quality, erosion that could affect water uses;
2. Provision of clean water such as groundwater, bored hole wells;
3. Fishery of affected people in downstream area; protection of aquatic life and
possible loss of fishery yield;
4. Mitigation measures for flood protection in downstream areas including
tribitraries;
Social, Resettlement and compensation issues
1. It was suggested that the Project work closely with authorities of Bolikhan district
and Ban Hat Gniun for proposed resettlement site.
Village Level Consultation Meeting on September 25 and 26, 2011 for 3 villages of Ban
Hatsaykham, Ban Hat Gniun and and Thahuea
Based on t he new census carried out in July to August, 2011 and the new resettlement site
plan on Houay Soup as another bank of Ban Hat Gniun, consultation meetings for the village
level were held to inform the villagers of the updated resettlement action plan and to hear the
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direct opinions by gr oup discussion of women, men and vulnerable people. Also, in the
meetings, Hmong language was used for the meetings at Ban Hatsaykham, so the villagers
could understand the contents fully.
Results of Meetings;
Most of APs agree to the project development, but some considerations were raised through
direct consultation meeting, which will be reflected to further development program.
• Planned resettlement site on the left bank (close to Hat Gniun) is easily eroded
due to slope and not suitable for paddy filed due to hilly topography.
• We hear that for villages at 2LR will not approve to resettle if Hat Gniun joins
in the right bank. We want to move to the right bank with four villages,
because we are also Hmong.
• We have developed the right bank from dense forest and have already farmed
part of it, and we are waiting for irrigation.
• My two children cannot read even though they graduated from elementary
school.
• We want to request a residential area close to access road and to build the
school near residential area.
(2) Ban Hat Gniun
Comments by villagers here were:
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Meetings were held in Zone 5, the original proposed resettlement areas, as indicated in the
table below. Note that the meetings in the resettlement area of Hat Gniun were included in
the public consultations for Zone 3.
Although these are no l onger being considered as resettlement areas, the consultation
process is indicated for public record.
Environmental issues
1. The villagers were worried about the availability of agriculture land after
distribution to the newcomers, followed by concern about the availability of forest
resources and wildlife, and also the behavior of the new comers in terms of use
and conservation of the natural resources.
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1. Share land for housing to the new comers up to capacity of the available space.
2. The host village would like to have the right to use or share infrastructure with
the resettled communities, including road, electricity, water supply, school, health
center, village office, village hall, market, bus station, and other facilities.
3. The hosts should have the opportunity to participate in any vocational training
being provided.
4. The development of the resettled communities should follow the policy of Lao
PDR that encourages the integration of small villages into larger ones.
Aside from the formal public consultation meetings, a number of other meetings were held
with key stakeholders and with officials from the GOL for information and consultation. The
dates, locations, and participation in these meetings are provided where possible.
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CHAPTER 9
9.1 RATIONALE
No matter how effective and participatory the consultations, planning, and implementation of
the resettlement, livelihood restoration, and other social and economic components of the
project. With thousands of people affected by the project, there are likely to be at least some
complaints or grievances from PAPs as individuals or as communities, whether on the social
or economic impacts, the environmental impacts, the compensation packages, or the
provision of livelihood restorations and social development programs. Even when there has
been full effort at consultations and transparency, differences can still remain in perception
and expectations, and these may lead to conflicts between the PAPs on the one hand, and the
government, the developer, and those hired to implement the project on the other. A process
is needed to hear the PAPs’ grievances and to resolve them to the satisfaction of the PAPs.
The purpose of the grievance procedure is to ensure that PAPs have the means to assure
they are satisfied they have been adequately protected from adverse impacts of the project, or
if impacts cannot be avoided that they are satisfied they have obtained adequate
compensation and that their entitlements are delivered sufficiently and on schedule. If an
affected person or group or community feels they have not been adequately protected or
compensated, have not received the entitlements due them, or otherwise believe there have
been unfairly affected by the project, that person or group or community has the right to
make a claim. The Grievance Procedure established by the Company will cover both social
issues and environmental issues, since most of the environmental impacts are those that affect
people.
In addition, the Asian Development Bank (ADB), one of the project funders, has
established an Accountability Mechanism if there are violations of ADB’s operational
policies and procedures that result in direct harm to claimants. The ADB Accountability
Mechanism is appropriate for those instances when the harm is due to actions taken by t he
ADB or by t he omission of actions that should have been taken by t he ADB, particularly
those concerning the ADB’s social and environmental safeguards.
Following approval of the Project by t he GOL and before the start of implementation of
resettlement activities, the Project authorities will make a formal request to the GOL for the
PRLRC in each province to establish the Provincial and District Grievance Committees.
These committees will address complaints and grievances made by Affected People
concerning land acquisition, compensation, and resettlement related to Project activities. The
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District Grievance Committees will be given the authority to establish Village Grievance
Committees in those villages that are affected by the project within the district.
• Representatives of PAPs,
• Village head(s),
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The Grievance Redress Process will consist of the steps described below, and indicated in the
following Figure 9-1.
Figure 9-1 Schematic of the Grievance Procedure for the NNHP-1 Project.
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The EMO and SMO of the Environmental and Social Division of the Company and the
RMU should be in regular consultation with affected people and communities, and so be able
to learn at an early stage of any complaints or grievances that may arise. Those Affected
Person or People, Households or Groups (PAPs) with a claim or grievance can also take their
claim or grievance to the RMU. Staff of the EMO and SMO together with their counterparts
in the RMU and the relevant agencies should make every effort to settle the complaints or
grievances, through informal negotiations, discussions, and mediation between the aggrieved
parties and the Project, before those disagreements, to reach consensus at the project level.
These discussions and negotiations must be held in a transparent manner, with proper
documentation, and with any agreements signed voluntarily by all parties concerned.
If the PAP is not satisfied with the decision at the project level, or wishes to initiate the
process at the level of the Village Grievance Committee, the PAP can submit a complaint.
The meeting of the Village Grievance Committee will be held in a public place, no more than
15 days from the date of formal receipt of the grievance. However, sufficient advance notice
should be given to allow for attendance by representatives of the PAP, Company
representatives, and any other interested members of the public. R epresentatives from the
Company must be available to provide any necessary information to the committee on
entitlements, compensation rates, mitigation measures, and any other relevant information
concerning the grievance. T he meetings and hearings of the Village Grievance Committee
must be held in a transparent manner, with proper documentation. The report of the decision
of the Village Grievance Committee must be in writing and must be signed by the members
of the committee. If any members of the committee dissent from the opinion of the majority,
those members can note their dissent as part of the report of the decision. T he aggrieved
party and the Project representatives should also sign and indicate their agreement or
disagreement with the decision.
If either the PAP or the Company is not satisfied with the decision by the Village
Grievance Committee, or if the Project does not abide by the decision of the Village
Grievance Committee, an appeal can be made to the District Grievance Committee. The
appeal can be made directly by the Project or by the PAP, or by the Village Grievance
Committee on behalf of the PAP. Other persons or organizations, such as local NGOs, mass
organizations like the Lao Women’s Union, or other representatives of the PAP, can ensure
that the appeals are forwarded to the District Grievance Committee. The District Grievance
Committee will keep a public log of all claim and grievances it receives, including a
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summary of the decisions made, and must also make public all reports on decisions made by
the committee.
The meeting of the District Grievance Committee will be held in a public place, no more
than 20 days from the date of formal receipt of the grievance. However, sufficient advance
notice should be given to allow for attendance by r epresentatives of the PAP, Project
representatives, and any other interested members of the public. R epresentatives from the
Company must be available, to provide any necessary information to the committee on
entitlements, compensation rates, mitigation measures, and any other relevant information
concerning the grievance. The meetings and hearings of the District Grievance Committee
must be held in a transparent manner, with proper documentation. The report of the decision
of the District Grievance Committee must be in writing and must be signed by the members
of the committee. If any members of the committee dissent from the opinion of the majority,
those members can note their dissent as part of the report of the decision. T he aggrieved
party and the Project representatives should also sign and indicate their agreement or
disagreement with the decision.
If either the PAP or the Project is still not satisfied with the decision made by the District
Grievance Committee, or if the Project does not abide by t he decision of the District
Grievance Committee, an appeal can be made to the Provincial Grievance Redress
Committee (PGRC). The appeal can be made directly by the Project or by the PAP, or by the
Village Grievance Committee on behalf of the PAP. Other persons or organizations, such as
local NGOs, mass organizations like the Lao Women’s Union, or representatives of the PAP,
can ensure that the appeals are forwarded to the PESMC of the province where the PAPs
reside. The PGRC will examine and consider the complaint or grievance in consultation with
representatives of MONRE and the Company.
If the matter is still not resolved to the satisfaction of the PAPs and the Project within 20
days after filing the complaint with the PGRC, the matter can be forwarded to the Court of
Law at the request of the PAPs and/or representatives of local non-profit organizations or
mass organizations or the Village Grievance Committee on be half of the PAPs, or at the
request of the Project. The Court of Law will follow up with relevant authorities to make the
final and binding decision.
In cases that the Project is found responsible for negligence of compensation, the Project
will cover in full all administrative and legal fees incurred by t he PAPs in the grievance
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redress process at the District level, the Provincial and MONRE level, and in the Court of
Law. Claims for such payment should be made by the PAPs to the Project staff of the ESD,
and a copy of such claims also submitted to MONRE for record and information.
The Project will recruit an independent monitoring team to assure that the grievance
procedure is being established and implemented in a timely and appropriate manner. The
hiring of this independent monitoring team will be done with the agreement and approval of
MONRE.
It is in the best interest of all parties that appropriate resettlement activities and mitigation
measures are implemented in time and to the satisfaction of the PAPs, and that an
appropriate, transparent and effective grievance redress mechanism be established, so that
construction works can be carried out without conflict and delay.
Partial funding for the NNHP-1 Project will be provided by the Asian Development Bank
(ADB). E nvironmental and social safeguards of the ADB will also apply to the Project.
Among them is the ADB Accountability Mechanism (AM), which provides access to affected
persons to the ADB’s grievance procedure.
The AM has been set up to allow affected persons the ability “to voice and seek solutions
to their problems and also report alleged violations of ADB’s operational policies and
procedures.” T his is done in two stages. I f a complaint is considered eligible for review
there is first consultation with the stakeholders, to try to solve the problems that they have
raised. If the results of the consultation process are satisfactory to the complainants, it is not
necessary to continue with a compliance review. If the results of consultation process are not
satisfactory to the APs, the ADB’s Compliance Review Panel can recommend to the ADB
Board of Directors the eligibility of the complaint for review. If approved, an independent
investigation is made to ensure project compliance and to recommend any changes in the
project that are needed to ensure that compliance.
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Residents and other stakeholders in the area of the NNHP-1 Project will be informed of
the AM process and provided with a Lao language brochure describing the process and their
rights. A copy of this brochure in Lao and English is provided as Annex B to this report.
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CHAPTER 10
For each of the potential environmental impacts described in the previous chapter, measures
are suggested either to prevent those impacts or to mitigate their effects. T his chapter
presents the various preventative or mitigation measures proposed for the different types of
impacts, the responsible agencies, and where these are not part of the usual construction or
operation activities, the cost estimates and duration of the measures. As with the description
of the impacts, the environmental measures are presented here in two parts: (1) the pre-
construction and construction phases and (2) the operations phase.
The Environmental Management Plan (EMP) will be updated and/or revised, both for
construction and operation phases, to adapt the measures to the prevailing conditions and
monitored impacts during the construction period.
(1) Objective
• To prevent landslides
The slope and geology around the reservoir are not conducive to landslides. Given the
size of the reservoir and the height of the water at the dam, reservoir induced seismic activity
is not expected.
EIA of The Nam Ngiep 1 Hydropower Project Draft Report: Chapter 10
During the initial storage of the reservoir, routine visual inspections should be made to
evaluate the safety of the dam. Routine visual inspections should also be made of the slopes
around the construction area and the reservoir for signs of any landslides.
(1) Objective
• To prevent or limit erosion during construction due to the clearing of lands
and exposure of soil.
• To monitor and report on the planned control measures related to soil erosion,
landslide and rock movements
Erosion and sediment controls and mitigation measures will be undertaken by the
Developer / Contractor / Sub-contractor according to the recommendations in the EMP Sub-
Plan SP01 on Erosion and Sediment Control in Appendix 1 of this report. These include but
are not limited to the following actions.
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Erosion and sedimentation should be controlled during the construction phase of the
power plant. Wherever possible, land clearing and vegetation removal should be conducted in
as small a footprint as possible to ensure as much of the original ground cover is maintained
in its existing condition.
Site specific plans will be prepared for each construction site and will include plans for
monitoring erosion and sediment control. All work plans related to the control of erosion and
sediment will be implemented prior to the commencement of any construction works on the site.
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• Any and all disturbed areas that are not subject to construction traffic will
receive temporary protection and stabilization via means such as erosion
blankets/mats or temporary seeding that is capable of protecting the areas until
permanent stabilization measures are put in place. Therefore, after initial
disturbance or rough grading, all areas subject to erosion should receive
suitable control measures such as a temporary seeding in combination with
straw or a suitable material.
• Soil and spoil removed during the construction process will be stockpiled
separately and stabilization measures implemented. The stockpiles will be
constructed with smooth slopes and free draining patterns. Topsoil stockpiles
will be deep ripped to provide for moisture retention and re-growth. Drainage
and erosion from the stockpiles will be controlled by locating them in areas
away from drainage lines. The erosion of the base of the dump will be
prevented by providing a diversion bank uphill to prevent any runoff from
reaching the pile, and at the same time constructing a silt fence, if necessary,
to contain any runoff resulting from the pile.
• Ridges maybe created on topsoil stockpiles to provide for moisture retention
to assist re-growth and slow runoff.
• Soil and spoil piles will be placed in such a manner that will avoid areas of
drainage lines in order to control drainage and reduce erosion discharge from
the stockpiles. Such piles shall be placed in a manner that does not interfere
with temporary surface flows or established watercourses.
• Potential problems with erosion along the base of waste or soil surplus piles
must be considered in planning the location of such sites.
• Waste or surplus materials shall not be placed in areas subject to potential
flooding and inundation or in manmade or natural watercourses.
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In terms of erosion control as part of the project, the major effort at construction sites will
focus on the management of erosion of excavated surfaces, especially during the wet season
when the volume of runoff is expected to be high. A Site Management Plan which includes a
sub-plan for Erosion and Sediment Control will be prepared by the lead contractor for use at
all the construction sites. It will include environmental management and pollution control
techniques for all areas of activity including drainage measures for underground works. It
will also include a Water Quality Monitoring Plan. The Plan will meet the appropriate
standards and include the development of drainage works, sediment traps, diversions, culverts
and other structures designed to treat water to reach an acceptable quality before discharge
into natural and/or constructed watercourses.
There will be regular monitoring of the control measures, to assure they are up to standard
and follow best practices. As conditions change during construction, revisions will be made
to predicted levels of sediment-related situations that may occur at the project site (such as
soil erosion, landslide and rock movements).
• For monitoring:
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Most of the potential sources of water pollution should be controllable by using best practices
on-site, for example:
• Attention to best practices for earth moving and other heavy works when
working near water courses
Worker camps will need to be provided with potable water and adequate sanitation
facilities including having waste water treatment facilities installed. In order to avoid water
pollution caused by r ubbish and waste, regular waste collection will be part of the camp
requirements. Solid waste should be taken to a managed waste disposal facility. The location
of the temporary and permanent camps and water and waste treatment facilities will be
determined during the detailed design phase after discussions with the contractor and other
stakeholders.
Water quality issues related to construction activities will be managed by the Contractors,
under the monitoring and supervision of the Company, which will check on a regular basis,
the water quality parameters measured by the Contractors by doing its own analysis.
During and immediately after impoundment, the breakdown of vegetation left in the reservoir
area has the potential to cause reductions in water quality due to biological oxygen demand,
oxygen depletion, and release of hydrogen sulfide and methane. It is recommended that the
bulk of the vegetation in the reservoir area is cut, cleared and burned. However, the Company
should ensure that the burnt material should be managed properly to prevent nutrient loading
in the reservoir and downstream areas. The objectives of the pre-impoundment preparation
will be:
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• To improve the conditions for aquatic life and fisheries potential of the
reservoir
• To clear the way reservoir navigation and artisanal and commercial fisheries;
A monitoring program will be carried out to assure water quality is maintained. Samples
will be taken at sites upstream (at least 2 sites – one relatively far from the construction area
and one near the dam site), in the construction area (at least one site), and downstream (at
least 2 sites – one just downstream from the re-regulating dam and another farther
downstream) before the start of construction as the base-line. Throughout and up to the end
of construction, monthly samples will be taken to test the chemical and physical quality of the
water. Some of the chemicals will be tested monthly, while others will be tested once every
four months.(Note: Please provide a map showing the location of the water sampling stations)
(1) Objective
Water quality at selected stations will be monitored (these should be selected from
among the sampling stations used to test water quality in the EIA report, so there is some
continuity of findings and the EIA results can be used as a baseline):
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• The monthly report should present aggregate data in table and format,
accompanied by narrative explanation and interpretation. A separate section
should summarize the water quality situation and changes related to the
project and project activities.
Total yearly budget for Specific Water Quality Monitoring Program: USD $15,300/year
or USD $76,500 for the five years of construction phase
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Vegetation clearing in the reservoir area prior to inundation is critical to the water quality of
the reservoir and downstream during the first years of operation. With less vegetative matter
remaining in the water, there is less organic matter to decay and the water quality will be
better.
(1) Objective
To mitigate the impact of water quality deterioration due to decaying organic matter (i.e.,
plants and forest matter)
The provincial government will be requested to adjust its regional logging plan to give
precedence to commercial logging of the reservoir area and to do so in accordance with the
existing forestry laws and regulations. Upon completion of the commercial logging
operations, contracts will be made available for bidding for timber salvage operations that
remove timber of marginal use from the inundated area. Both the provincial and district
governments will be asked to collaborate with the Environmental Management Unit (EMU)
and Environmental Management Office (EMO) to ensure that these operations are
constrained to the reservoir area. The district government will also be asked to encourage the
collection of all NTFPs by affected villagers from the reservoir area prior to clearing and
burning. Specific expenses incurred by t he government as a result of conducting these
operations will be reimbursed by the developer.
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The final slashing and burning of the reservoir area will commence at the dam wall and
will progress upstream over a three year period. The clearing operation will avoid removing
stumps as disturbed soil may release a far greater amount of nutrients into water courses. This
requirement favors the use of manual labor as heavy machinery tends to push over the
standing timber and attached stumps. The work will be largely undertaken by hand, but heavy
machinery will be used as necessary where remnant timber is too large to be effectively
cleared manually; additionally, machinery may be used after burning where large timber
remnants need to be restacked and burned for a second time.
The clearing operation will maintain a 100m wide buffer zone of vegetation around the
perimeter of the reservoir so that the intact root structure of the trees will help maintain the
structural integrity of the soil embankments and reduce shoreline erosion and wave erosion.
Along the major tributaries, this buffer zone could be reduced to 20m along each bank to
control sediment movement.
A monitoring program will be implemented that involves the District Agriculture and
Forestry Office (DAFO), the village development coordination committee (VDCC), the EMU
and the EMO.
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• Hauling as much as possible of the burnt vegetation residual from the reservoir
area to avoid nutrient loading in the reservoir and downstream.
In order to reduce intrusion into restricted areas outside the projected clearance zone,
strict rules which prohibit poaching and logging outside the approved construction areas will
be imposed on pr oject staff, workers, and all contractors engaged to the Project, with
penalties levied for anyone cutting trees, collecting NTFPs or burning vegetation outside
approved areas. The developer shall be directly responsible for dissemination of all
regulations and information concerned to its staff and employees as well as for any
misconduct made by its staff and workers.
Details of the Vegetative Clearing activities to be carried out by the Contractor are
presented in Section SP11 of Annex 1
Project Developer will have the overall responsibility for the implementation of the
Biomass Clearance Plan through the following: (i) provision of management, planning and
control through EMO; (ii) engaging a Contractor with appropriate technical and management
expertise to clear the proposed reservoir area; and (iii) provide training for clearance team
staff in operations methods, health and safety, UXO surveys and management, physical
cultural resources (PCR) Chance Find Procedures, environmental awareness, etc.
USD $527,125 pe r clearing area; the budget must be prepared during preconstruction
phase
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Most of the noise and vibration issues are easily controllable through best practices. Impacts will
be temporary, during the construction period, and of limited significance, considering that the
dam site is located two kilometers from the nearest village, and distant from forests possibly
still inhabited by wildlife.
(1) Objective
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• Noise sources will be sited as far as possible from villages, construction camps
and settlement areas
• Persons who are subjected to noise levels greater than 80dB(A) may request
noise protection gear to limit damage to their hearing
• Prepare blasting procedures and blasting schedule, and inform and post in all
nearby communities.
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• Keep air blasts at offsite residential and other occupied structures as low as
possible; in no instance shall air blasts, as measured at a r esidence or other
occupied structure, be allowed to exceed the 0.013-psi (133 dB) limit
recommended in USBM Report of Investigations 8485
• Monitor and record air blast(s) and vibration(s) for blasts within 1,000 feet
(330 m) of worker camps and other occupied structures to verify that
measured levels are within the recommended limits at those locations
• Air blast and vibration monitoring shall be made at the nearest offsite
residential or other occupied structure
• Specific locations and distances where air blast(s) and vibration(s) are
measured shall be documented in detail along with measured air blast and
vibration amplitudes.
• Detailed noise and vibration control measures are presented in Section SP08
of Annex 1.
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Most of the air quality issues are easily controllable through best practices, and will be temporary
for the construction period. They will likely have limited significance, given that the dam site is
located two kilometers from the nearest village.
(1) Objective
1) Site planning
Machinery and other dust-causing activities should be located away from sensitive
receptors
2) Construction traffic
• All vehicles should switch off engines when stopped, and vehicles should not
be left idling
• All vehicles should be washed or cleaned before leaving the site if they expect
to be close to sensitive receptors
• Loads entering and leaving the site should be covered if they are expected to
contribute to the creation of particles or dust
• The emissions from construction equipment that result from diesel fuel
combustion are expected to be relatively minor and localized. However,
combustion engines should be inspected on a regular basis and adjusted as
required to minimize pollution levels.
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3) Demolition works
• Use water as needed to suppress dust dispersion by winds
4) Site activities
• Minimize dust generating activities
Emission and Dust Control measures are presented in Section SP07 of Annex 1.
(1) Objective
• To prevent site contamination
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The Developer, Contractor and Subcontractors will be responsible to follow best practices to
avoid contamination of the sites and waters with hazardous waste, explosives, and chemicals.
1) Explosives
Explosives should be registered and stored in locked and guarded facilities located
underground or sufficiently protected by bundi ng, and located close to the areas for use.
Whenever the explosives are moved, the amount, date, and name of user should be entered in
log books at the storage facility and at other critical sites, to the place where it is being used.
Only sufficient supplies of explosive material, adequate for a reasonable period, should be
stored in these facilities, to limit the possibility of any leakage or other accidents.
Explosive boxes should be labelled with an “explosives” sign, and “explosives” posters
should be clearly shown at each site storage facility. Fire fighting equipment should be kept
available next to each storage facility.
The developer, contractors and subcontractors will be responsible for regular monitoring
of the storage and use of explosives. The EMU and EMO will carry out unannounced spot
checks to monitor compliance with safe practices.
All chemicals considered potentially hazardous should be stored safely and registered, so that
the types of chemicals, the quantities being stored, and the amounts being used will be
known. Whenever the chemicals are moved, the amount, date, and name of user should be
entered in log books at the storage facility and at other critical sites, to the place it is being
used.
Acids, coagulants and flocculants should be stored within a separate containment area to
avoid comprising the water treatment facility. A bund s hould be constructed around the
perimeter to contain a spill if it w ere to take place. Acids are also stored at batching plant
sites where they are used to buffer plant effluents before discharge in a stream.
Chemicals to be stored and used on any construction site will be selected, where possible, in
accordance with general best practices and recommendations for environmental conservation.
Pesticides for vector control (i.e., mosquitoes) and for vegetation control will be selected
in accordance with the list of recommended pesticides provided by the EMO and following
the environmental safeguards of the ADB.
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Fuel should be stored safely, in bunded storage yards. There should be registers of fuel
deliveries and fuel disbursements, to reconcile the quantities brought into the site and the
quantities used.
All areas where hazardous materials are stored or used should have separate water
drainage systems so that storm water is collected and contained. Only after being determined
safe can it be released. If determined not safe, it should be treated before being released or, if
that is not possible, collected and discarded according to the hazardous waste management
procedures.
The developer, contractors and subcontractors will be responsible for regular monitoring
of the storage and use of chemicals and other hazardous materials. The EMU and EMO will
carry out unannounced spot checks to monitor compliance with safe practices.
3) Non-hazardous waste
Solid waste will be divided according to combustible solid waste, non-combustible and non-
putrescible solid waste, non-combustible and putrescible solid waste, and hazardous waste.
All non-hazardous waste will be stored and disposed of in accordance with a waste
management plan for each type of waste.
Septic tanks will be installed and other wastewater treatment facilities will be built and
operated to assure all wastewater is treated to safe levels before release.
The developer, contractors and subcontractors will be responsible for regular monitoring
of the storage and disposal of non-hazardous solid waste and wastewater. T he EMU and
EMO will carry out unannounced spot checks to monitor compliance with safe practices.
4) Hazardous waste
Waste oil and other liquid hazardous materials waste should be collected by a liquid waste
removal tanker and disposed of at a safe temporary disposal area for hazardous waste.
All waste considered as potentially hazardous should be registered and labelled in order
to follow up on the type of waste, the quantities generated and stored, and the quantities being
disposed according to the hazardous waste management procedures. Movements to waste
disposal sites will be registered. The information will be logged in a register, which will be
located in each key stage of removal and at the storage sites of the hazardous waste.
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In the event of a spill of any hazardous material, work should cease in the immediate
vicinity and the area cleared of all personnel except those involved in clean-up activities.
All construction activities will be undertaken in a manner that minimizes the generation
of waste as far as practical. This will be incorporated into all construction site planning and
activities.
All hazardous waste should be stored in a single waste storage site, prior to being
transported off site in safe and appropriate vehicles to hazardous waste disposal and treatment
facilities.
The developer, contractors and subcontractors will be responsible for regular monitoring
of the storage and use of chemicals and other hazardous materials. The EMU and EMO will
carry out unannounced spot checks to monitor compliance with safe practices.
Several sections of Annex 1 deal with possible site contamination. These are: SP02 on
Spoil Disposal, SP03 on Quarry and Construction Layout Management, SP05 on C hemical
Products and Spillage Management, SP06 on a n Emergency Plan for Hazardous Materials,
Section SP12 on W aste Management and Disposal, and SP16 on C onstruction of Work
Camps.
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Water Levels
(1) Objective
• To inform the local people about water levels and related issues
• Set up t hree (3) gauging stations: USD $30,000 per station, totaling USD
$90,000
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Flood Warning
(1) Objective
• The possibility of flash floods during the rainy season should be included in
safety plans for the construction sites. Construction materials for both the
diversion channel and the dam structure must be well secured and stored
during the potential flooding season. To avoid any loose construction
materials getting caught in the floodwaters, several mitigation measures must
taken. These should include setting up netting downstream of the dam site to
capture loose materials and floating debris, and for earth and non-floating
material, preparing open spaces or ponds to collect such materials. This is the
responsibility of the contractor.
• Local residents must be kept informed of water level fluctuations so they can
adjust their water transport or navigation plans.
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Aside from relocating remaining wildlife from the reservoir area, the project should also
implement programs to help protect the remaining terrestrial ecology and wildlife. Measures
specifically dealing with forests are dealt with in the following section. T hose concerned
with wildlife are presented here. Two programs should be implemented. The first is program
to rescue, protect and translocate the remaining wildlife left within the reservoir area or
outside the watershed area. The second is a protection program which includes raising the
awareness of people in the project area about the importance and the means to conserve and
protect the wildlife and their habitats.
(1) Objective
To rescue wildlife which might be affected by inundation and relocate such wildlife to a
new location outside the inundation zone as an offset measures to conserve and protect the
project affected biodiversity.
Update of the vegetation and forest cover of the areas impacted by the
project on the basis of the interpretation of satellite imagery and
ground surveys;
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- The Company will need to collect baseline data mentioned above through
field surveys and satellite image study in various project impact areas such
as: (i) inundation area, (ii) downstream of the reservoir up t o the re-
regulating dam, (iii) downstream of the re-regulating dam and (iv)
construction and quarry areas. If wildlife is identified to be in the reservoir
area a detailed wildlife rescue plan should be prepared for the protection of
wildlife and its habitats.
Injured animals that have been identified in the project area will be
rescued and treated.
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• In particular relevant GoL authorities will identify viable and comparable host
ecosystem; located wither within the Nam Ngiep watershed or outside.
• The GoL shall also take necessary actions to ensure that the recommended
measures, including formalizing necessary biodiversity offset for both
terrestrial and aquatic habitats, be effectively implemented in accordance with
the timelines specified in the work plan. The biodiversity offsets will be put in
place before the commencement of impoundment of the NN3 reservoir.
USD $30,000 for survey, USD $80,000 for the rescue and protection of wildlife animals,
USD $10,000 for monitoring (NOTE: FOR NN3PC THE ALLOCATED BUDGET FOR
THE COMPENSATORY REFORESTATION AND B IODIVERSITY CONSERVATION,
OFFSETS AND PROTECTION IS US$3.6 MILLION FOR 9 YEARS – (5 YRS PRE-COD
PLUS 4 YRS POST COD). FOR NNP1 THE TOTAL BUDGET ALLOCATED
INCLUDING THESE SURVEY AND M ONITORING WORKS, TRAINING AND THE
WATERSHED MANAGEMENT PLAN IS US$1.567 MILLION. PLEASE RE-COMPUTE
TO CONSIDER ABOVE MENTIONED OFFSETTING AND CONSERVATION
MEASURES).
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(1) Objective
• Hold meetings with all construction staff and villagers to relay pertinent
information
• Use various media channels - print, radio, and television - to convey the new
regulations to all persons within the project area
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Conserving forest and vegetative cover, replacing forest area lost to the inundation of the
reservoir, and rehabilitation of deteriorated forest areas are all part of the watershed
management plan. These activities will be carried out with the active support of the villages
in the watershed area.
(1) Objective
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Set up targets for resources management in the head water forest area
i.e. area of the forest to be preserved, forest density, and biodiversity.
These targeted resources management areas for conservation and offset
measures should be identified, confirmed and implemented together
with GOL relevant agencies, with NNp1’s financial support.
Encourage and support GOL to establish rules for forest use of the
head water area
Assess forest density and biodiversity, and put up plan to preserve and
manage the watershed through proper financial support.
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o Incorporate village administration structure to the forest and land use plan.
• Maintain water supply for community use – for household consumption &
agriculture purposes;
• Reduce soil erosion, protect topsoil cover, and maintain good soil structure
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Changes in water flow and temperature, and the blocking of the river by the Nam Ngiep 1
Hydropower Project may affect aquatic biota. Given that fish is the main source of protein
and a part of nearly every meal for the people in the villages along the river, it is essential that
the supply of fish be maintained in the river and its tributaries and supplemented by
fishponds.
Two activities will be undertaken to help maintain adequate supplies of fish stock: regular
monitoring of the aquatic biota, and a program create fishponds and to improve fish stock in
the river and its tributaries.
(1) Objective
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Aquatic biota, plankton, benthic invertebrates, aquatic weeds and all applicable fish
species should be monitored yearly starting from the first year and continuing until the end of
the construction phase. Beginning from the start of the operation phase and continuing
through the eighth year of operation, monitoring should be continue to be conducted yearly,
or more often if the aquatic population appears under threat. After that, the monitoring should
be conducted once every three years.
USD $3,000 per test site, total 5 test sites (one upstream from reservoir, one in reservoir,
one immediately downstream from re-regulation dam, one about 10 km downstream from the
re-regulation dam, one about 20 km downstream from the regulation dam): USD $15,000 per
test, for 16 tests: USD $ 240,000 total
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(1) Objectives
• To enhance the supply of fish for household consumption and assure food
security.
o Classify the state of the fish stock of various species over time.
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(1) Objective
The present project description revealed that the dam site, including the areas within the
reservoir and the resettlement areas, has less contamination with UXO than initially
believed. However, measures for survey and disposal of UXO should be conducted to
ensure the safety of all concerned parties. Such measures may include:
• Reporting requirements
UXO specialists will carry out surveys of sites that are to be excavated and will remove
and destroy any UXO encountered, especially within the areas where the map suggests the
possible remains of UXO. Areas that have been given the "all-clear" for construction will be
demarcated. UXO pathfinders will need to accompany the field clearing teams to sweep,
identify, and dispose of UXO. Workers will receive health and safety training, including a
training component on UXO recognition and management.
USD $600,000 pe r clearing area; the budget must be prepared before preconstruction
phase
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To the extent possible, construction activities will be done so as to avoid any physical effect
on known sites of cultural, religious, archeological or historical significance. This includes
remains left by pr evious human inhabitants and unique natural environmental features, as
well as those of importance to current inhabitants.
Key staff, including personnel in the Environmental and Social Division (ESD) will
be trained to identify potential sites or items of cultural significance. Construction workers
will be trained in the appropriate reporting and communication procedures should they come
across any potential an previously unidentified sites or items of cultural, religious,
archeological or historical significance.
If a possible cultural property is reported, the ESD will determine if that site or item has
potential significance. If it is determined to be of potential significance, work within 50 m
radius of the finding will be ceased immediately. The ESD will notify the Developer within
24 hours of such a finding, and temporary fencing or similar protection be placed to mark the
50 m radius of the finding. Experts will be called in to determine if the site or item is of
significance, and if so, whether any additional investigation of that area is needed. No work
will be carried out within that 50 m radius until the expert(s) are satisfied that any other items
of importance have been excavated or that the site has been sufficiently investigated. The
ESD will then inform the Developer that work can commence within that area. Should the
experts determine that further protection of the site is required, the ESD will inform the
Developer and the site be protected as needed. Details of measures to be taken to protect
cultural properties are presented in SP09 of Annex 1.
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The workers and other project personnel will be provided training in prevention of
several diseases, including mosquito-borne diseases, intestinal diseases, and HIV/AIDS and
other venereal diseases. They will also be given training in proper use of sanitary facilities,
use of proper drinking water, and proper disposal of waste.
Workers and other project personnel will be trained in proper work safety measures
and practices. F irst aid teams will be assigned at each of the construction sites in case of
accidents.
Medical facilities will be provided at the project site. A doctor should be available
within reasonable distance from the construction site if an accident occurs or in case of
serious illness.
Measures recommended for the construction of work camps are presented in SP16 of
Annex 1. Detailed recommendations for worker health and occupational safety are presented
in SP17 of Annex 1.
10.2.1.1 Seismicity
(1) Objective
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• To prevent landslides
• The slope and geology around the reservoir are not conducive to landslides.
Given the size of the reservoir and the height of the water at the dam, reservoir
induced seismic activity is not expected.
• During the first years of storage of the reservoir and operation, routine visual
inspections should be made to evaluate the safety of the dam. Routine visual
inspections should also be made of the slopes around the construction area and
the reservoir for signs of any landslides.
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There are two concerns with soil fertility. First is the need to have fertile soils for the
resettlement sites, so the resettled villagers will be able to obtain as much or even higher
yields for their crops than in their original communities. Second is the possible effect of the
dam on downstream communities: although the river does not now have much effect on soil
fertility downstream (there is no seasonal flooding that leaves fertile deposits, and most of the
agricultural land downstream lies well above the river level), it is better to monitor soil
fertility until the water quality in the reservoir and downstream stabilizes, in the even of any
unexpected impacts.
(1) Objective
• Conduct soil survey and collect soil samples on a gricultural lands in the
downstream areas
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• For the soil improvement program: this is part of the Resettlement and Ethnic
Minority Plan
• For the monitoring: USD $10,000 every 2 years, until operation phase year 8
(1) Objective
• Villagers will be trained to help monitor forest use, including illegal logging
which could contribute to erosion and sedimentation.
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The EMU and EMO will conduct occasional monitoring of the land use in the watershed,
to determine areas of greater risk of erosion and sedimentation. These organizations will also
conduct occasional monitoring of the slopes and vegetative buffer around the reservoir, to
assure they are not eroding.
• For the watershed management program: PAFO and DAFO, and the
Environmental and Social Division
For monitoring:
(1) Objective
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The Intensive Water Quality Monitoring Program will last for at least eight years, or until the
water quality has become balanced and stabilized (based upon monitoring of water quality by
the EMU and EMO). There will be frequent tests of several key parameters, and occasional
tests of a broader range of parameters:
• Seasonal Monitoring Plan: After the eighth year of operation, or if the EMU
and EMO have determined before then that the water quality has become
stabilized and balanced under the new hydrological conditions, the routine
water quality monitoring program will be implemented in place of the more
intensive program. The monitoring parameters include physical and chemical
water quality (temperature, pH, conductivity, turbidity, suspended solid, total
dissolved solid), biological water quality (DO, COD, BOD5, P, PO43-, N, NO3-,
NH3), bacteriological water quality (total coliform and fecal coliform), and
Mn; and will be conducted every four months (three times a year.
(4.1) Intensive Water Quality Monitoring Program (short- to medium-term, potentially for
the first 8 years of operation)
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Total annual budget for the comprehensive Intensive Water Quality Monitoring Program:
USD $25,000 /year (or USD $200,000 for the first eight years of operation phase)
(4.2) Routine Water Quality Monitoring Program (after the 8th year of operation, or
whenever water quality has become stabilized and balanced under the new hydrological
conditions)
(1) Objective
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To monitor the quality and other characteristics of the groundwater in areas downstream
from the dam
As noted in the previous chapter, controlled amounts of lubricant, fuels and petroleum
products will be used by a small number of vehicles. Some pesticides and fertilizers will be
used for landscape control and maintenance; exposure would be limited only to the areas
where such chemicals are directly applied.
Monitoring of the use of these materials will be part of the operations procedure for the
project.
10.2.1.6 Hydrology
(1) Objective
• To inform the local people about water levels and related issues
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• The time it will take for any floods to travel along the river downstream from
the dam must be forecast, and local residents must be informed.
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• A flood warning system must be installed along the river between the dam and
the first main tributary.
• Information on water level analysis must be available to the public at all times,
so that people can prepare themselves for the periods of higher and lower
flow. I n case of extreme events, the project must inform people of the
expected time and duration of extreme low flows or extreme high flows.
The Wildlife Protection and Conservation Awareness program will be continued through the
first years of operations.
The clearing and inundation of the reservoir will entail the loss of 125 ha of dry evergreen
forest and 3,089 ha of mixed deciduous forest.
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The areas for compensatory regeneration will partly constitute the planting of woodlots
for the resettlement villages and replacement of areas of degraded forest (unstocked forest).
In some areas modifications to the swidden techniques of the villagers may be introduced,
to have mixed forest and cultivation in a managed regeneration of the cultivated areas.
The Aquatic Biota Monitoring Program and the Fish Stock Improvement and Fishpond
Development Program will continue from the construction phase.
Given that there will also be the Nam Ngiep 2 Hydropower Project and likely other projects
within the Nam Ngiep River watershed that can have impacts on the environment of the
watershed, the NNHP-1 Project should encourage the GOL to establish a Nam Ngiep
Watershed Management Committee to coordinate all efforts that relate to the protection and
management of the watershed.
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CHAPTER 11
ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING
PROGRAM
For all preconstruction activities and during construction and operations, the Developer,
Contractor, and Subcontractors will monitor their activities on a regular basis. For all their
work, the Developer, Contractor, and Subcontractors are to monitor for potential adverse
impacts, including but not limited to those that have been identified by the EIA of this
project, and they are to comply fully with all standards and safeguards.
Another Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan will be prepared for the
Operations Phase (EMMP-O) prior to commissioning of the hydropower project.
Both the EMMPs and the SSEMMPs will provide details the various actions and
measures intended to prevent adverse environmental impacts or, if they cannot be prevented,
to mitigate the adverse impacts. The EMMPs and SSEMMPs will also provide details of the
monitoring procedures: how the monitoring will be done for the various potential adverse
impacts, how and what will be measured or observed, who is responsible for monitoring, and
the frequency of such monitoring. I ndicative examples of environmental monitoring
activities are presented in Section 5.2 be low, based upon t he example of environmental
management sub-plans in Annex A.
To assure the Developer, Contractor, and Sub-Contractors comply with the environmental
standards and safeguards, the GOL will establish an Environmental Management Unit (EMU)
within the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MONRE). The Developer will
also establish an Environmental and Social Division, which will include an Environmental
Management Office (EMO) as counterpart to the EMU. The institutional arrangements of the
project, including these organizations, is presented in Chapter 7 of this report.
The EMU will serve several functions on be half of MONRE: coordinating with other
GOL agencies involved in environmental aspects of the project; carrying out inspections and
monitoring compliance with the environmental measures, standards and safeguards by t he
Developer, Contractor, and Subcontractors; advising MONRE on e nvironmental matters of
the project; and serving as liaison between the GOL and the Lao people as well as any
external organizations and agencies concerning environmental aspects of the project. A key
function will be to hold public consultations on environmental matters.
The EMO will serve as the main arm of the Developer in assuring the project follows the
measures to prevent or mitigate adverse environmental impacts. It is responsible for ensuring
compliance with all the environmental standards and safeguards. This will involve preparing
the environmental monitoring plans for the contractor and subcontractors, assuring these
monitoring plans are implemented, and carrying out its own surveys and regular monitoring
with proper documentation and reporting of the findings.
To effectively manage the environmental performance of the project, the EMO will set up
an Environmental Management Information System to process and record all data -generated
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from the monitoring program, including compliance issues, management decisions and
corrective actions taken. Anticipated documentation to be filed in the system includes:
• Active and obsolete printed versions of the EMP, sub-plans and site plans
• All environmental monitoring reports from EMO and the contractor’s staff
• Quarterly Reports
• Complaints register
• Training materials
• Disciplinary procedures
The external monitor should be engaged throughout the construction phase and for the
first years of operations phase (at a much reduced level reflecting the significantly fewer
environmental impacts during this phase), until the hydrological and water quality have
stabilized.
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The monitoring activities described below are indicative. The final set of monitoring criteria
and responsibilities will be prepared after consultations with GOL and preparations of the
EMMP-C and EMMP-O and of the SSEMMPs.
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CHAPTER 12
12.1 INTRODUCTION
Planning efforts for Nam Ngiep River watershed management should be initiated by t he
GOL, with appropriate technical and financial support from the Environmental and Social
Division (ESD) of the NNHP-1 Project, and from other hydropower projects (such as the
Nam Ngiep 2 H ydropower Project) that use any of the waterways within the watershed, as
well as from other development projects within the watershed that depend on sustainable use
of natural resources. Local residents together with Provincial and District GOL authorities
should implement the plan.
Mitigation measures for environmental impacts within the project area (in the vicinity of
communities that are directly or indirectly affected by t he project) are addressed in the
environmental management plan (EMP). However, some potential environmental issues
need to be addressed at a much broader scale, at the level of the watershed, and these will be
covered in the watershed management plan (WMP). T he goal of the WMP is to ensure
sustainable use of natural resources in the Nam Ngiep River Basin by means of co-ordination
and information exchange of natural resources management activities among relevant
stakeholders. Major approaches of the WSM will be on preservation of headwater forests and
sustainable management and uses of ecological resources.
In Lao PDR, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry is applying integrated watershed
management as a key strategy. This approach was endorsed by the 2002 National Agriculture
and Forestry Conference. Based on this objective, there should be a watershed management
framework (WMF) established by the government. Additionally, the Ministry of Agriculture
and Forestry is to collaborate with provinces and districts to develop integrated watershed
EIA of The Nam Ngiep 1 Hydropower Project Draft Report: Chapter 12
The strategy for the watershed management of the Nam Ngiep should be in line with the
government’s objective for the year 2020, which aims to shift the country from a subsistence
economy to a market economy through the sustainable use of natural resources.
The Nam Ngiep Watershed Area consists of 33 tributaries and sub-basins, as shown in Figure
12-1, with the area of the sub-basins and flow contributions presented in Table 12-1.
Although the Department of Water Resources has recently reduced the number of the sub-
basins in the Nam Ngiep watershed to 15, but details of this new demarcation of sub-basins
have not yet been released so the original 33 are presented.
The total area of the basin is approximately 4,533 km2 of which 3,725 km2 is in the
catchment area. 2 Most of the sub-basins are rather small. The three largest tributaries – Nam
Siem (10), Nam Chian (15), and Nam Phouan (20) – account for a third of the total flow, with
the next 6 in size accounting for another 30 percent of total flow.
1
Pravongviengkham, P.; Khamhung, A.; Sysanhouth, K.; Qwist-Hoffmann, P.; Achouri, M. (ed.); Tennyson, L. (ed.);
Upadhyay, K. (ed.); White, R. (ed.) (2003) “Integrated watershed management for sustainable upland development and
poverty alleviation in Lao People's Democratic Republic” in Preparing for the next generation of watershed management
programmes and projects. Asia. Proceedings of the Asian Regional Workshop, Kathmandu, Nepal 11-13 September 2003.
2
There are slight variations in the area calculated for the watershed, because of different measurements obtained from
satellite images and the difficulty of accurately determining surface area with the steep slopes of most of the watershed.
Calculation of land use types presented below, for example, totals about 4,495 km2, a 1% difference.
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Table 12-1 Sub-basins of Nam Ngiep River: Area and Contributions to Flow
Area Flow
Annual Volume
No Name of sub-basin Contribution
(mcm)
Km 2
% (m3/s)
1 Nam Ngiou 134 2.9 5.4 168.9
2 Nam Linsoung 196 4.3 7.9 247.6
3 N.W. Nam Chiat 29 0.6 1.2 36.8
4 N.E. Nam Chiat 92 2.0 3.7 116.8
5 Nam Sen 256 5.6 10.3 323.8
6 Longmat Internal Drainages 63 1.4 2.5 80.0
7 Nam Palan 66 1.5 2.7 83.8
8 Nam PhouXao 66 1.5 2.7 83.8
9 N. Nam Siem 34 0.8 1.4 43.2
10 Nam Siem 528 11.6 21.2 667.9
11 S. Nam Siem 34 0.8 1.4 43.2
12 Nam Thong 165 3.6 6.6 208.2
13 Nam Phadoy 129 2.9 5.2 163.8
14 Nam Pang 124 2.7 5.0 157.4
15 Nam Chian 519 11.4 20.8 656.4
16 N. Nam Hok 24 0.5 1.0 30.5
17 Nam Hok 127 2.8 5.1 161.3
18 Nam Mang 72 1.6 2.9 91.4
19 Houay Sam Liou 121 2.7 4.9 153.6
20 Nam Phouan 459 10.1 18.4 580.3
21 S. Nam Phouan 28 0.6 1.1 35.6
22 Nam Sou 214 4.7 8.6 270.4
23 Nam Ngok 202 4.5 8.1 255.2
24 Nam Pamom 45 1.0 1.8 57.1
25 Houay Katha 47 1.0 1.9 59.7
26 Houay Soup 57 1.3 2.3 72.4
27 Nam Xao 313 6.9 12.6 396.1
28 Houay Khinguak 67 1.5 2.7 85.1
29 Houay Kokkhen 126 2.8 5.1 160.0
30 Houay Poungxang 24 0.5 1.0 30.5
31 Nam Pa 78 1.7 3.1 99.0
32 S. Nam Pa 26 0.6 1.0 33.0
33 Nam Tek 64 1.4 2.6 81.3
Total Nam Ngiep 4,533 100 181.8 5,734.0
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Figure 12-2 Coverage of Nam Ngiep Watershed and land use types.
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Land uses in the watershed are presented in Figure 12-2 and Table 12-2. The forest types
in the table are classified according to the Forest Inventory and Planning Division
classification of the Department of Forestry.
A land use and vegetation map was been produced based on analysis of satellite imagery
and aerial photographs, combined with field surveys, and ground truthing. According to the
result of the survey the forest/vegetation cover and land use map conducted by F orest
Inventory and Planning Division, Department of Forestry (2002), the main types of land uses
are Unstocked Forest, accounting for slightly over half the area, and Mixed Deciduous Forest,
accounting for another 27 percent. A nother 7 p ercent is grassland, and 5.5 percent is Dry
Evergreen Forest. Less than 3 percent of the area is paddy.
Table 12-2 Land Use and Vegetation Types of the Nam Ngiep Watershed
Area
Land Use and Vegetation Type Code
% ha
Dry Evergreen Forest DE 5.50 24,736
Mixed Deciduous Forest MD 27.40 123,135
Coniferous (Pine Forest) S 0.19 869
Mixed Coniferous and Broadleaved MS 1.54 6,916
Bamboo B 0.19 869
Unstock Forest T 52.45 235,752
Ray RA 0.79 3,538
Savannah SH 1.69 7,591
Scrub Forest SR 0.19 869
Rice Paddy RP 2.88 12,931
Barren Land and Rock R 0.01 32
Grassland G 7.11 31,942
Swamp SW 0.02 97
Water Bodies W 0.04 193
Total 100 449,470
Source: Forest Inventory and Planning Division, DOF, 2002
There are six slope classes in the Nam Ngiep watershed, their classification presented in
Table 12-3. Figure 12-3 shows the watershed according to the different slope classes. Most
of the gentler slopes are to the south and southeast, near the Mekong River, and in the large
valleys in the northeast. T he Steep to Extremely Steep slopes, covering much of the
watershed, require the greatest protection, since they have the greatest risk of erosion.
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Though population density is not high, the area suitable for settlement is limited – around 3
percent of the watershed is rice paddy. Agricultural land is always in high demand. There are
some newcomers moving into the area from the northern parts of Lao PDR, seeking better
land and resources than in their original homes.
The settlements are nearly all limited to the river valleys, with the main exceptions being
the large expanse of fairly flat land towards the Mekong River and larger valleys toward the
north and northeast of the watershed. These are also some of the most populated areas in the
watershed. It is therefore practicable to use zoning as a means to preserve the headwaters or
other forest areas in the watershed.
The Nam Ngiep watershed covers parts of seven districts in three provinces: two districts
in Bolikhamxay (Bolikhan and Pakxan Districts), two in Vientiane Province (Hom and
Xaisomboun Districts), and three in Xieng Khoung Province (Thathom, Phaxai and Khoun
Districts). Table 12-4 presents the area of the provinces, and the number of villages,
households, and population (male and female) in the entire province and in each of the
districts that are part of the Nam Ngiep watershed.
Table 12-4 Districts, Villages, and Population in the Provinces in the Nam Ngiep
Watershed Area (2008)
Area Population
Village HH
(km2) Total Female Male
1.Vientiane
22,554 528 77,069 433,567 216,595 216,972
(12 districts)
- Hom 41 4,044 28,153 13,540 14,613
- Xaisomboun 56 4,513 28,236 14,030 14,206
2. Bolikhamxay
14,863 326 39,827 231,544 114,509 117,035
(6 districts)
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Area Population
Village HH
(km2) Total Female Male
- Bolikhan 45 5,592 35,964 17,549 18,415
- Pakxan 59 8,088 42,261 21,445 20,816
3. Xieng Khouang
17,506 502 39,029 249,817 123,865 125,952
(8 districts)
- Thathom 23 2,163 13,106 6,355 6,751
- Phaxai 32 2,018 12,031 5,975 6,056
- Khoun 52 4,777 33,490 16,748 16,742
As can be seen from Table 12-5, which presents demographic characteristics of the
provinces that share parts of the Nam Ngiep watershed, some public health conditions have
changed dramatically for the better. It should be noted that at the time this information was
collected, the portion of the project area now in Vientiane Province was then in the
Xaysomboon Special Region. I n all, the crude birth rate has declined, as has the infant
mortality rate. There has also been a drastic reduction in the crude death rates as basic health
care, cleaner water, and other improvements have reached more communities. Yet the
natural rate of population growth is still higher than the natural average in all but Vientiane
Province. I n all the poor and high priority poor areas of the watershed, it is likely that
growing population is causing more pressure on the natural resources, with over-fishing,
over-hunting, unsustainable use of lands, and over-extraction of non-timber forest products.
As the resources are over-exploited and degrade, it is then the poorest who suffer the most. 3
Table 12-5 Birth and Death Rates, Fertility and Infant Mortality in the Provinces of the
Nam Ngiep Watershed: 1995 and 2000
Unit: percent
Crude Birth Crude Death Natural Increase Total fertility Infant Mortality
Name of
Rate Rate Rate Rate Rate
provinces
1995 2000 1995 2000 1995 2000 1995 2000 1995 2000
Xieng Khouang 41.9 38.3 15 7.5 2.6 3.08 6.3 5.8 121 69.6
Vientiane 36.3 32.6 13.9 5.6 2.4 2.7 5.9 3.9 102 34.9
Bolikhamxay 39.3 36.9 16.5 3.6 2.5 3.33 5.8 5.2 136 26
Xaysomboon SR 40.4 44.6 16.9 6.7 3.0 3.79 7.2 6.8 138 58.7
Whole Country 41.3 34 15.1 6.3 2.5 2.77 5.4 4.9 104 82.2
Source: Calculated from population census 1995 and Lao Reproductive Health Survey, 2000
3
Natural Resources Information Clearinghouse, Issues in Poverty Reduction and Natural Resource Management.
Washington, D.C.: USAID, 2006.
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Table 12-6 presents the dependency ratio for the provinces with territory in the Nam
Ngiep watershed. T he dependency ratio in 2005 was 0.97 i n Xieng Khouang, 0.92 i n
Xaysomboon SR (now part of Vientiane Province), 0.84 i n Bolikhamxay and 0.72 i n what
was then the much smaller Vientiane Province.
Table 12-6 Dependency Ratio in the Provinces with territory in the Nam Ngiep
Watershed, from the 2005 Population Census
Number of people
Province Under 15 years and 65 Population 15-64 Years Dependency ratio
and older
Xieng Khouang 113,093 116,428 97
Vientiane 162,436 226,397 72
Bolikhamxay 102,934 122,338 84
Xaysomboon SR 18,837 20,579 92
Whole Country 2,435,016 3,186,306 76
Source: Results from the Population and Housing Census 2005, NSC,CPI
Nearly all of those in the dependent population are under 15. In 2005, there were only
about 231,000 people ages 65 and over, while there were about 2,512,000 aged 0 to 14. 4 The
national dependency ratio in 2005 w as about 0.8, while in much of the project area the
dependency ratio is higher, indicating even greater population pressures in coming years. 5The
people in the Nam Ngiep watershed now rely almost solely on land-based and other natural
resource based livelihoods. The future health of the watershed will depend upon the increase
in non-land based livelihoods.
In Lao PDR the main difference in use of natural resources among ethnic groups is generally
due to the relative altitude of their settlements and the availability of resources at the different
altitudes. A common way of dividing the groups is to classify them as either Lao Loum
(lowland Lao), Lao Theung (midland Lao), and Lao Sung (upland Lao). The Lao Loum are
the ethnic Lao-Tai groups, who live in the lowlands and valleys, and make up about two-
thirds of the total population. E thnic Lao were the largest of all groups, comprising 55
percent of the country’s population in the 2005 popul ation census. T he Lao Theung are
4
http://www.nsc.gov.la/Statistics/Selected%20Statistics/Population.htm
5
http://www.nsc.gov.la/Products/Populationcensus2005/PopulationCensus2005_chapter1.htm
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mainly the Mon-Khmer groups, the largest of which are the Khmu, who comprised about 11
percent of the country’s population in 2005. They live in the middle hills, and were likely the
original lowland inhabitants before the Lao-Tai migrated to the region. T he Lao Sung are
mainly Hmong-Mien or Tibeto-Burman groups who live in the highlands. The largest of
these groups in Lao PDR are the Hmong, accounting for about 8 pe r cent of the total
population of the country.
In the Project area, all the ethnic groups now tend to practice a similar type of agriculture.
The Hmong and Khmu, traditionally in the highlands and midland respectively, now live in
valleys, practice sedentary rice cultivation in paddy, grow fruit trees and tend vegetable
gardens around their houses, as well as vegetable gardens in small plots near the watercourses
(sometimes a co rner of the paddy field, after the rice crop has been harvested), with a
supplementary swidden cultivation of some upland rice, maize, and other field crops in the
surrounding slopes, generally on rolling hills. Most of this is upland area in the watershed is
officially forest land, but now barren of larger trees, and designated as Unstocked Forest.
6
Asian Development Bank, National Statistics Center & State Planning Committee. Participatory Poverty
Assessment: Lao PDR,Vientiane, 2001.
7
D. Schmidt-Vogt, “Secondary Forests in Swidden Agriculture in the Highlands of Thailand” in Journal of
Tropical Forest Science, Vol. 13, No. 4, 2001, pp. 748-767.
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However, these traditional swidden practices, even when under population pressure, are
not as great a threat to watershed resources as are illegal or even poorly-managed logging. 8 It
has also been found in Thailand that the extension of roads into the highlands and better
access to markets has led many of the primary swidden cultivators to change to sedentary
agriculture of vegetables and other commodities.
It can be expected, though, that these traditional practices will decline over time, as has
been the case in other parts of Lao PDR and other parts of mainland Southeast Asia where
there has been considerable infrastructure development and increased involvement in the
market economy. People will tend to practice more sedentary and at least partly commercial
agriculture, as well as move into new non-land based and non-natural resource based
livelihoods (trades and services).
Poverty is perhaps the greatest threat to the sustainable use of natural resources in the area.
The majority of the people in the watershed area live in poverty and practice subsistence
agriculture. While their way of life may be considered to be sustainable, any event such as
drought, flooding, or an infestation of pests or crop disease can threaten people’s livelihoods,
with few in such circumstances able to grow sufficient life for the entire year.
The Prime Minister’s Instruction No 010/PM resulted in the definition of a poverty line
together with different poverty criteria, allowing local authorities to identify and monitor
poverty at the district and also at the household level. ‘Poor’ districts were those districts
where over 51% of the villages were poor. There were additional criteria, which included
districts where over 40% of the villages were without a school in or nearby the village, or
8
Michael Dove, “Theories of swidden agriculture, and the political economy of ignorance,” in Highland
Systems, Vol.1, no. 2, 1995, pp. 85-99.
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without a dispensary or pharmacy in or nearby the village, or if over 60% of the villages had
no access road or were without access to clean water.
Figure 8-4 shows the districts in the Nam Ngiep watershed area in terms of their level of
poverty. Districts that determined to be not poor districts are white, while poor districts are
yellow and high priority poor districts are red. The Nam Ngiep Watershed Area includes 4
high priority poor districts – Xaisomboun (now part of Hom District) in Vientiane Province,
Bolikhan in Bolikhamxay Province, and Thathom and Khoun in Xieng Khoung Province.
The portion of Hom District in Vientiane Province that did not yet include Xaisomboun is
classified as poor, but not high priority
The relationship between poverty and natural resources is multifaceted. T he rural poor
generally are more dependent on the resource base for their livelihood, on non-timber forest
products, fishery resources, and their crops. Yet when under pressure to provide for their
families, the rural poor will need to extract whatever resources they can in order to survive,
even if at an unsustainable rate. Increasing population is thought by some to be one factor
that increases that pressure on the resources, particularly increasing populations in poor areas.
During fieldwork, most local residents identified themselves as poor but claimed they
could sustain their livelihood with little use of money. Natural resources were still sufficient
to make a modest living. What they felt they lacked were basic infrastructure and services
such as all weather access road, reliable health service and better schooling.
The people grow rice, vegetables, fruit and other crops for family consumption. Any
surplus they have would not be able to earn them much income, because of the high
transportation cost to the market. Most production provides fairly low yields. T here is
considerable scope for improving yields through changes in farm techniques and the
introduction of fertilizers.
Most farm cash income comes from sales of poultry and livestock. These meats are eaten
mainly on s pecial occasions, and they command relatively high prices for each of the
animals. The main source of protein during the year is fish, mostly from the Nam Ngiep or
its tributaries.
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Figure 12-4 Districts identified as poor and high priority poor in the project area.
As described in Table 12-2 and shown in Figure 12-2, about half of the watershed area is
classified as unstocked forest, another 35 pe rcent is either dry evergreen forest or mixed
deciduous forest. There is no na tional biodiversity conservation area (NBCA) in the
watershed, though the Phou Khao Khoay NBCA is immediately to the southwest.
Only about 4 percent of the area is ray (upland fields) or rice paddy. Given the large area
of unstocked forest together with this small area of production land, it is likely that much of
the unstocked forest is in fact previously forest land that has been cleared for upland
agriculture. A survey of the actual use of these lands will be necessary for there to be an
effective watershed management plan. This will require effective communication and local
participation, so that the people using the land can join in converting it into land uses that
remain productive while helping sustain the environment. There should be no penalties for
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having used the land, even if it has not been done so legally, so long as the people are willing
to join in the watershed management program.
Traditionally, people in the watershed would rely on t he forests for building materials
(timber, bamboo), fuelwood, fodder, mushrooms and vegetables, and birds or small animals
for food. The collection of NTFPs is done mostly in community reserved forests located near
the villages. They mostly collect the NTFPs for domestic use, with only a little being traded
or sold. Outside traders in NTFPs have not been attracted to the Nam Ngiep watershed, in
part because of the low amounts of NTFPs extracted by villagers but also because of the
difficulty traveling to most communities in the watershed. Once the roads are improved and
access to the communities (and the nearby forests) is easier, there will need to be stricter
control over extraction of NTFPs and timber, assuring that it is still available for domestic
use, but limiting the exploitation of any of the products for commercial sale or trade.
Despite the difficulties of transport, almost daily transport of logs was seen during field
visits, and has been confirmed by villagers as occurring for much of the past decade. This
logging has certainly contributed to the decline of the forests in the area. During the wet
season, the heavy loads of the logging trucks have been one of the main causes of road
damage in the area. Local residents have had little involvement in the logging business. Even
the workers are mostly from outside.
Land based activities in the area are fit into two main categories: agriculture and animal
husbandry.
The low flatland, where water can be retained, is reserved for rice paddy. Upland
rice,other crops and fruit trees were grown in highland areas– on the gently sloping hills or
even on some of the moderately steep areas. All households raise poultry, pigs or goats, and
let the animals roam freely. Most also raise livestock: cows or buffalo. Only a few household
raise enough livestock to require fencing and their own grazing areas. Most households let
their cattle roam and graze in common grazing areas. G iven the relatively low number of
livestock and of other domestic animals, there is rather low impact from the animals on the
watershed, whether in terms of land or water required. H owever, even a relatively low
number of livestock need to have their grazing areas somewhat restricted, to assure they do
not pollute streams and other waters intended for domestic use or consumption.
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There are two major concerns with land use and soil. These are the soil fertility and the
risk of erosion. With lower population levels, there was sufficient land available for the soil
to replenish during the fallow periods under the traditional swidden techniques. Now that
populations have increased, land is more limited, the swidden cycle is reduced and the time
land is left in fallow is no longer adequate to replenish the soil fertility. People have tended
to try to clear new – and steeper – lands, with the risk of increased erosion. The watershed
management program could provide the opportunity to introduce organic soil improvements
and other techniques to help increase yields in the existing lands. In local markets, chemical
pesticides and fertilizers are beginning to be available, and farmers in the Nam Ngiep
watershed are starting to use them. It is obvious that as villagers are changing their farming
practices, opportunities are available to assure those changes are sustainable environmentally
and economically.
The expansion of farmland into steeper slopes and the clearing of large areas of forest
increase the risks of soil erosion. A number of improvements can be made on existing lands,
to help prevent soil erosion while increasing productivity. T hese include soil covering,
contour plowing, soil protection with Vetiver grass, and terracing. When the detailed WMP is
prepared, the sub-basins should be assessed as to their risk in causing erosion and
sedimentation, with higher priority given to managing the land use of the sub-basins with the
greatest risk.
As the villages in the watershed have become more involved in the market economy,
many have started to grow commercial trees such as rubber, eaglewood, and teak. S ome
forms of economic forestry, using commercial trees as part of a forest rehabilitation program,
could provide both economic and environmental benefits, if sufficiently managed.
(3) Water
Water is considered an abundant resource in the watershed. Rice and other crop cultivation
rely on rain and water runoff, with a few small village-level irrigation systems using springs
or streams from higher ground. The Nam Ngiep River has not been used for an irrigation
system, with river water mainly used only for small riverside vegetable gardens, and for
washing and providing drinkingwater for livestock. In most communities located near the
river, the river water is also be used for cleaning, bathing or washing. Drinking water is often
from streams from higher grounds, dammed and piped in for household consumption. I n
some cases, the flow is low during the dry season, but is soon replenished after the rains.
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During public consultations, several communities upstream from the dam raised the
possibility of having small irrigation schemes built by using low cost supplies and local
design and techniques. All would get their water from small streams or tributaries of the Nam
Ngiep River.
In general, there is potential to increase productivity and maintain water security for
communities in the watershed by proper integrated water resource management. This also
should be explored in the detailed study and design of the watershed management plan.
The Nam Ngiep Watershed is not known for an abundance of fauna or flora, perhaps because
of its rather steep terrain. However, there is still need for adequate protection and
conservation. Further investigation should be conducted for proper biodiversity zoning and
management, in order to maintain ecological services and biodiversity of the fauna and flora
in the area of headwaters and more pristine areas remote from settlements.
In areas around villages, community based forest management supported by the GOL is
already practiced. All villages in the watershed have their own conservation reserve forests
for village uses. The program allows villagers to collect NTFPs from the forest and at the
same time, participate in helping manage and maintain the forests. The Project could
encourage more such projects and work within the current GOL framework.
The NNHP-1will construct two dams which will create two significant reservoirs, one 67
km2 in area and the other1.3 km2 in area. In creating such reservoirs and changing the flow of
the river, environmental changes are unavoidable.
Fish and other aquatic species that prefer large, deep and still bodies of water may
increase, while those that prefer shallower waters with a constant flow may decrease. As
already promoted in the Environmental Management Plan (EMP), the project will promote a
program that enhances fish stock. With its large reservoir, it is possible to increase the
quantity of fish and other aquatic culture.
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The main road through the watershed is National Road 1D, until recently a dirt road with
some sections covered in gravel that connects Phonesavanh, the capital of Xieng Khouang
Province, with Pakxan, the capital of Bolikhamxay Province. The road was impassible for
motorcycles, cars or small trucks during the rainy season, muddy with deep holes, and small
streams turned into raging torrents. O nly larger trucks could travel over it, though with
considerable difficulty. Since 2009, the road is being upgraded to an all-season paved road,
planned for completion by the end of 2011.
The other important change in infrastructure has been the extension of the national
electric grid into some villages.
The improved roads and the provision of electricity have led to significant changes in
people’s lives. More cash crops are grown, including those that were earlier difficult to
transport. A larger variety of occupations are emerging: small grocery shops, petrol stations,
auto repair shops, small electric appliance repairs, beauty salons, small restaurants and food
stalls, small guesthouses, and other non-land based services, have recently emerged. These
serve both local residents and the increasing number of outsiders coming to the area.
The infrastructure developments also have implications for resource use and
management. The improved roads not only improve access to and from the communities, but
also provide access to the natural resources, threatening forests with uncontrolled extraction
of timber and NTFPs.
Electricity can help people change from fuelwood for cooking and kerosene for lighting.
Yet people will also begin to use more electrical appliances, and so require added income to
pay for those appliances and for the electricity they use.
Aside from the NNHP-1 scheme, there are also plans for the Nam Ngiep 2 H ydropower
(NNHP-2) project. The NNHP-2 project is situated on the Nam Sen River, with a tributary
dam on the N.W. Nam Chiat. These are in the north-north-west portion of the Nam Ngiep
watershed, with the 2 tributaries accounting for 6.2 percent or 385 km2 of the total 4,544 km2
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area of the watershed and 6.3 pe rcent (11.5 m3/sec of 181.8 m 3/sec) of the total flow and
(360.6 mcm of 5,734 mcm) of the total volume of the Nam Ngiep River.
With the NNHP-2 project located along two of the northernmost tributaries of the Nam
Ngiep River, coordination would be useful in watershed management, to assure the continued
flow of water for both projects and to control erosion and sedimentation in the rivers.
Several of the communities in the upstream zone (Zone 1) of the NNHP-1 Project are
considered downstream communities for the NNHP-2 Project. Care should be taken with the
water quality of the Nam Ngiep River after commissioning, given that anaerobic conditions
are expected with the deterioration of the vegetation in the NNHP-2 reservoirs. The NNHP-2
is planned for completion in 2015, before inundation of the NNHP-1 reservoir.
As for the impact of the NNHP-1 Project on t he Mekong River, given that the flow of
Nam Ngiep river will not be changed significantly by t he NNHP-1 Project, and that the
contribution of the Nam Ngiep river to the total flow of the Mekong River is rather minor, no
impacts from this project are expected downstream from the confluence with the Mekong.
Figure 12-5 Map of land use and forest types in the Nam Ngiep II watershed.
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The area inside the red line is the watershed of the NNHP-2 (modified from EIA report of
the Nam Ngiep II hydropower Project)
The main problems that cause degradation or unsustainable use of the natural resources in
the Nam Ngiep watershed are forest encroachment, unsustainable commercial logging and
unsustainable use of agricultural lands.
Household poverty results from low farm income and lack of opportunities for non-farm
income. Farm income is limited because of a combination of low agricultural productivity
and limited access to the market. All of these components are linked as indicated below:
Reforestation efforts have been slow for a variety of reasons, including insufficient funds
for planting, lack of personnel and funds to maintain the new growth, and low quality
planting stock.
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Table 12-7 Design Summary of the Nam Ngiep River Basin Watershed Management Plan
Impact:
Sustainable use of the natural resources in Nam Ngiep River Basin
Outcome:
With supports from the Project, villagers and GOL authorities take roles in management on natural
resources use and maintaining its services in Nam Ngiep River Basin
Outputs:
1. Reduce forest encroachment;
1.1. Headwater forest area is preserved; limit deforestation, maintain forest density and
biodiversity
1.2. Proper zoning of land use, forest use, resources use
2. Maintain water supply for community use – household consumption & agriculture
3. Minimum soil erosion
4. Maintain or enhance fishery in the area
Activities:
1. Reduce forest encroachment
1.1. Preserve headwater forest area; limit deforestation, maintain
forest density and biodiversity
1.1.1. Encourage and support GOL authorities to define
zoning in the Nam Ngiep watershed - development
zone, buffer zone, conservation zone & other zones.
1.1.2. Set up t argets for resources management in the head
water forest area i.e. area of the forest to be preserved,
forest density, and biodiversity.
1.1.3. Encourage and support GOL to establish rules for
forest use of the head water area
1.1.4. Promote education on awareness of headwater forest
preservation
1.1.5. Support participation of villagers and local authorities
on forest management of headwater area.
1.1.6. Assess forest density and biodiversity, and put up plan
to preserve.
1.2. Setup proper zoning of land use, forest use, resource use
1.2.1. Clearly define forest types, forest boundary, forest
uses – forest reserved for village use, pasture
(livestock) zone, including rules and regulations upon
using of those resources – forest services, water,
fisheries. Theinformation should be available and easy
to understand by local villagers
1.2.2. Promote education and awareness of forest zoning,
forest use and resource use
1.2.3. Set up strategy to reduce slash & burn agriculture,
reduce forest encroachment – promote la w
enforcement, decreasing demand on f armland, and
reducing household poverty
1.2.3.1. Decreasing demand on f armland – family
planning targets decreasing population;
encourage GOL on land allocation and land
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NNHP-1 encourages and supports the provincial institutions to take action upon t heir
responsibility toward the watershed management based on GOL’s vision.
The provincial level is responsible for making strategies on natural resources based on the
area’s potential and priorities, including considerations of where to build infrastructure, site
biodiversity conservation areas and linking areas with market opportunities. The districts are
responsible for budgeting and planning and are therefore the key administrative level for
developing integrated watershed management plans.
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The management activities have to focus on finding out appropriate forest management
that allows for sustainable harvest of timber, along with appropriate techniques to rehabilitate
the degraded forests. These need to involve the local residents, as protectors and as the main
beneficiaries of the sustainable management and use of the forests. DAFO and PAFO should
work with the villagers to establish a database for the management and protection of the
forests and other natural resources in the area.
To assure that basic human needs are met through sustainable use of the natural
resources, land use zoning, integrated land use planning, and the development and
conservation of lands and soils appropriate for agriculture need to be promoted. T his
planning needs to be done at several levels: the local village and mini-watershed level, linked
with each other and with the broader catchment area.
The budget and schedule provided in Table 12-8 is indicative. M ore detailed and accurate
budget will be determined after the detailed study and finalization of the WMP.
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Responsible
Activities Indicators
Party
1. Detailed study and finalizing the WMP Completed plan EMU/EMO
2. Forest encroachment reduction program • Increased village involvement in EMU/EMO
2.1. Headwater forest area; limit reforestation, watershed management DAFO,
deforestation, maintain forest density • Clear zoning and management of PAFO
and biodiversity preservation: village land and forest resources
forest management program • Increased forest area (protected,
2.2. Zoning of land use, forest use, economic, community, etc.
resource use: village land use
planning and allocation program
2.3. Incorporation of village
administration structure to the forest
and land use plan
3. Maintain water supply for community • Improved water supply systems in EMU/EMO
use – household consumption & villages DAFO,
agricultureprogram • Effective community irrigation PAFO
systems
4. Reduce soil erosion, protect topsoil cover, • Improved soil fertility/increased EMU/EMO
and maintain good soil structure program yields DAFO,
• Reduced erosion (area and PAFO
amount)
5. Enhance roles of sm all-scale fisheries in • Number of fish ponds, improved EMU/EMO
contributing to poverty alleviation and fish stock DAFO,
food security program • Amount of catch per household PAFO
• Amount of fish in diet
Based on the physical relationship between elevation, slope and geology, as well as existing
land use, overall land use zones for the Nam Ngiep watershed have been proposed. The
proposed watershed zoning offered here is based on a template of MRC watershed
classification model (Watershed classification map, Figure 12-7). The more definite
boundaries can only be finalized when village land use planning has been completed. The
proposed land use is split into conservation and development zones with the overlap
providing a buffer zone. This is directly related and comparable to the Land and Forest
Allocation agriculture, production and protection zones.
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Within the Nam Ngiep watershed, the conservation zone covers approximately 26 percent of
the total area. It includes the majority of the steepest slopes, most important biodiversity
areas, and forest and river headwaters. This zone is where occasional shifting cultivation
occurs. Forestry, agro-forestry, farming and soil management should in general improve
water infiltration and soil water holding capacity, thus decreasing runoff and erosion. Land
use zoning and management should lead to reduced risk from hazardous use of sloping lands.
There are parts of this protection zone being used without adequate restrictions and in parallel
there are areas suitable for conservation oriented agro-forestry, that are not being used at all.
Majority of the designated development zone is taken up by t he flat lands along the Nam
Ngiep River Basin and its tributaries, but also includes rolling lands and some of higher slope
and elevation where sustainable land use can be practiced. Valley floors and terraced fields
where rice can be grown under flooded condition provide a favourable environment for rice
production, especially where there are possibilities for local-scale irrigation. Indeed, many
villages in Nam Ngiep watershed have small areas of paddy rice and in many cases there is
the potential to expand this area. As food needs become satisfied from these paddies, farmers
are likely to adopt diversified land use systems on the sloping uplands for income generation
and for producing goods that satisfy other livelihood needs. Despite the potential role of high
land paddies in improving farmer livelihoods, the economic feasibility of increasing
productivity and developing paddy terraces have not been adequately investigated.
Buffer zone is designed to link, protect and promote the dual interests of conservation and
development. Forest cover in Nam Ngiep watershed has continue decreased due to shifting
cultivation, which takes part in food production in rural areas. However measures to
discourage shifting cultivation must provide rural populations with alternate opportunities for
income generation, village forestry development and promote intensive upland farming to
improve the farming system.
For production forestry, Province Agriculture and Forestry Office (PAFO) and District
Agriculture and Forestry Offices (DAFOs) together with local authorities, are to carry out
field surveys needed for plan formulation and to guide, monitor and control implementation,
encouraged as part of the agricultural planning processes to collaborate with districts and
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central government resources in delineating major farming system zones within their
jurisdictions, and use them as a basis for their planning and implementation (Table 12-11 and
Figure 12-8).
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The future sustainable management and use of land and forests by villagers is a critical
component of planned and sustainable management and development of the watershed-as the
two main fixed, physical components of a watershed are (a) soil/land and (b) the vegetation
cover to this soil/land, while the main anthropogenic component of the watershed is villagers
who use and modify the soil and its vegetation cover. Problems and issues in relation to forest
and land resource management and utilization which have led the GOL, and this project, to
implement the VFLUPA include:
• Provision to villagers with a practical and legal framework for productive land
tenure, thus encouraging them to make more investments in sustainable and
productive land uses;
• Ensuring that the Nam Ngiep watersheds maintain or increase their forest
cover, into the future; and,
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12-32
CHAPTER 13
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
AND MONITORING BUDGET
13.1 INTRODUCTION
13-1
13.2 INDICATIVE BUDGET FOR ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AND MONITORING OF THE NAM
NGIEP 1 HYDROPOWER PROJECT
13.2.1.1 PERSONNEL AND OPERATING COSTS
ESD Personnel
Central Budget -
2,500 1 2,500 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 270,000
Consultants/Part Time
Secretary 400 2 800 9,600 9,600 9,600 9,600 9,600 9,600 4,800 4,800 4,800 72,000
13-2
Social Management Director 3,000 1 3,000 36,000 36,000 36,000 36,000 36,000 36,000 36,000 36,000 36,000 324,000
Manager, 2LR 2,000 1 2,000 24,000 24,000 24,000 24,000 24,000 24,000 24,000 24,000 24,000 216,000
Assistant Manager , 2UR 1,500 1 1,500 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 162,000
Assistant Manager, Zone 3&4 1,500 1 1,500 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 0 0 108,000
6 field staff (2pp/zone) 700 6 4,200 50,400 50,400 50,400 50,400 50,400 50,400 50,400 50,400 50,400 453,600
Manager, 2UR 2,000 1 2,000 24,000 24,000 24,000 24,000 24,000 24,000 144,000
Assistant Manager , 2LR 1,500 1 1,500 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 108,000
Assistant Manager, Zone 3&4 1,500 1 1,500 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 108,000
3 field staff (1 pp/zone) 500 3 1,500 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 108,000
B.Environmental Management
Office
Environmental Development 3,000 1 3,000 36,000 36,000 36,000 36,000 36,000 36,000 36,000 36,000 36,000 324,000
13-3
Manager
Assistant EMO Manager 1,500 1 1,500 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 108,000
2 field staff 500 2 500 6,000 6,000 6,000 6,000 6,000 6,000 36,000
Environmental Monitoring
Team
Assistant EMO Manager 1,500 1 1,500 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 162,000
2 field staff 500 2 1,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 108,000
Consultant 0
Health and Occupational Expert 1,500 1 1,500 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 108,000
2 Field Staff 500 2 1,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 72,000
Education Team
Education Expert 1,500 1 1,500 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 108,000
13-4
2 field staff 500 2 1,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 72,000
Watershed Management Expert 1,500 1 1,500 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 162,000
2 field staff 500 2 1,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 72,000
Office staff
Accountant (Assistant Manager ) 800 1 800 9,600 9,600 9,600 9,600 9,600 9,600 57,600
Accountant 500 1 500 6,000 6,000 6,000 6,000 6,000 6,000 36,000
Driver 300 6 1,800 21,600 21,600 21,600 21,600 21,600 21,600 7,200 7,200 7,200 151,200
House Keeper 300 6 1,800 21,600 21,600 21,600 21,600 21,600 21,600 7,200 7,200 7,200 151,200
TOTAL ESD PERSONNEL 50 54,400 652,800 652,800 652,800 652,800 652,800 652,800 261,600 261,600 261,600 4,701,600
13-5
ESD OFFICE OPERATING COSTS
Office Operating Costs 1,000 1 1,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 4,000 4,000 4,000 84,000
Communications: radio/etc. 1,000 1 1,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 4,000 4,000 4,000 84,000
Stationery and consumable 3,000 1 3,000 36,000 36,000 36,000 36,000 36,000 36,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 252,000
13-6
ESD Office and Staff's Dormitory Building and Office Equipment
Office Furniture and 0 1 0 0 5,000 5,000 5,000 3,000 2,000 2,000 2,000 2,000 26,000
Equipment
Computer, Laptop, 50,000 1 50,000 50,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 3,000 2,000 2,000 2,000 2,000 76,000
Printer, etc
Furniture Dormitory 0 1 0 0 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 3,000 24,000
2 UR Office Rental 500 12 6,000 6,000 6,000 6,000 6,000 6,000 6,000 6,000 6,000 6,000 54,000
2 LR Office Rental 500 12 6,000 6,000 6,000 6,000 6,000 6,000 30,000
Pakxan Office 2,000 12 24,000 24,000 24,000 24,000 24,000 24,000 24,000 24,000 24,000 24,000 216,000
Total 320,000 49,000 49,000 49,000 45,000 37,000 37,000 37,000 37,000 660,000
13-7
Vehicles Cost/unit No. Units Total Pre C1 C2 C3 C4 C5 C6 O1 O2 O3 Total
C1 C2 C3 C4 C5 C6 O1 O2 O3
Total 530,000 49,000 49,000 49,000 45,000 37,000 37,000 37,000 37,000
13-8
13.2.1.2 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT UNIT
EMU Personal 50 10 9 4,500 4,500 4,500 4,500 4,500 4,500 4,500 4,500 4,500 40,500
Accommodation 20 10 6 1,200 1,200 1,200 1,200 1,200 1,200 1,200 1,200 1,200 10,800
Transportation
150 3 9 4,050 4,050 4,050 4,050 4,050 4,050 4,050 4,050 4,050 36,450
(Car+fuel+driver)
Meeting Room Fee 500 1 3 1,500 1,500 1,500 1,500 1,500 1,500 1,500 1,500 1,500 13,500
TOTAL EMU 11,250 11,250 11,250 11,250 11,250 11,250 11,250 11,250 11,250 101,250
13-9
13.2.1.3 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AND MONITORING ACTIVITIES
3. Timber logging area 64,865 64,865 10,811 10,811 10,811 10,811 10,811 10,811
4. Vegetation clearing area 527,124 527,124 87,854 87,854 87,854 87,854 87,854 87,854
6.1 Water quality monitoring Yearly 3 25,000 96,000 24,000 24,000 24,000 24,000 24,000
program
13-10
8. Soil fertility Yearly 10,000 160,000 10,000 10,000 10,000 10,000 10,000 10,000 10,000 10,000 10,000 10,000 50,000 10,000
monitoring
9. Sedimentation monitoring Yearly 5,000 80,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 25,000 5,000
10. Soil erosion and Yearly 5,000 80,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 5,000 25,000 5,000
sedimentation control
11.2 monitor water level and Yearly 1,000 15,000 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000 1,000 5,000 1,000
reporting
12.2 Training yearly 0 30,000 2,000 2,000 2,000 2,000 2,000 2,000 2,000 2,000 2,000 10,000 2,000
13. Wildlife 0
Protection program
13-11
13.2 Logging and poaching yearly 30,000 450,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 150,000 30,000
13.3 Monitor animal Habitat yearly 18,000 288,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 18,000 90,000 18,000
14. Wildlife conservation 12,000 168,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 12,000 60,000
awareness yearly
16. Forest regeneration total 150,00 1,650,000 150,000 150,000 150,000 150,000 150,000 150,000 750,000
area 0
17. Survey and monitoring yearly 56,000 840,000 56,000 56,000 56,000 56,000 56,000 56,000 56,000 56,000 56,000 280,000 56,000
of aquatic biota
Total, EMMP 5,331,489 791,665 328,665 283,665 283,665 403,665 404,865 305,000 313,000 313,000 313,000 1,469,000 151,000
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13.2.1.4 WATERSHED MANAGEMENT PLAN
Watershed Management Fund Yearly Budget Cons Year 1 Cons Yrs 2 - 5 Oper Yrs 1 - 3 Total USD
2.2 Zoning of landuse, forest use, resource use 33,333.33 133,333 100,000 233,333
4. Reduce soil erosion / maintain good soil 30,000.00 120,000 90,000 210,000
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CHAPTER 14
INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS
While it is the responsibility of the project owners and developers to mitigate any adverse
environmental impacts and to assure environmental conditions will enhance the lives and
livelihoods of the people in the project area, it is the responsibility of the government to
monitor the effectiveness of the mitigation measures, to facilitate public participation and
involvement, and to assure the rights and the livelihoods of the people affected by the project
are protected. To the extent possible, mitigation measures and development activities are to
be carried out through or with the cooperation of the government at the local, district,
provincial and national levels.
The institutional arrangements for the Nam Ngiep 1 Hydropower Project (NNHP-1) build
upon existing institutional structures that have been established for hydropower projects or
that otherwise concern environment or social or economic issues relating to this project. The
institutional arrangements are intended to provide the means to implement the environmental
and social or economic mitigation measures, development activities, and monitoring most
effectively, while also building the capacity of local residents, administrative organizations,
and government agencies. The arrangements are also set up in such a way as to facilitate the
concerns and needs of the main stakeholders – the project affected people, the project owners
and developers, and the government – and to provide a framework for the participation of the
project affected people, for the resolution of any grievances that may arise, and for the
involvement of any other project stakeholders in the process.
The roles of the GOL at the national level will be provided through the Joint Steering
Committee (JSC) and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MONRE) as the
primary supervisory and monitoring body. A Secretariat of the JSC will include key
government agencies and organizations involved in the environmental and social components
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of the Project, specifically the Department of Environmental and Social Impact Assessment
(DESIA) of MONRE, the Department of Energy Promotion and Development (DEPD) of the
Ministry of Energy and Mines, and the Resettlement Management Unit (RMU) established
for this project.
At the project level, the project owners will establish an Environment and Social Division
(ESD), responsible for assisting the relevant government agencies and programs in the
implementation of the mitigation measures. An Environmental Management Office (EMO)
in the ESD will be responsible for environmental mitigation measures and monitoring, while
a Social Management Office (SMO) will be responsible for social and economic mitigation
measures and monitoring, including assistance with resettlement efforts of the RMU.
The overall institutional framework is shown in the Figure 14-1. T his framework is
indicative and might be modified during the implementation phase as agreed between the
parties.
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The GOL will establish the national level organizations responsible for setting policy and
directions, for supervising and monitoring of NNHP-1. The project will provide additional
resources so that these organizations can provide efficient and effective support to the
implementation and monitoring of the mitigation measures and development programs under
the project.
The Nam Ngiep 1 Project Joint Steering Committee (JSC) will be established by GOL to
serve as a task force for the implementation of the NNHP-1 Project. It will be attached to the
Department of Energy Promotion and Development under the Ministry of Energy and Mines.
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Other members will include representatives from Electricitè du Lao, MONRE and the
Resettlement Management Unit of the Project.
The JSC will lead GOL’s public relations work and disclosure for the Project; provide
GOL engineering staff and facilitate their work; coordinate with GOL project units and
various government entities at national, provincial, and district levels; and monitor progress
of the project.
The main GOL agency dealing with environmental issues of the Project is the Environmental
Management Unit (EMU), which will be established by MONRE to monitor the
environmental components and mitigation measures of the Project. MONRE will coordinate
as appropriate with other departments of GOL with respect to matters such as biodiversity,
forests, wildlife, aquatic life and other matters. In addition to its monitoring activities, the
EMU is also responsible for responding to any public comments, complaints and inquiries in
relation to environmental aspects of the project.
EMU staff will be engaged full time on this project. They can be seconded from other
offices or engaged as under contracts.
Provincial EMUs will be established in each of the provinces affected by the project, and
District EMUs will be established in each of the districts affected by the project, to assist the
EMU in monitoring the environmental impacts and the mitigations measures of the Project.
Their work will be conducted with the support of and in coordination with the Environmental
Management Office of the Environmental and Social Division of the Project.
The Environmental Management Unit in the central office will consist of the following staff:
The number of staff will be kept to a reasonable number, only as required, and only for
the period that is required.
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The central EMU will also provide direction to the provincial and district EMUs in
regards to field monitoring and the implementation of environmental mitigation and
prevention measures.
The GOL will establish a Provincial Resettlement Management and Living Condition
Restoration Committee (PRMLCRC) to overseeing and monitoring the planning and
implementation of the resettlement, compensation, livelihood restoration, and other social
development activities of the project. The PRMLCRC will establish the Resettlement
Management Unit (RMU), the District Coordination Committees (DCC), and the Provincial
and District Grievance Redress Committees (PRGC and DGRC); and will supervise and
instruct the RMU, the DCCs, and the Village Development Coordination Committees
(VDCCs) concerning the implementation of the resettlement, compensation, livelihood
restoration, and other social measures. T he PRMLCRC will be responsible for these
activities in all areas affected by the Project, and will work closely with the Environment and
Social Division of the Project.
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11. Director of the Provincial Department of Energy and Mines of Xieng Khouang
Province, member;
16. Director of the Provincial Land Office of Xieng Khouang Province, member;
18. Director of the Provincial Water Resources and Environment Office, Vientiane
Province, member;
19. Director of the Provincial Water Resources and Environment Office, Xieng
Khouang Province, member;
Although the main work of the PRMLCRC involves resettlement and other social issues, it is
inevitable that it must also deal with environmental matters that affect the people in the
project areas. Some of these are:
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• Assuring GOL agencies assist with the proper use of land for agriculture and
other uses by the resettled communities and by others in the project area, so as
to limit any detrimental impacts on the Project,
• Assuring GOL agencies help monitor fish and other aquatic life in the Nam
Ngiep and its tributaries, and provide assistance if the Project has any harmful
impacts on fish or other aquatic life used by the local residents for food and/or
their livelihoods.
A Resettlement Management Unit (RMU) will be established by and serve under the
direction of the PRMLCRC, consisting of officials seconded from relevant GOL agencies or
personnel hired directly by t he RMU. T he RMU will administer the resettlement,
compensation, livelihood restoration, and other social development activities of the project
and ensure participation of all relevant GOL agencies in these activities. The RMU will work
in coordination with the Social Management Office (SMO) of the Project.
The RMU and SMO will first work out of the main offices at the construction site, to help
with the resettlement of Ban Hatsaykham to Ban Hat Gniun during the first year of the
project. A field office will then be established in the resettlement area in Bolikhamxay
Province, where most of the resettlement will take place. This office is also to be shared by
the RMU and the SMO.
The RMU will be headed by a Director, who should have proven resettlement
implementation experience. Three (3) RMU Co-Coordinators shall be senior qualified
officials, one from each Province (Bolikhamxay, Vientiane, and Xieng Khouang), with first-
hand experience with resettlement, compensation and rural development issues, and selected
from GOL line agencies at the provincial level, to work under the direction of the RMU
Director and coordinate the implementation of the social measures in their respective
provinces. RMU Members will be selected from GOL line agencies at the provincial level,
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with other technical staff contracted to assist as needed with the implementation of the social
measures.
As with the PRMLCRC, the RMU is responsible mainly for resettlement and related
social matters. However, it will also be concerned with environmental matters as they affect
the lives and livelihoods of the people in the project area, and as the environment is
potentially affected by actions of the resettled communities and by other communities in the
project area.
The DCCs will consist of the District Governor, as Chairperson, and representatives from
the District Natural Resources and Environment Office, the District Public Works and
Transportation Office, the District Agriculture and Forestry Office (DAFO), the District
Health Office, the District Education Office, the District Information, Culture and Tourism
Office, the District Labour and Social Welfare Office, Police, Militia and Army, the Lao
Youth Union, the Lao Women Union, LWU, Lao Front for National Construction (LFNC),
and other contract staff as required.
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The VDCCs will consist of the Head of the Village as Leader of the committee, and
village authorities (Mass organisations, public security, defense, etc.), village elder
representatives (naeow hom), Lao Women’s Union representatives, other skilled members of
the community, representatives of all ethnic groups, and representatives of all vulnerable
groups, as members.
The Project Developers will establish an Environment and Social Division (ESD) of the
Project. The ESD will consist of an Environmental Management Office (EMO) to enable the
Project to meet all its environmental obligations, and a Social Management Office (SMO) to
enable the Project to meet all of its social obligations, including resettlement, compensation,
livelihood restoration, and other social development works. These are all to be carried out in
close cooperation and in coordination with the relevant government organizations set up t o
implement environmental and social aspects of the project, such as the EMU, the PRMLCRC,
the RMU, the DCCs and the VDCCs, and government agencies responsible for various
works.
The ESD will act as the first point of contact for the EMU and other offices of MONRE
and indirectly (through the EMU and MONRE) for all other government agencies or offices,
corporations, or NGOs involved in the mitigation of environmental, social, and economic
impacts of the project and/or sustainable economic and social development of the people
affected by the NNHP-1 Project. The ESD will be the main contact between the project
developer and the projected affected people concerning environmental matters.
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The Developer will appoint an Environmental and Social Manager (ESM) to head the ESD
on a full time basis. The ESM’s role will be to ensure that the mitigation and monitoring
measures are implemented and that the standards in the schedules of the EMP, SDP, and
REMP and those that are also applicable to the operation of the project are applied. Breaches
of the standards detected during compliance monitoring and mitigation measures undertaken
to resolve the problem and the success or otherwise of these measures will be reported to the
project manager.
The ESM will act on behalf of the Project Developer in dealing with GOL or other parties
concerned with environmental, social, and economic impacts and components of the project.
The ESM will be responsible for maintaining good relations and communications with the
local communities. Other activities will include but not necessarily be limited to:
• Liaising between the Project and the Consultants, GOL Agencies, and the
contractors and concerned or contracted NGOs.
• Supervising specific routine technical tasks of the ESD such as water quality
monitoring
To implement these tasks, the ESM will be aided by full time staff as required and part
time international/or national consultants.
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The Social Management Office (SMO) will work directly with the Provincial Resettlement
Management and Living Conditions Restorations Committee (PRMLCRC) and the
Resettlement Management Unit (RMU) to provide technical and financial assistance in all
infrastructure development and in the provision of all livelihood planning and programs, as
well as in the implementation and monitoring of the relocation process for households in the
new resettlement areas. Together with the RMU, it will carry primary responsibility for
livelihood restoration and improvement for the new and adjacent villages. In addition, it will
coordinate with the RMU in all compensation and relocation issues related to P roject
Construction Lands.
Infrastructure Team
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• Ensure that housing and other relevant structures are constructed at new
sites; and that community and service buildings for resettled people and
adjacent villages are constructed or rehabilitated.
• Ensure that all new sites have reliable electricity supplies and linked to the
Lao grid where feasible, and in accordance with GOL planning.
Livelihood Team
• Liaise with Infrastructure Section to ensure all infrastructures are in place for
villagers who have to relocate from Project Construction Lands areas.
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• Coordinate with the RMU to valuate the assets lost due to construction
activities in Project Construction Lands.
Social Management
Office (SMO)
Admin. Assistant
Consultation Specialists
Field supervisor
Field supervisors
PRMLCRC and RMU, and
Provincial/district input
from Land Assets
PRMLCRC / RMU, and Legislation, Taxation and
other Provincial/district other relevant Offices
PRMLCRC / RMU and
support (sector relevant (sector relevant and other
Provincial/district input
and other organizations), organizations), and DCCs
from PAFO/DAFO, LWU
DCCs and VDCCs and VDCCs.
and other organisations,
DCCs and VDCCs
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• Ensure that gender and ethnic issues are incorporated into planning procedures
and implementation.
• Ensure that all affected households are familiar with content and mechanisms
of the Grievance Procedure.
• Collect all the baseline data and information and conduct subsequent
monitoring of all aspects of the environment that could be affected by t he
project, such as fish and other marine resources, hydrology, water quality,
river bank erosion, forest cover, etc., and
• Coordinate with the EMU and other GOL agencies to implement the
mitigation measures in the EMMP.
• Coordinate with GOL in health and educational matters for communities that
are not included in the resettlement program.
• Assist the EMU in public consultations on environmental matters with the APs
and other stakeholders.
• Establish baseline data on the status of the project area environment in the
watershed, upstream, dam site, downstream and resettlement areas.
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• Prepare reports for the ESD Manager to present to the appropriate government
agencies for the timely management of the environment in the Project area.
• Coordinate with the EMU and other GOL agencies in the implementation of
mitigation and prevention measures.
• Prepare detailed plans with the contractors on the management and mitigation
of environmental aspects of different construction sites, including access roads
and transmission lines.
Health Team
• Liaise with MoH at national, provincial and district level to link project
supported activities with GOL health initiatives.
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• Provide direct mentoring and support to Provincial Health Office (PHO) and
District Health Office (DHO) staffs to conduct regular monitoring and
supervision of health facilities and service delivery standards.
• Liaise with multilateral, bilateral and NGO agencies active in health sector
programs, to maximize cooperation and minimize duplication; participate in
MoH activities to facilitate sector-wide coordination.
Education Team
• Monitor watershed conditions that might affect the project (such as erosion
and sedimentation) in areas of the watershed outside the immediate project
area, and recommend remedial measures to the appropriate GOL agencies.
• Work with the appropriate GOL agencies in the planning and implementation
of the recommended remedial measures
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For the first years of operation, the GOL institutional arrangements will remain the same as
for the construction phase.
The Environmental Management Unit (EMU) will continue to function for the first three
years of operations, to assure the Project’s continued monitoring of environmental conditions
and continued compliance with environmental safeguards and obligations.
For the first three years of operation, the project institutional arrangements will remain the
same as for the construction phase. There will continue to be an Environmental and Social
Division, which will consist of a Social Management Office and an Environmental
Management Office.
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The Social Management Office will continue to function for the first three years of operation,
or if needed so long as there remain resettlement matters to implement or to monitor.
However, the number of staff and the number of teams will be reduced as their functions are
completed.
The Project Land and Compensation Team will end its work as soon as all the
compensation matters have been completed.
The Infrastructure Development Team will also greatly reduce its staff and
responsibilities as the infrastructure works are completed and operating. Only some minimal
staff will remain in this team for the first three years of the operation phase, to monitor the
results of the infrastructure works and to make any necessary repairs.
The key team that will remain during the first years of the operation phase will be the
Livelihood Team, which will continue to function until the resettlement activities are deemed
completed.
The Environmental Management Office will continue to function throughout the first three
years of the operation phase, but in gradually reduced numbers and roles, eventually with
only the Environmental Compliance and Monitoring Team, which will then become included
as part of the regular operations staff.
The Construction Monitoring Team will end its functions as soon as construction works
are completed. Any remaining monitoring activities of this team that need to be carried into
the operation phase will be taken over by t he Environmental Compliance and Monitoring
Team.
The Health and Occupational Safety Team and the Education Team will gradually reduce
their staff and work as their health and education works become part of the normal GOL
programs, with a tentative end to their work in the third year of the operation phase. T he
occupational safety aspects of the Health and Occupational Safety Team will be incorporated
into the normal operating procedures of the Project.
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The Environmental Monitoring and Compliance Team will continue its monitoring work
throughout the operation phase, with a remaining staff at a level appropriate for the greatly
reduced requirements.
The PRMLCRC in consultation with appropriate authorities will establish the Grievance
Redress Committees (GRC) at the village, district and provincial levels, to address any
complaints and grievances pertaining to land acquisition, compensation and resettlement that
are brought forward by APs.
Details about the Grievance Redress Process and the various committees are presented in
Chapter 11 of this report.
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CHAPTER 15
The reporting and review procedure provided here is indicative. T he final procedure will
need to be prepared after detailed construction plans are completed and negotiations with the
supervising government agencies (SGAs) finalized.
Adaptive management is a structured, iterative process of optimal decision making in the face
of uncertainly, with an aim to reducing uncertainty over time via system monitoring. In this
way of system monitoring, decision making simultaneously maximizes one or more resources
objectives and, either passively or actively, accrues information needed to improve future
management. Adaptive management is a tool which should be used not only to change a
system, but also to learn about the system. Because adaptive management is based on a
learning process, it improves long-run management outcomes. The challenge in using
adaptive management approach lies in finding the correct balance between gaining
knowledge to improve management in the future and achieving the best short-term outcome
based on current knowledge.
the actual adverse, but also the positive project impacts. Resulting from the updates of
environmental and social impact assessments, the actual mitigation, offsetting and
compensation measures may need to be readjusted, which may need to be reflected in the
presently allocated budgets and financing for these measures.
The Developer will prepare monthly reports of environmental matters. T his will begin
immediately after the start of construction works and continue until the end of the Concession
Period. These monthly reports will be prepared in a unified format to be approved in advance
by MONRE. They will be submitted in both hard copy and digital version. Information in
these reports will include:
The Developer will prepare and submit to MONRE annual reports, at a time and in a format
agreed upon with MONRE. T hese reports will be submitted in hard copy and digital
versions. Information in these reports will include:
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In the event of any accident, non-compliance, or other incident that may cause an adverse
environmental impact, or may reasonably expect to have or lead to an adverse impact on the
environment or on any persons, the Developer will report in writing as soon as possible, but
no more than seven (7) days of becoming aware of such an incident. This report will be sent
to the relevant representative of MONRE (such as the Director of the EMU), as well as to the
Department of Energy Promotion and Development of the Ministry of Energy and Mines.
The Developer will also inform the affected persons of any such adverse environmental
impact within no more than seven (7) days of becoming aware of such an accident, incident
or non-compliance and of the actual or possible impacts, or sooner if immediate action must
be taken to avoid harmful impacts to the APs.
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Independent monitors will not start their field surveys or their own monitoring system in the
field, but will focus on (i) improvement of the project monitoring activities, (ii) improvement
of environmental and social measures to be implemented by ESD, (iii) improvement to be
made in the grievance redress procedures to be implemented through the Project, and (iv)
compliance with agreed entitlements and other obligations.
The independent monitors will receive the NNp1 monthly progress reports. The team will
visit the different project sites during the construction and operation phase of the project on a
bi-annual basis. The field visits should not interfere with ongoing construction activities or
ongoing resettlement activities, and ESD will help to coordinate interviews with contractors’
representatives, village authorities and project affected households, as required.
After the field visits, joint meetings will be held with representatives of ESD, GoL agencies
including MONRE, IFIs and the lenders, and IMA will prepare reports of its findings after
each evaluation and otherwise according to the Terms of Reference for the IMA.
The proposed reporting arrangements related to environmental and social issues are presented
in Table 15-1 below.
b
IMA will review the quarterly reports and other pertinent information, and submit semi-annual reports.
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The main agency responsible for review of environmental reports prepared by the Developer
and by the IMA will be the Environmental Management Unit.
The EMU will be responsible for any subsequent reporting of information from the
reports of the Developer and of the IMA to other offices in MONRE and to other GOL
agencies.
Monitoring arrangements proposed for the NNp1 Project have been discussed at several
occasions in consultations with various parties involved: the persons affected by the project,
the Company, the GoL, IFIs and the lenders. The objectives was to find the most efficient
way to monitor and report progress and compliance with obligations, without burdening
unnecessarily any of the parties, disrupting project activities and creating a counterproductive
monitoring and reporting fatigue.
Representatives of ADB and lenders will be involved in regular field visits to monitor the
project’s progress in implementing environmental and social measures. Prior notice will be
provided to the project before field visits. ESD will provide further information of specific
local environmental and social activities and help to coordinate interviews with contractors’
representatives, village authorities, and project affected households, if required.
MONRE will have the possibility to carry out inspections at any time, by giving ESD at least
one day notice prior to field visits and will be accompanied in the field by a t least one
representative of ESD.
MONRE and ESD will have meetings after the monitoring and inspections in the field to
discuss the recommended improvements to be made in the implementation of environmental
and social measures. The outcome of the discussion during these meetings will be reported by
ESD in its monthly reports.
All field visits by any monitor, inspector and visitor shall be coordinated by ESD to minimize
disturbance to households as well as disruption to project activities.
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CHAPTER 16
16.1 CONCLUSION
Project Owner: Nam Ngiep1 Power Co., Ltd (a consortium comprised of the
Kansai Electric Power Co., Inc. from Japan, EGAT
International Co., Ltd. from Thailand, and Lao Holding State
Enterprise (LHSE) from the Lao PDR
Project Location: The Project site (Main dam site) is located on the Nam Ngiep
River 145 km northeast from Vientiane and approximately 50
km north from Pakxan District, Bolikhamxay Province, Lao
PDR.
Content of Construction: The construction contents include a main power station and a
re-regulation power station. The main dam of the main power
station creates the reservoir with the normal water level (NWL)
at EL. 320.0 m and minimum operating level (MOL) at EL.
Generally, surface water quality in the project area is ranging from moderate to good,
depending on the level of human activities near the project area where the water was tested.
However, the quality of water could be poor when there is more human activities. There is
evidence that water quality is being deteriorated, especially in the lowland plains of Pakxan
district near the Mekong River. In upstream reaches of the Nam Ngiep River which remains
relatively undisturbed until few villagers shift their cultivation and grew industrial trees. Even
with such a low population, the agricultural practices and the residential activities could
directly pollute the Nam Ngiep River. Therefore, the water samples were collected along the
river to cover all types of existing land usage including natural areas, agriculture lands,
residential areas, and other types of discharges that change or lead to deterioration in water
quality.
The studies revealed that natural water temperatures ranged between 24°C to 31°C in
April and 24°C to 30ºC in October. Other physical properties such as conductivity, salinity
and hardness were natural as expressed through the good freshwater and less disturbed forest
in the upper catchment. Turbidity value was low in the dry season, but became higher in rainy
season. The higher value could be the result of suspended sediments, which were obviously
higher in the rainy season. Its average value was about 83 ppm in April and 17 ppm in
October.
DO concentrations were high within a range of 7 and 10. However, correspondence water
quality to the nutrient concentrations showed that the nitrate concentration in April was
higher than October. The increasing of nitrates during the rainy season might be from the
runoff discharged of nitrate-pollutant that generated from residential communities and animal
farms along the riverside. The runoff could flush animal and human wastes, which
accumulated on the land during the dry season, into the river during the early rainy season.
In general, the water quality of water samples collected in October was classified as Class
2 according to the Thai Surface Water Standards. This means that very clean fresh surface
water resources can be used for consumption with the simple water treatment. It was also
appropriate for aquatic organism for conservation, fisheries and recreation. However, the
quality of water in April fell to Class 3 according to the Thai standard, which is medium
clean fresh surface water resource. It can be used for agriculture but that required water
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treatment prior to use for consumption. The incremental of BOD5 was caused by the nutrients
flushed from the agricultural lands and residential areas into the river during the start of the
rainy season.
Water quality of the sample collected from the well at Ban Somseun was good according to
the Groundwater Quality Standard for Drinking Purpose as notified in the Lao National
Environmental Standard. However, the water was slightly acidic due to the presence of
waterborne disease contaminated in the well water, as found in the WHO/UNICEF Joint
Monitoring Programme. It is to be noted that residents of Ban Somseun do use water from the
well and also from the Nam Ngiep River for their domestic use.
As for potential water contamination from existing mineral resources and mines, the
chance of contamination from mines is extremely small since the closest mines are located
quite far from the project reservoir.
Only one community, Ban Hat Gnuin, about 3 km from the construction site to the west,
which is close to the dam site enough to be affected by noi ses and vibrations during
construction or operation phase. There are 395 residents in Hat Gniun and 86 s tudents
attending to the Hat Gniun Completed Primary School. The acoustic environment normally
consists of natural sounds such as wind blowing through trees, birds, and pets. The main
noise source of the village is the hand tractor, a popular form of local transport. Noise and
vibration annoyance in this community must be considered and controlled to an acceptable
levels by not to disturb the life of residents and students.
Due to the actual background noise and vibrations were unable to measure, reference to
other projects and activities similar to the NNHP-1 Project. In particular, the background
sound level of the Hutgyi Hydropower Project in Kayin state and the south of Myanmar, were
compared and applied to the noise and vibration assessment. Preliminary sound
measurements of Hutgyi Hydropower Project were carried out in April 2007 by m easuring
equivalent sound level at 1 hour, Leq 1 h. S ound level was is 60 dB(A) in the small towns
with vehicular noise and sometimes as major noise sources. The sound level was even lower
in rural areas where the major noise sources usually came from natural sounds such as wind
and birds. Noise sources at Ban Hat Gniun were mostly the two-wheel tractor and the natural
acoustic environment, so sound levels should be 40 to 60 dB.
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The baseline ambient air quality of the project site could not be obtained because there is no
permanent air quality monitoring station in the Project area. Conducting a site specific
monitoring is also not possible because the permission was not granted during the period of
field assessment. However, the project area is situated in a low density of industrial pollution
and transportation activities and no sources of major pollutants in the project area, hence air
quality is expected to be good. . In addition, the study results in “The Lao PDR Environment
Monitor 2005” of the World Bank showed that overall air quality is currently at acceptable
levels in both urban and rural areas in Lao PDR. Therefore, it is reasonable to expect that the
ambient air quality in the project area is considered to be in good quality.
The potential contamination sites were considered for both hazardous and non-hazardous
sources. For hazardous sources, data on the presence of hazardous industries, on or near the
dam site and the Nam Ngiep basin were considered. As no pot ential mineral resources
located in the region, there was no contaminated site from minerals or mineral extraction that
could cause hazardous contamination in the project area. There is also no industrial activity
within or immediately adjacent the Nam Ngiep River basin.
At present, the only remaining viable wildlife habitats are on t he steep and relatively
inaccessible slopes of undisturbed forests outside the project area. Within and around the
Project Area, wildlife conditions were surveyed and assessed by visual inspection and
interviews with villagers. Additionally data and information were gathered from previous
assessments and from local authorities who responsible for wildlife, forestry, and related
activities.
The definition of wildlife used for the purpose of this study consists of 4 gr oups of
animals: mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
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Mammals: There was considerable mammals in the project area, both in number of
species with higher populations. At the present, mammal widely were extensively hunted or
captured, most of these species are no longer seen or only rarely seen in the areas where the
dam and reservoir are located. Some of agile animals migrated down the steep slopes to the
river, and this will still be possible for them after the dam is built.
Birds: Data on bird species was recorded during interviews and field surveys and
compared with the list of species found in Lao PDR. Some species in this list were derived
from authoritative sources in Lao PDR, however, not all listed species have adequate
supporting evidence. Some of them had been mentioned in interviews, but no e vidence of
their actual existent during the field surveys such as two globally threatened vulnerable
species were identified which were the green peafowl and the Rufous-neck hornbill (Aceros
nipalensis). There are also other species in the IUCN Red List (2009) found in or near the
project area or identified through interviews.
Reptiles and Amphibians: Reptile and amphibian species were recorded. These included
turtles, tortoises, monitors, varanus spp., python spp., and king cobra. Provisionally at-risk
species that were recorded as present from the surveys include the Reticulated Python and the
Water Monitor. None of the reptiles are on t he IUCN Red List (2009). Only 5 of the
amphibians are listed.
Official forest classification for most of the project area is largely (1) unstocked forest
that is a part of the cycle of slash and burn agriculture and (2) mixed forest where is located
either on areas of steep land where the forest is inaccessible or on poor soils, unsuitable for
upland rice and other crop production. The original forests of the Northern-Central
Highlands, where the project is located, were predominantly dried evergreen and mixed
deciduous forests. However, shifting cultivation has removed much of the original forest and
large areas of grassland, bamboo which are now replaced by vegetation. Non-timber forest
products (NTFPs) such as leaves, shoots, flowers, fruits and bark are used extensively by the
Lao people. They are very important as food source, medicinally and also cultural usage.
According to the field reconnaissance survey and interviews, a larger portion of the
project area was already disturbed many years ago. Forests have not only been converted to
various usage, mostly agriculture and also burning for hunting and illegal logging within and
near by the proposed reservoir and dam site. The land is a medley of vegetation communities,
with local agricultural practices heavily impacting on species composition and maturity.
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Three main forest types are found in the area of the Nam Ngiep 1 Hydropower Project; Dry
Evergreen Forest, Mixed Deciduous Forest, and Unstocked Forest.
The main NTFPs found in the project area are bamboos and bamboo shoots, rattans,
mushrooms, and agarwood. Most villagers around the project area collect NTFP mostly for
daily life usage as food and household consumption. They are not for commercial purpose
because the area is far from the town and market.
There are two National Biodiversity Conservation Areas (NBCAs); Phou Khao Khoauy
and Nam Ka Ding area, Vientiane and Bolikhamxay provinces, respectively. However, both
NBCAs are located far from the project area. The project does not pose any direct threat to an
NBCA or major protected forest. However, it is situated some important forests reserve area
including village conservation forests and special spirit pool forests at Namyouak, Sopyouak
and Sopphuane Villages, Hom District and at Hatsaykham Village, Bolikhan District. These
are on steep terrains, relatively inaccessible lands to humans, allowing the vegetation to
remain relatively intact and keeping the areas as viable sites for a number of species.
Especially, these forest reserves are at elevations above the reservoir flood level.
Because the Nam Ngiep River passes through different habitats with elevations ranging from
1,300 m at the source to 200 m above the mean sea level (MSL) at its convergence with the
Mekong, it supports a large variety of aquatic biota. The survey in this study found 42 fish
species along the Nam Ngiep River. They are common species that can be found in other
water bodies in Lao PDR and are not categorized as Red List species by the IUCN (2009).
Many species are caught almost daily and sold at local fresh markets. Most fish sold at the
markets were juveniles. Cyprinidae were dominated and accounted for 24 species. The other
species were in the Bagridae family (3). The other families, such as Notopteridae family and
Siluridae were represented by only 1 or species each.
The 42 fish species caught in the project area can also be classified into three groups
according to their feeding habits; surface feeders, bottom feeders, and mid-water (column)
feeders. The column feeders (mid-water) comprised of the largest proportion, accounting for
38.10% of the total, followed by both surface feeders and bottom feeders, each accounting for
30.95% of the total. Most of the surface and mid water fish were cyprinids, accounting for
over half to the total fish population in the river (54.8 %).
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The Nam Ngiep River has a great diversity of plankton species. About 104 species were
found in the project sites, of which 64 w ere phytoplanktons and the other 40 s pecies were
zooplanktons. During the dry season, most of the river becomes shallow, so that light can
penetrate into the water for longer periods and with higher light intensity. This can accelerate
photosynthesis for the planktons and algae to grow.
In addition, twelve species of benthic fauna were found in Nam Ngiep project area. The
most abundant species were earthworms. Other species found mostly in the mid-part of the
river that will be most affected by the project are the Mayfly Nymph and the Stonefly
Nymph. The remaining 8 invertebrate species were found at much lower density. The higher
density of earthworms indicates the soils around these areas are in a virgin or near virgin
stage. Earthworms and other insects are excellent food for many kinds of local fish. Some
species of benthic invertebrates are very sensitive to environment, such as water temperature,
turbidity, and flow pattern.
Suspended Solid is expected to have a major impact on w ater quality downstream during
construction such as cutting into the hillsides to build the new access road, which could lead
to more sediment and landslides during the cut and fill works. The bare topsoil and
excavated debris rocks caused by the construction activities at the construction site would
also contribute to high sediment levels downstream. Uncovered soil will be a major source of
sediment by runoff. The soil erosion during the rainy season that causes sedimentation
downstream could occur during the five to six years of the construction period.
Activities related to the construction of the dam and other construction activities, such as
the worker camps, offices, access roads, concrete mixing plants, stockyards, quarry, and
disposal sites are potential major sources of water pollutants. Treated wastewater with
remaining BOD5 of less than 20 m g/L will be discharged from an on-site wastewater
treatment facility or a settling pond. When there is the peak of 1,800 workers, with estimated
wastewater of 50 L/day/person, the project could produce a total of 90,000 L/day or 1.0 x 10-3
m3/s2 of wastewater. Given the average annual flow of 148.4 m3/s of the river, the release of
the treated water with low BOD at the rate of 1.0 x 10-3 m3/s will not have a significant
impact on water quality.
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During the construction phase, activities that can cause noise impacts to the surrounding area
include cutting and land excavation, and moving equipment and materials for construction.
Typically, construction-site noise levels are about 80 - 90 dBA, measured 50 feet (15.24 m)
from the activity. Ban Hat Gniun lies about 3 km, or nearly 9,900 feet, from the construction
site, so the noise level would be less than 50 dBA.
Noise impacts can occur throughout the construction phase. The Project will involve the
use of many different types of equipment and activities. Raw materials for construction will
be transported from the Thai border by trucks along the newly constructed access road. The
noise impacts from this transportation will be low, because there are few residential areas
along the new road. However, where the road does pass near a community or a house, the
contractor should take measures to mitigate the impacts of noise on those residences during
transportation.
At the construction site, dust particles and fugitive dust from the construction activities, the
emissions from on-road vehicles associated with the construction site and on-site machinery
(off-road emissions) need to be controlled. In addition, the land clearing and surface
excavation activities, construction of water conveyance systems, tunnels, and distribution
systems also represent potential sources of air emissions from point sources. Increased traffic
on unsealed gravel road surfaces will contribute to air pollution by the generation and release
of fugitive dust. All of these activities can lead to considerable negative impacts on the
ambient air quality at the project site. However, the impacts can be limited through good
construction management practices. The contractor should implement an emission and dust
control plan within their environmental protection and mitigation framework. The emission
and dust control plan should include methods for dust suppression resulting from quarry sites,
crushing and batching plans, including road construction, embankment and channel
construction, haulage of materials and construction of work camps.
For hazardous sources, the possible sites of contamination were determined by r eviewing
plans of transport, storage, and use of hazardous substances during project construction. The
chemicals that must be used for the project during construction were reviewed to predict the
potential site contamination. The project materials that would be stored in the construction
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site and could cause hazardous contamination to the environment were determined to be
explosive materials, fuel (diesel, LPG), lubricant oils, pesticides and paints. The activities
that involve hazardous materials are; used chemical and storage, drum reconditioning or
recycling, electric transformers, used explosive and storage, landfills, pest control, used
petroleum product and oil storage, and scrap yards. Hazardous materials used for the Roller-
Compacted Concrete, RCC, were also considered. Since the functional units during
construction are projected to be close to the river, the risk enhanced by high slope surfaces
would be increased. The cut-and-fill technique that is planned for application for the high
slope can only retain the contamination. Stringent management of hazardous materials to
prevent spills must be applied to the construction sites.
The project will cover parts of three provinces, and will affect forest and other vegetative
cover in those areas. The largest area will be affected by the reservoir, most of which is
located in Hom district, Vientiane Province and Bolikhan district, Bolikhamxay Province.
None of the reservoir area or other project area is situated on conservation forest or protected
area.
The construction of the Nam Ngiep Hydropower Project will not have a significant
impact on wildlife in the area. That wildlife will not be affected by the reservoir, resettlement,
or other project-related activities. The areas of the reservoir, dam, and re-regulation dam are
not significant for wildlife migration, breeding, or feeding. Whatever remaining wildlife
found in the project area lives mostly in the higher elevations, and these have been and are
still being indiscriminately and extensively hunted and captured. Another threat to local
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wildlife would be hunting of the animals by c onstruction workers and other project staff.
Prohibitions to hunting must be strictly enforced.
As a main objective project component that reservoir would be provided, the impact from
the lost of forest area is realized. The comparative lost of forest between NNHP-1 and Nam
Theun 2 s howed that NNHP-1 ratio in term of lost forest per MW (24.2 ha/MW) less than
Nam Theun 2 (41.7 ha/MW).
The Nam Ngiep River does not host as many fish species as most other Mekong tributaries.
Furthermore, the fish are all common species that can be found in other water bodies Small
cyprinidae, the dominant species in the river, can adapt to the different environments in the
various sections of the river.
Dust and sediment would be produced from construction activities and cause turbidity.
This turbid water can prohibit penetration of sunlight to deeper layers in the river, and reduce
the population of plankton, consequently leading to a decrement of fish biomass. To prevent
sediment discharging to water, sediment controls e.g. sedimentation pond, silt fence, check
dam, and any other best practices should be adopted during construction.
To avoid pollution that can affect aquatic species, toilet, cooking, and other facilities must
be maintained and must avoid releasing waste or sediment into the river. Construction
materials must be adequately stored to avoid leaching of pollutants from those materials.
After reservoir impounded, the main water pollutants will be from degradation of organic
material under anaerobic conditions and sedimentation. The reservoir may also become
stratified into thermocline and hypolimnion zones, and the water from these zones could be
released according to the engineering design. It will take several months for the reservoir to
fill to EL 320 as its normal operating level. Water from EL 280 m will be discharged
downstream. During the early phase of water impoundment, organic matter in the soil and
remaining plants will degrade anaerobically, while some chemical components can be
expected to leach. This leaching and degradation can be expected to occur under anaerobic
conditions for at least five years. For the next five years, the rate of leaching and degradation
would become much lower, depending on the amount of organic that remaining in the
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reservoir, the depth of the impounded water and the effect of the thermocline. Regular
monitoring of water quality will help to indicate the ability of the water in the project
reservoir. After about ten years of water impoundment, the discharge quality may recover to
Class 2 or Class 3 s tandard for surface water. Even so, water quality monitoring programs
must be continued on a regular basis, because many external factors can affect water quality.
The direct impacts on the water body also included the load of sediment in the reservoir
and the change in downstream water quality caused by a ltered flow pattern. The
sedimentation would also imply reduced levels of dissolved phosphorus (P-PO4)
concentrations, total phosphorus (TP) concentrations, nitrate (N-NO3) and ammonium (N-
NH4) downstream during normal operation. However, during the early stage of inundation,
the nutrients trapped in the reservoir could be a source for algal bloom, which would lead to
oxygen depletion at night. High phytoplankton productivity was predicted to occur frequently
during the initial several years.
In addition, after the water has filled to the designed level, the stored water will inundate
a large variety of terrestrial and riparian habitats, including natural plants and strips of crops
along the shore. Water can continue to deteriorate from the dissolved components of these
plants flowing into the reservoir, with runoff containing soil nutrients and sediment from the
catchment settling in the reservoir.
Computer models were made to determine the quality of water expected at EL 280 m, the
level of water discharge. The predicted change of temperature, DO, and SS varied monthly
and at different distances downstream. Other computerized output focusing on D O was
considered as major impact during the operational phase because of degradation of organic
material under anaerobic conditions and sedimentation. These were evaluated at different
periods of inundation during operation.
The operation phase does not have major activities that can create noise and vibration impact.
The operation phase does not have major activities that can create dust; hence, adverse
impacts from dust are not likely after the operation phase begins.
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For hazardous sources, the possible sites of contamination were determined by r eviewing
plans of transport, storage, and use of hazardous substances during project operation. The
possibility of having contaminated sites during project operation will be low since only few
hazardous materials such as flammable fuels and pesticides will be used. In the operation
phase, there will be very few vehicular movements related to the operational and maintenance
works of the dam within the project area, thus only small amounts of fuels and petroleum
products will be required. Some pesticides and fertilizers may be used for landscape control
and maintenance. These chemicals may be contaminated if they are over used and improperly
stored. Meanwhile, this contamination would be limited only to the areas where applied.
The operation or other project-related activities of the Nam Ngiep Hydropower Project will
not have a significant impact on w ildlife in the area. The remaining wildlife found in the
project area lives mostly in the higher elevations, and these have been and are still being
indiscriminately and extensively hunted and captured.
Based on t he 320 M SL full supply level (Full Reservoir Load), it was shown that
inundated lands will consist of about 1.62% Dry Evergreen Forest and approximately 40%
Mixed Deciduous, while the largest portion of the reservoir area (almost 46%) is covered by
unstocked forest and scrub and about 2% Bamboo forest. Apart from these, some agricultural
land will be affected: 3.3% of the area is shifting cultivation and 7% is rice paddy fields.
Although there remains some relatively undisturbed forest in the upper part of the proposed
reservoir and near the dam site, these represent only a fraction of the surrounding forest so
that inundation of the reservoir will cause minimal disturbance to the wildlife in the area.
The fish in Nam Ngiep River are all common species that can be found in other water bodies
and can adapt to the different environments in the various sections of the river. If there is a
large amount of anaerobic sediment, this will certainly degrade the downstream water quality.
Aquatic life and human use of water would be adversely affected by temperature differences
and sudden oxygen depletion.
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After dam closure, all migratory fish will face a permanent barrier to their migration
paths. Water quality in the reservoir, especially in the years immediately following first
inundation, will be critical to maintaining productive fisheries. Reservoir water quality at the
time of initial inundation will depend largely on the amount of biomass, particularly rapidly
decomposing soft-biomass, within the reservoir basin and the extent of stratification of the
water column creating anoxic conditions. To prevent this impact, it is strongly recommended
to clear the existing trees as much as possible in reservoir prior to inundation to minimize the
amount of biomass.
Moreover, some of the river fish might thrive initially in the new lacustrine conditions.
For these species, the tributaries flowing into the Nam Ngiep above the dam may prove to be
important new spawning and feeding areas. If this is found to occur, those new areas should
be protected. In addition, fisheries enhancement and management program should be
introduce and maintain indigenous fish populations by facilitating new breeding ground and
feeding habitats following the construction phase, both in the reservoir and in alongs the
river.
16.2 RECOMMENDATIONS
The impact assessment requires essential baseline data to provide better assessment and
prediction on t he future trend on environmental quality. Due to permanent environmental
quality monitoring stations do not exist around the project area, as well as permission was not
granted by l ocal authority to allow monitoring during the study period, the baseline
information for noise and vibration, and air quality was unavailable. It is recommended to
conduct environmental quality monitoring programs during pre-construction period and
construction period to provide essential baseline data. In addition, it will be benefit to
establish permanent water quality monitoring stations for Nam Ngiep Basin to regularly
monitor the water quality along Nam Ngiep River prior to and after reservoir inundation.
To precisely and be able to predict downstream flood event, in particular, at Pakxan District
where is influenced from Mekong River in flooding season, hydrological data in the project
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area and vicinity should be gathered along with the development of flood model. This is to
assure and disseminate information to the public that water released from the dam during the
wet season will not cause flooding at the downstream areas.
According to the latest edition of the Decree on Environmental Impact Assessment dated 18
February 2010, i t is required all waste disposal facility development to perform
environmental impact assessment for a new waste disposal facility. It is expecting that it will
require considerable time for EIA preparation and approval process and may affect the
schedule and performance of waste management in the future. To avoid potential delay,
conceptual design and initial project information on waste disposal facility should be
provided and proposed as soon as possible where the impact assessment to be carried out
accordingly.
There are four options for reservoir clearing: (1) do not hing, (2) cutting trees without
removal, (3) cutting trees with removal, and (4) cutting trees with burn. Cutting trees with
removal and cutting trees with burn have been proposed for valuable tree species and for
other non-valuable species, respectively. Both options can maximise income and minimize
adverse impact of high initial oxygen demand after water filling.
• All remaining timber after commercial and salvage logging operations have
been completed will be cut as necessary and burnt.
• Avoid removing stumps as disturbed soil may release far more nutrients in
water.
Due to the existing seismological data is only available at a regional scale and detailed
assessment at this stage is limited. Furthermore, a preliminary assessment of the geological
structures in the region has shown that there are possibly joints and fractures in the rock
formations. However, judging from the available seismic records, the current design has
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been made to be seismic resistant design with sufficient safety margin. Additional
assessment of conditions will be done during detailed design.
In case there is indication of poor water quality at downstream caused by water releasing
from dam, the project owner shall carry out all applicable design and equipment in
accordance with environmental protection concerns. Effective turbine design can be used to
increase the amount of oxygen in discharging water downstream.
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