VANUATU CLIMATE RESILIENT TRANSPORT PROJECT Environmental and Social Impact Assessment: South Santo Road, November 2019 Prepared For: Ministry of Infrastructure & Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Quality Information Document VCRTP Environmental and Social Impact Assessment Date 15 November 2019 Prepared by K. Walker, L. Zuniga-Carmine, E. Bani & M. Bebe Revision History Submitted Revision Revision Date Details Name/Position A 15/10/19 Draft Version for Review K. Walker/International Environment Specialist B 28/10/19 Final Version for Appraisal K. Walker/International Environment Specialist C 15/11/19 Final Version for Disclosure K. Walker/International Environment Specialist Version C – November 2019 1 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Contents Executive Summary...................................................................................................................................................... 7 1 Introduction ....................................................................................................................................................... 13 1.1 Location and Setting .............................................................................................................................. 13 1.2 Project Background ................................................................................................................................ 14 1.3 ESIA Scope and Objectives .................................................................................................................. 15 1.4 Development of the Report .................................................................................................................. 15 2 Project Description ........................................................................................................................................... 17 2.1 Project Site and Study Area ................................................................................................................ 17 2.2 Current Situation ..................................................................................................................................... 18 Road Condition .............................................................................................................................. 18 Bridges and Crossings .................................................................................................................. 19 2.3 Overview of Proposed Works ............................................................................................................. 25 Climate Resilient Pavement ......................................................................................................... 25 Bridges ............................................................................................................................................ 26 Climate Resilient Box Culverts .................................................................................................... 28 Realignment Sections .................................................................................................................... 29 Coastal Reinforcement ................................................................................................................. 31 Traffic Safety and Road Furnishings ......................................................................................... 33 Aggregate Sourcing ..................................................................................................................... 33 Construction Camps ....................................................................................................................... 35 Workers Accommodations ........................................................................................................... 35 Haulage .......................................................................................................................................... 35 2.4 Analysis of Alternatives ......................................................................................................................... 37 ‘No Project’ Option ....................................................................................................................... 37 Alternative Alignment on the Coastal Plain ............................................................................. 38 Alternative Alignment at Tasiriki School ................................................................................... 38 Alternative Location of the Navaka Bridge ............................................................................. 39 3 Policy, Legal and Administrative Framework ............................................................................................ 40 3.1 National and Local Legal Framework................................................................................................ 40 3.2 Policy Background .................................................................................................................................. 40 Sustainable Development Goals (2015) .................................................................................. 40 National Sustainability Development Plan 2016 to 2030 ................................................... 40 Disaster Risk Reduction and Disaster Management National Action Plan 2006-2016 .. 40 Vanuatu National Environment Policy and Implementation Plan 2016-2030 .................. 41 Updated Vanuatu National Energy Road Map 2016-2030............................................... 41 3.3 National Legislations.............................................................................................................................. 41 The Environmental Management and Conservation Act Consolidated Edition 2019 ...... 41 Environment Impact Assessment Regulations ............................................................................ 42 Version C – November 2019 2 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Pollution (Control) Act No.10 of 2013 ...................................................................................... 42 Waste Management Act No.24 of 2014 ................................................................................ 42 Water Resources Management Act 9 of 2002 ...................................................................... 43 Land Leases Act ............................................................................................................................. 43 Compulsory Land Acquisition Act ............................................................................................... 44 Quarry Act...................................................................................................................................... 44 3.4 Other Acts ................................................................................................................................................ 45 3.5 Required Permits .................................................................................................................................... 49 3.6 World Bank Policy ................................................................................................................................. 49 4 Natural Environmental Baseline .................................................................................................................... 54 4.1 Introduction .............................................................................................................................................. 54 4.2 Physical Environment .............................................................................................................................. 54 Meteorology .................................................................................................................................. 54 Geology .......................................................................................................................................... 54 River Characteristics ..................................................................................................................... 55 Natural Hazard and Vulnerability Risk .................................................................................... 56 Projected Climate Changes and Impacts ................................................................................. 57 Water Resources ........................................................................................................................... 58 4.3 Biological Environment ........................................................................................................................... 58 Terrestrial Environment ................................................................................................................. 58 Coastal Environment ..................................................................................................................... 61 River Environments......................................................................................................................... 65 Vulnerable or Endangered Species........................................................................................... 68 Invasive and Alien Species .......................................................................................................... 71 5 Human and Built Environment Baseline ........................................................................................................ 73 Population and Demographics ................................................................................................... 73 Education and Health ................................................................................................................... 73 Gender Based Violence and Sexual Exploitation and Abuse ............................................. 73 Livelihoods and Economic Activity .............................................................................................. 74 Land Tenure, Access and Acquisition ......................................................................................... 74 Solid Waste Management .......................................................................................................... 77 6 Stakeholder Engagement and Consultation ............................................................................................... 78 6.1 Stakeholder Engagement and Consultation Program ..................................................................... 78 Engagement Mediums .................................................................................................................. 78 Key Messages ................................................................................................................................ 80 6.2 Consultations and Stakeholder Engagement .................................................................................... 80 Stakeholder Identification ........................................................................................................... 80 Stakeholder Groups ..................................................................................................................... 80 Stakeholder Engagement and Consultation Plan (SECP)....................................................... 82 Version C – November 2019 3 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Implementation Plan ..................................................................................................................... 82 Resources and Responsibilities .................................................................................................... 84 6.3 Public Consultations to Date ................................................................................................................. 84 6.4 Grievance Redress Mechanism ............................................................................................................ 91 7 Project Risks and Impacts ............................................................................................................................... 94 7.1 Initial Screening Sensitive Receptors .................................................................................................. 94 Screening Legend Explanation ................................................................................................... 96 7.2 Determination of Impacts .................................................................................................................... 102 Environmental and Social Receptors........................................................................................ 102 Impact Identification Methods................................................................................................... 102 Impact Tables ............................................................................................................................... 105 7.3 Environmental Impacts ......................................................................................................................... 121 Water Resources ......................................................................................................................... 121 Geological Resources ................................................................................................................. 122 River Hydrology .......................................................................................................................... 123 Atmospheric Environment ........................................................................................................... 123 Acoustic Environment ................................................................................................................... 124 Aquatic Environment ................................................................................................................... 124 Terrestrial Environment ............................................................................................................... 126 7.4 Social Impacts ....................................................................................................................................... 126 Community Services and Infrastructure ................................................................................... 126 Land and Resource Use .............................................................................................................. 127 Social Environment ...................................................................................................................... 128 Community Health and Safety ................................................................................................. 128 Secondary and Cumulative Impacts ........................................................................................ 131 8 Mitigation and Monitoring Measures ........................................................................................................ 132 9 Institutional Capacity .................................................................................................................................... 133 9.1 Project Support Team .......................................................................................................................... 133 9.2 Department of Environmental Protection and Conservation ........................................................ 133 9.3 Civil Works ............................................................................................................................................ 133 9.4 Capacity Building ................................................................................................................................. 133 Appendix A: VCRTP Roads Map ......................................................................................................................... 135 Appendix B: Initial Screening Maps.................................................................................................................... 137 Appendix C: ESMP Mitigation Plan .................................................................................................................... 142 Appendix D: ESMP Monitoring Plans and Checklist......................................................................................... 171 Appendix E: Safeguard Supervision for the VCRTP Works........................................................................... 179 Appendix F: Minutes of Meetings and Attendance ......................................................................................... 183 Version C – November 2019 4 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road GLOSSARY AND ABBREVIATIONS AGO Attorney Generals Office AOI Area of Impact AP Affected Person/People ARAP Abbreviated Resettlement Action Plan CAC Community Advisory Committee CCA Community Conservation Area CESMP Contractors Environmental and Social Management Plan CLO Community Liaison Officer CoC Codes of Conduct DC Development Consent DEPC Department of Environmental Protection and Conservation DPO Disabled Persons Organisation EA Executing Agency EHS Environmental, Health and Safety EMMP Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan ESHS Environmental, Social, Health and Safety ESIA Environmental and Social Impact Assessment ESMP Environmental and Social Management Plan GAS Giant African Snail GBV Gender Based Violence GCLS Grievance Complaints and Logging System GCT GBV Compliance Team GFDRM Global Facility for Disaster Risk Management GMU Geology and Mines Unit GRM Grievance Redress Mechanism GoV Government of Vanuatu HIV/AIDS Human Immunodeficiency Virus/ Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome IA Implementing Agency IFC International Finance Corporation IOL Inventory of Losses IP Indigenous People ISS International Safeguard Specialist IUCN International Union for Conservation of Nature KP Kilometer Point LAeq Equivalent Continuous Level LAR Land Acquisition and Resettlement LMC Luganville Municipal Council Version C – November 2019 5 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road MACBIO Marine and Coastal Biodiversity Management in Pacific Island Countries Project MIPU Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities MOA Memorandum of Agreement MOU Memorandum of Understanding NBSAP National Biodiversity Strategic Action Plan NEPIP National Environment Policy and Implementation Plan 2016-2030 NERM National Energy Roadmap NGO Non-government organisations NSS National Safeguard Specialist OHS Occupational Health and Safety OP Operational Policy PCCSP Pacific Climate Change Science Program PCRTP Pacific Climate Resilient Transport Program PIU Project Implementation Unit PPE Personal protective equipment PVMC Port Vila Municipal Council PWD Public Works Department QMP Quarry Management Plan RCC Reinforced Cement Concrete SEA Sexual Exploitation and Abuse SECP Stakeholder Engagement and Consultation Plan SOP Series of Projects STD Sexually transmitted diseases SWMP Solid Waste Management Plan TMP Traffic Management Plan TOR Terms of Reference VCRTP Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project WB World Bank WHO World Health Organisation WoMP Worker Management Plan Version C – November 2019 6 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Executive Summary The Government of Vanuatu and the World Bank are preparing the Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project to design and construct a climate and disaster resilient South Santo Road and support the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utility’s Public Works Department to establish a modernized resilient transport asset management system for the effective management of the entire transport network in the country. The Project will (i) seal the existing 60 km of gravel road between Saint Michel and Tasiriki; (ii) construct ten new bridges to address loss of connectivity issues; (iii) repair four existing bridges with improved traffic safety; (iv) construct box culverts; and, (v) construct other ancillary structures to improve climate resiliency, such as coastal protection, masonry covered drains, unvented drifts, gabion retaining walls, etc. Once completed, the project will bring about direct benefits to the communities in South and West Santo by: • Reducing vulnerability of the road to climate change and climactic events. • Increasing quality and safety of transfer of the elderly or disabled, or other people with mobility limitations. • Improving access to medical services through a paved road accessible in all weather conditions. • Improving access to municipal and administrative services for South and West Santo residents • Providing access to cross all rivers safely crossing rivers during all weather conditions • Increasing capacity to respond to natural disasters by having a paved road and bridges linking the south Santo communities to Luganville. The proposed works have been screened based on field investigations, stakeholder consultation and a review of potential options, and classified as Category B. Potential impacts are less than significant, site specific, mostly reversible and that a range of potential measures for mitigation can be readily designed in the majority of cases. The overall objective of this report is to provide an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) for the climate resilient infrastructure solutions which encompass items described above and includes all ancillary infrastructure for works. As part of that process, this ESIA has undertaken screening of the project as it is known and scoping of the potential impacts, it provides a description of the baseline conditions, it details the predicted qualitative and quantitative impacts from the project activities and provides safeguards management and monitoring plans to avoid, mitigate or remedy. A summary of the potential impacts assessed to be ‘Major’ (highlighted green) or ‘Moderate’ and the mitigation measures required to address them identified within this report are: Key Potential Impacts Summary of Mitigation Measures Risk to structural integrity of upgraded road • Design process to take elevated water table into account in areas of high ground water table and consider elevating roads above the current level – to increasing with projected climate change match the achievements of other sections of the South impacts. Overtopping and deterioration of Santo Road which have previously been elevated above road surface from elevated water levels ground water table level. Changes in the riverbank profile from use of • Set conservative working areas along the rivers and machinery during river crossing construction ensure that no machinery works outside these areas. potentially leading to instability or erosion of banks. • Replant native species on the riverbank on completion of work An over extraction of gravel from the • Undertake Environmental Impact Assessment to identify any Navaka (or any other) river beyond its potential long term or irreversible impacts from the natural replenishment rate would lead to a proposed extraction. change in the natural ecosystem function of the braided river. • Extraction will only happen under valid permit from Geology and Mines Unit. Version C – November 2019 7 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Changes to the deposition rates and patter of aggregates at the downstream coastline • Gravel should be removed during the dry seasons only. during river gravel extraction activities. • If feasible, required volume should be extracted in a staged way – total volume for extraction should be split across dry seasons and stockpiled until needed. • Ongoing changes to the flow path of the Navaka river could result in any bridge becoming undermined over time as the river • Engineer Design Team will conduct a detailed study of the moves towards and even beyond the Navaka River to determine riverbank characteristics, footings. The Navaka river plain is flat and trends of the river course change and a variety of easy channeled by the river, placement of different bridge locations and widths to identify the most bridge footings on the alluvial plain has the climate resilient option. potential to interrupt the natural river changes. • All imported (international and inter-island) aggregates, materials and equipment will be treated for contaminates Introduction of non-native or invasive plant, prior to departure from originating location and will be pest or bacterial species from untreated imported into Santo under national quarantine law. imported (internationally or inter-island) materials or equipment • Inter-island shipments from Efate will be required to be held in a bio-secure area for inspection by Biosecurity Officers before onward shipment to Santo. • Undertake study on the historical extraction, existing volumes and replenishment of the Navaka river gravels. Study will determine maximum amount of gravel to be extracted annually for this project. • Recommended extraction rate based on study shall not be exceeded. • Extraction will only happen under valid permit from Changes to the Navaka river from poorly Geology and Mines Unit which is subject to approval of an planned river gravel extraction schedules Environmental Mitigation Management Plan by the DEPC. • Gravel should be removed during the dry seasons only. • If feasible, required volume should be extracted in a staged way – total volume for extraction should be split across dry seasons and stockpiled until needed. • Reduce the overall amount of river aggregate needed by design solutions which maximise use of coronous aggregates. • Heavy machinery will not be used during periods of heavy rain or when the ground is waterlogged Increase in turbidity of surface (river) waters during construction near riverbanks or in • No stockpiles or excavated materials kept within 100m of water work the riverbanks. • Stockpiles will be bunded and silt fences will be installed around them • No laydown sites or stockpile sites within 100m of riverbank. Increase in surface run off from soil compaction. • Sediment traps and bunding on any stockpiles of excavated materials. Version C – November 2019 8 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road • Restoration of any compacted sites on completion of work. Ground may need to be scoured to loosen earth and enable revegetation to be successful. • Road drainage system to be designed to account for Soil erosion from poorly designed surface predicted increases in extreme rainfall events. water and drainage systems • Road to be elevated above existing water table in swampy areas of the South Santo Road. Proposed gabion cages at Tasiriki beach will create a negative visual impact and may not • Design Engineer will consider use of geotextile erosion be a sympathetic design option in this beach control bags as a more sensitive option for reinforcement environment works in this area • Minimise time and size of ground disturbance area. • Use sediment traps around large cleared areas. Soil erosion from use of heavy machinery • Keep construction vehicles on defined tracks. • Revegetate disturbed areas as soon as possible. • For bridges with an existing alternative diversion route, this shall be used. Erosion or changes to riverbanks if traffic • For Veanus bridge where this is not possible due to very diversions are used during construction or steep riverbanks, the road may have to be closed for new or replacement of existing bridges or short periods while the new bridge is installed. In this culverts. instance, the preference shall be for modular bridges and construction planning should be such that road closure is reduced to the smallest feasible time. Advise from PWD during consultations indicates that small modular bridges can be installed in one day. • Ground protection mats or locally available stone will be used on the beach to provide offloading vehicles with traction on the sand. Offloading machinery and/or plant at beach landing sites may cause localised impacts to • No temporary offloading ramps or other structures will be the beach profile. constructed. • Any stones or material added to the beach during offloading shall be removed immediately on completion of offloading works. • Undertake study on the historical extraction, existing volumes and replenishment of the Navaka river gravels. Study will determine maximum amount of gravel to be extracted annually for this project. Changes to the hydrodynamics of the Navaka river from poorly planned river • The nearby communities will be consulted to identify key gravel extraction schedules resulting in prawn fishing areas prior to construction work commencing. changes to the depth and speed of water flow impacting the ecosystem function of the • Recommended extraction rate based on study shall not be river and disrupting the life history strategies exceeded. of some species who depend on hydrological conditions of the river. • Extraction will only happen under valid permit from Geology and Mines which is subject to approval of an Environmental Mitigation Management Plan by the DEPC. • Gravel should be removed during the dry seasons only. Version C – November 2019 9 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road • If feasible, required volume should be extracted in a staged way – total volume for extraction should be split across dry seasons and stockpiled until needed. • The design of the road will be undertaken to minimize the need for river gravels and maximize the use of coronous materials through innovative and climate resilient design. Potentially altered flow regime affecting the • The bridges will be designed to minimize post waters velocity, depth, depositional patters development impacts. It is anticipated that the braided and channel morphology leading to river system will reform in the location of the bridge increased risk of flooding and erosion. during each dry season and be further modified during each wet season. • The design of the bridges and river crossings will be climate Scour of riverbanks from predicted increase resilient and will respond to the natural narrative and rainfall could increase from its current level course of the rivers. which has the potential to undermine bridges • Current scour trends and the rivers behavior during or riverbank protection measures. extreme rainfall events will be incorporated into all relevant design elements. Dust generated from aggregate crushing plant. • Use a wet crushing plant • All workers will receive training and be required to sign a Loud and antisocial behaviour at code of conduct stating that behaviour must be respectful accommodations and within the community and appropriate always. Worker code of conduct will be outside of normal working hours. signed and will be detailed in the Worker Management Plan (WoMP) described in the ESMP and required as part of the CESMP. Unsympathetic design of culverts may lead to disruption of breeding cycle of native species • Culverts must be set below the existing riverbed level to who rely on moving up and down stream ensure unimpeded water flow at all times. during different life cycle phases. • Plan gravel extraction to occur during the first part of the dry season to allow habitat to start recovery before peak breeding season. Loss of habitat for commercially important native prawns due to gravel extraction • Ensure restoration of any damaged shallow rapid areas occurring during peak breeding season which are used by fisherwomen. • No extraction of gravel from running water on Navaka River. Hydrocarbon spill in marine environment • All vessels to be equipped with spill kit including oil booms from project vessels and absorbent pads. All staff to be trained on use of spill kits and kits to be stored in easily accessible locations • Retain all riverbank vegetation which is not within direct construction footprint. • Ensure all areas of cleared vegetation have sediment Increase sedimentation into the marine traps in place along any waterways. environment between Naoneban and Venaus Bridges has the potential to negatively • Revegetate areas of cleared land as soon as possible. impact on the juvenile Napoleon Wrasse (IUCN Endangered) and Giant Clam (IUCN • Minimise areas of clearance. Threatened). • Design Engineer to engage environmental specialist experience in biodiversity studies specialist to undertake baseline habitat survey before during and after completion of work and to ensure CESMP utilises baseline and incorporates required protective measures. Version C – November 2019 10 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Reduction in available habitat for juvenile native shrimp species if the shallow rapids • For any removal of shallow rapids, new similar habitats are removed or damaged during excavation will be created to compensate for the habitat losses and of aggregates to improve the ecological potential for the site. There is a possibility that additional areas of the road would achieve increased climate resilience from further realignment will be • Engineers Safeguard Specialists and PIU National identified during the detailed engineering Safeguard Specialist will undertake environmental and design phase. There would be yet unknown social screening of any proposed additional realignment impacts to the terrestrial flora within any new sections and necessary updates to the ESIA and/or ESMP re-alignment sections which are outside the will be submitted for approval from the World Bank. scope of this ESIA. • Clearance of any coastal vegetation must be clearly described in the CESMP and approved by the Engineer. Improper and uncontrolled use of heavy equipment and machinery has the potential • Vegetation to be retained must be clearly marked prior to to damage the coastal shoreline vegetation any clearance work. and therefore reduce the effectiveness of its shoreline stability function. This could lead to • Only vegetation necessary to undertake construction work erosion and a reduction in the resilience to can be removed. climate change. • Shoreline vegetation will be revegetated and restored to a functional level immediately on completion of associated works. • No mature native tree specimens shall be removed outside The loss of mature tree specimens on the direct road or river crossing footprint. riverbanks and between identified offloading sites from improper management • All mature native trees within the construction footprint will of works. be identified in the CESMP and approved by the Engineer. • Contractor will develop a Traffic Management Plan to High level of traffic disruption and increased ensure that all vehicles are driven in a controlled manner risk of accidents during construction work at suitable speeds and within normal working hours only. TMP will be included in the CESMP and will follow the requirements of the ESMP. • The Contractors Solid Waste Management Plan will stipulate the policy of reduce, reuse, recycle wherever possible. Organic biodegradable will be disposed of in a The Santo landfill site not suitable to handle location approved by the DEPC. Reusable clean fill, any quantity of construction waste generated rubble or excess aggregates will be made available to by the project. Any addition of waste from the PWD or community for use. All non-reusable, non- infrastructure projects of this scale have the recyclable and non-organic solid waste will be disposed potential to overburden the management of of at Bouffa Landfill on Efate Island. the landfill • The Contactor will be required to write a Solid Waste Management Plan (detailed guidelines provided in the projects ESMP) which will be submitted for approval as part of the CESMP Increase in demand on islands limited medical facilities in cases of workplace or • Contractors will ensure that emergency medical first aid out of hours accidents kits and trained personnel are available. • Works will be housed in dedicated workers camp in Increase in demand for housing for workers existing PWD campsites along the South Santo Road. All worker housing will be managed under the WoMP in the CESMP. Temporary use of customary land for • Prioritise use of PWD secured land. Ensure all leased land accommodations, stockpile and laydown sites is secured through legal process and rent paid is at least equivalent to legislated land value. Version C – November 2019 11 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road leading to short term loss of access to these areas Incorrect identification of correct resource owners and/or lack of due diligence and • PWD and GMU work together with the Custom Land early consultations. Management Board to identify correct owner. Presence of workers living on the area can • Placement of workers camp to be determined during lead to increased risk of social conflict, design phase in consultation with the community and inappropriate or illicit behaviour and have management of workers behaviour to be subject to negative impacts on community dynamics. Worker Management Plan. Provide workers with dedicated recreational facilities. Risk to community members during • Mitigations will include consultation with Chiefs to inform construction machinery and equipment community of the risks and management of the area to offloading activities at the beaches. prevent pedestrian access during offloading Increased potential to introduce and spread • All project workers will be required to undertake training STDs such as HIV/AIDS from workers (as per the ESMP) by approved service provider and sign increased risk of GBV and SEA codes of conduct to raise awareness and prevent the spread of diseases • Design engineer to design footpath on at least 1 side of Safety risk to local people with minor to bridge for upgrading for community safety and people moderate mobility limitations or injuries. with disabilities (able to use wheelchair). • Risk of injury to school children in Tasiriki • Use geotextile erosion bags as stabilising technology from climbing over proposed gabion cages rather than gabion cages which are not suitable for this along shoreline to access beach. social environment The separate Environmental and Social Management Plan and a Stakeholder Engagement Plan (which has been incorporated in Section 6 of the ESIA and Section 4 of the ESMP) are designed to address these issues through: - Implementation of the ESMP through a more detailed Contractors ESMP and associated management plans outlined in the ESMP. - Regular supervision and monitoring of the implementation of the ESMP. Version C – November 2019 12 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road 1 Introduction 1.1 Location and Setting Vanuatu, officially the Republic of Vanuatu is an archipelago island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean and consists of 83 islands dispersed over 1,300 km (Figure 1). The island group is of volcanic origin and lies 1,750 km east of northern Australia. Luganville is situated on the south coast of the island Espiritu Santo which sits in the north of Vanuatu and is the country’s largest island. The land area is approximately 4,000 km2. Figure 1: Location Plan of Vanuatu and Espiritu Santo (right) showing Luganville (yellow star) The South Santo Road starts at the city of Luganville and runs along the lowland area of the south coast before turning inland to continue its journey west through more hilly terrain before reaching the town of Tasiriki on the south west corner of the islands (Figure 2). The road crosses several rivers and waterways who all have their origins in the highlands to the north. The populated lowland coastal plains and hills give way to sparsely inhabited mountain ranges in the center of Santo. Mount Tabwemasana on Santo is Vanuatu’s highest peak at 1,879 m above mean sea level. Version C – November 2019 13 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Figure 2: Map of the existing South Santo Road to be targeted under this project. 1.2 Project Background The Pacific Climate Resilient Transport Program (PCRTP) is funded by the World Bank (WB), partner governments and other donor agencies. It has four broad pillars that focus on increasing resilience of the transport sector through: (i) utilising spatial planning and risk-based tools; (ii) investing in climate resilient infrastructure; (iii) strengthening the enabling environment; and, (iv) supporting post-disaster recovery. The Government of Vanuatu (GoV) and the World Bank are preparing a project to design and construct a climate and disaster resilient South Santo Road and support the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utility (MIPU) Public Works Department (PWD) to establish a modernized resilient transport asset management system for the effective management of the entire transport network in the country. Therefore, the Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project (VCRTP) has been established as part of the PCRTP Series of Projects (SOP). The 2,048-km road network in Vanuatu is made up of 261 km (13 percent) sealed, 764 km (37 percent) gravel, and 1,023 km (50 percent) earth roads. Over 43 percent of the road network (including almost all the sealed roads) are in Sanma province (on Santo island) and Shefa province (on Efate island), which are Vanuatu’s two largest provinces. In Sanma, there is a total of 524 km of roads, of which 124 km (24 percent) are sealed, 298 km (57 percent) are gravel, and 102 km (19 percent) are earth roads. For the proposed project, GoV has given priority to Santo, specifically 60km of the South Santo Road between Luganville and Tasiriki due to the important role it plays in linking east to west. It also serves transit traffic between its northwest via Tasiriki and Luganville, which functions as a gateway for the northern part of the country. Santo accounts for 20 percent of the national population and 26 percent of the country’s road network, but only 24 percent of Sanma’s roads are sealed compared to 37 percent for Shefa. Road infrastructure is inadequately maintained, and in need of both rehabilitation and more routine maintenance. Poor road conditions are driving up transport costs, hindering access to services and markets, and restricting economic growth in rural areas. The Project will (i) seal the existing 60 km of gravel road between Saint Michel and Tasiriki to enhance road resilience and connectivity during rainy seasons; (ii) construct ten new bridges to address loss of connectivity issues; (iii) repair four existing bridges with improved traffic safety; (iv) construct 102 single Version C – November 2019 14 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road and multicellular box culverts to meet forecasted rainfall volume and intensities; and, (v) construct other ancillary structures to improve climate resiliency, such as coastal protection, masonry covered drains, unvented drifts, gabion retaining walls, etc. The Project will not create new roads however it will shift the alignment of 3 river crossings by a maximum of several hundred meters. It will not widen existing roadways, only the existing declared network will be subject to the improvement and maintenance program. Without the Project, the coming years will see further degradation of the South Santo Road and further reduce the connectivity for the islands population. According to World Bank Operational Policy 4.01, VCRTP has been classified Category B as the projects potential environmental and social impacts can be mitigated. As part of the project preparation a comprehensive Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) and Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) have been prepared. This presented document is the ESIA for the VCRTP. It was prepared by a team of international and national environmental and social safeguard specialists on behalf of the PWD, and quality reviewed by the World Bank’s Environmental and Social Safeguards Specialists. The ESIA and associated ESMP will be submitted for clearance/approval and will be publicly disclosed on Santo and at the World Bank’s external website prior to project appraisal. The ESIA and ESMP will also be disclosed in hard copy at the following places: • PWD office in Port Vila • PWD office on Santo • Area Council Offices • Village Office in Tasiriki • SANMA PGC Office 1.3 ESIA Scope and Objectives The overall objective of this report is to provide an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment for the works proposed under the climate resilient infrastructure solutions which encompass items described above and includes all ancillary infrastructure for works. As part of that process, this ESIA has undertaken screening of the project and scoping of the potential impacts, it provides a description of the baseline conditions, it details the predicted impacts from the project activities. It also provides recommended mitigation measures and monitoring plan which have been taken forward and incorporated into the stand-alone ESMP. The proposed works along the South Santo Road have been screened based on field investigations, stakeholder consultation and a review of potential options, and classified as Category B. It finds that potential impacts are less than significant, site specific, mostly reversible and that a range of potential measures for mitigation can be readily designed in most cases. Category A impacts are those that are likely to have significant adverse environmental impacts that are sensitive, diverse or unprecedented. This ESIA examines the project’s potential negative and positive impacts, compares them with those of feasible alternatives (including the “without project” option) and recommends any measures needed to prevent, minimize, mitigate, or compensate for adverse impacts and improve environmental and social performance. Given the above project categorisation, Section 7 of this ESIA will focus on detailing the key positive and negative environmental and social impacts of the project works on Santo and Appendix C describes the recommended measures. 1.4 Development of the Report The development of the VCRTP ESIA comprised of the following four steps: • Documentation review • Field visits • Consultations with stakeholders and communities • Preparation of ESIA and ESMP Version C – November 2019 15 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Documentation review: As well as the relevant national legislation and World Bank Safeguard Policies, several documents related to VCRTP and other similar World Bank projects were reviewed, namely: • VCRTP Aide Memoires • VCRTP Integrated Safeguards Datasheet • VCRTP Project Concept Note • VCRTP South Santo Road Technical Report • Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project Malaita ESMF Additionally, several reports and research papers on the natural and social environment of Santo were also referenced. Field Visits: Several field visits were undertaken to the South Santo Road. Technical, environmental and social screening of the road network has been carried out during these field visits. Consultations: During the ESIA/ESMP preparation a program of community consultations was undertaken along the project road corridor. Additionally, several meetings were held with representatives of government institutions as well as with civil groups already working on Santo. These sessions were held in order to identify concerns and expectations and to establish the level of community support for the project. Preparation of the ESIA included the following stages: • Collation of baseline data on the environmental and social conditions of Santo, specifically along the target road section. • Identification of positive and negative environmental and social impacts of the works. • Identification of environmental and social mitigation measures. • Formulation of environmental and social monitoring procedures. Version C – November 2019 16 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road 2 Project Description 2.1 Project Site and Study Area The project is focused along approximately 60km of the South Santo Road between Tasiriki on the west and Luganville on the east (Figure 3). The proposed section of road has 14 river or waterway crossings and passes directly through 12 villages. There will be the need for laydown, stockpile and aggregate crushing plant sites as well as workers camp sites along the road as works progress. The exact locations of these sites are unknown, but several options are presented in this ESIA. Figure 3: Length of South Santo Road from Sarakata Bridge to Tasiriki village including all bridges. To determine the geographic scope of this ESIA, it has first been necessary to determine the Area of Impact (AOI). The AOI is defined through consideration of the physical and social project footprint including all ancillary project components and considering project impacts on various environmental, economic and social components. For the purpose of this assessment, the AOI has been determined using a precautionary approach. With this in mind, Table 1 provides the delineations for the AOI. AOIs are based on best practice and buffers used in previous WB road upgrade projects, specifically Solomon Island Road and Aviation Project. Table 1: VCRTP Geographic Area of Impact Environment AOI Existing road alignment A corridor running 15m either side of the road centerline Sections of new alignment A corridor running 15m either side of the proposed new centerline A 15m buffer around the bridge site and 100m downstream from Rivers the crossing point An area extending 100m out from any proposed coastal Coastline defenses Settlements/villages Any villages or settlements within 50m of the road alignment. Version C – November 2019 17 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road 2.2 Current Situation Road Condition The South Santo Road runs through the Sanma district of Santo. In Sanma, there is a total of 524km of roads, of which 124km (24 percent) are sealed, 298km (57 percent) are gravel, and 102km (19 percent) are earth roads. Road infrastructure is inadequately maintained, and in need of both rehabilitation and more routine maintenance. Poor rood conditions are driving up transport costs, hindering access to services and markets, and restricting economic growth in rural areas. The South Santo Road plays an important role for Santo, linking its east to its west, while also serving transit traffic between its northwest via Tasiriki and Luganville, which functions as a gateway for the northern part of the country (i.e., Torba, Penama, and Sanma Provinces). Agricultural activities are evident all along the South Santo Road. The level of activity is higher closer to Luganville. Cash crops produced along the road include cattle (Santo is reputed to produce the finest beef in Vanuatu), copra, cocoa, kava, and sandalwood. Tasiriki is a fishing village and fish are sent to Luganville from the village. The village serves as the transshipment point for produce and goods from and to boats. There is a daily coastal boat service along the west coast. Due to the overall climactic and geographic features of Vanuatu road infrastructure in Vanuatu is heavily exposed to climate and natural disasters. This is compounded with the high sensitivity of the road network in Vanuatu towards extreme hazards such as heavy rainfall, flooding, and landslides due to poor structural characteristics and inadequate road maintenance making it easily impassible during heavy rains. Once damaged, gravel roads often do not get timely and sufficient maintenance or rehabilitation due to budgetary constraints. In addition, much of the road is network is situated on the perimeter of the islands and is only a few meters above the sea level, hence extremely vulnerable to cyclone and storm surges with even small increases in sea levels. A site visit undertaken by a technical team in July 2019 assessed the condition of the proposed road alignment. The road survey started at Sarakata Bridge at Luganville which is recorded as kilometer point (KP) 0.0 and ran through to KP65.2 at Tasiriki Village. Table 2 describes the overall conditions of the road divided into three sections. Table 2: Road sections as defined by their existing conditions Road Section (KP) Condition Section 1 (KP0.0 to KP5.0) This section of road surface is sealed by DBST and looks to be in very good condition with 6m wide carriageway and observed a minimum traffic safety and signs along this section. This section passes through urban and tourism areas. There are no footpaths from KP0.5 and the shoulders and longitudinal drainage are in of improvement. There are three pipe culverts for cross drainage was identified in this section and appear to be in good condition. Section 2 (KP5.0 to KP25.0) This section of road is gravel (Coronous materials) and starts with a 4.5m wide carriageway and fairly flat terrain with the shoulder maintained to 1 – 1.5m width. Section 3 (KP25.0 to KP65.2) Section 3 of the road passes through rolling terrain with gravel surfaces. Due to the terrain and topography, this road experiences flash flood water, storm surge and scouring at several river crossings. There are also a few locations where landslides have or do occur. This road alignment passes in parallel to the coastal belt. Version C – November 2019 18 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Without 4-wheel drive vehicles, this road is not accessible and 4 wheel pickups are the main traffic to carry the passengers and goods. Bridges and Crossings During the technical assessment, 14 bridges and waterway crossings were identified along the alignment. Four of the bridges were reported to be in fair condition and only in need of minor repairs including improvement in the traffic safety conditions. The remaining 10 crossings are proposed to be re- constructed to consider the roads as all-weather road. Table 2 shows the details of the existing bridge conditions and suggested improvements recommended by the technical assessment. Table 3: Details of existing bridge conditions and suggested improvements. CONDITIONS KP NAME OF BRIDGE LENGTH RECOMMENDED IMROVEMENTS /PROPOSED PC Bridge Install Traffic safety signs, refectory paint on 0.0 (SARAKATA 82.00 GOOD existing Guard Rails BRIDGE) Remove the rusts and repaint the Girder, 6.2 Usa Bridge 54.00 GOOD replace the rail/post, need abutment protection works by using Gabion box RCC Bridge (20X3.5M) with single span to NEW RCC avoid the risk of flash flood and free board 13.6 Naoneban Bridge 20.00 BRIDGE 1.50 to pass the floating trees during flash flood. RCC Bridge (20X5.5) with single span to avoid NEW RCC 20.2 Venui Bridge 20.00 the risk of flash flood and free board 1.50 to BRIDGE pass the floating trees during flash flood. RCC Bridge (15X4.0) with single span to avoid NEW RCC 26.0 Venaus Bridge 15.00 the risk of flash flood and free board 1.50 to BRIDGE pass the floating trees during flash flood. Need to install the rail and post and traffic 32.8 Hudson Bridge 40.00 GOOD safety measures RCC Bridge with (13X5M) single span to avoid the risk of flash flood and free board 1.50 to NEW RCC 35.0 Nakere River 13.00 pass the floating trees during flash flood. BRIDGE Vented ford severely damaged with water flowing over the road. No structure is present. Bridge washed away twice. Steel Truss Bridge (30X6.5M) with single span to avoid the risk of flash flood and free Maniao River (Re- NEW STEEL 36.2 30.00 board 2.50 to pass the floating trees during Alignment) TRUSS BRIDGE flash flood. Re-align the bridge approx. 260m upstream to avoid scour and straight section of river alignment. Abutment repair, rail and post and traffic 37.9 Wailapa Bridge 60.00 GOOD safety signs Version C – November 2019 19 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Steel Truss Bridge (30X6.0M) with single span to avoid the risk of flash flood and free board 2.50 to pass the floating trees during flash Okoro River (Re- NEW STEEL 40.2 30.00 flood. Need Gabion retaining walls to Alignment) TRUSS BRIDGE stabilize the embankment. Re-align the bridge approx. 100m upstream to avoid scour and straight section of river alignment Drift is present. Steel Truss Bridge (50X5.5M) NEW STEEL with single span to avoid the risk of flash flood 43.5 Waiolo Causeway 50.00 TRUSS BRIDGE and free board 2.50 to pass the floating trees during flash flood. No structure is present. Require 210X 8.0 meter Steel truss bridge with a minimum span Navaka River (Re- NEW STEEL length 70m@3 spans=210m. Need additional 48.2 210.00 Alignment) TRUSS BRIDGE hydrological study. Re-align the bridge approx. 170m downstream to avoid scour and straight section of river alignment RCC Bridge (15X5.0M) with return type Wing NEW RCC 52.6 Vented Drift 15.00 walls and 200 mm Stone pitching apron; BRIDGE approach road No structure is present. Require 30X 5.5 meter NEW STEEL single Steel truss bridge with a minimum span 63.2 Bouvo River 30.00 TRUSS BRIDGE length 30m@1 spans=30m. Need additional hydrological study Of the 14 crossings identified, 10 (highlighted above) have been selected for constructing new bridges and four have been selected for repairing the existing bridges under VCRTP. The existing conditions, safeguard observations and PWD’s priority of these bridges and wet crossings are as follows: Naoneban Bridge – KP13.6: This bridge is vulnerable to the impacts of storm surge and lies adjacent to a overtopping prone section of coastline (discussed in Section 2.4.2). This bridge is inundated during storms and would benefit from being raised. Realignment of this bridge would be difficult given the inland mangrove a lagoon located just behind it. Version C – November 2019 20 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Venui Bridge – KP20.2: Riverbank erosion beyond the gabion cages and the existing cages are in poor condition. Venaus Bridge – KP26.0: The bridge crosses the river at a point where its course makes a hairpin bend resulting in steep riverbank close both sides of the road. Diversion of road traffic during bridge reconstruction would be difficult here and would require moderate earthworks. Hudson Bridge – KP32.8: This bridge is experiencing scour of the riverbank on the Luganville side due to its position in relation to a 90o bend in the river. During times of high river levels, the water reflects off the bend and hits the riverbank by the bridge footings. The bridge also has a layer of mud on the surface from land run off which poses a safety risk to vehicle traffic. Access to this bridge from the Luganville site is steep and narrow and on a tight turn which may become a safety issue when the road is tar sealed and speeds are increased. Version C – November 2019 21 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Nakere River – KP35.0. This approximately 5 m vented drift has been severely damaged with water flowing over it. A small bridge (approx. 13m) will be required to improve connectivity of the road. Approach to wet crossing from Approach to wet crossing from Tasiriki, Damaged vented ford, Luganville, taken on April 17, 2018 taken on April 17, 2018 taken on April 17, 2018 Maniao River – KP36.2. This approximately 20 m wet crossing used to have a bridge; however, it was washed away at least twice in the past. The crossing becomes impassable during heavy rains. A medium bridge (30m, as approach sections are steep) will be required to provide all-weather access. PWD indicated that the priority is the highest among all the wet crossings on the South Santo Road. The river has the remnants of the bridge in the river which will be removed and appropriately disposed of by the Contractor during implementation. Destroyed bridges from downwards to Wet crossing used by vehicles, Destroyed steel deck, upwards, taken on April 17, 2018 taken on June 19, 2018 taken on June 19, 2018 Wailapa Bridge – KP37.9: There are some future issues that are relevant to this bridge. About 100m upstream there is a small tributary feeding into the river. This tributary has been diverted upstream to avoid putting additional water through the Wailapa as previously, during heavy rain, this became a second river flowing into the Wailapa and over the bridge. The diversion works are temporary in nature Version C – November 2019 22 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road and have not been designed by an engineer1. This bridge has not been identified for any structural upgrading works. The entrance to the bridge from the Tasiriki side is narrow and steep with failing gabion cages on either side. Okoro Bridge – KP40.2: The current crossing for this river is via a diversion from the previously collapsed road. The realignment for this section plans to reinstate the original road which now has a steep gully as a result of the embankment collapse. The engineering solution for the realigned bridge will need to be considerate to span the gully on both sides of the river. Wailolo River – KP43.5. This approximately 25 m drift becomes impassable during heavy rains. A medium bridge (approx. 30m) will be required to provide all-weather access. 1 Personal communication with PWD Santo office, October 2019 Version C – November 2019 23 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road View downstream (Tasiriki side), taken on Wet crossing used by vehicles, Approach to wet crossing, June 19, 2018 taken on June 19, 2018 taken on April 17, 2018 Navaka River – KP48.2: This approximately 200 m wet crossing has never had a bridge and is impassable during heavy rains (it has an even wider floodplain evidenced by banks set well back from the braided channel). When Cyclone Hola hit the area in February 2018, two children were reportedly swept away by the fast-moving river when returning home from school. A large bridge (210 m) will be required to provide all-weather access. As the bridge will be almost 2.5 times longer than the existing longest bridge in Vanuatu, careful examination is essential to identify viable solutions and determine the best crossing point. This is discussed throughout the ESIA and ESMP. PWD indicated that the priority is the second highest among all the wet crossings on the South Santo Road. Approach to wet crossing from Tasiriki, Approach to crossing from Luganville, View from sandbank to the Luganville taken on June 19, 2018 taken on April 17, 2018 side, taken on April 17, 2018 Vented Drift – KP52.6: This odd shaped bridge has erosion undermining parts of the structure along the riverbank. Version C – November 2019 24 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Bouvo River – KP63.2. This approximately 25 m wet crossing used to have a drift; however, it was washed away by a flood in 2008. Debris of the drift remain in the river. The crossing becomes impassable during heavy rains. A medium bridge (approximately 30m) will be required to provide all- weather access. PWD indicated that the priority is the third highest among all the wet crossings on the South Santo Road. View from upwards to downwards Approach to wet crossing from Tasiriki, Destroyed drift, (Tasiriki side), taken on June 19, 2018 taken on April 17, 2018 taken on April 17, 2018 2.3 Overview of Proposed Works The technical assessment of the road carried out in July 2018 identified a set of priority interventions aimed at improving the condition and climate resilience of the road and ensuring its sustainability. The focus of the investments will be: (i) to provide a sustainable climate resilient road infrastructure along the 60km South Santo Road corridor; and (ii) to develop a sectoral policy in mainstreaming climate resilience into the road asset management, including road network maintenance. The potential infrastructure investments under the project will include: (i) seal the existing 60 km of gravel road between Saint Michel and Tasiriki to enhance road resilience and connectivity during rainy seasons; (ii) construct ten new bridges to address loss of connectivity issues; (iii) repair four existing bridges with improved traffic safety; (iv) construct 102 single and multicellular box culverts to meet forecasted rainfall volume and intensities; and, (v) construct other ancillary structures to improve climate resiliency, such as coastal protection, masonry covered drains, unvented drifts, gabion retaining walls, etc. These works will include strong climate resilience elements to provide resilient infrastructure solutions that are fit-for-purpose and potentially adopting relatively new technologies. Climate Resilient Pavement Two types of pavement have been recommended for the SSR: flexible pavement and rigid pavement. road shall be 6m pavement width with a 1m shoulder/walkway on both sides, giving a total carriage width of 8m and shall include longitudinal drainage. FLEXIBLE PAVEMENT: The proposed road shall be sealed by using 40mm thick pre-mix hot bitumen for approximately 56km along the fairly flat terrain. A sub-base course thickness shall be 250 mm and base course thickness shall be 200 mm. The sub-base course and base course materials shall be used locally available coronous materials identified along the road corridor. The technical report suggests that the stone aggregate materials shall be used from the Navaka River, however use of these gravels are subject to recommendation by the Design Engineer, approval of the Department of Environmental Protection and Conservation and permitting by the Department of Geology and Mines these stone/gravel need to be processed through the stone crushing plant. Design life of the pavement shall be 15 years. Version C – November 2019 25 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road RIGID PAVEMENT: Rigid pavement shall be RCC Pavement with a 200-mm thick over the 250mm thick sub-base layer i/c 75mm thick sand layer over the sub-base for drainages under the pavement layer. A steel mesh of 10mm@ 150 mm both sides shall be provided at the top of the pavement with a minimum clear cover of 40mm to control the thermal cracks. A contraction joints shall be provided @ 5m c/c and expansion joints shall be provided @ 200m C/c. The RCC pavement be constructed along the section of the steep slope, potential water crossing locations and valley locations along the road section. Design life shall be 35-40 years. The road shall be designed such a way to drain out the sub-surface water quickly as possible from the pavement layer by introducing the Inverted filter drainage system across the shoulder and sub-base course. Bridges At the 10 bridge construction sites, hydrology studies and sub-soil investigations shall be carried out before making any final decisions on the length of water way. Additional investigations are critically needed to determine a feasible site to construct a bridge across the Navaka River, understanding that the current proposed realignment site may not be the best option due to the rivers continual changing of courses, the low-lying riverbank and the vulnerability of the alluvial flood plain to the impacts of climate change. The design flood return period will be 100 years. Where feasible, the width of bridges shall be 7.3m double lane plus two 1m shoulders for a total carriageway width of 9.3 meters noting that in some instances a single lane bridge with traffic management measures may be the preferred option. The technical design report recommends the following solutions for bridges: CLIMATE RESILIENT RCC BRIDGES : Reinforced cement concrete (RCC) bridges shall be installed for the medium cross drainages with the RCC abutments and return type of RCC wing walls integrated with abutments over pile foundations. RCC girder shall be designed according to the loading configurations to transfer the loads to the abutment and piers. The pier shall be round in shapes for smooth transition of hydraulic flow and reduce the hydraulic jumps. A hydrological study shall be conducted before to decide the length of the required bridges. The piers shall be founded over the pile foundation. The abutment walls shall be protected by using scour protection in slope of approach road by using 200 mm thick masonry rip rap. The rail and posts shall be installed in compliance with traffic safety guideposts. The guideposts shall be painted by reflective paints to better visibility at night. A single span bridge shall be preferred to avoid the obstructions of flash water impact at the middle of the stream. The length of bridges shall be designed in this category 10 to 22-meter span. Figure 4: Climate Resilient RCC Bridge. Source: SSR Technical Report. CLIMATE RESILIENT PERMANENT STEEL TRUSS MODULAR BRIDGES : The permanent steel truss bridges are a modular system, with the girder or steel truss bridges connecting by high strength nut and bolts. These are pre-manufactured in factory and pieces manufactured maximum 6.0-meter-long, assembly at project site according to the manufacturer recommendations, launching by different methods depends on the site Version C – November 2019 26 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road locations. The deck contains the frames at bottom and concrete; finally wearing course construction before open the traffic. All the steel parts shall be hot-dip galvanized to protect the anticipated corrosion in saline zone area and manufacturer warranty on galvanized at-least 40 years. The life span of the bridges shall be 75 to 100 years with a minimum maintenance cost. The foundation shall be constructed according to the regular concrete over the pile foundation for abutments and pier; arrangement for the bridge bearing (Neoprene rubber bearing laminated with steel plates), bridges shall be designed as simple supported concept. The bridge length up-to 40 meter shall be recommend as girder bridge (Figure 5) with single or multiple spans while over 40 meter shall be recommended as permanent steel truss bridges (Figure 6 and Figure 7) with single or multiple spans in consideration of the cost-effectiveness factor. Version C – November 2019 27 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Figure 5: Multiple Steel Girder Bridge Figure 6: Permanent Steel Truss Bridges for Longer Span Figure 7: Permanent Steel Truss Bridge Technology for Longer Span Bridges Climate Resilient Box Culverts An estimated total of 102 box culverts of varying sizes are required in varying sizes to replace the existing structures which are no longer serviceable and includes several culverts in new locations where the watercourse has developed due to flash floods. The width of the crossing shall be 7.3m double lane plus two 1m shoulders for a total carriageway width of 9.3 meters. Table 4 shows a summary of the box culverts to be constructed for the South Santo Road. Version C – November 2019 28 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Table 4: Proposed culvert sizes for the South Santo Road Size of Box Culverts Span Height Number of Structures 1m 1m 87 2m 2m 6 3m 3m 5 4m 4m 2 3x4=12 4m 2 Total 102 RCC box culverts shall be installed for the minor cross drainages with the return type of RCC wing walls integrated with box culvert walls and double scour protections of RCC cut-off walls in upstream and downstream of the culvert. An additional scour protection shall be introduced in apron by using 200 mm thick masonry Rip Rap. The span and height shall be between 1 to 5m square or rectangle size box(es) depending on the drainage hydraulic configurations. The rail and posts shall be installed i/c traffic safety guideposts. The guideposts shall be painted by reflective paints for better visibility at night. Realignment Sections There are three locations on the road that need to be re-aligned in order to provide river crossings at more climate resilient locations. The technical assessment has proposed the new locations as being more suited to bridge crossings as they have straight sections of banks and calmer water flows with minimum impact of scour and flash flooding. The realignments will be within 100 to 300m up or down stream from their current locations. The three sections are: MANIAO RIVER BRIDGE (KP36.2) : Realignment (Figure 8) is needed to sustain the bridge and provide better climate resilience. It is proposed that the crossing will be aligned to approximately 260m upstream from its current site. The existing bridge is scoured and tends to become a delta during flash floods making it unsuitable for bridge construction. No obvious undue risks or impacts associated with this realignment. OKORO RIVER BRIDGE (KP40.2): This section of road requires realignment (Figure 9) approximately 100m upstream of the current site to avoid the future scour of the bridge. The existing site is no longer suitable for new bridge construction due to its river morphology. The realignment follows the path of the previous road and passes very close to a teachers residences belonging to the school. Depending on the final route, this residence may be impacted. Site investigations for the preparation of this ESIA established that the proposed realignment route passes over a section of riverbank collapse which has resulted in a steep embankment between the road and the river. Any bridge constructed along the proposed realignment would be quite high and would span the gully. NAVAKA RIVER BRIDGE (KP48.2): The section needs to be realigned to ensure the new bridge is sustainable and more climate resilient. The technical assessment proposed that the bridge will need to be constructed approximately 170m downstream from the current site. The length of the proposed approach road will be approximately 454m. The proposed realignment section (Figure 10) was inspected during the development of this ESIA and it has been determined that more extensive hydrological and geotechnical studies are needed in order to determine the most appropriate section of riverbank for siting the bridge. It is possible that the riverbank in the proposed location is too low and is formed of the alluvial soils making is an unsuitable and possibly unstable place to construct a bridge. In addition to this concern, is the anecdotal evidence provided to the safeguards team by the plantation farmer at the site of the proposed crossing who advised that in Version C – November 2019 29 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road the recent past, he has lost several rows of coconut trees to the river as it has moved its course eastwards. There is the risk of the river moving under the footings of the bridge if it is placed too far downstream on the alluvial plain. Considering this, the Design Engineers team will need to produce an analysis of alternatives for the preferred location of the Navaka Bridge before the final decision on the location of the bridge is made. The analysis should include hydrological and geotechnical studies to ensure the preferred option is well justified. Figure 8: Propose realignment for Maniao Bridge on the South Santo Road Version C – November 2019 30 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Figure 9: Proposed realignment at Okoro River Figure 10: Initial proposed realignment for construction of bridge at Navaka River Coastal Reinforcement At Tasiriki School (KP64.5) there is a need for stabilization works along the coastline to protect the road embankment from further erosion caused by sea wave action. The protection proposed in the technical assessment recommended approximately 190m of gabion cages all approximately 4 to 5m high (Figure 11). Version C – November 2019 31 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road During the development of this ESIA it was determined that, as the students from the school are regular users of the beach, gabion cages would not be the safest solution to use for erosion control due to the risk of accident or injury caused by schoolchildren climbing over the cages to access the beach. A potentially safer option would be the use of geotextile erosion control bags (Figure 12) for the length of this section to reduce the risk of injury. Figure 11: Geographic range of coastal reinforcements at Tasiriki Version C – November 2019 32 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Figure 12: Example of geotextile erosion control bags installed to prevent coastal erosion of a road in Munda, Solomon Islands Traffic Safety and Road Furnishings The technical report observed that there is currently very limited traffic safety signage and road furniture along the road. The VCRTP will use international standard signage (stop, bridge ahead, narrow road ahead signs. etc.) and furnishings (Km posts, traffic barriers where required, safety guard posts, steel safety guard rails, reflective sign boards, etc.) Aggregate Sourcing It is expected that most project aggregates will be sourced locally on Santo from a selection of quarries along the SSR. The aggregates required are for sub-base and base-course material and well as stone chips required for pre-mix and aggregate for concrete. There are adequate sources of coronous materials from quarries along the route and there is a potential source of stone materials from the Navaka River (Figure 13). All quarries within the South Santo region are coronous material. There are no nearby quarries that are able to supply stone materials for this project. Figure 13: Panoramic view of Navaka River gravel islands taken from the centre of the river Version C – November 2019 33 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road It is proposed that all materials will be extracted under a ‘PWD’ category permit applied for by PWD and issued in their name with an agreement in place between the Contractor and PWD to operate the quarry under the conditions of the permit. However, the Contractor is also able to choose to apply for a permit under their own name. PWD and the Department of Mines and Geology are in the processes of reinstating the quarry land-use for the pre-existing PWD quarries along the South Santo Road (Figure 14). The quarry located in the Community Conservation Area (CCA) is prohibited from use for the VCRTP works. The Contractor will be required to submit a Quarry Management Plan (QMP) with their applications. Further details for the requirements of this are in this ESIA and associated ESMP. The QMP will also be included in the Contractors ESMP (CESMP) for approval prior to commencement of any works. Figure 14: PWD activated quarries along the South Santo Road in relation to the Wairua Nature Reserve CCA Material test results from the Wailapa and Navaka rivers indicates the basalt rock is suitable for missing with hot bitumen for the tar seal surface. It has been estimated that the available aggregate in the rivers is 875,000m3 and initial estimates show that approximately 25,000m3 of rock will need to be extracted from the rivers to provide aggregate for the hot mix and the concrete. A separate environmental assessment with focus on the effects of the river materials extraction activity to the natural habitats will be conducted at the detailed design stage. Under the Quarry Act, the environmental assessment will be submitted to the DEPC for approval as part of the Quarry Permit application process. The environmental assessment will clearly describe the extraction method, the associated environmental impacts and any mitigation and monitoring measures that will be incorporated. Approval of the environmental assessment by the Department of Environmental Protection and Conservation (DEPC) is a prerequisite for the permit application and will form part of the Quarry Management Plan. It must be noted that extraction of any gravels from rivers is subject to the assessment and recommendations of the Design Engineer, the DEPC and the Geology and Mines Unit. All quarry sites will be rehabilitated and restored on completion. Details of this will be included in the QMP. It is anticipated that there will be no internationally sourced aggregates, however should any aggregates need to be imported they will be from a preapproved country and will be required to comply with Vanuatu biosecurity measures and any additional measures in the ESMP. It is prohibited to use sand from any beaches on Vanuatu from this project unless approved by the Supervision Engineer, follows the environmental requirement of the Quarry Act, detailed in an approved Version C – November 2019 34 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Quarry Management Plan and approved by the Department of Environmental Protection and Conservation. Construction Camps The laydown site (sometimes referred to as construction camp) generally will consist of the project offices, storage areas, stockpile sites, concrete batching plant, crushing plant and associated facilities. The proposed location and required number of laydown sites and the location of the crushing plant are not yet known. It is preferred that, as much as possible, the PWD quarry sites along the South Santo Road should be used for these activities. Potential locations for laydown sites will be screened during the detailed design phase of the project and updated in the project ESMP in preparation for tender. Screening will include noise, dust, wastewater production, vibration and increased traffic. These are all impacts which can negatively affect communities and sensitive receptors will need to be considered when identifying the location of the construction camp and laydown areas. The final laydown location will be made by the Contractor and approved by the Supervision Engineer based on the screened sites in the ESMP. Any concrete batching plants and crushing plants will be sited at least 150m from the nearest residential settlements and at least 150m from any body of water. The final size and location(s) will be described in the CESMP. Should the lay down area be located outside of the existing quarries, an easement would need to be arranged on the leased and/or custom lands. Final approval of these details will be required by PWD, custom owners and leaseholders (if necessary) and documented in the CESMP before the laydown site(s) can be set up. Laydown site(s) size should be kept to a workable minimum, be fenced and materials and equipment kept secure to prevent access and use by non-authorised personnel. Prior to the establishment of the crushing plant, consideration should be made on where the plant is to be located as it can produce nuisances such as noise and dust. If located away from communities, the social impacts should be minimal. The location will be clearly noted in the CESMP and subject to approval. Planning and management of the laydown site(s) will follow all requirements of the VCRTP ESMP and implementation of these mitigations, along with any additional mitigations identified by the Contractor, will be detailed in the CESMP. Workers Accommodations It is possible that there will be a need for a residential workers camp for these works. Should a contractor wish to establish a workers camp, they should be established on the pre-existing PWD camp sites along the South Santo Road. The sites currently have a concrete slab in situ and they have been used in the recent past for housing workers during road maintenance works. The sites will be made compliant with the necessary requirements of the IFC/WB Workers Accommodation: Process and Standards Codes of Practice which includes GBV and SEA (Appendix K and Section 5.2.3 of the VCRTP ESMP) should be followed. The location, size and design of any workers camps will be detailed in the CESMP and approved by the Supervision Engineer. A Workers Management Plan (WoMP) is required from the Contractor as an appendix to the CESMP. Particular attention should be paid to visitor management, sanitary water systems and waste management. Haulage Movement of aggregates, materials and equipment will take place along the South Santo Road. While the road is suitable for haulage over short distances, the road condition means that longer distance journeys would be time consuming, put the other road traffic at risk and impede implementation. Version C – November 2019 35 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Previous PWD works along the South Santo Road have avoided much of these impacts by transporting heavy machinery and equipment via ro-ro barge from Luganville to two offloading sites along the southern coast (Figure 15). Both sites are connected to the South Santo Road by existing feeder roads. These sites are beach landings, but they have both been used in the past to offload heavy plant and this has been achieved without constructing any wharfs or ramps. One of the offloading beaches at Nakere was visited during the development of this ESIA and no adverse impacts of any activities was evident (Figure 17). Figure 15: Offloading beaches along the South Santo Road previously used by PWD for dozer access to the South Santo Road for maintenance Figure 16: Offloading beaches at Viru (left) and Nakere (right) This ESIA and the VCRTP contain required management measures for any offloading at these sites. The CESMP will detail the proposed activities and rehabilitation at these sites. No infrastructure shall be constructed on the beach to assist in the offloading of plant and equipment without approval from the Supervision Engineer, the Project’s Safeguards Specialists, and the WB through an environmental and social assessment and updates to the VCRTP ESMP. No other offloading sites shall be used without the approval of the Supervision Engineer, the Project’s Safeguards Specialists, and the WB through an update to the VCRTP ESMP. Version C – November 2019 36 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Figure 17: Offloading beach at Nakere All other transport must occur on the existing road network and measure undertaken to prevent accidents, dust, spillages, noise and vibration nuisance. Deviations from the nominated access routes will not be tolerated. A Traffic Management Plan (TMP) will need to be developed for all landside traffic following the prescriptions in this VCRTP ESMP and presented as an appendix to the CEMSP. 2.4 Analysis of Alternatives All realignments options described in this section are a direct result of community, custom landowner and leaseholder suggestions. Should any of these, or other, realignments be accepted into the project design a significant level of awareness would have to be ongoing and agreement from the custom owners and leaseholders would have to be secured. In addition to this, all environmental, social and resettlement assessments would have to be carried out by the Project Implementation Unit (PIU). ‘No Project’ Option Without upgrade and sealing work to the South Santo Road to provide sealed and uninterrupted access between Tasiriki and Luganville (including all river crossings), the communities of south and west Santo will continue to experience periods of time where they are unable to travel the road and will remain cut off from the main urban, administrative, central health and education services, and economic center of Santo. Economic and social development of the southern and western areas is dependent on that access to Luganville (and beyond via the airport and the port). Without the VCRTP works, this development will be hampered and extremely difficult in the face of increasing impacts from climate change. The ‘No Project’ option would see no improvement to, and a deterioration of the road condition and therefore no improved access to services. Version C – November 2019 37 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Alternative Alignment on the Coastal Plain The stakeholders and communities, including leaseholder and custom owners of land along the coastal plain on ‘section 2’ of the road have proposed an alternative alignment to the current 7.5km long winding stretch of road. The proposed realignment (red dash line in Figure 18) reduced the length by approximately 1.5km and provides a straighter road. The proposed realignment has the support of the leaseholder and custom owner. There is currently no existing road along the proposed realignment, therefore a road would need to be constructed to subbase level before being sealed. This would have a high cost implication for the project. A second alternative compromise was discussed with the communities for proposing in this ESIA (Blue dash in Figure 16). The proposed compromise still uses the existing road, but straightens out sections and cut off a coastal section of the South Santo Road. This compromise would reduce the length of the road by between 1.5 and 2 kilometers. The final straightened section of the proposed compromise (circled yellow in Figure 18) provides a good climate resilient alternative to the existing road alignment which is often subject to coastal inundation in that section during storms. The proposed compromise sections are not existing roads at the moment so that would have a cost implication for the project, albeit a lower cost than the stakeholder’s proposal. This option is the preferred option for this ESIA. The Design Engineer will examine the benefits and costs (including the environmental and social implications) of the proposed compromise and assess whether this provides a strong climate resilient option for the project. Figure 18: Proposed realignment options suggested by stakeholders between Usa and Naoneban bridges Alternative Alignment at Tasiriki School The community at Tasiriki requested to propose a realignment of their road as an alternative to reinforcing the coastal stretch in front of the school. The communities proposed realignment would pass behind the school and travel through a gully between the hills and then travel around the village to rejoin the end of the South Santo Road (Red dash line in Figure 19). This alignment would join with the conceptual West Santo Road. Version C – November 2019 38 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Figure 19: Proposed realignment behind the school in red, the existing road alignment in yellow, school outlined in white box, coastal reinforcement section in blue. This alignment would take away fast traffic from in front of the school which the community feels is a safety risk. It would require some heavy excavations to cut through some hillside rock and it would require the road to be constructed to subbase level before being sealed. This would create a significant additional cost to the project. It would also likely lead to the cancellation of the coastal reinforcement works which would leave the school vulnerable to the impacts of storm induced coastal erosion. This alignment option is not likely to be feasible for the project on a cost and resettlement basis (under OP4.12). To mitigate the communities concern over the safety of the children, it is instead proposed that speed controls be in place in front of the school and that the Contractor replaces the broken and ineffective school fence as part of their contract. Alternative Location of the Navaka Bridge There is a need for an analysis of alternatives for the location of the Navaka River Bridge based, however in order to do this, a geotechnical and hydrographic study of the river is needed. Therefore, the analysis of alternatives will be carried out by the Design Engineers safeguard specialist with inputs from the engineer, the hydrologist, the geotechnical specialist and the climate specialist. The Environmental Safeguard Specialist for the PIU will review the analysis of alternatives along with the proposed site prior to the final decision being made. Version C – November 2019 39 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road 3 Policy, Legal and Administrative Framework 3.1 National and Local Legal Framework The GoV has a well-established regulatory framework that provides measures to protect and preserve the environment. Legislation concerning the protection and preservation of the environment is found in a number of policies and acts and is the responsibility of a number of different ministries according to their focuses, they are detailed below: 3.2 Policy Background Sustainable Development Goals (2015) The Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) were replaced by the Sustainable Development Goals by the United Nations in 2015. There are now 17 goals replacing the eight MDGs and the work will build on the good progress made on the MDGs by Vanuatu. One of the priority areas set out in the MDGs was to ‘ensure environmental sustainability’. It aimed to integrate the principles of sustainable development into the country policies and programs and reverse the loss of environmental resources (UNDP, 2005). National Sustainability Development Plan 2016 to 2030 The Priorities and Action Agenda (PAA) 2006-2015 set out the national strategic priorities which includes ‘Primary Sector Development (natural resources and the environment). It has now been replaced by the National Sustainability Development Plan (The People’ Plan) 2016 to 2030. It takes a three pillars approach to grouping targets. Most notably, the second pillar is for the environment. Under this heading, five policy objectives are identified: • Food and nutrition security • Blue-Green economic growth • Climate and disaster resilience • Natural resource management • Ecosystems and biodiversity These high-level political commitments strengthen department level efforts to pursue positive environmental outcomes. Environmental management is the responsibility of the Department of Environmental Protection and Conservation (DEPC), although other departments including agriculture, forestry and fisheries also have some responsibilities in environmental conservation. Disaster Risk Reduction and Disaster Management National Action Plan 2006-2016 The Disaster Risk Reduction and Disaster Management National Action Plan 2006-2016, prepared by the Pacific Islands Applied Geoscience Commission in partnership with the Government of Vanuatu and The Pacific Disaster Risk Management Partnership Network, details 11 guiding principles for disaster risk management. These include that it is a sustainable development issue and that it requires a strong governance framework with clear policies and legislation. The plan is structured around eight main themes: • Governance and policy context • Mainstreaming disaster risk reduction and disaster management in national planning and budgetary processes • Mainstreaming disaster risk reduction • Strengthening disaster management • Information, information system and knowledge management • Capacity building • Monitoring, evaluation and reporting • Implementation of the National Action Plan Version C – November 2019 40 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Each theme has an associated set of actions, expected results, identification of a responsible agency or agencies, indicators, and completion dates. Climate change and disaster risk reduction using build back better policies is a key component of planning for this Project. Vanuatu National Environment Policy and Implementation Plan 2016-2030 On 31 March 2017, the DEPC launched the Vanuatu National Environment Policy and Implementation Plan 2016-2030 (NEPIP). It is a further illustration of the government’s commitment to environmental sustainability both under the legislation and the National Sustainability Development Plan. The policy aims to strengthen the linkages and co-ordination between the various sector policies, government and private sector bodies operating in the environment. It aims to promote environmentally sound and safe management and conservation of the natural resources and environment of Vanuatu. (NEPIP, 2017:3) Updated Vanuatu National Energy Road Map 2016-2030 The Updated National Energy Road Map (NERM) 2016 to 2030 aligns to the National Sustainable Development Plan (NSDP) (2016-2030) and integrates an overall policy framework, stating aims, goals and objectives and establishes key policy directives for the Energy Sector, electricity and petroleum. It is a high-level framework which central goal is to “To energise Vanuatu’s growth and development through the provision of secure, affordable, widely accessible, high quality, clean energy services for an Educated, Healthy, and Wealthy nation” and thus support the NSDP objectives of sustainable improvements in the quality of life of all Ni-Vanuatu by promoting robust and broad-based economic growth.2 3.3 National Legislations The Environmental Management and Conservation Act Consolidated Edition 2019 This Act is to provide for the conservation, sustainable development and management of the environment of Vanuatu, and the regulation of related activities. The EPC Act is administered by the Department of Environmental Protection and Conservation. The Act states that all projects, proposals or development activities that any project that causes harm or is likely to cause environmental, social or custom impacts by virtue of it type, size of location must comply with the requirement for an environmental permit. The application is on the prescribed form and includes additional information as required (by way of this ESIA and associated ESMP) for the Project. The DEPC determines whether further assessment is required, and/or recommend that an environmental permit (with or without conditions) be issued for the activity. The Act also makes provisions for Community Conservation Areas (CCA) in terms of their identification, approval, registration and monitoring of implementation of CCA management plans. The Act also makes provisions for the DEPC Director to approve Codes of Environmental Practice (COEP) which may be applicable to the VCRTP as the Public Works Department have developed and are trialing some COEPs which this project will also be subject to. The PWD COEP are expected to be formally approved by DEPC in 2020. During the detailed design stage, the ESMP will be updated to include any additional requirements of the draft COEP. 2 Updated Vanuatu 2016-2030 National Energy Road Map Version C – November 2019 41 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Environment Impact Assessment Regulations The Regulations establish the procedures for undertaking the environmental assessment of Prescribed Activities. The developer is required to first submit a permit application following which the DEPC will conduct a Preliminary Environment Assessment which determines whether (i) no further assessment is required, (ii) no further assessment is required but an Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan (EMMP) is required, or (iii) where major projects are considered such as logging, large agricultural developments, mining and other Prescribed Activities, an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is required. The DEPC prepare a Terms of Reference (TOR) for the EIA which should include technical, economic, environmental and social investigations. The EIA require public consultation. A Steering Committee review the EIA and recommend to the Director of the DEPC for approval, refusal or for more information. The Director can approve a prescribed activity with or without conditions. Pollution (Control) Act No.10 of 2013 The Pollution (Control) Act is designed to control the discharge and emissions of pollution (‘the introduction by persons directly or indirectly, of substances or things into the environment which may result in harm to the environment and hazardous to human health. Substantial additional work is required to prepare the regulation to add more detail to the legislation and to strengthen the capacity of the institutions responsible for effective implementation of the legislation. Waste Management Act No.24 of 2014 The Waste Management Act is designed to provide for the protection of the environment through encouragement of effective waste services and operations. The Act focuses mainly on solid waste which includes the following: garbage, household refuse, rubbish, scraps, electronic wastes, trade and industrial wastes. In solid form or any other matter or thing determined by the Act to be waste. The Act does not include human waste except in the form of sludge or any other form intended for final disposal as a waste product. The Act defines waste as ‘Solid waste, bulk waste or any other matter or thing determined from time to time to be waste in accordance with the Act.’. The Act also specifies the roles and responsibilities of the DEPC as a regulator and the designated waste management operators as operators, which include the Municipalities or Provincial Government Councils. The Act also allows for licensing of private waste operators (either as individual or company) who wishes to operate a landfill site or a waste dump or waste facility. Substantial additional work is required to prepare the regulation to add more detail to the legislation and to strengthen the capacity of the institutions responsible for effective implementation of the legislation. The Director of the DEPC is responsible for the development, coordination and, where appropriate, implementation of the Government’s waste and litter minimization policies and programs. In carrying out the functions, the director must carry out the following: a) administer the waste management system, b) in the absence of relevant regulations, prepare guidelines and standards for the purpose of giving effect to this Act; and c) undertake environmental assessment, monitoring, and inspection generally; and d) undertake such other duties and responsibilities as may lawfully be required. The Director may also assist the Provincial Government Councils to ensure that each Provincial Government Council develop a Waste Management Strategy. The Director is responsible for the implementation of the Act. The Act covers local, regional and international wastes issues under Vanuatu’s commitments, for example, the Stockholm Convention and Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete Ozone Layer. The Act does not have a regulation and this is also the responsibility of the Director. Version C – November 2019 42 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road At the national level the government has developed and endorsed its first ever-national waste management policy in 2001, which embraces the importance of managing waste at the national provincial and community level. The overall goal of the national waste policy is “prevent, protect and control the adverse effects of waste on human health, environment and the economy of the country”3 Water Resources Management Act 9 of 2002 The Water Resources Management Act (2002) provides for the protection, management and use of water resources in Vanuatu. The Act is administered by the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources. In addition, the Public Health Act provides for general public health in Vanuatu including prohibition of pollution of water resources and the regulation of adequate sanitary systems. Vanuatu has not developed its own water quality standards to date and relies on the World Health Organization (WHO) standards as a reference. The Water Resources Management Act allows for the designation of policies to protect water resources; and provides for water conservation zones to be established. Section 7 of the Act states that ‘a person must apply to the Director for the right to construct, operate or maintain works for any purpose that does not comply with Section 4 or 5, including: a) any work in or adjacent to any water or any bore; or b) any work whose purpose is to supply water to any other person. The VCRTP is in areas across watercourses and bridges and would involve the application of water during construction and operations. As such, this Act applies to the Project and an application to the Director will be made for Water Works and Water Use Permits prior to works commencing. The Water Resources Management Act (2002) provides for the protection, management and use of water resources in Vanuatu. The Act is administered by the Minister of Lands and Natural Resources. In addition, the Public Health Act provides for general public health in Vanuatu including prohibition of pollution of water resources and the regulation of adequate sanitary systems. Land Leases Act The Act provides for the creation and disposition of leases on land, their registration and all land dealings connected with leases. Standard agricultural, residential and commercial lease agreements have an indirect, albeit significant, part in environmental protection because they impose conditions to preserve water resources or prevent soil erosion. The Land Leases Act contains parts covering the usual subjects – the effect of registration, dispositions, leases, mortgages, transfers, transmissions, easements, subdivisions, etc. As with any registration statute, the basic position is that leases and other dealings in land only gain their legal effect after registration, and upon registration the rights of the proprietor are “not liable to be defeated” (i.e., are indefeasible), and are held “free from all other interests and claims whatsoever” (Sec 15). Notable among the implied agreements are – • the requirement that the lessee will not dispose of the leased land or any interest in it “without the previous written consent of the lessor”, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld (Sec. 40A); • the requirement not to use the land “for any purpose other than that for which it was leased without the previous written consent of the lessor”, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld (Sec. 41(i)); 3 National Waste Management Policy, 2001 Version C – November 2019 43 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road • the requirement that, on determination of the lease, the lessee will deliver up vacant possession of the leased land and any improvements (Sec. 41(j)). As land will be required for this project, an Abbreviated and Resettlement Action Plan (ARAP) has been prepared and is included as an Annex in the VCRTP ESMP. Compulsory Land Acquisition Act The Act (formerly known as the Land Acquisition Act) sets out procedures for exercising the government’s powers to acquire land in the public interest. The first step is a decision by the Minister that particular land is required for a “public purpose”, which the Act defines as “utilization of land necessary or expedient in the public interest and includes a purpose which under any other written law is deemed to be a public purpose.”4 It establishes a procedure, from initial notification and investigation to notice of intended acquisition, appeals, inquiry into compensation, further appeals, payment of compensation and taking of possession. The Act allows the government to acquire both customary and leased or alienated land, but in practice the government usually negotiates with landowners to avoid compulsory acquisition. Quarry Act An Act to provide for the regulation of quarry and for related purposes. A holder of a Quarry Permit granted by the Commissioner of Mines has the right to prospect for and extract building materials, which are defined as “mineral substances and rocks community used for building, road making or agricultural purposes.” The Quarry Act No.9 of 2013 (article 53) has the following classes of quarry permits: a) Commercial permit; b) Landscaping permit; c) Public Works Department permit; and d) Occasional permit. The quarry permit is ranked into three categories as large, medium and small. For a large quarry, a permit issued must not exceed a period of 10 years and is renewable. The volume of materials extracted per annum may exceed 50,000 m³ and the quarry operations must not exceed 100 hectares. A quarry permit issued for medium quarry operations must not exceed a period of 10 years and renewable with a volume of materials extracted per annum ranges from 20,000 to 49,999 m³ and an operations area must not exceed 10 hectares. A quarry permit issued for small quarry operations must not exceed a period of 3 years and is renewable. The volume of materials extracted for small quarry operations ranges from 501 to 19,999 cubic meters and the area must not exceed 5 hectares. There are currently no private quarry sites in South Santo. However, the Department of Public Works have quarry sites that have been used specifically for road works. A special permit only for Public Works Department is being processed for a selection of previously used quarries along the South Santo Road. Once the GMU have processed the PWD application to make these quarries available for use again, PWD in conjunction with the Contractor will be responsible for applying for the actual PWD class of quarry permit and satisfying all requirements of the application process. Alternatively, the Contractor will be able to apply for a permit in their own name, however this would be a longer process. For the quarries along the South Santo Road, applications for the PWD class of quarry permit requires the Contractor to submit a Quarry Management Plan (QMP) and consent from the DEPC (usually assessed based on the content of the QMP) to the GMU. The required content of the QMP is outlined in the GMU QMP template available from their office in Port Vila and will include custom owner approval of the 4 Republic of Vanuatu, 1992, Land Acquisition Act, Part I, Interpretation of “public purpose” Version C – November 2019 44 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road restoration plan. The QMP will first be submitted to the Supervision Engineer for review to ensure it is also complaint with the ESMP. Once issued, the permit will define the quarry area and the conditions which will also tie into the DEPC consent conditions. For extraction of gravels from the Navaka or any other river, the application process is as follows: 1. Obtain approval/consent from the DEPC based on a site-specific Environmental Management and Monitoring Plan (EMMP). 2. Obtain Water Works Permit from Department of Water Resources. 3. Once the two consents have been received PWD and GMU with the Engineer undertake an assessment of how much aggregate can be extracted from the river. 4. PWD applies for permit with approved Contractor QMP which will include the EMMP. PWD and Contractor formulate an agreement to enable Contractor to operate PWD permitted quarry. 5. Application will be assessed, and permit issued prescribing area, maximum extraction amount, it will be tied to the QMP, DEPC consent conditions and WW permit conditions. The permit will be time bound and volume bound. Other important aspects of the quarrying regulations are: • Under a PWD quarry permit, PWD will be the permit holder however the Contractor is the operator of the quarry and will have a formal agreement signed to ensure Contractor holds responsibility for upholding the conditions. • All operators must be a registered company, but there is an exemption under the Quarry Act which considered international companies contracted under projects to already be registered companies for the purposes of the project only. • There will be a ‘Quarry Foreman’ who will be the liaison between GMU and the Contractor. They must have a Quarry Man Certificate which can be issued by GMU after a short training course (OHS, Quarry Act, Machine Safety, etc.). • The Quarry Foremen must be ‘boots on the ground’ at the quarry site for the duration. • Under PWD class of permits, the Resident Engineer is often the Quarry Foreman. • Rehabilitation of the quarry sites is compulsory. The rehabilitation plan will be signed off with the custom owner before commencement of operations and then again after rehabilitation. 3.4 Other Acts Relevant articles from other Acts governing these proposed works are listed below. It is the responsibility of the Contractor to ensure that they are familiar with and compliant to these Acts. Version C – November 2019 45 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Foreshore Development Act (Cap The Foreshore Development Act concerns the protection and development 90) and the Foreshore of the foreshore. The foreshore is defined as the land below the mean Development (Amendment) Act highwater mark and the bed of the sea within the territorial waters of 2013 Vanuatu (including the ports and harbours thereof); and including land below mean high water mark in any lagoon having direct access to the open sea. The Act states that no person shall undertake, or cause or permit to be undertaken, any development on the foreshore of the coast of any island in Vanuatu without having first obtained the written consent to such development of the Minister responsible for town and country planning. The Foreshore Development (Amendment) Act 2013 amends the Foreshore Development Act with respect to: a) Consent of Minister required for foreshore development b) Powers of an enforcement officer (defined by this Act) c) Registration of existing developments d) Offences e) Minister’s power to make Regulations The project area from Luganville to Tasiriki is on leased land and custom land. The existing drainage system is channeled through properties as surfaced drainage and underground with some outfall located in the inter- tidal zone. Most of the proposed road works along the road will be following the existing road which is located inland from coastal areas except for places like Naoneban and a proposed coastal protection at Tasiriki will require a Foreshore Development Permit (FDP). Due to the limited risks associated with the impacts on coastal and/or foreshore environment along the length of the road a permit is not required from the Minister of Internal Affairs for the drainage sites considered to be affected by this legislation The Fisheries Act No. 10 of 2014 An Act to repeal the Fisheries Act [CAP 315] and to make provision for the management, development and regulation of fisheries within Vanuatu waters, and for the control of fishing vessels entitled to fly the flag of Vanuatu outside of Vanuatu waters in a manner consistent with Vanuatu’s international obligations, and for related matters. All watercourses associated with the drainage sub-project, drain into the sea. It, therefore, has the ability to impact on fisheries. The minimal works associated with the project, coupled with stringent mitigation and management measures will ensure however that the project does not have a negative impact on freshwater fisheries in the rivers. The Forestry Act [Cap 276] The Forestry Act provides for the protection, development and sustainable management of forests and for the regulation of the forestry sector in Vanuatu and covers: i). Forestry sector planning ii). Requirements for commercial forestry operations iii). Protection of the forest environment iv). Reforestation v). Timber export None of the prioritized subprojects are located within forest environments. National Disaster Act No. 1 of The National Disaster Management Office under the Ministry of Climate 2000 Change and Disaster Risk Management (MCCDRM) is mandated to develop strategies for the prevention of, preparation for, response to and recover from natural disaster, ensure that strategies are implemented to counter the effect of natural disaster. A National Disaster Plan has been developed to operationalize the national plan. The Plan has been very useful as it identifies the major risk that any health facility in Vanuatu is faced with such as earthquakes, droughts, tropical cyclones and it also identifies climate change and sea level rise. Version C – November 2019 46 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road The Government is promoting a Comprehensive Hazard And Risk Management (CHARM), Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) and Disaster Management (DM) through the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO) with the overall objective that communities at all levels are aware of the hazards that exist to a vulnerable group as well as identifying adaptive or mitigation measures to reduce the impact lives, property and socio-economic development. The NDMO is responsible for implementing National Disaster Committee (NDC) decisions and coordination of disaster response and recovery operation. This includes preparedness, pre-disasters and post disaster cyclone. The NDMO is manned by government officers appointed by the Public Service Commission (PSC) that have specific roles during the planning and preparedness and recovery stages to emergencies leading up to disasters. Once in the state of emergency and during the manning of the National Disaster Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) the roles of the existing NDMO staff changes to ensure that an effective and timely response is been coordinated and implemented. The NDC can increase the NDMO resources to include persons with hazard specific knowledge and expertise to provide technical advice as required. Examples may be a health-related epidemic or food crop destruction where the technical advice from Health or Agriculture would be brought in. This includes the local scientific monitoring institutions such as the Geo- Hazards and Meteorology Department. Section 11 (1) Part 3 of the National Disaster Act No.31 of 2000 require that the Provincial Disaster and Climate Change Committees (PDCCC) must be established in all six Provinces in the country. The Secretary Generals of each province in consultation with the Director of the NDMO shall be responsible to establish the PDCCC and who are to become the Provincial Disaster Controller and are to be assisted by members of the PDCCC. Public Health Act 22 of 1994 Under the Public Health Act, the Ministry of Health retains an important responsibility for many waste management activities. The Ministry acknowledges the need for minimum standards in the areas of Environmental Health: clinical waste, food, water, solid waste management, housing, pollution, and sanitation and port health. The Ministry recognizes that there are special stresses/ problems faced by the urban environment including: collection and disposal of large quantities of rubbish, sub-standard housing, water quality, water supply not keeping up with population growth, unhygienic conditions of food for sale, industrial pollution, and lack of proper drainage system. With respect to the water sector, there is a chapter of the Act for ― the Provision and Protection of Water Supply. Other aspects relating to the water sector as defined by the Act are as follows: • The administrative powers of the Minister (of Health) of supervision and inspection over local authorities in all matters relating to maintenance and promotion of public health; • Obligation of provision of proper and sufficient supply of wholesome water to all buildings and premises and all inhabitants of the rural area within local government council • Powers of Environmental Health Officers to enter any premises, land at all times for the purpose of, water sampling for examination of the source of water supply, and to inspect the appropriateness and adequacy of sanitation system • Obligation of maintaining clean conditions and protection from contamination of any storage of water • Powers of local authorities to examine sanitation and water supply apparatus and facilities • The right of the Minister to make regulations prescribing all matters that by the Act are required or convenient to be Version C – November 2019 47 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road prescribed for giving effect to the Act, as the standard, quality and adequacy of water for domestic purposes and as ― for the control and maintenance of general Environmental Health quality in matters such as to prevent soil, water, noise and air pollution. The Minister allocates responsibility to the relevant local authorities to take all lawful, necessary and practicable measures to maintain its respective areas free from nuisance. Nuisance is defined to include any…. River, stream, spring or other sources of water supply which is likely to be used for human drinking or domestic purposes…which in the opinion of the environmental health officer polluted In South Santo, ground water resource is predominantly utilized for both purposes only. In the inland communities away from the existing road to Tasiriki, there are various sources of water such as wells, springs, rivers and rainwater are used. Water supply systems along the road for some villages along the project provided through PCB pipes from rivers which is not treated. Physical Planning Act The Physical Planning Act administered by the Ministry of Internal Affairs is responsible for planning both in the rural and urban physical planning areas. The Luganville Municipal Council (LMC) and the Sanma Provincial Council who are responsible for the area proposed for the project ensures that the rules of physical planning are followed. The Physical Planning Act provides urban development and planning control for Vanuatu. Under this Act a municipality or local government body may declare any area under its jurisdiction to be a Physical Planning Area. The majority of Santo area is administered by the Sanma Provincial Council. Those parts of Sanma (including South Santo) which are remote have not been declared Physical Planning Areas and are not subject to planning and building controls. The Act provides a basic structure for physical planning, but it suffers from a number of serious weaknesses, in particular – The Act does not legally impose the land use restrictions which result from the planning process. Instead, the Act relies on a process of applications for permission, decisions on those applications and then enforcement of those decisions. Control of Nocturnal Noise Act The Act prohibits excessive noise between 9pm and 5am particularly in the urban areas of Port Vila and Luganville. This is mainly for the urban areas, but where noise is an issue within 2km of municipality, the Act can also be applied. As such, this Act applies to the Project and an application to the Luganville Municipal Council (LMC) and Sanma Provincial Council will be made prior to works. Wild Bird (Protection) Act The Act which prohibits the destruction of certain bird species (which may occur through clearing of site vegetation) without a permit; Other major regulations that concern ecosystems and biodiversity conservation are: (i) Wild Bird Protection Act 1989, (ii) International Trade (Fauna and Flora) Act of 1989, (iii) Convention on Biological Diversity (Ratification) Act (1992), and the Animal Importation and Quarantine Act (1988) which regulates the control of animal importation including the importation of animal products and biological products. Customary Land Tribunal Act The objective of this Act is to provide for a system based on custom to resolve disputes about customary land. For the purposes of this Act, each island is divided into custom areas. Larger islands are divided into many custom areas. The procedure for resolving disputes about customary land varies depending on whether the land is situated wholly or partly within a custom area or custom sub-area. This Act covers the following main topics: (i) the establishment of lands tribunals to resolve disputes about customary land; (ii) the procedures to be followed by those land tribunals in resolving Version C – November 2019 48 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road such disputes; and, (iii) the appeal process for parties who are dissatisfied with decision of land tribunals. 3.5 Required Permits Based on a comprehensive review of the legislation relevant to the project, a summary of the national consents and permits required for the project, including supporting documentation, is presented in Table 5. While the PIU can assist the Contractor in obtaining these permits, all permits listed will be issued in the Contractors name. Table 5: Permitting Requirements for the VCRTP. Source: Distilled from review of existing legislation Permit Required Agency Documentation Responsible for Applying Environmental Permit(s) for VCRTP Design and Development Application as per the Supervision Environmental Impact Assessment Consultant Regulations Quarry Permits (including river gravels) Contractors Quarry Management Plan (Geology and and/or PWD Mines Unit Template) depending on EIA/EMMP where required class of permit applied for Water Use Right Contractor Application to Director of Water (as per Water Resources Management Resources Act 2002) Water Works Permit Contractor Applications to the Director Water Resources Foreshore Development Consent Contractor Application made to Ministry of Internal Affairs. Required for any activities on the foreshore (beach reinforcement works and coastal protection). The PIU to support Contractor in securing any permissions from adjacent custom landowners. Right to construct, operate and maintain Contractor With support from the PIU works associated with resources that do not comply with customary rights and rights of occupiers as specified in Part 2 Division 1 Section 4 of the Water Resources Management Act. Design and Screening final design of culverts and Supervision bridges against Codes of Environmental Engineer Practice and either updating ESMP to Additional Environmental Permits capture all additional requirements or: Apply for separate Environmental Permit for applicable bridges/culverts and include in CESMP 3.6 World Bank Policy The World Bank’s Environmental and Social Safeguard Policies aim to prevent and mitigate potential damage to the environment and communities generated in the development process. These policies give the Bank and borrowers, guidelines on the identification, preparation and implementation of programs and projects. Version C – November 2019 49 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road There are ten safeguard policies in the World Bank, created to inform decision making, ensuring that projects financed by the Bank are environmentally and socially sustainable. VCRTP triggers four of these policies: Environmental Assessment (OP4.01), Natural Habitats (OP4.04), Indigenous Peoples Policy (OP4.10), and Involuntary Resettlement (OP4.12). Table 6 presents these four policies and their applicability to this project. The World Bank also have a series of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Guidelines, three of which are relevant to the project and have been incorporated into the project ESIA and ESMP where applicable. For reference, these are: • General EHS Guidelines5 • EHS Guidelines for Construction Materials Extraction6 • EHS Guidelines for Ports, Harbours, and Terminals7 (relevant sections in this context for activities relating to construction at bridges) The VCRTP ESIA and ESMP establishes a unified process for addressing all environmental and social safeguard issues on potential activities from preparation, through review and approval, to implementation. Effective implementation of the ESMP will ensure that the substantive concerns of all World Bank safeguard policies will be satisfactorily addressed. 5https://www.ifc.org/wps/wcm/connect/29f5137d-6e17-4660-b1f9-02bf561935e5/Final%2B- %2BGeneral%2BEHS%2BGuidelines.pdf?MOD=AJPERES&CVID=jOWim3p 6https://www.ifc.org/wps/wcm/connect/dad17995-66be-4280-86da-b438cf9fbefc/Final%2B- %2BConstruction%2BMaterials%2BExtraction.pdf?MOD=AJPERES&CVID=jkC-EN.&id=1323162191491 7https://www.ifc.org/wps/wcm/connect/ddfac751-6220-48e1-9f1b-465654445c18/20170201- FINAL_EHS+Guidelines+for+Ports+Harbors+and+Terminals.pdf?MOD=AJPERES&CVID=lD.CzO9 Version C – November 2019 50 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Table 6 – WB’ Safeguards Policies: Main Objectives, Applicability and Trigger by VCRTP Safeguard Policies Main Objective Applicability Application to VCRTP The objective of this policy is to ensure This policy is applicable when a project or Triggered: that projects financed by the World sub-project has potential to cause Bank are environmentally sound and negative environmental impacts in its area Activities included in VCRTP can cause negative sustainable, and that decision making is of influence environmental and social impacts. Some of the potential improved through adequate analysis adverse environmental and social impacts could be: soil OP 4.01 of actions and their possible risks and Depending on the project and the nature erosion, decreased water quality, loss of vegetation, environmental impacts in the natural of its impacts, various instruments can be fauna disturbance, deposition of solid wastes, dust Environmental environment (air, water and soils); used. A ESIA and ESMP are required emission, social impacts related with loss of access to land, Assessment human health and security; physical- where the impacts are thought to be resource use conflict, community health and safety. The cultural resources; and global and manageable but a more in depth impact ESIA and the ESMP will establish the process to mitigate transboundary and global assessment is recommended to verify. these impacts. environment aspects. This policy recognizes that the This policy is used by any Project or sub- Triggered: preservation of natural habitats is projects considered as potential originator essential to protect original bio- of significant changes (loss) or The targeted road includes 10 river crossings and a section diversity; for the preservation of degradation of natural habitats, be it of coastal reinforcement. While it is documented that the environmental services and products directly (through the construction) or terrestrial environment along the road network is not for human society and for long term indirectly (with the human activities caused comprised of natural habitat, the river system of the sustainable development. by the project). Navaka River is a natural habitat under the definition provided. There have been ongoing human activities at the OP 4.04 Therefore, the Bank supports the OP4.04 defines a natural habitat as land site (annual gravel extraction and small scale harvesting protection, management and and water areas where (i) the of freshwater species for subsistence and aquaculture) Natural Habitats restoration of natural habitats by ecosystems’ biological communities are however they have not essentially modified the area’s funding projects as well as via political formed largely by native plant and primary ecological functions. In addition to this, the dialogue, sector work and the economic freshwater species as described in this ESIA are largely animal species, and (ii) human activity sector. native. Tilapia is an introduced species; however the has not essentially modified the area’s majority of species are native and/or endemic. By funding projects, the Bank expects primary ecological functions.” the proponents to apply the In addition to the areas of natural habitat described precautionary principle in the above, there is one registered Community Conservation management of natural resources, in Area (CCA) along the South Santo Road. CCAs have been order to ensure opportunities for introduced to Vanuatu as a more successful approach to Version C – November 2019 51 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Table 6 – WB’ Safeguards Policies: Main Objectives, Applicability and Trigger by VCRTP sustainable environmental resource management and conservation than formal development. protected area management has been. CCAs function to both conserve native species/habitats and to support sustainably managed use of natural resources. None of the areas identified fall within a gazette protected area or National Park. The ESIA describes these areas in more detail and the ESMP includes measures for addressing potential negative impacts on natural habitats and CCAs. For all projects proposed Bank funding This policy is applied when the Project Triggered: that affect indigenous peoples, the affects direct or indirectly indigenous Bank requires the borrower to people. In the case of the project, because Indigenous Peoples are undertake free, prior and informed the overwhelming majority of direct project beneficiaries, consultation with affected Indigenous a separate IPP has not been prepared. Instead, the Peoples to ascertain their broad elements of a IP Plan have been integrated into the community support for projects project's overall design (ESIA and ESMP). They include: (i) affecting them Free, prior, and informed consultation leading to broad community support during project preparation; (ii) The project financed by the Bank must Measures to ensure culturally appropriate processes and include measures to: (a) avoid adverse benefits; (iii) Measures to ensure that adverse impacts are OP 4.10 effects on indigenous populations; or mitigated and (iv) Measures for disclosing key project Indigenous Peoples (b) when it is not possible to avoid the documents in a language understandable to them. effects, minimizes, mitigates, or compensates for such purposes. Community consultation and regular engagement with the community is integral and will be undertaken through the The projects financed by the Bank are life of the project. designed with the assurance that indigenous people receive social and economic benefits that are culturally appropriate and adequate gender and inter-generations. Version C – November 2019 52 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Table 6 – WB’ Safeguards Policies: Main Objectives, Applicability and Trigger by VCRTP The objective of this policy is to (i) This policy does not cover only physical Triggered: avoid or minimize involuntary relocation but any loss of income sources resettlement, where feasible and resulting in: (i) relocation or loss of shelter; The project will finance activities that will require land to explore all viable alternative project (ii) loss of assets or means of livelihood; (iii) be acquired for realignments and temporarily used for designs; (ii) assist displaced people in loss of income sources or means of construction activities. To address the impacts associated improving their former living subsistence, whether or not the affected with loss of lands and non-land resources, the VCRTP has OP 4.12 standards, income earning capacity, people must move to another location. This prepared an Abbreviated Resettlement Action Plan and production levels, or at let in policy also applies to the involuntary (ARAP) which will be updated following detailed Involuntary restoring them; (iii) encourage restriction of access to legally designated engineering design. Resettlement community participation in planning parks and protected areas, resulting in The South Santo Road has already been declared and and implementing resettlement; and adverse impacts on the livelihood of the gazette as a public road under the Public Act No. 35 of (iv) provide assistance to affected displaced persons. 2013. As indicated in the Official Gazette No.42, road people regardless of the legality of network in Malekula, Pentecost and Santo has been land tenure. In these cases the World Bank requires the establishment of a Resettlement Action declared and gazetted while gazetting work for the Plan (RAP), based on the Resettlement remaining roads is underway. Policy Framework (RPF) for any project or The Project will ensure that all realignments sections are sub-project. included in he ongoing gazetting works. No works will be undertaken on any ungazetted roads. Version C – November 2019 53 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road 4 Natural Environmental Baseline 4.1 Introduction This section provides information on the physical and biological characteristics of the environment as it related to the proposed works of the VCRTP, which shall be the baseline data set used as benchmarks for future monitoring. The area considered for assessment of baseline conditions covers all physical project sites along the South Santo Road and inclusive of an extended potential AOI as defined in Section 2.1. This will be large enough in extent to capture all potential direct and indirect impacts from the proposed projects. Where exact project sites are unknown, ‘most likely’ locations are used. All baseline data were obtained through a combination of desktop studies, consultations (stakeholders and communities) and site visits. It is important to note that due to the limited timeframe in developing this ESIA, it was not possible to undertake quantitative environmental baseline studies in the field. Where significant gaps in the available data exist, this ESIA and associated ESMP recommend areas for further investigation. 4.2 Physical Environment Meteorology Vanuatu experiences a tropical maritime climate with characteristic uniform temperature, high humidity and variable rainfall. Winds are generally light except during tropical storms. The country has two distinct seasons – a warm wet season from November to April and a cooler dry season from May to October. Across Vanuatu the annual average temperatures are between 23.5–27.5°C. Luganville has an average annual temperature of 26 C. Changes in the temperature from season to season are strongly tied to changes in the surrounding ocean temperature. The predominant southeast wind-flow is often saturated with moisture and contributes to a highly variable rainfall pattern. Another major mechanism that produces rainfall in Vanuatu in the summer and especially during La Nina years is the South Pacific Convergence Zone (SPCZ) that often shifts over Vanuatu. Monthly averages in Santo fluctuate between 100-300mm per month with August and September being the driest months. Mountains also play a role in the variations in rainfall across some islands. During the wet season, rainfall is particularly high on the windward (south-east) side of the mountain ranges of the bigger islands, and scarce on the leeward (north-west) sides, especially during the dry season. Vanuatu’s climate varies considerably from year to year due to the El Niño Southern Oscillation. This is a climate pattern that occurs across the tropical Pacific Ocean and affects weather around the world.8 Geology Santo is located within the New Hebrides Arc which includes the Santa Cruz island group of the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu. The islands are the product of island arc volcanism, sedimentary deposition and reef growth. The islands of Vanuatu are the product of a partly-emerged volcanic ridge that supports the island chain. The emergence is related to the underlying subduction of the Australian Plate beneath the Pacific Plate at its boundary, which extends roughly in a north-south direction. Santo is a large Pleio-Quaternary volcanic-sedimentary island. It is made up largely of volcanic eruptive rocks and ash deposits. Soil thickness is very variable within the urban areas of Santo, but on average, is only several meters thick. The soils of the Santo coastal plains area range from young soils, poorly develop and non-climatic, particularly Rendzina soils, over coastal coralline platforms of sand and rock, to climatic ferralitic soils developed on calcareous plateaus. The younger soils are found in 8 Australian Government Pacific Climate Change Science, http://www.pacificclimatechangescience.org/wp- content/uploads/2013/06/15_PCCSP_Vanuatu_8pp.pdf Version C – November 2019 54 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road coastal belt around Santo and on recent uplifted reefs up to about ten meters above sea level. They are rich in alterable minerals derived from pumice, obsidian and feldspars. These soils often have sufficient humus and clay to have a fairly well developed, but unstable, structure, and an average to mediocre capacity to retain water. River Characteristics Although Santo is the largest island in Vanuatu, covering an area of 3,959 km2, its unusual shape with two northward extending peninsulas means that most rivers have small catchments, usually less than 100km2 in area. The south-west of Santo, a radial pattern (streams radiate outwards from a central high point) of drainage is identified on the flanks of the Tabwemasana volcano complex. Within individual stream catchments dendritic drainage patterns (many contributing streams flowing into the main river) are dominant. The relatively larger river systems of south-eastern Santo, such as the Sarakata Rivers (at the start of the South Santo Road) that has its estuary near Luganville, have sediments transported from upland and deposited in the lowland areas9. The south-easterly trend in drainage pattern is controlled by prominent features of the mountain ranges. Rivers draining the south of the island served by the South Santo Road have more extensive lowland valley sections than streams draining western Santo, with meandering alluvial channels that have built floodplains and terraces comprising fine sediments10. These flat areas are used for settlement, agriculture, coconut plantations and cattle pasture. Along the South Santo Road, the Navaka River is an example of a braided river (Figure 20). These consist of numerous wide, shallow and fast-flowing sediment transporting channels that subdivide and rejoin repeatedly around bars and islands, forming an intertwining structure. To understand the geology behind the deposition of sediments in the Navaka braided river system, the interaction of several factors needs to be appreciated. First, the steep upland slopes of the river encourages active erosion of gravel; secondly, regular earthquakes associated with local tectonic activity have triggered many landslides, several over 5km2 in size, in the highlands providing sources of fresh sediments into the drainage channels; thirdly, the regular passage of tropical cyclones produces large and very powerful river floods, which contribute to high rates of bedload transport; and finally, marine gravels underlie much of the lower basin, the exposure and reworking of which has provided abundant coarse gravels to form the channel bars and braid islands in between the shifting channels.11 9 Terry, James. (2011). Drainage, Hydrology and Fluvial Geomorphology (of Santo Island, Vanuatu). 10 Terry, James. (2011). Drainage, Hydrology and Fluvial Geomorphology (of Santo Island, Vanuatu). 11 Terry, James. (2011). Drainage, Hydrology and Fluvial Geomorphology (of Santo Island, Vanuatu). Version C – November 2019 55 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Figure 20: The Navaka braided river system showing channel morphology and gravel islands The amount of aggregates available in the Navaka River has not been verified, however there are large islands which have formed in the river with some notable stands of riparian vegetation. The PWD consider this to be a viable option as a source of stone for the VCRTP (basalt and rock for tar sealing and concrete production). This viability is still subject to further hydrological, geotechnical and ecological assessment by the Design Engineer who will also consult with GMU for any previous studies undertaken on this river and for recommendations on where to source materials. Natural Hazard and Vulnerability Risk According to the Global Facility for Disaster Risk Management (GFDRM), Vanuatu is considered to be one of the most vulnerable countries. It is located on the earthquake prone “ring of fire” and sits at the center of the Pacific cyclone belt. These hazards result in a high frequency of volcanic eruptions, cyclones, earthquakes, tsunamis, storm surges, coastal flooding and landslides. In addition, the country is already experiencing the impacts of climate change. CYCLONES : Tropical cyclones and depressions are also common and can be responsible for high and disastrous winds in the summer causing blockages to roads from felled trees and debris. They also bring with them storm surges and increased rainfall which result in flooding of lying coastal areas and rivers both of cause damage to the existing road and bridges. The hot or wet season in Vanuatu, which is from November to April, is also know as the cyclone season and brings about 2-3 cyclones in a season with the greatest frequency being in January and February. On average Vanuatu has 3 to 5 cyclones causing severe damage each decade.12 EARTHQUAKES : The GFDRM classifies the earthquake risk in Vanuatu as ‘high’ according to the information that is currently available. This means that there is more than a 20% chance of potentially damaging earthquake shaking in the project area in the next 50 years. COASTAL INUNDATION: The GFDRM classifies the coastal inundation risk for Vanuatu as ‘high’. This means that potentially damaging waves are expected to flood the coast at least once in the next 10 years causing flooding to low lying land including sections of the South Santo Road. 12 Vanuatu Meteorological Service Version C – November 2019 56 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Projected Climate Changes and Impacts The Pacific Climate Change Science Program (PCCSP) (part of the International Climate Change Adaptation Initiative) conducts critical climate research and capacity building in Pacific Island countries. Information regarding climate change projections was obtained from the BoM and CSIRO (2011) Climate Change in the Pacific: Scientific Assessment and New Research (Vol. 2: Country Reports) produced by the Pacific Climate Change Science Program13. Vanuatu, like many other pacific nations are already experiencing the effects of increased temperatures and rising sea level. Sea level (measured by satellite altimeters and tide gauges) has risen in Vanuatu by 6 mm per year since 1993. This is larger than the global average of 2.8 to3.6 mm per year. Sea level does fluctuate year to year and decade to decade due to El Nino-Southern Oscillation. Annual maximum and minimum temperatures have increased since 1950; in Port Vila, maximum temperatures have increased at a rate of 0.17°C per decade. Data since 1950 for the capital city of Port Vila show a decreasing trend in wet season rainfall, however, there are no clear trends in annual and dry season rainfall here. Over this period, there has been substantial variation in rainfall from year to year14. Climate change projections for 2030, 2055 and 2090 (relative to 1990) were reviewed. The PCCSP report (as identified above) reviewed a number of climate projection models to determine the most plausible representations of future climate in the Pacific under the three emission scenarios developed by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). The three emission scenarios are: low, medium and high for time periods around 2030, 2055 and 2090. Table 7 presents the projected changes in annual average air temperature and sea level for Vanuatu for the three emission scenarios and the three time horizons. Table 7: Air temperature and sea level rise projections for the three emission scenarios and three time periods Annual Average Air Temperature Projection Sea Level Rise Projection Values represent 90% of the range of the models and changes are relative to the average of the period 1980- 1999. The PCCSP make the following climate change predictions for Vanuatu: - Increases in temperatures. - More very hot days – increases in average temperatures will also result in a rise in the number of hot days and warm nights and a decline in cooler weather. - Changing rainfall patterns – projections generally suggest a decrease in dry season rainfall and an increase in wet season rainfall over the course of the 21st century. 13Australian Government, Pacific Climate Change Science, http://www.pacificclimatechangescience.org/ 14 Australian Government Pacific Climate Change Science, http://www.pacificclimatechangescience.org/wp- content/uploads/2013/06/15_PCCSP_Vanuatu_8pp.pdf Version C – November 2019 57 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road - More extreme rainfall days. - Less frequent but more intense tropical cyclones. The projected design life for the tar sealing is 10 to 15 years for the South Santo Road, and the concrete road surfaces is 25 to 30 years. Therefore, the climate change projections for 2055 best reflect the scenario that the entire investment most adequately. Along the length of the road, the majority of runoff from rain events goes to natural soakage and this does have implications for localised flooding depending on impermeable surfaces and the ability of the rainfall to percolate into the ground. Detailed design work may require flood hazard modelling and this should allow for predicted changing rainfall patterns. The South Santo Road is mostly coastal from Luganville to KP 25 therefore the proposed design solution will need to consider the likely future impact on the coastline where it runs along the SSR and suggest design solutions which provide climate resilience against the modelled scenarios. Water Resources Along the length of the South Santo Road, freshwater is plentiful and is supplied either from the highland rain fed rivers, or from the very shallow water table that can be found for significant lengths of the road. During the drier months, freshwater resources are still abundant fed by the highland tributaries. While freshwater is plentiful, it is heavily utilized by the communities in Santo in the following ways: • Collected or diverted for household use; • Diverted for traditional taro irrigation/cultivation; • More recently utilitsed for small scale aqua culturing of introduced fish, Tilapia naloticus and the native freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium lar; and, • Domesticated animals also commonly drink from the accessible surface water. 4.3 Biological Environment The island of Santo hosts notable biological resources, in both the marine and terrestrial environment. However, the proposed project actions will be conducted along an existing road corridor where there is either urban development or rural settlements and agricultural developments. Most impacts on the biological environment that could arise as a result of project actions would be expected to occur along the road corridor, particularly around the freshwater river environments, mainly as a result of construction of bridges and extraction of aggregates. For this reason, while this section covers the entire terrestrial road corridor, it focuses on the aquatic elements of the biological environment. Terrestrial Environment Vanuatu’s islands are young in geological terms, small and highly disturbed as a result of natural cyclones, seismic and volcanic activity, and as a consequence Vanuatu’s biodiversity is less rich than that of the two nearest countries (New Caledonia and the Solomon Islands). There are threats which impact Vanuatu’s terrestrial biodiversity and these include over exploitation of many plant and animal resources, degradation of ecosystems due to development practices, and declining respect for traditional resource management systems and authority structures. Vanuatu is included in the Vanuatu Rain Forests terrestrial ecoregion and the East Melanesian Islands biodiversity hotspot. Santo itself is a biodiversity hotspot with endemic flora and fauna, virgin forests, bird and animal species and aquatic life. There are about 1,000 vascular plant species in Vanuatu if which around 150 are endemic. There is high diversity of orchids with 158 species and plants with 21 species, including 14 endemic species. There are 121 bird species, nine of which are endemic (Vanuatu Petrel, Vanuatu Imperial-pigeon, Tanna Fruit-dove, Vanuatu Kingfisher, Vanuatu Honeyeater, Yellow- fronted White-eye, Royal Parrotfinch, and Santo Mountain Starling, and Buff-bellied Monarch). There Version C – November 2019 58 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road are two mammals unique to the country (Vanuatu Flying Fox and Banks Flying Fox) and nine reptiles (Toupeed Skink Emoia sanfordi, Vanuatu Coppery Vine Skink, Anatom Tree Skink, Erronan Tree Skink, Vanuatu Snake-eyed Skink, Vanuatu Saw-tailed Gecko, Vanuatu Forest Gecko, Vanuatu Ant-nest Gecko, and Vanuatu Yellow-lipped Sea Snake). A rich endemic land mollusc fauna includes a slug and several snails. Other endemic invertebrates include a freshwater snail, a new tree-climbing mangrove crab of the, a starfish, a bryozoan, and a crinoid. Invertebrates known solely from Vanuatu include two species of butterflies, a hawk moth, a damselfly, two species of bees, a parasitic wasp, two katydids, several cricket species, a termite, a lace bug, a checkered beetle, a mayfly, a scorpion and a millipede 4. According to the Vanuatu National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) 2018-2030, seventy four percent of land in Vanuatu is covered with natural vegetation. Forest types include tropical lowland evergreen rainforest, broad-leaved deciduous forest, closed conifer forest, montane rain forest, cloud forest and coastal forest. Santo being the largest island in the Vanuatu island group has a forest cover of approximately 285,530ha (2010) and also home to some of the endemic plant and animal species in Vanuatu. It has mid-height forest with close and open canopy, being the most prominent forest type in the country with high ecological and forest commercial values dominates most of the higher altitude (>300m) areas especially the west coast peninsular. The same forest type that exists on the eastern part of the island as lost its forest structure through logging operations and has been reclassified by the Vanuatu Redd+ Program as thickets. Low forest types usually comprising of mixed hardwood species dominates most of the lower altitude (<300m) around the island. The lower lying areas along the coast have been converted to various land uses and settlements. Luganville in the lowlands, is gradually experiencing infrastructure extension, agricultural expansion and also wood extraction as some speculated drivers of deforestation. Apart from deforestation and loggin on Santo, livestock cattle farming is also a main stay of the economy. Along the length of the South Santo Road, the land has been heavily cleared for subsistence gardening, cattle farming, coconut plantations, settlements. Figure 21 is the Vegetation and Land Cover Map produced for Santo by the Vanuatu Redd+ Project15. Figure 22 further demonstrations this and clearly shows that the majority of the South Santo Road runs through land altered for agriculture16. Natural disasters have also contributed to the altered state of the vegetation along the road. The vegetation cover is mainly secondary growth often covered in the invasive Meremia and Mucuna species of vines. The land around much of the road is often quite wet and boggy due to the abundant surface water resources and the shallow groundwater lens. 15 http://reddplus.vu/vanuatu-national-redd-program/redd-selected-islands/santo/ 16 Simeoni, P & Lebot, V. Hum Ecol (2012) 40:51. https:/doi.org/10.1007/s10745-012-9487-2 Version C – November 2019 59 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Figure 21: Santo Vegetation and Land Cover Map. Source: http://reddplus.vu/vanuatu-national-redd-program/redd-selected-islands/santo/ Figure 22: South Santo Road and Surrounding Land Use. Source: adapted from Simeoni, P & Lebot, V. Hum Ecol (2012) 40:51 Version C – November 2019 60 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Coastal Environment 4.3.2.1 Reef Associated Bioregions The South Santo Road spans two distinct reef associated marine bioregions as determined by the Marine and Coastal Biodiversity Management in Pacific Island Countries (MACBIO) Project. The VCRTP lies within the MACBIO defined Bioregions 90 and 92 (Figure 23)17. Figure 23: MACBIO extent of Bioregions for Santo Bioregion 90 encompasses the section of the road from the Wairua area to the end of the road at Tasiriki and extends to the northern islands of Vanuatu. This bioregion is associated with fringing reefs adjacent to deep waters inhabited by deep water species such as tuna and marlin. The coral reefs are not as extensive as the eastern side of Santo, similarly seagrass areas are very sparse. Deep water lies close to the coast, bringing about abundant deep-water and pelagic fishes. Long stretches of black sand beaches that drop off into deep waters are found all along this coast. Rocky coastline, cliffs, boulder bank areas are all also found along the coast in this bioregion. The main indicator species are trochus, coconut crabs and manta rays. The rest of the South Santo Road from Wairua to the Sarakata river mouth falls into Bioregion 92. Bioregion 92 extends beyond the Sarakata river mouth to Saint Michel, from Nadui to Tariboi, from Palekula to Port Orly. This region is defined by being rich in seagrass beds that attract foraging turtles, mangroves, extended coral reefs and estuaries. Marine species biodiversity is high and the lagoons and river mouths host trochus, green snails, coconut crabs and lobsters. In relation to the road, mangroves are found from Tangis island in south Santo to the Sarakata river mouth at the start of the road. Figure 23 shows the two bioregions as they related to the coastal length of the South Santo Road. 17 Wendt H, Beger M, Sullivan J, LeGrand J, Davey K, Yakub N, Kirmani SN, Grice H, Mason C, Raubani J, Lewis A, Jupiter S, Molisa V, Ceccarelli D, Fernandes L (2018) Marine bioregions of Vanuatu. MACBIO (GIZ, IUCN, SPREP), Suva, Fiji. 60 pp Version C – November 2019 61 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Figure 24: MACBIO Bioregions mapped along the South Santo Road showing Bioregion 90 (yellow) and 92 (pink) 4.3.2.2 Mangroves Vanuatu has 3,000ha of Mangroves, 63% of which can be found on Santo and Malekula islands.18 Mangroves are located at the interface between the land and the sea, buffer the land from violent storms, and provide critical habitat for many species of fish and invertebrates. Mangrove root systems hamper the erosion impact of waves and promote sedimentation of suspended particles resulting from soil erosion. The roots which are exposed at high tides, provide excellent sites for the attachment of molluscs and many small species of algae and benthic algae. These root systems provide a protected environment for juvenile and adult fish and crustaceans. A biodiversity study of the Wairua Nature Reserve (discussed in Section 4.4.2.3) indicated that there are 14 mangrove species growing in the area, with the dominant species being Rhizophora stylosa. Some of the notable species who depend on the mangrove system are the reef heron, the mangrove mud crab and the little mangrove heron. In terms of important fisheries resources of Vanuatu mangroves, it is reported that land crabs (Cardiosoma spp.) are caught on the edges of mangrove areas and along the sandy strange bordering Rhizophora mangrove. Adults appear to live in inland areas among the ground cover or in underground burrows, mainly around swamp areas, and come at night to feed.19 4.3.2.3 Community Conservation Areas Community Conservation Areas (CCAs) are a mechanism provided for under the GoV Environment Management and Conservation Act 2002 to enable custom owners and resource users to establish and protect defined areas. This approach allows the community to play a significant role in determining the form of the conservation plan thereby considering traditional landowners issues. A further advantage of a CCA is that is allows the incorporation of traditional knowledge and practices into conservation and management plans thereby preserving them for the future.20 Along the South Santo Road there is one formally declared CCA, the Wairua Nature Reserve (February 2019) and the informal Reef and Giant Clam Park on the outskirts of Luganville. Both areas are described and mapped below. 18 Vanuatu Fishery Resources Profile, IWP-Pacific Technical Report (International Waters Project) no. 49 19 Vanuatu Fishery Resources Profile, IWP-Pacific Technical Report (International Waters Project) no. 49 20 Techera, Erika. (2007). Protected Area Management in Vanuatu. Macquarie Journal of International and Comparative Environmental Law. Version C – November 2019 62 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road WAIRUA NATURE RESERVE: The Wairua Nature Reserve is located on leased lands for Best Point Cattle Company and Venui Vanilla Farm (Figure 26). It was first developed in conjunction with the Department of Environmental Protection and Conservation (DEPC) in 2010 and was formalized as a registered CCA in February 2019. The CCA is located within Bioregion 92 and is home to 3 lagoons with mangroves and seagrasses that provide important fish breeding habitats and nursery areas for fish and invertebrate species.21Agriculture and livestock development activities are taking place within the nature reserve under the guidance of the Management Plan. The CCA is zoned into three areas. Zone A is the ‘Farm Area’, Zone B is the ‘No Take Zone’ and Zone C is the seas and streams. (Figure 25). It has been recognized that the natural state of the 3 lagoons within the CCA is significant enough to explore designating the area as a Ramsar Wetland Convention site for Vanuatu, although this is subject to further extensive assessment. This CCA is listed under the Vanuatu NBSAP 2018 – 2030 and is an inshore Special and Unique Marine Area (SUMA) of Vanuatu. Figure 25: Boundary and zoning map of Wairua Natural Reserve. Source: Wairua Nature Reserve Management Plan In relation to the VCRTP, the Wairua Nature Reserve runs along the southern boundary of the road reserve stretching for approximately 3.5km between approximately KP17.4 and KP20.76 and encompassing the Venui Bridge which is proposed to have a replacement bridge installed under the project. There is a PWD quarry located just inside the eastern corner of the boundary in an area that has been designated Zone A: Farm Use (Figure 26). In addition to this the road passes along the boundary of some sections of ‘Zone B’ within the CCA. Within these zones the management plan states that: (i) this zone is marked as a No Take Zone and is fully protected, (ii) all government rules and regulations apply here, however, the site has a total ban on harvesting of any natural resources whether it be animals or plants except the farm animals or plants, and (iii) Zone B can be opened for use for its natural resources but only after a technical assessment is conducted and its results shown that the resources have increased in numbers. The committee of the Nature Reserve have been included in the consultations and have voiced very strong support for the project and have offered their land and resources to help in any way they can. As part 21 Wairau Nature Reserve Management Plan, 2019 Version C – November 2019 63 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road of the Nature Reserve Management Plan, they are seeking to use the CCA as a model for encouraging tourism to South Santo as an alternative destination to the popular East Santo region. Critical to achieving this is a sealed road. Figure 26: (top and bottom) Boundary of the Wairua National Reserve Community Conservation Area showing the South Santo Road and the quarry within the boundaries LUGANVILLE REEF AND GIANT CLAM GARDEN: Located on the narrow strip between the ocean and the road at the end of the tar seal road section of the South Santo Road, the garden is a tourist attraction which also serves as a small conservation area. Started in 2002, the area has been rehabilitated by transplanting corals, removing Crown of Thorn starfish. The site has been recognized as a conservation area by the Sanma Department of Fisheries, however it is uncertain whether its status has been formalized as a CCA. The site stretches for an estimated 300m along the shoreline (Figure 27) and is open 7 days a week to tourists for educational talks and snorkel trips. The land-based facility of the park is a small open area, protected from erosion by a concrete wall and backfilled to provide the Version C – November 2019 64 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road platform (Figure 28). While the park may not be a formal CCA, it still provides conservation value to the ecosystem it protects and will be considered by this project in the same manner as a formal CCA. Figure 27: Luganville Reef and Giant Clam Park located at the end of the sealed section of road at Luganville Figure 28: Reef and Giant Clam Park on the outskirts of Luganville River Environments Many rivers and streams on Vanuatu have high freshwater endemism and a health fish population. The Government of Vanuatu in partnership with the French Natural History Museum conducted studies of the freshwater systems of some major islands (including Santo) to explore the fauna living in these important ecosystems. This information is summarized in Table 8. Version C – November 2019 65 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Table 8: Species Endemic to Vanuatu or to Vanuatu and New Caledonia. Source: Keith et al, 2010. Vanuatu Freshwater Fishes and Crustaceans in Vanuatu NBSAP 5th Report. Freshwater studies on rivers outside of the project area on Santo and studies from other nearby islands have demonstrated that freshwater fish in the river systems mainly live in pools and under boulders and cobbles. Typically the dominant element of the fauna in clear rocky streams in Vanuatu consists of goboid fishes (Stiphodon, Sicyopterus, sicyopus, Awaous).22 There is one goboid species which is endemic to Santo, Stiphodon kalfatak, which is listed as ‘data deficient’ in the IUCN Red book. Freshwater fish species inhabiting these islands have an ocean going pelagic larval stage, hence are widely dispersed throughout their range. Pelagic goboid larvae enter the island rivers at periodic intervals in large numbers and are likely to plan an important role in the food web and overall river ecology. However, there is little reliable information about the details of such larval migrations in Vanuatu. The VCRTP has the potential to impact on this movement of goboid and other species between the marine and freshwater environment should any of the bridge designs impeded the flow of water or change the river hydrodynamics to the extent that larvae aren’t able to navigate faster or deeper water. According to the Vanuatu NBSAP 5th Report, there are some activities that are impacting the freshwater ecosystems and the population or existence of freshwater fauna in Vanuatu. These activities include: • Upstream activities that can result in changes in freshwater ecosystems; • Sand Extraction; • Encroachment on riverbanks from settlements; and, • Development activities. With particular reference to the VCRTP works, continuous sand extraction along the river mouths on Santo for infrastructure have changed the water courses at estuaries and the continuous depletion of sand contributes to coastal erosion, and has an adverse effect on the coastal flora. The further exacerbates the effects of rising sea level and allows a more frequent influx of seawater that moves further up the river mouth compared to the more natural movement of seawater when the system is in its natural state. There will be a requirement for finer aggregates for the proposed VCRTP works. It is prohibited to use sand from any beaches on Vanuatu from this project unless approved by the Supervision Engineer, follows 22Keith, P. Marquet, G, Lord, C, Kalfatak, D, Vigneux, E. 2010. Vanuatu Freshwater Fish and Crustaceans. Societe Francaise d’Ic htyologie, Paris. Version C – November 2019 66 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road the environmental requirement of the Quarry Act, detailed in an approved Quarry Management Plan and approved by the Department of Environmental Protection and Conservation. 4.3.3.1 Freshwater Fisheries Resources An important commercial species in the rivers along the South Santo Road is the native freshwater prawn Macrobrachium lar which is found in flowing rivers and creeks at sea level. These prawns are found throughout Vanuatu, particularly on islands where there are rivers, streams or lake. Stock abundance has been identified on Santo, Malekula, Maewo, Erromango, Efate, Epi and Anietyum islands.23 M. lar breeds twice a year with two breeding peaks (June and November) each year. Juveniles of the species are collected by fisherwomen from the base of small shallow rapids in the rivers and are then transferred to aquaculture ponds in the village to be raised and sold directly to hotels and restaurants along the South Santo Road. Other fisheries species found in freshwater ecosystems on Santo are described in Table 9. Table 9: Aquatic species inhabiting the freshwater ecosystems of Santo Name Common Name Local distribution* Fishery notes Fish Mesopristes Silver grunter Lower sections of streams and Important source of subsistence argenteus inland deep stream pool protein for local communities Khulia rupestris Jungle perch Across Vanuatu, in the lower It is considered to be a good food streams but travels between fish and is a significant source of freshwater and marine protein for local communities. waters Khulia munda Perch species Coastal reaches of streams A significant source of protein for and estuaries across Vanuatu local communities. Caranx Bigeye trevally Freshwater and marine water It is marketed fresh, dried or salted sexfasciatus on Santo and Malekula and frozen. It has commercial value islands and is a good game fish. It is a good source of protein for local communities. Lutjanus Mangrove red Found in the coastal reaches Has commercial value and can argentumaculatus snapper of rivers and mangroves on easily be cultured. In Vanuatu this Santo, Efate, Erromango and fish is a significant source of protein Malekule islands for local communities. Lutjanus fuscescens Spotted bass In Vanuatu it is found only on A significant source of protein for Santo Island. It is a marine local communities. species in its adult form but juveniles and subadults favour estuaries or lower sections of freshwater streams Monodactylus Silver-moon fish In Vanuatu it is found only on This fish has minor commercial value argenteus Santo, commonly in but is a significant source of protein mangroves but also entering for local communities. small creeks Cestraceus White Mullet In Vanuatu it is found on A significant source of protein for guamensis Santo, Maewo and Pentecost local communities. Surplus is sold and are common in large locally to earn cash. streams 23 Vanuatu Fishery Resources Profile, IWP-Pacific Technical Report (International Waters Project) no. 49 Version C – November 2019 67 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Name Common Name Local distribution* Fishery notes Cestraceus plicatilis Black Mullet On all islands with large A significant source of protein for streams local communities. Surplus is sold locally to earn cash. Oreochromis Tilapia Introduced species and is A significant source of protein for mossambica abundant in large rivers and local communities. streams in Santo. Sarotherodon Tilipia Introduced species and is A significant source of protein for occidentalise abundant in large rivers and local communities. streams in Santo. Prawns Macrobrachium All streams throughout An important source of protein for gracilirostre Vanuatu. local communities. Mocrobrachium All streams throughout An important source of protein for latimanus Vanuatu in the upper reaches. local communities. It is often harvested on a commercial basis for domestic consumption. Macrobrachium All streams throughout An important source of protein for austral Vanuatu in the lower reaches. local communities. It is often harvested on a commercial basis for domestic consumption. Macrobrachium Santo and Malekula islands. It An important source of protein for lepiactyloides is common in large streams local communities. near the coast. Macrobrachium Santo and Malekula islands in An important source of protein for latidactylus the lower part of large local communities. sandy/gravel bottomed streams. Eels Anguilla Giant long-finned All streams and rivers This eel species has commercial marmorata eel throughout Vanuatu. This eels value and can be farmed. In lives in freshwater as an adult Vanuatu, it is a significant source of and in estuaries and seas as protein for local communities. a juvenile. Anguilla Pacific long-finned Santo, Malekula, Gaua and Significant source of protein for megostoma eel Aneityum islands in all parts local communities. of streams. Anguilla obscura Pacific short- Santo and Gaua islands in Plays a significant role in the finned eel estuaries and inland lakes. livelihoods of local communities as a source of protein *all species in this table have widespread regional or global distribution. Vulnerable or Endangered Species A detailed terrestrial and marine species survey was undertaken by the Department of Environmental Conservation and Protection in the Wairua Nature Reserve. While it is a survey of the CCA itself, the MACBIO reports identified in Section 4.4.2.1, indicate that the table can be considered representative of a 10km stretch of coastline encompassing the CCA (Figure 29).The identified species along with their IUCN Red List and Conservation status can be found below. The IUCN regard the threatened status of animals and plants as one of the most useful signs for assessing the condition of an ecosystem and its biodiversity. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (IUCN Red List) is widely recognized as the most comprehensive, apolitical approach for assessing and monitoring the status of biodiversity. The table below is taken directly from the Wairua Nature Reserve Management Plan and is credited accordingly. Version C – November 2019 68 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Table 10: Terrestrial and Marine Fauna Species of the Wairua Nature Reserve. Source: Wairua Nature Reserve Management Plan Version C – November 2019 69 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Version C – November 2019 70 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Figure 29: Wairua Nature Reserve CCA (blue) and wider 10km (pink) of similar habitat as identified in MACBIO reports Invasive and Alien Species Invasive animal species are a threat to Santo and include the Indian Mynah (Acridotheres tristis), the Giant African Snail (Achatina fulica) and the Rosy Wolf Snail (Euglandina rosea). Another species of concern for Vanuatu is the Little Fire Ant (Wasmannia auropunctata), which has reduced arthropod species diversity in other locations, and may threaten crab species, including the coconut crab. 24 The Giant African Snail (GAS) (Figure 30) is a particular concern for the VCRTP as it causes significant damage to food crops. Areas of Vanuatu, particularly Port Vila and Efate were once swarmed with the GAS which bred to a point where the GoV called for a wide campaign to intercept, destroy and control the pest. Various control methodologies of destroying and controlling the snail were employed by the local authorities as well as families and individuals by; combing environmental around homes, road sides, gardens, trees, plants, collecting masses of the snails in sack and drums and dumping them in the sea. While this did help to control the population in the short term, it did not eliminate them and the GAS are starting to re-appear again, invading some areas of Port Vila. A new and significant threat to the biodiversity of Vanuatu is recent discovery of the invasive coconut rhinoceros beetle (Oryctes rhinoceros) (Figure 30) possibly introduced with aggregate or construction equipment shipped to North Efate from PNG. The rhinoceros beetle has the potential to devastate the country’s coconut industry, as well as the livelihoods of those who depend on it. The beetle damages coconut palms by boring into the center of the crown to feed on the sap. Vanuatu has declared a state of emergency to manage the infected areas allowing authorities to set up restriction zones around affected areas. So far the beetles are restricted to Efate, however there is the possibility for them to travel to other islands in Vanuatu during transshipments of goods, materials and equipment which will be relevant to this project for any shipments for the project from Efate. 24 Vanuatu National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan 2018-2030 Version C – November 2019 71 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Figure 30: Giant African Snail (left) and Rhinoceros Beetle (right) Version C – November 2019 72 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road 5 Human and Built Environment Baseline Population and Demographics In 2016, the population of Sanma Province was 52,145 with 16,31225 people living in Luganville, the provincial capital. The population density for Sanma Province was 13 per km2. The population of Sanma Province has an annual growth rate of 2.6%26. The average household size in Sanma is 4.9 people. Sanma’s population pyramid illustrates a triangular shape with forty percent (20,765) of the population is made up of young people under the age of 15 years. About a quarter (14,105) of Sanma population is between age of 15-29 years and the percentage keeps decreasing as the age increases where about 12 percent of the population is over 50+ years 27. Education and Health The Ministry of Education and Training is the government agency responsible for providing public education in the country. Education is only compulsory in Vanuatu for the first six years of primary education. In 2016, school attendance for children (aged 4+ years) was 30.3%, out-of-school (aged 4-19 years) was 29.1%. Current school attendance by education level shows primary level with highest school attendance at 83.6%, with a steep decline for secondary level at 14.9%. Post-secondary education is a low 1.7%28. Ministry of Health is the key health provider in Vanuatu. Health services are concentrated in urban centers with a hierarchy of facilities available ranging from nurse aide posts and rural clinics to the referral to two major referral hospitals in Port Vila and in Luganville. In 2012, Vanuatu approximately has .0816 doctor per 1,000 population29. Disease patterns in Vanuatu are changing. In the past the main causes of illness and death were preventable or treatable conditions resulting from poor access to health services. This included problems such as: acute respiratory infection, pneumonia, gastrointestinal diseases, skin infections, parasitic infestation, and complications associated with pregnancy and birth. Increasingly, health issues now are related to lifestyle. Rural to urban migration is causing overcrowding in urban areas, especially Port Vila, and housing is often of poor quality. Water and sanitation are inadequate in some urban settlements. Urban living is too often associated with poor nutrition, increased consumption of alcohol, drug abuse and unprotected sexual activity and there are increases in noncommunicable diseases including diabetes, hypertension and heart disease as well as STIs.30 Since 2005, NCDs have been among the leading causes of mortality. Respiratory illnesses and neonatal deaths also accounted for a high percentage of deaths.31 Gender Based Violence and Sexual Exploitation and Abuse GBV is defined as actions which result in “physical, sexual or psychological harm or suffering to women, including threats of such acts, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in public or in private life.” Vanuatu has no sexual harassment legislation in place and in non-compliance with the Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), Vanuatu has an unequal minimum age for marriage – 18 years for males and 16 years for females with parental consent. The use of a victim’s prior sexual conduct to establish sexual consent in rape cases is applied, as 25 Vanuatu Mini-Census Report, 2016, Vanuatu National Statistics Office. 26 2009 Vanuatu National Census, 2009, Vanuatu National Statistics Office. 27 Vanuatu Mini-Census Report, 2016, Vanuatu National Statistics Office. 28 Ibid 29 https://tradingeconomics.com/vanuatu/physicians-per-1-000-people-wb-data.html 30 Asian Development Bank, 2009. Vanuatu: Country Partnership Strategy 2010-2014 Economic Report 2009: Accelerating Reform. ADB TA6463-Reg: Vanuatu Pier. 31 Vanuatu Health Service Delivery Profile, 2012 Version C – November 2019 73 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road are the requirements for corroboration of victims’ testimony and to provide proof of physical resistance in order to establish lack of consent. Fault-based divorce is practiced in Vanuatu and, under the Matrimonial Causes Act, the courts have a duty to promote the reconciliation of couples. Vanuatu family law does not provide for the equal division of matrimonial property in the event of a divorce. Three in five women (60%) who have ever been in a relationship have experienced either physical or sexual violence (or both) by a husband or intimate partner. Almost half of Vanuatu women (48%) have experienced non-partner physical or sexual violence or both since they turned 15. About 84% of the Vanuatu population agrees with the statement “sexual abuse is a big problem in Vanuatu” and two- thirds agreed that “children are most often abused by someone they know and trust”. About 40% of young people in Vanuatu have exchanged sex for money or gifts. Approximately 81% of men and 79% of women believe that women sometimes deserve to be beaten, while 91% of men and 84% of women believe that domestic violence is a private matter, and should be handled within the family.32 Livelihoods and Economic Activity Vanuatu’s per-capita GDP of USD$. 3,033 in 2018 ranks it as a lesser developed nation being 134 th of 196 countries with GDP ranking33 , and 89.9% of its households are engaged in vegetable crop production, 63% in cash crop production, and 43.8% in fishing. Most manufactured goods and petroleum products must be imported. Other important cash crops and exports include kava and beef. In Sanma, 25% of the labour force were employed in 2016. Also, others rely on producing goods (37.7%), unpaid family worker (31.6%), volunteer work (1.7%), and economically inactive (3.2%). Moreover, there were 609 seasonal workers working in New Zealand and 123 seasonal workers working in Australia in 2016. Land Tenure, Access and Acquisition Over half of land (61%) in Vanuatu is held under customary tenure, where every member of landholding entity, such as tribal, clan or family is vested with the rights to use and access it. Non-owners usually have limited rights such as right of use, easement or right of way. There are five options available within the laws of Vanuatu to obtain customary-owned land in the country: (i) Through bloodline – descendants; (ii) Through “a will” of a custom land owner; (iii) Perpetual right to use the land through the consent of the land owner; (iv) By a formal lease from the land owner; and (v) through the Land Acquisition (Amendment) Act 2014 for public interest. The first three options are transactions through the traditional governance system, and the government could use Options (ii) and (iii) process for acquiring land for public interest. Both have been used for public institutions such as schools, health centres, etc. Option (ii) will involve voluntary transfer of ownership to the government, through custom ceremonies, involving exchanging custom gifts (e.g., pigs, mats food, etc., according to the custom of a particular area) in exchange for the land. Option (v) compulsory land acquisition is not considered as a means to acquire land under this project as this is only a last resort for the government as it will cause unnecessary issues between the landowners and the government. And most importantly, commonly in rural areas, customary landowners are always willing to provide land for public purposes such as roads. There is also a process that guides the decision making in disputed customary lands through the local land courts (Nakamals) under the Customary Land Tribunal Act No.7 of 2001 [CAP.271]. It legislated a 32 https://asiapacific.unwomen.org/en/countries/fiji/co/vanuatu 33 https://countryeconomy.com/gdp/vanuatu Version C – November 2019 74 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road new system for dealing with customary land disputes. It also establishes the process for Land Tribunals to be set up from Village, Area and Island Land Tribunals. This process allows land disputes to be elevated to the Supreme Court if local customary land courts could not make a determination on customary ownership. The Land Acquisition Act [CAP 1992] sets out procedures for exercising the government’s powers to acquire land in the public interest. The first step is a decision by the Minister that particular land is required for a “public purpose”, which the Act defines as “utilization of land necessary or expedient in the public interest and includes a purpose which under any other written law is deemed to be a public purpose.”34 It establishes a procedure, from initial notification and investigation to notice of intended acquisition, appeals, inquiry into compensation, further appeals, payment of compensation and taking of possession. The Act allows the government to acquire both customary and leased or alienated land, but in practice the government usually negotiates with landowners to avoid compulsory acquisition. The Land Acquisition (Amendment) Act [CAP 1992]2014 (No. 31 of 2014) The Land Acquisition (Amendment) Act 2014 amends the Land Acquisition Act 1992, with the inclusion of a new section (7A), which gives power to the Minister to stop an acquisition process if he or she is satisfied that the proposed acquisition could be detrimental to the State. It also amends Section 9 on matters to be considered in determining compensation. The Minister may direct the acquiring officer to investigate in the suitability of land for acquisition and to serve notices of investigation or intended acquisition on the custom owners or persons interested in the land. The Minister shall decide whether that land or easement shall be acquired, after having heard possible objections of owners and the acquiring officer's recommendations on those objections. Where the Minister decides under Section 4 that a particular land or easement should be acquired under this Act, he or she shall make a written declaration to that effect. Other provisions concern compensation and other procedures for the taking of possession by the State and appeals to the Supreme Court. Land Acquisition: Project activities may require permanent land access and in these cases an Abbreviated and Resettlement Action Plan (ARAP) is required. For land acquisition, the following procedures apply: 1. PWD/MIPU with support from International/National Social Safeguards Specialists (ISS/NSS) will undertake scoping to gather information on the land subject to acquisition, donation, or swap: its physical attributes (boundary areas and use), the fixed assets on it, its ownership, and any issues or disputes which may make land acquisition difficult. 2. The safeguards team discloses the project information during a community consultation/meeting. 3. The government establishes a Community Liaison Committee (CLC) with a broad selection of community representatives. 4. The ISS/NSS produce a scoping report which identifies impacts and the needed studies and instruments to address these impacts. The outputs of the scoping exercise are a scoping report and the outline for the preparation of an ARAP. 5. An assessment of the land acquisition resettlement impacts is undertaken and seeks to identify the positive and negative social impacts of the project, including resettlement. The results of the LAR impact assessment are incorporated into the ARAP. Besides impact identification and analysis, the assessment of LAR impacts elaborates on measures to (i) enhance positive impacts such as measures to promote equitable access to project by different Aps; and (ii) mitigate negative impacts. An assessment of LAR impacts consists of the following: a. Demographic and socio-economic study of affected persons b. Ethnic and inter-generational relations (where applicable) c. Poverty and vulnerability analysis of APs 34 Republic of Vanuatu, 1992, Land Acquisition Act, Part I, Interpretation of “public purpose” Version C – November 2019 75 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road d. LAR and other social impacts e. Gender analysis of APs f. Institutional analysis of organisations which are involved in implementing mitigation and enhancement measures on LAR. LAR planning identifies measures to avoid, minimize, offset or compensate the negative impacts of LAR and to improve, or at least restore, standard of living and livelihood of affected persons to pre-project levels. Assessment of LAR impacts and the LAR planning use quantitative and qualitative methods of research. Examples of the first are surveys and census. Qualitative studies include community meetings, focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and participant observation. The output of the ISS/NSS and LAR studies is the ARAP which incorporates the results of LAR impacts. 6. The draft and final ARAP is disclosed in a timely manner, in an accessible place and a form and language understandable to the affected persons and other stakeholders. The CLO facilitates the disclosure of the ARAP in the project location. 7. With the CAC, the I/NSS consults with the landowners on accessing or acquiring the land. The options of granting through “a will” of a custom land owner or through (iii ) Perpetual right to use the land through the consent of the land owner, is presented to and discussed with the landowners. In the case of customary landowners, the tribal representatives or leaders are asked to discuss with their members, document the proceedings, and decide. 8. During the detailed design phase, the land to be acquired is surveyed, physical markers are installed, geotagged and marked on the cadastral map or the detailed design drawings. 9. After the physical survey of the land, the CLO tags and photographs the affected assets and identifies their owners. An inventory of losses (IOL) report is generated. Annual crops are allowed to be grown and harvested prior to the start of civil works. 10. Valuation of the non-land assets are undertaken by a private appraiser engaged by the PIU. If the non-land assets are small in number, the PIU may undertake valuation using the latest schedules of the Valuer-General and the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Forestry Fisheries, and Biosecurity and Livestock Development. 11. A census is conducted among the APs. For customary land, a survey is done instead. The census also identifies who have principal and secondary rights to the affected land. The census results are incorporated into the updated ARAP. The census is done to identify the level of loss of the customary owners if they are to donate the land. And if land is to be acquired by the government, to identify those who are eligible for entitlements and the vulnerable among them. Vulnerable groups consist of poor and female headed households, widows, the elderly, persons with disabilities, and children. 12. The end of the census is the cut-off date. The safeguards team, the CLC, and the detailed design consultant publicize the cut-off date in the project site. Any person who sets up a structure for whatever purpose or introduces improvements with the exception of annual crops after the cut-off date is ineligible for compensation. 13. The LAR budget is updated to reflect the current prices of the affected non-land assets to reflect the value of the customary owners’ donation to the project. And if the land is to be purchased by the government, the budget will reflect the land purchase or rental price agreed upon by the MLHS and the customary landowners. 14. The updated ARAP goes through another round of review and approval. The WB Social Safeguard Specialist reviews these documents. When the updated ARAP is found satisfactory, MIPU accepts and discloses the ARAP. 15. Negotiations continue during this stage, and if successfully concluded, the MIPU enters into a MOU (for land donation) or for land acquisition (if to purchase) with the different landowners. The MOU is signed by the landowners, the Director General of MLHS, MIPU and a third party. The MIPU submits the MOU to the Attorney General’s Office for review and concurrence. The MOU is brought to a notary who will enter into the legal record, thereby making it legally binding on the parties in agreement. Version C – November 2019 76 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road 16. The land donation will be concluded by the celebration of a traditional customary land donation ceremony. (Or, through issuance and payment to the customary landowners in the case of land acquisition) Solid Waste Management For the purposes of this project, solid waste includes: • General waste (i.e. office type waste, household waste (from any workers camps), lightweight packaging materials). • Recyclable waste (i.e. certain plastics, metals, rubber etc. that can be recycled). • Organic biodegradable waste (i.e. waste that will decay / break down in a reasonable amount of time, such as green waste, food waste). • Inorganic non-recyclable waste (i.e. waste that cannot decompose / break down and which cannot be recycled). • Hazardous waste (i.e. asbestos, waste oil etc.) Santo has a permitted landfill located just outside of Luganville. The landfill is managed by the Luganville Municipal Community (LMC). This landfill is coming to the end of its life and it likely to be relocated in the near future. This landfill only accepts general waste. Vanuatu’s main landfill, Bouffa Landfill, is on the island of Efate to the east of Port Vila. This landfill is managed by the Port Vila Municipal Council and accepts general waste, waste from septic tanks and some hazardous waste. Version C – November 2019 77 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road 6 Stakeholder Engagement and Consultation During the detailed design phase of the South Santo Road works, stakeholder engagement will be critical to the review of detailed designs, the identification of impacts and the selection of mitigation options and the prioritisation of investments for funding and implementation scheduling. It is important that the affected communities – including women and vulnerable groups – are given the opportunity through consultations to be made aware of the proposed activities, and to comment and contribute to the project design. Consultation sessions should be designed to ensure that women and vulnerable groups have the opportunity to effectively and equally participate. Stakeholder participation will ensure compliance with OP4.10 through free prior and informed consent. It will include consultation with traditional leaders such as village chiefs, members of the provincial council of chiefs (Malvatumauri Council of Chiefs), and chiefs from different area councils along South Santo Road. The PIU will be responsible for ensuring ongoing meaningful consultations for all project activities. The Executive Summary of this ESIA will be translated into Bislama and will be disclosed with the ESIA and also used during consultations. The ESIA and ESMP will be disclosed in hard copy at the following places: • PWD office in Port Vila • PWD office on Santo • Area Council Offices • Village Office in Tasiriki • SANMA PGC Office It will also be uploaded onto the World Bank’s project website and uploaded to the VCRTP and/or DEPC Project website. The same disclosure will be required for all Project safeguard documents including ESMP, CESMP and ARAP. 6.1 Stakeholder Engagement and Consultation Program The program needs to be updated and refined throughout the lifecycle of the Project. During this process the focus and scope of the SECP will change to reflect the varying stages of project implementation and to encompass any changes to project design. The implementation plan is included in Table 4. Engagement Mediums Table 11 below lists the recommended engagement mediums that are appropriate for SECP activities proposed as part of the implementation plan components in Section 6.2.4. Because of the myriad of activities and different stakeholders needs at different times, a wide range of communications methods and mediums are proposed. Table 11: Recommended engagement mediums Medium Description Stakeholder Meetings Structured Agenda This agenda is developed based on project component under consultation and the stage of its implementation. Putting a focused agenda together will ensure that key strategic and risk items can be discussed with important decision-makers and influencers in an effort to mitigate risk proactively. Community based These consultations are focused to identify and discuss stakeholder concerns or to provide consultations feedback using detailed information. These consultations should, wherever feasible, be held within the community environment. Version C – November 2019 78 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Specific These consultations are focused to identity and discuss project affected persons’ group/individual feedback, concerns etc. on the scope of works and their consent to allow their assets to consultation be affected to construct the proposed project. Written / visual communications ESMP Executive This needs to be a short and concise document providing jargon-free information Summary describing the project actions, the potential social and environmental impacts, the need for the project and the contact details for the project team. It will be translated into Pijin and will include informative graphics from the main document to ensure that literacy is not a barrier. Notice boards Notice boards (community, and work site entrances) are a good tool to use for communication of up-to-date project information such as timing and duration of works, upcoming consultations, project progress and other relevant project information. Info graphics will be included as well as written notices. Notice boards are used by councils as a major means of communicating project activities (e.g. quarries) Maps Maps are effective when placing into context well known locations, linear and single site developments, change of fixed locations for developments, location options for developments and anticipated distances between developments or well-known locations. Letters Formal method of communication usually intended to convey very specific messages. Alternatively, it is used as a formal method for request of information. Emails Using emails for in-country stakeholders can pose a challenge because of limited internet access due to insufficient telecommunications and/or supporting IT infrastructure. NGOs and most of the Government Ministries do have access to email which can be utilised for communications, but arranging of formal community consultations is best arranged through other methods of communication. Newspapers Newspapers are usually best suited for formal announcements or to reach a wide /adverts spectrum of stakeholders quickly. It is however very important that the message content is carefully compiled since it is a one-way communication medium and can quickly cause misunderstanding or confusion if not clearly written. Media Radio Radio is still a popular means of communication in the area thus a good medium to stimulate awareness and prepare stakeholders for larger events or refined communication to take place. This would be appropriate for South Santo Road (as radio is a common source of information in the area). Other PWD/MIPU PWD will be the ‘familiar faces’ of the project and will, for many stakeholders at the community level, represent the most direct channel to the project. Mobile Phone Use of the mobile phone is still regarded as the preferred method for communication because of accessibility and speed. Having a discussion over a phone in order to ensure mutual understanding between two parties is quicker and easier compared to sending an email, waiting for reply. The mode of consultation will vary according to the subproject and the participants, but in all cases will promote participation by ensuring that the venue is accessible, the timing convenient and a participatory approach to ensure the consultations are socially and culturally appropriate. Consultations will be announced to give sufficient notice for participants to prepare and provide input to project design. Version C – November 2019 79 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Key Messages Key messages will need to be developed as each component is prepared in more detail during implementation. For the physical investments planned for the South Santo road works, the key messages should be developed around the following and confirmed once the project details are confirmed: South Santo Road Works Key Messages: • Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities (MIPU) will improve oversight and monitoring of road works • MIPU will require contractor to observe required behaviour in the community during construction • Improved access to regular/larger markets for rural communities • Improved road safety • Improved economic development for village communities • Improved commerce for local businesses and women groups • Increase in job opportunities for locals 6.2 Consultations and Stakeholder Engagement Stakeholder Identification A stakeholder is defined as a person or group who has an interest in a particular decision or activity relating to VCRTP, either as an individual or as a representative of a group. This includes people who can influence a decision, or can influence actions, as well as those affected by it. For the VCRTP, stakeholder groups will include villages, schools and youth groups adjacent to road and bridge upgrades, provincial government, and its surrounding communities and villages. Stakeholders for works have been and will continue to be identified on a continuing basis by: • Identifying the various categories of parties who may be affected by or interested in the project; and • Identifying specific individuals or organisations within each of these categories taking into account: o The expected area of influence of the project, that is the geographic area over which it may cause impacts (both positive and negative) over its lifetime, and therefore the localities within which people, schools and businesses could be affected; o The nature of the impacts that could arise and therefore the types of government bodies, NGOs, academic and research institutes and other bodies who may have an interest in these issues. Stakeholder Groups Stakeholder groups applicable to the works under VCRTP are listed and described below. This list is not exhaustive, and more groups will be added as they are identified. 6.2.2.1 National Government Authorities National authorities are defined as those agencies of the GoV who have the power to regulate or influence the Project in terms of granting permits or other approvals for the Project, and monitoring and enforcing compliance with GoV law throughout the project implementation cycle. It is important to continue a productive dialogue with these national authorities throughout project implementation. DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AND CONSERVATION (DEPC): The DEPC is responsible for development, coordination and implementation of the Government’s environmental policies and programs. This includes assessing the environmental impact of proposed developments, working with Version C – November 2019 80 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road communities to establish Community Consultation Areas; working with researchers to learn more about the unique environment and working with municipal and provincial governments to manage waste and pollution. The DEPC is also responsible for issuing environmental permits and monitoring for their compliance. MINISTRY OF LANDS AND NATURAL RESOURCES : This ministry is responsible for several areas of responsibility for VCRTP. The relevant departments within this ministry include Department of Water Resources (DWR) issues Water Use and Water Works consents and monitors for their compliance; Geology and Mines Unit (GMU) who are responsible for issuing quarry permits, monitoring for their compliance and liaising with the resource owners; and the Department of Lands, Survey and Registry who will work closely with the VCRTP to secure the land required for the re-alignment sections. MINISTRY OF INFRASTRUCTURE AND PUBLIC UTILITIES (MIPU): The MIPU focuses on the development of important infrastructure across Vanuatu. The Ministries Public Works Department (PWD) are responsible for executing this project and managing the infrastructure once it has been completed. 6.2.2.2 Local Governance The Sanma Provincial Council are responsible for running the daily affairs of Santo. The council is elected every four years, the party which has the vast majority of seats sets up the provincial government. The head of the provincial government is the President of Sanma province. The headquarters of the province is located in the town centre of Luganville. Some works are proposed for Luganville Municipality and are also responsible for running the main market in Luganville. The Luganville Municipal Council Offices are located in Luganville. Area Council(s) comprised of Chiefs along the South Santo Road will also be key local governance stakeholders as the works move through their various jurisdictions. The Area Secretary of South Santo will be a key stakeholder for supporting the Contractor and the PIU in its consultations with the South Santo landowners and land lease holders. 6.2.2.3 Affected Communities and Individuals This group will include all people who may be directly or indirectly affected by the VCRTP investments along the South Santo Road. It will include communities (majority customary landowners), farmers and villages located adjacent to the road works and upgrades, hauling routes, and other relevant public sites. It will also include regular pedestrian users of the road such as youth groups and pupils from the schools as well as school teachers and leaders. 6.2.2.4 Civil Societies and NGOs This group includes smaller groups in society who may have an interest in the South Santo Road works and the VCRTP and its social and environmental aspects. SANMA PROVINCIAL WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION: As well as representing the women of the province, they also represent the interest of lower income people and people with disabilities. VANUATU NATIONAL COUNCIL OF WOMEN: The Council was founded to represent women in Vanuatu. It encourages the participation of women in decision-making on the Islands. The objectives of the organisation are as follows: • Promote and coordinate activities for women throughout Vanuatu; • Act as a representative body for women to the GoV and other entities; • Advise the GoV on policies and issues of concern to women; • Undertake awareness and advocacy on international relevant instruments; • Provide a forum through which women can have a voice on issues affecting them; • Encourage participation of women in decision making processes and bodies; • Promote awareness at all levels women’s concerns; Version C – November 2019 81 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road • Promote formation of effective partnerships with other entities as appropriate; and • The Sanma Provincial Council of Women works in coordination with the National Women’s Council to advocate and support women issues on Santo. DISABLED PERSONS ORGANIZATIONS (DPOS): Disability Promotion and Advocacy Association (DPAA) is the national DPO in Vanuatu. DPAA is a central, registered, urban-based non-profit organisation with a constitution, an elected board, full-time, paid and voluntary staff and secure office facilities. It is an organisation founded and managed by people with disabilities in Vanuatu, to advocate for the rights of people with disabilities and to work together to improve their situation in Vanuatu. RELIGIOUS ORGANISATIONS : Church activity and attendance is a core practice for locals and require close and ongoing communication and consultations with church leaders. LOCAL FARMERS AND AGRICULTURAL GROUPS: Roadside vendors and farmers who work along the road and use the road for their business needs. COMMUNITY CONSERVATION AREAS: Committee members and managers of the CCAs along the South Santo Road (Wairua Nature Reserve and (informal CCA) Reef and Giant Clam Park) 6.2.2.5 Public The public will be stakeholders in the development and implementation of the road works that will be conducted along the road. Stakeholder Engagement and Consultation Plan (SECP) The SECP shall be incorporated and adapted to be relevant to any updates to this ESMP. During this process the focus and scope of the SECP will change to reflect the varying stages of project implementation and to encompass any changes to project design. The implementation plan is included in Table 4. In all instances, consultations will be deigned to ensure free, prior and informed consent of the affected communities with the aim to maintain the broad community support for the project which has been demonstrated to date. Implementation Plan The Implementation Plan (Table 12) is for the lifecycle of the subproject and constitutes the following components: Activity: the various operational consultation activities that will be undertaken as part of the SECP Objective: the target that each activity needs to reach Stakeholder: the various stakeholders to be targeted during implementation of the SECP activity; and Medium: the method by which the engagement or consultation will be done As the subprojects are confirmed, the SECP and implementation plan shall be incorporated into the ESMPs in consultation with the VCRTP NSS. Table 12: Stakeholder Engagement and Consultation Implementation Plan No VCRTP Activity Timetable Objective Stakeholders Medium A: Physical Investments (South Santo Road & Bridge Upgrades) Version C – November 2019 82 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road No VCRTP Activity Timetable Objective Stakeholders Medium Structured Agenda Bring stakeholders along with the One-on-One decision making Consultations around the site and Public meetings Feasibility, decision on From Project type of All identified A1 the sites / technologies effectiveness through investments. Focus group and preliminary designs to tendering. Discuss potential discussions (women, impacts and youth, and people mitigation with disability) measures. Emails and letters Key messages Phone calls To disclose ESMP Newspaper All identified Website Prior to tendering Advise Communities Disclosure of updates to Prior to works stakeholders of A2 Site occupants (State One-on-one the ESMP starting preliminary owned enterprises. consultations designs and Government agencies) updated mitigation Executive Summary and management Site users (if different plan. from above) Keep stakeholders Government agencies, Emails, One-on-one Once Contractor is on involved in any site occupants, site users consultations A3 Pre-Construction board and prior to design updates. (local community, people Newspaper and works starting Public with disability) websites announcements All identified To advise all stakeholders stakeholders of Newspaper commencement of Site occupants (State Email civil works. owned enterprises. Week before Government agencies) Commencement of A5 commencement of Works Community Notice works and continuous. To reconfirm Community Boards ongoing consultation, Site occupants (State Building Notice feedback and owned enterprises. Boards GRM processes Government agencies) Website Version C – November 2019 83 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Resources and Responsibilities The implementation of the SECP will be the overall responsibility of the VCRTP PIU, but on South Santo Road will be facilitated by the PIU National Safeguards Specialist (NSS). There are several facets to the works that are covered within this plan with PWD being the common denominator across the works as such, it is important that PWD are represented at each of the one-one-on consultations by a nominated staff member. The NSS who will take the lead role in the implementation of the SECP. The NSS will be responsible for arranging and facilitating the meetings as it appropriate with their in-depth knowledge of the natural, social and traditional environments within Vanuatu. The NSS will also be the focal point for all stakeholder queries and contacts in relation to the implementation of the SECP or the GRM. It is also the responsibility of the PIU and NSS to ensure that gender balance is achieved throughout the implementation of the SECP and the NSS will make culturally appropriate recommendations on strategies to achieve this such as separate meetings for males and females or targeting female input through women’s groups. During the construction phase, the Contractor(s) will be required to participate in the public consultations. The costs for participation are considered included in the bid and this requirement will be included in their contract. 6.3 Public Consultations to Date A series of public consultations and stakeholder meetings were held during the months of 17 September to 2 October 2019 with the aim of providing meaningful, free, prior and informed consultations with stakeholder groups and to provide an opportunity for all parties to provide input into the Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project and to seek broad community support for the project. The consultations did show this broad support which is reflected in the consultation minutes (Appendix F). The meetings targeted three groups of stakeholders: (a) provincial government agencies and development partners in Port Vila and Luganville; (b) NGOs and civil society groups; (c) the South Santo Road and West Santo community members, women members and leaders, and tribal chiefs and included consultation with traditional leaders such as village chiefs, members of the provincial council of chiefs (Malvatumauri Council of Chiefs), and chiefs from different area councils along South Santo Road attended the project consultations. To ensure that the consultations were conducted in a culturally appropriate manner, the representative of these traditional leaders from the provincial level (Malvatumauri) and relevant area of council of chiefs (Tavuemasana Council) were invited to the first provincial consultation held by PWD/MIPU with the provincial departments and their assistance to facilitate consultations with customary land owning communities and with customary landowner APs were sought, following the government procedure in engaging with the majority of indigenous communities along the road. Project consultations started with a consultation at the provincial level through meeting with the Provincial Secretary-General and head of other relevant government agencies in Sanma Province at the start of the safeguard consultants' mission on 18 September 2019. This was followed by a community meeting in the farthest section of the project road (Tasariki) on 19 September 2019 attended by the local chiefs, church leaders, councillors, area administrator, men and women in the nearby villages who are interested to hear about the project and participate in the consultation. Another consultation was held with the communities halfway between Luganville and Tasariki at Nakere Village during the Sanma Provincial anniversary celebration on 24 and 27 September. Again, this was attended by the chiefs, customary landowners, church, women and youth leaders, and members from at least 10 villages in the area who have repeatedly expressed their support for the road upgrading project considered as "dream come true" for the local population. Version C – November 2019 84 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Local community consultations were well attended by community leaders and members with people walking at least an hour or two from the surrounding villages to reach the consultation sites. Also, customary landowners and leaseholders demonstrated their support to the project through the signing of consent forms to allow the government access to their lands for realignment and another project requirement. Chiefs, customary landowners, church leaders men, women and youth, kava farmers, attended in large numbers during community meetings. Figure 31: (left). Community consultation in Tasiriki Village, end of South Santo Road (right). Also, focus group discussion with women from Vimele (lower left) and Tangoa (lower right) communities. Some groups identified represent vulnerable person or groups along the South Santo Road, and while no vulnerable individuals or disadvantaged people were identified as being adversely affected, Sanma Provincial Women’s Association Leaders were consulted. They represent the interest of lower income people and people with disabilities and provided recommendations to be incorporated into the road improvement design particularly provision of footpath/disabled access along the road and bridges. Stakeholder meetings were held from 17 September to 2 October 2019 on Luganville, South Santo Road and Port Vila. Key meetings included the following government organizations, customary leaders, community-based organizations, NGOs, and individuals (Appendix F Minutes of Meetings):: Table 13: Summary of stakeholder meetings for South Santo Road Organization Contact Notes World Bank Dung Anh Hoang, Senior Transport Discussed project scope, priorities, Specialist, World Bank deadline. Sanma Province Albert Ruddley, Secretary General, Discussed road works priorities, scope, Version C – November 2019 85 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Sanma Province, together with 14 timing and required support for South provincial and municipal government Santo Road Project officials. Also provincial and area council chiefs attended the consultation Provincial Lands Office Manses Fatdal, Senior Land Officer Options for securing required lands within the bridge realignment areas. with Lands Surveyor and Geologist, Customary Land Officer, Deputy Planner, and Chief. Tasiriki/Belmol Villages Chief (with community members Discussed project scope, priorities, and leaders, women) options, signing of consent form Northern Island Market Vendors’ Marie Vuti, President Discussed project scope, benefits, Association (South Santo Road concerns, recommendations and Nancy Supe, Saviki Village, association) importance of bridges, culverts West Coast Department of Women’s Affairs Glorai Taleo, Desk Officer West Coast leaders and community Joseph Mape (also works at Health Discussed project scope, benefits, Department) concerns, recommendations members (Luganville residents) Nakere and nearby communities Area Council, Chairperson Discussed project scope, benefits, concerns, recommendations Community women’s groups Glorai Taleo, Desk Officer Discussed project scope, benefits, (Vimele, Tangoa, Naranngo, concerns, recommendations Vunavus, and Pelmol villages) South Santo Land Owners and Area Secretary of South Santo Discussed project scope, benefits, Land Lease Claimers (including concerns, recommendations and signing Wairua Nature Reserve CCA of consent forms for re-alignment landowners) Version C – November 2019 86 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Figure 32: Consultation with Landowners and Leaseholders (Sarakate to Tasiriki) Key areas of discussion during the September 2019 mission to Santo included: • The Provincial Government stated that the project was a priority for the Provincial Government. • Chiefs said that the South Santo Road upgrading has been discussed and a hope for by these communities. • LMC Town Planner mentioned that the proposed retaining wall at Tasiriki may be affected later due to climate change, but that the chiefs should work with his people alongside Department of Environment/Climate Change for mitigation measures such as tree planting, creepers, grasses, etc. that help to retain the foreshore. • Secretary General suggested that because timeframe is short, it would be more appropriate to outline dates for meetings and which department should be involved to help technical personnel from different sectors in Santo Government Offices to make themselves available for the consultation meetings as well. Fix a taskforce team. This outline will be followed and then members from taskforce team (reps from each sectors) could be present during those meetings. • Graham Lele (Customary Lands Management Office) re-emphasized the language to be used – especially when addressing the “compensation” aspect, that the chiefs should also play a big role in explaining to their people to understand that their sacrifices of land, root crops/trees in their support to this project for this road/bridge development. • Another chief also reiterated that this is the same situation with the people of East Santo prior to the road construction, Communities want a road constructed for ease of access to town thus no compensation were asked for by the landowners and leaseholders. Sacrifices were done for the sake of development. As part of the consultation mission for South Santo Road upgrades commenced on 18 September 2019. The first consultation commenced with the provincial and municipal government and relevant agencies on Version C – November 2019 87 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road 18 September 2019 held at the Provincial Government’s Offices. The consultation mission team was led by the PWD Operations Manager with support from the International and National Social Safeguards Specialist, National Environmental Specialist, and WB Program Assistant. 15 provincial government officials attended the consultation. Figure 33: Consultation planning with the Sanma Provincial Government and relevant 10 agencies including PWD, Provincial Planning, Customary Lands, Department of Lands, and Area Chief on road and bridge works priorities (right photo). Smaller group meeting with the support agencies Customary Lands Officer, Lands Officer and Chief to assist the VCRTP safeguards team consultations. The smaller group planning/consultation was also conducted also on Thursday, 18 September 2019, consisted by the International and National Social Safeguards Specialist, National Environmental Specialist, PWD Operations Manager, WB Program Assistant, met with Luganville Town Planner, Lands Officer, Custom Lands Officer, Chief and Lands Survey Officer to discuss approaches for the community consultations. Version C – November 2019 88 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Figure 34: Consultation with the villagers of Tasiriki and Belmol , Tribal Chiefs (top), and Women (below) On Thursday, 19 September 2019, the first community consultation meeting was conducted with the communities including chiefs, men, and women in the farthest road section of South Santo Road (Tasiriki and Belmol villages). Approximately over 50 people attended. The key areas of discussion included: • The people and villages of Tasiriki and Belmol are very supportive of the WB road and bridges upgrading. It has been the communities’ dream to have this road sealed and bridges fixed especially at Navaka River. • Quality of road works is critical for the communities to ensure that the bridges will last. As at least one bridge collapsed twice. • Question on how many meters will be allowed for road width. • Former councilor asked re properties what the project will do if fences are to be removed or damaged due to the project, cattle may go out and damage the gardens. What can be done? • Requested to be shown a map of proposed project. A map was provided to participants showing the proposed bridge realignments. • Formed Councilor mentioned they will inform the team re cultural/historical/taboo sites so it can be clearly marked out in maps. One was initially identified. • Women consulted expressed their support for the project and the benefits they expect it will bring including more frequent and cheaper fare for public transport to bring produce to Luganville, improved access to health services particularly during births, and local children to be able to regularly travel to school and home instead of waiting months before coming home during school breaks. Version C – November 2019 89 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Figure 35: Consultation with Northern Island Market Vendors Association (women from South Santo area) and with Department of Women’s Affairs On Friday, 20 September 2019 at 11am, a consultation was conducted with the leaders of the Northern Island Market Vendors Association, whose female members are from the project site. Their president and a member from West Coast Santo were in attendance. The key areas of discussion included: • The women leaders and their members are very supportive of the project. Improve access to market, increase opportunities to buy vehicles for marketing and tourism were key income opportunities cited by women. • The association’s president mentioned that the cost of vehicle maintenance will be lower. • Kava sellers will be able to buy vehicles once road is upgraded. • Concerned though on road safety thus recommended road safety measures to be installed such as humps, signages, pedestrian lane. Also recommended to conduct awareness among drivers on road safety rules and enforcement of rules for drivers who have no license or who violate traffic rules. Figure 36: Consultation with West Santo Community Version C – November 2019 90 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road On Friday, 20 September 2019 at 3pm, a consultation with West Coast of Santo were also conducted. Eight community leaders and members attended at the PWD conference room. • Leaders mentioned that people on the West Coast of Santo at present travel by boat to Luganville via Tasiriki. A number of them travel as far as 8 hours by boat to get to Tasiriki to take the public vehicle to Luganville. If the river is flooded, at times, they wait for 3-5 days in Tasiriki to sell their produce or to reach the hospital, even during medical emergencies. • Expressed gratitude for considering upgrading the Santo Road. On Tuesday, 2 October 2019 at 9:27 am, a consultation with landowners land lease claimers throughout the length of the 60 km road from Sarakata Bridge to Tasiriki village was conducted by the safeguards team. • This meeting is purposely consulting with the South Santo Landowners and Land Lease Claimers, to give their consent towards the Proposed Project of some new realignments of roads from Sarakata Bridge down to Tasiriki. • The landowners representative responded that this project needs everyone cooperation in order for the project to be carried out. • The Sanma President stated that it is important for all landowners from Area 1 and 2 need to show their support for the project. • Family Saletui Simi fully agree to allow the land for access of any project equipment or workers to access within their boundary. He stated that It is their longtime dream. Then he signed the consent form. Also, he emphasis to other land owners to leave their differences and be happy for the upcoming project. • Mavun landowners and representative also responded positively and agreed for land to use as quarry site. He also signed the consent form. • Tasiriki landowner expressed his fear if the project commences, there will be disturbance similar to previous projects, where workers got involved with community members resulting to marital affairs and teenage pregnancy. • Area 1 chief asked the question if this project can also employ member communities. 6.4 Grievance Redress Mechanism During the course of these proposed works, it is possible that people may have concerns or grievances with the project’s performance which may include any aspect of the implementation or an activity or a component of the project. Issues may occur during project preparation, design, construction and again during operation. Any concerns will need to be addressed quickly and transparently, and without retribution to the affected person (AP) or group of people involved. Complaints can be made through different channels, such as the traditional and culturally responsive local practice of using the local chiefs as the priority contact. The chiefs represent tribal groups/clans in the community. Complaints can also be made online, phone, in-person, the local GBV/Human Trafficking/SAE Service Provider, the manager(s), or the Police. Complaints should be able to be made in different ways such as online, via telephone or mail, or in person. Anonymity should be ensured if the complainant so desires it, especially about GBV/Human Trafficking/SAE. This GRM has been developed to satisfy both Vanuatu legislative and WB GRM requirements as well as being developed in line with the Country Safeguard Systems. If there were a need to use the GRM then the following process is to be used. Version C – November 2019 91 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Complaints: Minor concerns or complaints that are given verbally to the Contractor or Supervision Engineer on site, the process would commence with an attempt to sort out the problem directly at the subproject level between the Contractor and the concerned individual or community. Most complaints arise during construction are expected to be minor complaints concerning traffic, dust or noise that should be able to be resolved quite easily. All complaints arriving at the Contractors Site Office are to be forwarded to the Contractors Community Liaison Officer (CLO) and entered into the complaints register that is maintained by the Contractor and kept at the site. Details recorded will be: date, name, contact address and reason for the complaint. A duplicate copy is given to the AP for their record at the time of registering the complaint. The register will show when the issue is to be dealt with and who has been directed to deal with the complaint, the date that the AP was informed of the decision and how the decision was conveyed to the AP. The register is then signed off the person who is responsible for the decision and dated. For most complaints, if immediate resolution is achieved and the complainant is satisfied, the matter will be recorded in the site diary and reported in the regular monthly report submitted and considered closed. Grievances: If the issue cannot be resolved at the complaint level then it will be considered to be a grievance and will be addressed by being referred by the Contractor or Supervision Engineer toward the Community Liaison Officer (CLO) within the PIU. The CLO will log it into the ‘Grievance and Complaints Logging System’ (GCLS) database for tracking and reporting on resolution. In accordance with the World Bank’s ‘Citizen Engagement’ commitments under IDA 17, key indicators from the GRM are published online at the VCRTP project website. All complaints must be acknowledged within 24hrs. The following procedure is followed to address complaints: If it is impossible to resolve the complaint, or the complainant is not satisfied with the resolution, the case may be first escalated to Director General (DG) of MIPU who will appoint a third-party arbitrator to form part of a GRM committee. If the AP is dissatisfied with the recommendation of the GRM Committee and subsequent determination from the DG of the MIPU, the AP may appeal to court. This will be at the APs cost but if the court shows that the PS has been negligent in making their determination the AP will be able to seek costs. GCT: The VCRTP Code of Conduct and Action Plan for the Prevention of GBV, Human Trafficking, and SAE detail the specific GRM processes and responsibilities. The project shall establish a ‘GBV Compliance Team’ (GCT). The GCT will include, as appropriate to the project, at least four representatives as follows: the VCRTP PIU Community Liaison Officer, an appropriate Contractors representative, the supervision engineer and, a representative from the GBV/Human Trafficking/SAE service provider. WB Level Resolution: In addition to the above project level GRM, communities and individuals who believe that they are adversely affected by a WB supported project may submit complaints to the WB’s Version C – November 2019 92 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Grievance Redress Service (GRS). The GRS ensures that complaints received are promptly reviewed in order to address project-related concerns. Project affected communities and individuals may submit their complaint to the WB’s independent Inspection Panel which determines whether harm occurred, or could occur, as a result of WB non- compliance with its policies and procedures. Complaints may be submitted at any time after concerns have been brought directly to the WB’s attention, and WB Management has been given an opportunity to respond. For information on how to submit complaints to the World Bank’s corporate GRS, please visit http://www.worldbank.org/GRS. For information on how to submit complaints to the World Bank Inspection Panel, please visit www.inspectionpanel.org. Version C – November 2019 93 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road 7 Project Risks and Impacts The planned works on the South Santo Road have the potential to create a variety of impacts through its design and implementation. These impacts can either be positive (improve accessibility for community members) or negative (possible degradation of river quality) depending on the activity and the receptors involved. The impact of this project on the physical, biological and social environment has been assessed using methodology described in this chapter. 7.1 Initial Screening Sensitive Receptors Broad screening of the road network sections identified for VCRTP was undertaken for this ESMP through a combination of desktop study and site visits by the VCRTP safeguards team in September and October 2019. Desktop surveys included examination of existing Mapillary35 images uploaded by the WB Task Team from technical scoping trips of the road network. The output from the screening task is a high-level map overview of sensitive areas and receptors (both environmental and social). The maps are described below and provided in higher resolution in Appendix B. These maps are not exhaustive and should not be considered by users of this ESIA and ESMP to be a complete list of sensitive receptors. It is to be considered as an indicative guide to developers of the CESMP to give an indication of density and distribution of key sensitive receptors. A main feature of the road for much of the length of Section 3 is the presence of erosion channels on the road surface, areas of deep mud, standing water, and evidence of flooding across the road surface all indicative of the impact of water on the road. Much of Section 3 has very poor drainage and in several areas, the water table is very close to the surface leading to swampy conditions of frequent over-wash of the road. The following maps show the high-level results of this screening, the legend is listed first. BRIDGE NAMES: A - SARAKATA B - USA C - NAONEBAN D - VENUI E - VEANUS F - HUDSON G - NAKERE H – MANIAO I - WAILAPA J - OKORO K - WAIOLO L - NAVAKA M – VENTED DRIFT N - BOUVO 35 www.mapillary.com Version C – November 2019 94 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Figure 37: South Santo Road Section 1 - sealed section from Sarakata bridge to the boundary of the Luganville Municipality Figure 38: South Santo Road section 2 along the coastal plantation plain Version C – November 2019 95 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Figure 39: South Santo Bridge section 3 to the Navaka River Figure 40: South Santo Road Section three from the Navaka River to the end of the road at Tasiriki Screening Legend Explanation BRIDGES AND RIVER CROSSING : This covers all river crossings – bridge, culvert and ford. All rivers have environmental and social values. Bridges are also of varying suitability for carrying heavy traffic which the Contractors will identify in more detail during CESMP development and planning. Bridges also present areas of risk for pedestrian safety linked to construction traffic which will is addressed in the ESMP. Version C – November 2019 96 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Figure 41: Examples of bridges river ford crossings along the South Santo Road COASTAL EROSION : Some sections of the South Santo Road pass along or very close to beaches. In some areas these roads have been eroded by the coastal processes and wave action. The Design Engineer will need to map these areas in detail and consider the prevailing storm conditions in these areas. The design will need to include climate resilient designs for these sections of road. (Figure 42) Figure 42: Road erosion along coastline at Tasiriki STEEP SECTIONS: There are steep areas along the road which cause problems with road erosion and deep gullies are formed on the road surface. The majority of identified steep section with run off erosion problems are on ‘section 3’ of the South Santo Road which is to be expected as the road passes the through the lowland hills. The majority of this road undulates, but the map highlights the identified steeper sections with run off and erosion problems. (Figure 43) Version C – November 2019 97 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Figure 43: Steep section on southern road showing signs of run off and gullies. AGRICULTURAL PLANTATIONS : Most of the road is surrounded by large coconut plantations which are visible from Google Earth imagery. Most of the plantations come close to the road edge, some within the road reserve but not always up to the edge of the road itself (Figure 44). Figure 44: Large areas of coconut plantation on the northern road visible on Google Earth. Version C – November 2019 98 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road CATTLE PLANTATIONS : Along the coastal plain sections of the road (referred to as Section 2 in the technical assessment) the plantations are mostly wide-open areas of grassland used for cattle farming. There are some scattered coconut and other agricultural farms (particularly vanilla), but cattle are the dominant industry in this location. PORT: The end of the South Santo Road at Tasiriki terminate on the coast at a small port which people from west Santo use to land their boats and travel along the road to Luganville. If there has been heavy rain and the roads or rivers are impassible, the people arriving by boat often have to stay at a small shelter in Tasiriki for several days which impacts on the Tasiriki communities resources and causes some tensions between the groups. (Figure 45). Version C – November 2019 99 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Figure 45: (top and bottom) Port in Tasiriki at end of South Santo Road. VILLAGES : Villages are scattered along the length of the South Santo Road. Villages shown on the screening map have primary schools, playing fields and churches. In most cases around these settlements and village, habitation happens close to the road and banana plantation, roadside mahogany Version C – November 2019 100 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road plantations, taro patches and gardens. Most of the villages also have small stalls along the road for community members to sell produce, this happens a quite small-scale level. POOR DRAINAGE AREAS: These tend to be low spots in the roads near rivers which flood during rain and would likely benefit from road crossing culverts being installed. HIGH WATER TABLE: These are areas of the road which are in swampy or flood prone areas. They often have standing water alongside the road and are subject to overtopping during period of rain. The ESIA site visit took place after 3 dry months, however there were still multiple sites that had standing water and/or deep wet mud on the road. Elevation of the road should be considered in these areas much like areas in section 2 of the road which used to suffer the same conditions in swampy areas but are now passable all year round since their elevation. COMMUNITY CONSERVATION AREAS (CCA): Two areas were identified along the road which have some level of conservation activities on them. On the outskirts of Luganville is a tourism and conservation park which is recognized by the Santo Fisheries Department but is not a registered CCA. Further along the road is the Wairua Nature Reserve which was registered as a CCA in February 2019 and covers coastline, mangroves, inland lagoon, coastal forest and agricultural land. Traditionally in the pacific region, community level management areas are implemented at the with the focus of sustainable management of the marine resources, primarily fishery based. The Wairua Nature Reserve CCA is part of Vanuatu’s national CCA program which has the objective of assisting rural communities in taking responsible care of their marine resources. Any works at rivers or streams which feed into the two sites or in low lying coastal parts of the road which are in close proximity to the sites have the potential to impact on the quality of the water in the area through increase in sedimentation and hydrocarbon spills. Additional mitigation measures will be required for works within CCA catchment areas and the CESMP will be required to detail the management measures that will be put in place to protect the CCA. Version C – November 2019 101 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road 7.2 Determination of Impacts Environmental and Social Receptors The ESIA report focuses on environmental and social components that could be most affected by the Project and those that are a concern to governments, community members and stakeholders. The components are called Environmental and Social Receptors (ESR). Below are the identified ESR for this Project, and the specific factors that were considered for each in order to undertake the impact assessment. Factors to be considered Environmental and Social Receptor Water Resources • Changes in surface water movement • Changes in ground water quality • Changes in river water quality Geological Resources • Sand availability • Aggregate availability • Sustainability of river gravel extraction • Changes in soil quality River Hydrography • Changes to the flow regimes • Changes to the channel morphology • Changes to the ecosystem values • Changes to riverbank function Atmospheric Environment • Change in air quality Acoustic Environment • Change in sound quality (noise and vibration) Aquatic Environment • Change in benthic environment • Change in coastal water quality • Change in river habitats • Change in the usability of fisheries resources Terrestrial Environment • Change in wildlife populations including migratory birds and their habitat • Change in vegetation, particularly with respect to riverbank vegetation and new alignment sections Community Services and • Change in transportation network Infrastructure • Increased demand for solid waste disposal • Change in housing and accommodation Land and Resource Use • Change in land and resource use Social Environment • Change in the patterns or activities • Changes in access to opportunities (education, youth, women, disabled persons, etc.) • Change in income levels Community Health and Safety • Changes to community health (GBV, communicable disease, influx of labour, etc.) • Changes to community safety (accidents, unplanned events, etc.) Impact Identification Methods In assessing the potential impacts, a series of methodologies have been used. These include consultations with relevant stakeholders, scoping of the environmental and social receptors, description of the baseline scenario, scaled checklists, impact tables, review of project documentation and expert opinion. A precautionary approach was taken with any interactions with a meaningful degree of uncertainty. Version C – November 2019 102 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road The impact assessment methods address both project related and cumulative environmental and social effects. Project related impacts are changes to the biological, physical or social environment that will be caused solely by a physical work or activity of the VCRTP. Cumulative impacts are changes to the biological, physical or social environment that are caused by an action associated with the project in combination with other projects or activities that have or will be carried out. Using a detailed list of all relevant ESRs identified during scoping each project impact is evaluated according to the following: Defined Parameters: • Activity – phase of the development that the action takes place in. • Environmental and Social Receptor – sensitive component of the ecosystem that reacts to or is influenced by environmental stressors. Scaled Parameters: • Magnitude – A measure of how adverse or beneficial any effect may be. Rank Description Low No substantive interaction. The impacts are rated not significant and not considered further in the ESIA. The environmental and social impacts of these activities are rated not significant with a high level of confidence Medium If a potential interaction between an activity and an environmental or social component is identified but not likely to be substantive in light of planned mitigation. High If an interaction between a planned activity and the environmental or social component is identified that may result in more substantive impacts despite the planned mitigations, or if there is less certainty regarding the effectiveness of mitigation • Duration – the length of time that the activity might result in an impact. Scale Description Short Term Component will be affected for a limited period. Intermittent Component will, at first, have difficulty adjusting to altered environment but will eventually return to pre-project levels. Long Term Component will be affected for the lifespan of the project enough to compromise the survival of a local species or use of a component by the populations • Extent – The spatial extent of the potential impact. Scale Description Limited Relatively restricted areas such as the construction site facilities. Local <1km radius. Regional Impact exceeds local boundary and has potential to impact nearby community (1- 10km). National Impact has potential to impact entire island or island groups. International Impacts that may be considered as affecting the global population. • Significance – A measure of the importance of an effect. Scale Description Minor The impact is short term and cause negligible impact on the environment. Version C – November 2019 103 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Moderate Impacts give rise to some concern, may cause long term environmental problems but are likely short term and acceptable. Major Impact is long term, large scale environmental risk. • Likelihood – The chance of occurrence of the identified potential impact. Likelihood Description Probability None Impact is very unlikely to occur <2% Low Impact probably won’t occur 2-10% Medium Impact might occur 10-50% High Impact will probably occur 50-90% Certain Impact is expected to occur >90% • Significance Level – Rating of the level of impact after assessment of all the above parameters: Likelihood Benefit Low Medium High Certain High Minor Moderate Major Major Positive Medium Minor Moderate Moderate Major Low Minor Minor Moderate Moderate Adverse Negative Low Minor Minor Moderate Moderate Medium Minor Moderate Moderate Major High Minor Moderate Major Major • Mitigation – Measures taken to reduce the adverse impacts on the environment. For identified adverse impacts, effective mitigations are needed to eliminate or reduce them to an acceptable level. In determining the level of effectiveness of mitigation measures, the following will be considered: Measure Description Prevent The most effective way to eliminate any adverse impact is to prevent the creation of the impact at the source. Reduce If prevention is not possible then mitigation measures will attempt to minimise impacts at their source Rectify Restoring temporary impacts to pre-construction or better state Precautionary Measures to reduce construction impacts Compensatory Provide suitable, replacement or substitute resources of greater or equivalent value Version C – November 2019 104 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Impact Tables The higher-level mitigation measures summarized in the impact tables below are not to be considered exhaustive or prescriptive, but are indicative of the recommended measures to avoid, minimize or mitigate the identified impacts. The Mitigation Tables in Appendix C expends on these higher-level measures, describing the required mitigation measures in prescriptive detail and are the basis of the ESMP. Impacts/Risks - Natural Environment Post- Project Project Activity Impact Mitigation Potential Impact Magnitude Duration Extent Likelihood High Level Mitigation Measures Phase /Location Rating Residual Impact 1. Water Resource Quality (ground water, surface water, freshwater) Design process to take elevated 1-1 Risk to structural integrity of water table into account and upgraded road in areas of high consider elevating roads above the ground water table increasing with Major current level – to match the Minor Design of road projected climate change impacts. High Long Term Limited High Negative achievements of other sections of the Negative Overtopping and deterioration of South Santo Road which have road surface from elevated water previously been elevated above levels ground water table level. Undertake study on the historical Design / pre- extraction, existing volumes and construction replenishment of the Navaka river gravels. Study will determine maximum amount of gravel to be extracted annually for this project. River gravel 1-2 Changes to the Navaka river Recommended extraction rate based Intermitten Moderate Minor extraction from poorly planned river gravel High Limited Medium on study shall not be exceeded. t Negative Negative planning extraction schedules Extraction will only happen under valid permit from Geology and Mines Unit which is subject to approval of an Environmental Mitigation Management Plan by the DEPC. Version C – November 2019 105 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Gravel should be removed during the dry seasons only. If feasible, required volume should be extracted in a staged way – total volume for extraction should be split across dry seasons and stockpiled until needed. Reduce the overall amount of river aggregate needed by design solutions which maximise use of coronous aggregates. All sanitary facilities provided for workers in the camps and at the project sites will conform to the WB standards for Workers 1-3 Contamination of ground Accommodations. Workers water resources from sanitary Minor Minor Medium Short Term Limited Medium Accommodation facilities in workers accommodation Negative Negative All sanitary facilities will have an camps. appropriately sized, will be designed to avoid risk to public health and will be maintained as per stipulations in CESMP Concrete production is to be equipped with settlement tank/pond 1-4 Increase in pH of groundwater for treatment of slurry and process Concrete from caustic concrete slurry and Minor water. Treatment shall include Construction Low Short Term Limited Medium Negligible Production wastewater Negative settling of suspended solids and contamination. decreasing pH of water. Waste concrete should be allowed to harden before disposal. Heavy machinery will not be used during periods of heavy rain or when the ground is waterlogged 1-5 Increase in turbidity of surface No stockpiles or excavated Moderate Minor Machinery Use (river) waters during construction Medium Short Term Local Medium materials kept within 100m of the Negative Negative near riverbanks or in water work riverbanks. Stockpiles will be bunded and silt fences will be installed around them. Version C – November 2019 106 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road All machinery to be in good working order and well services. All washdown of machinery to occur within containment system. 1-6 Contamination of ground and All refuelling to be done over fit-for- surface (river) water with Minor Medium Short Term Local High purpose drip trays. Negligible hydrocarbons (fuels and oils) Negative resulting from leaks, drips or spills. Spill response plans in place and spill kits to be readily available and workers trained in their use. Bunded area provided for storage of hazardous substances. No laydown sites or stockpile sites within 100m of riverbank. Sediment traps and bunding on any stockpiles of excavated materials. 1-7 Increase in surface run off from Moderate Minor Medium Short Term Local High soil compaction. Negative Negative Restoration of any compacted sites on completion of work. Ground may need to be scoured to loosen earth and enable revegetation to be successful. 2. Geological Resources (construction aggregates, sand, soils) Road drainage system to be designed to account for predicted 2-1 Soil erosion from poorly increases in extreme rainfall events. Design / pre- Moderate Road Design designed surface water and High Long Term Limited Medium Negligible construction Negative drainage systems Road to be elevated above existing water table in swampy areas of the SSR. 2-2 Proposed gabion cages at Design Engineer will consider use of Coastal Tasiriki beach will create a Moderate geotextile erosion control bags as a Minor reinforcement negative visual impact and may not Medium Long Term Limited High Negative more sensitive option for Negative design be a sympathetic design option in reinforcement works in this area this beach environment 2-3 Erosion or changes to For bridges with an existing River crossing Intermitten Moderate Minor Construction riverbanks if traffic diversions are Medium Limited Medium alternative diversion route, this shall diversions t Negative Negative used during construction or new or be used. Version C – November 2019 107 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road replacement of existing bridges or culverts. For Veanus bridge where this is not possible due to very steep riverbanks, the road may have to be closed for short periods while the new bridge is installed. In this instance, the preference shall be for modular bridges and construction planning should be such that road closure is reduced to the smallest feasible time. Advise from PWD during consultations indicates that small modular bridges can be installed in one day. Ground protection mats or locally available stone will be used on the beach to provide offloading vehicles with traction on the sand. 2-4 Offloading machinery and/or Offloading plant at beach landing sites may Intermitten Moderate No temporary offloading ramps or Minor Medium Local Medium equipment cause localised impacts to the t Negative other structures will be constructed. Negative beach profile. Any stones or material added to the beach during offloading shall be removed immediately on completion of offloading works. All machinery to be in good working order and well services. All 2-5 Contamination of soils and washdown of machinery to occur sand with hydrocarbons (fuels and Minor within containment system. All Medium Short Term Local High Negligible oils) resulting from leaks, drips or Negative refuelling to be done over fit-for- spills. purpose drip trays. Spill kits to be readily available and workers trained in their use. Machinery Use Minimise time and size of ground disturbance area. Use sediment traps around large 2-6 Erosion of soils from use of Moderate Minor Medium Short Term Local Medium cleared areas. heavy machinery Negative Negative Keep construction vehicles on defined tracks. Version C – November 2019 108 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Revegetate disturbed areas as soon as possible. Set conservative working areas 2-6 Changes in the riverbank along the rivers and ensure that no profile from use of machinery Major machinery works outside these areas. Moderate during river crossing construction High Long Term Local High Negative Negative potentially leading to instability or Replant native species on the erosion of banks. riverbank on completion of work Set conservative working areas on 2-7 Changes in the beach profile the beach and ensure that no from use of machinery on the beach Minor machinery works outside these areas. Minor Medium Short Term Local Low potentially leading to instability or Negative Only use the designated access route Negative erosion of beach sands. between the road and the beach at Tasiriki. Undertake Environmental Impact Assessment to identify any potential long term or irreversible impacts from the proposed extraction. Extraction will only happen under 2-8 An over extraction of gravel valid permit from Geology and from the Navaka (or any other) Mines Unit. river beyond its natural Intermitten Major Moderate High Local High replenishment rate would lead to a t Negative Gravel should be removed during Negative change in the natural ecosystem the dry seasons only. Materials function of the braided river. Sourcing If feasible, required volume should be extracted in a staged way – total volume for extraction should be split across dry seasons and stockpiled until needed. The mitigation measures for 2-7 2-9 Change to the deposition rates apply here. and pattern of aggregates at the Moderate Minor Medium Short Term Local Medium downstream coastline during river Negative Negative No additional measures are gravel excavation activities available. Version C – November 2019 109 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road 2-10 Changes to beach profiles Minimise footprint of beach Coastal Minor Minor Operational from introduction of hard Medium Long Term Limited Low protection interventions as much as Reinforcement Negative Negative infrastructure at the vegetation line. feasible. 3. River Hydrology Undertake study on the historical extraction, existing volumes and replenishment of the Navaka river gravels. Study will determine maximum amount of gravel to be extracted annually for this project. The nearby communities will be consulted to identify key prawn fishing areas prior to construction work commencing. 3-1 Changes to the hydrodynamics of the Navaka river from poorly Recommended extraction rate based planned river gravel extraction on study shall not be exceeded. schedules resulting in changes to the River gravel Extraction will only happen under depth and speed of water flow Moderate Minor Design extraction High Long Term Limited Medium valid permit from Geology and impacting the ecosystem function of Negative Negative planning Mines which is subject to approval of the river and disrupting the life history strategies of some species an Environmental Mitigation Management Plan by the DEPC. who depend on hydrological conditions of the river. Gravel should be removed during the dry seasons only. If feasible, required volume should be extracted in a staged way – total volume for extraction should be split across dry seasons and stockpiled until needed. The design of the road will be undertaken to minimize the need for river gravels and maximize the use of coronous materials through Version C – November 2019 110 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road innovative and climate resilient design. No aggregate will be removed from running water. Machines will only work within a predetermined and conservative areas in the river. Any damage to identified important fishing areas will be rectified. The bridges will be designed to 3-2 Potentially altered flow regime minimize post development impacts. affecting the waters velocity, It is anticipated that the braided depth, depositional patters and Moderate Minor Medium Long Term Local Medium river system will reform in the channel morphology leading to Negative Negative location of the bridge during each increased risk of flooding and dry season and be further modified erosion. during each wet season. 3-3 Ongoing changes to the flow path of the Navaka river could Engineer Design Team will conduct a result in any bridge becoming detailed study of the Navaka River undermined over time as the river Riverbank and to determine riverbank moves towards and even beyond Operational in-water Major characteristics, trends of the river Minor the footings. The Navaka river High Long Term Local High infrastructure Negative course change and a variety of Negative plain is flat and easy channeled by different bridge locations and widths the river, placement of bridge to identify the most climate resilient footings on the alluvial plain has option. the potential to interrupt the natural river changes. 3-4 Scour of riverbanks from The design of the bridges and river predicted increase rainfall could crossings will be climate resilient and increase from its current level Moderate will respond to the natural narrative Minor Medium Long Term Local High which has the potential to Negative and course of the rivers. Negative undermine bridges or riverbank protection measures. Current scour trends and the rivers behavior during extreme rainfall Version C – November 2019 111 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road events will be incorporated into all relevant design elements. 4. Atmospheric Environment (air quality) Stockpiles, 4-1 Airborne dust particles likely to Aggregates should be covered Laydown Site be generated at dredged spoils Minor during haulage and all haulage Minor Low Short Term Local Medium and Haulage stockpiles, during aggregate Negative vehicles must travel at a low speed Negative Construction Routes haulage and at laydown sites. to minimise dust generated. 4-2 Emissions from heavy Minor All machinery to be in good working Minor Machinery Use machinery, bitumen and trucks can Low Short Term Local Medium Negative order and well serviced. Negative lead to reduction of air quality. Aggregate 4-3 Dust generated from Moderate Minor Medium Short Term Local High Use a wet crushing plant crushing aggregate crushing plant. Negative Negative 5. Acoustic Environment Contractors will work with community 5-1 Noise at all locations of heavy to ensure that heavy machinery is not machinery close to sensitive Minor Minor Machinery Use Low Short Term Limited High used near sensitive receptors during receptors such as the church, clinic Negative Negative critical times such as church services and schools. or school tests. Trucks will operate during normal 5-2 Noise from trucks along Minor Minor Haulage Low Short Term Local Medium working house only and will drive at haulage route Negative Negative low speeds Crushing plant will be located away from residences and communal areas of village. Crushing plan will be Aggregate Minor 5-3 Noise at crushing plant location Low Short Term Limited High located so that it is screened by Negligible Construction crushing Negative vegetation to act as a noise barrier. Workers at crushing plan to wear appropriate PPT to protect ears. All workers will receive training and be required to sign a code of conduct stating that behaviour must 5-4 Loud and antisocial behaviour be respectful and appropriate at accommodations and within the Moderate Moderate Workers Medium Short Term Local Medium always. Worker code of conduct will community outside of normal Negative Negative be signed and will be detailed in the working hours. Worker Management Plan (WoMP) described in the ESMP and required as part of the CESMP. 6. Aquatic Environment 6-1 Unsympathetic design of Culverts must be set below the Design / Pre- Design of culverts may lead to disruption of Moderate Minor High Long Term Limited Medium existing riverbed level to ensure Construction culverts breeding cycle of native species Negative Negative unimpeded water flow at all times. who rely on moving up and down Version C – November 2019 112 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road stream during different life cycle phases. Plan gravel extraction to occur during the first part of the dry season to allow habitat to start recovery 6-2 Loss of habitat for before peak breeding season. commercially important native Extraction of Moderate Minor prawns due to gravel extraction High Long Term Limited Medium Ensure restoration of any damaged river gravels Negative Negative occurring during peak breeding shallow rapid areas which are used season (Aug-Oct) by fisherwomen. No extraction of gravel from running water on Navaka River. Retain all riverbank vegetation which is not within direct construction footprint. 6-3 Increase in localised turbidity Ensure all areas of cleared of freshwater and downstream Minor vegetation have sediment traps in Minor marine environment by suspension Medium Short Term Local Low Negative place along any waterways. Negative of sediments which may impact adversely on aquatic populations. Construction Machinery Use Revegetate areas of cleared land as soon as possible. Minimise areas of clearance. All vessels to be equipped with spill kit including oil booms and absorbent 6-4 Hydrocarbon spill in marine Minor Minor Low Short Term Limited Low pads. All staff to be trained on use environment from project vessels Negative Negative of spill kits and kits to be stored in easily accessible locations Retain all riverbank vegetation which is not within direct construction 6-5 Increase sedimentation into the footprint. marine environment between Naoneban and Venaus Bridges has Ensure all areas of cleared Moderate Minor the potential to negatively impact Medium Short Term Local Medium vegetation have sediment traps in Negative Negative on the juvenile Napoleon Wrasse place along any waterways. (IUCN Endangered) and Giant Clam (IUCN Threatened). Revegetate areas of cleared land as soon as possible. Version C – November 2019 113 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Minimise areas of clearance. Design Engineer to engage environmental specialist experience in biodiversity studies specialist to undertake baseline habitat survey before during and after completion of work and to ensure CESMP utilises baseline and incorporates required protective measures. 6-5 Reduction in available habitat For any removal of shallow rapids, for juvenile native shrimp species if new similar habitats will be created Extraction of Moderate Minor the shallow rapids are removed or High Long Term Limited Medium to compensate for the habitat losses river gravels Negative Negative damaged during excavation of and to improve the ecological aggregates potential for the site. 6-7 Reduction in surface water quality (sedimentation, Paved road Minor Regular and ongoing maintenance of Minor Operational hydrocarbons, solid waste, etc) Low Long Term Local Medium surface Negative drainage is needed. Negative from increased surface water run off resulting from paved surface. 7. Terrestrial Environment (flora & fauna) 7-1 It is possible that river crossing Design on river crossings will take designs could lead to interruptions into consideration the existing of the existing integrity of the ecosystem service provided by the riverbank vegetation which has a riverbank vegetation and disruption River crossing fundamental role in maintaining the Intermitten Moderate to this should be minimised where Minor and bank Low Local Medium Design / Pre- reinforcement bank. Disruption of the vegetation t Negative possible. Negative Construction line could have negative impacts on riverbank stability and lead to Sensitive riverbank reinforcements erosion and a reduction in resilience should be designed to account for to extreme rainfall events. future predicted rainfall. 7-2 There is a possibility that Engineers Safeguard Specialists and additional areas of the road would the PIU National Safeguard achieve increased climate Specialist will undertake resilience from further realignment Additional environmental and social screening will be identified during the Moderate Minor proposed re- Low Long Term Local Medium of any proposed additional detailed engineering design phase. Negative Negative alignments realignment sections and necessary There would be yet unknown updates to the ESIA and/or ESMP impacts to the terrestrial flora will be submitted for approval from within any new re-alignment the World Bank. sections which are outside the scope Version C – November 2019 114 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road of this ESIA. No impacts have been identified for the terrestrial flora and associated wildlife populations (i.e. migratory birds and their habitats) Clearance of any coastal vegetation must be clearly described in the CESMP and approved by the Engineer. 7-3 Improper and uncontrolled use of heavy equipment and machinery Vegetation to be retained must be has the potential to damage the clearly marked prior to any coastal shoreline vegetation and clearance work. Intermitten Moderate Minor therefore reduce the effectiveness Medium Local Low t Negative Negative of its shoreline stability function. Only vegetation necessary to This could lead to erosion and a undertake construction work can be reduction in the resilience to climate removed. change. Machinery Use Shoreline vegetation will be revegetated and restored to a functional level immediately on completion of associated works. Construction No mature native tree specimens shall be removed outside the direct 7-4 The loss of mature tree road or river crossing footprint. specimens on riverbanks and Moderate Minor between identified offloading sites Medium Long Term Limited Medium All mature native trees within the Negative Negative from improper management of construction footprint will be works. identified in the CESMP and approved by the Engineer. Limit the amount of vegetation clearance to the minimum required Temporary land working area. clearing (new 7-5 Necessary land clearance will road alignments, lead to the removal of vegetation Minor Minor Low Short Term Limited Medium For any large areas of cleared laydown sites, which could result in erosion of Negative Negative vegetation in the coastal crushing plant, surface soils. environment, division bunds (or etc) similar) will be used. Version C – November 2019 115 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Revegetation of disturbed areas is required as soon as practicable. 7-6 The removal of native vegetation and its replacement Only unavoidable vegetation will be Permanent land with bridge structures can cause Minor Minor Medium Long Term Limited Low cleared during construction. clearing direct damage, disturbances, Negative Negative fragmentation or loss of terrestrial and aquatic habitats and ecology. 7-7 Introduction of non-native or All imported (international and inter- invasive plant, pest or bacterial island) aggregates, materials and Transhipment of species from untreated imported equipment will be treated for Major Minor materials or (internationally or inter-island) Medium Long Term Regional Medium contaminates prior to departure Negative Negative equipment materials or equipment would pose from originating location and will be a threat to the plant and animal imported into Santo under national species on Santo. quarantine law. Concrete production is to be equipped with settlement tank/pond 7-9 Wastewater and slurry from for treatment of slurry and process Concrete concrete production is caustic and Minor water. Treatment shall include Minor Low Short Term Limited Low Production will lead to vegetation die off if Negative settling of suspended solids and Negative they come into contact. decreasing pH of water. Waste concrete should be allowed to harden before disposal. Impacts on Human and Built Environment Post- Project Project Impact Mitigation Potential Impact Magnitude Duration Extent Likelihood Mitigations/Notes Phase Activity/Location Rating Residual Impact 8. Community Services and Infrastructure (transport network, utilities, waste disposal) Contractor will develop a Traffic Management Plan to ensure that all 8-1 High level of traffic vehicles are driven in a controlled disruption and increased risk of Moderate manner at suitable speeds and Minor Construction General Medium Short Term Local Certain accidents during construction Negative within normal working hours only. Negative work TMP will be included in the CESMP and will follow the requirements of the ESMP. Version C – November 2019 116 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road The Contractors Solid Waste Management Plan will stipulate the policy of reduce, reuse, recycle wherever possible. Organic 8-2 Project works will generate biodegradable will be disposed of quantities of solid waste in in a location approved by the several different forms and from DEPC. Reusable clean fill, rubble or most project activities. The Santo excess aggregates will be made landfill site not suitable to handle available to the PWD or community Solid Waste any quantity of construction Moderate for use. All non-reusable, non- Minor Medium Intermittent Local Medium Generation waste generated by the project. Negative recyclable and non-organic solid Negative Any addition of waste from waste will be disposed of at Bouffa infrastructure projects of this Landfill on Efate Island. scale have the potential to overburden the management of The Contactor will be required to the landfill write a Solid Waste Management Plan (detailed guidelines provided in the projects ESMP) which will be submitted for approval as part of the CESMP 8-3 Increase in demand on Contractors will ensure that islands limited medical facilities in Moderate emergency medical first aid kits Moderate Medium Short Term Local Medium cases of workplace or out of Negative and trained personnel are Negative hours accidents available. Works will be housed in dedicated Workers workers camp in existing PWD 8-4 Increase in demand for Moderate campsites along the South Santo Minor Medium Short Term Local High housing for workers Negative Road. All worker housing will be Negative managed under the WoMP in the CESMP. 8-5 Improved access to medical services through a paved road Major Major High Long Term Regional Certain accessible in all weather Positive Positive conditions. 8-6 Improved access to municipal Operational Road Major Major and administrative services for High Long Term Regional Certain Positive Positive South and West Santo residents 8-7 Ability to cross all rivers Major Major safely crossing rivers during all High Long Term Regional Certain Positive Positive weather conditions Version C – November 2019 117 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road 8-8 Increased capacity to respond to natural disasters by Major Major having a paved road and High Long Term Regional Certain Positive Positive bridges linking the south Santo communities to Luganville. 9. Land Resource Use (Government, Communal and Private) 9-1 Temporary use of customary Prioritise use of PWD secured land. land for accommodations, Ensure all leased land is secured Moderate Moderate General stockpile and laydown sites Medium Short Term Local High through legal process and rent Negative Positive leading to short term loss of paid is at least equivalent to access to these areas legislated land value. Construction 9-2 Incorrect identification of PWD and GMU work together with Aggregate correct resource owners Moderate Minor Medium Short Term Local Medium the Custom Land Management Sourcing and/or lack of due diligence Negative Negative Board to identify correct owner. and early consultations 10. Social Environment (Heritage, Culture, Tradition, Opportunity) Placement of workers camp to be 10-1 Presence of workers living determined during design phase in on the area can lead to increased consultation with the community and risk of social conflict, Moderate management of workers behaviour Minor Influx of Labour Medium Intermittent Local High inappropriate or illicit behaviour Negative to be subject to Worker Negative and have negative impacts on Management Plan. Provide community dynamics. workers with dedicated recreational facilities. 10-2 Increase opportunity for Contractor will be required to use income generation from food, local community members to Major Major beverage and housekeeping High Short Term Local Certain undertake cooking and Positive Positive services and in construction or housekeeping services on South Construction project administration roles. Santo Road. Direct Income 10-3 Increase in individual All project workers will be required Generation income through project to undertake training by approved employment can lead to instances Minor service provider and sign codes of Minor of increased drinking and/ Medium Intermittent Regional Low Negative conduct. Disciplinary action will be Negative increased conflicts within the appropriate for all instances of family home which may lead to GBV. increases in instances of GBV If used for skilled positions, then 10-4 Increase opportunity for up- increased capacity within the work skilling within the local workforce Major Major General Medium Long Term Local High force will have long term benefits if they are employed in skilled Positive Positive for the labour force of Vanuatu. It rolls. should be noted that the number of Version C – November 2019 118 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road local employees is not likely to be high. 10-5 Opportunity for income generating activities from sales Major Building design to account for these Major Along the road High Long Term Local High of meals on sections where there Positive opportunities. Positive is on-going construction 11. Community Health and Safety 11-1 Risk to pedestrians and Contractors TMP will include drivers from use of construction Minor Minor Low Short Term Limited Low management strategies for machinery at project sites and Negative Negative managing risk to all road users along transportation routes Mitigations will include consultation 11-2 Risk to community members with Chiefs to inform community of during construction machinery Moderate Minor Medium Short Term Limited Medium the risks and management of the and equipment offloading Negative Negative Construction area to prevent pedestrian access activities at the beaches. Equipment Use during offloading CESMP will include management 11-3 Exposure to the public to Minor Minor Low Short Term Limited Low strategies for spill response and hydrocarbons resulting from spills Negative Negative managing risks 11-4 Accidental damage to Construction Contractor to provide budget line community or private facilities Minor Minor Low Short Term Limited Medium for construction damage and to while moving machinery between Negative Negative repair any damage immediately. laydown and reef flat. All project workers will be required 11-5 Increased potential to to undertake training (as per the introduce and spread STDs such Moderate ESMP) by approved service Minor Influx of Labour Medium Long Term Regional Medium as HIV/AIDS from workers Negative provider and sign codes of conduct Negative increased risk of GBV and SEA to raise awareness and prevent the spread of diseases 11-6 Community exposure to CESMP will include measures to Concrete concrete waste water and slurry Minor manage all concrete waste water Minor Low Short Term Limited Low Production which is caustic to skin and can Negative and slurry as prescribed in the Negative cause burns. ESMP. Version C – November 2019 119 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Gravel or concrete footpaths to be 11-7 Community safety concerns built along the road near/along from speeding vehicles especially Minor Minor Low Long Term Limited Low settlements, churches, schools and along villages. Potential for injury Negative Negative clinics to ensure separation of is increased. passengers and vehicles. Design engineer to design footpath on at least 1 side of bridge for 11-8 Safety risk to local people Operational Upgraded Road Moderate upgrading for community safety Minor with minor to moderate mobility Medium Long Term Limited Medium Negative and people with disabilities (able Negative limitations or injuries. to use wheelchair). . 11-9 Increased quality and Design engineer to include safety of transfer of the elderly Major measures to improve the Major Medium Long Term Regional High or disabled, or other people with Positive experience and safety for transfer Positive mobility limitations. of mobility limited passengers. 11-10 Risk of injury to school Use geotextile erosion bags as children in Tasiriki from climbing Moderate stabilising technology rather than Medium Long Term Limited High Negligible over proposed gabion cages Negative gabion cages which are not suitable along shoreline to access beach. for this social environment The impact tables show that the proposed project has both positive and negative impacts on the environment. The positive impacts are socio-cultural parameters and human- interest parameters. The negative impacts are ecological parameters and physiochemical parameters. The majority of these adverse negative effects are mainly construction related and it can be properly mitigated. Version C – November 2019 120 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road 7.3 Environmental Impacts Water Resources 7.3.1.1 Water Use Freshwater will be required for workers at the worker camp. There will also be a need for water for construction activities such as concrete production and processing of aggregates. As there is an abundance of ground water and freshwater on Santo, it is not expected that the impact on the water supply would be significant however, the extraction or use of ground water, or river water, will be subject to a Water Use permit from the Department of Water Resources. 7.3.1.2 Water Quality & Turbidity There are two sources of impact on water quality: (i) the domestic activity mostly from workers camps and (ii) construction activity from the operation of crushers, concrete batch mix plant, construction machinery, excavation and other earth works for the bridge construction and realignments. The impact on water quality from the construction activity will mostly be from the leakage of oils from machineries and storage areas. Wastewater and slurry from any concrete production will have a high pH level making it alkaline and also contains chromium. Highly alkaline water can result in the death of aquatic organisms should it enter the river systems. There are also impacts associated with concrete wastewater leaching into the ground water and causing contamination. Bitumen, fuel and lubricants will be needed during construction activities. If not properly stored or handled, this could result in run off into the local soil or river systems which feed directly into the coastal environment. Should an emergency event occur there is also potential for a discharge of hazardous substances to the environment or the use of fire retardants during firefighting. All of the construction activities will involve generating construction debris and earthworks that will cause an increase in suspended sediments in the water. The increase of turbidity from earthwork activities such as gravel extraction, riverbank work, construction of realignments, installation of culverts and construction of bridges is unavoidable. However, it should be minimized by concentrating the work in the dry season and by undertaking the mitigation measures detailed in Appendix C and in the VCRTP ESMP. 7.3.1.3 Wastewater Discharges Uncontrolled wastewater (e.g. sewage, grey water and wash water) discharges have the potential to contaminate soil, water and spread disease. Impacts may include sedimentation and an increase in nutrients impacting water quality of the rivers and contamination due to an accidental release of hazardous substances, refuse or other waste materials into the riverine ecosystem. Wash water from equipment can be contaminated with hydrocarbons (e.g. oil and fuel) which have a detrimental effect on aquatic life, water quality and soil quality. There are also human health impacts regarding hydrocarbon exposure which vary in severity depending on type and length of exposure. The significance of the impacts depends on the scale of the release, duration of earthworks, local worksite topography, soil type, rainfall levels, adequacy of sewage treatment facilities, and the sensitivity of the receiving water environment. It is vital to plan and carefully manage works adjacent to the aquatic environment. Version C – November 2019 121 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Geological Resources 7.3.2.1 Erosion and Sedimentation The majority of the identified roads are a mixture of sealed and unsealed surfaces surrounded by dense vegetation. During surfacing of roads, construction of drainage, construction of bridges and creation of new alignment sections, areas of bare soil will be exposed potentially leading to erosion. Where the topography of the project is hilly, erosion problems during construction are likely to be more severe. Erosion can also occur during the operational phase of the project if road design does not take the impacts of climate change on the existing water table, rainfall patterns and surface waters into full account. Existing road levels along ‘section 3’ between Nakere and the Navaka River are already heavily impacted by ground water levels so any roads constructed at the same height will need extensive drainage or will need to be elevated to avoid regular over topping. Failure to address this could lead to continued waterlogging and erosion along the roadside. 7.3.2.2 Riverbanks Riverbanks provide important ecological function and land protection services. Construction, replacement or upgrades to the bridges along the South Santo Road have the potential to damage the existing structure and profile of the riverbanks from uncontrolled use and movement of heavy machinery, hydrological changes to the rivers from bridge design, or unnecessarily removal of riverbank vegetation. Any irreversible damage to riverbanks may weaken the ecosystem services they provide and reduce their resilience to the impacts of climate change potentially leading to flooding and increased scour undermining bridge footings. 7.3.2.3 River Gravel Extraction Gravel supply in rivers is dependent upon the catchment area, topography, lithology, and rainfall. If extraction rate exceeds the natural replenishment rate then changes occur channel morphology, substrate composition and river hydraulics in the immediate extraction site and downstream compared with upstream reaches. Balancing gravel extraction rates with sediment transport rates must be the aim for minimising effects.36 For any locally sourced aggregates from the Navaka River, potential adverse impacts from uncontrolled quarrying are high. Over-extraction of river gravels can lower the riverbed, change the channel profile, and alter riverbed sediment composition. The resulting changes in river sediments and channel hydraulics could have significant effects on communities of benthic invertebrates and fish. Farther downstream, reduced gravel supplies to the coast can upset the stability of the river mouth lagoons and can accelerate coastal erosion.37 For the extraction of aggregates specifically from the Navaka River, the full scope of impacts was not able to be assessed under this ESIA therefore the full range and scale of impacts is not yet determined. Further hydrological, geotechnical and ecological studies are needed. At this stage, it is expected that the impacts include: - Riverbank erosion from machinery access - Water quality – impacts of water quality from increased sedimentation and oil or fuel spill from machinery in river. 36Kelly, D., McKerchar, A. and Hick, M. (2005) Making concrete: ecological implications of gravel extraction in New Zealand Rivers, Water and Atmosphere 13(1) 2005 37Kelly, D., McKerchar, A. and Hick, M. (2005) Making concrete: ecological implications of gravel extraction in New Zealand Rivers, Water and Atmosphere 13(1) 2005 Version C – November 2019 122 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road - Air emissions – machinery and dust. - Noise and vibration – machinery and crushing. - Water – consumption, hydrology (changes to site drainage patterns and river water quality), wastewater, and contamination. - Waste – overburden, by-products and contaminated waste material. - Natural habitats – loss of aquatic habitats, impacts on subsistence livelihoods, degradation of riverbanks and loss of agricultural land. It is not yet known how much river gravel will be needed for the proposed works, however due to the nature of the works it is expected that a large volume will be needed. The Design Engineer will be responsible for determining the physical and biological impacts of gravel extraction on the river and making recommendations to the Contractor. The Contractor will be responsible for applying for the quarrying permit for the Navaka River. The Design Engineer should make all endeavors to minimize the need for river gravels and maximize the use of coronous materials through innovative and climate resilient design. Impacts of quarrying are not limited to the location of the quarry but can extend along the delivery route. Noise, dust, and traffic (vehicle and pedestrian) safety are primary concerns for the transport of materials from the quarry site for locally sourced aggregates and the offloading point for imported aggregates. River Hydrology This impact area refers to changes in rivers flow regime affecting the waters velocity, depth depositional patterns and channel morphology. Significant changes to any of these parameters lead to an increase risk of flooding and erosion. The potential impacts of bridges and culverts on the hydrodynamics of the rivers is yet to be modelled. It is anticipated that for reconstruction of existing bridges/culverts and for construction of new single span bridges, there won’t be any significant impact on the river hydrology in the long term. For multi-spanned bridges, such as the one proposed for the Navaka River, the introduction of reinforced embankment may have a narrowing effect on the river, in addition to this the installation of bridge footings in the river may bring about changes to the flow regime. The likelihood or significant of these impacts cannot be determined without detailed study on the rivers characteristics and modelling of the proposed design. The channel morphology of the Navaka river, and the other rivers to a smaller extent, is dynamic and shifts with the changing seasons under both normal and storm conditions. Should the bridge for the Navaka River be installed in the wrong place, the dynamic nature of the river could mean that the bridge becomes undermined over time as the river moves towards and even beyond the footings. The assessment of this impact is based on anecdotal evidence from farmers on the river who are experiencing an eastern drift to the river. Careful study and design are needed prior to the selection of the crossing site and bridge during design for these rivers. Atmospheric Environment Air pollution is likely to arise from improper maintenance of equipment, dust generation along the road, at the quarries and at the crushing plant and the bitumen smoke / fumes arising from application of the new road surface. Impacts are expected to be experienced along the length of the road works and could cause a significant nuisance and health hazard in settlements and village. Version C – November 2019 123 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road It can be expected that once the road upgrades are completed, traffic levels may increase and lead to an increase of dust generated at communities along unsealed maintained sections of road. Acoustic Environment Noise and vibration disturbances are particularly likely during construction related to the transportation of construction materials, crushing of aggregates and operation of equipment. Additionally, movement of trucks will increase the traffic levels when offloading and delivering aggregate. Noise and vibration are likely to be an ongoing issue throughout the construction stage and also into the operational phase due to increased traffic volumes. As the road network represents existing infrastructure noise or vibration impacts are already being experienced by the local community, however this is likely to increase on completion of works. Effective communication of working hours will go towards alleviating any impacts during the construction phase. Aquatic Environment There will be short term impacts to the aquatic flora and fauna of all rivers from increased turbidity during the construction phase of the project. This is unavoidable but is predicted to be minor and of very short duration, returning to normal again once the works are completed. These short-term impacts will be reduced and kept to a minimum through mitigation measures controlling release of sediments, erosion control and maintaining buffer zones around waterways and coastlines. Gravel extraction can trigger significant physical and biological changes. In particular decreases in habitat diversity, expressed through changes in riverbed substrates and hydraulics, can reduce benthic community diversity and abundance. The design of bridges and culverts have the potential for longer term impacts on some of the freshwater fish and prawn species who have marine, terrestrial and brackish phases in their life cycles. Some species such as the gobies (Stiphodon, Sicyopterus, sicyopus, Awaous spp.) have their larval stage in the marine environment, and then move into the freshwater environment as juveniles. Other species show preference for inhabiting all three types of aquatic environment and move frequently up and down stream. Additionally, there are species of fish and eels who have their juvenile phase in the brackish estuarine environment and then move upstream to freshwater for their adult phase. All of the species and their individual habitat preferences are described in Section 4.4.3.1. In order to travel between the various aquatic habitats, there must be free flowing water under bridges and through culverts. There must also be the right hydrodynamic environment to ensure that river flow isn’t too fast for species to travel. Design of the culverts will need to ensure that they do not obstruct the flow of water and design of the bridges will need to ensure that they do not cause significant changes to the hydrodynamic environment. The Design Consultants will be resourced with an Environmental Specialist to ensure this is incorporated into the design. The Wairua Nature Reserve species assessment identified that there are two IUCN Red List species of concern within the CCA and this is representative of the marine environment along the South Santo Road, specifically in an area highlighted in the MACBIO Report as bioregion 92, along 10km of the coastline where it is not sheltered by large inshore islands (Figure 46). Of these species, Cheilinus undulates (Napoleon (or Maori) Wrasse) is listed as endangered and the Giant Clam (Tridacna gigas) is listed as vulnerable. The juvenile Napoleon Wrasse inhabits shallow reefs along coastlines, particularly favouring stands of Staghorn Acropora species. The Giant Clam inhabits shallow coral reefs from settling through to maturity. Both species are widespread across the Pacific Islands. Version C – November 2019 124 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Figure 46: Shallow coastal reef of South Santo shown (blue) in relation to three bridges targeted for upgrading with important IUCN species habitat area highlighted by red box. Source: http://macbio-pacific.info/Interactive-Atlas/Vanuatu/Vanuatu.html The Veanus and Venui Bridges are associated with areas of coastline that do not have coral reef and therefore pose only a minor negative impact on the habitats of the juvenile Napoleon Wrasse and the Giant Clam as any sediment introduced into the marine environments from the rivers will quickly disperse. Additionally, both of these rivers will be a source of sediment into the local environmental during rain events, this both provides reasons for the lack of coral at these sites and also demonstrates that the habitats are already adapted to bursts of sedimentation. Naoneban Bridge does have coral reef associated with its stretch of the coastline and is connected in an inland lagoon rather than a river therefore doesn’t have the same sediment loading history as the Venaus and Venui Bridges. The juvenile Napoleon Wrasse will be impacted by increased sedimentation in as much as it impacts their preferred habitat of Acropora sp. Branching species of coral such as Acropora retina little sediment and are semi-tolerant to short term exposure to sedimentation38 therefore a well- managed project which is operating in compliance with the ESMP will have a minimal impact on the Humphead Wrasse. Research into the stress responses of various giant clam species demonstrated that for short term exposure to increased sediments (sand and silt), the clams are able to ‘self-clean’ and remove sediment which lands on them through contracting their mantles and ejecting water39. This in combination with the natural current wave induced dispersal of sediments means that for any clams within the sediment plume of the Naoneban Bridge works, the impact should be minimal and short term providing that the project is well managed and is compliant with the ESMP. It can be expected that during the bridge upgrade works, there will be amounts of sediment released into the marine environment but can be expected that if the release of sediments into the marine environment is minimized, then any impacts to these species will also be minimized. All management measures applicable to CCAs in this ESIA and ESMP will also be applicable to this 10km stretch of road between Naoneban Bridge and Venaus Bridge. As this section of road already encompasses the Wairua Nature Reserve CCA, it is not expected that the implementation of measures over a larger area will pose any significant challenge during project implementation. 38Erftemeijer, P. Riegl, B. Hoeksema, B and Todd, P., 2012. Environmental impacts of dredging and other sediment disturbances on corals: A review. Marine Pollution Bulletin, Vol64, Issue 9: 1737-1765 39 Soo, P., Todd, P., (2014) The behaviour of giant clams (Bivalvia: Cardiidae: Tridacninae), Marine Biology (2014) 161:2699-2717 Version C – November 2019 125 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road An environmental specialist (experience with biodiversity studies) shall be engaged by the Design Engineer to undertake a site survey of the area to establish a baseline, instruct the Contractor to use the baseline in the development of their CESMP and to provide a report on the status of the marine environment after the completion of works on these bridges. Terrestrial Environment 7.3.7.1 Vegetation For realignment sections, the removal of native vegetation and its replacement with roads, culverts and bridges can cause direct damage, disturbances, fragmentation or loss of terrestrial habitats and ecology. For the known realignment sections, this impact is minimal due to the proposed length of the road sections and the altered or farmed nature of the land in the proposed sections. If the design engineer proposes additional sections, the footprint of the proposed alignment would need to be screened for important vegetation or habitats. There are several mature tree specimens along the roadside, riverbank and access roads from the offloading beaches. On the riverbank, these specimens are providing stabilization to the soils and in all instances, they are biologically important specimens due to their maturity and size. Vegetation lines on the riverbanks and beaches provide important stabilization services and prevent erosion. Damage or disturbance to these vegetation lines have the significant potential to lead to/speed up erosion and reduce the environments resilience to the impacts of climate change. 7.3.7.2 Biosecurity It is possible that equipment and materials for the road sealing and other works will need to be imported to Vanuatu. If imported consignments are not properly treated and/or washed before shipping, there is the risk of introducing non-native and potentially invasive plants, animals and disease. The introduction of harmful species to small island nations such as Vanuatu, who have a high level of native and endemic species can be devastating to the local ecosystems, flora and fauna. It is also possible to import diseases such as foot and mouth disease which would have devastating impacts on local livestock. The contractor will be required to present specific management within their CESMP for the sea and land transportation of these materials and/or equipment from the origin to the project site, especially the landing facility. These plans will be approved by the Supervision Engineer. Additionally domestic biosecurity risks exist from the transportation of aggregates, equipment and material into Santa from areas of Vanuatu impacted by the highly invasive Giant African Snail (GAS) which is already causing significant damage to food crops around Efate and the newly introduced Rhinoceros Beetle which targets coconut trees and is known for devastating coconut plantations. The GAS was previously controlled but is now making a comeback on Efate, while the Rhinoceros Beetle has been introduced to northern Efate and is being aggressively controlled by GoV Biosecurity. 7.4 Social Impacts Social implications with the regard to safeguarding sensitive receptors along the project route will be addressed through the public consultation and design process throughout the life of the project. Community Services and Infrastructure 7.4.1.1 Solid Waste Generation VCRTP advocates good waste management practices. The preferred hierarchy and principles for achieving this is: (i) waste avoidance (avoiding using unnecessary material on the projects); (ii) waste re- use (re-use material and reduce disposing); (iii) waste recycling (recycling materials such as cans, bottles, etc.); and, (iv) waste disposal (all other waste to be dumped at approved landfills). Version C – November 2019 126 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road The key waste streams that are likely to be generated through the project works include excavation wastes and/or soil that were unsuitable or surplus to requirements during the works; waste from construction equipment use and maintenance (including liquid hazardous waste); waste water from general project works and workers accommodations; and, general wastes including scrap materials (including biodegradable materials). Transportation of solid waste in trucks without the correct equipment such as coverings or functioning tail gates can lead to waste spills on the haulage route. Spilled waste is a safety hazard to vehicle and pedestrian traffic as well as an environmental pollutant. Additionally, poor management of solid waste at work and accommodation sites can lead to a number of impacts such as pollution of local environments, community and worker health hazard and increase in pests such as rats, flies and cockroaches. Management of all waste will be subject to strict controls and a Solid Waste Management Plan (SWMP) will be developed by the Contractor as part of their CESMP. 7.4.1.2 Traffic Construction works will result in high traffic volume around sensitive social receptors and within the communities. It will also result in increased pressure on pedestrians at bridges where traffic and pedestrians often compete for space. Waste spillage from project vehicles or construction works onto the roads will result in pollution and constitute obstructions to vehicular traffic. The transport of raw materials will introduce a number of heavy trucks on the access road and this could increase the risk of motor accidents and result in vehicular- pedestrian conflicts. If materials and equipment are landed at the Port in Luganville the impacts on the already busy roads through the town could be significant in terms of dust generation, pedestrian and vehicle safety, and road damage. Physical works on the roads will cause disruption to the flow of traffic and create safety risks to pedestrians and vehicular traffic. A comprehensive Traffic Management Plan (TMP) will be required for all individual subprojects which will be approved as part of the CESMP. Appendix B and J of the VCRTP ESMP captures the requirements of the TMP. Land and Resource Use 7.4.2.1 Loss of access to land There will be a minor loss of land and non-land assets (crops, trees and structures) during the proposed realignment of the Okoro and Maniao bridges. Specifically, there are two families who may lose crops and trees from the bridge realignment for Okoro and Maniao within the 3,400 sq m affected lands (1,700m2 x 2 sites). Crops include 41 coconuts, 159 kava plants, 22 Natangura trees, 2 Whitewood, 10 Breadfruit trees, 22 banana plants, a mango tree, 8 cocoa plants, and a sugarcane. A 15,000 sq m of land were estimated as a requirement for a third bridge requiring realignment (Navaka). Damage to structures include: A traditional house (secondary residence), a kava shed, a copra dryer, a community teacher’s accommodation, and a school fence. Overall, the crops, trees and structure were estimated to cost about Vt587, 225 (USD 5, 200) while impact to lands were estimated to be Vt4,327,050 (USD44,030). This will be further confirmed during detailed design. Version C – November 2019 127 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Community support along the bank of Navaka River is very high for this project so while we can expect there to be losses similar to those described for the other rivers, we can also expect a strong level of support. 7.4.2.2 Identification of resource owners Incorrect identification of correct resource owners and/or lack of due diligence and early consultations. Sites vulnerable to these impacts are quarries, river gravel extraction sites, or laydown areas and this may lead to conflict within the community and between the community and the Project. PWD and GMU are responsible for identifying the correct owner of the resource for quarries and rivers. Social Environment 7.4.3.1 Economic Activity During the construction phase there is the potential for minor impacts on business and roadside vendors along the project route. These impacts would be limited to noise, dust and traffic from construction activities and will be of limited duration. Standard good practice construction management will mitigate these potential impacts to an acceptable level. All potentially affected businesses will be included in the consultation process. Community Health and Safety Project activities, equipment, and infrastructure can increase community exposure to risks and impacts. In addition to the impacts already identified throughout this section, the impacts of an imported work force must be considered. As potential road works move along the South Santo Road, community health and safety become more important due to the accessibility distance of clinics to these villages. 7.4.4.1 Pedestrian Safety As well as the increased risk to pedestrian safety during the construction phase from construction traffic, there is a risk to the safety of pedestrians on completion of the project from the predicted increased traffic volume and driving speeds. The risk is particularly high for children in and around schools and villages as many of the children will be inexperienced with fast moving traffic or safety rules for roads. As there are no footpaths along the road network, pedestrians walk along the road side or across the width of the road in groups. The abovementioned issues were discussed with the village communities and broad agreement was in place on future safety measures following road works implementation. Another safety risk (on completion of the project) arises when vehicles are crossing the longer bridges. These bridges are one vehicle wide and when cars are using them, pedestrians have no option but to climb onto the edge of the bridge while the vehicles pass. 7.4.4.2 Influx of Labour It is not yet known whether there will be a need for a workers camp to be established for the works, however it is probable that there will be a need for additional workers to be bought to the project site for the completion of works. It is possible that these workers are likely to be from both overseas, from other areas of Vanuatu, and even elsewhere in Santo. The Contractor(s) must therefore be sensitive to the potential impacts that this influx of outside labour can have on the local community and manage these impacts and interactions appropriately. This was a major concern highlighted by consulted communities during consultations. Version C – November 2019 128 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road While the influx of this labour can have positive effects (e.g., increased opportunity for capacity building and economic development), more often than not labour influx results in or contributes to adverse social impacts. If not planned for and effectively managed, labour influx can impact on the following social areas: Risk of social conflict: Conflicts may arise between the local community and the construction workers, which may be related to religious, cultural or ethnic differences, perceived inappropriate interactions with young local women, or based on competition for resources. Tensions mays also arise between different groups within the labour force, and pre-existing conflicts in the local community may be exacerbated. Increased risk of illicit behaviours and crime: The influx of workers and service providers into communities may increase the rate of crimes and/or a perception of insecurity by the local community. Such illicit behaviour or crime can include theft, physical assaults, substance abuse, prostitution and human trafficking. Local law enforcement may not be sufficiently equipped to deal with the temporary increase in local population. Impacts on community dynamics: Depending on the number of incoming workers and their engagement with the South Santo communities, the composition of the local communities, the community dynamics may change significantly. Pre-existing social conflicts may intensify as a result of such changes. Local inflation of prices: A significant increase in demand for goods and services due to labour influx may lead to local price hikes and/or crowding out of local residents. Sexual Abuse and Exploitation: Construction workers are predominantly younger males. Those who are away from their home on construction jobs are typically separated from their families and act outside of their normal social context. This can lead to inappropriate or illegal behavior such as sexual harassment of women and girls, exploitative sexual relationships, and illicit sexual relations with minors from the local community in exchange of money. An influx of male labour may also lead to an increase in exploitative sexual relationships—particularly due to the often-higher income levels of workers which enable them to purchase transactional sex, or makes them seen as good candidates for marriage. Communicable Diseases: The influx of people may bring communicable diseases to the communities, including sexually transmitted diseases (STD) such as HIV/AIDS, or the incoming workers may be exposed to diseases to which they have low resistance. In terms of the vulnerability of the South Santo communities to external influences during the construction phase, these communities are considered medium risk due to the pre-existing culture on the commodification of women and children and the low level of perceived vulnerability by this targeted group. Limiting the number of external workers to the project site will help to reduce this risk and the VCRTP ESMP provides for mitigation measures against these potential construction phase impacts 7.4.4.3 HIV/AIDS, Gender Based Violence and Sexual Exploitation and Abuse The influx of labor, as well as local workers having higher disposable incomes, creates an increased risk for HIV/AIDS, GBV, HT and/or SAE. The perpetrators of GBV can be anyone associated with the Project and may include not only construction workers, but also consultants and project staff supervising the civil works or undertaking technical assistance activities or studies hired to protect a project site. While labour influx clearly increases the risks of GBV, the changes in local power dynamics that can arise with a new project that local workers or partners of local women and girls may be at increased risk of being perpetrators of GBV. The Contractor(s) are responsible for implementing actions to help reduce or eliminate instances of HIV/AIDS, GBV, HT and SAE induced by the project. Workers will be required to sign ‘Codes of Conduct’ Version C – November 2019 129 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road describing their responsibilities and Contractors will be required. As part of this process, the contractor will implement a GBV Prevention Action Plan to mitigate these risks (see Section 5.2.3 of the VCRTP ESMP). Version C – November 2019 130 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Secondary and Cumulative Impacts Secondary and cumulative impacts tend to be triggered by impacts to environmental resources that function as integral parts of a larger system over time and space and can initially be ‘invisible’ to the normal present time impact assessment. Secondary impacts can include land use changes due to improved accessibility which in turn can impact habitats and pressure on existing resources and utilities (e.g. water supply). Secondary and cumulative impacts also often cannot be managed solely by the project executors. 7.4.5.1 Road Safety Traffic volumes are low on the South Santo Road, and traffic speeds tend to be low due to poor road conditions. However, with tar sealing and the resulting road condition improvements, speeds easily increase to over 70 km/h. Awareness of high speeds and the dangers involved is low, and the risk of accidents is high. The project will therefore introduce measures to reduce speeds, focusing on locations near schools, markets and other places with high pedestrian traffic. Speed signs tend to be ignored, and the project will focus on physical traffic calming measures such as speed humps and rumble strips. The project will also include the introduction of safety measures at bridge locations within the section to be upgraded, warning road users of the reduced carriageway width and preventing them from driving off the embankment. Version C – November 2019 131 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road 8 Mitigation and Monitoring Measures Appendix C contains the recommended mitigation measures for the VCRTP investments for design, construction and operational phases. The tables for each phase include details of the mitigation measures required, the cost allocation, responsible entity and the applicable project phase. Monitoring measures are also provided for each project site in Appendix D. The tables are divided into four sections: (i) design phase checklist; (ii) one-off preconstruction checklist; (iii) weekly checklist for the construction phase; and, (iv) supervision checklist for the operational phase of the investments. The mitigation and monitoring plans in Appendix C and D form the basis of the VCRTP Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) which has been developed for inclusion in all bid documentation and for project implementation. As well as detailing the required measures, the ESMP also includes instructions for ESMP implementation highlighting safeguard roles and responsibilities during project implementation, institutional capacity development, training requirements for project implementation, projected budget for this and emergency contingency planning which states overall responsibility for management of emergencies and requires the Contractor to develop an Emergency Contingency Plan as part of the CESMP. The ESMP also contains instructions for integration of safeguards into the bid and contract documents. Appendix E contains the TOR which form the basis of the supervision requirements for the project. These TOR will form part of the Design and Supervision Engineers TOR. The MIPU PIU carries overall responsibility for safeguards supervision during design and implementation phase of the project. MIPU PWD are responsible for incorporating the operational phase supervision requirements into their SOPs and annual work plans and budgets. Version C – November 2019 132 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road 9 Institutional Capacity 9.1 Project Support Team The GoV has delegated the delivery and management of VCRTP to a dedicated PIU which has been resourced with personnel specifically tasked to manage project implementation. As such, the PIU carries much of the institutional capacity required by the GoV to implement the project and to monitor the works for compliance. The PIU will be resourced with experienced National Safeguards Specialists (environmental and social) who will be responsible for monitoring for compliance with the ESMP, World Bank policies and GoV legislation. To support the activities, the PIU will also be resourced with International Safeguards Specialists (Environmental and Social) who will provide technical assistance to the PIU across all aspects of the ESIA and ESMP and provide any required guidance or technical support to the National Safeguards Specialists. For any additional support in areas of expertise that may be required by the PIU, they will source technical assistance from international consultants with the appropriate capacity. 9.2 Department of Environmental Protection and Conservation Review process: the DEPC has the technical capacity within their department to review and assess submissions for environmental permits, however they are under-staffed, and this can delay the review process for submissions. It is advised that prior to the submission of the VCRTP applications, the VCRTP NSS liaise with the DEPC to arrange an external reviewer for the review process, funded by the proponent. Monitoring: Consultations with the DEPC have revealed that although the DEPC has monitoring responsibilities for environmental permits they issue; they often lack the financial resources to monitor projects off Efate. The VCRTP NSS should liaise with DEPC to ensure that the monitoring requirement are integrated with the PIU monitoring to support compliance with the conditions of consent. 9.3 Civil Works Other parties who have implementation or monitoring responsibilities (Design and Supervision Engineers, Contractor) are required to be resourced with suitably experienced and qualified safeguards specialists. It is the responsibility of the Contractor and Engineers to ensure that they allocate budget lines to have the necessary tools and equipment for the mitigation and monitoring measures as stipulated in the ESMP. 9.4 Capacity Building Successful implementation of the Project will depend among others on the effective implementation of the environmental and social management measures outlined in the ESMP. Training and capacity building will be necessary for the key stakeholders in order to ensure effective implementation of the ESMP. Capacity building should be viewed as more than training. It is human resource development and includes the process of equipping individuals with the understanding skills and access to information, knowledge and training that enables them to perform effectively. Therefore, it should also include awareness-raising and sensitization, besides technical training. AWARENESS -RAISING: for stakeholders who need to appreciate the significance/relevance of environmental and social issues throughout the project life cycle. SENSITISATION : to the issues for stakeholders that need to be familiar enough with the issues so that they can make informed and specific requests for technical assistance. TECHNICAL TRAINING : for stakeholders who will need to use the ESMP tools, analyse potentially adverse environmental and social impacts, to prescribe mitigation approaches and measures, and to prepare and supervise the implementation of management plans. It is the responsibility of the Contractor to ensure that all workers have sufficient technical training to be able to implement the provisions of the ESMP through their CESMP. The Contractor is to ensure that they have the budget provision to conduct identified training for their workers and that sufficiently skilled resources are made available to deliver the relevant training. Version C – November 2019 133 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Version C – November 2019 134 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Appendix A: VCRTP Roads Map Version C – November 2019 135 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Version C – November 2019 136 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Appendix B: Initial Screening Maps Version C – November 2019 137 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Version C – November 2019 138 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Version C – November 2019 139 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Version C – November 2019 140 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Version C – November 2019 141 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Appendix C: ESMP Mitigation Plan Version C – November 2019 142 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 DETAILED DESIGN/ PRE-CONSTRUCTION MOBILISATION STAGE River Hydrology Hydrographic and Geological studies are to be completed on the Navaka River Rivers Included in Design Design Engineer PIU as part of the design process to determine the most appropriate location to site TOR the Navaka Bridge given the vulnerability of constructing a bridge on a dynamic alluvial flood plain. Analysis of alternative locations will be produced to inform final site selection. All bridges will be designed to minimize post development impacts. Design of bridges and river crossing will be climate resilient and will respond to the seasonal changes of the river characteristics. Current scour trends and the rivers behaviour during extreme rainfall events will be incorporated in all relevant design elements. The survey of the Navaka River will consider staggering extraction of river gravels during dray seasons until final quantity is reached. This will give the aggregates a change to replenish during the dry season and may lessen the environmental impact by spreading it across seasons. Navaka River Minimal, part of usual Contractor Supervision Aggregates will only be extracted during the dry season when water levels costs Engineer are at their lowest. No aggregate will be removed from running streams or rivers. Natural Habitats Consultation will be held with communities on each bank of the Navaka River Rivers Minimal, part of Design Engineer PIU to identify key prawn fishing habitat areas as part of the river study. standard design process and/or Machinery will only work on the Navaka River within a predetermined area set already included in by the Engineer to avoid the key prawn fishing areas. Design TOR Culvert footings will always be set below the existing riverbed level to ensure unimpeded water flow. For any permanent loss of important shallow prawn fishing areas on the Navaka River, new similar habitats will be created to compensate for the loss and to improve ecological potential for the site. 40 Costs are estimates only and will be calculated during the detailed engineering design. Version C – November 2019 143 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 Design Engineer to engage environmental specialist experience in biodiversity studies specialist to undertake baseline habitat (Tridacna gigas and Cheilinus undulatus) survey between Naoneban and Venaus Bridges before during and after completion of work and to ensure CESMP utilises baseline and incorporates required protective measures. Road traffic safety Road safety audit conducted before design process commences to inform South Santo Road $15,000 Design Engineer MIPU designers, and then of design prior to tendering. Include the installation of a fence around the Tasiriki Primary School as part of Additional cost but the project to minimize the risk of accidents. minimal compared to rest of investments All haulage routes Minimal (requirement Contractor Supervision The bid documents will require a Traffic Management Plan (TMP) to be and along project of bidding documents) Engineer developed by Contractor. For each haul route, the TMP will need to include affected roads measure to address: Layout plans; Vehicle traffic (including any diversions around river crossings); Pedestrian traffic (particularly on bridges that construction traffic will use); Commercial marine traffic; Sensitive receptors (management near and consultation with) such as schools, residential dwellings, markets, churches, etc.); Management of increased heavy load traffic associated with transportation from the port. The TMP should follow the guidelines set in the Safe Traffic Controls for Road Works Field Guide (www.works.gov.pg/files/roads-bridges/IF003_PNGFieldGuide.pdf) and adapted for the VCRTP works. The TMP will be included as an annex to the CESMP. The Contractor should stage construction of river crossing to minimize the length of time that any diversion or road closure is needed. Contractor is required to have a speed monitoring system in place to allow all vehicles to be monitored for adherence to speed of travel and only using approved haul routes. USD$25,000 PIU MID Educational outreach program on road safety to be developed by the PIU for implementation in schools on project roads throughout duration of VCRTP implementation. The program will be designed to include the police and a local service provider replicating other successful models of road traffic safety Version C – November 2019 144 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 education. Program will be designed to target 2 age ranges: primary and high school. Road works will also include the design and installation of traffic safety signage along the road network, particularly targeting busy pedestrian areas. To be determined Design Engineer PIU Project design will include solutions for pedestrian safety/management on bridges. Solutions to include methods of separating pedestrians and traffic on current narrow spans. Solutions may include provision of separate walkways fixed to existing structures. Laydown and Stockpile Laydown and stockpile sites will be located on PWD land or quarries wherever VCRTP Part of contract costs Contractor Supervision Sites feasible. Engineer Short term rental of private land for lay down or stockpile sites will follow the process in 5.2.1 of the ESMP Sites must be located at least 100m from nearest residences or waterways. Sites will not be located inside any Community Conservation Areas. All sites must be securely fenced to prevent unauthorised access. Additional fencing may be required around specific stores (e.g. hazardous substances) to prevent access by unauthorised personnel. Secure, well-constructed areas within the compound must be clearly marked for solid waste collection, machinery maintenance, hazardous substance storage and toilet facilities for workers. The laydown site(s) will include hard stand areas which have protection from wind and (where appropriate) rain, bunding (hazardous substances), clean water diversion drains, and allow for complete containment, collection and treatment of wastewater from asphalt and concrete production and machinery maintenance. The ground of the construction lay down area will likely be compacted by the end of its use and so restoration will require scarification of the soil, application of topsoil and re-vegetation. Version C – November 2019 145 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 Coastal and Riverbank Use geotextile erosion control bags along the Tasiriki shoreline area for safer Coastline Part of contract coasts Design Engineer PIU Erosion Control access to the beach. Gabion cages are not a safe option given the proximity of the school and the likelihood of children climbing over these cages on a daily basis. Consider other appropriate uses for the geotextile erosion control bags in erosion control along coastline and riverbanks. Loss of Access to Assets A Land and Resettlement Action Plan has been developed (Appendix L of the South Santo Part of project and Design Engineer and PIU Project and Land ESMP). This will be updated through the process described in Section 5.2.1 of Realignments contract costs PIU NSS Manager and the ESMP for any additional realignments. WB Social Safeguard Short term rental of land for lay down or stockpile sites will follow the process Specialist in 5.2.3 of the ESMP. Rights to extract aggregates from quarries will be established by the GMU using government processes. Influx of Labour / Worker Contractor will be required to produce a Workers Management Plan (WoMP) South Santo Part of standard Contractor Supervision Management for the VCRTP works to describe recruitment strategy, worker accommodations, contract costs Engineer accommodation facilities and management of off duty workers. Worker Management Plan will follow requirements of the VCRTP ESMP and the IFC Workers Accommodation Standards and Guidelines. Workers Management Plan will be required as part of the bid submission and will be further developed and included as an annex in the CESMP for clearance by the Supervision Engineer. Project workers will be housed at predetermined locations at existing PWD sites. The WoMP will include cultural protocols (including appropriate clothing and no work on a Sunday or Saturday for LDS Church members), management and restricting of visitors to the camp, visitor curfews, expected behaviours (noise, alcohol, within community areas), gift giving and receiving, disciplinary actions, etc.) Version C – November 2019 146 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 All Project worker will be required to undertake HIV, GBV and SEA prevention training and sign the associated Code of Conduct prior to commencement of works. The Contractor is required to maximise the number of local workers from the Santo communities. Preference should be given to a local recruitment process, only relying on workers from other islands or from overseas for vacancies which cannot be filled locally. As part of the WoMP, the Contractor will be required to submit a list of roles along with required qualifications or experience and the planned recruitment strategy for that role (i.e. local or regional/overseas). The Contractor will be required to provide justification for any roles not filled locally. Work permits will only be granted for workers with skills unavailable in Vanuatu. Should international workers be found to be performing jobs that can be done by locals (e.g. driving vehicles), the Supervision Engineer will notify the contractor and the GoV who will cancel the work permits. The contractor will be required to return them home within 48 h of notification by the Supervision Engineer. For recruitment of ni-Vanuatu which cannot be fulfilled by the local community, it is preferred that it is undertaken through a formal recruitment process which ensures that only people who are already employed are travelling to the project site. Ad hoc employment of casual labour is not permitted. Any project staff who are recruited from overseas are subject to visa approval. As part of the visa application process, all workers are required to submit a medical report, an element of which is a HIV test. All oversea workers must complete this test and submit their medical report to the immigration department before appropriate visas can be issued. As part of the visa application process all overseas workers will also be required to provide a police background check from their home country. It is also contractual requirement for all overseas VCRTP project works to provide VCRTP PIU with police background clearances prior to arrival in country, regardless of the visa application process. In accordance with the World Bank’s Standard Procurement Documents (SPDs), Contractors shall submit a satisfactory code of conduct to address the responsibilities of the individual, the management and the company towards the ESHS requirements of the Project, the prevention of GBV and the adherence Version C – November 2019 147 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 to OHS requirements of the Project. The required Codes of Conduct can be found in Appendix L of the VCRTP ESMP. In addition to the Codes of Conduct for GBV & SEA, the Contractor will also prepare a Code of Conduct to describe the expected behaviours of their project worker in relation to the local communities and their social sensitivities. The Code of Conduct will contain obligations on all Contractor’s Personnel (including sub-contractors and day workers) that contain acceptable measures to address the social impacts of the project. The Codes of Conduct should be written in plain language and signed by each worker to indicate that they have: • received a copy of the code; • had the code explained to them; • acknowledged that adherence to this Code of Conduct is a condition of employment; and • understood that violations of the Code can result in serious consequences, up to and including dismissal, or referral to legal authorities. A copy of the codes shall be displayed in a location easily accessible to the community and project affected people. It shall be provided in languages comprehensible to the local community, Contractor’s Personnel, Employer’s Personnel and affected persons. Climate Responsive Road The engineer will consider realignments proposed in this ESIA for improve South Santo Road Included in Design Design Engineer PIU Realignments climate resilience of the South Santo Road (See Section 2.4). costs Environmental and Social screening of any proposed new alignments will be undertaken by the Engineers Safeguard Specialist and will be updated in the project ESMP. Soil erosion Minimize erosion and design erosion protection measures according to All locations Minimal (part of Design Consultants PIU international good practice standards, including incorporation of effective standard design climate resilient drainage systems (soakage pits) and consideration of surface practices) flow paths. Design Engineer should consider elevating road through areas with high water table which impacts the drainage and the volume of standing water. Version C – November 2019 148 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 Contingency Plan must detail soil erosion prevention measures in event of Contractor Supervision storm or heavy rain event. Engineer Dust / Air Pollution Identify and locate waste storage sites, stockpile sites and equipment (e.g. All components Minimal (part of Contractor Supervision crushing plant) at least 100 m away from any residential settlements, water standard design Engineer / PIU bodies, streams or rivers, to minimize impacts on the environment and nearby practices) NSS population. Preference is given to existing PWD Quarry sites. The CESMP should include a provision for quarry dust control; all equipment including crushers, aggregate processors, generators etc. should, if possible, be located in the quarry pit to minimize dust emissions. Ensure all equipment is serviced and issued with warrant of fitness (as required). Any machinery deemed to be polluting the air must be replaced (or fixed) on instruction by the Supervision Engineer and/or the DEPC. Riverbank Degradation Set conservative working areas along the rivers and ensure that the areas are River crossings Minimal (part of Design Engineer PIU clearly marked at all times. standard design practice) Riverbank reinforcement works should be designed to consider future predicted rainfall patterns. Contractor to include replanting of native species along riverbank on Contractor Supervision completion of work as part of the CESMP. Engineer Minimize amount of vegetation clearance required for the works. Water and soil pollution Soakage pits should not be installed directly into a shallow aquifer. All components Minimal (part of Contractor PIU & Supervision standard design and Engineer Minimise risk to groundwater and surrounding soil by developing a spill construction practices) response plan and provide training to all contract workers on how to implement the spill response plan. Precautions should be in place to prevent wastewater and hazardous substances or materials entering the environment (e.g. fuel spillage, wastewater containing fire retardant during firefighting), The spill Version C – November 2019 149 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 response plan should include factors associated with both the construction and operational phases and should be available at all VCRTP locations. No stockpiles within 100m of riverbanks, waterways or coastlines. Ensure bunded areas and hard stands are allocated at construction lay down area for the storage of fuel, lubricants and other potential substances required for the project. Watertight bunds to be able to contain 110% of volumes being stored or 25% if total volume greater than 1,000 L. All machinery well maintained and in good working order. Ensure wash down areas with respective collection and treatment systems are designated within the construction camp (e.g. settling pond or tank and concrete slurry treatment) prior to works commencing. Sanitation treatment system (e.g. removal of waste to landfill or industry standard treatment system) is approved by the Supervision Engineer prior to implementation. Design elevated roads through areas of high-water table to prevent contamination of standing water and/or flood waters. Relevant Water permits are in place No runoff from laydown sites, construction works or other project activities will enter any waterways or CCAs either from direct run off or via discharge into a river. Water supply The Contractors will need to ensure adequate supply of water for construction All components Minimal (part of Contractor Supervision and personnel which does not adversely affect local community’s water supply. standard design Engineer & DWR practices) Sourcing aggregate The design of the road will be undertaken to minimize the need for river gravels All components Minimal (part of Design Engineer PWD material and maximize the use of coronous materials through innovative and climate standard design and resilient design. construction practices) Version C – November 2019 150 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 The Engineer will consult with the Geology and Mines Unit for any previous studies undertaken on the Navaka River and for recommendations on extraction sources. For the extraction of aggregates from the Navaka River, a separate EIA will be produced by the Engineer and will focus on the effects of the river materials extraction activities on the natural habitat. It will be based on this ESMP and the findings of the engineer’s studies on the Navaka River. The environmental assessment will clearly describe the extraction method, the associated environmental impacts and any mitigation and monitoring measures that will be incorporated. The EIA will be written specifically to support the application for the river gravel excavation permit and will be submitted to the DEPC for approval prior to the application of the quarry permit. Contractor Supervision The approved engineers EIA will form part of the Contractors Quarry Engineer, VCRTP Management Plan and, along with the requirements of the VCRTP ESMP, will National be the basis of their application. Safeguards Specialists & Ensure locally sourced aggregate is sourced under appropriate permit from DEPC approved quarry sources and are operating in accordance with GoV law. Prior to any quarries being selected for the VCRTP, public consultation will be completed with any affected parties relating to re-opened quarry sites. PWD will reinstate PWD permits to re-open previously used quarries along the south Santo Road. PWD will apply for the permits under agreement with the Contractor to extract the materials. The permit will be issued to PWD who will have a formal agreement with the Contractor to take responsibility for operating under the conditions of the permit, the DEPC approval of the EIA and the Contractors Quarry Management Plan. All plans and permit conditions will be included in the CESMP for approval. The Contractor can choose to apply for their own permit if desired. The contractor will be required to produce a Quarry Management Plan as per the requirements of Quarry Act and the projects ESMP and the DEPC approved EIA. It shall be included as an annex in the CESMP for clearance. The following conditions apply to site selection for new river extraction sites: Version C – November 2019 151 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 i. All sites will be subject to approval and permitting under both the Quarry Act and the Environment Protection and Conservation Act (Environmental Permit); ii. Limits to volume of material extracted from any one source will be set in light of the ability of the source to regenerate and likely environmental impact as a result of the extraction. This limit will be informed by the Design Engineers outputs. As with any extraction, there are limits after which localized or more extensive environmental impacts may occur. This might be due to facilitation of erosion or sedimentation which could alter the immediate environment or impact directly upon flora and fauna; iii. Access to gravel extraction sites will be negotiated with custom owners and users, in the event that an access is purpose built, should the owner not want to keep the access, the contractor will be responsible for reinstating the land to its pre-project condition; iv. Any rivers or streams identified as being a critical habitat under OP4.04 Natural Habitats or forming part of a protected area (including the buffer zone of a protected area), a proposed protected area, or having conservation value, being habitat for rare or endangered aquatic species or birds, comprising part of the intertidal zone, comprising swamp or wetland, or including mangroves, will not be permitted to be used as sources of gravel; v. Use of approved machinery for gravel extraction from rivers such as excavator or backhoe. Dredging or similar operations for the winning of construction material will not be permitted; vi. A number of sites for extraction are preferred over a large volume being taken from one location; vii. In respect of maximum volumes to be removed from any one source, any river gravel removal for the subproject will be managed in accordance with the aggregate extraction guidelines and conditions of approval for the extraction plan; viii. Gravel or material should not be extracted from river bends, and if required, river training be undertaken; ix. Gravel shall only be extracted during the dry season; x. No gravel shall be excavated from running water’ xi. Any extraction sites and borrow areas close to roads will be located at least 15 m outside the right-of-way of roads, extraction from the sides of roads in a way that could undermine the roads will not be permitted; Version C – November 2019 152 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 xii. Any extraction sites within rivers will have a 200m buffer zone between the site and the coastline. xiii. Site and pit restoration will follow the completion of works in full compliance with all applicable standards and specifications; xiv. Any topsoil excavated from the top of sites and borrow pit areas will be saved and reused in re-vegetating the sites and pits to the satisfaction of the National Safeguard Specialist; xv. Additional extraction sites and/or borrow pits will not be opened without the restoration of those areas no longer in use; and xvi. The excavation and restoration of sites and borrow areas, as well as their immediate surroundings will be detailed in the QMP and will be approved by the custom owner, DEPC and the Supervision Engineer. Sign-off to this effect by Supervision Engineer and custom owner will be required before final acceptance and payment under the terms of the contract. The extraction limit on the Navaka River will be set based on ability of the resource to regenerate and the potential environmental impacts which will be determined by the Geology and Mines Unit. Contractor is required adhere to these limits and manage the extraction at the source as per the EIA and the QMP. Imported aggregates will be from an existing permitted quarry in an approved country of origin. The source quarry must be operating in compliance with the conditions of their own national permit and good international standards. Supervision Engineer to approve source quarries prior to purchases agreements being signed. To prevent inter-island spread of invasive species, stockpile sites for imported and local aggregates which are transshipped through Efate will be decontaminated and a biosecurity perimeter will be maintained at an Efate stockpile site in conjunction with the GoV Biosecurity department. The contractor will be required to present specific management plans for the sea and land transportation of these materials from the origin to the project site, especially the landing facility. These plans will be approved by the Supervision Engineer. Version C – November 2019 153 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 It is prohibited to use sand from any beaches on Vanuatu from this project unless approved by the Supervision Engineer, follows the environmental requirement of the Quarry Act, detailed in an approved Quarry Management Plan and approved by the Department of Environmental Protection and Conservation. Solid waste generation Solid Waste Management Plan to be completed following requirements of All locations Minimal (part of Contractor Supervision ESMP. SWMP will be included as an appendix to the CESMP for clearance by standard design and Engineer the Supervision Engineer. construction practices) At all times, the Contractor is responsible for the safe and sound disposal of all solid waste generated by the Works. Solid waste includes: • General waste (i.e. office type waste, household waste (from any workers camps), lightweight packaging materials). • Recyclable waste (i.e. certain plastics, metals, rubber etc. that can be recycled). • Organic biodegradable waste (i.e. waste that will decay / break down in a reasonable amount of time, such as green waste, food waste). • Inorganic non-recyclable waste (i.e. waste that cannot decompose / break down and which cannot be recycled). • Hazardous waste (i.e. asbestos, waste oil etc.) No bulky construction waste will be disposed of on Santo and will instead be exported to a permitted landfill site which can accommodate the project waste. The Port Vila Municipal Council should be consulted on their willingness and ability to receive the VCRTP waste at the Bouffa Landfill. • General waste (including only small quantities of lightweight packaging waste) can be disposed of at the Luganville landfill, subject to LMC approval. In addition to this and with the approval of the Supervision Engineer: • Organic biodegradable waste may be deposited in designated dumping areas in reasonable quantities. • Recyclable waste may be supplied to a local receiver licensed to process such waste. Version C – November 2019 154 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 The SWMP shall describe solid waste streams generated by the works and detail the approved disposal methods along with permissions. At all times, the Contractor is responsible for solid waste generated by the Works in accordance with the Environmental Health Act. The SWMP should adhere to the GoV Environmental Health Act and follow the guidelines provided in Appendix F of the ESMP. As a minimum the SWMP will make provisions for the following: • Describe the solid waste streams generated by the works along with estimated quantities. • Develop a plan for safe storage and handling of waste stored on the project site as per the stipulations in this ESMP. • Identify approved service providers for collection and disposal of waste and stipulate conditions of carriage. • Detail the approved disposal methods along with appropriate permissions. • Confirm with PVMC the process and permissions for using Bouffa Landfill for handling general project waste and septic waste. • Contractor shall contact PVMC to determine whether any quantities of the projects hazardous waste materials generated by the project are suitable to be handled at the Bouffa Landfill and obtain any permissions necessary. • Contractor shall seek permission from PVMC to disposal of organic biodegradable waste in their designated managed area. • Recyclable waste may be supplied to a local receiver licensed to process such waste. • Contractor to identify shipping route and licensed disposal facilities for all exported waste. • Contractor to identify any export permits or conditions for export of waste. • Identify those persons responsible for implementing and monitoring the SWMP. Any waste which cannot be safely and correctly disposed of in Vanuatu is to be disposed of OFFSHORE in permitted or licensed facilities. It is the Contractor’s responsibility to obtain all necessary permissions for transport and safe disposal of hazardous waste from the project site in a legally designated Version C – November 2019 155 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 hazardous waste management site within the country or in another country, and to ensure compliance with all relevant laws. Evidence will need to be supplied to the Supervision Engineer of proper disposal of waste at the final location. The export of any hazardous waste must be in compliance with the Basel and Waigani Conventions and any relevant laws enacted by source and the recipient countries. Disused material may be generated in the form of surplus aggregates or surplus materials from excavations. Most of the clean fill material can either be used to backfill areas where old equipment or infrastructure has been removed or as a resource for general use by PWD and the community. Clean fill materials which are not able to be reused within the timeframe of the project implementation shall be transported to a location approved by PWD to be stored for future use by the Ministry. This location shall also be subject to approval by the Supervision Engineer. Unless otherwise instructed by the Supervision Engineer, other surplus materials not needed during the defects liability period shall be removed from the site and the country. Hazardous substances Where possible fuel shall be obtained from local commercially available All locations Minimal (part of Contractors PIU sources. Prior arrangement regarding quantity and type will need to be mobilisation and organised by the contractor. All fuel to be stored in self-bunded containers construction planning) In all VCRTP project locations, fuel should only be stored in self bunded containers within designated areas that are designed to store and facilitate operations associated with it (e.g. re-fueling). Spill Response Plan to be developed by Contractor and workers trained. The response plan should include details on the use of spill kits and absorbent items to prevent spills entering the receiving sensitive environment (ground, surface water). This spill response plan should be applicable to all VCRTP project works areas. A spill response plan should be in place for both the construction phase and operational phase. Bitumen will be stored at the construction laydown area. Version C – November 2019 156 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 Identify suitable area for hardstand and bunded storage areas. These areas will be at least 150m inland from any CCA and 100m away from any waterway or the coast. Any empty asphalt or bitumen drums will either be disposed of at Bouffa Landfill on Efate or will be removed offshore and either returned to supplier or disposed of in a legally approved facility outside Vanuatu. Importation and The Contractor is to arrange for their vehicles and machinery to be thoroughly All components Minimal (part of Contractor Supervision interisland transshipment cleaned of all contamination prior to shipping (e.g. soil, rocks, plant material, mobilisation and Engineer of equipment and seeds, etc.). Items shipped inside containers must also have the inside of the construction planning) materials container thoroughly cleaned of all previous cargo residues, including dunnage. Obtain import permits and quarantine certification prior to export from country of origin. Certificate of fumigation and verification of source (as per national requirements) to be submitted to Quarantine Inspectors and approved by the Supervision Engineer prior to delivery to site. Any machinery or equipment originating outside of Santo and being transported within the Vanuatu islands to Santo will need to be thoroughly cleaned before its arrival into Santo. Any imported aggregates being transshipped through Efate will need to be held in a secure site to act as a ‘quarantine holding area’. Any locally supplied aggregates from Efate for this project will need to be sourced from an area which is known to be free of GAS and Rhinoceros Beetle. All materials or equipment shipped into Santo will, in the first instance, be landed at the Port in Luganville to allow GoV Biosecurity and Quarantine Officers to inspect the shipments for invasive pest. Community grievances Ensure that public consultation and disclosure communication is completed at All components Minimal (part of Supervision Engineer VCRTP NSS regular intervals with full involvement of VCRTP CLO to ensure that the public mobilisation and are fully aware of the VCRTP works. Consultation should include all aspects of construction planning) the project including the road works site, quarries and transport routes. Version C – November 2019 157 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 Consultation shall include raising awareness of the project GRM, how to complain and how complaints will be managed. In all instances, consultations will be deigned to ensure free, prior and informed consent of the affected communities with the aim to maintain the broad community support for the project which has been demonstrated to date. Advertise, maintain and operate a grievance response mechanism, including VCRTP NSS MIPU publishing statistics on resolutions. Local business grievances Ensure that local businesses/roadside vendors and are included in the public Santo locality Minimal (part of Contractor Supervision consultation and disclosure communication process. Regular communication mobilisation and Engineer should be made with affected parties to ensure that they are fully aware of construction planning) the proposed program of works and how to complain and how complaints will be managed. CONSTRUCTION STAGE Traffic (vehicle and Implement the traffic management plan (TMP) to ensure smooth traffic flow and Route from quarries Safety equipment Contractors Supervision pedestrian) and safety for workers, passing vehicles and pedestrian traffic. and ports to included in construction Engineer construction safety laydown sites cost Where appropriate, employ flag operators on the road to prevent traffic accidents. The workers shall have relevant safety equipment and training. The TMP should prohibit the use of engine breaking close to and through communities and inhabited areas, it should also regulate the working hours for the haul trucks. Contractor to report on adherence to speed limits and use of haulage routes in monthly reports. Offloading equipment at Machinery and plant will need to be moved from Luganville along the South beaches Santo Road as construction moved. No offloading directly from Efate or from overseas will take place at these beaches. For any proposed movement of machinery and equipment along the South Santo Road by boat, only offloading sites previously used by PWD for road maintenance works will be used for VCRTP. These sites are beaches at Veru Version C – November 2019 158 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 and Nakere. Offloading will be undertaken by ro-ro barge with a shallow enough draught to land at the beach, as per previous PWD maintenance works on the South Santo Road. High Quality beach protection mats or locally available stone will be used for forming a roadway on the beach to provide traction to the vehicles. All stones or mats added to the beach will be removed at the completion of offloading activities. Conservative working areas will be set on the beaches to minimize the footprint. Only existing tracks between the offloading sites and the South Santo Road will be used. Offloading activities will be detailed in the CESMP for approval. Soil & Sand erosion Minimise time and size of ground disturbing activities to workable size at any All locations Minimal (part of Contractors Supervision one time. Ensure sediment traps are in place prior to works commencing. standard construction Engineer Vegetation to be removed manually, strictly no use of herbicides/ pesticides. practice) Division bunding or other similar methods to be used for large areas of vegetation clearance and around excavations. Keep construction vehicles on defined tracks. Minimize working footprint on beach areas. Re-vegetate disturbed areas that are not being paved as soon as practicable (loosen ground; apply topsoil; seed or plant as necessary). Vegetation Clearance The Contractor will limit any areas to be cleared to the minimum workable area Laydown and Minimal (part of Contractor Supervision or new project footprint for realignments. storage sites standard construction Engineer and practice) National Extend of permanent vegetation clearance will be described in CESMP and Safeguard approved by the engineer Specialist Version C – November 2019 159 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 Any significant vegetation (crop trees, important shade trees, boundary marker species, etc.) will be identified prior to any clearance and appropriate compensation or avoidance measures will be secured (consultations facilitated by the National Safeguards Specialists) prior to establishment of laydown and storage sites. 100m buffer zone established between any laydown or stockpiles around watercourses, coastline and CCA coastal areas. Contractors machinery operators to understand boundaries and boundaries to be clearly marked. Cleared vegetative material to be disposed of by communities for fuel wood. Re-establishment of vegetation line at beach, coastline or riverbank will happen immediately on completion of associated works. Waste disposal Implement approved Solid Waste Management Plan. All locations Minimal (part of Contractors Supervision standard construction Engineer No bulky construction waste is to be disposed of on Santo. The Bouffa Landfill practice) operated by PVMC. The landfill has a drainage system along with settling and digestion ponds to capture leachate. • General waste (including only small quantities of lightweight packaging waste) can be disposed of on Santo, subject to LMC approval. In addition to this and with the approval of the Supervision Engineer: • Organic biodegradable waste may be deposited in designated dumping areas in reasonable quantities. • Recyclable waste may be supplied to a local receiver licensed to process such waste. Ensure areas for waste collection, recycling and off-site disposal are clearly marked/sign posted. Segregate waste to avoid cross contamination, such as with contaminated material (hazardous substance). Version C – November 2019 160 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 Install waste collection facilities at construction lay down area to allow for collection and packing of waste. Strictly no dumping of rubbish. Include awareness training in general environmental training. If access to existing facilities is not available, workers must be provided with a sanitary system to prevent fouling of surrounding soils. Sanitary system must be of sufficient size for the number of workers and must take into account the disposal situation at the local landfill. Any waste which cannot be safely and correctly disposed of in Vanuatu is to be disposed of OFFSHORE in permitted or licensed facilities. It is the Contractor’s responsibility to obtain all necessary permissions for transport and safe disposal of hazardous waste from the project site in a legally designated hazardous waste management site within the country or in another country, and to ensure compliance with all relevant laws. Evidence will need to be supplied to the Supervision Engineer of proper disposal of waste at the final location. The export of any hazardous waste must follow the Basel and Waigani Conventions and any relevant laws enacted by source and the recipient countries. Disused material may be generated in the form of surplus aggregates or surplus materials from excavations. Most of the clean fill material can either be used to backfill areas where old equipment or infrastructure has been removed or as a resource for general use by PWD and the community. Clean fill materials which are not able to be reused within the timeframe of the project implementation shall be transported to a location approved by the MID to be stored for future use by the Ministry. This location shall also be subject to approval by the Supervision Engineer. Unless otherwise instructed by the Supervision Engineer, other surplus materials not needed during the defects liability period shall be removed from the site and the country. The Contractor is responsible for the collection and treatment of the septic waste. Temporary toilets and disposal or treatment of wastewater will need to be in accordance with the DEPC and PWD advice and should be appropriately sized and of acceptable public health standards. Version C – November 2019 161 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 Water and soil pollution Treatment and disposal of all Contractor generated sanitation wastewater is in All locations Minimal (part of Contractors Supervision accordance with ECD and approved by Supervision Engineer. standard construction Engineer practice) Spill response kits available at all locations where fuel is stored. Spill response plan training completed for all construction workers. All project vessels are to be equipped with spill kit including oils booms and absorbent pads. All staff are to be trained on the use of marine spill kits and kits are to be stored in easily accessible locations Precautions should be in place to prevent wastewater and hazardous substances / materials entering the environment (e.g. fuel spillage, wastewater containing fire retardant during firefighting), however should an incident occur, the Contractor must have a spill response plan must be in place. The response plan should include details on the use of spill kits and absorbent items to prevent spills entering the receiving sensitive environment (ground, surface water). This spill response plan should be applicable to all VCRTP project works areas (quarries, and transport routes). A spill response plan should be in place for both the construction phase and operational phase. Heavy machinery shall not be use during period of heavy rain or when the ground is waterlogged. Concrete production should only take place when there is no rain forecast. Sand bags or diversion drains must be used to divert runoff from concrete cutting or setting areas. Concrete production is to be equipped with settlement tanks/ponds for treatment of slurry and process water. Treatment shall include settling of suspended solids and decreasing the pH of the water. Waste concrete should be allowed to harden before reuse as clean fill. All equipment used in concrete production must be cleaned in designated wash down areas in the construction laydown area, away from surface water, in a bunded impermeable area and shall not be allowed to permeate to ground. Wastewater from concrete cutting, washing equipment or production must be collected and treated (settling and neutralisation through pH adjustment). Version C – November 2019 162 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 Zones for preliminary accumulation of waste should be designated in areas that will cause no damage to the vegetation cover or leach into groundwater or surface water (e.g. within construction lay down area on hard surface). Excavations are bunded to prevent ingress of water runoff and clean water diversion (e.g. sand bags, clay bund, or shallow trenches) are used to direct overland flow away from active work and storage areas. Soakage pits should not be installed directly into a shallow aquifer. Control overland drainage to prevent channeling and sediment transport by diverting flows away from exposed areas. Sediment laden runoff from excavations or stockpiles must be directed to a settling area or collected for dust suppression provided the runoff is not contaminated with any chemicals (e.g. fuel). Discharges of treated wash water are to occur to land only, at least 500m from any bore used for potable water at a rate not exceeding 20mm/day or the infiltration rate of the ground (i.e. no ponding or runoff). A separate washdown area is required for machinery or material with oil or fuel residue and treated through an oil water separator. In sections along the river or coastal area, earth and stone should be properly disposed of so as not to block rivers as this could result in adverse impact on water quality. Scoring and revegetation of any compacted soils will be undertaken on completion of works along road corridor. Generation of dust Any vehicle which is overloaded (exceed designed load limit) or is not covered All locations Minimal (part of Contractors Supervision properly shall be refused entry to the construction lay down area or material standard construction Engineer shall be refused delivery (if not to the construction lay down area). practice) Cover or wet down stockpiles containing fine material (e.g. sand and topsoil) when not actively being used. Wetting of stockpiles is allowed but due to freshwater constraints should be kept to a minimum. Version C – November 2019 163 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 All surfaces should be constructed to their final design solution as quickly as practicable. All machinery and equipment shall be well maintained and in good working order. Keep work areas clean with regular sweeping. Asphalt crushing shall only be undertaken with a wet crushing plant. Only small areas should be cleared of vegetation at any one time and re- vegetation should occur as soon as practicable. Dust masks and personnel protective equipment must be available for workers during dust generating activities (e.g. pavement milling). Manage speed of transportation trucks on unsealed roads, particularly when passing through settlements. Noise and vibration Crushing plant to be located away from residences and communities. Plant will All locations Minimal (part of Contractors Supervision disturbances be located so that it is screened by natural vegetation and/or landforms to act standard construction Engineer as a noise barrier. practice) Minimise nuisance from noise, especially closer to residential areas and sensitive receptors, through establishment and communication to affected parties of working hours and avoid increase of noise and number of work equipment at outside of advertised hours. Advertise working hours at the site entrance. If possible, use noise barriers / screens or mounds to shield sensitive receptors. No works to be undertaken at night or on a Sunday. Regularly check and maintain machinery, equipment and vehicle conditions to ensure appropriate use of mufflers, etc. Workers in the vicinity of sources of high noise shall wear necessary protection gear rated for the situation they are being used. Version C – November 2019 164 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 Signage to outline complaints procedure (GRM) and contact details of recipient of complaints (e.g. phone number, physical address and email). The WB/IFC EHS Guidelines41 Section 1.7 – Noise Management shall be applied. Noise impacts should not exceed the levels at the closest residential or other sensitive social receptors for one hour LAeq of 55 dBA between the hours of 0700-2200 or 45 dBA outside of these hours for night works, or result in a maximum increase in background noise levels of 3dB at the nearest receptor location off site. The nearest sensitive receptors are expected to change as the work moves along the roads and will be determined the closest residences to the active works and to the construction camps and/or crushing plant. Accident risks/Impacts on Implement TMP. All locations Safety equipment Contractors Supervision traffic safety included in construction Engineer Arrange necessary measures for pedestrian and passer-by safety and all cost means of transportation safety (e.g. establish protection zones, by-pass these areas during transportation of materials, etc.) Minimal (part of standard construction Relevant safety elements such as guardrails, road signs and delineators, practice) pavement markings, barricades and beams, warning lights shall be installed. In some cases a flag operator or traffic control supervisor could be engaged around the specific work site. Consultations with chiefs to inform of community risks and management of the beach areas during offloading activities. Contractor to report on adherence to speed limits and use of haulage routes in monthly reports. Conduct road safety audit prior to completion of construction to ensure road Supervision Engineer MIPU/PWD safety designs properly implemented. 41 International Finance Corporation, Environmental Health and Safety Guidelines, General Guidelines: Noise Management Version C – November 2019 165 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 Chance find of objects and Work to stop in specific location of unearthed artefacts or site. Fence the area All locations No marginal cost Contractors MIPU/ loss of archaeological to limit access and notify VCRTP PIU and Supervision Engineer immediately for Supervision artefacts or sites instruction to proceed. Engineer Landscape degradation Contractor is required to submit a Site Decommissioning and Restoration Plan All locations Minimal (part of Contractors PIU/ Supervision in the CESMP. The plan will describe all activities with regard to site standard construction Engineer / DEPC restoration and landscaping in areas such as borrow pits, quarries, camps, practice) crushing plants, etc. to ensure that the activities are done to an appropriate and acceptable standard. The sites must be restored to at least the same condition and standard that existed prior to commencement of works. The plan will be approved by the Supervision Engineer Restoration of quarries and river extraction sites to be completed in accordance with ESMP and QMP and approved by the custom owner. Construction materials will be sourced commercially and use of wood from natural forests will not be permitted. Restoration of landscape after completion of rehabilitation works; restore the vegetation cover in accordance with the surrounding landscape and any required design (e.g. grass land or shrubs). Use plant species characteristic for the landscape in the course of restoration of the vegetation cover. Should the removal of mature trees be necessary for operational safety, determine whether OP4.12 would be triggered and ensure all appropriate measures and permissions are in place before removal of trees. Photographs will be taken of any laydown and stockpiling sites prior to establishment and provided to Supervision Engineer. Photos will be used as a guide during restoration and post-restoration photographs are required to be submitted to the Supervision Engineer. Hazardous substances and Store and handle hazardous substances self-bunded tanks or drums. With the All locations Safety equipment Contractors Supervision safety and pollution Supervision Engineer’s permission may alternatively be store in bunded, hard included in construction Engineer stand or designated areas only. Bunded areas to drain to an oil water cost separator which will need to be constructed or a mobile proprietary unit imported specifically for use on the VCRTP. Bunds to contain 110% of total Version C – November 2019 166 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 volume required to be stored or 25% of total volume if total volume is over Minimal (part of 1,000 L. standard construction practice) Provide hazard specific personnel protective equipment to workers directly involved in handling hazardous substances (e.g. chemical or heat resistant clothing, gloves). Complete list, including safety data sheets (SDS) for each hazardous substances stored or used shall always be accessible . Signage to be posted in storage areas identifying all chemicals present. Precautions should be in place to prevent wastewater and hazardous substances / materials entering the environment (e.g. fuel spillage, wastewater containing fire retardant during firefighting), however should an incident occur, the Contractors spill response plan must be in place. The response plan should include details on the use of spill kits and absorbent items to prevent spills entering the receiving sensitive environment (ground, surface water). This spill response plan should be applicable to all VCRTP project works areas. A spill response plan should be in place for both the construction phase and operational phase. Spill kits and training of use to be provided to all workers during toolbox meetings. Spill kits to contain PPE for the spill clean-up (e.g. appropriate gloves [nitrile] and overalls), material to contain the spill and absorbent pads, and a heavy duty rubbish bag to collect absorbent pads or material. Waste oil to be collected and removed abroad to an approved facility (for disposal or cleaning) at completion of works. Health and safety Fully implement OHS requirements in ESMP. All locations Included as Contractor Supervision provisional sum in the Engineer /VCRTP Always have safety officer with suitable qualifications available during bill of quantity PIU construction. Ensure all workers have undergone suitable induction training on OHS with regular training over course of project. Version C – November 2019 167 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 Prepare site specific safety plans specifying responsibilities and authorities. Health and safety documentation to include all areas of the project (e.g. quarries and transport routes). Ensure all occupational health and safety requirements are in place on construction sites and in work camps. Construction lay down area to be fenced to prevent access by unauthorised personnel. First aid training to be provided as required to site workers with basic first aid services to be provided by Contractor e.g. stretcher, vehicle transport to hospital. First aid kits to be in communal areas or marked areas in the unlikely event of an incident occurring. Provide education on basic hygiene practices to minimize spread of diseases. Increase workers’ HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted disease (STD) awareness, including information on methods of transmission and protection measures. Prohibit usage of drugs and alcohol on construction sites and undertake regular alcohol testing. Install lights and cautionary signs in hazardous areas. Enhance safety and inspection procedures. Ensure use of PPE and consider providing for on-site storage of workers allocated PPE. Damage to assets and Maintain high standard of site supervision and vehicle and plant operation to All locations Dependent on asset/ Contractors Supervision infrastructure reduce risks of damage to water, power and telecommunication lines. infrastructure and Engineer / PIU level of damage Prepare procedures for rapid notification to the responsible authority (PWD and service providers). As a result of VCRTP construction activities any damage to assets or infrastructure (including public roads) must be reported to PWD and rectified at the expense of the Contractors. Aid with reinstatement, in the event of any disruption. Version C – November 2019 168 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 Accidental damage to community assets including crop trees or agricultural will be compensated by the Contractor under the national valuation guidelines. Community engagement Implement the community engagement plan from the VCRTP ESMP. All components Minimal (part of VCRTP National VCRTP PIU and grievances standard construction Safeguards In all instances, consultations will be deigned to ensure free, prior and informed practice) Specialist consent of the affected communities with the aim to maintain the broad community support for the project which has been demonstrated to date.Maintain a grievance response mechanism at the VCRTP PIU. Ensure that public consultation and disclosure communication is completed at Supervision Engineer regular intervals to ensure that the public are fully aware of the VCRTP activities and the GRM process. Consultation should include all aspects of the project including the road works, quarries and transport routes. Contractor will recruit community liaison officer from Santo to assist in developing relationships with communities. Contractor Supervision Engineer & VCRTP PIU will be the Contractors key facilitator for all consultations. VCRTP National Safeguard Signage should be used in public areas around the VCRTP project sites advising Specialists the complaints procedure and contact details of key project individuals responsible for responding to issues raised. Local business grievances Ensure that local businesses are included in the public consultation and disclosure Roadside Minimal (part of Supervision Engineer VCRTP PIU communication process throughout the construction phase. Regular standard construction communication should be made with affected parties to ensure that they are practice) fully aware of the proposed program of works and the GRM. Signage should be used in public areas around the vicinity of works advising Contractor the complaints procedure and contact details of key project individuals Supervision responsible for responding to issues raised. Engineer Version C – November 2019 169 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ESTIMATED POTENTIAL NEGATIVE IMPLEMENTING EXECUTING SUPERVISING ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MITIGATION MEASURES MITIGATION IMPACT LOCATION AGENCY AGENCY COSTS40 OPERATION STAGE Road Safety Ongoing program by MIPU to raise awareness of road and pedestrian safety South Santo Road Additional to Project PWD MIPU through encouraging safe driving and safe use of roads by pedestrians Schools Costs Drainage Maintenance Ensure drains are cleared of sediment and detritus build up on a regular basis South Santo Road Part of PWD Budget PWD MIPU and after significant rain events allowances Version C – November 2019 170 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Appendix D: ESMP Monitoring Plans and Checklist Version C – November 2019 171 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road SOUTH SANTO ROAD DESIGN PHASE MONITORING PLAN South Santo Road Design Checklist – PRIOR TO APPROVAL OF FINAL DESIGN Frequency / Impact Area: Monitoring Parameter: Responsibility River Hydrology • Location of bridge over Navaka River is selected based Once / PWD on recommendations of Design Engineer expert reports and approved by the PIU. • Hydrological modelling demonstrates minimal impact post development impacts. • Climate resilience of bridge design incorporates recommendations from Design Engineer expert specialists. • Footing of culverts are designed to sit lower than the existing riverbed to allow unimpeded water flow. Natural Habitats • Environmental impact assessment developed and Once / PWD approved out for Navaka River gravel extraction and includes information on fisheries use, proposed extraction methods and sites, information from hydrological and geotechnical studies, makes conclusions about any long term or irreversible impacts and designs mitigation measures. • Baseline biodiversity study produced for Tridacna gigas and Cheilinus undulatus) habitat between Naoneban and Venaus Bridges. Coastal and Riverbank • Geotextile erosion bag design solution is incorporated Once / PWD Erosion Control into the Tasiriki coastal reinforcement design. Climate Responsive • Proposed realignments in ESIA assessed and/or included Once / PWD Road Realignments in final design. • Environmental and Social screening completed and ESMP updated for any additional sections of realignment. General Design • Replacement of Tasiriki Primary School fence included in Once / PWD final design. SOUTH SANTO ROAD PRE-CONSTRUCTION PHASE MONITORING PLAN South Santo Road Pre-Construction Checklist – PRIOR TO COMMENCEMENT OF CIVIL WORKS Frequency / Impact Area: Monitoring Parameter: Responsibility Environmental and • Quarry permit, water works permit, foreshore Social Impacts development consent and environmental permits are in place. • Results and recommendations from biodiversity Once / PIU and habitat study has been incorporated into CESMP Supervision • CESMP has been approved and includes ESMP Engineer compliant Solid Waste Management Plan, Spill Response Plan, Traffic Management Plan, Quarry Management Plan, Worker Management Plan and Site Decommissioning and Restoration Plan. Version C – November 2019 172 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Solid and hazardous • Approved Solid Waste Management Plan in place waste • Waste collection at workers camp and laydown Once / Supervision area is established and well signed Engineer • Waste collection storage arrangements in place and compliant with approved SWMP Community health • HIV/GBV/Code of Conduct training and and safety acknowledgements have been completed as per contractual requirements • Medical clearance certificates provided for all foreign workers Once / Supervision Engineer • GRM process available for public inspection. • Worker Management Plan contains all elements, has been approved by Supervision Engineer and the PIU Protection of habitats • Clear demarcation of machine operating zones for riverbanks, river gravel extraction, beaches, beach access and near Wairua Nature Reserve (CCA) are clearly mapped in the CESMP. Once / Supervision • Planning for beach offloading included in CESMP, Engineer follows methodology previously used by PWD and has been approved by PWD. • Significant tree specimens or areas of vegetation identified and included in CESMP. Soil and water • Appropriate spill response plan in place pollution • Staff are trained on spill response plan • Overland drainage diverts water flow away from Once / Supervision exposed areas. Engineer • Sediment laden runoff from excavations or stockpiles directed to a settling area. • Discharges of treated wash water are to occur to land . Occupational Health • OHS Management Plan contains all relevant and Safety elements and is approved. Once / Supervision • All workers have undergone appropriate OHS Engineer training Version C – November 2019 173 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Materials Supply • All permits and approvals are in place (DWG, DEPC and DWR) • Quarry Management Plan is compliant with the ESMP and is approved in the CESMP • All imported materials with appropriate biosecurity clearances. • River gravel extraction from Navaka River is only Once / Supervision planned to take place in the dry season and this is Engineer reflected in the CESMP. • Bio secure transhipment area is established on Efate (if relevant). • No materials being sourced from Rhinoceros Beetle infected areas on Efate (if relevant). • Materials and equipment sourced off Santo are landed at Luganville Port in the first instance. Laydown Site, • Approved and signed rental agreements have Crushing Plant and been submitted to the PIU (if relevant) Stockpile Area • Laydown and stockpile sites are at least 100m from any residential settlements or waterways. • Laydown areas established on pre-approved sites as per CESMP • Water run off management systems in place to approved standard as per CESMP. • Washdown areas have collection and treatments systems. • Sanitation treatment system is in place as per CESMP Once / Supervision • No runoff from laydown or stockpile sites are Engineer directed to waterways, CCAs or coastline. • Bunded secure storage area for hazardous substance is established as per CESMP • Bitumen is stored on hardstand at laydown sites. • Hardstand areas are at least 150 from any CCA and 100m from any waterway. • Crushing plant is wet crusher. • Crushing plant is screened either by quarry or by screening vegetation to minimise noise disturbance. • Water for crushing plant is sourced under permit. Concrete Production • Settlement tanks/ponds and diversion drains are in place as per CESMP. Once / Supervision • Designated washdown are established in bunded Engineer impermeable area with no permeation to ground permitted. Version C – November 2019 174 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Workers • Waste management system in in place Accommodation • Adheres to IFC Workers Accommodation Standards • Worker Management Plan in approved and in Once / Supervision place Engineer • Potable water for workers is provided for • Workers trained on Workers Management Plan and Codes of Conduct signed. Land Acquisition • Land lease or easements are formally in place with custom owner and lodged with the relevant authority. Once / Supervision • Any compensation arrangements for non-land Engineer & MIPU assets or land have been implemented as described in the Resettlement Plan. SOUTH SANTO ROAD CONSTRUCTION PHASE MONITORING PLAN South Santo Road Construction Phase Monitoring Plan – THROUGHT CONSTRUCTION PHASE Impact Area: Frequency / Monitoring Parameter: Responsibility General • Contractor is undertaking weekly monitoring and reporting using monitoring form approved by Weekly / Supervision Engineer in CESMP. Supervision Engineer • Community consultation is ongoing as per VCRTP ESMP Weekly / PIU • Supervision Engineer is undertaking weekly Project Manager monitoring and reporting Solid and hazardous • Approved Solid Waste Management Plan waste effectively implemented • Waste collection at laydown area is secure, well signed and clean • Hazardous waste is stored according to SWMP Weekly / Supervision • Good housekeeping around project sites and Engineer workers accommodation • All waste is disposed of offshore • Contaminants of Concern (COC) documentation in place and reviewed Version C – November 2019 175 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Community • Approved Traffic Management Plan is under infrastructure, health, effective implementation and safety • Public signage of complaints procedure • Signs and fences restrict or direct pedestrians and public where appropriate. Weekly / • No damage to public or community infrastructure Supervision Engineer • Dust suppression is effective • Noise is within permitted limits • Required signage is in place • No works taking place at night or on Sunday Protection of • No unauthorized removal of trees on riverbanks riverbanks • No damage to riverbank outside of approved working area in CESMP. • Construction machinery barriers are in place • No evidence of construction machinery working outside marked area Daily / Supervision • No stockpiles or large areas of vegetation clearance Engineer within 100m of riverbank • Replanting is occurring as works finish along riverbanks. • 100m buffer zone enforced around rivers. • Machinery working around waterways is well serviced and in good working order. Protection of coastal • Construction machinery barriers are in place environment • No evidence of construction machinery working outside marked area • No stockpiles or solid waste on the foreshore. • Beach protection mats or local stone are being used Weekly / for tracks on beach for offloading activities. Supervision Engineer • Only approved offloading beach sites are being used. • No wharf or ramp is constructed on any beach. • Beaches are restored and any added stone removed immediately after completion of offloading. • 100m buffer zone enforced along coastline and near CCA. Version C – November 2019 176 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Soil and water • Appropriate spill response plan/kit in place for pollution waste area • No visible spills on soil or uncovered ground • All drainage, water treatment and soakage systems clear and fit for purpose • Division bunding around large areas of vegetation clearance Weekly / Supervision • Revegetation occurring once works have finished at Engineer sites. • Vehicles are working in defined areas • Workers sanitation facilities in good order and maintained as per design requirements. • Heavy machinery not used in times of heavy rain or when ground is waterlogged. Hazardous • Substances stored within bund on impermeable substances storage surface • Spill kit complete and accessible Weekly / Supervision • Spill training completed Engineer • No evidence of spills on the ground • MSDS available at storage locations Occupational Health • Workers have access to, and are using appropriate, and Safety PPE for the task. Weekly / • All workers have undergone appropriate OHS Supervision training Engineer • Proper briefing of staff before undertaking work activities Laydown and • Laydown areas established on pre-approved sites Stockpiles Site • Laydown areas dust levels managed efficiently • Traffic management plan correctly implemented at laydown site • Water run off management systems operating correctly Weekly / • Dust management effectively implemented Supervision • PPE present and correctly used Engineer • Refueling occurring over drip trays in dedicated areas • No stockpiling within 100m of waterways • Bunding is functional at stockpile site Version C – November 2019 177 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Extraction of • QMP being effectively implemented. Aggregates • Daily records of extracted volumes available for inspection • No gravel being extracted from running water. Daily/Supervision • Gravel only being extracted from predetermined Engineer area. • Machinery only working in defined areas approved in CESMP. Workers • Camp is clean and tidy Accommodation • Waste management is as per Solid Waste Management Plan • Food supplies are sufficient Weekly / Supervision • No community potable water is being used Engineer • Workers Management Plan is being effectively implemented • First Aid kit is fully stocked. SOUTH SANTO ROAD OPERATIONAL PHASE MONITORING PLAN South Santo Road Operational Phase Monitoring Frequency / Impact Area: Monitoring Parameter: Responsibility Drainage system • Drains are clear of debris and functional Monthly and after storm events / PWD Version C – November 2019 178 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Appendix E: Safeguard Supervision for the VCRTP Works General In order to prevent harm and nuisances on local communities, and to minimize the impacts on the environment during the construction and operation of the VCRTP Project on Santo, the following plan has been prepared which should be adhered to by all Contractors and their employees and subcontractors: - The Environmental and Social Management Plan for VCRTP including specific measures in Appendix B; - The mitigation measures included in tender and contract documents; - The specifications, procedures, and best practices included in the ESMP. These specifications will complement any technical specifications included in the work quantities and the requirements of any GoV regulations and standards. Objective of the Assignment The Consultant is to provide professional technical services (“the Services”) to help ensure effective implementation of the Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) during the VCRTP works. In order to achieve the goal of minimizing the negative environmental and social impacts of the project, the ESMP will be integrated in the design documents for VCRTP, and in the technical specifications and contract documents. It will need to be closely followed and implemented by the contractors. The implementation of the ESMP will therefore involve four parties: - The National Safeguards Specialist (NSS) is the person responsible for overall coordination of ESMP implementation. This person will be appointed directly by the PIU. - The Contractor’s Safeguard Specialist (CSS) responsible for implementing the CESMP and other construction related environmental and safety issues. - The Supervision Engineers (SE) who are responsible for supervising and monitoring all construction activities and for ensuring that contractors comply with the requirements of the contracts, the CESMP and the ESMP. The SE will include a Supervision Safeguard Specialist (SSS); and, - A Client’s International Safeguard Specialist, who provide support to the NSS for oversight of ESMP implementation throughout the works. This Terms of Reference is for the Supervision Safeguard Specialist (SSS) to be part of the Supervision Engineers (SE). Scope of Services: The general services to be provided by the SSS are to inspect, monitor and audit the construction activities42 to ensure that mitigation measures adopted in the ESMP are properly implemented, and that the negative environmental and social impacts of the project are minimized. The Contractor has the responsibility for ensuring compliance with the project ESMP and contract conditions while undertaking the works. This is overseen by the SSS. The SSS will inspect, monitor and carry out environmental review of all road and bridge contracts packages and lots. The SSS shall have extensive knowledge and experience in environmental supervision, monitoring and auditing to provide independent, objective and professional advice to the client on the environmental performance of the project. The SSS shall be familiar with the project works through review of the relevant 42 The term ‘construction activities’ in this TOR pertains to all aspects related to the VCRTP works during the construction phase including, but not limited to, all construction sites, permanent and temporary camps, off-site activities (disposal sites, borrow pits), all associated facilities (crushing plants, asphalt plants, maintenance yards), access roads, traffic and disturbances (dust, noise) in local roads, and areas of impact away from the project site. The ESMP of the project contain a full description of these activities. Version C – November 2019 179 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road reports, including the ESMP and any permits or development consents as well as project technical specifications and contract documents. As part of the SE, the SSS is expected to perform the following duties: Phase I: Preparation The objective of Phase I is to lay the groundwork for the successful execution of the project. In this phase, the SSS shall: (i) review the CESMP, project designs and technical specifications and confirm that there have been no major omissions of mitigation measures; (ii) prepare a supervision work plan for C/ESMP monitoring including identification of key project milestones which will require intensive monitoring and in-country presence of SSS; and, (iv) develop and execute a training program for all involved in construction activities. The main tasks in this phase are: Review of Project Documents: The SSS shall review the ESMP, project designs and technical specifications and confirm in writing that there have been no major omissions of mitigation measures. If any issues are identified, the SSS shall propose to the NSS updates to the ESMP and the design and technical specifications to address these issues. Once approved by NSS, the SSS shall update the ESMP. Environmental Supervision Checklist: The SSS shall finalise a comprehensive checklist (based on the ESMP Monitoring Checklists and expanded to capture additional elements from the CESMP) which will be used during the construction of the project to monitor the contractor’s performance. This shall cover major aspects of the project, required mitigation/control measures and their implementation schedule. Log-Book: The SSS shall keep a log-book of each and every circumstance or change of circumstances which may affect the environmental impact assessment and non-compliance with the recommendations made by the SSS to remediate the non-compliance. The log-book shall be kept readily available for inspection by all persons assisting in the supervision of the implementation of the recommendations of the ESMP and Contract. The NSS shall verify the log-book as part of his environmental audit. Environmental Training: The SSS shall design and execute a comprehensive training program for all actors: Supervision Engineers , NSS, Contractor’s CSSs (and workers as part of the trainings given to the CSS), on the environmental requirements of the project, and how they will be supervised, monitored and audited, giving particular attention to: - ESMP: The requirements of the ESMP, the agreed environmental monitoring checklist, the environmental monitoring form, how non-compliance with the ESMP will be handled, and all other key issues shall be covered. Particular attention will be paid to the specific provisions in each contract’s technical specifications indicating how the ESMP is to be complied with; - Health and Safety: The health and safety requirements of the project shall be clearly identified and communicated with the Contractors and NSS (included in environmental specifications for contractors). At the conclusion of the training Contractors will also sign a statement acknowledging their awareness of the environmental regulations, the ESMP, the compliance framework, and health and safety obligations. The CSS shall sign a similar statement confirming their understanding of the supervision responsibilities. This shall be provided to the PIU and the World Bank Phase II: Supervision of Construction Activities On behalf of the NSS and the Supervision Engineer, the SSS will: Version C – November 2019 180 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road - Review, and monitor in an independent, objective and professional manner in all aspects of the implementation of the ESMP; - Carry out random monitoring checks, and review on records prepared by the Contractor’s CSS; - Conduct regular site inspections; - Review the status of implementation of environmental protection measures against the ESMP and contract documents; - Review the effectiveness of environmental mitigation measures and project environmental performance; - As needed, review the environmental acceptability of the construction methodology (both temporary and permanent works), relevant design plans and submissions. Where necessary, the SSS shall seek and recommend the least environmental impact alternative in consultation with the designer, the Contractor(s), and the PIU; - Verify the investigation results of any non-compliance of the environmental quality performance and the effectiveness of corrective measures; and - Provide regular feedback audit results to NSS and CSS according to the procedures of non-compliance in the ESMP; - Provide training programs at minimum six monthly intervals and every time there are new workers or new Contractors coming into the site, including CSS and PIU staff, to appraise them of issues identified and how to improve environmental compliance; - Through the SE , instruct the Contractor(s) to take remedial actions within a specified timeframe, and carry out additional monitoring, if required, according to the contractual requirements and procedures in the event of non-compliances or complaints; - Through the SE, instruct the Contractor(s) to take actions to reduce impacts and follow the required ESMP procedures in case of non-compliance / discrepancies identified; - Through the SE, Instruct the Contractor(s) to stop activities which generate adverse impacts, and/or when the Contractor(s) fails to implement the EMP requirements / remedial actions instructed by the SES or the EMC. Review of Site CESMP: To ensure consistency across the project, the SSS shall provide the final review and recommend clearance (following approval from World Bank) of the CESMP including all sub plans. Where these plans are found not to comply with the ESMP the SSS shall work with the CSS and Contractor to establish a suitable solution. Site Inspections: The SSS shall closely monitor the construction activities through regular site inspections accomplished through daily site visits, walks and visual inspections to identify areas of potential environmental problems and concerns. As noted in footnote 1 of this TOR, the area of inspection should cover both the construction areas and the environment outside the site area that could be affected, directly or indirectly, by the contractor’s activities. Inspections should be done independently from the Contractor’s staff. It is expected that the SSS shall have their own hand held and portable monitoring equipment such as cameras, transport and other resources. Where definitive monitoring is necessary to resolve contentious issues or to impose penalties, the SSS may contract third parties to carry out specific monitoring at the locations under review. Where there is infringement of technical specifications, or condition of contracts, or non compliance with the ESMP, the SSS shall be immediately inform Contractor’s Chief Engineer, Supervision Chief Engineer and NSS. The SSS shall also report all infringements to the PIU as part of the monthly reporting. Regular joint environmental site inspections (e.g. weekly) should be organized by the SSS and CSS. These should be used as an opportunity for the SSS to further train the CSS and Contractor’s staff. SSS field engineer’s log-book shall be kept readily available for inspection by all persons assisting in project management, including the Independent Monitoring consultant The SSS shall also regularly review the records of the contractors to ensure that they are up to date, factual and meet the EMP reporting requirements (e.g. environmental complaint monitoring records). Version C – November 2019 181 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Complaints: Complaints will be received by the Contractor’s Site Office from residents with regard to environmental infractions such as noise, dust, traffic safety, etc. The Contractor’s Chief Engineer or his deputy addressing or reaching solutions for complaints brought to them. The SSS shall be provided with a copy of these complaints and shall confirm that they are properly addressed by the Contractors in the same manner as incidents identified during site inspections. The SSS shall ensure that these complaints are logged into the VCRTP GRM Unforeseen Impacts: If an incident arises which was not foreseen in the ESMP, the SSS shall work closely with the CSS, the Contractors, and the NSS to confirm satisfactory resolution to the incident. The SSS shall then update the ESMP and the implementation guidelines, training the Contractors’ staff accordingly. Monthly Payments: The SSS shall confirm the monthly payments for environmentally related activities as recommended by the SSS to the client. Site Restoration and Landscaping: The SSS shall closely monitor all activities regarding site restoration and landscaping in areas such as borrow pits, quarries, camps, crushing plants, etc. to ensure that the activities are done to an appropriate and acceptable standard. The SSS will agree with the Contractor on a Site Decommissioning and Restoration plan to be implemented before the completion of the construction of the access road and bridges. Project Initiation and Staffing: It is anticipated that the CSS and the SSS, will be mobilized one month before the start of the construction activities. The one month start up time will be utilized by the SSS to review and familiarize itself with the project, the project design, the technical specifications, contract documents, the ESMP and other project relevant documents and reports. Following the review, the SSS will prepare a brief report on the potential issues and challenges arising from the implementation of the ESMP and the condition of contracts and make recommendations to the PIU about how best to improve the implementation of the ESMP. The SSS is expected to be mobilized at the beginning of the contract, to prepare the necessary guidelines, documentation, training, etc. Reporting: As a minimum the SSS shall prepare the following written reports: - Weekly report of non-compliance issues - Summary monthly report covering key issues and findings from reviewing and supervision activities - Consolidated summary report from contractor’s monthly report - The SSS shall also collect and report on data as requested by the PIU. At the end of the project the SSS shall prepare a final report summarizing the key findings from their work, the number of infringements, resolutions, etc. as well as advice and guidance for how such assignments should be conducted in the future. During the project the SSS shall provide briefings as requested by the PIU, environmental agencies, the World Bank and MIPU on the project progress, incidents, and other issues associated with environmental management and supervision. As a minimum these are expected to be at six-monthly intervals. Version C – November 2019 182 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Appendix F: Minutes of Meetings and Attendance Chaired by SG for SANMA Opening Prayer: Secretary for Council of Chiefs in Area 2 • Welcome and opening remarks from SG, asked all to contribute as inputs from their respective sectors will inform the assessment to be carried out for this important project • Safeguards Team introduction (Mark, Lulu, Ernest and Laisa) • Everyone else introduced themselves (see attached attendance sheet) • Mark’s Intro and Social Safeguards remarks: o acknowledged everyone’s presence and thanks SG for organizing this meeting and for their response in attending – a good representation from different sectors (no rep from Women’s Dept was present). o Mark emphasized how this meeting will inform everyone and to ensure that all are on the same page, as we’re in exciting times – We’ve just had Provincial Elections, there’ll be Sanma elections in December, General Elections early next year, etc… political parties can use this project for their self -interests but we must ensure the communities are properly informed. o 31 August 2019 launching of this Project by Hon. Min. MIPU o A lot of excitements and expectations as well, asking everyone sitting in this particular room to mind their language when talking about this project, especially not to raise any expectations from community members. o This mission will help prepare document based on the assessments carried out to inform Bank and Government for its decision-making, hence consultation with you all as stakeholders including communities is a vital process in this exercise. o Seeking assistance from each sector reps for information when asked and your prompt action on this as this team are working within a very tight timeframe. o Seeking partnership between the government and custom owners/leased-land owner and community members focusing on national interests first and also the community interest. • Ernest Bani – Environment Assessment o Re-emphasized speaking in same language when talking about this project. Acknowledged the fact that all communities spoken to yesterday were excited and agreed to have this road/bridges fixed o South Santo very interesting area, water coming from everywhere. Drainage is very important to ensure the longevity if the project were to construct tar-sealed road. Information where all the water is coming from, etc will be discussed with you all and the communities. Seeking if everyone can share information they have so we can fit all the jig-saw puzzle together to help safeguards assessment to share with Bank/Govt to make good decisions to have a successful project. o Quarries: Permits, whose land? o Water Permits – need permits to divert water, etc o Camp Sites/Laydown Sites– sites along the long stretch of this road from one place to another for accommodation of workers and to store materials to be used. Company contracted will identify and inform us. Where to put their rubbish, fuel tanks, etc. South Santo is full of water, so any leakage may affect water, fishes, livelihoods. o Clearing of road sites – Engineer) will decide where road will be re-aligned, but if that is decided, it needs to be understood and agreed by affected communities that any vegetation on the road sides will need to be cleared. o These are the initial discussions, but as time goes and project progresses, the Safeguards team will continue to work with you all to ensure less conflicts over any issues that may arise • Lulu Z Carmine – Overall Project Assessment o 62Million US Dollars – connectivity from one village to another, access to the main city o 10 Bridges and roads o Out those bridges, there’s 3 realignment (actually 2) but needs more consultation before a final decision can be made o Power-point Presentation of those 3 bridges and 1 retaining wall at Tasiriki o Proper consultation with communities will be made from tomorrow onwards until October 5 within a tight timeframe to inform and provide options to be included in the draft Assessment Report. This report informs World Bank and Government to make a decision on what are the priorities that this funding should be used for. o Workplan includes: ▪ Consultation with the 3 bridges and road alignment customary land owners and leased owners, communities. Version C – November 2019 183 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road ▪ Asset Inventory of Land, Crops and trees that might be affected through this development project • LMC Town Planner mentioned that the proposed retaining wall at Tasiriki may be affected later due to climate change, but that the chiefs should work with his people alongside Dept. of Environment/Climate Change for mitigation measures such as tree planting, creepers, grasses, etc. that help to retain the foreshore. • SG suggested that because timeframe is short, it would be more appropriate to outline dates for meetings and which department should be involved to help technical personnel from different sectors in Govt to make themselves available for the consultation meetings as well. Fix a taskforce team. This outline will be followed and then members from taskforce team (reps from each sectors) could be present during those meetings. • Graham Lele (Customary Lands Management Office) re-emphasized the language to be used – especially when addressing the “compensation” aspect, that the chiefs should also play a big role in explaining to their people to understand that their sacrifices of land, root crops/trees in their support to this project for this road/bridge development. • Another chief also reiterated that this is the same issue with the people of East Santo, communities want a road constructed for ease of access to cities so no compensation was asked for but sacrifices were done for the sake of development. VCRTP Consultations Attendance List Date: 18th September 2019 Venue: SANMA Provincial HQ Time: 9:50am – 11:30am Name Position Organization Contact Graham Lele Compliance MCC Customary Lands 5924419 Management Office / MCC Simeon Stanley OM PWD SANMA 589055? Matthew Walter Senior HR PSC 5382149 Tommy Kaluen Physical Planner SANMA Province 7102050 Kensley Micah Provincial Disaster Officer NDMO 7771307 Manses Fatdal Senior Land Officer Dept. of Lands 7714272 Christina Taleo Provincial Water Dept. of Water 7387296 Supervisor Shem Kalo Chief Tavuemasana Council 7576859 Sam Vula Secretary of Chiefs -South Area 2 – South Santo 5726762 Santo Joel Kalnpel PAO DARD 7793410 Hajuju Sokovatu Chief Member South Santo 7733950 Chief James Surai Secretary Tavuemasana Island 5363160 Council Paul Jamaran Area Administrator – South SANMA Province 5471685/7350863 Santo Cevaurd Riddick LMC Town Planner Dept. of Local Authorities 7500062 Albert Ruddley Secretary General (SG) SANMA Province 5390171 Ernest Bani ESS - Consultant MIPU 7747030 (Environment) Mark Bebe Social Safeguards MIPU Specialist (National) Lulu Carmine Social Safeguards MIPU Specialist (International) Laisa Boedoro-Tari Program Assistant World Bank 7312183 Version C – November 2019 184 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road COMMUNITY CONSULTATIONS Meeting Minutes – Tasiriki Village, South Santo (1) Thursday 19th September 2019 Venue: Lino Stage 10:40am – 12:00pm • The Village Chief welcomes everyone and gives the opening remarks • Area Administrator for South – Paul Mark is the MC introduces Simeon Stanley (PWD Manager) and asked Simeon to introduce the team from Luganville and Safeguards Team • Mark Bebe gives a brief history and background of the project to inform the community • Ernest Bani, briefing on environmental aspects of the project. • Simeon Stanley (PWD) briefing on options for proposed realignment of road/bridges, retaining wall. • Tasiriki Chief encouraged community to make sacrifices for the benefit of development and their future • Tommy (Town Planner – SAMNA Province) – re-emphasized what the chief had mentioned, touched a bit on the Grievance Redress Mechanism about reporting issues sooner than later • Benuel – Lands Officer– brief on land owner’s rights, property and how development can affect land/property. Not to expect monetary value for property but in-kind or should be as their contribution towards the project in order for development to proceed. • Graham Lele, re-emphasized point above and requests land owners from Navaka to Tasiriki to meet (focus group) after the main meeting today. • Sandra Andrews – Explained about consulting with land owners especially for those who will be affected for road and bridge realignments and asks for their cooperation for information for the reports and explained about tight timeframes and cooperation. • Ernest explained on the coastal erosion in Tasiriki close to road and probable options to take. Questions/Feedbacks Responses How many meters will be allowed for road width? Simeon Stanley answered that according to the Road Act, all declared roads should be 30 meters wide. Former councilor asked that for properties, if fences are Simeon explained that an advance notice will always be to be put down due to development, cattle may go out given, a consent by the affected parties will need to be and damage the gardens. What can be done? signed for realignments going through fences & property. There will be mitigation measures in place to cater for this. Can we have maps? To know where the roads will pass? Distribution of printed maps Formed Councillor mentioned they will inform us of the Graham Lele mentioned Malvatumauri Council of Chiefs cultural/historical/taboo sites so it can be clearly have asked for the whole Santo to indicate and mark marked out in maps those taboo sites for the purpose of development Version C – November 2019 185 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Meeting Minutes- Chiefs Nakamal, Sanma Province (No. 2) Wednesday 2nd October 2019 9:27am – 11:30am Purpose This meeting is purposely consulting with the South Santo Land Owners and Land Lease Claimers, to give their consent towards the Proposed Project of some new realignments of roads from Sarakata Bridge down to Tasiriki. • Sanma Assistance Planner gives the opening remarks (9:00-9:05) • Area Secretary of South Santo opens the meeting with a prayer ( 9:05-9:10) • Sanma Provincial Secretarial General welcomes everyone especially the Project’s Local Social Safeguards Consultant (Mark Bebe) and other government stakeholders. Acknowledgement of the postponement of Provincial meeting data due to passing of Sakaria Danilel (Former SG). Inform chiefs and land owners the purpose of this meeting and urging the owners their cooperation towards the upcoming Project. Also thank the Local Social Safeguards Consultant and PWD Manger of their commitment to consult communities ( 9:10-9:30:am). • Mark Bebe gives a brief history and background of the project by specifying 2 parts of the meeting: (9:30- 10:00) 1. Agreement by chiefs to allow road possible for new alignment section from Sarakarata Bridge to Navota Farm 2. Concern of any business property along this new alignment section • Also he mentioned 3 options as discussed: 1. Engineers propose using the existing road with no re alignment 2. Mark and PWD Manager proposed few roads sections needs to be re alignment 3. They also proposed alignment beginning from Usa Bridge to Naoneban Bridge • He mentioned the road declaration to public roads which was announced by government to all custom land owners to be aware of • Ernest Bani, briefing on environmental aspects of the project. (10:00-10:15) - Areas where machines or camping areas need concerns from chiefs and land owners - Need permission to extract quality materials on chosen site: eg- Stone - Before works starts, project contractors must understand and comply with the project conditions. These will all be documented for the contractor to comply with. - This proposal is a government project not political forces that has to be clear (10:15-10:30) • Simeon Stanley (PWD) briefing on options for proposed realignment of road/bridges: (10:30-10:40) - Project proposal will be on the western side to Tasiriki - Government laws will be abide with the work regulations - 20 meters wide of the road section will be constructed - 10 bridges - Low points will be constructed into culverts and outlets - Claimers need to agree to allow time for the project until completion - Events of road alignment is to save time and money for new roads • Land Representative: (10:40- 10: 50) - This project needs everyone cooperation’s in order for the project to be carried out. - Allow time for the claimers to sign in their consent form • Sanma President comment: (10:50- 11:00) - Present land owners numbers show no interest of the project proposal - It is important for all land owners from Area 1 and 2 need to show their appreciation to attend whatever meeting organized • Provincial Planner, respond to Provincial President that there has been 2 consultation the past days with the same group of people at: (11:00-11:05) 1. Tasiriki Village 2. Ajoni Community 3. Today meeting with lease holders and few land owners 11:05-11:25 Version C – November 2019 186 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Meeting Minutes- Chiefs Nakamal, Sanma Province (No. 2) Wednesday 2nd October 2019 9:27am – 11:30am Purpose This meeting is purposely consulting with the South Santo Land Owners and Land Lease Claimers, to give their consent towards the Proposed Project of some new realignments of roads from Sarakata Bridge down to Tasiriki. • Sanma Assistance Planner gives the opening remarks (9:00-9:05) • Area Secretary of South Santo opens the meeting with a prayer ( 9:05-9:10) • Sanma Provincial Secretarial General welcomes everyone especially the Project’s Local Social Safeguards Consultant (Mark Bebe) and other government stakeholders. Acknowledgement of the postponement of Provincial meeting data due to passing of Sakaria Danilel (Former SG). Inform chiefs and land owners the purpose of this meeting and urging the owners their cooperation towards the upcoming Project. Also thank the Local Social Safeguards Consultant and PWD Manger of their commitment to consult communities ( 9:10-9:30:am). • Mark Bebe gives a brief history and background of the project by specifying 2 parts of the meeting: (9:30- 10:00) 1. Agreement by chiefs to allow road possible for new alignment section from Sarakarata Bridge to Navota Farm 2. Concern of any business property along this new alignment section • Also he mentioned 3 options as discussed: 1. Engineers propose using the existing road with no re alignment 2. Mark and PWD Manager proposed few roads sections needs to be re alignment 3. They also proposed alignment beginning from Usa Bridge to Naoneban Bridge • He mentioned the road declaration to public roads which was announced by government to all custom land owners to be aware of • Ernest Bani, briefing on environmental aspects of the project. (10:00-10:15) - Areas where machines or camping areas need concerns from chiefs and land owners - Need permission to extract quality materials on chosen site: eg- Stone - Before works starts, project contractors must understand and comply with the project conditions. These will all be documented for the contractor to comply with. - This proposal is a government project not political forces that has to be clear (10:15-10:30) • Simeon Stanley (PWD) briefing on options for proposed realignment of road/bridges: (10:30-10:40) - Project proposal will be on the western side to Tasiriki - Government laws will be abide with the work regulations - 20 meters wide of the road section will be constructed - 10 bridges - Low points will be constructed into culverts and outlets - Claimers need to agree to allow time for the project until completion - Events of road alignment is to save time and money for new roads • Land Representative: (10:40- 10: 50) - This project needs everyone cooperation’s in order for the project to be carried out. - Allow time for the claimers to sign in their consent form • Sanma President comment: (10:50- 11:00) - Present land owners numbers show no interest of the project proposal - It is important for all land owners from Area 1 and 2 need to show their appreciation to attend whatever meeting organized • Provincial Planner, respond to Provincial President that there has been 2 consultation the past days with the same group of people at: (11:00-11:05) 4. Tasiriki Village 5. Ajoni Community 6. Today meeting with lease holders and few land owners 11:05-11:25 Version C – November 2019 187 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road FOCUS GROUP DISCUSSIONS (WOMEN’S GROUPS) Women’s Focus Group Discussion @ Tasiriki Village. (No.1) Thursday 19th September 2019 12:10pm – 1:05pm Venue: Guest House Verandah Lulu Z Carmine, the Social Safeguards Consultant, gave a brief introduction of herself and Laisa as team members for the safeguards mission. A short briefing of the Project was given and about the consultations that the team is required to carry out. Women were divided into two groups and questions were asked on benefits of the proposed project, challenges, issues and concerns they may have and recommendations over these issues and concerns. Benefits Challenges faced/Issues/Concerns Recommendations Access/Connectivity: Everyone use Rainfall can continue for up to a whole week Chief should put in rules to govern the road nearly every day to travel hence bridges will be overflowing so no villagers to uphold cultural norms and to the city and other villages. It would vehicles will travel along this road. School values. benefit all if the proposed roads and students may get stuck when traveling along Families should help teach their children bridges are upgraded. this road due to bad weather. Garden and manage their homes to avoid produce will go rotten when heavy rain up the domestic issues. hills. Tasiriki villagers have to cater for the Road signs for crossings, villages West Coast traveler’s needs of bridges and schools. accommodation, etc. Easy access to cities may Speed bumps for villages and schools. trigger issues faced with adoption of western practices resulting in traditional values and practices fading. Agriculture: This road is used to takel Very expensive transportation costs: Transportation costs should be reduced Garden produce (Taro, Banana, 10,000vt-15,000vt for one-way trip to once road is fixed. Cabbage, Coconuts) Kava, Cacao, Luganville. If you’re traveling with no Copra, seasonal fruits (Mandarines, cargo/garden produce, you pay 1000vt for Lemons, oranges, mango) to the transportation cost one-way to the city with up market to be sold as income to to 15 other passengers. Otherwise, only 2 improve livelihoods, pay for school women can split the total cost of transportation fees, etc. to the city if traveling with their garden produce (5,000vt or 6,000vt one-way fare for each – depends on the driver). Copra: Most have given up on Copra since it has been 3-4 years ago that copra prices have dropped so people are no longer producing copra. Trades/Businesses: Some villagers High transportation costs Transportation Costs should be reduced own retails shops so they use the road Delays in getting cargo in on time due to bad once road is fixed to travel to the city to pay for their weather cargo and other items. Health: This project would help Only 1 Health Centre servicing around 9 Transportation costs should drop after mothers especially during birth villages including Tasiriki. Only 1 Nurse the roads have been upgraded delivery. During an emergency, one working for that Health Centre. Mothers can easily travel to the city for struggle when pregnant and during birth treatment at the Northern District delivery. Cost of transportation when in an Hospital (NDH) with proper health emergency, no ambulance (FOC) can travel in care services. More vehicles will be because of bad weather (heavy rain) so traveling this road so easy to find a villagers have to make that commitment to pay transportation during emergency – for high cost of transportation to get the no delays to get to NDH. patient to the NDH. Version C – November 2019 188 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Transportation: Road project should Only 2 vehicles service the people of Tasiriki Fares should drop when roads are encourage more vehicles to come this due to road conditions therefore costs are very fixed because more vehicles will be way and transportation costs may high. The only other vehicles who travel this far traveling this long stretch of road. drop would serve the West Coast passengers. Education: Connection and ease of Challenge currently faced is that the children Speed bumps for schools access for children to travel to schools are spending 3 months away from home for in other villages or Luganville. each term X 3 terms because of poor road Children will spend more time with conditions and high cost of transportation. families more than before. Student There’s quite a number of primary schools attendance will improve because of along this road hence the main concern is for good roads and bridges despite the the safety of the little children when roads are weather. upgraded. Women’s Focus Group Discussion @ Tangoa Island Junction Tuesday 24th September 2019 Time: 12:00pm – 1:00pm Venue: Nakere Community ground Community of Nakere during that time were celebrating their Provincial Day which is Sanma Day of nearly two weeks celebration. VCRTP Team were lucky to consult not only the target community but combination of communities who came together to celebrate. This was also an opportunity which myself and Gloria managed to interview 5 groups of Women from 5 different villages. Gloria gave a brief introduction of herself and me as we are Team members of the safeguards mission. She shortly brief on the Propose Project and the purpose of our Discussion. Questions were asked on what they think about the proposal project, benefits, challenges, issues and concerns that they may have and recommendations over these issues and concerns. 1. Vimele Community Women’s Group (2) Benefits Concerns Recommendations - Very pleased with the - Their concern on project workers - Chief should put in rules to proposed project especially (especially men) that they need to govern villagers to uphold means of transport to respect women and girls in the cultural norms and values Luganville community to avoid issues - Need road signs for crossings, - Access to medical service will happening in the future villages, bridges and schools be easier and faster - They need gender based - Speed bumps for villages and - Will increase purchase of new awareness with community schools vehicles leaders before project - Quick access of transport for commencement marketing from Vilmele to Luganville - Help improve women empowerment in business market, tourist 2. Tangoa Island Women’s Group (3) Benefits Concerns Recommendations - Very pleased to hear about - Safety concerns especially for - Chief should put in rules to the proposed project because schools children and old men govern villagers to uphold of bad road conditions and women cultural norms and values - Will increase market - Need PWD consultation at - Need road signs for crossings, production first before work commence villages, bridges and schools - Better medical service - Speed bumps for villages and - Improve education service schools Version C – November 2019 189 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road - Women groups to cook lunch for project workers as part of their community income Total of 25 participants 3. Narrango Women’s Group (4) Benefits Concerns Recommendations - One confirm she was very pleased - Young girls might be - Chief to strongly put in rules to with the proposal because she will involving with project govern villages to uphold increase her production in Tourist sales. workers as experienced cultural norms and values Whenever cruise ships visits Santo she with past projects had to find possible way to travel to - Project to put in rules or laws to town to sell some of her tourist govern project workers not to products. involve with community members - Members will purchase more trucks Total 25 participants 4. Vunavus, Dropout girls range age from 12-22 years (5) Benefits Concerns Recommendations - These young girls were all - Concerns were: proper roads - Need road signs for crossings, pleased when hearing the access will cause accidents villages, bridges and schools project proposal - Speed bumps for villages and - They will have easy medical schools services - It was their long time wish - Will promote business production in Tourism and marketing for Kava Total 15 participants 5. Pelmol Women Group( South Santo Area 2) (6) Benefits Concerns Recommendations - Very pleased because it was their - Fear project workers - Community take stand to longtime dream might be involved with support the project - Market will be easy to travel from community member and Pelmol to Luganville will cause family issues - Need proper awareness - Promote local business before work commence - Easy access for Medical treatment - Upgrade Tourism business - incase people who were not aware of might case any arise problem within the community Total 4 participants Version C – November 2019 190 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road Minutes of Further Consultation with Land Owners of Maniau and Okoro Village. Date : 9th November 2019. Location: Okoro Village - South Santo. Persons conducting the Interview; Simeon Stanley and Mark P. Bebe 1. Approach and Methodology used. The team conducted interview with individual custom land owners identified by the chiefs. These includes those who have signed the Consent to voluntary give their land to the government for the government to use their land for road Realignment and for construction of the Bridge at Maniao and Okoro Villages These are the names of those consulted, and those who have signed the MOA to confirm their willingness to voluntarily give the ownership of their land to the Government for Public purposes, but more specifically for the purpose of Road Realignment and Construction of the Bridges. (I ) Joacin- Joacin, is one of the Land Owners and property owners at Okoro Village South Santo. He owns the Coconut Plantation, and gardens adjacent to the Okoro River, and running in parallel with the Road, north west towards Tasiriki Village. He also owns a small patch of Forestry consisting of Mahogany trees. The team met him and his wife and Children in his plantation, and explained the purposed of the visit, and want him to reaffirm the following; Note that Joacin is the farmer, that has the proposed realignment on his land. (a) Voluntary giving his land to the Government for Public use, and specifically, for the Road alignment and construction of the Bridge. We asked him, to confirm again his willingness to voluntary gave his consent for his land to the government for public purposes. First of all, he queried on why we have to ask him this question again, and queried about the consent, he and his family, and other land owners have signed earlier on whether that, agreement is still valid, and asked why we have to asked him this question again??. We explained that, it was just to reconfirm that consent again. He confirm, that, he and all his family, and the villagers, have agreed to assist in what every way to facilitate a good Road (Tar seal) to the town. (b) On the question on the swap. We told him that, since the government won’t be needing the existing patch of road leading from the river, and running up to 170 meters, in parallel with the realignment area, and that, he could reuse the land for his gardening and other activities, and he replied, that, he has enough land to use apart from this piece of land, and will not need the land immediately., but he may use it in future if a need arise . (c ) On the Question of Compensation for his crops. We advise that, the government cannot compensate his crops in cash, but would supply, seedling/cuttings to replace any damaged crops and trees. He told the team that, he did not expect any form of compensation from the government, but accepts what ever, form of assistance the government could give him. He stressed that, since the Coprah price is not good at the moment, he is not so worried about replanting coconuts again, but may request other crop seedlings. We advised him, that, PWD and Ministry of Agriculture, will assist him, during the reconstruction of the road period. 2. Jean Marie. Jean Marie is the blood kin of Joacin, their Plantations are on opposite side of the Road, but Jean Marie’s Plantati on will not be affected by the Road realignment. Some of his coconuts however, are within the Road Reserve area, and may need to be removed during the road constructions. He advised that, he has no issue with a few Coconuts being removed. 3. David. Version C – November 2019 191 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department Vanuatu Climate Resilient Transport Project Environmental and Social Impact Assessment South Santo Road David is the Brother of joacin, and Jean Marie. He too has a coconut plantation, located along the Road Reserve area, and advised that, he has no objections to some of his trees which are within the Road Reserve area being removed for the improvement of road. After discussion with the Brothers, they all signed the MOA, although, only Joacin was required to sign the MOA, as he is the only one whose garden and Coconut trees will be affected by the Road Realignment and the Construction of the Bridge. 4. Denis Philip. Denis Philip is a Custom Land owner of one part of Okoro. His land borders the western side of the Road. He has a house which, is currently within the 15 metres Road Reserve, however, with the Realignment of the Road, his house would be affected, as the road would be shifted, eastward, away from his house. His Plantation, is also not within the road reserve area. He however, he also signed the MOA, for allowing the boundary between, his piece of Land, and that of Joacin. 5. Land Owners of Maniao village. The team called on Jesse Tavoni, who is the Landowner Identified by Chief Serr, of Maniao village as the owner of the land bordering, Maniau river, and running in parallel with the Road northwest of the Maniao River. The team explained the purpose of the visit, and requested him to confirm his consent to voluntary relieve his land to the government for the purpose of the realignment of the road and construction of the Maniao Bridge. The team also explained that, the government would subsidize the lost of his crops and Trees, by way of providing seedlings and assisting him to replant his crops. Mr Tavoni, confirmed his consent to voluntarily give his land to the government for public, use, and had no objection, for his crops, being removed, but was somehow, surprise at the idea of the government subsiding his cost for his house, crops (kava) and fruit Trees. We advised that, the government through PWD, and Min. of Agriculture to provide seedlings, and Nails to help him rebuild his house. His wife however, asked if the Government could give them some times to rebuild their house, to replaced, their current house. We advise that, they have around seven to eight months to harvest, some of their crops, (Taro and Kava) and to rebuild their home, away from the road, but that, they have to wait until the Engineers have actually, pecked out the area needed for the Road realignment and the construction of the Bridge. On the issue of the swap, for the existing road, he advised that, the road provide a boundary between him, and his other neighbours, and they have to decide together on how to use the land between the two families in future. He however, advised that, he has ample of lands, to grow his crops and to rebuild their new home. He signed the MOA, to support his voluntary donation of his land to the government, for the construction of the Bridge and road realignment. Version C – November 2019 192 Prepared for the Ministry of Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Public Works Department