Environmental and Social Screening Report & Environment and Social Management Plan (ESMP) Rehabilitation of Right Bank Main Canal of Walawe Reservoir Integrated Watershed and Water Resources Environmental Management Screening Report Project (IWWRMP) May 2019 Irrigation Department, Ministry of Mahaweli Development and Environment 1 Table of Contents 1. INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................ 3 A. ABOUT THE IWWRMP .........................................................................................................................................3 B. PROJECT DESCRIPTION AND JUSTIFICATION ................................................................................................................4 C. PROJECT JUSTIFICATION .........................................................................................................................................7 D. LAND OWNERSHIP ................................................................................................................................................8 E. ALTERNATIVES .....................................................................................................................................................9 F. PROJECT MANAGEMENT TEAM ...............................................................................................................................9 G. PROJECT LOCATION ............................................................................................................................................10 H. PROJECT AREA OF INFLUENCE ................................................................................................................................10 I. OBJECTIVES OF THE ESSR AND ESMP ....................................................................................................................10 2. LEGAL FRAMEWORK AND WORLD BANK’S SAFEGUARDS POLICIES ............................................................. 11 A. NATIONAL LAWS, REGULATIONS AND POLICIES ........................................................................................................11 B. WORLD BANK’S SAFEGUARDS POLICIES ..................................................................................................................12 3. ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL CHARACTERISTICS ..................................................................................... 14 A. PHYSICAL FEATURES ............................................................................................................................................14 B. ECOLOGICAL FEATURES........................................................................................................................................16 C. SOCIO-ECONOMIC FACTORS .................................................................................................................................20 4. ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL IMPACTS .................................................................................................... 23 5. PUBLIC CONSULTATION AND DISCLOSURE.................................................................................................. 38 6. ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN ................................................................................ 41 7. LIVELIHOOD SUPPORT ASSISTANCE ............................................................................................................ 77 8. IMPLEMENTATION ARRANGEMENTS AND MONITORING PLANS ................................................................ 78 9. GRIEVANCE REDRESS MECHANISM ............................................................................................................. 78 A. GRM FOR PROJECT AFFECTED PARTIES AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS...............................................................................78 B. HANDLING GBV CASES IN GRM ...........................................................................................................................80 C. CONTRACTOR’S GRM PROCESS TO DEAL WITH THE GRIEVANCES RELATED TO LABOR AND WORKING CONDITIONS ..................80 10. BUDGET ...................................................................................................................................................... 81 ANNEXES ............................................................................................................................................................. 82 ANNEX 1: CANAL INVENTORY FOR REHABILITATION ............................................................................................................83 ANNEX 2: MAPPING OF STAKEHOLDERS USING THE RB CANAL FOR WATER SUPPLIES ...............................................................93 ANNEX 3: PICTURES ON MAIN ISSUES OF THE WALAWE RBMC ............................................................................................94 ANNEX 4: LOCATION MAP OF PROJECT AREA .....................................................................................................................95 ANNEX 5: SOIL TYPE IN THE UDAWALAWE REGION.............................................................................................................96 ANNEX 6: THE HYDROLOGY OF THE WALAWE BASIN ..........................................................................................................97 ANNEX 7: RAPID BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT REPORT .........................................................................................................98 ANNEX 8: CONSULTATION NOTES ...................................................................................................................................99 ANNEX 9: LOCATION OF POTENTIAL BURROW PITS ...........................................................................................................106 2 1. Introduction a. About the IWWRMP Water availability is becoming more variable and uncertain and studies show that these trends are likely to exacerbate, and the wetter areas of the country would eventually become wetter and the drier areas drier. As a response, to the expected economic, social and environmental losses, the Government of Sri Lanka has developed The Sri Lanka Water Resources Management Project (IWWRMP). The systematic implementation of this project is expected to address and adapt to some of the adverse climate change impacts projected for the country. The project is designed around four components: • Component 1: Watershed Management (USD 25 million). • Component 2: Infrastructure Improvement (USD 129 million) • Component 3: Strengthening Water Resources Management Institutions (US$ 10 Million). • Component 4: Contingent Emergency Response (US$ 0.0 million) • Component 5: Project Management (US$ 6 million) The aim of Component 2 is to enhance the safety and durability of hydraulic assets and support the rationalization of institutional arrangements for ensuring their safety and durability. This component is thus expected to finance the works, goods and consultancy services to rehabilitate headworks and downstream water resources infrastructure to enhance safety as well as related irrigation canal systems that require rehabilitation to improve their operational efficiency and durability. Of the various sub-project (dams and canal systems) that have been proposed for rehabilitation under Component 2 of the Project, one of them includes the ‘Rehabilitation of the Right Bank Main Canal of Udawalawe Reservoir’ with a project brief as follows: Project title Rehabilitation of Right Bank Main Canal of Udawalawe Reservoir Project Proponent Mahaweli Authority of Sri Lanka Proposed start date October 2019 Proposed completion date 4 years from project commencement Estimated total cost Rs 978 million 3 b. Project Description and Justification Walawe is the largest river basin (2442 km2) in the southern part of Sri Lanka, spreading over four administrative districts. The river originates in the southern part of the central uplands at the altitude of 2395 MSL and travels 84.9 km southwards before it flows into the Indian Ocean near Ambalantota town (Fig.1). Figure 1: Walawe River Basin Uda Walalwe Reservoir Data Length of the Main Canal 51 KM Command Area 12,000 Ha Full supply level (FSL) of the reservoir El.88.39 MSL Catchments area 1175 Km2 Water surface Area at FSL 3413 HA Capacity at FSL 268.65 MCM Dam type Earth fill dam Height of dam Max. 36.57 m Width of crest of spill 11.0 m 4 This project covers rehabilitation of the 51 KM long Right Bank Main Canal of the Udawalawe Reservoir Canal Inventory of the Right Bank area DITRIBUTORY SERVED FIELD CANAL BRANCH CANAL BLOCK CANAL LENGTH AREA (ha) LENGTH (km) LENGTH (km) (km) Chandrikawewa 3379.260 168.544 50.058 19.240 Murawasihena 4402.810 239.029 75.664 28.290 Angunakolapelessa 3765.760 209.541 71.860 28.210 Total Area 11547.830 617.114 197.582 75.740 The Right Bank of the Uda Walawe is the largest irrigation project located in this river basin. About 40% of the catchment area is cultivated under irrigated agriculture and 20% under rain fed agriculture. Natural and planted forests constitute another 20% and the balance area is home gardens, wetlands and degraded lands.Irrigation development has been the major strategy for livelihood enhancement of the people in the basin. Two major reservoirs for irrigation and hydropower generation have been constructed on the main river. The two major reservoirs Samanalawewa (upstream, in 1993) and Udawalawe (middle reaches, in 1967) with a total capacity of 486 MCM, supply water for hydropower and irrigation schemes. The main objective of the proposed project is to rehabilitate the 51 Km long Right Bank Main Canal of the Uda Walawe reservoir managed by Mahaweli Authority of Sri Lanka (MASL). Rehabilitation interventions of the Main System focuses on the following aspects; Design Consideration Proposed Interventions The geometry assumed in the original • Based on study of water profile behaviour using model software design of the canal Cross section is no and physical survey of the present profile in the main canal, more in existence as it has naturally dredging and reshaping the main canal to design parameters will transformed in to a stable parabolic be carried out. shape. Adequacy of discharge from the outlet • Rehabilitation of damaged structures and replacement with new structures (based on the new water structures. profile) to irrigate the maximum command area under each structure. Calculation of water requirement of • Outlet pipes in certain structures that are inadequate will be each outlet structure assuming modified to new design requirements. cultivation of paddy as it consumes the • Each outlet will be hydraulically fine-tuned so that water issues highest water duty. from outlets from Main Canals can be measured in volume basis. 5 Design Consideration Proposed Interventions • Display Boards will be fixed along the Main Canal at the head of each Distributary Canal as communication method to update the Farmers weekly about water consumption level. Fig 2 is a sample Display Boards fixed at calibrated outlet canal. Verification of cross canal structures for • Structural modifications to cross canal structures. their performance and dimensions to ensure compatibility with canal discharge and required head for water delivery. Rehabilitation of damaged major • As rehabilitation has to be carried out while water issues are on or structures made out of rubble masonry. during short off seasons, complete demolition of structure and rebuilding will not be feasible. Therefore, if the said structures are stable, such RR masonry walls will be fortified by covering lean RF concrete lining/curtain. Arresting leakage unlined canal • Some canal sections will be lined where leakages through the sections. bunds are observed as well as in sections close to structure where necessary. Arresting canal bank erosion throughout • Canal bank erosion has been observed as the major problem the entire canal. throughout entire canal. In addition to conventional methods it is proposed to introduce environmentally friendly bioengineered canal embankment strengthening (see annex 1). These solutions will be used in locations where physical preventive solutions such as retaining walls and lining are found to be unsustainable. Reinstatement of canal bunds and • Sustainable solution will be detailed in the design criteria. Also roads. special attention would be given to weak stretches of Canal Bund which cause flooding of settlement areas located downstream of the canal. Reinstatement of all hydro mechanical • Hydro mechanical components have to be repaired/or replaced components including lifting devices of either in full or parts as appropriate. the structures which are • All the Head Managed radial gates and components have to be malfunctioning. repainted as per standard specifications. Design specifications for downstream control gates will be provided if necessary to use in the future when BWA concept is applied in managing the Main Canal. Possibilities of gate automation will also have to be studied. 6 Table 1: Proposed interventions vis a viz the design criteria used Figure 2: Display Boards fixed at calibrated outlet canal All the above different hydraulic structural designs were based on the detailed engineering design criteria report prepared for different types of structures. (Reference: Chapter 1 of Volume 1 of the Feasibility Study for details of design including drawings) Refer Annex 1 for detailed project interventions on the RBMC c. Project Justification Fifty years have passed since the completion of Uda Walawe Right Bank (RB) Project in 1967. Most of the structures now require rehabilitation. Though some rehabilitation took place in the 1980s focusing on selected areas, they were not properly implemented. Also, the design assumptions used in the original design were tailored to cropping patterns, soil fertility, land ownerships etc. at that time, which have now changed from original theoretical expectations. For example, the water requirement for irrigation in RB area is being gradually reduced due to increased water productivity as a result of crop diversification from rice to other crops. One of the main reasons behind this reduction of water duty is Banana cultivation introduced in the RB area since 1992. Though there is reduction in water consumption, the required flexibility in providing water to upland crops, at the right time in right quantity has not yet been achieved in RB area. Therefore, there is a need to consider this new management requirement in the design criteria which would then need to be adapted to structural rehabilitation. Also, most of the canals are in a state of disrepair and need to be rehabilitated structurally. This particular project addresses only the rehabilitation needs of the Main Canal. The balance rehabilitation work in downstream areas has been identified as its second phase. 7 The resilience of agriculture, to cope with climate change impact, is more critical for the project area as it has suffered from frequent droughts. Rationalization of water usage, selection of drought-resistant high- value crops, crop diversification, reforestation, and maintenance of local biodiversity are the measures that need early attention in rehabilitation. Based on already available data of similar rehabilitation projects such as the Mahaweli Restructuring and Rehabilitation Project (MRRP) in System H, benefits after irrigation rehabilitation has been estimated as follows. • Increase of Water Productivity by 30% • Increase of Farmer income by 36% • Increase of Cropping intensity increased up to 165% (Source: Various Publications indicated in Annexure 2 on MRRP after its completion in 2004). It has to be noted that the main reason behind the above achievements is the management improvements introduced in parallel to hardware rehabilitation. Therefore, it is expected that similar management improvement measures will be implemented in Uda Walawe also based on lessons learnt from System H. The proposed rehabilitation work in the Uda Walawe RB canal will also accrue benefits other than Irrigation. There are multiple users having water rights from the Uda Walawe Reservoir which is the main water source for the Right Bank Canal. They include; • Irrigation Department • Mahaweli Authority • Agrarian Service Department • Water Supply and Drainage Board • Electricity Board (Non Consumptive User) Both water towers delivering water to the right and left bank main canals are equipped with turbines and electricity is generated as a byproduct of irrigation water release. These turbines produce an average of 15 GWh per year. Also, there is an agreement between the Ceylon Electricity Board (who uses Samanala Wewa as their water source for electricity generation) and other agencies such as Mahaweli Authority and Irrigation Department who uses water for irrigated agriculture that priority will be given to agriculture in situations of water scarcity. The RB canal also provides water to several Aquatic Fish Breeding Centres. Refer (Annex 2 for mapping of stakeholders using the RB canal for water supplies.) There is also a request from the National Water Board to allocate 5% of the annual water quota presently allocated for irrigation for drinking water supply. Calculations indicate that the annual requirement for drinking water is 80,000 Cubic Meters. The preferred source for drinking water supply by the National Water Board is the Chandrika Wewa where the water is less polluted with agricultural waste (in comparison to other downstream tanks). In addition to the above traditional stakeholders, new demand would be created with the development activities in Hambontota Area. Therefore, rehabilitation of Irrigation System under Right Bank area is a must to save water as it is the major stakeholder using water. d. Land ownership 8 Main canal and its reservations are owned by Mahaweli Authority of Sri Lanka (MASL). Irrigable lands other than reservations allocated for downstream canal network and natural stream reservations are owned by farmers. Marking of canal reservation using land marks and live fences is expected to be carried out in parallel to rehabilitation work. The field observations and consultations indicate that there are no squatters. However, if any squatters are identified during the implementation that will be affected due to live fences, the project will follow the RPF and prepare Resettlement Action Plans (RAP) to pay compensation for structures and loss of crop to the squatters. Burrow site and gravel sites needed to source construction material has not been yet identified. It would be the responsibility of the contractor to source these sites and seek necessary approvals from the relevant authorities as well as implement safeguard measures in opening and closing such sites. e. Alternatives The proposed project is a project to rehabilitate the RB canal of the Walawe Irrigation scheme. The canal trace is already defined, and the infrastructure is already in place. The proposed rehabilitation work aims to fix critical problems within the scheme and to hydraulically fine tune existing water delivery structures to suit current and emerging water consumption needs through certain physical improvements. Hence, there is no alternative to the project and the proposal rehabilitation work must be carried out in order to maintain infrastructure as well as to gain enhanced irrigation and other water use efficiencies. With regard to canal conveyance improvement, performance alternatives have been considered for the RB main canal. For example, reducing friction by introducing concrete lining at selected stretches, modification of cross canal structures provided they are economically viable, etc and the most technically and economically viable options have been suggested. Subject numerous limitations, addressing management needs of the system after rehabilitation has also been considered as one alternative under the proposed rehabilitation process. Bulk Water Allocation (BWA) strategy, as now being adapted in other Mahaweli Areas, has been proposed as the best option to meeting this challenging situation. In BWA approach, the main canal outlets to each distributary canal has been treated as the interface for sharing responsibilities between the already existing Distributary Canal Farmer Organizations and the Main Canal Management Staff. f. Project Management Team The project will be implemented through the Project Management Unit (PMU) under the supervision of the Mahaweli Authority. See Annex 3 for pictures on main issues of Walawe RB 9 g. Project Location Project is located near Embilipitiya Town in the Hambantotoa District of Southern Province of Sri Lanka. Rehabilitation work is located in Embilipitiya, Angunakolapellassa and Ambalantota Divisional Secretariats in the Hambantota district, in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. See Annex 4 for a close-up location map. h. Project area of influence The project area of influence will include the entire canal trace of 51Kms, canal reservations and material burrowing sites and haulage routes. The Project expects to carry out the proposed interventions during close/dry periods. However, in the event that a water draw-down in the canal becomes necessary to facilitate rehabilitation work, the command areas and villages that benefit from water in the canal will also become part of the direct impact zone. Once the project’s implementation plan is finalized, expected by July 2019, the direct impact zone will be known. Once the direct zone is known, the project will follow the due diligence guidelines elaborated in the RPF prepared for the project, and accordingly prepare and implement resettlement action plans, livelihood support assistance packages, to account for land, livelihood and income loss. i. Objectives of the ESSR and ESMP The objective of the ESSR is to conduct environmental and social screening of the proposed project interventions, identify potential issues and public concerns and determine the level of environmental and social analysis the project warrants. The aim of the Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) for the Rehabilitation of Walawe RB canal is to have a site-specific and well-documented set of mitigation, monitoring and institutional actions to be taken before and during implementation of the project. These measures seek to address adverse environmental and social impacts, offset them or reduce them to acceptable levels. The ESMP has been developed in accordance with the Environment and Social Management Framework (ESMF) and the Resettlement Policy Framework (RPF) developed for the overall Integrated Watershed & Water Resources Management Project (IWWRMP). 10 2. Legal Framework and World Bank’s Safeguards Policies This ESMP has been prepared in compliance with the national regulations as well as the World Bank’s safeguards policies and is in accordance with the ESMF and the RPF prepared for the overall IWWRMP. a. National Laws, Regulations and Policies The Constitution of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka under Chapter VI Directive Principles of State policy and Fundamental duties in section 27-14 and in section 28-f proclaim “The state shall protect, preserve and improve the environment for the benefit of the community”, “The duty and obligation of every person in Sri Lanka to protect nature and conserve its riches” thus showing the commitment by the state and obligations of the citizens. The overall environmental and non-land related social concerns are addressed by the National Environmental Act No. 47 of 1980 (and subsequent amendments by act no 56 of 1988 and act no 53 of 2000). Besides, there are several other sectoral legislative enactments that are in place as elaborated in the ESMF prepared for the overall IWWRMP. Table 3 indicates the applicability of these legislations to the context of the Walawe RB Irrigation Rehabilitation project. Table 3: Applicability of National Laws and Policies Permit/Clearance Yes No TBD Remarks 1 National Environmental √ Clearance from Hambantota Regional (Amendment) Act, Certified on 18th Central Environmental Authority to August,2000 implement the project shall be obtained. However, this will not come under prescribed projects category of the National Environmental Act and hence there is no need to carry out an EIA or IEE. However Environmental Protection License (EPL) from CEA /respective Divisional Secretariat for identifying waste dumping sites. 2 Soil Conservation (Amendment)Act √ As work sites are not located in vulnerable No. 24 of 1996 area declared by National Building Research Organization, it is not necessary to obtain clearance. 3 Coast Conservation Act No 57 of √ Not relevant 1981. 4 Fauna and Flora (Amended) Act No √ As per the Fauna and flora Protection 49 of 1993) (Amendment) Act, No.49 of 1993, there 11 are no conservation sites located whinin DS divisions. Hence, clearance is not required. 5 Local Authority Act No.23 of 1992 √ Approval shall be obtained for new constructions. Local Authority/ Pradeshiya Sabha for waste collection and to issue machinery permits. Sitting of the burrow pits. 6 Irrigation (Amendment) Act (No. 48 √ It has been received. of 1968) 7 Mahaweli Authority of Sri Lanka Act √ It has been received. 23 of 1979 8 Archaeological Ordinance No. 9 0f √ The list of conservation sites alone the DS 1940, Acts No.2 of 1955, No. 22 of division has been obtained. Project 1955, No.2 of 1998 and No. 12 of construction sites are not in close 2005 proximity to any archaeological site. However, Department of Archaeological, will be informed. 9 Agrarian Development Act No. 46 The encroached area is cultivated with of 2000 (Section 32) paddy and converting such paddy lands to construct/ rehabilitate Main canal require written permission of Commissioner √ General of Agrarian Services Department. 10 Mines & Minerals Act No. 33 of Obtain from Geological Survey and Bureau 1992 an Industrial Mining License (IML). For operation of burrow its and the rock extraction all site should obtain approval √ from GSMB 11 Felling of Trees Control Act No. 9 of √ Approval required from Divisional 1951 as amended through Act No. Secretariat followed by respective Grama 30 of 1953 Niladhari for removal of timber logs. These logs would have to be removed as per the requirement set forth by the DS and the Timber Cooperation. b. World Bank’s Safeguards Policies Projects and programs funded by IBRD resources need to comply with and satisfy the requirements of the World Bank’s operational policies, in addition to conformity with national regulations. The World Bank’s safeguards policies triggered under the overall IWWRMP include: OP/BP/GP 4.01: Environmental 12 Assessment, OP/BP 4.04: Natural Habitats, OP/BP 4.36: Forests, OP/BP 4.11: Physical Cultural Resources, OP/BP 4.12: Involuntary Resettlement and OP/BP 4.37: Safety of Dams. However, not all these policies are applicable in the context of the ‘Rehabilitation of Walawe RB’ sub-project for the reasons provided in Table 3. Table 4: Applicability of WB Safeguard Policies Triggered by the Project Safeguard Policies Triggered by the YES NO Explanation Project Environmental Assessment (OP/BP/GP X This policy is applicable because the project 4.01 will support the rehabilitation of existing RB main canal and several irrigation structures along it which will involve earth works, civil works, burrowing for construction material etc and hence requires proper screening and impact mitigation. Natural Habitats (OP/BP 4.04) X On a precautionary basis, the NH is considered applicable as sites selected for burrowing could impinge on natural habitats. Forests OP/BP 4.36 X The applicability of this policy is not relevant in this case as no forest resources are threatened as a result of the project. Physical Cultural Resources (OP 4.11) X The applicability of this policy is not relevant in this case as no known PCR resources are threatened as a result of the project. Involuntary Resettlement (OP/BP 4.12) X This policy is applicable as implementation may result in loss of livelihood and access to natural resources for a variety of stakeholders’ dependent on the RB canal. Proposed marking and live fencing of canal reservation may lead to additional losses of income and access to natural resources. 13 Safety of Dams (OP/BP 4.37) X This policy is applicable as the safety of the RB canal depends on the safety of the Uda Walawe dam. In addition to applicable OP’s presented above, the World Bank Group’s General Environmental Health and Safety Guidelines, Guidelines on Managing the Risks of Adverse Impacts on Communities from Temporary Project Induced Labour Influx, and Good Practice Note on GBV for low risk projects, as recommended by the WB’s GBV task force, are also applicable for this project and will be followed when relevant. 3. Environmental and Social Characteristics a. Physical Features Topography and Terrain The Walawe river basin covers an area of approximately 3,000 km2 and extends from the ridge of the central highlands of Sri Lanka, at an altitude of over 2,000 meters, down to the southern coast. The Uda Walawe Irrigation and Resettlement Project (UWIRP to which Walawe RB belongs to) is located in the lower part of the basin. This reservoir is built across the Walawe Ganga, which is the fifth largest river in Sri Lanka. The river is 136 Km long and has a catchment area of 1200 km2. The Uda Walawe reservoir was constructed during the period 1963 –1967, as part of a plan to develop irrigation infrastructure in 32,000 ha of land in the dry zone of southern Sri Lanka (ADB 1969) 1. It is an earth fill dam, with a live storage capacity of 240 Million Cubic Meters (MCM). There are two main canals the Right Bank Main Canal (RBMC), and the Left Bank Main Canal (LBMC). The original plan was to develop 20,000 hectares of land for irrigation under the project(Nippon Koei 1996) 2. Command area was planned to irrigate with a network of canals based on 42 km long RBMC and 31 km long LBMC. See Annex 5 for soil type and Annex 6 for hydrology of the area. The Right Bank is divided into three Zones namely Zone 6, 7 & 8 and each Zone is sub divided into number of Management Units for easy post construction management purposes. The Project area (Zones 6 to 8 of System ‘B’) would cover development of 14,000 ha for irrigated agriculture and other social infrastructure. Climate Dry Monsoon forest climate with an annual rainfall of about 1520mm has mean day and night temperature of 29 and 24 degrees centigrade respectively. Variation of monthly rain falls within a year in the RB area is indicated in the following graph 1ADB. (1969). Appraisal of Walawe Development Project in Ceylon. Unpublished report, Asian Development Bank 2 Nippon Koei (1996). Detailed design report on Walawe left bank Irrigation Upgrading and Extension Project, Nippon Koei Co. LTD., Japan, Tokyo. 14 Mean Monthly Rainfall and Evaporation Data (Period 2001 to 2005) 250.0 200.0 150.0 Rainfall (mm) mm Evaporation (mm) 100.0 50.0 0.0 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Month Rainfall and Evaporation data in Udawalawe Soil Type and Quality According to the Sri Lankan Soil map in Annex 5, this area consists of “Reddish Brown Earth”. These residual soils form as a result of weathering of parent rocks and the well graded particles size distribution of these soils show good compactive properties. It is possible that soil erosion might occur at the construction sites where earth movement and excavations for foundations are expected. None of the canal reaches are located within vulnerable zones declared by National Building Research Organization. Surface Water The Uda Walawe reservoir and the main canals are the key surface water sources in the area. Approximately half the precipitation is transformed into runoff and the remainder is either used by vegetation or evaporates. Some of the runoff percolates into shallow groundwater aquifers located in the plains but aquifer levels fall quickly after the rainy season ends. Precipitation and aquifers feed the Walawe river, which has an average discharge to the sea of 1.1 billion cubic meters per year. The Uda Walawe reservoir is located in the middle of the basin and supplies water to downstream areas through two main canals known as the Right Bank Main Canal (RBMC) and the Left Bank Main Canal (LBMC). Surface water uses in the area is mainly for irrigation of paddy and other crops like banana, papaw and other crops. Surface waters are also used freshwater fish breeding activities in the area, bathing and washing, drinking water and electricity generation. Surface water quality varies. Drainage water contaminated with agro-chemicals is considered a possible source of water pollution. There is also a pollution threat from the drainage canal originating from the Embilipitiya town that is draining into the RB canal. However, proper water quality assessments are lacking and it is recommended that such is carried out for the safety and hygiene of various users. 15 Ground water The main canal which is an unlined canal replenishes ground water along its 41 KM long route. People obtain water from shallow wells which is used primarily for drinking purposes. However, the water quality in the shallow wells are now questionable due to pollution from pesticides, fertilizers etc. Ground water levels closely follow the changes in canal water releases and according to recent studies canal seepage accounts for 74% of ground water recharge (Boelee and van der Hoek (2002) 3). (Reference Economics and Politics of Water Resources – Uda Walawe Project Sri Lanka (IWMI Research 4). About 15 water bodies around level crossings along the main canal also help replenish ground water in the area even when there is no water issue in the main canal. Current water quality analysis results of the drinking water wells selected within the proposed project area is not available. Flooding Since the Main Canal is located in upstream of flood prone areas in the landscape such as major streams, flooding is not a major issue. Historical flood data are not available in the area. However, flashfloods occur near the Rakwana River Crossing (at the 4km mark) and each year there are about 2-3 deaths when crossing. This is because the crossing is a causeway bridge. Therefore there is a request from the local community for a raised bridge. Air quality Since the project is located in a rural area, air quality is deemed to be within the limits of National Ambient Air Quality Standards. Similarly, noise levels commensurate with rural activity in the area. b. Ecological Features Vegetation Vegetation of the inside of the canal embankment is limited to shrubs and herbs but the roadside vegetation beside the canal is quite lush with some tree species. Trees such as Palu, Weera Burutha, Milla, Nedun, Godakirala, Damminna, Heelamba, Karanda, Kumbuk, Midella, Ahetu, Ma-dan, .Bulu, Halmilla,Gammalu, Nika, Etteriya, Karamba, Ehela and divul among others formed the natural vegetation maily limited to the home gardens, cultivated lands and the hedges of the boundaries. A fairly high vascular plant diversity was recorded for the areas studied (see Annex 7 for full rapid biodiversity assessment report for locations and species tables) with 236 species. Only 4 endemic species were recoded and only 6 species identified have been classified as “threatened “in the IUCN Red List. See table below. Only Croton caudatus is considered endangered under the inventory and this too is now found quite abundantly. 3 Boelee, E.; van der Hoek, W. 2002. Impact of irrigation on drinking water availability in Sri Lanka. ICID-CIID 18thCongress on Irrigation and Drainage, 21-28 July, Montreal, Canada. Paper No. Q51/R5.7 (http:// www.cancid.org/tech_papers.htm#IWMI). International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage 4 Molle, F., Renwick, M., 2005. Economics and politics and of water resources development: Uda Walawe Irrigation Project, Sri Lanka. . Research Report 87. International Water Management Institute (IWMI), Colombo, Sri Lanka 16 Species Sinhala Name Conservation status Cryptolepis dubia Val rukaththana Vulnerable Strychnos potatorum Ihini Vulnerable Corchorus olitorius Saani Vulnerable Margaritaria indica Karavi Vulnerable Chloroxylon swietania Burutha Vulnerable Croton caudatus Val Kappetiya Endangered Aquatic macrophyte (plants) beds in the RBMC at the downstream of Chandrika reservoir are provided in the pictures below. Aquatic macrophytes play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of aquatic ecosystems. Although reed beds hinder the canal flow, it provides good habitat for many avifauna and keeps the water quality in a good condition. Hence, a compromise has to be made when removing this vegetation. Figure 3. Macrophyte (aquatic plant) beds found in the RBMC Mitigatory measures that could be adopted to improve the vegetation along the RBMC include: 17 Presence of wetlands RBMC is a lotic ecosystem (flowing water system) that maintain connectivity between the upstream and downstream. There is large number of village tanks and level crossings (isolated water bodies – around 10) located along the RB main canal. There are 30 village tanks located within the downstream areas below the RBMC. In addition to storing water, those isolated tanks play the role of wetlands in the landscape. The RBMC consists of an array of microhabitats along the canal that supports a diverse group of fauna and flora. Under this context, the level crossings has a significant role to support biodiversity in this system, as there are associated freshwater wetland ecosystems. Wetlands are among the most important ecosystems on earth act as sources, sinks and transformers of multitude of chemical, biological and genetic materials. There are many wetlands closely link with the RBMC via level crossings and are depicted in the pictures below. Figure 4. Wetlands associated with level crossings of the RBMC .It consist of an array of microhabitats along the canal that supports a diverse group of fauna and flora 18 Fish and wildlife habitats Athukorala and Amarasinghe (2010) 5 recorded 13 and 16 fish species at the landing sites of Uda Walawe and Chandrika Reservoir. Therefore, maintaining the connectivity along the RBMC is crucial to maintain the indigenous fish population in this system. Further, same authors observed freshwater eels (Anguilla bicolor bicolor) in the fish catch of Chandrika Reservoir. Eels are catadromous fish who migrate to marine environment for spawning and, juveniles return to the freshwaters to complete their life cycle. Rapid biodiversity assessment carried out showed fresh water fish diversity of this canal to be quite low compared to other natural streams and irrigation canals of the dry zone, probably due to the invasive nature of Mozambique Thilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus). This species is regularly introduced to the reservoir for harvesting. During the study (rapid and limited areas) only 13 species were recoded with all except one being native and one endemic species - Dawkinsia singhala (Sri Lanka Filamented Barb). None of the species are considered threatened. Full list of species is available in Annex 7. Eleven amphibian species were recoded with all being native and one endemic species Polypedates cruciger (common hourglass tree frog). Only one species Duttaphrynus scaber (Schneider;s frog) is considered vulnerable. 16 reptile species were also recoded all of them having the least concern conservation status. The presences of damselfly and different varieties of dragonfly indicates that the existing ecosystem is not severely polluted or contaminated. Dragon flies and damselflies composed a more diverse group with only 16 species but with 3 endemic species and the others being native. Five species fall within the threatened category (refer Annex 7 for names). 44 species of butterflies were recoded with all being native except for one introduced species. All were common species with low conservation status. Refer Annex 7 for the Aquatic Resources Assessment Report Birds Out of the 70 species of avifauna recorded 03 species are migratory and arrive in Sri Lanka only during the North-South migratory period. None of these species are recognized as globally threatened migratory species thus they have a low conservation priority. Since the survey was carried out at the end of the migratory season, very few species were recorded here. However, the habitats in the area have reported that it is important for many migrants that use the site as a feeding ground as well as a roosting site. 5 Athukorala, D., Amarasinghe, U., 2010. Status of the fisheries in two reservoirs of the Walawe river basin, Sri Lanka: a case of participation of fishers in management. Asian Fisheries Science 23, 284-300 19 Aquatic fauna spotted at RBMC Presence of special habitat areas There are no special habitats within the proposed project area that are either designated as protected areas or identified as critical habitats 6. The overall habitats have been considered as moderately rich in biodiversity but do not support and significantly threatened or endangered species of major concern. The study area is a part of a larger habitat complex that supports some apex species that occupies larger home ranges such as raptors like Grey-headed Fish-eagle, White-bellied Sea-eagle, Brahminy Kite and medium sized carnivorous mammals like the Fishing Cat. Although the adjacent Udawalawe national park bares many wild elephants, the project area has no impact by stray elephants unlike other similar areas in the country due to the well-maintained elephant fence at the park. c. Socio-Economic Factors RBMC serves a multitude of water requirements of different government agencies with direct outlets from the left bank side of the canal at different locations. These outlets feed: i) supplementary irrigation 6 A critical habitat is defined here as an protected area officially declared or proposed by the government, area initially recognized as protected by traditional local communities, a site that maintain conditions vital for the viability of these protected areas, area with known high suitability for bio-diversity conservation, a site that is critical for rare, vulnerable, migratory, or endangered species (according to the definition given in Worldbank Operational Policy 4.04 revised on April 2013). 20 requirements of Tract 5 (843 ha) of adjoining Muruthawela irrigation scheme maintained by the Irrigation Department (ID) through a long supply canal; ii) five outlets feeding several minor irrigation schemes adjoining the RBMC and are overseen by the Agrarian Services Department (ASD); iii) drinking and irrigation water requirements of the Sugar Cane Research Institute located adjoining the RBMC; and iv) drinking and inland fisheries water requirements of the Thilaphia and Carf Fish Breeding Centers located adjoining the RBMC. In addition, the National Water Supply and Drainage Board (NWSDB) abstracts water from Uda Walawe and Uda Walawe reservoirs for drinking water supply. The RBMC serves non- consumptive water use by the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) at one of the micro-hydro plant installed in the RBMC. The table below shows the various stakeholders alongside the number of dependent HHs (where available) and the water requirement. Table 5. Stakeholders and their water requirement from RBMC Stakeholder Water requirement (M3 Per day) Udawalawa Water Board 4,000 Thilapia Breeding Centre RB1/D2 350 Sugarcane Research Institute RB1/D3 1,000 Sugarcane Research Institute RB1/D4 1,000 Carf Breeding Centre RB1/D5A 14,000 Carf Breeding Centre RB1/D5B 2,400 Carf Breeding Centre RB1/D6 12,600 Embilipitiya Water Board 9,000 Suwadivi Community Water Project 700 Mahasen Community Water Project 1,800 Mahajandura Community Water Project (160 HHs) 70 Murawesihena Community Water Project (150 HHs) 60 Handunkatuwa Community Water Project (150 HHs) 90 Athbatuwa Community Water Project (150 HHs) 70 Mamadala Community Water Project (260 HHs) 130 Gamaralagama Community Water Project (40 HHs) 20 Dikwewa Community Water Project (250 HHs) 120 Water from Eraminiyaya Tank (Water Board) ….. Water from Kattakaduwa Tank (Water Board) ….. Land ownership and usage patterns The legal ownership of the Walawe RBMC and the canal reservation lie with the MASL. The left bank canal bund road is used by the community as a main access road. Moreover, it is the O&M road for the canal. On the right bank side, several small and medium residential tourist hotels have flourished. Most of these hotels have direct drinking water supply by the NWSDB but some of these hotels abstract water directly from the RBMC using small water pumps. 21 Residential/Sensitive Areas Places such as hospitals, school etc. are not situated within the project’s immediate area of influence. This is a rural setting and people have to travel 4-5 km to reach these facilities. There are number of temporary bridges and bathing spots which have been introduced within last few decades along the RBMC in residential areas. Most of them do not have necessary safety arrangements or the width for even a tractor to cross. Traditional economic and cultural activities Paddy cultivation is the main traditional economic activity in the area. Uda Walawe contains a rich ancient history of irrigation that dates back about 2000 years to the days of the Ruhuna Kingdom, which is followed by a long period of abandonment. In the late nineteenth century, British colonialists initiated agricultural development activities in the basin, including irrigation. In the postcolonial period, the development of the Uda Walawe basin eventually became known as the Uda Walawe Irrigation and Resettlement Project (UWIRP). Udawalawe Right Bank has 11308 hectares of asweddumaised land for cultivation. Around 12,000 farmer families are beneficiaries. Production and value of the output of RBMC Udawalawe Sources – Resident Project Manager Office Mahavelli Authority Udawalawe Traditionally, both men and women are involved in agriculture whilst the age-wise participation in agriculture shows the participation of the younger generation is less. This suggests some degree of internal migration out of the project area and the unwillingness of the younger generation to be engaged in the agriculture sector. Archeological resources Project area under consideration is not in close proximity to any archeological resources and is not in close proximity to any ancient village tank. 22 4. Environmental and Social Impacts The social and environmental screening for the Walawe RBMC sub-project based on the administering of the Environmental and Social Screening Report and consultations with local communities and other relevant stakeholders indicate that all the potentially adverse effects associated with the project can be classified as construction related impacts and are mitigatable with known technology. Public concern does not warrant further assessment. Therefore, as per the ESMF prepared for the IWWRMP, a stand-alone Environmental and Social Assessment is not required, and an Environmental and Social Management Plan is considered sufficient to move forward. However, given the possible loss of income and access to natural resources during construction, a Livelihood Support Assistance (LSA) plan will be developed during the first year of implementation as these issues can only be realistically be identified while actual construction is in progress. Below is a summary of the key social and environmental impacts associated with the subproject with the results of the social and environment screening checklist provided in Table 7. Loss of access to resources The need to provide un-interrupted supply of water for the multiple agencies and communities mentioned above makes the MASL very difficult to keep the canal fully closed over prolonged periods during the rehabilitation/construction phase. The risk will be minimized with MASL’s operational plan for fulfilling water supply obligations to those stakeholders. Impacts on livelihoods It will be a challenge for the MASL to undertake the rehabilitation works only during the limited time window of irrigation close/dry seasons within the three-year implementation period. The proposed arrangement is to carry out rehabilitation works during the close/dry seasons initially and once the contractors are fully mobilized, to close one cultivation season later to be able to complete the works. The risk will be minimized by the development of a strategy and an action plan (referred to as LSA) for dealing with the foregone livelihoods, incomes, and water availability for drinking and other uses during the construction/rehabilitation phase and a budget to meet the related expenses. Alteration of vegetation Not many trees will be removed, however, 70ha of area will be cleared of vegetation including the cutting of overhanging tree branches of 100 trees. Further water weed clearance and root clearance will be carried out in 35 sqm for rehabilitation interventions. The risk is low with possible impacts potentially not significant. Areas involving embankment stabilization will involve bioengineering methods where trees will be grown along the canal. This is a significant positive impact. Burrowing for material Burrow sites are yet to be identified. A few potential sites identified by the MASL are presented in Annex 9. All the borrow sites need sound managements to avoid or minimize pollution potential and best practices for managing sites should be adopted. All borrow areas will be accepted for material exploitation 23 only if proper approvals from the relevant authorities are obtained. Borrow site that could be potentially located in the tank bed must be utilized with extra precaution and with a proper rehabilitation and safety plan for the protection of fauna inhabiting the area. A guideline for burrow site management is attached as part of the ESMP and must be adopted by the contractor with necessary changes. The risk is moderate with possible impacts potentially significantly negative. Managing Soil Erosion Soil erosion during the rehabilitation activity is expected with burrowing in the canal, removal of trees, stripping of topsoil, etc. This is likely to increase the turbidity of water and may impact downstream users. Water turbidity will have to be monitored and soil erosion will have to be minimized by only removal of required vegetation and once removed, work is completed and the area quickly rehabilitated. Risks and vulnerabilities to public safety The risks and vulnerabilities to public due to construction activities can be expected at points of civil works undertaken. However, such risks are considered to be low since the construction activities only involve rehabilitation-related works. The risk is moderate with possible impacts potentially not significant. Temporary loss of access The communities’ request to replace a culvert cum causeway at 4 km 400m location with a new bridge, if taken onboard, is justifiable because the culvert restricts transport and mobility across the stream and causes deaths of about 3-4 persons annually during floods. If elevated bridge construction is undertaken, it will disrupt a main public crossing point and this may be over an extended period of time. The risk is moderate with possible impacts potentially not significant. Impact at operational stage Upon completion of the rehabilitation interventions, the outcomes are expected to be positive with increased water productivity which will benefit all the users and reduce soil erosion. Impact is significantly positive. 24 Table 7: Environmental and Social Screening Checklist Screening question Yes No Significance Remarks of the effect Project Design a. General 1 Will the sub project include any physical √ Moderate construction work? 2 Does the project include upgrading or √ Moderate -DO- rehabilitation of existing physical facilities? b. Rehabilitation of dam head works and rip rap associated irrigation infrastructure 3 Will improvements to tank bund including the √ The project will not involve work on the tank bund and rip rap. headworks and rip rap structures require the water level in the reservoir to be artificially drawn down? 4(i) If yes, can this lead to any alteration of water N/A flows in surface as well as groundwater sources, especially in the dry season? 4(ii) Will the water draw down affect the ecology of N/A There are about 15 water bodies called level crossing along the the tank and other important wetlands that Main Canal in addition to regulating reservoirs such as Chandrika depend on the main lake and canal system to Wewa. Also there about 30 Village Tanks spread all over maintain water level? downstream areas below the main canal Those water bodies can store without depend on Main Canal issues. A minimum base flow to be maintained during the canal rehabilitation period 25 Screening question Yes No Significance Remarks of the effect 5 Will repairs to irrigation canals require √ Temporary suspension of water issuance is likely required at temporary suspension of water issuance in some intakes for civil works but at the moment this is yet to be order to facilitate civil works? fully confirmed. Can this lead to diminishing of other There are several uses of water from the RBMC (see annex 1) and downstream water uses that can result in social issues such as community bathing, drinking temporary stoppage of water (due to interventions in the intake water supplies, irrigation of home gardens etc. structures) is likely to affect the following key stakeholders who depend on water directly supplied from the RBMC. Stakeholder Water demand Tilapia Breeding Centre 350 m3 a day Sugarcane Research Institute 1000 m3 a day Carf Breeding Centre 14,000 m3 a day Carf Breeding Centre 2400 m3 a day Carf Breeding Centre 12,600 m3 a day Paddy farmers receiving water from D9 – D 26 distribution canals Water users downstream of Chandrike wewa will not be affected as there would be enough supply from the Chandrika wewa. Also, the Drinking Water Projects managed by Water Board will not be affected as water levels of Chandrika wewa will be maintained for a continuous supply. In addition, there are about 30 Village Tanks spread all over downstream areas below the main canal which will help replenish ground water aquifers providing water to dug wells, they also can 26 Screening question Yes No Significance Remarks of the effect serve as temporary community bathing spots and supplying, , irrigation water for home gardens. Walawe Right Canal is rich in biodiversity, there is a need to keep at least a base flow in this canal to support these biological communities. It was confirmed that 3 cumec of water will be maintained at a minimum. 6 Will civil works lead to diminishing of other √ Moderate Civil works involving reprofiling of the canal bed, embankment downstream water uses as a result of water strengthening, rip-rap rearrangement, rehabilitation of water quality impairment? infrastructure etc is expected to impact on the water quality during the rehabilitation work with sediment runoff increasing. This may affect those using water downstream for bathing and other purposes. 7 Will there be changes to original design levels of √ There will be no work carried out in the headworks. the head works that will result in inundation of new land in the catchment 8 Will the rehabilitated scheme serve new areas √ No, the extent of paddy cultivation in the command area will of paddy under its command? remain the same. c. Additional supplementary facilities 9 Will there be construction of new irrigation or √ No, there will be no new irrigation or drainage canals or widening drainage canals or widening of existing canals? beyond original design parameters. Only canal reprofiling to original design levels will be made. However, construction of foot bridges, canal tractor crossing, reinforced concrete curtains bridge over canal is anticipated. The path is not defined and hence the exact ecological impacts are unknown however, it is not expected to be significant. 27 Screening question Yes No Significance Remarks of the effect 9(i) If yes, will new/modified canal trace/alignments N/A No interfere with existing land uses (habitats, home gardens) in a negative way? 9(ii) If yes, will the trace interfere with other N/A No sensitive infrastructure such as roads, pedestrian paths, schools and temples? Project Construction 10 Will construction and operation of the Project √ The project is a rehabilitation one where existing structures will involve actions which will cause physical be rehabilitated, and few new structures constructed. This changes in the locality (topography, land use, rehabilitation including the installation of a water allocation changes in waterbodies, etc) monitoring will have a significant beneficial impact on the irrigation system and improve the overall efficiency and reduce water scarcity experience in the region. However, there will be no change topography, land use or changes to water bodies and their storage capacities. 11 Will construction of the project cause soil √ Moderate Exposed areas of the canal and slopes are susceptible to erosion erosion within the site due to steep grade or soil during construction. Removal of vegetation, stripping top soil, content? receiving new earth for embankment strengthening including disposal away from the site, excavation for new civil works (of 5000m m)3 involving transport of suitable material to location, transport of spoil for disposal etc will increase the likelihood of soil erosion. In addition, rock excavation for canal embankment work including transport to location for use as construction materials, earth borrowing and haulage from borrow area will add on to the likelihood of erosion. However, the terrain is flat and if the construction work is under taken during the dry season the soil erosion can be controlled. 28 Screening question Yes No Significance Remarks of the effect Operation of borrow pits would increase the chances of erosion of sides in borrow areas. Burrow pits need to be properly closed to avoid loss of topsoil, vegetation and habitat. Borrow material once brought to the site has to be unloaded and stockpiled carefully and away from the water body. 12 Will the Project involve dredging and disposal of √ Moderate Desilting or dredging of the canal bed is not identified will be dredge material as well as other solid wastes carried out especially in the water stagnant D/S area and unclear during construction? path of canal. Solid waste will be generated in during rehabilitation where old structures will be removed and replaced with new ones. Food items disposed by the laborer’s at the construction site even in small quantities may attract stray animals and lead to pollution. Unless a waste management plan is in place for the disposal of the various types of waste generated the impact can be potentially significant. 13 Will the Project release pollutants or any √ There will be no hazardous, toxic or noxious substances released hazardous, toxic or noxious substances to air? into the air, other than fumes emanated by a few construction vehicles. Further, construction activities that would produce airborne dust are temporary and limited to short durations and will be restricted to a small area. 14 Will the Project cause noise and vibration or √ Low Noise and vibration are likely to be low due to the small-scale release of light, heat energy or electromagnetic nature of construction activities. Noise generating activities radiation? 29 Screening question Yes No Significance Remarks of the effect include material haulage and use of heavy machinery used in demolition and construction work. If a raised bridge is to be put up at the Rakwana river crossing, this will have a moderate impact as piling activities may have to be undertaken. This should be reviewed again if it is included in the project. 15 Will the Project lead to risks of contamination of √ Low Other than pollutants such as petroleum, oil and grease that can land or water from releases of pollutants onto be released from construction vehicles and machinery, no other the ground or into surface waters, sources of pollution with the potential to cause land and water groundwater? pollution are envisaged. Irrigation rehab projects generally do not have much waste water discharges (other than irrigation drainage) Sanitation units in labour camps can cause pollution if they are poorly sited, constructed and are leaking. But this risk can be mitigated with good planning and supervision. Servicing of construction vehicles, if occurs at the site, can also lead to release of pollutants. 16 Will the project cause localized flooding and √ The project is not in a known flooding area. During construction poor drainage during construction? obstruction of natural drainage path may lead to temporary flooding unless managed but this is highly unlikely to be an issue. Is the project area located in a flooding location? 17 Are there any areas or features of high √ No such location has been identified in the project area. landscape or scenic value on or around the location which could be affected by construction activity? 30 Screening question Yes No Significance Remarks of the effect 18 Are there any other areas on or around the √ Low The Right Bank Main Canal itself crosses about 10 level crossings location which are important or sensitive for along its route. Also there are about 30 village tanks located reasons of their ecology e.g. wetlands, within the downstream areas below the RBMC. In addition to watercourses or other waterbodies, the coastal storing water, thoseisolated tanks play the role of wetlands in the zone, mountains, forests which could be affected by the project? landscape. These may be impacted temporarily with the project with soil erosion and potential reduced water flows. 19 Are there any areas on or around the location √ Moderate There are important fruit trees, medicinal plants and fauna which are used by protected, important or species in the project area including indigenous fish prevalent in sensitive species of fauna or flora e.g. for the canal (Rapid assessment of RBMC). Impacts such as increased breeding, nesting, foraging, resting, migration, turbidity due to soil erosion may pose temporary impacts on which could be affected by the project? these populations. The maintenance of minimum base flow will provide required habitats for endemic and indigenous species. 20 Will any part of the project’s construction √ No. This is a rehabilitation project, hence no new areas will be activities be located in a previously undeveloped opened up. area where there will be loss of greenfield land? d. Land related impacts 21 Will the sub-project require acquisition of land √ Since this is a rehabilitation project of canal, no land acquisitions and or other assets? will be required. The lands available for stores and contractors site office in the form of reservations of irrigation system 22 Is land for material mobilization or transport for √ Site are located outside the work site. Rapid assessment the civil work available within the identified preliminary survey was conducted on the availability of quarry work site / Right of way? sites for gravel and coarse aggregate in the area. Potential quarry sites are given in the annexes. 23 Is the site chosen for this work free from any √ encumbrances (e.g. squatters, encroachers)? 31 Screening question Yes No Significance Remarks of the effect 24(i) If the land parcel is to be acquired, is the actual N/A plot size and ownership status known? If so, how much? 24(ii) Will the affected land/structure owners likely to N/A lose less than 10% of their land/structures area? 24(iii) If any land required for the work is privately N/A owned, will this be purchased or obtained through voluntary donation? 24(iv) Are the land/structure owners willing to N/A voluntarily donate the required land for this sub- project? 25 Is the project likely to cause partially or fully √ damage to, or loss of housing, shops, or other resource use? 26 Are there any routes or facilities on or around √ the location which are used by the public for access to recreation or other facilities, which could be affected by the project? e. Livelihoods Related Impacts 27 Are there any non-titled people (squatters) who √ are living/ or doing business who may be partially or fully affected because of the civil works? 28 Will there be damage to agricultural lands, √ Moderate There are 2 cultivation seasons in a year. Components which standing crops, trees, etc.? affects water levels from the Main Canal under rehabilitation will be attended to during canal closure periods in between the 2 cultivation seasons. It is planned that the base flow will be maintained in the canal to ensure water supply for environment and domestic consumption. 32 Screening question Yes No Significance Remarks of the effect Any adverse impacts caused by decreases in water levels will be minimized by the development of a strategy and an action plan (referred to as LSA) for dealing with the foregone livelihoods, incomes, and water availability for drinking and other uses during the construction/rehabilitation phase. The plan will have adequate budget to meet the related expenses. 29 Will there be any permanent or temporary loss √ Moderate The proposed arrangement is to carry out rehabilitation works of income and livelihoods as a result of the civil during the close/dry seasons initially, and once the contractors works? If so, for what period? are fully mobilized, to close one cultivation season later to be able to complete the works. The risks of decreases in water flows will be mitigated by the development of a strategy and an action plan (referred to as LSA) for dealing with the foregone livelihoods, incomes, and water availability for drinking and other uses during the construction/rehabilitation phase. Adequate budget will be earmarked to meet the related expenses. 29(i) Have these people/ businesses who may suffer √ temporary loss of incomes or livelihoods been surveyed and identified for payment of any financial assistance? 29(ii) Are there any vulnerable households affected? √ 29(iii) Will people permanently or temporarily lose √ access to facilities, services, or natural resources? f. Impacts on community resources, public services, cultural/historical sites, etc 30 Are there any areas on or around the location √ The project site is in a rural setting with sparse populations and which are densely populated or built-up, which spaced out dwellings with generally large homesteads. could be affected by the project? 33 Screening question Yes No Significance Remarks of the effect 31 Are there any areas or features of historic or √ No such places are found within the project area. cultural importance on or around the location which could be affected by the project? 32 Are there any areas on or around the location √ No such sensitive receptors in the zone of influence. which are occupied by sensitive land uses e.g. hospitals, schools, places of worship, community facilities, which could be affected by the project 33 Are there any areas on or around the location √ Not as per the information available and site observations. which are already subject to pollution or However, a drainage canal which originates from Embilipitiya environmental damage e.g. where existing legal town and empties into the upstream areas of the RBMC has been environmental standards are exceeded, which identified. However, water quality of the incoming drainage could be affected by the project? water and the impacts in the RBMC has not been yet investigated. 34 Will the project cause the removal of trees in √ Site Clearance involve the clearance of vegetation in a total area the locality? along RBMC of 75ha. This will include cutting tree branches but does not identify removal of trees. However, there is no significant tree removal. This activity is expected to increase the tree cover along the bank. 35 Are there existing land uses or socio-economic √ Moderate There could be short term impacts on community in terms of activities on or around the location which could bathing and accessing of water for drinking due to increased be affected by the project? sedimentation during civil works and also due to the actual rehabilitation interventions in locations. These are expected to be temporary. 35(i) Are there bathing spots that will be unusable √ Low The tank and its associated system is used for bathing. Bathing during the construction period? steps will be rehabilitated under this project thus will not be 34 Screening question Yes No Significance Remarks of the effect usable during the civil works. Effect is considered low as there are alternative bathing locations that can be used during this period. 35(ii) Is there subsistence fishing taking that will get √ Canal is rarely used for fishing. disturbed due to canal rehabilitation 35(iii) Are there any home gardening and other There is likely to be lowered water levels in the RBMC to facilitate industrial, agricultural activities that will get rehabilitation work. This is yet to be fully determined, if so there disturbed due to construction activity will be impacts on agricultural activities including home gardening. As stated above, the key industrial activities are Thilapia breeding and Carp breeding which will get affected from water stoppage when rehabilitation of respective intake structures are done. 35(iv) Are there drinking water supply sources located √ Moderate None of the rural and urban drinking water schemes that depend in the project area that may be rendered on the RBMC will be affected as all of them are located unusable during construction period? downstream of Chandrika Wewa which will buffer against any water shortages caused by rehabilitation work. However, there are about 40 wells in the vicinity of the RBMC which provides drinking water to households and which depend on the RBMC for water level maintenance. These wells may get affected as a result of low water levels in the RBMC. 35(v) Are there tourism activities taking place in the √ No. There is tourism activity in the surrounding areas – project area that will get disturbed by Embilipitiya and Udawalawe, however, the project area is not construction activity? directly linked to these activities. g. Construction related impacts (labor influx, community health and safety, etc) 36 Will there be any risks and vulnerabilities to √ Low There will be to some extent with operation of heavy machinery public safety due to physical hazards during in the project area and with material haulage along transport construction of the Project? routes. However, this is not a major issue and can be avoided by adopting safety regulations at construction sites. 37 Are there local village roads that will become √ No unsafe due to contractor’s usage 35 Screening question Yes No Significance Remarks of the effect 38 Are there any transport routes on or around the √ Moderate Material transport, stockpiling especially for graveling the canal location which are susceptible to congestion or road, rip rap, construction, installation of hydrol Mechanical which cause social and environmental problems, works will impact the neighboring communities and access which could be affected due to construction temporarily. work? Constructing the canal, bridges, by passes, road rehabilitation etc. will obstruct the movements along the canal bund for the community. Also, movement of trucks through Embilipitiya town can lead to slightly increased congestion. 39 Will the project require significant number of √ Low The labour requirement is estimated to be as follows; workers (skilled and unskilled) Skill -87 labour days Unskilled- 1337 labour days Period – 2 years Large gangs of labour are not expected to be mobilized at a given time. There may be one or two contracts implemented in parallel with separate labour gangs, however a large influx of migratory labour is not expected as the general practice is to source unskilled labour from the local area. 39(i) Will the project attract significant number of √ Low Going by previous Dam Safety project, large influx of labour are migrant workers to the area? not expected to be fielded for rehabilitation work at a given time. Also, the general practice is for most of the unskilled labour to be sourced from the local area. 40 Will construction activity lead to burrowing of √ Moderate Yes, earth and gravel will be needed for the work on the canal earth, gravel and sand? And/or quarrying for embankments and canal bund road. These sites are not yet rock? identified. However, burrow and gravel sites can potentially have significant impacts because contractors pay little attention to properly siting, operating and closing such sites. 41 Will the project increase the risk of introduction √ Moderate There is a risk of new alien invasive species to be introduced of alien invasive species to the locality along with soil brought from outside. In selecting burrow sites, an observation of the type of alien invasive plants at the identified 36 Screening question Yes No Significance Remarks of the effect burrow sites should be made and when selecting such sites it is best to choose locations within the close proximity of the RBMC in order to minimize the risk. Operational Impacts 42 Will the project lead to stagnant water and √ Moderate Unless burrow pits on quarry, earth, gravel borrowing on the drainage problems causing increased mosquito RBMC closure conforms to regulated conditions. breeding 43 Will the project involve removal and disposal of √ This will be minimal if at all. aquatic invasive species? 44 Will the project involve regular maintenance √ dredging of the canal network 45 Will the scheme after rehabilitation serve a √ Command area will remain same as there is no capacity larger command area? enhancement of the tank planned. Significance of impact = Low, Moderate, High 37 5. Public Consultation and Disclosure Consultation with the key stakeholders has been conducted in the following manner; Public Consultation method Date Details/Issues raised consulted/Location and Participants Meeting at MASL- Presentation and 05.03. 2019 • The nature of interventions. Office of the discussion. Survey • Bioengineering techniques. Resident Project consultants presented • Water users that will be Manager, Walawe field survey impacted during the project. Special Area assessment. Embilipitiya Office For detailed notes refer Annex 8 Mainly MASL officials, WB consultants and a few farmer representatives. Stakeholder Focused group 06.03.2019 • Need for livelihood support if Consultation held at discussion with they are to forego a season. Udawalawe D5 Farmers of D5 Bedum Anyway it will affects their Bedum Ela Farmer Ela Farmer other crops as they need water at least once in 10 days. Organization Hall organization • Need for a raised bridge at the 4km intervention identified. • Potable drinking water scarcity in the area is significant. • Need to address issues of encroachment Refer Annex 8 for detailed account. Stakeholder Focused group 06.03.2019 • Need for livelihood support if Consultation held at discussion with the they are to forego a season. It MASL Farmer Organization will affect their other crops as Murawesihena representatives in the they need water at least once in 10 days. Block Manager’s areas with a few MASL • Involve FOs during the civil Office. local officers. works. • Special support maybe needed for some vulnerable families to be identified through the FOs. • Need to address issues of encroachment. Refer Annex 8 for detailed account. 38 Famer Leaders, Participants were 17th Feb • Provision of potable drinking Officials from Water presented with the 2018 water from Chandrika Wewa to Board, Officials criteria that will be the project area of influence. from Embilipitiya used in the future • Maintenance of feeder canals in Chandrika wewa unpolluted Urban Council. after the rehabilitation from urban wastes in phase, for water issue Embilipitiya Town. from the Main Canal • Unfair/ malpractices in water when Bulk Water allocation among farmer Approach is adapted organization • Inadequate water quantity during dry weather period • Frequent faced with agriculture water scarcity issues Farmer Leaders and Framers were • Farmer Leaders promised to Officials from explained various identify and inform the design Resident Project improvements team, the most appropriates Manager’s Office planned to be locations for such crossing after introduced under Main discussing with their fellow Canal Rehabilitation. farmers. Among them, cattle crossings was one item discussed. Younger generation Telephone discussion Contacted a person who has from the Project devised an App to check wastes Area disposal locations in Embilipitiya Suresh Madushan town with community support. He Director is willing to improve it to detect Ideal Six (PVT) LTD Invasive Plants in the Project area M:071-9369091 and also pollution in Main Canals. Email:sureshmadushan net@gmail.com Material suppliers Nilantha This supplier guided us to quarry in the vicinity sites and provide details of material Soil supplier suppliers. 0717486479 Besides these consultations, additional consultations will be carried out during implementation. This will involve: Discussions will be conducted with the residents who reside along the vicinity of the project site 39 o Residents will be briefed about the project, purpose and design and outcomes via a documented community consultation session o The community consultation session will be organized immediately after the contractor is mobilized. o The contractor will take note of all impacts, especially safety hazards that will be of concern to the residents and take necessary measures as stipulated in the ESMP to mitigate them. The contractor will maintain a log of any grievances/complains and actions taken to resolve them. 40 6. Environmental and Social Management Plan Based on the potential social and environmental impacts identified, an Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) (Table 8) has been prepared in accordance with the national regulations, World Bank’s safeguards policies triggered for the Project, and the ESMF and the RPF prepared for the IWWRMP. This ESMP and relevant guidelines will be included as a Special Condition in the Bid Document; and ESMP will be attached to contract to form part of the contract requirement. The ESMP will also be equally applicable to sub-contractors including nominated sub-contractors if any. The Contractor will be responsible for the compliance with the requirements of the ESMP. With the assistance of the “Engineer” on behalf of the Employer the Project Proponent (PP) will monitor the compliance of the ESMP by the Contractor. The bidders will be advised to carefully consider the ESMP requirements during construction stage when preparing the bid and pricing the items of work. In particular, prior to bidding the associated costs is to be provided as a provisional sum and/or as part of the engineering cost. The prescriptions and clauses detailed in the ESMP are integral components of the specifications for relevant item of work unless separate items are included in the Bill of Quantities. The Contractor through an appointed Environmental and Social Officer will assist the “Engineer” to conduct his/her duties as required in the ESMP implementation by: a) maintaining up to date records on actions taken by the Contractor with regard to the implementation of ESMP recommendations b) through timely submission of reports, information and data to the employer through the Engineer, c) via participating in the meetings conveyed by the Engineer or any relevant line agency and d) any other assistance requested by the “Engineer”. In case the Contractor or the sub-contractor/s fails to implement the actions specified in the ESMP, the Contractor will be informed in writing. If corrective actions are still not taken, the Engineer will take whatever actions it is deemed necessary to ensure that the ESMP is properly implemented. 41 Table 8: Environmental and Social Management Plan for the Walawe RBMC Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring Design Stage 1. Incorporation of Design for the sub-project will consider bio-engineering Design Cost MASL in collaboration MASL/PMU softer engineering solutions as much as possible with the Farmer such as It has been documented that post floods, many areas Organizations and that remained in good condition were areas that were Bioengineering and PMU well vegetated and had well established root systems. vegetation in to These act as natural erosion protection and are sub-project design encouraged to be included as part of the design. Some benefits of bio-engineering besides aesthetics and fish and wildlife habitat enhancement include: - Regulation of temperature and humidity close to the surface, thus promoting growth; - Improvement of the soil water regime via interception, evapotranspiration and storage; - Soil improvement and top soil formation; - Improvement of and provision of riparian habitat. Bioengineering methods proposed by consultants will be discussed with experienced MASL officers and Farmer Organizations to ensure that the best options are adopted based on past experiences as well. 2. Incorporation of Green infrastructure guidelines will be followed in Design Cost MASL in collaboration MASL/PMU Green Design designing and construction. with the PMU and The use of natural material sourced from sustainable Farmer Organizations sources, such as natural rocks, choir, soil strengthening grasses etc. will be used for design of river protection infrastructure such as rip rap and bank strengthening 42 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring interventions (these may not be sourced from within any protected areas), where suitable. Structures built will incorporate earthy and natural colors that will mingle in with the natural scape and not hinder the aesthetic value of the area. Where possible, the use of alternate energy sources will be explored. Canal rehabilitation will consider retaining some of the aquatic vegetation on the canal embankments and peripheral canal beds as they provide breeding grounds for aquatic organisms and also filter pollution in the water. Efforts will be made to balance between conveyance and ecological needs. 3. Consensus with all Consultations will be carried out with the Farmer Design Cost IA the Site in MASL/PMU the legal water Organizations on the duration and periods that they collaboration with the users of the canal will have to undergo low water quantities for the IA/PMU agricultural activities. on alternative Consultations with other water users such as NWSDB sources etc during (already done), NAQDA, Agrarian Services, Sugar the civil works Research Institute, other rural potable water supply period. entities, etc. on alternative water sources during the civil works period. Development of LSA (during first year) - Wage assistance under the LSA; - Fish-fingerlings under LSA; - Drinking water under LSA; Training for up to two members of affected households to receive skills and vocational training; Training will ensure gender equality during provision of skills and 43 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring vocational training. As per the request made by women during consultations, priority would be given to women to receive skills and vocational training. Hence, out of the two members in a household selected for trainings, at least one member would be a female beneficiary to receive skills and vocational training. Assistance in securing employment in the project civil works. Priority will also be given for female community members to secure employment opportunities with the contractor to ensure gender equality and inclusiveness. Project will also request contractors to create conducive and safe working conditions for women encouraging more women to apply and work in the construction sector. 4. Demarcation of Identification and clear demarcation of canal buffer Design Cost MASL in the Site in MASL/PMU Buffer Zones and zones collaboration with the encroachments Awareness among encroached communities about the MASL/PMU importance of maintaining the RBMC areas void of within the buffer solid waste and any destructive activity. areas to ensure Payment of compensation for loss of crop, assets or sustainability and structures. enhancement of Improvement of buffer zones with natural vegetation. rehabilitation to be Possibilities of involving those that have encroached in undertaken. improving the areas and making them responsible for their sustenance will be explored. Similarly, plants that provide some economic benefit to those people, will also be considered. 44 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring The above will require a strategic plan in managing the widespread encroachment of the canal buffer zone. 5. Identification of Alternative areas for buffalo bathing will be explored as Design Cost MASL in the Site in MASL/PMU special areas for it is a major pollution concern in the area. collaboration with the Buffalo bathing to Embankment degradation is also partially attributed to MASL/PMU/ Buffalo buffalo movement. reduce owners degradation of canal embankment and pollution 6. Labor quota to be Possibility of introducing a requirement to hire local Contractor PMU/Contractor PMU taken from the labor (at least a percentage) by the contractor will be local community explored. This will be done through the Farmer Organizations in the area that will be affected by the project interventions. 7. Monitoring of Water quality monitoring will be carried out at the Design Cost MASL in the Site in MASL/PMU drainage outfall drainage outfall to the RBMC from the Embilipitiya collaboration with the from Embilipitiya town as it poses a risk of pollution to the canal system MASL/PMU with the increasing urbanization trends and a lack of a town to the canal. central sewer and wastewater system. Consultations will be initiated with the local authority on setting up a monitoring system. 8. Environmental and This ESMP and relevant guidelines will be included as a Prior to To be provided as a PMU Social Special Condition in the Bid Document; and ESMP will bidding provisional sum and/or Management Plan be attached to contract to form part of the contract as part of the requirement. (ESMP) engineering cost The ESMP will also be equally applicable to sub- contractors including nominated sub-contractors if any. 45 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring The Contractor will be responsible for the compliance with the requirements of the ESMP. With the assistance of the “Engineer” on behalf of the Employer the Project Proponent (PP) will monitor the compliance of the ESMP by the Contractor. The bidders are advised to carefully consider the ESMP requirements during construction stage when preparing the bid and pricing the items of work. The prescriptions and clauses detailed in the ESMP are integral components of the specifications for relevant item of work unless separate items are included in the Bill of Quantities. In case the Contractor or his sub-contractor/s fails to implement the ESMP recommendations. After informing in writing to the Contractor, the Engineer will take whatever actions it is deemed necessary to ensure that the ESMP is properly implemented. The Contractor through an Appointed Environmental Officer (AEO) shall assist the “Engineer” to conduct his duties as required in the ESMP implementation by: (a) maintaining up to date records on actions taken by the Contractor with regard to the implementation of ESMP recommendations (b) through timely submission of reports, information and data to the employer through the Engineer, (c) via participating in the meetings conveyed by the Engineer or any relevant line agency and (d) any other assistance requested by the “Engineer”. 46 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring In the case of non-compliance with the ES measures by the Contractor as stipulated in the ESMP, the borrower reserves the right to withhold a certain percentage (the amount decided by the borrower) from the payment to contractor. Pre-Construction/Site preparation phase 9 Site Access Closure All public access to the site will be controlled via Engineering Contractor in MASL/PMU adequate fencing and signage, in order to avoid risk to Cost collaboration with the the public. MASL/PMU The site entrance will include adequate signage indicating the details of the proposed subproject, implementing agencies etc as well as safety signage to keep public away. A fence shall be erected to cover the construction area using cost effective fence materials consisting of chain link fence fabric, concrete post, etc. as specified in the Technical Specifications in order to ensure, animals and public are unable to access the site. - To avoid land disturbance and movement, the fence shall generally follow the contour of the ground. - Grading shall be performed where necessary to provide a neat appearance. 10. Material Sourcing The contractor will be required to ensure that all Engineering Contractor MASL/PMU construction materials, including gravel, sand, earth as Cost well as other quarry material for construction is sourced from licensed sources or properly approved sites. 47 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring The contractor will be required to maintain the necessary licenses and environmental clearances for all burrow and quarry material they are sourcing – including soil, fine aggregate and coarse aggregate. Sourcing of any material from protected areas and/or designated natural areas, including tank beds of protected reservoirs, will be strictly prohibited. Burrowing earth from other tank beds will be carried out after a full investigation of the safe depth for burrowing and with full clearance from the Engineer. If the contractor uses a non-commercial burrow/quarry sites, the sites will be remediated per the guidance provided in this ESMP. Guidelines for burrow pit is attached at the end of the ESMP. The contractor is required to submit in writing all the relevant copies, numbers and relevant details of all pre-requisite licenses etc. and report of their status to the engineer on a quarterly basis. Any damages to roads during transport of material will be rehabilitated with the expense of the contractor 11. Establishing coffer The contractor will prepare the method statement for Engineering Contractor MASL/PMU dams. coffer damming where relevant and have it approved Cost by the engineer prior to commencement or work or use the method statement provided by the project proponent with designs. Coffer dams will be made from material such as sand bags and sheet piles and avoid the use of loose earth. 48 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring 12. Work Site The contractor will identify an area onsite to store Engineering Contractor MASL/PMU Management construction materials and equipment which will be Cost approved by the engineer and demarcated for material storage as per the site plan. Parking, repairing vehicles, machinery and equipment will be stationed only at the work site and/or in any other designated areas by the engineer. The contractor will provide instruction and advice will be given to drivers and operators (both company owned and hired) to park vehicles and store equipment at this designated area. 13. Labor Camps Due to safety and public health issues prevalent at the Engineering Contractor MASL/PMU site, no labor camps will be established on site. Cost Resting facilities and the site office will be located closer to the site entrance and away from the waste mound. The location, layout and basic facility provision of labor camps to be set up will be submitted to the Engineer prior to establishment. The establishment of labor camps will commence only upon the written approval of the Engineer. Resting and sanitary facilities will be provided separately for both men and women laborers. The contractor will be required maintain necessary living accommodation and ancillary facilities in functional and hygienic manner and as approved by the Engineer. 49 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring All temporary accommodation will be established and maintained in such a fashion that uncontaminated water is available for drinking, cooking and washing. The sewage system for the camp, if not available, will be planned and implemented with concurrence from the Local Public Health Officer (PHI) 14. Labor Training and The contractor is required to develop a labor code of Engineering Contractor MASL/PMU Code of Conduct conduct and translated it in to local languages upon Cost clearance from the Engineer. The code of conduct will be made available to all staff and displayed in the work site in local languages. Labor awareness programs to educate the laborers about the code of conduct, general conduct, the Environmental and Social Management Plan, Occupational Health and Safety etc. should be conducted throughout the contract period as agreed in the contracts Environmental and Social Management Plan. No labor under the age of 18 will be hired for work under this contract. 15. Tree Removal Only trees required to be removed along the river bank Engineering Contractor MASL/ Divisional where deemed necessary and justified via the technical Cost Secretariat of design may be removed. These trees shall be marked /PMU and cleared by the Engineer prior to felling. Contractor shall adhere to the guidelines and recommendations made by the Central Environmental Authority, forest department, if any, with regard to felling of trees and removal of vegetation. The following will be conducted at minimum: 50 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring o Contractor shall make every effort to avoid removal and/or destruction of trees of religious, cultural and aesthetic significance. o If such action is unavoidable the Engineer shall be informed in advance and carry out public consultation and report on the same should be submitted to the Engineer. o Trees shall be removed from the construction sites before commencement of construction with prior permission from the Engineer, Divisional Secretariat a followed by respective Grama Niladhari depending on the location. o During removing, attention shall be paid to maintain minimum disturbances to soil cover and also care should be taken not to damage adjoining trees. o Protection will be provided to any trees that fall in the shoulders /corridor of impact shall be the prime focus during Construction/post construction o Masonry tree guards, Low level RCC tree guards, Circular Iron Tree Guard with Bars, use of plate compactors near trees may also be considered where necessary o Remove the logs, branches of trees; Stack them properly until removal; Remove roots and rehabilitate the bundand toe areas where tree were uprooted. o The easily decomposable vegetation could either be utilized as a soil conditioner after drying or be 51 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring composted in a proper manner. Large vegetation parts could be sold or else be used as firewood. o Removed trees of economic value shall be handed over to the Timber Corporation. Compensatory Planting o Compensatory plantation by way of Re-plantation of at least twice the number of trees cut shall be carried out in the project area. (embankment work proposes a line of trees to planted along the boundary of the canal reservation, hence this will compensate) o All planted trees will be native species to match removed ones where possible. o Growth and survival of trees planted shall be ensured and monitoring done at least for a period of 3 years. o Survival status shall be reported on monthly basis to Engineer in charge. o All planting locations shall be consulted with the Engineer/PMU before final determination. Additional Tree Removal o Additional trees and vegetation shall be felled / removed only if that impinges directly on the permanent works or necessary temporary works and only if fully justified with no viable alternative. In all such cases contractor shall take prior approval from the Engineer/PMU. o If any trimming/pruning of roots of existing trees anticipated during construction, it shall be consulted with the Environmental Specialist and 52 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring Team of the PMU, prior to undertaking the identified trimming of roots.  This will be to ensure that the health and stability of the tree will not be impacted from trimming. 16. Removal of The common utilities to be affected by project Engineering Contractor MASL/PMU/CEB/ Utilities activities such as: telephone cables, electric cables, Cost Water Board/Sri electric poles, water pipelines, public water taps, etc. Lanka Tele Com. will be identified prior. Affected utilities shall be relocated with prior approval of the concerned agencies before construction starts in collaboration with the agencies, which include the Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB), Water Board, and Sri Lanka Tele Com. All efforts will be made to ensure that there will be no/or minimal disruption to services during this process. o Ensure community consensus and minimum impact to common utilities like telephone cable, electric cables, electric poles, water taps and etc., o The contractor will take all measures to inform the effected public of the process prior to commencing work. Proper clearance will be obtained from the concerned authorities and sent to the PMU before commencement of works. 17. Pre preparation Silt and sediment quality in the canal shall be measures prior to established to determine the most suitable disposal dredging/ method for the excavated debris and sediments. 53 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring sediment removal If contamination is established according to accepted from canal bed. reference criteria, the following mitigation measures are proposed to be implemented. (a) Location of disposal site: o The contractor shall identify sites for debris disposal which would be finalized prior to commencement of canal rehabilitation taking into account the following: (i) The dumping does not affect natural drainage courses and is located far away from any water bodies (ii) The dumping site does not have a high- water table (iii) No endangered/rare fauna or flora is affected by such dumping. The contractor will take reasonable precaution to prevent workmen or any other persons from removing and damaging any flora (plant/vegetation) and fauna (animal) including fishing in any water body and hunting of any animal. (iv) Should be located in non –residential areas located on the downwind side (v) Avoid disposal on productive land (vi) Should be located with the consensus of the ID. If contamination is ruled out, the excavated matter along with other construction debris will be disposed in solid waste dumping site operated by the local authority or used for land filling if suitable. 54 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring A location for temporary dumping of wet debris should also be collaboratively identified by the PMU, ID and the Contractor as wet debris may not be able to be transported immediately to a distance of 10km. The contractor shall obtain the prior approval to use this temporary site from the ID. It will also be necessary to cover the material fully to prevent any particles from being air borne. Any accidental leakages will be immediately attended to by the contractor and the area should be cleaned up before the public can be exposed to any hazards. If the sediment analysis confirms the water way to contain contaminated sediments, the contractor should be instructed to carry out excavation in such a way that bottom sediments/debris is isolated (to the extent possible) from the rest of soil/spoilage, so that quantities needing special disposal would be minimal. Separating excavated soil from the bank from the rest of the debris will be pursued if the soil is considered suitable as a backfill for the gabions. 18. Information Discussions will be conducted with the residents who Engineering Contractor/MASL/PMU MASL/PMU Disclosure among reside along the vicinity of the project site Cost Stakeholders o Residents must be briefed of the project, purpose and design and outcomes via a documented community consultation session o This should be done immediately once the contractor is mobilized. o The contractor should take note of all impacts, especially safety hazards that will be of concern 55 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring to the residents and take necessary measures as stipulated in the ESMP to mitigate them. The contractor will maintain a log of any grievances/complains and actions taken to resolve them. A grievance / complaints box will be maintained physically and electronically through email / telephone to be notified to all stakeholders. A copy of the ESMP will be available always at the project supervision office on site. Construction/Intervention Phase 19. Site Clearance and Prevention of removal of trees will be maintained as Engineering Contractor MASL/PMU Land Development far as possible. Cost During removing, attention will be given in order to maintain minimum disturbances to soil cover and also care will be taken not to damage adjoining trees. Degraded state land identified for forestry activities will be improved to compensate for the trees removed as 1:2 at least Water spraying will be done at a regular interval to avoid dust generation due to site clearance 20. Disposal of Debris All debris and residual spoil material including any left Engineering Contractor MASL/PMU and Spoil earth shall be disposed only at locations approved by Cost the engineer for such purpose and subjected to the following clauses: The contractor shall obtain the approval from the relevant Local Authority such as Prdeshiya Sabha, Municipal Council and other government agencies (as 56 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring required) for disposal and spoil at the specified location, as directed by the Engineer Private land that will be selected for disposal should also require written consent from the land owner The debris and spoil shall be disposed in such a manner that; o waterways and drainage paths are not blocked o the disposed material should not be washed away by runoff and o should not be a nuisance to the public All material that is reusable or recyclable shall be used for such purposes either by the contractor or through dealers. The debris and residual spoil material including any left earth shall be used, to refill the burrow areas as directed by the engineer, subjected to laying of topsoil as per recommendations for conservation and reuse of top soil provided below. Excavated earth materials and all debris materials shall be disposed immediately without allowing to stockpile at identified locations for debris disposal, recommended by the engineer. During transportation, dispose materials should be covered with tarpaulin. If approved by the engineer, contractor can dispose the debris and spoil as a filling material provided that the contractor can ensure that such material is used for legally acceptable purposes with disposed in an environmentally acceptable manner. Explore potential burrow pits that require fill material so that any remaining waste can be directed to them. 57 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring 21. Conservation and Top soil of productive areas where it has to be Engineering Contractor MASL/PMU Reuse of Topsoil removed for the purpose of this project shall be Cost stripped to a specified depth of 150mm and stored in stockpiles of height not exceeding 2m, if directed by the engineer. If the contractor is in any doubt on whether to conserve the topsoil or not for any given area he/she shall obtain the direction from the engineer in writing Removed top soil could be used as a productive soil when replanting/establishing vegetation Stockpiled topsoil shall be returned to cover the areas where the topsoil has been removed due to project activities. Residual topsoil must be distributed on adjoining/proximate barren areas as identified by the engineer in a layer of thickness of 75mm – 150mm. Topsoil thus stockpiled for reuse shall not be surcharged or overburdened. As far as possible multiple handling of topsoil stockpiles should be kept to a minimum. 22. Transport and The contractor shall avoid over loading trucks that Engineering Contractor IA/PMU Storage of transport material to construction sites. Cost construction During transportation, materials shall be covered with tarpaulin. materials Peak hours in roads with moderate to high traffic will be avoided. The contractor shall minimize possible public nuisance due to dust, traffic congestion, air pollution, etc., due to such haulage; 58 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring If local roads are used, routes are to be selected based on the truck load; loads will be divided to prevent damages to local roads and bridges. Speed limits as nationality stipulated for haulage shall be maintained. All vehicles used for haulage shall be in good condition. If there are damages to local roads and other utilities due to hauling in roads caused by the contractor, the contractor shall attend to repair all damaged infrastructure/ roads, if needed through relevant authorities If congested areas are encountered along the route, flagmen shall be deployed and all necessary safety measures such as signage etc should be deployed. 23. Emission of Dust All construction materials such as sand, soil, metal, Engineering Contractor MASL/PMU during cover etc. shall be transported under cover to the site and Cost application and stored under cover at the sight. Plastic sheeting (of about 6 mm minimum thickness) construction. can be used and held in place with weights, such as cinder blocks, with the edges of the sheeting buried, or by the use of other anchoring systems, in order to minimize the levels of airborne dust. Mud patches caused by material transporting vehicles in the access road shall be cleaned immediately. Continual water sprinkling shall be carried out in the work and fill areas and the access road if dust stir is observed. Water sprinkling shall be done more frequently on days that are dry and windy (at least four time’s day) 59 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring as the levels of dust can be elevated during dry periods. Dust masks shall be provided to all laborers for the use at required times 24. Prevention of soil Debris material shall be disposed in such a manner Engineering Contractor MASL/PMU erosion during site that waterways, drainage paths would not get Cost preparation blocked. Drainage paths associated with the infrastructure shall be improved / erected to drain rain water properly. Silt traps will be constructed to avoid siltation into water ways where necessary. To avoid siltation, drainage paths shall not be directed to any waterway directly and they should be separated. Barricades such as humps will be erected at excavated areas for culverts, silt traps, toe walls, filling and lifting with proper sign boards, (all work will be carried out during the dry season). To prevent soil erosion in these excavated areas, proper earth drain system should be introduced. Embankment slopes, slopes of cuts, etc. shall not be unduly exposed to erosive forces. These exposed slopes shall be graded and covered by grass or other suitable materials per the specifications. All fills, back fills and slopes shall be compacted immediately to reach the specified degree of compaction and establishment of proper mulch. All work will be carried out during the dry season. If such activities need to be continued during rainy 60 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring season prior approval must be obtained from the Engineer by submitting a proposal on actions that will be undertaken by the contractor to prevent erosion. The work, permanent or temporary shall consist of measures as per design or as directed by the engineer to control soil erosion, sedimentation and water pollution to the satisfaction of the engineer. Typical measures include the use of berms, dikes sediment basins, fiber mats, mulches, grasses, slope drains and other devices. All sedimentation and pollution control works and maintenance thereof are deemed, as incidental to the earthwork or other items of work and no separate payment will be made for their implementation. 25. Burrowing of Earth In the event the contractor will use a self-operated Engineering Contractor MASL/PMU and Management burrow site: Cost of Self Operated o Approval from the Geological Survey and Mines Bureau will have to be sought for extraction and Burrow Sites transport. Burrow areas shall not be opened without having a valid mining license from the GSMB 7. o A site operational plan for opening and closing the burrow site, for any new burrow site, will be prepared and submitted to the engineer for clearance. Guidelines for burrow site provided in the ESMF. The contractor shall comply with the environmental requirements/guidelines issued by the Central 7 GSMB- Geological Survey and Mines Bureau 61 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring Environmental Authority (CEA) and the respective local authorities with respect of locating burrow areas and with regard to all operations related to excavation and transportation of earth from such sites. Contractor can also find suitable soil materials from currently operated licensed burrow pits, subject to approval of the engineer No burrow-sites be used (current approved) or newly established within areas protected under FFPO 8 and FO 9 The location, depth of excavation and the extent of the pit or open cut area shall be as approved by the engineer. All burrow pits/areas shall be rehabilitated at the end of their use by the contractor in accordance with the requirements/guidelines issued by the CEA and the respective local authority and guidelines presented in the ESMF. Establishment of burrow pits/areas and its operational activities shall not cause any adverse impact to the near-by properties and people. Contractor shall take all steps necessary to ensure the stability of slopes including those related to temporary works and burrow pits. 26. Machinery Only experienced and well-trained workers shall be Engineering Contractor MASL/PMU Operation used for the handling of machinery, equipment and Cost material processing plants. 8 FFPO- Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance 9 FO-Forest Ordinance 62 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring 27. Noise from Noise generating work shall be limited to day time Engineering Contractor MASL/PMU vehicles, (6:00AM to 6:00PM). No work that generates excessive Cost machinery, noise shall be carried out during night hours (from 6:00PM to 6:00AM on the following day). equipment and All equipment and machinery shall be operated at construction noise levels that do not exceed the permissible level of activities. 75 dB 10 (during construction) for the day time. For all construction activities undertaken during the night time, it is necessary to maintain the noise level at below 50 dB as per the CEA noise control regulations All equipment shall be in good serviced condition. Regular maintenance of all construction vehicles and machinery to meet noise control regulations stipulated by the CEA in 1996 (Gazette Extra Ordinary, No 924/12) will be conducted for vehicles/machinery that will be used in construction on site and for transport. Ideally noise generating work will not be carried out during public holidays and religious days. Laborers will be required to work with minimum noise. Strict labor supervision shall be undertaken in this respect. No night time residency of laborers on site will be encouraged, post work hours. Idling of temporary trucks or other equipment shall not be permitted during periods of loading / unloading or when they are not in active use. These practices will be ensured especially near residential and sensitive areas. 10 dB-Decibels 63 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring Stationary construction equipment will be kept at least 100m from the site periphery, which has proximity to households. All possible and practical measures to control noise emissions during drilling shall be employed. Contractor shall submit the list of high noise/vibration generating machinery & equipment to the engineer for approval. Servicing of all construction vehicles and machinery shall be done regularly and during routine servicing operations, the effectiveness of exhaust silencers will be checked and if found defective will be replaced. Maintenance of vehicles, equipment and machinery shall be regular and up to the satisfaction of the Engineer to keep noise levels at the minimum. 28. Pollution of Soil The contractor shall ensure that all construction Engineering Contractor MASL/PMU and Water via Fuel vehicle parking locations, fuel/lubricants storage sites, Cost and Lubricants vehicle, machinery and equipment maintenance and refueling site shall be located away from the canal that is adjacent to the site by least 200m away. Contractor shall ensure that all vehicle/machinery and equipment operation, maintenance and refueling will be carried out in such a fashion that spillage of fuels and lubricants does not further contaminate the ground. Contractor shall arrange for collection, storing and disposal of oily wastes to the pre-identified disposal sites (list to be submitted to Engineer) and approved by the Engineer. 64 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring All spills and collected petroleum products will be disposed of in accordance with standards set by the CEA/MMDE 11. Engineer will certify that all arrangements comply with the guidelines of CEA/MMDE or any other relevant laws. 29. Preventing Loss of Contractor shall make employees aware on water Engineering Contractor MASL/PMU minor water conservation and waste minimization in the Cost sources and construction process. o Arrange adequate supply of water for the project disruption to water purpose throughout the construction period. users o Will not obtain water for project purposes, including for labor camps, from public or community water supply schemes without a prior approval from the relevant authority. o Will not extract water from ground water or surface water bodies without the permission from engineer & relevant authority. o Obtain the permission for extracting water prior to the commencing of the project, from the relevant authority. Contractor shall protect sources of water (potable or otherwise) such as water sources used by the community so that continued use these water sources will not be disrupted by the work. In case the closer of such sources is required on temporary basis, contractor shall provide alternative arrangement for supply (this may be necessary during the rehabilitation of the 11 MMDE-Ministry of Mahaweli Development and Environment 65 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring bathing steps). Alternative sources such as wells thus provided shall be within acceptable distance to the original sources and accessible to the affected community. o In case the contractor’s activities going to adversely affect the quantity or quality of water, the contractor shall serve notice to the relevant authorities and downstream users of water sufficiently in advance. o Apply best management practices to control contamination of run-off water during maintenance & operation of equipment. o Maintain adequate distance between stockpiles & water bodies to control effects to natural drainage paths. 30. Preventing Contractor shall take measures to prevent siltation of Engineering Contractor MASL/PMU siltation into water water bodies because of construction work including, Cost bodies construction of temporary / permanent devices to prevent water pollution due to siltation and increase of turbidity. These shall include the measures against erosion highlighted in this ESMP Construction materials containing small / fine particles shall be stored in places not subjected to flooding and in such a manner that these materials will not be washed away by runoff. Temporary soil dumps shall be placed at least 200m away from all water bodies If temporary soil piles are left at the site for a long time those piles shall be covered with thick polythene sheets 66 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring All fills, back fills and slopes shall be compacted immediately to reach the specified degree of compaction and establishment of proper mulch 33. Preventing Measures as stipulated in this ESMP shall be taken to Engineering Contractor MASL/PMU contamination of prevent the wastewater produced in construction from Cost water from entering directly into streams, water bodies or the irrigation systems. construction The discharge standards promulgated under the wastes National Environmental Act shall be strictly adhered to. 34. Managing Contractor shall not close or block existing canals and Engineering Contractor MASL/PMU alteration of streams permanently. If diversion or closure or Cost drainage paths blocking of canals and streams is required for the execution of work (e.g. for construction of bypass), contractor must first obtain the Engineers approval in writing. Contractor shall carry out an investigation and report to the Engineer, if an investigation is requested by the Engineer. Contractor shall also obtain the approval from the relevant agencies such as ID/ /Divisional Secretary prior to such action is taken. Contractors shall restore the drainage path back to its original status once the need for such diversion or closure or blockage is no longer required. All work will only be undertaken during the dry season. 35. Public Safety At all times the site will restrict the entry of public on Engineering Contractor MASL/PMU to the site. Cost Safety signboards and signboards prohibiting entrance and risks, shall be displayed at all necessary locations. 67 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring The contractor shall obtain a Third-party insurance to compensate any damages, injuries caused to the public or laborers during the construction period. Material loading and unloading shall be done only within the project site. 36. Safety of Workers Contractor shall comply with the requirements for Engineering Contractor MASL/PMU safety of the workers as per the ILO Convention No. 62 Cost and Safety & Health Regulations of the Factory Ordinance of Sri Lanka to the extent that those are applicable to this contract. The contractor shall supply all necessary safety measures at site- including provision of first aid kits and fire extinguishers. Signage providing instructions on first aid management, emergency contact and emergency operational procedures in local languages shall be displayed at the site office. Basic onsite safety training shall be conducted for all laborers during the ESMP training prior to the start of the construction activities. The training to laborers shall also include a brief on the risks of working on a dam rehabilitation site. The contractor shall obtain a Third-party insurance to compensate any damages, injuries caused to laborers during the construction period. Protective footwear and protective goggles should be provided to all workers employed on mixing of materials like cement, concrete etc. Welder's protective eye-shields shall be provided to workers who are engaged in welding works. 68 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring Earplugs shall be provided to workers exposed to loud noise, and workers working in crushing, compaction, or concrete mixing operation. The contractor shall supply all necessary safety equipment such as safety goggles, helmets, safety belts, ear plugs, mask etc. to workers and staff. In addition, the contractor shall maintain in stock at the site office, gloves, ear muffs, goggles, dust masks, safety harness and any other equipment considered necessary. A safety inspection checklist will be prepared taking into consideration what the workers are supposed to be wearing and monitored monthly and recorded. 37. Prevention of Prevention of accidents involving human beings or Engineering Contractor MASL/PMU accidents vehicles or accidents during construction period will be Cost done via adequate training and guidance to all workers. A readily available first aid unit including an adequate supply of sterilized dressing materials and first aid supplies will be available at the site office at all times. o Availability of suitable transport at all times to take injured or sick person(s) to the nearest hospital should also be insured. o Names and contact information for emergency services such as Ambulance services, hospitals, police and the fire brigade should be prepared as a sign board and displayed at the work site. 38. Operation of labor A supply of sufficient quantity of potable water in Engineering Contractor MASL/PMU camps every workplace/labor camp site at suitable and easily Cost 69 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring accessible places and regular maintenance of such provisions should be maintained. The sewage system for the offsite labor camp, if newly established, are designed, built and operated in such a fashion that no health hazards occurs and no pollution to the air, ground water or adjacent water courses take place. Adequate water supply is to be provided in all toilets and urinals. The contractor shall provide garbage bins in the camps and ensure that these are regularly emptied and disposed of in a hygienic manner. 39. Handling The Contractor will appoint a suitably qualified Engineering Contractor MASL/PMU Environmental Environment and Social Officer (ESO) following the Cost Issues during award of the contract. The ESO will be the primary point of contact for assistance with all environmental Construction issues during the pre-construction and construction phases. He/ She shall be responsible for ensuring the implementation of ESMP. The Contractor shall appoint a person responsible for community liaison and to handle public complaints regarding environmental/ social related matters. All public complaints will be entered into the Complaints Register. The Environmental Officer will promptly investigate and review environmental complaints and implement the appropriate corrective actions to arrest or mitigate the cause of the complaints. A register of all complaints is to be passed to the Engineer within 24 hrs. They are received, with the action taken by the Environmental Officer on complains thereof. 70 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring Contractor shall prepare detailed Environmental Method Statement (EMS) clearly stating the approach, actions and manner in which the ESMP is implemented. The EMS shall be updated regularly and submit for Engineers review. 40. Grievance Redress The contractor’s will be required to establish a Engineering Contractor MASL/PMU Mechanism (GRM) Grievance Redress mechanism for all direct workers and Cost contracted workers (and, where relevant, their organizations) to raise workplace concerns related to labor and working conditions. Contractor’s grievance mechanism will be a separate one to the one established for PAPs and other stakeholders because workplace concerns are usually different from issues raised by project affected parties and other stakeholders. However, this parallel GRM operated by the contractor will include processes to refer complaints to the project GRM so as to ensure that an accurate understanding of the project’s complaints is always available. Contractors GRM process and costs associated in establishing a GRM will be submitted with the bid documents. 41. Management of All fossils, coins, articles of value of antiquity and Engineering Contractor MASL/PMU Chance found structures and other remains or things of geological or Cost Archeological archaeological interest etc. discovered on the site and/or during construction work shall be the property Property of the Government of Sri Lanka, and shall be dealt with as per provisions of Antiquities Ordinance of 1940 (Revised in 1956 & 1998) 71 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring The contractor shall take reasonable precaution to prevent his workmen or any other persons from removing and damaging any such article or thing and shall, immediately upon discovery thereof and before removal acquaint the Engineer of such discovery and carry out the Engineer’s instructions for dealing with the same, awaiting which all work shall be stopped within 100m in all directions from the site of discovery. If directed by the Engineers, the Contractor shall obtain advice and assistance from the Department of Archaeological of Sri Lanka on conservation measures to be taken with regard to the artifacts prior to recommencement of work in the area. 42. Chance found Flora Engineering Contractor IA/PMU important o While any rare/threatened/endangered flora Cost Flora/Fauna species will be identified and removed prior to construction, during construction if by chance such species are found, it shall be immediately informed to the PMU by the contractor. o All activities that could destroy such flora and/or its habitat shall be stopped with immediate effect. Such activities shall be started only after obtaining the Engineer’s approval. Contractor shall carry out all activities and plans that the Engineer instructed him to undertake to conserve such flora and/or its habitat. Fauna o All works shall be carried out in such a manner that the destruction or disruption to the fauna and their habitats is minimum. 72 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring o Construction workers shall be instructed to protect fauna including birds and aquatic life as well as their habitats. o During construction, if any faunal species is found, it shall be immediately informed to the PMU by the contractor. All activities that could destroy such fauna and/or its habitat shall be stopped with immediate effect. Such activities shall be started only after obtaining the Engineer’s approval. Contractor shall carry out all activities and plans that the Engineer instructed him to undertake to conserve such fauna and/or its habitat. o Establish buffalo passes and fish ladders for crossing of fish 43. Site Closure and The contractor will remove all excess material, Engineering Contractor MASL/PMU Demobilization equipment, vehicles from the project site prior to Cost complete demobilization. Coffer dams, if erected need to be completely removed and associated debris has to be cleared from the. All temporary site offices will be dismantled and removed from the site. If the parking site has been dilapidated in any way as per the evaluation of the engineer, the contractor will reinstate it to the original condition prior to demobilization. Prevention of The project will avoid or reduce labour influx where issues (e.g. GBV) possible 73 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring related to labour Contractors will be required implement robust influx measures to prevent sexual harassment, gender-based violence (GBV) Training of workforce – on unacceptable conduct informing workers about national laws Worker Code of Conduct as part of the employment contract introduce sanctions for non-compliance (e.g., termination) Cooperation with law enforcement agencies will be established Post Construction/Operation and Maintenance Phase 44. Greening and Only native species of plants shall be used for the Operational MASL, Farmer MASL, CEA maintenance of planting process- Vetiver grass is recommended as a Cost Organizations earthen suitable species that grows well on sandy loam soils and toxic conditions and has good potential to control embankment soil erosion. Attempts will be made to also identify suitable “living filter” plant species that are known to minimize the amounts of toxins in a given environment. A supply of water will be made available for the routine maintenance of the vegetation until it succeeds naturally. Routine maintenance of planted species will be conducted to identify issues with establishment on site. Replacement planting will be conducted as appropriate. Kumbuk, Puwak and Bata have been identified so far for strengthening of embankments. 74 Activities and Protection and preventive measures Mitigation Responsibility Associated cost Impacted Implementation Monitoring The most appropriate ones will be established looking at the pros and cons of the species. Discussions will also be carried out with the Farmers to ensure that the local knowledge is also incorporated in to the designs. 45. Flood Routine desilting and clearing of sediment traps, waste Operational MASL MASL, CEA management traps and silt traps shall be included in the operations Cost infrastructure and maintenance plan for the sites and conducted as per the guidelines of the Central Environmental Authority. 46. Buffer zone If any buffer zone enhancement programs are initiated Operational MASL MASL/PMU enhancement for encroached areas, a regular monitoring program Cost shall be in place to ensure its sustainability. 75 Guidelines for the Rehabilitation of Burrow Pits Mitigatory Measures to be Implemented The following conditions must follow by the contractor during the construction period in burrowing earth: o The sides of the pits will be sloped with a minimum angle of 1:3, to enable the escape of animals that may accidentally fall into the pits. o The burrow pits will be restored by filling them or when it is not practical to rehabilitate them as small tanks/water holes enabling wild animals to use as a water source 76 o The earth burrowing activity at the identified site will be carried out only during the given time period of from 6.00 am to 6.00 pm o Burrowing earth, transportation and unloading will be carried out under the inspection of Assistant Director (Mahaweli/Irrigation) or an officer appointed by him o A 15-cm topsoil will be stripped off from the borrow pit and this will be stored in stockpiles in a designated area for height not exceeding 2m and side slopes not steeper than 1:2 (Vertical: Horizontal). o Suitable drainage ditches or conduits shall be constructed or installed to avoid conditions where small pools of water that are, or are likely to become noxious, or foul, collect or remain on the burrow area. Surface drainage must be designed to minimize erosion during runoff and major rainfall events. o Burrow Pit shall be backfilled with clean or inert fill. There shall be no material of deleterious nature (i.e. any material that would be classed as hazardous or waste). Please refer to the diagram above for the Illustration on burrow pit rehabilitation. o Non-usable material including overburden, screenings and rocks, will be placed in the pit bottom and covered with Topsoil stripped from the surface so as to facilitate water seepage, planting grass and tree planting to be carried out using the Native trees. o Once the site is reclaimed, any fences where they exist shall be removed to permit re-vegetation. o Access and haul roads to the pit must be restored in a mutually agreeable manner where these are considered unnecessary after extraction has been completed. o Above conditions will be included in the contract document and must monitor whether they are followed. o Precautions must be taken to minimize spreading of the listed invasive species. • Destroy the listed invasive plants as much as possible prior to burrowing material. • Surface soil of the burrow site will be separated and stored to prevent transporting seeds of the invasive plants to the tank. This surface soil can use when restoring the burrow pit. • When restoring the invasive plants if any germinated in soil will be removed and burn. • Wash down of all vehicles that use to transport burrow materials before leaving the site 7. Livelihood Support Assistance As mentioned in the earlier sections, once the impact on the farmers, fishing communities and other stakeholders identified are determined and verified by the project, and inventory of loss will be prepared in consultation with the affected households and appropriate compensations and livelihood support will be paid by the project following the RPF and ESMF. 77 8. Implementation Arrangements and Monitoring Plans The Project Director for IWWRMP will be the overall in-charge of the project management team. Resident Project Manager for Walawe Irrigation Scheme and the relevant Director from the MASL will be responsible for handling matters from the head office on behalf of the MASL. The Regional Director of Irrigation (Anuradhapura), District Irrigation Engineer (Anuradhapura) stationed at The overall responsibility of ensuring compliance with safeguard requirements lie with the PMU supported by the WB while the contractor will be responsible for implementing the provisions in the ESMP that are related to the construction stage. In addition, the contractor will be directly responsible for developing and implementing the contractor’s ESMP. The overall supervision will be carried out by the District Irrigation Engineer of the Irrigation Department and the PMU (MASL) that is responsible for the overall design and supervision of the proposed sub-project. Any consequent design modification will be reflected in the project cost. Environmental and monitoring will be carried out largely through compliance monitoring using the checklist provided in the ESMF by the Environmental Officer of the PMU and the contractor jointly. The Environmental and social officer(s) of the PMU will visit the site on a regular basis and report to PMU on the contractor’s performance on the implementation of the ESMP. In addition, the contractor shall inform the progress of EMP implementation formally through a monthly monitoring report submit to the PMU through the engineer. The contractor will hire an Environmental and Social Officer (ESO) to plan and manage the implementation of the ESMP. The project will also consider mobilizing supervision consultants for the monitoring the safeguards compliance of the contractor. The PMU shall report the progress of ESMP implementation on the Walawe RB canal rehabilitation through the bi-annual environment monitoring report and the quarterly progress report submitted to the WB and flag any issues on a timely manner. 9. Grievance Redress Mechanism a. GRM for project affected parties and other stakeholders A three-tier grievance redress system has been envisaged for the IWWRMP that will function at local (GN level) and regional level (Divisional level), with recourse to a national-level body for appeal and for ensuring high-level government commitment, policy support and coordination for the process. The most immediate for the needs of the Walawe project will be the local (GN level) GRM. The national level GRC will only be convened when a complaint or grievance is raised by an affected person that cannot be resolved at the lower levels Accordingly, the following measures will be taken: The social and environmental officers of the PO, PMU and the District Irrigation Engineer of the Irrigation Department will be responsible for creating awareness about the GRM, including its structure, functionalities of the GRM, mechanisms for registering complaints, and the procedures that would have to be followed by the different tiers of the GRM. The GRM process/procedures will be publicized among the General Public, Public Officers, Social Organizations, Contractors and Divisional Secretaries in the respective areas. A variety of methods will be adopted for communicating information to the relevant stakeholders. These methods will include display of posters in public places such as in government offices, project offices, community centers, hospitals and health clinics of the area 78 The performance of the GRM will be monitored as part of the project’s monitoring system. All complaints will be registered and tracked in the system. The system will quarterly and annual summaries of: the number of complaints raised & resolved, and the time taken to resolve them. A bi-annual evaluation would also be conducted to assess the effectiveness and efficiency of the GRM to improve the performance of the GRM. The contractor will also create awareness grievance redress mechanism (GRM) established by the PMU for the project Composition of Grievance Redress Committee (GRC) – Grama Niladhari Level This is the most basic, first level committee that will operate at site level, most likely as a committee at GN Division level. The Committee will try to resolve the grievances of persons who live in the immediate project area. The proposed composition of the committee would include a combination of government and community representatives who would try to resolve grievances in an amicable manner through a process aimed at achieving consensus. Grama Niladari of the area Chairman Representative from the local PMU Site Office Secretary Representative of Supervision Consultant (as appropriate) Member Representative of Contractor (if required) Member Representative of a local social organization (NGO/CBO) Member A representative of the community or local religious leader Member Composition of Grievance Redress Committee (GRC) – Divisional Secretary Level This committee is expected to address complaints and disputes that cannot be resolved by the Grama Niladhari level committee. In addition to hearing appeal cases coming from lower level (GN level) committees, this committee could support the national level committee, providing information and administrative support. This committee will review decisions coming from GN level committees within 15 working days and will communicate its decision to the claimants and GN level committee within five working days for follow-up actions. The committee consists of following members: Divisional Secretary of the area or a representative nominated by the Chairman DS Representative from the PMU Head Office Secretary Grama Niladhari of the area from which the grievance was registered Member A representative from an NGO/CBO operative in the area Member A respected religious leader/clergy of the area or Community Leader Member Composition of Grievance Redress Committee (GRC) - National level This GRC will be located in the Ministry of Mahaweli Development and Environment and shall be chaired by an Additional Secretary of the Ministry or a designated representative. The Project Director would serve as the secretary to the committee. As well as guiding and supervising the grievance system, this committee would review appeals from people who are not satisfied with the decisions of the lower level committees. The committee would comprise the following members: Additional Secretary/ MMDE Chairman 79 Project Director (of the PMU) Secretary Representative of the Supervision firm Member Representative from construction firm (if necessary) Member District Secretary of the District or a representative nominated by the Member Divisional Secretary of the area or a representative nominated by the DS Member Representatives from a Social Organization (if necessary) Member (A national level NGO/CBO operating in the field and have operations in project area b. Handling GBV cases in GRM For GBV complaints, there are risks of stigmatization, rejection and reprisals against survivors. This creates and reinforces a culture of silence so survivors may be reticent to approach the project directly. The GRM will have multiple channels through which complaints can be registered in a safe, ethical and confidential manner keeping survivor information confidential and anonymous. The GRM committee will be trained on how to respond to GBV cases in a sensitive manner. During community consultations, effective channels will be identified (e.g. local community organizations, health providers, etc.) and GBV Service Providers will be mapped and identified in order to refer cases as required. Thus, the role of the GRM will be to refer cases to the service providers and to the police to investigate the cases and provide appropriate services to the survivors. The GBV Services Provider, and IA representatives involved in the GBV case resolution may report GBV cases to Police in accordance with the law. In the case of a child abuse, the incident will also be reported to the NCPA (National Child Protection Authority). The GRM will also have in place processes to immediately notify both the IA and the World Bank of any GBV complaints with the consent of the survivor. If the investigations revealed that the probability of the incident of GBV occurring was either created or exacerbated by the project, then corrective actions would be taken by the Borrower and the Bank to increase safety and security in the site locations. The identified GBV Services Provider will have its own case management process which will be used to gather the necessary detailed data to support the complainant and facilitate resolution of the case referred by the GRM operator. This information should not go beyond the resolution of the incident, the date the incident was resolved, and that the case is closed. Service providers are under no obligation to provide case data to anyone without the survivor’s consent. If the survivor consents to case data being shared the service provider can share information when and if doing so is safe, meaning the sharing of data will not put the survivor or service provider at risk for experiencing more violence. To measure the effectiveness of the GRM addressing GBV-related complaints, data will be gathered for the following indicators: number of GBV grievances that have been referred to GBV Service Providers disaggregated by adult/children, the number of cases closed, and the average time they were open. c. Contractor’s GRM process to deal with the grievances related to labor and working conditions The contractor’s will be required to provide a Grievance Redress mechanism for all direct workers and contracted workers (and, where relevant, their organizations) to raise workplace concerns related to labor and working conditions. Contractor’s grievance mechanism will be a separate one to the one established for PAPs and other stakeholders because workplace concerns are usually different from issues raised by project affected parties and other stakeholders. However, this parallel GRM operated by the contractor will include processes to refer complaints to the project GRM so as to ensure that an accurate understanding of the project’s complaints is always available. Workers will be informed of the grievance mechanism at the time of recruitment and the measures put in place to protect them against reprisal for its use. The contractor then will be required to make available relevant 80 information throughout project duration in manner that is clear, understandable, and accessible to workers, for example by including it in workers’ handbooks, on notice boards, or similar communication mechanisms. The Contractor’s will be required to address concerns promptly, using an understandable and transparent process that provides timely feedback to those concerned in a language they understand, without any retribution, and will operate in an independent and objective manner. It is important that the grievance mechanism be accessible to all direct and contracted workers, taking into account their different characteristics, for example female workers, migrant workers or workers with disabilities. Where appropriate, consideration can be given to allowing concerns to be raised anonymously and/or to a person other than an immediate supervisor. The grievance mechanism may utilize existing grievance mechanisms, providing that they are properly designed and implemented, address concerns promptly, and are readily accessible to such project workers. Hence, existing grievance mechanisms may be supplemented as needed with project-specific arrangements. The grievance mechanism will not impede access to other judicial or administrative remedies that might be available under the law or through existing arbitration procedures, or substitute for grievance mechanisms provided through collective agreements. 10. Budget Most of the mitigation measures described in the ESMP are deemed as incidental to construction work and included in the contract. However, the costs provided in the ESMP need to be considered as specific mitigation costs including for the establishment and operation of the GRM: Description Cost (rs) Social, Environment and Safety Officer for 20 months 2,000,000 Investigations for water pollution status 2,000,000 General mitigation works (including safety measures, signage, 1,500,000 GRM operations etc.) Total 5,500,000 81 ANNEXES 82 Annex 1: Canal Inventory for Rehabilitation Udawalawe Right Bank Main Canal Rehabilitation Project - list of works Name of the structure Chainage No. (further details have been Defect Works to be attended Ref. Dwg. (Km) submitted to MASL) 0+250 Gated weir water board Hydromechanical repairs to be attended Refer list of works hydro-mechanical works Repairing of eroded sections and protection with tree 1 0+500 Level crossing Some portions are eroded planting 0+740 D1-Radial bypass gate Recently rehabilitated by DSWRP project 2 1+230 Turnout D2 Structure needs repairs Structure to be Replaced ST/TO/IL-01 1+650 road bridge No repairs observed. 3 1+750 Turnout D3 No outlet structure. Inlet structure to be replaced ST/TO/IL-01 4 2+380 Turnout D4 No outlet Structure. total Structure to be replaced ST/TO-06 Foot bridge cum morning new bridge to be constructed of 16m clear span, 10m gabion 5 2+492 Inlet and outlet of structure eroded and need repairs. ST/FBR-09 Glory No.1 protection up and downstream of structure is proposed 6 2+725 Turnout D5 Gates are eroded, Farmers complains insufficient water flow Structure to be replaced with 450 dia. X 2 (double barrel) ST/TO-2-07 7 2+760 Turnout D5a inlet sill level to be changed Structure to be replaced with lowered sill levels ST/TO-2-07 8 3+120 Turnout D5b inlet sill level to be changed Structure to be replaced with lowered sill levels ST/TO-2-07 10m long gabion embankment protection for both sides. LS up & down streams of the structure are highly eroded, 9 3+535 Morning Glory No. 2 Surface concreting over the spill surface as directed by the ST/GB-14 surface of the spill is highly eroded engineer epoxy water proofing application through out the entire length of syphon is proposed (400m) with required repairs to Barrel leaks are observed, Hydro mechanical repairs to inlet 10 3+950 Syphon Inlet RF and shotcreting (50 mm the) as directed by the engineer. N.R gate require. Trash rack to be installed. Refer list of works of HM works regarding HM works to be attended. 31m long, 4m wide, 150mm thick surface concreting with 11 4+100 Causeway Road surface of the causeway damaged and to be repaired. N.R y10@150 reinforcement Outlet submerged with water. Road side bund of the outlet is Repairing works of outlet structure and road side of the canal 12 4+325 Syphon outlet N.R severely eroded ~ 200 m. bund 83 Upstream structure needs repairs. Downstream Structure OK Replacement of Inlet structure and construction of approach 13 4+540 Turnout D7 ST/TO/IL-01 but weir broken staircase to inlet structure Gate to be replaced, Dia 450mm, measuring weir required, 14 5+002 Turnout D8 gates eroded, inlet structure scoured inlet structure to be replaced and approach staircase to be ST/TO/IL-02 constructed Inlet structure to be replaced, approach staircase to be 15 5+375 Turnout D9 US structure to be improved. DS structure OK but weir broken ST/TO-06 constructed to inlet structure Construction of 10m long gabion embankment protection for upstream and downstream embankments on LS is hevearily 16 5+610 Morning Glory No. 3 both sides. Surface concreting over the spill surface as ST/GB-14 eroded directed by the engineer 17 5+720 Turnout to D10 Weir broken, inlet structure eroded Replacement of weir and inlet structure. 18 5+965 Road Bridge Structure OK. Hand rails need repairs Replacement of Handrails. ST/HR-01 6+025 to Gabion mattress with canal bank improvements to be lined 19 Level Crossing. Road bund severely eroded and need repairs. ST/GB-14 6+400 along the left bank 20 6+410 Turnout to D11a inlet structure is not a standard structure Replacement of Inlet structure. ST/TO/IL-01 Replacement of 2 panels 5.4m wide, 4.5m long and 150mm Structure condition OK. Road section concrete need to be 21 6+475 Spill cum Causeway to LC thick with bottom reinforcement net. 10 nos of guard stones ST/GB-14 repaired. Canal bank eroded after the causeway. to be replaced. 30m long gabion protection to be provided 22 6+650 Turnout to D11b structure is in deplorable conditions Replacement of entire structure. ST/TO-06 60m long 3m high gabion wall to be aligned along the canal 23 6+700 Canal bank protection 60m of canal bank eroded ST/GB-14 bank U/S gate has been repaired. DS stricture condition OK but RR 24 6+980 Turnout to D12 masonry Head Wall needs repairs. DS canal lined as flume Replacement of downstream structure headwall. ST/HR-01 section. Water seeps through MC around the structure. 25 7+090 Turnout to D13 structure is in deplorable conditions Replacement of Entire structure. ST/TO-06 26 7+350 Turnout to D14 Gates are corroded Replacement of gates, Dia 300mm and Head wall on D/S side ST/TO/OL-1 embankment improvement works with gabion mattress 27 7+400 canal bank protection Canal bank to be protected ST/GB-14 protection Radial gated Regulator Complete overhaul needed on HM works. Refer list of works 28 7+350 No.1 of HM works 29 7+850 Foot Bridge New-poorly Constructed No repairs observed. 84 Replacement of Handrails and 100m of Right hand side canal embankment upstream to the structure to be improved with both embankments leading to aqueduct severely eroded. Hand bio engineering canal improvement techniques, 15m of right 30 8+010 Aqueduct - 4 spans 5mx5m rails are damaged. RS embankment downstream of the ST/BF/CW/CI-07 hand side canal improvement with bio engineering technique structure eroded downstream of the structure, Epoxy lining for entire aqueduct 8+00 to 3.1m high canal embankment improvement with gabion 31 Level Crossing 100m of right-hand side of canal is eroded ST/GB-14 8+100 mattress of 100m length 32 8+620 Turnout to D 15. structure is in deplorable conditions Replacement of entire structure. 8+900 to 1m high canal improvement with bioengineering for 300m 33 Level Crossing 300m of canal embankment eroded ST/BF/CW/CI-07 9+000 length 34 9+190 Road Bridge Handrails are fully damaged Replacement of Handrails ST/HR-01 Turnout to D16 with ST/TO-2-07, 35 9+290 structure is in deplorable conditions Replacement of Structure. Bathing Step. ST/BS-01 Construction of 3.2m high, 210m long canal embankment 36 Level Crossing left bank side of the canal eroded for 210m length ST/GB-14 with gabion mattress. Upstream of the structure road side bund eroded and needs 37 9+570 Morning Glory No.3 100m of lining with canal improvement and bio engineering ST/BF/CW/CI-07 repairs. 40m of concrete canal lining above for the protection of the 38 9+840 DUC No repairs observed. ST/CL-02 structure inlet structure and barrel is damaged. The downstream Replacement of the Inlet structure and barrel and 39 10+085 Turnout to D 17. ST/TO-06 structure retaining wall is damaged replacement of Downstream retaining wall. 10+200 40 to Level Crossing 10+450 Turnout to D18 with US structure repaired. DS structure in concrete and condition is 41 10+475 Replacement of weir. ST/TO/OL-1 bathing Steps. OK. Weir Broken. Radial Gated Regulator Complete overhaul needed on HM works. Civil structure 43 10+520 Refer HM list of works No.2 condition good. 44 10+680 Road Bridge (RVDB) RVDB Bridge. Needs repairs to handrails. Replacement of hand rails. ST/HR-01 Replacement of 5.4m wide, 4.5m long, 150mm thick two 45 11+270 Causeway cum Spillway. Road Slab Needs Repairs. concrete panels with bottom reinforcement. 47 11+710 Foot Bridge (3 Wheel size) Condition good. Canal in cut section starts here. 85 US &DS structures need repairs as structure is damaged. d/s is reconstruct of the structure with reduced barrel length of ST/TO/IL- 48 11+825 Turnout to D 19 submerged before the drop in D' Canal 14.5m 03,ST/TO/OL-03 US structure needs repairs. DS OK but weir broken. DS canal ST/TO/IL- 49 12+065 Turnout to D20. Re-construction of the inlet structure and weir. lined as a flume section. 03,ST/TO/OL-03 12+050 50 to Level Crossing No Repairs needed 12+400 Turnout to D 21 with 51 12+455 inlet structure needs repairs Repairing of the inlet structure. ST/TO/IL-03 bathing steps. Road Bridge to a Tarred 52 12+515 Condition OK. Needs minor repairs. Minor repair work of road bridge Road. ST/TO/IL- 53 12+690 Turnout to D 22 - MASL Canal Belongs to DAS. Structure needs repairs. Replacement of the Structure. 03,ST/TO/OL-03 54 13+030 Turnout to D23 - DAS Canal Belongs to DAS. Structure needs repairs. Re-construction of the inlet structure and weir ST/TO/IL-02 55 13+190 Foot Bridge ( Beam Only) Road Bridge (RVDB) - Construction of 6m high, 20m long 2 gabion walls to protect 56 13+895 Condition OK. US and DS eroded. Hand rails damaged ST/GB-14 Hingura Ara Rd. canal embankments Partly Completed Bridge - 57 13+960 new Causeway with Structure needs repairs. Double bank canal concrete lined up to Replacement of approach canal bed of 6m wide and 10m 58 14+175 ST/CL-02 undercrossing. main road.- long with reinforced concrete 59 14+368 Single Beam foot Bridge 60 14+490 Turnout to D 24 - DAS inlet structure is not in good condition and weir broken Re-construction of inlet structure and weir. ST/TO/IL-01 61 14+850 Turnout to D25 - DAS structure is in deplorable conditions Replacement of the structure ST/TO-06 62 15+210 DUC DUC is encroached by land owners for shopping ST/CL-02 63 15+260 Main Road Bridge Bridge condition OK. 64 15+275 Drop Structure Structure condition OK. US and DS protection provided. Repairing of Dia 500, Headwall and embankment on the main 65 15+300 DUC Embankment on the main canal to be repaired ST/CL-02 canal to be repaired 86 Turnout 26 belong to DAS running along boundary of 66 15+480 inlet structure and weir need repairs Repairing of the inlet structure and weir. ST/TO/IL-03 Filling station of Town - New 67 16+035 Foot Bridge structure is in deplorable conditions Re-reconstruction of foot bridge ST/FBR-08 68 16+360 New Town Bridge Condition good. Regulator constructed by WLBP. Structure submerged needs Outlet cum Regulator to 69 16+400 civil work in good condition to be inspected. Outlet gates OK. Replacement of Lifting Moraketiya BC mechanism and Hand Rails of Foot Bridge. Foot bridge of Regulator 70 16+400 hand rails to be replaced Replacement of hand rails. Structure. W/RB/MC/SG- 71 17+000 TO 27 to DAS gates are in bad condition. Canal Belongs to DAS. Replacement of Gates. 01 Road Bridge to Concrete 72 17+400 Eroded around abutments and needs repairs. Construction of gabion walls on right and left hand sides ST/GB-14 Yard/School Road. Downstream of Kachchigala Tank Outlet from Kachchigala Structure condition looks OK. Gate hoists installed few years 73 23+440 Refer list of works of HM works Tank back. Reported that MASL has awarded a contract to repair same but not completed yet. (after the inspection made on 29 Jan 2019 , DRPM requested to include this rehab work under this Structure condition good. Us and DS approach lining needs 74 23+557 Partial Flume contract)t. Construction of 100m long canal embankment repairs. Canal RB side bund severely eroded due to bend. filling with gabion mattress on both side and repairing of US and DS side of Partial Flume lining section 5M length X 4 Nos. 75 24+180 DUC Canal lining to be provided over the DUC Construction of Canal lining over the DUC ST/CL-02 76 24+200 Turnout to RB12FC 2 Weir to be replaced Replacement of the Weir. Hand rails to be repaired. Canal bank RB side eroded up to foot 77 24+510 Foot Bridge Canal protection with gabion mattresses ST/GB-14 bridge. 78 24+750 Bathing steps on right-side Damaged Replacement of the structure. ST/BS-01 Outlet box to be constructed. Bund protection on both sides of 79 24+850 Turnout to RB12FC 3 & 4 350m long gabion mattresses protection on LS ST/GB-14 up stream head walls 80 25+120 Road Bridge - new In good condition 24+870 81 to Level Crossing. In good condition 24+790 87 82 25+380 Causeway for LC In good condition 83 25+395 Turnout to FC 5 In good condition 84 25+485 Foot Bridge (3 W) Hand rails to be replaced. Replacing of Handrails. ST/HR-01 Foot Bridge(JVP bridge - 85 25+730 Hand rails to be replaced Replacing of Handrails. ST/HR-01 3W) - new 86 25+835 Turnout to D1 In good condition Road Bridge to Kuttigala 87 26+120 Canal protection for all four sides required Construction of 4m high gabion mattresses for all four sides ST/GB-14 (Skew B) -new 25+839 88 to Level Crossing. 26+050 W/RB/MC/SG- 89 26+155 Turnout to D2 Gates to be replaced Replacement of Gates. 01 Condition of structure very good. Gate planks furnished 90 26+220 Gated Regulator No. 1 Refer List of Works of HM Works. ST/HR-01 recently. Painting of HM parts and repair of hand rails needed 26+295 91 to Level Crossing. 26+455 hand rails to be replaced. U/S and D/S protection to be 92 26+490 Road Bridge protection with gabion mattresses as required ST/GB-14 attended 93 26+910 Foot Bridge (3 W) Good condition 94 26+960 Turnout to D3 Good Condition, Weir damaged Replacement of the Weir. W/RB/MC/SG- 95 26+270 Turnout to FC6 Good Condition, Gates to be replaced, Weir damaged Replacement of the Gate and the weir. 01 96 27+500 Foot Bridge Good condition 27+500 97 to Level Crossing. 27+600 98 27+750 Causeway for LC Good condition 99 27+825 Foot Bridge Good Condition Replacement of Handrails. ST/HR-01 100 27+830 Turnout to FC7 Good Condition, Weir damaged Replacement of the Weir. W/RB/MC/SG- 101 28+145 Turnout to FC8 Good Condition, Weir damaged, gate to be replaced Replacement of Gates and the Weir. 01 88 102 28+255 Road Bridge Condition good 28+305 103 to Level Crossing. 28+495 W/RB/MC/SG- 104 25+550 Turnout to D4 turnout box to be improved, gates to be replaced Improvement of Turn Out Box and Replacement of the Weir. 01 105 25+560 Turnout to FC9 Good Condition, Weir damaged Replacement of the Weir. Partly completed gabion wall at the DS side road of the 106 28+590 Abundant Regulator No repairs needed. structure. 28+600 107 to Level Crossing. 28+895 108 29+130 Turnout to D5 Good Condition, Weir damaged Replacement of the Weir. Same as Regulator No.1.Condition of structure very good. Gate planks furnished recently. Painting of HM parts and repair of 109 29+170 Gated Regulator No 2 Refer list of work of HM works. hand rails needed. One Gate is stuck and hoist needs to be repaired. 110 29+480 Turnout to D6 Good Condition, Weir damaged Replacement of the Weir. 111 29+500 Buffalo entry Construction of new Structure. ST/BF/CW/CI-07 29+450 112 to Level Crossing. 29+550 113 29+725 Causeway for LC structure verified., Good condition 114 29+870 Turnout to FC 10 Door to be replaced, good condition, weir damaged Replacement of the Weir. Structure is in good condition. Gate is in good condition. 115 29+985 Outlet to Gurugodella BC Spindle and lifting mechanism to be replaced with geared Refer List of Works of HM Works. arrangement, D/S TO box to be constructed 30+000 116 to Level Crossing. 30+250 89 New regulator to be designed. Hand rail for the bridge is Construction of new Regulator replacement of Lifting 117 30+030 Road Bridge/ Regulator ST/HR-01 required mechanism and Hand Rails of Foot Bridge. 118 30+350 New Steel Road Bridge Condition v good. 119 30+360 TO D1 Structure is in good condition, weir damaged Replacement of the Weir. 120 31+000 Buffalo entry New Structure to be constructed Construction of new Structure. ST/BF/CW/CI-07 121 31+050 Causeway for LC -new Good condition 30+750 W/RB/MC/SG- 122 to Level Crossing. 02 31+000 Gates to be replaced. Hand rail on down stream side on head Replacement of Gates and Hand rail on down stream side on 123 30+180 Turnout to D2 wall required. 900mm Hump pipe extension of 70m long after head wall. down stream head wall is required. Area to be filled after that 124 31+225 Road Bridge Good condition Gated Regulator No 3 cum Condition of structure very good. Gate planks furnished W/RB/MC/SG- 125 31+380 Refer list of works of hydro mechanical works foot Bridge recently. Painting and servicing of HM parts needed. 02 126 31+480 Turnout to D3 Good condition, Gates to be replaced, Weir damaged Replacement of the Gate and the weir. 127 31+690 Buffalo entry Structure to be constructed 128 32+270 Causeway - new Good condition 129 32+270 Turnout to D4 Structure condition good. Weirs broken Replacement of the weir. W/RB/MC/SG- 130 32+300 Road Bridge 01 Replacement of extension bar and re-construction of turn out 131 32+550 Turnout to D5 Extension bar to be replaced, TO box to be constructed ST/TO/OL-1 box. Re-construction of outlet structure and replacement of gate 132 33+100 Turnout to FC1 Outlet structure to be constructed, gate door to be replaced door. Good Condition, Gate to be replace, outlet structure to be 133 33+095 Turnout to D6 Re-construction of Outlet structure. repaired 90 Condition of civil structure good. All the gates are removed for Gated Regulator No 4 cum repairs. HM components to be painted and serviced. Hand Rails 134 33+160 Refer List of Works of HM works. Foot Bridge good. Only one hoist with spindle at site. Narrow foot bridge - 2ft. good condition, weir damaged. Canal Bund eroded on road 135 33+810 Turnout to FC2 side. Contract awarded by MASL for repair around 100m. Near Replacement of the weir. Smabodhi Society of Galle Land with a boundary wall. 33+860 Constriction of Retaining wall is in progress in both bunds 136 to Siphon cum causeway between bridge and Syphon. 33+900 137 34+000 Main Road Bridge Bridge condition good. 138 34+240 Turnout to FC1 weir damaged Replacement of the weir. 139 34+300 Causeway Good condition Off take to Manamperigam Structure condition good. Canal bund repair under 140 34+380 ST/BF/CW/CI-07 BC construction. Structure condition very good. No side spill walls. Hand rails and HM repairs and servicing needed. New timber planks Gated Regulator No 5 cum provided. 2 gates are partially closed and welded the spindles 141 34+540 Refer list of works of hydro mechanical works Foot Bridge to control the water level to mamamperigama Canal. Spindle size appears to be too small. US & DS protected up to 20m either side in all 5 regulators. 142 31+690 Buffalo entry Construction of newly proposed Buffalo Crossing Structure. New Canal inlet under 143 34+810 Under construction. Construction Muruthawela Canal over- 144 35+150 crossing cum foot bridge Construction of 40m of concrete canal lining above the duc to 145 35+820 DUC - 3/3-6' dia To be repaired ST/CL-02 protect the structure Muruthawela Canal over- Bund road eroded. Repair needed up to 50m till existing Gabion 146 36+350 Canal improvement with bioengineering techniques ST/BF/CW/CI-07 crossing cum foot bridge Wall. Construction of 40m of concrete canal lining above the duc to 147 36+780 Drainage under crossing To be repaired ST/CL-02 protect the structure Construction of 40m of concrete canal lining above the duc to 148 37+080 DUC - 1X600 dia To be repaired ST/CL-02 protect the structure Construction of 40m of concrete canal lining above the duc to 149 37+150 DUC - 2x600 dia To be repaired ST/CL-02 protect the structure 91 150 37+200 New Steel Road Bridge Condition V. Good. Construction of 40m of ]concrete canal lining above the duc 151 37+770 DUC - 3x3-6' dia To be repaired ST/CL-02 to protect the structure 152 38+100 Road Bridge Hand rails to be repaired Replacement of hand rails, Construction of 40m of concrete canal lining above the duc to 153 38+150 DUC - 3x 2'-0' dia To be repaired ST/CL-02 protect the structure 154 38+420 Foot Bridge To be widen as tractor crossing Construction of new bridge. ST/FBR-09 155 31+500 Buffalo entry Newly proposed Buffalo Crossing Structure to be constructed Construction of Buffalo Crossing Structure. ST/BF/CW/CI-07 Outlet to Muruthawela Structure is in good condition. Outlet box with measuring 156 38+430 Construction of the outlet structure. scheme -new (to right side) device is required (structure on the bund side- RB) Buffalo Entry (Cattle pond - 157 38+500 Construction of Buffalo Crossing Structure. 106,107) construction of 40m of concrete canal lining above the duc 158 38+750 DUC - 2x 600 dia foot bridge ST/CL-02 to protect the structure 159 31+790 Buffalo entry needed. Construction of Buffalo Crossing Structure. ST/BF/CW/CI-07 160 38+900 Foot Bridge (steel) to be newly constructed Construction of foot bridge. 161 39+500 Drop structure US& DS sides eroded and need to be repaired. Repairing of U/S and D/S of the structure, ST/DS-06 162 39+590 Foot Bridge To be widened Widening of the foot bridge. ST/FBR-09 163 39+840 Drop structure US& DS sides eroded and need to be repaired. Repairing of drop structure. ST/DS-06 ST/FBR- 164 39+980 Foot Bridge cum drop US& DS sides eroded and need to be repaired. Repairing of drop structure. 09,ST/DS-06 Bridge cum drop cum ST/DS-06, 165 40+470 turnout to both side US& DS sides eroded and need to be repaired. Construction of new drop structure. ST/BR-13 R17D1, L14D1 166 40+490 Drop structure Completely damaged. Need to construct newly. Construction of new drop structure. ST/DS-06 Bifurcation to Combined structure civil works are in good condition. Timber Bataatha(1653.21Ha) and 168 40+870 gates to be replaced. Spindle size is 50 mm dia. HM Refer hydro mechanical list of works Gajamangama(1076.48Ha) components need complete overhaul. BCC 92 Annex 2: Mapping of Stakeholders Using the RB Canal for Water Supplies 93 Annex 3: Pictures on Main Issues of the Walawe RBMC Fig 2. Different locations of the RBMC (A: Outlet of the Uda Walawe reservoir, B: in between Chandrika Reservoir and Embilipitiya Town, C: Close to the Chandrika Reservoir, D & E: Downstream of Chandrika reservoir, F: Main dividing point of the canal 94 Annex 4: Location Map of project area Three Districts Mahaweli Mahaweli L Ri 95 Annex 5: Soil Type in the Udawalawe Region General Soil map in Sri Lanka showing “Reddish brown earth” materials in Udawalawe region 96 Annex 6: The Hydrology of the Walawe Basin 97 Annex 7: Aquatic Ecological Assessment For The Walawe Right Bank Canal 98 Aquatic Ecological Assessment For The Walawe Right Bank Canal April 2019 Study Team: Himesh Jayasinghe (Team leader & Flora Specialist) Nuwan Chathuranga (Fauna Specialist) Himidu Himansi (Field Assistant) Tharindu Ranasinghe (Field Assistant) i Table of Contents 1. Introduction ................................................................................................................................ 1 2. Methodology ............................................................................................................................... 3 2a. Study Area ............................................................................................................................. 3 2b. Period of field survey, sampling frequency and time ........................................................... 3 2c. Sampling methods ................................................................................................................. 5 3. Study Findings ............................................................................................................................. 7 3a. Habitats ................................................................................................................................. 7 3b. Species ................................................................................................................................... 8 5. References ................................................................................................................................ 16 Annex 1: Check lists ...................................................................................................................... 18 Annex 2: Plates.............................................................................................................................. 41 ii 1. Introduction The government of Sri Lanka (GOSL) with financing from the World Bank (WB) has proposed to undertake an Integrated Watershed & Water Resources Management Project (IWWRMP). One of the main development objective of the project is to improve the development and management of water resources within the country, reduce water induce hazards to the public and enhance the effectiveness of water related investments. It has been revealed through the studies that the major dams of the country are aging and suffering from the various structural deficiencies and shortcoming in the operation and monitoring facilities. This situation threatens safety and operation efficiency of the dams and its appurtenant structures and as result increase the vulnerability of the downstream population and socio- economic infrastructure. As the project fund USD 170 Million to be received from the donor to the project. The proposed project intends to address these issues through its dam safety and operational improvements for 80 dams & 58 Irrigation infrastructure. Under above-mentioned 58 Irrigation infrastructure, Walawa 41km Right Bank main canal was selected from Mahaweli Authority of Sri Lanka to the fully rehabilitation. Uda Walawa reservoir is one of the major irrigation projects in Sri Lanka which is built across the Walawe river. Walawe river receives the precipitation of the Southern escarpment of the central highlands which starts to drain water from Horton Plains National Park. The river collects the water of tributaries namely Belihul Oya, Kiriketi Oya and Weali Oya and when it reaches the Uda Walawe reservoir and the waters of Mau Ara reaches the main river down stream of the reservoir. Immediate catchment of the reservoir is protected as a national park and it is mainly focusing on providing habitats for Asian Elephants. Uda Walawe reservoir has two main canals where the Right Bank (R/B) canal was the first to built. The R/B Main Canal of Walawe was constructed in 1968 and government of Sri Lanka did the last rehabilitation in 1989. It serves total irrigation command area of 11,548 ha organized under three irrigation block areas; Chandrikawewa 1 Block (3379 ha); Muravasihena Block (4403 ha); and Angunukolapalessa Block (3766 ha). This Canal is 41 km long single bank contour canal that traverse passing 17 small tanks and Chandrikawewa reservoir as level crossings and 400 m long syphon structure. The 41 km long R/B main canal starts at the Southern dry zone and its tail end reaches the narrow strip of intermediate zone in Southern Sri Lanka. This area receiving an annual rainfall of 1500 – 2000 mm, mainly from the North-East monsoon rains in December to February. It receives some rains in April from intermonsoon rains, while other months of the year remains dry. July and August are the driest months of the year, where the shrubby plants tend to shead their leaves leaving only the thorny branches. Temparature of the area ranges between 29 – 33 0C and its humidity ranges between 65 – 85 %. Vegetation of the area is classified as ‘moist monsoon forests’ which can be seen in Udawalawe national park, just upstream of the project area. The project area is subjected to anthropogenic activities since the Udawalawe reservaoir project was established. Hence this area has lost its natural habitats for at least 50 years, after it naturally reforested since the collapse of ancient civilization. Most of the land consist of cultivated areas of Paddy and Banana and the rest is human settlements with large home gardens. An ecological study along the canal was conducted with the aim of facilitating and directing the proposed rehabilitation work of the R/B main canal to mitigate the ecological impact, which is reported here. 2 2. Methodology 2a. Study Area: The study area is mostly a mildly sloping terrain with some undulations located in the climatic zones of dry zone and intermediate zone. It belongs to the DL1 agro ecological zone, dry zone bioregion (bioregion 2) and floristic region A2 (lowland dry zone). The area consists of Alluvial soils along the river valley and reddish-brown earths in the high ground. 2b. Period of field survey, sampling frequency and time: The survey was carried out during three days in April 2019. Initially, the whole study site was studied using available literature and google maps and got an idea about micro habitats and their locations along the canal. Based on this initial study, sampling points and transects were selected for various taxonomic groups as well as to cover all the micro habitats identified. All the sampled sites were accessed by travelling along the dirt road along the left bank side of the canal. Six sites were thoroughly studied, and ad hoc studies were done when a different micro habitat was found while traveling along the canal. The field survey team comprised of four persons with expertise on flowering plants, terrestrial fauna and ichthyofauna. The same sampling points and transects were used for the flowering plants and terrestrial fauna while some of those points were not sampled for fish, since those locations are not providing good habitats for them. All the studies were done during the day time. At the time of the survey some rains had been received, but it was sunny during the sampled dates except for some hours in the first day, which was cloudy. All the sampling points are shown in map 1. 3 Map 1: The location map of surveyed points along the Walawa R/B canal. Following are the co-ordinates and their micro habitats of the sampling sites. Location Latitude Longitude Micro habitat L1 6.424171 80.832271 scrubland L2 6.390065 80.816475 Stagnant water body + cultivated land L3 6.36298 80.84138 Stagnant water body + home garden L4 6.268936 80.861998 Irrigation tank L5 6.240777 80.875925 Home gardens + reed bed L6 6.204579 80.893748 Home gardens Each sampling site was visited only once due to the time limitation. All vertebrate fauna as well as some indicator groups of invertebrates such as butterflies and dragonflies were studied. Floral study focused on all the families of flowering plants (Angiosperms) while lower plants were not considered. Sampling method used for each group is as follows. 4 2c. Sampling methods: Fauna: Line transects survey, variable circular plots survey and opportunistic observations were used to determine the status of terrestrial fauna. Either direct or indirect evidence were used to record the existence of the species. An 8 x 42 binocular was used to aid in the sampling of birds, butterflies and dragonflies. Fish samples were collected in selected locations covering major aquatic habitats (Map 1) using cast nets (10 random casts/site) and hand traps. Further information was collected from riparian community on the local names of fish found in the canal. Flora: Plots of 10 m width and variable lengths were selected along the canal and dirt road to conduct the terrestrial flora survey. Floating and emergent aquatic plants were identified by direct visual observations. Submerged plants were identified by observing through water surface, when the water is clear enough to see the bottom. Plants that could not be identified in the field were photographed in detail using a DSLR camera fitted with a macro lens, and later identified using literature. Techniques used for each taxonomic group are listed in the following table. Taxonomic Group Technique Birds Variable circular plots in selected locations in different times of the day, Line transect observations at accessible routes (both direct observations and indirect observations such as calls were used for identification) Mammals Opportunistic observations in the study area (both direct and indirect observations such as scat and foot prints were used for identification) Traps were not used for the study of small mammals due to limited time available Reptiles Opportunistic observations (direct observations only), plot clearing in selected locations Amphibians Opportunistic observations with special attention in wet places such as canals, ponds and undergrowth. Log turning was also done in terrestrial habitats. Fish Cast nets (10 random casts/site), hand traps in selected locations, Opportunistic observations by surface viewing. 5 Butterflies Line transects and opportunistic observations (both adult stage and larval stage were identified) Dragonflies Opportunistic observation (only the adult stage) with special attention at water bodies. Observed species were identified using most recent field guides which are given follow. Flora: Vlas & Vlas (2014), Vlas & Vlas (2008), Dassanayake & Fosberg (1980 – 1991), Dassanayake, Fosberg & Clayton (1994 – 1995), Dassanayake & Clayton (1996 – 2000) and Dassanayake, Clayton & Shaffer-Fehre (2006) Birds: Kotagama & Rathnaweera (2010), Warakagoda et. al. (2012), Harrison (2011) Mammals: Phillips (1935), Yapa & Rathnaweera (2013), Kotagama and Goonatilake (2013) Reptiles: Somaweera (2006), Somaweera & Somaweera (2009) Amphibians: Manamendra-Arachchi & Pethiyagoda (2006) Fish: de Silva et. al. (2015), Goonathilake (2007) Butterflies: Jayasinghe (2015), Jayasinghe et. al. (2016) Dragonflies: Sumanapala (2017), Bedjanič et. al. (2007), Bedjanič et. al (2014) Nomenclature for fauna used in this document are mainly in accordance with the National Red list 2012 of Sri Lanka, with some minor changes according to recent scientific updates. The plant list is according to the - Angiosperms Phylogeny Group ver. IV (2018). Conservation status of the Flora and Fauna are also according to the National Red list 2012 (MoE, 2012). For migratory birds, the global conservation status is mentioned. Note that the conservation status was not provided for the introduced fish and introduced plants as introduced species and migratory species was not assessed during the national redlisting process. 6 3. Study Findings 3a. Habitats The study site was mainly consisting of aquatic habitas, mainly the canal and pooled water bodies at cetain places along the canal which are used as level crossings. Mosstly the canal is a single bank construction except a double cutting area after Chandrika wewa which goes through a ridge at a high ground. Some sections of the canal are lined with concrete walls and gabion walls while most of the area remains earthened slopes, which has vegetaion, thus providing habitats for terrestrial fauna. Since the embankment at the left-hand side of the canal, it provides deep waters while the canal becomes shallower towards the right- hand side until it reaches the natural ground. Right-hand side provides grassy vegetation and other floating vegetation such as Ipomoea aquatica, Alternanthera sessilis and Limnocharis flava due to its shallowness. This vegetation provides habitats for many dragonflies, who are associated with water. Male dragonflies use this vegetation as their breeding teretories, since they live as aqatic creatures in their nymphal stage for a long period. Level crossings are quite large, stagnant water bodies with reed vegetations and other floating aquatic plants such as Nelumbo nucifera and Nymphoides indica. These pools provide much better habitats for water birds and raptors. The trees adjacent to these pools provide roosting places and breeding grounds for some birds such as Black-crowned Night- heron, Grey Heron, Black-headed Ibis and Indian Cormorant. These pools prfered by fish species such as Scribbled Goby, Murrel, Spotted Snakehead and Common Spiny Loach, who need stagnant water. Floating vegetation in these pools provide breeding grounds and safe shelter for juveniles of Murrel, which is a harvested fish by local people. Flowing water of the canal is preferred by fish species such as Giant Danio and Narrow line Rasbora. Since the flating vegetation is minimal, dragonflies are scarce in these habitats. Vegetation of the inside of the canal embankment is limited to shrubs and herbs since regular weeding is nessasary to maintain the canal. But the roadside vegetation beside the canal is quite lush with some tree species. Scrublands are dominated by the species such as Streblus asper, Grewia damine, Grewia orientalis, Azima tetracantha and Croton aromaticus. 7 Natural tree species consisted of Syzygium cumini, Bridelia retusa, Limonia acidissima, Lepisanthes tetraphylla, Sapindus emarginatus, Schleichera oleosa and Chloroxylon swietania. Natural vegetation was limited to a very small sections throughout the canal, while most of the land consisted of home gardens, cultivated lands and hedges of their boundaries. People tend to cultivate coconut and banana just down the embankment and seepages of the canal provide good water source for these cultivations. Tree species of the home gardens included food crops such as Artocarpus altilis & Artocarpus heterophyllus and timber species such as Tectona grandis and Berrya cordifolia. 3b. Species Flora A total of 236 angiosperm species belonging to 61 families were identified within the study area. Highest number of species were represented by the family Fabaceae (35 species) followed by family Malvaceae (12 species). 29 families were represented by only a single species (Table 1). The detailed list of plant species observed in the study site is given in Annex 1 Table 1. Table 1. Plant families that make up the vegetation observed in different micro ecosystems and number of species belonging to each family. Number of Family species Family Number of species Fabaceae 35 Solanaceae 2 Malvaceae 25 Alismataceae 1 Euphorbiaceae 13 Bignoniaceae 1 Compositae 11 Cannabaceae 1 Lamiaceae 11 Celastraceae 1 Convolvulaceae 10 Cleomaceae 1 Phyllanthaceae 10 Lauraceae 1 Rubiaceae 8 Linderniaceae 1 Acanthaceae 7 Malpighiaceae 1 Apocynaceae 7 Menyanthaceae 1 Moraceae 7 Molluginaceae 1 Poaceae 6 Muntingiaceae 1 Rutaceae 6 Musaceae 1 Amaranthaceae 5 Myrtaceae 1 Sapindaceae 5 Nelumbonaceae 1 Combretaceae 4 Nyctaginaceae 1 8 Araceae 3 Oleaceae 1 Arecaceae 3 Onagraceae 1 Boraginaceae 3 Orchidaceae 1 Cucurbitaceae 3 Oxalidaceae 1 Verbenaceae 3 Pandanaceae 1 Anacardiaceae 2 Passifloraceae 1 Annonaceae 2 Plantaginaceae 1 Capparaceae 2 Plumbaginaceae 1 Commelinaceae 2 Polygonaceae 1 Loganiaceae 2 Salvadoraceae 1 Loranthaceae 2 Sapotaceae 1 Lythraceae 2 Ulmaceae 1 Meliaceae 2 Vitaceae 1 Menispermaceae 2 Zygophyllaceae 1 Rhamnaceae 2 Among the total number of recorded species, 1176 (74.58%) species including four endemic species (Rhinacanthus polonnaruwensis, Vernonia zeylanicum, Argyreia kleiniana and Premna procumbens) were native to Sri Lanka while the remaining 60 (25.42 %) species are either naturalized exotic species or invasive alien species. Rhinacanthus polonnaruwensis was a locally common herbaceous species in shady undergrowth of hedges along the dirt road. This species was initially described from a population around Polonnaruwa (North Central province), but it is found in similar type of habitats through out the dry zone. Vernonia zeylanicum was the commonest endemic species found in the study site. It prefers well lit sunny scrublands and its one of the good nectar sources for local butterflies such as Silverlines, Common Gulls, Jezebels etc. The beautiful flowered vine Argyreia kleiniana was found only at the lower reaches of the canal, since it prefers wet zone habitats rather than dry zone habitats found in the upper reaches. It was usually found together with Ipomoea triloba, another Convolvulaceae species. The endemic straggling vine Premna procumbens was an occasionally found species at the hedges of cultivated lands. Most of the native plants in the site were common species, where 161 of them were listed as ‘Least Concern’ and 7 species as ‘Near threatened’ in National Red Data List, 2012. Only six species which are considered as ‘threatened’ were recorded in the proposed project area (Table 2). 9 Table 2. The threatened species recorded in the study site Distribution Species Sinhala name status Conservation status Cryptolepis dubia je,a rela w;a;k" lsrs je,a Native VU Strychnos potatorum bÕsks Native VU Corchorus olitorius idks Native VU Margaritaria indica lrõ" uy lrõ Native VU Chloroxylon swietania nqre; Native VU Croton caudatus je,a lemafmáhd Native EN Abbreviations used: EN - Endangered; VU - Vulnerable Croton caudatus was evaluated as ‘Endangered’ in the previous red data list due to its lack of herbarium specimens, but there are considerable number of records of the occurance of the species in the recent past. This species prefers edges of water bodies in the dry zone and it was a quite regularly found species even within the study site. Chloroxylon swietania got its threatened status due to its high demand for timber. Fully grown trees of this species was regularly seen along the edge of the dirt road. The tree species Margaritaria indica also was a regularly seen plant, although many of them were immature trees. This is a water preferred plant and grows near water. Regular weeding of the canal embankment could be a reason for not having the mature trees in the proposed project area. Strychnos potatorum found only once near the ‘location 4’ at the reservoir embankment. This speices usually prefers the driest parts of the country. Corchorus olitorius is a tall herb found in secondary vegetation of the dry zone. This species was occasionally found along the canal embankment, where the weeding was not done. The liana, Cryptolepis dubia found only once at the road edge scrolling on other shrubs. This is an abundant species around Wellawaya and Koslanda. Since this area is subjected to human activities, many exotic plant species established in this habitat and comprises a large portion of the vegetation. Some species such as Stachytarpheta urticifolia are naturalized in this habitat help to uplift the eco system diversity by being a good nectar source for butterflies and bees. Apart from these species and naturalized harmless species, there are several alien invasive species spread throughout the study site. During the study, 08 out of the 33 plant species listed as invasive alien species and three out of the 15 species listed as potentially invasive alien species were recorded within the study site (Table 3). 10 Table 3. Invasive alien species and potentially invasive alien species recorded in the study site. Scientific Name Common Name Alien invasive species Chromolaena odorata fmdä is[af[durka" f,dlalka kÜgx Mikania cordata .ï md¿" j;= md¿" fou< je,a Tithonia diversifolia j,a iQrshldka;" jg iQrsh" k;a; iQrsh Cuscuta camprestris w. uq, ke;s je,a Panicum maximum .sKs ;K" rg ;K" .skslS/iai Pennisetum polystachion Lantana camara .|mdk" lgq ysÕ=re" rg ysÕ=re Leucaena leucocephala bms,a bms,a Potential alien invasive species Ludwigia peruviana බෙරු දියනිල්ල, බෙල් කරාබු Muntingia calabura ජෑම් Acacia auriculiformis Most abundant invasive species were Panicum maximum, Lantana camara and Mikania cordata. The annual tall grass Panicum maximum was found throughout the trace of the canal where there are sunny openings. This species grows profusely during the North-east monsoon period by controlling other species and it is a threat to nearby cultivated lands as well. Dead Panicum plants prone to fire in August, at the driest period of the year, destroying nearby vegetation as well. This destroyed vegetation is invaded by the Panicum grass during the next rainy season and the process is continuing. Lantana camara is a shrub which is also preferring sunny habitats. This species got its invasive nature by attracting many pollinators to flowers and attracting many seed dispersers (here the small birds). However, it has less impact in the study site than in the nearby Udawalawe national park. Mikania cordata was common in the places that has seepages, since it requires more wetness. It was seen that this vine grows on top of banana plantations right at the edge of the canal. Leucaena leucocephala was found abundantly beside the canal near the Udawalawe reservoir. This species was associated with a potentially invasive species, Acacia auriculiformis and Muntingia calabura. Most importantly, all the water bodies got only slight impacts from these invasive plant species. 11 Fauna The recorded fauna of the study area comprised of 125 vertebrates and 60 invertebrate species (Table 4). Avifauna is the most diverse taxa observed with 70 species while butterflies are the second diverse group with 44 species. Most of the recorded species are common and widespread species with low conservation status. Only six species recorded are listed as threatened species in the 2012 National Red List of Sri Lanka. Even among those, no Critically Endangered species were recorded. Wild populations of Rock Pigeon – Columba livia is considered as nationally threatened, but here all the individuals recorded during the survey were feral breeds. The detailed list of animal species observed in the study site is given in Annex 1, Tables 2-8. Table 4. Summary of the Faunal Species Recorded During the Study. Threatened Taxa Species Endemics Exotic1 NT CR EN VU Total Dragonflies 16 3 0 0 1 2 3 2 Butterflies 44 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 Freshwater Fish 13 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 Amphibians 11 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 Reptiles 16 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 Birds 70 2 3 0 0 0 0 4 Mammals 15 1 0 0 1 1 2 0 Total 185 11 5 0 2 4 6 7 Abbreviations used: 1 - Migratory species of birds were listed under this category; CR - Critically Endangered; EN - Endangered; VU - Vulnerable; NT - Near Threatened Eleven endemic species of fauna were recorded during the survey period within the study area. These comprised of two bird species, Sri Lanka Lesser Flameback (Dinopium psarodes) and Sri Lanka Barbet (Psilopogon rubricapillus), two reptiles namely Termite hill gecko (Hemidactylus lankae) and Common lankaskink (Lankascincus fallax), one mammal, Sri Lanka toque monkey (Macaca sinica), one amphibian Common hourglass tree frog (Polypedates cruciger), one fresh water fish Sri Lanka Filamented Barb (Dawkinsia singhala) one butterfly Sri Lankan Lesser Albatross (Appias galene) and three dragonfly species, namely Sri Lanka Green's Gem (Libellago greeni), Sri Lanka Adam's Gem (Libellago adami) and Sri Lanka Jungle Threadtail (Elattoneura caesia). Out of these all the dragonfly 12 species are recognized as a species with the risk of extinction at the national level while others are widespread, common endemics. Out of the 70 species of avifauna recorded 03 species are migratory and arrive in Sri Lanka only during the North-South migratory period. None of these species are recognized as globally threatened migratory species thus they have a low conservation priority. Since the survey was carried out at the end of the migratory season, very few species were recorded here. However, the habitats in the area has reported that it is important for many migrants that use the site as a feeding ground as well as a roosting site. The study area is a part of a larger habitat complex that supports some apex species that occupies larger home ranges such as raptors like Grey-headed Fish-eagle, White-bellied Sea-eagle, Brahminy Kite and medium sized carnivorous mammals like the Fishing Cat. Although the adjacent Udawalawe national park bares many wild elephants, the project area has no impact by stray elephants unlike other similar areas in the country due to the well-maintained elephant fence at the park. The canal and the level crossings provide water sources for many fauna including some bird species and small mammals. Although this water source is not available for them during the driest part of the year, when the canal is closed after cultivation. Fresh water fish diversity of this canal is quite low compared to other natural streams and irrigation canals of the dry zone, probably due to the invasive nature of Mozambique Thilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus). This species is regularly introduced to the reservoir for harvesting. 13 4 Conclusions and Recommendations Based on the findings of the field surveys, the study site supports a moderately rich assemblage of fauna and flora including few species of endemic and threatened species. Once a terrestrial eco system has now being changed in to an aquatic eco system and this habitat has become naturalized since it is about 40 years old. However, there are many drivers of change operating on the man-made ecosystem, which is an obvious feature of the system. One of the adverse impacts observed is the spreading of alien invasive species, which is a threat to natural flora and fauna species as well as for humans. Putting waste material such as logs by the people living adjacent to the canal has hinders the regular flow in the canal. However, drainages to the canal bring only very slight amount of garbage such as plastics. Among these plastics, some bottles of weedicides and pesticieds were observed, and the water may contaminate with these toxic chemicals. Eventhough this is a man made eco system, it is worth to concern on natural species and their relationship with the environment, when it comes to a development project. Based on the findings of this study the following recommendations can be made. 1. Level crossings contains the most faunal diversity in the canal system. Damages to the vegetation in these sites must be minimum during the construction. 2. Although reed beds hinder the canal flow, it provides good habitat for many avifauna. A compromise has to be made when removing this vegetation. 3. Water quality palys a major role in the diversity of fish and aquatic insects, thus do the same on the higher ranks of the food chain. It is better to monitor the water quality of the canal at regular intervals by this project and to make nessasary actions if the quality is poor. 4. At present the project area supports only a moderately rich biodiversity. Therefore, it is recommended that the habitat quality of the roadside be increased by planting more native species that attracts more species into the site such as butterflies and birds. This planting process can be done in the places that used for temporary site huts and storages during the construction period. 5. Invasive species management plan should be developed for the site to remove or replace the existing exotic and invasive alien species along the canal. Construction processes should not encourage the spread of these species. 6. Water of the canal and level corssings must keep accessible to small mammals in the vicinity, which is useful for them in the dry spell. 14 7. Hedges with natural vegetation (especially the area near Chandrika wewa) should keep unaltered during the construction since these are the only remaining natural vegetations in the area. 8. Steps should be taken to stop all the illegal anthropogenic activities such as setting fire to vegetation, encroachment, disposal of soiled waste and construction waste. 9. Chemicals should not be released in to the water both during construction and operational stage of any activities that are carried out in the project area. 10. Construction activities to be carried out must have a proper solid waste management plan. 11. Labors must be adhered to the solid waste management plan and they should prevent from poaching wild animals. 15 5. References APG III [Bremer, B., Bremer K., Chase M. W., Fay M. F., Reveal J. L., Soltis D. E., Soltis P. S., and Stevens P. F. (comp.)] (2009). An update of the Angiosperm Phylogeny Group classification for the orders and families of flowering plants: APG III. Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society 161: 105–121. Arthington, A. H. (1991). The ecological and genetic impacts of introduced and translocated freshwater fishes in Australia. Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences 48(1): 33–44. Bunn, S. E., P.M. Davies and D.M. Kellaway (1997). Contributions of sugar cane and invasive pasture grasses to the aquatic food web of a tropical lowland stream. Marine and Freshwater Research 48: 173–179. Dassanayake, M. D. (Ed.) (1980). A revised handbook to the flora of Ceylon, Vol. 1. Amerind Publishing Co. Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi. Dassanayake, M. D. (Ed.) (1981a). A revised handbook to the flora of Ceylon, Vol. 2. Oxford & IBH Publishing Co., New Delhi. Dassanayake, M. D. (Ed.) (1981b). A revised handbook to the flora of Ceylon, Vol. 3. Oxford & IBH Publishing Co., New Delhi. Dassanayake, M. D. (Ed.) (1983). A revised handbook to the flora of Ceylon, Vol. 4. Amerind Publishing Co. Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi. Dassanayake, M. D. (Ed.) (1985). A revised handbook to the flora of Ceylon, Vol. 5. Amerind Publishing Co. Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi. Dassanayake, M. D. (Ed.) (1987). A revised handbook to the flora of Ceylon, Vol. 6. Oxford & IBH Publishing Co., New Delhi. Dassanayake, M. D. (Ed.) (1991). A revised handbook to the flora of Ceylon, Vol. 7. Amerind Publishing Co. Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi. Dassanayake, M. D. (Ed.) (1995). A revised handbook to the flora of Ceylon, Vol. 9. Amerind Publishing Co. Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi. Dassanayake, M. D. (Ed.) (1996). A revised handbook to the flora of Ceylon, Vol. 10. Oxford & IBH Publishing Co., New Delhi. Dassanayake, M. D. (Ed.) (1997). A revised handbook to the flora of Ceylon, Vol. 11. Oxford & IBH Publishing Co., New Delhi. Dassanayake, M. D. (Ed.) (1998). A revised handbook to the flora of Ceylon, Vol. 12. Oxford & IBH Publishing Co., New Delhi. Dassanayake, M. D. (Ed.) (1999). A revised handbook to the flora of Ceylon, Vol. 13. Oxford & IBH Publishing Co., New Delhi. 16 Dassanayake, M. D. (Ed.) (2000). A revised handbook to the flora of Ceylon, Vol. 14. Oxford & IBH Publishing Co., New Delhi. De Silva, M., N. Hapuarachchi and T. Jayaratne (2015). Sri Lankan Fishes. Nations Trust Bank, 392 p. Desprez, M. (2000). Physical and biological impact of marine aggregate extraction along the French coast of the Eastern English Channel: short- and long-term post-dredging restoration. ICES J. Mar. Sci. 57: 1428-1438. de vlas, J. & J. de vlas (2014). Illustrated field guide to the flowers of Sri Lanka, volume 2. J & J de vlas, The Netherlands. Goonatilake, S de A. (2012). The Taxonomy and Conservation Status of the Freshwater Fishes in Sri Lanka In: The National Red List 2012 of Sri Lanka; Conservation Status of the Fauna and Flora. Weerakoon, D.K. & S. Wijesundara Eds., Ministry of Environment, Colombo, Sri Lanka. 77-87 pp. Jayasinghe, H.D., S.S. Rajapakshe & C. de Alwis (2014). A compilation and analysis of food plant utilization of Sri Lankan butterfly larvae (Papilionoidea). Taprobanica 06 (02): 110-131 Jayasinghe, H.D., S.S. Rajapakshe & C.de Alwis (2015). A pocket guide to the butterflies of Sri Lanka (2nd edition). Butterfly Conservation Society of Sri Lanka, Yatihena, Malwana. Kotagama, S. & S. de A. Goonatilake (2013). Pictorial pocket guide to the Mammals of Sri Lanka. Field Ornithology Group of Sri Lanka, University of Colombo, Colombo 03. Pethiyagoda, R. (1991). Freshwater Fishes of Sri Lanka. Wildlife Heritage Trust of Sri Lanka, Colombo. Plants of the world online (2019) http://plantsoftheworldonline.org/ Sumanapala, A.P. (2017). A field guide to the dragonflies and damselflies of Sri Lanka. Ceylon Tea Services PLC. The Plant list: ver. 1.1 (2013). http://www.theplantlist.org. Wejesundara, S., H.S. Kathriarachchi, S.W. Ranasinghe &G. Hapuarachchi (2012). Analysis of seed plants of Sri Lanka, pp. 205-345. In: Weerakoon, D.K. &S. Wijesundara (eds.). The National Red List 2012 of Sri Lanka; Conservation Status of the Fauna and Flora.Ministry of Environment, Colombo. 17 Annex 1 Table 1. Detailed list of flowering plants observed at the study site Abbreviations used: DS - Distribution Status; NCS - National Conservation Status; DD - Data Deficient; EN - Endangered; LC - Least Concern; NE - Not Evaluated; NT - Near Threatened; VU - Vulnerable. NCS L L L L L L No. Family Species Sinhala name DS 2012 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 Acanthaceae Hygrophila auriculata lgq blsrsh" kSruq,a,sh" tlsrsh Native LC 1 1 1 1 w.,a wdOdr" wdvf;dav" jfkam,d" 2 Acanthaceae Justicia adhatoda o;a wfkdaod Native LC 1 1 1 1 3 Acanthaceae Lepidagathis fasciculata Native LC 1 4 Acanthaceae Nicoteba betonica iqÿ mqrela Native LC 1 1 1 1 Rhinacanthus 5 Acanthaceae polonnaruwensis Endemic LC 1 1 1 1 6 Acanthaceae Ruellia prostrata ks,a mqrela Native LC 1 1 1 1 1 7 Acanthaceae Rungia pectinata Native LC 1 1 8 Alismataceae Limnocharis flava osh f.dajd Exotic NE 1 1 lr,a yen" .ia lr,a yen" 9 Amaranthaceae Achyranthes aspera lr,aiefnda Native LC 1 1 1 1 1 10 Amaranthaceae Aerva lanata fmd,al=vq m